Los Angeles is a city that truly has something for everyone, and for families, it’s a treasure trove of fun, learning, and adventure. Whether your kids love thrilling rides, exploring the great outdoors, or immersing themselves in history and science, LA delivers. But with so many attractions, planning a family trip can feel overwhelming.
Wondering what are the must-see places in Los Angeles with kids? This guide is here to help. From action-packed theme parks and hands-on museums to serene gardens and sun-soaked beaches, we’ll cover the ultimate kid-friendly destinations and tips for making your family visit to Los Angeles a memorable one.
Top 12 Must-See Places in Los Angeles with Kids
1. Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is at the top of the list for Los Angeles theme parks for families. This iconic destination combines thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and behind-the-scenes peeks into Hollywood magic. Kids will love immersing themselves in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, riding the adrenaline-pumping Jurassic World ride, and laughing with the Minions at Super Silly Fun Land in case of What Are the Must-See Places in Los Angeles with Kids?
Pro Tips for Families:
- Arrive early to beat the crowds at the most popular attractions.
- Take advantage of the Universal Express Pass to skip the lines on busy days.
- Bring some snacks or water bottles to save on food costs—though don’t miss the Butterbeer in Hogsmeade!
Nearby Stay & Dining:
- Stay at Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City to be within walking distance of the park.
- Enjoy casual family dining at CityWalk, featuring everything from pizza to gourmet burgers.
Seasonal Fun: Check out Halloween Horror Nights (with kid-friendly areas) or the magical holiday decor during December.
2. Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory
When considering outdoor activities for kids in LA, Griffith Park is hard to beat. Beyond the hiking trails and sweeping city views, the park offers plenty of kid-centric highlights. Discover the park’s Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens, or hop aboard the famous Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round.
The Griffith Observatory is a must-visit for stargazing enthusiasts and curious young minds. This free attraction boasts interactive science and space exhibits, telescopes for sky-watching, and one of the best views of LA in terms of What Are the Must-See Places in Los Angeles with Kids?
What to Know:
- Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring the trails.
- The Observatory is especially fun during evening hours when the telescopes are in use.
- Parking can get crowded, so prepare to walk or use public transportation.
3. Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is among the most iconic Los Angeles family vacation spots. Families can enjoy classic boardwalk rides at Pacific Park, including the famous Ferris wheel overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The pier also features an aquarium where kids can get close to sea life of what Are the Must-See Places in Los Angeles with Kids?
Family-Friendly Experiences:
- Stroll along the pier for live music, carnival games, and photo ops.
- Visit the nearby state beach for some sandcastle-building or a refreshing swim.
Dining Tip: Treat yourselves to funnel cakes or grab dinner at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., conveniently located on the pier.
Bonus: Just a short trolley ride away, Third Street Promenade offers even more shopping and street entertainment for the whole family.
4. The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a fantastic destination for animal lovers. From giraffes and elephants to flamingos and big cats, kids can see a wide array of creatures up close to enjoy perfectly What Are the Must-See Places in Los Angeles with Kids?
Kid Favorites:
- Don’t miss the Winnick Family Children’s Zoo, where little ones can brush goats and climb through a fun animal-themed playground.
- The Conservation Carousel, with beautiful handcrafted animals, is another hit.
Top Tip: Pack sunscreen and hats, as many pathways through the zoo are sunny. Also, plan to spend a full day here to enjoy all the exhibits and botanical gardens.
5. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles
Are you looking for educational attractions in Los Angeles? The Natural History Museum is a must-see for families. Home to one of the best dinosaur exhibits in the world, the museum introduces visitors to prehistoric life, fossils, and ecosystems in an interactive way of What Are the Must-See Places in Los Angeles with Kids?
Key Exhibits to Explore:
- The Dinosaur Hall featuring life-sized skeletons.
- The Discovery Center, where kids can touch fossils and bugs in hands-on displays.
- The Butterfly Pavilion (seasonal), where kids can walk among fluttering butterflies.
Combine this with a visit to the nearby Exposition Park Rose Garden for a perfect blend of learning and outdoor relaxation.
6. California Science Center
The California Science Center is another fantastic pick for curious young minds. It’s home to the awe-inspiring Space Shuttle Endeavour and interactive exhibits about ecosystems, air and space travel, and more.
Tips for Visiting:
- Admission is free, so it’s a budget-friendly option for families.
- Don’t miss the IMAX films, which often cover exciting science or nature topics.
Proximity to the Natural History Museum and the Rose Garden makes this a great activity for the same day.
7. The Getty Center
Families experience art and culture in a vibrant way at The Getty Center. At the same time, it may seem like an adult-focused venue, its Family Room features hands-on art activities that make learning fun for kids.
Why Kids Love It:
- The journey to the museum on the tram is an experience of its own.
- The central garden offers space to run and explore, with unique sculptures and water features.
Tip: Pack a picnic on the large open lawn or grab a meal at the museum’s kid-friendly café.
8. The Aquarium of the Pacific
A short drive south to Long Beach, the Aquarium of the Pacific lets families explore the wonders of the underwater world. From colorful coral reefs to playful otters, it’s one of the most interactive and kid-friendly activities in Los Angeles in terms of What Are the Must-See Places in Los Angeles with Kids?
Key Highlights:
- Touch tanks for stingrays and small sharks.
- Daily feedings and live shows that teach kids about marine conservation.
Dining and Parking: The on-site café offers everything from salads to pizza, making it easy to refuel during your trip.
9. La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
Is your family into history and science? Check out the La Brea Tar Pits for a rare glimpse into prehistoric LA. Kids will love the bubbling tar pits outside, and the fossil exhibits inside when thinking What Are the Must-See Places in Los Angeles with Kids?
What Makes It Special:
- Fossils continue to be excavated here today, so there’s always something new to check out.
- The Ice Age exhibit showcases life-sized mammoths and saber-toothed cats.
Include this stop in your day with nearby attractions like The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures.
10. Kidspace Children’s Museum
Located just outside of LA in Pasadena, Kidspace is geared toward younger kids but entertains all ages with its imaginative play spaces and science activities regarding What Are the Must-See Places in Los Angeles with Kids?
Why Visit:
- From digging for dinosaur bones to tinkering with DIY projects, the museum inspires creativity.
- The outdoor play areas, including a splash pad, are perfect for warm days.
Planning Tips for Traveling LA with Kids
- Transportation: While LA is a car-centric city, public transportation like Metro Rail can connect you to key attractions. Many families also opt for ride-sharing services to avoid parking hassles.
- Accommodations: Choose centrally located hotels such as the Beverly Garland or Loews Hollywood for easy access to family attractions.
- City Passes: The Go Los Angeles Card offers discounts on multiple attractions, which can save both time and money.
What Are the Must-See Places in Los Angeles with Kids? Your Adventure Awaits
From the thrills of Universal Studios to the hands-on exhibits at the California Science Center and the iconic views from Santa Monica Pier, Los Angeles offers endless opportunities for family fun. Tailor your trip to include the destinations that excite your kids the most, and don’t forget to explore some hidden gems. What Are the Must-See Places in Los Angeles with Kids?
By combining adventure, education, and a little relaxation, your Los Angeles vacation is guaranteed to leave both kids and parents with memories to last a lifetime. Start planning your LA adventure today!
