40 Fun Family-Friendly Things to Do with Kids in Los Angeles
Making travel arrangements can be very relieving.
And Los Angeles is the best of the best.
Yes, I’m referring to the second largest metropolitan area in the United States, Los Angeles.
Also, if you’re considering taking the kids along, LA has many exciting options.
The following tips may assist you in setting up your system.
- Descanso Gardens
Why You’ve Got to Go
These botanical gardens are an excellent option for families seeking things to do in Los Angeles.
All around you are tinier ponds with roses, lilies, and trees.
Flowers everywhere in the spring, camellias in the colder months, and stately oaks all year round.
What to Do
The scenery is so breathtaking that the kids will love taking walks and discovering new things.
If it doesn’t appeal to your kids, consider taking them on the Enchanted Railroad or having them attend one of the daily storytimes; if you’re planning a summer trip, you can also look into the music schedule.
For
All ages are welcome.
- Kidspace Children’s Museum
Why You’ve Got to Go
Exhibits are spread out over 3.5 acres in this lively venue.
Here, you may let your kids use their creativity to the fullest.
It’s regarded as one of LA’s finest family-friendly attractions.
They may learn about the environment in one outdoor space while enjoying various interior activities.
What to Do
To begin with, there is a creative space to use one’s mind.
Besides the ant colony-style climbing structure and the educational greenhouse, there is a climbing structure like the ant colony.
Kids love Kidspace Children’s Museum, so take them there.
They can learn about different ecosystems and even climb inside a hawk’s nest outdoors in the Arroyo Adventure area.
Additionally, they can dig into a mud kitchen or construct a dam.
You read that correctly.
Please carry a second set of clothing just in case.
For
Ages 1-10.
- Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Why You’ve Got to Go
This location is fantastic for a family outing in Los Angeles.
Shuttle service between the Gold Line and the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanical Garden is available.
It is a terrific spot for the family to bond and spends quality time together.
If you enjoy short hikes, that is an advantage.
What to Do
The first thing you’ll notice are the peacocks strutting about.
Something like that doesn’t appear frequently.
Kids who enjoy stories can participate in a unique storytime.
Family Adventure Night Hikes and bird hikes are also available.
A separate camp is available for children.
For
All ages are welcome.
- Griffith Park
Why You’ve Got to Go
Griffith Park’s appeal lies in its catering to visitors of all ages.
The abundance of family-oriented events is plain to see.
What to Do
You can go to the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens or take a trek toward the Hollywood Sign.
The Griffith Observatory should not be missed.
The merry-go-round was also available for anyone who wanted to take it easy.
I’ve also been saving the best for last.
Let the youngsters set the pace on a leisurely pony ride.
Trails Cafe also serves pastries and sandwiches, perfect for a picnic.
For
Everyone of every age.
- TreePeople
Why You’ve Got to Go
TreePeople is unparalleled in its promotion of experiential learning and has an abundance of nature trails.
You can’t miss this if you’re looking for a place to take kids that will both teach them about the environment and keep them entertained.
What to Do
Visit their schedule page to learn about activities like moonlight treks.
TreePeople is not only pet-friendly but also hosts regular dog-walking events.
Which means it’s probably worth a look.
Native plant identification and education courses are also available.
The event is not to be missed.
For
Everyone of every age.
- The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens
Why You’ve Got to Go
You won’t find rarer collections than in this massive library.
There are a few gardens scattered across its 120 acres of land.
What to Do
You won’t be overwhelmed with options, but there’s plenty to keep everyone occupied.
The area also features three museums and a sizable botanical garden.
Children will enjoy exploring the rose, desert, and Chinese gardens.
The Helen and Peter Bing Children’s Garden is an excellent place for children ages two to seven to play and explore nature.
The botany displays are suitable for middle school students.
There is also a prism tunnel and a fog grotto to explore.
Don’t forget to check out the rainbow room! To put it simply, it goes around and around.
For
Everyone of every age.
- El Capitan Theater
Why You’ve Got to Go
This Disney-run theater is geared squarely toward kid-friendly entertainment.
Here on Hollywood Boulevard, you may have a taste of silent film’s heyday.
What to Do
There are Tiny Tot Tuesdays, which spice up the experience.
You will see well-known Disney characters in their full splendor.
There is also live singing.
Furthermore,
Confetti will be falling if you’re in the proper location.
For
Everyone’s welcome, regardless of age.
- Time Travel Mart
Why You’ve Got to Go
Every kid of every age will have a fantastic time at this location.
This is one of those fun places to visit if you enjoyed Back to the Future, mainly if you used the Hot Tub Time Machine.
What to Do
The Echo Park Time Travel Mart thrives on selling souvenirs, hoping it will help customers recall their favorite parts of their trips for years to come.
Symbols of every era are easily accessible here.
If you think about the nonprofit tutoring center, you’ll feel all warm and fuzzy inside.
For
Two-year-olds and up.
- Echo Park Lake
Why You’ve Got to Go
If you’re in Los Angeles and you like boat trips, you should be here.
Whether you’re going for a stroll or fishing, you can pick the ideal location.
What to Do
Picnic on the shore or rent pedal boats to cruise the lake with the family.
Spend an hour paddling around the lake and taking in the sights of downtown L.A.
For
Anyone can join in the fun, no matter their age.
- Los Angeles State Historic Park
Why You’ve Got to Go
The Los Angeles State Historical Park reopened to visitors on Saturday after a three-year closure.
You can’t visit Chinatown and miss this park, which was recently remodeled for $20 million.
What to Do
There are rest stops and places to have a picnic along the pedestrian paths.
In addition, there is a stunning lookout point and a kid-friendly fruit orchard.
It has everything you could want.
For
Any and all ages are encouraged to attend.
- La Brea Tar Pits & Museum
Why You’ve Got to Go
The La Brea Tar Pits & Museum on Wilshire Boulevard are a well-known location for ice age fossils. It’s one of the many reasons locals and visitors enjoy coming here.
What to Do
Kids can take an excavator tour to see what modern-day scientists are unearthing from tar pits.
After that, you can visit an Ice Age museum and watch a 3D film about animals getting stuck in tar. There is also a laboratory where fossils extracted from the tar can be studied.
A picnic by the tar pits is an alternative to having one in the park.
For
Everyone of any and all ages is welcome.
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Why You’ve Got to Go
You can keep the kids entertained for hours at this LA museum, which is packed with fun things to do.
What to Do
Extensive galleries devoted to contemporary art can be found in the Ahmanson.
After that, head to the sculpture garden and Boone Children’s Gallery for some art and a good read.
For
Adults and children alike.
- Grand Park
Why You’ve Got to Go
It can be found near both City Hall and the Music Center.
It’s set on 12 lush acres with plenty of water features and grassy areas for a relaxing evening.
What to Do
In addition to the cheerful pink benches, the area’s drought-resistant plants will catch your eye.
In the summer, kids can cool off in the splash pad, and all year round, there’s a playground right out of a Dr. Seuss book.
For
Every age group is welcome.
- El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument
Why You’ve Got to Go
You’ll need a whole day to get the most out of it, and it’s best to do it with the entire family.
There are lots of things to do, so it’s a bustling place.
What to Do
Grab some churros on Olvera Street and make your way to Avila Adobe, LA’s oldest building.
Look down on the Plaza Firehouse from that vantage point.
Union Station is directly across the street and has lots of fun activities for kids.
They will enjoy the lively blend of educational content and its fun.
From there, arrange to see a live performance of music or dance if you happen to be in town for the annual Las Posadas celebration.
For
Every age group is welcome.
- Angels Flight Railway
L.A., California, 90013, 350 S. Grand Ave.
Why You’ve Got to Go
It may be the shortest railway in the world, but it provides a glimpse into a vibrant past.
The Bunker Hill terminus of the Angels Flight Railway is at the intersection of Hill Street and Grand Avenue.
We are fortunate enough that it operates on weekends and holidays, running from 6:45 a.m. to 10 p.m.
What to Do
The combined age of the two oldest train cars is over a century.
A quick trip on the subway will transport you there, where you can take in all the splendor that is Grand Central Market.
It’s been a landmark since 1901 and goes by the name “Blue Angels 4D Experience.”
For
More specifically, those over the age of 5.
- The Los Angeles Public Library
Why You’ve Got to Go
If your kid is like Detective Amy Santiago (of the TV show Brooklyn Nine-Nine), you’re in for a real treat.
The library has beautiful wooden shelves, historical murals, and story hours.
What to Do
As a first point, it’s not reserved for the intellectual elite.
There’s a computer lab set aside for the tech-savvy youngsters.
While the teen section is unlike any other library you’ve been to, the children’s area will capture your young readers.
For
Anyone and everyone.
- The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, Los Angeles
Why You’ve Got to Go
Hello, Serendipity fans.
Please take me back to the scene in the elevator.
The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites in the heart of Los Angeles is the best place to stay in such a predicament.
The glass walls of the elevators offer a breathtaking panorama.
What to Do
The hotel’s decor is so futuristic that it almost feels like you’re staying in a space station.
You could spot a famous person there.
Politicians, ex-presidents, and celebrities of all kinds frequent this establishment.
Honestly, I’d spend the afternoon waiting in the lobby if I were you.
For
For people of all ages.
- The Last Bookstore
Why You’ve Got to Go
When it comes to old (and new) books and recordings, this is the largest store in all of California.
Also, if you’re a fan of the Harry Potter series, you need to check this location out.
This bookstore, however, is an actual work of art.
What to Do
There is a particular floor dedicated to young patrons.
“Labyrinth” is the nickname for the upper level.
This unusual room features secondhand books organized by hue.
This is the prime photo-taking territory, so get those cameras out!
This tunnel was explicitly designed for photo ops.
For
For people of all ages.
- Hauser & Wirth
Why You’ve Got to Go
This over-11,000-square-foot Arts District facility is one of the few devoted exclusively to modern and contemporary art.
Both indoor and outdoor activities are available for visitors of all ages.
What to Do
For hours, these exotic chicks will keep the kids entertained.
The on-site eatery is suitable for families with young children.
The garden is perfect for a picnic with the kids or a solo lunch.
For
For people of all ages.
- CicLAvia
Why You’ve Got to Go
The street event is impressive since it is not impeded by automobiles.
It’s packed with entertaining things to do, yet it also teaches youngsters about the need to protect the planet we all share.
Don’t miss it if you happen to be in the area.
What to Do
As part of this celebration, the roads will be temporarily cleared for anyone to use as they choose, whether on two wheels or four.
It’s a beautiful area for people of all ages to hang out, is free, and is perfect for families.
For
For people of all ages.
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Why You’ve Got to Go
A staggering 35 million items are housed here, making this an impressive museum.
Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about, from prehistoric animals to modern science, is conveniently located here.
What to Do
As many as 4.5 billion years separate some of the items listed.
This place will enthrall anybody who has seen Night at the Museum or Jurassic Park.
There are also many temporary displays, including Nature Lab, a science lab where visitors can interact with live animals and other real-world specimens.
For
For people of all ages.
- California African American Museum
Why You’ve Got to Go
Some talented artists in every field will go unrecognized over our lifetimes.
Unfortunately, that scenario is over now.
In this piece, we’re asked to focus squarely on some of the world’s most talented yet often unheralded artists of color.
What to Do
Due to the ever-changing nature of the displays, repeat visits are encouraged.
The gallery is also an excellent starting point for introducing young people to the arts.
If you come on the correct weekend, there’s also a family program with mixed-media workshops for kids of all ages.
For
Anyone and everyone.
- California Science Center
Why You’ve Got to Go
This is an excellent option for anyone interested in space and the stars.
It’s a lively spot for families and educators to introduce kids to space exploration.
Indulge in a weekend of scientific discovery at this institution.
What to Do
There are some interesting temporary displays to check out.
An IMAX theater will show you everything you need to know about the science center.
The star attraction is the Endeavour space shuttle, which is on display in the Samuel Oschin Pavilion.
Between the 1990s and 2011, it made 25 trips into orbit.
For
4 years and up.
- Tongva Park
Why You’ve Got To Go
Visitors and locals alike have enjoyed this 6.2-acre park since it opened in 2013.
You can tell this venue was designed with family enjoyment in mind from the moment you pull into the parking lot.
All ages, from two to sixty, can find something entertaining to do here.
What to Do
You may get a breathtaking panorama of the city from any one of the 18 viewing platforms.
You may map out your day on the many miles of meandering paths, vast green spaces, and undulating hills.
During the hotter months, youngsters can enjoy themselves at the playground or on the splash pad.
For
Anyone and everyone.
- Santa Monica Pier Aquarium
Why You’ve Got to Go
Heal The Bay, a nonprofit organization, manages this aquarium on the Santa Monica pier.
Over one hundred different types of marine life have been placed here, and they intend to keep it that way.
In addition, it enjoys widespread acclaim among kids.
What to Do
All visitors will especially like the hands-on displays.
In that case, you should look into moon jellies.
In addition, you may observe as the staff feeds the sharks.
For
Anyone and everyone.
Children under 12 go in free.
- Discovery Cube Los Angeles
Why You’ve Got to Go
If you’ve ever been to Los Angeles and mourned the loss of the Children’s Museum of Los Angeles, this should help.
The museum debuted in 2014 and features many interactive displays that kids will enjoy.
What to Do
This space occasionally plays host to permanent and rotating exhibits.
Consequently, each subsequent visit is likely to provide a new appearance.
The children can even take a virtual helicopter ride on Zamboni equipment.
The Hansen Dam Recreation Area is an excellent place for a picnic.
For
Anyone and everyone.
Kids under 3 go in free.
- Aquarium of the Pacific
Why You’ve Got to Go
Simply put, you wouldn’t want to miss out on seeing more than 11,000 creatures in more than 50 displays.
Friends, this is not your typical aquarium.
What to Do
Visitors to the Shark Lagoon can come within inches of more than 150 sharks and even pet a few penguins.
Beautiful birds, which you can feed in the Lorikeet forest.
You should make reservations with Animal Encounters if you wish to feed animals like sea lions.
For
Anyone and everyone.
- Battleship USS Iowa Museum
Why You’ve Got to Go
Located on the West Coast, this battleship is unique in that visitors can go aboard.
Thus, that is a highly unusual chance.
The USS Iowa Museum is now an excellent place to learn about nautical history in the United States through hands-on displays.
What to Do
Located on the West Coast, this battleship is unique in that visitors can go aboard.
Thus, that is a highly unusual chance.
The USS Iowa Museum is now an excellent place to learn about nautical history in the United States through hands-on displays.
For
Anyone and everyone.
- Children’s Book World
Why You’ve Got to Go
This establishment has existed since the 1980s and contains more than 80,000 books for children, teachers, and students.
Additionally, there is something for parents.
In addition, it offers music, audiobooks, DVDs, craft kits, and science kits.
It fulfills all of your needs.
What to Do
The collection of books here spans civilizations and is the wealthiest cache of goods you’ve seen in quite some time.
All ages are welcome, and even the toys here are educational.
You could also attend a storytime but check the schedule first.
For
Children older than 2 years.
- Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
Why You’ve Got to Go
To spend a relaxing day at San Pedro with the whole gang
It features the region’s abundant marine life and informative displays on life below the waves.
What to Do
The exhibitions are housed in a building built on the sands of southern California, so that is something to look forward to.
Weekend visitors to Cabrillo Beach can enjoy a free guided walk among tidepools.
For
Anyone and everyone.
- Hollywood Sign
Why You’ve Got to Go
Among the many famous landmarks in Hollywood, this one stands out.
We certainly didn’t intend for it to become a permanent feature, but it’s strange how things turn out sometimes, eh?
It’s a significant aspect of local history. Therefore, you should learn more about why “Hollywoodland” was shortened to what we see now.
What to Do
The entire city can be seen clearly when the sky is clear.
But therein lies the rub.
The Hollywood Hills were accessible by foot or car.
Beautiful trails that each end in a stunning panorama can be found here.
For
Anyone and everyone
- WB Studios Tour
Why You’ve Got to Go
It is one of Hollywood’s most active studios.
From the 2019 blockbuster hit Joker to the Harry Potter series, this company has produced plenty of notable films.
There is no need to visit this location. You just must.
What to Do
Excursions are this establishment’s forte.
Studio tours, classic tours, and luxury tours were all available.
If you’re interested in visiting a Friends-style Central Perk or a real-life movie set, this is the place to go.
Here is where all the action in a film takes place.
For
Everyone of every age.
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
Why You’ve Got to Go
Hollywood’s Walk of Fame is an iconic tourist destination and cultural icon.
Each with five rays, you’ll find nearly 2,700 terrazzo and brass stars along about fifteen blocks of Hollywood Boulevard.
Since its opening in 1960, it has become one of Los Angeles’ most visited sites, drawing an estimated 10 million people each year.
What to Do
Spend quality time as a family taking pictures with your favorite movie and TV stars, directors, fictitious characters, musicians, and actors.
Look at the likenesses of well-known actors and actresses like Walt Disney, Michael Jackson, Frank Sinatra, Jack Black, the Backstreet Boys, Orlando Bloom, Meryl Streep, Audrey Hepburn, Hugh Jackman, Nicole Kidman, and many more.
Mickey Mouse, Godzilla, Big Bird, Donald Duck, Shrek, Tinkerbell, Winnie the Pooh, Snow White, Bugs Bunny, Kermit the Frog, and countless more will be a hit with your children when they see themselves in images with them.
For
Those of all ages are welcome.
- Venice Beach
Why You’ve Got to Go
In the sands of California, you’ll find the bohemian atmosphere of Venice Beach.
Tourists can enjoy the area’s promenade, playground, skate park, sports courts, fishing pier, and outdoor stage, making it ideal for families.
What to Do
Spending the day at Venice Beach in the warm sun, on the smooth sand, or in the refreshing sea is a surefire way to make memories that will last a lifetime with loved ones.
Build massive sandcastles, play a sand volleyball game, shoot hoops on a basketball court, teach your kids how to fish, take a dip in the water, or play a game of frisbee while bonding with your family.
Rent a bicycle and ride along its length while taking in the odd performance by a juggler, guitarist, or other street performers.
For
Those of all ages are welcome.
- Santa Monica Pier
Why You’ve Got to Go
The Santa Monica Pier is a double-joined pier situated on the shores of the Pacific Ocean.
It was inaugurated in September 1909 as a historic landmark.
This fantastic attraction has appeared in various films and television shows, including Grey’s Anatomy, Hannah Montana, Sharknado, 90210, Modern Family, and New Girl.
In addition, it is a well-regarded entertainment complex, including an aquarium, a small amusement park, many stores, a video arcade, a trapeze school, and concession stands.
What to Do
Enjoy a fantastic family day at the Santa Monica Pier, which offers many activities.
Participate in activities such as riding a Ferris wheel and a rollercoaster, winning prizes while playing entertaining games, discovering the abundance of marine life at an aquarium, and much more.
You can also enjoy teaching your children how to fish at the pier, sampling various delicious foods sold by street vendors, attending an outdoor concert, learning how to trapeze, and seeing live street performers, among other activities.
For
Everyone of every age.
- Union Station
Why You’ve Got to Go
Los Angeles Union Station, or Union Station, is the city’s busiest and most important train station.
The Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal opened in May 1939 and currently sees about 1.4 million passengers annually.
It is a well-known icon thanks to its six distinct island platforms, beautiful architecture, variety of on-site eateries, and collection of public artwork murals.
What to Do
Several cutting-edge passenger trains pass through Union Station, making it a great place to take young train enthusiasts.
Activities include photographing the numerous striking murals of art, riding bicycles along approved paths, dining at a superb restaurant, and having group photos taken against stunning architecture.
For
Everyone of every age.
- Wildlife Learning Center
Why You’ve Got to Go
This world-famous destination is a museum and a zoo that houses over fifty species of exotic animals.
Many exciting activities, tours, a gift store, and more are available all year round.
What to Do
Any traveler who appreciates the company of animals will find this popular destination a utopia.
Enjoy quality time with your kids as you go on guided nature walks, feed the animals, and look for trinkets together.
Get a glimpse of various species, including bald eagles, prairie dogs, ring-tailed lemurs, squirrel monkeys, boa constrictors, ravens, North American porcupines, bobcats, sugar gliders, pythons, and many more.
Go on a Picnic Safari to celebrate a milestone with your loved ones and extended family.
Make a reservation at the patio and eat with macaws, owls, armadillos, and other exotic animals.
For
Everyone of every age.
- Bob Baker Marionette Theater
Why You’ve Got to Go
The Bob Baker Marionette Theater is a storied children’s theater organization.
It’s also been recognized as a cultural and historical landmark in Los Angeles.
It has state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment as well as hand-painted vignettes.
What to Do
Puppet shows, musicals, dramas, and kid-friendly concerts will keep you and the little ones entertained.
You might also get to play with puppets if that’s part of the program.
For
Kids over two will probably have the most fun, but everyone is welcome.
- Grand Central Market
Why You’ve Got to Go
The Grand Central Market has served the public as a food court since 1917 and is a historic landmark in the city’s heart.
It hosts exciting events all year long and has food stands providing regional specialties and international fare.
What to Do
Indulge in the pinnacle of culinary adventures by sampling a wide range of delectable fare at the Grand Central Market on a family vacation they’ll never forget.
Try a wide variety of delectable foods, from stacked tacos and tamales to Thai rice and decked sandwiches and Japanese Bentos, freshly baked pastries and pies, homemade kinds of pasta and ramen, and ooey-gooey doughnuts.
Movie showings, game evenings, and other activities are occasionally available, depending on their schedule.
For
Everyone of every age.
- Travel Town Museum
Why You’ve Got to Go
Located in Los Angeles, California, the Travel Town Museum Railroad was built in 1952 and is owned by the Recreation and Parks Department.
It’s home to around 43 authentic railroad vehicles and engines from the turn of the century.
What to Do
How about your kids? Do they go crazy for anything railroad-related?
Then, bringing children to this museum is a great way to spend a day in Los Angeles.
You can take your kids on a train ride; read a book from the library; buy mementos from the museum store, or shop for toys for the kids.
For
Everyone of every age.
