When you’re planning a family trip to Los Angeles, you’ll find that the city offers far more than just Hollywood glamour and celebrity homes. From face-to-face encounters with exotic animals to hands-on scientific revelations, LA’s family-friendly attractions can fill your itinerary with memorable experiences. Whether your kids dream of exploring outer space, splashing through water parks, or meeting prehistoric creatures, this sprawling metropolis has something to capture every young imagination. Before you map out your next family expedition in the City of Angels, consider these eight destinations that’ll change your visit from ordinary to extraordinary.
Explore Wildlife at LA Zoo
Credit@Los Angeles Zoo
Taking your family to the Los Angeles Zoo offers an unforgettable wildlife journey across 133 sprawling acres.
You’ll uncover over 1,400 remarkable animals in immersive habitats while your kids learn about conservation and endangered species.
Don’t miss the enchanting Tom Mankiewicz Conservation Carousel!
Located in Griffith Park, this family-friendly destination combines education with outdoor fun, making it perfect for your next escapade.
Discover Space at Griffith Observatory
Credit@Griffith Observatory
Just a short walk from the LA Zoo, the Griffith Observatory stands as a gateway to the cosmos for curious young minds.
You’ll love that it’s completely free to investigate! Watch your kids’ eyes light up during the Tesla coil demonstration, marvel at interactive exhibits, and catch breathtaking views of the Hollywood sign.
Don’t miss their incredible planetarium shows – they’re worth every penny of the small fee.
Splash at Hurricane Harbor
Credit@Hurricane Harbor water park
On scorching LA summer days, Hurricane Harbor water park delivers the perfect family splash-fest with its sprawling 22-acre paradise of aquatic attractions.
You’ll find Southern California’s tallest enclosed thrilling slides for escapade seekers, while dedicated children’s areas keep the little ones entertained.
Don’t miss their seasonal events like plunge-in movies!
With flexible admission prices and single-day tickets available, you can cool off all summer long.
Ride the Santa Monica Pier
Credit@Santa Monica Pier
Along the sparkling Pacific coast, the Santa Monica Pier stands as LA’s most beloved family destination, where thrills and ocean views combine to create unforgettable memories.
You’ll uncover family-friendly attractions including a solar-powered Ferris wheel and an amusement park packed with arcade games.
Kids of all ages will love exploring the interactive exhibits at the aquarium, where they can learn about marine life while enjoying the iconic pier’s lively atmosphere.
Learn at California Science Center
Credit@California Science Center
A wonderland of scientific revelation awaits at the California Science Center, where kids can investigate over 150 interactive exhibits that bring STEM concepts to life.
You’ll love watching your children’s eyes light up as they discover the magnificent Space Shuttle Endeavour and peer into the mesmerizing kelp forest tank.
Best of all, admission to permanent exhibits is free, making this hands-on learning experience perfect for families visiting Los Angeles.
Adventure Through Descanso Gardens
Credit@Descanso Gardens
Nestled in La Cañada Flintridge, Descanso Gardens offers families 150 acres of botanical wonderland to explore.
You’ll uncover endless excursions, from riding the charming Enchanted Railroad through garden pathways to letting your little ones dig and play in the interactive children’s garden.
Don’t miss the stunning Cherry Blossom Festival and seasonal flower displays, while hands-on educational programs will get your kids excited about nature exploration.
Meet Dinosaurs at Natural Museum
Credit@Natural History Museum
Inside Los Angeles’s renowned Natural History Museum, your kids will come face-to-face with incredible dinosaur fossils spanning millions of years.
You’ll uncover over 35 million specimens, including the mighty T. rex and Triceratops in the spectacular Dinosaur Hall.
Between the interactive exhibits and engaging educational programs, your young paleontologists will have a blast exploring prehistoric life.
Plus, its location in Exposition Park makes it perfect for a family day out.
Play at Kidspace Children’s Museum
Credit@Kidspace Children’s Museum
After exploring prehistoric wonders, your family can shift gears to hands-on exploration at Kidspace Children’s Museum.
You’ll find nearly 3.5 acres of pure fun in Pasadena, where your little ones can immerse themselves in interactive play and hands-on exhibits.
Let them splash in the water play zone, uncover the nature garden, and join exciting educational programs.
It’s an incredible space where learning feels like an expedition!
Frequently Asked Questions
What to Do in LA Today With Kids?
You can visit the California Science Center for educational exhibits, investigate Griffith Park’s nature trails, enjoy Pacific Park’s amusement rides at Santa Monica Pier, or experience interactive museums like Kidspace Children’s Museum.
What Are the Most Popular Activities for Children?
You’ll find kids love interactive museums like the California Science Center, amusement parks at Pacific Park, outdoor escapades in Griffith Park, and educational exhibits at the LA Zoo. Beach activities and nature trails are also favorites.
Where Can I Take My Kids for Free in LA?
You’ll find plenty of free activities at Griffith Park’s hiking trails, the California Science Center’s exhibits, LACMA’s youth programs, The Getty Center’s art galleries, and Cabrillo Marine Aquarium’s special free days.
Conclusion
You’ll find endless escapades waiting for your family in Los Angeles! Whether you’re watching gorillas play at the LA Zoo, gazing at stars through Griffith’s telescopes, or getting soaked at Hurricane Harbor, there’s something for every kid’s interests. Don’t forget to snap those memorable photos – from dinosaur selfies to pier sunsets. With so many remarkable attractions packed into one city, you’re sure to create unforgettable family memories in LA.