Thursday, October 22, 2020

Magic Carpet Golf, Reno - Take a Magic Carpet Ride Into Fantasy and Back in Time Into the Prehistoric Era


6925 S Virginia St
Reno, NV 89511


(775) 853-8837
Reviews on Yelp

I didn't grow up with mini golf, so I never had the interest to seek out places like Magic Carpet Golf.  After becoming a parent, my mindset changed and like many parents, I am always on the hunt for places to take my kids.  Finding places that are safe, fun and educational is like finding gold.  

Five years ago when I first moved to Reno, I found such a place-Magic Carpet Golf.  It drew me in with it's inviting, whimsical, handmade structures and tall trees.  I couldn't believe that I've been missing out on so much fun all these years.

One hot summer day, I dropped in with my son and fell in love with the place.  Upon entering, we were welcomed with some good old video games, many of which I played when I was a kid.  I was so happy that my kids would get to experience some of the joys of my childhood.  

We checked in at the counter, where we found three courses to choose from- a 19-hole-course with a fantasy theme, a 19 whole course with a dinosaur theme and a 28-hole course with a theme unknown to me since I have yet to try it out.  

Me and my son tried both the fantasy and dinosaur courses between different visits.  We were given a score card, putters & a ball by the nice person at the counter, headed out to our course, and went at our own pace.  Of all the times I've been here, it's never been busy to the point that I felt rushed.  

My son had a great time with a look of pure joy on his face as he swung his putter and admired the handmade structures (some mechanical moving).  It was so great to see him have so much fun, all while getting exercise and fresh air.   

I love the fact that mini golf is something you don't have to be good at.  You take the ball, aim for the hole and swing for the win — all while being able to enjoy the ambiance they've worked so hard to create. 

During the pandemic, I'm even more appreciative of outdoor places like this that enable people to have a fun and safe time, allowing good air circulation and space to distance yourself from others.  

Notes:
-family owned and run
-Masks required in lobby and outside when a distance of six ft cannot be maintained.  Putters wiped down.
-In the summer, they serve Dole Whips.  Yes, the ones from Disneyland.  If you're really hooked on them, believe it or not, you can buy the machine and mixture from Amazon.  
-Hungry? Walk over to Sushi Minato next door if you want to get your picnic on at Magic Carpet
-handicap accessible 
-water structures make for a relaxing environment 
-great shade in the summer
-at the end of your game, place your ball into the ball slot machine for a chance to win a free game
-drink and snack machine available inside building
-little play putter available for little ones (my 2 year old had fun pretend playing).  The person at the counter gave my son one along with a ball free of charge.
-I would throw a party here, hands down.  Check their website for more information on their birthday packages
-you don't have to have children to have fun here.  I always see adults on their oown,having fun.
-ideal spot for meetings, fundraisers, field trips, team building and work events
-restrooms available
-No alcohol, no glass, no cooking
-the place is well kept and beautiful 
-closed on Thanksgiving
-hours change according to season and weather. check website or call in for current hours
-Right next to Target across the street
-outdoor food and cake allowed for events

Friday, October 16, 2020

Abel's Apple Acres #38- Acres of Family Fun and Apple Goods



If you’re not familiar, the Apple Hill Growers Association in Placerville and Camino, CA, is a favorite destination during October, known for its family-friendly farms, fresh-baked goodies, and gorgeous fall scenery. One standout spot among the farms is Abel’s Apple Acres. 

This charming farm has it all: a cozy barn packed with pies, pastries, holiday decorations, books, and pantry items, plus hot food options for lunch. Beyond that, they offer plenty of outdoor fun like a maze, gemstone mining, picnic spots with benches and bug shelters, and a craft fair. The farm has a warm, old-fashioned farm feel that keeps me coming back to Apple Hill year after year.

What really makes Abel’s special are the unique treats and activities. Their award-worthy caramel apples are unforgettable, especially the apple pie caramel apple - a fresh picked apple dipped in caramel, white chocolate fudge, and cinnamon sugar. It’s one of those iconic treats that really captures the magic of Apple Hill, alongside their apple cider & donuts.

During our latest visit, I planned to take the kids to three farms but ended up staying longer at Abel’s because they were having such a great time, running around and sampling the apple treats. We left with our hands full after trying an apple donut, apple pie slice, caramel apple, and an apple empanada. Each treat was so good that I got thumbs up from the kids with every bite. Let’s just say, I wouldn’t dream of leaving without bringing home some of that apple magic.

For lunch, I ordered a tri-tip sandwich piled with meat and onions. It was fresh and lightly seasoned, which worked well with the condiments they had on hand. My kids were happy with their hot dog meal, complete with chips, crackers, a lollipop, and milk. Not every farm on the hill serves hot lunch, so it’s a good idea to check the Apple Hill guide ahead of time if you’re looking for a hot meal. 

Notes for Visiting Apple Hill
-Best Time to Go: October can get very busy, so visiting on a weekday or as soon as the farms open can help you avoid the crowds. Late September/early November is also a great option for a quieter experience with minimal crowds.
-Bring a Cooler: If you're coming from out of town, pack a cooler to keep any goodies fresh for the ride home.
-Maze: Open on weekends only
-Gemstone Mining: Purchase gemstone mining bags at checkout near the caramel apples.
-Specialty Caramel Apples:  This farm has the widest selection to choose from.
-Photo Ops: Plenty of fun photo cutouts around the farm.
-Vendors:  A variety of vendors are available on the deck during peak times.  

***Information subject to change.  All opinions are my own. 

Photography
© Katherine Fung,
All Rights Reserved.