The Langham Huntington, Pasadena

A pretty cafe on a tree-lined San Marino street with scones, sandwiches and patio tables, plus a gourmet marketplace next door for treats to go.

A newly rebuilt playground set in 30 acres of lawns and old trees, with a flat walking loop that works for strollers and balance bikes.

Three levels of play areas from toddlers to preteens, lots of shade and a gazebo that hosts summer concerts.

A 1943 diner where kids get their own Little Stinko's menu and a proper soda-fountain sundae for dessert.

Slow-smoked ribs, pulled pork and cornbread in a roomy dining room that handles loud dinners with kids well.

A working 1915 soda fountain inside a real pharmacy, pouring hand-dipped shakes and ice cream sodas on Route 66.