Is Downtown LA Family Friendly? Exploring the City

Have you ever asked yourself if Downtown LA can be a great place for family trips?

Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) might not seem like the first choice for many. However, it’s becoming a top spot for family fun. This area is rich in culture and offers a lot of fun for both kids and adults. You can see old landmarks, enjoy stories at children’s book shops, and taste amazing food. It makes exploring DTLA with the whole family a special adventure.

Over the past 15 years, Downtown LA has changed a lot to fit families better. There are places like Hotel Indigo that make your stay all about your family. Then, there’s the excitement of a giant glass slide at OUE Skyspace.

DTLA is full of surprises. You’ll find places to stay that are just right for your family. Also, you can play at parks like Gloria Molina Grand Park and learn at the Central LA Public Library.

Key Takeaways

• DTLA offers a rising number of family-friendly activities and attractions.
• Hotel Indigo provides personalized experiences ideal for families.
• The Original Pantry Cafe operates 24 hours, making it convenient for any schedule.
• Exciting spots like OUE Skyspace and Angels Flight Railway cater to children’s adventurous spirits.
• Grand Central Market and Pershing Square are must-visit locations for family outings.

Introduction to Downtown LA

Downtown Los Angeles is a special mix of the old and the new. It’s a place where you see the past in every building but also feel the energy of the present. There are so many things to do in downtown LA with family. The city has worked hard to preserve its rich history while offering new experiences.

Brief History

Strolling in historic downtown LA is like going back in time. You’ll find places like El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, showing rich Mexican-American culture. Then you see Union Station, a beautiful reminder of past times.

Olvera Street and La Placita tell stories from the city’s birth, giving visitors a deep sense of history. Chinatown and Little Tokyo highlight downtown’s rich culture with their unique shops and eateries.

Current Attractions and Appeal

Today, downtown LA is filled with exciting places to visit. Grand Avenue is a hub of culture, home to incredible buildings like the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Families love visiting places like The Broad and MOCA.

Places like Exposition Park offer fun for everyone, with spots like the Science Center.

There’s also amazing food, from Little Tokyo’s sushi to Chinatown’s traditional fare. And events like Chinatown Summer Nights keep things lively all year round.

With its mix of old stories and new experiences, downtown LA is a great spot for families. It offers tons of fun and learning opportunities.

Family-Friendly Activities in Downtown LA

Downtown Los Angeles is perfect for families, with something for kids of all ages. There are historic fun rides and big parks, making it a fun place to be.

Fun and Safe Places to Visit

Grand Park is a great spot, buzzing with picnics and events. It’s three blocks big and has a playground with a cool 12-foot slide. This park is easy for everyone to enjoy.

Angel’s Flight, over a century old, is a must for a short, fun ride. It almost feels like an old roller coaster, only costing one dollar. Nearby is the LA Central Library, offering tours and a huge kids section, perfect for family reading time.

• Union Station: Built in the 1930s, it’s key for travel and offers great food. Its history and food make it a top spot for families in downtown LA.
• Grand Central Market: This mix of old and new has food to fit every taste. It’s a top choice for food and shopping with the family.

Unique Experiences for Children

Downtown LA has cool, unique spots for kids. Like the glass elevators at the Westin, where you see the whole city from above. Kids love it.

The Last Bookstore is special, in a former bank, with tons of books for sale. It offers a magical experience for kids and families, encouraging a love of reading.

1. The Broad Museum: Kids get in free to see modern art by famous artists.
2. The Walt Disney Concert Hall: With the Toyota series, kids from 5 to 11 can enjoy special music meant just for them.
3. Little Tokyo: Explore Japanese culture through festivals, museums, and unique foods. Kids enjoy these special experiences a lot.

So, whether you like parks, books, or museums, downtown LA has something for your family. It turns an ordinary day into a memorable journey for everyone.

Kid-Friendly Places in Downtown LA

Downtown Los Angeles is a great place for families with kids of all ages. It offers many fun activities. You can visit parks, educational places, and much more. These spots in the city are perfect for relaxing and learning together.

Parks and Recreation

Grand Park is a big green space in the heart of the city. It’s between The Music Center and City Hall. Families love it for its paths that are great for strollers and wheelchairs. There’s also a fun splash pad for kids.

If you love history, Angel’s Flight is a must. It’s a historic funicular that has been running since 1901. Exposition Park is another spot to check out. It has a lot of cool things like dinosaur bones and a spider pavilion at the National History Museum. The park also hosts the Holiday Ice Rink at Pershing Square from November to January, which is a lot of fun.

Museums and Educational Spots

Downtown LA has many museums for the whole family to enjoy. The Broad Museum has cool modern art and weekend workshops for kids. For more art, there’s the Museum of Contemporary Art. It has a program for kids every Sunday.

The Japanese American National Museum is a place to learn about Japanese American history. FIDM Museum shows costumes from movies and TV for free. The Last Bookstore is a huge bookshop perfect for those who love reading. It has over 200 thousand books and a really big space.

Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in Downtown

Dining in Downtown LA is great for the whole family. It offers a wide range of places from iconic restaurants to varied food halls. If you’re looking for good options to eat with kids downtown, check out this list.

Dining Options for Picky Eaters

Finding a place for picky eaters in downtown LA is easy. Many family-friendly restaurants here make meals that even selective kids will enjoy.

1. Original Pantry Cafe: This diner has been around since 1924. It serves kids’ favorites like pancakes and burgers.
2. Clifton’s Cafeteria: It’s known for its fun decor. Kids can get a special meal called the “Treasure Tray” that has food, dessert, and a toy.
3. Engine Co. No. 28: It offers a special menu for kids, with chicken fingers and mac ‘n’ cheese. They even have a free shuttle to the Music Center.
4. Pitfire Artisan Pizza: They have 14 different pizzas. Kids can also make their own, which is perfect for those with specific tastes.
5. Urth Caffé: A favorite place that serves fresh pizzas and sandwiches. It has indoor and outdoor seating available.
6. Cheesecake Factory in Marina Del Rey: This place can get busy on weekends. It has a big menu with lots of choices for kids.

Specialty Foods for Adventurous Kids

For kids who like trying new foods, Downtown LA is the place to be. It has many unique and international food spots for a special dining experience.

• Grand Central Market: A big food hall with food from different parts of the world. Families can try new and exciting dishes together here.
• La Golondrina Mexican Cafe: Located on Historic Olvera Street, it offers homemade tortillas and delicious mole dishes.
• Kura Sushi Bar: Kids enjoy this place because of the sushi that goes around on a belt. They use organic rice, which is great.
• Salazar: A popular Mexican spot in Frogtown, often filled with happy families during the day.
• Singapore’s Banana Leaf at The Original Farmers Market: It serves unique dishes. Families can try mouthwatering meals like laksa and beef rendang.
• Golden Road Brewing: A big patio where kids can play. Parents can relax and enjoy good food and drinks.
• The Proud Bird: Next to LAX airport, it has unique planes and a fun outdoor area for kids to play.

Family-friendly places in downtown LA offer many choices. From familiar favorites to new and exciting dishes, there is something for everyone. Whether it’s a unique cafeteria or an international food hall, Downtown LA welcomes families to enjoy delicious meals together.

Child-Friendly Accommodations in Downtown LA

Downtown LA is great for families with many child-friendly places to stay. You can find the perfect spot whether it’s for a short visit or a longer one. These places are designed to meet the needs of families, offering both comfort and convenience.

Lodging Options with Amenities for Children

When looking for a place to stay, families often want amenities that kids will love. In downtown LA, there are many child-friendly accommodations that are exciting and varied. They include things like pools, game rooms, and big suites.

The Westin Bonaventure Hotel offers amazing views and cool dining experiences. It has places like revolving restaurants that kids will find fun and unique.

Hotel Indigo and the Millennium Biltmore Hotel also provide great options. They feature rooms with fun, historical themes and activities perfect for families. These places offer practical extras too, like babysitting and special food for kids.

Recommended Hotels and Their Perks

The Angel City Historic Loft is a stand-out choice. It’s rated almost 5 out of 5 by over 300 people. Families will love the roominess it offers right in the heart of the city.

J-Boho Chic Condo is another top pick. It scores very high in reviews for its luxury and family-friendliness. The rooftop pool and spa with a great city view are hits with many families.

If you love art, you might enjoy the Artistic 800 sq ft Duplex. It’s not far from downtown and earns top scores from guests for its design. Kids will enjoy its creative feel.

The SilverLake Hillside Spacious Guest Apartment is also a top choice. Many families rate it highly for its peace and room. It’s a great place for a quiet break within the city.

Families can find even more great spots in downtown LA through special family hotels. These places offer unique services, like concierge help, private chefs, and babysitting. They aim to make your stay completely stress-free.

Getting Around Downtown LA with Kids

Getting around downtown LA with your family can be fun and easy. It’s all about knowing the right ways to move. This makes your trip better in every way.

Public Transportation Tips

Taking public transport in downtown LA is smart. The Metro system is great because it’s cheap. You pay $1.75 for a single ticket. If you’re with kids six and up, they pay the same, but those under six ride free.

Paying more than $5 in a day or $18 in a week is not possible. This way, you save money. Trains run every 10 to 15 minutes, so it’s easy to get around. Plus, it’s a good way to see the city’s best spots.

Like riding bikes? Check out the Metro Bike Share. Since 2016, it’s had over 1500 bikes at 150 stations. It’s perfect for families with older kids. And, for a more eco-friendly choice, find e-scooter rentals all over.

Walking and Ridesharing Advice

Walking around downtown LA is great for seeing the city’s new life as a cultural hub. Plan your walk to stay safe and enjoy your time. Stick to the busy areas for safety.

If walking doesn’t work, consider ridesharing. Sometimes, public transport isn’t enough. But, be ready for big price differences on different apps. For the same trip, costs can go from $27 to $120. It pays to look around for the best price.

If you drive to downtown LA, think of parking close to where you’ll explore. Starting here can make your day smoother. Combine public transport, walking, and ridesharing to move around with kids. This mix makes exploring downtown LA fun and easy.

Conclusion

Downtown Los Angeles is now a buzzing family spot thanks to its mix of history, culture, and new sights. Families have so much to pick from. They can check out the cool museums like LACMA and the Broad, or join in cultural events on Olvera Street. These places are great for everyone, from kids to adults.

Looking into LA’s city center, I saw lots of places to eat and stay that welcome families. There are food spots for both the choosy and the adventurous. And, the hotels and places to stay have things just right for young visitors.

It’s easy to cover the city’s 5.84 square miles thanks to lots of ways to get around. There are public transport choices and ridesharing services. They make exploring downtown LA a piece of cake, boosting family fun. Plus, the area keeps growing, with places like the Crypto.com Arena and the tall Wilshire Grand Center. This makes LA an even more exciting place for families. LA is definitely a top pick for family trips, with its warm welcome for making unforgettable moments.

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Aine Austria is a content creator, freelancer, entrepreneur, essential oils educator, nacho lover, and mom to an adorable daughter. She helps aspiring mom bloggers and entrepreneurs launch their blog, alongside other money-making opportunities. Aine believes that everyone has a story to tell and that their experiences and talents can be shared with the world.
Aine’s passion for writing and sharing her knowledge with others started at a young age. Growing up, she always loved to read books, write stories, and express herself through words. She strongly believes that moms can still pursue their dreams and passions while raising a family, and she aims to inspire other moms to do the same through her work.