For #saferathome Covid-weary families, getting in the car and going for a drive can renew spirits and over a change of scenery.

Here are some charming towns that are less than a 2 hour drive from Los Angeles, to take a car ride, wear your mask and enjoy the festive lights.

Temecula: While the town is known for its wineries, its vibrant Old Town Temecula is ideal for holiday shopping with its festive décor and specialty shops that feature made-in-Temecula products.  With more than 100 shops to stroll, gift givers will find something for everyone on their list. Some favorites include locally made olive oils from the Temecula Olive Oil Company, culinary items from Old Town Spice & Tea Merchants, and handmade lavender products from Temecula Lavender Company. isit Temecula Valley is the region’s official tourism marketing organization and resource for visitors. The Visitors Center is located in Old Town Temecula. For visitor information and assistance, please call (888) 363-2852 or go to VisitTemeculaValley.com.

Idyllwild: Set among tall pines, pleasant smelling cedars and legendary rock formations, The mountain offers a charming town center filled with quaint shops. Pick up some sheepskin slippers to snuggle up in from Wooley’s, or unique handcrafted jewelry at The Sage and The Butterfly. Discover vintage collectibles at Ephemera or pick up an artisan candle made onsite at the Wax Apothecary. 

Big Bear Lake: With holiday lights aglow in the village and snow falling on the pines, Big Bear Lake transforms into a classic Christmas escape just a couple hours from Los Angeles. On the weekend before Christmas, Big Bear is having a Holiday Farmers Market & Chriskindlmark. Join Wyatt’s for some traditional Christmas and holiday fun Saturday, Dec 19 and Sunday, Dec 20. Enjoy holiday entertainment and shop unique vendor booths. Kids can get into the holiday spirit with arts and crafts and visits with Santa Claus! Settle down to enjoy Wyatt’s full bar and menu and get a peek at imported cookies and candies. Sat. Dec. 19 from 1 PM – 8 PM and Sun. Dec. 20 from 11 AM – 6 PM

Marina del Rey: The holiday season in Marina del Rey will offer locals and visitors a festive atmosphere despite the cancellations of many signature winter events. Just like homeowners are decorating their homes this year, The Holiday Boat Lights Display brightens the waterfront. The public is invited to walk, bike or paddle throughout the harbor to see the boats decorated in holiday lights. Stroll along Fisherman’s Village and enjoy stunning sunsets followed by nightly twinkling Christmas lights throughout December.

Lompoc: Some of the most picturesque country roads are found on California’s Central Coast, with dramatic coastline plunging down to the frothy ocean below, and winding paths flowing through gentle hillsides filled with wildflowers. There are four roads in and around Lompoc that are ideal for a day drive. SpaceX launch of a Falcon 9 Block 5 Rocket is scheduled to life off on December 31, 2020 at 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Date/Time may change. Click here for details.