My Story _
My name is Claudia Erickson and I started the Unplugged Village in May of 2018 because I felt the need for a change. Not only for myself, but because everywhere I looked I saw eyes glued to screens. Don't get me wrong, I love technology. I am forever grateful every time Google helps me out, my Maps app takes me exactly where I want to go or I find cheap gas quickly. At some point however, my time with my cell phone, laptop etc. became too overwhelming. I remembered a time before technology when life was less distracting. I found myself talking to friends and strangers about the issue of tech dependency and many people shared my concerns. They would send me articles, ideas and ask how they could help. Parents, doctors, Uber drivers, and restaurant owners all had something to say about the topic and a story to tell. The old adage, "it takes a village" really struck a note with me and thus the Unplugged Village was born.
UNPLUGGED EXPERIENCES
Unfortunately, Covid has really made it challenging to get out and about and away from our tech devices. Check out the activities below to see if any peak your interest and still allow for social distancing.
Explore new areas - You can follow along with a group like Hidden San Diego for some off the beaten path areas to explore. You can also check out the many Little Free Libraries around town (there are over 270 in San Diego alone!). The one pictured above is in Claremont. Check out the map to find ones near you. We had several scavenger hunts for National Day of Unplugging, and may have more in months to come, so check back!
Start a Wishing Tree
Wishing Trees can be set up anywhere at anytime and can serve as a time of support and comfort in trying times. Learn more about the one pictured we set up in my neighborhood for a woman battling cancer, the La Mesa Wishing Tree located at La Mesa Floral Shoppe and the stands placed in the La Mesa Village so passersby can leave a card for a business to show their support in these trying times.
Go on a Gnome Hunt - The Ramona and Escondido wineries are open again! Wherever you spot a gnome...that is a great place to unplug, relax and re-connect. There are over 39 wineries in the area and most have outdoor dining areas and let you bring your own picnic along. Some offer hands on socially distant activities from jewelry making to crafting or painting.
In May, Clues will be placed at each of the participating wineries. Try to solve them all and get a chance to win prizes.
Go HERE to sign up for this free event and get your first clue and more details!
WHEN WE GET BACK TO NORMAL (Post Pandemic) - Hit a comedy night, work your way out of an escape room, charge up your brain at trivia night or refocus your energy doing beachfront yoga. Here are just a few experiences to explore!
Check out the latest in pop up comedy nights! With locations held all over the country, check out to see if there is one near you OR sign up to host.
Julian, Mt. Laguna & Lake Cuyamaca Traditional camping not for you but you love the idea of communing with nature? Check out
Alter Experiences!
You and your friends, family, or coworkers get locked in a room for 60 minutes. You have to uncover clues and solve a series of puzzles to open locks, find keys, and get out of the room before the time is up!
Practice yoga on the cliffs overlooking the ocean in beautiful Bird Rock La Jolla. Corie Seibert will lead you in a challenging, all-levels vinyasa style class that will leave you feeling amazing!
In Ocean Beach at Adair St and
Sunset Cliffs Blvd.
10 am Saturday &
5:30 pm Tuesdays
Suggested donation $10
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Do you and your friends have what it takes to comb through clue-filled museum archives, solve puzzles, and save the world? Check out Escape The Nat for…Botanic Panic!
There are over 30 wineries in Ramona CA. Who knew? Take a day trip through the countryside stopping at the many wine tasting spots along the way.
Mud Lily is a cozy space to discover, explore and practice creating with clay. Classes for beginners and up.
Give your night a twist with in-studio classes or pick up a kit you can do at home!
Hidden San Diego is your go-to website for hidden, haunted and amazing spots in San Diego. Find everything from spooky forests, natural curiosities, cemeteries and abandoned buildings to gorgeous views and nature trails.
Fire up those brain cells and work on that memory of yours. Sunset Trivia has locations all over town with over 70 locations where you can Think, Drink & Win!
Sunset Trivia on Thursday nights. Wine & Design jewelry making classes on Wednesday nights.
Find those quirky little road side markets. Check out Swantons Berry Farm stand just south of San Francisco.
Try an off the grid nature spot or explore the wild and wacky Slab City...last free place on earth.
Live where it's warm? You can still try ice blocking for a fun sledding type experience. Ages 5 and up!
