family road trip Archives

A Vintage Weekend: Explore L.A.’s Own Stretch of Route 66

Published July 8, 2026

By Elena Epstein

PHOTO COURTESY SANTA MONICA TRAVEL & TOURISM

Take the kids and travel down L.A.’s own stretch of the historic Route 66

There’s something magical about the open road — kids in the backseat and the anticipation of adventure along the way. And no road holds more nostalgia than Route 66, which marked its 100^th anniversary this year. This historic highway, which spans 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, is an enduring symbol of hope and collective memories of station wagons, milkshakes, neon-lit signs and Nat King Cole singing “Get Your Kicks on Route 66.”

To celebrate, we’re taking you on a vintage weekend road trip on the last stretch of this iconic route right here in L.A. We’ll hop around some classic spots and show the kids and ourselves a little old-school SoCal charm.

We know these streets; we drive them in rush-hour traffic, not realizing we’re rolling over the “Mother Road” that brought generations of families west to start new lives. But this weekend’s drive is different. We’re slowing down and really noticing as we step into our unique L.A. history.

PHOTO COURTESY PASADENA CVB AND JAMIE PHAM

Start: Pasadena on Colorado Boulevard

*Start with Breakfast Burritos All Day (BBAD) inside the historic Pasadena Hotel & Pool, built in 1926. This simple counter spot is known for having one of the best breakfast burritos in town.

*Grab some buttermilk pancakes at Andy’s Coffee Shop, a Route 66 staple with a classic roadside diner feel featured in many movies and TV shows.

*Stop to marvel at the Colorado Street Bridge. Built in 1913, it’s one of the most iconic historic structures on Route 66 in California.

*Stroll through Vroman’s Bookstore, a beloved independent bookstore offering a huge selection of books since 1894. The children’s area includes books, art supplies and educational toys.

*Introduce the kids to vinyl at Canterbury Records, a classic, long-running independently owned shop still operating on Colorado Boulevard.

Next Stop: West Hollywood

*Have lunch at The Formosa Café, reveling at its old Hollywood glamour and original red trolly car dating back to 1904. The café has served the likes of Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Humphrey Bogart and James Dean.

*Enjoy chili-cheese fries at Barney’s Beanery, opened in 1920 as a little chili stand that became a favorite spot for celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe, Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis, Lucielle Ball and Jim Morrison. The walls tell the old stories with vintage signs, photos and license plates.

*Grab a 1946 pup, split and grilled at Tail o’ the Pup – a historic hot dog shack located in the studio space where The Doors recorded “L.A. Woman.”

Last Stop: Santa Monica

*Have a burger and a chocolate/strawberry/vanilla milkshake at Mel’s Drive-In, located at the official end of Route 66 in a historic 1950s building at the intersection of Lincoln and Olympic boulevards. A colorful Route 66 mural in the parking lot and mosaic at the entrance, plus tons of memorabilia all add to the retro vibe of this classic diner.

* The “End of the Trail Sign” on the Santa Monica Pier is the symbolic end of Route 66. With the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop, it’s a perfect photo spot.

*Steps away is Pacific Park, with games and rides, including the Route 66-themed West Coaster.

Elena Epstein is Editorial Director of L.A. Parent.

Fun L.A. Route 66 History

In 1880, A.F. Gilmore and a partner bought two dairy farms in L.A. Ten years later, Gilmore took control of the 256-acre ranch on the corner of what is now 3^rd and Fairfax. In 1900, he struck oil on the property, eventually opening thousands of Red Lion gas stations along the California stretch of Route 66.
The Pasadena Civic Auditorium is a block off the route, and it’s where Michael Jackson first moonwalked (as seen in the “Michael” movie).
Route 66 follows Santa Monica Boulevard through West Hollywood, where you can see public art featured throughout the city, including temporary installations along the route, as well as permanent fixtures.
The Annenberg Community Beach House is a family-friendly gathering stop that has stood throughout the lifespan of Route 66. Enjoy a dip in the preserved Art Deco-era swimming pool, one of the remaining elements from the historic Marion Davies Estate built in the late 1920s.
The historic Beverly Hills City Hall, opened in 1932, is another landmark with Santa Monica Boulevard running directly alongside the complex. This iconic building makes an appearance on the U.S. Postal Service’s stamp collection commemorating Route 66’s centennial.
In the same plaza, you’ll find the Beverly Hills Public Library, which has a whimsical children’s section with an “Enchanted Forest” housing rare and classic fairy tales.
In 2006, Pixar’s animated film “Cars” introduced Route 66 to a new audience, with many scenes inspired by real landmarks.

Central Oregon Family Road Trip Guide: Things to Do, Eat and Explore

Published May 5, 2026

By Esther Carlstone

From whitewater rafting and scenic drives to charming towns and family-friendly hotels, discover why Central Oregon is a perfect family road trip destination.

Because flying is beyond gnarly these days — long lines, delays, exorbitant costs — road trips have become the go-to for L.A. families. And for a getaway that delivers incredible nature, delicious food and endless kid-friendly outdoor adventures, Central Oregon is hard to beat, especially during the summer and fall months when the weather is idyllic, offering a welcome respite from L.A. heat waves.

My family of five made the 13-hour drive from L.A. to Central Oregon last summer, and we’re in the middle of planning our next trip. You can make the drive a straight shot or break it up with stops in Sacramento or Mount Shasta like we did — or go even slower and head up the Pacific Coast Highway. Either way, once you hit the high desert, Bend is the perfect base for exploring.

Outdoor adventures: From river rapids to lava tubes

Whitewater rafting down the Deschutes River. PHOTOS BY ESTHER CARLSTONE

Bend is often referred to as the outdoor recreation capital of Oregon for good reason. In warmer months, you’ll see locals and visitors tubing or kayaking down the Deschutes River. For those seeking bigger thrills, whitewater rafting is also huge here. We went with a local outfitter, Sun Country Tours, and everyone from our 6-year-old to 13-year-old had a blast.

We also explored the famous lava tubes with another local tour guide, Wanderlust Tours, which (fair warning ahead) isn’t for little ones who don’t like the dark or crawling around in small spaces. It’s a fascinating experience if everyone is on board.

Check out the Gorge White House for cider tasting, lunch and lavender ice cream.

Hiking trails abound. From the flat Canyon Trail at Smith Rock State Park to Pilot Butte, where the summit delivers amazing panoramic views, to the dozens of trails you can find in nearby Hood River, the possibilities are endless.

Another can’t-miss with kids: the High Desert Museum. Mostly set outdoors, there are animal presentations, interactive exhibits and the most adorable otters you’ll likely ever see.

Scenic drives

When in Central Oregon, driving the scenic Hood River Fruit Loop is a must. The 35-mile journey takes you through the heart of Hood River Valley and is filled with lavender farms, wine and cider-tasting rooms and farm markets along the way. It’s easy to make a whole day of this with the kids, stopping for snacks and meals.

Some of our favorite stops included Draper Farms for seasonal fruit, The Gorge White House for cider tasting, lunch and lavender ice cream and the Apple Valley Country Store for its famous huckleberry milkshakes.

For a longer driving option, the Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway is a 66-mile drive through the Cascade Mountains that takes you past Mount Bachelor, a dozen picturesque alpine lakes and endless spots to hike, fish or just soak in the views. It’s the kind of drive where you’ll want to build in extra time to stop and explore — three to five hours minimum if you’re actually getting out of the car.

Local food stops

Bend Brewing Company: Super kid-friendly with a wide grassy lawn to run around in while you eat at picnic tables overlooking the Deschutes. There is also indoor dining.

Pastini: At this Italian restaurant located in the Old Mill District in Bend, opt to eat outdoors on the patio for gorgeous river views (and wiggly toddlers). The menu features pizza, pastas and cocktails to delight all.

Food carts: Bend is known for its cluster of food carts found all around town, an especially convenient discovery for families so that everyone can get something they want and scarf it all down outdoors where no one cares if kids are loud and having fun. Large food cart “pods” include On Tap and Podski.

A walk through the lavender fields in the Hood River Fruit Loop is pure magic.

Mike’s Ice Cream: A local favorite in Hood River, this charming ice cream shop has been scooping happiness since the 1970s, and the long lines out the door back this up.

Charming towns

Beyond the outdoor adventures and scenic drives, Central Oregon’s small towns are worth exploring. Each one has its own vibe, and they’re perfect for breaking up the day, whether you need a lunch stop, some indoor time when the desert heat does get intense or just a chance to wander and browse.

Downtown Bend is where you’ll find the energy. Independent boutiques line the streets, and Roundabout Books is the kind of place where you can easily lose an hour. Grab lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the river or pick up snacks for a picnic by the river.

The Old Mill District in Bend offers a nice change of pace — a mix of history and modern shopping that keeps tweens and teens engaged between outdoor activities. We found ourselves popping in and out of shops, grabbing coffee and just enjoying the riverside setting.

Hood River has a distinctive charm. It boasts a small-town-meets-hipster feel with an outdoor adventure culture woven throughout. The compact downtown is easy to navigate with kids, and there’s no shortage of water sports to partake in on the Columbia River, even if it’s just splashing around.

Sisters, Ore., is a quick 30-minute drive and worth the detour. This 1880s-themed Western town is perfect for a low-key afternoon of window shopping and picking up handmade candy.

Where to stay

It’s often tricky to find places to stay as a family of five, but there was a wide range of options in Central Oregon.

Sunriver Resort (Bend) $$$: Designed for families, this sprawling resort is about a 20- to 30-minute drive from Downtown Bend, but many families find it hard to even want to leave. With cabin-type accommodations that easily fit larger families, an indoor and outdoor water slide, miles of biking trails, horseback riding, a golf course and more all set in the heart of nature, it’s hard to beat.

Campfire Hotel (Bend) $$: With a central location within walking distance of Downtown Bend and the Deschutes River, the rooms here are spacious, have bunk beds, a pool and fire pits.

Hood River Hotel (Hood River) $$$: This historic hotel has various room types, including a pretty epic bunkhouse if you’re traveling with more than one family. It features five bunkbeds and your own sauna. The brunch downstairs at Broder Øst is not to be missed (and worth coming for even if you’re not staying there).

Esther Carlstone is a parenting and travel writer/editor who’s always looking for the best places to see, eat and stay with kids.

Day Trips: Easy Family-Friendly Getaways from L.A.

Published July 6, 2022

By Nina Harada

Avalon is just one hour away from Southern California’s coast. PHOTO COURTESY LOVE CATALINA ISLAND

Sometimes budget, schedules and other barriers can get in the way of our summer plans. However, creating a memorable summer break for our kids doesn’t necessarily require big family vacations or international travel. From L.A., we have access to many vacation-worthy destinations that are just a couple of hours way. Get an early start for your day trip to beautiful beachside cities, cool mountain towns or low-key wine valleys and be home by dinner.

Beach cities

Just a little over an hour drive north of L.A., Ventura is a laid-back, scenic beach town that is a kid-friendly haven. Channel Islands National Park’s visitor center features a live tidal pool, shop, exhibits and viewing tower with views of Ventura Harbor, the Ventura coastline and the Channel Islands. If you want to experience the Channel Islands up close, reserve tickets for Island Packers’ Channel Islands Wildlife Cruise, a 3.5-hour ride, which might include whale and dolphin sightings. Browse shops and art galleries at Ventura Harbor Village and enjoy free live music on Sundays. Harbor Cove Beach, lovingly referred to as “Mother’s Beach” due to its protected shoreline, is a perfect spot for families to enjoy a beach day.

Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens hosts family-friendly concerts, movies and more all summer long. PHOTO COURTESY CASA ROMANTICA CULTURAL CENTER AND GARDENS

Make the short hour or so drive south to be transported to San Clemente, that “Spanish Village by the Sea.” Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens truly embodies the city’s slogan with its Spanish-style architecture, lush gardens and ocean views. Enjoy family programming all summer long.

Head down the hill to San Clemente Pier for beautiful ocean views, restaurants and people watching. Grab a coffee or ice cream from one of the cafes along Avenida Victoria and stroll along the San Clemente Beach Trail. Kids will love watching the Pacific Surfliner go by and swinging on the San Clemente Pier swings on the beach.

Channel Islands National Park’s visitor center has several educational displays . PHOTO COURTESY VENTURA HARBOR VILLAGE

You can experience an island getaway without even leaving Los Angeles County. Located on Santa Catalina Island, Avalon is just 22 miles (an hour-long boat ride) from the coast of Southern California. Catalina Express runs year-round from San Pedro, Long Beach and Dana Point. The boat ride will keep your kids entertained, and once you arrive on shore, there is plenty more to explore — rent a golf cart for scenic island tours, browse shops and galleries and eat at cafes and restaurants. Other highlights: reserve a cabana at Descanso Beach Club and have your lunch on the sand. Take a hike to Wrigley Memorial and Botanical Gardens for beautiful views of Avalon Bay or see what’s on display at Catalina Museum for Art & History. If you have a late boat ride back, stay for one of the free movies or concerts happening this summer.

Cool mountain towns

If you’re seeking refuge from the L.A. summer heat, escape to the San Bernardino Mountains, an easy two-hour drive away and about 20 degrees cooler. Though most famous for skiing and snowboarding, Big Bear has all the makings for a perfect summer day: a dip in the lake, fishing, hiking through the forest and more.

Browse the gift shops and boutiques at The Village, Big Bear’s charming downtown district. For a little more adventure, head to Alpine Slide Big Bear for mini golf, go-kart racing, a family-friendly double water slide and the main attraction, an alpine slide with a quarter-mile track offering scenic views of Big Bear. End the day at the ice cream bar, with 12 flavors to choose from. Big Bear Lake has plenty of fun offerings, from paddleboards to jet skis to boat tours. Bring your fishing gear for a chance at catching some trout and your swimsuit if you want to brave the cool lake water.

Play a round of mini golf at Alpine Slide Big Bear. PHOTO COURTESY ALPINE SLIDE BIG BEAR

The quaint mountain town of Idyllwild is also just a two-hour drive from L.A. Nestled in the San Jacinto Mountains, Idyllwild is known for its artsy vibe. Idyllwild Art in the Park blends art and nature with an eclectic mix of ceramics, paintings, photography, live music and more this summer and fall. Downtown Idyllwild is full of galleries, specialty shops and antique stores. Schedule a guided tour with Idyllwild Nature Center to learn about local mountain ecology, Cahuilla Native culture and the history of the area. For an afternoon both adults and kids can enjoy, head over to Middle Ridge Winery, a wine-tasting room with an art gallery and outdoor seating open Fridays through Mondays.

Low-key wine valleys

When you can’t escape to wine country, head out to one of our lovely nearby wineries.

Malibu is known for having some of California’s most beautiful beaches, but it’s also home to wineries. Take a mid-weekday trip to Rosenthal – The Malibu Estate, where children are welcome. Bring a picnic and enjoy wine tasting at the only wine bar and tasting room on the Pacific Coast Highway. Experience Malibu wine country on foot with Malibu Wine Hikes, fun and educational tours that travel through Saddleback Ranch, a vineyard and working ranch the whole family can enjoy. If you’re day tripping without the kids, definitely stop by Cornell Winery & Tasting Room, a unique tasting room featuring local wines, wild peacocks and live music. Next door is The Old Place, a rustic 50-year-old restaurant with old-school staples such as steak and eggs, BLTs, Caesar salad and loaded baked potatoes.

Bottaia Winery features a family-friendly pool and café. PHOTO COURTESY VISIT TEMECULA VALLEY

Temecula Valley, just 90 miles southeast of L.A., features nearly 50 wineries, a charming downtown, fine dining and kid-friendly restaurants with beautiful views and live music. Wilson Creek Winery & Vineyards offers daily tastings, a restaurant, expansive grounds for picnicking and even a playground. Europa Village transports you to Spain, France and Italy with its wine cave, olive-oil tastings, tapas bar and rose gardens. Italian-inspired Bottaia Winery is 21 and over, but the pool and Pool Café + Cocktail Bar are for all ages.

For a break from wineries, take older kids on a hot-air balloon ride over the valley and younger kids to encounter animal friends at The Alpaca Hacienda or Sugarplum Zoo and Chocolates, a petting zoo that offers wine and chocolate tastings. Temecula is also known for its resorts and spas, but you might have to leave the kids home with the grandparents for that.

Nina Harada is Digital Editor of L.A. Parent.

SoCal Day Trip: Ojai

Published December 21, 2021

By Elena Epstein

Charm, Oak Trees, Fall Colors, Mountains, Hikes, Bikes & More

A sunny Sunday morning in December just before the hectic schedule of the holidays felt like a perfect day for Ojai. Just an hour drive from our house in the West San Fernando Valley, but a world away from busy malls, freeway congestion and the news.

In this oasis, we found a dreamy golden hour, oak trees decorated with charming lanterns, a majestic Christmas tree with a golf-course and mountain-top backdrop, quaint restaurants and shops, Spanish style archways wrapped in bougainvillea, walking and bike paths and lots of green space for kids to play.

Our first stop was brunch at the Ojai Valley Inn, a historic luxury resort with a family-friendly vibe, centuries-old oak trees and dramatic views of the mountains. The Oak Grill offers all outdoor seating and locally sourced products, many from the resort’s own gardens. The signature Sunday brunch buffet includes classic favorites of French Toast, omelet bar, peppermint bread pudding, fruit, plus a carving station, raw bar and an array of desserts.

On our Sunday visit, bluegrass musicians were performing under one of the towering oaks decorated with charming lanterns and kids were dancing on the grass. Families, couples and friends were gathered around the many fire tables overlooking the golf course and visitors were taking turns taking photos in front of the grand Christmas tree.

After enjoying a leisurely brunch, we headed to the tree-lined walking and bike path that led us from the resort to downtown Ojai. The half-mile walking path felt like we had been transported into a magical storybook as the sun streamed through the trees. Downtown Ojai is filled with little shops, art galleries, restaurants, olive oil and wine-tasting rooms.

Downtown Ojai is also home to Libby Park – a great spot for a picnic and for the kids to play. It’s clean, well-maintained and right in the center of the village. Kids will love the large wooden fort-like structure with treehouse, rock wall, slides, maze, swings and other fun features.

Walking Trail from Ojai Valley to Downtown Ojai, charming shops and Libby Park.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day away from L.A. or a weekend getaway, this charming town has a lot to offer families, couples and friends. There’s a bounty of scenic trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding for all ages, plus food and farms to explore and a variety of spas with a focus on mind and body wellness.

Pick your day and head out to this not-too-far away oasis. Trust me, you will come back rejuvenated.

Dramatic views of the mountains at Ojai Valley Inn.

Festive NorCal Towns to Visit this Winter: Napa, Healdsburg, Lake Tahoe and Redding

Published November 18, 2021

By Nina Harada

Healdsburg turns up the holiday charm. PHOTO BY WILL BUCQUOY

Angelinos know we have a lot of perks here in L.A., like year-round beautiful weather, the beach and desert and mountains at our fingertips and countless kid-friendly events right in the heart of the city. Another benefit is easy access to the rest of California. In a day’s drive you can travel all the way to the border of Oregon or Mexico. If you’re looking for a change of scenery this holiday season, how about a road trip to partake in seasonal merriments in Northern California where charming towns get into the holiday spirit. We’ve rounded up some festive NorCal towns offering family-friendly holiday happenings, for a little holiday travel inspiration.

Napa

The famous wine region is fun to visit year-round, but the largest town in Napa Valley, Napa, is also a perfect holiday destination.

The annual Tree Lighting Ceremony in Veterans Park kicks off Napa’s holiday season on Nov. 24 with free cookies and hot chocolate, performances from local youth dancers and the ceremonial lighting of the 20-foot-tall Christmas Tree. Downtown Napa’s annual Christmas Parade on Nov. 27 will feature decorated floats and pictures with Santa Claus. visitnapavalley.com

Meritage Resort and Spa in Napa hosts its outdoor ice skating rink Nov. 11- Jan. 2. PHOTO COURTESY MERITAGE RESORT & SPA

The Meritage Resort & Spa and Vista Collina Resort will host “Merry Meritage,” wine country’s Winter Village, featuring a holiday artisan market, Christmas tree and Napa Valley’s only holiday ice rink. The outdoor rink will be open from Nov. 11 to Jan. 2 at the Meritage Resort’s sister property, Vista Collina Resort, featuring theme nights and events like “Ugly Sweater Party” and “Holiday PJ Party,” carolers and Santa visits. Beer, wine and cocoa can be purchased from the on-site tasting rooms. $25 for all ages, includes skate rental. Families can also rent igloos, firepits or s’mores kits for pre- or post-skating fun. $175 for igloos (seating for 6), $225 for fire pits (seating for 8) and $175 for s’mores family fun (seating for 5 and a s’mores kit). meritagecollection.com

Healdsburg

When it comes to California wine country, Napa gets all the love. However, there are many other charming towns with award-winning restaurants, bed-and-breakfasts and, of course, wineries. Healdsburg, just 50 miles northwest of Napa, is host to more than 160 wineries, world-class dining and a historic central plaza.

Wine Country Walking Tours will host the “Holidays in Healdsburg” tour Nov. 26 – Dec. 30. This seasonal tradition going on 10-plus years takes guests to local wine tasting rooms, art galleries and hidden gems while experiencing the seasonal window displays, carolers and holiday lights. Choose between the four-hour day tour or the two-hour evening tour, which can be customized to be family friendly. Prices include all food and tasting fees. $79-$119. winecountrywalkingtours.com

Costeaux French Bakery will have holiday treats for sale during their Breakfast with Santa Program Dec. 4, 11 and 18. PHOTO COURTESY COSTEAUX FRENCH BAKERY

Have a Merry Healdsburg Weekend Dec. 3 – 5, which will kick off with the “Light Up the Plaza” event on Fri. Dec. 3. Healdsburg Plaza’s holiday tree and the popular Healdsburg Light Archway will be ceremoniously lit with lights and decorations. The Archway will feature an interactive component where the community can add inspirational messages. Families can take photos with Santa, grab a warm beverage from the hot chocolate truck, sing along to songs from “Frozen” and shop a selection of goods from local retailers at the plaza’s Holiday Sidewalk Market. Enjoy live music and holiday all weekend long. FREE. healdsburg.com

Children are invited to meet Santa Claus at Costeaux French Bakery Dec. 4, 11 and 18 during the Breakfast with Santa Program. Saturdays in December, except Christmas, from 9 – 11 a.m. Santa will be available for pictures, surrounded by the bakery’s famous nutcracker collection that showcases pieces from around the world. FREE costeaux.com

Lake Tahoe

If your family is looking for snow, then head to the mountains. Lake Tahoe is home to some of North America’s largest ski resorts and family-friendly resorts like the Ritz-Carlton and Resort at Squaw Creek.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, nestled mid-mountain at Northstar California Resort, is hosting festive winter programming perfect for families looking for holiday experiences, gourmet dining and easy access to skiing as the only ski-in/ski-out destination in Lake Tahoe.

The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe, is hosting festive winter programming through the new year. PHOTO COURTESY RITZ-CARLTON, LAKE TAHOE

Enjoy views of the slopes from The Living Room, which will offer shareable dishes like cheese and chocolate fondue and creative seafood towers, and a daily dinner buffet curated just for the littles ones in the family. The rotating kids’ menu, which will feature kid favorite dishes, is $35 per child. Other food offerings include Texas-style BBQ from The Backyard Bar & Grill and soups and winter-inspired cocktails from the outdoor Airstream Bar.

Garden of Lights runs Nov. 19 – Dec. 31 in Redding, CA. PHOTO BY SETH MCGAHA

From Dec. 18 – Jan. 2 indulge in the hotel’s Holiday Days of Magic, featuring festive dinners, live entertainment and kid-friendly activities. The resort’s ballroom will have a Thanksgiving Day buffet from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Christmas Day buffet from 12 a.m. to 9 p.m., featuring harvested vegetable dishes and kids’ selections. $180 for adults, $50 for children. Mr. and Mrs. Claus will make special appearances and the resort will host gingerbread house-making activities for families, a Menorah Lighting ceremony and more. ritzcarlton.com

Embrace winter with ice skating sessions, snowshoe tours, sled races, snow fort and snowman building at the Resort at Squaw Creek. The ski-in/ski-out resort in North Lake Tahoe is also hosting a slew of holiday-themed activities through Jan. 1. Littles ones will love the life-size Gingerbread Village and cooking decorating classes while the whole family can enjoy family movie nights and holiday arts and crafts project. destinationhotels.com/squawcreek

Resort at Squaw Creek hosts daily ice skating sessions. PHOTO COURTESY RESORT AT SQUAW CREEK

Redding

If your family is feeling adventurous (because all those hours in a car together is part of the adventure, right?) try Redding, which is about a four hours’ drive from Lake Tahoe or San Francisco.

The Sheraton Redding Hotel at the Sundial Bridge, located on the banks of the Sacramento River, is hosting its second annual Redding Garden of Lights festival Nov. 19 – Dec. 31. The festival will take place at Turtle Bay’s McConnel Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, which features over 200 acres of native trees and plants, a one-mile walking trail, a children’s garden and a large seasonal pond. Designed by renowned light artist Tres Fromme, the Garden of Lights is one of the most festive light displays in the U.S. with over one million twinkling lights. Some highlights of the festival include the 30-foot wide illuminated igloo and snowy Polar Pathway, nearly 200 feet of immersive Light Tunnels and a Holiday Village, featuring family-friendly food and snacks. Visit any time between Dec. 4-24 for reindeer encounters. $14 – $24, free for ages 4 and under. reddinggardenoflights.org

Sundial Bridge at Turtle Bay. PHOTO BY SETH MCGAHA

The Sheraton Redding at Sundial Bridge is offering special overnight packages for holiday experiences like the Garden of Lights. The 2021 Redding Garden of Lights Package includes deluxe accommodations at the hotel and tickets for two adults to the festival. The hotel, which is located on the grounds of Turtle Bay Exploration Park, will feature festive amenities from holiday-themed drinks to s’mores by the fire. Package starts at $211 per night. marriott.com