Rose Parade Float Decorating Viewing

Does your family want a sneak peak of the 2009 Tournament of Roses Parade? If you are in Southern California this week and are looking for something fun to do-look no further!! You can experience the magic of the Rose Parade before New Year's Day. There are four locations in the Pasadena general area where you can take a close up look at the majestic floats in their final stages. You will be able to see what it takes to put together a float and watch as volunteers apply the finishing touches to the breathtaking floats. I'm planning on taking the kiddos to catch a glimpse. I hope to see you there!!! Admission: $7 for any two visits, children 3 and under are free. Advance tickets are available through Sharp Seating Company at (626) 795-4171

There are two Locations at the Rose Bowl Stadium:

You will see a variety of fruit, seeds, bark, grasses and of course, breathtaking flowers being applied to the floats by hard working volunteers as well as experienced professionals.

Located at the Rose Bowl Stadium:

• Rosemont Pavilion 700 Seco St., Pasadena
• Brookside Pavilion (accessible to mobility-impaired viewers) Lot I - South side of Rose Bowl Stadium, Pasadena Schedule: December 28 and 29: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. December 30: 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. December 31: 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Located in Pasadena:

• Rose Palace 835 S. Raymond Ave., Pasadena Schedule: December 28, 29 and 30: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. December 31: 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Located in Irwindale:

• Irwindale Pavillion Exit from the 210 Freeway at Irwindale or travel north on Irwindale and follow event signs. Schedule: December 28 and 29: 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. December 30: 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. December 31: Not open for Public Viewing

2009 Tournament of Roses Parade Viewing tips

If you are thinking of heading out to Pasadena to view the 2009Tournament of Roses Parade- here's a list of tips to make it a fun and comfortable experience 1. Layer up- The high for New Year's Day is supposed to hit a high of 70 degrees- but it is very chilly at night and in the early morning. Dress in layers so that you can easily remove a layer or two when it starts to warm up. If you're bringing little ones I would also bring scarves, gloves, a blanket and mittens. 2. Overnight camping is permitted only on the night before the parade. Do not arrive before noon the day before the parade. 3. If you plan on camping - bring plenty of blankets, sleeping bags and pillows. You are also allowed to bring a small barbecue. You may not bring tents or start any form of bonfire. 4. If you are camping be prepared for a sleepless night. I've camped out a couple of times with my family and didn't sleep a wink. The crowd also gets a bit rowdy. I really wouldn't recommend camping out if you have small children. 5. If you would like to view the parade in style and be as comfortable as possible- splurge on grandstand tickets. For more info click here- Tickets are still available. 6. If you are light sensitive make sure to sit on the west side of the street 7. The Tournament of Roses Parade follows the same route every year: Starting on Ellis St., it heads north on S. Orange Grove Blvd., then east on Colorado Blvd, north (left turn) on Sierra Madre Blvd., and ending at Paloma Street.- Plan ahead to determine where you would like to seat- also there is no public, curbside parade viewing on Orange Grove Blvd. from Del Rosa to Colorado Blvd. and on Colorado from Orange Grove to Terrace. Grandstand ticket holders only. 8. If you would like to see the parade live in person, but have small children or the idea of camping out seems like a nightmare- this might be for you- Our friends suggested to leave about 30-45 minutes before the parade starts and head over to the end of the parade - on Sierra Madre blvd. You can easily find a spot without having to camp out. 9. Parking can be a nightmare. You can park in residential areas but be prepared for a walk. You can also pay anywhere between 10-25 dollars and park close up to the parade route in any of the private lots. If you are planning on this make sure you bring cash. 10. The parade starts at 8am sharp and is approximately 2 and a half hours long. 11. Bring plenty of water and snacks. If you have little ones- bring them along in a wagon and store your supplies in the wagon. 12. If you would still like to view the floats close up but can't make it out to the parade don't worry- Buy tickets for the best and most interesting part of the Rose Parade: float viewing. You can get closer to the floats and talk to their builders here. Crowds will be smaller if you can arrive immediately when they open on the morning after the parade. Use an area park-and-ride lot, or if you have a carful of people, try for one of the paid lots near Pasadena High School. I will be covering this in a later post Happy New Year!!!! Oh and almost forgot the winner of last week's dvd giveaway is Cristin. Please email me with your info so that i can send it out as soon as possible.

Merry Christmas from Daytripping Mom

Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas!

Daytripping Mom Giveaway and Review- Goldilocks and the 3 bears

If you looking for a new flick for the kiddos to watch on the way to your Christmas destination or favorite day trip- I have a great one for you. Jim Henson's Goldilocks and the 3 Bears is a new twist on the classic tale. The movie centers around Goldilocks as a spoiled television star. She decides to revive her career by agreeing to star in a reality tv show with the 3 bears- think ala big brother style. She has to learn to get along with the bears and work on getting her career back on track. It's a cute movie that is perfect for the whole family to enjoy. I have a copy of the DVD that I'm giving away. Just post a comment and you're entered to win. It's that simple!!You have until the 21st to enter. Good luck and oh almost forgot Goldilocks and the 3 bears is available on DVD and a perfect Christmas gift!!

Toys for Tots- Knott's Berry Farm

If you want to do something fun this weekend(Dec 20 and 21) and at the same time help others in need - check out Toys for Tots at Knott's Berry Farm. Bring an unwrapped toy valued at $10 or more and get free admission to Knott's Berry Farm. Simply bring the new, unwrapped toys (one for each free admission in your group) to the Knott's Berry Farm admission booths with you. From there, you'll be issued your free admission pass, and Toys for Tots workers will be on hand to make sure the toy you bring gets where it needs to go. You do NOT need a coupon, computer print out receipt, etc to participate in the Knott's Toys for Tots Christmas toy drive. Just show up at the park with your toy! Knott's is decked out for the holidays and your family will love Knott's Merry Farm!! We should be free from rain this weekend so head on over for a day of fun and also help a needy child have a great Christmas. For additional information click here

Mission Viejo Holiday Lights Tour

The city of Mission Viejo has an activities committee that, among other things, organizes a holiday decoration home lighting contest for residents of the city. Here are the addresses of this years winners:

Best Religious: Henseler family, 27442 Via Amistoso

Most Humorous: Crick family, 26152 Cordillera

Bright Ideas: Schneider family, 23446 Bolivar

Simply Elegant: Pastorkovich family, 4 Amato

Magical Effects: Mezo family, 27093 Pinario

Source: Mission Viejo Activities Committee

Here is a map of the winners locations.

Winner of Disney on Ice - High School Musical

The winner of Disney on Ice is Branizm - who wrote "My kids both enjoy HSM ( it's like our grease, lol) both kids would enjoy seeing it on ice just as much as they did seeing it on the big screen (HSM3)... if we may be considered, that would be a very fantabolous treat for them!!!" Email me at mom @ daytrippingmom.com Just a reminder that Disney on Ice shows are coming up in the next few weeks. The Staples Center show is only 2 days away. If you have never seen a Disney on Ice show- trust me on this- your kiddos will love it. Dec 18-21 at the Staples Center, Dec 23-28th at the Honda Center in Anaheim and Jan 2-4 2009 at the Long Beach Arena. For additional information click here or www.highschoolmusicaltheicetour.com. You can purchase tickets through Ticketmaster or by calling 213-480-3232. I hope you are all enjoying the holiday season :)

Wild Animal Park’s Festival of Lights

The 2008 holiday season is the last opportunity to enjoy the glow of the Wild Animal Park’s Festival of Lights! Next year, the event will move to the Zoo under the new name "Jungle Bells." So this December, on the 20th anniversary of the first winter lights at the Park, gather the family and visit for the final Festival of Lights celebration. Brand-new holiday and animal-themed light features created specifically for the Wild Animal Park will set the atmosphere for family fun, which includes Snow Hill (open daily from 4–8:30 p.m.), new craft activities, a Light Magic Show in Discovery Station, and a Black Light Puppet Show in Benbough Amphitheater. Dates and Times: From 4 to 9 p.m., December 13–23 and 26–30, 2008; January 2 and 3, 2009 More information: SanDiegoZoo.org

This Weekend- AKC Eukanuba National Championship in Long Beach

If you are looking for something fun and different to do this weekend head over to Long Beach and catch The AKC/Eukanuba National Championship. I love watching the American Kennel Club Dog show and the Westminster Dog show on Animal Planet. This year the show will be held at the Long Beach Convention Center on December 13th and 14th Every year, nearly 3,000 of the world’s top canine competitors from all 50 states and more than 70 countries are invited to vie for Best in Show honors and a total of $225,000 at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship. The event is one of the most highly competitive and exciting events in the canine world. It is held in conjunction with the AKC National Obedience Invitational and AKC Agility Invitational, representing the culmination of a year of competition in three AKC sports: Conformation, Obedience and Agility.

For the second year, the exciting Eukanuba World Challenge competition will feature dogs representing 52 countries from the far reaches of the globe competing for world-wide bragging rights!

One of the most exciting attractions is the AKC Meet the Breeds with over 150 AKC breeds on display for the public to meet and speak with breed experts. The AKC Demonstration ring features fun, educational and exciting demonstrations such as herding with live ducks, agility, obedience and seeing-eye dogs.

Click here for a complete schedule of events

Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks in Southern California 2008

I'm loving this holiday season and it would not be complete without a post about outdoor ice skating rinks in Southern California. All are open and running through January. Here is a list along with admission prices. Happy ice skating!!! Los Angeles County Downtown On Ice- Downtown LA- Nov 20,2008-Jan 19,2009 Admission price $6.00- skate rental $2.00 ICE at Santa Monica-1324 Fifth Street-Nov 7,2008-Jan 19,2009 Admission price $10.00 (includes skate rental) Seaside Ice- Redondo Beach-Seaside Lagoon, 200 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach. -Nov 18,2008-Jan 11,2009 Admission price $14.00, children $12.00 Orange County Irvine Spectrum-Nov 1,2008-Nov 19,200 Admission price $11.00-skate rental $4.50 Riverside County Festival of Lights Ice Skating -Mainstreet Pedestrian Mall- Riverside -Nov 28,2008-Jan 04 Admission price $10.00- skate rental $3.00 Ventura County The Lakes Ice Rink- Lakes Mall- Thousand Oaks Dec 8,2008- Jan 4,2009 Admission price $8.00- Skate rentals $3.00 San Diego County Skating By The Sea-Hotel Del Coronado-San Diego-Nov 22,2008-Jan 3,2008 Admission prices- Adults $15(2hr) $20(3hr)- Children $15(3hr), $10(2hr)- Skate rental $5.00 Fantasy on Ice-Horton Square-San Diego -Nov 20,2008-Jan 4,2009 Admission prices-Adults $12.00-children $10.00(includes skate rental)

Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade

Are you ready to really swing into the holiday spirit?? Looking for something that is fun to do and absolutely free?? Look no further and mark the dates on your calendar. The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is celebrating it's 100th year and better than ever. Watching the parade is one of my family's favorite Christmas tradition. The Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade is a definite must see. The parade begins on Wednesday Dec 17 and ends on Sunday December 21st. The parade starts off at Bay Island at 6:30pm and ends there at approximately 9:30. This year in celebration of the parade's 100th anniversary fireworks will be set off at at 6:25 from the Balboa Pier. Just a couple of tips to make your evening as enjoyable as possible. 1. Dress warmly. I forgot to bring gloves last year and I will make sure not to forget them this year. I also will remember to bring a blanket for each of my kiddos. 2. Arrive as early as possible. Traffic is horrible and arriving early will assure you a spot and less congestion. 3. Be prepared to pay for parking. Whether you are parking in one of the state lots to an improvised private lot make sure to bring at least 10 dollars for parking. If you want to save on parking make sure to bring good walking shoes and park a little further away from the bay area. 4. Bring something warm to drink. I forgot to do this last year and I ended up paying a small fortune for hot chocolate and donuts in Balboa island. 5. Some of the best viewing spots are the Balboa Peninsula/Ferry area and Balboa island. You can't miss at any of these two spots. 6. If you would like to view the parade in luxury many of the waterfront restaurants along the parade route have dinner/viewing packages. Check to see if your favorite restaurant is offering a deal. 7. check out this website for additional information. I know that your family will enjoy this as much as my family does!! I promise!!! Don't forget to enter the Disney on Ice giveaway. To enter click here

LongShots winner

The winner of the Longshots giveaway is Gina- congrats!! Please email me at mom@daytrippingmom.com with your info.

Metrolink's Holiday Toy Express

I received a great tip about a GREAT and FREE Christmas event from a reader that your kiddos will love. The Metrolink Holiday Toy Express is coming to a station near you. Metrolink's Holiday Toy Express has been delighting audiences for nine years – providing a free, enjoyable, community-based holiday experience across five Southern California counties. The Holiday Toy Express, a 450-ton Metrolink train decorated with giant glittering ornaments, animated displays, and more than 50,000 twinkling lights. Arriving with lights aglow and filling the night with toe-tapping tunes, the Holiday Toy Express offers a free live musical stage show for those at each stop. Following the show, children of all ages have the opportunity to meet Santa and his friends when they alight from the train. Some stations also provide light refreshments. The train is heads to different stations across Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and Ventura counties. Click here for the schedule and additional info. Make sure to enter the Longshots giveaway and the Disney on Ice tickets giveaway.Remember all you have to do is post a comment under each of the posts and you are automatically entered. Good luck!!

Daytripping Mom Giveaway and Review- The Longshots

As a promised here is the DVD Review and giveaway... All you have to do is enter the contest is leave any comment at the end of the post and you are entered to win.. that's all .. that's it. Pretty simple right? and trust me you will want a copy of this family film. The Longshots is a great little family movie inspired by a true story. It's a good little film about a former high school football star played by Ice Cube and his inspiring story of turning a struggling Pop Warner football team around thanks to his niece Jasmine. Curtis(Ice Cube) has recently moved in with his sister and his niece Jasmine. When Jasmine's mom asks Curtis to stay with her daughter after school, Curtis discovers an innate football talent hidden beneath Jasmine's sullen exterior. Once he helps Jasmine talk her way onto the local Pop Warner football team, it's only a matter of time before the plucky girl and her newly energetic uncle whip that team--and their town-- into shape. I think this DVD will especially be enjoyed by young girls. My daughter loved it!!! It's a great little film that your family will definitely enjoy. The Longshots is now available on DVD. I have 1 copy to giveaway. Just remember to post any comment and Good Luck!! Contest ends Saturday night. I will announce the winner on Sunday. Good luck!!!

Holiday Light Festival at Griffith Park

It's been a while since I've blogged. I've been under the weather and was out of town for the holidays and I'm feeling a bit better and ready to go on some adventures with the kiddos. One of the places I take the kids every year for the holidays is the DWP Festival of Lights at Griffith Park. It's a must if you live in the Southern California area and well worth the drive. We have been a couple of times and have decided to begin visiting it as a new family tradition. It's a really unique Angeleno experience. The section of Griffith park runs about one mile with the displays of lights along Crystal Springs Drive. The displays even feature music. It is a must see. I'm planning on visiting sometime this weekend. If you will be attending this weekend and possibly beating the crowds make sure to bring a good pair of walking shoes, a jacket, and a stroller for the little ones. Most of all, bring your holiday spirit. If you are planning to be in the Los Angeles area this holiday season include this on your list of things to see and do. The festival will be vehicle from now until Dec 7 meaning you have to have walk it. I have walked it before and loved it. Visitors may park at the L.A. Zoo parking lot or the parking lots on the south side of the festival near the Merry-Go-Round, or the lots near the pony rides. Parking will be on a first-come, first-served basis. Walkers are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and to dress warmly to walk the full one-mile route each way. It is also recommended that walkers have outerwear, as it can get chilly. Shuttles will assist in bringing guests from the remote parking lots to the route. I would bring a thermos with hot chocolate and if you have little ones a stroller is a must!!! The festival will return to its traditional configuration on December 8 and continue until December 30, 2008. Automobiles will have access to the festival route from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Pedestrians may also walk on the walking path and visit the festival, Shuttles will be available December 12 through 30. I can't rave enough about this event. If your kids love Christmas lights and music and really who doesn't right????Nake sure to take them. Trust me they will love it. for additional information click here P.S. I will be doing a DVD giveaway later on today - I promise and for now make sure to enter the Disney on Ice giveaway!!

Free Admission at the OC Marketplace

I know you've seen me blog about this place before, but this time its for something really special:

FREE ADMISSION FOOD DRIVE - to support South County Outreach www.sco-oc.org

Shop for the holidays at the Orange County Market Place and help children and families in need. Bring a canned good or dried food item any Saturday or Sunday through Dec. 21, 2008 and receive FREE ADMISSION (Ages 13 years and up) Kids get a FREE photo with Santa Claus this holiday season every weekend through Dec. 21, 2008. Photos with Santa are 10 AM. to 2 PM. The Orange County Market Place is held every Saturday and Sunday at the O.C. Fair Event Center, 88 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa

Hours: 7 AM. to 4 PM See you there!

Winner of Christmas Train at Irvine Park

Drumroll please..... the winner of this week's giveaway of 4 tickets to Irvine Park Railroad's Christmas train which was randomly selected by random.org is comment #4 - The Jacobs who wrote"Hooray for Christmas! If only it weren't 90* outside, maybe it would feel more holiday season-ish". Send me an email with your info at mom@daytrippingmom.com and I will try to send those out by tomorrow. Enjoy!! Stay tuned I have a giveaway later on today for a fun DVD that will be perfect for Holiday Drives and don't forget about entering the Disney on Ice giveaway which ends this weekend. Good luck!!

Disney on Ice: High School Musical and another fun Daytrippingmom Giveaway

The holidays are upon us and this usually means shopping, shopping and more shopping, but it also means a holiday break. I'm always looking for fun stuff to do with the kids during breaks and I found something that you must pencil in. Coming to an arena near you is Disney on Ice: High School Musical which is coming to the Southland from Dec 18-21 at the Staples Center, Dec 23-28th at the Honda Center in Anaheim and Jan 2-4 2009at the Long Beach Arena. I don't know about you but there is definitely High School Musical Mania at my house. I love the Disney on Ice shows because they are just so much fun. It's a perfect night of family entertainment. The shows are exciting and really capture the kiddos' attention. Ice Skating + anything Disney= Great time!! Trust me on this your kiddos will love it and so will you. For additional information click here or www.highschoolmusicaltheicetour.com. You can purchase tickets through Ticketmaster or by calling 213-480-3232. The best part is that one lucky reader will win a family four pack to the location of your choice. All you have to do is leave a comment-any comment will do at the end of the post and you will be automatically entered to win. Contest ends Dec 10. The winner will be announced Dec 11th. As with any show make sure to buy your tickets as soon as possible to make sure you will get a good seat.

Daytrippingmom Giveaway!!!!!!!! Irvine Park Annual Christmas Train

The Holiday season is just around the corner- it officially kicks off next Friday and I wanted to start it off with a Daytrippingmom giveaway. I love the Irvine Park Railroad and so do my kids. We had the opportunity to visit last year and meet with Santa Claus and we had a blast. This year to celebrate I'm giving a family 4 pack - All you have to do is leave a comment any comment with this post and you will automatically be entered to win. The contest will end this Saturday the 23rd. Let me tell you a little about the Irvien Park Christmas Railroad. IRVINE PARK RAILROAD’S 13TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS TRAIN It’s the season, once again for Irvine Park Railroad’s annual Christmas Train. Come with family and friends and take the enchanting night ride through historic Irvine Regional Park to meet Santa Claus. The train will depart from the brightly-lit Train Station and drop passengers off at Santa’s Village. New for this year, Christmas Train tickets may be purchased in advance to board the train at 5:00, 6:00, 7:00 or 8:00 PM -- get in line when it is your time to board the train. And, while waiting for your boarding time, there are many activities for children to enjoy in the Party Pavilions located next to the train station. Story Time with Mrs. Claus Christmas Cookie Decorating Moon Bounce Christmas Coloring Picture Stands Prices for activities vary; for additional information and costs, visit www.irvineparkrailroad.com. At Santa’s Village, visitors may purchase coffee, hot chocolate, freshly-popped popcorn and cookies from the Elf House Snack Bar. A full kitchen menu is also available at the Train Station. Visitors may take their own pictures with Santa or you may purchase a picture taken by Irvine Park Railroad. After visiting with Santa, hop back aboard the train and enjoy the colorful Christmas lights and decorations, as well as the magical “Tunnel of Lights”, on the ride back to the station house. When visiting the Christmas Train, remember to dress warmly, bring a camera and film and arrive early to avoid crowds. The Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train is open from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM on the following dates: November 28th, 29th and 30th December 5th, 6th and 7th December 11th – December 23rd The cost to ride the Christmas Train is $8.00 per person. Children younger than 24 months ride free. The parking for Irvine Regional Park is $3.00 per vehicle on weekdays and $5.00 per vehicle on weekends. Parking for the Christmas Train is free after 5:00 PM. Annual Irvine Park Railroad events include the Christmas Train, Anniversary Celebration, Easter Eggstravaganza and Pumpkin Patch. Irvine Park Railroad is located inside of Irvine Regional Park. The address is: Irvine Park Railroad 1 Irvine Park Road Orange, CA 92869 For pricing, park directions and complete details, please visit www.irvineparkrailroad.com. Make sure to post a comment to enter the contest and good luck!!!

Los Angeles Fire Department Museum

This past weekend we had the pleasure of daytripping in San Pedro and we discovered a little gem of a museum. It's the Los Angeles Fire Department Museum and your little ones are going to love it. There are actually two fire department museums - one in Hollywood and the other in San Pedro. The San Pedro museums is located across the street from the Los Angeles Maritime museum and is only open on Saturday from 10am to 3pm. The Hollywood museum is also only open on Saturdays from 10 am to 4pm. The Hollywood museum is located near the Walk of Fame and the Hollywood Bowl. The Hollywood museum (Old Fire Station 27) is housed in what was once the largest fire station west of the Mississippi. With more than 20,000 square feet of space, a number of famous pieces of firefighting apparatus, and hundreds of artifacts on display, there’s something for the entire family. If you're interested in local L.A. history then you must visit the San Pedro Harbor Museum (Old Fire Station 36). There is no better place to get the genuine feeling of what it was like to work in a small community fire station. Much of the interior is just as it was 75 years ago. Not only that, but inside, you'll find a perfectly restored 1923 Seagrave Fire Engine that actually served at 36s in the early 1900s. The museums have a group of dedicated, friendly retired firefighter docents who can show you around, tell you a story or two. It's a great little place and all the little ones will leave with their very own fire fighter hat which they will love!! If you visit the one in San Pedro hop on the red car and make a day of it by visiting the maritime museum and the water show. Trust me your kiddos will love it. San Pedro Museum 638 Beacon Street San Pedro, CA 90731 323-464-2727 Open Saturday 10am to 3pm Hollywood Museum 1355 N Cahuenga Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90028 323-464-2727 Open Saturday 10am to 4pm

Port of Los Angeles Waterfront Red Car Line

This past Saturday our family had the opportunity to take a little excursion to San Pedro and ride a red car. What is a red car you might be wondering? Well let me tell you- For sixty years, the Los Angeles area was served by a vast network of electric railway lines operated by the Pacific Electric Railway. Affectionately known as “Red Cars”, the Pacific Electric’s trolleys and interurban cars blanketed the Los Angeles area on more than 1000 miles of rail lines. The last remnant of the system was abandoned in 1961. Forty-two years later, a small piece of the system has been resurrected in San Pedro, as the Port of Los Angeles Waterfront Red Car Line. We first spent some time at the Los Angeles Maritime Museum which I will be posting about tomorrow and soon after started our ride on one of the historic red cars. The one and a half mile route connects the cruise ship terminal with the maritime museum and ports o'call village. We rode the train from the start of the route to the end of the route and back again. The kids had so much fun. The conductor gave them their very own conductor hats and coloring book that they were both thrilled with. It's a great little adventure for the little ones. Parking is plentiful and free next to the maritime museum and in the ports o'call village. Children 6 and under are free and adult fare is $1.00 with unlimited rides all day. The red car operates Friday through Monday from noon to 9pm. P.S. Make sure to make a pit stop at the Fanfare at the San Pedro Gateway. It's a great water show- kind of like a smaller version of the Bellagio water fountain show and also a stop at the cruise center to view the big cruise ships. Your kids will love it!! We had a great time and I know your family will also!! For additional information click here

Winner!!

Jane who posted pick me PICK ME. My family would LOVE, LOVE to go and I would also invite my parents. We are all big DOG lovers...! I have two LABS and my parents have a Lasa Apso {can't spell}.THANKS for the chance.. was randomly selected and won a 4 pack to the AKC/Eukanuba National Dog Championship and Dog Show- email me at mom@daytrippingmom.com with your info :)

Free - Shark Lagoon nights

Just a little reminder with Friday almost upon us - If you're looking for something fun and free here it is- Shark Lagoon Friday nights are back on. 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. Shark Lagoon nights will be held every Friday night from 6-9pm for additional info click here Aquarium of the Pacific 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, CA 90802

Roundhouse Aquarium- Manhattan Beach

My kiddos love animals and my son in particular loves sea life. We are always looking for aquariums to visit and we found one that is not to far from us. It's the Roadhouse Aquarium in Manhattan Beach. The Roadhouse Aquarium is located at the end of the Manhattan Beach pier and offers storytime, a touch tank where your kiddos can get up close and personal with the various marine life and the best shark feedings!!The staff is fun and friendly and always open to answering questions that you and your kiddos might have. The aquarium is open on weekdays from 3pm to sunset and on weekends from 10am to sunset. The best part is that this great little place is absolutely Free!! Donations are always welcome and suggested. For additional information click here

Daytripping Mom Giveaway!! AKC/Eukanuba National Championship in Long Beach

If your kiddos are anything like mine they are probably crazy about dogs. My hubby and I also happen to be crazy about them. I love watching the American Kennel Club Dog show and the Westminster Dog show on Animal Planet. This year the show will be held at the Long Beach Convention Center on December 13th and 14th and Daytrippingmom will be giving away a family 4 pack!! Every year, nearly 3,000 of the world’s top canine competitors from all 50 states and more than 70 countries are invited to vie for Best in Show honors and a total of $225,000 at the AKC/Eukanuba National Championship. The event is one of the most highly competitive and exciting events in the canine world. It is held in conjunction with the AKC National Obedience Invitational and AKC Agility Invitational, representing the culmination of a year of competition in three AKC sports: Conformation, Obedience and Agility.

For the second year, the exciting Eukanuba World Challenge competition will feature dogs representing 52 countries from the far reaches of the globe competing for world-wide bragging rights!

One of the most exciting attractions is the AKC Meet the Breeds with over 150 AKC breeds on display for the public to meet and speak with breed experts. The AKC Demonstration ring features fun, educational and exciting demonstrations such as herding with live ducks, agility, obedience and seeing-eye dogs.

Click here for a complete schedule of events

My family will be attending this event and so can yours- I'm giving away a 4 pack of tickets to the Saturday Event. I think this would be a really unique and fun activity for your family. If you would like to enter the giveaway just leave a comment- any comment and you will be automatically entered to win the package. I have 4 admissions and since children under 12 are free you can invite two other people. It's a great prize. Contest ends Nov 8th at 7pm. Good luck!!!

Kidspace Pumpkin Festival

Are you looking for something free, fun and in the spirit of Halloween? Then check out the 14th annual Kidspace Pumpkin Festival. The festival celebrates autumn by sparking the imaginations of visitors of all ages. Children can sing and dance to music and live performances, run through a pumpkin patch or enjoy a costume parade. Enjoy one or two days of fun performances, activities and fun taking place in Brookside Park in Pasadena. There will be carnival games, crafts, bouncers, face painting and more. Saturday &Sunday October 25th and 26th 9:30am to 5:30pm Admission is free The Kidspace Pumpkin festival will be held at Brookside Park 480 N Arroyo Blvd Pasadena-near the Rose Bowl Free Parking is available in Rose Bowl Lot 1 Overflow parking in lots F and K For additional event details click here

Scarium of the Pacific and Free Shark Lagoon nights

Discover the creatures lurking in the depths of Pacific at the Scarium of the Pacific, a spooktacular yet educational Halloween event for the whole family. Enjoy special Halloween programs including a costume contest for kids, a creepy coloring contest, magic shows, spooky storytelling, kooky crafts, eerie animals in the Great Hall and much more. Free with admission on a side note Shark Lagoon Friday nights are back on. 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. Shark Lagoon nights will be held every Friday night from 6-9pm for additional info click here Aquarium of the Pacific 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, CA 90802

Haute Dog Howl'een Parade, Costume Contest in Long Beach

If you're looking for something one of a kind and perfect for the Halloween season - make sure to check out the Haute Dog Howl'een parade contest at Livingston Park in Long Beach on Sunday the 26th. The parade takes place along 1o city blocks in Belmont Shore. The parade starts at 2:3o pm in Livingston Park. Over 600 dogs participated in last year's event. It should be a treat for the whole family. There will also be a kids costume contest at 4:30pm and a pet adoption fair from 11am to 5pm. For additional information click here.

Boo at the zoo- Santa Ana Zoo

The annual Boo at the Zoo at the Santa Ana Zoo will be held Oct 24-26 from 5:30-8:30 pm. The family friendly costumed event will bring fun and safe trick or treating in a Merry not Scary Zoo atmosphere. There will be trick or treating, costume parade, games, stories and of course animal encounters. It's a must if you live or will be visiting the Orange County area this weekend. Tickets are $10 a person with children 2 and under free. Grandparents will be offered free admission on Oct 24th. For additional info click here This family-friendly costumed extravaganza will bring FUN, SAFE, trick-or-treating in a "Merry not Scary" Zoo atmosphere, with educ ational programs throughout the evening, and a costume parade. This family-friendly costumed extravaganza will bring FUN, SAFE, trick-or-treating in a "Merry not Scary" Zoo atmosphere, with educational programs throughout the evening, and a costume parade.

Boo at the zoo- Los Angeles Zoo

For the next two weeks I will be posting about various Halloween events geared for kids throughout Southern California. Boo at the Zoo is being held at both the Los Angeles Zoo and at the Santa Ana Zoo. The LA Zoo will be hosting it's annual boo at the zoo on Saturday October 25th and Sunday October 26th. Costumes are encouraged and will earn you a dollar off admission. Some of the activities featured will be Animal Stomp and Chomp, trick or treating, Halloween entertainment and Halloween down under. This event is free for members and included in general admission. Hours will be 10 am to 4pm. For additional information click here.

Spooky Fun at the Discovery Science Center

SPOOKY SCIENCE Oct. 4 - Nov. 2 Participate in fun science experiments, enjoy trick-or-treat goodie bags and explore a spooky 3-D maze. It’s a SPOOKtacular good time!

LIVE BATS will be at Discovery Science Center on the following dates:

October 18, 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. Dan Taylor from the International Bat Conservancy will be on the SunStage with live bats! Don't miss this informative and educational program! October 25, 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. Stephanie Stronsick from Batworld.org will be at the SunStage with live bats! November 1, 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. Deborah Crough will be at the SunStage with live bats! Plus, visitors have the opportunity to see rats and mice on weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. during Spooky Science! Meet and greet these furry creatures!

Discovery Science Center, 2500 N. Main Street, Santa Ana, CA 92705 714.542.2823

Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch

Irvine Park Railroad’s 3rd annual pumpkin patch is fun for the entire family! Children and adults are invited to the pumpkin patch which opens daily at 10:00 am through November 2nd. This place is fun the rest of the year, but around Halloween is my children's favorite time.

This year’s pumpkin patch activities include: Train rides, hay rides, a haunted house, a hay maze, pony rides, a moon bounce, face painting (weekends only), picture stands, great food and of course, The Orange County Zoo.

Best of all there’s the pumpkin patch located in Locomotive Loop just behind the train station. Thousands of pumpkins, in all shapes and sizes, fill Locomotive Loop.

Admission into the pumpkin patch is free. Prices for all other activities vary. Visit http://www.irvineparkrailroad.com/ for additional information and costs.

Children ages 12 and under can wear their Halloween costume to Irvine Park Railroad on Saturday, October 25th. Every child that wears a costume on that day will receive a free goodie bag filled with Irvine Park Railroad giveaways.

The Irvine Park Railroad pumpkin patch is open daily from September 20th through November 2nd. Hours of operation are as follows:

Weekdays 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Weekends 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

The parking fee for Irvine Regional Park is $3.00 per vehicle on weekdays and $5.00 per vehicle on weekends.

Chapman Avenue at Jamboree Boulevard, 92869 google map yahoo map

Tall Ships at the Redondo Beach Marina

The Lynx and The Californian Tall Ships will be on display at the Redondo Beach Marina from Oct 7 through the 19th. My kids are in love with planes, trains and especially ships. I can't wait to take them this weekend. The King Harbor Association and the Redondo Beach Marina are proud to help sponsor the 122 foot square topsail schooner Lynx and the 145 foot California. You can look at them from afar or enjoy a dockside tour from 10am to noon on the weekends. There is also a battle sail from 2 to 5 on both weekends. LOCATION: King Harbor 208 Yacht Club Way Redondo Beach, CA, 90277 310-376-6926 http://www.kingharbor.com/ COST/REGISTRATION: Dockside tours: $8, Children under 12 free; Battle Sail, $75, Children under 12 $35. http://www.privateerlynx.com/contact/index.html MORE INFO: Website: http://www.privateerlynx.com/ Email: woodsjwreno@aol.com Phone: 949-274-5785 Contact: Jeffrey Woods

Museums on us- Free Admission to museums with your B of A debit card or credit card

Have you noticed a trend with my posts lately? I'm currently obsessed with museums and free admissions. I have to share with you another great find. Museums on us is a fantastic program that rewards Bank of America cardholders. Any card from Bank of America gives you free admission to over 70 museums. nationwide. Museums on us offers free admission to the select museums on the first weekend of every month - and that means this post comes just in time for this weekend. Here is a list of the participating museums in the area. Enjoy!! Los Angeles County Gene Autry Museum of the West- Los Angeles Museum of Latin American Art- Long Beach Orange County Discovery Science Center- Santa Ana Laguna Art Museums- Laguna Beach San Diego Birch Aquarium at Scripps For additional info click here

San Diego Zoo/Wild Animal Park- Kids Free in October

If you read this blog you are probably well aware that I love sharing anything that won't cost you a single cent. I found something that is almost to good to be true, but don't worry it really is true!! The San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park are offering free admission to children 3-11 during the entire month of October. If you're looking for something to do this month- you might want to check it out. October is turning out to be Freetober!! I love it!!

Museums - Free-For-All

This weekend the museum marketing round table of Southern California will be offering it's fourth annual museum free weekend. Some museums will offer free admission on one day but most will offer free admission on both days. This is a great deal if you have wanted to make that visit to that special museum. We can't wait to visit the Natural History Museum. I wanted to post a couple of the museums that might be of interest to families. Enjoy!! Bowers Museum- Free on Sunday the 5th- Great Terracotta Warrior exhibit Natural History Museum of Los Angeles- Free on both days The Museum of Contemporary Art- Free on both days Peterson Automotive Museum- Free on both days Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum- Free on Sunday the 5th Norton Simon Museum- Free on Sunday Oct 5th Hope you can make it out and enjoy free admission!!!

Orange County Children's Book Festival

If you are looking for something FREE and absolutely fantastic to do this weekend look no further- Make sure to visit the Orange County Children's Book Festival. There really is something for children of all ages to experience at the Orange County Children’s Book Festival. Everyone enjoys the multiple stages with the author and illustrator presentations and they are mesmerized by the professional storytellers. From the OC Family Main Entertainment stage you can relax and enjoy the family friendly entertainment and hear celebrity authors share “inside scoop” about their latest books. Jamie Lee Curtis will be the featured author with a reading from her latest book, Big Words for Little People, which will be followed by a book signing. There will be absolutely something for everyone! Want more? Sure!

How about a trackless train ride around the OCC campus for kids and parents? A favorite year after year is the children craft corner where kids make their own book markers, visors and other “make it take it” keepsake items. There’s also an abundance of and family fun activities such as face painting, crazy hair styling, and animal petting area, musicians, dancers, balloons, readings, drawings and so much more. The best part is that admission and parking are absolutely free. For additional info click here.

Orange County Children's Book Festival

Sunday October 5th, 2008

Orange Coast College

2701 Fairview Road, Costa Mesa, CA 92626

Admission and Parking are FREE!!! see you there!!

Kidsfaire- America's Family Expo

Mark your calendars for next weekend, Oct 4-5th 2008. Kidsfaire-America's Family Expo will be held at the Orange County Fairgrounds. What is Kidsfaire? It's the largest event of it's kind in the nation. Kidsfaire is a family expo featuring family entertainment, interactive pavillions and stage shows. There is so much entertainment I don't even know where to begin!! First off is Character Central. It's basically a kids dream come true with characters from their favorite shows. Dora, Care Bears, Curious George, Spongebob and Clifford The Big Red Dog to name a few. There will also be interactive areas such as the Anaheim Ducks Hockey rink where the amazing Anaheim Ducks bring their first-ever mobile Hockey Rink to Kidsfaire where your kids get the chance to be hockey pros for the day. Professional Hockey instructors will guide your kids though the rink to learn the greatest moves. I could go and on with the many cool shows and activities that you will find at Kidsfaire but why not check it out yourself. For additional information click here. Kidsfaire- America's Family Expo Orange County Fairgrounds Costa Mesa, CA Oct 4-5th 10 am to 5pm Admission $8.00 adults $5.00 children 2-12 You can find $1.00 discount coupons at your local McDonalds.

Free Admission to Disneyland in 2009

It's likely that you heard the big announcement from Jay Rasulo this week regarding the big celebration for Disney parks in 2009. Everyone can go free to Disneyland or Walt Disney World on their birthday. You must first register for this on Disneyparks.com. Then you have to bring the print out with you, along with some ID, to the ticket booth to redeem your free admission.

Visitors with annual or multi-day passes can either get a one-day one-park ticket for use in the next year; a "Fastpass" for four rides for up to six people; or a card with a dollar amount equal to the free ticket, usable toward merchandise and other purchases.

Each adult must register seperately on the website, but you can add your children to the same registration so that they can also redeem the free admission or other perk.

The idea here is that families often choose destination to celebrate events such as birtherdays, so the free admission encourages the whole family to come to the park. This reminds me of the good ole days when the park used to give away a car-a-day! We are annual passholders, so I am excited to get the free gift card and get some Christmas gifts for the kids.

Entertainment Book 2009

The Entertainment Book 2009 just arrived in our mailbox today. In case you've never heard of this book, they are published regionally and have amazing bargains and free things like food, entertainment and retail purchases. For example, our book has 8 free admission tickets to AMC Movie theaters. It doesn't take much for this book to pay for itself. Yes, this post sounds like one big infomercial, but I really do use this book and I love the values. There are so many great ideas found inside of new places to visit that offer you discounts or free admission. The books are priced from $25 and up and are worth every cent. If you order right now, they are including free shipping. If you want to wait a while, the 2009 books get discounted after the first quarter of 2009, but why wait when you get the book today and start saving tomorrow. (oh my, can I sound any cheesier?)

End of Summer

For those of you with kiddo's who haven't yet started the mandatory years of education, how do you mark the end of Summer? Is it the weather? Is it some annual event? For our family, I suppose it's the Halloween decorations going up. What about your family?

LA County Fair - Fun Stuff

While the OC County Fair just barely wrapped, there are some fun things to see and do with the kiddos at the LA County Fair in Pomona. Meet and Greet with Barbie in her Dream House - Girls of all ages will get a kick out of meeting Barbie, live and in-person. This is located at the Family MarketPlace. Barnyard Racers - the fasting pigs this side of Farmer John's place. Located in Fairview Farms and racing throughout the day. Extreme Canine Stunt Dog Show - These are some amazing dogs doing stunts and tricks that will make your fur stand on end. Located in the Bark Park. The fair is open Wednesday through Sunday with late hours on Friday and Saturday nights. Admission is $17 for adults and $7 for children. Directions

Mickey's Trick or Treat Party - 2008

Summer is pretty much over and that means one thing in our family- Halloween is just around the corner. It also means Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort. This year, the newly named "Mickey's Trick or Treat Party" will be held at Disney's California Adventure. I've attended the event for the past two years with my kiddos and we've had a great time. "Mickey's Trick or Treat Party" is a special ticketed event at Disney's California Adventure . You and your family are encouraged to dress up ad enjoy the special decorations, dance stations (which had to be the biggest hit of the night with my kids), yummie trick or treat stations, character greets(my daughter Lauren's dream came true last year when she met Cinderella), and of course your favorite California Adventure rides. It really is a great event. "Mickey's Trick or Treat Party" will be held on October 3, 10, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 30, and 31. If you are planning to attend make sure to buy your tickets as soon as possible. Tickets sell out fast!! Advance tickets, on sale now are $29. The Friday nights always sell out quickly as well as the dates closer to Halloween. Costumes are permitted, but not masks.

Passholder discount is available for the following dates: October 3, 16, 22, 23, 28, 29

There is no discount available for the October 31 event. All tickets for that date are $37.

Tickets available on-line at http://www.disneyland.com/tickets Or by calling 714-781-4400 $3.00 shipping charge

Discounted tickets available to Annual Passholders on Disneyland's Annual Passholder web site: http://www.disneyland.com/ap

No charge for kids age two and under. Limit of 8 tickets per event.

Playhouse Disney

I don't know about your kiddos but my kiddos are obsessed with The Disney Channel and Playhouse Disney in particular. The Playhouse Disney Show at Disney's California Adventure is a must visit if you have little ones. Last Friday my daughter and I caught an afternoon show and boy did she love it. The show is about twenty minutes long and your kids will be jumping for joy!! Your kids will dance and sing along to their favorite characters from the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, Handy Manny, Winnie the Pooh and The Little Einsteins. The stage opens up and the show begins with the planning of Minnie's Surprise Birthday party. It's followed by a revolving stage that brings your kid's favorite show to life. My daughter loves Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and Little Einsteins. She couldn't get enough!! She danced and sang through the whole show. The Playhouse Disney show is geared for toddlers and preschoolers. It's a must if you have a toddler or preschooler.

For additional information click here

Winner

I wish I had more than 1 dvd to give away but I'm hoping to do another giveaway this week. Using Random.org- the winner of the giveaway is drumroll... comment # 6- Laura who said "Ooh, ooh. Pick me! I read your blog all the time and love your great ideas!" Congrats Laura- shoot me an email at mom@daytrippingmom.com Thanks for participating!!

Giveaway and Review- Jim Henson Company- Tortoise vs Hare

Update: I've decided to keep this open for one more day. You have until Monday at 9pm to leave a comment and enter the Giveaway. Good Luck!!! If our family is out on an adventure that requires a drive that is longer than a half hour , I always make sure to bring a good movie along for the kids. I had the opportunity to receive a copy of The Jim Henson Company's - Tortoise vs Hare. I watched this with the kids and we laughed and laughed. Jay Leno is the voice of Murray the Hare and Danny Glover voices Walter the Tortoise. The film takes place 15 years after the original race and both Walter and Murray are ready for a rematch, only this time they bring along their children. Their children however, are not as thrilled to compete against each other. The race teaches Walter and Murray that there is more to life than grudges and competition. It's a great film with a great message. I loved that I found this movie as cute and funny as my children did. Without giving too much away - I promise you will find this to be a great movie that both children and adults will enjoy. The film will be released on DVD Tuesday September 9th. I have an extra copy of the film that I would love to giveaway. If you would like to enter the giveaway just leave a comment under this post and I will pick a winner at random on Sunday evening. Good luck!!

Bob the Builder Leaves OC

Leaving September 7th is Bob the Builder–Project: Build It, a traveling museum exhibit at Taco Bell Discovery Science Center in Santa Ana.

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. My son loves Bob the Builder and this exhibit is right up his alley. Catch it before it's gone! Discovery Science Center, 2500 N Main Street, Santa Ana

714-542-2823

Balboa Island Ferry-one of only two Southern California's ferries

I can't remember what my daughter was watching last week that mentioned a ferry ride- I think it was Dora the Explorer, but I'm not to sure. As soon as the show was over she started asking me about ferries. I explained to her what a ferry was and told her that this weekend I would take her on a ferry ride. There are only two ferries (I'm not counting the Catalina ones) in operation in Southern California. One is the ferry that runs between Coronado Island and San Diego and the other is the one that connects Balboa Island and the Balboa Peninsula. It's a fun five minute ride that you and your children will enjoy. We always make a day trip out of it by exploring Balboa Island, one of my favorite places in Southern California. I know you might be asking why would she start blogging about the beaches when summer is almost over? It just so happens that I think the best time to explore the Southland beaches is after Labor Day. September and the beginning of October are always warm and the crowds have dwindled down across the beach cities. It is the perfect time to visit. The ferry ride is fun and totally inexpensive. Adults are $1.oo , children 5-12 ,are 50 cents and cars with drivers are $2.oo(each passenger is additional) and children under 5 are free. Your kids will love it and you will love exploring Balboa Island. For additional info click here. Balboa Island Ferry Balboa Peninsula Fun Zone area (follow the signs)

Hours: Ferries leave every few minutes

Sunday through Thursday: 6:30 a.m. to midnight,

Friday and Saturday nights until 6:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.

SUMMER HOURS 6 am to 2 am Daily

Rates:

Car and Driver: $2.00;

Motorcycles and Mopeds: $1.50;

Adult with Bicycles: $1.25 cents;

Children with bicycles $.75 cents

Newport Bay Harbor Cruises

My kiddos love anything and everything that has to do with the ocean. If your kids sound anything like mine, then you have to check out The Fun Zone Boat Company's Newport Bay Harbor Cruises. I had the opportunity to take the kiddos and we had a blast. I've done the tour with and without children and they both have been so much fun. The Fun Zone company currently offers 45 and 90 minute cruises which depart from the Fun Zone in Balboa Peninsula(next to the Ferris Wheel) and offer a narrated tour of the area and a great look at the many sea lions and otters that inhabit the area. I've experienced both the 45 and 90 minute tour and if you can splurge on the 90 minute one. It's only a couple of dollars more and well worth the price. Trust me on this your family will love it!! Fun Zone Boat Company Harbor Cruises Balboa Peninsula, Newport Beach Children 5 and under free Children under 12- $7.00 Adults- $14.00 for 45 minutes, $17.00 for 90 minutes Tours depart every hour from 11 am to 7pm For additional info click here

Pasadena Symphony's Musical Circus

If you read my page on a regular basis then you are probably well aware that I'm always on the lookout for fun and free things to do with my kids. I found something that is not only fun and free but also educational. The Pasadena Symphony offers a monthly FREE program designed for kids 10 and under. The Musical Circus begins at 8:30 am with a musical "petting zoo" of orchestra instruments. The kids are able to touch tables full of every instrument imaginable. The "petting zoo" is followed by a concert that is geared for the little ones. The concerts range from classical to folk music. The concerts are usually held on Monday mornings at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. For additional info click here.

Star Eco Science Center- A Great Zoo Alternative in LA

If you are looking for something to do with your kids off the beaten path in LA- Look no further you have found it at the Star Eco Science Center. It's a great non-profit wildlife rescue and educational rescue that gives abandoned or illegal exotic animals a new home. The tours usually last about an hour and give your kiddos hands on experiences with some of the reptiles. There is also a cool little show, fantastic information about the environment and ecosystems. It's a great place to teach your little ones about great wildlife and the best part is that you won't have to travel far-only to Culver City. The Star Eco Science Center is open to the public year round on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm and Friday from 1pm to 5pm. Admission is $8.00 for Adults, Children $6.00, Seniors $7.00 and infants in strollers are free. For additional information click here Star Eco Science Center 10101 W. Jefferson Blvd Culver City, CA 90232 (310) 842-8040

Children's Theater in Los Angeles-Saturday Scene at the Geffen Playhouse

If you are looking to expose your little ones to live theater- you have to check out The Geffen Playhouse Saturday Scene. On Select Saturdays between September and May The Geffen Playhouse will showcase children's theater classics and world class music. The shows are geared for children of all ages. All shows start at 11am sharp. On Saturday Sept 27 The Playhouse will be offering a preview of the upcoming season with a family fun day. Sample the incredible showcase of live theater and musical entertainment. No need to pack a snack, they will take care of everything, even much needed coffee for mom and dad. You can also subscribe for the season at this event. For a list of shows and for additional information and tickets click here.

Geffen Playhouse and Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater 10886 Le Conte Ave. Los Angeles, California 90024

click here for door to door directions

Centennial Farm at the OC Fairgrounds Revisited

The Centennial Farm at the OC fairgrounds is open year-round and has free admission (except during the fair when your fair admission also admits you to the farm area). The farm is located just do the left of the main entrance to the fair as well as being just outside the rear entrance to the Pacific Amphitheater. The Centennial Farm is a real working farm. They have cows, chickens, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens and other animals. You can get up close and pet many of them. There are live demonstrations during the week. Call (714) 708-1619 for schedule information and hours of operation. Now through September 21st the farm is open 7 days a week from 9 AM to 4 PM. Here are some fun farm activity sheets that you can download: http://www.ocfair.com/ocf/centennialfarm/Docs/Farm%20Booklet.pdf

Travel Town Museum Revisited

One of my favorite places to visit is Griffith Park. I love so many of it's attractions and it's natural beauty. I would have to say that many fun times were spent at the Travel Town Museum. If you love trains or your little ones love trains this is a must stop. It's an outdoor museum with many locomotives, passenger cars, freight cars and cabooses on display. There is a train ride that circles around the museum and is a must if you are going to visit. Train Rides are $2.50 for adults and children. There are also Public Play Days on the first Sunday of the month from 1 to 4pm where kids can play with the museum's 400 wooden piece Thomas set. There are also docent guided tours every 2nd and 3rd Saturday of the month. Tours start at 11am. Admission and parking is free!! I Travel Town Transportation Museum 5200 Zoo Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90027 Operations: (323) 662-5874

The Museum is open Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Sunday and Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. It is closed Christmas Day.

La Habra Children's Museum Revisited

The museum is located in the City of La Habra. It's a couple of blocks north of Imperial Ave on Euclid Ave. It's located on the grounds of Portola Park. The museum is small but it will keep your children entertained for a couple of hours at least.

My daughter's favorite thing to do there is play in the mini market. They have a little mart set up with a register, shopping baskets, carts and plastic produce. They have a carousel that runs every half hour for children under 6 and in the same room a real OCTA bus that the kids can horse around in. There is a stage/dress up area that is a big hit with the preschoolers and also a preschool play room which contains a tree house, kitchen , dolls, toy area and a storytelling corner with many books. There is also a real caboose that you can board and explore.

I have made a day trip out of this by bringing a picnic lunch and letting the kids loose on the park's playground. I love this place and hope you enjoy it too. La Habra Children's Museum301 South Euclid Street, La Habra, CA 90631

Phone: 562-905-9793

Admission is $6 per person while 2 and under are free. It's closed Mondays and open from 10 am to 4 pm Tue-Fri, Sat from 10-5 pm and Sundays from 1-5 pm. Closed all major holidays.

Rest and Relaxation

While Daytrippingmom takes a week off for vacation, please enjoy a series of our "best of" posts these next few days. Don't forget your sunblock.

Los Angeles Conservancy Family Tours

One of my favorite buildings in Los Angeles is Union Station and I've always wanted to tour it to learn more about it's history. I'm in luck, the Los Angeles conservancy offers walking tours of various historic parts of Los Angeles (there is a great tour of downtown LA that I can't wait to take) and it now offers a tour especially designed for kids 7-12 and their families. The 45 minute tour geared for kids explores Union Station through it's beautiful shapes , colors and connection to trains. The tours are held every 4th Saturday of the month at 11 am. Tickets are $10 for the general public and $5.00 for children 12 and under and Conservancy members. This sounds like a great way to spend your Saturday. For additional information click here.