Los Angeles, a city brimming with excitement and adventure, offers a plethora of activities perfect for families with children. From world-renowned theme parks to educational museums and stunning natural attractions, there’s something for every age and interest. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 things to do in Los Angeles with kids, ensuring a memorable and fun-filled experience for the entire family.
Top 10 Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids
1. Explore the Magic of Disneyland Resort
Location: Anaheim, CA
Highlights: Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park
A visit to Los Angeles with kids wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Disneyland Resort. Known as the “Happiest Place on Earth,” Disneyland Park offers a mix of classic attractions like It’s a Small World, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Space Mountain. Adjacent to it, Disney California Adventure Park features newer attractions based on Pixar and Marvel films. Kids can meet their favorite Disney characters, enjoy thrilling rides, and watch spectacular parades and fireworks. Don’t miss the themed lands like Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Cars Land, which bring beloved movie settings to life.
See Also: Top 10 Children’s Zoos in the USA
2. Discover the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Location: Exposition Park, Los Angeles, CA
Highlights: Dinosaur Hall, Nature Gardens, Butterfly Pavilion
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a treasure trove of knowledge and fun for kids. The Dinosaur Hall, featuring one of the most extensive collections of dinosaur fossils in the world, is a major draw. Children can marvel at the life-size skeletons and learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the Earth. The Nature Gardens offer a hands-on experience where kids can explore native plants and wildlife. Seasonal exhibits like the Butterfly Pavilion allow close encounters with live butterflies, adding a magical touch to the educational experience.
3. Enjoy the Thrills at Universal Studios Hollywood
Location: Universal City, CA
Highlights: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Studio Tour, Jurassic World – The Ride
Universal Studios Hollywood is a fantastic destination for families, combining the excitement of a working movie studio with the thrills of a theme park. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter immerses kids in the magical world of Hogwarts, complete with rides, shops, and interactive experiences. The Studio Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at movie-making, including famous sets and special effects. Thrilling rides like Jurassic World – The Ride and Transformers: The Ride-3D provide heart-pounding fun. Don’t miss the character encounters and live shows that bring popular movies and TV shows to life.
4. Visit the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Location: Griffith Park, Los Angeles, CA
Highlights: Elephants of Asia, Rainforest of the Americas, Tom Mankiewicz Conservation Carousel
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a delightful destination for animal lovers. The zoo is home to more than 1,400 animals, representing over 270 species. Highlights include the Elephants of Asia exhibit, which offers an immersive experience into the lives of Asian elephants, and the Rainforest of the Americas, showcasing diverse wildlife from tropical rainforests. The Tom Mankiewicz Conservation Carousel, featuring beautifully crafted animal figures, is a hit with younger children. The lush botanical gardens add to the experience, providing scenic walkways and peaceful spots for picnics.
5. Explore the Interactive Exhibits at Kidspace Children’s Museum
Location: Pasadena, CA
Highlights: Physics Forest, Arroyo Adventure, Imagination Workshop
Kidspace Children’s Museum in Pasadena is designed to inspire children through interactive play and learning. The museum features a variety of hands-on exhibits that encourage exploration and creativity. The Physics Forest offers outdoor science activities that demonstrate principles of physics through fun, interactive installations. Arroyo Adventure connects kids with nature through water play, climbing structures, and garden explorations. The Imagination Workshop allows children to create and build using real tools and materials. Special programs and events, such as storytimes and art workshops, further enrich the experience.
6. Unwind at Santa Monica Pier and Beach
Location: Santa Monica, CA
Highlights: Pacific Park, Heal the Bay Aquarium, Muscle Beach
Santa Monica Pier and Beach offer a classic California beach experience with plenty of attractions for kids. Pacific Park, an amusement park on the pier, features the iconic Ferris wheel, roller coasters, and carnival games. The Heal the Bay Aquarium, located under the pier, provides an educational experience with exhibits on marine life and conservation. The sandy beach is perfect for building sandcastles, playing volleyball, and enjoying the ocean waves. Nearby, Muscle Beach offers outdoor fitness equipment and gymnastics areas that kids can explore. The vibrant atmosphere, street performers, and ocean views make Santa Monica Pier a must-visit.
7. Get Creative at the California Science Center
Location: Exposition Park, Los Angeles, CA
Highlights: Space Shuttle Endeavour, Ecosystems Exhibit, Creative World
The California Science Center is a premier destination for families, offering a wide range of interactive exhibits and educational experiences. The Space Shuttle Endeavour exhibit allows kids to get up close to an actual space shuttle and learn about space exploration. The Ecosystems Exhibit features live animals and plants in various environmental zones, from deserts to kelp forests. Creative World explores engineering and technology, with hands-on activities that engage young minds. The center also hosts special exhibits and IMAX movies that enhance the educational experience. Admission is free, making it an accessible and enriching outing.
8. Experience the Enchantment of Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
Location: Los Feliz, Los Angeles, CA
Highlights: Samuel Oschin Planetarium, Telescope Viewing, Griffith Park Trails
Griffith Observatory, located on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, offers stunning views of Los Angeles and a range of educational exhibits. The Samuel Oschin Planetarium presents immersive shows about the cosmos, captivating audiences of all ages. Telescope viewing allows kids to see celestial objects up close, sparking an interest in astronomy. The observatory’s exhibits cover a variety of space and science topics, providing an engaging learning experience. Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offers numerous trails for hiking and horseback riding, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The park’s vast expanse provides endless opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration.
9. Explore the Creativity at The Getty Center
Location: Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA
Highlights: Central Garden, Family Room, Art Exhibits
The Getty Center is not only an art museum but also a place where families can explore creativity and nature. The Central Garden, designed by artist Robert Irwin, is a living work of art with winding pathways, reflecting pools, and diverse plant species. The Family Room offers interactive activities that introduce kids to art concepts in a fun and engaging way. Art exhibits feature masterpieces from various periods and regions, providing a cultural and educational experience. The stunning architecture and panoramic views of Los Angeles enhance the visit, making it a memorable outing for the whole family.
10. Have Fun at The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Location: Exposition Park, Los Angeles, CA
Highlights: Dinosaur Hall, Nature Gardens, Discovery Center
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a treasure trove of knowledge and fun for kids. The Dinosaur Hall, featuring one of the most extensive collections of dinosaur fossils in the world, is a major draw. Children can marvel at the life-size skeletons and learn about the prehistoric creatures that once roamed the Earth. The Nature Gardens offer a hands-on experience where kids can explore native plants and wildlife. Seasonal exhibits like the Butterfly Pavilion allow close encounters with live butterflies, adding a magical touch to the educational experience.
See Also: 10 Best Classic Fairy Tales for Your Kids’ Early Development
Conclusion
Los Angeles is a city teeming with opportunities for family fun and adventure. Whether it’s the magical allure of Disneyland Resort, the educational wonders of the Natural History Museum, or the creative exploration at Kidspace Children’s Museum, there’s something for every child to enjoy. These top 10 activities promise not only to entertain but also to educate and inspire, making Los Angeles a perfect destination for families with kids.
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