This year, instead of sleeping until noon and binge watching Netflix shows for hours, take advantage of your week off from school and go on a well-deserved, mini-vacation to these nearby hot spots.
Descanso Gardens
Descanso Gardens is a botanic garden, but it’s smaller and quieter than others. The reserve is very tranquil, and wildlife such as deer and squirrels can often be spotted. At Descanso, there are eight separate gardens, including the Oak Forest and Japanese Garden, each with different species of plants. In addition to the nature walks, there are also fun activities for people to enjoy, such as the maze and scenic train ride. Train rides are $3 per person, and go through a small portion of the garden. General admission is usually $9, but students can get in for $6 with a student ID.
Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area
Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area is a spacious and serene park in Irwindale that is a great destination for a day of fun in the sun. What’s nice about the park is that it doesn’t have as many restrictions as the other parks in our area, and it offers a bunch of recreational activities. You may rent bikes and water skis and other forms of transportation from places inside the park, or you may bring your own equipment. Admission is free, but parking is $10. However, that is just a small price to pay for the exciting and eventful day that awaits you.
Skyzone
Most students probably won’t want to exercise over spring break, but should definitely make an exception for Skyzone. Located at 1301 North Kellogg Dr. in Anaheim, Skyzone is an indoor trampoline park that makes burning calories both fun and enjoyable. The fitness center offers several different ways to jump, including an open jump area where flips in mid-air are allowed, a SkySlam court where visitors can show off their killer slam dunks, SkyRobics fitness classes, Ultimate Dodgeball and a Foam Zone foam pit that visitors can leap into. Skyzone is guaranteed to be an enjoyable and amusing experience.
Ice Cream Lab
Originally from Beverly Hills, Ice Cream Lab is not your average ice cream shop. Located at 16 S Fair Oaks Ave in Pasadena this place definitely has a cool factor going on as they make your frozen treat on the spot, with the use of liquid nitrogen and specially designed ice cream mixers. The joint offers a variety of flavors, including the classic flavors as well as their signature Blue Velvet, Salt Lick Crunch and Banilla tastes. There is also an additional menu that features seasonal flavors that are only around for a limited amount of time. The ice cream is well textured and rich in flavor, but it does not come at a cheap price. The smallest size starts at $5.
Arcadia Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is perfect to explore your adventurous side. The Arcadia Rock Climbing Gym, located at 305 N Santa Anita Ave. is one of the largest indoor bouldering gyms in the United States. The gym offers many rock walls, each with a different difficulty level. Here, daredevils can test their rock climbing skills while beginners can learn the ropes of rock climbing. Admission for a day pass, which includes climbing without ropes and with a crash pad underneath, is $15 for adults and $10 for children. If you decide to give rock climbing a try, make sure to print out and sign the liability waiver that can be found on the website, www.arcadiarockclimbing.com, and bring it with you on the day of your visit.