Ten Fun Family Things to Do in Los Angeles

Pacific Coast Highway Travel picks ten fun family things to do in Los Angeles, from Universal Studios to the Los Angeles Zoo and Children’s Museum.

Family Fun Dining at the Original Farmers Market in Los AngelesFamily Fun Dining at the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city with something for everyone, and you don’t need to head to Disneyland to find fun things for all the family to do together. If you plan to go to Disneyland as the main part of your visit, do allow at least a few days in LA before or after you go.

From Universal Studios to the Los Angeles Zoo, and from Santa Monica Pier to the Kidspace Children’s Museum, there are plenty of fun family things to do, so let’s look at just ten of them.

Ten Fun Family Things to Do in Los Angeles

1. Griffith Park & Griffith Observatory

Children Enjoying a Presentation at the Griffith Park ObservatoryPeople Enjoying a Presentation at the Griffith Park Observatory

Explore one of LA’s largest urban parks, featuring hiking trails, picnic areas, and the iconic Griffith Observatory. Kids will love the planetarium shows and telescopes for stargazing. The views of the Hollywood Sign are unbeatable!

Phone: (213) 473-0800
Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Website: griffithobservatory.org

2. California Science Center

Children in the Aquarium at the California Science CenterChildren in the Aquarium at the California Science Center

This interactive museum is perfect for curious minds, featuring hands-on exhibits about ecosystems, space exploration, and cutting-edge technology.

Kids can engage with live demonstrations, experiment stations, and immersive displays that make science fun. Best of all, general admission is free, though special exhibits may require tickets.

Phone: (323) 724-3623
Address: 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037
Website: californiasciencecenter.org

3. Santa Monica Pier & Pacific Park

People on the Rollercoaster at Santa Monica PierThe Rollercoaster at Santa Monica Pier

This classic beachfront destination in Santa Monica features an amusement park with a Ferris wheel, arcade games, and carnival rides. Enjoy street performers, ocean views, and sandy fun.

To learn more visit our full page about Santa Monica Pier.

Phone: (310) 458-8900
Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Website: pacpark.com

4. Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Children Visiting a Stall at the Los Angeles ZooChildren Visiting a Stall at the Los Angeles Zoo

Meet over 1,400 animals, including elephants, gorillas, and koalas. The zoo also offers a petting area and fun playgrounds for younger kids.

Phone: (323) 644-4200
Address: 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Website: lazoo.org

5. The Getty Center

Boy and His Mother Having Fun at the Getty Center in Los AngelesBoy and His Mother Having Fun at the Getty Center in Los Angeles

A world-class art museum with stunning architecture and gardens. Kids will enjoy the family-friendly exhibits and interactive activities. The tram ride up the hill is a hit! Admission is free (parking fee applies).

To learn more read our page on the Ten Best Things to See at the Getty Museum.

Phone: (310) 440-7300
Address: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Website: getty.edu

6. Universal Studios Hollywood

Huge Ice Cream at Universal Studios in Los AngelesUniversal Studios Has Other Attractions!

A must-visit for movie-loving families! Enjoy thrilling rides like Jurassic World and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, plus live shows and character meet-and-greets.

Phone: (800) 864-8377
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Website: universalstudioshollywood.com

7. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Children at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles CountyChildren at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Dinosaurs, gems, and butterflies—oh my! This museum features fascinating exhibits, including a dinosaur hall and an interactive nature lab.

Phone: (213) 763-3466
Address: 900 W Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007
Website: nhm.org

8. Kidspace Children’s Museum (Pasadena)

Young Girl Examining Bugs at the Kidspace Children's Museum in Pasadena, Los AngelesYoung Girl Examining Bugs at the Kidspace Children's Museum in Pasadena, Los Angeles

A hands-on playground for kids with climbing structures, water play, and STEM exhibits. Perfect for toddlers and elementary-aged children.

Phone: (626) 449-9144
Address: 480 N Arroyo Blvd, Pasadena, CA 91103
Website: kidspacemuseum.org

9. The Original Farmers Market & The Grove

Noodle Art Stand in the Original Farmers Market in Los AngelesNoodle Art Stand in the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles

A foodie paradise with diverse eateries, sweet treats, and fun shops. Kids love the trolley rides and fountain shows at The Grove shopping mall riht next door.

Phone: (323) 933-9211
Address: 6333 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Website: farmersmarketla.com

10. Travel Town Museum (Griffith Park)

Trains at the Travel Town Museum in Griffith Park, Los AngelesTrains at the Travel Town Museum in Griffith Park, Los Angeles

A train lover’s dream! This free outdoor museum features vintage locomotives and railcars. Kids can climb aboard and even take a mini-train ride (small fee).

Phone: (323) 668-0104
Address: 5200 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Website: traveltown.org

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