41 Fun Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids (Updated) – 2024
LA is undoubtedly a fun place, but not much comes to mind when it comes to goofing around with your kids. But here are some of the best lively places for them. This City of Angels has more to offer than you can take count of. Your kids may not remember these experiences when they grow up, but you will. So seize the day, my friend.
Plan a vacation that sums up a fantastic time for both you and your kids, and ensure that you don’t miss the great spots:
Listed below are 43 of our best picks on things to do with kids in LA, so that you don’t get overwhelmed with the number of options available and yet know which spots will work the best for you and your kids. These include places in and near Houston.
Best things to do in LA with children
1. The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, Los Angeles
Classic skyscraper hotel, consisting of elevators made of glass and tremendous views.
This is an exquisite experience you do not want to miss.
Why visit?
The interiors of this hotel are uniquely designed to look like a space station and usually encompass many TV or film shoots. Celebrities and former Presidents are a regular sight here.
It’s one of those hotels where you don’t just stay in rooms; you experience one-of-a-kind properties. It is one of the most fun places to visit in the city
2. Grand park
There is never a dull moment with kids in parks, and this one is ideally located with 12 acres of land!
No matter the age group, this is where you should take kids for fun, and a great time is guaranteed here.
Why visit?
Olvera Street has excellent food you can collect on the way in. You can head to Union Station across the street on the way out, where you’ll get loads of toys and kids-friendly goodies.
Post this; you can go to Avila Adobe, the oldest house in Los Angeles and also near grand park.
This place is a perfect package of entertainment, food, and history.
3. Echo Park Lake
This is hands down one of the best and most beautifully architectured Park lakes ever. It takes you around water bodies for swimming, fishing, strolling, or pretty much any setup that works for you.
Why visit?
You can rent your private boats and do water activities of your choice. You can also have boat picnics or small parties. Various family activities can be carried out uniquely here. It’s also one of the best views of LA.
4. Time Travel Mart
When we see our kids happy and enjoying themselves, we just wish we could freeze those moments forever. Time Travel Mart is one particular place that helps you make and preserve memories.
Why visit?
Time Travel Mart helps you create and preserve souvenirs to relish your favorite memories for a lifetime.
They have a unique and distinguished variety of products to preserve or mark any period you wish.
5. El Capitan Theatre
Kids love Disney, and this theatre is paradise. This Disney-operated theatre gives you the experience of a vintage cinema from the 1920s.
Why visit
Popular Disney characters add life to this place; there’s live singing, acts, drama, and entertainment!
And it rains confetti, and children would love nothing more. This is a spot you don’t want to miss.
6. TreePeople
This is a place that reeks growth and learning. It is an extraordinary land full of nature and its values to promote experimental education for your kids.
Why visit?
They have a very pet-friendly environment and occasionally organize dog walks too. They educate kids in identifying and understanding plants and plant lives.
If you want to take kids to an educational and engaging place, this is the one.
7. Kidspace Children’s Museum
This is a hugely built workshop museum spread over 3.5 acres. This triggers the children’s brain’s imaginative side, helping them immerse in activities and educate themselves in turn.
Why visit?
There are outdoor and indoor options for children to explore—imagination workshops, climbing structures, fossil-finding structures, etc. Children can build dams, explore mud kitchens, study ecosystems, enjoy hawk nests, and much more.
Your kids will indeed have a cognitive experience here.
8. Discovery cube Los Angeles
This place is a very relaxed family attraction and exciting learning for kids.
Why visit?
They organize various exhibitions and adventures to ensure your kids have a great time. The kids can also take a tour of the ‘Zamboni Machine,’ a virtual helicopter. They also allow you to organize family picnics in the Hansen Dam Recreation area.
9. Aquarium of the Pacific
This contains around 11000 types of different animal species underwater. This is an extraordinary experience summed up in more than 50 exhibits.
Why visit?
The kids are allowed to witness the best aquatic life in the vicinity. There are 15o sharks that you get to experience closely and a few penguins. There are a variety of birds in the Lorikeet forest to feed.
On timely booking, you can also feed the likes of a sea lion. This is an absolute paradise for kids.
10. Battleship Uss Iowa Museum
One and the only battleship on the west coast with public access. An excellent place to experience US maritime history through various interactive models.
Why visit?
These are guided tours with kid-friendly exhibits; group tours are also available here.
There is a famous scavenger hunt here; make sure you don’t miss it. It’s renowned for a reason!
11. Hollywood sign
The iconic Hollywood sign is undoubtedly something you can’t miss when in LA. It’s an intricate part of history and a commendable view. It is also an ideal picnic spot for the family.
Why visit?
This is a beautiful hike to the top, or you could choose a horseback ride, according to convenience.
The journey to the top has fantastic trails, and the view is worth climbing.
12. Wb Studios Tour
One of the most engaging studios in Hollywood. Right from 2019’s blockbuster ‘Joker’ to the ‘Harry Potter’ franchise. It has been credited with some of the all-time best movies.
Why visit?
It has beautiful setups, stages, and exhibits from the actual movies. This is where the magic happens, and you must witness it.
Three different types of tours are available for the visitors, from Central Perk in Friends to the soundstages; everything is here.
13. Hollywood Walk of Fame
The world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame is a historical landmark with 2700 terrazzo and brass stars on the sidewalks at Boulevard. This is one of LA’s most popular tourist attractions; approximately 10 million people visit annually.
Why visit?
The embedded stars are the famous and loved personalities of actors, directors, musicians, fictional characters, etc. You can view the stars of Micheal Jackson, Walt Disney, Audrey Hepburn, and many more.
The kids love the stars of animated characters like Mickey Mouse, Godzilla, Donal Duck, Winnie the Pooh, Tinkerbell, and endlessly more. You sure will never regret taking your kids here.
14. Venice Beach
It is a sandy coastline beach with a unique bohemian vibe. It is a family-friendly tourist spot with a boardwalk, playground, skate parks, sports courts, fishing pier, and much more for the kids.
Why visit?
Create memories on the beach with your kids, building sandcastles, finding sea shells, playing volleyball, teaching your little ones to swim or fish, and enjoying some frisbee rounds. Near the beach, great food restaurants are lined up; you can rent bikes to view the whole place. There’s also occasional live entertainment from street performers you can enjoy!
All in all, this place is pure joy.
15. Santa Monica Pier
This is a double-jointed pier on the banks of the Pacific Ocean, a very respected historic landmark from the 1900s and a wonderful place to visit.
It was also featured in several hit movies and TV shows like Hannah Montana, Grey’s Anatomy, Modern family, etc.
It also has a vast entertainment area consisting of an aquarium, a tiny amusement park, a trapeze school, and concessions stands.
Why visit?
If your timing is lucky, you might witness the shoot of some future iconic movies and shows and meet some celebrities.
Apart from that, you can enjoy a Ferris wheel, rollercoaster, fun games, and rewards, teach your kids fishing, attend amazing outdoor concerts, try street food delicacies, and so much more.
Everyone, right from kids to adults, will surely enjoy it here.
16. Union Station
The Los Angeles Union Station is the city’s busiest, central railway station. It commenced in 1939, and around 1.4 million passengers use these services annually. It is built with unique historic architecture and a visual treat; there are six island platforms, onsite restaurants, and beautiful art depictions.
Why visit?
State-of-the-art trains are ideal for exploring with kids and getting amazing photographs. You can also bike on the designated trails or watch people doing so, dine in the finest restaurants and gaze at the incredible architecture.
17. Wildlife Learning Center
As the name suggests, you can take your kids here to educate them about some other life forms among us. This place is home to 100 exotic animals of more than 50 different species that you can tour amongst.
Why visit?
This tourist spot is perfect for witnessing some excellent wildlife photography, interacting with the different animals, and getting souvenirs as there are some fantastic gift shops here.
Your kids will see rare and sparse wildlife here, like bald eagles, prairie dogs, ring-tailed lemurs, squirrel monkeys, boa constrictors, ravens, North American porcupines, and bobcats, sugar gliders, pythons, and more.
There is also an option of a picnic safari where you can celebrate.
You can also enjoy dining with exotic species of macaws, owls, or even armadillos.
18. Bob Baker Marionette Theatre
This is the historical kid’s theatre company from the 1960s, now a designated cultural monument in LA. It is home to state-of-the-art paintings, audio-visual equipment, and much more.
Why visit?
Although puppet shows have the impression of being a ‘kids thing,’ you will be surprised to see how much adults here enjoy it too. You can also go to musical plays, kids-friendly concerts, and various other entertainment displays.
It’s highly interactive and easygoing.
19. Grand Central Market
We cannot emphasize this enough, but you have to go here! It is a huge 30000 sq ft food court dated back to 1917, which includes the broadest range of local and foreign cuisines, and various attractive events are held throughout the year.
Why visit?
For all the foody people, you are in for a treat! You and your kids can try several delicacies from all around the world. You will have the ultimate euphoric experience of food here.
We would recommend that you do not miss out on the following,
Try the loaded tacos, Thai rice, decked sandwiches, Bentos from Japan, freshly baked cookies, delicious pies, pasta, ramen, decadent homemade donuts, and more.
20. Travel Town Museum
This was established in 1952 and has been home to more than 43 railroad cars and engines since the early 1990s. Your children are going to love this place!
Why visit?
One of the most positive things to do with kids in LA is visiting this museum, from tours to educational trips; this place offers everything.
You can enjoy guided tours, immerse yourself in one of the best libraries and read, shop for toys and souvenirs, go on train rides and enjoy yourselves.
21. Descanso Gardens
One of the prettiest botanical gardens and is highly popular amongst the kids. There are tony little pots here with roses, lilies, and trees made everywhere. You will witness exceptional blooms if you’re visiting in the spring season. There are camellias in winter, and oaks are prominent throughout the year.
Why visit?
The children love exploring this vicinity, and nature is preserved at its best here. You can also take your kids to the Enchanted railroad and check for the events; several concerts are organized here during the summer.
People of all ages enjoy this place.
22. Griffith Park
This place has fun things for people of all ages, so it houses excellent family time. You can take your kids along for fun visits, picnics, or celebrations.
Why visit?
From here, you can take a hike up to the Hollywood sign and explore the LA zoo and botanical gardens; this place is located in such a way that you are within the radius of many options.
The Griffith observatory is a very famous place here, and don’t miss out on the merry-go-round relaxing ride.
You can also take your kids to the pony ride, where kids are allowed to choose their own pace, and fun here is guaranteed. You can also enjoy a beautiful family evening or an occasional picnic here.
23. The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens
This vast library is home to many rare and exclusive collections of books you will find. It is built on an area of 120 acres and has a few beautiful gardens located within.
Why visit?
It offers immense choice, three art galleries, and a vast botanical garden. There is a desert, a Japanese garden, a Chinese garden, Helen and Peter’s bing garden, and much more. There are several exhibits on botany, a fog grotto, a prism tunnel to climb through, and a uniquely built rainbow room that you shouldn’t miss.
24. Los Angeles State Historic Park
After being shut for three years, Los Angeles State Historic Park is finally back in business. After undergoing a major $20 million remodeling, this is a must-visit spot.
Why visit?
It has beautiful sights and is ideal for morning or evening walks. Fresh air and a fruit orchard are the most liked amongst the children, and there is also a beautifully made lookout point for a gorgeous view.
25. La Brea Tar Pits & Museum
La Brea is well known for its ice-age fossil station. Hence it’s famous amongst the localities and tourists.
Why visit?
They offer an intricate excavator tour where the kids can experience scientists’ findings from digging tar pits. It is followed by a museum and a 3D theatre depicting how animals were trapped in the tar.
A dedicated lab also exhibits the findings of fossils dug out from the tar. It is also an excellent place for a family picnic.
26. Los Angeles County Museum of Art
This place has the potential to keep everyone engaged for hours. There are tons of children’s activities and never a dull moment.
Why visit?
It consists of substantial modern art galleries in the Ahmanson building. There is a magnificent sculpture garden, and don’t forget Boone Children’s Gallery for some great stories.
27. Angels Flight Railway
Angels Flight Railway is a well-known tourist hotspot because it is the world’s shortest railway but allows you to get an insight into the rich American history.
It runs from Hill Street and Grand Avenue on Bunker Hill on weekends and holidays.
Why visit?
The train cars here are over 100 years old, and you must check them out. You can enjoy the grandeur of the Grand Central Market through these train cars. It is also known as the Blue Angels 4D experience and is a landmark from the early 1900s.
28. The Los Angeles Public Library
For people and kids who like books or stories, this is a treat for you. It comprises vast, rich wooden shelves, historic storytimes, and whatnot.
Why visit?
Like traditional libraries, this place does not have the ideology of ‘only books library’ with the world advancing in technology. They also have a computer zone for kids who are used to advanced technology.
But if you wish to get your kids into the habit of reading in an old-school way, there is a children’s section that will engross them, and as an adult, you will witness a library like never before. Great place for toddler’s activities!
29. The Last Bookstore
It is one of the state’s most extensive collections of used and new books, murals, and records.
And if books interest you, you are in for a treat.
It is a state-of-the-art book store!
Why visit?
There are different sections on different floors, and books are arranged accordingly. The second floor is known as the ‘Labyrinth’ here, readers are set according to colors, and it is one fantastic sight!
If photography interests you, you will find the most photogenic spots here! The Tunnel is extensively designed for photographs.
30. Hauser & Wirth
It is constructed in an area of 116000 sq ft area and is one of the few contemporary art museums. There are indoor and outdoor areas to cater to people of all ages.
Why visit?
They have trained 12 rare breeds of chicken that drive the kids insane! They have an on-site restaurant which is one of a kind.
There is also a vast open space, with public access, where you can enjoy yourself with your family and kids.
31. Ciclavia
CicLavia is a unique street festival where cars are not allowed. Going here with kids will direct the child’s minds to care for and save our planet. If you’re on time, make sure you are part of it.
Why visit?
This festival is where streets are temporarily accessible for everyone to bike, skate, walk or even dance. It is free of cost to watch and participate in and effective for people of any age group.
32. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
One of the most highly preserved and unusual places in LA, with a collection of 35 million exhibits.
Everything you’ve been curious about since you were a child or your kid is curious about, you will find everything under the same roof, from labs to dinosaurs; this place is home to everything.
Why visit?
They have objects preserved for around 4.5 billion years. If you like movies like Jurassic Park, this place is legit heaven. They also allow you to perform hands-on experiments, including animals and other specimens. You won’t regret your time here.
33. California African American Museum
In almost every art, some artists go unrecognized or are underrated and deserve recognition. The California African American Museum brings your attention to some under-represented artists of color.
Why visit?
The exhibits here keep changing so you can visit this place as much as you like. Each time will be a different experience with other artists. It is a great place to make your teenagers appreciate and take an interest in various art forms. They also organize family programs and workshops on mixed media for kids of all age groups.
34. California Science Center
If you love science or astronomy or want to induct some in your kid, this is just the right place. It is a paradise for students, teachers, and parents to instill knowledge, curiosity, and logical thinking. Everyone here will have a guaranteed excellent exploring experience.
Why visit?
They have eye-catching rotatable exhibits with an IMAX theatre to impart all the knowledge about the science center. The most popular activity here is the space shuttle endeavor in the Samuel Oschin Pavilion, and this shuttle traveled to space 25 times from the 1900s till 2011.
35. Tongva Park
This is ideal for the whole family and will take up an entire day for you to enjoy the whole thing. You can choose from several activities spread over an area of 6.2 acres.
Why visit?
Tongva consists of 18 observation decks allowing you the city’s best view. They have massive laws, sidewalks, rolling hills, and much more. During summer, the kids can enjoy a splash pad and a separate playground for those who don’t want to get wet.
36. Children’s book world
This is one of the oldest book stores and has been working since the late 1980s and has a collection of 80000 books for people of all ages and different professions. Apart from traditional books, they also have music, audiobooks, DVDs, and craft and science kits.
Why visit?
The collection here is from different eras, ages, and cultures and is a unique treasure you will witness. It is excellent for people of all ages, and even the toys here are informational. You can also coordinate and take your kids to recitals and readings.
37. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
It is located in San Pedro and is a leisure place for families. It is home to rich marine life and educates the kids about the aquatic creatures on the coast.
Why visit?
The aquarium is instilled in a building located in Southern California’s oceans. They provide free guided tidepool walks from Cabrillo Beach.
38. Santa Monica Pier Aquarium
This aquarium is run by a non-profit trust called ‘Heal the Bay’ on the Santa Monica Pier. They work towards protecting around 100 different marine species that are present here.
Why visit?
It is prevalent amongst teenagers and offers interactive exhibits that everyone enjoys. You can also witness moon jellies and sharks being fed by the staff. Entry for kids under 12 years of age is free of cost.
39. Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
This is an excellent place for a family day out in LA. They provide shuttles from Gold lines to the County Arboretum and Botanic garden. It is a perfect place for families to spend quality time and bond over lunch. They also have lovely short hikes you must try!
Why visit?
You’ll see peacocks walking around, which is rare; they have a scheduled storytime for kids with outstanding recitals, and you can also opt for Family Adventure Night Hikes and bird walks. They also have ‘kids only’ camps.
40. Marine Mammal Care Center
This San Pedro rehabilitation facility collects injured marine animals from Long Beach and Malibu coastline to reintroduce them to the ocean.
Why visit?
The ambiance is kept upbeat by a friendly group of volunteers and a humorous chorus of sea lions barking, even though some stories are heartbreaking (sudden blindness, a shark bite, etc.). Only a sidewalk outside the walls is allowed for viewing, close enough to glimpse the adorable faces of belly-flopping young elephant seals, which your little ones will find charming.
41. Moonlight Rollerway
This quirky Glendale rink (which has been operating since 1950) hosts a variety of activities and programs. For instance, Weekends are exclusive to youngsters, while Monday evenings are reserved for adults only.
Why visit?
Wheels or inline skates are not available for rent at Moonlight, only rollerskates. Do you frequently skate? Just at the rink’s “pro shop,” purchase a pair for yourself or your kid. You will surely enjoy your time here.
42. Shane’s Inspiration
This well-liked playground is a treasure since it was the first fully accessible playground in Western America and the biggest in the whole country.
Why visit?
In addition to the numerous slides, swings, monkey bars, zip lines, and other activities, kids may dress up as astronauts inside a spacecraft, operate the controls in an airplane cockpit, unleash their inner pirates, and land safely on the soft, rubberized surface.
Conclusion
Going to Los Angeles with children has its own perks. With tender and grooming minds that children have taken to these educational and informative places help in the cognitive development of their brains. These experiences have the tendency to change their perspectives on life and living.
Going on vacation doesn’t always have to mean leisure; there is so much more you can make out of a vacation. You can take back incredible memoirs. This is a summed-up list from LA to add to your travel resume; several things you can do with kids in Los Angeles.
Try and seize your days in LA with your kids this time. We have tried our best to make it easy for you. We hope we measured upto your expectations and that you have beautiful experiences ahead.
