25 Fun Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids
Last updated on September 5, 2026

Looking for the best things to do in Los Angeles with kids?
From world-famous theme parks to beautiful beaches, museums, and outdoor adventures, Los Angeles is packed with family-friendly attractions for every age and interest.
Iโve lived in Southern California for over 20 years, and after countless day trips, staycations, and weekend adventures, Iโve discovered which attractions are truly worth your time โ and which ones can be skipped.
In this guide, Iโm sharing the 25 best things to do in Los Angeles, including iconic must-see attractions, hidden gems, and local favorites that both kids and adults will enjoy.
To make it even easier, I’ve divided this list into sections based on different types of activities. Whether youโre visiting Los Angeles for the first time or planning a quick getaway close to home, these are the top kid-friendly activities in L.A. you wonโt want to miss!
Top 5 Picks: Family-Friendly L.A. Activities
If you are just looking for a quick list of the canโt miss, very best family-friendly things to do in Los Angeles with kids, I am here to help! Here are our Top 5 recommendations.
โบ Check out a real working TV and film studio on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour
โบ Visit Griffith Park and hike up to the Hollywood Sign
โบ Check out the stars along the Hollywood Walk of Fame
โบ Take a walk down the Santa Monica Pier and ride the world-famous Pacific Wheel
โบ Spend a day at Universal Studios Hollywood or one of the area’s other world-class theme parks
Keep reading for more details on these top five things to do in Los Angeles with kids, plus lots more ideas to help you plan a great trip!
Best Theme Parks Near L.A. for Families
The L.A. area is home to many of the best theme parks in Southern California. Here’s a quick run down to help you decide which ones to visit.
1. Universal Studios Hollywood

For families looking for adventure, Universal Studios Hollywood is the perfect mix of thrilling rides, fun attractions, and exciting shows. Kids can explore the world of their favorite movies, experience the magic of โThe Wizarding World of Harry Potter,โ and ride some truly awesome thrill rides and shows.
Weโve been to Universal Studios Hollywood many times. It is a great park, especially for older kids and teenagers. The best part is of course the world-famous Studio Tour where you can experience โmovie-making magicโ from the comfort of a tram.

In recent years, Universal Studios Hollywood has expanded to include new rides and themed areas. Some of the most popular attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood include Super Nintendo World, and a Jurassic World ride featuring a giant tyrannosaurus rex and waterfall drop, and many more thrilling rides.
For Harry Potter fans, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios is a dream come true. You can explore locations like Hogsmeade, enjoy thrilling rides like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey, and even try Butterbeer.
Be sure to leave a little time to check out Universal CityWalk. Walking around Universal CityWalk is one of the most popular things to do near Universal Studios Hollywood. It is located right outside the park!

Why Itโs Great for Families: Universal Studios Hollywood blends thrilling rides and immersive worlds. The wide variety of attractions ensures everyone in the whole family finds something to enjoy.
- 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City
โบ Find discount tickets for Universal Studios Hollywood here
2. Knottโs Berry Farm

Located in nearby Buena Park, Knottโs Berry Farm is one of the best theme parks in Southern California for families. Originally starting as a small berry farm and restaurant, Knottโs has grown into a full-scale amusement park packed with roller coasters, live entertainment, family rides, and kid-friendly attractions.
One of the things I love most about Knottโs Berry Farm is that it offers something for every age group. Younger children will love Camp Snoopy, a Peanuts-themed area filled with kiddie rides and play spaces, while older kids and teens can tackle thrill rides like GhostRider and Silver Bullet.
Our favorite ride at Knottโs Berry Farm is still the classic Calico Mine Ride. The ride, opened in 1960, carries you aboard ore cars through the dimly lit tunnels of a working gold mine. The winding journey will take you past underground lakes, waterfalls, geysers, and caverns filled with thousands of formations.
If you are visiting in the summer, Knottโs Soak City is a water park right across from the park. Itโs a fun place to go to cool off with a water ride or two and some amazing water slides.
Knottโs Berry Farm is also famous for its seasonal events, including Knottโs Scary Farm (one of the largest Halloween events in the country). They also have Knottโs Boysenberry Festival in the spring and the very festive Knottโs Merry Farm during the holiday season in Orange County.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Knottโs Berry Farm offers a great balance of thrill rides, attractions for younger kids, and family entertainment. The park is often more affordable and easier to navigate than larger theme parks.
- 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park
- knotts.com
3. Six Flags Magic Mountain

If your family loves roller coasters and adrenaline-pumping rides, Six Flags Magic Mountain is hard to beat. Located north of Los Angeles in Valencia, this massive amusement park is known for having one of the largest collections of roller coasters in the world.
As the mom of a teenager, we’ve been here many times over the years! The park features some of the best coasters, including Twisted Colossus, X2, Tatsu, and Full Throttle. Thereโs also a separate area called Bugs Bunny World designed specifically for little kids.
While Six Flags is definitely best suited for older kids, teenagers, and thrill-seeking adults, families with younger children can still find plenty to enjoy throughout the park.
Be prepared for a full day of walking, especially during warmer months, as the park is very large and temperatures in Valencia can get extremely hot in summer. There are also lots of steep hills between the different areas of the park.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Six Flags Magic Mountain is ideal for families with teens and older kids who love roller coasters and high-energy attractions.
- 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia
- sixflags.com/magicmountain
5. Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers the chance to go behind the scenes of an active, working film studio. More than a tour, a visit to Warner Bros. Studio will give you a close-up look at some iconic TV sound stages, movie sets, costumes, and props. My son and I recently took the tour, and it was a lot of fun!
Warner Bros. Studio Tour combines a guided tour led by an expert who drives you around the 110-acre studio backlot pointing out various sets and buildings. Youโll also get to walk through indoor and outdoor sets and pose for a photo in front of the fountain from Friends or the Central Perk set.
After the guided tour, spend the rest of your visit wandering at your own pace as you check out several exhibits. Some of the spots we enjoyed most were the Storytelling Showcase, Friends and Big Bang Theory sets, and Script to Screen interactive sound stage.

I really liked how there is a mix of guided tour and areas where you can wander around on your own. It’s nice to be able to set your own pace and not feel rushed while looking at the displays.
Why Itโs Great for Families: For families with older kids and teens, this behind-the-scenes experience brings their favorite movies and shows to life. Interactive exhibits, like posing on iconic sets, provide fun and memorable photo opportunities.
- 2400 Warner Blvd, Burbank
6. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Is there anything more โHollywoodโ than checking out the stars along the Hollywood Walk of Fame?
This famous stretch of sidewalk is located along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. You can wander along the street checking out Hollywood stars from the Golden Era until now in television, movies, radio, music, and theater. There are more than 2,700 stars on the Walk of Fame. (It’s also pretty cool to see all the old art deco buildings.)
And it is not just real people who have been honored with their own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! Keep an eye out for stars for Donald Duck, Snoopy, Snow White, The Simpsons, Mickey Mouse, and many more.
โบ Travel Insight
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is an iconic L.A. attraction, but the area can be a little sketchy. Visit during the daytime if you have kids in tow!
I would be remiss not to mention that the Hollywood Walk of Fame was recently ranked one of the worst tourist destinations in the world (based on Google reviews and other data), and I have to admit I agree. In my honest opinion this attraction is overrated and the area tends to be dirty and crowded.
HOWEVER. If you are visiting Los Angeles for the first time or want to experience the energy and history of Hollywood for yourself, this is where you need come.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Spotting stars of beloved characters like Mickey Mouse and Shrek adds a touch of magic for little kids. Exploring this iconic attraction during the daytime ensures a safe, fun outing for all.
- Stars are located on Hollywood Blvd from Gower to La Brea and on Vine Street from Sunset to Yucca
7. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Seeing Los Angeles with kids can feel overwhelming. The city is spread out, traffic is real, and parking adds up fast. A Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour is an easy way to get oriented while covering many of L.A.โs top attractions in one go.
Companies like Big Bus Tours Los Angeles operate open-air double-decker buses that run along multiple routes connecting popular spots like Hollywood Boulevard, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Downtown L.A. You can hop off at any stop to explore, then hop back on when youโre ready to continue.
I like this tour because the audio commentary shares fun facts and history of each location as you ride the loop, which makes sightseeing interesting (and educational).
Why Itโs Great for Families: Kids love riding on the open-top buses, and parents love not having to navigate traffic or parking. Itโs especially helpful for first-time visitors who want a big-picture overview of Los Angeles while still having the flexibility to explore different attractions at their own pace.
โบ Grab your tickets for the Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour
8. El Capitan Theatre

While you’re exploring Hollywood, plan a visit to El Capitan Theatre.
For families who love movies, the El Capitan Theatre is a magical experience. This historic theater, located near Disneyโs Hollywood studios, hosts live shows and screenings of the latest Disney films. Kids can enjoy pre-show performances, sing-alongs, and other unique experiences that bring Disney movies to life.
Afterwards, you’ll exit into the adjoining Ghirardelli store, which is very fun to explore.

Why Itโs Great for Families: The theater offers an enchanting way to experience Disney movies, complete with sing-alongs and live performances that create a sense of wonder. The historic ambiance adds to the fun, as does the Disney-themed Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop next door.
- 6838 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood
- elcapitantheatre.com
9. Hike to the Hollywood Sign

One of the most famous landmarks in California, the Hollywood sign โ established in 1923 โ originally read โHollywoodlandโ to promote a new housing development. One hundred years later, people still flock to the area to see and photograph this famous sign. Hiking the hills that surround Hollywood is one of the best ways to experience this attraction!
There are a number of hiking trails that will lead you to the Hollywood sign, ranging from an easy loop to 6+ mile treks for a more challenging hike. Either way, youโll enjoy plenty of scenic spots along the way.
If a guided hike sounds more appealing, check out this Official Hollywood Sign Hike. A guide will lead you on a 2.5-hour walking tour that combines history and sightseeing with a vigorous walk up to the Hollywood sign and lots of photo stops on the trail.
Why Itโs Great for Families: The trails offer varying difficulty levels, so families can choose one that suits their abilities. The scenic views and photo opportunities make it an unforgettable bonding experience.
10. Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

Los Angeles is home to the Griffith Park Observatory, a mountaintop science center where you can see the real stars up close. The Griffith Observatory allows kids to gaze at the stars, learn about astronomy, and even look through telescopes.
Griffith Park offers not only scenic views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign but also great activities for kids. The park also has hiking trails, picnic areas, and even the historic Los Angeles Zoo (more on that below!), making it a great all-day destination for families.
The Griffith Observatory offers a number of family-friendly daily programs and exhibits. Experience the universe in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, observe the sky through a telescope, explore the exhibits, listen to a talk, or pose for photos with the Hollywood Sign in the background. Each day thereโs something to fun to do at the Griffith Observatory.
Why Itโs Great for Families: The mix of hands-on exhibits and stargazing opportunities makes science fun and approachable for kids. The parkโs open spaces and variety of activities, from hiking to picnics, ensure thereโs something for every age group.
- 2800 East Observatory Road, Los Angeles
- griffithobservatory.org
11. Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Located in Griffith Park, the L.A. Zoo and Botanical Gardens is home to more than 2,000 animals representing more than 270 different species! See birds, deer, elephants, gibbons, monkeys, koalas, sea lions, sloths, giraffes, lemurs, snow leopards, kangaroos and literally hundreds more mammals, amphibians, reptiles, fish and more.
The zoo features a carousel, numerous shops and eateries, and some special experiences you can purchase (like feeding a giraffe). The Los Angeles Zoo also has botanical garden comprised of over 800 different plant species with approximately 7,000 individual plants.
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a great outdoor, kid-friendly destination and one of the top things to do near Universal Studios Hollywood. Plus, once you are at the Los Angeles Zoo it is very easy to explore all the other places within Griffith Park.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Kids love seeing animals up close, and the zooโs interactive kids’ activities like the carousel and feeding experiences provide additional excitement. The lush botanical gardens offer a peaceful space for a family stroll.
- 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles
- lazoo.org
12. Santa Monica Pier

That said, the pier is home to Pacific Park, one of the most iconic amusement parks in California. It is packed with fun things to do and see, including the world-famous Pacific Wheel, the Santa Monica West Coaster, and other rides and carnival games.

You can also enjoy a day at the beach, explore the aquarium, or rent bikes to ride along the scenic beachfront path with endless views of the Pacific Ocean.
Aside from the cost of parking, there are no other fees required to explore the pier. You’ll need to purchase tickets to go on any rides, but walking through Pacific Park on the pier is free.
Why Itโs Great for Families: The pierโs vibrant carnival atmosphere, complete with rides and games, is perfect for kids. The nearby beach and bike paths allow for a fun-filled day of activities.
- 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica
- santamonicapier.org
13. Venice Beach Boardwalk

For a classic Southern California experience, head to the Venice Beach Boardwalk. Families can watch street performers, browse quirky shops, grab snacks, and enjoy the ocean views. Thereโs also a nearby skate park, playgrounds, and wide paths perfect for biking or scootering.
Itโs lively, colorful, and uniquely L.A.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Thereโs always something happening, making it entertaining for kids of all ages. Pair it with beach time for a relaxed afternoon.
- 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice
- recreation.parks.lacity.gov/venice/
14. Manhattan Beach Pier
If youโre looking for a calmer beach alternative to Santa Monica or Venice, Manhattan Beach Pier is a great choice. Families can enjoy sandy beaches, volleyball courts, bike paths, and a small aquarium at the end of the pier. The surrounding downtown area is walkable and packed with kid-friendly restaurants and ice cream shops.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Clean beaches, fewer crowds, and easy amenities make this a relaxed spot for a low-key family beach day.
- 2 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach
- manhattanbeach.gov
15. Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area

The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area is one of the largest urban parks in the United States. It is home to numerous parks, horse ranches, historic sites, and more than 500 miles of hiking and biking trails. It is one of the great national parks and recreation areas close to San Diego and a fantastic day trip if your family loves the outdoors.
The truly great thing about the Santa Monica Mountains is its free admission โ visiting will cost you nothing!
The main visitor center, the Santa Monica Mountains Anthony C. Beilenson Visitor Center at King Gillette Ranch, is located in Calabasas. A stop here is the best way to get your bearings if this is your first visit to the area.
Why Itโs Great for Families: The vast trails and natural beauty provide an ideal escape for families who love the outdoors. Itโs a perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, and connecting with nature without spending a dime.
- 26876 Mulholland Highway, Calabasas
- nps.gov/samo
16. Olvera Street

For a completely different side of Los Angeles, spend some time exploring historic Olvera Street in Downtown L.A. Often called the โbirthplace of Los Angeles,โ this colorful pedestrian marketplace celebrates the cityโs Mexican heritage with traditional shops, street vendors, music, and authentic food. The oldest building on the street dates back to 1818, and you can go inside to check it out!
Walking along Olvera Street feels like stepping into another era. Families can browse handcrafted goods, watch performers, enjoy fresh churros or taquitos, and learn about early Los Angeles history. Kids especially enjoy the festive atmosphere, bright decorations, and occasional live music and cultural performances.
Olvera Street is also located near several other Downtown attractions including Union Station, Angels Flight Railway, and Chinatown, making it easy to combine with a larger day exploring the city.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Olvera Street offers a fun mix of culture, history, food, and entertainment in a walkable setting. Itโs a great way for kids to learn about L.A.’s Latin roots and experience a side of Los Angeles beyond beaches and theme parks.
- 845 N. Alameda Street, Los Angeles
- olvera-street.com
Best Museums and Educational Attractions
17. The California Science Center

The California Science Center is a must-visit for curious kids. With interactive displays that focus on everything from space exploration to biology, kids can engage with science in fun and hands-on ways. The highlight is the Space Shuttle Endeavour, which is on display as part of the center’s aerospace exhibit. It’s educational, entertaining, and perfect for kids to learn while having fun.
The really cool thing about the California Science Center is that their permanent galleries are free and do not require a reservation. Tickets are only required for IMAX and Special Exhibits.
Why Itโs Great for Families: The interactive exhibits keep kids engaged while they learn, and the Space Shuttle Endeavour (when the exhibit reopens) adds a wow factor for visitors of all ages. Free admission to the permanent galleries makes it a budget-friendly option.
- 700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles
- californiasciencecenter.org
18. The La Brea Tar Pits

Located right next to LACMA, the La Brea Tar Pits provide a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric Los Angeles. Kids can learn about the Ice Age as they observe real-life fossils being excavated and visit the museum to see ancient animal exhibits, including bones of mammoths and saber-toothed cats. The Tar Pits offer a fun and educational stop for families.
This is one museum I remember going to as a little kid, and itโs a spot that years later my son enjoyed, as well. (The La Brea Tar Pits museum is a popular destination for field trips in Southern California.)
Step inside the museum to see some of the most spectacular fossils ever found at the Tar Pits – massive ground sloths, towering mammoths, and snarling saber-toothed cats. You can also watch scientists prepare specimens in the Fossil Lab, and then see these incredible fossils on display in the surrounding galleries.
The La Brea Tar Pits is the only Ice Age fossil site in the world thatโs being actively excavated in the middle of a city!
Why Itโs Great for Families: Kids can watch real fossil excavation in progress and learn about ancient animals in an engaging way. The combination of science and hands-on discovery makes it a hit for curious young minds.
- 5801 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles
- tarpits.org
19. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
LACMA is the largest art museum on the West Coast. It holds more than 150,000 works spanning the history of art from ancient times to the present.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is home to interactive exhibits for kids and has family-friendly programs like storytelling and arts and crafts workshops. In addition to art exhibits, the museum features film and concert series.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Interactive exhibits and programs like storytelling and crafts keep kids entertained while fostering creativity. The outdoor “Urban Light” installation is great for family photos.
- 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles
- lacma.org
20. Travel Town Museum
Also located inside Griffith Park, Travel Town Museum is a hidden gem for younger kids who love trains. This outdoor railroad museum features historic locomotives and railcars that children can climb aboard, plus a small indoor exhibit space and gift shop.
Best of all, general admission is free.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Kids can explore real trains up close while parents enjoy an easy, budget-friendly outing. It pairs nicely with a visit to the nearby L.A. Zoo or playgrounds in Griffith Park.
- 5200 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles
- traveltown.org
21. The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles
The Natural History Museum offers a fascinating journey through the worldโs natural wonders. Children can marvel at dinosaur fossils, rare gems, and explore the exhibits on ancient civilizations and wildlife. The museumโs hands-on exhibits, including a live butterfly pavilion and outdoor garden, make learning fun and immersive.
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles recently opened a brand-new wing called the Commons. The NHM Commons includes a Welcome Center, landscaped plaza, garden, theater, and features a more than 75-foot-long green-boned sauropod.
We recommend planning on at least a few hours at the Natural History Museum to make sure you have time to see everything there is to see.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Kids love the awe-inspiring dinosaur fossils and hands-on exhibits like the butterfly pavilion. The mix of science, history, and nature provides a well-rounded educational experience.
- 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles
- nhm.org
22. Aquarium of the Pacific

Located just outside Orange County in nearby Long Beach, the Aquarium of the Pacific makes an excellent family day trip. I remember taking my son here when he was still in a stroller, and we have returned many times over the years! It is the perfect destination for kids who love marine life. Families can explore exhibits featuring sharks, sea turtles, jellyfish, penguins, and colorful tropical fish, along with hands-on touch pools where kids can gently interact with rays and other sea creatures.
Daily animal feedings and educational talks make this visit both fun and informative, and the waterfront location makes it easy to pair with a stroll along Rainbow Harbor afterward.
โบ Don’t miss these other fun things to do in Long Beach with kids!
Why Itโs Great for Families: Interactive exhibits and touch pools help kids connect with ocean life in a meaningful way. Itโs educational without feeling stuffy, and perfect for all ages.
- 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach
- aquariumofpacific.org
โบ Click here to book Skip the Line tickets to the Aquarium of the Pacific
23. Kidspace Childrenโs Museum
Located in Pasadena, the Kidspace Museum is a fantastic hands-on experience for younger children. This interactive museum offers exhibits related to science, art, and nature, and it has plenty of outdoor space for running around. The museumโs “Discovery Room” is perfect for kids to explore and experiment with new ideas and creativity.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Tailored specifically for younger kids, this museumโs interactive exhibits encourage exploration and creativity. The outdoor play areas let kids burn off energy in a fun, safe environment.
- 480 N. Arroyo Blvd, Pasadena
- kidspacemuseum.org
24. The Getty Center
Paul Getty made his mark on the other side of town with the stately Getty Center. Perched atop the Sepulveda Pass, this museum combines modern and European art with the crisp marbled lines of the gallery rooms for a complete visual arts experience.
The Getty Center is not only home to an impressive art collection but also boasts beautiful gardens and interactive exhibits. Kids can participate in family art workshops, explore the outdoor gardens, and enjoy the museumโs rotating kid-friendly exhibitions.
The Getty Museum is just a beautiful drive up the coast from downtown Los Angeles to Malibu. Its unique location offers stunning views of L.A., making it a relaxing yet educational experience.
There is no cost to visit the Getty, but it requires a timed-entry free reservation.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Kids can enjoy family art workshops and explore the gardens while parents appreciate the stunning art and architecture. The museumโs free admission makes it accessible for families on a budget.
- 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles
- getty.edu
25. Angels Flight Railway

Take a ride on Angels Flight Railway, one of Los Angelesโ most historic and charming historic landmarks. This short but memorable funicular railway has been transporting passengers up and down Bunker Hill since 1901. It is often called โthe shortest railway in the world.โ
The bright orange cars travel just 298 feet between Hill Street and Grand Avenue, but the experience feels like stepping back in time. Itโs a fun novelty for kids and a great way to connect Downtown L.A. attractions like Grand Central Market, The Broad, and nearby parks without a long walk uphill.
Rides are quick and inexpensive (just $1.50 each way), making it an easy add-on while exploring downtown.
Why Itโs Great for Families: Kids love the vintage train cars and short ride, and parents appreciate the easy access between downtown sights. Itโs a unique L.A. experience that doesnโt take much time or planning.
- 351 S Hill Street, Los Angeles
- angelsflight.org
Map of Things to Do in Los Angeles
To help you visualize where these L.A. attractions are located, here is a Google map!
Final Thoughts: Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids
Stretching from the Pacific coastline to the mountains inland, Los Angeles is the largest city in California โ and one of the largest in the United States. It is home to numerous attractions and cultural experiences.
From learning about science and history to enjoying world-class amusement parks, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in Los Angeles. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or staying longer, these 25 activities ensure your whole family will have an unforgettable time while visiting the City of Angels!
Save These Los Angeles Activities for Later!
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