If you’re like me, you’re already counting down the days until spring break (which at the time of writing, is 13 days). Those days will go by horridly slow, so I’ve used some of the time to make a list of things to do. These aren’t elaborate plans like travelling to the Bahamas or something. Since I plan to stay on the 5Cs over the break, these are small trips and fun ways to make the local Claremont and greater LA areas the go-to destinations for a relaxing and enjoyable week.
1. Eat your way through Little Tokyo.
Before I came to school in California, I thought ramen was what came in the 50-cent packets at the store. I had no clue that it was so much more, or that one of the top ramen shops was a train ride away. Little Tokyo has become one of my favorite places to spend an afternoon, and is only an hour train journey away from Claremont (it doesn't take as long as you think!). There are so many different restaurants (including the absolutely amazing and always busy Daikokuya), shops, and museums to choose from. Pick up some mochi for the ride home, and you’re all set.
2. Take a drive through Azusa Canyon.
I don’t know about you, but I love a good road trip, short or long. I’ve been known to take a nice springtime drive through the canyon with the windows rolled down. Of course, this option requires a car, but it’s well worth it. Plus, I’m not much of a hiker, so this way guarantees great views in the comfort of air-conditioning. I also love to stop and take photos on my drives, discover pit stops on the way, and feel like I’ve gone somewhere exciting when I haven't gone too far. So get yourself a Big Gulp and a good mix tape, and drive on.
Bonus: for those who do hike, there are TONS of trails through the canyon and all across the San Gabriel mountains.
3. Grab some pie in downtown Claremont.
It just so happens that the Claremont Pie Festival is the last weekend of Spring Break, and it’s completely free. Coincidence? I think not. It’s a great chance to get yourself into the Village, peruse the shops and pick up a Some Crust cookie on the walk back to the dorm. (As you can see, I’m very motivated by food!)
4. Visit the Rancho Santa Ana Botanical Gardens.
This location is a little closer to home. Just a 15 minute walk from the Claremont Colleges, there’s no need for a car to enjoy the largest botanic garden dedicated to California native plants. Admission is $6 for students, but even better is their free admission day, which is the first Saturday of spring break, March 12.
5. Read a book at the gorgeous Huntington Library.
Personally recommended by Denison librarian Judy Harvey Sahak to all Scripps students! The library has everything you've ever wanted in a day trip: exhibitions featuring some of the oldest and most rare book collections (including the Gutenberg Bible, Renaissance manuscripts, and Thoreau’s own "Walden" manuscript), a showcase of science archives, 120 acres of gardens (including a rose garden that makes the Scripps equivalent look like a sandbox) and a tea room. My short list honestly does not do this library justice. If this sounds like paradise to you, tickets range from $19-21. It may be a little pricey for some, but it will be oh-so worth it for the vast amount of history and beauty you’ll encounter.
6. (Don't) get sunburned at the beach.
What is spring break without a trip to the beach, especially in California? The closest beach to Claremont is Santa Monica, at about 35 miles away direct on 210 if you’re feeling up for the drive. But once you’re there (and you’ve inevitably paid for parking), it’ll be a good day. Plus, if the water isn’t enough to keep you busy, there’s the pier, which will keep you busy -- but drain your wallet. Beware.
7. Visit The Happiest Place on Earth.
I'll admit it -- I will never get tired of visiting Disneyland. It was one of the major draws of coming to college in Southern California. And it's a great way to spend a day... if you can shell out the cash. If you're saving up some money for the Disney experience, SoCal Resident passes are $149, and include two one-park passes to use at different times.
There's another option for those who can't meet Disney's prices but still want the experience. Downtown Disney is right outside the park, and it includes a movie theater, multiple restaurants and one of the biggest Disney stores out there. Come get your Disney fix!
8. Eat, shop, and play at Old Town Pasadena.
Whether you need to window shop or are in the need for retail therapy, Old Town Pasadena is a great place to go. It's right off the Metro Gold Line if you prefer to take the train, and Pasadena has everything you need: food, shopping, coffee shops, even more food (there's an it'sugar store that I have fallen in love with) and a new retro arcade for the old-school gamer in you.
9. Soak up some knowledge at a museum.
There are TONS of museums in Los Angeles, dedicated to just about any academic and non-academic discipline out there. Science, Latin American Art, Automobile Driving, there's even a Museum of Death in LA that looks quite... interesting, to say the least. With all of these museums, I can never remember which ones have free admission, or when those free days are. Luckily, there are handy guides to free admission days in March and museums who don't charge at all. Plan accordingly, and you may find yourself discovering a second major or minor based on what you find.
10. Get nostalgic with a movie.
No, I'm not talking about going to a regular cinema. I'm talking about epic nights out, sitting under the stars or in velvet seats, watching the classics. You may be interested in a Patrick Swayze tribute double feature (it does include "Dirty Dancing," in case you were worried), the 30th anniversary of "Pretty in Pink," or watching "Poltergeist" in Griffith Park over your spring break. C'mon, who doesn't love a movie night?
11. If all else fails, the classic Netflix binge will not let you down.
With all of this time spent outside, enjoying the spring air and the company of friends and/or schoolwork, it's time to take a day (or two) to yourself. The easiest way to do that? Netflix binging. I know there's some shows I need to get caught up on (I recommend "Leverage"), but with this list of upcoming Netflix releases for March, I may have to start in on some new shows -- or at least watch "House of Cards" season four. Order some food from the Claremont Village or your local Dominos, and you're set for a night in.
I hope this list will fill up your break for awhile, at least long enough to avoid doing schoolwork for a day or two. Have a great spring break, Claremont!
