From the scents of exotic herbs and vegetables to the sounds of other languages in the stalls, urban farmers' markets give families a chance to get a taste of another culture without venturing far from home. Most cities have outdoor markets featuring foods, drinks and produce that reflect the ethnic heritage of the region--all of which can add up to a great morning or afternoon outing.

As you stroll, you'll undoubtedly work up an appetite, so plan to buy your lunch or a snack from one of the open-air stalls (many markets sell fresh breads, pastries or cooked foods). After your feast, get your children involved by giving them each a few dollars and letting them choose whatever foods suit their fancy to sample later at home. (Who knows? They may even be inspired to try a new vegetable!) Below are some of the country's largest markets, but, remember, even a small city market can offer your family a taste of something new.

At The Downtown Farmers' Market at Arizona and Second in Santa Monica, California, you can taste kiwi cider and pomegranate juice; at Central Market in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, sample the sticky sweet Amish specialty, shoofly pie. At New Orleans' Crescent City Farmers' Market, try boiled peanuts and seasonal fruit pies, and at the Oak Park Farmers' Market in Chicago, scope out gooseberries and pattypan squashes.

WEB RESOURCE: For a list of markets, log on to AMS Farmers Markets.
Additional links:

Farmers' Markets of Florida
Pacific Coast Farmers' Market Association
Farmers' Markets of Southern California
Farmers Markets of Virginia

LIBRARY LINK:FOOD MARKETS OF THE WORLD by Nelli Sheffer and Mimi Sheraton.

INSIDE SCOOP: As an icebreaker, ask the vendors what foods their kids enjoy the most.