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
HBCOA Travel Coordinator
Ellen HopeKearns, PhD
e.hopekearns@hbcoa.org
Special 2023 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.
Single-Day Excursions
Salk & Sea
Salk Institute & Birch Aquarium
With Included Picnic at Mount Soledad National Veterans Memorial Thursday, September 14, 2023
Escape to San Diego’s beautiful La Jolla coast and experience two of its most iconic sites. We begin at the legendary Salk Institute, an incredible campus that rests on La Jolla’s coastal bluffs, 350 feet above the Pacific Ocean. We’ll enjoy a 1-hour, docent-led exterior walking tour focused on the architecture of this 27-acre campus. Acclaimed by architectural critics as one of the world's boldest structures, the Salk Institute has been described as one of the most significant architectural sites in the U.S. and has garnered accolades for its design and preservation. The original buildings were designed by preeminent American architect Louis Kahn in collaboration with Dr. Jonas Salk in the early 1960s and declared a historical landmark in 1991. Dr. Salk, the American medical researcher who developed one of the first successful polio vaccines and the founder of the institute, designed the structure to fulfill his vision of a facility with open, unobstructed laboratory interiors set in a dramatic location that inspires creativity among its researchers. We’ll enjoy an included boxed lunch picnic at Mount Soledad National Veterans Memorial, offering magnificent 360-degree panoramic views. This afternoon we’ll visit the beautiful Birch Aquarium at the Scripps Institute of Oceanography and dive into the world of sharks, seahorses, and coral reefs. The Birch Aquarium features more than 5,000 sea creatures in over 60 habitats including a rescued Loggerhead Sea Turtle, a Giant Pacific Octopus, Weedy Sea dragons, Moon Jellies and the world’s smallest penguins – Little Blue Penguins. Enjoy time at leisure to explore the exhibits, get hands-on with sea creatures and soak up the stunning, panoramic ocean views. Member Price: $139; Non-Member Price: $149 • Depart: 9:00 a.m. • Return: 6:00 p.m.
Jackie & The Dodgers
Tribute to Jackie Robinson With Dodger Stadium Tour With L.A. Guide Curt
Wednesday, September 27, 2023
Take a journey through the pages of history with professional L.A. guide Curt and explore the life and legacy of Jackie Robinson, an incredible man and one of the most historically significant baseball players in history. While he was born in Georgia and played for the Brooklyn Dodgers, this unique tour focuses on Jackie’s formative years which were spent in Southern California. As we celebrate and pay tribute to Jackie Robinson, Curt will share amazing facts and stories about Jackie’s early years before he was a baseball legend, his athletic accomplishments at UCLA, his service in the U.S. Army and how he broke through barriers to play in the Major Leagues. In Pasadena we’ll explore the neighborhood where Jackie lived from 1922 to 1946. We’ll find out why Pasadena was hugely important to Jackie and why he and his brother are memorialized at Pasadena City Hall. Enjoy lunch on your own at Philippe the Original, the historic landmark that has been serving up delicious comfort food since 1908 and claims to have invented the French dip sandwich. This afternoon we’ll take a behind-the-scenes tour of the legendary Dodger Stadium, home to the Dodgers since it opened in 1962. While the stadium is now the third oldest Major League Baseball stadium in the country, recent renovations have it looking better than ever! You’ll get a whole new perspective of this Los Angeles icon on a docent-guided tour that will take us through the renovated centerfield plaza and pavilions, as well as restricted areas including the Vin Scully Press Box. Take a trip down to the field and walk through the team’s Trophy Gallery, home to the World Series trophies, Most Valuable Player, Silver Slugger, Cy Young, and Rookie of the Year awards. See the 800-pound, eight-foot-tall bronze statue depicting Jackie Robinson stealing home during his rookie season with the Brooklyn Dodgers. Enjoy time to browse the Official Team Store featuring Dodger souvenirs and gear you can’t find anywhere else at the Top of the Park! This tour involves moderate walking. Stadium tour route and stops subject to change without notice. Member Price: $129; Non-Member Price: $139 • Depart: 8:30 a.m. • Return: 5:30 p.m.
Tribute to Hollywood’s Music Legends
With the Grammy Museum & Included Lunch at Mel’s Drive-In
Thursday, October 12, 2023
This tour will be music to your ears! This new and exciting tour for music lovers focuses on the greatest musical artists of the 20th century! This fun-filled music themed tour is led by professional tour director, Jasmin, a former actress and Old Hollywood aficionado, who has led tribute tours to Walt Disney, Marilyn Monroe, Lucille Ball, Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland. Our musical journey begins with a visit to East West Studios on Sunset Blvd. in the heart of Hollywood. This active, working studio is one of the world’s premier recording facilities and has given rise to some of the most celebrated music of the last 60 years – from Frank Sinatra to The Rolling Stones – and has produced more Grammy-winning albums than any other studio in the world. See where Elvis Presley, Peggy Lee, The Mamas & the Papas, The Beach Boys, Dolly Parton, David Bowie, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Whitney Houston and many others have recorded iconic songs and albums. As we continue through the streets of Hollywood and along the Sunset Strip, you’ll hear many stories and anecdotes as we pass a number of legendary sites that played a part in Hollywood’s music history. Enjoy an included lunch with choice of entrée and dessert at Mel’s Drive-In on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood. Housed in one of the last remaining “Googie” style buildings in Southern California, this was previously the home to Ben Franks, the iconic coffee shop that was a famous hangout in the 60s and 70s for rockers after their gigs. We’ll also visit the Grammy Museum which pays tribute to music’s rich cultural history with four floors of cutting-edge exhibits and interactive experiences. Travel back to Music’s Golden Age with the exhibits dedicated to popular music from 1950s to 1970s including memorabilia from Elvis Presley, The Beatles, Michael Jackson and more. Explore what producing in the 60s looked like with the exhibit The Studio, a recreation of a 1960s recording studio equipped to let guests try their hand at the craft! Grammy Moments features a collection of videos and interactives that highlight some of the most memorable moments from Grammy history. Member Price: $149; Non-Member Price: $159 • Depart: 8:00 a.m. • Return: 5:30 p.m.
Oak Glen’s Fall Harvest
With Included Boxed Lunch & Visits to Two Historic Apple Farms
Thursday, October 26, 2023
Enjoy the fall colors and breathe in the crisp, clean mountain air when we escape to Oak Glen, “where apples grow a mile high” in the foothills of the San Bernardino Mountains (elevation 5,000’). This morning we’ll visit an historic apple shed featuring a gift shop filled with unique gifts and specialty food sourced from craftsmen and craftswomen around the world. Shopping not your thing? Grab a gourmet coffee, cider or slice of apple pie to enjoy at one of the many outdoor tables. We continue to Riley’s at Los Rios Rancho – Southern California’s largest apple farm which has been in operation since 1906. We’ll enjoy an included boxed lunch and time at leisure browsing their country store featuring jams, pumpkin butter, local honey, farm-made wine and hard cider, artisan balsamic vinegars and oils, and fresh apple cider and apple pies. This afternoon we’ll visit a family-owned and operated apple farm tucked into a beautiful setting shaded by an ancient chestnut tree. Enjoy time at leisure browsing their country store offering a broad selection of products including fresh apples, cider, artisan balsamic vinegars and oils, local honey, unique gifts, and farm-made wine and hard cider. You can even do some wine tasting (additional fee) and purchase their famous apple cider donuts to enjoy with hot or cold apple cider. Member Price: $99; Non-Member Price: $109 • Depart: 9:00 a.m. • Return: 5:30 p.m.
The Spice is Right
Included Lunch & Tastings of L.A.’s Diverse Cuisine With L.A. Guide Curt
Friday November 10, 2023
Attention all food lovers and adventurous souls who love to try new things and want to experience the best of L.A.'s food scene! Professional L.A. guide, Curt – an L.A. history buff and true foodie known for his creative and memorable food adventures, leads the way on this culinary adventurethrough the heart of L.A., exploring its most iconic neighborhoods and indulging in its diverse and flavorful food scene. But be warned, this is not your typical sightseeing tour – this is a mouth-watering adventure that will awaken all your senses and leave you craving more! We begin at The Original Farmers Market, the historic market that has seen it all, from dairy farms to oil fields to bustling foodie haven. Your taste buds will be tantalized by a gourmet pickle flight that includes delicious flavors like honey mustard, bread & butter, and more! Sample peanut, cashew, and almond butters from a vendor that has been churning in Southern California since 1917. Try the famous barbecue pork from a Chinese icon that has been here since 1960 and sink your teeth into a corned beef sandwich from an original Farmers Market restaurant that has been serving them here since 1917. In Hollywood we’ll visit the Monastery of the Angels, a hidden spiritual oasis where we’ll taste their wonderful hand-dipped Swiss chocolates and freshly baked pumpkin bread that will make your taste buds dance with delight. In the heart of downtown L.A. we’ll enjoy a taste of New Orleans while savoring the flavors of a traditional muffuletta, Zapp’s voodoo potato chips and a Louisiana root beer. And to top it all off, we'll sample some unique and delicious artisanal ice cream in L.A.’s vibrant Art’s District. The tastings on today’s tour are equivalent to an included lunch. Vegetarian and gluten-free alternatives can be provided if notice is provided at least one week prior to departure. Tasting locations and menu subject to change. Member Price: $159; Non-Member Price: $169 • Depart: 8:30 a.m. • Return: 5:30 p.m.
Hollywood Lights & Cosmic Sights
Philippe The Original & Night Sky Views at Griffith Observatory
Wednesday, November 15, 2023
On this unique evening tour, we’ll experience two of L.A.’s most iconic destinations. First, we’ll enjoy an early dinner (approximately 4:00 p.m.) on own at Philippe the Original, the historic landmark that has been serving up delicious comfort food since 1908. While known as the inventor of the French dip, Philippe’s is legendary for having operated continuously since 1908 – making it the oldest restaurant in Los Angeles! This deli-style restaurant is known for its rows of communal tables, wood shavings on the floor, and variety of old-fashioned foods in addition to French dip sandwiches including soup, beef stew, chili, macaroni salad, cole slaw, baked apples, and a variety of pies. As the sun goes down and the stars come out, we’ll arrive at the Griffith Observatory, Southern California’s gateway to the cosmos! Built in 1935 on Mount Hollywood’s south facing slop, this recently restored Art Deco masterpiece provides unparalleled views of Hollywood and the downtown L.A. skyline. Enjoy time at leisure to enjoy the views of Hollywood and downtown, look through telescopes (when available), explore the magnificent astronomical exhibits, and watch the Leonard Nimoy-narrated film, The Once and Future Griffith Observatory. Venture through space and time in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium where live presentations immerse you in the wonder and meaning of the cosmos. Featuring a spectacular Zeiss star projector, digital projection system, state-of-the-art aluminum dome, comfortable seats, sound system and theatrical lighting, this is the finest planetarium in the world. Planetarium tickets are an additional fee ($8 seniors/$10 adults) and are not guaranteed as they cannot be reserved ahead of time and can only be purchased upon arrival at the Observatory on a first-come-first-served basis. Member Price: $79; Non-Member Price: $89 • Depart: 2:30 p.m. • Return: 10:30 p.m.
L.A. Master Chorale’s Festival of Carols
At the Walt Disney Concert Hall
Saturday, December 2, 2023
Ring in the holiday season at the Walt Disney Concert Hall as the Los Angeles Master Chorale brings Christmas to life with traditional Christmas carols and festive folksongs from around the world. The incredible 62 singers of the Master Chorale will be joined by piano, the Disney Hall’s mighty pipe organ and special guests as they perform a festive concert featuring big, bold versions of your favorite holiday music and some new arrangements – making this a perfect concert for all ages! Designed by architect Frank Gehry to be one of the most acoustically sophisticated concert halls in the world, just being inside the Disney Concert Hall is an experience unto itself. Prior to the matinee performance, enjoy time at leisure for lunch on your own at the Walt Disney Concert Hall Café or a nearby eatery. Terrace-level seating. Member Price: $149; Non-Member Price: $159 • Depart: 11:00 a.m. • Return: 5:30 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
