Armchair Travel: Africa on Water & Foot
2025-06-18 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Africa with renowned nature and wildlife artist Fred Krakowiak. In his captivating program, The Artist’s Safari, Fred combines his artistic talent with vivid storytelling drawn from his personal safari adventures. Experience the thrill of charging elephants, close encounters with crocodiles and cape buffalo, and the joy of connecting with local communities as he teaches African children how to paint.
Through stunning visuals and engaging narration, Fred offers a one-of-a-kind perspective on the raw beauty, culture, and wildlife of Africa—bringing the safari experience to life from the comfort of your seat.
Ticket prices:

Senior (55+)

Resident $7
Nonresident: $9

Adult

Resident: $9
Nonresident: $11

All tickets are $9 at the door. Reserve your spot today for this inspiring evening of art, adventure, and cultural discovery. To register, visit coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center front desk at 1019 Seventh Street.

Armchair Travel: Japanese Temple Gardens
2025-08-20 17:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Travel Talk at 5 PM · Armchair Presentation at 6:30 PM
John D. Spreckels Center
Join us for an evening of cultural exploration at the John D. Spreckels Center’s popular Armchair Travel event on Wednesday, August 20.
The evening begins with Travel Talk from 5 to 6 pm in the lounge — a free, informal gathering where travelers can share tips, experiences, and destination advice. All are welcome.
Then at 6:30 pm, enjoy Armchair Travel: Japanese Temple Gardens, a captivating presentation by Susan Anderson, daughter of Helen Anderson, founder of the Armchair Travel series. A former U.S. Embassy staff member in Tokyo, Susan visited more than 35 temples during her time in Japan and will share her passion for the country’s stunning temple gardens, culture, and spiritual architecture.
In the spirit of the evening, feel free to wear a kimono or traditional Japanese attire.
Pricing varies for Armchair Travel admission. Light refreshments included.
Register online at ca-coronado.civicrec.com
call 619-522-7343, or visit the Spreckels Center front desk at 1019 Seventh Street.
No passport needed—just curiosity and a love of travel!

Sneak Peek of New Terminal 1 at San Diego International Airport
2025-09-14 09:00 - 12:00 | San Diego International Airport, Harbor Island Drive, San Diego, CA, 92101, United States
The community is invited to explore the new Terminal 1 during an open house on Sunday, Sept. 14 prior to its official opening in late September. Photo by Reed Naliboff on Unsplash
While San Diego International Airport (SAN) puts the finishing touches on its new Terminal 1, the public is invited to get an exclusive first look during a Community Reveal: Open House on Sunday, September 14, from 9 am to 12 noon.
The free, family-friendly event offers a self-guided tour of the new terminal, which will soon welcome millions of travelers. No registration is required.
Airport staff will be available throughout the terminal to answer questions and help guide visitors during the event. Select concessions will also provide complimentary samples, giving attendees a taste of the flavors that will be available when the terminal opens in late September.
“We’re so excited to give the community the opportunity to experience firsthand all that our new Terminal 1 offers before it officially opens,” said Kimberly Becker, President & CEO of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority. “We appreciate the patience and support from our neighbors and travelers during construction. This is San Diego’s airport, and we are proud to share it with everyone.”
Parking is available in the Terminal 1 Parking Plaza. The first three hours are free with validation — be sure to bring your ticket with you. Directional signs will guide attendees to the Open House entrance, located on Level 1 of the new Terminal 1 at 3301 N. Harbor Drive, San Diego.
Learn more about SAN’s new Terminal 1.

Armchair Travel: Journey Through the Canadian Rockies
2025-09-17 18:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
September’s Armchair Travel will be held on Wednesday, September 17. Presented by Stan Thorne and Brenda Jones, the program will take you on a breathtaking journey through the Canadian Rockies aboard the luxurious and world-famous Rocky Mountaineer.
Sit back and enjoy a scenic excursion featuring towering peaks, turquoise lakes, and cascading waterfalls—all from the comfort of the John D. Spreckels Center. Learn about the region’s rich history, incredible wildlife, and the unforgettable experience of traveling by rail with world-class amenities. This is truly a “Bucket List” adventure you won’t want to miss.
Join us at the John D. Spreckels Center. 1019 Seventh Street. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the presentation begins at 6:30 p.m. Pricing varies based on residency and senior discount.
Register today at coronado.ca.us/civicrec or call 619-522-7343.

Rotary Youth Exchange program informational meeting
2025-11-19 18:00 - 19:00 | Coronado High School – Multipurpose Room, 650 D Ave, Coronado, CA, United States
Coronado high school-aged students looking for adventure, cultural experiences, the opportunity to travel, or to learn a new language should attend the Rotary Youth Exchange Information Night in the Multipurpose Room at Coronado High School on Wednesday, Nov. 19 from 6 to 7 pm. This once-in-a-lifetime opportunity is offered by Rotary Club of Coronado and allows teens to travel to any one of 100 different countries and become fully immersed in the local culture and customs.
LEARN MORE HERE:
Coronado students offered study abroad opportunity through Rotary Youth Exchange

Armchair Travel: Bill Altaffer, “The World’s Most Traveled Person”
2025-12-10 18:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
This month’s Armchair Travel presentation on Wednesday, Dec. 10, features renowned world explorer Bill Altaffer, internationally known as “The World’s Most Traveled Person.” Bill will share insights and stories from his third journey to Albania since the country’s transition to democracy.
Albania has become an increasingly popular destination, appreciated for its welcoming atmosphere, dramatic landscapes, and rich, complex history. Travelers can explore striking castles, traditional towns, and significant archaeological sites, along with a coastline that is drawing attention as an emerging Mediterranean getaway.
Bill will also introduce us to Kosovo, Albania’s neighboring independent state, celebrated for its mountain scenery, natural beauty, and vibrant cultural life.
This monthly Armchair Travel program offers an engaging evening of exploration and storytelling — perfect for anyone interested in discovering new cultures and destinations. Light bites provided. Doors open at 6 pm and the presentation begins at 6:30.
The presentation takes place at the John D. Spreckels Center, located at 1019 Seventh Street. To register or learn more, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center in person.

Armchair Travel: Boating on the Canadian Canals
2026-02-17 18:30 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Sunset on the St. Lawrence Seaway, August 1, 2021. (The Coronado Times)
The John D. Spreckels Center invites the community to its monthly Armchair Travel presentation on Monday, February 17, beginning at 6:30 p.m. This special evening program offers a fascinating journey through Canada’s iconic waterways, guided by seasoned travelers Sue Steven and her husband Craig Blasingame.
Boating on the Canadian Canals
From the comfort of your seat, follow Sue and Craig as they navigate Canada’s inland waters aboard their 24-foot trawler, traveling through the Lachine, Rideau, and Trent–Severn Canals, as well as the mighty St. Lawrence Seaway. Along the way, they share stunning visuals and firsthand stories that bring to life how these waterways shaped the history, politics, economy, and natural beauty of Ontario and Quebec. As the presenters like to say—come “lock” through with us for an evening of discovery and adventure!
Register online at ca-coronado.civicrec.com, call 619-522-7343, or visit the John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street.
Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. This Armchair Travel presentation promises an enriching and entertaining escape to Canada’s waterways — no passport required.

Armchair Travel: "Birds & Wildlife, My Trip through Rajasthan, India"
2026-03-17 18:30 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The John D. Spreckels Center invites the community to an evening of adventure with the next Armchair Travel presentation, “Birds & Wildlife: My Trip through Rajasthan, India,” on Tuesday, March 17 at 6:30 pm. Guest speaker Rustom Jamadar will share highlights from his January 2025 journey through India’s desert regions in pursuit of birds, wildlife, and culture.
Through stunning photographs and personal stories, Jamadar will guide guests through the landscapes of Rajasthan, offering a glimpse into the region’s remarkable wildlife and rich cultural heritage. It’s sure to be an engaging evening of travel to this beautiful and exotic desert destination — no passport required.
Light bites will be served beginning at 6 pm, with the presentation starting at 6:30 pm.
Tickets:

$7 for senior residents
$9 for general admission

To register, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the John D. Spreckels Center at 1019 Seventh Street.

Armchair Travel - On Two Feet & Three Wheels: Travel Adventures Overcoming Age & Disability
2026-04-21 18:00 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
Courtesy image (Spreckels Center)
The John D. Spreckels Center invites the community to its monthly Armchair Travel program on April 21, featuring an inspiring presentation: On Two Feet & Three Wheels: Travel Adventures Overcoming Age & Disability. Doors open at 6 p.m., with the presentation beginning at 6:30 p.m.
Local author Cary Lowe, joined by his wife Trish Butler, will share stories from their remarkable journeys across the United States and abroad. Traveling by planes, trains, ships, buses, and cars, the pair have embraced adventure while navigating age and physical challenges — proving that limitations don’t have to stop exploration.
Cary’s talk offers encouragement and insight for older adults and individuals with disabilities who may feel hesitant about travel, delivering a powerful message: it’s never too late to keep moving forward.
Snacks will be provided. Admission is $7 for resident seniors and $9 general admission. To register, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center at 1019 Seventh Street.

Image by Julita from Pixabay

Van trip to Alta Vista Botanical Gardens
2026-05-19 09:15 - 15:15 | CA
Depart from the John D. Spreckels Center for a relaxing day surrounded by nature at Alta Vista Botanical Gardens. Explore this beautiful garden featuring vibrant plants, unique art installations, and both paved and unpaved walking trails. Admission is included in the trip cost.
Following the visit, the van will stop at The Habit Burger Grill, where participants may purchase lunch.
To register, call 619-522-2454, visit CivicRec, or stop by the John D. Spreckels Center at 1019 Seventh Street.

Day trip to Oasis Camel Dairy
2026-06-03 10:00 - 15:30 | CA
Experience a unique behind-the-scenes adventure to Oasis Camel Dairy on Wednesday, June 3. The city van departs from the John D. Spreckels Center at 10 a.m. and returns approximately at 3:30 p.m. Guests will enjoy a private guided tour focused on camels and their fascinating desert adaptations, with a stop beforehand at a local eatery where lunch may be purchased.
This hands-on experience includes opportunities to touch and feed the animals while learning from knowledgeable staff. In addition to meeting the camels, participants will encounter cockatoos, parrots, sheep, giant goldfish, and other friendly sanctuary residents in a fun and memorable farm setting.
Pricing varies based on residency and senior discount. To find out more or register, call 619-522-7343, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, or stop by the John D. Spreckels Center at 1019 Seventh Street.

Armchair Travel: South America and Antarctica
2026-06-16 18:30 | John D. Spreckels Center, 1019 Seventh Street, Coronado, CA, 92118, United States
The City of Coronado’s John D. Spreckels Center presents another exciting evening in the popular Armchair Travel Series featuring world traveler Katherine Whitley. Katherine returns to share unforgettable adventures through South America and Antarctica.
Travel from the comfort of your seat as Katherine introduces guests to a remote jungle lodge deep within Ecuador’s rainforest, explores the towns and landscapes of Peru, visits the breathtaking ruins of Machu Picchu, and journeys through the dramatic Andes. The adventure then continues to Antarctica, where towering icebergs, heavy seas, penguins, and the remarkable silence of the seventh continent create an unforgettable experience.
Light bites will be provided. Admission is $7 for resident seniors and $9 general admission. To register, visit www.coronado.ca.us/civicrec, call 619-522-7343, or stop by the Spreckels Center at 1019 Seventh Street.
