Not every memorable present can fit inside a box. These Los Angeles experience gifts will delight kids hoping for something unique under the tree. From amusement park visits to race car action, give your kids the gift of an experience they’ll never forget this holiday season.
10 Best Experience Gifts for Kids in Los Angeles
There are so many places and events to experience in Los Angeles. Here are a few of the best gift ideas guaranteed to make lasting memories.
Lion King Tickets
Do you have budding thespians or theater fans at home? There are plenty of Broadway shows headed to Los Angeles in 2023, perfect for families, including the highly acclaimed Lion King. Check out our complete list of upcoming family-friendly musicals for more ideas.
Disneyland
There is no better gift for teens or kids than a trip to Anaheim to visit the Happiest Place on Earth. There is a reason why this emblematic park remains a mainstay in the imagination of kids and adults alike—it is perfect for building memories. Whether you go for a single-day visit as a birthday gift, a week-long stay, or a season pass, a magical day at the Disney Resort is a present that can never go wrong.
Family Horseback Riding Tour at Sunset Ranch
For parents seeking holiday or birthday gift ideas for their animal-loving kids, a horseback riding tour at Sunset Ranch Hollywood might be the perfect solution. Gorgeous views of Los Angeles alongside an invigorating horseback ride—a memory you won’t forget anytime soon.
photo: Vagueonthehow via Flickr
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is the perfect experience gift that encompasses a wide assortment of options with something exciting for everyone. Do your little ones enjoy adrenaline-charged attractions? A ride through TRANSFORMERS might be the perfect gift for kids who love the franchise. If they prefer immersive and magical experiences, they can take advantage of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Aquarium of the Pacific
If your kids are animal lovers or sealife enthusiasts, Aquarium of the Pacific is an excellent birthday gift idea. The state-of-the-art aquarium provides spectacular displays of sea life, highly educational tours, and even whale-watching experiences. If you’re looking for Christmas gift ideas, then you’re in luck—the aquarium always hosts cultural festivals and holiday-themed events.
photo: Laura LaRose via Flickr
Pacific Park
If you want to treat your kids to an experience gift of thrills and games, look no further than Pacific Park at the Santa Monica Pier. From the rides to the midway, all situated along the coast for an epic view, you can’t beat a fun family day at the pier.
Descanso Gardens
This tranquil garden makes the perfect outdoor excursion for kids of all ages. With so much to explore, from the flowers and lake to the art gallery and hiking trail, you can easily spend hours here and not see everything, making it the perfect place for an annual membership. Members also score early access and discount rates to special events like Descanso Enchanted and Carved.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Living in La La Land might make your budding movie buffs curious about how their favorite films and T.V. shows are made. Treat your future filmmaker to a VIP tour of one of the most historic backlots in town.
Snow Day
Snow play for kids in Los Angeles is definitely a rarity. Give them an experience gift they’ll never forget with a trip to the snow. Despite our sunny days, we’re just a couple of hours away from incredible ski resorts and snow play spots. Check out our guide to the best places to see snow near L.A. for more ideas.
Go Kart Racing
Does your kiddo have a need for speed? Put them behind the wheel for a dream come true experience gift at an indoor go kart track. Popular go kart places in Los Angeles include K1 Speed in the South Bay and MB2 in Thousand Oaks.
Have you gifted one of these experience gifts or something different? Tell us what your kids thought about their unique gifts in our Local Anchor Facebook group.
