Feb 6, 2015 | Urban Explorer
Planned communities often have a boring reputation, especially for those who don't live in them. In urban planning circles, however, they are excellent case studies in design and large-scale development. And they are wildly successful for families....
Jan 7, 2015 | Urban Explorer
I noticed the Riverside Raincross symbol stamped on the outside of a fairly ugly parking structure. Then I noticed the same symbol stamped in the concrete walls along the 91 Freeway. I saw it in the street lights in downtown. I...
Dec 12, 2014 | Urban Explorer
Little did I know it, but I grew up in a famous garden apartment. In fact, one mile away from what is now a National Historic Landmark - the Baldwin Hills Village (now Village Green). As a six-year-old, all I knew was that there was a...
Oct 9, 2014 | Urban Explorer
I said it for New York, and now I have to say it for Boston - this is a tour guide's dream city. Where else can you find so much revolutionary war history preserved so beautifully in a big city? How can a large city feel so walkable? Where else can...
Sep 9, 2014 | Urban Explorer
California's second largest city - San Diego - is a feast for the eyes and offers something for everybody. Besides having an ideal climate, the City has done a wonderful job preserving its past and building some great, modern architecture. So, here's my Top Ten...
May 8, 2014 | Urban Explorer
Hoffy Tours made its annual trek to that once stuffy town - Pasadena - to savor its craftsman bungalow legacy. Our destination was Bungalow Heaven, a 1915 Historic Landmark District that once a year opens its homes to visitors. What we saw was leafy...
