Welcome to Los Angeles! A city full of limitless entertainment, excitement, and adventure. Feeling overwhelmed with choices? Too busy with work, kids, and life to plan? Don’t worry! Here are things to do in Los Angeles with kids. Fully included is a list of hotels perfect for the family, activities that will be entertaining for both you and your children, and food that they are sure to love!
Table of Contents
Things To Do With Kids in Los Angeles
Family Friendly Hotels in Los Angeles
Food Places To Visit With Kids in Los Angeles
Things To Do With Kids in Los Angeles
There is so much to do in Los Angeles! As an LA native, I haven’t even been able to fully explore everything. Here is a list of the best activities in Los Angeles for kids, to help you get started.
Santa Monica Pier – Santa Monica, CA
A trip to California is not complete without a visit to the beach. Don’t forget to check out Santa Monica Pier while you are here, a place where cotton candy and delicious boardwalk classics meet thrilling rides, summer sun, and lots of fun! This is not only exciting because it is a beach visit, where your kids can splash in the waves and build sand castles, but it is also somewhere to eat, drink, shop, play, all on one pier. Nearby is the lovely Downtown Santa Monica, with many stores, restaurants, and much more!
Cayton Children’s Museum – Santa Monica, CA
Though a bit out of the main city, Santa Monica is the perfect place to spend your day. The beach, the food, the fun, it is impossible not to love this city. Do not miss Cayton’s Children’s Museum. Full of exhibits that expand the mind and values of your children, this is, in my opinion, a non-negotiable.
The museum will take the children through the most immersive, educational, and exciting experience, teaching them courage, community, reflection, teamwork, and much more. The most gratifying experience is seeing the wheels turning in the childrens’ minds, and watching them embrace their curiosity. Don’t miss out!
The American Girl Store – Santa Monica, CA
Check out the American Girl store in Westfield Century City! Little girls who are discovering who they want to be have an outlet to explore. The options are endless, from picking a doll that looks just like her, to choosing outfits, hairstyles, and accessories, this is such a unique experience!
To this day, I remember my American Girl experience. These dolls don’t just give young girls the confidence to be themselves, but also instill ideals and historical messages through the backstories and characters they’ve created. Don’t miss this one!
Malibu Country Mart – Malibu, CA
This one is a little bit further out from the city as well, but what sounds more like southern California than Malibu? Drive down over and enjoy a tranquil little spot full of shopping, food, and best of all, a play area where you may be able to spot celebrities and their kids hanging around!
How exciting! Don’t miss classics like Taverna Tony’s for delicious Mediterranean food, or Irv’s Burgers. Check out Kith’s ice cream bar for a delicious summer treat. Head over to Ralph’s or Zuma beach for magnificent views!
Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum – Burbank, CA
Do your kids spend hours playing with mini model trains, moving them around tiny tracks, building miniature paths and tunnels? If so, this is the place to visit! Full of interesting train-related history and technological innovations, this is such a unique experience! If you visit on Sunday, there are public rides on model trains, which you should definitely not miss!
Sender City – Inglewood, CA
Kids tend to be extremely high energy. What better way to get their wiggles out than Sender City, in Inglewood, CA! Right next to LAX, Sender City is an exciting, action filled playground where kids can climb, jump, slide, and explore, all with the safety of a harness. There are so many fun things to do, such as their Mineshaft challenge room, where you can climb in the dark (with the help of glow and the dark guides!) There are multitudes of unique climbing walls and obstacles that will surely keep your kids entertained.
Notes : For more, check out Things To Do In Los Angeles….For Free! to discover more activities that are free, or don’t require a ticket!
Descanso Gardens – La Cañada Flintridge, CA
There is nothing as magical as a botanical garden. Just 20 minutes away from downtown LA, don’t forget to stop by Descanso Gardens, a place that is the epitome of magical family fun! Check out their calendar for specific activities planned for kids, such as Little Explorers (crafts and nature exploration), Little Owls (songs, puppets, books), Cultivate (themed workshops, tours, music), and much more!!
Besides these activities, there is so much of the garden to explore! Check out the masterfully designed Japanese Garden, the storybook-like forests, and 5 acres of beautiful roses. In the rose garden, a kids sized hedge maze will be the perfect way to adventure! These gardens are truly something you won’t forget!
Griffith Observatory – Los Angeles, CA
Science, art, film, discovery – have it all at Griffith Observatory, a Los Angeles staple, and one of the most famous filming and visiting locations across the greater Los Angeles area! Does the name ring a bell? Scenes from some of Hollywood favorites, Lalaland, Rebel Without a Cause, and Back to the Future are filmed around the observatory!
Explore the depths of space, and the beauty of the cosmos through 8+ brilliant exhibits, each focusing on unique aspects of the wonderful unknown! Has your kid ever dreamed of becoming an astronaut? Get one step closer, through scientific discovery, and the unforgettable magic that surrounds Griffith Observatory. Don’t miss this on your trip to Los Angeles with kids!
Echo Park Lake – Los Angeles, CA
What did you picture when you thought of the beautiful ballet, Swan Lake? Echo Park Lake is the real life version! Rent a giant swan boat, and take your family out on a beautiful ride out onto the lake, watching the sun set over the city. This incredible and affordable excursion should not be missed! Night or day, the lake is the perfect activity to bring whimsy and adventure to your LA trip!
Warner Bros Studio Tour – Hollywood, CA
Is your family big on films and TV? Wouldn’t you love to see where your favorite shows and movies have been created? I’m sure your kids will! Throughout the tour, you’ll see memorabilia, sets, sound stages, and photo opportunities from the best of Friends, Harry Potter, Gilmore Girls, and many more! Tired?
Check out Central Perk! Though this show may be a generation above younger children, it is still a perfect place to stop for delicious treats and coffee, vibrant decorations, and a nostalgic feeling. When searching for things to do with kids in Los Angeles, this is an absolute must see!
Family Friendly Hotels in Los Angeles
There is nothing like travelling for hours, and finally arriving at your dream destination. The first step: getting settled in your luxurious hotel room!
Kids don’t always scream luxury. They need color, excitement, and vibrance, while you may need relaxation, tranquility, and a “getaway” type of stay. However, these next few hotel rooms are the perfect blend of both worlds. Here are top options for the best hotels in Los Angeles for families with kids!
Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
First up, the Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza: a perfect sanctuary for your entire family! The Omni Hotel is accommodating to children, especially through its program, Omni Junior Chefs, which prioritizes giving young guests an experience that highlights the importance of nutrition and healthy eating. This program is also extremely community based, with a goal of helping fight food insecurity, instilling values of generosity and charitable core beliefs in your children.
Not only this, but it is in the center of all of the popular tourist attractions in LA, such as Grand Central Market, The Last Bookstore, and places you surely won’t want to miss. When looking for the best hotels in Los Angeles for families, look no further. For parents looking to have an exciting and enriching vacation, Omni LA is the way to go.
Luxe Sunset Boulevard
Next, let’s head to Luxe Sunset Boulevard! This stunning getaway location is the epitome of luxury. Vibrant greenery, grand amenities, beautiful rooms. Yet, no vacation getaway would be perfect if your children are unhappy and tired. If you struggle with this, look no further! Luxe Sunset Boulevard has the incredible option of choosing family style rooms, complete with bunk beds and a patio, which conveniently leads to a relaxing pool area. This spot is the perfect place to prioritize rest and rejuvenation for both you and your kids.
The Hoxton Downtown Los Angeles
Last, but definitely not least, The Hoxton Downtown LA is a vibrant hotel, with beautiful design features that will bring a whimsical twist to your stay. As if stepping into an old-timey Hollywood movie, everything about The Hoxton is breathtaking.
This is the best hotel for families with newborn to toddler aged children, as they offer a package called Tiny Hox, which includes cribs, bottle warmers, coloring books, nappies, and other essentials! It is in an extremely convenient location, perfect for winding down, or taking that much needed afternoon nap, and heading right back out to the core of the city! Don’t forget to check out the Crypto.com Arena nearby, and take your kids out to a Lakers game!
Food Places To Visit With Kids in Los Angeles
Los Angeles : the City of Angels? Perhaps it should be renamed the city of food, because the options are endless! Here are a few of the best kid-friendly food places to visit in Los Angeles!!
Tacos
This may be a little less brick and mortar, but it is what makes Los Angeles what it is. The tacos stands that you find around the city add to the authenticity and culture of it. Though many of the taco stands are probably delicious, here are a few to guide you! Next to it is their specialty, or what I personally recommend when visiting.
- Conchitas Tacos – Carne Asada tacos
- Brother Cousins – Al Pastor OR Carne Asada tacos
- Angel’s Tijuana Tacos – Al Pastor tacos OR Carne Asada burrito
- Tacos El Furia – Al Pastor and Carne Asada Quesadilla
Tacos are absolutely essential to your Los Angeles experience, so definitely don’t miss this. I hope you enjoy them!
Barton G. – Beverly Hills, CA
Looking for one of the most unique dining experiences for you and your kids? Check out Barton G. in Beverly Hills for a brilliant take on classic dishes. Each dish is served in a unique and well-themed style, from Marie Antoinette cotton candy hair, to lobster mac and cheese in a mouse trap, and many more unique presentations for delicious meals! Your kids will find it extremely whimsical and exciting. Make sure you check this out!!
Proud Bird – Inglewood, CA
This is such an amazing restaurant right out of LAX! It is a food court style restaurant, with aviation themed photographs, decor, and life sized aircraft models. You are able to see the real airplanes flying in and out of the airport, and your kids will be able to play on the playground, and see incredibly unique aviation memorabilia! Don’t miss out!
What To Pack For Los Angeles Family Vacation
There is nothing more stressful than packing for a family vacation. Here is a helpful reminder of things to pack on your trip, to make it simple and easygoing!
- Good walking shoes
- Toiletries (Most hotels contain the basics!)
- Clothing essentials (California doesn’t get too cold, but it gets hot. Check the weather before visiting!)
- Sunscreen
- Kid essentials (baby food/clothes, blankets, toys, diapers, wipes, etc.)
- Swimwear
- Sand toys
- Portable charger
- Travel backpack/diaper bag (carry throughout the day)
What The Weather Is Like In Los Angeles
California weather can be tricky to navigate. The summer (late May – late August) can reach temperatures up to 110 degrees, with a low of 80 on most days. The transitional months are a bit challenging to pack for, as some days are extremely hot, and the next day it is chilly/raining, so make sure to prepare for this. The winters do not get super cold in Los Angeles, which is definitely a perk for packing, just make sure to layer and pack a jacket!
Safety In Los Angeles
Many individuals are concerned about the safety of Los Angeles. Popular tourist spots are generally safe, as well as the locations listed above. There are a few places to be cautious around, but if you are aware of these, you should be fine. People tend to avoid areas around Chinatown, Skid Row, and Fashion District, but as long as you stay in well-lit and high volume areas, you will be safe!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best family-friendly attractions in Los Angeles?
Some of the best family-friendly attractions in Los Angeles include Griffith Observatory, Sender City, Cayton Children’s Museum, Echo Park Lake!
What are some free activities for kids in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles has many free activities to visit and check out! This includes visiting the Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, & all of the wonderful beaches that line the coast of California/LA County! A few include Santa Monica, Laguna, Newport, Huntington, and Malibu.
Educational places to visit with kids in Los Angeles?
Looking for educational places to visit with kids in Los Angeles? Check out Cayton Children’s Museum, Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum, & Griffith Observatory!
Kid-friendly restaurants in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is the perfect place to find fulfilling and spectacular meals for your kids! Don’t miss Proud Bird, Barton G., and the staple taco stands that are prominent throughout the city!
Budget friendly trip ideas in Los Angeles with kids?
Trips can be expensive! Looking to cut down a few costs, and enjoy a luxurious yet cost-effective family vacation? Check out Santa Monica Pier, Echo Park Lake, and Griffith Observatory for some budget friendly activities. Don’t miss taco stands around the city, and other delicious restaurant options that won’t break the bank! Stay at the Hoxton Downtown for a perfect blend of affordable and amenity-filled, perfect for a family!
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