Field trip this week will take you to L.A. and San Fransisco.
The Getty is absolutely fabulous! First off, it's FREE! Second it's beautiful. Third, there is always something new and interesting going on. This weekend we have the Family Festival where family members can explore the museum, take a class, eat lunch, and go find something more to learn and see! Check out the Family Events calendar for ideas and schedules. Don't forget your camera! The views and opportunities for great family shots abound! Seriously folks, go Getty and have a wonderful experience!
Want maps, times, and other detailed info? Just click here!
The Steinhart Aquarium in San Fran is a terrific place to entertain everyone in the family no matter the age. To quote from the website: "The Steinhart, which opened in September 1923, is the oldest, still-operating grand municipal aquarium in America. The aquarium's collection includes species found at no other institution in the world, as well as species that are extinct in the wild." The coral reef offers amazing colourful fish and an opportunity to discuss environmental issues with the kids.
They are in the midst of building a brand new aquarium, scheduled to open next year about this time, but don't let that stop you! If you are in the area check it out!
Again, bring a camera! Check your manual for info on setting your aperture for low lighting to get those good under water shots. Bring a tripod as the lens will be open longer than normal shots.
Location: The Steinhart Aquarium is open at 875 Howard Street in downtown San Francisco (between 4th and 5th).
Admission Prices:
Members always get in for free
Adults - $10.00
Youth 12-17 - $6.50
Students w/ID - $6.50
Seniors 65+ - $6.50
Children 4-11 - $2.00
Children 3 and under - Free
Free Wednesdays: Free admission for all on the first Wednesday of each month.
On Third Thursdays, we are open late and have special admission prices of $5 from 5pm to 9pm. Members get in free.
Friday, October 19, 2007
Field Trip Friday: The Getty and C.A.S. Aquarium
Friday, October 12, 2007
Live Oak Canyon Farm, Yucaipa, CA
Autumn is upon us and let me tell you, there is no better place to have a fun FREE field trip than Live Oak Canyon Farms in Yucaipa, CA. Directly off the "10*" just east of San Bernardino, this farm and all it has to offer, again for FREE!, is well worth the drive.
Originally I was going to write about their interesting history, the family ownership, and all of the MANY things they offer, but the post went on for pages, so instead I beg you to take time and visit their web site. On the web site they have history, a daily calendar of events, ideas for choosing from their varieties, decorating ideas, and all of this again with their Christmas Tree events.
Stats and Gory Details: Admission is FREE, -Open Daily 9-5, School Tours available, "U"-pick pumpkins and/or farm fresh picked and ready to go. Many varieties of pumpkins and gourds. Picnic tables. Snack Bar. Gift Shop. Petting Zoo.
*Directions: From LA- take the 10 freeway east past Redlands; to Live Oak Canyon Road; South on Live Oak Canyon Road 1/4 mile and left into the parking lot.
Photos and commentary from my visit....
Bring your camera, the photo ops abound!
The Gift Shop is at the entrance to the Farm. WARNING: Do not go in there if you have low sales resistance! The staff is more than willing to let you wander about alone, but if you want help they are right there with a smile. The prices were considerably lower than I would have expected and, yes I walked out with a few things.
Even if your sales resistance is like a stone, you will be impressed with the country displays and variety of home decor they offer.
The pumpkin stands are chock full of amazing varieties. Wide isles help you navigate your green farm wagon and negotiate with your spouse about just how many of these pretties you can bring home.
This lovely couple drove all the way from Phoenix, AZ. to pick carefully which gourds, pumpkins, and Indian corn, they would take home. She tells us "We have been coming here for so many years! It's the best farm in 3 states. I have pumpkins all over the house. If you don't cut them they can last almost a year." (She says to place them on a wire base so the air circulates all around them.)
Gilly, Caitlin, and Valerie... my vote for employees of the season! They were informative, friendly and they knew their products well. Hey Palmer Bros.! Give these gals a bonus!
The most amazingly beautiful Indian corn I have ever seen. The colours were fabulous! And they sell these for .99 cents a piece! Holy Cow! I bought a few for a hostess gift. I just bundled them up and tied them off with a piece of autumn ribbon. Pretty!
Little guys can't wait for 3:00 to come (on week days, all day on weekends) so they can ride on the motorized tractors! In the mean time they can wander around the farm, pick out a pumpkin, ride a pony or go to the petting zoo!
There is a HUGE pile of hay that kids may climb. A great place for family or group photos, or to just let out the wiggles as the head to the top of the pyramid.
.50 cents will make the Farm Hand sing or you can try to scare a crow!
Don't forget to grab a candy or caramel apple from the snack bar. They also have hot dogs, sodas, etc.
Once you have been to the farm, you will make it an annual tradition. Be sure to come back in late November for a trip through the Christmas trees!
