The 30 Best Children's outdoor education in California

College Park is a beautiful and serene institution located in Lompoc, California, United States. As a park institution, it offers a peaceful and green environment for visitors to relax and enjoy nature. With lush greenery, walking paths, and recreational facilities, College Park is the perfect place to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply soak in the natural beauty, College Park is the ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Come visit College Park and experience a tranquil oasis in the heart of Lompoc.

The California Nature Art Museum, located at 1511-B Mission Drive in Solvang, California, offers a unique perspective on the importance of preserving our natural heritage. Featuring artwork by renowned artists such as Larry Iwerks, the museum serves as a hub for artistic, educational, and field experiences related to nature. Visitors can explore exhibits that highlight the beauty of the Santa Ynez Buttes and other natural landscapes, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the environment. In addition to its exhibits, the California Nature Art Museum also functions as a store and tourist attraction, attracting visitors of all ages. The museum is open from Monday to Sunday, with varying hours of operation, allowing guests to explore at their convenience. The institution relies on contributions from supporters to provide quality programs and exhibitions that benefit the community.

The Goleta Monarch Butterfly Grove at Ellwood Mesa is a popular tourist attraction located at 7727 Hollister Avenue in Goleta, California, United States. This beautiful grove is home to thousands of Monarch butterflies during their annual migration, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to witness these majestic creatures up close. The grove is a peaceful and serene spot where visitors can learn about the life cycle of the Monarch butterfly and enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're a nature enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing day out, the Goleta Monarch Butterfly Grove is a must-visit destination.

The Coronado Butterfly Preserve, managed by The Land Trust for Santa Barbara County, is a beautiful 9.3-acre park located on Coronado Drive in Goleta, California. This preserve is a haven for native coastal sage scrub habitat, eucalyptus groves, and a variety of birds and wildlife. Visitors can explore woodlands, meadows, and Devereux Creek, as well as enjoy trails, an outdoor gathering area, and a classroom for educational purposes. The Preserve serves as a gateway to other protected coastal areas nearby, including the Goleta Monarch Grove and Ellwood Shores coastal bluffs. It is also adjacent to the largest Monarch butterfly over-wintering groves in California, attracting up to 1,000 visitors per weekend during butterfly season.

North Campus Open Space is a beautiful park located at Atlantic Court in Goleta, California. This serene and picturesque destination offers visitors a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its lush greenery, winding trails, and stunning views, North Campus Open Space is the perfect place to relax, unwind, and connect with nature. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic with family and friends, or simply enjoy the fresh air, this park is a must-visit tourist attraction in the United States.

Tabano Hollow Open Space is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located at 5100 University Drive in Santa Barbara, California. This beautiful open space offers visitors a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, winding trails, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you're looking to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply relax and unwind in nature, Tabano Hollow Open Space is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Come explore this hidden gem and experience the tranquility and natural beauty that Santa Barbara has to offer.

Thunderbird Open Space is a beautiful park located on Walnut Lane in Goleta, California. This serene and expansive open space offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. With its lush greenery and diverse wildlife, Thunderbird Open Space is the perfect place to connect with nature and unwind in a tranquil setting. Whether you're looking for a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, this park has something for everyone to enjoy.

Kids World is a vibrant and exciting park located at 1400 Santa Barbara Street in Santa Barbara, California. This popular tourist attraction is the perfect destination for families looking for a fun-filled day out with their children. With a variety of playground equipment, including slides, swings, and climbing structures, Kids World offers endless opportunities for kids to run, jump, and play to their heart's content. The park is well-maintained and safe, providing parents with peace of mind while their little ones explore and make new friends. Whether you're a local resident or a visitor to the area, Kids World is a must-visit destination for families looking to create lasting memories together.

Art Studio 4 Kids is a creative haven located at 815 Puente Drive in Santa Barbara, California. Our institution offers a variety of art classes for children, including our popular Art in the Garden After-School classes. Enroll your child now for our Spring Afterschool and Summer Camps! At Art Studio 4 Kids, children can explore their artistic talents in a fun and supportive environment. Our classes cover a range of themes, from the Enchanted Forest to Abstract and Pop Artmaking, and even Coral Reef creations. While most of our classes take place outdoors in our beautiful garden space, we also have an indoor studio for days when the weather doesn't cooperate.

The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a popular tourist attraction located at 2559 Puesta Del Sol in Santa Barbara, California. This museum offers a fascinating look into the natural history of the region, featuring exhibits on local flora and fauna, geology, and anthropology. Visitors can explore interactive displays, dioramas, and hands-on activities that showcase the rich biodiversity of Santa Barbara and its surrounding areas. The museum also offers educational programs, guided tours, and special events for visitors of all ages. With its beautiful location and engaging exhibits, the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and curious minds alike.

Oak Park is a beautiful park located in Santa Barbara, California, United States. It is part of Santa Barbara's Parks and Recreation system, which boasts over 1,800 acres of parkland, including developed parks, open space, beaches, trails, and sports facilities. Visitors to Oak Park can enjoy a peaceful retreat in nature, go for a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or engage in recreational activities. Whether you're looking to relax or stay active, Oak Park has something for everyone. Come and explore this wonderful green space in the heart of Santa Barbara.

Mission Historical Park, located on East Los Olivos Street in Santa Barbara, California, is a must-visit tourist attraction for history and nature enthusiasts alike. This park is home to various ruins from Mission Santa Barbara's past, including the old reservoir, aqueduct, tannery vats, filter house, grist mill, and pottery. However, the highlight of the park is the A. C. Postel Memorial Rose Garden, also known as the "Mission Rose Garden." With over 1,500 rose bushes and expansive grassy areas, this garden is a popular spot for picnics and special events. Visitors can also participate in the annual Rose Pruning Day held in January, where volunteers come together to prepare the garden for new spring growth. Whether you're a history buff or a nature lover, Mission Historical Park offers a unique and educational experience for all.

Dwight Murphy Field is a popular park and tourist attraction located at 501 Ninos Drive in Santa Barbara, California, United States. This beautiful outdoor space offers lush greenery, walking paths, sports fields, and playgrounds for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to relax in nature, play a game of soccer or baseball, or simply take in the scenic views, Dwight Murphy Field is the perfect destination for outdoor recreation and leisure. With its convenient location and variety of amenities, it's a must-visit spot for locals and tourists alike.

The Robert J. Lagomarsino Visitor Center at Channel Islands National Park, located at 1901 Spinnaker Drive in Ventura, California, is a popular tourist attraction and travel agency. The center features a bookstore, displays of marine aquatic life, and exhibits showcasing the unique characteristics of each park island. Visitors can also enjoy the 25-minute park movie, “A Treasure in the Sea,” shown throughout the day in the auditorium (closed-caption film available upon request). The fully accessible visitor center is open daily from 8:30 am to 5 pm, with closures on Thanksgiving and December 25th. On weekends and holidays, rangers offer free public programs at 11 am and 3 pm, providing insights into the resources of the park. The center also hosts various events and programs, which can be found on their website.

Ventura Botanical Gardens - Summit Plateau is a stunning park located in Ventura, California, United States. Situated on Grant Park Fuel Break Road, this institution offers visitors a unique and immersive experience in the beauty of nature. With a variety of plant species and breathtaking views, the Summit Plateau is the perfect place to relax, explore, and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun adventure, Ventura Botanical Gardens is sure to leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

The Ventura County Fairgrounds and Event Center is a versatile venue located at 10 West Harbor Boulevard in Ventura, California. This expansive facility hosts a wide range of events throughout the year, including the annual Ventura County Fair, concerts, trade shows, festivals, and more. With multiple indoor and outdoor spaces, the fairgrounds can accommodate events of all sizes and types. Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities such as on-site parking, food vendors, and restrooms. Whether you're looking to attend a family-friendly fair or host a corporate event, the Ventura County Fairgrounds and Event Center is the perfect destination for all your entertainment and event needs.

College Park is a beautiful and spacious park located at 3250 South Rose Avenue in Oxnard, California. This institution serves as a recreational space for the community, offering a variety of amenities such as walking paths, sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and lush greenery while engaging in outdoor activities or simply relaxing in the serene environment. College Park is the perfect destination for individuals and families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature.

Chumash Park is a beautiful outdoor destination located at 750 South Petit Avenue in Ventura, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, with lush greenery, scenic walking paths, and recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're looking to have a picnic, go for a leisurely stroll, or simply relax in nature, Chumash Park provides the perfect setting. Come and immerse yourself in the tranquility and natural beauty of this wonderful park in Ventura.

Ventura Aquatic Center is a popular tourist attraction located at 901 South Kimball Road in Ventura, California, United States. This state-of-the-art facility offers a wide range of aquatic activities and amenities for visitors of all ages. From swimming pools and water slides to diving boards and water play areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The center also offers swimming lessons, fitness classes, and special events throughout the year. Whether you're looking to relax by the pool or get your adrenaline pumping on the slides, Ventura Aquatic Center is the perfect destination for a fun-filled day in the sun.

Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 1805 West 9th Street in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, United States. This institution is part of the LA County Parks partnership with 560 schools to provide park access to over 450,000 students across Los Angeles County. The park offers educational services and experience programs for SCUBA divers, freedivers, and dive leaders through the County of Los Angeles Underwater Unit. The Department of Parks and Recreation has a rich history dating back to the merger of the Parks Division and the Department of Recreation, Camps, and Playgrounds in 1944. Today, the Department owns 182 parks including natural areas, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural venues like the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre and the Hollywood Bowl. With a commitment to providing social, cultural, and recreational opportunities for all, the Department relies on partnerships with various organizations and agencies, as well as a dedicated team of employees and volunteers. The park offers creative and innovative recreational programming for the whole family, as well as special events throughout the year. Visit Deane Dana Friendship Park and Nature Center to enjoy the beauty of nature and the benefits of outdoor recreation.

Peck Park Community Center, located at 560 North Western Avenue in Los Angeles, California, is a vibrant hub for the local community. One of the standout features of the center is its Computer Lab, which is part of the BTOP Sites program. This allows members of the public to access the internet and use computers free of charge. Whether you're looking to browse the web, work on a project, or simply stay connected, the Computer Lab at Peck Park Community Center is a valuable resource for all. Visit us today and take advantage of this convenient and accessible service.

Frog Pond Park is a charming and picturesque park located on Palos Verdes Drive East in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. This popular tourist attraction is known for its tranquil atmosphere, lush greenery, and of course, its namesake frog pond. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the winding paths, relax by the pond, and admire the beautiful scenery. With its peaceful surroundings and natural beauty, Frog Pond Park is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature.

APEX for Kids is a premier active play experience for children located in the heart of Los Angeles, California. Our facility at 11339 Santa Monica Boulevard is dedicated to providing a fun and engaging environment where kids can run, jump, climb, and play to their heart's content. Our mission is to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles in children through exciting and interactive play experiences. With a variety of play structures, games, and activities, APEX for Kids is the perfect destination for families looking for a safe and stimulating play space for their little ones. Come visit us today and let your kids unleash their energy and creativity at APEX for Kids!

Polliwog Park is a beautiful and serene park located at 1601 Manhattan Beach Boulevard in Manhattan Beach, California. This popular tourist attraction offers a variety of amenities for visitors to enjoy, including playgrounds, picnic areas, walking trails, and a pond with ducks and turtles. The park is a great place for families to spend a relaxing day outdoors, with plenty of space for children to play and explore. Whether you're looking to have a leisurely picnic or take a peaceful stroll through nature, Polliwog Park is the perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Discovery Park is a popular tourist attraction located at 22526 Ocean Avenue in Torrance, California. This expansive park offers visitors the opportunity to explore nature and learn about the local environment through interactive exhibits and educational programs. With beautiful gardens, walking trails, and picnic areas, Discovery Park is the perfect destination for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone looking to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're interested in birdwatching, hiking, or simply relaxing in a peaceful setting, Discovery Park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come discover the beauty of nature at Discovery Park in Torrance, California.

Urban Youth Park PV is a vibrant community center located at 550 Deep Valley Drive in Rolling Hills Estates, California. This institution is dedicated to providing a safe and engaging space for young people to come together, learn, and have fun. With a focus on promoting positive youth development, Urban Youth Park PV offers a wide range of programs and activities, including sports leagues, arts and crafts workshops, and educational seminars. The park is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and staffed by experienced professionals who are committed to supporting the growth and well-being of the youth in our community. Whether you're looking to play a game of basketball, work on a creative project, or simply hang out with friends, Urban Youth Park PV is the place to be. Come join us and be a part of our thriving community!

Blue Planet is a unique museum located at 20847 Ventura Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. This innovative institution specializes in creating imaginary places such as houses, factories, and cities, as well as new dramatic scenarios, settings, and games for visitors to enjoy. At Blue Planet, children are encouraged to express themselves through self-directed and open-ended play, allowing for deep and joyful exploration. Come visit Blue Planet and let your imagination run wild!

IMAGINOLOGYKIDS.ORG is a school located at 2501 Sunset Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. Supported by the Dream Big Science and Art Foundation, Imaginology Kids offers hands-on STEAM investigation play for children. The Water, Earth, Light, and Wind Labs provide a fun and educational experience for children to explore and learn. Toddlers have their own dedicated space, as well as access to the labs on a rotating basis. Families can create an account on the website for payments and flexibility in memberships and classes. Programs are available for toddlers through 5th grade, focusing on hands-on discovery and imagination. Imaginology Kids is always looking for talented individuals to join their team. Register now for a unique and enriching educational experience for your child!

Star Eco Station is a unique museum and tourist attraction located at 10101 Jefferson Boulevard in Culver City, California. Our guided public tours start every hour on the hour, offering visitors a chance to learn about wildlife conservation and environmental education. Please note that all information, dates, locations, discounts, and pricing are subject to change without notice. We follow all CDC guidelines for Covid procedures to ensure the safety of our guests and staff.

Palms Recreation Center, located at 2950 Overland Avenue in Los Angeles, California, is a popular park and tourist attraction offering a variety of programs and activities for the community. The center features the Palms Park Children’s Center, an auditorium, picnic area, playground, outdoor basketball courts, and the Palms Rancho-Park Library. Operating hours are Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, Friday from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm, and Saturday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. The center is closed on Sundays. The Palms Park Children’s Center Preschool program provides a multicultural experience for children, with a staff to child ratio of 1:8 or smaller. Picnic permits are available for rental, with restrictions on group size and equipment. Youth sports leagues and day camp programs are also offered for children of various ages. Class registration can be done online or in person, with a variety of classes available. The center welcomes persons with disabilities and offers reasonable accommodations with prior arrangements. Please consult with a physician before enrolling in any physically demanding class.