While I haven't been faced with that proposition yet, I get some heat from time to time for not being creative with weekend activities. So no complaints here about a hard week at work or not having access to information. This short list of things to do in and around Los Angeles will bring smiles to a little face and win you some points with mama. With your help the list will grow in geography and depth over time. Please join in and help leave this list better than you found it by adding little adventures from your home town!
El Segundo 5 Minute Express: This is a great old school drive through set-up. Think "Car Wash" the movie but totally automated. Once you pay, simple drive, put your car in neutral, and enjoy the sights. The brushes, soap, and waxes are multi-colored. There are flashing lights and 200 mph blow dryer at the end.
LAX: There are two observation places to watch planes take off and land. The best is next to the In n' Out on Sepulveda and Lincoln in Westchester. There is a small patch of grass across the street. When the planes come in they are so close you could read news print if it were on the belly of the plane. Be warned this side is loud and may scare little kids.
For take-offs head to W. Imperial Highway. There is a high point on the street with an observation area looking down over the south runways. This place is complete with benches and one of those binocular gadgets that looks like a face. There are plenty of plane enthusiast with their telephoto cameras so you can't miss it.
If you spend lots of time on the West side then hit the Santa Monica airport as well. You can read more about it in a previous post. Primo Papa: Cheap Thrills
Trains: One of my favorite things to do as a kid was to ride the miniature steam train in Tilden Park in Berkeley, CA. Great fun and only a dollar or so per ride. It was such a thrill to take my kid on his first train ride there this past holiday season. He had a blast as well. You can't beat the views, traveling through tunnels, and weaving between mossy redwood trees is exciting. The whistle of the train with plumes of white steam coming out is unforgettable at any age.
http://www.redwoodvalleyrailway.com
While I haven't been, there are also mini trains in Griffith Park. If you have taken a ride let us know what you and the kids thought.
http://www.gprah.com
The Nethercutt Museum: Here is a great collection of vintage and classic cars in pristine condition. If you live in the San Fernando Valley or are up for the trip, this place is a must see. You need to allow for a couple of hours to visit this place, so small kids will be over it in a matter of minutes. I can't wait to introduce cars as an art form! I have a while yet, so Hot Wheels will have to do for now.
http://nethercuttcollection.org
If the Valley is a bit far out give the Peterson Automotive Museum a try. You will get your money's worth if your kids can hang for a few hours and like cars. This is another can't wait for me.
http://www.petersen.org
Update 8/28/09
I just learned of the Makerfaire in San Mateo, CA. This is an expo for tinkering creative types. It looks like a great place to learn about the next gadget to come out of a local garage. Any science/engineering minded kid should have a blast. Look out for Maker Faire 2010.
http://www.makerfaire.com/
At this point I am about tapped out. Like directions, I refuse to ask a woman's help on this one, so dads chip in your suggestions. You will be saving another dad when he is faced with the inquiring statement "Daddy, let's go somewhere!"
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