Nature hikes

Bats and Tarantulas in Orange County

Tarantula and Bats Thumbnail

I woke up to the following request from a mom: “I have a toddler who is obsessed with bats and tarantulas. Do you know of any places we can view either or both? I’ve been searching online for some info but haven’t come across much so far. We’re willing to travel a bit for a [...]

Click to read full post →

Riley’s at Los Rios Rancho Apple Farm Trip: Celebrating Fall with Family

Thumbnail image for Riley’s at Los Rios Rancho Apple Farm Trip: Celebrating Fall with Family

Apple picking in Oak Glen is a U-Pick family tradition for many in Southern California. I’d never heard of Oak Glen or Riley’s at Los Rios Rancho apple farm (not to be confused with Riley’s Farm right down the street). You could come to this area every year and have a different experience at a [...]

Click to read full post →

Fullerton Arboretum: Explore Outdoor Rooms Full of Trees

Fullerton Arboretum Thumbnail

The Fullerton Arboretum was on my list of places to visit with the kids ever since I heard about it from a blogger friend.  She said, “Oh, you’ll love it!” and “Get on their email list!” We made it a family trip on the weekend and it was perfect! It wasn’t crowded at all and [...]

Click to read full post →

Road Trip: Malibu Legacy Park for a True Coastal Treat

Malibu Legacy Park Thumbnail

Malibu Legacy Park is one of my favorite new parks in Southern California. My parents live in Ventura County, so I make the drive between Orange County and Ventura often.  I love to take the coast route along Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). For years, that meant viewing a big vacant lot smack in the center [...]

Click to read full post →

Discovering the Butterfly Habitat at Mason Regional Park in Irvine

Butterfly Habitat at Mason Regional Park Thumbnail

The Butterfly Habitat at Mason Regional Park in Irvine opened in November 2010.  The kids and I finally stopped by to find the hidden garden during our summer exploring in 2011. As with most of our amazing regional parks (OCParks.com), Mason is pretty massive to cover on foot.  There are 3 play areas scattered throughout [...]

Click to read full post →