Los Angeles is a vibrant, sprawling city that offers endless opportunities for family fun. From iconic theme parks to scenic beaches and educational museums, there’s something for kids and adults alike to enjoy. Local looking for a weekend adventure or a visitor planning a memorable trip, LA’s diverse attractions make it an ideal destination for families. Top 10 things to do in Los Angeles that promise excitement, learning, and quality time together. Get ready to explore the City of Angels with your loved ones!
1. Explore Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
Perched atop Mount Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking views of the LA skyline and the iconic Hollywood Sign. Families can enjoy free admission to explore interactive exhibits about space and science, peer through telescopes (weather permitting), and catch a show at the planetarium. Afterward, stretch your legs in Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., with hiking trails, picnic spots, and the LA Zoo nearby.
- Location: Perched atop Mount Hollywood.
- Highlights: Breathtaking views of the LA skyline and Hollywood Sign.
- Activities: Free admission to explore interactive space and science exhibits, peer through telescopes (weather permitting), and watch planetarium shows.
- Griffith Park: One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., offering hiking trails, picnic spots, and the nearby LA Zoo.
- Why Visit: Perfect for families who love nature and science.
2. Visit the California Science Center
Located in Exposition Park, the California Science Center is a hands-on paradise for curious kids. Check out the Space Shuttle Endeavour, marvel at ecosystems in the interactive exhibits, or pedal a high-wire bicycle (safely tethered, of course!). Admission to the permanent exhibits is free, though special exhibits and IMAX films may require a ticket. It’s a perfect blend of fun and learning for all ages.
- Location: Exposition Park.
- Highlights: Features the Space Shuttle Endeavour and interactive ecosystem exhibits.
- Activities: Hands-on fun like pedaling a high-wire bicycle (safely tethered), with free admission to permanent exhibits (special exhibits and IMAX films may cost extra).
- Why Visit: Blend of education and entertainment for all ages.
3. Spend a Day at Santa Monica Pier and Beach
No LA trip is complete without a visit to the coast. The Santa Monica Pier is a family favorite with its historic carousel, arcade games, and the Pacific Park amusement area featuring a Ferris wheel with ocean views. After riding the rides, kick off your shoes and build sandcastles on Santa Monica Beach or rent bikes to cruise the Marvin Braude Bike Trail.
- Highlights: Historic carousel, arcade games, and Pacific Park with a Ferris wheel offering ocean views.
- Activities: Build sandcastles on the beach or rent bikes to ride the Marvin Braude Bike Trail.
- Why Visit: Classic LA coastal experience combining amusement and relaxation.
4. Discover the Magic of Disneyland Resort
Just a short drive from LA in Anaheim, Disneyland Resort remains the ultimate family adventure. With two parks—Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure—there’s something for everyone, from thrilling rides like Space Mountain to gentler attractions like “it’s a small world.” Meet beloved characters, enjoy parades, and cap the day with fireworks. It’s a splurge, but a memory-maker.
- Location: Anaheim, a short drive from LA.
- Highlights: Two parks—Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.
- Activities: Thrilling rides like Space Mountain, gentle attractions like “it’s a small world,” character meet-and-greets, parades, and fireworks.
- Why Visit: Splurge-worthy, unforgettable family adventure.
5. Get Wild at the Los Angeles Zoo
Nestled in Griffith Park, the LA Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals, including elephants, giraffes, and komodo dragons. Kids will love the carousel and the chance to feed giraffes (for an extra fee). The zoo’s botanical gardens add a scenic touch, making it a relaxing yet exciting outing for families.
- Location: Griffith Park.
- Highlights: Over 1,400 animals, including elephants, giraffes, and komodo dragons.
- Activities: Ride the carousel, feed giraffes (extra fee), and enjoy the botanical gardens.
- Why Visit: Scenic and exciting outing for animal lovers.
6. Stroll Through The Grove and Original Farmers Market
For a laid-back day, head to The Grove, an outdoor shopping and dining spot with a family-friendly vibe. Kids can splash in the dancing fountain while parents enjoy a coffee or a meal. Adjacent to it, the Original Farmers Market offers a variety of food stalls—perfect for picky eaters—and a taste of LA’s history since 1934.
- Highlights: Outdoor shopping and dining at The Grove with a dancing fountain for kids.
- Activities: Explore food stalls at the adjacent Original Farmers Market, a historic LA spot since 1934.
- Why Visit: Laid-back day with something for everyone, especially picky eaters.
7. Dive into History at the Natural History Museum
Also in Exposition Park, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County brings the past to life with dinosaur skeletons, gemstone exhibits, and a hands-on Discovery Center for kids. Don’t miss the seasonal Butterfly Pavilion or Spider Pavilion (if you dare!). It’s an educational outing that feels like an adventure.
- Location: Exposition Park.
- Highlights: Dinosaur skeletons, gemstone exhibits, and a hands-on Discovery Center.
- Activities: Visit the seasonal Butterfly Pavilion or Spider Pavilion.
- Why Visit: An educational adventure that captivates kids and adults alike.
8. Cruise the Venice Canals and Boardwalk
Take a peaceful walk along the Venice Canals, a hidden gem inspired by Italy, where you can spot ducks and charming bridges. Then, head to the nearby Venice Beach Boardwalk for a livelier scene—street performers, quirky shops, and a chance to dip your toes in the Pacific. Rent skates or bikes for an active family day by the sea.
- Highlights: Peaceful Venice Canals with ducks and charming bridges; lively Venice Beach Boardwalk with street performers and shops.
- Activities: Walk the canals, then rent skates or bikes for a fun day by the Pacific Ocean.
- Why Visit: Mix of serene and vibrant experiences by the sea.
9. Enjoy Universal Studios Hollywood
Part theme park, part movie studio, Universal Studios Hollywood is a hit with families. Ride the Wizarding World of Harry Potter attractions, join the Minions on Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, or take the Studio Tour to see real film sets. The mix of thrill rides and behind-the-scenes magic keeps everyone entertained.
- Highlights: Part theme park, part movie studio with Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.
- Activities: Ride thrill attractions and take the Studio Tour to see real film sets.
- Why Visit: Combines movie magic and family-friendly fun.
10. Play at Kidspace Children’s Museum
In Pasadena, just northeast of downtown LA, the Kidspace Children’s Museum is designed for kids to explore through play. Climb the outdoor towers, dig for fossils, or experiment with water features in the Imagination Workshop. It’s ideal for younger children and offers a shady, outdoor setting for parents to relax.
- Location: Pasadena, northeast of downtown LA.
- Highlights: Outdoor towers, fossil digs, and water features in the Imagination Workshop.
- Activities: Designed for kids to explore through play, with shady spots for parents.
- Why Visit: Ideal for younger children and a relaxing family day out.
FAQs
1. What are the best kid-friendly attractions in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles offers a variety of kid-friendly attractions, including Disneyland, Universal Studios Hollywood, the Los Angeles Zoo, and the California Science Center. These places provide fun, interactive experiences for the whole family.
2. Is Universal Studios Hollywood worth visiting with kids?
Yes! Universal Studios Hollywood is a fantastic family destination, featuring exciting rides, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and behind-the-scenes movie studio tours. It’s great for kids of all ages.
3. What are some free things to do in Los Angeles with kids?
Families can enjoy free attractions like Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, and exploring The Getty Museum. Many parks and hiking trails also offer great outdoor fun.
4. Which beaches in Los Angeles are best for families?
Santa Monica Beach, Venice Beach, and Manhattan Beach are excellent choices for families. They offer clean shores, playgrounds, and activities like bike rentals and surfing lessons.
5. What indoor activities can families enjoy in Los Angeles?
Families can visit indoor attractions like the California Science Center, Kidspace Children’s Museum, the Natural History Museum, and indoor trampoline parks like Sky Zone.
6. Where can we see animals in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles Zoo, Aquarium of the Pacific, and Cabrillo Marine Aquarium are great places to see animals up close. Kids can also explore tide pools at local beaches.
7. What are some must-visit museums for kids in LA?
Popular kid-friendly museums include the California Science Center, Natural History Museum, La Brea Tar Pits, and the Discovery Cube Los Angeles. These museums offer hands-on exhibits that are fun and educational.
8. What’s the best time to visit theme parks in Los Angeles?
Weekdays and off-peak seasons (January–March and September–November) are ideal for visiting Disneyland and Universal Studios to avoid long wait times and crowds.
9. Are there family-friendly hiking trails in Los Angeles?
Yes! Easy hiking trails like Runyon Canyon, Griffith Park, and the Hollywood Sign Trail offer scenic views and are great for families with kids.
10. What are the best food spots for families in Los Angeles?
Family-friendly restaurants include The Grove Farmers Market, In-N-Out Burger, Grand Central Market, and themed eateries like The Magic Castle or the Rainforest Café. Many places also offer kid-friendly menus.
