SoCal with Kids

Ideas, tips, and destinations for FUN with kids in Southern California!

Ideas, tips, and destinations for FUN with kids in Southern California!

SoCal with Kids
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  • February 19, 2019
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Little Ducks Introductory Youth Hockey Program

By: socalwithkids • This site contains affiliate links.

Little Ducks Hockey Program ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Little Ducks Youth Hockey Program

Little Ducks Hockey Program ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Little Ducks Hockey Initiation Program, offered at many rinks across Southern California, introduces kids to the sport of ice hockey. This program is for kids age 4-12, who have basic ice skating skills, but no prior experience playing ice hockey.

Little Ducks Youth Hockey ~ www.socalwithkids.com

$150 Includes Instruction and Equipment

$150 includes 6 weeks (1 hour per week) of the introductory ice hockey program. Instruction is led by USA Hockey certified coaches, and includes surprise visits from NHL alumni!

The program also includes a voucher for a FREE, full set, of Bauer hockey equipment, including hockey skates! Participants can redeem the voucher at MonkeySports Superstore, in Irvine. They even get to keep the equipment at the end of the program!

Youth Ice Hockey ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Equipment Included with Program

Equipment included with the voucher consists of the following:

  • Equipment Bag
  • Hockey Skates
  • Ice Hockey Helmet w/ Cage
  • Hockey Gloves
  • Hockey Pants
  • Elbow Guards
  • Shin Guards
  • Hockey Stick
  • Jersey
  • Socks

Rinks Offering Little Ducks Program

Southern California rinks offering the Little Ducks program are as follows:

SAN DIEGO
• Icetown Carlbad
• UTC Ice

ORANGE COUNTY
• KHS ICE Arena
• The Rinks – Anaheim ICE
• The Rinks – Westminster ICE

Other Things To Know

Other important things to know before signing your child up for the program:

  • Kids must have a USA Hockey Membership to participate. Kids age 4-8 get the membership included with registration. Kids age 9-12 will need to pay for the membership.
  • This program is for kids new to hockey. Kids with previous hockey league or program experience are not eligible for this program.
  • Hockey socks are required for the program, but not included with the equipment provided.
  • A mouth guard (to protect teeth), stick tape (to wrap the hockey stick), hockey tape (for taping shin guards and elbow guards in place), and athletic supporter (cup) are not included with the equipment provided, but good things to have when playing hockey.

Check out the Anaheim Ducks website for more information about the Little Ducks hockey program. It sounds like a really great program!


May 7, 2017 By socalwithkids Filed Under: Little Ducks Tagged With: anaheim ducks, ice hockey, ice skating, inline skating, kids, little ducks, orange county, san diego, southern california, youth hockey

Tips For Visiting California Wolf Center

By: socalwithkids • This site contains affiliate links.

Visiting California Wolf Center - www.socalwithkids.com

Tips For Visiting California Wolf Center

Visiting California Wolf Center - www.socalwithkids.com

If you’ve been thinking about visiting California Wolf Center, this post is for you! Here you’ll find tips for preparing for your visit, what to expect while you’re there, and ideas of what you can do in the area afterwards.

Trail Sign - www.socalwithkids.com

Make Reservations In Advance

Visiting California Wolf Center must be arranged in advance. They offer private tours, public tours, and field trips for school groups. Tours are available select days and times. Make reservations in advance. You cannot enter California Wolf Center without prior reservations.

Path to Wolves - www.socalwithkids.com

What To Pack and Wear

  1. Wear comfortable, closed toe walking shoes. You’ll be walking on dirt to see the wolves.
  2. Climate in the area can change quickly. Pack jackets, sweaters, or pullovers.
  3. If you’re sensitive to the sun, bring hats and sunscreen. There’s little shade, and it can get hot and sunny.
  4. Pack a camera, and binoculars. It’s not every day that you get to have an experience like this. Make sure there’s room on your phone or memory card for pictures and/or videos.
  5. We recommend packing snacks and drinks for before and after the visit.

Dirt Road - www.socalwithkids.com

Prepare For The Drive

Keep up to date with the weather forecast while planning for your trip. The weather in Julian is often different than that down the mountain. It even gets snows!

We recommend getting gas before you begin your trip. Depending upon which route you take, there may not pass many gas stations. Be prepared ahead of time.

Julian Drive - www.socalwithkids.com

Allow yourself plenty of time to drive up the hill. It’s a long, winding road. It’s better to arrive early, than take a chance on being late and missing your scheduled visit.


LivingSocial Deals!

Your phone will likely be roaming. If a loved one is expecting you to be in contact with them while you’re up the hill, let them know in advance that you’ll likely be roaming at the Wolf Center.

KQ Ranch Resort - www.socalwithkids.com

Finding Your Destination

Set your GPS to locate KQ Ranch Resort, a campground near California Wolf Center. There’s a small sign for the campground on CA-79, and a large entry sign on KQ Ranch Rd. (pictured above).


Once you arrive near the entrance of the campground, turn right onto the dirt road, which is Kenis/Christansen. This private road is where you’ll park your car and wait for an escort from California Wolf Center. Be respectful while waiting for an escort.

Julian Apple Pie Company - www.socalwithkids.com

Eat Before You Arrive

Eat before you enter the California Wolf Center. It’s wise to have a snack at your car while you wait to enter to be escorted onto the grounds. They’re ok with you bringing a water bottle, and sell bottled water, but there’s no food for sale on-site, and no picnicking, either.

Skulls at California Wolf Center - www.socalwithkids.com

What To Expect While You’re There

While visiting California Wolf Center you’ll be with a guide, who will take you to view the wolves. This guide will give you information about the wolves, and answer questions. One pack of wolves is in a two acre enclosure. Another pack is in a one acre enclosure.

The wolves are behind fences, and free to roam the fenced area as they wish. There’s a good amount of brush for the wolves to seek shelter under, so the more quiet you are, the better chance you’ll have of viewing them.

Mexican Wolf - www.socalwithkids.com

Our particular visit was a school field trip. We had an activity about predators and prey, which included examining skulls, and involved a written activity. After that, our guide took us to view one set of wolves, and then the second. Our field trip was wrapped up back in the meeting room about ten minutes after viewing the wolves.


Your visit may be different, as we’ve heard that some group visits include a different type of educational presentation. Visiting California Wolf Center is not a full day activity. You’ll plenty of time to enjoy other things to do in Julian.

Wolf Watch - www.socalwithkids.com

After the tour is over you’ll have a chance to go to their gift shop. They take cash and major credit cards, and have a huge assortment of wolf-related items. Here you’ll find everything from hats, to necklaces, to books, and even California Wolf Center thumb drives!

CA Wolf Center Gift Shop - www.socalwithkids.com

Once you’re done with the gift shop they’ll make sure everyone heads out. There’s no hanging around checking out the wolves after your tour is over. They have to make sure everyone safely gets their vehicles to the top of the one-way road.

Watching Wolves - www.socalwithkids.com

Consider Whether This Trip Is Suitable For Your Family

Wolves tend to be curious, but shy. Very young children, kids that have a difficult time staying still, and those not able to be quiet may have a more difficult time viewing the wolves.


Wolves are more intrigued by little kids, but startle easily, and are more likely to hide or run away from those that are loud or make sudden moves. Consider this before making reservations for a tour.

Julian, California - www.socalwithkids.com

Visit Historic Downtown Julian Before or After Your Visit

Historic Downtown Julian is just a few miles away, and a great place to visit eat before or after your visit. Place your GPS to Main St., and take some time to walk around this neat town originally known for gold mining, and also known for their apple pie!

Julian Horse Carriage Ride - www.socalwithkids.com

We personally love Julian Apple Pie Company. They have indoor and outdoor seating, and a huge assortment of delicious pies! Our favorite thing to do is buy a whole pie, eat some of it on the back patio, and take the rest home.

Eagle and High Point Mine - www.socalwithkids.com

If you’re into history, gold mining, and geology in general, Eagle & High Point Gold Mine is a great destination. Here you’ll tour a real mine, and have the opportunity to pan for gold. It’s an awesome experience for young and old.

Wolf Print - www.socalwithkids.com

Contact California Wolf Center For Reservations

Remember, you must have advance reservations to visit California Wolf Center. Visit their website, or call them at 760-765-0030 to arrange your tour. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

May 1, 2017 By socalwithkids Filed Under: California Wolf Center Tagged With: california wolf center, field trip, julian, san diego

Southern California Hotel Deals

By: socalwithkids • This site contains affiliate links.

Southern California Hotel Deals - www.socalwithkids.com

Southern California Hotel Deals - www.socalwithkids.com

Southern California Hotel Deals

Southern California hotel deals are out there, sometimes it just takes a bit of looking! We’ve searched through our affiliates, and found some pretty awesome discounts on hotels, as well as other accommodations to share with you!

SAN DIEGO

• San Diego hotel 1/2 block from beach!
• 4-Star top-secret San Diego hotel special!
• Hotel about a block from the ocean!
• Hotel near Sea World.
• Special at the Radisson in Rancho Bernardo.
• Carlsbad Seapointe Resort, steps from the beach!
• High Desert deluxe cabins or campsite outside Julian.
• MORE San Diego hotel deals!

ORANGE COUNTY

• Great Wolf Lodge SoCal getaways for families.
• Red Lion Hotel in Anaheim, super close to Disneyland.
• The Wyndham in the Anaheim/Garden Grove area, also near Disneyland.
• San Clemente hotel less than a mile from the beach and Calafia Park.
• MORE Orange County hotel specials!

LOS ANGELES

• Recently refurbished downtown L.A. boutique hotel.
• Special for the Airtel Plaza Hotel, near Universal Studios.
• The Cadillac Hotel in Venice Beach; former summer residence of Charlie Chaplin.
• The Shore Hotel in Santa Monica.
• MORE Los Angeles hotel deals!

PALM DESERT/PALM SPRINGS

• Hotel deal in Cathedral City, not far from Palm Desert.
• Palm Springs resort hotel and spa, one block from Palm Canyon Drive.
• MORE Palm Springs hotel deals!

BIG BEAR

• Discount at The Lodge at Big Bear Lake.
• Special at Big Bear Lakefront Lodge.
• Cabins near Big Bear Lake.
• Timberline Lodge at Big Bear Lake.
• MORE Big Bear hotel deals!

LAKE ARROWHEAD

• Family-friendly cabin stays in Lake Arrowhead.
• MORE Lake Arrowhead hotel deals.

These deals are subject to availability. We cannot guarantee the length of time each will be specially priced, so it’s best to plan accordingly. Happy traveling!


April 25, 2017 By socalwithkids Filed Under: Southern California Hotel Deals, Travel Tagged With: deals, family, getaways, los angeles, orange county, palm springs, san diego, southern california, travel

10 Things To Do With Kids at the Carlsbad Flower Fields

By: socalwithkids • This site contains affiliate links.

Visiting the Carlsbad Flower Fields With Kids ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Visiting the Carlsbad Flower Fields With Kids ~ www.socalwithkids.com

10 Things To Do With Kids at The Carlsbad Flower Fields


The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch are a fun place to visit with kids! There are lots of activities, most of which are included with admission.

The Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com

1. Enjoy A Passport Stamping Activity

When kids enter, they’re given a booklet, titled The Flower Fields Passport. Take the Passport to different numbered stations found around the property and stamp the corresponding number in the booklet. It’s a fun activity that gets kids engaged with their surroundings.

Passport Stamping Activity at the Flower Fields

2. Take An Antique Tractor Wagon Ride

Take an audio narrated antique tractor wagon ride around the ranunculus fields! This fun ride stops at the top of the fields and allows you to hop off to walk around. You can hop back on another tractor that comes by to enjoy the remainder of the ride. The tractor ride is an additional fee, but a great way to learn the history of the fields, and see some areas not as easily accessible by foot.

3. Walk Through A Sweet Pea Maze

Walk through a fun sweet pea maze! The maze is located below the ranunculus fields, past the Poinsettia building. Go through the maze as many times as you wish, as it’s included with admission!

Sweet Pea Maze at the Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com

4. Play at Santa’s Playground

Santa’s Playground is a super cute area. Here you’ll find playground equipment, some neat little play houses, benches for seating, and larger-than-life mushrooms once found at Santa’s Village in Lake Arrowhead. It’s a great place for kids to run around!

Santa's Playground at the Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com

5. Try Gem Panning

Try gem panning! The gem panning activity is an additional fee, but fun, and you get to keep whatever you pan! Present your fully stamped Flower Fields Passport to the attendant, and get $1 off the activity. (Don’t worry, they’ll also let you keep the Passport!)

6. Take Pictures In a Beautiful Setting

The Flower Fields is a great place to take pictures! Let your budding photographer take some shots, and be sure to snap some too. It’s very picturesque, so be sure to have room on your phone for lots of pictures, and bring a DSLR if you have one.

Taking Pictures at the Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com

7. Check Out the Birds In the Aviaries

Check out the birds in the aviaries! The aviaries are located to the right of the entry, in the Artist’s Garden, near the restrooms. Here you’ll find doves, chickens, and other birds.

Bird Cage at the Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com

8. Learn About Flowers and Plants

The Flower Fields is a great place to learn about different flowers and plants. Learn about the Tecolote Giant Ranunculus (the flowers grown in the fields), different species of roses, and the poinsettia. The best way to learn about the ranunculus is by taking the tractor ride with the audio tour. Walk through the Rose Garden to view many different species of roses. Go through the Poinsettia Building and view many different species of this plant.

Artist Garden at the Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com

9. Enjoy and Appreciate Nature


Wandering around the grounds is a great way to enjoy and appreciate nature. Field trips are available for schools, and FREE Educational Activity Sheets, related to gardening and such, are available for download. Scroll toward the middle of the page for links.

Secret Garden at the Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com

10. Get Exercise While Exploring the Grounds


The Flower Fields consist of 55 acres, so there’s lots of room to walk around! Be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes. It’s a great place to get some exercise while exploring with kids.

Path at the Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Open March 1 – May 14, 2017

The Flower Fields are open daily from 9am-6pm daily, March 1 – May 13, 2018. They offer free parking, and allow you to picnic in designated areas. Be sure to check their website for entrance fees and further details. As mentioned in our other post about The Flower Fields, the fields bloom in patches. If you’d like to check blooming conditions, call 760-431-0352 x3. We can’t wait for our annual visit! Perhaps we’ll see you there!

Red Tractor at the Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Santa's Playground at the Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com
Sweet Pea Flowers at the Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com
The Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com

The Carlsbad Flower Fields ~ www.socalwithkids.com

February 28, 2017 By socalwithkids Filed Under: Carlsbad Flower Fields Tagged With: carlsbad, family fun, kids, nature, outdoors, san diego, socal with kids, the flower fields

LEGOLAND California Presents LEGO Batman Movie Days

By: socalwithkids • This site contains affiliate links.

LEGO Batman Movie Days at LEGOLAND - www.socalwithkids.com

LEGOLAND California Presents LEGO Batman Movie Days

LEGO Batman Movie Days at LEGOLAND - www.socalwithkids.com

LEGO Batman Movie Days 2/18-2/19 & 2/25-2/26

LEGO Batman Movie Days are coming to LEGOLAND California February 18th-19th, and 25th-26th, 2017! All of the activities associated with LEGO Batman Movie Days are included with park admission. Regularly scheduled park activities are also included with entry.

LEGO Batman Movie - www.socalwithkids.com

Photo Opps, Activities, Meet & Greets, and More!

LEGO Batman Movie Days include lots of fun activities, including costumed character Meet and Greets. Like building with LEGO? Build a LEGO Batman-inspired LEGO, or help with a mystery mosaic LEGO build. Enjoy scavenger hunts? Participate in one inside Miniland USA. Like gaming? Play LEGO Batman video games in the WB Family GameSpace.

LEGO Batman Movie - www.socalwithkids.com

Photographer On Site or Snap Your Own

LEGO Batman costumed character Meet and Greets are scheduled for 10am, 10:45am, 11:30am, 12:15pm, 1pm, 1:45pm, 2:30pm, 3:15pm, 4pm, and 4:45pm. There’s a neat backdrop of Gotham City, and a photographer on-site. Different photo packages are available for purchase, or you can snap some shots of your own.

LEGO Batman Costumed Character - www.socalwithkids.com

Huge Selection of LEGO Batman Movie Merchandise

Tons of LEGO Batman Movie themed merchandise, including LEGO Batman sets, clocks, pajamas, costumes, and more are available in the park. We saw the largest selection available at The Big Shop, located at The Entry. Insider Tip: If you find something you want to purchase, but don’t want to carry it around, you can buy it, and have it held for later pickup. Ask an employee for details.

LEGO Batman Movie Merchandise - www.socalwithkids.com

Activities Included with Park Entry

LEGOLAND sells daily tickets, and yearly passes. If you’re planning on visiting multiple Southern California attractions, you might want to consider purchasing a San Diego Attraction Package, from our affiliate. Save up to 40% off gate prices for San Diego attractions.

LEGO Batman Movie Days - www.socalwithkids.com

Daily Character Meet & Greets In February & March

Can’t make it to LEGOLAND on the scheduled weekend dates? Additional Meet and Greets happen 10am, 11am, 12:15pm, 1:45pm, 3pm, and 4pm weekdays in February and March. Check out LEGOLAND California’s official website for more event info. We plan to visit the park again during LEGO Batman Movie Days with our passes. Perhaps we’ll see you there!


Save up to 55% OFF Top San Diego Attractions!

February 17, 2017 By socalwithkids Filed Under: LEGO Batman Movie Days Tagged With: amusement park, family, lego batman movie days, legoland, san diego, socalwithkids, southern california, theme park

Giant LEGO Art Exhibit, The Art of the Brick, Comes To Fleet

By: socalwithkids • This site contains affiliate links.

The Art of the Brick

The Art of the Brick

Giant LEGO Art Exhibit, The Art of the Brick, Makes SoCal Debut at Fleet Science

Giant LEGO Art Artist, Nathan Sawaya of The Art of the Brick / www.socalwithkids.com

Artist Nathan Sawaya of The Art of the Brick – Image courtesy of The Art of the Brick.

The Art of the Brick, a giant LEGO art exhibit, makes it’s SoCal debut at Fleet Science Center in San Diego’s Balboa Park! The exhibition features creations made with over a million LEGO bricks, by contemporary New York artist, Nathan Sawaya.

Giant

“Moai” – The Art of the Brick by Nathan Sawaya – Image courtesy of The Art of the Brick.

CNN has named this giant LEGO art exhibit one of their Top Ten “Global Must-See Exhibitions.” The Art of the Brick first debuted in 2007, but this is its first showing in Southern California.

Giant

“Starry Night”, composed of LEGO – Image courtesy of The Art of the Brick.

The exhibit features reimagined LEGO versions of notable pieces, such as Moai, Van Gogh’s Starry Night, and the Egyptian Sphinx. It also showcases completely unique pieces imagined by Sawaya.

Giant

“Dinosaur” – The Art of the Brick by Nathan Sawaya – Image courtesy of The Art of the Brick.

Aside from the giant LEGO art creations, the exhibit also showcases a “LEGO brick-infused” multimedia collection by photographer Dean West. Fleet guests also have the opportunity to build their own LEGO creation in the Fit-A-Brick Building Zone.

Giant

“Sphinx” – The Art of the Brick by Nathan Sawaya – Image courtesy of The Art of the Brick.

The Art of the Brick runs at Fleet Science Center from September 30th 2016 – January 29th, 2017. This giant LEGO art exhibition requires a timed entry ticket, separate from entry to the museum. Fleet Science members may purchase tickets for a discount. Be sure to review further details about the exhibition on the official Fleet Science Center Website. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

September 29, 2016 By socalwithkids Filed Under: The Art of the Brick Tagged With: art, art of brick, artist, balboa park, exhibit, exhibition, fleet science, lego, nathan sawaya, san diego, sculpture, socal, southern california

San Diego International Airport Offers Youth Airfield Tour

By: socalwithkids • This site contains affiliate links.

Airfield Tour For Kids / www.socalwithkids.com

Airfield Tour For Kids / www.socalwithkids.com

San Diego Airport Youth Airfield Tour!

The San Diego International Airport offers a FREE two hour Youth Airfield Tour for kids in grades 2-8! This field trip tops out a maximum of 22 persons per tour. It’s open to school groups, scouts, etc…

The Youth Airfield Tour Meets At The SD Airport Authority Administrative Building

SAN Administration Building / www.socalwithkids.com

The tour begins at the San Diego Airport Authority’s Administrative Building. This building is located at what used to be the original Commuter Terminal. Parking for the tour is available here as well. A designated Airport Authority Guide will meet you out front. The guide will hand out official pre-printed name tags that are required for the tour.

Depending Upon Availability, the Tour May Include A Demonstration From the Harbor Police K-9 Unit

SAN K9 / www.socalwithkids.com

Depending upon availability, the Youth Airfield Tour may include a demonstration by the K-9 bomb-sniffing dogs of the San Diego Harbor Police. This portion of the tour gives great information about airport security, dog training/handling, and the many duties of a Harbor Police officer.

An Air Conditioned VIP Bus Shuttles You Around the Airfield

SAN VIP Bus / www.socalwithkids.com

Each of the persons on the tour board an air conditioned “VIP” bus for the airfield tour. The bus goes through security checks to make sure the guide has authorization to enter the runway.

Your Guide Informs You of Interesting Details About the Airport

Delta Air at SAN Airfield / www.socalwithkids.com

Once on the airfield, planes arrive and depart at a close distance. The guide describes different jobs that people have at the airport. The guide also points out interesting details about planes, the fueling area, etc… He/she will also inform your group of the least tern, a type of small, endangered bird that can be found living on and around the airfield, as well as other areas of San Diego.

You May Be Able To Tour the Airport Fire Station As Well

SAN Fire Truck / www.socalwithkids.com

The tour continues to the airport fire station. Depending upon availability, your group may be able to get out and tour the station. You may be able to tour of both the inside and outside of the station. A firefighter will likely tell your group about the responsibilities of an airport firefighter, and give you the opportunity to go inside one of the engines.

Kids Receive A Very Gracious Gift At the End of the Tour

SAN Goodies / www.socalwithkids.com

After arriving back at the Administration Building the kids are surprised with a backpack filled with neat, fun, and educational goodies from the airport. This is an awesome addition to a wonderful field trip, and VERY nice gift from the airport.

You Must Sign Up In Advance and Pass Security Clearance Prior To the Tour

SAN Airfield Tour / www.socalwithkids.com

If you have the interest in taking the Youth Airfield Tour, you’ll need to sign up in advance, and there will likely be a long wait for an available date. Each person must pass a security check prior to attending, and no one other than those signed up in advance may be present at the tour.

Here’s a link to the Youth Airfield Tour section of the San Diego Airport’s website, where you can read further details about the tour, request more info, and visit assorted links that include games and activities, curriculum, and more.

No upcoming dates available for the Youth Airfield Tour? You might also want to inquire about the other airport tour(s) available by clicking here. (Please Note: We have not taken any tours other than the Youth Airfield Tour, and don’t know if the other tour(s) available include the same amenities as the one we took.)

The Youth Airfield Tour is a great way for kids to learn about many of the different operations at an airport. It was definitely an experience that we each enjoyed, and will always remember. It made for a very fun and interesting field trip. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

September 24, 2016 By socalwithkids Filed Under: San Diego International Airport Youth Airfield Tour Tagged With: airfield tour, educational, field trip, firestation, fun, k9, kids, san, san diego international airport, socalwithkids, youth

Get a Kick Out of NINJAGO World at LEGOLAND California

By: socalwithkids • This site contains affiliate links.

Get A Kick Out of Ninjago World ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Get a Kick Out of NINJAGO World In LEGOLAND CA

NINJAGO World, located within LEGOLAND California, is now open! We attended the press preview prior to the new area opening to the public.

Get A Kick Out of Ninjago World ~ www.socalwithkids.com

NINJAGO World features a new 4D ride, children’s rock climbing wall, playground spinners, a walk-up Asian-inspired restaurant, LEGO building area, and large NINJAGO-themed LEGO models.

Ninjago World Entry ~ www.socalwithkids.com

NINJAGO The Ride

The main attraction within NINJAGO World is NINJAGO The Ride. This new, interactive ride incorporates heat, smoke, and wind. Riders wear 3D glasses and use hand gesture technology to interact with media shown throughout the ride.

Here’s a video we made from our preview of NINJAGO The Ride:

Ninjago The Ride ~ www.socalwithkids.com

The ride is 3 1/2 minutes in length, and although it does not have a height requirement, it does require guests under 48″ to ride with an adult. The ride carts are roomy, as they’re designed for up to four riders each. Each rider can use their virtual ninja skills to gain points while battling amongst each other.

Ninjago The Ride ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Ninjago The Ride ~ www.soocalwithkids.com

Cole’s Rock Climb

Cole’s Rock Climb is one of the hands-on activities for kids in NINJAGO World. The wall has some grips for scaling, as well as a padded area at the foot of it. It isn’t super high, making it an appealing area for kids both big and small.

Ninjago Climbing Wall ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Ninjago Climbing Wall ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Kai’s Spinners

Kids can practice the art of “spinjitzu” on playground spinners in the new area as well. Like the climb wall, these ride-ons are also surrounded by soft turf at the foot of them.

Spinjitzu Play Area ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Spinjitzu Play Area ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Zane’s Temple Build

Guests can have fun building Ninjago-inspired creations with LEGO bricks at Zane’s Temple Build, which is located in the center of NINJAGO World.

Ninjago Build Area ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Ninja Kitchen

You don’t have to go far to get a bite to eat inside NINJAGO World. Ninja Kitchen offers Asian-inspired food such as Banh Mi Vietnamese sandwiches, available with either chicken, pork, or tofu.

Ninjago World Dining ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Ninjago World Dining ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Wu’s Warehouse

If you’re looking for Ninjago-themed merchandise, look no farther than Wu’s Warehouse! This store is chock-full of cool Ninjago items from backpacks to swords to LEGO sets, and SO much more!

Ninjago The Ride Front ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Ninjago Store ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Nonjago Store ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Large LEGO Ninjago Models

If you love LEGO like we do, you are sure to be amazed by the twenty-two large Ninjago LEGO models in NINJAGO World! Well over 1 million LEGO bricks were used to create the masterpieces. Be sure to save room in your memory card for pics!

Ninjago World LEGO Model ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Ninjago World LEGO Model ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Ninjago World LEGO Model ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Check the official LEGOLAND California website for operating hours, and further details about LEGO NINJAGO World. We think it makes a great addition to the Park! Perhaps we’ll see you there!

May 5, 2016 By socalwithkids Filed Under: NINJAGO World Tagged With: amusement park, attraction, carlsbad, family, kids, lego, legoland, ninjago world, san diego, social, southern california, theme park

The Jungle Book Combines 3D Live-Action with Thrilling CG Animation

By: socalwithkids • This site contains affiliate links.

The Jungle Book ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Our 11 year old daughter and I attended a press screening of the 2016 version of The Jungle Book. We watched some of the trailers prior to viewing the film, and knew the 2016 live-action 3D version was far-different than the original, G-rated animated film in our home collection.

The Jungle Book

The Jungle Book ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Familiar Characters, Storyline, and Music Along with Edge-of-Your-Seat Action!

The Jungle Book contains familiar characters and music we know and love. It mixes live-action 3D with the original storyline, and realistic, edge-of-your-seat CG animation. I jumped several times, as did my daughter.

Top Voice-Actors Bring The Characters To Life

Top actors, including Bill Murray, Scarlett Johansson, Christopher Walken, and Ben Kingsley, do an incredible job voicing characters in the film. They truly bring the charters to life. Here’s a neat video that shows the actors taping in-studio.

Young Actor, Neel Sethi, Play Mowgli

Ten year old actor, Neel Sethi, makes his big-screen debut, as Mowgli. Neel does an incredible job in the film, and appears to have a bright on-screen future ahead of him. We loved watching clips of him making the movie, as you can see (beginning at the 5 minute marker) in the video below.

The Jungle Book Movie Printables

Below are links to some FREE, fun, and educational printables, provided by Disney. You’ll need a PDF viewer to download the sheets. Here’s a LINK to one in case you need it. Click the links below to download The Jungle Book PDF files of your choosing.

• Spot the Difference
• Maze
• Hexaflexagon

The Jungle Book ~ www.socalwithkids.com

The Jungle Book Opens April 15th, 2016

As a parent, I feel that this film would be best for kids age 8+ when viewing this film at the theater, in a 3D setting. The CG-animated animals are very realistic, and there are some fairly violent scenes. The Jungle Book, rated PG, opens in theaters on Friday, April 15th, 2016. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

April 15, 2016 By socalwithkids Filed Under: The Jungle Book Tagged With: 2016, disney, film, jungle book movie, printables, review

Insider Tips For A Holiday Visit To LEGOLAND

By: socalwithkids • This site contains affiliate links.

Planning a holiday visit to LEGOLAND ~ SoCal with Kids

LEGOLAND Holidays ~ SoCal with Kids

Insider Tips For Planning A Holiday Visit To LEGOLAND California

We’ve experienced many a holiday visit to LEGOLAND as both long-time passholders, as well as invited guests of the media. We were recently accepted an invitation to experience the new additions to Holiday Snow Days. Here are some of our insider tips for visiting the Resort during the holidays:

LEGO Reindeer ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Plan In Advance

When planning a holiday visit to LEGOLAND, be sure to visit the official LEGOLAND California website for days and hours of operation. The Park is closed some days during the season, and open a bit later on certain dates for Winter Nights. Make sure you plan accordingly.

Legoland’s Winter Nights includes live entertainment by The Jingle Jammers, and fireworks on select the nights. We suggest you plan to arrive to the Park at opening, and play all day. Believe us, the day will go by fast!

LEGOLAND Holiday Snow Days ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Pack For Holiday Snow Days

Be sure to pack mittens or gloves, and wear flat, closed toed shoes for the snow play areas, as Holiday Snow Days are included with Park admission! It’s cute to throw a scarf on the littles for snow play pics, and it might be smart to pack an extra pair of pants for those that want to sled, as they may get a bit wet. We always pack extra socks as well, just in case they get damp from the snow.

LEGOLAND Map ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Pick Up A Map at Park Entry

Once you arrive at the Park, be sure to pick up a free Park Map and Entertainment Guide at entry. The Park Map will help you navigate around the Park, as well as give dining options. The Entertainment Guide will help you plan your day with show times and character Meet and Greet opportunities with LEGO Santa, lovable Emmet, the LEGO Friends, and other LEGO characters.

LEGO Friends Holiday Show ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Begin Your Park Visit By Starting To The Left

Once you’re at the Park, begin your visit by starting out walking to the left, toward Explorer Island. The main areas with festivities during the holidays are in Fun Town, and Heartlake City. Heartlake City offers a cute holiday show on stage with the LEGO Friends, and Fun Town is where you’ll find the majority of the giant holiday-themed LEGO figures, bubble snow falling from the sky, and snow play areas for Holiday Snow Days.

LEGOLAND Clubhouse ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Be sure to visit the LEGO Clubhouse, where you can play with seasonal LEGO bricks, and build a holiday scene to be placed in the Clubhouse for other visitors to view and enjoy. (If you see an employee named Renate, spark a conversation with her. She’s been at the Park forever, and has some great stories!)

SEA LIFE Aquarium at LEGOLAND ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Don’t Forget To Visit SEA LIFE Aquarium

If you have a Park Hopper ticket, or annual pass that includes SEA LIFE Aquarium, don’t forget to make a visit. They offer a holiday-themed daily dive show, plus festive activities and decor included with admission during the holidays.

LEGOLAND Fun Town Market ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Dine On Seasonal Eats Such As Bratwurst and Poutine

Fun Town Market, located near the snow play areas, is a restaurant that offers seasonal food eats such Poutine (a Canadian favorite!) and Churros con Chocolate. Fun Town Market has lots of seating, both indoors and outside.

Fun Town Hot Dogs, located next to Fun Town Market, offers bratwurst, knockwurst, as well as clam chowder in a bread bowl.

A walk-up stand, located to the right of the entry of the LEGO Club House and LEGO Factory Tour also sells seasonal eats such as giant soft Bavarian pretzels, cookies, and other convenient items to pick up on the go.

LEGOLAND Holiday Food Cart ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth

Some great treat options are crepes from City Park Creperie in Heartlake City, churros from the Churro Stand just past the Garden Restaurant, and a Park-favorite, Granny Apple Fries, which are available in the Castle Hill area of the Park.

LEGOLAND Lit X-Mas Tree ~ www.soclawithkids.com

Nightly LEGO Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

We highly recommend you plan your visit to include the nightly Christmas tree lighting ceremony. The LEGO Christmas Tree is really cool to see during the day, and beautiful lit up at night!

Kids’ New Year’s Eve Party On 12/31

LEGOLAND offers a New Year’s Eve celebration for kids, with an early “Brick Drop”, around 6pm. This popular event includes live entertainment and fireworks. Plan in advance, as it has a limited capacity.

LEGOLAND Hotel ~ www.socalwithkids.com

Consider Staying Overnight

The LEGOLAND Hotel, located steps from the Park’s entry, is a fun way to make a visit to the Resort a memorable vacation. The hotel has seasonal decor during the holidays, and offers early entry to the Park. Be sure to check online for special offers that includes an overnight stay and entry to LEGOLAND.

LEGOLAND Snowball ~ www.socalwithkids.com

The holiday season at LEGOLAND runs through January 3, 2016. If you enjoy social media, tag your posts with #HolidaySnowDays and #LEGOLANDCA, for others to find and enjoy. We plan to make another holiday visit to LEGOLAND to enjoy the snow before the end of the season. Perhaps we’ll see you there!

December 8, 2015 By socalwithkids Filed Under: Holidays at LEGOLAND Tagged With: amusement park, carlsbad, family, holiday snow days, kids, lego, legoland, san diego, socal, southern california, theme park, winter nights

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