Los Angeles is a city that offers endless possibilities for family fun. Whether you’re a local or visiting the City of Angels, there’s no shortage of things to do with kids in LA. From exploring interactive museums to enjoying outdoor adventures, this guide will help you discover some of the best family-friendly attractions that will keep your kids entertained and engaged. In this article, we’ll cover top kid-friendly places, helpful tips, and hidden gems you won’t want to miss!
1. Explore the California Science Center
The California Science Center is an absolute must-see for families with children. This hands-on museum provides hours of educational entertainment, where kids can dive into interactive exhibits that make learning fun. Explore space with real spacecrafts, including the Space Shuttle Endeavour, or discover the wonders of ecosystems in their live animal displays. The best part? Admission is free, though special exhibits may require a ticket.
Why Visit?
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Fun, hands-on exhibits for children of all ages.
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The Space Shuttle Endeavour is a huge hit with young science lovers.
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It’s educational, yet exciting—perfect for curious minds.
2. Head to the Los Angeles Zoo
If your kids love animals, the Los Angeles Zoo is a fantastic place to explore. Located in Griffith Park, this zoo is home to over 1,100 animals from around the world, including endangered species. The zoo offers educational programs, animal encounters, and even a play area for little ones. After spending time visiting the animals, take a stroll through the beautiful botanical gardens.
Why Visit?
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Wide variety of animals to discover.
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Interactive and educational exhibits.
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Perfect for animal lovers of all ages.
3. Enjoy a Day at Universal Studios Hollywood
No trip to LA is complete without a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood. This iconic theme park offers a range of attractions suitable for all ages. From thrilling rides based on your favorite movies to fun meet-and-greet experiences with beloved characters, Universal Studios is a perfect blend of entertainment and excitement for families. Be sure to check out the Super Nintendo World, which features immersive experiences for kids and adults alike.
Why Visit?
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Exciting rides and attractions for the whole family.
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Meet popular movie characters.
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Great for movie lovers and thrill-seekers.
4. Visit the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
For families with curious kids, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a fantastic destination. The museum is home to incredible dinosaur exhibits, gem collections, and more. It’s not just a place to look—kids can touch fossils, examine artifacts, and even interact with museum staff to learn more about the exhibits. The museum offers plenty of activities for younger children, making it a fun and educational stop.
Why Visit?
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Fascinating dinosaur exhibits and more.
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Touch and learn with hands-on activities.
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Great for kids who love history and science.
5. Go on a Scenic Hike at Runyon Canyon
If you’re looking for a family-friendly outdoor adventure, consider hiking Runyon Canyon. This popular trail offers breathtaking views of Los Angeles and is a great way to get some exercise while soaking in the natural beauty of the area. The hike is easy enough for children to enjoy, and there’s even a chance to spot local wildlife along the way. Plus, it’s a great spot for a family picnic once you reach the summit.
Why Visit?
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Easy to moderate trails suitable for kids.
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Stunning views of LA.
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Great opportunity to explore the outdoors.
6. Explore the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
The La Brea Tar Pits is a unique destination where kids can see real-life excavation sites and learn about prehistoric creatures. Located in the heart of Los Angeles, the tar pits are a reminder of the city’s prehistoric past. The museum showcases fossils of mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and other ancient animals that were trapped in the tar thousands of years ago. Kids can also participate in fun, hands-on activities to learn about paleontology.
Why Visit?
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Fascinating history with real fossils.
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Interactive exhibits for younger children.
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Great for aspiring paleontologists.
7. Visit the Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory is an excellent place for families to enjoy both science and incredible views of the city. Located atop Griffith Park, the observatory features hands-on exhibits about space and astronomy, as well as a planetarium. It’s also one of the best spots in LA to catch a panoramic view of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign. Admission is free, though some events or programs may have a fee.
Why Visit?
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Free admission with stunning views.
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Interactive exhibits about space and science.
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Ideal for curious kids and stargazers.
8. Spend a Day at Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is another great spot for a family outing. With its fun amusement park, arcade, and aquarium, the pier offers plenty of entertainment for kids. Ride the iconic Ferris wheel, play games at the arcade, or take a walk along the beach. The pier also has restaurants and ice cream stands, so it’s easy to spend an entire day here.
Why Visit?
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Classic family fun with an amusement park and games.
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Beautiful views of the ocean.
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Perfect for a relaxing day by the beach.
9. Check Out Kidspace Museum in Pasadena
If you’re in the Pasadena area, make sure to visit the Kidspace Museum. This museum is designed specifically for younger children, with exhibits that encourage imaginative play and hands-on learning. Kids can explore the outdoor garden, try out science experiments, and engage with creative art stations. The museum is great for toddlers and preschoolers but offers fun activities for older children as well.
Why Visit?
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Age-appropriate fun for toddlers and young children.
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Hands-on learning through play.
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Perfect for creative exploration.
Conclusion: Unforgettable Family Fun in LA
Los Angeles is truly a city that offers something for every family. From educational museums and zoos to thrilling theme parks and outdoor adventures, things to do with kids in LA are endless. Whether you’re spending the day learning about science or exploring nature, LA provides countless opportunities for kids to have fun and make lasting memories.
FAQs
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What is the best time to visit LA with kids?
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The best time to visit is during spring or fall when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds at popular attractions.
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Are there any free things to do with kids in LA?
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Yes! Many attractions, like the Griffith Observatory, the California Science Center, and the La Brea Tar Pits, offer free admission.
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What are some indoor activities for kids in LA?
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Great indoor activities include visiting the California Science Center, the Natural History Museum, or the Kidspace Museum in Pasadena.
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Can I visit LA’s theme parks with younger children?
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Absolutely! Universal Studios, Disneyland, and even the LA County Fair have age-appropriate rides and attractions for younger kids.
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Is public transportation good for families visiting LA?
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LA’s public transportation system is convenient for some destinations, but renting a car is often easier for families, especially if you’re visiting attractions in different parts of the city.
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What are the best family-friendly restaurants in LA?
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LA has many great family-friendly restaurants, including The Original Farmers Market, The Cheesecake Factory, and In-N-Out Burger.
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