Los Angeles, California, is a treasure trove of exciting activities that cater to all ages, making it the perfect destination for creating cherished memories with your family. From interactive museums and world-famous theme parks to stunning beaches and scenic parks, there’s no shortage of fun things and family-friendly activities in this vibrant city.
What Are the Top 10 Family Activities in Los Angeles to Enjoy Together? Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a full vacation, these top 10 family activities in LA promise fun, learning, and adventure—bringing kids and parents closer through memorable experiences the whole family will love.
Los Angeles Highlights
Los Angeles, often referred to as the “City of Angels,” is a vibrant metropolis that offers something for everyone. From its iconic landmarks to its cultural diversity, LA is a city full of energy, creativity, and unforgettable experiences.
Here are some of the top highlights that make Los Angeles a must-visit destination:
Iconic Landmarks
- Hollywood Sign: A world-famous symbol of the entertainment industry, perched in the Hollywood Hills.
- Griffith Observatory: Offers breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline and the stars above.
- Santa Monica Pier: A bustling hub featuring the Pacific Wheel, games, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Cultural Gems
- The Getty Museum: Home to an impressive collection of art, architecture, and gardens.
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): A cultural centerpiece showcasing diverse art collections.
- La Brea Tar Pits and Museum: Explore fossils and active tar pits that provide a glimpse into prehistoric LA.
- Skirball Cultural Center: A vibrant destination emphasizing the connection between Jewish heritage and American democratic ideals. It offers interactive experiences for families, particularly the Noah’s Ark exhibit, which provides children a hands-on opportunity to explore, play, and learn about cultural diversity.
Entertainment and Theme Parks
- Universal Studios Hollywood: A thrilling mix of rides, movie magic, and behind-the-scenes studio tours.
- Walt Disney Concert Hall: An architectural marvel and home to world-class musical performances.
Natural Beauty
- Venice Beach: A vibrant, eclectic stretch with street performers, shops, and breathtaking beach views.
- Griffith Park: One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., offering trails, the LA Zoo, and more.
- Malibu Beaches: Known for their stunning coastline and relaxed ambiance.
Culinary Scene
- From gourmet dining in Downtown LA to street tacos and food trucks, Los Angeles is a haven for food lovers.
Shopping and Nightlife
- Rodeo Drive: Luxury shopping at its finest in Beverly Hills.
- Downtown LA: Offers everything from rooftop bars to hidden speakeasies, ensuring an unforgettable nightlife experience.
Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventures, cultural exploration, or entertainment, Los Angeles highlights provide endless possibilities to explore and enjoy.
Exploring Los Angeles with Your Family
Planning a family vacation to Los Angeles, California, requires smart choices about transportation, especially when exploring the city with kids in LA. While public transportation through the Metro Rail connects parts of Los Angeles County, families often find a rental car or professional car service more practical for a full day exploring major attractions.
From Downtown LA to Venice Beach, Santa Monica, and even an hour south toward Anaheim, reliable transportation helps parents keep kids entertained while avoiding stress. Booking door-to-door ground transportation from a kid-friendly hotel makes it easier to enjoy family-friendly things, outdoor activities, warm weather, and the city’s amazing diversity—without dealing with parking garages, busy streets, or long walks between attractions.
Entertainment and Studio Magic
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour is an incredibly immersive experience that takes huge fans behind authentic sound stages and working studio sets where live-action movies and shows are created. Visitors can explore the front lot, walk the famous backlot, relax on the Friends couch, and enjoy many more interactive elements, including casting spells in themed exhibits and stepping into iconic scenes. With a narrated tram ride, high-quality staff, and access to real production spaces, this entire day experience offers more depth than many theme park attractions, making it ideal for teenagers, young fans, and families seeking educational entertainment.
Meanwhile, Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios delivers an incredibly immersive adventure inspired by Mario games, featuring interactive mini-games, motion-based challenges, and a final boss showdown with Bowser Jr. Guests can explore the upper lot and lower lot, enjoy two rides, and wrap up the visit at Universal CityWalk, where diverse dining options, food courts, and evening vibes make it a great place to relax after a full day exploring.
Cultural Gems and Coastal Beauty
The Getty Center is one of Los Angeles’ most admired cultural gems, showcasing Van Gogh’s Irises alongside high-quality permanent exhibits, an incredible garden, and a beautifully designed sculpture garden—all with free admission. Its central courtyard and fantastic garden provide peaceful spaces for people watching, while the Garden Terrace Café is ideal for an afternoon break with scenic views on a clear day.
Along Exposition Boulevard Museum Row, visitors can explore the Grammy Museum through interactive listening stations, discovering favorite songs and learning about the history of the awards through high-quality temporary exhibits. Downtown, the historic Angels Flight Railway—the world’s shortest railway—offers a quick, memorable ride connecting Bunker Hill to Grand Central Market, a lively food court below.
On the coast, Santa Monica Beach attracts families and visitors with its iconic pier and seaside energy, while the Annenberg Community Beach House adds water play, splash pads, and creative spaces that even kids enjoy. Active travelers can rent bikes to cruise the Marvin Braude Bike Trail or pick up boards for boogie boarding near Zuma Jay’s.
Nearby, Marina del Rey and Burton Chace Park offer a more relaxed vibe, perfect for an evening stroll. Further north, Point Dume and Leo Carrillo reward explorers with warm water, tide pools, and stunning coastal scenery. Just 30 minutes away, Orange County’s Newport Beach and Balboa Island charm visitors with classic seaside treats like chocolate-covered frozen bananas, while Long Beach Aquarium adds marine life encounters and whale-watching opportunities close to shore.
Green Spaces and Hidden Discoveries
Pan Pacific Park and Roxbury Park feature modern equipment for different developmental stages, while Shane’s Inspiration Playground in Griffith Park champions inclusion matters. Nature walk options include Eaton Canyon and Chesebro Canyon near Agoura Hills, with endless views.
West Hollywood’s Melrose Ave hosts Kip’s Toyland, while The Last Bookstore downtown preserves architecture from the last century across four floors. Hollywood Blvd, Century City, Old Town Pasadena, and attractions from San Diego to La Jolla offer the best spots for creating a great time together during your visit to Southern California.
Top 10 Family Activities in Los Angeles
1- Explore Griffith Park
Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country, offers endless opportunities for families to connect with nature and explore LA’s landmarks.
Things to Do:
- Hiking Trails: Take on trails that lead to breathtaking views of the Hollywood Sign and downtown LA.
- Griffith Observatory: Enjoy interactive exhibits and peer through telescopes for a closer look at the stars.
- Playgrounds and Picnic Areas: Let your kids enjoy the playgrounds while adults relax in shaded picnic areas.
With its beautiful landscapes and diverse activities, Griffith Park is a hidden gem that guarantees a fun-filled day.
2- La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
Step into prehistoric times at the La Brea Tar Pits, where active tar pits preserve fossils from over 50,000 years ago.
Family Highlights:
- Fossil Lab: Watch paleontologists uncover ancient bones in real time.
- Interactive Exhibits: Learn about the history of the tar pits through hands-on displays.
- Nature Gardens: Wander through gardens showcasing local plant life and ecosystems.
The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum is a unique mix of education and adventure that captivates younger kids and adults alike.
3- Santa Monica Pier and Beyond
No visit to LA is complete without a trip to its stunning beaches. The Santa Monica Pier is a family favorite, offering entertainment and scenic ocean views.
What to Do:
- Pacific Park: Enjoy fun rides, including the iconic solar-powered Ferris wheel.
- Beach Activities: Relax on the sand, take a dip in the Pacific Ocean, or play beach games.
- Venice Beach Boardwalk: Stroll through this lively area filled with street performers and unique shops.
For a quieter outing, head to Malibu or Manhattan Beach for a more serene beach day.
4- Natural History Museum and California Science Center
The Natural History Museum and California Science Center in Exposition Park are top picks for families who love to learn while having fun.
At the Natural History Museum:
- Dinosaur Fossils: Marvel at giant skeletons and learn about ancient creatures.
- Butterfly Pavilion: Enjoy the seasonal exhibit filled with colorful butterflies.
- Interactive Exhibits: Engage younger kids with hands-on activities.
At the California Science Center:
- Space Shuttle Endeavour: Explore one of NASA’s retired shuttles.
- IMAX Theater: Watch immersive science documentaries.
- Interactive Displays: Learn about topics like ecosystems and robotics.
Both museums promise a fun-filled day of discovery for the entire family.
5- Universal Studios Hollywood
For an unforgettable experience, visit Universal Studios Hollywood, where movie magic comes to life.
Must-See Attractions:
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Step into the world of Hogwarts with themed rides and shops.
- Studio Tours: Go behind the scenes of blockbuster films and TV shows.
- Thrilling Rides: Enjoy attractions inspired by Jurassic Park, Minions, and more.
Families with older kids will particularly enjoy the fun rides and vibrant atmosphere.
6- Kidspace Children’s Museum
Located in Pasadena, the Kidspace Children’s Museum is designed specifically for children to explore, learn, and have fun.
Highlights:
- Outdoor Play Areas: Splash in water features or climb through unique playgrounds.
- STEM Activities: Engage in science experiments and interactive learning.
- Art Workshops: Let kids express their creativity through hands-on projects.
Kidspace offers the perfect balance of education and entertainment for younger kids.
7- Los Angeles Zoo and Beyond
The Los Angeles Zoo, located in Griffith Park, is home to over 1,700 animals from around the world.
What to Do:
- Animal Exhibits: Visit themed areas like the Rainforest of the Americas and LAIR (Living Amphibians, Invertebrates, and Reptiles).
- Educational Talks: Learn about conservation and wildlife during keeper-led discussions.
- Play Areas: Let kids burn off energy at the zoo’s play zones.
For aquatic adventures, consider a day trip to the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach.
8- The Getty Museum
The Getty Museum offers an enriching experience with its impressive art collections and breathtaking gardens.
Why Visit:
- Art and Architecture: Admire works from renowned artists and explore the museum’s stunning design.
- Family-Friendly Areas: The Family Room offers activities tailored for kids.
- Central Garden: Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens with scenic views.
The Getty combines art, culture, and nature, making it an excellent choice for families.
9- Farm Fun at Underwood Family Farms
Escape the city and enjoy a day at Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark.
Activities:
- Berry Picking: Harvest fresh strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries.
- Animal Encounters: Meet farm animals and learn about agriculture.
- Seasonal Events: Enjoy pumpkin patches, corn mazes, and holiday festivals.
This hidden gem is perfect for creating lasting memories with kids.
10- Two Bit Circus and Sherman Oaks Castle Park
For indoor and outdoor fun, visit Two Bit Circus and Sherman Oaks Castle Park.
At Two Bit Circus:
- VR Games: Immerse yourself in cutting-edge virtual reality experiences.
- Classic Arcades: Play retro games and modern favorites.
At Sherman Oaks Castle Park:
- Mini Golf: Enjoy themed courses with challenges for all ages.
- Arcade Fun: Compete in games and win prizes.
Both locations in Los Angeles offer a vibrant atmosphere that appeals to kids and adults alike.
Planning a family vacation to Los Angeles, California, offers a world of different experiences, ranging from cinematic magic to serene nature walks. To make the most of the great weather, having a solid itinerary is the best way to ensure a great time for both kids and adults. While many main attractions are world-renowned, there are several unique things and recent finds that can turn a standard trip into a memorable experience.
Immersive Cinematic Adventures
For huge fans of the silver screen, a visit to Warner Bros. Studio Tour is a great choice. Unlike other tours, this provides more depth into a working studio backlot. You can sit on the iconic Friends couch, explore sound stages, and see where live-action movies come to life.
If you want a similar experience with more thrills, head to Universal Studios to see the New Super Nintendo World. Here, you can play mini games, engage with interactive elements, and take on Bowser Jr. after exploring the Forbidden Journey. Don’t forget to walk around Universal City Walk for endless dining options.
Art, Culture, and Spectacular Views
The Getty Center provides amazing views and free entrance if you’re searching for affordable, family-friendly activities. Adults may appreciate Van Gogh’s Irises, while children can play art detective in this amazing garden area.
The sculpture garden and central courtyard are excellent places to observe people. For a different type of cultural immersion, Museum Row on Exposition Boulevard is worth visiting.
You may discover ice age fossils, enormous ground sloths, and dire wolves at the La Brea Tar Pits close to Mid City. In the Nature Lab, the nature center staff helps little ones identify different ecosystems. The Academy Museum and the LACMA are located nearby and offer four stories of exhibits.
To get a different view of Downtown Los Angeles, take a ride in the Angels Flight Railway which is the shortest railway in the world that links Bunker Hill to the famous Grand Central Market food court.
Shopping, Dining & Relaxation
Family outings feel complete at Westfield Century City, the American Girl Store, and the Original Farmer’s Market, where parents find many Italian options, high end soup dumplings, coffee carts, ice creams, and casual eateries near GAP. With free admission spots, only cost activities, admission time slot planning, and plenty of kid friendly hotels, Los Angeles delivers some of the most fun things, most unique things, and truly best family friendly things to do in every season.
Sun, Surf, and Sand
No visit to LA is complete without hitting the best beaches. Santa Monica Beach remains a fun place with its historic roller coaster and Pacific Park. Burton Chace Park and Marina Del Rey are excellent choices if you’re looking for a more laid-back atmosphere. For warm water and tide pools, Leo Carrillo or Point Dume in Malibu are the best spots. You can hire bikes to ride the Marvin Braude Bike Trail or boogie boards at Zuma Jay’s.
In Orange County, a quick 30-minute to a minute drive south leads to Newport Beach and Balboa Island. A Balboa Island staple is the chocolate-covered frozen banana. Long Beach Aquarium and the adjacent docks offer an exciting full day of whale viewing.
Outdoor Play and Hidden Gems
Southern California is famous for its green spaces. Pan Pacific Park and Roxbury Park offer modern equipment for kids at various developmental stages. Leading the way in inclusion issues, Shane’s Inspiration Playground in Griffith Park offers a play area for kids of all ages. For a nice day outdoors, the Eaton Canyon nature walk, or a hike in Chesebro Canyon near Agoura Hills, offers endless views.
If you find yourself in West Hollywood, a stroll down Melrose Ave to Sticker Planet or Kip’s Toyland is one of those favorite things for families who live nearby. For book lovers, The Last Bookstore in the historic core is a great spot to spend hours exploring the last century’s architecture.
Studios & Theme Attractions
The Warner Brothers Studio Tour and WB Studios deliver unforgettable entertainment through a narrated tram ride across the front lot, upper lot, and lower lot. Families encounter movie magic in areas inspired by DC Super Heroes, Jurassic World, and Minions Mayhem, along with immersive experiences and thrilling final boss showdown moments. These attractions combine storytelling, technology, and creativity—perfect for keeping kids excited without overwhelming them.
Seamless Travel and Logistics
The best part of your family vacation shouldn’t be spent stressing over a parking garage or public transportation. While the Metro Rail is an option, the best bet for families with luggage and strollers is a private car service. Avoiding a rental car means you don’t have to navigate Hollywood Boulevard traffic yourself.
Whether you are staying at a Los Angeles hotel or a boutique hotel in Santa Barbara, Black Car Everywhere ensures your arrival time is met with a professional chauffeur. From LAX to Century City or Old Town Pasadena, we help you get around in style.
More tips for your trip:
- Book a time slot for popular museums in advance to save money and time.
- Keep a close eye on water temperatures if you plan to swim.
- Visit the Garden Terrace Cafe at the Getty for a quiet afternoon tea with an expansive view.
- Use public transport for short bursts, but trust a limo or SUV for full-day excursions to San Diego or La Jolla.
With so many main attractions and fun experiences, Los Angeles is a city you could explore for an entire day or a whole month and still find other things to do. Arrive ready to explore, and let us handle the road.
Plan Your Family Adventures
Los Angeles is a hub of exciting activities and attractions for the whole family, offering something for every interest and age. Explore cultural landmarks like the Skirball Cultural Center, Autry Museum, and the iconic Petersen Automotive Museum, where family learning is both fun and engaging.
For outdoor enthusiasts, visit the Huntington Library, botanical garden, and nature gardens, or head to Exposition Park and Hancock Park for their scenic beauty and interactive exhibits. Families can enjoy fun things in Los Angeles, like playing games at an indoor playground, attending a birthday party at the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, or catching a flick with a twist at Street Food Cinema.
Thrill-seekers can head to Knott’s Berry Farm, Magic Mountain, the botanical garden, the Autry museum, the art museum, or any local amusement park for an action-packed day, while beach lovers can relax at Venice Beach, take a pedal boat ride, or visit the beautiful beaches of the California coast.
Don’t miss the Hollywood Walk, the majestic Hollywood Sign, or stargazing at the Griffith Observatory for iconic LA experiences. From Highland Park to Long Beach, the Los Angeles area offers countless attractions, including the quirky Upside Down House, making every moment unforgettable.
From the thrilling rides at Universal Studios Hollywood to the serene beauty of LA’s beaches, these family-friendly activities ensure that every member of your group has an amazing time. There are also so many free things and fun things to do in Los Angeles for the whole family.
Whether you’re discovering history at the Natural History Museum, exploring the outdoors at Griffith Park, or indulging in sweet treats at Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles has something special for everyone.
Start planning your Los Angeles trip today and create memories that your family will treasure forever!
FAQs about What Are the Top 10 Family Activities in Los Angeles to Enjoy Together?
Q1. When is the best time to visit Los Angeles with family?
The best time to visit Los Angeles with family is during spring and early fall, when the weather is comfortable and attractions are less crowded. These seasons make outdoor activities, beach visits, and sightseeing more enjoyable for both kids and parents.
Q2. Are there family activities in Los Angeles that don’t require tickets?
Yes, Los Angeles offers plenty of free and low-cost family activities, including public beaches, parks, scenic viewpoints, walking trails, and cultural spaces. Many attractions also offer free entry days if planned in advance.
Q3. How many days should families plan for Los Angeles?
Families typically need four to six days to experience Los Angeles comfortably. This allows time for major attractions, relaxed beach visits, and cultural stops without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Q4. What’s the easiest way to travel around Los Angeles with kids?
For families, private car services or door-to-door transportation are the easiest way to get around Los Angeles. This helps avoid long walks, parking challenges, and crowded public transit—especially with younger children.
Q5. What kinds of experiences do kids enjoy most in Los Angeles?
Kids enjoy interactive museums, outdoor play areas, beaches, and immersive attractions that combine fun with learning. Experiences that allow hands-on exploration tend to keep children engaged longer.
