Home Blog Page 69

Play City in Eastlake is a fun indoor playground for families with young kids

If you’re looking for a fun and safe place for your kids to play in Chula Vista, look no further than Play City in Eastlake! This locally owned indoor playground has delighted families for the past three years with its large, vibrant play areas and fantastic amenities. As a parent of a small child, I love places like this where I can sit and work while my kids run around. We love to come here during the hot summer months when it is way too hot for the kids to play at the local playgrounds.

Recently, I got a chance to tour Play City and learn more about it and why so many families like mine love to come here. Let’s take a look at what they have to offer.

A Playground for Every Age

One thing I love is that Play City offers a unique experience for children ages 1 to 12. It features three distinct play areas designed to cater to different age groups:

  • Infant Area: A safe haven for babies to explore and play. It’s perfect for new parents who want to give their babies a great space to roll around.
  • Toddler Area: A whimsical space with a grocery store and a farm with stuffed animals.
  • Big Kids Area: Exciting slides, ball pits, bounce houses, and climbing walls. My kids go crazy on them.

When my kids were younger, they would love to explore the toddler area, and I loved the fact that it was only for them. Some of the bigger kids can get a little rambunctious, so having the toddler area is perfect for them.

Perfect Party Venue For Your Child’s Party

Another big thing they offer is the party areas. If you’re planning a birthday party or a special celebration, Play City has you covered with three fantastic party areas.

  • Mini Party: This is located on the ground floor, perfect for families who want to stay near the playground.
  • Deluxe Package: This package offers more extensive, private space for parties. The patio area is my favorite. It overlooks the play area and offers so much space for families like mine.
  • Outdoor Patio: Ideal for those who prefer to celebrate outside. You can also have add-ons like bounce house and more.

All party areas have tables and chairs; families are welcome to bring cakes, decorations, food, and drinks (no alcohol allowed).

Themed Play and Special Events

Play City’s themed areas, like the toddler grocery store and farm, add an extra layer of fun for the kids. The facility also hosts themed events and activities, such as Halloween costume parties and holiday celebrations, ensuring something exciting is always happening.

If you’re not a member, sign up for their newsletter or follow them on social media. They always post their upcoming schedule of events and more.

Play City in Eastlake
Here is the view from the patio party area at Play City in Eastlake. I love the seating area where I can work or relax while my kids play on the playground.

Play City in Eastlake is very safe & clean

The local Chula Vista community has embraced Play City for its safe, clean, and air-conditioned environment. Parents appreciate the dedicated spaces for different age groups and the meticulous daily cleaning and overnight deep cleaning. Play City staff are always on hand to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.

Memberships and Discounts

The VIP membership is an excellent value for families who frequent Play City at just $65 per month. It offers unlimited visits seven days a week. Discounted weekday rates and placards for occasional visits are also available. Check out Play City’s website for detailed information on memberships and special offers.

Operating Hours and Pricing

Pay City offers so much for the cost of a membership or day pass. Not only do my kids get a safe, fun place to run around and burn off all of that energy, but I also get peace of mind knowing they’re close by. I also get access to the free Wi-Fi and seating areas. It’s way better then sitting on some park bench in the hot sun with no Wi-Fi.

Play City is open:

  • Sunday to Thursday: 10 AM to 8 PM
  • Friday and Saturday: 10 AM to 9 PM

VIP members enjoy early access from 9 AM.

Party rentals start at $325 for the mini-party package, with various options available depending on party size and additional features. Visit their website for more details and to book your child’s unforgettable party.

Join the Fun at Play City!

My family loves Play City in Eastlake. With its unique play areas, fantastic party venues, and commitment to safety and community, Play City is the ultimate destination for family fun in Chula Vista. Plan your visit today and let your kids’ imaginations run wild in this beautiful indoor playground!

Exciting Upgrades Coming to Chula Vista Marina Park Parking Lot

Get ready for some positive changes at Chula Vista Marina! The Port of San Diego is about to revamp the parking lot on July 22, with the project expected to wrap up by October 17, 2024. This renovation will enhance the parking area while ensuring minimal disruption to visitors.

If you have been to the Chula Vista Marina, you know this area needs some TLC. The parking lot is filled with potholes and cracks and is in bad shape overall. The Port of San Diego has been hosting more & more Chula Vista events down here, and the parking lot has shown its age.

What to Expect During Construction at the Chula Vista Marina

Here is what we can expect during the construction. This will be a three-month project, so be ready for traffic control if you plan on heading down.

  • The Park and Boat Launch: Both will remain open throughout the construction so you can still visit during the project.
  • Traffic Impact: A section of Marina Way will be affected, but no detours will be required. Traffic control measures will be in place to guide you.
  • Parking: While parking will be limited, an adjacent dirt lot will be available for use.
Chula Vista Marina project map
Here is the project map of the Chula Vista Marina parking lot project.

Phased Construction Schedule

The project will unfold in several stages:

  • Phase 1: Late July to mid-August will cover work in front of the boat launch
  • Phase 2: Mid-August to early September will be the section closest to the park
  • Phase 3: Early September to mid-September will be the lot on the upper south side of the parking lot
  • Phase 4: Mid-September to early October will be the lower parking lot on the south side of the bayfront

Please note that the schedule might change based on construction conditions. There will also be work on Marina Way leading up to the park.

I know many car clubs often gather here during the weekend, so they might want to find a new location while the project is ongoing.

Chula Vista Marina Project Details

This upgrade is part of the Port’s annual Major Maintenance Program. In April, the Board of Port Commissioners awarded Griffith Company a $1.45 million contract for the work.

For more details about this project and ongoing redevelopment efforts at Chula Vista Bayfront, visit portofsandiego.org/chulavistabayfront.

About the Port of San Diego

The Port of San Diego manages 34 miles of San Diego Bay across five cities. Operating without tax dollars, the Port focuses on services from maritime operations to waterfront development and public safety. Its diverse portfolio includes cargo and cruise terminals, hotels, restaurants, marinas, museums, and public parks, all contributing to the region’s vibrant and prosperous way of life.

The Chula Vista Farmers Market: A fun community event happening every Sunday

The Chula Vista Farmers Market is a beloved event that brings the community together every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Held at Parkway Street in front of Memorial Park; this market is not just any farmers market; it’s a celebration of local vendors and farmers. Here, you’ll find an array of locally grown fruits and vegetables, artisanal crafts, and delicious food.

History of the Chula Vista Farmers Market

The Chula Vista Farmers Market has a storied past. In the early 2000s, it took place every Thursday along Center Street in downtown Chula Vista and was managed by the Third Avenue Village Association. It was a small yet popular market where locals gathered to buy fresh flowers, local produce, and even food from a couple of vendors. However, due to health issues faced by the market director, the market ceased around 2010. It was sad to see this incredible event come to an end. So many people had asked me if it would ever return.

In 2019, a revival began with the help of the San Diego Markets and the Downtown Chula Vista Association. The market was rescheduled to Sundays, making it more accessible for families, and relocated to Parkway Street in front of Memorial Park. Despite a brief pause during the pandemic, the market has returned stronger, now boasting over 50 vendors during the summer months.

History of the Chula Vista Farmers Market
The Chula Vista Farmers Market started out on Center Street every Thursday. I shot a photo of the market in 2006 shortly after the market closed for good.

So many great vendors at the market

The market features a diverse range of vendors. From farmers selling fresh fruits and vegetables to food vendors like El Rey Tacos a Vapor, a staple since the market’s inception, there’s something for everyone. You can also find local artisans offering crafts, artwork, and candles. Some standout vendors include Romantics Coffee, known for their specialty brews, and Sam’s Breads, where you can find mouth-watering baked goods.

If you would like to be a vendor at the market, then be sure to visit their official website here. You can fill out their online application and learn more about what it takes to be a vendor.

The Chula Vista community continues to support them

One vendor that always attracts a crowd is “El Rey Tacos a Vapor.” Their delicious tacos have been a favorite since the beginning. Another popular spot is the “Community Fish Market,” which offers a fantastic selection of fresh fish. I recently tried the new “Git This Biscuit,” which offers a delicious biscuit breakfast sandwich. These are just some of my favorites. Let me know what your go-to vendor is when you visit.

The Chula Vista Farmers Market enjoys strong community support and is a well-attended event, rain or shine. This consistency has helped the market grow and thrive, making it a staple in the community. It’s more than just a place to shop; it’s a weekly activity that brings great vendors and the community together.

“I have been going to this farmers market for three years now and love to support them.” Monica, a long-time Chula Vista resident, said as she walked around the market with her family. “I always stop and get a loaf of bread from Sam’s Breads before he sells out.”

Chula Vista Farmers Market has fresh fruit
Fresh fruits and vegetables have always been a community favorite. They have a large selection of delicious produce.

A few tweaks that could make it better going forward

If there’s one thing I’d love to see at future farmer’s markets, it’s live music. Imagine how fantastic it would be to have a local musician playing at Memorial Bowl while everyone enjoys their food. I know it would require city permits and a bit more work, but it would be an incredible addition. Having live music between the vendor booths could be a simpler way to enhance the atmosphere. The Otay Ranch Town Center Farmers Market features live music, so I’m hopeful we can see it at our market, too.

Another highlight from last year was the night market during the Chula Vista Starlight Parade. I hope they bring that back this year. It not only provided entertainment while people waited for the parade but also brought in more food vendors. I hope the market does this again in December.

I love the Chula Vista Farmers Market

Vendors and visitors alike cherish the Chula Vista Farmers Market. The vendors appreciate the supportive and friendly atmosphere, noting that it strikes the perfect balance between being bustling and manageable. As a Chula Vista resident, I love spending Sundays at the market, sipping coffee, strolling through the booths, and supporting local businesses. It’s a beautiful way to spend the day, especially during the summer.

The Chula Vista Farmers Market has become a cornerstone of the community, and its continued success is a testament to the vendors’ dedication and the residents’ support. Here’s to many more years of this fantastic market bringing joy and fresh produce to Chula Vista!

Make sure you check out our Chula Vista events calendar to find more fun events like this. We have been working hard to improve the calendar. If you know of an event that we might have missed, let us know.

15th Annual Farm to Bay Fundraiser: Conservation, Food, & Fun at the Living Coast Discovery Center

The 15th Annual Farm to Bay Fundraiser is more than just an event—it’s a convergence of conservation, culinary delights, and engaging activities designed to highlight the importance of environmental stewardship. Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Living Coast Discovery Center, this year’s event promises an array of experiences that support the Living Coast Discovery Center’s mission. From unique animal encounters to a lively auction and local fare, the evening is crafted to be both enjoyable and meaningful.

Farm to Bay Fundraiser Event Details

The 15th Annual Farm to Bay Fundraiser will be held on Saturday, August 3rd, from 4:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Living Coast Discovery Center in Chula Vista. Every year, this event brings together so many great local businesses and brings culinary delights from all over San Diego.

Imagine a tapestry of tantalizing aromas and flavors as local culinary delights tantalize your taste buds. This event, exclusively for those 21 and older, is set to be an epicurean paradise, boasting an array of food and beverage samplings that showcase the best of San Diego’s local fare.

Add the thrill of up-close animal encounters featuring sea turtles, sharks, and majestic birds of prey, and you have an unforgettable evening. You and your guest will be talking about this event for months to come.

Fundraising Impact to the Living Coast Discover Center

Proceeds from the Farm to Bay Fundraiser are pivotal in supporting the Living Coast Discovery Center’s conservation, education, wildlife, and sustainability programs. Picture a lifeline, each dollar acting as a heartbeat, keeping the Center’s vital initiatives alive.

Last year’s event, for instance, raised a staggering $150,000, fueling year-round operations. Imagine a silent auction filled with treasures; each bid a whisper of hope for endangered species. The live auction, bustling with excitement, transforms rare opportunities into tangible support.

Every sip of local wine and bite of gourmet food sampled at the event tantalizes taste buds while nurturing the future of our planet’s wildlife. This fundraiser is not just an event but a movement.

Farm to Bay Fundraiser at the Living Coast Discovery Center
It would be cool to explore the Living Coast Discovery Center at night. You will have the chance if you get tickets to the Farm to Bay Fundraiser.

Exciting Entertainment all evening long

Amid the vibrant atmosphere of the Farm to Bay Fundraiser, guests will be treated to live entertainment, captivating auctions, and unforgettable encounters with an array of animal ambassadors. There is so much more to come as we get closer to the event. Be sure to follow the Living Coast Discovery Center on Instagram for updates.

Silent and live auctions will ignite friendly competition, offering everything from exclusive experiences to unique memorabilia. Last year’s event had a lot of bidding wars on some great items.

Imagine mingling with hawks, sea turtles, and other animals; each encounter is more thrilling than the last.

This enchanting blend of music, bidding wars, and animal magic ensures an unforgettable evening where conservation meets celebration in the most delightful of ways.

San Diego & Chula Vista Local Partnerships

In addition to the captivating entertainment, local partnerships play a pivotal role in the Farm to Bay Fundraiser’s success. The event brings together the best of San Diego’s culinary and beverage scene.

Imagine savoring a sip of exquisite wine, crafted with the same care and passion as a delicate brushstroke on a canvas, paired with gourmet bites that tantalize your taste buds. Esteemed local restaurants and breweries join forces, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

These collaborations showcase San Diego’s vibrant food culture and underscore the community’s commitment to conservation. By supporting this event, you’re not just enjoying a feast but helping sustain vital wildlife and educational programs, an investment as nourishing as the meals served.

Ready to get your tickets for the event?

Tickets for the 15th Annual Farm to Bay Fundraiser are now available for purchase. This exclusive event allows attendees aged 21 and above to support crucial conservation efforts. Imagine strolling through the beautiful Living Coast Discovery Center on August 3rd, from 4 to 7:30 p.m., indulging in delectable local fare and sipping on exquisite beverages.

Each ticket unlocks access to mesmerizing animal encounters with natural wildlife, business leaders, and shark encounters. By purchasing a ticket, you are not just attending a delightful evening; you are actively contributing to the Living Coast Discovery Center’s year-round operations.

Don’t miss out on this unique blend of conservation, community, and culinary delight—secure your tickets today!

Will you be attending the event this year?

Ready to get your tickets? The 15th Annual Farm to Bay Fundraiser, set against the enchanting backdrop of the Living Coast Discovery Center, promises an unforgettable evening of conservation, culinary delights, and community spirit.

This event underscores the vital importance of supporting the Living Coast Discovery Center’s initiatives through engaging animal encounters, vibrant auctions, and lively entertainment.