Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat Southern California The Best ... · Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat...

5
The Best Of Southern California www.TravelCostaMesa.com Family Friendly

Transcript of Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat Southern California The Best ... · Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat...

Page 1: Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat Southern California The Best ... · Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat 949.729.9800 879 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach ... surf and other sport competitions

Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat 949.729.9800879 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach www.tbtbtb.com With classic toys for girls and boys, Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat carries the

best brands from A to Z: Alex, Breyer, Corolle, Darda, Educational Insights, Folkmanis, Gund, Hasbro, Int’l Playthings, Jack Rabbit, Kettler, Leap Frog, Madame Alexander, North American Bear, Ohio Art, Playmobil, Quiddler, Ravensburger Puzzles, Small World Toys, Thomas Trains, University Games, Vogue Dolls, Wild Planet, X-Concepts, Yomega and Zapf Dolls...just to mention a few!

Disney Vault 28 714.300.70041580 South Disneyland Drive, Suite 104, Anaheim www.disney.go.com/eventservices/disneyvault28/ Expect the unexpected as the hippest trends collide with Disney couture. This

contemporary boutique has the latest fashions, unique accessories and stylish products – with a Disney edge. An ever-changing mix of clothes for men and women makes this a “can’t-miss” Southern California shopping experience. This location also features trunk shows, art exhibits and other special events as well as apparel, accessories, jewelry and home décor.

Kiddie Kandids 949.823.9506111 Fortune Drive, Irvinewww.kiddiekandids.com Kiddie Kandids caters to a special age group of infants and toddlers. Families

continue to visit the studios for years beyond that; however, a great deal of training and emphasis has gone into infant and toddler photography with supporting props and backdrops.

Beaches

Newport Beach The setting for the popular television show The O.C. is modeled after Orange

County’s posh Newport Beach. The city is filled with miles of sandy beaches, the largest small-craft yacht harbor in the United States, championship golf courses and a variety of aquatic recreational activities, from kayaking in the Newport Back Bay, to relaxing on a chartered harbor cruise, to whale-watching or sportfishing. See multi-million dollar homes along the boardwalk on Balboa Island before heading to the island’s popular Marine Avenue for a Balboa Bar, a favorite, local ice cream treat. Cross the harbor to the Balboa Peninsula aboard the famous auto ferry and play at the Balboa Fun Zone or explore the area’s nautical history. This sophisticated beach city also offers upscale shopping at Fashion Island, as well as a diverse menu of award-winning restaurants and a stylish ultra lounge.

Laguna Beach The striking coastal town of Laguna Beach is known worldwide as an artists’

colony. Its picturesque and rugged California coastline has inspired artists for decades. Each summer, Laguna Canyon hosts the famous Pageant of the Masters tableaux vivant, the Festival of Arts, the Sawdust Art Festival and the Art-a-Fair Festival. Other creative treats include cooking lessons at Laguna Culinary Arts, the Laguna Dance Festival in October and the monthly First Thursdays Art Walk. Laguna is the perfect location to explore on foot. Boutiques, art galleries and sidewalk cafés line the downtown streets. Historic Main Beach features a vintage lifeguard tower overlooking an idyllic shore with volleyball nets, basketball courts and a meandering boardwalk.

Huntington Beach The Huntington Beach Pier is the longest concrete municipal pier in CA,

stretching 1,856 feet into the Pacific Ocean. It is a favorite spot for fisherman, families and romantics who flock here daily to enjoy the “million-dollar” sunsets. For more than a century, the Pier has been an iconic coastal symbol. Surfers can always be seen from the Pier since surfing still remains one of the most popular activities. The waves here have a unique natural effect caused by edge-diffraction of ocean swells by the island of Catalina. Because of the curve of the coastline, the beach actually faces southwest. This beach is also very popular for kite surfing. Numerous activities are held on the beach including surf and other sport competitions and community events. Dog Beach is a part of Huntington City Beach. This area of the beach is dog-friendly and a paradise for dog owners. It is not unusual to see a dog and his owner tandem surfing. The northern and southern beaches, Bolsa Chica State Beach and Huntington State Beach, respectively, are state parks. Only the central beach, Huntington City Beach, is maintained by the city. The Bolsa Chica State Beach is located across Pacific Coast Highway from the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Bolsa Chica’s surf is mellow and rolling with consistently rideable waves, making it a perfect place for beginners. Huntington State Beach is very popular with families. More than 600 fire rings are available on the city and state beaches for nightly bonfires.

Dining

Pirate’s Dinner Theater 866.439.24697600 Beach Boulevard, Buena Parkwww.piratesdinneradventure.com Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, acclaimed as “the world’s most interactive dinner

show”, is an attraction that puts guests and their families right in the middle of all of the swashbuckling action. Guests are entertained with an astonishing display of special effects wizardry, aerial artistry, swashbuckling swordplay, dynamic duels and daring-do; a classic story of good vs. evil that offers a perfect blend of action, adventure, comedy and romance, as well as a sumptuous dining experience. The show is perfect for children and adults alike.

Rainforest Café 714.424.92003333 Bristol Street, Costa Mesawww.rainforestcafe.com Combining good food with entertainment and education is a winning mix; every

12 minutes an audio-animatronic display of wild animals “comes to life” and every 18 minutes the entire establishment experiences a “thunderstorm.” The menu includes a variety of specialty items from seafood, beef and chicken to pastas and pizzas. A mouth-watering array of desserts, including the famous Coconut Bread Pudding, tops off the meal.

Ruby’s Diner428 East 17th Street, Costa Mesa 949.646.78293333 Bear Street, Suite 120, Costa Mesa 714.662.7829www.rubys.com Ruby’s is a nationwide chain, adorned with red vinyl booths, formica tables, soda

fountains and retro posters, waitresses in ultra-adorable, red gingham Ruby’s costumes. Timeless American food -- burgers, fries, shakes and malts -- plus hospitality that keeps diners coming back.

Goofy’s Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel 714.781.DINE 1150 Magic Way, Anaheim Rub elbows with Goofy and his pals at this winningly whimsical buffet with many

inventive culinary surprises. Goofy’s Kitchen is a great place to throw birthday parties too; so, if you are celebrating a big day, be sure to come party Disney-style! There are plenty of great choices for kids of all ages, including: Mickey Mouse shaped waffles, omelets made to order, peanut butter and jelly pizza, Goofy’s hot chocolate cake and fruit yogurt with yummy toppings. Don’t forget to bring cameras to take a souvenir snapshot with your Gawrsh-darn favorite Disney character!

The Bes t Of S o u t h e r n C a l i f o r n i a

w w w . T r a v e l C o s t a M e s a . c o m

w w w . T r a v e l C o s t a M e s a . c o m

This information was compiled from reliable sources by Debbie Miller.

Family Friendly

Aquarium of the Pacific . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .562.590.3100

Honda Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.704.2634

Autry Museum of Western Heritage . . . . . .323.667.2000

Balboa Park, San Diego . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619.235.1100

Bowers Museum of Cultural Art . . . . . . . .714.567.3600

Costa Mesa Historical Society . . . . . . . . . . .949.631.5918

Disney’s California Adventure . . . . . . . . . .714.781.4565

Discovery Science Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.542.2823

Disneyland Theme Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.781.4565

Getty Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .310.440.7300

Knott’s Berry Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.220.5200

Legoland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .760.918.LEGO

Los Angeles Museum of Art . . . . . . . . . . . .323.857.6000

Orange County Market Place . . . . . . . . . . 949.723.6660

Orange County Museum of Art . . . . . . . . 949.759.1122

Queen Mary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .562.435.3511

Richard Nixon Library & Birth Place . . . 714.993.0575

San Diego Zoo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619.234.3153

San Diego Wild Animal Park . . . . . . . . . .760.747.8702

Sea World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.939.6212

Universal Studios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .818.622.3801

COSTA MESACOSTA MESA

S o u t h e r n C a l i f o r n i aA t t r a c t i o n s

Page 2: Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat Southern California The Best ... · Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat 949.729.9800 879 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach ... surf and other sport competitions

Legoland 760.918.5346 One LEGOLAND Drive, Carlsbadswww.legoland.com/california Legoland California is the only LEGO theme park in the US. Much of this 128-

acre theme park is constructed with Lego blocks designed as a “country just for kids” aged two to twelve, with rides including a Dragon roller coaster, attractions and mini-lands such as Ancient Egypt, made from some of the 30 million Lego blocks. The park is steadily adding new attractions: In 2008 alone, the new Land of Adventure, with first-ever “dark ride” Lost Kingdom Adventure, Cargo Ace airplane ride and Beetle Bounce have been added.

Wild Rivers 949.788.08088770 Irvine Center Drive, Irvinewww.wildrivers.com Wild Rivers is a family amusement waterpark offering over 40 water rides and

attractions for all ages. There are slides, inner-tube rides, two wavepools, activity pools and lounging areas. The activities range from exciting, fast and thrilling to scaled-down rides and attractions for small children. Open mid-May through September.

Retail

Puzzle Zoo 714.662.16003333 Bristol Street, Costa Mesawww.puzzlezoo.com Puzzle Zoo offers a wide variety of puzzles all shapes and sizes, themes and

even 3-demensional options, as well as action figures, collectors’ cards and lunch pails.

Welcome to Costa Mesa, The Best of Southern

California, nestled strategically in the heart of The OC.

Rich in venues, events and activities, this mecca for

sun and fun has something for every member of the

family. Minutes away from the Pacific Ocean, and just

35 miles south of Los Angeles, Costa Mesa’s central

location makes it an ideal “base camp” for exploring

all that Southern California has to offer.

Irvine Park Railroad 714.997.39681 Irvine Park Road, Orangewww.irvineparkrr.com

Come enjoy the great outdoors at Irvine Park Railroad. Guests can do anything from ride a train, bike, pony, horse, or paddle boat and hike.

Adventure City 714.236.93001238 South Beach Boulevard, Anaheimwww.adventurecity.com A world of excitement, entertainment and education awaits guests at Adventure

City. Rides that spin, twirl and zoom, shows that captivate both the young and the young-at-heart and a collection of small town buildings that remind us of simpler times, all blend together to create a city filled with fun!

Hobby City and Doll Museum 714.527.23231238 South Beach Boulevard, Anaheim This shop and museum contains more than 6,000 distinct toys and dolls.

Everything from Star Wars to Strawberry Shortcake can be found within its extensive collection. There are also plenty of rarities, including European dolls, all housed in a half-scale replica of the White House. The only problem for the younger set is that this isn’t an interactive museum; everything here is strictly hands-off. Nonetheless, it still makes for a wonderful visual experience.

Balboa Fun Zone 949.673.0408600 East Bay Avenue #R, Newport Beachwww.balboafunzone.com For a fun date at the beach or a night out on the town, Balboa Peninsula has

something for everyone, whether it’s basking on Balboa’s pristine beaches or exploring the sites of this picturesque community. There’s the Balboa Pier, and the Catalina Flyer, one hour to Catalina Island. The Balboa Island Ferry is only one dollar. Other activities include harbor cruises, whale-watching cruises, sport fishing, quaint shops, great restaurants and, of course, the Balboa Fun Zone. Since 1936, the Fun Zone’s ferris wheel has been both a day and night landmark on the Newport Harbor scene, beckoning all to join in the fun.

The Pacific Marine Mammal Center 949.494.305020612 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beachwww.pacificmmc.org Pacific Marine Mammal Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to the

rescue, rehabilitation and release of stranded marine mammals as well as increased public awareness of the marine environment through education and research. Groups are welcome to come experience the marine mammal rehabilitation facility first hand. Fieldtrips include a guided tour of the animal care facility, a slide show presentation of typical animals and medical conditions treated and an opportunity to visit the current patients being rehabilitated in the outdoor pools.

Boomers 949.559.83363405 Michelson Drive, Irvinewww.boomersparks.com What could be more fun than boarding a bumper boat for a little adventure

cruise, satisfying your competitive edge in the batting cages, laser tag, miniature golfing, rockwall climbing or enduring high speed go-karts and kiddie go-karts for speed demons under 58” tall? The huge, state-of-the-art gameroom contains a wide assortment of games. Lead your own starship battle group into a deep-space shootout of cataclysmic proportions. Dance, Dance, Dance ‘til you drop. Don’t forget about the exciting redemption games – win tickets and claim instant prizes at the expansive, on-site redemption center.

Amusement Parks

Disneyland, Disney’s California Adventure, and Downtown Disney1313 Harbor Boulevard, Anaheim 714.781.4565www.disneyland.com Located steps away from Disneyland® Park is another world of fun and

adventure! Disney’s California Adventure® Park takes you places where only your imagination could take you before. And, of course, there’s plenty of Disney-style fun just waiting to be discovered in each of the Park’s uniquely themed lands! Don’t forget to check out the Downtown Disney® District, a wonderful gathering place for spontaneous fun and nighttime entertainment. With live music and an amazing variety of restaurants and shops to explore, one can’t help but be happy and in high spirits in this relaxed, uniquely Disney atmosphere.

Knott’s Berry Farm 714.220.52008039 Beach Boulevard, Buena Parkwww.knotts.com What was once an actual berry farm is now 160 acres of world-class rides,

unique family shows and one-of-a-kind attractions. Experience GhostRider, the world’s best wooden roller coaster, Supreme Scream, 30-stories up, 3 seconds down and the high-octane thrill of Xcelerator, rated the world’s best launch coaster, sending riders 0-80m.p.h. in 2.3 seconds. For a different type of thrill, stroll on over to Camp Snoopy, home to the beloved Peanuts gang.

Soak City USA 714.220.52008039 Beach Boulevard, Buena Parkwww.knotts.com/soakcity Offering more than 20 rides with a 1950s Southern California theme, this water

adventure park features single-rider, high-speed slides, inner-tube slide flumes, a wave pool, lazy river rides and a children’s pool and activity area.

Attractions

Bowers Museum of Cultural Arts and Kidseum 714.567.36002002 North Main Street, Santa Anawww.bowers.org/visit/kidseum.jsp

The Bowers Kidseum is dedicated to providing a fun, educational and culturally-rich environment where imagination and creativity are not only encouraged, but nurtured. The giant “multicultural closet” allows kids to dress up like an Indian princess or a Mexican caballero. They can also play instruments from across the globe which foster math and literacy skills, try on masks from a variety of cultures or listen to languages from near and far.

Santa Ana Zoo 714.835.7484 1801 East Chestnut Avenue, Santa Anawww.santaanazoo.org

The Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park is a 20-acre site focusing on the animals and plants of Central and South America. The Santa Ana Zoo hosts more than 270,000 people annually. Joseph Prentice donated land for the zoo with the stipulation that the city must keep at least 50 monkeys at all times. The zoo maintains an extensive primate collection with over a dozen species from around the world. The foci of the Santa Ana Zoo are recreation, education and conservation. One of the most popular attractions at the Santa Ana Zoo is the Zoofari Express children’s train.

Discovery Science Center 714.542.CUBE2500 North Main Street, Santa Anawww.discoverycube.org

Lie on a bed of nails, play virtual volleyball and experience an earthquake at Discovery Science Center, Orange County’s premier science destination! Get in the game with Dino Quest – the world’s first interactive dinosaur adventure – and continue your adventure at home with Dino Quest Online. Easily recognized by its 10-story-tall cube and 85-foot-tall delta rocket that tower over Interstate Five, Discovery Science Center features more than 100 interactive exhibits designed to spark children’s natural curiosity. Annual events include BubbleFest, Spooky Science, the Science of Gingerbread and special summer exhibitions.

Aquarium of the Pacific 562.590.3100100 Aquarium Way, Long Beachwww.aquariumofpacific.org

Take a journey of discovery through the world’s largest ocean at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Dive right into the exhibits, explore sunny Southern California and Baja, the frigid waters of the North Pacific, and the colorful reefs of the tropical Pacific. Come face-to-face with, and even touch, the ocean’s ultimate predators in Shark Lagoon. Hand feed lorikeet birds. Go on a Behind-the-Scenes tour. Enjoy Monsters of the Abyss, a film that combines stunning state-of-the-art, 3-D technology and digital animation to explore the deep ocean.

Medieval Times 714.523.11007662 Beach Boulevard, Buena Parkwww.medievaltimes.com

Medieval Times is an exciting, family-friendly dinner attraction inspired by an 11th century feast and tournament. Guests are served a four-course banquet and cheer for one of six Knights as they compete in the joust and other tests of skill. Expect lots of jousting, swordsmanship, thrilling hand-to-hand combat, displays of extraordinary horsemanship and falconry as part of an exciting yet touching story set in Medieval Spain. Medieval Times also features an excellent bar, dance floor, Hall of Arms displaying Medieval artifacts and a Medieval Torture Museum.

Page 3: Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat Southern California The Best ... · Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat 949.729.9800 879 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach ... surf and other sport competitions

Legoland 760.918.5346 One LEGOLAND Drive, Carlsbadswww.legoland.com/california Legoland California is the only LEGO theme park in the US. Much of this 128-

acre theme park is constructed with Lego blocks designed as a “country just for kids” aged two to twelve, with rides including a Dragon roller coaster, attractions and mini-lands such as Ancient Egypt, made from some of the 30 million Lego blocks. The park is steadily adding new attractions: In 2008 alone, the new Land of Adventure, with first-ever “dark ride” Lost Kingdom Adventure, Cargo Ace airplane ride and Beetle Bounce have been added.

Wild Rivers 949.788.08088770 Irvine Center Drive, Irvinewww.wildrivers.com Wild Rivers is a family amusement waterpark offering over 40 water rides and

attractions for all ages. There are slides, inner-tube rides, two wavepools, activity pools and lounging areas. The activities range from exciting, fast and thrilling to scaled-down rides and attractions for small children. Open mid-May through September.

Retail

Puzzle Zoo 714.662.16003333 Bristol Street, Costa Mesawww.puzzlezoo.com Puzzle Zoo offers a wide variety of puzzles all shapes and sizes, themes and

even 3-demensional options, as well as action figures, collectors’ cards and lunch pails.

Welcome to Costa Mesa, The Best of Southern

California, nestled strategically in the heart of The OC.

Rich in venues, events and activities, this mecca for

sun and fun has something for every member of the

family. Minutes away from the Pacific Ocean, and just

35 miles south of Los Angeles, Costa Mesa’s central

location makes it an ideal “base camp” for exploring

all that Southern California has to offer.

Irvine Park Railroad 714.997.39681 Irvine Park Road, Orangewww.irvineparkrr.com

Come enjoy the great outdoors at Irvine Park Railroad. Guests can do anything from ride a train, bike, pony, horse, or paddle boat and hike.

Adventure City 714.236.93001238 South Beach Boulevard, Anaheimwww.adventurecity.com A world of excitement, entertainment and education awaits guests at Adventure

City. Rides that spin, twirl and zoom, shows that captivate both the young and the young-at-heart and a collection of small town buildings that remind us of simpler times, all blend together to create a city filled with fun!

Hobby City and Doll Museum 714.527.23231238 South Beach Boulevard, Anaheim This shop and museum contains more than 6,000 distinct toys and dolls.

Everything from Star Wars to Strawberry Shortcake can be found within its extensive collection. There are also plenty of rarities, including European dolls, all housed in a half-scale replica of the White House. The only problem for the younger set is that this isn’t an interactive museum; everything here is strictly hands-off. Nonetheless, it still makes for a wonderful visual experience.

Balboa Fun Zone 949.673.0408600 East Bay Avenue #R, Newport Beachwww.balboafunzone.com For a fun date at the beach or a night out on the town, Balboa Peninsula has

something for everyone, whether it’s basking on Balboa’s pristine beaches or exploring the sites of this picturesque community. There’s the Balboa Pier, and the Catalina Flyer, one hour to Catalina Island. The Balboa Island Ferry is only one dollar. Other activities include harbor cruises, whale-watching cruises, sport fishing, quaint shops, great restaurants and, of course, the Balboa Fun Zone. Since 1936, the Fun Zone’s ferris wheel has been both a day and night landmark on the Newport Harbor scene, beckoning all to join in the fun.

The Pacific Marine Mammal Center 949.494.305020612 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beachwww.pacificmmc.org Pacific Marine Mammal Center is a non-profit organization dedicated to the

rescue, rehabilitation and release of stranded marine mammals as well as increased public awareness of the marine environment through education and research. Groups are welcome to come experience the marine mammal rehabilitation facility first hand. Fieldtrips include a guided tour of the animal care facility, a slide show presentation of typical animals and medical conditions treated and an opportunity to visit the current patients being rehabilitated in the outdoor pools.

Boomers 949.559.83363405 Michelson Drive, Irvinewww.boomersparks.com What could be more fun than boarding a bumper boat for a little adventure

cruise, satisfying your competitive edge in the batting cages, laser tag, miniature golfing, rockwall climbing or enduring high speed go-karts and kiddie go-karts for speed demons under 58” tall? The huge, state-of-the-art gameroom contains a wide assortment of games. Lead your own starship battle group into a deep-space shootout of cataclysmic proportions. Dance, Dance, Dance ‘til you drop. Don’t forget about the exciting redemption games – win tickets and claim instant prizes at the expansive, on-site redemption center.

Amusement Parks

Disneyland, Disney’s California Adventure, and Downtown Disney1313 Harbor Boulevard, Anaheim 714.781.4565www.disneyland.com Located steps away from Disneyland® Park is another world of fun and

adventure! Disney’s California Adventure® Park takes you places where only your imagination could take you before. And, of course, there’s plenty of Disney-style fun just waiting to be discovered in each of the Park’s uniquely themed lands! Don’t forget to check out the Downtown Disney® District, a wonderful gathering place for spontaneous fun and nighttime entertainment. With live music and an amazing variety of restaurants and shops to explore, one can’t help but be happy and in high spirits in this relaxed, uniquely Disney atmosphere.

Knott’s Berry Farm 714.220.52008039 Beach Boulevard, Buena Parkwww.knotts.com What was once an actual berry farm is now 160 acres of world-class rides,

unique family shows and one-of-a-kind attractions. Experience GhostRider, the world’s best wooden roller coaster, Supreme Scream, 30-stories up, 3 seconds down and the high-octane thrill of Xcelerator, rated the world’s best launch coaster, sending riders 0-80m.p.h. in 2.3 seconds. For a different type of thrill, stroll on over to Camp Snoopy, home to the beloved Peanuts gang.

Soak City USA 714.220.52008039 Beach Boulevard, Buena Parkwww.knotts.com/soakcity Offering more than 20 rides with a 1950s Southern California theme, this water

adventure park features single-rider, high-speed slides, inner-tube slide flumes, a wave pool, lazy river rides and a children’s pool and activity area.

Attractions

Bowers Museum of Cultural Arts and Kidseum 714.567.36002002 North Main Street, Santa Anawww.bowers.org/visit/kidseum.jsp

The Bowers Kidseum is dedicated to providing a fun, educational and culturally-rich environment where imagination and creativity are not only encouraged, but nurtured. The giant “multicultural closet” allows kids to dress up like an Indian princess or a Mexican caballero. They can also play instruments from across the globe which foster math and literacy skills, try on masks from a variety of cultures or listen to languages from near and far.

Santa Ana Zoo 714.835.7484 1801 East Chestnut Avenue, Santa Anawww.santaanazoo.org

The Santa Ana Zoo at Prentice Park is a 20-acre site focusing on the animals and plants of Central and South America. The Santa Ana Zoo hosts more than 270,000 people annually. Joseph Prentice donated land for the zoo with the stipulation that the city must keep at least 50 monkeys at all times. The zoo maintains an extensive primate collection with over a dozen species from around the world. The foci of the Santa Ana Zoo are recreation, education and conservation. One of the most popular attractions at the Santa Ana Zoo is the Zoofari Express children’s train.

Discovery Science Center 714.542.CUBE2500 North Main Street, Santa Anawww.discoverycube.org

Lie on a bed of nails, play virtual volleyball and experience an earthquake at Discovery Science Center, Orange County’s premier science destination! Get in the game with Dino Quest – the world’s first interactive dinosaur adventure – and continue your adventure at home with Dino Quest Online. Easily recognized by its 10-story-tall cube and 85-foot-tall delta rocket that tower over Interstate Five, Discovery Science Center features more than 100 interactive exhibits designed to spark children’s natural curiosity. Annual events include BubbleFest, Spooky Science, the Science of Gingerbread and special summer exhibitions.

Aquarium of the Pacific 562.590.3100100 Aquarium Way, Long Beachwww.aquariumofpacific.org

Take a journey of discovery through the world’s largest ocean at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Dive right into the exhibits, explore sunny Southern California and Baja, the frigid waters of the North Pacific, and the colorful reefs of the tropical Pacific. Come face-to-face with, and even touch, the ocean’s ultimate predators in Shark Lagoon. Hand feed lorikeet birds. Go on a Behind-the-Scenes tour. Enjoy Monsters of the Abyss, a film that combines stunning state-of-the-art, 3-D technology and digital animation to explore the deep ocean.

Medieval Times 714.523.11007662 Beach Boulevard, Buena Parkwww.medievaltimes.com

Medieval Times is an exciting, family-friendly dinner attraction inspired by an 11th century feast and tournament. Guests are served a four-course banquet and cheer for one of six Knights as they compete in the joust and other tests of skill. Expect lots of jousting, swordsmanship, thrilling hand-to-hand combat, displays of extraordinary horsemanship and falconry as part of an exciting yet touching story set in Medieval Spain. Medieval Times also features an excellent bar, dance floor, Hall of Arms displaying Medieval artifacts and a Medieval Torture Museum.

Page 4: Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat Southern California The Best ... · Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat 949.729.9800 879 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach ... surf and other sport competitions

Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat 949.729.9800879 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach www.tbtbtb.com With classic toys for girls and boys, Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat carries the

best brands from A to Z: Alex, Breyer, Corolle, Darda, Educational Insights, Folkmanis, Gund, Hasbro, Int’l Playthings, Jack Rabbit, Kettler, Leap Frog, Madame Alexander, North American Bear, Ohio Art, Playmobil, Quiddler, Ravensburger Puzzles, Small World Toys, Thomas Trains, University Games, Vogue Dolls, Wild Planet, X-Concepts, Yomega and Zapf Dolls...just to mention a few!

Disney Vault 28 714.300.70041580 South Disneyland Drive, Suite 104, Anaheim www.disney.go.com/eventservices/disneyvault28/ Expect the unexpected as the hippest trends collide with Disney couture. This

contemporary boutique has the latest fashions, unique accessories and stylish products – with a Disney edge. An ever-changing mix of clothes for men and women makes this a “can’t-miss” Southern California shopping experience. This location also features trunk shows, art exhibits and other special events as well as apparel, accessories, jewelry and home décor.

Kiddie Kandids 949.823.9506111 Fortune Drive, Irvinewww.kiddiekandids.com Kiddie Kandids caters to a special age group of infants and toddlers. Families

continue to visit the studios for years beyond that; however, a great deal of training and emphasis has gone into infant and toddler photography with supporting props and backdrops.

Beaches

Newport Beach The setting for the popular television show The O.C. is modeled after Orange

County’s posh Newport Beach. The city is filled with miles of sandy beaches, the largest small-craft yacht harbor in the United States, championship golf courses and a variety of aquatic recreational activities, from kayaking in the Newport Back Bay, to relaxing on a chartered harbor cruise, to whale-watching or sportfishing. See multi-million dollar homes along the boardwalk on Balboa Island before heading to the island’s popular Marine Avenue for a Balboa Bar, a favorite, local ice cream treat. Cross the harbor to the Balboa Peninsula aboard the famous auto ferry and play at the Balboa Fun Zone or explore the area’s nautical history. This sophisticated beach city also offers upscale shopping at Fashion Island, as well as a diverse menu of award-winning restaurants and a stylish ultra lounge.

Laguna Beach The striking coastal town of Laguna Beach is known worldwide as an artists’

colony. Its picturesque and rugged California coastline has inspired artists for decades. Each summer, Laguna Canyon hosts the famous Pageant of the Masters tableaux vivant, the Festival of Arts, the Sawdust Art Festival and the Art-a-Fair Festival. Other creative treats include cooking lessons at Laguna Culinary Arts, the Laguna Dance Festival in October and the monthly First Thursdays Art Walk. Laguna is the perfect location to explore on foot. Boutiques, art galleries and sidewalk cafés line the downtown streets. Historic Main Beach features a vintage lifeguard tower overlooking an idyllic shore with volleyball nets, basketball courts and a meandering boardwalk.

Huntington Beach The Huntington Beach Pier is the longest concrete municipal pier in CA,

stretching 1,856 feet into the Pacific Ocean. It is a favorite spot for fisherman, families and romantics who flock here daily to enjoy the “million-dollar” sunsets. For more than a century, the Pier has been an iconic coastal symbol. Surfers can always be seen from the Pier since surfing still remains one of the most popular activities. The waves here have a unique natural effect caused by edge-diffraction of ocean swells by the island of Catalina. Because of the curve of the coastline, the beach actually faces southwest. This beach is also very popular for kite surfing. Numerous activities are held on the beach including surf and other sport competitions and community events. Dog Beach is a part of Huntington City Beach. This area of the beach is dog-friendly and a paradise for dog owners. It is not unusual to see a dog and his owner tandem surfing. The northern and southern beaches, Bolsa Chica State Beach and Huntington State Beach, respectively, are state parks. Only the central beach, Huntington City Beach, is maintained by the city. The Bolsa Chica State Beach is located across Pacific Coast Highway from the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Bolsa Chica’s surf is mellow and rolling with consistently rideable waves, making it a perfect place for beginners. Huntington State Beach is very popular with families. More than 600 fire rings are available on the city and state beaches for nightly bonfires.

Dining

Pirate’s Dinner Theater 866.439.24697600 Beach Boulevard, Buena Parkwww.piratesdinneradventure.com Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, acclaimed as “the world’s most interactive dinner

show”, is an attraction that puts guests and their families right in the middle of all of the swashbuckling action. Guests are entertained with an astonishing display of special effects wizardry, aerial artistry, swashbuckling swordplay, dynamic duels and daring-do; a classic story of good vs. evil that offers a perfect blend of action, adventure, comedy and romance, as well as a sumptuous dining experience. The show is perfect for children and adults alike.

Rainforest Café 714.424.92003333 Bristol Street, Costa Mesawww.rainforestcafe.com Combining good food with entertainment and education is a winning mix; every

12 minutes an audio-animatronic display of wild animals “comes to life” and every 18 minutes the entire establishment experiences a “thunderstorm.” The menu includes a variety of specialty items from seafood, beef and chicken to pastas and pizzas. A mouth-watering array of desserts, including the famous Coconut Bread Pudding, tops off the meal.

Ruby’s Diner428 East 17th Street, Costa Mesa 949.646.78293333 Bear Street, Suite 120, Costa Mesa 714.662.7829www.rubys.com Ruby’s is a nationwide chain, adorned with red vinyl booths, formica tables, soda

fountains and retro posters, waitresses in ultra-adorable, red gingham Ruby’s costumes. Timeless American food -- burgers, fries, shakes and malts -- plus hospitality that keeps diners coming back.

Goofy’s Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel 714.781.DINE 1150 Magic Way, Anaheim Rub elbows with Goofy and his pals at this winningly whimsical buffet with many

inventive culinary surprises. Goofy’s Kitchen is a great place to throw birthday parties too; so, if you are celebrating a big day, be sure to come party Disney-style! There are plenty of great choices for kids of all ages, including: Mickey Mouse shaped waffles, omelets made to order, peanut butter and jelly pizza, Goofy’s hot chocolate cake and fruit yogurt with yummy toppings. Don’t forget to bring cameras to take a souvenir snapshot with your Gawrsh-darn favorite Disney character!

The Bes t Of S o u t h e r n C a l i f o r n i a

w w w . T r a v e l C o s t a M e s a . c o m

w w w . T r a v e l C o s t a M e s a . c o m

This information was compiled from reliable sources by Debbie Miller.

Family Friendly

Aquarium of the Pacific . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .562.590.3100

Honda Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.704.2634

Autry Museum of Western Heritage . . . . . .323.667.2000

Balboa Park, San Diego . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619.235.1100

Bowers Museum of Cultural Art . . . . . . . .714.567.3600

Costa Mesa Historical Society . . . . . . . . . . .949.631.5918

Disney’s California Adventure . . . . . . . . . .714.781.4565

Discovery Science Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.542.2823

Disneyland Theme Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.781.4565

Getty Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .310.440.7300

Knott’s Berry Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.220.5200

Legoland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .760.918.LEGO

Los Angeles Museum of Art . . . . . . . . . . . .323.857.6000

Orange County Market Place . . . . . . . . . . 949.723.6660

Orange County Museum of Art . . . . . . . . 949.759.1122

Queen Mary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .562.435.3511

Richard Nixon Library & Birth Place . . . 714.993.0575

San Diego Zoo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619.234.3153

San Diego Wild Animal Park . . . . . . . . . .760.747.8702

Sea World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.939.6212

Universal Studios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .818.622.3801

COSTA MESACOSTA MESA

S o u t h e r n C a l i f o r n i aA t t r a c t i o n s

Page 5: Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat Southern California The Best ... · Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat 949.729.9800 879 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach ... surf and other sport competitions

Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat 949.729.9800879 Newport Center Drive, Newport Beach www.tbtbtb.com With classic toys for girls and boys, Toy Boat, Toy Boat, Toy Boat carries the

best brands from A to Z: Alex, Breyer, Corolle, Darda, Educational Insights, Folkmanis, Gund, Hasbro, Int’l Playthings, Jack Rabbit, Kettler, Leap Frog, Madame Alexander, North American Bear, Ohio Art, Playmobil, Quiddler, Ravensburger Puzzles, Small World Toys, Thomas Trains, University Games, Vogue Dolls, Wild Planet, X-Concepts, Yomega and Zapf Dolls...just to mention a few!

Disney Vault 28 714.300.70041580 South Disneyland Drive, Suite 104, Anaheim www.disney.go.com/eventservices/disneyvault28/ Expect the unexpected as the hippest trends collide with Disney couture. This

contemporary boutique has the latest fashions, unique accessories and stylish products – with a Disney edge. An ever-changing mix of clothes for men and women makes this a “can’t-miss” Southern California shopping experience. This location also features trunk shows, art exhibits and other special events as well as apparel, accessories, jewelry and home décor.

Kiddie Kandids 949.823.9506111 Fortune Drive, Irvinewww.kiddiekandids.com Kiddie Kandids caters to a special age group of infants and toddlers. Families

continue to visit the studios for years beyond that; however, a great deal of training and emphasis has gone into infant and toddler photography with supporting props and backdrops.

Beaches

Newport Beach The setting for the popular television show The O.C. is modeled after Orange

County’s posh Newport Beach. The city is filled with miles of sandy beaches, the largest small-craft yacht harbor in the United States, championship golf courses and a variety of aquatic recreational activities, from kayaking in the Newport Back Bay, to relaxing on a chartered harbor cruise, to whale-watching or sportfishing. See multi-million dollar homes along the boardwalk on Balboa Island before heading to the island’s popular Marine Avenue for a Balboa Bar, a favorite, local ice cream treat. Cross the harbor to the Balboa Peninsula aboard the famous auto ferry and play at the Balboa Fun Zone or explore the area’s nautical history. This sophisticated beach city also offers upscale shopping at Fashion Island, as well as a diverse menu of award-winning restaurants and a stylish ultra lounge.

Laguna Beach The striking coastal town of Laguna Beach is known worldwide as an artists’

colony. Its picturesque and rugged California coastline has inspired artists for decades. Each summer, Laguna Canyon hosts the famous Pageant of the Masters tableaux vivant, the Festival of Arts, the Sawdust Art Festival and the Art-a-Fair Festival. Other creative treats include cooking lessons at Laguna Culinary Arts, the Laguna Dance Festival in October and the monthly First Thursdays Art Walk. Laguna is the perfect location to explore on foot. Boutiques, art galleries and sidewalk cafés line the downtown streets. Historic Main Beach features a vintage lifeguard tower overlooking an idyllic shore with volleyball nets, basketball courts and a meandering boardwalk.

Huntington Beach The Huntington Beach Pier is the longest concrete municipal pier in CA,

stretching 1,856 feet into the Pacific Ocean. It is a favorite spot for fisherman, families and romantics who flock here daily to enjoy the “million-dollar” sunsets. For more than a century, the Pier has been an iconic coastal symbol. Surfers can always be seen from the Pier since surfing still remains one of the most popular activities. The waves here have a unique natural effect caused by edge-diffraction of ocean swells by the island of Catalina. Because of the curve of the coastline, the beach actually faces southwest. This beach is also very popular for kite surfing. Numerous activities are held on the beach including surf and other sport competitions and community events. Dog Beach is a part of Huntington City Beach. This area of the beach is dog-friendly and a paradise for dog owners. It is not unusual to see a dog and his owner tandem surfing. The northern and southern beaches, Bolsa Chica State Beach and Huntington State Beach, respectively, are state parks. Only the central beach, Huntington City Beach, is maintained by the city. The Bolsa Chica State Beach is located across Pacific Coast Highway from the Bolsa Chica Ecological Reserve. Bolsa Chica’s surf is mellow and rolling with consistently rideable waves, making it a perfect place for beginners. Huntington State Beach is very popular with families. More than 600 fire rings are available on the city and state beaches for nightly bonfires.

Dining

Pirate’s Dinner Theater 866.439.24697600 Beach Boulevard, Buena Parkwww.piratesdinneradventure.com Pirate’s Dinner Adventure, acclaimed as “the world’s most interactive dinner

show”, is an attraction that puts guests and their families right in the middle of all of the swashbuckling action. Guests are entertained with an astonishing display of special effects wizardry, aerial artistry, swashbuckling swordplay, dynamic duels and daring-do; a classic story of good vs. evil that offers a perfect blend of action, adventure, comedy and romance, as well as a sumptuous dining experience. The show is perfect for children and adults alike.

Rainforest Café 714.424.92003333 Bristol Street, Costa Mesawww.rainforestcafe.com Combining good food with entertainment and education is a winning mix; every

12 minutes an audio-animatronic display of wild animals “comes to life” and every 18 minutes the entire establishment experiences a “thunderstorm.” The menu includes a variety of specialty items from seafood, beef and chicken to pastas and pizzas. A mouth-watering array of desserts, including the famous Coconut Bread Pudding, tops off the meal.

Ruby’s Diner428 East 17th Street, Costa Mesa 949.646.78293333 Bear Street, Suite 120, Costa Mesa 714.662.7829www.rubys.com Ruby’s is a nationwide chain, adorned with red vinyl booths, formica tables, soda

fountains and retro posters, waitresses in ultra-adorable, red gingham Ruby’s costumes. Timeless American food -- burgers, fries, shakes and malts -- plus hospitality that keeps diners coming back.

Goofy’s Kitchen at the Disneyland Hotel 714.781.DINE 1150 Magic Way, Anaheim Rub elbows with Goofy and his pals at this winningly whimsical buffet with many

inventive culinary surprises. Goofy’s Kitchen is a great place to throw birthday parties too; so, if you are celebrating a big day, be sure to come party Disney-style! There are plenty of great choices for kids of all ages, including: Mickey Mouse shaped waffles, omelets made to order, peanut butter and jelly pizza, Goofy’s hot chocolate cake and fruit yogurt with yummy toppings. Don’t forget to bring cameras to take a souvenir snapshot with your Gawrsh-darn favorite Disney character!

The Bes t Of S o u t h e r n C a l i f o r n i a

w w w . T r a v e l C o s t a M e s a . c o m

w w w . T r a v e l C o s t a M e s a . c o m

This information was compiled from reliable sources by Debbie Miller.

Family Friendly

Aquarium of the Pacific . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .562.590.3100

Honda Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.704.2634

Autry Museum of Western Heritage . . . . . .323.667.2000

Balboa Park, San Diego . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619.235.1100

Bowers Museum of Cultural Art . . . . . . . .714.567.3600

Costa Mesa Historical Society . . . . . . . . . . .949.631.5918

Disney’s California Adventure . . . . . . . . . .714.781.4565

Discovery Science Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.542.2823

Disneyland Theme Park . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.781.4565

Getty Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .310.440.7300

Knott’s Berry Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.220.5200

Legoland . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .760.918.LEGO

Los Angeles Museum of Art . . . . . . . . . . . .323.857.6000

Orange County Market Place . . . . . . . . . . 949.723.6660

Orange County Museum of Art . . . . . . . . 949.759.1122

Queen Mary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .562.435.3511

Richard Nixon Library & Birth Place . . . 714.993.0575

San Diego Zoo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .619.234.3153

San Diego Wild Animal Park . . . . . . . . . .760.747.8702

Sea World . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .714.939.6212

Universal Studios . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .818.622.3801

COSTA MESACOSTA MESA

S o u t h e r n C a l i f o r n i aA t t r a c t i o n s