family Archives - Steven Taylor, Taylor Equities

November 2, 2023November 2, 2023

A Day Out With My Kids in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is not just a city of movie stars and traffic jams; it’s a sprawling metropolis brimming with fun-filled activities perfect for families. As a parent, I’ve tried and tested many places in LA with my kids, and every time I think we’ve done it all, LA always surprises us with something new. Here are some of our top picks for family-friendly fun in this sunny Californian city.

1. Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

I’ve always found that the best way to kick off our LA adventures is with a visit to the Griffith Observatory. Not only does it offer one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city, but it’s also educational. My children love exploring the interactive exhibits and seeing the Tesla coil in action. Entry is free, though there might be charges for some shows.

And, if you’re already at the Griffith Observatory, you’re in Griffith Park! Boasting over 4,300 acres, it’s one of the largest urban parks in North America. We often pack a picnic, rent bicycles or even take a pony ride. The LA Zoo is also located here, which is always a hit with the kids.

2. The Getty Center

The architectural beauty of The Getty Center is undeniable. But what’s inside is even more captivating. My kids were initially hesitant about visiting an “art museum”, but The Getty’s family-friendly activities and programs quickly changed their minds. The Family Room, for instance, offers interactive art installations and games that the children absolutely adore. Plus, the gardens outside are the perfect place for kids to run around and for parents to soak in some incredible views.

3. Santa Monica Pier and Beach

If you’re in LA, you have to spend a day by the ocean. Santa Monica offers more than just a beach; the iconic Santa Monica Pier is an amusement-packed destination in itself. My children love riding the solar-powered Ferris wheel and indulging in some funnel cake. The adjacent beach is perfect for building sandcastles, flying kites, or just splashing in the waves.

4. Natural History Museum (NHM) and Exposition Park

The NHM was an instant hit with my children. They were fascinated by the Dinosaur Hall, which houses one of the most comprehensive collections of dino fossils. But the fun doesn’t stop there. The museum also boasts insect, mammal, and bird exhibits. After you’re done with NHM, step out to explore the surrounding Exposition Park, which also includes the California Science Center and a beautiful rose garden.

5. The Original Farmers Market and The Grove

Looking for a relaxed afternoon? The Original Farmers Market offers an array of international food stalls, sweet treats, and novelty shops. After sampling some snacks, we love to take a trolley ride to The Grove, a next-door outdoor shopping and entertainment complex. With its dancing fountains and frequent live performances, it’s a pleasure both for shopping and just hanging out.

6. Kidspace Children’s Museum

Located in Pasadena, Kidspace is a hands-on children’s museum that my kids just can’t get enough of. It’s designed for kids aged 10 and under. From the Physics Forest with its 13 interactive exhibits to the Arroyo Adventure garden where they can play in the mud and water, it’s easy to spend an entire day here.

7. OUE Skyspace LA

For a unique experience, we headed to OUE Skyspace in downtown LA. The observation deck gives a 360-degree view of the city, but the real thrill for my children was the transparent “Skyslide”, which allows them to slide from the 70th to the 69th floor on the outside of the building. It’s a short slide but certainly an unforgettable one!

8. El Matador Beach

While it’s a bit of a drive from downtown LA, El Matador Beach is worth the trip. Its stunning sea stacks and hidden caves make for an adventurous day of exploration. We usually pack a picnic and enjoy a day of beachcombing, tide pool exploring, and of course, taking tons of photographs.

9. Universal Studios Hollywood

This place needs little introduction. Universal Studios isn’t just a working film studio; it’s a full-fledged theme park. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the Studio Tour, it offers a magical experience for both kids and adults. The shows, rides, and character meet-and-greets always leave my children excited and eager for more.

10. LA Live and Downtown LA

For a taste of modern LA, we love to wander around LA Live and Downtown LA. Often, we’d catch a family-friendly show at the Microsoft Theater or just enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with live music, massive LED screens, and tons of restaurants to choose from.

Wrapping Up

One of the beauties of LA is its diversity. Whether you’re looking for beaches, museums, parks, or entertainment complexes, Los Angeles has it all. Every time we venture out, it feels like a mini-vacation, and there’s always something new on the horizon. So, pack your bags and your sense of adventure, and dive into the wonders that LA has to offer Steven Taylor, Los Angeles CA

Originally published at https://medium.com.

November 24, 2021November 24, 2021

Steven Taylor on the Top Best Things to do in LA during Thanksgiving

If there’s one holiday during the year where Steven Taylor is most excited about, it’s always during Thanksgiving.

Well, apart from the delicious food and the warm atmosphere, Steven Taylor enjoys having a really great and fun time together with his family and friends. Especially since he lives in Los Angeles, one of the biggest cities in the United States and one of the most fun places to visit during Thanksgiving too.

Everyone has their plans on how to celebrate Thanksgiving. Steven Taylor, LA native also has his own plans too. But for those who want something different for this year, join us in celebrating Thanksgiving here in the City of Angels. We promise that you’re going to have a really great time wandering around and exploring the sights and the sounds!

Here are top best things that one can do while in LA during Thanksgiving:

Encanto at the El Capitan

Location: El Capitan Theatre Hollywood

Visiting LA with the family? Then Encanto at the El Capitan might be the perfect distraction for the kids. Produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios, the Opening Night Fan Event opened last November 23 and will continue until the 5th of December 2021. The event promises a fun night of music, laughter, and fireworks display.

Turkey Trot Los Angeles 2021

Location: Downtown

The Turkey Trot returns this year as a live event. Set on the 25th, participants are expected to make their turkey ‘work out’ before the festivities begin. What the workout means is a scenic course throughout downtown Los Angeles.

Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train

Location: 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange CA 92869

After Thanksgiving, it’s always our favorite time of the year! The Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train opens on November 26 and will continue to operate until December 24, Christmas eve. This is Irvine Regional Park’s annual event, so everyone is invited to participate and enjoy the wonderful Christmas ride. Apart from the train ride, there are other wonderful activities for the kids to enjoy too, like storytime and coloring activities.

Hikari – Festival of Lights

Location: Tanaka Farms, Irvine CA

Ever wondered how it felt like to witness and be surrounded by hundreds of lights? Well, this coming November 26, prepare to experience the meaning of Hikari or “shine” with this Festival of Lights. Enjoy live music, food, photo ops, arts & crafts, and some cuddle time with barnyard animals. Santa is also there, ready to entertain guests and talk with the kids about their presents for being good little boys and girls.

October 14, 2021October 20, 2021

Steven Taylor on the 5 Best Beaches in Southern California

It’s a perfect day to hit the beach. These days, those sunny Southern California days seem to be on a roll, so why not call your friends and family and hit the beach for some tan and fun under the sun? Steven Taylor, a LA native, also loves going to the beach and he’s been at it since college. If you happen to live near Southern California or you’re on your way here for a visit, then why not visit our best beaches here too?

If it’s about beaches, Southern California has a lot to offer. Of course, Steven Taylor has his own personal list of the best beaches to visit during this warm weather. So if you feel like you want to take a dip in the ocean, then here’s Steven Taylor’s personal pick on the 5 best beaches in Southern California.

Santa Monica Beach – One can’t simply miss Santa Monica Beach. It’s just 20 minutes from downtown Los Angeles and it’s possibly the most popular beach in Southern California. A lot of people visit the area and it also features an amusement park with a Ferris wheel and some kiddie rides. It’s a great place for swimming, beach volleyball, surfing, and just plain chilling under the sun.

El Matador Beach – Located in Malibu, El Matador Beach is one of the most stunning beaches in Southern California. The beach features amazing rocky formations, which gives visitors a stunning view of the entire beachfront. If you want to enjoy this beautiful beach, just bring a blanket, some food for a picnic, and find a hidden spot behind the rocky formations and enjoy your day at the beach!

Zuma Beach – Malibu seems to be lucky enough to have multiple beautiful beaches in its area. Another beach in this area is Zuma Beach. Located in Point Dume in Malibu, Zuma Beach is a popular tourist destination for surfers and annual surfing events. This is also the perfect place to fly kites, as the wind can tend to be rather strong in this area.

Coronado Beach – Coronado Beach is known for its calm ocean waters, the famous Hotel Coronado, and the Gaslamp Quarter. After a whole day of swimming and you’re hungry enough to eat a shark or a whale, visit the Gaslamp Quarter for its fancy restaurants.

Venice Beach – Venice Beach is a unique experience. Not only does it have sun, sand, and the ocean, but it also has artists, barefoot sand sculptors, and weightlifters. The beach has a skate park, an outdoor gym, some food stands and kiosks, and dozens of colorful murals. The beach is pretty much a feast for the eyes.

September 21, 2021September 21, 2021

Steven Taylor on Family-Friendly Activities in Los Angeles

Los Angeles never runs out of beautiful destinations and exciting adventures that suit the likes of various families. With the crisis that the pandemic brought over the past year, providing children with a safe and healthy environment has been the focus of most families. It is also undeniable that the kids missed the normal way of life where they get to freely interact with their friends, roam around in the city, or have escapades in the heart of nature. With various sites back to business in L.A., coming up with family-friendly activities that bursts with adventure will no longer be a problem.

This list of activities highlights unique yet educational activities that are perfect for kids of today’s generation. A time away from the gadgets and a much-needed immersive experience are all they need to recognize the natural beauty that the Earth freely offers.

Go glamping

When planning a getaway with the family, packing the things alone may be fun but it’s undeniable that it is quite exhausting especially when the kids are too busy daydreaming or asking questions about the trip. Going camping means rearranging all the things again while building the actual tent—another task that can get stressful. Nowadays, families would rather just relax and destress without having to worry about all those ruckuses. This is when glamping comes into the picture; experiencing the great outdoors and connecting with nature on a beautiful tent that has already been set up with luxuries and accommodations similar to a hotel room. Unlike going on a camping trip, glamping means not having to stress about finding the perfect location or packing all the basic necessities.

A popular glamping site in Los Angeles is La Boheme Living. It features an urban safari tent experience in a private residence that is just a few miles away from Dodger Stadium. It is already equipped with everything from air-conditioning, comfy bed, wifi, hairdryers, shower with a heater to barbecue facilities and chimineas that can be used at all times. They also have opportunities for biking, hiking, playing tennis that will surely be well-loved and enjoyed by the kids. What makes this place even better is that they can book a personal masseuse once requested—something that most parents would appreciate at the end of a tiring day. Furthermore, the site also stated that they have free-roaming friendly cats, chickens, raccoons, and opossums that love to hang out on the porch. This unique bohemian glamping site is an experience that families will surely look forward to or even look back on when they want to unwind.

Meet the rescue animals at Kfar Saba Urban Farm

Locally rescued animals such as dogs, goats, chickens, tortoises, donkeys, sheep, alpacas, horses, and birds are being taken care of at Kfar Saba Urban Farm in the Winnetka neighborhood of Los Angeles. They provide a private COVID-19 safe tour where families can learn more about each of the animals. The kids would have the opportunity to interact with various animals as they gain knowledge on how to properly take care of or handle them with love and care. Of course, kids are also known to be curious about animals, hence, this is an educational experience that they would surely love and appreciate.

Explore Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden

While Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden are located in Arcadia, it’s only less than an hour away from Los Angeles. An earthy destination that is worth traveling to as it features a beautiful 127-acre botanical garden and historical site. The Arboretum Foundation Board and senior staff team established this arboretum with a mission to cultivate natural, horticultural, and historic resources for learning, enjoyment, and inspiration; they also have the vision to serve as a resource for environmental stewardship and education in the sciences and history. The arboretum includes plant collections from all over the world, historical architectural landmarks, wildlife sanctuary, crescent farm, and the Baldwin lake. They also hold activities such as yoga in the garden, sound baths, forest bathing, and other educational exhibitions that would certainly be enjoyed by people of all ages.

Check out SOAR: South Coast Botanic Garden

South Coast Botanic Garden added a new experience that lets people observe the life cycle of butterflies. They have an immersive pavilion that features monarchs and mimics where SOAR guides teach them more about the butterflies. They also make sure that the butterflies are well taken care of by providing them with everything that Western Monarchs love such as the milkweed, which allows them to repopulate the butterflies. In addition, they have a SOAR garden area that contains eggs and caterpillars where people can freely recognize and understand the initial stages of a butterfly. Steven Taylor

January 19, 2021February 5, 2021

Steven Taylor – Los Angeles at a Glance – Things to Do in LA in 2021

Even in the midst of a pandemic, Los Angeles is full of things to do. If you are looking for safe activities for a date night, family outing, or solo adventure, there are plenty of fun options to explore. Whether you’re interested in checking out LA’s extensive dining scene, getting out into nature, or discovering new art, there’s something in LA for everyone. Many of Los Angeles’ best landmarks are still accessible to locals and visitors. Here is a list of 4 fun, affordable activities you can do in Los Angeles in 2021.

Take a drive around the coast .

One of Los Angeles’ defining features is it’s close proximity to great beaches and coastal scenery, but many locals don’t take advantage. If you’re looking to get out of the house, head over to the coast and take a cruise up the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu or Ventura. Steven Taylor Los Angeles native, recommends LA residents and tourists alike check out the Palos Verdes peninsula, where you can see beautiful oceanfront views, winding coastal roads, and dramatic bluffs. Soak up the scenery, and check out some impressive real estate along the drive!

Experience the Los Angeles dining scene from home.

Los Angeles is known for its diversity, culture, and creativity, all which contribute to the city’s top-notch dining scene. While restaurants are still closed for indoor dining as of January 2021, plenty of LA’s best restaurants are open for to-go orders. Chefs are getting more and more creative, and many spots have multiple course tasting menus available for those who want to step up their dining-at-home game. The LA Times is even hosting virtual dinner parties that are a collaboration with local chefs and celebrities. Just because you can’t dine out doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the best food experiences LA has to offer.

Take a bike ride.

If you’re feeling cooped up inside, getting out to take a bike ride can be a great way to reset. If you don’t own a bike, there are many places to rent along the boardwalk in Venice. If you’re looking for a city ride, you can venture into downtown Santa Monica to ride along their well-developed bike lanes. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can bike the Strand, a twenty-two mile bike path along the Marvin Braude Trail, which traces the coastline. Start at Will Rogers state beach, and make your way all the way down to Torrance if you’re ready for a workout! Los Angeles native, Steven Taylor, likes to explore the tail with his kids, making it an event for the whole family.

Experience a drive-in movie.

Due to the pandemic, many people are missing the experience of going to the movie theatre, and tired of watching movies on the couch. The good news is that the Southern California area has several options for drive-in movie theaters that make for a great family outing or date night. Drive in movies are affordable, fun, and can be a nostalgic throwback to simpler times. Lucky for you, LA Magazine put together this comprehensive list of current drive-in and outdoor movie options.

September 20, 2019November 6, 2020

What Coaching My Kids in Sports has Taught me About Life and Business

Steven-Taylor-of-Taylor-Equities-in-LA-taking-time-out-for-charity-with-his-family

As an entrepreneur, I experience many different team dynamics, leadership styles, and collaborative processes. I consider myself a life-long learner, and am always looking for opportunities to grow my management skills. Coaching my kid’s sports teams has not only helped me stay connected to my children, but has also taught me lessons about life and business. Not only have I found many parallels between these two parts of my world, but I have learned lessons from my kid’s sports teams that have helped me in my business. Coaching children is a rewarding experience that can teach leaders about respect, expectations, support, and teamwork.

Here are 3 lessons about business I learned from coaching my kids.

1. A well-rounded team is key.

In sports, no athlete, even the best ones, have all areas covered. Child athletes all have their strengths and weaknesses, and as a coach you must utilize all the teammates to fill in the gaps. Star players couldn’t be stars without the support of their team. It is essential to recognize the areas where players need assistance, and build a team that is well-rounded.

In business, a balanced team is equally vital. Even the most successful entrepreneurs need other talent to fill in the gaps with special skill sets. It is essential that leaders recognize the areas in which they need to let others take the spotlight. Companies driven by teams with widely varied skill sets work together brilliantly. It can be difficult for leaders to admit they need help, but a group of people working together toward a common goal is always stronger than a lone individual.

2. The process is the experience, not the win.

Kids often think that the team’s success is measured by their most recent win or loss. Teaching them otherwise has been a great reminder in my own work. Winning or losing is just a bi-product to the experience. When the players put in solid work, play well together, and give their best effort, ground is gained. Losing, but knowing that you played above your previous abilities, can be a win on its own. Often, teams are built not during the winning games, but the losing ones. These games can serve as a reminder of the areas you need to strengthen.

In the business world, of course we want to win. But coaching has been a solid reminder that it’s the journey that builds your team. Your business should have the ability to adapt as the circumstances or environment change. If you’re always winning, you won’t gain as much long term value. Focus on the process, and the wins will come.

3. Focus on fundamentals.

As a coach, I first have to focus on basics. To build skills, we must repeat them until they are part of our muscle memory. Even the most talented kids need to go back to the fundamentals regularly to keep them sharp. Regardless of the skill level, we take the time to practice from the ground up.

As a leader, it is your responsibility to check in with your team and make sure the fundamentals are in place. When working at a high level, it is easy to get caught up in the details and forget to focus on the main goal. Growing the fundamentals a business on a strong foundation. A strong foundation, means a solid team.

September 1, 2019September 1, 2019

How to Balance Business and Family Time as an Entrepreneur

LA Landlord Steven Taylor enjoying quality time with his family

As an entrepreneur, your business is your livelihood, and all responsibility ultimately falls on you. Entrepreneurs like Steven Taylor, share a lot of qualities, but the traits that stand above them all are drive and work ethic. When you’re your own boss, or landlord, there is no clear clock out time at 5 pm. When there is a crisis, or a deal on the line, any time can become work-mode. As a result, finding a work-life balance can be challenging for many business owners.

This dynamic is even more challenging for entrepreneurs who are married or have a family. I love my work, but my family always comes first. Finding a way to balance both and prioritize each of them at the right moment is a practice that takes time. It is important to create the space to have quality time with family, while running a business, and also taking care of your mental, physical, and emotional well-being. To successfully handle all of these aspects of life, you may need to adjust your daily routine and habits.

Here are 3 tips for balancing business and family as an entrepreneur:

1. Wake up early.

Get up early. I suggest getting up and starting your day before anyone else is awake. This will give you time for a morning routine, and let you set your intentions and priorities for the day. Beginning the day with exercise, journaling, praying or meditation, and any other activities that contribute to you mental well-being will get you in a healthy mindset. This mindset will prepare you to divide or focus your attention throughout the day when needed.

2. Family time doesn’t get rescheduled.

Whether it is a family dinner, weekend hike, or evening bedtime stories, it is essential to set routine family time that is a part of your schedule. It is important to me that I spend the weekends being active with my wife and kids so that I can stay closely connected to them, no matter how busy I get. That time is in the calendar, and it does not get cancelled or rescheduled.

It is equally important to be present during these times. It’s one thing to be physically with your family, but remind yourself to really be in the moment, and listen. When your business is growing and you are under a lot of pressure, it can be difficult not to let your mind wander towards work mode. Accept the challenge to give your family your undivided attention when you make the choice to spend your time with them.

3. Delegate.

Founders often struggle to develop a balance between business and family because they are either afraid or too stubborn to give up control of their business.

To truly be able to give your family your undivided attention when you switch into “home-mode” you’ll need to let others take on some responsibility. While you should certainly be selective of who you work with, don’t let the fear of passing off tasks to someone else hold you back from living your life. You ultimately need to be able to teach someone else to handle part of the workload to run a scalable business. Otherwise, you’ll be struggling to find balance for the rest of your life.

Wise entrepreneurs are always looking for opportunities to delegate to those around them so that they can focus on the bigger picture – in their business, and in their family life.