Christmas in L.A. and San Diego

A few blocks from the hotel. Educational if you want to learn about the Holocaust. Reminder -- closed on Saturday. Alternative to Getty Center.

Alternative to the Getty Center if Claire likes to see dinosaurs and learn about geology. Does reference old earth but the tar pits and exhibits are interesting. For FREE admission, remember to bring your membership card if you're a member of Singapore Science Center.

Grounds are beautiful so if kids get tired of the art, they can run around outside with beautiful views of L.A. and the ocean. When we were there, our kids spent the entire time playing outside. The tram ride up to the museum is also very fun -- worth the price of admission which is free (parking is $8). If it's raining, the museum provides free use of umbrellas. Check out van Gogh's Irises (purchased for $53.9 million).

Santa Monica Pier has rides and activities but not as nice as Disney's California Adventure's Paradise Pier. Optional if you want to see the ocean.

From Long Beach, take Rt 22 East, exit Euclid and go north, Right on Katella, Left on Walnut and right on Magic Way. Ignore signs for Disneyland parking but follow signs for DOWNTOWN Disney. Right on Downtown Dr to park for 3 hours free. Then go back to hotel to check in and take free shuttle back for evening program (http://disneyland.disney.go.com/disneyla…)

According to Disney, you can use the Citypass ticket to enter the park but need to pick up the Park Hopper ticket at the Main Street Post Office.
Check the map (http://adisneyland.disney.go.com/media/d…) and figure out where you want to go. Also know how Fastpass system works (http://allears.net/dlr/tp/fastpass.htm). Recommend checking height requirements and going to Indiana Jones, Space Mountain or Splash Mountain First. Then picking up a Fast Pass. Then go to It's a small world and other rides while waiting for the Fast Pass Reservation time. Check out parades and fireworks options at
http://disneyland.disney.go.com/disneyla…)

Corner of Harbor Blvd and Chapman. Ask for a free upgrade to a suite. Parking is $15/day -- catch the Disneyland Shuttle in front of the hotel. Be sure to order the kids breakfast waffle in the shape of Micky mouse.

Can get take-out (call in order first) if prefer to eat in the hotel. They deliver but easy to walk across the street to pick up.