I first hiked San Juan Capistrano's Flag Hill and Patriot Trail in 2010 with my sis on a rare day without the kids. She called it the Flagpole Hike. It was muddy after a rain and we got up the hill, to the flagpole, and back down in about an hour and half. I just hiked it again in January with the kids and my husband under drier conditions. Location: We took Interstate 5 … [Read more...]
Orange County Train Trips for Locals
Thanks to reader, Aimee, who requested a new list from me: "I'd love a list of fun things to do for 3-5 year olds within walking distance of train stations (that are reasonably priced, of course). Destinations could be LA, OC or San Diego." So for Orange County train trips, I will be looking at: 3-5 year old age range (let's call them preschoolers) walking distance … [Read more...]
Reata Park in San Juan Capistrano
Reata Park in San Juan Capistrano features native gardens and an arboretum with mighty oaks and shady sycamores. It's nice to have some protected open space in the middle of all the development around Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway. Directions to Reata Park and Event Center: Take Ortega Highway east from Interstate 405. Reata Park will be on your right just before … [Read more...]
Adventure Play Park at Sendero Field in Rancho Mission Viejo
Adventure Play Park at Sendero Field in Rancho Mission Viejo is right outside San Juan Capistrano off Ortega Highway. It pains me to see this intersection of Ortega Highway and Antonio Parkway/La Pata change so much from the wild space it used to be. For me, it was a gateway to Caspers Wilderness Park and a place for getting away from it all. The grading and housing now goes on … [Read more...]
Preserve a Local Treasure
Membership to the Mission San Juan Capistrano Preservation Society is a MUST for Orange County families. Why? I see something different and learn something new on every visit to the Mission. They have special programs for kids. It's local history! It's such a deal - for a family of 4 we get in for $55/year this year. Plus, your dollars go towards preserving this … [Read more...]