230+ fun places to go this summer!

animal encounters & Zoos

America’s Teaching Zoo at Moorpark College

7075 Campus Road, Moorpark

(805) 378-1441, zoo.moorparkcollege.edu

Five-acre living classroom for the students of the Exotic Animal Training and Management Program. The zoo is open to the public on weekends for live animal presentations, training demos, special events, and more. See Ira the African lion, Clarence the 100-yearold Galapagos tortoise, and meet other animal ambassadors. Birthday party packages available.

Forever Wild Exotic Animal Sanctuary

8545 Buttemere Road, Phelan (760) 868-2755, www.foreverwildsanctuary.org

The Sanctuary is dedicated to preserving the lives of abused, neglected, and abandoned exotic animals through rescue, rehabilitation and education. They offer party packages, field trips, and guided tours. Upgrade your visit with a barnyard feeding, feast with beasts, or extreme feed.

Free Flight Exotic Bird Sanctuary

2132 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar (858) 481-3148, www.freeflightbirds.org

Unique exotic bird sanctuary where you can see birds up close and even interact with several of them. All visitors can feed the birds. For the well-being of their flock, directly handling the birds is restricted to annual members who have received training on proper handling techniques. Scout troop projects and badges, camps, junior docent program, and memberships offered. Birthday party and special event packages available. Open by reservation only.

Gibbon Conservation Center

19100 Esguerra Road, Santa Clarita (661) 296-2737, www.gibboncenter.org

Promotes the conservation, study and care of gibbons through public education and habitat preservation. The GCC houses the rarest group of apes in the Western Hemisphere and is the only institution in the world to house all four classifications of gibbon. Check out their special “Assistant Caregiver for a Day” Program. Public and private tours offered.

Goods & Goats Market

29458 Trabuco Creek Road, San Juan Capistrano (949) 212-4357, www.goodsandgoatsmarket.com

Family goat farm specializes in events for kids and grown-ups. “Kids and Kids Playtime” lets children play with baby goats, dig in the worm garden, watch and feed chickens, play in the sand box, ride an old-fashioned seesaw, and even soar on a zipline. Goat walks also available. Other programs include Jr. Farmers, Story Time, Kids Farm Party, plus field trips and classes.

JAB Canid Education & Conservation Center

Santa Ysabel, (760) 224-9392, www.jabcecc.org

Home to foxes, primitive dogs, wolf-dogs, and coyotes. Animal encounters include the Fox Experience for all ages where visitors feed, pet, and watch the foxes play. Foxes and other animal ambassadors are also available to travel to parties and special events.

Lions Tigers and Bears

24402 Martin Way, Alpine (619) 659-8078, www.lionstigersandbears.org

A 93-acre big cat, bear, and exotic animal sanctuary home to 60+ rescued animals. Explore as a “Member for a Day” to enjoy a two-hour guided visit or book the “Exclusive Behind the Scenes” or “Feed with a Keeper” experience. Special events are scheduled throughout the year. All visits are by reservation only.

Why do animals eat poop?

also features cockatoos, mini sheep, and goldfish. Tours include treats to feed the camels and sheep, plus camel rides can be added.

Orange County Zoo

Irvine Regional Park, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange (714) 973-6840, www.ocparks.com/oc-zoo

The zoo’s focus is on animals and plants native to the southwestern United States, including a black bear, mountain lion, bald eagle, great horned owl, and their newest large mammal exhibit. Preschool programs and classes are offered every week. An audio tour is available on your phone. Zoo admission is only $2, entry fee for Irvine Regional Park is $3 on weekdays and $5 on weekends.

Bring quarters to buy food to feed the sheep and goats! Irvine Regional Park also offers many more things for families to enjoy, including bike and paddle boat rentals, pony rides, and a train ride.

OstrichLand USA

610 E. Highway 246, Solvang (805) 686-9696, www.ostrichlandusa.com

Answer on page 39!

Living Coast Discovery Center

1000 Gunpowder Point Drive, Chula Vista (619) 409-5900, www.thelivingcoast.org

A small aquarium and zoo located on the San Diego Bay National Wildlife Refuge. Encounter local wildlife including sea turtles, sharks, rays, raptors, reptiles, and marine animals. Enjoy daily animal presentations, safari hikes, workshops, bird walks, and wildlife tours. Private Wildlife Tours are available and include a private tour and animal encounter. The center also hosts camps, special events, birthday party packages, and scout programs.

The center is surrounded by easy walking trails. Bring binoculars and walk out to the shoreline to see wild birds and get a great view of Coronado Bridge.

Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens

5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles (323) 644-4200, www.lazoo.org

Home to more than 2,200 mammals, birds, amphibians, and reptiles representing more than 270 different species, many of which are endangered. Popular exhibits include Rainforest of the Americas, Elephants of Asia, Chimpanzees of Mahale Mountains, and The Lair of amphibians and reptiles. KultureCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue. The zoo offers special experiences throughout the year, camps, classes, and guided tours for members.

Los Angeles Public Library cardholders can go to the Discover & Go website (www.lapl.org/explorela) to reserve a pass good for free L.A. Zoo admission for up to four people. Restrictions apply.

Oasis Camel Dairy

26757 Highway 78, Ramona (760) 787-0983, www.cameldairy.com

Unique family farm that offers public tours on Open Farm Days or private tours by reservation. The farm

See 100+ ostriches and emus. Guests are invited to feed and interact with the large birds and browse the gift shop full of unique gifts and fresh ostrich eggs. Ostrich feed is available for $1 per bowl. See ostrich chicks during the summer months and emu chicks in late-winter and early-spring.

OstrichLand is a great stop when you’re headed to the quaint Danish-themed town of Solvang.

San Diego Animal Sanctuary & Farm

5178 Japatul Spur, Alpine (619) 320-4942 www.sandiegoanimalsanctuaryandfarm.org

Home to 200+ domesticated livestock and exotic animals from around the world, representing 29 species and 70 breeds. There are six separate areas where the animals reside, each reflecting a different world in the animal kingdom. Single-day passes include animal interaction from outside the enclosures. Guided tours, Keeper-for-the-Day, Behind-the-Scenes Tours, and birthday parties available.

San Diego Zoo

2920 Zoo Drive, San Diego (619) 231-1515, zoo.sandiegozoo.org

A 100-acre wildlife park and home to over 12,000 rare and endangered animals. Popular areas include Elephant Odyssey, Northern Frontier featuring polar bears, and Lost Forest featuring tigers and gorillas. Visit the zoo’s newest interactive kids area, Wildlife Explorers Basecamp. Learn even more with wildlife care specialist talks and presentations throughout the zoo. Upgrade your visit with special experiences like the Inside Look Tour or Early Morning Cheetah Experience. KultureCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue.

Take the 35-minute guided bus tour upon arrival for an overall view of the zoo.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park

15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido (760) 747-8702, www.sdzsafaripark.org

This 1,800-acre wildlife park is home to 3,600+ animals. The Walkabout Australia habitat lets guests walk among the grasslands with kangaroos and wal- labies. Plus, meet the only two platypuses currently residing outside of Australia. The Africa Tram is a 25-minute expedition with safari tour vehicles and diverse wildlife. Kids will love the park’s play areas, including the Mawazo Woods Discovery Area and the Savanna Cool Zone, a water play area. Enhance your experience with special safaris: zipline across the park, go behind the scenes, or go on a special overnight tent-camping experience. KultureCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue.

Santa Ana Zoo

1801 E. Chestnut Ave., Santa Ana (714) 836-4000, www.santaanazoo.org

Santa Ana Zoo features over 80 animal species, including some of the smallest monkeys in the world, the Golden Headed Lion Tamarins. Explore their newest, multi-species exhibit, Tierra de las Pampas, to see anteaters, guanacos, and rheas. Walk through the Colors of the Amazon Aviary to see exotic birds, explore the Safari Playground, and feed goats and sheep at the Crean Family Farm. Ticketed attractions include the Zoofari Express Train Ride, Conservation Carousel, and 50 Monkey Ferris Wheel. Picnic areas available to rent. Memberships and “Adopt” An Animal program available.

Santa Ana residents can visit for free on the third Sunday of each month.

STAR Eco Station

10101 Jefferson Blvd., Culver City (310) 842-8060, www.ecostation.org

An environmental science museum and rescue facility that offers guided tours to see 200+ rescued exotic wildlife from tropical fish to tortoises, parrots to pythons. Each tour features fun animal facts, handson animal encounters, rescue stories, environmental exhibits, and more. Eco Station is only open to the public on weekends. Tours start every hour on the hour. Private group tours are available to book any day. Annual events, seasonal camps, memberships, and party packages are available.

The Reptile Zoo

18818 Brookhurst St., Fountain Valley (714) 500-0591, www.thereptilezoo.com

Home to over 100 exotic species of reptiles, amphibians, and arachnids from around the world. See venomous snakes, crocodilians and fish, pythons and boas, monitors and tegus, and visit DARTHgator at the Gator Island Exhibit. Upgrade your visit with animal encounters, photo opportunities, hands-on presentations, and feeding experiences. Jr. Zookeeper for a Day, Jr. Zookeeper camps, and birthday parties are also available.

Wallis Annenberg PetSpace

12005 Bluff Creek Dr., Playa Vista (424) 384-1801, www.annenbergpetspace.org

A community space for pet adoptions and pet education with a focus on the bond between people and their pets. Interactive activities for kids include a life-sized hamster wheel, slide, and more. Kidfriendly programs include Paws & Pages, featuring a pet-themed book reading, opportunity to meet an adoptable pet or critter, and a fun craft. Families can visit Critter Corner to see different animals that would make great pets. Birthday parties, camps, and scout programs are also available.

Wild Wonders

5712 Vía Montellano, Bonsall (760) 630-9230, www.wildwonders.org

A five-acre wildlife education facility with 120+ animal ambassadors. The Behind-the-Scenes tour introduces you to animals from all over the world. Interactive Animal Experiences include Meet and Greet a Cheetah or Wallaby Walkabout. Family Zoo Camp is available year-round, where the whole family gets to perform various animal husbandry duties, learn about conservation efforts, and get a full, private tour of the facility. Birthday parties and seasonal events are also offered.

Wildlife Learning Center

16027 Yarnell St., Sylmar (818) 362-8711, www.wildlifelearningcenter.org

Small, local wildlife center dedicated to providing lifelong care to more than 100 displaced, rescued, and zoo-born wild animals, such as foxes, sloths, bald eagles, monkeys, and more. Individual animal experiences can be added to see your favorite animals up close. Private tours require advanced reservations. Birthday parties and camps are also offered.

Zoomars at River Street Ranch

31791 Los Rios St., San Juan Capistrano (949) 831-6550, www.riverstreetranch.com

Visitors can pet and feed guinea pigs, goats, sheep, and see other farm animals. Kids can also explore the playground, ride ponies, pan for gemstones, ride the train, drive a mini tractor, or jump on an electric mini excavator to scoop, dig, and pile up sand. Party packages and memberships available.

Mission San Juan Capistrano is just a sevenminute walk away!

aquariums & marine centers

Aquarium of the Pacific

100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach (562) 590-3100, www.aquariumofpacific.org

Southern California’s largest aquarium and home to more than 12,000 animals of the Pacific Ocean. Touch sharks in the Shark Lagoon, feed Australian lorikeets in the Lorikeet Forest, visit their state-ofthe-art theater, and interact with more than 100 other exhibits. Special animal encounters are also offered to get a close-up view of their most popular animals. The aquarium’s newest exhibit, Babies!, features fuzzy sea otters, tiny cuttlefish, mini sea jellies, and baby sharks. Art exhibits, performing arts shows, cultural and community festivals, plus camps, classes, and scout programs offered throughout the year. KultureCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue. Online reservations required on weekends, recommended on weekdays. Memberships for families and grandparents available.

Enjoy the lighthouse, walk around Shoreline Village, or hop on the AquaLink nearby.

Birch Aquarium

2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla

(858) 534-3474, https://aquarium.ucsd.edu

Perched on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Birch Aquarium features 60+ habitats that showcase the research discoveries of oceanography scientists at UC San Diego. Touch animals at the Tide Pool Plaza, meet La Jolla’s leopard sharks, get immersed in a two-story kelp forest, and visit seadragons and seahorses. Check out their newest habitat featuring little blue penguins, the smallest penguins in the world! Behind-the-scenes tours, camps, pier walks with naturalists, tidepooling adventures, and seasonal events are also offered throughout the year.

Visit their Discounts and Offers page for current admission deals. The Tide Pool Plaza, located outdoors, has some of the most spectacular ocean views in San Diego.

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

3720 Stephen M. White Drive, San Pedro (310) 548-7562, www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org

Thirty-five saltwater tanks and touch tanks, plus discovery labs and an Aquatic Nursery with baby sea animals. The Exploration Center lets kids crawl into an aquarium, walk through a squishy mud tunnel, identify animals using microscopes, view a working laboratory, create artwork, and more. After-school programs, workshops, camps, family programs, annual events, tide pool walks, and grunion runs are offered throughout the year. Kultu- how many of these wacky things can you do? reCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue. Suggested admission donation: $7 for adults and $3 for children and seniors.

Lick your own elbow?

Tickle yourself?

Sneeze with your eyes open?

Breathe and swallow at the same time?

Hum a song while holding your breath?

Wiggle your ears?

It’s a small aquarium, but perfect for an interesting and educational outing without the crowds. Make it a full day of ocean fun by going to the beach across the parking lot or visiting the Marine Mammal Care Center just five minutes away.

Heal the Bay Aquarium

1600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica (310) 393-6149, www.healthebay.org/aquarium

Located under the Santa Monica Pier, the aquarium features 100+ species of marine animals and plants found locally in the Santa Monica Bay. Hands-on activities include touch tanks, educational programs, and feeding demonstrations. Beach cleanups, special events, and camps are held throughout the year. Party packages available.

It may be a little hard to find! The aquarium is located on the beach level of Santa Monica Pier, directly beneath the carousel building, underneath the bridge.

Marine Mammal Care Center Los Angeles

3601 S. Gaffey St., #8, San Pedro (310) 548-5677, www.marinemammalcare.org

A hospital for seals and sea lions that become stranded along the 70+ miles of beaches from Malibu to Seal Beach due to illness, injury and malnutrition. Visitors can walk around the facilities, see the animals, and learn from volunteer docents. Tickets are free (a $5 donation per person is appreciated) but must be reserved online in advance. Walk-ins are limited and are dependent on capacity.

Round out your ocean-themed day with a trip to Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, just five minutes away!

Ocean Institute

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point (949) 496-2274, www.oceaninstitute.org

Education center that offers 60+ marine science and maritime history programs. Family activities include weekend tours, tide pool hikes, and kayak harbor tours. Special programs for children under 4 are also offered. Whale and marine life tours, plus bioluminescence night cruises aboard a research vessel are scheduled throughout the year. Birthday parties, camps, volunteer and internship opportunities for teens, and special events are also offered. Memberships include admission, birthday party discounts, and gifts.

Pacific Marine Mammal Center

20612 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach (949) 494-3050, www.pacificmmc.org

PMMC rescues, rehabilitates and releases marine mammals. Meet sea lions, elephant seals, harbor seals, and fur seals. Call ahead for animal feeding times. The visitor yard features interactive displays, marine mammal artifacts, and a gift shop. Camps, after-school programs, memberships, and scout programs available. The center is open daily for docentled tours. Admission is free, donations appreciated.

Roundhouse Aquarium

Manhattan Beach Pier, Manhattan Beach (310) 379-8117, www.roundhouseaquarium.org

Located at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier, the aquarium cares for 100+ different species of marine life. Enjoy 12+ exhibits including Rocky Reef, Kid’s Kelp Corner, Discovery Corner, and more. Birthday parties, camp, school outreach programs, and volunteer opportunities available. Admission is free, donations appreciated.

Sea Life Aquarium at Legoland

One Legoland Drive, Carlsbad www.legoland.com/sealife

Home to more than 6,000 animals and features interactive touchpools, dive shows, and feeding demonstrations. Highlights include a walk-through shark tunnel to see sharks and rays up close and seeing various LEGO models throughout the aquarium and inside tanks. Their Sea at Night exhibit, lets visitors stroll in a simulated gentle surf under a starry sky and splash in a bioluminescent tide. Tickets to the aquarium and multi-park tickets that include admission to the aquarium and Legoland available.

boats & Ships

Battleship USS Iowa

250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro (877) 446-9261, www.pacificbattleship.com

Explore the battleship that served our country proudly in WWII, Korea, and the Cold War. General access pass lets visitors explore exhibits on the Battleship of Presidents, Gunnery Hazards, HUP-2 Helicopter, and more. Private guided tours are offered, plus parties, overnight programs, and camps.

Participate in searching for Vicky the Victory Dog in a free online app and/or a scavenger hunt card.

Boats to Catalina

Catalina Express: Departs from Dana Point, Long Beach and San Pedro, to Avalon and Two Harbors, (800) 613-1212, www.catalinaexpress.com. Catalina Flyer: Departs from Newport Beach to Avalon, (949) 673-5245, www.catalinainfo.com.

Harbor Breeze Cruises

100 Aquarium Way, Dock # 2, Long Beach (562) 432-4900, www.2seewhales.com

Go on whale, dolphin and sea life sightseeing tours, as well as 45-minute Long Beach Harbor tours. Special event cruises are available for holidays.

Ocean Institute

24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point (949) 496-2274, www.oceaninstitute.org

Kayak around Dana Point harbor or go on a whale and marine life tour aboard a research vessel. Bioluminescence Night Cruises and tallship sails also offered throughout the year. Open to the public on weekends.

Queen Mary

1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach (562) 435-3511, https://queenmary.com

Explore the Queen Mary with informative tours highlighting her golden days of the 1950s, how she earned the "haunted ship" nickname, and learn about the engineering of the most technologically advanced ocean liner of her time.

SS Lane Victory

2400 Miner St., San Pedro (310) 519-9188, www.lanevictory.org

Self-guided tours are offered on the museum ship that was once used in World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War. Visitors get complete access to the ship to see how Merchant Marines lived and worked.

USS Midway

910 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego (619) 544-9600, www.midway.org

AquaLink

Alamitos Bay & Rainbow Harbor, Long Beach (562) 591-2301, www.ridelbt.com/aqualink

Water taxi that offers a scenic ride and a way to get around Long Beach’s coastline. Guests are transported to and from Alamitos Bay and Rainbow Harbor. The fare is $5 each way and takes approximately 40 minutes. Check the website for schedule.

Bikes are allowed on board AquaLink, so bring your bikes for a family ride along the coast!

Navy aircraft carrier featuring more than 30 restored aircraft and nearly 10 acres of exhibits. Climb aboard real cockpits, tour the bridge and captain’s cabins, walk through spaces where the crew lived, and explore the hangar and flight deck. Special events and activities are scheduled throughout the year. Visit the Information Booth to participate in the Junior Pilot Program, where kids complete activity sheets and earn their wings in a little ceremony. Freedom Annual Passes and memberships available.

Sign up early for Snooze Crews, overnight adventure opportunities for youth groups and families!

Whale Watching Excursions

Whale watching cruises are available from these locations. Visit their website or call for schedules, deals and other information. Capt. Dave’s Dolphin and Whale Watching Safari, (949) 488-2828, www. dolphinsafari.com. Dana Wharf Whale Watching, (888) 224-0603, www.danawharf.com. Davey’s Locker, (949) 415-5954, kids (ages 0-12) are free, www.daveyslocker.com. Harbor Breeze Cruise, (562) 432-4900, www.2seewhales.com. LA Waterfront Cruises, (310) 547-9916, www.lawaterfrontcruises. com. Newport Landing Whale Watching, (949) 6750551, www.newportwhales.com. Ocean Institute, (949) 496-2274, some memberships offer complimentary whale watching tickets, www.ocean-institute.org. Redondo Beach Whale Watching, (310) 372-2111, www.rbwhales.com.

Children’s Museums

Cayton Children’s Museum

395 Santa Monica Place #374, Santa Monica (424) 416-8320, www.caytonmuseum.org

Explore 21,000 square feet of discovery-based exhibits and reactive VR. There are art studios, community spaces, and a state-of-the-art theatre. Kid-size exhibits include a fire station, help-o-copter, animal hospital, community market, and cafe. The museum offers weekly art and cultural activities designed for children and their families, including free drop-in activities, camps, classes, and community programs. Sensory Sunday events are offered on select dates. KultureCity Certified Sensory Inclusive Venue. Party packages and memberships available. Visitors must register online for available timed entry.

Children’s Museum at La Habra

301 S. Euclid St., La Habra (562) 383-4236, www.lhcm.org

Discover seven galleries, dozens of hands-on and changing exhibits, plus an outdoor dinosaur garden and historic 1942 caboose. Galleries include STEAM Lab, Train Station, Carousel Room, Science Station, Kids on Stage, Centennial Farm, and Family Art Center. Birthday parties, scout programs, and memberships are available. Special events are scheduled throughout the year.

Ask about weekly events such as Nature Walk Story Time, Music and Movement, and Sensory Sensitive Sundays.

Kidspace Children’s Museum

480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena (626) 449-9144, www.kidspacemuseum.org

A 3.5-acre campus with more than 40 hands-on exhibits, live animal collection, and variety of creative play spaces and water features designed for ages 1-10. Outdoor spaces invite children to splash and dance in water fountains, cross rope bridges, get messy playing in a water stream, ride trikes on a minihighway track, and explore physics in a forest of levers and pulleys. Indoor galleries allow children to peek into an active beehive, create and invent in the Imagina- tion Workshop, explore a giant ant tunnel, and climb towers. Camps, classes, scout programs, and memberships are available. Special events are scheduled throughout the year.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Details are subject to change without notice. Confirm with organization.

Bring a change of clothes, kids will get wet!

Pennypickle’s Workshop

Temecula Children’s Museum

42081 Main St., Temecula (951) 308-6367, www.pennypickles.org

Explore the home of Professor Phineas T. Pennypickle, cluttered with hands-on inventions, wacky gadgets, and electrifying experiments. Visit the Time Machine, go through the secret passage in the fireplace, become a human kaleidoscope with the Illusionator, play many instruments at the same time, check out the Electrolight-o-later chandelier, and try out the peanut butter and jelly sandwich-making machine. Kids Only Club offers drop-off events, plus special events scheduled throughout the year. Two-hour visiting sessions help with crowds. Check their Busyness Schedule to see which days will be busy with large groups. Party packages, field trips, and special programs are available.

Ask about scavenger hunt papers for all ages to make your visit even more engaging. There are over 20 different scavenger hunts, each one more difficult than the last.

Pretend City Children’s Museum

29 Hubble, Irvine (949) 428-3900, www.pretendcity.org

Pretend City provides children access to a child-size interconnected city that’s all their own! Children are given a chance to “practice life” in settings they are most likely to encounter throughout their lives. They can run a UPS store and deliver packages, grocery shop at Trader Joe’s, play as a dentist and doctor in the medical center, fish and race boats in the marina, change spark plugs on a race car, run a restaurant, work on a farm, rescue a house on fire, and build structures of all shapes and sizes. The Pretend City Cafe and Home exhibits change quarterly to focus on a different heritage or culture. In the Cafe, the menu, pretend food, and decor change. In the Home, a new family of real Orange County residents “move in,” bringing their traditions, culture and lifestyle with them. Beginning May 26, 2023, Camping in the City! events will feature campfires, story times, and activities to help you prepare for your own camping trip and teach you and your little one how to stay safe while outdoors. Additional programs include: Neurodivergent Family Nights, Free Developmental Screenings, and birthday party packages. Visit their calendar for upcoming special events and classes.

Southern California Children’s Museum

459 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 657-0357, www.socalkids.org

Museum features permanent and rotating exhibits, such as Wild California and an Art Studio. Kids can interact with a fire engine, play in the construction zone, or experience what it's like to perform at the Hollywood Bowl. The new "Pollination Station" exhibit shows how bees impact our livelihood and what we can do to help them survive. Children can pretend play with beekeeper and bee costumes. Weekly programming includes stories, crafts, language development, sing-alongs, sensory awareness and more. Programs included with admission. Party packages available.

The New Children’s Museum

200 W. Island Ave., San Diego (619) 233-8792, www.thinkplaycreate.org

A multi-level 50,000-square-foot facility filled with inventive and engaging experiences with contemporary art. This arts-based museum features roomsized art installations, including Cash Machine, Wobbleland, and The Wonder Sound, a labyrinth of rooms, nooks, and ropes. A variety of art studios are also available for kids to create with clay and paint, plus the Innovators Lab makerspace. Camps, community programs, birthday parties, and memberships are available. Accessibility mornings, workshops, and special events are scheduled throughout the year.

Family fun centers

Adventure Playground

7111 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach (714) 536-5486, www.huntingtonbeachca.gov

A unique playing experience, where kids can raft on a small pond, go down a mudslide, and build a fort. Reservations are now open for the season: June 24 - August 18. Book reservations at www. hbsands.org. Reservations are highly recommended. If you plan on dropping in, be sure to call the office to inquire about space availability.

• Adventure City

1238 S. Beach Blvd., Anaheim (714) 236-9300, www.adventurecity.com

Adventure City in North Orange County is guaranteed to entertain young families, with 17 exciting rides and attractions, including the Drop Zone, a 50-foot free-fall tower and the all new Rewind Racers roller coaster. You'll also find a petting farm, a 25-foot climbing wall, an arcade, a Thomas the Tank Engine and Friends play area, great food and much more. What a great place to have a company picnic, birthday party or team party! The price is right, too. All-day unlimited rides: adults or children, $28.95; seniors (55 and over), $23.95 (prices subject to change without notice). AAA discount available for up to six regular-price admissions per card. Free parking. See ad on page 19.

Balboa Fun Zone

600 East Bay Ave., Newport Beach (949) 903-2825, www.balboaferriswheel.com

Enjoy a ride on the Ferris Wheel, stroll around the bayside boardwalk, rent bicycles, and play games in the arcade and game room. Narrated harbor and whale watching cruises are offered, in addition to plenty of shops and restaurants.

While you’re there, don’t miss a ride on the nearby Balboa Ferry (going strong since 1919).

Boomers

3405 Michelson Dr., Irvine

17871 Castleton St., City of Industry www.boomersparks.com

Enjoy miniature golf, bumper boats, Thunder Road Go Karts, Lil’ Thunder Rookie Go Karts, Lazer Tag, Flame Thrower and Starship thrill rides, batting cages, a restaurant, an arcade, and Boomers Backyard, now with VIP Cabanas. Boomers Los Angeles offers Slick Track, Turbo Track, Lil’ Thunder Rookie Go Karts, miniature golf, a restaurant, an arcade, and Boomers Backyard outdoor space. Both locations offer party and group packages, along with all-day passes.

Bowling Centers

The following centers offer public and league bowling. Online lane reservations, cosmic bowling, arcades, snack bars, and party packages typically offered.

AMF and Bowlero, various locations, www.bowlero. com. Cal Bowl, Lakewood, (562) 421-8448, www. calbowl.com. Concourse Bowling, Anaheim, (714) 666-2695, www.concoursebowling.com. CSULB Games Center, Long Beach, (562) 985-5201, www.asicsulb.org/corporate/enjoy/games-center. Fountain Bowl, Fountain Valley, (714) 963-2897, www.fountainbowl.com. Gardena Bowl, Gardena, (310) 324-1244, www.gardenabowl.com. Irvine Lanes, Irvine, (949) 786-9625, www.irvinelanes. com. Keystone Lanes, Norwalk, (562) 868-3261, www.keystonelanes.com. Linbrook Bowling, Anaheim, (714) 774-2253, www.linbrookbowl.net. Round 1, various locations, www.round1usa.com. Saddleback Lanes, Mission Viejo, (949) 586-5300, www. saddlebacklanes.com. Splitsville, Downtown Disney, (657) 276-2440, www.splitsvillelanes.com. Westminster Lanes, Westminster, (714) 893-5005, www. westminsterlanes.com.

Camelot Golfland

3200 E. Carpenter Ave., Anaheim (714) 630-3340, www.golfland.com/anaheim

Attractions include miniature golf, Fastcar Raceway, bumper boats and cars, arcade, laser tag, and a pizza parlor. Birthday party and group packages available. Memberships are also offered.

CAMP Los Angeles

Westfield Century City

10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles (310) 665-8940 www.camp.com/locations/los-angeles

A unique shop/play hybrid experience featuring five custom play spaces with rotating themes. Nike Kids Camp experience is currently offered, featuring baseball, soccer, football, and basketball. On weekends, it is a timed-entry, one-hour-long, guided experience. On weekdays, it is Nike Free Play where you show up whenever you want and play as long as you like. Make-your-own slime bar now open. Party packages available.

Chuck E. Cheese www.chuckecheese.com

Features an animatronic show and a wide selection of games and rides, including bowling, air hockey, basketball, console games, and prize games. A variety of food and beverages available, including their famous pizza. Sensory Sensitive Sundays for children with special needs are offered, along with party packages and group rates. Visit their website to find a location near you and weekly deals.

Visit the Activities and Downloads page on their website to print awards and charts for kids to earn free play points!

Dave & Buster’s www.daveandbusters.com

Arcade games, billiards, bowling, virtual reality games, and a full restaurant. Party packages available. Locations in Long Beach, Irvine, Los Angeles, Orange, and Torrance.

Go Kart World 21830 Recreation Road, Carson (310) 834-3700, www.gokartworld.com

A popular outdoor, six-track driving skills center with party rooms, a snack bar, and arcade. Includes a kiddy track, bumper track, mini indy, slick track, turbo track, and super track. Height and age requirements to drive vary. Children’s and teen party packages available. Visit their website for special discounts.

• Golf N’ Stuff Family Fun Park

10555 E. Firestone Blvd., Norwalk (562) 868-9956, www.golfnstuff.com

Take a break and have fun at Golf N' Stuff Family Fun Park! Enjoy challenging miniature golf and exciting rides, including go-karts, bumper boats, and kiddie train. While you're there, check out the latest in arcade games, great prizes, snack bar, and indoor and outdoor party facilities for birthday or team parties (see page 42). Where the 5 and 605 freeways meet. See ad with coupons on page 29 and party deals on the back inside cover. Ask about their free school and doctors' office incentive programs.

John’s Incredible Pizza www.johnspizza.com

Arcade games, rides, laser maze, bowling, kiddie land, bumper cars, and more. There are different themed dining areas for families to enjoy, including Cabin Fever, Hall of Fame, Toon Time, and more. Birthday parties, and group and sports packages are available. Locations in Buena Park, Carson, Riverside and more.

K1 Speed www.k1speed.com

K1 has several indoor go-kart racing locations open to the public seven days a week, featuring all-electric go-karts. Adults and kids (48-inches and up) can arrive and drive, no reservations required. First time drivers receive a mandatory briefing session on rules and safety. Party and group packages are available. Locations in Anaheim, Burbank, Irvine, Torrance and more. Visit their website for special weekly promotions.

Laser Land

2340 S. Azusa Ave., West Covina (800) 807-7494, www.laserlandusa.com

Laser arena with attractions that include laser tag, a laser maze, virtual reality games, and interactive trampolines. Birthday parties and group event packages are available.

Lucky Art Crayonology

5135 Holt Blvd., Montclair (909) 447-1113, www.luckyartcrayonology.com

Hands-on experience using the compression molding machine to create your own multicolored crayons, as well as using special face and body paints. They offer four DIY activities: Crayon Press ‘N Shape, Paint On

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Details are subject to change without notice. Confirm with organization.

Me, Marker Creation, and Draw A Way. Birthday parties are also available.

Wear clothes that are easy to put costumes over for their Superstar Runway and Costume Zone.

MB2 Entertainment

21516 Golden Triangle Rd., Santa Clarita (661) 753-3413, www.mb2entertainmentscv.com

Entertainment park with seven acres of attractions, including duck pin bowling, virtual reality gaming experience, arcade games, laser tag, axe throwing, mini golf, bumper boats and go karts. A full-service restaurant and a walk-up, grab-andgo counter, plus private party rooms for group celebrations are available. Check their website for promotions and events.

Medieval Times

7662 Beach Blvd., Buena Park (714) 523-1100, www.medievaltimes.com

Go back in time to the 11th century and watch a jousting tournament inside a castle. Guests dine on a four-course feast and witness almost two hours of jousting, swordsmanship, and displays of extraordinary horsemanship and falconry, as part of a riveting story set in Medieval Spain. Check their website for coupons. Birthday party and group packages available.

Neon Retro Arcade

28 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena (626) 568-2924, www.neonretroarcade.com

An old-school arcade with your favorite retro games from back in the day. All games are set to “free play” with paid admission. Walk-ins are welcome, reservations are available.

Nickel! Nickel!

12827 Harbor Blvd., G2, Garden Grove (714) 847-2191, www.nickelnickelhb.com

Over 120 games! Guests pay $2 each to enter the facility and then choose to play free-play games or pay one to six nickels to play arcade games, pinball, or one of many prize redemption games. Check their website for promotions and party availability.

Off the Wall Social

7227 Edinger Ave., Huntington Beach (714) 316-0775, www.otwusa.com/huntington-beach Bowling, bocce ball, corn hole, arcade games, ping pong, bumper pool, laser tag, and virtual reality attractions. Kids parties also available.

Pacific Park

380 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica (310) 260-8744, www.pacpark.com

Admission-free amusement park with rides, boardwalk-style midway games, specialty food, and seaside shopping. Rides and attractions are priced individually.

Heal the Bay Aquarium is also located at the Santa Monica Pier!

Paintball & Airsoft Parks

Paintball and airsoft parks are usually geared for older kids and teens. Check websites for age requirements and to sign waivers.

Hollywood Sports Park - Outdoor facility offers PaintballSOFT (ages 7 and up), GellyAttack (ages 10 and up), and Spongeball (ages 5 and up). Party packages are available and other activities include rock climbing and a speedball field. 9030 Somerset Blvd., Bellflower. (562) 867-9600. www.hollywoodsports.com

Tac City Airsoft - Indoor airsoft play, plus private groups for Nerf Wars (ages 5 and up) and Gel Blaster. Bootcamp for Kids (ages 10-16) on select days that include rentals, pizza, drinks, training, and guest appearances. 2430 Artesia Ave., Fullerton. (657) 8886111. www.taccityairsoft.com

SC Village Paintball & Airsoft Park - Fields themed after various places around the globe. Paintball and airsoft players must be ages 10 and up. PaintballSOFT, GellyAttack, and Spongeball parties available. 8900 McCarty Road, Chino. (949) 489-9000. www.scvillage.com

Pirate’s Dinner Adventure

7600 Beach Blvd., Buena Park (714) 690-1497, www.piratesdinneradventureca.com

Cheer on your favorite pirates as they put on a swashbuckling show set aboard an 18th-century Spanish galleon in a 250,000-gallon lagoon. Enjoy special effects, aerial artistry, swordplay and dynamic duels. Dinner show includes a three-course meal. Group tickets for parties available.

Look for special offers on their website, including complimentary birthday admission.

Play & Parties

1500 E. Village Way, Suite 2131, Orange www.playandparties.com

Play & Parties offer playtime and birthday events.

Many classes are led by costumed characters. Memberships are available. Special events offered throughout the year.

Round1 Bowling and Amusement www.round1usa.com

Visit Round1 for bowling, billiards, arcade games, ping pong, karaoke, and more. Party packages available. Visit their website for special deals. Locations in Lakewood, Santa Ana, City of Industry, Burbank and more.

Skull Canyon Ziplines

13540 Temescal Canyon Road, Corona (951) 471-0999, www.skullcanyon.com

Four zipline courses and three levels of the Sky Gym on 160 acres of undisturbed, mountainous terrain. The Original Zipline is the most kid-friendly course. The Monster, Extreme, and Speed Run Courses are also available. The Sky Gym is for adventurers ages 8+ and over 60 pounds and features more than 58 different elements and three different levels of challenge. Advanced reservations required.

Skypark at Santa’s Village

28950 California 18, Skyforest (909) 744-9373, www.skyparksantasvillage.com

Tickets to Santa’s Village include access to Skypark and Skypark Bike Park. Skypark activities, rides, and entertainment include shows, character performances, seasonal parades, live music, climbing walls, skating arena, archery, train ride and more. Skypark Bike Park features trails for new and experienced mountain bikers. Bring your own bike or rent one on site. Bike lessons available. Skypark Camp + RV is a full service recreational camping experience located across the highway from Santa’s Village. Vehicle and tent camping, and Airstream trailer rentals available.

Thrill It Fun Center

Outlets at Orange, 20 City Blvd. W., Orange (714) 363-3858, www.thrillit.com

Indoor center that offers Ballocity, a multi-level play structure, plus high-rope challenges, rock climbing, laser tag, arcade games and cranes, and a mechanical bull. Party packages available.

Tom’s Farms

23900 Temescal Canyon Road, Temescal Valley (971) 277-4422, www.tomsfarms.com

Enjoy the farmer’s market, candy shop, craft fair, and more. The Family Fun Zone is open weekends with attractions that include live entertainment, pony rides and petting zoo, magic show, peacock farm, and scavenging for real fossils and minerals at Tom’s Mining Company. Kids can go on different rides, including a Ferris wheel, carousel, drop tower, bounce house, and a steam-propelled train.

Wonder of Dinosaurs

South Bay Galleria

1815 Hawthorne Blvd., Redondo Beach (424) 404-0845, www.wonderofdinosaurs.com

The largest display of dinosaurs, over 100, on the West Coast. The exhibits feature a museum and static and robotic dinosaur-themed activities, including panning for stones, bouncers, mazes, dino mini-golf, and rides (such as Ride-a-Trex and Triassic train). Party packages available.

farms & barns

Amy’s Farm

7698 Eucalyptus Ave., Ontario (844) 426-9732, www.amysfarm.com

Guided tours are available by advance reservations. Tours are approximately 1-1½ hours and include a garden walk, harvesting fresh produce to feed the animals, visiting the petting zoo, milking a cow, and visiting the horses. Workshops, educational classes, and special events available. Produce stand is open to the public.

Barnyard Buddies

11369 Carson St., Lakewood (562) 405-1010 https://barnyard-buddies.mailchimpsites.com

Barnyard Buddies offers a rural farming and equestrian experience with a petting zoo, pony rides, riding lessons, and trail rides. While visiting the petting zoo, you may be able to feed and brush the goats and sheep, and pay a visit to the alpaca, pigs, rabbits, chickens, and ponies. Field trips, summer camps, and birthday party packages available.

Centennial Farm

88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa (714) 708-1619, www.ocfair.com/centennial-farm

A three-acre working farm at OC Fair & Event Cen- ter created to educate youth about agriculture and its importance to daily life. Centennial Farm is home to fruit and vegetable gardens, livestock (including chickens, rabbits, goats, sheep, pigs and cattle), and the Millennium Barn. Group tours are available as well as year-round daily hours so the public can visit the farm. Admission is free.

Their website offers a live Pig Cam (oink oink), plus educational materials that include activity sheets and games for kids.

Gilchrist Farm

30116 Bouquet Canyon Road, Santa Clarita (661) 645-2517, www.gilchristfarm.com

Open year round for weekend farm visits, including pony and horse rides, wagon and train rides, archery and axe throwing, farm crafts, slide, maze, animal visits and more. Holiday camps and events, goat yoga, plus a variety of kids’ classes are also offered. Birthday parties and private events available, too.

Sand N’ Straw Community Farm

629 Mar Vista Drive, Vista (760) 575-4758, www.sandnstraw.com changorthodontics.com

Book a farm tour and explore the six-acre family farm; animal visits and feeding can be added to your tour. Young Pioneers program is offered where children are immersed in outdoor experiential learning, as they explore ponds, gardens, trails, and caring for animals.

Kids Day on the Farm is held on Thursdays, featuring a special story time and animal feeding. Book your visit in advance.

Tanaka Farms

5380-3/4 University Drive, Irvine (949) 653-2100, www.tanakafarms.com

Go on guided tours and u-pick wagon rides through their 30-acre farm all year long. Visit the barn to see animals and participate in special events and story time. Check out their Chicks & Sprouts Workshop, where kids (ages 4-10) learn about baby chicks, plant their own sunflower, harvest veggies, and visit the animals. Seasonal harvest festivals, pumpkin patch, which one of these massive meals did he not eat? farm-to-table cookouts, CSA program (farm produce boxes), group tours, and private parties also available. Reservations are required for tours and activities.

Joey Chestnut is our hero for competitive eating and winner of Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest nearly every year. He holds 55 world records!

81 Eggo-style waffles in 8 mins.

126 tacos in 8 mins.

52 cheeseburgers in 10 mins.

257 Hostess donuts in 6 mins.

128 oz. of mayonnaise in 8 mins.

121 Twinkies in 6 mins.

182 chicken wings in 30 mins.

141 hard-boiled eggs in 8 mins.

76 hot dogs and buns in 10 mins.

Answer on page 39!

Tanaka Farms also operates Hana Field in Costa Mesa, where you can stroll through a field of sunflowers.

The Ecology Center

32701 Alipaz St., San Juan Capistrano (949) 443-4223, www.theecologycenter.org

A 28-acre organic farm offering a variety of programs for all ages, including Rad Traditions, an after-school program for ages 7-14; Microgreens, a parent-child gathering with games, music, and activities for little ones; and Eco-Tots Playspace, where children ages 1-5 (and parents) help care for the gardens, enjoy a taste from the farm, build shelters and fairy houses, and make arts and crafts from nature’s bounty. Summer camp, workshops, field trips, community table events with guest chefs, and harvest boxes also offered.

The Gentle Barn

15825 Sierra Hwy., Santa Clarita (661) 252-2440, www.gentlebarn.org/california

Hug cows, give tummy rubs to pigs, hold chickens, pet goats, and cuddle turkeys. Private tours, field trips, party packages, horse therapy, and cow hug therapy also offered. Open to the public on Sundays; tickets must be reserved in advance.

Underwood Family Farms

(3370 Sunset Valley Road, Moorpark

5696 E. Los Angeles Ave., Somis 805) 529-3690, www.underwoodfamilyfarms.com

Both locations offer farm markets, animal care centers and pick-your-own fruits or vegetables. Animal Centers are open for viewing, feeding and petting, farm animals, such as sheep, alpacas, chickens, and goats. Moorpark also offers farm tours, wagon rides, play equipment, weekend animal shows, birthday party packages, plus ride-on trains and gem/fossil mining.

Check their website for special family events offered throughout the year!

Flight Museums

Blackbird Airpark

2503 E. Avenue P, Palmdale www.flighttestmuseum.org

See the world’s only display of a Lockheed A-12, along with the once ultra-secret D-21 drone and the only remaining U-2D model in the world. Admission and parking are free. Adjacent to Joe Davies Heritage Airpark.

Flight Path Museum

6661 W. Imperial Hwy., Los Angeles (424) 646-7284. www.flightpathlax.com

Located adjacent to the airfield at Los Angeles Airport, the museum features exhibits that honor Southern California’s aviation history. See an extensive collection of airline artifacts and flight crew uniforms from around the world. Learn about space exploration history, Flying Tigers airline, and fire fighting vehicles used at LAX.

Visit the Flight Path “Walk of Fame” on Sepulveda Blvd. in Westchester to find plaques dedicated to pioneers of aviation and space, including Sally Ride, Amelia Earhart, Wright Brothers, and more.

Joe Davies Heritage Airpark

2001 E Avenue P, Palmdale (661) 267-5611, www.cityofpalmdale.org/airpark

Explore a collection of aircraft from the United States Air Force Plant 42. The airpark features 21 retired military aircraft on display. Check their website for guided tour availability. Admission to the park is free. Adjacent to Blackbird Airpark.

The park also has picnic tables, some even under the wings of a plane!

Lyon Air Museum

19300 Ike Jones Road, Santa Ana (714) 210-4585, www.lyonairmuseum.org

Located on the west side of John Wayne Airport. Exhibits feature authentic aircraft, rare vehicles and related memorabilia from the World War II era. Special exhibits and events, such as Open Cockpit Days, are held throughout the year. Memberships, group tours, and facility rental available.

Kids will love climbing into interactive exhibits and watching planes take off from the airport.

March Field Air Museum

22550 Van Buren Blvd., Riverside (951) 902-5949, www.marchfield.org

See over 100 historic aircraft and more than 30,000 artifacts on display spanning over 100 years of aviation history. The collection includes historic bi-planes, jet fighters, helicopters, and futuristic unmanned aerial drones. The museum also features a children’s activity area where kids can dress up in aviation clothing and climb into a cockpit. Activities and worksheets for kids can be found under Teacher Resources on their website. Memberships, tram tours, group tours, and facility rental available.

Ask about Blue Star Family Days and the Southern California Air Show.

Museum of Flying

3100 Airport Ave., Santa Monica (310) 398-2500, www.museumofflying.org

Located by the Santa Monica airport, the museum exhibits nearly two dozen aircraft, the California Aviation Hall of Fame, and an interactive area for children. Visitors can also monitor the local control tower radio communications and enjoy a direct view of the runway. Facility rental available.

Planes of Fame Air Museum

14998 Cal Aero Drive, Chino (909) 597-3722, www.planesoffame.org

Explore close to 160 aircraft, military vehicles, and artifacts spanning the earliest days of aviation, including World War I, the 1920s and 1930s, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam War. Check the Aircraft Flight Schedule to see the live demonstration calendar of specific aircraft throughout the year. Guided tours, memberships, and facility rentals available.

Take a step back in time with a Warbirds Ride where you fly in a North American P-51D Mustang— America’s most iconic warbird of World War II!

San Diego Air & Space Museum

Balboa Park, 2001 Pan American Plaza, San Diego (619) 234-8291, www.sandiegoairandspace.org

One of the world’s premier air and space-themed science centers with more than 120 aircraft, and space vehicles and two million artifacts on display. The exhibits include rare and unique aircraft engines, instruments, models and equipment, as well as aviation-related medals, trophies, art, uniforms and spacesuits. Special exhibits include American Women of Flight, and SPACE: Our Greatest Adventure. Interactive areas include the Max Flight simulator ride, Aerial Combat simulator, and the 3D/4D Zable Theater that plays immersive films with unique effects for all ages. Summer camp, workshops, preschool programs, Little Engineers, and Pilot Ground School are offered. Birthday party packages and memberships also available.

The museum is located inside Balboa Park, one of the nation’s largest cultural parks. Spend the day exploring gardens, visiting the San Diego Zoo, going on a mini train ride, or enjoying a variety of events.

The Proud Bird

11022 Aviation Blvd., Los Angeles (310) 670-3093, www.theproudbird.com

The Proud Bird sits along the runway of LAX, offering guests a front-row view of planes approaching for landing. It is a food hall with interactive aviation exhibits, renovated events center, and a children's playground. Exhibits include Amelia Earhart and Charles Lindbergh memorabilia, X-1 Experimental Rocket Plane, Douglas DC-3 plane, P-51 Mustang, A-4 Skyhawk, and more aircraft. Free aviation tours offered.

Western Museum of Flight

Zamperini Field, 3315 Airport Drive, Torrance (310) 326-9544, www.wmof.com

See an extensive collection of numerous Warbirds, aircraft and target drones, piston and jet aircraft engines, aircraft components, aircraft ejection seats, World War II instruments, aircrew accessories, and a model aircraft collection. Educational programs let children see and touch the airplanes that made aviation history.

Yanks Air Museum

15121 Stearman Drive, Chino (909) 597-1735, www.yanksair.org

A collection of 200+ aircraft at different stages in the restoration process. The collection ranges from early aviation to modern jets, plus drones, helicopters, missiles, uniforms, and aircraft in the boneyard currently being restored. Highlights include the P40E Warhawk and the F-86 Sabre. Special events are held throughout the year. Guided tours, annual passes, and facility rental available.

Look for Connie, the resident “house” cat! She is named after the largest airplane at Yanks, the Lockheed EC-121T Super Constellation, and oversees everything at the museum.

Historical Sites

Dominguez Rancho Adobe Museum

18127 South Alameda St. , Rancho Dominguez (310) 603-0088, www.dominguezrancho.org

Learn about early California history, as it relates to the Dominguez family, homestead adobe, and the Rancho San Pedro, the first Spanish land grant in California. Enjoy guided tours of the Adobe museum and 17 acres of lush gardens and green space. Special events are held throughout the year, including historical reenactments. Admission is donationbased. Reservations are required to visit the museum. Facility rental available.

Drum Barracks Civil War Museum

1052 N. Banning Blvd., Wilmington (310) 548-7509, www.thedrumbarracks.org

The museum teaches the history of the Civil War, with an emphasis on California’s role in the conflict. It is housed in the last remaining wooden building of the original Drum Barracks, which served as the main staging, training, and supply base for the Union Army and military operation in the Southwest. Visi- tors can tour the courtyard, parlor, armory, barracks room and more. Public tours are offered on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. Weekend tours are offered on the 2nd and 4th Saturday only. All visitors must accompany a guided tour.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Details are subject to change without notice. Confirm with organization.

Heritage Hill Historical Park

25151 Serrano Road, Lake Forest (949) 923-2230, www.ocparks.com/heritagehill

The park’s 4.1 acres include four fully-restored and furnished historic buildings that span the early history of the Saddleback Valley and El Toro area: Serrano Adobe, El Toro Grammar School, St. George’s Episcopal Mission, and Harvey Bennett Ranch House. The buildings are open for public access only during guided tours provided Wednesday through Saturday. Four free “walk-in” tours are offered weekly for individuals and groups of seven or less on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. Call or visit the website for tour availability.

Heritage Museum of Orange County

3101 W. Harvard St., Santa Ana (714) 540-0404, www.heritagemuseumoc.org

A cultural center and home to the H. Clay Kellogg House and John Maag Farmhouse. The centerpiece of the museum is a historic plaza featuring several buildings from the 1890s set amid extensive floral gardens and citrus groves. They are open to the public on certain days each month. Check the event calendar on their website for hours and events.

A museum-themed Kids Activities page is offered on their website (under Public Events and Info).

Heritage Square Museum

3800 Homer St., Los Angeles (323) 225-2700, www.heritagesquare.org

A living history museum that explores the settlement and development of Southern California from the Civil War to early 20th century. On weekends, guided tours take visitors on an exploration of the history, architecture and culture of the eight historic structures on site, including Victorian Era homes, a church, carriage barn, and drugstore. Guests must be part of a guided tour to view the interior of the buildings. Tickets are pre-sale only. A variety of educational programs and tours available. Guests are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy the grounds.

Check their calendar to visit during one of their special events.

Homestead Museum

15415 E. Don Julian Road, City of Industry (626) 968-8492, www.homesteadmuseum.org

Located in the heart of a former Mexican rancho, the site features two historic houses, cemetery, and gardens. Throughout the year, the museum offers a variety of special events and programs for youth and school groups. Free guided tours of the homes are offered Friday - Sunday at 12, 1, 2, and 3 p.m. Guests must be part of a guided tour to visit the interior of the houses. They are closed the fourth weekend of every month.

Lincoln Memorial Shrine

125 W. Vine St., Redlands (909) 798-7636, www.lincolnshrine.org

A museum and research facility dedicated to Abra- ham Lincoln and the Civil War. The memorial commemorates the life of our 16th president with artwork and exhibits. Special events are hosted throughout the year. Check their website for upcoming news and events. Weekend tours are available for groups of 12 or more. Admission is free.

Mendez Tribute Monument Park

7371 Westminster Blvd., Westminster www.westminster-ca.gov

Monument telling the story of the historical Mendez vs. Westminster case, which led to the desegregation of schools in California. The freedom trail is two miles along Hoover Street, and features a series of interactive panels using augmented reality along the route, paying homage to the case and the Mendez family.

Mission San Juan Capistrano

26801 Old Mission Road, San Juan Capistrano (949) 234-1300, www.missionsjc.com

Historic landmark and museum known as the “Jewel of the Missions” and the birthplace of Orange County. It was founded more than two hundred years ago as the 7th of 21 missions in California. Guided and audio tours (free with paid admission) are available. Walk through ten acres of museum rooms, exhibits, gardens, fountains, and more. Check out their online calendar for special events, as well as a Learn and Explore section, loaded with fun and educational activities for kids to enhance your visit. The Mission also offers a variety of school programs. Purchase admission tickets online.

A special 4th Grader Package is available and includes youth/student admission, souvenir bracelet, and Mission San Juan Capistrano resource book for $16.47. Also, don't miss Zoomars nearby!

Pío Pico State Historic Park

6003 Pioneer Blvd., Whittier (562) 695-1217, www.parks.ca.gov/piopico

The five-acre park encompasses historic gardens and the restored adobe home of Pío Pico, the governor of Alta California in 1832 and again in 1846. Visitors can enjoy picnics in the park, bird watching, and exploring the park’s features, including the 15-room adobe with interpretive displays, an horno (bread oven), and a dovecote. Guided tours of the adobe are offered by appointment only except on weekends. Tours for K-12 school groups are also available.

Point Fermin Lighthouse

807 W. Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro (310) 241-0684, www.pflhs.org

Built in 1874, the Point Fermin Lighthouse was the first navigational light into the San Pedro Bay. Volunteers serve as tour guides to keep the lighthouse open to the public. Guided tours are offered by reservation only. Visitors must call ahead for a tour reservation. General admission is free, donations are welcome.

Rancho Los Alamitos

6400 E. Bixby Hill Road, Long Beach (562) 431-3541, www.rancholosalamitos.org

The 7.5-acre site includes a ranch house, four acres of lush historic gardens, interpretive center, and a restored barnyard with livestock including horses, sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, and rabbits. Tours of the Rancho House are available Wednesday - Sun- day; call or email to make a reservation. Walk-in tours are available as space permits. Visit the website for special events held throughout the year. Free admission and parking.

Rancho Los Cerritos

4600 Virginia Road, Long Beach (562) 206-2040, www.rancholoscerritos.org

The five-acre rancho contains preserved gardens, a circa 1844 adobe home, visitor center, rotating exhibits, and research library, showcasing the rich history of indigenous Spanish, Mexican, and American California. House and garden docent-led tours, selfpaced tours, scavenger hunts, school programs, and weekly story times are offered, plus family events. Free admission and parking.

Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum

18001 Yorba Linda Blvd., Yorba Linda (714) 983-9120, www.nixonlibrary.gov

Tour Richard Nixon’s original birthplace and boyhood home, the presidential helicopter that flew four Presidents, an exact replica of President Nixon’s Oval Office, Pat Nixon Gardens, the final resting places of President and Mrs. Nixon, and more. Special exhibits and free concerts available throughout the year. Visit their website for public and educational programs.

Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum

40 Presidential Dr., Simi Valley (805) 522-2977, www.reaganfoundation.org

See hundreds of artifacts and dozens of interactive displays for visitors of all ages to explore. Permanent exhibits include: a full-size replica of President Reagan’s Oval Office, the actual Air Force One that flew seven presidents, a piece of the Berlin Wall, the F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Fighter and F-14 Tomcat, Marine One Helicopter, M-1 Abrams Tank, and more. Special events and exhibitions available throughout the year.

The Banning Museum

401 East M St., Wilmington (310) 548-7777, www.thebanningmuseum.org

Engage in a living-history experience, learn how the family lived, worked, and entertained in the 19th century. Take an introductory tour of the 23-room residence, Stagecoach Barn, and Improbable Gateway Exhibition. Advance reservations are required and must be made by phone five days in advance. Special events and educational programs available.

Indoor Play Spaces

Town, reading corner, Beach House Studio, multipurpose room, plus outdoor rock wall, ropes course, and garden. A variety of classes are offered, plus seasonal camps, drop-off programs, special events and birthday party packages.

Ask about Weekend AdventureCamp on select Sundays where kids can get dropped off to play.

American Ninja Warrior Adventure Park

MainPlace Mall, 2800 N. Main St., #603, Santa Ana (714) 760-4374 www.americanninjawarrioradventurepark.com

Inspired by the TV show, this adventure park experience includes Monkey Swings, Spider Walls, Tilting Logs, Floating Bridges and the famous Warped Wall. The space also features a 10,000-squarefoot inflatable obstacle course. Dedicated session times for kids ages 5 and under. Party and group packages available.

Billy Beez www.billybeezus.com

A 25,000-square-foot indoor play park for all ages, offering slides, sports courts, tunnels, towers, ball blasters, and bouncy trampolines. Designated areas for the little ones. Snack bar and party packages are available. Locations in Anaheim and Valencia.

BounceU

428 W. Katella Ave., Suite A, Orange (714) 744-5867, www.bounceu.com/orange-ca

Indoor playground featuring inflatables, long slides, and obstacle courses. Open bounce hours, preschool play dates, Parents’ Night Out events, and birthday party packages available.

BubblePOP

2475 Park Ave., Tustin

555 The Shops at Mission Viejo, Mission Viejo www.gobubblepop.com

Interactive bubble stations include bubble power, creating a bubble tower, getting inside a bubble, mad bubble party, and dry ice bubbles. Party packages and in-store private events are available. Off-site event packages bring the bubble party to you!

Candeeland www.candeeland.co

Three-level, 10,000-square-foot play structure, Little Land for toddlers, and ninja courses, slides, mini zipline, tunnels, swings, towers and jumpers for older kids. Birthday party packages, snack shop, and parent lounge with WiFi, too. MainPlace Mall, 2800 N. Main St., Unit #504, Santa Ana. Stonewood Mall, 462 Stonewood St., Unit #G33A, Downey.

Dig It

Del Amo Fashion Center

Indoor play spaces have varying reservation, waiver, height, and sock requirements. Save time at check-in by completing waivers online. Many do not allow outside food and drinks. Party packages are typically offered.

AdventurePlex

1701 Marine Ave., Manhattan Beach (310) 546-7708, www.adventureplex.org

Attractions include a five-level play structure, Toddler

3525 W. Carson St., #173, Torrance (310) 943-7391, www.digittorrance.com

Construction-themed play space where activities include mini tractors, build-your-own cars, brick chutes, mega building blocks, brick conveyors, driving track, soft play, and more. Toddler Playtime, workshops, party packages, and memberships also offered. Drop-and-Shop and Date Nights available.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Details are subject to change without notice. Confirm with organization.

YOU ARE A SPIT FACTORY!

The average person will make enough spit in one year to fill two bathtubs! Camels are famous for it, but warning: it’s actually vomit (or er, semi-digested food).

Note to self: Don’t tease a camel!

An indoor children's playground that specializes in soft play for all ages. Activities include inflatable obstacle courses, bounce houses, foam blocks, and more. Monthly passes offered at the Irvine location. Party packages available at both locations. Long Beach Towne Center, 7460 Carson Blvd., Long Beach, (760) 498-9037, www.jumpifylongbeach. com. 13722 Jamboree Road, Irvine, (714) 4102235, www.jumpifyirvine.com.

www.jumpnjammin.com

Children’s entertainment center with ball pits and ball blasters, slides, climbing structures, obstacle courses, toddler area, and more. Party packages and drop-off care (ages 3-12) are available. Four locations: Arcadia, Moreno Valley, Oxnard and www.jumpersjungle.com vate open jump time, Parents Night Out, and special events are listed on their website. Locations in Anaheim Hills, Chino Hills, Lake Forest, and more.

Ask about Multi-Pass Cards that never expire!

Inflatable obstacles, slides, bouncers, sports games, and more. Open play available, plus birthday parties. Locations in Norwalk and South Gate.

Ask about their special glow-in-the-dark birthday party feature!

Scooter’s Jungle www.scootersjungle.com

An indoor playhouse with a two-story play structure, slides, sports court, obstacle course, and a zipline. Birthday party packages and open play events are offered. Check the website for Toddler Time and family events. Locations in El Segundo, Placentia and Valencia.

Seascape Kids Fun

4771 E. Hunter Ave., Anaheim (714) 970-7100, www.seascapekidsfun.com

With three stories of fun, this play arena features slides, inflatables, 13 foam ball shooting air guns, and much more. Party packages available for all types of events from birthdays and sports teams to field trips. Check their website for Open Play calendar and coupons.

Ultimate Ninjas

5462 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim www.ultimateninjas.com

Kids can explore floor-to-ceiling climbing walls, giant block-building arena, slides, and obstacle courses. The Tots area includes a ball pit, little trampoline, soft slides, and bicycles. Tickets good for readmission all day. Party packages available. Locations in Anaheim, Covina, Northridge, Ontario, Pomona and South Gate.

Kidz Town Indoor Playground

5925 E. Carson St., Lakewood (562) 420-7529, www.kidz-town.com

Unique indoor obstacles with slides, ball pits, toddler areas, three rock climbing walls, and interactive activities. Party packages available.

Little World Indoor Playground

9691 Chapman Ave., Garden Grove (714) 591-5446, www.littleworldforkids.com

Over 18,000 square feet of play space with small and big kids’ areas, a variety of slides, swings, mirror house, ninja warrior course, art area, and arcade games. Admission includes all-day play access with re-entry. Unlimited monthly play passes include two free adult admission tickets. Party packages available.

PlayPie Kids Indoor Playground

The Source OC, 6924 Beach Blvd., K-131, Buena Park (714) 660-8280, www.playpie.com

Enjoy 15,000 square feet of fun, including a threestory playground structure, library, sand-molding area, variety of slides, and their “dark room” for drawing activities. A Little Ones area includes ball pits, a miniature playground, slides, and toys. Party packages available.

Pump it Up www.pumpitupparty.com

Indoor inflatable playground with slides, bounce houses and obstacle courses. Party packages, pri-

Obstacle and agility courses include a four-level warped wall, salmon ladder, fly wheels, flying squirrel, jumping spider, quintuple steps, and much more. Classes for toddlers and youth, birthday parties, camps, open gym, and special events are offered. An “Elite Team” is also available for kids who are dedicated to competing year-round.

Urban Air Trampoline & Adventure Park

1515 S Harbor Blvd., Unit 10, Fullerton (714) 584-5753, www.urbanair.com/california-fullerton

Indoor adventure park with attractions for all ages, including climbing hill, laser tag, virtual reality games, multi-level tubes playground, ropes course, and trampolines. Parents Night Out and Sensory Friendly Play are offered. Cafe, memberships, and birthday party packages available.

We Play Loud www.weplayloud.com

Two-level indoor play structure with a wave slide, foam ball fountain, two foam ball dumping baskets, rainbow bridges, pyramid obstacles, web net bridges, fireman climb, two automatic foam ball loading machines, tube slide, and more. Toddlers can play in a special gated section with soft-play rides. Birthday party packages and facility rentals are available. Locations in Huntington Beach and Lake Forest.

We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym

12212 Paramount Blvd., Downey (562) 622-7272 www.werockthespectrumdowney.com

Activities for children across the spectrum. Gym includes an indoor play structure, swings, crash mats, trampolines, art area, and more. Open Play, special events, and birthday parties are available.

We Rock offers services including Respite and Break Time Care, and One-to-One Attendant Care.

Rock Climbing

Hapik Climbing Center

8712 Garfield Ave., South Gate (562) 268-2100, www.hapik.us

A unique climbing center offering 5,000 square feet of fun, with more than 100 routes across 30 themed climbing walls equipped with automatic belaying. At tractions include climbing walls with three levels of difficulty (including a first-timer wall), ropes course, and vertical challenges. Snack bar onsite. Birthday party packages and group events are available.

Long Beach Rising

205 E. Anaheim St., Long Beach (562) 612-3008, www.longbeachrising.com

An all-bouldering climbing gym and fitness facility of fering 5,000 square feet of vertical terrain,15 feet in height. All ages and levels welcome. Youth training, competition, and recreation teams available. Birthday party packages and special events offered.

Rockreation Climbing Center www.rockreation.com

An indoor rock climbing center with classes for all levels, from learning basic rope and belay skills needed to safely climb to learning techniques for optimal movement. Enjoy climb time, kids/parent climb time, birthday party packages, and climb camp. Warriors, a weekly rock climbing team for ages 6-18, is also offered. Locations in Costa Mesa and Los Angeles.

Sender One Climbing www.senderoneclimbing.com

Participate in rope climbing, bouldering, youth programs, and an interactive climbing gym, where guests can climb themed buildings and towers. Themes include Spider Man, Trembling Towers, Fun Walls, and Mineshaft for climbing in the dark! Youth programs introduce kids ages 4-17 to the foundations of climbing through recreational climbing, classes, teams, camps, and party packages. Locations in Los Angeles, Playa Vista, and Santa Ana.

Trampoline Parks

Big Air Trampoline Park www.bigairusa.com

Jumping surfaces include trampoline dodgeball courts, slam dunk courts, ninja-warrior courses, launch pads, foam pits, freestyle court, climbing wall, and more. Toddler Time and Cosmic Nights are offered. Memberships and birthday party packages available. Locations in Corona, Buena Park, and Laguna Hills.

Get Air Trampoline Park www.getairsports.com dunk zone, arcade, and more. Special programs include Rockin’ Tots and party packages. Look for promotions and coupons on their website. Locations in Santa Ana and San Dimas.

Wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, dodgeball, slamball, ninja activities, and Kiddie Court area for younger kids. Birthday party packages, Toddler Time, and sessions for those with special needs are offered. Check website for weekly events and discounts. 5142 Argosy Ave., Huntington Beach; and 2735 S. Towne Ave., Pomona.

Sky Zone Trampoline Parks www.skyzone.com

An indoor wall-to-wall trampoline park with a variety of attractions for all ages: Freestyle Jump, Toddler Zone, Skyslam, Foam Zone, Ninja Warrior Course, Drop Zone, and more. Special programs include Little Leapers, sensory hours, Sky Camp, and party packages. Attractions and programs may vary by location. Anaheim, Cerritos, Covina, Torrance, Van Nuys and Westminster locations. museums include Inventing Worlds and Characters: Animation, exploring nearly a century of animated filmmaking, and the Oscar Experience, where you are transported to Oscar night and hear your name called, accept your award, and receive a video capturing your classic Hollywood moment. Drop-in Workshops are free with admission. Calm Mornings allow visitors to enjoy lesssensory-stimulating spaces with moderated sound and lighting displays. Family Matinees, Film Programs, and special events are offered throughout the year.

American Military History Museum

1918 Rosemead Blvd., South El Monte (626) 442-1776, www.tankland.com

Also known as Tankland, this outdoor museum is dedicated to preserving our nation’s military history. See over 170 military vehicles and outdoor exhibits dating from 1933 to the present. Digital tour guide books are available to download. Closed on rainy days.

Autry Museum of the American West 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles (323) 667-2000, www.theautry.org

Academy Museum

6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles (323) 930-3000, www.academymuseum.org

Explore exhibitions about moviemaking and the history and future of the arts and sciences of film. Highlights

Located in Griffith Park, the Autry features worldclass galleries filled with Native American art and cultural materials, film memorabilia, historic firearms, paintings, interactive areas, a garden, and more. Social Stories are guides with photos and descriptions to help people on the autism spectrum prepare for their visit. Family Play Space is available on select days with rotating family-friendly activities. Films on the lawn, weekend museum tours, and special events offered all year.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Details are subject to change without notice. Confirm with organization.

Admission is free every second Tuesday of the month.

Getty Center & Getty Villa Museum

Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles

Getty Villa, 17985 PCH, Pacific Palisades (310) 440-7300, www.getty.edu

Getty Center showcases art from the Middle Ages to today and offers birds-eye views of Los Angeles. Families can enjoy the tram rides, art galleries, gardens and outdoor spaces. Pick up Art Detective Cards in the museum entrance hall to hunt for clues and uncover answers to trivia questions while exploring the Getty Center.

Getty Villa Museum displays ancient Greek and Roman art in a recreated Roman country home. The Family Forum offers hands-on activities exploring ancient Greek vases. Listen to the immersive audio tour, The Demigods, inspired by the popular Percy Jackson book series. Guided tours, family workshops, family-friendly events, and courses are scheduled throughout the year.

Admission to both Getty campuses are free, but a timed-entry reservation is required.

International Printing Museum

315 W. Torrance Blvd., Carson (310) 515-7166, www.printmuseum.org

Home to one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive collections of antique printing machinery and graphic arts equipment. Enjoy demonstrations of working machinery, historic re-enactments, and hands-on workshops. Scout badge and patch days, Krazy Kraft Days for Kids, and other special events offered throughout the year. Guided tours available.

La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

5801 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles (213) 763-3499, www.tarpits.org

Discover the world’s only consistently-active, urban Ice Age excavation site. Visitors can watch excavators unearth remains right outside the park then watch fossils be prepared, researched, and put on display. See the live stage show, Ice Age Encounters, featuring a life-size adult saber-toothed cat puppet, live performance, and film projections.

L.A. County residents receive free museum admission 3-5 p.m. on weekdays. California teachers with ID also receive free admission. Free tickets are available onsite only.

Laguna Art Museum

307 Cliff Dr., Laguna Beach (949) 494-8971, www.lagunaartmuseum.org

The museum collects, cares for, and exhibits works of art that were created by California artists or represent the life and history of the state. LAM+LAB for children is a drop-in space for exploration and play and is supplied with art-making materials and DIY instructions. Open during regular museum hours. School tours and special events offered.

Los Angeles County Fire Museum

16400 Bellflower Blvd., Bellflower (562) 325-3069, www.lacountyfiremuseum.com

See an extensive collection of apparatus, artifacts, kidsguide summer 2023 and photos. Explore 40+ antique fire engines, steamers, and artifacts dating back to the 1800s. Their large collection of rigs include apparatus from the hand drawn, horse drawn, and early 20th century to the modern era.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles (323) 857-6000, www.lacma.org

LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States, with a collection of nearly 149,000 objects. See the iconic Urban Light display, a forest of city street lights open 24 hours right outside the museum. The lights are switched on from dusk until 10 p.m. Kids can participate in drop-in painting workshops at the Boone Children’s Gallery, open on select Saturdays of the month. Visit their calendar to sign up for workshops, kids classes, and in-person Andell Family Sundays, where families can create artwork led by artists.

Admission is free for all LA County residents on weekdays after 3 p.m. Admission is free to everyone on the second Tuesday of each month. Plus, sign up your kids (under age 17) for NexGenLA, a free membership for LA County kids and teens. Members can visit for free anytime and bring in one guest for free too!

Los Angeles Fire Department Museum

1355 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood 639 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro www.lafdmuseum.org

See firefighting equipment dating back to the early 1900s and artifacts from some of the most famous fires in the area.

Admission is free to both museums.

• Museum of Latin American Art

628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach (562) 437-1689, www.molaa.org

The only museum in the United States fully dedicated to modern and contemporary Latin American and Latino art. Visitors have access to the exhibition galleries, the Sculpture and Events Garden (when available), and the MOLAA store. Docent-led tours are offered on weekends. Special events, cultural activities and family art workshops are scheduled throughout the year, plus Summer Art and Culture Camp (see page 11).

Admission is free during MOLAA Free Sundays. Check website for dates.

Museum of Making Music

5790 Armada Drive, Carlsbad (760) 438-5996, www.museumofmakingmusic.org

Instruments take center stage at the Museum of Making Music. The core exhibitions explore how and why these instruments develop, who makes them, how we gain access to them, what they sound like in the hands of masters, and how they feel in your own hands. Group tours and special events are offered.

Museum of Tolerance

9786 West Pico Blvd., Los Angeles (310) 553-8403, www.museumoftolerance.com

See artifacts from Auschwitz, hear stories from survivors, and experience an immersive exhibit on the life and legacy of Anne Frank. There are multimedia exhibits, ongoing events, and programs that bring history to life and draw parallels to current events. Para Los Niños is an exhibit where visitors learn about the struggles of Latino families in Orange County highlighted by the Mendez v. Westminster case that ended school segregation in California. The Holocaust Exhibit and Social Lab are recommended for ages 12 and up.

Natural History Museum

Exposition Park, 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles (213) 763-3466, www.nhm.org

Explore exhibitions including Age of Mammals, Nature Gardens, Hall of Birds, African and North American Diorama Halls, Gem and Mineral Hall, Nature Lab, Dino Lab, and the Visible Vault. The Dinosaur Hall features more than 300 fossils and 20 skeletons on display. It’s the only place in the world where you can see a baby, juvenile, and sub-adult T.rex at the same time. Don’t miss out on Dinosaur Encounters, a live performance with life-size dinosaur puppets. In the spring and summer, walk among beautiful butterflies in the seasonal Butterfly Pavilion. Check their website for guided tours and nature walks. Special family-friendly festivals and fairs are offered throughout the year.

L.A. County residents receive free admission 3-5 p.m. on weekdays. California teachers with ID also receive free admission. Free tickets are available onsite only.

Petersen Automotive Museum

6060 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles (323) 930-2277, www.petersen.org

The Museum features a collection of over 400 vehicles. Visit the Cars Mechanical Institute (inspired by the animated film) to enjoy a variety of activities and displays. Kids can paint and personalize virtual cars, trace and color their own Cars character to take home, race toy cars around a racetrack, or build LEGO creations to race against friends. Visitors can even race against Lightning McQueen by checking out a Carspad and building their own virtual car with help from all of the friends in Radiator Springs. Workshops and special events for kids are scheduled throughout the year— many are included with admission, sign up online.

Raymond M. Alf Museum of Paleontology

1175 W. Baseline Road, Claremont (909) 624-2798, www.alfmuseum.org

Exhibits include the Hall of Footprints and the Hall of Life. Visitors can see the inner workings of a paleontology museum, the fossil preparation lab, and a collections storage room through windows cut into the walls.

Skirball Cultural Center

2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles (310) 440-4500, www.skirball.org

People of all communities and generations are welcome to participate in cultural experiences and exhibitions. On permanent display, Noah’s Ark is a floor-to-ceiling wooden ark, filled to the rafters with whimsical animals handcrafted from recycled materials. Children are encouraged to play, climb, and explore the 8,000-square-foot wooden ark. Download their mobile app, An Ark for All, to preview your visit and plan your activities. The app is helpful for families with developmental disabilities and young children. Family-friendly activities include art making, archaeology digs, story time and more.

Admission is free every Thursday.

The Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum

610 Lairport St., El Segundo (310) 909-0950, www.automobiledrivingmuseum.org

See a collection of 130+ vintage, antique, and muscle cars. Kids can participate in a scavenger hunt, following clues to discover hidden surprises and interesting facts throughout the museum. The Kids Area features cars and tracks, dress-up, and a mechanic tent. Sunday Car Rides are offered in a wide variety of cars. Children must be at least 55" tall to ride. Drop in for a scoop, shake or float at their 1950's-themed ice cream parlor. Family-friendly events scheduled throughout the year.

World of Illusions

6751 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles (800) 593-2902, www.laillusions.com

Step into Hollywood’s famous World of Illusions with four unique experiences: Museum of Illusions, Giant’s House, Upside Down House, and Smash It. Guests can go on an African Safari, walk on the edge of a skyscraper, try cooking breakfast in an upside-down kitchen and more. Birthday parties, private events, and other packages available.

nature & gardens

Balboa Park

1549 El Prado, San Diego (619) 239-0512, www.balboapark.org

This 1,200-acre historic urban cultural park offers 16 museums, various gardens, and the San Diego Zoo. The park also features multiple performing arts venues, trails, and many other creative and recreational attractions. Kid-friendly locations at the park include the San Diego Model Railroad Museum, Japanese Friendship Garden, San Diego Air and Space Museum, puppet theater, carousel, miniature train, and more. Visit their “Recommendations” links to create a personalized adventure based on your specific preferences for a Kids Day or Family Ideas. Admittance to the park grounds is free, but museums and attractions have their own admission and pricing.

Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve

3842 Warner Ave., Huntington Beach (714) 846-1114, www.bolsachica.org

At 1,449 acres, the reserve is the largest saltwater marsh between Monterey Bay and the Tijuana River Estuary. Approximately five miles of trails can be explored from sunrise to sunset. The Interpretive Center features salt water aquariums, herpetology exhibits with live reptiles, taxidermy displays, and more. School and scout visits are offered, plus a summer Junior Wetlands Explorer Program (see page 10).

(818) 949-4200, www.descansogardens.org

A 150-acre urban retreat featuring nine different garden areas, including a five-acre Rose Garden, Japanese Garden with koi-filled stream, an Ancient Forest with plants from the days of dinosaurs, and more. Take a ride on the Enchanted Railroad, a 1/8th-scale replica of a diesel train, explore the historical Boddy House, and see exhibits at the Sturt Haaga Gallery. Family events and workshops are scheduled throughout the year, plus school tours and memberships are offered.

Admission is free every third Tuesday of each month. Advanced tickets are required and are released on the first day of each month.

Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden

1250 Bellflower Blvd., Long Beach (562) 985-8420, www.csulb.edu/japanese-garden

A 1.3-acre Japanese garden on the campus of California State University, Long Beach. Feed koi fish, stroll winding pathways, view the Tea House, or reflect at the Zen Garden. Family-friendly events are scheduled throughout the year, follow their social media to stay updated. Reservations are free and required for admission and to feed the koi.

El Dorado Nature Center

7550 E. Spring St., Long Beach (562) 570-1745, www.longbeach.gov/naturecenter

Located inside El Dorado Regional Park, the Nature Center covers 105 acres with two miles of dirt trails and a 1/4-mile paved trail that winds around two lakes, a stream, and forested areas. Cross the which one of these un-bee-lievable statements is true?

Slugs have about 27,000 teeth, but most types of flies have none! Instead of chewing, they spew acid to dissolve food so they can suck it up!

Cockroaches can live up to a week without their heads and can survive underwater for 15 minutes.

Most caterpillars have 12 eyes. Bugs fart. Bugs produce gas, which can make a smelly (although tiny!) fart.

Houseflies find sugar with their feet, which are 10 million times more sensitive than human tongues.

Answer on page 39!

Descanso Gardens

1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Details are subject to change without notice. Confirm with organization.

Ages

Ages

Everybody farts! Humans pass gas every single day! According to an NBC News report, farts can travel about 10 feet per second, or close to 7 miles per hour.

About how many times will you fart in your lifetime?

1,200 times times 41,000 times wooden bridge and check out the Visitor Center, containing educational displays, art gallery, and a small gift shop offering environmentally-themed books and gifts. Special events, workshops (see page 5), and educational programs offered throughout the year. Admission to the Nature Center is free, but a parking fee is required to enter the park.

Answer on page 39!

Wondering who the world record holder is for the longest fart? It’s Bernard Clemens of London, who managed to let one loose for 2 minutes and 42 seconds!

The park also features the El Dorado Frontier theme park, plus bike rentals, archery range, fishing lakes, skatepark, playgrounds, library, model aircraft flying area, model sailboat area, and more.

ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary

29322 Modjeska Canyon Road, Silverado (949) 645-8489, www.encenter.org/tucker

A 12-acre wildlife sanctuary with a natural history museum, trails, and a bird observation deck. Birthday party packages, school field trips, and scout programs are available. Open to the public on weekends. Donations appreciated.

Environmental Nature Center

1601 E. 16th St., Newport Beach (949) 645-8489, www.encenter.org

The five-acre center features walking trails that showcase plants from 15 of California’s plant communities, including a desert oasis, mixed evergreen forest, redwood forest trail, waterfall, and ponds. The center has play areas, a butterfly house, nature museum, plus a state-of-the-art Nature Preschool. Community programs include Tiny Naturalists (parent and me style class), Mini Naturalists (ages 1-3) and Little Naturalists (ages 3-5). Field trips, after-school and vacation-break camps (see page 11), scout programs, “bearthday” parties, and memberships are also offered.

Register early for classes and camps—they fill up fast! The ENC also operates Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary in Silverado.

Fullerton Arboretum

1900 Associated Road, Fullerton (657) 278-3407, www.fullertonarboretum.org

A 26-acre botanical garden located on the campus of California State University, Fullerton. The arboretum features plants from around the world, as well as a waterfall, streams, a lake and pond, plus a Children’s Garden. Classes and special events offered throughout the year. A $5 donation for admission is suggested.

Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens

1151 Oxford Road, San Marino (626) 405-2100, www.huntington.org

The 207-acre grounds has a library of rare books, an art museum, and 130 acres of botanical gardens. There are 16 themed gardens with more than 83,000 living plants, including rare and endangered species, and a laboratory for botanical conservation and research. Highlights include a Chinese garden, Japanese garden, jungle garden, lily ponds, and a unique Children’s Garden with interactive sculptures. Youth and family programs include classes and workshops, family events, tours and more.

Free Day is held on the first Thursday of every month with advance tickets. Due to high demand, tickets are usually gone fast. Visit their website to find out exactly what day/time tickets are released.

Japanese Friendship Garden

2215 Pan American Road E., San Diego (619) 232-2721, www.niwa.org

Located in Balboa Park, the Japanese Friendship Garden is an expression of friendship between San Diego and its sister city, Yokohama. The 12-acre garden is inspired from centuries-old Japanese design and techniques that showcase plants and florae native to Japan and San Diego. Educational programs include Koi Feeding, Origami Sunday, and much more. Cultural festivals and special events scheduled throughout the year.

Los Angeles County Arboretum

301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia (626) 821-3222, www.arboretum.org

A 127-acre botanical garden and historical site featuring natural landscapes, wildlife, and historic buildings. There have been 251 different species of birds sighted at the Arboretum, in addition to their famous peacocks. Kids and family programs include the Nature Club school-year program, Acorns and Oaks parent/child program, and monthly Family Adventure Night Hikes. School-break nature camps, scout programs, and memberships are also offered. Visit their website for tram tour and docent-led tour availability.

Free Day is every third Tuesday of the month, with advance reservation tickets. Tickets released the first of the month.

Madrona Marsh Preserve and Nature Center

3201 Plaza del Amo, Torrance (310) 782-3989 www.friendsofmadronamarsh.com

A 43-acre seasonal wetland that is home or a migration stop for hundreds of species. The Nature Center houses live animal exhibits and laboratories, books, and other aids to understanding this unique habitat. Enjoy nature walks, docent tours, bird watching, and more. Educational programs include Tyke Hike (ages 0-6), Nature Story Time (ages 3-5), and Friday Fun (ages 3-6). Admission is free.

Niguel Botanical Preserve

29751 Crown Valley Pkwy., Laguna Niguel www.niguelbotanicalpreserve.org

An 18-acre botanical garden situated above Crown Valley Community Park, it features 12 garden areas with 2,000 plant species, and four miles of walking trails. Plant collections are organized according to region of origin: Australia, Africa, South America, Mediterranean, and California/Mexico. Admission is free.

Oak Canyon Nature Center

6700 E. Walnut Canyon Road, Anaheim (714) 998-8380, www.anaheim.net/ocnc

A 58-acre natural park consisting of three adjoining canyons, year-round stream and four miles of hiking trails. The Interpretive Center houses live animals and regional natural history exhibits. Families can enjoy the Discover Nature Family Program, an hour long, naturalist-led hike held on Saturday mornings. Tales and Trails, a parent-and-me program for ages 2-5 is offered on Thursdays. Monthly Night Hikes are offered the third Saturday of the month. Register for programs online. Camps (see page 13) and birthday parties, that include a naturalist-led hike and live animal encounter, available. Admission is free, donations are appreciated.

San Joaquin Wildlife Sanctuary

5 Riparian View, Irvine (949) 261-7963, www.seaandsageaudubon.org

A 300-acre wetland with 12 miles of trails, home to hundreds of species of birds, insects, reptiles, crustaceans, and other creatures native to the area. The visitor center is located at the Audubon House and offers a wide selection of materials including a reference library, a fully equipped nature bookstore, and bird displays. Educational programs include Summer Bat Walks, Nature Day Camp, private group tours, and Junior Naturalists program for teens.

Sherman Library & Gardens

2647 East Coast Hwy., Corona del Mar (949) 673-2261, www.thesherman.org

This two-acre botanical garden features 20 garden and interactive areas including the Tropical Conservatory with koi fish and turtles, historical Adobe house, Fern Grotto, and more. Bring the family for Little Seedlings Story Time, family classes and workshops, and special events scheduled throughout the year. Memberships, group tours, scout visits, and Junior Gardeners Camp (see page 12) also offered.

Shipley Nature Center

17851 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach

(714) 842-4772, www.shipleynature.org

This 18-acre nature preserve features native plants and animals and two miles of walking trails. The Interpretive Center houses a diorama of animals and exhibits. The trails lead you by a stream, the Coast Live Oak grove, a meadow with orange California Poppies in the spring, a pond, and Coast Redwoods. Shipley’s tallest trees, the Coast Redwoods, are some of the southernmost instances of the species on the continent. Special events, docent-led tours, and memberships are also offered. Suggested $3 per person donation.

South Coast Botanic Garden

26300 Crenshaw Blvd., Palos Verdes Peninsula (424) 452-0920, www.southcoastbotanicgarden.org

This 87-acre garden has more than 2,500 different species of plants. Popular features include the Bohannon Rose Garden, Living Wall, Desert Garden, Japanese Garden and koi pond, 10 meadows, and more. The Children’s Garden is developed around nursery rhymes with a variety of plants to match the stories. “SOAR - Tropical Butterflies” is back for its third year through August 31. Step into the Host and Nectar Garden, then the Emergence Chamber, and finally, the Pavilion, an up-close-and-personal experience with hundreds of butterflies flying throughout the exhibit. Classes, memberships, and dog walking hours offered.

Admission is free every third Tuesday of the month.

Turtle Rock Nature Center

1 Sunnyhill Drive, Irvine (949) 724-6738, www.cityofirvine.org

A five-acre nature preserve where visitors can explore at their leisure, take a self-guided trail tour, enjoy native plants, and walk the labyrinth. Group tours and badge programs for scouts offered. Patio area and fire pit available for reservation.

Upper Newport Bay Nature Preserve

2301 University Drive, Newport Beach (949) 923-2290, www.ocparks.com/uppernewportbay

Explore 135 acres and a 10,000-square-foot interpretive center with exhibits and interactive displays. The Nature Preserve is part of the 752-acre coastal wetland that is home to many rare or endangered species and plant life. Fun programs offered include stargazing, canoe and kayak tours, sunset strolls, storytelling, crafts, and much more.

Skating Rinks

• East West Ice Palace

11446 Artesia Blvd., Artesia (562) 809-6200, www.eastwesticepalace.com

Ice rink offers public skating, skating classes for kids (3+) and adults, freestyle sessions, in-house hockey, hockey classes, youth travel hockey league, adult hockey league, stick time and broomball. Competitive synchronized skating teams and classes also available. A collection of Michelle Kwan memorabilia is available in the gallery. Fitness center is open to the public. Check website for details on ice schedule and events. See ad on page 33.

More Skating Rinks

The following rinks offer roller or ice skating with public and specialty skating sessions. Classes, clin- ics, camps, hockey and broomball, and party packages are typically offered.

Aliso Viejo Ice Palace - Ice only. 9 Journey, Aliso Viejo. (949) 643-9648. https://avicepalace.com

Fountain Valley Skating Center - Roller only. 9105 Recreation Cir., Fountain Valley. (714) 847-0022. www.fvsc.com

Holiday Skate Center - Roller only. 175 N. Wayfield, Orange. (714) 997-5283. www.holidayskate.com

The Rinks - Ice rinks in Anaheim, Lakewood, Westminster, Yorba Linda, Poway, and Great Park Irvine. Inline rinks in Irvine and Corona. www.therinks.com

Lake Forest Ice Palace - Ice only. 25821 Atlantic Ocean Dr., Lake Forest. (949) 305-9658. www. lficepalace.com

LA Kings Ice at Promenade on the Peninsula - Ice only. 550 Deep Valley Drive #107, Rolling Hills Estates. (424) 903-0300. www.lakingsicepv.com

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Details are subject to change without notice. Confirm with organization.

How can a clam cram in a clean cream can?

Pad kid poured curd pulled cod. Is it harder to toot, or to tutor two tooters to toot?

Six sleek swans swam swiftly southwards.

LA Kings Iceland - Ice only. 8041 Jackson St., Paramount. (562) 633-1171. www.lakingsiceland.com

Pigeon’s Roller Rink - Roller only. 2nd & PCH, 6400 Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach. (562) 5276899. www.pigeonsrollerrink.com

The Skating Edge Ice Arena - Ice only. 23770 S. Western Ave., Harbor City. (310) 325-4474. www. skatingedgeicearena.com

space & science centers

California Science Center

700 Exposition Park Dr., Los Angeles (323) 724-3623, www.californiasciencecenter.org

Explore the wonders of science through interactive exhibitions, live demonstrations, innovative programs, and awe-inspiring films. Space Shuttle Endeavor is on display for guests to see up close. Explore permanent exhibitions, learn about fire science and safety, discover how life begins, investigate eight ecosystem zones, and see a unique collection of air and space artifacts. Admission is free to the center to see all permanent exhibits (excludes IMAX and special ticketed exhibitions).

A new special ticketed exhibition running through January, Maya: The Exhibition, features over 250 authentic artifacts, many on tour outside of Guatemala for the first time, highlighting the ancient Maya civilization of Mexico and Central America.

• Columbia Memorial Space Center

12400 Columbia Way, Downey (562) 231-1200, www.columbiaspacescience.org

Hands-on learning center that is dedicated to bringing the wonder and excitement of space science to children of all ages. It also serves as the national memorial for the Space Shuttle Columbia's seven crew members, lost in 2003. The 20,000-squarefoot visitor center is equipped with not only amazing technology and visual teaching exhibits, but also features the only Challenger Learning Center in the greater Los Angeles area. Currently the Space Center is hosting virtual Challenger experiences and virtual field trip tours. Summer camps also available (see page 4). Please visit the website for more information. The Space Center is open Tuesday - Saturday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., closed Sundays and Mondays. $5 per person (4+). See ad on page 7.

Answer on page 39!

Discovery Cube Orange County & Los Angeles Orange County - 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana Los Angeles - 1800 Foothill Blvd., Sylmar www.discoverycube.org

Explore 100+ hands-on science exhibits and STEM activities in themed areas such as, Boeing Rocket Lab, Science of Hockey, Eco Challenge, Inspector Training Course, Healthy Kitchen, and Aerial Helicopter Tours. Educational programs are offered throughout the year including camps (see page 10), onsite field trips, interactive STEM gameplay through Discovery Cube Connect, early childhood education, and more. Visit the events page on their website for upcoming activities. Both locations offer birthday party packages.

Griffith Observatory

2800 E. Observatory Road, Los Angeles (213) 473-0800, www.griffithobservatory.org

A unique hybrid of public observatory, planetarium, and exhibition space. Visitors can look through telescopes, explore exhibits, see live shows, and enjoy spectacular views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign. Telescopes are free to the public every day and night the building is open and the sky is clear. Now playing: Signs of Life, an astronomical detective story that propels visitors on an investigation to discover what it took to put life in the universe in the one place where we know it exists.

Admission to the building and grounds is free.

Jet Propulsion Laboratory

4800 Oak Grove Drive, La Cañada Flintridge (818) 354-4321, www.jpl.nasa.gov

JPL is a research and development lab federally funded by NASA and managed by Caltech. Visitor Day Tours are offered for individuals and families of 10 people or fewer. All tours commonly include a multimedia presentation on JPL entitled “Journey to the Planets and Beyond,” which provides an overview of the Laboratory’s activities and accomplishments. Guests may also visit the von Karman Visitor Center, the Space Flight Operations Facility, and the Spacecraft Assembly Facility. Visit their website to see when tour dates and reservations are released. Virtual tours are also offered.

Mount Wilson Observatory

Mount Wilson Road, Mount Wilson (626) 692-7274, www.mtwilson.edu

Home to two of the world’s largest telescopes available for public use. Public tours are available on weekends where visitors are able to enter the area directly beneath the 100-inch telescope and entrance into the 60-inch dome. On most tours, the 150-foot solar tower telescope will be open too, providing an opportunity for visitors to safely observe the sun. Special events like Concerts in the Dome and Public Ticket Nights are scheduled throughout the year.

Mt. SAC - Randall Planetarium

1100 N. Grand Ave., Walnut (909) 274-5795, www.mtsacplanetarium.com

New planetarium shows are offered every month. Some of the shows geared towards families include One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure, Larry Cat in Space, and Earth, Moon, and Sun. Tickets for these shows can purchased online or at the door. Free telescope viewing is also available once a month at the Mt. SAC Observatory (weather permitting). See their calendar for a schedule of events and shows. A variety of packages for birthdays, field trips, scouts, and other events are offered.

Orange Coast College Planetarium

2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa (714) 714-7430 www.orangecoastcollege.edu/occplanetarium

OCC Planetarium exhibits include a Foucault Pendulum providing a visual demonstration of the rotation of the earth, Science on a Sphere, Space Rocks! Meteorites, and the Dome Theatre. Access to the planetarium theater is limited to scheduled shows, but the lobby and exhibit hall are open to the public during normal hours, free of charge. Special events are scheduled throughout the year.

UCLA Planetarium

Mathematical Sciences Building, UCLA www.astro.ucla.edu/planetarium

Public shows are hosted on Wednesday evenings. The shows are free, suitable for all ages, and are given by current astronomy graduate students. Shows include discussion about the night sky, constellations, astronomical phenomena, and more. On clear nights, visitors are invited to look through one of the department telescopes after the planetarium show. Private shows for educational groups are also available.

Trains

Amtrak - 50% Off for Kids

(800) 872-7245 (USA-RAIL) www.amtrak.com/everyday-discounts.html

Take short day-trips to Los Angeles, San Diego, San Juan Capistrano, Santa Barbara, and other cities from local stations throughout Southern California. One child (ages 2-12) is eligible to receive a 50% discount on the lowest available adult rail fare on most Amtrak trains with each fare-paying adult (age 18+). Infants under 2 ride free. Kids ‘n’ Trains seasonal group discounts are also available. Restrictions apply, see website for details.

Go to the Kids Activity Center on their website for a variety of fun activities and games: www.amtrak.com/activity-center.

Angels Flight Railway

351 South Hill St., Los Angeles (213) 626-1901, www.angelsflight.org

Originally opened in 1901, Angels Flight is the world’s shortest railway. The 122-year-old funicular takes passengers between Hill Street and Grand Avenue on Bunker Hill in Downtown L.A. Open daily, $1 each way.

Balboa Park Miniature Train

1800 Zoo Place, San Diego (619) 239-4748 www.tinyurl.com/BalboaParkMiniTrain

Operated by the San Diego Zoo, the Balboa Park Miniature Train takes riders on a three-minute, halfmile trip through four acres of Balboa Park. This rare, antique train is one of only 50 remaining G16 models. Located outside of the Zoo’s exit. Currently open weekends and holidays. Tickets are $3 for all ages.

El Dorado Frontier

7550 E. Spring St., Long Beach (562) 249-8330, www.theeldoradofrontier.com

A mini theme park inside El Dorado Park featuring the El Dorado Express, a vintage locomotive on a mileand-a-half track. The ride involves a narrated story about the history of the Gold Rush in California. Enjoy carnival games, panning for gold, riding a hand car mining buggy, and a carousel. Open weekends. General admission includes unlimited train, hand car, and carousel rides for the day. Birthday party packages are available, plus field trips and special events throughout the year. Fee to enter El Dorado Park applies.

El Dorado Park also offers a model boat launch, playground, picnic areas, nature center, bike rentals, skatepark, library, and more.

Fullerton Train Museum

200 East Santa Fe Ave., Fullerton (714) 278-0648, www.fullertontrainmuseum.org

Three historically significant preserved cabooses, representing the three transcontinental railroads that served Southern California from the 1920s through 1989, two 1940s Union Pacific lounge cars, and a 1951 fully restored Santa Fe streamlined sleeping car. Watch as members restore obsolete railroad equipment to operating condition. Open the first and third Saturdays of each month. Admission is free. Guided tours are available.

Griffith Park & Southern Railroad

4400 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles (818) 881-2586, www.griffithparktrainrides.com

Travel over a one mile track, across a bridge, through a forest and the Old Western Town. Five different trains are operating. You can also try a T-6 simulator ride, a fun adventure for all ages! Open daily.

After riding the train, head over to Travel Town to explore the old-time railroad locomotives and cars.

Heritage Park Railroad Exhibit

12100 Mora Drive, Santa Fe Springs (562) 946-6476 www.tinyurl.com/HeritageParkRailExhibit

The Railroad Exhibit tells the story of the city’s railroad history through the restoration of the Santa Fe Railway depot, tracks, and signals. The center of the exhibit has a restored steam locomotive as well as its tender, a refrigerated boxcar, and caboose. Small birthday parties can be held in the Train Caboose. Heritage Park also features a historic carriage barn, windmill, and plant conservatory. Picnic area onsite.

Irvine Park Railroad at Irvine Regional Park

1 Irvine Park Road, Orange (714) 997-3968, www.irvineparkrailroad.com

The 1/3-scale train is located in the foothills of Orange and is open daily (weather permitting, excluding certain holidays). Special events and educational programs for children are held throughout the year. Party packages available. Sign up to receive coupons on their website.

Lomita Railroad Museum

2137 W. 250th St., Lomita (310) 326-6255, www.lomita-rr.org

Dedicated to the era of the steam engine, the Lomita Railroad Museum offers a 1902 steam locomotive, 1910 and 1949 caboose, Southern Pacific Tender, 1923 Oil Tank Car, 1913 Boxcar, 1881 Velocipede (hand car), and more. Group tours available; reservations must be made in advance. Check the website for special events throughout the year. Free admission and parking.

FULL

Academy Schools

OASchools.com

Long

Bellflower Locations

(562) 426-6264

Limit 1 per student • Exp 12/31/23

See our ad on page 35; listing on page 40.

Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum

5202 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles

(323) 661-8958, www.lalsrm.org

Located in Griffith Park, the museum educates the public in railroad history and shows live steam, gas-mechanical and electric railroad technology in actual operation. Rides, on their 7.5-inch gauge model trains, are offered on Sundays, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. (weather permitting). $4 per person. They also have many historic exhibits, including full-size vintage train cars, a stationary steam plant, and Walt Disney’s Carolwood Barn.

Metrolink - Kids Ride Free on Weekends

(800) 371-5465 www.metrolinktrains.com/kidsridefree

The promotion offers free train rides for children on Saturdays and Sundays when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. Each fare-paying adult can be accompanied by up to three children, 17 years old and younger, at no additional charge. Plus, on weekends, each adult pays just $10 for a Weekend Day Pass so families, small and large, can have an affordable experience.

Visit the “Explore” tab on their website for a list of over 200 destination ideas for family outings!

Orange County Model Engineers

2480 Placentia Ave., Costa Mesa (949) 548-7246, www.ocmetrains.org

OCME operates a 7.5-inch gauge railroad at Fairview Park. A typical trip takes about 12 minutes and covers 1.25 miles or two park loops. They welcome the public for free rides on the third weekend of every month, 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. (weather permitting)

Donations are welcome to keep the trains running. Birthday party events are available on Saturdays. Reservations are required and should be booked well in advance. Children must be able to walk and be at least 31 inches tall to ride the trains.

San Diego Model Railroad Museum

Balboa Park, 1649 El Prado, San Diego (619) 696-0199, www.sdmrm.org

Located inside the Casa de Balboa Building, the museum features over 27,000 square feet of trains, trestles, and tracks. Newest exhibit: “Transcontinental Railroads,” features the building of the 1,776-mile railroad. The museum also offers school and scout programs, and summer camps. Visit Educational Resources on their website for kid-friendly content and activities. Kids 12 and under get in free.

Southern California Live Steamers

2290 Washington Ave., Torrance www.southerncalifornialivesteamers.com

Located in Charles H. Wilson Park, free public train rides on miniature 7.5-inch gauge trains are offered on the first Sunday and the third Saturday of every month. Birthday and group trains are also available on public train ride days. Donations appreciated. Visit their website or Facebook page for information on scout projects, special events, and holiday trains. Children must be able to walk on their own and be at least 32 inches tall to ride the trains.

Southern California Railway Museum

2201 South A St., Perris (951) 943-3020, www.socalrailway.org

Weekend train and trolly rides. Ride streetcars, interurban electric cars, and trains on the Museum rail- way on their 100-acre campus. Visit the collection of more than 200 streetcars and railway vehicles to experience the early days of electric, steam, and diesel railway transportation. Narrated tours are available. Parking, entry to grounds, and entry to open exhibits are free. A variety of special events, such as Day Out with Thomas in November, The Polar Express in December, and more are offered.

Check out the “Run One” program where kids age 5 and up (with parent) can take the throttle on one of five trains. It’s pricey, but your little engineer actually gets to be a real engineer for an hour!

Travel Town Museum and Railroad

5200 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles (818) 881-2586, www.traveltown.org

Located in Griffith Park, Travel Town is an outdoor museum with over 40 historic railroad locomotives and cars. Visitors can ride the 16-inch gauge miniature train around the museum and explore railroad locomotives and cars. The museum is free every day to all visitors, but donations are gratefully accepted. There is a fee to ride the train. Group tours and special play days for members are offered. Facility and birthday party rentals are available.

Water Parks

Drop Zone Waterpark

2165 Trumble Road, Perris (951) 988-3950, www.dropzonewaterpark.com

May 27 - September 4: Features two velocity slides, two mat racers, sand volleyball courts, lazy river, FlowRider surf machine, activity play structure, ground geysers, and a 50-meter competition pool. Lifeguard training and swimming lessons offered. Summer camps, cabana rentals, and birthday party packages available.

Great Wolf Lodge

12681 Harbor Blvd., Garden Grove (888) 960-9653 www.greatwolf.com/southern-california

Indoor water park resort with themed suites, bowling alley, arcade, glowing mini golf, Build-a-Bear Workshop, and MagiQuest, a live-action game where kids embark on magical quests throughout the lodge. The 105,000-square-foot indoor water park is set at 84-degrees and features 14 slides and four pools for all thrill levels. Park day passes are available online.

Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags

26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia (661) 255-4100 www.sixflags.com/hurricaneharborla

Knott’s Soak City

8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park (714) 220-5200, www.knotts.com/soak-city

May 20 - September 10: A 15-acre water adventure park adjacent to Knott’s Berry Farm. Soak City boasts pools and 23 speed, tube and body slides, including the Wedge, a thrilling family raft ride; Tidal Wave Bay, a 750,000-gallon wave pool; and the three-story Beach House, featuring 200 water guns, nozzles, sprayers and other interactive surprises. Separate admission from Knott’s Berry Farm required. Season passes, fastlane wristbands, and cabana rentals available.

LEGOLAND Water Park

One Legoland Dr., Carlsbad (888) 690-5346 www.legoland.com/california/water-park

Open through October 29: Located inside LEGOLAND, the park features slides, sandy beaches, Surfer’s Cove, and CHIMA Water Park, comprising 10 acres of water fun. Hopper admission ticket is required for entry.

Newport Dunes’ Inflatable Waterpark

1131 Back Bay Drive, Newport Beach (949) 729-3863, www.newportdunes.com/watersports

Memorial Day Weekend - Labor Day Weekend: Located inside a secluded tranquil bay, the park is home to more than 15 large inflatables, including a 17-foot slide, two trampolines, two climbable icebergs, monkey bars, bouncers, and teeter-totters. Pedal boats, stand-up paddle boards, Duffy boats, and kayaks are also offered.

Raging Waters

111 Raging Waters Dr., San Dimas (909) 802-2200, www.ragingwaters.com

May 20 - September 24: This 60-acre waterpark is home to more than 50 attractions, including Aqua Rocket, the state’s only hydromagnetic water coaster. The park also features a wide variety of tube and body slides ranging from mild to wild, the FlowRider surf simulator, a million-gallon wave pool and a lazy river. Check out website for promotions and deals.

Sesame Place

2052 Entertainment Circle, Chula Vista (619) 943-3566, www.sesameplace.com/san-diego

May 26 - September 4: A 17-acre theme and water park where Sesame Street comes to life. Guests can spend their day in heated pools and on water slides, plus Big Bird’s Beach and Big Bird’s Rambling River. The theme park, included with admission, features family-friendly rides, shows and parades, and character meet-and-greets. Sesame Place is a Certified Autism Center and offers specialized services to guests with autism and other special needs. Special events offered throughout the year.

Splash! Buccaneer Bay Waterpark

13806 La Mirada Blvd., La Mirada (562) 902-3191, www.splashlamirada.com

May 27 - September 4: Located inside La Mirada

Regional Aquatics Center, Buccaneer Bay is a familyoriented water park featuring a flowing river channel, three water slides, children’s interactive play structure, zero-depth beach entry, and two spray pad areas. Season passes, birthday party packages, cabana rentals, and group rates available. Swim lessons also offered.

The Adventure Lagoon

3255 E. Miraloma Ave., Anaheim (714) 983-7314, www.theadventurelagoon.com

Now Open: Floating aqua park that stays 74-78 degrees year round with an obstacle course and kid’s zone in shallow water filled with water trampolines, slides, pedal boats, and water sea-saws. Other activities include water volleyball, paddle boarding, kayaking, and bumper boats. Birthday parties available.

The Cove Waterpark

4310 Camino Real Road, Riverside (951) 360-1974, www.covewaterpark.com

May 27 - September 4: Attractions include Ne’er Endin’ River, Crow’s Nest Slides, Riptide Reef FlowRider, and Lil’ Mates’ Lagoon. Party packages, group rates, and cabana rentals available.

The Wave Waterpark

101 Wave Drive, Vista (760) 940-9283, www.thewavewaterpark.com

Season ends September 10: Waterpark with rides and attractions for the whole family, including rivers, slides, and a wave pool. Programs include swim lessons, water polo classes, junior lifeguards, and more. Birthday party packages also available.

Wild Rivers

10000 Great Park Blvd., Irvine (949) 749-1900, www.wildrivers.com

Open through October 1: Features more than 20 water rides and attractions on 20 acres, including a wave pool, quarter-mile long lazy river, water slides, and a large collection of family raft rides. Birthday party packages and cabana rentals available.

the weird, wacky & gross Answers!

animals eat poop!

Answer: B he ate what?

Animals eat poop to get nutrients they couldn’t digest the first time around, says Bryan Amaral, the senior curator of animal care science at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington D.C.

Answer: E tongue twisters

Oleg Zhornitskiy holds the record of eating 128 oz. of mayonnaise in 8 mins. He is the undisputed World Mayonnaise Eating Champion!

Answer: B giraffe tongues

Pad kid poured curd pulled cod. Do you think this is the hardest tongue twister?

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Details are subject to change without notice. Confirm with organization.

Answer: E fart facts

All of the above! Giraffes use their giant tongues to go rummaging for boogies, clean their ears, grab leaves, and even have special protection from thorns.

Answer: C get buggy

Humans pass gas 14-21 times a day on average. That adds up to about 41,000 times over your lifetime! Whew!

Answer: All of the above! Bugs are all the buzz!