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Spring Break Activities For The Kids Of LA

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If you've got kids on Spring Break and you weren't lucky enough to plan a family vacation, here are some great ideas for things to do that you don't normally have time for on a school day, and places that are more crowded on the weekends. From Spring Break camps to a shopping trip, there's something here for every age of kid.

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(credit: lulawashington.org)

Each year, the OC's most popular destination for interactive, scientific exploration gives families an engaging, intriguing look into the world of bubbles. Bubblefest, the Cube's most popular event of the year, will return during Spring Break for a three-week run. This year's Bubble Extravaganza will once again feature world-renowned bubble artist Deni Yang in an exciting show that combines art and science to showcase bubbles in ways you've never experienced. New this year is the center's outdoor festival which will feature an inflatable play zone, water spheres, interactive science zones, Southern California's most popular gourmet food trucks, and a unique photo opportunity featuring you inside a giant bubble. The Mega Bubblefest Laser Show runs daily and requires an additional fee of $7.

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(credit: lulawashington.org)

If you're thinking about frequenting one of Southern California's destination amusement parks but have concerns about Spring Break crowds, Adventure City offers family-friendly entertainment while maintaining an authentic amusement park experience. Designed for children under 10, the amusement park features a vintage carousel, a historic express train, an outdoor theater for puppet shows and live shows, a petting farm, a rock climbing tower and much more. Admission to the park includes unlimited use of all rides, shows, and attractions except the climbing wall and arcade. While the park is typically only open Friday through Sunday, it will be open all week long through April 6 for Spring Break.

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(credit: lulawashington.org)

This Spring is the perfect time to spend a day at one of the most popular venues for little girls to dream, create, and imagine. American Girl Place is more than just a store...it's an experience. From afternoon tea at the cafe (with their dolls, of course), to in-store crafts and cooking classes, little girls 3-12 will enjoy special events specifically designed to help them realize their potential. Spring events focus on one of the American Girl dolls and include crafting, scavenger hunts, and more.

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(credit: lulawashington.org)

With it's picturesque gardens and stunning ocean views, the Getty Villa is an idyllic setting to soak in the art and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. In addition to the center's permanent collections and authentic gardens, families can enjoy live performances such as indoor musical performances and play readings and programs specifically designed for children. Art Odyssey is a free, 45-minute gallery program for children under the age of 15 which combines a tour, interactive activities, and family teamwork through the museum galleries. Be sure to check the event calendar for additional tours, exhibitions, and activities. Admission and tours of the gardens and collections are free, but a timed-ticket is required for entry. Parking is $15.

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(credit: lulawashington.org)

Located on Museum Row in Los Angeles, this hidden gem offers a creative space for children to learn, play, imagine, and explore. The museum is most appropriate for children ages 0 to 8 and features two levels of hands-on exhibits designed to teach them to respect others, help those in need, and be responsible in the community. Additionally, the museum offers free public programs, classes, and field trips for a richer experience. Weekly activities include a Puppet Story Play-A-Long, an Open Art Studio where children can create projects, a Culture Club where children explore stories, songs, and cuisines from around the world, a Block Party, a Sing-A-Long, a Freeze Dance, and more.

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(credit: lulawashington.org)

Spring Camp at My Gym

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Why wait until Summer for camp? This Spring, the experts in children's fitness are offering half-day Spring camps that incorporate gymnastics, games, arts and crafts, story time, music, sports and more at My Gym locations throughout Southern California. The programs are designed to be fun and interactive, with activities that will help children explore and develop their imagination, coordination, and fine/gross motor skills. Spring Camp is open to members and non members and snacks are included. Children as young as 3 can participate; contact your nearest My Gym for dates and availability.

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(credit: lulawashington.org)

Monte Vista Park
13196 Monte Vista Avenue
Chino, CA 91710
(909) 591-9834
Dates: April 1 to 5Children in grades 1 through 8 can enjoy arts and crafts, games, and recreational activities this spring at one of two locations in Chino. Day and weekly rates are available as well as extended care. Non-residents may attend but an additional fee will be applied.

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(credit: lulawashington.org)

Families looking to get their kids outdoors for Spring Break will find Tom Sawyer Camps to be perfectly suited for getting children to experience creative fun outside of the classroom. Full day programs are available for children in grades Kindergarten through 8th. Each day, children will participate in games and activities which include a field trip to popular LA destinations such as Pacific Park in Santa Monica and the Science Center in Los Angeles.

Caryn Bailey is a blogger in Orange County who publishes Rockin' Mama.

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