Visiting Los Angeles with Kids

Kristy Pepping said:  Do you have a dinosaur obsessed child or two? Then, if you are driving through California, you'll want to stop at Cabazon Dinosaurs. These dinosaurs were featured in the movies Pee Wee Herman’s Big Adventure and The Wizard. The park includes a dinosaur exhibit featuring over 50 lifelike dinosaurs, a dinosaur dig, fossil panning, and access to climb inside Mr. Rex all the way up to his mouth.

Gina I. said:  From pirates and princesses, to everyone's favorite mouse, there is lots of family fun to be had at Disneyland! Attractions range from tot-friendly rides like Peter Pan's Flight and the Casey Jr. Circus Train to the thrilling Space Mountain and Indiana Jones Adventure, perfect for adventurous older kids and adults. Families can also choose from a great selection of fast-casual and sit-down dining, as well as enjoy shows, fireworks, and the kids' favorite Disney Characters. Extend your fun with a visit to Disney California Adventure Park & Downtown Disney.

Gina I. said:  Grab your binoculars and be on the lookout for dolphins and whales on a family-friendly cruise! Home to one of the "largest marine protected parks just outside of Newport Bay," Newport Landing is the ideal spot to view giant blue whales, gray whales, humpback whales, and more! They offer a variety of cruise options year round.

Cost: prices start at $26/person

Gina I. said:  Explore some outdoor family fun at Kidspace Children's Museum! Exhibits include the Galvin Physics Forest, Imagination Workshop, Greenhouse, and more. Kids will learn about science and nature through hands on experiments and activities, and there are also lots of great spaces for outdoor play. Keep in mind that all exhibits are outdoors, and many have water and mud features. So, be sure to bring a towel and change of clothes for your little one. Water shoes are also recommended.

Gina I. said:  If your kids are into aquatic animals, they're sure to love the Aquarium of the Pacific! Exhibits include everything from jellies and frogs to Shark Lagoon, featuring more than 150 sharks - some you can even pet! Kids love getting up close and personal in the BP Sea Otter and June Keyes Penguin Habitats. You can also book special Animal Encounters for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Gina I. said:  Keep restless kids entertained at Button Mash! This arcade meets eatery features a diverse and delicious menu and a whole lot of pinball and arcade games sure to keep kids occupied before and after their meal. Choose from burgers, chicken wings, fried rice & noodles, and a variety of vegetarian & vegan options. The gaming isn't just for kids! Parents will also enjoy the nostalgia of some old favorites like Doney Kong, Mortal Kombat II, NBA Jam & Ms. Pac-Man.

Serving dinner

All ages welcome until 9pm

Gina I. said:  Although it's perhaps best known as the site of the famous Hollywood sign, Griffith Park has lots to offer in the way of family fun! The park encompasses more than 4,200 acres, and features a number of kid-friendly activities and attractions, including: a merry-go-round, Southern Railroad mini trains, the Los Angeles Zoo, Bronson Caves, pony rides, the Griffith Observatory, and more! The park also offers plenty of green spaces that are perfect for a picnic or family hike.

Cost: Park entry is FREE; attractions priced individually

Erynn said:  Admission to the permanent galleries at the California Science Center, including Space Shuttle Endeavour, is always free and do not require a reservation. Learn about air & space with a collection of real space crafts, ecosystems by exploring underwater tunnels, and transportation by racing your own solar powered toy cars. Timed tickets are required for the IMAX Theater.

Always free admission

Gina I. said:  An L.A. icon, the Hollywood Walk of Fame honors entertainment's biggest and brightest stars! Take a stroll down Hollywood Boulevard and explore, or take advantage of the star search and find all your favorites. With more than 20 inductions to the Walk of Fame a year, you may even get a chance to catch a ceremony!

Cost: FREE

Gina I. said:  Dubbed "the most iconic movie palace in the world" TCL Chinese Theatre offers a red carpet experience for families visiting Los Angeles! Home to the most prominent Hollywood movie premiers, the theatre's ornate architecture is instantly recognizable. Catch a family movie or book your VIP tour for a unique behind-the-scenes experience.

Gina I. said:  Little kids and big kids alike love Universal Studios Hollywood! Check out kid-friendly attractions like Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and Super Silly Fun Land, or have some pulse-pounding fun on Jurassic Park the Ride and King Kong 360 3-D. And no visit to Universal Studios is complete without a trip to Diagon Alley and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter! Keep your eyes peeled for character sightings of Dora, Sponge Bob, Scooby Doo, The Simpsons and others. Families can also enjoy great dining, shopping, and entertainment both in the park and at CityWalk.

Gina I. said:  The La Brea Tar Pits give kids the opportunity to experience the "world's only active, urban Ice Age excavation site." Tour the pits and Fossil Lab, see scientists at work as they uncover fossils, and check out Titans of the Ice Age, a 3D journey back in time. The museum features over 1 million Ice Age fossils. It's a one-of-a-kind experience the whole family will enjoy.

Gina I. said:  There's no better way to sample the local flavors than a farmer's market, and this Los Angeles mainstay doesn't disappoint! With merchants selling everything from farm fresh produce, eggs and meat to incredible baked goods, pastries, ice cream and gourmet foods, you're sure to find something delicious for the whole family. The market often features live music, kid's activities, and entertainment. Be sure to check out the event calendar to learn more.

Cost: Admission is FREE

Gina I. said:  One kid wants pasta, another burgers, and the parents want stir fry. Fortunately, you can keep everyone happy when you eat at The Proud Bird! Named LA's Hottest Food Hall by Food Network, The Proud Bird features a food bazaar setting with 6 different culinary kitchens, serving Italian, Asian, American, BBQ, and more! Parents love the spacious, family-friendly feel and kids enjoy the P-40 Flying Tiger replica suspended from the ceiling.

Lunch and Dinner

Gina I. said:  Modern accommodations with a kid-friendly atmosphere, The Kinney Venice Beach is perfect for families that like to travel in style! The Kinney features playful, pop-art decor, great shared spaces, and convenient access to Venice Beach. Beyond the basic hotel amenities, families will enjoy the comfortable Quad, offering ping pong, fire pit, and year-round heated pool. Need more space to sprawl out? In addition to traditional rooms, The Kinney offers Crash Pad Suites, featuring an expanded living area with pull out sofa bed and a separate bedroom.

Gina I. said:  If you're looking for some free outdoor family fun during your L.A. visit, Tongva Park doesn't disappoint! Art meets nature in this award-winning 6 acre oasis, featuring a variety of plant life, paths, and climbing structures. There are also plenty of comfortable areas for a family picnic.

Cost: Admission is FREE

Gina I. said:  While most people associate Santa Monica Pier with its iconic ferris wheel and historic carousel, those are just a few of its must-see attractions! Families can enjoy the nostalgia of classic carnival games at the Playland Arcade, and then take a stroll on the boardwalk to check out great shops, eateries, beach rentals, and tours. For hands-on fun, head below the Carousel building to the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, featuring kid-friendly exhibits and educational programs.

Cost: admission is FREE; rides & attractions priced separately

Gina I. said:  From the Dinosaur Hall featuring 20 complete dinosaur and ancient sea creature fossils to the Insect Zoo that is frequently updated with new specimens - little explorers will love spending the day at L.A.'s Natural History Museum. For hands-on learning, be sure to check out the Discovery Center, offering a fossil dig pit, puzzles, magnifying glasses for exploring, and more. While you're there, visit the Becoming Los Angeles exhibit that details how a tiny pueblo grew into the urban landscape we know today.

Cost: Tickets start at $7/child; $15/adult