Kids can be tough critics when it comes to city outings, but here in L.A. we’re lucky to have an abundance of all-ages activities at our fingertips. From toddlers to pre-teens, we’ve gathered some of our favorite things to do in LA for the entire family! Read on for inspiration for everything from weekend plans to birthday parties.
Experience the world premiere of DroneArt Show: Harry Potter™ in Los Angeles, a one-night-only event celebrating the franchise’s 25th anniversary.
Blending cutting-edge drone technology with the iconic score from the Harry Potter films, this immersive event will transform the night sky into a dazzling spectacle. As 1,200 drones move in perfect synchronization overhead, beloved moments from the series will come to life in a breathtaking display of light, music, and magic.
Be the hero and join Superman and Krypto in an immersive, interactive adventure opening April 18. Superman Experience: Defenders Unite features motion detection, 3D video, physical props, puzzles, and audio-animatronics, inviting visitors to step into the action as heroes.
Founded by Bob Baker and Alton Wood in 1963, Bob Baker’s Theater is the oldest children’s theater company in L.A. Bringing the little ones in your family guarantees back-to-basics fun in a true childhood revival of the past. Get ready to pull some strings and have some good laughs!
Step into Hollywood magic on the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in L.A. Explore iconic sets, props, and sound stages from legendary films and shows. Dive into themed worlds like Harry Potter and DC, and enjoy interactive fun at Stage 48.
Exploring dinosaurs and fossils is one of the quintessential activities for kids. Many children experience a delightful paleontological phase, which they can immerse themselves in at the La Brea Tar Pits. And what’s even better? This spot is also dog friendly! amd you can access for free with your L.A. Library Card.
In 1875, amateur paleontologists discovered animal remains in the tar pits of Rancho La Brea, now Hancock Park. Today, professionals continue to excavate, unearthing millions of fossils. Visit the museum to see these fossils and tour the active tar pits.
Explore over 10 themed rooms filled with oversized bubbles, VR technology, and fantastical landscapes designed to ignite all your senses. If your crew loves imaginative, hands-on attractions, add Bubble Planet to your list of kid-friendly activities in Los Angeles. This immersive experience features over 10 themed rooms packed with oversized bubbles, VR technology, and fantastical landscapes designed to ignite all your senses. Bubble Planet is also offering a new Fun Pass for unlimited access—making it an easy pick for families who want to return for more. Expect a whimsical, all-ages journey that challenges imaginations, unleashes the child within, and invites you to interact with bubbles like never before.
Glow or Go is the high-octane experience where your reflexes, smarts, and teamwork will be put to the test in a race to restore color to the world. The experience unfolds across five rooms:
- 🩷Pink Panic: Fast-paced, real-life arcade game inspired by the classic Whack-a-Mole, but with a high-tech twist.
- ❤️Red Reflex: Navigate through lasers like a secret agent pulling off a heist.
- 💛Yellow Yell: Aim, shoot, & win!
- 🧡Orange Outrun: Collect keys in an IRL game of “Floor is Lava.”
- 🌈Solara: A paint blast you just have to experience for yourself!
It’s never too early to learn about the incredible composers and musicians that have shaped the musical landscape that we know today. And a Candlelight concert is both a unique and educational experience, where your kids can experience iconic music from the past and rediscover modern-day hits in a breathtaking setting. Taking place at premier venues across L.A., such as Immanuel Presbyterian Church, they cover a range of genres for every taste.
Looking for fun things to do with kids? Los Angeles (and our surrounding areas) is home to some of the world’s most famous theme parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of TV and film with behind-the-scene studio tours and attraction rides, there’s something in LA for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Here on the California coast, we’re fortunate to have a diverse selection of aquariums inspired by our local ecosystems. Visiting an aquarium is an ideal activity to introduce toddlers to the beauty of marine ecosystems.
From Long Beach’s renowned Aquarium of the Pacific to San Pedro’s Cabrillo Marine Aquarium and educational facility, there are numerous opportunities for enjoying time with kids in Los Angeles, whether you’re planning a SoCal road trip or looking for a weekend activity.
The Fair Oaks Pharmacy and Soda Fountain has been serving South Pasadena since 1915, making it one of the oldest places to grab a milkshake around L.A. This historic gem is perfect for family activities, as it can satisfy almost any sweet tooth with its offerings of one-scoop cones, hand-dipped milkshakes, hand-dipped malts, floats, and ice cream soda concoctions.
In a castle, among waterfalls, or surrounded by dinosaurs, you’ll find some of the most fun mini golf courses near Los Angeles. These courses offer perfect activities for kids, adults, and basically the entire family when looking for a great time. Discover all the places where you can make an amazing hole-in-one!
Play, discover, create, and explore at the Kidspace Children’s Museum
Kidspace is the museum of every child’s dreams and one of the best things to do with kids in Los Angeles. They can get messy at the Muddy Boot Farm, where kids are given a wheelbarrow and a trowel and told to get digging. They can also dance in fountains, walk across a rope bridge, ride on the Trike Track, and get hands-on with science in the Physics Forest.
With just as much fun to be had outdoors as indoors, the Kidspace Children’s Museum is the definition of making learning fun. It’s ideal for kids ages 10 and under with dedicated areas and games for toddlers.
The L.A. Zoo’s greatest assets are its scenic location, nestled in the verdant hills of Griffith Park, making it a perfect spot for family fun activities. Despite its popularity, the zoo’s extensive 133 acres and ample parking area ensure it never feels overcrowded, offering a pleasant experience for toddlers and adults alike.
Kids will delight in observing the elephants and reptiles, as well as enjoying a ride on the beautifully adorned Tom Mankiewicz Conservation Carousel.
One of the coziest things to do in Los Angeles with kids is enjoying a rich, creamy hot chocolate at one of the city’s many cafés. Whether you’re visiting a classic spot like Ambrosia Coffee or discovering a hidden gem, LA’s cafés offer a variety of delicious options that the whole family will love. Sip on this comforting treat while taking in the vibrant atmosphere of the city, making it a perfect way to relax and enjoy the season with your little ones.
Of all the activities to enjoy with kids in Los Angeles, roller skating is a must-add to your list. The city offers a variety of places where children (and adults, too) can learn or improve their skills, from scenic beachside boardwalks to dedicated roller skating rinks.
One of the most magical ways to watch movies in the international capital of cinema is to do it the old-school way. Just grab your car, load it up with some snacks, lawn chairs, and blankets to keep warm, and head over to one of the drive-in movie theaters around Los Angeles.
Many of them have a vintage style from the ’50s and ’60s, offer inexpensive prices, and are family and pet-friendly, so you can catch the latest releases.
Looking for a unique, family-friendly, and budget-friendly plan? This is perfect, especially if you have restless kids who just can’t stay indoors! Pack some peanut butter sandwiches, a few drinks, and your favorite picnic basket, and get ready for a day of outdoor fun. Head to the Getty Villa or explore one of the many scenic picnic spots scattered around the city!
