Jurassic LA

Banning, CA -- The Crazy Coyote taco stand draws visitors in a fun and unique way. Age-old marketing ploy along Interstate 10 in the California desert.

Hadley Fruit Orchards

Banning, CA -- Many who live in Southern California are familiar with Palm Springs. Those who visit Palm Springs regularly definitely know about Hadley's Fruit Orchard off Interstate 10.

The "Hadley" sign looms high above the highway linking LA and Palm Springs, tempting travelers of all ages. I go for the Banana Date Shakes. For less than $5, I can run in, grab a shake, ask the friendly staff of any recent celebrity visits, and be on my way.

While visiting, I met Tracy, Richard and Debra (pictured above). Together, they pointed out the a few movie stars who recently stopped by. Hadley's walls are lined with more than a hundred autographed 8 x 10 photos. Both of the fun-loving ladies say they are sometimes a little shy to ask, but they still manage to get some of the Hollywood stars to autograph their picture and hang it up in the store.

Roadside Americana

Banning -- The road was lined with American flags, proudly waving in the gusty wind. Two men were pushing a rusty pickup truck while a woman and her grandson waited patiently for the next bus in the 92-degree sun. Next time--on a day off--I should spend a day in this town to explore. Funny how we neglect small towns while en route to another big city....

Banning is about 90 minutes from Los Angeles along Interstate 10 near Palm Springs.