With spring in full swing the second week of April is celebrated as Garden Week. You don't have to get your hands dirty to participate because there are plenty of local gardens here in Southern California to enjoy.

Orange County

-Fullerton Arboretum
1900 Associated Rd
Fullerton, CA (On Cal State Fullerton Campus)
92831
657-278-3407
A 26-acre botanical garden and community resource for ecological, horticultural, and historical education with a beautiful view.

-Sherman Library and Gardens
2647 East Coast Hwy
Corona Del Mar, CA
92625
949-673-2261
The gardens provide a museum of living plants. Just follow the brick walkways through immaculate gardens, patios, and conservatories.

-Bolsa Chica Wetlands Nature Walk
Across PCH from Bolsa Chica State Beach
With 95 percent of the state's wetlands destroyed, this location makes for unique displays of coastline and wildflowers, plus it's free to park and hike the trails.

-Upper Newport Bay Ecological Reserve
A stretch of land spanning from Jamboree and PCH to practically our driveway here at the dealership that you can enjoy by land or water while taking in marshlands, bluffs, and wild life.

-Quail Hill Nature Trail
It is part of the City of Irvine's open space preserve with a 1.8 mile trail that overlooks Quail Hill Preserve and the Irvine Valley. The wetlands provide a resting a feeding place for migrating water fowl as well as a water source for native wildlife.

Los Angeles

-Huntington Library and Gardens
1151 Oxford Rd
San Marino, CA
91108
626-405-2100
Beyond the library (and free parking) you can roam different themed gardens including Japanese, Chinese, Desert, Tropical, Rose, and Jungle to name a few. Plus a special Children's Garden for the little ones.

- Japanese Gardens Van Nuys
6100 Woodley Ave
Van Nuys, CA
91406
818-756-8166
Ranked in the top ten for public Japanese Gardens in the country it is a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of its surroundings.

-Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve
15101 Lancaster Rd
Lancaster, CA
93536
661-724-1180
During the spring months you can find the lazy, rolling hills of the Antelope Valley painted brilliantly with the Oranges of our state flower.

-Los Angeles Arboretum
301 N Baldwin Ave
Arcadia, CA
91007
626-821-3222
The summer-time home of the California Philharmonic's Concerts has sweeping lawns , cactus gardens, hot houses filled with orchids, and much more. You can also enjoy the historical buildings, train depot, and barn.

-Wrigley Gardens
1402 Avalon Cyn Rd
Avalon, CA (Catalina Island)
90704
310-510-2897
 The lush botanic garden is the primary gateway to access one of the island's most popular hiking trails.  

-Descanso Gardens
1418 Descanso Dr
La Canada Flintridge, CA
91011
818-949-4200
A year round retreat for urban dwellers contains 160 acres of internationally renowned botanical collections and seasonal horticultural displays.

San Diego

- San Diego Botanical Gardens
230 Quail Gardens Dr
Encinitas, CA
92024
760-436-3036
A paradise of garden trails from the once private estate, it is landscaped with exotic plants and trees collected from around the world.

-San Diego Lavender Fields
12460 Keys Creek Rd
Valley Center, CA
92082
760-742-3844
About two dozen varieties of lavender are grown and harvested here. The blooming season is May and June, but it is open year round for events and tours.

-Carlsbad Flower Fields
5704 Paseo Del Norte
Carlsbad, CA
92008
760-431-0352
Make your way to this spot above the Pacific Ocean in the spring months to enjoy a colorful display of blooming flowers.

-Myrtle Creek Botanical
2940 Reche Road
Fallbrook, CA
92028
760-728-5340
Acres of lush gardens set on a turn-of-the-century farm with plenty of shade provided by an ancient live oak forest.

-Santa Barbara Gardens
1212 Mission Canyon Rd
Santa Barbara, CA
93105
805-682-4726
Seventy-eight acres of indigenous plant species in various themed sections, including mountain, desert, meadows, redwoods, and California Channel Islands.

-Lotusland Santa Barbara
Cold Springs Rd
Montecito, CA
93108
805-969-9990
The historic estate of Madame Ganna Walska and uniquely designed botanical gardens are a short drive away along the Central Coast.

Palm Desert

-Living Desert Zoo and Gardens
47900 Portola Ave
Palm Desert, CA
92260
760-346-5694
A stunning natural setting nestled at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains outside of Palm Springs, it is a family friendly adventure with wild animals and fantastic desert gardens.

-Moorten Botanical Gardens
1701 S. Palm Canyon Dr
Palm Springs, CA
92264
760-327-6555
If desert flora is your thing, this is the perfect place for you to peacefully stroll through this vast and amazing collection of concentrated habitats.

-Sunnylands Center and Garden
37977 Bob Hope Dr
Rancho Mirage, CA
92270
760-202-2222
The estate fills 200 acres with its lush green lawns stretching to the desert of the Coachella Valley in a location once only accessible to the rich and powerful.

We hope you make it to a few spots and let us know what you thought. Did we miss any gardens that you especially like?

For further info on each location check out Day Trippen.

We know that not everyone gets that glorious week off every year known as Spring Break, but you don't have to get away for a full week or even burn a full tank of gas to get some R&R, or fresh air, or whatever it is you like to do. Here is a collection of some things that are perfect for anyone to have a "Stay-cation." Sometimes we overlook these things that are so close and forget how wonderful our neighborhood really is. Have you looked in your back yard lately?

Los Angeles Area

Kidspace Children's Museum
480 N. Arroyo Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91103
626-449-9144

An incredible seed bed of learning and discovery, the purpose of a children's museum is to inspire children to learn and grow, equip parents and teachers, and to be a safe place where learners of all abilities can do so at their own pace and focus on topics of interest to them. This is often refered to as "Free Range Learning." What makes us different from a school is our approach to informal education. We believe in giving our guests hands-on experiences that are relevant and inspiring.

Universal Studios
100 Universal City Plaza
Universal City, CA 91608
800-864-8377

Get ready for the ultimate Hollywood experience! Find a full day of action-packed entertainment all in one place:  thrilling theme park rides and shows, a real working movie studio, and Los Angeles' best shops, restaurants and cinemas at City Walk. Universal Studios Hollywood is a unique experience that’s fun for the whole family. Go behind the scenes on a real working movie studio and get into the movies! Plus certain time of year they offer "Buy today, get the year for free!"

Dodgers Ball Park
1000 Elysian Park Ave
Los Angeles, CA 90012
323-224-1507

Dodger Stadium has been the home of unique and special moments, Hall of Famers and World Champions. From no-hitters to Nomo-mania, Most Valuable Players and Cy Young Award winners to World Series victories, Dodger Stadium has a rich history that places it among the truly great venues in sports history. With musical extravaganzas that have included rock, pop and opera royalty, a papal visit and unique events such as motorcycle racing and monster truck events, Dodger Stadium is also among the great entertainment destinations in the country. It is the third oldest continually used park in Major League Baseball and stands as one of the most unique and picturesque settings in sports, carved as it is into the hillside of Chavez Ravine overlooking downtown LA to the south and the San Gabriel mountains to the north. Don't forget to check out the park tours also.

The Getty Center
1200 Getty Center Dr
Los Angeles, CA 90049
310-440-7300

The Getty and its four programs are dedicated to the proposition that works of art are windows onto the world's diverse and intertwined histories, mirrors of humanity's innate imagination and creativity, and inspiration to envision the future. There are plenty of tours and plenty of views.

Orange County Area

Disneyland/California Adventure
1313 Disneyland Dr
Anaheim, CA 92802
714-781-7277

It might be just a short drive away for many, but taking some time out just too easily passes us by and suddenly you might not have been for over a decade. Many things are constantly changing. From foods and accommodations to the sights and sounds, there is something new and different to enjoy right alongside the nostalgia that you are looking for. It can have its busier seasons, but we are fortunate enough to have it available during less tourist driven times so when we can wait in slightly shorter lines and smaller crowds.

Discovery Science Center
2500 N. Main Street
Santa Ana, CA 92705
866-552-2823

For over 25 years, Discovery Science Foundation has been a non-profit organization impacting the lives of children through hands-on science education. At our foundation lies our four core initiatives used to prepare the next generation of teachers, students and life-long learners. From early childhood education to STEM proficiency, healthy living to environmental stewardship, these initiatives go to the heart of the Foundation's mission as an entity of inspiration, education, and transformation. This is a great destination for all ages and you just might learn something while you are there.

Fashion Island
401 Newport Center Drive
Newport, CA 92660
949-721-2000

A prime shopping and dining location closer to the sand and palm trees than the freeway, you can find a nice getaway on less than a tank of gas. There are retailers to satisfy different pallets whether male, female, tot, or pet (they are pet friendly) and dishes to fit every budget and taste.

Medieval Times
7662 Beach Blvd
Buena Park, CA 90620
866-543-9637

Surrender to an age of bravery and honor and witness epic battles of steel and steed during the show. From ringside seats, discover a feast of the eyes and appetite with more action, more fun & more excitement than ever before. As you thrill to a rousing live jousting tournament, marvel at awe-inspiring horsemanship and falconry, Medieval Times serves a four-course meal fit for royalty. Check online for great deals and discounted rates.

San Diego Area

San Diego Zoo
2920 Zoo Dr
San Diego, CA 92101
619-231-1515

With a commitment to saving species worldwide, this 100-acre Zoo is home to 3,700 rare and endangered animals representing more than 650 species and subspecies. There are activities to entertain everyone. Did you know you can get married there?

Pacific Beach Boardwalk
Mission Blvd & Garnet Ave
San Diego, CA 92101

A stretch of beach that is unique to its territory, but familiar in the Southern California beach lifestyle. Grab your beach cruiser, your roller-blades, your feet, whatever you like and make your way down a beautiful path along the coast.

Del Mar Racetrack
2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd
Del Mar, CA 92014
858-755-1167

Located where the "turf meets the surf", you can expect to find a bit of a more mature crowd than some of the other suggestions, but not lacking in any of the fun. From opening day through the season this destination is a hot spot for thoroughbred racing, concerts, and showing off fantastic hats.

Hotel Del Coronado
1500 Orange Ave
Coronado, CA 92118
619-435-6611

Housed in a grand 1888 Victorian property, the luxury beach side resort is a must see for many who make their way along the Southern California coast. It offers something special for everyone who's dining, staying, playing, or just stopping by.

Where have you gone in your free time? Did we miss any of your favorite destinations? Share with us what you think and it might make it on a future list. You can help Repair Bear decide where to go when he's off of work.

At Fletcher Jones Motorcars we think green every day. As we celebrate Earth Day, we'd like to take a moment to share our contributions. Did you know...

•             We offer vehicles with electric and hybrid options, such as the Mercedes-Benz B-Class.

•             Our Fletcher Jones water bottles are made of recycled materials and are biodegradable.

•             Our car wash utilizes reclaimed water.

•             We offer "paper free" mail options.

•             We recycle all of our used cardboard and paper products, plus used batteries.

•             We have developed a program for recycling the used oil from vehicle services.
  
  

We are always looking for new and innovative ways to be environmentally conscious. Do you have any suggestions? We'd love to hear from you! You can send us an email at mediarelations@fjmercedes.com.

Your mom has fed you so many times when you were young, now it's your chance to treat her to a special brunch. Does your mom like French toast and a latte, eggs with bacon, or frittata with a mimosa? Here are our top 4 brunch picks for you to out-do the macaroni necklace from years past.

The Beachcomber Cafe
15 Crystal Cove, Newport Coast, CA

According to the Orange County Hot List, The Beachcomber Café has been ranked the #1 Best Brunch for two consecutive years. It's known for its vintage 50's inspired beach-like California cuisine, plus a great ocean view! They have a special set menu for Mother's Day so you can enjoy endless glasses of champagne, mimosas, or orange juice with your choice of an entrée for $44 for per adult and $15 per child. Show your mother how much you love her by taking her to one of OC's best restaurants for brunch.

Plum's Cafe
369 E 17th St, Costa Mesa, CA

Plums Café is another restaurant that has won many awards for their delicious breakfast, a hidden Costa Mesa gem, that will let you escape from the everyday hustle to a quiet brunch. They are known for their Northwest influenced menu, such as fresh roasted hazelnut pancakes, Oregon pepper bacon, raspberry pancakes, Alderwood smoked Salmon hash, and many more delicious dishes. It will be hard to pick just one, you might have to go back next weekend.

Ramos House Cafe
31752 Los Rios, St San Juan Capistrano, CA

Go back in time to 1794 with Ramos House Café. The owner lives and works at the house, wines are kept in the cellar, and the herbs are grown in the garden out back. They serve breakfast and lunch all day long Tuesday through Friday, and a unique Brunch menu on Saturdays & Sundays. Let your mom enjoy their apple cinnamon beignets, crab hash with bacon, scrambled eggs, or a bowl of vegetable soup. Don't miss this beautiful old cottage style restaurant that serves up unique and contemporary American cuisine.

El Torito Grill
1910 Main Street, Irvine, California

Nothing says you love your mother more than inviting her to the best burrito in town! Take your mother to one of the best Mexican Brunch restaurants in OC and let her enjoy their signature mesquite grilled Mexican specialties, crisp salads, and Latin-fusion cuisine for a great price that includes a little bubbly to toast the occasion.

While you are at any one of these fine establishments and you check-in on Facebook, make sure to jump over to our Facebook page to vote for your favorite FJ Team Member Mother's Day Photo to help one of our associates win a prize from Red O Restaurant!

Design is an integral part of every new Mercedes-Benz model, and that's what you'll find with this new coupe, in both its standard two-door configuration, and an all-new four-door option. Press play on the video below and explore the intricate design and build of the stunning new 2015 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class that you can test drive over here today.

Inside and out, the new CLS-Class is a gorgeous design and every inch of detail has been crafted with the utmost care. Loaded with all kinds of features including high-end safety systems that help you navigate and negotiate even the toughest traffic, the CLS is as much fun to drive as it is to look at.

Get started with one of the many CLS-Class models available here at Fletcher Jones Motorcars in Newport Beach, CA by coming on over today. We'll be more than happy to take you out on a test drive.

You wouldn't want to see dinosaurs coming back to life in any old ordinary car, would you? Nah, you'll want the stunning new Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe for some thrilling adventures. You'll get to see this thrilling new ride in the upcoming Jurassic World blockbuster due out in theaters sometime soon, and we here at our Newport Beach, CA Mercedes-Benz dealership are also expecting this sporty vehicle sometime soon. Press play to check it out.

As excited as we are for some dinosaur-filled action on the big screen, we're even more pumped for the new GLE Coupe, a ride that defies expectations and segment definitions. We'll be certain to tell you all about this ride and when it will be showing up over here at our Mercedes-Benz dealership.

Find out more by visiting us over here at Fletcher Jones Motorcars today and we'll be happy to answer all of your questions.

Each and every car out on the road should have something to say, and your new 2015 Mercedes-Benz GLA-Class found right here at our Newport Beach, CA dealership. For all the little things this stunning sporty crossover does, it's the sum of its parts that make it a real luxurious Mercedes-Benz model that commands the road. Press play to take a look at the new GLA-Class in action.

Providing the kind of adrenaline and adventurous spirit you might be seeking for your weekends on the road, while serving as a reliable and fun commuter car to get you to work on a daily basis, the new GLA-Class is a true joy to have on the road. Because whatever you feel it is, you know it's always 100 percent a Mercedes-Benz model.

Find your next ride by coming over to Fletcher Jones Motorcars today and taking a test drive.

If you're a Jurassic Park fan, you probably saw the latest record-breaking installment of the series, "Jurassic World," this weekend. We talked about a cameo appearance by the 2016 GLE Coupé last month, and we can now safely say that the new vehicle certainly got the job done as the lead characters raced around the fictional island where the story takes place.

The dinosaurs certainly weren't the only thing to get excited about-- check out this behind-the scene video and watch the actors and producers reactions to the under-wraps appearance of the GLE Coupé during filming:

Haven't caught this summer blockbuster yet? See if you can catch appearances by the G-Class G63 AMG 6x6 and theSprinter, which also served as practical vehicles for dealing with dino drama.

While we wait for the GLE Coupé's appearance later this summer, visit Fletcher Jones Motorcars inNewport Beach, CA and ask about our current inventory of capable and sophisticated Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

At the start of July we all know that summer is well under way. One tell-tale sign of summer is that it is time to go out and get some fresh air, so no wonder it is National Parks and Recreation Month. There are so many options of outdoor places to visit wherever you are, but we chose one gem with over 40 miles of trails for biking, hiking, and horseback riding.

Laguna Coast Wilderness Park is a location with fossils and rocks that date back millions of years, some even dating back to the end of the dinosaurs. You would not have seen dinosaurs picnicking in the same setting we know today, as the County of Orange opened the park on April 10, 1993 and the Nix Nature Center later in 2007. The park and its nature center serve as a reminder to locals and visitors of its special value, as well as recreation, artistic inspiration, scientific study, and cultural renewal.