HBCOA 714.374.1524 • SENIOR CENTER IN CENTRAL PARK 714.536.5600 •  HOAG HEALTH & WELLNESS PAVILION 714.374.1578 • TRANSPORTATION 714.374.1742

Travel, Trips, and Tours

Huntington Beach Council on Aging Trips

HBCOA Travel Coordinator
Ellen HopeKearns, PhD
e.hopekearns@hbcoa.org

Special 2024 Travel, Trips, and Tours

The HBCOA offers exciting and enriching day trips to local So-Cal destinations and points of interest. The health, well-being, and enjoyment of the travel guests are our number one concern.

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • All tours are developed and operated by Good Times Travel (California Seller of Travel #2018390-40), a local, licensed and reputable tour operator that has been in business for 30 years
  • Onboard the newer, deluxe, fully-equipped motorcoaches is a Senior Center representative, professional driver and bottled water
  • Price includes transportation, sightseeing, admission and meals as indicated

To Book a Trip
The Travel and Resource Room at the Senior Center is open for in-person booking appointments. Call the Travel and Resource Room at (714) 374-1572 to ensure that the room is open and operating before coming in to book, and to check the availability of the trips.

Trip registration is available Monday- Friday in the Travel and Resource Room at the Senior Center in Central Park. Unless otherwise noted trips depart from the Huntington Beach Central Library Theater parking lot on Goldenwest and Talbert next to the Central Library.

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Colorful Songs Revue

Luck of the Irish with Included Lunch & Wine

Saturday, March 16, 2024

Gather up your “lucky charms” and get your “smiling Irish eyes” onboard for this St. Patrick’s Day tradition that celebrates popular Irish music and dance. This Irish celebration features the incredible Colorful Songs Revue cast in their Irish costumes entertaining us with stories, comedy, songs and dances including popular Irish songs like “Danny Boy,” “McNamara’s Band,” “When Irish Eyes Are Smiling,” “My Wild Irish Rose,” “Molly Malone,” “Harrigan,” “The Band Played On” and scenes from the Broadway shows Brigadoon, Finian’s Rainbow and more! Enjoy an included three-course waiter-served luncheon with choice of entrée (corned beef and cabbage, roasted chicken, vegetarian pasta or vegan tartare) along with traditional sides, ice cream sundae, and wine, along with singalongs, door prizes and more – for a shamrockin’ good afternoon! Presented at Almansor Court, a beautiful special events venue in Alhambra.

Member Price: $156; Non-Member Price: $166 • Depart: 10:30 a.m.• Return: 5:00 p.m.

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Tacos, Marines & Tiny Machines

Camp Pendleton Ranch House & Miniature Museum

With Included Taco Lunch

Thursday, March 28, 2024

Of all the Marine Corps bases throughout the world, Camp Pendleton perhaps has the most intriguing past – one filled with historical charm and vibrancy. Spanish explorers, colorful politicians, herds of thundering cattle, skillful vaqueros and tough Marines have all contributed to the history of this spectacular piece of land. This fascinating new tour provides the unique opportunity to travel into Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton’s interior for a guided tour of the Santa Margarita Ranch House, Bunkhouse Museum and Ranch House Chapel – the oldest structure on the entire base and a National Historic Site. The 8,500 square-foot house, built in 1827 on 21 acres, is a stunning visual example of early California architecture and over the years has been home to some of California's most famous families, including Pio Pico (who lost it in a horse bet!) and the families of 35 Marine Corps generals. Historic artifacts and exhibits include early ranch equipment, photographs of President Roosevelt's historic visit, antiques donated by Anthony Quinn during the filming of Guadalcanal Diary and furnishings of the Rancho period. Then we’ll enjoy an included taco bar buffet lunch with dessert at an award-winning family-owned Mexican restaurant located in Carlsbad that has been serving up authentic Mexican food inspired by generations of family cooking for more than 40 years! This afternoon, we’ll enjoy a docent-guided tour of the Miniature Engineering Craftsmanship Museum – a large museum featuring tiny feats of engineering! This impressive collection showcases the “best of the best” in model engineering – from crafting model cars, trains, engines, and clocks – you’ll be amazed at the precision and detail involved in each tiny machine. This tour involves moderate walking over uneven terrain. When booking, provide your full legal name as it appears on your driver’s license or other government-issued photo identification that you will be presenting to Camp Pendleton security on the day of the tour. A roster of names and related security information must be submitted on February 26th with no additions or changes allowed after that deadline.

Member Price: $136; Non-Member Price: $146 • Depart: 8:15 a.m. • Return: 6:00 p.m.

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Descanso & Degas 

Descanso Gardens & Norton Simon Museum 

Thursday, April 11, 2024 

 

Of all the Marine Corps bases throughout the world, Camp Pendleton perhaps has the most intriguing past – one filled with historical charm and vibrancy. Spanish explorers, colorful politicians, herds of thundering cattle, skillful vaqueros and tough Marines have all contributed to the history of this spectacular piece of land. This fascinating new tour provides the unique opportunity to travel into Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton’s interior for a guided tour of the

Escape to the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains during what is a normally a delightful time of year to discover internationally renowned gardens and spectacular art! Secluded in a lovely setting in La Cañada Flintridge, Descanso Gardens’ secluded, lush and dense 150 acres features over 1,000,000 plants, nine botanical collections, a redwood forest, streams, a lake, a bird sanctuary and at this time of year is typically home to blooms of roses, azaleas, irises, wildflowers and California natives. The 5-acre Rose Garden contains more than 1,600 roses representing centuries of horticultural history with significant collections of species, old garden and modern roses arranged in theme gardens. The tranquil Japanese Garden features plants native to Asia, an arched bridge and shaded paths along a koi-filled stream along with a traditional teahouse. Enjoy ample time at leisure to browse the gardens, modern art gallery, the two-story, 22-room Boddy Mansion and gift shop with lunch on your own at The Market, offering grab-and-go dining options. This afternoon we’ll visit Pasadena’s beautiful Norton Simon Museum, known around the world as one of the most remarkable private art collections ever assembled. Over a 30-year period, industrialist Norton Simon amassed an astonishing collection of European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century including the finest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works on the West Coast. The museum features over 100 pieces by Edgar Degas including paintings, drawings and sculpture as well as works by Raphael, Rembrandt, Cézanne, Manet, Monet, Matisse, Renoir, Van Gogh, Gaugin, Picasso and Warhol. Enjoy time at leisure to browse the museum’s collection as well as the sculpture garden that is filled with stately trees, colorful shrubs and flowers and a lush pond with several varieties of water lilies surrounding meandering walkways and some of the museum's most important sculptures. Bring your own earphones and access the museum’s free audio tour on your smartphone to enhance your experience.

Member Price: $99; Non-Member Price: $109 • Depart: 9:00 a.m • Return: 5:30 p.m. 

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Art Masters & Mariachis 

L.A. Art Tour & The Broad with L.A. Guide Curt 

With Included Dinner & Mariachis at Casa Sanchez 

Friday, April 26, 2024 

 

Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the vibrant art and culture of Los Angeles accompanied by professional L.A. guide Curt. We’ll begin with a captivating exploration of the city's dynamic art scene, exploring multiple neighborhoods including the Civic Center, the Figueroa Corridor and the burgeoning Arts District. Formerly barren industrial areas have been transformed into thriving hubs of creativity, teeming with art studios, lofts, galleries and striking street art. Each installation features a unique history and provides deep insights into downtown L.A.'s ever-evolving artistic landscape. Get your best shot with the latest public art including breathtaking statues, sculptures and murals that pay tribute to iconic L.A. sports legends like Kobe Bryant, Mookie Betts, Wayne Gretzky and others. Enjoy time at leisure exploring The Broad, the $140 million contemporary art museum financed by billionaire philanthropists and art collectors Eli and Edythe Broad. This repository for some of the most expensive artwork on the planet – most of it from the Broads’ personal collection of over 2,000 pieces – is one of the most prominent holdings of contemporary art worldwide and includes pieces by Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. With only 250 pieces on display at any one time, each visit here presents new opportunities to question, debate and appreciate. This evening we’ll arrive at Casa Sanchez, the upscale Mexican restaurant featuring unique family recipes that have been passed down through generations. After an included three-course dinner with choice of entrée, we’ll experience a live mariachi performance. Sit back and enjoy the soul-stirring melodies of a mariachi band featuring violinists adorned in silver-spangled trajes de charro (horsemen's uniforms) of black, white, orange, and green, a guitarist and a trumpeter – each contributing to create a mesmerizing musical symphony.

Member Price: $179; Non-Member Price: $189 • Depart: 1:00 p.m. • Return: 9:00 p.m. 

HUNTINGTON BEACH COUNCIL ON AGING / SENIOR CENTER IN CENTRAL PARK 

(714) 374-1572 - 18041 Goldenwest Street, Huntington Beach, CA 92648 

SEATING

  • Please let us know if you need special accommodations or if any mobility or assistive devices are utilized.

DEPARTURE/ RETURN INFORMATION

Huntington Beach Central Library (HBCL): 7111 Talbert Ave., Huntington Beach, CA 92648

  • Return times are approximate

RESERVING SPACE

  •  The only way to reserve space is in person at the Senior Center in Central Park at the Travel and Resource Room
  • Payment may be made in person (cash, check, Visa, Mastercard or Discover)
  • Make checks payable to HBCOA

CANCELLATIONS/REFUNDS

  • There is 30 day notifcation deadline to receive a refund, and no refund allowed for cancellation within 30 days of a tour unless your space can be re-sold.

Travel, Trips & Tours Photo Gallery

Warner Brothers Tour February 29, 2004

The Warner Brothers Studio tour experience was expansive and included many displays, a video history of the Studios, a tram backstage tour, costumes, and other interactive experiences.  The group was delighted to enter an empty sound stage to learn about films/TV shows that were filmed there.

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Donna, Diana & Diamond February 13th, 2023

On a chilly morning, guests boarded the bus to Palm Springs for a stop at Hadley Fruit Orchards, where they purchased some goodies and enjoyed a date shake. The bus then drove to the Palm Springs Camelot Theatre/Cultural Center for the musical tribute to Diana Ross, Donna Summers, and Neal Diamond.  A good time was had by all!

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Wheel of Fortune Live on January 25th, 2023

A group of excited seniors enjoyed lunch and shopping at the Original Farmers Market prior to going to the Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, where they sat in the studio audience watching 3 episodes of the Wheel of Fortune being taped and the behind-the-scenes action that goes into taping a game show.

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135th Rose Parade Tour on January 1, 2024.

Upon arrival at the 135th Tournament of Roses Parade grounds, fifty passengers were enthralled watching a spectacular fly-over by the Air Force B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber. Once seated, the constant stream of stunning displays did not disappoint as the “Celebrating a World of Music” focused parade began with inspiring music from the Marine Corps marching band followed shortly by an endless array of remarkable floats. A good time was had by all.

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Griffith Obserbatory including Planetarium Show

On a rainy November day, a small group enjoyed the bus ride to Los Angeles and sights in LA. The first stop was at Philippe The Original where the group enjoyed a delicious French dipped sandwich, which was followed by many planetary activities at the renowned Griffith Observatory. Regardless of the rainy weather this was a great tour, including the Planetarium Show!

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Farmers Market, Monastery of Angles and LA’s Art District

A small group boarded the bus headed for the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles. Curt, a professional LA tour guide, joined the group and shared plenty of anecdotes and back stories about each tasting in the heart of the Market. The guests also enjoyed more tastings at the hidden Monastery of Angels and in downtown Los Angeles, before the final stop at LA’s Art District. A delicious day indeed.

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USC Campus, Dodger's Stadium and Philippe’s Restaurant

This tour began at the USC campus, where the step-on-guide, Curt Tucker joined the group. Curt talked about the life and legacy of Jackie Robinson and his history playing football for UCLA. The next stop was at Dodger Stadium for a behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium. Curt shared the history of how the Dodgers moved from Brooklyn to LA and the property for the stadium was acquired. The group enjoyed a tour of the renovated centerfield plaza, pavilions, and other restricted areas including the Vin Scully Press Box, a visit to the field where to sit in the Dodger dugout, and lunch at Philippe’s Restaurant.

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Streets of Hollywood:East West Recording Studio, Mel's Diner and Grammy Museum

Twenty-two passengers welcomed Good Times’ professional tour guide Jasmin, a former actress before boarding the bus ride to Los Angeles. Riding through the streets of Hollywood, Jasmin shared stories about her Hollywood experiences. First stop was at the East West Recording Studios on Sunset Blvd where guests enjoyed a guided tour through various recording studios learning history and the famous music stars who had recorded there.  Back on the bus Jasmin shared more stories and historical events in Hollywood’s history on route to a lunch stop at Mel’s Diner and a self-guided tour at the Grammy Museum.

Happy tour guests after lunch

Salk Institute for Biological Studies, Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial and the Birch Aquarium

The Salk and Sea tour began in San Diego with a visit to the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, then a visit to the Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial featuring veterans plaques from the Revolutionary War up to the current War on Terror, followed by a final stop at the Birch Aquarium.  This tour was a very interesting, enlightening, and learning opportunity.

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Del Mar Thoroughbred Track and Clubhouse

Thirty-eight passengers set off for the iconic Del Mar Thoroughbred Club to enjoy an exciting day at the races. The group enjoyed a motorcoach ride south along the coast to the racetrack admiring views of the Pacific Ocean along the route. Upon arrival, guests made their way to the Clubhouse section and soon bets were placed and many winners emerged-experienced and beginners alike.

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Pisa Italy Tour, St. Peter's Italian Catholic Church and the Forest Lawn Memorial Park

On July 20th, 46 guests were excited and engaged throughout the Pisa Italy tour with professional local guide Curt Tucker. This tour highlighted the Italian-inspired treasures around Los Angeles and emphasized the incredible influence that Italian culture has had on the city’s architecture, fashion, art, food, and cinema. Venues visited included St. Peter’s Italian Catholic Church, lunch at the San Antonio Winery’s  Restaurant, the Italian American Museum, and St. Andrew’s Church. At Forest Lawn Memorial Park, guests were enthralled seeing Leonardo da Vinci’s stained-glass masterpiece The Last Supper, and Michelangelo’s most famous sculptures. This was a very unique excursion enjoyed by one and all.

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Broad Museum, Angels Flight Railway and the Grand Central Market

Fifty-six seniors traveled to downtown Los Angeles for an adventure.  They enjoyed browsing around the Broad Museum’s contemporary art collection, riding on the Angels Flight Railway, having lunch at the legendary Grand Central Market, and exploring the vast collections of books, records, and art at the eccentric Last Bookstore.

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Reagan Library and Museum

On June 17, seniors were given five hours of leisure time at the Reagan Library and Museum to enjoy lunch, browse the permanent exhibits including the torn down Berlin Wall, the Air Force One Pavilion, and pay respects at the Reagan’s final resting place, among other library holdings. The group also had a unique opportunity to browse the traveling exhibit, “Auschwitz: Not Long Ago. Not far away”, making its only appearance on the West Coast.

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Coronado Island and the Hotel Del Coronado

A group of seniors spent a lovely day including leisure time for lunch and shopping on Coronado Island. They visited the Coronado Museum of History and then enjoyed a guided tour at the legendary Hotel Del Coronado. On the bus ride home, the group was treated to the DVD movie “Some Like It Hot”, which included some scenes filmed at the Hotel Del.

A good time was had by all!

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 Foursquare Heritage Center, Angelus Temple, Biltmore Hotel, Los Angeles Central Library and the LA City Hall

Los Angeles during “L.A.’s Roaring 20s” tour guests were regaled with plenty of intriguing stories April 20th. Tour Guide Curt expertly guided the tour bus driver through downtown Los Angeles, with visits to the Foursquare Heritage Center, Angelus Temple, and parsonage founded by renowned evangelist Aimee Semple McPherson.

Moving on to lunch at the historic Biltmore Hotel, guests marveled at its elaborate painted and carved ceilings. The next stop after passing iconic Los Angeles neighborhood landmarks were visits to the Los Angeles Central Library and City Hall. Ending with a flourish, the Roaring 20s time-travel escapade wrapped up with a stop at historic Philippe’s, known for its French Dip sandwich.

A perfect ending to a story-filled day.

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Wildlife Learning Conservation Center, Reyes Winery and theLoaf Japanese Bakery & Cafe

On Friday, May 19 a group of seniors set out for an adventurous Mystery Tour. The Tour leaders kept the group guessing about  three destinations included in this tour until the bus pulled up at each venue, including the Wildlife Learning and Conservation Center in Sylmar, Reyes Winery on Main in Santa Clarita, and the nearby Loaf Japanese Bakery & Cafe.This was an excursion full of surprises and mystery.

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Paseo Nuevo's Shopping Center and International Orchid Show

During a raining and chilly day on March 10th, a group of 40 seniors boarded the bus in Huntington Beach headed to Santa Barbara. Despite the bad weather, guests enjoyed leisure time to shop at Paseo Nuevo’s outdoor shopping center and have lunch before viewing the world’s most exotic flowers at the 75th annual International Orchid Show.

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Frank Lloyd Wright's Hollyhock House

On the cold and rainy February 24th morning, seniors boarded the bus in Huntington Beach bound to Los Angeles for a visit at the historic Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House. During a tour of the facilty, guests gained important information from docents about the architectural details of the beautiful Hollyhock House.

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Rose Parade 134th in Pasadena

On the chilly January 2nd morning, seniors sat in the grandstand watching in awe the majesty of the 134th Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena.

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