DaytrippingmomDaytrippingmomFamily friendly daytrips,events and travel tips featuring Southern California and beyond Articles
Family Night at the Norton Simon Museum
2008-06-05 09:01:00 The Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena will be hosting Family Night on Friday June 13th from 6:30pm to 9pm. The theme for the upcoming family night will be Art and Play. There will be a special tour exploring the connection between art and games, and then your kiddos will be able to design their own prize-winning game to play with family and friends.The museum offers a variety of programs for children and families to enjoy several times a month. Visit on the third Saturday of the month at 1:00 p.m. for Saturday Family Days, where kids can learn fascinating facts about the Museum's artworks and then complete a hands-on project.On the first Wednesday of the month at 4:00 p.m. and the last Sunday at 2:00 p.m.,the museum is host to Stories in the Afternoon, an interactive story hour held in the galleries. In the summer months, the Museum offers a popular art-making series on Thursday titled Summer Fun Days.The best part is that admission is Free for children 18 years and under. Admis...
Universal Studios Front Of Line Pass
2008-06-02 09:07:00 I've raved about many places to visit, and things to do on my blog. It's hard not to. In my opinion Southern California is the greatest place on earth. What I'm going to tell you about takes the cake. I discovered one of most fabulous experiences that Southern California has to offer. A theme park visit without long lines or a wait. Our family had the opportunity to visit Universal Studios Hollywood and we tried out the Front of the Line Pass es. What is a Front of The Line Pass you might ask? In my opinion it has to be the most fantastic thing offered by a theme park EVER!! Basically here's how it works. You don't wait in line. You just get on the ride or get the best seat in the house to all of Universal Studios' attractions and shows. I know it sounds too good to be true but it's not. I almost couldn't believe it myself until I experienced it for myself. We didn't have to wait in line for any ride, yes even the new Simpsons ride. It was amazing. While everyone else waited...
Free Admission to The Skirball Cultural Center Exhibits
2008-05-28 10:21:00 I'm always on the lookout for free days to anything that sounds remotely interesting and fun.I recently stumbled upon a great free day to the amazing Skirball Cultural Center . The Skirball Cultural Center offers free admission to their exhibits every Thursday. Noah's Ark is a Skirball Permanent Exhibit that is geared towards families and children of all ages. Although admission is free on Thursdays, Timed entry is required for all visitors, including Skirball Members to the Noah's Ark Exhibit. I'm really looking forward to taking my children to the exhibit and while I'm there sneaking a peek at The Skirball's Bob Dylan exhibit. For additional information and to order your Free Thursday Tickets to the Noah's Ark Exhibit click here More About: Exhibits
Disney's California Adventure Toy Story Mania
2008-05-27 10:39:00 Opening June 17, 2008 will be the newest attraction at the Disneyland resort, Toy Story Mania . I can't wait to be able to ride this new ride. I'm going to try to score a preview pass to the ride to be able to tell you all about it. I love Toy Story and so do my kids. The ride looks similar to Buzz Lightyear with a 3D Edge. This is the description from California Adventure 's official siteBeginning June 17, 2008, step right up and compete in an interactive "Toy Story" adventure like no other. It's Toy Story Mania!— a brand new attraction inspired by Disney•Pixar’s “Toy Story” films.Grab some 3-D glasses, board your ride vehicle and zip off into a 4-D world of exciting, midway-style games.Highlights include the following: Play games hosted by favorite Characters including Woody, Buzz, Rex and Hamm! Use your spring-action shooter to launch darts at balloons, rings at aliens, eggs at barnyard targets and more! Certain targets trigger surprise reactions and special effect...
Memorial Day Weekend in Southern California with kids
2008-05-23 18:13:00 Memorial Weekend is upon us and if you're looking for something fun to do with your kids- You've come to the right place. With gas prices at 4 bucks a gallon- many of us are opting for staycations- staying locally and enjoying what Southern California has to offer. Here are a list of a couple of events and places your kids and family might enjoy.Garden Grove Strawberry Festival- Fri-Mon-at the Village Green, between Euclid and Main Street Streets in downtown Garden Grove for additional info click hereFiesta Hermosa- Sat 24- Mon 26 10am to 6pm- Downtown Hermosa Beach- Fun Beach festival with plenty to do for kids pony rides, petting zoos, face painting, water slides and their famous Dog Costume Contest. Plenty for kids and you to do for additional info click hereValley Greek Festiv: Memorial Day Weekend, May 24th, 25th, and 26th: St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church, 9501 Balboa Boulevard, Northridge, CA from 1:00 pm to 9:00 pm- Free admission.. Lots of great Greek food, dancing, mu... More About: Kids
Fullerton Arboretum
2008-05-23 08:48:00 A couple of days ago I made a visit to the Fullerton Arboretum with my almost three year old daughter Lauren. I've been meaning to visit for quite some time and finally got around to doing it this week. The Arboretum is adjacent to the Cal State University Fullerton campus and it's a great little place to visit with kids. My daughter and I were both fascinated by the variety of plants and flowers.The Fullerton Arboretum is the largest botanical garden in Orange County and is home to more than 4,000 plants. It's a beautiful and tranquil place to sit and enjoy the view if you're alone. Here's the nitty gritty if you are planning a visit with kids of any age. It's a great place for the little ones. Bring a stroller and you will love strolling the grounds and taking in all of the beautiful flowers and plants. My little one loved all of the ducks, rabbits and even a resident chicken roaming the grounds. If you have older kids they might enjoy bringing a camera for an afternoon of...
Ocean Institute
2008-05-20 09:01:00 This past weekend the temperatures soared near 100 degrees in Southern California. I knew that if we headed to the coast we would get much needed relief from the scorching heat. Our family decided that it would be the perfect weekend to visit the Ocean Institute in Dana Point.The Ocean Institute is an educational facility that is open to the public only on the weekends. On weekdays the center is exclusively used by students and educators. The Institute is not really a museum or an aquarium, it's more of a hands on marine educational center. Call it what you want, this gem is a must visit for your family.My children loved the institute from the moment they walked through the doors. The kids marched straight to the tide pool exhibit and had the opportunity to touch starfish and sea cucumbers. They loved learning about the different sea life that is found in our local tide pools . They also had a special craft area set up for the kids that was also a big hit with my daughter. My son w...
Fairy Party at the Pasadena Museum of History
2008-05-19 15:10:00 I was scouting for events for this upcoming weekend when I came upon this one that has to be a must for many of you. The Pasadena Museum of History will be hosting their 4th annual Fairy Party on Thursday May 22nd from 6 to 8pm. Children and their parents are transported to a magical fairy land. Kids are invited to attend in fairy costumes or comfy pjs. There will be crafts, games, storytelling and kid friendly tours of exhibits. There will also be opportunities in the Museum's gardens and refreshments. Tickets are $12 per child and accompanying adult or $10 for members of the museum. Reservations are requiredPasadena Museum of History470 West Walnut Street ~ Pasadena, CA 91103 ~ Ph 626.577.1660 For additional information click here
Garden Grove Strawberry Festival
2008-05-16 09:21:00 The Garden Grove Strawberry Festival will be celebrating it's 50th anniversary May 23-26th. The Festival features a parade, carnival rides, games, live entertainment, contests (including a cutest baby contest), food booths and of course yummie strawberries.This year's Grand Marshall will be Academy Award Winner Martin Landau. The festival is a fantastic family event and the best part is that proceeds from the festival benefit local charities. The Strawberry Festival has raised over $4.2 million for local organizations, including the Police and Fire Departments, Boys and Girls Club, Acacia Day Care Center for the frail elderly, The Assistance League and many others. I'm hoping that my family can make it out to this great event.Garden Grove Strawberry FestivalMAY 23-26, 2008Friday (1pm to 10pm)Sat & Sun (10am-10pm)Monday (10am to 8:30pmAdmission is FREE!!!The Festival is held at the Village Green, between Euclid and Main Street Streets in downtown Garden Grove, CA.For additiona...
Balboa Island Artwalk Festival
2008-05-15 09:54:00 The 14th annual Balboa Island Artwalk Festival will take place on Sunday May 18th from 9am to 5pm. The festival features over a mile of art and music and marks the islands summer season. I love exposing my children to art and if you do also- then you should definitely plan on attending.This fine art show features ninety artists exhibitingpaintings, jewelry, ceramics, blown glass, sculpture,and photography. Your family will also enjoy live musicthroughout the day.A comfy pair of walking shoes, sunscreen, a hat,and sunglasses are recommended. Local restaurantswill be open to serve breakfast, lunch, or an earlydinner. Make sure to also stop for a frozen banana. It's a must!! Parking is very limited - I would strongly suggest parking in the Peninsula and taking the ferry in. It's only a couple of dollars , your kids will love it and you will avoid a great big headache!! You can also park at the Nautical Museum and the OC Cruiser will providing free shuttle service.I hope you can ma...
Meet the Berenstain Bears!
2008-05-14 09:08:00 If your kids are Berenstain Bears fans- This is the event for you!! The Los Angeles Zoo will be hosting a Berenstain Bear weekend on May 17 and 18, 2008 from 10am-4pm. Your kids can visit with the Berenstain Bears, and see and hear Mike Berenstain, author & illustrator of the Berenstain Bears, bring these fun-loving bears to life! Bring your own bear to the Bear Care Center for a check-up and visit the Zoo's American black bears, and watch as they receive their favorite treats Papa, Mama, Brother, and Sister Bear will be in the Zoo's Eucalyptus Grove, so bring your camera for a photo and give your favorite character a BIG BEAR HUG. The Berenstain Bear event is included in your daily admission. Don't miss out on this great event!! More About: Meet
Free Admission to the San Diego Wild Animal Park-Founder's Day
2008-05-13 10:43:00 Every year in May , the San Diego Wild Animal Park in Escondido celebrates its Founder's Day with free general admission to the park. This year the park will be celebrating Founder's Day on Wednesday May 14th. Certain exhibits inside the park are not included on Founder's Day, and basic parking is still $6. However how can you beat a free day at such a fantastic place!! More About: Free
Raging Waters Season Passes
2008-05-12 10:29:00 Summer is right around the corner and that means that the local water parks are open for fun!! Raging Waters in San Dimas is open for the summer season and are offering an incredible deal. You can get two season passes for only $99.00. Each additional season pass is just $49.50. Admission for one day is 34.99- so basically for a little more than one day's admission you get the whole season for Free!!For additional information click here. More About: Season
Schaner Farm in Placentia
2008-05-10 17:16:00 Did you know that the suburban city of Placentia has a farm? Located at 1128 North Kraemer Boulevard is the Schaner Farm . The all-organic farm is run by David Schaner where he has been farming the land in Placentia for the last decade. This is the same family farm where he was raised. There are veggies galore, as well as fresh eggs, honey and even avocados!The farm also sells bunches of wildflowers, pumpkins in October and a variety of other goodies.This 9-acre farm is open 7 days a week. Monday through Friday from 11 AM to 6 PM and Weekends from 11 AM to 4 PM.
Mother's Day Family Festival at the Bowers
2008-05-09 10:13:00 Bring your family and Mom to a very special celebration in Mom's honor at the Cleo and Margaret Key Courtyard. Mothers will be serenaded — Mexican-style — by the Mariachi Kids and dance to the lively sounds of the band, Connection, as they play all her favorites from rock & roll, swing, Latin, and big band sounds. There will be special gifts to make for her and face painting for kids. Every Mom will leave with a special memento for her special day. Sponsored by The Nicholas Endowment. The best part is the festival is Free!!11am-3:30PMBowers Museum2002 North Main StreetSanta Ana, CA 92706 More About: Family , Festival
Shark Lagoon Nights at the Aquarium of the Pacific
2008-05-08 09:48:00 Iif you're looking for something Fun, Educational and Free this upcoming Friday night look no futher. The public is invited to get up close with the ocean’s ultimate predators at the Aquarium of the Pacific for FREE during Shark Lagoon Nights . Guests will have the opportunity to touch bamboo sharks and see large sharks such as sandtigers as well as rays in the Aquarium’s Shark Lagoon.for additional information click here
Farmers Markets in Orange County
2008-05-07 09:27:00 If you live in Orange County and love fresh fruits and a good time, check out one of these 3 local Farmers Market.Brea - Chic Market located at Birch Street and Brea Boulvevard on Tuesdays from 4 PM to 8 PM. It is small but filled with fresh food and unique goods.Fullerton - Downtown Fullerton at the Fullerton Museum Center Plaza on Thursdays from 4 to 8:30 PM. There is lots of great stuff for kids here inlcuding face painting, pony rides and the popular air jet water fountain!Yorba Linda - Old Towne Yorba Linda on Saturdays from 9 AM to 1 PM. Located just off Main Street and Imperial Highway. Near the Yorba Linda Library. More About: Markets , Orange County
Annual Family Arts Festival Day at La Habra Children's Museum
2008-05-06 09:28:00 The La Habra Children's Museum will be hostin their Annual Family Arts Festival on May 17th from 10am to 3pm. The annual family festival will showcase local super heroes with demonstrations by police officers, fire fighters and the like. Free activities will include admission to the Museum, arts and crafts, strolling entertainment, and outdoor bounces houses. Your kids can be a part of creating a mural that will be on permanent display at The Children’s Museum at La Habra too! There will also be live entertainment. Concessions and midway games will be available for a nominal fee.Family Arts Festival Day at the La Habra Children's MuseumSaturday May 17th10am-3pmFree Event
Olvera Street
2008-05-05 09:58:00 In honor of Cinco de May- I wanted to blog about one of my favorite places in Los Angeles, La Plazita Olvera or Olvera Street . I have great memories of this LA treasure. My parents both came to the States at a young age and yearned for a piece of back home. We visited Olvera Street often on Sundays to have dinner and listen to Mariachis playing in the plaza. Olvera Street is the birthplace of Los Angeles. It's also known as El Pueblo Historical Monument. Olvera Street is fantastic place to visit as a family. It's rich history and buildings make it a perfect family day trip. The colorful village features 27 historic buildings with a traditional Mexican Style Plaza Area. On the weekends you can enjoy live traditional Mexican music and dancing. The Marketplace area is home to many shops where you can find anything from traditional Mexican attire to a comal(tortilla warmer). My kids love taking in all of the beautiful colors and smells from the various shops and restaurants. Make sure...
Bob the Builder at The Discovery Science Center
2008-05-05 05:23:00 Just in time for summer at the The Discovery Science Center . From May 23 to Sept. 7, 2008, Bob the Builder and his can-do crew invite aspiring builders and their families help to get the job done, as the first-ever hands-on Bob the Builder–Project: Build It traveling museum exhibit visits Taco Bell Discovery Science Center.This 2,000 square-foot multimedia exhibit is sponsored nationally by Indianapolis-based Delta Faucet Company and inspired by HIT Entertainment’s top-rated television series, Bob the Builder – Project: Build It. It will replicate elements from Bob the Builder’s world in Sunflower Valley, inviting exploration, inspiring teamwork and bringing environmentally friendly building themes to life for children and families.The Bob the Builder – Project: Build It traveling museum exhibit will invite families to spend time in Sunflower Valley with Bob the Builder, Wendy and the rest of the can-do crew. Children can practice their own fixing with kid-smart activiti...
Renaissance Pleasure Faire
2008-05-02 15:34:00 If you're looking for something fun and out of the ordinary to do this weekend, look no further. The Southern California Renaissance Pleasure Faire will transport you back in time and be assured that everyone in your family will have a good time. You will find everything from pony rides and face painting to magic shows and jousting knights. There is something for everyone in your family to enjoy.Southern California Renaissance Pleasure FaireApril 5- May 18thSat and Sun 10 am to 7pmSanta Fe Dam Recreational Area - IrwindaleAdults - $21.00Children 5-12 $13.50Under 5- FREEClick here for Discount Coupons
And the winner is!!
2008-05-01 16:30:00 Congratulations to the winner of our giveaway- Monica from Cerritos !! Hope you enjoy the book.Jennifer Weiner's appearance will be tonight at Barnes and Noble at 7pm at the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica. Hope to see you there!! More About: Winner
Free Admission to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
2008-05-01 09:34:00 I love free things, well really I don't know anyone who doesn't. My son is crazy about dinosaurs and I've been meaning to take him to the Natural History Museum . I was looking around their website for info when I came upon this deal. If you've been meaning to visit the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County make sure to set the first Tuesday of the month aside. Admission is free the first Tuesday of the month. More About: Free
1st Thursday Art Walk- Laguna Beach
2008-04-30 09:06:00 My kids love going for long walks in Laguna Beach . They also love taking in all of the different art work displayed at the many galleries the city has to offer. Well I just recently discovered that the two can blend together at Artwalk- Laguna Beach . Artwalk takes place the 1st Thursday of every month. There are over 40 participating galleries and it sounds like a fun night. This would be perfect in the summer months. The ArtWalk is held from 6-9pm. There is a free shuttle to participating gallery locations starting at 6:15 p.m. at the Laguna Art Museum (corner PCH and Cliff Dr.) and Bluebird Center (1590 S. Coast Highway)Shuttles run until 8:45 p.m.2008 Schedule:May 1June 5July 3August 7September 4October 2November 6December 4For additional information: info@firstthursdaysartwalk.com or call (949) 683-6871
Free Cone Day @Ben and Jerry's today April 29th
2008-04-29 23:20:00 Ben and Jerry is celebrating it's 30th birthday today with Free Cone Day. It's not too late to scoop one up today!! More About: April , Today
Free Admission to the La Habra Children's Museum
2008-04-29 09:53:00 One of my kids favorite places to visit, the La Habra Children's Museum is offering Free Admission on the first Saturday of the Month. The Children's Museum at La Habra recently received generous funding from Target stores to provide free admission to the Museum on the first Saturday of each month. This grant will allow the Museum to provide free, fun and educational family programming to residents of La Habra and surrounding communities for an entire year. Themed activities include music, dance, and visual arts activities and performances for families and children of all ages.Monthly themes are as followsMay 3: May I Help?June 7: June Jungle July 5: Jump Into SummerAugust 2: August Animal AdventuresSeptember 27: It's A Small World (Due to renovation schedule, free day will be last Saturday of September)October 4: October Pumpkin FestNovember 1: Thanks and GivingDecember 6: December Day of Holiday Traditions
Monday Giveaway
2008-04-28 17:37:00 Here's a giveaway to start off your week- I'm giving away a copy of Jennifer Weiner's best selling book Certain Girls- All you have to do is send me an email at mom@daytrippingmom.comwith your name and email address and that's it. Giveaway closes on Wed 9pm PST. Jennifer Weiner will be appearing at the Barnes and Nobles on the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica on Thursday May 1st. Perfect for a girls/mom's night out!! More About: Monday
The Getty
2008-04-28 09:03:00 The Getty Center/Museum has been around for quite sometime and we finally made it out for a great visit yesterday. I have wanted to visit for years, but something always came up. I woke up yesterday and decided that was it. We were going to visit the Getty and we did. It was scorching hot yesterday but the Getty's location perched above the city and with a great view of the Pacific Ocean provided an ideal setting. It felt at least ten degrees cooler than the rest of Southern California.I was impressed from the moment we arrived at the Center. There were two very organized lines to lead us into the parking lot. Parking is $8.00 and the only thing that you will have to pay for when visiting the center. We found a spot and headed up to load the tram that would lead us to the museum. Here's a good tip if you don't want to bring a stroller, The Getty provides complimentary use of strollers on a first come, first serve basis. They are located at the Lower Tram Station or at the coat ...
Free Day - Admission to the Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens
More articles from this author:2008-04-27 10:41:00 The Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens is offering free admission on the first Thursday of the month. Hours on Free Day are from 10:30 am to 4:30pm. All non-member visitors to The Huntington must have a ticket.Tickets are free and can be requested by calling The Huntington's ticketing agency at 800-838-3006. You may also reserve your tickets online: selecting from two arrival times: morning (10:30 a.m.) or afternoon (1:30 p.m.). A limited quantity will be available the first day of each month preceding the month you wish to visit. (For example, if you wish to visit on October Free Day, you may call for tickets beginning Sept. 1). Please note that Free Day tickets are not available at The Huntington, and may only be reserved by phone or onlineFor additional information click here More About: Botanical Gardens 1, 2, 3, 4 |
 |
|
 |
