What to do with kids in the Foothills this weekend
Parks, playgrounds and the outdoor spots my kids ask to go back to.
I’m all for going to the park with the kids and snacks in tow, and this area has some great ones! These are the spots we keep going back to, time and time again.
Fremont Park, Glendale
A new favorite. Fremont Park was a hit with everyone: there was something for kids of all ages, and plenty of shade. The seesaw and the giant slide are the draw, and the splash pad didn’t disappoint. 10/10.
Deukmejian Wilderness Park, Glendale
Our favorite neighborhood wilderness park. No playgrounds, but so much to explore: several hiking trails, rock formations to climb, a creek to play in after it rains, and even a hidden homemade swing. The Stone Barn Nature Center has something interesting for everyone, and the property has real history: it was once a winemaking operation, and the amphitheater is where two of my closest friends got married. There’s a lovely grassy area for picnics. Go for a hike, have a picnic, really make a day out of it!
Descanso Gardens, La Cañada Flintridge
My kids and I go to Descanso all the time; the annual membership is totally worth it. Year-round beauty in the botanical gardens, art exhibits, family-friendly programming, annual events like Carved and the Enchanted Forest of Light, a gift shop packed with goodies (don’t tell my kids), the Jones Coffee truck, The Market for grab-and-go, and the Farmhouse restaurant by Chef Rich Mead. Winter break is a great time to burn some energy there.
Two Strike Park, La Crescenta
Two Strike Park in La Crescenta is our drizzly-morning play-date park, right by the Rosemont Nature Preserve. Two playgrounds, a ropes course, a basketball court, baseball field, and lots of areas to explore.
Mayor’s Bicentennial Park, Glendale
Best for a quick visit. Tucked away on the side of the 2 Freeway (the best freeway in LA) is Mayor’s Bicentennial Park. Thanks to the Glendale Parks Department, it’s been beautifully revamped with a 12-foot owl play structure, and it is totally worth a visit, and not just for family photos.
Linda Vista Park, Pasadena
Very quiet and tucked away in a private neighborhood. A great playground with a hill to roll down repeatedly.
Kidspace Children’s Museum, Pasadena
We love Kidspace. While we no longer have a membership since the kids started school full-time, they always have a blast when we go. We can easily spend hours in the outdoor areas, especially the farm and camping areas!
Garfield Park, South Pasadena
A wonderful park with tennis courts, a looped path, playground, and a meditative garden space.
Lacy Park, San Marino
THE BEST park for scooters and bikes! The playground is also great, but what an amazing place to ride the huge loop around the park!
About the author
Jean shares local Foothills notes because she is always trying new places and doesn’t gatekeep. She is also a local real estate agent.
About Jean
