If you’ve ever driven along the stretch of PCH north of Point Mugu State Park and south of Oxnard, you might have noticed a curious display of grounded vintage fighter jets and missiles in the distant corner of an otherwise…
An F-4 Phantom 2 jet mounted on display next to palm trees at Point Mugu Missile Park in Ventura County, an open air museum in Southern California
By George Christopher Thomas My wife and I sometimes like to make our two kids do things together that do not encompass screens or video games. When this year’s summer vacation was about to end, we wanted to finish strong…
Santa Cruz Island seen in the distance across the Pacific Ocean from the decks of an Island Packers boat going to Channel Islands National Park with pelicans overhead
If you’re exploring Santa Barbara with kids, a visit to MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation is a must. This interactive science museum is in a prime location on lower State Street, right next to the train station…
The white wall exterior of MOXI museum in Santa Barbara, California, with a giant color mixing machine visible in the entrance
“Visit the only Ice Age fossil site in the world that’s being actively excavated in the middle of a city!” This very niche, very cool claim to uniqueness could only be an invitation to the La Brea Tar Pits and…
An up close view of the face, trunk and tusks of a replica mammoth at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum in Los Angeles, California
By Jon Bogart Life’s daily demands propel our minds to wander, as we zoom in and out of computer screens and traffic tie-ups, to a time and place where we can unwind and rejuvenate. A laid-back vibe, fresh ocean air, a…
The Santa Barbara, California coastline as seen across the ocean from the pier
The coast of Santa Barbara, California, seen across the ocean from the pier
By Jon Bogart Desert Hot Springs is an oasis of tranquility where people flock to get a breather from the hectic demands of daily living in today’s world. The city itself is off the beaten path and you wouldn’t know…
Exterior shot of Azure Palm Resort in Desert Hot Springs, California with palm trees and a mountain backdrop
By Jon Bogart “Come on… let’s go… let’s get away!”  These words are often spoken, nowadays, while people are craving to go out, to travel, to explore the natural wonders that nourish and renew life’s inspirations. The ability to capture…
Mural of mission-style arches at the Chantico Inn in Ojai, California
Courtesy of the Chantico Inn & Suites
By Jon Bogart A getaway is always a good thought and, now more than ever, that thought is uppermost in mind. The world is opening up once again to indulge in sensory experiences that satisfy, refresh and rejuvenate. Nature, sunshine,…
Palm trees against a bright blue sky in Palm Springs California
By Jon Bogart The character of Palm Springs, California has strong historical roots as a desert sanctuary for the rich and famous. Hollywood celebrities and politicians have always found Palm Springs to be an easily accessible great escape from the…
The rustic, ranch-style exterior of the Old Ranch Inn in Palm Springs, a wood and cream building with cacti in front
By J.C. Thomas With the Legoland California resort as its major tourist attraction, plus beautiful beaches and a walkable downtown “village,” the coastal city of Carlsbad is an exceptional destination. Its proximity to San Diego’s countless attractions adds even more…
exterior of the Pelican Cove Inn Bed and Breakfast in Carlsbad, California
Little Lego fans and families who are so, so ready for a fun theme park adventure should know that Legoland California reopened to guests on April 15th. Adding to the excitement, the Carlsbad park just announced that its brand-new Lego…
giant dinosaur statue at Legoland California
In one prized pocket of La Jolla are three glorious landmarks: Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, Torrey Pines Golf Course, and the Lodge at Torrey Pines. By J.C. Thomas The Torrey pine tree (pinus torreyana), the rarest pine species in…
a brick patio and exterior wood of the Lodge at Torrey Pines with pine trees in the background