Ten Things My Tween and Teen Love about the California Science Center

Photo courtesy of the California Science Center

I have a son and a daughter with four years between them, which means they don’t always want to do the same thing in the same place at the same time. Siblings! That said, one destination they can always agree on is the California Science Center in Exposition Park. This immersive, interactive exhibition space engages all ages, preschool to high school, and we rarely leave without the feeling that there was more to see and to do. As a parent I love this museum, because, while science is a universal topic, the California Science Center finds many ways to connect us with our own state of California and has exhibits highlighting our ecosystems, earthquakes, and industry.

Space belongs to everyone, but much of the Aerospace Industry is housed here in California. LA's free science museum recently acquired the Space Shuttle Endeavor, currently displayed in a temporary location but ultimately planned as the centerpiece of the new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center. As thrilling as that big ticket item is, there are many smaller permanent installations that my kids love to revisit—and believe you me they know how to find them. Rotating exhibits also capture their attention: my daughter was so eager to get to last year’s Pompeii that she ended up going without me. I won’t make that mistake again!

Here is a too short list of ten things you gotta love about the California Science Center.

Coolest Boston T Stations for Kids

For many kids, hearing a train rumble through a tunnel as it enters a station can be a moment of excitement, inspiring cries of, “I see the train!” Certain subway and trolley stops on the T exhibit a bit more charm than others, whether it be an interesting station design, convenient vendors, or appealing artwork. With that in mind, below is brief rundown of eight kid-tested stations in Boston's rapid transit system. 

Seven Dinosaur Destinations Near NYC for Kids

My 10-year-old son has been dino crazy for years and I do my best to indulge him. Our latest dino-adventure was counting down the seconds until we saw Jurassic World on opening night last summer. I loved the original Michael Crichton novel and saw the first blockbuster movie on opening night back in the 1990s, so I couldn't wait to experience the thrilling, prehistoric action on the big screen with my son.

The live action of a PG-13 dino movie is too much for most kids, so we've rounded up the top dinosaur attractions in NYC (hello American Museum of Natural History!), or within a three-hour drive of the city, like the tot-friendly Dinosaur Place in Connecticut. If you've got an aspiring paleontologist in your life, you'll want to put these six dinosaur destinations on your must-see list.

Poconos Family Getaway: Split Rock Resort and Jack Frost Mtn

If you can’t escape the snow this winter, you might as well enjoy it—and there’s no better way than skiing, snowboarding and snow tubing in the Poconos.

At Split Rock Resort in Lake Harmony, Pennsylvania, deep in the heart of the Pocono Mountains, the emphasis is squarely on family. Amenities such as an arcade, movie theater, indoor heated pool and indoor water park up the fun factor exponentially.

And all less than two hours from New York City? We had to get the scoop on this family getaway. Here’s our parent (and kids) review, and things to know before you go.

Archery Classes for New Jersey Kids

Until recently, the sport of archery was relegated to the arena of nerdy gym-class alternative. These days, however, one of the world's oldest sports is suddenly popular and downright hip, thanks to some pop culture heroes and heroines. With characters such as Katniss in The Hunger Games and Hawkeye in The Avengers wielding a bow and arrow, more New Jersey kids are looking to give archery a try. Here are five schools in NJ that parents can "target". For even more great classes for kids, check out our Enrichment Programs, Classes and Activities Guide.

Living History Museums Near NYC: 3 Day Trips for Families

Does your kid start nodding off at the mere mention of a history lesson? Well, make it fun with a visit to a nearby living history museum and you might just spark a lifelong interest in the past.

While Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia is the biggest and most famous living history museum in the world, there are several others that make a great day trip from NYC—one is actually within the five boroughs on Staten Island

So time travel back to the past at these three enriching getaways, and suddenly your family isn't just learning about history, you're experiencing it firsthand, watching period craftsmen work, seeing thrilling reenactments and even chatting with vintage VIPs.

6 Favorite Brooklyn Prenatal Massage Spots

Pregnancy, for all its blissful reward, takes an undeniable physical toll on a woman’s body. Along with regular prenatal care, a top-notch therapeutic massage can work wonders to relieve muscle aches, reduce swelling and lower stress and anxiety for the mama-to-be. Not to mention growing humans is hard work and opportunities to indulge should never be passed up.

With the aches and pains of pregnancy still vivid in our minds, we rounded up six of our favorite Brooklyn prenatal massage spots. Among our picks, Swedish massage, with its focus on gentle muscle relaxation and boosting blood and lymphatic circulation, is often the prenatal massage therapy of choice, with add-on services available. Check out our NYC Baby Guide for more pre- and postnatal tips and services.

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