Los Angeles is a brilliant destination for a family trip. Everyone wants to hit Universal Studios and the timeless fantasy of Disneyland, but if you’d also like to get a real sense of the city’s culture and outdoor life, we’ve rounded up some fantastic fun things to do in LA with kids that go beyond the theme parks.
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#1. Get Hands-On at the Skirball Cultural Centre
The Noah’s Ark exhibit at the Skirball Cultural Centre is a real must-see, especially with children under five. Surrounded by animals cleverly made from recycled materials, there’s so much for kids to climb on, press, turn and interact with to bring the exhibit to life.
There’s plenty of stimulation and learning built in too, including digging for artefacts on the roof. It’s a gorgeous building with lovely grounds, and other sections of the centre are sure to appeal to older kids as well. The centre has offered free-admission days in the past — worth checking the current schedule before you go.
#2. Get Your Skates On!
For something different, one of LA’s remaining roller rinks, Skateland, is a great experience — and good exercise too. Younger kids will enjoy learning to skate to music they know from the radio, while older kids and teens will enjoy the club atmosphere, video games and laser maze.
Looking for free family activities? See 10 Free Things to do in Los Angeles with Kids.
#3. So Much Fun at LACMA
LACMA is a world-class museum with a brilliant Sunday Family Days programme, packed with art challenges, story-time and special tours. The museum has also run a NextGen programme offering free admission for kids with an accompanying adult, plus programmes for teens and fun workshops — it’s worth checking the current details before your visit. Pop into the café for a treat once you’re done exploring.
#4. Explore the Stars
A favourite spot for many families is the Griffith Observatory. There are loads of fun, interactive displays to help kids learn about space and the planets. The Observatory has historically hosted a public star party once a month, where the whole family can look through a range of telescopes and chat with amateur astronomers about the night sky — check the current schedule before you plan your visit.
#5. Los Angeles Beaches
You’re visiting the Golden Coast, so we have to mention the beach! Zuma Beach is a clean, scenic stretch that’s popular with families, and you might even get lucky and spot a local dolphin jumping the waves offshore.
#6. Cute Baby Animals and Funny Chimps
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a great place to spend the day with kids. As zoos go, it’s a fairly compact one, so take your time and you’ll get much more out of your visit. A nice trick is to ask your child to pick their two favourite animals and go see those first — then you can relax and stroll through the rest of the grounds at your own pace.
Great places to eat in Los Angeles? Check out Best Restaurants in Los Angeles for Kids.
#7. Check Out Hollywood Boulevard
One of LA’s most famous attractions. While adults may recognise more names on the Walk of Fame than the kids will, this stretch of street will still delight children as they place their hands and feet inside those of the “stars” to compare.
Along Hollywood Boulevard you’ll also find plenty of costumed performers — a fun photo opportunity, though some can feel a little full-on for younger kids. Older kids will enjoy the boulevard’s museums, including the Hollywood Wax Museum, Guinness World of Records Museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not!
#8. Pony and Train Rides
Older and younger kids alike will find something to enjoy at Griffith Park on Crystal Springs Drive. Train fans will love the rides at Travel Town, while younger kids will be thrilled with the pony rides, traditional merry-go-round and playgrounds. Teens can relax outdoors or play Frisbee on the grass.
#9. Chinatown Summer Nights, LA
LA’s hidden urban treasure — a wonderful festival atmosphere with bright lights, arts and crafts and live music. Chinatown Summer Nights has traditionally run on select summer evenings, with gourmet food trucks and cookery demonstrations. Check the current event dates before you plan a visit.
#10. Visit and Save with the Go Los Angeles Card
If you’re planning to visit several of LA’s family attractions, the Go Los Angeles Card can be a budget-friendly way to see more for less. The card has historically bundled tickets to a wide range of LA destinations, including Universal Studios, LEGOLAND California, the California Science Center, Paramount Studios, the Hollywood Wax Museum and the LA Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Check the current attraction list and pricing before you buy.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many days do you need to see the best of LA with kids?
Most families find three to five days is enough to combine a theme park visit with a few of the more low-key attractions above, without over-scheduling little legs.
Is LA walkable with kids, or do we need a car?
LA is spread out, and most of the attractions above are a drive apart. A car (or rideshare) makes the day much easier, especially with younger children and nap schedules to work around.
What should we pack for a day out sightseeing in LA?
Sun protection is essential year-round, along with water, snacks and comfortable shoes — many of these spots involve a fair bit of walking.
Are these activities suitable for toddlers as well as older kids?
Yes — we’ve tried to mix it up. The Skirball Centre and Griffith Park are lovely for toddlers, while Hollywood Boulevard and the museums along it tend to appeal more to older kids and teens.
More Family Travel Ideas
If you’re planning trips further afield, you might also like:
- Free Things to Do with Kids in Atlanta
- Free Things to Do with Kids in New York City
- Free Things to Do with Kids in Boston
- Free Things to Do with Kids in Orlando
Have you tried any of these fun things to do in LA with kids? We’d love to hear your own recommendations in the comments below.
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