The 33-acre Conejo Valley Botanic Garden is home to several unique, hillside specialty gardens, a hiking trail and more – all tucked away amid the mall, mountains and freeway in Thousand Oaks. Although there are plenty of specialty gardens to see here, our primary reason for visiting was to explore the Kid’s Adventure Garden. It’s a magical space dedicated to helping kids … [Read more...]
10 Places to Explore Nature in Los Angeles This Winter
Shortly after I started this blog some 2+ years ago, I wrote a post about the best spots in Los Angeles for winter outdoor fun. We’ve explored a lot more places since then, so I figured an updated version was in order. BEACHES & TIDE POOLS Beaches are overlooked (read: empty) during winter. Bring a jacket – and maybe a kite – and take advantage of having the place … [Read more...]
5 Great Places for a Christmas Day Hike in Los Angeles
All month, I’ve been sharing ways to make time in nature part of your holiday traditions. I hope you’ll end on a high note: with a Christmas Day family hike. Last year we enjoyed a day-after Christmas hike and it was the perfect antidote to the hustle and bustle of the holiday stress. It offered us a chance to reconnect with each other away from the house and the … [Read more...]
Field Trip Friday: El Dorado Nature Center
Welcome to “Field Trip Friday” where I share an idea for a fun outing in nature. The setting is specific, but the advice is intended for use wherever you might call home. The Plan Enjoy a play date with friends at the El Dorado Nature Center. Maybe even tack on a hike along one of the nature trails. (Thanks to Michele at Fun Orange County Parks for the invite! Read her … [Read more...]
Cooling Off Outside at the Ferndell Nature Museum
When temperatures start to rise in Los Angeles this summer, try cooling off outside at the Ferndell Nature Museum. This outdoor space provides a nice respite from the heat with some 50 fern species set under cool cover of California sycamores. But don't expect any maps or must-see displays here. The entire self-guided Museum spans about one long city block and features … [Read more...]