Thursday, October 22, 2020

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



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.  Like many parents, I am always on the hunt for (fun) places to take my kids, preferably those that are safe, fun (for adults as well), and educational.

I've passed by Magic Carpet Golf countless times on South Virginia St.  It's one of those places that stick out like a sore thumb and people can't help but wonder about.  I mean... it's hard to miss the ginormous blue genie and birthday cake from the road, LOL.  

One random day (with this spot in the back of my mind), I did a little more digging on the net to learn more about Magic Carpet Golf and found that it has been around since 19-freakin-74!!! 2026-1974=52.  Fifty two years of people hitting balls a gazillion ways through, over, and around gigantic whimsy art pieces.  If that doesn't scream fun, I don't know what will.  And this is just for their Reno location.  The family who started all of this magic opened their first location in South Lake Tahoe in 1968!

Magic Carpet Golf is made of 2-19 hole courses - fantasy & adventure themed, along with a 28-hole mixed themed course.  On top of fun holes (some with moving parts), they also have picnic tables, a small arcade (including lots that I played as a kid), and some vending machines for snacks & drinks.  Other huge pluses include friendly service & a beautiful & developed landscape that provides shade and adds to the charm of the whole place.

It's really hard to grasp how this place has been existence for so many years.  It's inviting, whimsical, fun, and is run by the same family that began it years ago.  I can't believe that I've been missing out on this magic of mini golf all these years.

Side Note:  I love the fact that mini golf is something you don't have to be good at to enjoy.  You take the ball, aim for the hole, and swing - all while enjoying the ambiance & atmosphere everyone worked so hard to create while sending out a prayer to the golf gods. 

I've made countless fond memories here with my family, and I know you will too.  I'm feeling super thankful for attractions like this that keep Reno fun and funky.  Hope you have fun when you make it out.  Oh, and please tell the dinosaurs hi for me, LOL.

Notes:
-family owned and run
-Hungry? Sushi Minato is within walking distance.  They serve some pretty good sushi & ramen.  
-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 machines available 
-small sized play putters are available for little ones. 
-great for parties & events.  Check their website for more information on their packages.  
-you don't have to have children to have fun here.  I always see adults on their own having fun.
-ideal spot for meetings, fundraisers, field trips, team building and work events
-restrooms available
-No alcohol, no glass, & no cooking allowed
-well kept and beautiful 
-closes on Thanksgiving
-hours change according to season and weather. check website or call in for current hours
-across the street from Target shopping center.
-outdoor food and cake allowed for events

Friday, October 16, 2020

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


Baked Goods Menu
More Helpful Links
*Apple Hill Growers Association Website
*Apple Hill's 2025 Visitor's Guide
*Apple Hill's U-Pick Guide
*Official Apple Hill Instagram - for the latest updates and information

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, gorgeous fall scenery, and apple everything. One standout spot among the farms is Abel’s Apple Acres. 

This charming farm has a cozy barn packed with pies, pastries, holiday decorations, books, and pantry items, plus hot food options for lunch.  Ables also offers plenty of outdoor fun like a maze, gemstone mining, picnic spots with benches and bug shelters, and a craft fair. Its old-fashioned farm feel, delicios goods, views, & activities make this farm one of my favorites on the hill and keeps me coming back to Apple Hill year after year.

What really makes Abel’s special is their huge award worthy caramel apples, 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 my 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 tons of apple treats.  Let's just say that we left with our hands full by the end of the day.  Apple donuts, apple pies, caramel apples, apple empanadas...  Let's just say that they were NEEDS on my visit, LOL.

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.  The only thing I'd suggest if for them to heat up the meat more and get a nice toast on the bun.  These would make a world of a difference. 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 on the hill.
-Photo Ops: Have fun snapping pics at the 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.