Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids: A Playful Guide to Family-Friendly Fun
Sparkling Pacific Ocean beaches studded with surfers, tons of Hollywood glamour, and a smattering of theme park amusements make SoCal a lauded destination for families of all shapes and sizes.
Planning a trip to the City of Angels with your tiny (but opinionated) co-pilots? From dinosaurs to doughnuts, things to do in LA with kids are as wild and wonderful as you’d expect. Whether you’re searching for sandy beaches, science museum favorites that actually entertain, full-blown theme park experiences, or top picks like the Aquarium of the Pacific, Los Angeles has more kid-approved hits than the Disney Channel.
This guide is bursting with family friendly favorites—yes, that includes stroller-friendly walks, epic playgrounds, and even a few hidden gems near Downtown LA. We’ll cover the best things to do in Los Angeles with kids, help you navigate those “I’m bored” moments, and prove that LA isn’t just for influencers and actors.
So buckle up and cue your kids’ favorite playlist on repeat—this is your go-to guide for fun things to do with kids in Los Angeles, minus the drama (unless it’s from a puppet show or one of the city’s many incredible children’s museums).
🎨 Museums That Spark Curiosity (and Burn Energy)
California Science Center
A certified parenting win, the California Science Center in Exposition Park is an all-ages favorite, and even better, it’s free! Your budding astronaut can ogle the Space Shuttle Endeavour, while curious hands can explore touch-friendly exhibits about ecosystems, air pressure, and space travel.
The hands-on galleries include everything from earthquake simulators to interactive body systems—yes, there’s a larger-than-life digestive tract, making it one of the top things to do with kids Los Angeles families rave about.
Pro tip: make a reservation for the IMAX Theater, which plays both documentary-style and mainstream family friendly flicks on a massive screen.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Dino fans, prepare for squeals. This museum’s Dinosaur Hall showcases one of the only T. rex growth series in the world (that’s baby, teen, AND adult dinos). There’s also the seasonal Butterfly Pavilion, where fluttering friends land on noses, elbows, and occasionally, mom’s coffee cup.
Don’t miss the Nature Gardens outside—complete with ponds, scavenger hunts, and shady picnic spots—and the Discovery Center, where kids can dig for fossils and play scientist for the day.
Cayton Children’s Museum
Located inside Santa Monica Place, this colorful playground-museum hybrid is a dream for kids 0–10. With over 21,000 square feet of hands-on exhibits—think pretend fire stations, climbing structures, and creativity labs—the Cayton Children’s Museum encourages imaginative play and a little chaos (the fun kind).
It’s also got a “Courage Climber” suspended two stories above the ground, plus calming sensory rooms for when overstimulation hits. Parents will appreciate the secure, stroller-friendly layout and adjacent shopping and food options.
La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
Where else can your kids see real-life Ice Age fossils being pulled from bubbling tar in the middle of a city? The La Brea Tar Pits are a rare combo of outdoor fun, science history, and sticky storytelling.
The museum dives deep into mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and prehistoric LA. Kids can watch paleontologists work on real fossil excavations in the Fossil Lab, explore the outdoor Lake Pit, and join guided tours to learn how this gooey, historic site still surprises scientists today.
🌴 Outdoor Adventures That Keep Them (and You) Moving
Griffith Park
One of the largest urban parks in the country (we’re talking 4,300+ acres), Griffith Park is an adventure buffet for kids, parents, and anyone who appreciates a good picnic spot with mountain views.
It’s home to everything from vintage trains to planetarium shows—and yes, the famous Hollywood Sign makes a cameo.
Griffith Observatory
Come for the stargazing, stay for the “wow, science is cool” moments. The Griffith Observatory is an iconic spot that offers free exhibits on black holes, moon missions, and gravity that might just convert your anti-science teen into a budding astrophysicist.
Telescopes are available for public use (yes, even at night), and the panoramic views of LA are straight-up screen-saver worthy.
Bonus: You can hike up from the Greek Theatre for that main-character energy approach to the Hollywood Sign.
LA Zoo
Spread across 133 lush acres, the LA Zoo is home to over 1,700 animals that are anything but basic—think komodo dragons, meerkats, and the ultimate crowd-pleaser: elephants. Interactive exhibits like giraffe feedings and behind-the-scenes tours give kids that wide-eyed “I want to work with animals now” glow.
The on-site Tom Mankiewicz Conservation Carousel features hand-carved endangered species, adding a dose of whimsy with a side of education. Plan for at least a half-day here—snack breaks and stroller pit stops included.
Shane’s Inspiration Playground
This isn’t just a playground—it’s a kiddo paradise designed with inclusivity in mind. Located near the merry-go-round in Griffith Park, Shane’s Inspiration Playground’s vibrant, sensory-rich space features musical chimes, ramps, adaptive swings, and colorful climbing structures.
Whether your child is a tiny daredevil or prefers mellow play, this playground levels the playing field beautifully. Parents will appreciate the shaded seating and the fact that everyone gets to join in on the fun—no limitations, just joy.
Griffith Park & Southern Railroad
All aboard the nostalgia express. This charming mini train loops through shaded paths and a pint-sized western town that feels more storybook than city. Right next door, the Travel Town Museum lets kids climb aboard real vintage locomotives, boxcars, and cabooses while learning a bit of railroad history along the way. It’s equal parts transportation throwback and climb-everything wonderland—AKA a guaranteed hit for train-obsessed littles.
Ferndell Nature Trail
If your ideal hike includes tree cover, trickling streams, and kids who don’t complain every five minutes, Ferndell is your spot. This shaded, stroller-friendly trail winds through lush greenery and babbling brooks, making it feel more fairy tale than freeway-adjacent.
It’s perfect for a slow-paced wander, snack breaks, and spontaneous leaf-collecting missions. Pair it with a visit to Travel Town (just up the road) where kids can climb aboard vintage trains, and boom—your all-day Griffith Park adventure is officially handled.
Santa Monica Pier
Iconic and kid-approved, the Santa Monica Pier delivers beachy thrills, carnival games, and that photogenic Ferris wheel from a million travel blogs. Spend the day at Pacific Park, grab churros from a boardwalk vendor, and let your littles build sandcastles while you enjoy that elusive beach moment.
The on-site aquarium, Heal the Bay, is a hidden gem with touch tanks and marine life exhibits. There’s also street performers, ice cream stands, and enough sunshine to make your phone storage cry from all the photo ops.
Venice Boardwalk & Canals
The Venice Boardwalk is a sensory explosion—roller skaters, muralists, fortune tellers, and yes, a famous skate park. Older kids will love the action, while younger ones can snack on shaved ice and people-watch from shaded benches.
For a quieter stroll, head a few blocks inland to the peaceful Venice Canals, a hidden gem that feels worlds away from the busy beach. With arched footbridges, ducks, and tranquil water views, it’s like strolling through a SoCal version of a storybook.
🎬 Entertainment So Good, Even Teens Will Smile
Universal Studios Hollywood
Where else can you ride a roller coaster, wander through The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and tour real working movie sets in the same day? Universal Studios Hollywood is a one-stop-shop for thrill-seekers, Potterheads, and everyone in between.
Don’t miss the WaterWorld stunt show—yes, it’s still running, and yes, it slaps. There’s also Minion Mayhem for the younger crowd, Jurassic World for the brave, and an epic studio tour complete with earthquakes, floods, and Fast & Furious chaos.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
For older kids and movie buffs, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers an insider peek at real film sets. Step onto Central Perk, see actual costumes from Harry Potter and DC films, and learn how the movie magic happens. The interactive soundstage allows guests to try out special effects and green screen tricks.
Bonus: the on-site café serves Friends-themed drinks, perfect for tweens in their influencer era.
TCL Chinese Theatre
Stop by the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Blvd to see the handprints and footprints of film legends. It’s a quick photo-op and fun scavenger hunt for recognizable names—even kids love comparing foot sizes with the stars. You can also catch a movie inside the ornate theater, which feels like stepping into Hollywood’s golden age.
Bob Baker Marionette Theater
Quirky, charming, and 100% delightful, the Bob Baker Marionette Theater brings handmade puppets to life in vintage vaudeville style. Perfect for little ones, this Highland Park gem blends nostalgia and whimsy like no other show in town. The shows are short, colorful, and packed with personality, ideal for shorter attention spans. After the performance, families are invited to meet the puppets and enjoy cookies in the lobby.
That’s a Wrap! Family Fun, LA Style
If you’re wondering what to do in Los Angeles with kids, the answer is: absolutely everything. From T. rex skeletons and tar pits to theme parks and beachfront roller coaster attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do in LA with kids.
Whether your crew is into movie magic, marine biology, or just chasing pigeons at the pier, Los Angeles delivers the goods—with a side of glitter.
Tripster makes it even easier to plan your SoCal escape. Browse deals on Los Angeles family attractions, vacation packages, book hotels, and score discounts on pigeon-approved shows, rides, and tours. Our Los Angeles Travel Guide will help you make the most of every beach day, museum visit, and sugar rush.
Grab the sunscreen and let’s roll.
Things to Do in LA with Kids FAQs
Where is the best area to stay with a family in LA?
Santa Monica is great for beach lovers, Hollywood is close to theme parks, and Exposition Park is walkable to multiple museums. Choose your base based on your family’s top attractions.
Is Disneyland in Los Angeles?
Nope! Disneyland is in Anaheim, about an hour away. You’ll want to plan that adventure as a separate day (or two) entirely.
Are the beaches in LA suitable for young children?
Yes! Santa Monica is especially popular for families—lots of soft sand, nearby bathrooms, and easy access to food and fun.
Are the museums in LA free or paid?
Some, like the California Science Center, are free for permanent exhibits. Others like La Brea Tar Pits and the Natural History Museum charge admission but often have family passes or discount days.
How can we see the Hollywood Sign?
The easiest views are from the Griffith Observatory parking lot. For the adventurous, several kid-friendly hikes in Griffith Park offer even closer views.
What's better for kids: Universal Studios Hollywood or Disneyland?
Universal is amazing for older kids and movie fans. Disneyland is the holy grail for littles, but it’s not in LA. Your choice depends on the age range of your crew (and their obsession levels).
Are certain areas of LA unsafe or best avoided with a family?
Stick to the tourist-friendly zones like Santa Monica, Griffith Park, and the museum district. Hollywood Blvd is fun by day, but can get chaotic at night.
Are there unique or less touristy things to do with kids besides theme parks and beaches?
Yes! Check out the Venice Canals, the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, or Cayton Children’s Museum for off-the-beaten-path fun.
How many days do we need in LA to see the main attractions?
A long weekend (3-4 days) can cover the hits. A week lets you slow down and dig deeper into different neighborhoods or plan a day trip to Long Beach or San Diego.
