Deep within the golden state of California, where the sun always smiles and the breeze tastes like adventure, there lived a bunch of kids who were anything but ordinary. They were known as the California Explorers, a group of youngsters who had an insatiable thirst for exploring the extraordinary landscapes of their state. Now picture California as a humongous pizza, sprinkled generously with various toppings. The crispy crust represents the shimmering beaches, the tomato sauce is the sprawling desert, and the cheese is comparable to the lush forests. Add a dash of vibrant cities as oregano, and voila, you have a California Pizza state! Among the California Explorers was a cool character named Eddie, the Elephant Ears. Eddie was called so because he had the best hearing ability in the universe, or so he claimed. He could hear a sea lion sneeze from 100 miles away, or the whisper of an ant planning a picnic. His motto was "Listen and Learn," and he led the troop with his funny, oversize earmuffs, which were as colorful as a rainbow and as fluffy as cotton candy. Every day, Eddie and his band of explorers embarked on a new adventure, discovering hidden gems and unveiling the secrets of their vibrant state. They would dive under the azure waves of the Pacific, climb the towering trees of the Redwood Forest, and even take taco breaks in between their urban explorations. Their journey was full of laughter, learning, and unforgettable memories as they explored the pizza of a state, bite by bite. And though they occasionally disagreed on the exact flavor of their adventure pizza, they all agreed that Eddie's silly earmuffs were their favorite topping!

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best exploration programs in San Diego, CA

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Looking for an after-school care solution you can count on? Look no further than the Enrichment Center. We offer a comprehensive, trustworthy, and budget-friendly program designed to cater to your child's needs and your peace of mind. Our committed staff ensures that every child gets the attention and care they deserve. Serving the wonderful community of Hallandale Beach and its local schools, we take pride in the exceptional care and services we provide. We're not just a daycare, we're a nurturing environment where your child can learn, grow, and thrive. Our dedicated team is passionate about offering the best possible care, creating a safe and engaging space for your child. Why wait? Get in touch with us today to learn more about our top-notch services. At the Enrichment Center, we believe in providing the best for your child. Choose us, and rest assured that your child's after-school care is in the best hands. Trust us to provide an enriching experience that your child will love and benefit from.

Hallandale Beach, FL 33009
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Since its beginnings, the Ocean Institute has been a leader in providing ocean science and maritime history educational experiences. It has become nationally renowned for its hands-on programs that inspire and educate students of all ages. With a focus on ocean literacy, the Institute provides unique opportunities to explore ocean science and maritime history. The Ocean Institute has been an integral part of the Orange County community for more than 40 years. Founded in 1977 as the Orange County Marine Institute, this community-based, federally recognized 501(c)(3) organization has since flourished into a nationally acclaimed educational organization. With a mission to inspire and educate students of all ages about ocean science and maritime history, the Ocean Institute provides unique and hands-on learning opportunities to foster ocean literacy. Led by its founder, Stan Cummings, the Institute has stood the test of time, continuing to provide exciting and educational experiences for the past four decades.

Dana Point, CA 92629
4.8(3 reviews)
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In 1978, Ruth Lansford formed Friends of Ballona Wetlands to protect what remained of the 2,000 acres of wetlands that had been drastically affected by housing and development during the 20th century. With their nonprofit status in place, Friends of Ballona Wetlands took up a battle against a series of developers, using litigation and activism to push for preservation of the area. Finally, in 2003, the State of California, the developer of Playa Vista, and the Friends reached an agreement to save 600 acres of the wetlands. Through their relentless efforts, the Friends of Ballona Wetlands have become a leading voice in the struggle to protect the wetlands, working with other NGOs, creating community restoration and educational programs, and advocating for the environment.

Playa del Rey, CA 90293
4.7(3 reviews)
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Since 1949, Unalayee has been providing memorable outdoor adventures for kids of all ages. Located in Northern California’s Trinity Alps, Unalayee is a non-profit summer camp that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including boating, backpacking, and making crafts. Through this, campers learn how to safely enjoy a remarkably beautiful wilderness setting. At Unalayee, we are committed to providing a meaningful summer camp experience to campers from all backgrounds. We offer financial assistance to ensure no child is left out, and our unique program teaches leadership skills, confidence, compassion, community, and conservation. Join us on an unforgettable outdoor adventure today!

Gazelle, CA 96034
5(5 reviews)
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At UAC, we believe that summer camp should be a meaningful and unique experience. Children are free to explore and discover in a safe and stimulating environment. Our programs take children on educational field trips to the best museums, science centers and parks in the Bay Area. Qualified instructors with subject knowledge and experience working with children lead our programs, providing an in-depth source of information for students. We strive to create a summer camp experience that will be both fun and educational, giving your child an opportunity to follow their own interests and discover new ones.

Oakland, CA 94611
5(2 reviews)
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In 1990, a group of dedicated volunteers made a dream come true. Marilyn O’Flaherty, a retired Bradley University art teacher, presented the concept of a children’s museum to the Bourbonnais Township Park District. With the support of a Board of Trustees made up of community and educational leaders, the volunteers worked tirelessly to bring interactive museum experiences to schools and libraries. The result of their hard work was Exploration Station, a testament to the power of volunteerism. Exploration Station was made possible through the dedication of a group of volunteers. Marilyn O’Flaherty presented the idea of a children’s museum to the Bourbonnais Township Park District, who accepted the concept and created a Board of Trustees to provide guidance and support. Thanks to their hard work, a traveling gallery was created to bring interactive museum experiences to schools and libraries. Exploration Station stands as a reminder of the power of volunteerism and dedication to the community.

Grover Beach, CA 93433
5(5 reviews)
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Ting Internet is proud to introduce the STEM Discovery Center in Carlsbad, CA - a one-stop shop for all your STEM needs! Every Saturday, the Center offers two-hour sessions for kids in grades K-3 and 4-8. During the first hour, a teacher-led course introduces students to STEM concepts, and the second hour is Open Makers Space, where kids can explore their interests and create independently. What's more, SD LabRats, a nonprofit dedicated to providing educational resources to those in need, has made 2023 scholarships available! Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity - inquire today to learn more! At the STEM Discovery Center, we believe in helping kids develop a love for STEM! Our two-hour sessions on Saturdays offer kids the chance to learn STEM concepts from a teacher-led course, followed by an hour of Open Makers Space to explore their interests and create. Plus, SD LabRats has generously made 2023 scholarships available - inquire now to find out more about this amazing opportunity!

Encinitas, CA 92024
5(1 review)
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Are you looking for a unique summer experience for your child? Then Camp Ursa Major in the Napa Valley is the place to be! Our traditional day camp provides your little one with the opportunity to try new activities, make friends that will last a lifetime, and learn how to trust and rely on their peers. We offer a diverse set of program activities, special events programs, and daily group reflections that will help your child to develop both physically and emotionally, all in a supportive environment with both kids and adults. Send your kid to Camp Ursa Major for an unforgettable summer experience! Our day camp provides the perfect opportunity for your child to explore and grow in a supportive community. Campers are encouraged to take part in a variety of activities, special events programs, and daily group reflections. These activities are designed to help campers make life-long friends, develop trust in their peers, and build positive relationships with our amazing counselors. Your child can have the chance to grow emotionally and physically in an environment that is tailored to their individual needs.

Los Angeles, CA 90049
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Summerkids was founded in 1978 with the goal of giving children a fun, creative, and warm environment to enjoy during the summer months. For over 40 years, the DiMassa family has been in charge of running the camp, and they continue to create an amazing atmosphere for campers. Our staff is top-notch, and you can read more about them here. We offer two different programs for different age groups: Summerkids is for kids in K-6th grade, and Summer Challenge is for those in junior high. Come spend the summer with us at the only campground in the greater Pasadena area! At Summerkids, we set out to make sure children have an enjoyable and memorable summer experience. Founded in 1978 by the DiMassa family, the camp has been running for over four decades, and it continues to offer a creative and welcoming atmosphere. Our staff is the best in the area and you can read more about them here. We have two different programs that we offer so that campers of different ages can get the most out of their summer: Summerkids is for those in K-6th grade and Summer Challenge is for junior highers. Come join us at the only campground in the greater Pasadena area!

Altadena, CA 91001
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Mad Science of Central Los Angeles is the perfect place to introduce your children to the wonders of science! Our activities are designed to spark their curiosity and encourage them to ask questions while having a great time. From building rockets and robots to learning about the human body and the environment, your children's imaginations will be expanded and their knowledge deepened. Your children will be delighted to learn about science in a safe and stimulating environment. Our experienced instructors will make sure that every experience is engaging and educational, as well as entertaining and ally enriching! With our exciting and interactive programs, your children will have a blast while developing a greater appreciation for science.

Sylmar, CA 91342
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Mad Science of San Diego is your go-to destination for entertaining and educational science programs for kids. From after-school activities and birthday parties to workshops, special events, and summer camps, your child can explore the wonders of science in a fun and engaging way. Our programs are designed to stimulate learning while still being entertaining to your little one! Plus, with Mad Science’s founding brothers, Ariel and Ron Shlien, having started their company in 1985 in Montreal, Canada, you can be sure your child is receiving the best science programming available! Mad Science of San Diego is the perfect spot to get your child engaged in educational and enjoyable science programs. From after-school activities and birthday parties to workshops, special events, and summer camps, your child can experience the amazing world of science in an interactive and exciting way. Our programs are designed to give your child a stimulating and enjoyable learning experience. And, with Mad Science’s founding brothers, Ariel and Ron Shlien, having launched their business in 1985 in Montreal, Canada, you can trust that your child will benefit from the best science programming available.

San Diego, CA 92111
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At Mad Science of Sacramento Valley, your child can explore the wonders of science through exciting hands-on experiences. From after-school programs to birthday parties, workshops, special events, and summer camps, your kids can dive into the world of science with Mad Science! Our entertaining and educational programs are designed to ignite your child's curiosity in science and make learning fun. Let Mad Science of Sacramento Valley be part of your child's education! Our science enrichment programs are top-notch and offer a unique opportunity for kids to engage with science in an exciting, hands-on way. Our programs are sure to spark your child's interest in science and offer a fun, educational experience. Whether it's an after-school program, birthday party, workshop, special event, or summer camp, your child is sure to have a blast with Mad Science!

Sacramento, CA 95815
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In 1979, a small group of passionate citizens banded together to found Oceanographic Teaching Stations, Inc. (OTS). Their mission was to educate the public on the wonders of the oceans, tidelands, and beaches of Southern California. After being granted the opportunity to turn a dilapidated building at the end of the Manhattan Beach pier into a marine science education center, OTS received generous help from local volunteers and financial assistance from TRW and Arco. The result was the Roundhouse Marine Studies, which opened its doors to Los Angeles County students in 1982. By the end of the 1980s, the Roundhouse Aquarium was receiving 110 classes each year, a testament to the hard work of the original founders and the local community. Their passion for marine science and environmental education had created a thriving center for learning and exploration. Since its inception in 1979, OTS has seen the Roundhouse Aquarium grow into a beloved Southern California landmark. With the help of local volunteers, generous donors, and the determination of its original founders, the Roundhouse Aquarium continues to be a beacon of education and exploration.

Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
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Welcome to Los Serenos de Point Vicente! We are a volunteer organization dedicated to assisting and supporting the City of Rancho Palos Verdes’ objectives for the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. Our museum features exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the Peninsula, Abalone Cove Shoreline Park, Forrestal Nature Preserve/Ladera Linda Community Center, and the Trails at Trump National. Los Serenos volunteers provide interpretive and educational services to the community regarding the unique features and natural and cultural history of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and adjacent waters. We achieve this through docent-led tours, special events, workshops, and classes. Our goal is to provide meaningful experiences for all our visitors. We are proud to be part of the Rancho Palos Verdes community and we look forward to welcoming you to the Point Vicente Interpretive Center and other sites managed by Los Serenos. Please join us in exploring all the amazing features the Palos Verdes Peninsula has to offer.

Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
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At Galileo Innovation Camp, we understand the importance of nurturing our campers’ innovative potential. That’s why we’ve developed the Galileo Innovation Approach, or “GIA”, an exclusive three-part framework. We believe that all innovators need the right mindset, knowledge, and process to bring their best ideas to life. At camp, the GIA helps our campers develop a mindset that promotes innovative thinking, giving them the tools to ask the right questions and come up with creative solutions. We also provide our campers with the substantive knowledge they need to guide their breakthrough ideas and bring them to fruition. Finally, the GIA serves as a process that provides our campers with the support they need to make their innovations a reality. At Galileo Innovation Camp, we use the GIA as a lens to help our campers reach their full potential. Through this approach, we’re able to ensure that our campers have the support they need to unlock their innovative potential and bring their best ideas to life.

Oakland, CA 94607
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The San Diego Society of Natural History has a long and storied history. Founded in 1874, it is the oldest scientific institution in southern California and the third oldest west of the Mississippi. Over the years, this small society of natural history lovers and collectors has grown into a big museum, with 8 million specimens in its collection and a variety of exciting programs and exhibitions. The Society’s work over its 150-year history has been remarkable. It has studied, protected, and brought people closer to nature. It has put on award-winning exhibitions and created spectacular programs. It has grown its collection to an impressive 8 million specimens. The San Diego Society of Natural History has a proud heritage of connecting people to nature and inspiring them to care for and protect it. From its humble beginnings, it has grown into one of the largest and most respected scientific institutions in the west. It’s work over the past 150 years is a testament to the power of collaboration and dedication to a common purpose.

San Diego, CA 92101
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Our daily program schedule leaves plenty of time for staff and campers to create their own adventures. These can range from camp-wide traditions and activities to group-specific names and experiences that are unique to each group. By having the campers be the stars of their own stories, they will be able to come home and tell their friends all about their days with enthusiasm and pride. Outpost Summer Camps is committed to creating an atmosphere of belonging and adventure that will have a lasting impact on each of our campers.

San Diego, CA 92129
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At Scripps Ranch Swim & Racquet Club, families can find everything they need to stay fit and active. Whether you're looking for a fun way to get your kids involved in after-school activities or trying to find a way to keep your family active with fitness classes, this recreation center has you covered. They even offer swimming lessons to help the whole family learn a new skill. When it comes to keeping in touch with the Scripps Ranch Swim & Racquet Club, they make it easy. Whether you need to book a class or ask a question, you can get in touch quickly and easily through phone or email. With such a variety of services and a convenient way to get in touch, this recreation center is the perfect place for your family to stay active.

San Diego, CA 92131
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The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, California is a must-visit destination for families. This 5-acre site is located on Rainbow Harbor, across the water from the Long Beach Convention Center, Shoreline Village, and the Queen Mary Hotel and Attraction. Parents and kids alike will be captivated by the incredible variety of sea life on display, ranging from sharks and stingrays to seahorses and sea turtles. At the Aquarium of the Pacific, visitors can marvel at the beauty of the aquatic world as they stroll along the many exhibits. The aquarium offers interactive activities and educational programs for children of all ages. Plus, the aquarium also features a gift shop for visitors to purchase souvenirs to remember their trip. The Aquarium of the Pacific offers something for everyone. Whether you're looking to entertain the kids or just want to get up close and personal with some amazing sea creatures, this Long Beach attraction is an ideal destination for the whole family. So visit the Aquarium of the Pacific and explore the wonders of the ocean today!

Long Beach, CA 90802
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At Camp Me!, we believe in providing quality experiences for children that don't break the bank. Our standards-based enrichment program offers a full day for just $289 or a half day for $175 per session. You can be sure that your child will be in the best of hands with our highly experienced staff, all in a nurturing and engaging environment. We strive to make learning fun, and our activities are designed to be hands-on. Our STEM curriculum is developed by leading professionals in the field, so you can be sure that your child is getting the very best. Sign up today and your child will have a blast participating in our Camp Me! program!

Burlingame, CA 94010
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In our Science workshops, campers are encouraged to think outside of the box and explore a variety of topics, such as Life Science, Earth Science, Physical Science, Space Science, and Mathematics. Campers will stimulate their curiosity and critical thinking skills as they engage in experiments and problem-solving activities. In our Creative Arts workshops, campers can explore their imaginations as they work with a variety of materials, textures, and colors. Our workshops cover a range of topics, including Music, Gardening, Painting, Sculpting, Music, and Engineering. Campers are sure to have an enriching experience as they create and express themselves.

San Bruno, CA 94066