15 Gifts that Create Lasting Memories Do you feel overwhelmed with all the
“stuff” that the holidays bring: games, action figures and Lego bricks that end up in a donation pile or underfoot? Good news: The best presents can’t be wrapped. Research shows that gifts of experience add joy of anticipation, help create family bonds and bring more happiness than physical things. This year, rethink your gift-giving strategy. Be inspired to create sweet memories for the whole family with these ideas.
Little Ones
Take a Train Ride Got a train lover on your list? Pacific Southwest Railway Museum serves up a variety of awe-inspiring experiences such as the North Pole Limited. Climb aboard and feel the wonder as Santa’s elves sing carols, read The Polar Express, and serve cookies and cocoa. Weekends in December. www.psrm.org Discover more fun train experiences that may inspire a unique gift for a child on your list at www. sandiegofamily.com/out-and-about/7fun-train-experiences-in-san-diego.
Create a Day of Magic Inspire your child’s imagination as she customizes a stuffed animal at BuildA-Bear Workshop or “adopts a baby” at Distroller Werld (both in Fashion Valley). Choose clothing, accessories and more. A personalized “birth certificate” adds to the fun experience. buildabear.com or distrollerusa.com
20 • SanDiegofamily.com • December 2018
Cherie Gough
Tea Party
Root for the Home Team
Dress up and enjoy a memorable afternoon tea. Many tea rooms offer sweet bites made just for little ones. Make it a generational celebration by inviting Grandparents. The AubreyRose Tea Room in La Mesa offers a Princess Sophia Tea for ages 5–10 during the holidays (and throughout the year). Gluten-free goodies available, if requested in advance. www.theaubreyrosetearoom.com Find more San Diego tea rooms at www.sandiegofamily.com/best-offamily-fun/san-diegos-best-tea-shops.
You don’t have to be a college student to be a college sports fan. Don red and black, and head to an SDSU Aztecs football or basketball game. Create hometown spirit with a special night out or cheer for the home team regularly by purchasing season tickets or a mini plan of three games. www.goaztecs.com
Elementary School Kids Rent a Cabin
Get away with the family at The Ranch at Bandy Canyon in Escondido, offering rustic accommodations with comfortable amenities. With equestrian trail rides, a small animal petting zoo and beautiful pool, you won’t miss TV or wifi. Each cabin offers a unique touch; family-friendly options include bunk beds, kitchens and cabins that sleep up to eight. www.bandycanyon.com Or, enjoy a weekend lounging in a cabin at Santee Lakes. Cabin rentals include use of pedal boats and each is equipped with TV, wifi and grill. Santee Lakes is a great place to enjoy the outdoors: fish, bike, and feed the ducks. www.santeelakes.com
Horse Around Give your child the next best thing to unicorn lessons — make dreams come true with a day of horseback riding at Sweetwater Farms in Bonita. The ranch has been connecting people with horses for over 30 years and has a proven track record for safety. Sweetwater Farms offers group riding experiences for ages 7 and up. Families can picnic on the grounds after a ride. www.sweetwaterhorses.com
Tweens and Teens Learn to Surf
Have a blast learning to surf together. The husband-wife team at Eli Howard Surf School on Moonlight Beach in Encinitas offers clear, quality instruction with a positive, energetic vibe. They’ll get you up and riding waves on your first day. www.elihoward.com cont. on page 22