40+ Fun Things to Do with Kids in Los Angeles
The best way to experience the city of Los Angeles is through your child’s eyes. Whether you want to spend a sunny day at the beach, explore and learn at a museum, or frolic through a garden, L.A. has it all. Check out our huge list of the best things to do in Los Angeles with kids, and get ready for an exciting adventure.
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40 FUN THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN LOS ANGELES
The weather in Los Angeles makes the city ideal to explore and enjoy year-round. From theme parks to science centers and world-famous beaches, there are so many exciting things to do in Los Angeles with kids of all ages.
Need more ideas on things to do in Los Angeles with kids? Check out our Guides in the Things to Do in L.A., Things to Do in South Bay, and Things to Do in Southern California.
Los Angeles Zoo
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is home to animals from all over the globe, with more than 400 species represented on 3200 acres. The LA Zoo features exciting, hands-on educational activities for kids, fun, adventurous animal exhibits and encounters, and an awesome carousel.
Related: Guide to Southern California Zoo & Aquariums
Cayton Children’s Museum
This children’s museum is a colorful world of exploration tailored for kids under ten years. It features hands-on exhibits with pretend play opportunities and imaginative learning activities. Favorites include the Animal Hospital, where kids can “heal” plushie animals, and the Courage Climber, a colorful web of climbing space.
Related: Best Children’s Museums in Los Angeles & Orange County
Take a Day Trip to Malibu
Malibu is known for its beautiful beaches, and it doesn’t disappoint. From the family-friendly Zuma to the tide pools of Surfrider Beach, there’s plenty to explore with kids. Malibu Country Mart is the perfect spot to stop for a bite and shopping. There’s even a small playground at the center of the courtyard to keep the kids entertained while you eat.
Related: Southern California’s Best Beaches for Families
Queen Mary
Take a trip to Long Beach and check out this historic ocean liner. The Queen Mary has been host to celebrities such as Marilyn Monroe, Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, and President Harry S Truman. A thrilling and educational guided tour will give you a close-up view at the Queen Mary. There are tours like the historical Glory Days Tour, the Steam and Steel Tour, and the Haunted Encounters Tour.
The Proud Bird Food Bazaar & Events Center
The Proud Bird is a restaurant and catering company that offers affordable, family-friendly dining experiences. It’s also a favorite spot for events ranging from holiday parties to baby showers and weddings.
Griffith Observatory
A visit to the Griffith Observatory is easily one of the best things to do in L.A. Griffith Observatory is a Los Angeles landmark and Southern California’s gateway to the cosmos. Visitors can explore exhibits about astronomy and watch live shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium that are sure to please any science enthusiast. Guests looking for a scenic view of L.A. will also not be disappointed with Griffith Park’s incredible views from its observatory windows or, even better yet – outside on top of the iconic Hollywood sign overlooking all of L.A.
Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Located just east of Pasadena, this unique 127-acre garden houses a variety of plant species from around the world. Walk through gardens filled with trees towering up to 50 feet high and manicured lawns lined with colorful flowers. Snap a family photo next to a cascading waterfall and discover which famous Hollywood blockbusters have been filmed here.
Related: Botanical Gardens in Southern California
Kidspace Children’s Museum
Kidspace is a nonprofit museum designed to delight and engage kids emotionally, intellectually, and physically through joyful experiences. Children are welcome to explore interactive exhibits with curiosity while learning about their community in an engaging way.
Related: The Best Museums For Kids In L.A.
Universal Studios Hollywood
When planning things to do in Los Angeles with kids, a day at Universal Studios, Hollywood is sure to top the list! Get ready for the ultimate Hollywood experience with an action-packed day of entertainment all in one place: Universal Studios. With major attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic Park ride, and the new Super Nintendo World, there’s something for everyone.
Related: Guide to Southern California Amusement Parks
City Walk at Universal Studios Hollywood
Located in Universal City, Universal CityWalk is the entertainment and retail district adjacent to all of Universal’s theme parks. It started as an expansion of the park, but it has since grown into a huge tourist destination in its own right, with restaurants and shops galore! Thrill seekers will love the high-flying action at iFly, and don’t miss the newly opened The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen, where your sweetest dreams are sure to come true.
Pacific Park at the Santa Monica Pier
Pacific Park amusement park at the Santa Monica Pier offers a broad range of family-friendly activities. From rides like the West Coaster and the Pacific Ferris Wheel to games and food, there’s so much to do and see. And, of course, a visit to the pier wouldn’t be complete with a whirl around the iconic merry-go-round followed by an ice cream scoop at the classic soda fountain, Soda Jerks.
Related: 15 Things to Do in Santa Monica With Kids
Take a Day Trip to Long Beach
Long Beach is one of Southern California’s most diverse and picturesque coasts. With a wide variety of activities to do, it’s no wonder that many people flock to this area for vacationing or living year-round. Pay a visit to the RMS Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific with touch tanks and shark lagoon exhibits, or the Museum of Latin American Art, which features modern contemporary artwork from North and South America. Another fun way to spend time here is by exploring Rancho Los Cerritos.
Take a Ride at a Skate Park
Do your bigger kids love their wheels? Take them for a spin at a local skate park where they can show off their cool tricks or just watch experienced skaters do their thing.
La Brea Tar Pits & Museum
There’s nothing quite like the La Brea Tar Pits in Hancock Park/Mid-Wilshire. Part museum, part active paleontological dig, this place is a must-visit for kids who really “dig” cretaceous critters.
Six Flags Magic Mountain
If an exciting day of twists and turns at a theme park is what you’re looking for, then Six Flags Magic Mountain is the place to be. From fast-looping extreme roller coasters to smaller thrill rides made just for younger kids, there’s something for the whole family to enjoy.
California Science Center
Home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour, California Science Center is ranked among the top 10 most visited museums in North America (and for good reason!). This center’s well known for its engaging exhibit programming that encourages visitors of all ages to explore science more closely while teaching them about its impact on our everyday lives. Don’t miss the IMAX experience and the fan-favorite Ecosystems exhibit that features an aquarium.
Aquarium of the Pacific (formerly the Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific)
The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the world’s largest aquariums, with more than 12,000 species on display. Meet playful penguins, adorable sea otters, seals, and so much more!
El Capitan Theater in Hollywood
Originally opened in 1926, the El Capitan Theatre is a historic movie palace complete with a live Wurlitzer organ once used to accompany silent films. These days the theater is home to all Disney theatrical releases accompanied by live stage shows and other family-friendly activities.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens feature 12 themed gardens, including the Desert Garden, Australian Garden, Herb Garden, Lilly Pond, and Rose Garden. The favorite by far for young visitors is the Children’s Garden. Pro tip: be sure to bring a change of clothes because the fountains in the play area are just too tempting on hot days.
Petersen Automotive Museum
When you visit the Petersen Automotive Museum, your junior car fanatics are sure to be enchanted by the collection of over 400 cars. The museum spans one whole city block and has 150 thousand square feet of exhibition space for vehicles that date back to 1900 up through today’s modern models and include many famous rides, like the Batmobile.
Related: All things Planes, Trains, Boats & Automobiles
Tongva Park
Take one step inside Tongva Park in Santa Monica, and you’ll find it hard to believe this 6-acre urban oasis was once a flat asphalt parking lot. Tongva features a modern, urban playground with a natural aesthetic set against the stunning backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
Related: The Best Parks and Playgrounds In Los Angeles
The Los Angeles Fire Department Museum – Hollywood & San Pedro
Preserving the incredible history of the Los Angeles Fire Department through two museums, photo archives, the fireboat Ralph J. Scott, and the William Rolland Firefighter Educational Institute. The museum houses old fire engines and fire apparatus, some dating from the 1880s.
La Habra Children’s Museum
There’s a museum for kids in Southern California that stands as an example of the importance of play. Through engaging exhibits, kids learn skills at their own pace and express creativity through all sorts of different activities.
Descanso Gardens
Nestled in the foothills of La Cañada Flintridge, Descanso Gardens features 160 acres of lush landscape to explore. The botanical garden includes a massive rose garden, a camellia garden, a Japanese garden, an oak forest, a lakeside hiking trail, an art museum, a miniature train, and more.
World of Illusions Museum
World of Illusions in Los Angeles is the perfect destination for families, offering four unique experiences. The Giant’s House, Museum of Illusions, Upside Down House, and Smash It will transport you to a world of fantasy and imagination. The family-friendly environment is perfect for all ages.
Related: 10 Of The Most Immersive Experiences You Can Have In Los Angeles
The Original Farmers Market at the Grove
With over 100 grocers, shops, and eateries, this iconic landmark is a unique experience for locals and visitors alike.
Related: The Best Farmers Markets In Los Angeles For Families
IMAX – California Science Center
Imagine what you could do with an IMAX Theater. You can transport yourself to new worlds, and engage in endless colors and soul-stirring sounds all while experiencing the latest movie magic! Thanks to the state-of-the-art theater designed for immersive experiences, you’ll be drawn into the action like never before as your favorite character or story unfolds on screen through next generation 12-channel surround sound system coupled with 7-story tall screens.
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
Explore SoCal’s marine life at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium. The building, originally designed by Frank Gehry, houses the most extensive collection of Southern California marine life on display in the world, including a large outdoor touch pool. You can also discover the wildlife in its natural habitat the Coastal Park, which features walking trails to the beach, marshland, and tidepools.
Madame Tussauds Hollywood
Madame Tussauds Hollywood is the ninth museum in a franchise founded by sculptor Marie Tussaud. Located on Hollywood Boulevard, just west of the world-famous Chinese Theatre, it’s the perfect spot to round out a day exploring the Hollywood Walk of Fame and watching the street performers.
Related: 23+ Fun Family Things To Do in Hollywood (2023)
Discovery Cube Los Angeles
If you’re looking for educational things to do with kids in Los Angeles, Discovery Cube is a must-do and is excellent for young children. The Discovery Cube features hands-on science exhibits that aim to challenge and inspire kids.
Griffith Park
In addition to being the home of the L.A. Zoo, Griffith Observatory, and Travel Town Museum, Griffith Park features miles of hiking and horseback riding trails, and provides visitors with the perfect spot for outdoor activities.
Travel Town Museum
If you’ve got a young train lover, then a visit to the Travel Town Museum is an absolute must. Located in picturesque Griffith Park, the outdoor museum is free to visit. Climb aboard and explore several old train cars on display. The Miniature Train Ride runs daily at 10:00 am for a small fee to ride (except Thanksgiving & Christmas Day).
W.B. Studios Tour
The Warner Brothers Studio Tour Hollywood is a guided and walking tour of Warner Bros. Studios. The VIP experience offers visitors the chance to get a glimpse behind the scenes of how movies and T.V. shows come to life on screen.
Heal the Bay Aquarium (formerly Santa Monica Pier Aquarium)
Under the Santa Monica Pier, come see what Heal the Bay’s work is about, protecting people and animals who call the bay home. With over 100 local species on exhibit, hands-on activities for small fries, and daily educational programs – you can immerse yourself in marine science without getting wet!
Noahs Ark Exhibit at the Skirball
Hop aboard Noah’s Ark at the Skirball for a must-do Los Angeles adventure. Young visitors will love playing and climbing while exploring this floor-to-ceiling wooden ark. The animals and interactive activities inside are whimsical and inspiring. Don’t miss the hosted story times and music jams; you can even make some art to take home at the Family Art Studio.
Echo Park Lake
Echo Park Lake is a hidden gem worth exploring. With the new Swan Boats, you can explore the lake in an entirely unique way! Rated one of the best activities in L.A., Echo Park’s pedal boats are a memorable adventure your family won’t soon forget.
Related: Fun Things to Do in Echo Park with Kids
Kenneth State Hahn Park
Kenneth Hahn State Park has a plethora of activities for children and adults alike. There are playgrounds, hiking trails, tables in many different picnic areas around the park, a half-basketball court, and a multi-purpose field that can be used as a soccer or lacrosse field, depending on the time of year. The Japanese Garden also features an interactive water feature where kids will love to play with the stream/waterfall. Kenneth State Hahn Park is where it’s at when you want fun-filled outdoor things to do in Los Angeles with children.
The Gentle Barn
You haven’t really lived until you’ve experienced a cow hug at the Gentle Barn. Located approximately 30 miles north of Los Angeles in Santa Clarita, the farm features large horse and cow pastures, a red and white barnyard for the smaller animals, an organic vegetable garden, lots of shade trees, and a panoramic view of gorgeous mountains. There are over one hundred and seventy rescued animals that are safe and happy at The Gentle Barn, and there is plenty of room to welcome their visitors and the children they host.
Recommended: Best Kid Friendly Farms Near Los Angeles
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles is the largest natural and historical museum in the Western United States. This fantastic museum has everything from dinos and insects to rare gems and fascinating L.A. artifacts.
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
What better way to discover the heart of La La Land than with a visit to a museum dedicated to all things movies? From The Wizard of Oz to Star Wars, fans of all genres will be delighted to explore the impressive exhibits.
Annenberg Beach House
What’s better than a day at the beach? A day at the Annenberg Beach House, of course. With spectacular views, a pool, splash pad, playground, gallery, beach courts and fields, and a path that leads straight down to the glittering Pacific, this spot is a must-do on summer days.
Related: Southern California’s Best Beaches for Families
Battleship USS Iowa Museum
Climb aboard the USS Iowa Museum for a trip through naval history. The museum features immersive exhibits, educational programs like tours and lectures, and innovative new technology to keep kids engaged while they can learn about America’s history too.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Walk amongst the stars of Hollywood. This historic landmark has more than 2,700 five-pointed terrazzo and brass stars embedded in the sidewalk along 18 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street.
Grab Lunch at Grand Central Market
Grand Central Market has been a downtown Los Angeles landmark since 1917. It is the oldest such market on the West Coast and brings together cuisines and cultures from all over Southern California. This is an excellent place for the kids to try something new!
Cool Off at a Splash Pad or Wading Pool
An afternoon at a splash pad is a terrific way to beat the summer heat. There are numerous splash pads in the Los Angeles area. One of our favorites is the wading pool at Holly Glen Park in Hawthorne and Seaside Lagoon in Redondo Beach.
Recommended: The Coolest Splash Pads and Pools Around LA
Bob Baker Marionette Theater
Every childhood needs a taste of this L.A. icon. Since 1963 the Bob Baker Marionette Theater has been inviting young and old guests to experience the joy of puppetry. The interactive performances and colorful puppets will surely delight kids of all ages.
Take a Hike
Los Angeles might be a big city, but thanks to the Santa Monica Mountains, there are miles of hiking trails that make you instantly feel like you’ve left the traffic-heavy streets behind.
Related: 5 of the Best Hiking Trails for Families in Los Angeles
Take a Sightseeing Tour of the Best of L.A.
Become a tourist in your own city! Take a walking tour of downtown, Beverly Hills, Venice Beach, or Hollywood. The possibilities are endless with sites like Union Station, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, Rodeo Drive, or the Venice boardwalk.
Looking to take a family trip just outside of L.A.? Check out our guides to Fun Things to Do with Kids in San Diego, Palm Springs, Santa Barbara, and Big Bear.
Need more ideas, check out our Guides in the Things to do in LA, Things to do in South Bay, Things to do in Southern California!
