41 Fun Things to Do in California with Kids (Updated) – 2024
California is the state of dreams and one of the most beautiful places in all of the United States.
You won’t regret planning a vacation here, and if you’re already on one, this article will answer almost all your questions like “Where to take kids for fun in Cali?” “Fun places near me?” or “kids activities near me”
Here is a listicle of some of the best things to do in California with kids, which guarantees a lifetime worth of memories and experiences!
Best things to do in California with kids
1. Golden Gate Bridge
This is among California’s top-visited attractions.
It’s a monument that offers a magnificent view with a historical perspective of the state of Cali.
It’s impossible to overlook.
Why visit?
The gateway is titled the Golden Gate, but it is a gorgeous orange against the landscape of blue seas.
It’s breathtaking to look at, but visitors can also go on a trek, hire a bike, or stroll around the span, which is just 3 kilometres one way.
You might also take a ferry ride under the bridge for a low-angle glimpse of the popular tourist attraction.
Marin Headlands is also a great place to go if you wish to escape the crowds.
This place is ideal for kids above the age of 5.
2. San Diego Zoo
Given that it is the largest global zoo, you have got to go here.
Its emphasis is on sustainability and has been awarded the greatest for several years.
Why visit?
There are many rare species of wildlife like pandas, polar bears, crocodiles, jaguars, and many others.
There are also little creatures such as meerkats.
If you’re visiting California with children and want to find out which is their favorite animal, you’ll almost certainly find it at San Diego Zoo.
There are also farm animals, which the visitors can feed themself.
They also organize many informative performances and discovery trips here.
It’s an entire day of excursions wherein you may introduce your children to hands-on experiments.
3. Disneyland
This may be one of the best family-friendly activities in California.
Every kid’s desire is to experience this at some point in their lives.
There’s also a feeling of reminiscence if one has been here before.
Why visit?
There are several fantastic activities for the kids.
They may get pictures with their favorite characters and enjoy the festival fare.
You should tour Toontown and Fantasyland during your visit here.
Tomorrowland and Critter Country are also available for enjoyment.
Don’t miss to pay a visit to the Sleeping Beauty Castle.
During the nighttime, there is a spectacular firework display that the entire family will enjoy. It is an excellent place for everyone from toddlers to adults to enjoy.
4. Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory is the ideal location for families who enjoy staring through a telescope.
There are displays that end up making the experience delightful, and it also pays respect to several of the most memorable voyages humans have taken.
Why visit?
Admission is free, and every person who wishes to view the cosmos beyond our galaxy is granted their wish.
The magnificent telescope provides a glimpse of the galaxy.
There’s also a playground nearby where you may enjoy a great picnic.
There are also various astronomical exhibitions to keep the kids interested.
All intergalactic-loving people should visit this location.
A scene from the film La La Land was also shot here.
Teenagers will love this place.
5. Lake Tahoe
It’s a park in the middle of nowhere that’s accessible all year around.
Lake Tahoe is an enormous lake encircled by mountains, waterways, and eco-friendly resorts.
Why visit?
It’s among the iconic California family destinations.
There are also several pastimes for kids.
Enjoy a swim in the pond if you’re here on a hot day.
If hiking or sailing and fishing are more your style, you can do both.
If you visit during the winter, you might do snowmobiling or snowboarding.
There’s also the opportunity to go hillside skiing or sledding.
The neighboring surroundings are rich in American heritage.
6. Santa Monica Pier
If your group likes arcade activities and amusement rides, you’ve arrived at the correct location.
If you’re hungry, there’s a restaurant nearby and children of all ages like this establishment.
Why visit?
There is a giant Ferris wheel for sheer enjoyment.
You may go swimming or sunbathe on the beach.
You might even go for a stroll down the avenue and watch one of the street artists entertain you with tiny feats.
Have a portrait made for a few bucks if you’re in the spirit.
If you require a change, go on a guided tour and discover more about Cali.
7. Yosemite National Park
This is a popular option, and it’s good enough to justify it.
There are various walking routes with beautiful views of streams and nature.
Why visit?
Don’t fret; everything is safe.
Several of them are bordered with sequoias, which children will enjoy discovering.
Yosemite is a location that has long influenced artists.
You have the option of going hiking, trekking, or fishing.
And while you’re here, shoot some wallpaper-worthy photos.
Teenagers have been observed to like scaling Half Dome.
So encourage them to put their trekking boots to the test.
Enjoy the surroundings by hiking the John Muir Trail, and thank us later.
8. Crystal Cove State Park
Crystal Cove is a beautiful 3-mile-long nature reserve that is ideal for spending quality time with your children.
It’s among California’s most popular family destinations, and the trail network is just one of the causes why.
Why visit?
You might go swimming or exploring the tidal waters
The sea is relatively calm.
If you enjoy being outside and possess the necessary equipment, you may go for a walk or try mountain climbing.
There is also an area for children to construct castles.
If you carry a kite, the wind is nearly always favorable.
If you would somewhat not be restricted in a hotel the entire time, you might consider camping here.
9. Disney California Adventure
Don’t overlook Disney California Adventure just because you’ve been to Disneyland; this amusement park offers seven unique attractions you won’t even find at Disneyland.
Cars Land, Paradise Pier, Bug’s Land, and many other attractions can be found here.
Also, if your children are Pixar fanatics (we believe all kids are), you must visit this place.
Why visit?
There’s Mickey’s Amusement Roller, a coaster with an entire 360-degree loop, to name a few attractions.
The eateries here have a varied menu.
The thematic settings and personalities therein create excellent settings for boosting your Instagram presence.
And parents, you’re going to enjoy this.
There also are alcohol-serving establishments in this area.
So you can relax while the children have a good time.
10. Raging Waters
This resort is the biggest in the nation, spanning over an area of 60 acres.
Including over 50 thrill rides, it’s a terrific location for kids and parents to have a great time.
From steep swings to wave pools, there’s something for everyone at Raging Water.
Why visit?
Throw in your swimsuit and experience Aqua Rocket and the Dark Hole tubular ride.
There’s also a place called the Bermuda Triangle, which we’ll leave for you to discover.
Once you’re finished with the coasters, you’ll also find a cabana where you can relax.
11. Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua is the point at which the Mojave and Colorado meet.
It’s also a great spot to discover an assortment of plants, geographical processes, and animal life.
This is a must-see if you’re questioning what to do while in Cali.
Why visit?
The breathtaking scenery here makes it a fantastic location for hiking, trekking, or hill riding.
The climate is almost always pleasant for hiking the countless miles of routes.
The famed Joshua Tree itself is a terrific area for the children to assemble and take photos.
And don’t overlook Black Rock Canyon, Cottonwood Spring, Skull Rock, or Keys Ridge.
12. Monterey Bay Aquarium
Monterey Bay is the place to visit if you wish to get up close and personal with sea creatures.
Kids will enjoy discovering more than 600 species of marine vegetation here.
Other displays teach visitors a great deal about these species.
And you get to acquire knowledge as well.
Why visit?
It won’t take up your entire day; a few hours are sufficient.
All the creatures in this world are brightly colored. Beginning with the primary feature, the Ocean’s Edge Wing.
It has a lot of aquatic life to look at, and visitors can also discover the local seafood.
The one and only sunfish in existence may also be seen at Monterey Bay.
13. Calico Ghost Town
Calico Ghost Community was a mining city in the nineteenth century.
And if you want a look back at history, this is the place to go.
It is quite a sight, given that none of us were alive at the time.
However, the children will undoubtedly be more enthused about this location.
It’s a glimpse of the wild, wild west. It’s known as the ghost town due to the stories.
Is there something to be concerned about?
Why visit?
It’s ideal for a full-fledged photoshoot.
The grandeur, the ghost tour, and the ancient mines are all fascinating. For individuals of all ages, there is a wealth of history and intrigue to be discovered.
It’s also a lovely place to go for a walk.
14. Six Flags Magic Mountain
This facility features the most thrilling roller coasters you possibly have ever encountered.
That alone is enough motivation to stay here for the entire day.
There are, however, additional little coasters for children. It’s an excellent spot for some innocent tomfoolery and family bonding.
Why visit?
The roller coasters will be a hit with you and the teenagers.
Once you’re done, have a look at the other coasters, such as Drop of Doom, Goliath, and Batman.
Concepts abound, and you’ll be startled at every nook of Six Flags Magic Kingdom.
If you’re traveling with children, make sure to visit Canyon Blaster or Elmer’s Weather Balloons. It’ll be a lot of fun.
15. Winchester Mystery House
If you’re into ghosts and psychics, you’ll enjoy this site.
In the nineteenth century, Sarah Winchester created this mansion, including over 150 rooms, to please the ghosts of her late husband and kids.
It continues to be reputed to be haunted nearly forty years later.
Why visit?
There’s also a gun exhibition and beautiful grounds.
You may learn everything there is to know about Sarah Winchester and her family’s misery.
Read the predictions that the psychic foretold and try to solve the mystery of why this property is still haunted.
It’s going to be an activity you will remember for years.
16. Living Desert
This is a zoo where the children may understand the significance of sustainability.
The desert landscape’s natural beauty, unusual flora, and animals will captivate the entire family.
It is the meeting point of amusement and substantial instruction.
Why visit?
In addition to seeing some of the unique species like foxes, camels, giraffes, and jaguars, The Tennity Theater also provides entertaining events.
You may also go take a walk along the San Andreas Nature Trail.
You will also enjoy feeding the camels and giraffes here.
17. Crissy Field
This was previously an airstrip, but it has since been converted into beach camping.
Does it not sound fantastic?
Why visit?
The Golden Gate Bridge, our favorite monument, is accessible from here.
This is the place to go if you want to spend a while in the wilderness while still being in an urban setting.
You may ride your bike through Marina Green to Fort Point.
Take a moment away from the kids and ride your bike along the promenade while they make sandcastles or bathe at Baker Beach.
Carry a picnic basket if you want to spend quality time with your children at this family-friendly beach!
18. Lassen Volcanic National Park
Volcanic gas eruptions, boiling springs, and mud pots are all examples of natural phenomena.
If you are interested in these topics, you should check the Lassen Volcanic National Park.
You also get to view a lot of things that are operated by a hydrothermal system.
The children may study about eruptions’ history.
Why visit?
You may go hiking while exploring the hot clay and water regions.
You may stroll over the promenade and reach the Big Furnace.
You may even pretend to be a witch at the Devil’s Grill.
During your time here, you should visit Boiling Waters Lake.
It is a boiling lake with a temperature of more than 125 degrees.
In fact, you may wish to plan your weekend around this.
19. Turtle Bay Exploration Park
This parkland is built on 300 acres in size and has a gallery, sculpture garden, and a sundial bridge.
That is only the start.
There’s also a biodiversity center for children to explore.
It’s a lovely blend of environmentalism and whimsy.
Why visit?
You may take your children to the nano exhibit and teach them how plants develop in actual time.
This is known as the “Rooted” characteristic.
The student art show has a lot of paintings to look at.
You may also take natural paths and visit the arboretum’s interior.
20. Legoland California
Legoland is a space where youngsters may let their imaginations run wild and indulge in whatever they wish.
This should have been named Wonderland.
In addition, there is a fish tank and a beach resort.
There are also themed areas such as Star Wars, Fun Town, and Castle Hill.
Why visit?
For the waterpark attractions, bring a swimming suit.
Get a Legoland driving permit and proceed to the racing track if you want to remain on dry land.
Or forego all of this and simply construct something out of the thousands of accessible plastic bricks.
You can also try your hands on underwater instruments, and it’s definitely worth finding out.
21. Universal Studios
There’s really no way you’ll skip this if you are a film buff.
Get a glimpse behind the screens of several of your beloved movies.
Trips inspired by several classics are available.
In every genre you select, you’ll find something that’s going to blow your mind.
Why visit?
You could get to observe how stunts are performed or stumble into a Hollywood celebrity.
You may try butterbeer and buy anything from Hogwarts here.
If you enjoy seeing King Kong smash buildings down, there’s a little program where you may relive those memories.
22. Catalina Island
This gorgeous Pacific island is ideal for family vacations.
Catalina Island, nicknamed Kidalina due to the love it receives from children, offers a range of landscapes for them to explore.
Why visit?
A number of things are planned for you here.
Kayaking, snorkeling, and swimming for the adults, and sandcastle making for the children.
Whale watching is available to the whole family and is only a boat ride away.
If you wish to relax on the beach, choose a hiking route or take a stroll around the island’s shoreline.
23. Lake Shasta
Shasta is one of the biggest and most beautiful lakes in California bay.
It’s a terrific area to soak up some nature and shoot some fantastic photos.
You must assemble around a bonfire at dusk and prepare fresh s’mores.
Why visit?
You may rent a boat and sail around the harbors, discovering them.
Fishing, water skiing, and paddleboarding are additional options.
If you prefer to keep dry, go on a trek or try your hand at fishing.
The most admirable aspect is that because this site is so large, it is really easy to locate seclusion.
24. Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is an entertainment park that spans hectares.
Why visit?
Thrill rides, entertainment venue acts, classic cartoons, and pleasure rides are all available; this is just the start.
Children who enjoy vintage animations will also be offered the opportunity to meet Snoopy!
Keep a lookout for Snoopy, your kid’s reaction will be totally worth it.
Take a roller coaster ride or get a boysenberry dessert to chill.
Choose a float trip and enjoy it.
Go wild looking for thrills and activities that are appropriate for your age (sure, they are classified by age).
25. Alcatraz Island
This is ideal if you enjoy learning about the history of the areas you visit.
Alcatraz Rock was originally a jail.
And you get to discover a great deal about the lives of the convicts here.
Why visit?
It’s strange and unlike anything you’ve seen before (unless one has gone to jail, obviously).
Individuals will be given a behind-the-scenes look at life in a detention center.
There is a tour that goes into detail about the lives and customs of the period.
Collect an item from the gift shop to commemorate your visit.
Everything and anything could work, including prison-striped pajamas.
And not everything is dismal and dreary.
A number of lovely natural features, bird viewing opportunities, and tidal ponds that everybody can enjoy.
Children below the age of 18 should be supervised and accompanied by an adult or guardian.
26. Balboa park
Balboa Park, with its galleries, art installations, cinemas, and parks, is a beautiful place for children to study and enjoy. It’s centrally located in San Diego, near the San Diego Zoo & Safari Park, allowing you to devote a whole week to exploring Balboa Park and its surroundings.
Why visit?
Go with your kids to the Reuben H. Fleet Scientific Institute for hands-on science projects and to see an IMAX movie. Other attractions include the Museum of Man, the San Diego Museum of Art, and The Old Globe Theater for musicals and shows, among other things. Whatever preferences your kids have, you may nurture and discover them together.
27. Sequoia National Park
The Sequoia, the world’s most enormous tree, may be found at Sequoia National Park. Hundreds of them are scattered across the area, and animals use them for shelter and nourishment. Guests may enjoy a variety of campgrounds, hiking paths, and reservoirs.
Why visit?
Spend the night at one of the park’s well-kept campgrounds, which include all facilities (even bear-proof storage containers). Trek, mountain cycle, and discover a strange environment filled with the world’s most significant trees. Post touring this beautiful park; your kids will gain a newfound understanding of nature and a different feeling of size.
28. La Brea Tar Pits
Creatures tumbled into the La Brea Tar Pits during the ice age and then were conserved adequately for contemporary discovery. The remnants of a saber-toothed cat, fierce wolves, bovine, sand sloths, reptiles, as well as an American lion may still be seen presently. Many archaeological sites remain to be discovered, and fresh excavations are produced nearly every day.
Why visit?
Visit the 3D amphitheater to understand well about the glacial period, the observation pit to envision how life used to be, and the relics of over 650 animals. The kids will enjoy discovering the method of fossil extraction and conservation during a sightseeing tour of the pits. Furthermore, children may observe legitimate paleontologists at the action in fresh locations.
29. Venice Beach
The whole day, both kids and adults will be entertained by vibrant and beautiful street entertainers. Nobody will ever get bored thanks to the skateboarding, beachfront, open gym, sports facilities, and stores.
Why visit?
Appreciate the varied abilities of street musicians on the main strip, such as aerialists, singers, gymnastics, and comedians. Surf at the sea, ride at the skatepark, look for unusual handicrafts, shoot street art, and enjoy lunch. But everything goes at Venice Beach when it concerns personality, allowing your kid to feel entirely at ease.
30. U.s.s. Midway Museum
The USS Midway Museum was a functional airplane that was operated by the Navy from 1945 to 1992. Nearly 20000 seamen embarked aboard the aircraft, which was a fully operational center that sustained everyday life. It is now an exhibition with an audio guide that allows visitors to discover naval history. Children will enjoy viewing the many aircraft and imagine what life looked like in the past.
Why visit?
Experience the simulation system, explore the USS Midway, gain knowledge from retired USS Midway veterans, explore retired military airplanes, and ascend to the ship’s summit. From the highest point of the ship, visitors can also see Coronado Island, Downtown San Diego, as well as the Bay.
31. Gilroy Gardens
For toddlers, this family-friendly amusement park offers enjoyable and secure activities. The majority features over forty attractions and exhibitions, primarily geared at kids aged 3 to 10. The Strawberry Sorbet, Hardwood Twister Coaster, and the carousel are all enjoyable rides.
Why visit?
Enjoy the day touring Gilroy Gardens, riding on entertaining coasters (several revolve around and around), discovering hands-on natural science teaching facilities, and wandering all around blooms. The amusement park was titled after its magnificent circus pines, which were modified as they grew to produce spirals, platforms, and other creative patterns.
32. La Jolla Shores and Tide Pools
Kids will definitely enjoy spending an entire afternoon in the sun discovering tidal pools, paddling in the surf, and playing on the beach with sand castles. La Jolla Shoes is heavily patrolled by a number of the city’s top guards, and the shoreline slopes gently into the sea, creating it one of the nation’s safest and most child friendly beachfront.
Why visit?
Browse the tidepools for animals, make castles, swim, learn to surf, ride or wave, relax at the local park, roll around in the meadow, and much more. There is absolutely no lack of things to do at La Jolla Shores, thanks to the sunshine, beach, and ocean.
33. Mammoth Mountain
Mammoth Mountain, situated in the center of the Sierras, is a haven for nature lovers, boarders, hikers, and adventurers. The little hamlet is family-friendly, and children will truly enjoy how to push their physical boundaries by participating in all of the outdoor recreation available.
Why visit?
Go skiing, skating, sliding, and frozen skateboarding in the winters. In the surrounding woodlands, make sculptures and enjoy snow battles. Drink hot chocolate at the resort or at one of the numerous relaxation eateries in the area. Boating, trekking, canoeing, and mountain riding are all popular vacation activities. There is absolutely no way one can ever get bored here.
34. Julian
Julian is among the state’s most family-friendly cities. Visitors may spend an entire weekend exploring a gold and jewel mine, a berry patch, and a forest hike. Numerous allegedly ghostly locations would fascinate and frighten older kids.
Why visit?
Scan for gold and gemstones at a functioning mining operation, select fruits at a cherry or plum farm, bake fresh berry tarts, go on a trek, and explore a spooky home. Julian is the sort of area that promotes independence and old-fashioned pastimes that several city kids do not have access to.
35. Star Eco Station
Kids will gain sensitivity while volunteering with shelter animals and learning about biodiversity. The STAR Eco Station is a scientific exhibition that preserves unlawfully trafficked exotic creatures that the Fish and Wildlife Bureau has caught. It’s an opportunity to observe exotic animals while also contributing to a noble cause.
Why visit?
Get involved in hands-on rescue actions, discover about these beautiful and unique species, and put preservation strategies into practice. There is also an environmental camp where teenagers might get more connected with the group.
36. Star of India
The Star of India is the globe’s oldest continuously operating sailing store. The Star of India, built in the early 1960s, has traveled the globe 21 times and once got stuck in glaciers in Alaska. Presently, the vessel still cruises the vast seas and provides excursions for both kids and adults intrigued by experiencing life as a world-class seaman.
Why visit?
Explore the Star of India to discover how well the numerous sails function, sleep on the same mattress as the crew, and discover more about life onboard this remarkable ship. Spend a weekend viewing the Pirates of the Caribbean sequence and then boarding the Star of India for a fantastical journey.
37. Bass Lake
Bass lake, located just 11 miles from the Yosemite Valley entrance, is a favorite tourist destination for families. Sailing is highly popular here, and there are multiple summer camps in the vicinity.
Why visit?
Water sports, core tubing, trekking, windsurfing, waterskiing, swimming, and other activities are available. This is an excellent area to stay while visiting Yosemite National Park and the surrounding Sierra Alps. The small mom-and-pop eateries that service the Bass Lake region embrace kids.
38. Rolling Robots
Rolling Robots, a site that teaches kids how to construct and operate little robots, will appeal to tech-savvy people. Participants will study circuit diagrams, elements, magnets, LEDs, gauges, and other topics. It’s a place to concentrate on science and innovation.
Why visit?
Register your kid in a scientific camp that is primarily targeted to his or her preferences. Bots with brains, mechanical machines, games development, and bots for toddlers are among the topics available to younger creators. Children will enjoy every single hands-on possibility to further their interest in robotics.
39. Bob Baker Marionette Theatre
For countless years, kids have been entertained by puppetry. We have tv series based on these; street entertainers frequently catch a child’s attention with them. Still, nowadays, at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, you can see a spectacular marionette show on a big and personalized scale.
Why visit?
Bring your children to witness a live presentation of animated puppets. Multiple shows are going on simultaneously, allowing you to pop back and forth without growing bored.
40. Hollywood Walk of Fame
Hunt for the titles of your child’s beloved superstars as you go down the path of stars. Street entertainers and star impersonators frequently line the road and are constantly eager to pose for photos. This is an excellent spot for kids to discover the history of Hollywood, and you can continue the adventure by visiting Grauman’s Chinese Cinema.
Why visit?
Snap photographs with street performers, look for specific names and see a movie at Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. After you’ve checked the Walk of Fame off your wishlist, the neighborhood is packed with record stores, eateries, and cafes to explore.
41. Reyes National Seashore
Are you up for a wilderness excursion? Bring your children to the Point Reyes National Sanctuary for a relaxing family trip. The Point Reyes National Seashore has the most wind in the Pacific Ocean as well as the second most mist on this continent.
Why visit?
If you visit this place, you will be sure to get a hit of calming breezes to aid in your relaxation. You will encounter several experiences on over 70000 acres of conserved parks. All over its 150 miles route, the visitors may go hiking or horse riding. Visitors can also opt to see sea animals like bottlenose dolphins and fur seals. And it’s absolutely free to visit.
Conclusion
If you go down this lane, California has tons of things to do. Maybe you’ll experience an underrated attraction or thank us for mentioning one. Either way, there’s no denying you will have a heck of a time here, filled with everything that makes a vacation ideal. So get ready for loads of adventure, good food, and a lot of Cali.
Check this list of things to do with kids in California, enjoy a fantastic trip with your lovely little blips, and make memories for forever.
