As the “Jewel of the Inland Empire,” Redlands is one of the most historic cities in all of California. This title makes it an excellent location for kids to enjoy the summer as they explore cultural imprints from its long trajectory of se... see more »
As the “Jewel of the Inland Empire,” Redlands is one of the most historic cities in all of California. This title makes it an excellent location for kids to enjoy the summer as they explore cultural imprints from its long trajectory of settlers and visitors. It also hosts wonderful outdoor opportunities, with several parks perfect for family-friendly activities. Be sure to visit our directory to find a unique summer camp in Redlands.
Invite your kids to traverse through a one-of-a-kind museum and explore the history of American Glass Art at the Historical Glass Museum, home of the largest collection of American-made glass west of the Rocky Mountains. While most museums invite you to see the art of painting on a canvas, or of sculpting with stone, this Redland staple focuses on the beautiful artistry that can be achieved with glass. With pieces dating to the 1800’s, their collection is a tour through an oft-ignored area of the arts. Their 7,000 examples are likely to hypnotize you.
Go back into the region’s memory lane at the San Bernardino County Museum, where Mexican carretas, covered wagons, stagecoaches, and horse-drawn buggies make it easy to imagine the wonders and difficulties of traveling in the past. Old mining cars, lumber wagons, and the first water-wheel to generate electricity in Redlands, are also held here, giving kids the unique chance to see old-time inventions and technologies. Walk through halls packed with ancient artifacts from mountains, rivers, and valleys of the area, and find the life of animals more accessible than ever at their bird and mammal exhibits. Outside, their special gardens bring the desert to your feet, allowing you to roam among the cacti of the Sonora Desert, or among the rocks of the Mojave. Be sure to check-up on their calendar for changing Special Exhibits, and leave this museum with a rich experience of both nature and early American life. It doesn’t get closer to a time-machine!
With fifteen parks for your enjoyment, Redlands has a wonderful collection of environments catered for kid-activities and family excursions. Take fishing rods, food-baskets, and tennis rackets to Ford Park, where fishing ponds, playgrounds, picnic areas, and tennis courts await. Let a day of fun ensue as you wander through its 27 acres of open ground! You can also mix fun with learning at Smiley Park, where you can observe a rare gem, The Lincoln Shrine. It houses the finest memorabilia, including artifacts and manuscripts. Enjoy a warm summer night concert in the months of June and August at the Redlands Bowl, on Tuesdays and Fridays, at no charge!
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