Painstaking restoration to its original state of elegance has been completed, and preservation of the mansion for future generations is assured. Acres of terraced orange groves have been replanted, and the view of mansion from West Crescent Avenue is much like it was early in the last century.
But out of sight from the street, the property is transformed into a children’s paradise—hiking trails and bike trails; big grass playfield; slides; low-ropes challenge course; tipis and campfire pit; an activity center with foosball, air hockey, putt-putt golf, SnoCone machine (a favorite); and all kinds of sports equipment.
Kids love learning to drive, chip and putt with junior-size clubs on this beautiful, artificial-turf golf course, designed by legendary pro-golfer Dave Stockton.
Overnight campers sleep in tipis and roast S’mores at a gas-fired campfire ring. There are showers, restrooms, and picnic tables. The big playfield nearby is a perfect place for stargazing.
Two 22-foot slides await kids at the end of a hiking trail.
The low-ropes challenge course has four fun elements that test kids’ courage and teamwork.
A meandering hiking trail gives kids a chance to work on their fitness and explore the grounds.
Tucked away, out of sight, is a peaceful place for quiet contemplation.
Horse stables built in the 1990s have been converted to an Activity Center with foosball, air hockey, putt-putt golf, ping pong, the ever-popular SnoCone machine, and state-of-the-art restrooms.
The grass lawn of the big playfield is a favorite place to play sports and water games.
A small park with barbeque grills and picnic tables provides groups with a reliably shady place for snacks and crafts.
A groomed bike trail that zig-zags through the terraced orange groves gives kids a chance to enjoy off-road biking. (bikes donated by Redlands Police, helmets by Loma Linda Children’s hospital)
The air-conditioned children’s library and movie theater (projector, a giant, pull-down movie screen and blackout window shades painted with murals), with giant bean bag chairs and teddy bears, offers a place for kids to read, imagine, and dream.
The refurbished original wooden floors and the walls of multiple mirrors make a fun place for dancing.
Surrounded by galaxies of outer space, kids explore computer technology. (laptop computers donated by Esri)
The art room’s inspiring décor—along with plenty of art supplies—invites young artists to create their masterpieces.
The garden provides opportunity for kids to dig in the dirt and plant seeds, then harvest and eat delicious vegetables.
This Environmental Health Department-certified and American Camp Association-approved kitchen is used for camps and daycamps.
Original rock walls were duplicated in the terraced seating of this serene gathering place.
A covered spot with a beautiful vista of city and mountains invites hot and thirsty hikers and bike riders to stop and rest awhile.