Best Day Ever! Stoneview Nature Center

The Stoneview Nature Center in Mid-City Los Angeles (across the road from Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area) is the definition of a true, hidden gem! The nature center, which opened in April 2017, is the perfect spot for a quick, outdoor adventure and/or a safe place for your little one to burn off excess energy while also being exposed to the possible bonus of learning something.

Located high up in the Blair Hills section of Culver City, not only is the view amazing but because the nature center is contained, you don’t have to worry about your kid running into the street. Spread over 5 acres (although it doesn’t feel that large), there are multiple garden areas including a berry garden and seasonal, community vegetable/herb garden, a path that weaves throughout the different sections (perfect for running, spinning, sideways walking - a current favorite of Marlowe's which is kinda like her toddler version of a classic LA Beachbody Boot Camp Workout routine), a bee hotel, fitness stations, numerous picnic tables and benches and the demonstration kitchen. Plus Marlowe's personal favorite, a large central clearing with a handful of tree trunk benches and a mysterious and charming Quail House.

The nature center offers a wide range of activities mostly hosted in the demonstration area - everything from cooking classes, movie screenings, reading hour for the kids and yoga classes. A few months ago my husband and I even went to a cooking with bugs class which was surprisingly fun. Also, I now know which one of us would be able to do the eating challenge should we eventually find ourselves on an extreme survival reality show. Big hint: I'll do whatever is NOT eating the giant water bug.

Not many people know about this spot but once you do it will inevitably slip into your shortlist of quick adventure go-tos.

Pro tip - swing by the newly renovated Blair Hills playground just down the street afterwards if your kids need to get more energy out.

- Callie & Christianne