Urban Parks

  1. Lindsay Modrow – Griffith Park is always a great stop while in Los Angeles. It has a little something for everyone! You can take a light or rigorous hike along beautiful trails that overlook the city, gaze at the stars and moon through the Observatory’s telescope that Albert Einstein himself looked through, or host a gathering with friends over a delicious barbecue! Perhaps one of the most popular summer activities among Angelenos and a personal favorite is free Shakespeare in the Park located next to what was previously the historic Griffith Park Zoo. 
  2. Faith Watts – Instrinsic Café in Newark is a beautifully charming place to study, plan, or just meet with friends. Good coffee, smoothies, and bubble tea. It’s especially pleasant during the late spring and into early fall when you can gather around a table outside and play a game of Scrabble or Blokus. 
  3. Tom Kemner – Since moving to Fort Worth, my family has found the Botanical Gardens to be a gracious place to do everything from relaxing on the quilt to throwing a ball. Different theme gardens are well planned to have something green and colorful in every season, even in the Texas heat. Water features are a popular backdrop for wedding photographers.  Before you go, stop at Central Market and choose your favorite treats. 
  4. San Diego Staff – Colina Del Sol Park is located near the center of City Heights. In a sea of apartment complexes and schools, Colina provides a place for families to gather and get active. All throughout the week, there are people exercising, kids laughing as they play on the playground, and young people from around the world playing futbol after school. The park also provides a great place for community events. Nearly every weekend you can find a crowd celebrating a birthday, observing a cultural or religious holiday, or just gathering with family to enjoy the day. In the midst of a busy and diverse community, Colina Del Sol Park provides a place for community to happen.  
  5. Kathryn King – One of my favorite places to visit in Wichita is Botanica. I have two young boys and they love the children's section! There are interactive toys they can make lots of noise with, and a huge tree house they love to get lost in! It is a great place to visit for adults too. The flowers are beautiful and if you are still long enough you will see some wildlife flittering by. If you are ever in Wichita, make sure to stop by and enjoy this oasis in the city.