Los Angeles offers a treasure trove of experiences for visitors of all ages, making it a fantastic destination for a family vacation. From theme parks and sandy beaches to fascinating museums and iconic landmarks, the city is brimming with los angeles attractions for families. Having explored this vibrant city multiple times, both as a child and later with my own children, I’ve curated a list of the best spots that promise fun, excitement, and memorable moments for everyone. Get ready to discover why LA keeps families coming back for more.
Why Los Angeles is Great for Families
The sheer variety of activities is what sets Los Angeles apart as a top family destination. Whether your kids are into movies, science, animals, or simply love playing on the beach, you’ll find something to captivate their interest. The city blends world-famous entertainment hubs with unique cultural experiences and beautiful natural landscapes, providing a diverse backdrop for family adventures.
Top Los Angeles Attractions for Families
Here’s my handpicked selection of the most enjoyable and engaging los angeles attractions for families, offering a mix of the iconic and the slightly off-the-beaten-path.
Disneyland
While technically located in Anaheim, just outside Los Angeles, no list of los angeles attractions for families would be complete without Disneyland. It’s a place where childhood dreams come alive for kids and adults alike. Visiting requires planning, especially with younger children, but the magic of meeting characters, experiencing classic rides, and seeing the castle is undeniable.
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The Disneyland Resort includes two distinct theme parks: Disneyland Park, the original magical kingdom, and Disney California Adventure, featuring Pixar and Marvel themes. Both offer unique experiences suitable for different ages, making a visit to either or both a highlight for any family trip.
Universal Studios Hollywood
For families with slightly older kids (or parents who love movies!), Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit. It’s not just about thrilling rides like the Revenge of the Mummy or exploring the Wizarding World of Harry Potter; the studio tour offers a fascinating peek behind the scenes of movie and TV production, showing famous sets and special effects.
Even with toddlers, there’s fun to be had, from character meet-and-greets to gentler rides. Universal strikes a great balance between movie magic and theme park excitement, solidifying its place among top los angeles attractions for families. Just a short drive away, the Warner Bros Studio Tour provides an even deeper dive into filmmaking history (best for ages 5+).
Venice Beach
Venice Beach offers a vibrant, bohemian atmosphere that’s uniquely LA. The lively boardwalk is filled with street performers, artists, and vendors, creating a sensory overload that’s fun to explore. Families can watch skaters at the famous skate park or take a peaceful stroll along the charming Venice Canals, a quiet contrast to the bustling boardwalk.
While the boardwalk can be crowded and includes some “characters,” sticking to the main areas generally feels safe and is an exciting cultural experience for families. For a delicious treat, don’t miss stopping for ice cream on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, known for its trendy shops and eateries.
Families enjoying Venice Beach boardwalk, one of the best Los Angeles attractions for families
Santa Monica Pier and Beach
A short ride up the coast from Venice, Santa Monica Pier is an iconic landmark with a classic amusement park, Pacific Park. Kids will love the Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and arcade games right over the ocean. It’s definitely a tourist hotspot, but the energy is infectious and worth experiencing for an afternoon of classic seaside fun.
Adjacent to the pier is the wide, sandy Santa Monica Beach, perfect for building sandcastles or letting kids run around. There’s even a small playground on the sand for younger visitors. Renting bikes or a trailer is a great way to explore the path connecting Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Under the pier, a small aquarium offers marine discovery, though for a larger experience, the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is recommended.
Hollywood Exploration
The glitz and glamour of Hollywood are a major draw, especially for older children who recognize it from movies and TV. Walking the Hollywood Walk of Fame to find their favorite stars is a simple yet exciting activity. Seeing the TCL Chinese Theatre and catching glimpses of the famous Hollywood Sign are quintessential LA experiences.
For those fascinated by celebrity culture, guided bus tours of stars’ homes can be entertaining, even if you mostly see gates. Self-guided tours of famous filming locations offer another fun way to connect with Hollywood history. Other kid-friendly stops include the World of Illusions and Madame Tussauds Hollywood.
Griffith Park and Observatory
Griffith Park is one of North America’s largest urban parks and Los Angeles’ answer to Central Park, offering incredible city views, especially from the Griffith Observatory. While parents might admire the panoramic vista and the iconic Hollywood Sign view, kids will be fascinated by the planetarium shows and the science exhibits inside the observatory.
The park itself offers numerous hiking trails suitable for various fitness levels, including easier paths perfect for younger children. Other family highlights within Griffith Park include the Travel Town Museum with its collection of trains, the inclusive Shane’s Inspiration Playground, the Autry Museum of the American West, and the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
Step back in time at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum. This unique site features active tar pits where Ice Age fossils are still being discovered. Kids can observe palaeontologists at work at ongoing excavation sites and explore the museum’s extensive collection of fossils from mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and other prehistoric creatures.
It’s a fascinating blend of science and history and a definite contender for best los angeles attractions for families, particularly for curious young minds. Located on Museum Row, it’s near the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, another excellent science-focused option for kids.
Kidspace Children’s Museum
Designed specifically for children, typically up to age 11, the Kidspace Children’s Museum in Pasadena is an interactive wonderland. With a focus on outdoor exhibits, it encourages hands-on learning and play through water features, climbing structures, building areas, and musical activities. It’s a fantastic place for younger children to explore and burn off energy in a safe, stimulating environment.
America excels at creating these types of engaging children’s museums, and Kidspace is a prime example, making it a top pick among los angeles attractions for families with little ones.
California Science Center
Inspire future astronauts and scientists at the California Science Center. Home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the museum offers incredible exhibits on ecosystems, human biology, and technological innovation. Many galleries feature interactive displays that make learning fun and accessible for all ages.
With an IMAX theater showcasing educational films, the California Science Center provides hours of engaging exploration. It’s consistently ranked as one of the best places to take kids in Los Angeles for an educational and exciting day out.
Exploring LA’s Parks
Beyond Griffith Park, Los Angeles offers a wealth of green spaces perfect for family picnics, playtime, and relaxation. Echo Park Lake, for example, offers swan boat rentals and beautiful views of the downtown skyline. Parks provide a welcome break from the hustle and bustle of the city and offer simple, enjoyable outdoor activities for families.
Each park has its own character and amenities, from playgrounds and sports fields to walking trails and scenic lookouts. Taking time to visit a local park is a simple way to enjoy the outdoors while in Los Angeles.
The Last Bookstore
For families who love books and unique spaces, The Last Bookstore in downtown LA is a must-visit. Housed in a grand historic bank building, this independent bookstore is famous for its creative book sculptures, including a book tunnel and unique shelving arrangements that create a maze-like environment.
Kids will enjoy exploring the different levels and discovering hidden nooks filled with both new and used books. It’s more than just a bookstore; it’s an artistic experience that appeals to imagination and curiosity, making it one of the charming, less conventional los angeles attractions for families.
Downtown LA Highlights
Downtown LA has undergone significant revitalization and offers several points of interest for families. Besides The Last Bookstore, you can visit The Broad, a contemporary art museum with free admission (worth booking tickets ahead), or admire the unique architecture of the Walt Disney Concert Hall.
A fun and historical ride for kids is the Angels Flight Railway, a short, century-old funicular connecting Bunker Hill to the historic Grand Central Market. The market itself is a vibrant food hall with diverse options that can satisfy picky eaters and adventurous palates alike. While downtown is improving, it’s wise to stick to the main tourist areas, especially when traveling with children.
Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour
Given how spread out Los Angeles is, a hop-on-hop-off bus tour can be an efficient way for families to see multiple sights without the hassle of driving and parking. Several companies offer routes covering major attractions like Hollywood, Santa Monica, and museum row. It allows families to decide how long they want to spend at each stop and provides narrated insights into the city as they travel between points of interest.
Getty Center
Perched on a hilltop overlooking the city and ocean, the Getty Center is a cultural gem with stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and a world-class art collection. Families can take a fun tram ride up the hill to access the center. Kids often enjoy exploring the intricate design of the Central Garden and the open spaces.
The Getty also features a Family Room with hands-on art activities designed for younger visitors, making art accessible and engaging. The combination of art, architecture, gardens, and views makes the Getty Center a sophisticated yet family-friendly destination.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
LACMA offers a vast collection and several features that appeal to families. The outdoor “Urban Light” installation, composed of restored street lamps, is a popular spot for photos and exploration. The “Levitated Mass,” a massive boulder under which visitors can walk, is another engaging outdoor sculpture.
LACMA frequently hosts family workshops and programs designed to make art fun and interactive for children of all ages. It’s a great way to introduce kids to art in an accessible and enjoyable environment.
Star Eco Station
Located in Culver City, the Star Eco Station provides a unique blend of environmental education and exotic animal rescue. This facility allows children to get up close with rescued wildlife and learn about conservation efforts firsthand. Guided tours offer hands-on experiences, providing valuable lessons about endangered species and environmental protection. It’s a different kind of educational outing that can be very impactful for young animal lovers.
Palos Verdes Peninsula
Offering a scenic escape just south of the city, the Palos Verdes Peninsula boasts dramatic coastal cliffs, hiking trails, and hidden coves. It’s a popular area with LA residents but less known to tourists, providing a peaceful natural setting. Families can explore tide pools at places like Abalone Cove Shoreline Park, hike trails with ocean views, or visit the beautiful South Coast Botanic Garden. It’s a perfect spot for outdoor-loving families seeking nature and tranquility.
Marina del Rey
This coastal community is centered around a large man-made harbor, offering plenty of water-based activities. Families can rent kayaks, paddle boats, or enjoy a harbor cruise to see boats and marine life. Burton Chace Park has a playground and open spaces, and the Marvin Braude Bike Trail is great for a scenic ride along the coast towards Venice.
The calm waters of Marina “Mother’s” Beach are ideal for young children to swim and wade safely. The colorful Fisherman’s Village provides a charming spot for shops and eateries. Using the Marina WaterBus is a fun way to explore the different areas of the marina.
Where to Stay: Family-Friendly Los Angeles Hotels
Choosing where to stay in Los Angeles can impact your family trip significantly due to the city’s size. Here are a few highly-rated options known for catering to families:
The Garland – Studio City
Located conveniently close to Universal Studios, The Garland offers a stylish, retro-cool atmosphere with family-friendly amenities. They even provide a free trolley service to Universal. Special family rooms and suites with bunk beds are a great feature, and the outdoor pool is a hit with kids.
The Kinney – Venice Beach
Less than a mile from the Venice Beach boardwalk, The Kinney is a vibrant hotel with quirky decor. Its outdoor courtyard, The Quad, offers space to relax and play ping pong, appealing to families looking for a fun base near the beach.
Beverly Wiltshire Hotel – for luxury on Rodeo Drive
For families seeking a luxurious experience, The Beverly Wiltshire offers upscale amenities, multiple pools, and curated family programs. While on the higher end, it provides a memorable stay in an iconic location.
The Magic Castle Hotel – Hollywood
Famous for its association with the legendary Magic Castle, this hotel offers unique perks for families, including free daily ice cream, a snack bar, and even a “Popsicle Hotline” by the pool. Note that kids can only access the Magic Castle itself during specific weekend brunch shows.
Omni Los Angeles, California Plaza – Downtown Los Angeles
If staying downtown is your preference, the Omni offers a convenient location near attractions like Angels Flight and The Broad. While the downtown area has its challenges, this hotel provides a comfortable base for exploring the immediate vicinity.
Getting Around Los Angeles with Your Family
Los Angeles is famously a car-centric city. Driving is often the most direct way to reach many attractions, but traffic can be heavy. Note that California law requires car seats for young children, which can make taxis or ride-shares challenging unless you bring your own.
While there is public transport (metro and buses), some routes may not feel safe for families, especially at night. If you don’t have a car, the hop-on-hop-off bus tours are a viable option for hitting major tourist spots. Staying in a walkable neighborhood like Venice, Santa Monica, or parts of downtown can also reduce reliance on driving. Trains leaving from downtown LA can be a good option for inter-city travel.
Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Los Angeles with Kids
Here are some common questions families have when planning a trip to Los Angeles:
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Los Angeles with kids?
A: Spring (April-May) and Fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather, avoiding the peak heat of summer and larger crowds. However, summer is classic beach weather and aligns with school holidays.
Q: How many days do we need to see the main Los Angeles attractions for families?
A: To visit a few major theme parks and key city attractions comfortably, plan for at least 5-7 days. If you want a more relaxed pace or plan to include day trips, allow for 10 days or more.
Q: Is Los Angeles safe for families?
A: Like any major city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-trafficked tourist areas, especially with children. Research specific neighborhoods if you plan to explore beyond the main attractions. Downtown areas can be unpredictable, so exercise caution.
Q: Can we visit Los Angeles without a car?
A: While challenging due to the city’s sprawl, it is possible depending on where you stay and what you want to see. Staying in walkable areas like Santa Monica or using hop-on-hop-off buses, combined with limited ride-share or public transit for specific trips, can work. However, a car offers the most flexibility.
Q: How can we save money visiting Los Angeles attractions for families?
A: Look for attraction passes that cover multiple sites, pack snacks and drinks instead of buying them inside parks, utilize free attractions like beaches and certain parks, and consider staying slightly outside the most expensive areas.
Conclusion
Los Angeles truly offers a diverse and exciting playground for families. From the fantasy worlds of theme parks to the educational experiences of museums and the simple joy of a day at the beach, the los angeles attractions for families cater to all interests and ages. Planning ahead and knowing your options for getting around will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Get ready to create lasting family memories under the Southern California sun!