Los Angeles is big, and it’s full of kid-friendly places to explore and adventures to experience. You’ll find interesting museums, beautiful outdoor spaces, and cool movie moments. There’s something for kids of every age.1
Are you eager to let your kids play in nature, learn by doing, or have fun with the family? LA has plenty of good times waiting for you. Plus, the weather is nice most of the time, making outdoor activities easy. It might be tough to choose what to do first. But this list is here to show you the 25+ top kid-friendly destinations in Los Angeles.
Key Takeaways
- Los Angeles offers a diverse range of kid-friendly attractions and activities for families to explore.
- The city’s mild climate makes it an ideal destination for year-round family vacations.
- Discover interactive museums, scenic outdoor spaces, cinematic experiences, and unique attractions that cater to children of all ages.
- This guide provides an overview of the 25+ best kid-friendly things to do in LA.
- Plan your family’s adventure with ease by utilizing the valuable information and insights in this article.
Exploring Nature’s Wonders
Families can have fun in nature in Los Angeles. They can visit places like Descanso Gardens, an amazing 160-acre spot. Here, kids can enjoy the outdoors and exciting things like the Enchanted Railroad, stories each day, and concerts everyone can enjoy.2 The Kidspace Children’s Museum has 3.5 acres of play and learn fun. It has an indoor workshop, a structure to climb like ants, and a place where plants interact with you.2 They can also visit Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden. It has beautiful trails, wild peacocks, and classes for the whole family.
Descanso Gardens
Descanso Gardens is a big natural spot in Los Angeles for families to explore. It has the Enchanted Railroad, story times, and concerts that are fun. This place is perfect for kids to enjoy the beauty of nature.2
Kidspace Children’s Museum
The Kidspace Children’s Museum in Pasadena is great for kids up to 11 years old. It’s full of fun outdoor activities and places to build and play with water. With 3.5 acres to explore, it offers an exciting way to learn about nature inside and out.2
Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden is easy to reach by a free shuttle. It’s a beautiful place with short trails, peacocks to see, and fun classes every month. Families can have a great time learning about the local plants and wildlife.2
Adventures in Griffith Park
Griffith Park is full of fun for families. You can hike to see the Hollywood Sign or visit the Zoo and Gardens. 
Pony Rides and Train Rides
At the Griffith Park Pony Rides, kids pick their pony speed for just $5.3 The park has train rides too, like the Travel Town railroad and L.A. Zoo Choo Choo.4 Ride a train at the Travel Town Museum for under $4 per person.5
Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
In Griffith Park, the L.A. Zoo and Gardens are home to 1,100 animals.5 Here, kids can enjoy a carousel and nearby, the Autry Museum welcomes families on free days.4
Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory is great for learning about space.3 It has a huge planetarium dome.5 There, you can join star parties to use telescopes.4
kid friendly things to do in LA
Los Angeles is more than just a city. It’s filled with places where kids can learn by doing. For example, TreePeople and The Huntington teach kids through hands-on activities. They make learning fun and memorable.6
TreePeople
In Goldwater Canyon Park, you’ll find TreePeople. It’s an outdoor space with trails and fun ways to learn about nature. Kids can explore and learn to take care of the environment.6
The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens
The Huntington is a special place with a big library, beautiful art, and a giant garden. There’s a children’s garden named for Helen and Peter Bing. Here, kids can enjoy water play, enter a foggy grotto, move through colorful tunnels, and have fun in a round rainbow room.6
Cinematic Experiences
Los Angeles has many amazing places for kids to enjoy movies. The El Capitan Theatre is especially magical. It’s on Hollywood Boulevard. It brings films to life with special characters and fun events.2Visiting Echo Park Time Travel Mart is a unique adventure too. This shop is themed around time travel. Kids can find interesting gifts from different times, like the past, present, and even the future.
Outdoor Adventures
Los Angeles has many outdoor adventures for families. Echo Park Lake is a great spot where kids can rent pedal boats. They can enjoy the beautiful lake views8. Nearby, the Los Angeles State Historic Park has a new look. It features a nice walkway, places to have a picnic, and a high spot to view the area8. In the city, the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum offer fun learning. Kids can watch scientists dig up ice age fossils and learn about the Ice Age.
Echo Park Lake
At Echo Park Lake, families can have a peaceful time together. Kids can rent pedal boats and explore the lake. It’s a gorgeous place for some family fun and nature time.
Los Angeles State Historic Park
The Los Angeles State Historic Park is in Chinatown and is all new. It has a nice walkway, spots for picnics, and a view point. This spot is perfect for a walk, picnic, or just being outside.
La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
For something special, visit the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum. Here, kids can see real fossil digs and learn about the Ice Age. It’s a fun way to discover Los Angeles’s ancient past up close.
Art and Culture
Los Angeles is great for families loving art and culture. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is perfect for kids. It has amazing exhibits and fun for families, including the Boone Children’s Gallery.9
In Downtown LA, there’s Grand Park. It has a fun playground and a splash pad. It’s perfect for kids who love the city but also need a break in nature.10
El Pueblo de Los Ángeles Historical Monument
El Pueblo de Los Ángeles is where the city was born. It has Olvera Street where you can see the Avila Adobe, the oldest house in LA. Plus, there are fun activities for kids, making it great for family exploration in downtown Los Angeles.10
Unique Attractions
Los Angeles is full of unique places that kids love. The Angels Flight is a tiny train that goes up and down Bunker Hill. It gives a fun, old-timey experience for those who enjoy history.11 This historic railway is very popular with kids who like old-style transportation.11 You can’t miss the Downtown library. It has beautiful wooden shelves, murals full of California’s story, and a great section for young readers. It’s a perfect spot for children who love books.11
Angels Flight Railway
One special place in LA is the Angels Flight railway. It’s a small, historic train in Downtown Los Angeles. Since 1901, it has been a fun way for families to see the city.11
Los Angeles Public Library
The Downtown library in Los Angeles is a great place for families. It’s packed with books and fun things for kids. There are also interactive displays and a special area just for young readers. It’s a top choice for families wanting to explore and learn.11 Here you’ll see a cool children’s area, colorful paintings, and special events for kids and parents.11
Family-Friendly Events and Festivals
Los Angeles has many fun family events and festivals all year long. They are great for kids of all ages.1 You can go to events like the Heal the Bay’s Pride Beach Cleanup and the Rainbow Family Day in West Hollywood Park. Also, don’t miss the Juneteenth celebration with over 40 events.
For sports fans, the X Games Ventura 2024 Presented by SONIC will be thrilling. It will be at the Ventura County Fairgrounds from June 28-30.1 Art lovers can visit the Shades of Greatness exhibit until July 7th.
Literature fans can join the One Book, One County campaign until July 27th, 2024. It’s about the book ‘L.A. Weather’ by María Amparo Escandón.1 Families who love movies will enjoy Inside Out 2 at the El Capitan Theatre from June 13th to July 21st.1
Anyone looking for fun outings will find plenty in Los Angeles. From the Messi Experience event to Family PRIDE and Thor’s Reptile Family show, there’s something for everyone.1
| Event | Date | Location | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Street Farmers Market | Ongoing | – | Free event12 |
| Butterfly Pavilion | – | – | Entrance fee $812 |
| Paddleboarding or Kayaking with Sea Lions in the Marina | – | – | Activity price set at $6912 |
| Celebrate 60 Years of Movie Magic at Universal Studios Hollywood | – | – | Ticket range from $20 to $37912 |
| American Mariachi | – | – | No specific price provided12 |
| Ocean Encounter | – | – | Ticket prices range between $17 and $2212 |
| The 33rd season of Jazz at LACMA | Ongoing | – | Free event12 |
| Parade Marching Daily at LEGOLAND California Resort | – | – | Ticket range from $29 to $8912 |
| Reefer Madness: The Musical | – | – | Ticket prices vary from $79 to $21612 |
| Summer of Sloths | – | – | Admission cost varies from $8 to $1512 |
| 2024 Summer Reading Club | Ongoing | – | Free event12 |
| Concerts on Canon | – | Beverly Hills | – |
| Summer Music Series 2024 | Ongoing | – | Free event12 |
| Free Days at Descanso Gardens | 3rd Tuesday of every month | – | Free access12 |
| Toddler Sing-Along at Noah’s Ark at the Skirball | – | – | Free event12 |
| Terrific Tuesdays | – | – | Family-friendly events offered for free12 |
| Benefiber Gut Checks Gut Health at The Grove | – | – | Free event12 |
| Free Day at Noah’s Ark | – | – | Free access event12 |
| The 22nd Edition of The California Watermelon Festival 2024 | – | – | Admission costs between $10 and $3012 |
Los Angeles is full of fun events for families. You can celebrate cultures, join outdoor adventures, see exciting shows, and learn new things.1 There’s so much to do that every family member will find something they love.7
Exploring Nearby Cities and Neighborhoods
Los Angeles has many fun adventures for families. But there are more fun places nearby.11 Families can visit Santa Monica beaches, explore Long Beach’s culture, see Anaheim’s theme parks, and enjoy Burbank’s entertainment. The LA area has lots to discover.
A quick ride from LA, Santa Monica has a lively beach area. It includes the famous Santa Monica Pier with rides, games, and performers. Families can play in the sand, walk the pier, and see the ocean.
South in Long Beach, there’s rich maritime history and fun at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Kids can also explore the Queen Mary, an old ocean liner that’s now a hotel.
For Disney fun, head to Anaheim. It’s home to Disneyland and a nearby shopping and dining area called Anaheim GardenWalk. Just next door in Burbank, you can visit Warner Bros. Studios. There, enjoy tours and see where TV shows and movies are made.
In Pasadena, there’s more to see. Known for its Rose Parade, it has a lovely downtown and the Kidspace Children’s Museum. Families can also visit the Huntington Library, which has a special children’s garden and events for families.
| Destination | Kid-Friendly Attractions | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Santa Monica | Santa Monica Pier, beaches | Iconic oceanfront location, amusement park rides |
| Long Beach | Aquarium of the Pacific, Queen Mary | Maritime history, diverse cultural attractions |
| Anaheim | Disneyland, Disney California Adventure Park | World-renowned theme parks, Anaheim GardenWalk |
| Burbank | Warner Bros. Studios | Media and entertainment hub, behind-the-scenes tours |
| Pasadena | Kidspace Children’s Museum, Huntington Library | Historic charm, renowned cultural institutions |
There’s so much to do near Los Angeles. From beaches to theme parks, there’s something for everyone. Organize your trip well, and you’ll have an amazing family vacation.
Tips for Visiting Los Angeles with Kids
When planning a family trip to Los Angeles, it’s vital to get ready. But don’t worry, the tips here will help you enjoy LA with your children.13 You’ll learn how to navigate the city, find great places to stay, what to pack, and how to save money. This will make your visit to the City of Angels smooth and fun.
First, think about how you’ll get around LA. It’s a big city, so planning is key to saving time. Look for direct flights like those offered by Spirit Airlines from MEM to LAX.13They start from $46 and can help cut down on travel time, which is great for families.13Don’t forget about LA’s public transport – it’s a good, affordable way to see different parts of the city.
Finding the right place to stay is important when traveling with children.13The Ritz-Carlton in Marina del Rey is known for being family-friendly. It has big rooms and fun things for kids.13The Howard Johnson Anaheim is also a good choice, with its cool themed rooms and the fact that it’s close to Disneyland.
Don’t forget to pack snacks, water, and any meds you might need. This makes wandering around LA more enjoyable for everyone. Plus, look out for places where kids get in free. For example, kids under 5 get into the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures for free.13And you can visit the Autry Museum of the American West for free on the second Tuesday of the month.13
With these tips, your family trip to LA will be fun and easy. Enjoy your time in this exciting, family-friendly city.
Best Times to Visit Los Angeles with Kids
Los Angeles is great for kids all year. But, some times may be better to visit.14 The weather lets you do fun things outdoors no matter when you go. Still, when you visit, think about the best time.
School breaks bring a lot of people to L.A., like in summer, during spring break, and at Christmas. So, it gets busy, and things can cost more. But, these times also have special events just for families.
To see L.A. without big crowds and save money, plan your trip for early spring or late fall.14 These are the off-peak times. You can find better deals on places to stay and tickets to fun places.
Some L.A. events are perfect for families. Like, check out the free displays at the California Science Center. Kids also love the puppet shows at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater.15
Whenever you visit, look up what’s happening in the city. There might be cool events or festivals going on. This step will make your trip more fun and full of adventure for the family.
| Season | Considerations | Recommended Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (June-August) | – Crowds and high prices at peak times – Warmer weather suitable for outdoor activities |
14 – Explore the beaches, parks, and family-friendly dining options like Mendocino Farms and Koreatown KBBQ |
| Fall (September-November) | – Smaller crowds and more affordable accommodations – Comfortable weather for outdoor adventures |
15 – Visit the California Science Center, Petersen Automotive Museum, and Bob Baker Marionette Theater |
| Winter (December-February) | – Holiday-themed events and festivities – Potential for rainy days, but mild temperatures |
14 – Enjoy the El Capitan Theatre, Griffith Observatory, and cultural celebrations like the annual Las Posadas festival |
| Spring (March-May) | – Fewer crowds and more availability – Comfortable weather for outdoor exploration |
14 – Discover the Skirball Cultural Center’s Noah’s Ark exhibit, Underwood Family Farms, and the Cayton Children’s Museum |
Accommodations for Families in Los Angeles
When you plan a family trip to Los Angeles, picking the right place to stay is key. The city has many family-friendly hotels and resorts. They offer things for kids and help make your stay special. You might want a big room, child care, or to be close to fun kid-friendly places. Los Angeles has all this, meeting your family’s needs and budget.
The Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel is perfect for families looking for luxury by the beach. It’s a 5-star hotel with big rooms and special things for kids.16 In Beverly Hills, the Beverly Wilshire shines. It’s also 5 stars and has big rooms. Kids can watch family-friendly movies on DVD players.16 Looking for something cozy near Universal Studios? Check out the Garland. It’s a 3-star hotel. Their suites have a space for kids with bunk beds. Great for bigger families.16
If you want lots of resort fun, consider the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach. It’s a 4-star hotel with its own water park. You can also enjoy the beach there.16 The Fairfield by Marriott Anaheim Resort is not far from Disney. It has a game room and places to eat right there. Perfect for the whole family.16 For more family fun, the Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim is a good choice. It has rooms with bunk beds and a water park.16
| Hotel | Rating | Kid-Friendly Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Fairmont Miramar | 4-star | Babysitting services, bicycle rentals16 |
| Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel | 5-star | Spacious rooms, beachfront elegance, kid amenities16 |
| The Garland | 3-star | Suites with separate living areas, bunk beds16 |
| Magic Castle Hotel | 3-star | Full apartments for up to 6 people, multiple amenities16 |
| Beverly Wilshire | 5-star | Accommodating staff, spacious rooms with DVD players for family movies16 |
| Omni Los Angeles | 4-star | Child care services, affordable luxury accommodation16 |
| Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach | 4-star | Resort-style hotel with water park, oceanfront activities16 |
| Fairfield by Marriott Anaheim Resort | 3-star | Disney-themed hotel with game room, on-site dining16 |
| Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim | 3-star | Water park, splash pad, rooms with bunk beds, entertainment options16 |
To make your trip the best it can be, think about what will suit your family best. Los Angeles has many great places to stay. Choosing well will help make your visit smooth and fun for everyone.
Conclusion
Los Angeles is full of fun stuff for kids and families. There are many places to visit, like Descanso Gardens and the Los Angeles County Arboretum. You can also check out El Capitan Theatre and Echo Park Time Travel Mart.
This guide gives you the best family-friendly things to do in the city. Info about art and culture at places like LACMA is here. You’ll also find special spots like the Angels Flight Railway.
Don’t forget, Los Angeles has lots of free things to do. Plus, there are always family events happening. With a little planning, your family will have a blast and make great memories here.1718
FAQ
What are some of the best kid-friendly things to do in Los Angeles?
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What unique cinematic and entertainment options are available for families in Los Angeles?
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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.
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