Travel Guide

We know traveling can be a hassle. With over 51% of our patients coming from out-of-state or internationally, we understand the challenges involved. That's why we've compiled essential tips and resources to ensure your visit to Southern California is as comfortable and stress-free as possible. 

Contents

Traveling to the Food Allergy Institute is made as convenient as possible with our clinics being strategically located near Los Angeles (Long Beach) and San Diego (Vista). We have partnered with a range of hotels, recommend several allergy-friendly restaurants, and suggest nearby activities to simplify your stay. Our goal is to ensure you can focus on what truly matters: overcoming food allergies with your family.

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Airports

If you are traveling to the clinic by air, the following airports are conveniently located nearby.

Please note that all airlines utilize HEPA filters to ensure cleaner air and maintain high air quality for everyone's safety on board. Always check your airline's website for the latest policies and procedures to ensure a smooth and safe journey.

Long Beach Airport (LGB)

Located at 4100 Donald Douglas Dr., Long Beach, CA 90808, the Long Beach Airport offers flights to and from multiple US states. This airport is smaller and typically less crowded than other LA-area airports. In addition, major car rental companies operate on-site, and shuttles are available for off-site rentals.

Long Beach Airport (LGB) is conveniently located approximately 2 miles from our Willow Clinic, with a travel time of about 10 minutes depending on traffic. This airport is also about 75 miles from our Vista Clinic, with a drive time of around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

For more information about the Long Beach Airport (LGB), please visit their website at www.longbeach.gov/lgb/ or call them directly at (562) 570-7387.

Los Angeles Airport (LAX)

Located at 1 World Way, Los Angeles, CA 90045, the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) offers flights to a vast array of domestic destinations across the United States, as well as international flights to Asia, Europe, South America, and beyond.

As one of the busiest airports in the world, LAX provides a comprehensive array of services and amenities to accommodate millions of travelers each year. LAX has 9 different terminals, organized well and connected to each other by shuttles. In addition, all major car rental companies operate on-site, with shuttle services to off-site locations, and there are several ground transportation services available. 

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is approximately 25 miles from our Willow Clinic, with a drive time of about 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. It is approximately 90 miles from our Vista Clinic, with a drive time of around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

For more information about the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), please visit their website at flylax.com or call them directly at (855) 463-5252.

John Wayne Airport (SNA)

Located at 18601 Airport Way, Santa Ana, CA 92707, the John Wayne Airport (SNA) offers flights to a variety of domestic destinations across the United States.

Known for its efficiency and convenience, SNA provides a pleasant travel experience for passengers. John Wayne Airport has all major car rental companies operating on-site, with shuttle services to off-site locations available. In addition, various transportation options including taxis, ride-sharing services, shuttle buses, and public transportation are available.

John Wayne Airport (SNA) is approximately 20 miles from our Willow Clinic, with a drive time of about 30 to 35 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Our Vista Clinic is about 55 miles, with a drive time between 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.

For more information about the John Wayne Airport (SNA), please visit their website at ocair.com or call them directly at (949) 252-5200.

San Diego International Airport (SAN)

Located at 3225 N Harbor Dr., San Diego, CA 92101, San Diego International Airport (SAN) offers flights to various domestic destinations across the United States.

Known for its convenient location and efficient operations, SAN provides a seamless travel experience for millions of passengers annually. The San Diego Airport has all major car rental companies operating on-site, with shuttle services to off-site locations available. In addition, various transportation options including taxis, ride-sharing services, shuttle buses, and public transportation are available.

San Diego Airport (SAN)  is approximately 106 miles from our Willow Clinic, with a drive time of about 1.5-2.5 hours depending on traffic conditions. Our Vista Clinic is about 40 miles from this airport, with a drive time between 45 minutes to 1.5 hours depending on traffic.

For more information about the San Diego Airport, please visit their website at san.org or call them directly at (619) 400-2404.

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Hotels

These partnerships are designed to connect our families to accommodations tailored to their needs. For additional savings, use the corporate and promo codes listed below. Discounts vary based on the time of booking and availability, so we recommend booking your accommodations in advance.

Long Beach Hotels (LGB)

Hyatt Centric - The Pike Long Beach
Address: 285 Bay Street, Long Beach CA 90802-8161
Phone: (562) 624-6110
Corporate Code: 151590

Hyatt Regency Long Beach
Address: 200 South Pine Avenue, Long Beach CA 90802
Phone: (562) 491-1234
Corporate Code: 151590

Homewood Suites by Hilton Long Beach Airport
Address: 3771 N Lakewood Blvd, Long Beach CA 90808
Phone: (562) 452-0010
Corporate Code: 3249070

Hampton Inn Long Beach Airport
Address: 3771 N Lakewood Blvd, Long Beach CA 90808
Phone: (562) 452-0012
Corporate Code: 3249070

Long Beach Marriott
Address: 4700 Airport Plaza Drive, Long Beach CA 90815
Phone: (562) 425-5210
Corporate Code: A4540

Residence Inn by Marriott Long Beach
Address: 4111 East Willow St., Long Beach, CA 90815
Phone: (562) 595-0909
Corporate Code: E3970

The Cove Hotel
Address: 200 East Willow St., Long Beach, CA 90806
Phone: (562) 426-7611
Corporate Code: Mention Food Allergy Institute

Additional Hotels In The Area:

The Hotel Current
Address: 5325 E Pacific Coast Hwy., Long Beach, CA 90804
Phone: (562) 597-1341
Corporate Code: NA

Hotel Maya - A Doubletree Hotel by Hilton
Address: 700 Queensway Dr., Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: (562) 435-7676
Corporate Code: NA

Courtyard Long Beach Airport (A Marriott Hotel)
Address: 3841 N. Lakewood Blvd., Long Beach CA 90808
Phone: (562) 429-5803
Corporate Code: NA

Courtyard Long Beach Downtown (A Marriott Hotel)
Address: 500 East First St., Long Beach CA 90802
Phone: (562) 435-8511
Corporate Code: NA

Hotel Royal
Address: 431 E. Broadway, Long Beach CA 90802
Phone: (562) 685-9315
Corporate Code: NA

Los Angeles Hotels (LAX)

Hyatt House LAX / Century Blvd
Address: 5959 W Century Blvd, LA, CA 90045
Phone: (310) 258-9000
Corporate Code: 151590

Hyatt House LAX / Century Blvd
Address: 5959 W Century Blvd, LA, CA 90045
Phone: (310) 258-9000
Corporate Code: 151590

TownePlace Suites Los Angeles LAX/Manhattan Beach (A Marriott Hotel)
Address: 14400 Aviation Boulevard, Hawthorne, CA 90250
Phone: (310) 725-9696
Corporate Code: A4540

Orange County Hotels (SNA)

Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa
Address: 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Phone: (714) 845.4891
Corporate Code: 151590

Hyatt Regency Irvine
Address: 17900 Jamboree Rd., Irvine, CA 92614
Phone: (949) 751-1234
Corporate Code: 151590

North San Diego Hotels (SAN)

Hyatt Place San Diego/Vista-Carlsbad
Address: 2645 South Melrose Dr., Vista CA 92081
Phone: (760) 814-8879
Corporate Code: 151590

The Seabird Ocean Resort & Spa
Address:  101 Mission Ave, Oceanside, CA 92054 
Phone: (855) 413-7573
Corporate Code: 151590

Mission Pacific Beach Resort
Address: 201 N. Myers St., Oceanside, CA 92054
Phone: (855) 365-5078
Corporate Code: 151590

Haustay Vacation Rentals
Address: Varies by Rental
Phone: (619) 616-1346
Corporate Code: FAI5off

Courtyard San Diego Oceanside (A Marriott Hotel)
Address: 3501 Seagate Way Oceanside, CA 92056
Phone: (760) 966-1000
Corporate Code: FAC6 – King Suite & FAC7 – Queen rooms

Happy kids travel by the car

Rental Cars

Food Allergy Institute has a partnership for discounts on rental cars! Discounts vary based on the time of booking and availability, so we recommend booking in advance whenever possible.

Southern California

Enterprise Rent-A-Car
Address: Located at airports and local neighborhoods
Phone: 800-261-7331
Account #: XZ32748

National Car Rental
Address: Located at Airports
Phone: 888-826-6890
Account #: XZ32748

Happy family at a cafeteria drinking juices

Allergy-Friendly Restaurants

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Activities

Activities Near the Long Beach Clinic

Disneyland: (714) 781-4636. Guests will need to make reservations and plan prior to going to the park.

Aquarium of the Pacific: (562) 590-3100. General Ticket Pricing: Adult $44.95/Child $29.95/Senior $41.95.

Go Kart World: (310) 834-3700. Go Kart World is a Southern California driving skills course experience providing the ultimate in competitive driving for all ages and skill levels.

Long Beach Whale Watching: (562) 432-4900. Pricing varies, but they are as follows: walk up pricing for winter: Adults (12+ in age): $45 M-F, $50 Sat.-Sun.Seniors (62+) $40. Children (3-11): $30. Babies are free.

Long Beach Museum of Art: (562) 439-2119. Tickets: General: $12, Students/ Seniors: $10, Children 12 and under: Free.

Kidz Town Indoor Playground: (562) 420-7529. Children under 54 inches can play in the indoor park, while those taller cannot. The entry price covers 2 hours of play, and additional time will cost $8.50 per hour. Adults can enter for free, and the first child is $18 with $8.50 per each extra child.

The Little Gym of Lakewood: (562) 239-4416. 4042 Hardwick Street, Lakewood, CA. The Little Gym of Lakewood is a children’s gym offering activities for kids including parent/child classes, gymnastics, and sports skills.

Knott’s Berry Farm: (714) 220-5200. Hours vary and depend on the weather (as the park WILL shut down if it rains). Please check the hours here. Tickets price vary as well. Please look here for more information.

Pelican Pier Pavilion at the Shoreline Village: 562-980-1415. A gaming center surrounded by a huge carousel. Over 70 video games to choose from along with skeeball, air hockey, etc. 

Long Beach Metro Area Attractions:

The Queen Mary Hotel: (562) 435-3510. Beautiful hotel with 347 original first-class staterooms and suites.

Cabrillo Marine Aquarium: (310) 548-7562. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a trusted resource that inspires exploration, respect and conservation of Southern California marine life.

Catalina Express: (800) 995-4386. Catalina Express’ fast boats depart daily from the Catalina Landing in Downtown Long Beach year-round.

Los Cerritos Wetland: Four Mile Historical Park seeks to preserve Colorado’s western rural heritage.

Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden: (562) 985-8885. Japanese garden encompassing 1.3 acres on the campus of California State University, Long Beach.

El Dorado Regional Park: (562) 570-1771. This park includes a community center, sports courts, picnic sites, running trails, a disc golf course, tennis center, golf course, playgrounds, and ponds.

Jack Dunster Marine Biological Reserve: (562) 570-3100. The Jack Dunster Marine Biological Reserve is located on the northwesterly side of the Los Cerritos Channel next to the Marine Stadium Rowing Center.

Vincent Thomas Bridge: The Vincent Thomas Bridge is a 1,500-foot-long (460 m) suspension bridge, crossing the Los Angeles Harbor in the U.S. state of California, linking San Pedro, Los Angeles, with Terminal Island.

Long Beach Waterfront: Along the water is Bluff Park, where you can stroll along the sand or in the grass while taking in breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.

Shopping in Long Beach:

Retro Row/Fourth Street: Located just a 10-minute bike ride or 30-minute walk from downtown Long Beach, Fourth Street is a diverse and independent shopping destination with almost 100 unique stores offering exclusive goods, foods, and experiences.

Pine Avenue: As downtown’s main business anchor this street offers visitors one of the best selections of fine dining and entertainment choices found in Southern California.

Shoreline Village: Long Beach, California 90802 Shoreline Village is a waterfront shopping, dining and entertainment center that overlooks Long Beach’s beautiful Rainbow Harbor.

2nd & PCH: A coastal contemporary retail and restaurant destination inspired by the neighboring marina.

Long Beach Antique Market: Located at Long Beach Veterans Stadium, this Monthly open-air flea market offers 800+ vendors selling antiques, collectibles & vintage clothing. 

Annual Local Events in Long Beach:

Grand Prix of Long BeachDubbed the largest street race in the country, the Grand Prix of Long Beach is the largest event in the city drawing in a crowd of around 170,000 spectators.

Long Beach Pride Festival & ParadeThe Long Beach Pride is the second-largest event in the city and one of the largest Pride events in the country. With about 80,000 participants, the two-day event features more than 250 marching groups and floats representing various religious, governmental, sponsor, and social organizations.

Long Beach Sea FestivalThe Annual Long Beach Sea Festival consists of dozens of waterside festivals and events including: kids sailing competitions, the Chinese Dragon Boat Festival and the Great Sand Sculpture event.

Pow Wow festivalExperience Long Beach’s latest art-focused festival! This week-long celebration of urban contemporary art features larger-than-life site-specific murals and multimedia installations by cutting-edge artists from around the world.

Catalina Ski RaceDubbed “The World’s Greatest Ski Race,” see more than 100 super boats race between Long Beach and Catalina Island. Water skiers from around the globe come to participate.

Long Beach Jazz FestivalTake top jazz artists of the year, set them atop a grassy knoll in a beautiful lagoon and you’ve got the Long Beach Jazz Festival. You’ll also find a wonderful variety of food, displays of art and much more.

Activities Near the Vista Clinic

Alta Vista Botanical: (760) 945-3954. 1270 Vale Terrace Dr, Vista, CA 92084. Discover Alta Vista Botanical Gardens - a serene oasis with unique plants, walking trails, and stunning views. Visit our nonprofit garden in Vista, CA. Admission is $5.00 for non-members. $3.00 for children 3 To 12 years old (2 and younger are free.) Groups of 8 or more should contact us for reservations and rental rates. 

Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum: (760) 941-1791. 2040 N Santa Fe Ave, Vista, CA 92083. The Antique Gas & Steam Engine Museum (AGSEM) is a living history museum that was established in 1969. It is situated on a 55-acre piece of land owned by the county, located on the outskirts of Vista, California. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the history of gas and steam engines in a hands-on environment.

Balboa Park: 1549 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101. Balboa Park has three main attractions: the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, numerous museums (including the Comic-Con museum and the Natural History Museum), botanical gardens, restaurants, an art center- and more!

Belmont Park: 3146 Mission Blvd, San Diego, CA 92109. Belmont Park is a historic amusement park located on Ocean Front at Surfrider Square in the Mission Bay area of San Diego, California.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps: (858) 534-3474. 2300 Expedition Way, La Jolla, CA 92037. Mix fun and science with a visit to the Birch Aquarium, which is the education and outreach center for the world-renowned research institution, Scripps Institution of Oceanography.

Cabrillo National Monument: 619 523-4285. 1800 Cabrillo Memorial Dr, San Diego, CA 92106. Sitting proudly amongst the astonishing cliffs of Point Loma, Cabrillo National Monument commemorates the historic moment when Portuguese explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo sailed into San Diego Bay under the Spanish flag in 1542. The monument boasts spectacular 360-degree views of San Diego Bay, downtown and the surrounding region. On a clear day, you can even see the hills of Tijuana, Mexico.

Fleet Science Center: (619) 238-1233. 1875 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92101. Experience hands-on science exploration with engaging exhibits and immersive experiences at the Fleet Science Center in Balboa.

Gaslamp Quarter: (619) 233-5227. 599 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101. As the alluringly charismatic and historic heart of downtown San Diego, the 16-and-a-half-block Gaslamp Quarter blends Victorian charm with a 21st-century entertainment, shopping and nightlife scene.

La Jolla Cove: (858) 230-2725. La Jolla Cove, San Diego, CA 92037. From the crashing waves to the award-winning culinary creations, La Jolla sparkles with sights and attractions in a picturesque village where everything is immersed in a casual, relaxed luxury.

Legoland: (888) 690-5346. 1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008. Tickets start at $89, and they offer vacation packages when you book a night at one of their themed hotels.

Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala: (619) 283-7319. 10818 San Diego Mission Road San Diego, CA 92108. The first and grandest of the California missions is Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcala, founded by the Spanish in 1769.

SeaWorld: (619) 222-4SEA. 500 Sea World Dr., San Diego, CA 92109. SeaWorld San Diego is an animal theme park, Oceanarium, outside the aquarium and marine mammal park, in San Diego, California. Tickets start at $109.99 and they offer special deals.

Seaport Village: (619) 530-0704. 849 W Harbor Dr, San Diego, CA 9210. Seaport Village is a waterfront shopping and dining complex adjacent to San Diego Bay in downtown San Diego, California. It houses more than 70 shops, galleries, and eateries on 90,000 square feet of waterfront property.

Torrey Pines Gliderport: (858) 452-9858. 2800 Torrey Pines Scenic Dr, La Jolla, CA 92037. Enjoy a bird’s-eye view of San Diego’s exceptional Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve by swooping serenely overhead in a paraglider.

San Diego Children's Discovery Museum: (760) 233-7755. 320 N Broadway, Escondido, CA 92025. Come and visit this exciting North County children's museum and experience a world of wonders with hands-on activities for the entire family.

San Diego Museum of Art: (619) 232-7931. 1450 El Prado, San Diego, CA 92102. The region’s oldest, largest and most-visited art museum, the San Diego Museum of Art has a nationally renowned permanent collection that includes Spanish and Italian old masters, as well as 19th-century American paintings and sculptures.

San Diego Zoo Safari Park: (619) 231-1515. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road, Escondido, California 92027. Sister park to the world-famous San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance. Offers different safari options for families who would like to get up close with some exotic animals! Tickets start at $30.

San Diego Whale Watch: (619) 542-9931.1617 Quivira Rd, San Diego, CA 92109. San Diego Whale Watch offers year-round excursions for $40 per person.

Scavenger Hunt Adventure in Carlsbad by Wacky Walks: 2907 State St, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA. Combine your Carlsbad sightseeing with a fun-filled, family-friendly adventure when you book this smartphone scavenger hunt.

Sesame Place San Diego: 619-943-ELMO. 2052 Entertainment Cir, Chula Vista, CA 91911. With a mix of theme park and water rides, shows, games and fun activities for all ages, come see why Sesame Place is the best family theme park.

Old Town San Diego: (619) 656-4721. 4002 Wallace St, San Diego, CA 92110. Located in the center of San Diego, the quaint streets and Spanish-style architecture will transport you to 1769 where you can take in some Hispanic culture, art, and food.

Rancho Buena Vista Adobe: 640 Alta Vista Drive, Vista. Rental Information: 760.643.5268
Education Programs: 760.643.5274. Rancho Buena Vista Adobe is a
 160+ year old adobe and one of the best-preserved land-grant ranchos.  It has since been turned into a museum for the public to enjoy!

The Old Globe Theatre: (619) 234-5623. 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego, CA 92101. Longtime theater with shows ranging from Shakespeare & classic musicals to first-run new plays.

USS Midway Museum: (619) 544-9600. 910 North Harbor Drive San Diego, CA 92101. Tickets range from $21 for children and veterans to $31 for adults.

Vista Farmers Market: 325 S Melrose Dr, Vista, CA 92081. This market offers a wide array of fresh, organic produce and goods from over 50 local farmers and 40 food makers, including international cuisines and baked treats. It also features artisan crafts, live music, and convenient services, all supported by extensive free parking.

Sports and Entertainement

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