Photo courtesy of Oma’s Family Farm
Oma’s Family Farm 14950 El Monte Rd., Lakeside www.omasfamilyfarm.com This family-run farm has delighted guests (and animals) of all ages for over 60 years. Kid-friendly activities include rubber duck races, corn pit (think giant sandbox filled with corn kernels and dump trucks), a fenced-in tricycle track, giant slides, play area, petting zoo and more.
East County
Alpine • Campo/Potrero El Cajon • Lakeside • La Mesa • Santee
Alpine Lions Tigers & Bears 24402 Martin Way www.lionstigersandbears.org SoCal’s only fully-accredited rescue sanctuary and educational facility for big cats, bears and other exotic animals. The 142-acre sanctuary, home to over 60 animals, offers guided tours, special experiences and fun events. San Diego Animal Sanctuary & Farm 5178 Japatul Spur www.sandiegoanimalsanctuary andfarm.org Visit up to 200 domesticated livestock and exotic animals including American Bison, camels, pygmy goats, miniature horses, tortoises and ostriches. Interactive tours and special programs available. Viejas Outlets 5005 Willows Rd. www.viejasoutletcenter.com This family-friendly shopping and entertainment destination includes a state-of-the-art bowling alley, So Cal’s
largest outdoor roller rink, arcade, a variety of casual eateries and namebrand stores. Check website for seasonal events and offerings.
shaded picnic tables and playgrounds at this 132-acre park that also offers tent and RV sites and two wilderness cabins.
Campo/Potrero
Wisteria Candy Cottage 39961 Old Hwy. 80 www.wisteriacandycottage.com Originally a one-room schoolhouse, this candy store has delighted customers with handmade sweets for over 100 years. Try the famous chocolate turtles, fudge, truffles and other delicious treats. Open Thurs–Sun.
Motor Transport Museum 31949 Hwy. 94 www.motortransportmuseum.org An eclectic collection of transportation artifacts and more than 200 historic motor vehicles and industrial machinery. Open Saturdays and the first Sunday of the month. Pacific Southwest Railway Museum 750 Depot St.; www.psrm.org Enjoy a scenic ride through San Diego’s beautiful backcountry aboard a vintage locomotive. Offers seasonal and special event excursions, including the new Backcountry Wine Train and sunset train rides during summer. Potrero County Park 24800 Potrero Park Dr. Enjoy 100-year-old oak trees,
40 • SD Family’s Out&About 2025/2026 • East County
El Cajon www.ci.el-cajon.ca.us A Simpler Time Alpaca Farm & Mill www.asimplertimestore.com Take a private tour of this working alpaca ranch where you’ll explore an alpaca yarn fiber mill, meet and learn how to care for alpacas and browse the boutique featuring one-of-akind alpaca fiber products. Tours by appointment, Mon.-Sat.