Idyllwild Family Feature- Only 2+ hrs drive from Los Angeles (Lodging and Dining Tips) “3/13”

Looking for a close getaway from Los Angeles to the wilderness with the whole family? Idyllwild is about 2-2 and ½ hours drive away up in the mountains.  We stayed and suggest the Bluebird Cottage Inn, which is about a half-mile from the main downtown of shops, restaurants and galleries.  The Inn was very quaint with nice décor, plenty of space in the 2 bedroom we stayed in, great helpful staff and free wifi.  Check them out if you plan on taking a trip out that way at www.bluebirdcottageinn.com

Idyllwild has some great hiking & camping (if you come in the winter or early spring, you will most likely see some snow).

Some of your dining recommendations include The Little Chef in the Forest for dinner with owner/chef Gina Flores. She is extremely hospitable and does a great job creating tasty German, Italian and Southern dishes. The restaurant is so intimate and beautiful as it is a converted house from a long time ago.  Some dishes that we enjoyed were the New Orleans Gumbo soup, the Italian Chicken entrée and German Potato Pancake. You can reach them at (951) 659-4411 or email is [email protected].  We were going to go to Gastrognome but they were very stuffy and not super friendly when we called so we are glad we found the Little Chef in the Forest. Gina is also an accomplished singer to add to her cooking talents and sang with Ike Turner after he formed his own band and split up with Tina.

We also suggest the Mile High Café for breakfast or lunch (open for dinner on the weekends).  Sushi Chef and Owner Nam is very welcoming and does a great job with the variety of food.  From the assortment of breakfast specials including pancakes, eggs, French toast and more to her delicious sushi (she is the only one in town that gets fresh tuna in daily).  Other menu items include sandwiches, salads, burgers, Udon and Sabi Noodles, Tempura, Salmon, Meats and Chicken.  Phone # is (951) 659-2008 or website is http://www.MileHighCafe.net

Lastly, a fun friendly BBQ American dining restaurant we had a great time at was Jo’ An’s. A great selection of steaks, chicken and seafood complimented the friendly staff and fun music entertainment. We dined there on Monday plug in night where they had a great karaoke singer to listen or dance to while you enjoyed your dinner. The kids loved it.  Phone # is (951) 659-0295 and email is [email protected].  They are located in the center of town as they have other nights of music entertainment so check their schedule.