Los Angeles Family Vacation Ideas – Attractions, Activities & Things to Do for Vacation
L.A. is a great family city. Whether you’re interested in Hollywood and pop culture, cultural attractions, or the great outdoors, there’s something to love in Los Angeles. If you’re planning a family trip to L.A., then check out our list of the top kid-friendly attractions in the region. It’s curated by industry experts and represents some of our personal favorites. Our top Los Angeles family vacation ideas include:
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- Knott’s Berry Farm & Soak City
- Pacific Park
- Aquarium of the Pacific
- Natural History Museum
- Bike Rentals
- California Science Center & IMAX
- Harbor Cruise
- Griffith Park & LA Zoo
- Walk of Fame & Hollywood Attractions
Save on Family Vacation Attraction Ideas
Regular admission to a number of these family friendly attractions are available on the Go Los Angeles Card. Choose as you go from top visited attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Learn more about our Los Angeles passes, attractions and prices.
Universal Studios Hollywood
One of the most popular family attractions in Los Angeles, Universal Studios Hollywood combines the best of a studio tour with all the highlights of a theme park. Everything is turned up to 11 here. First, enjoy informative, behind-the-scenes tours of real back lots, sound stages, and more. Then, hit up all of their phenomenal rides and attractions, from the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and beyond. Last but not least, save some time to explore Universal CityWalk, a shopping and dining destination that’s a great complement to the park itself. Getting In: Universal Studios Hollywood tickets are available as a premium attraction option with the 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Los Angeles Cards.
Knott’s Berry Farm & Knott’s Soak City
If you’re really in the mood for some amusement park fun, then a visit to Knott’s Berry Farm is in order. America’s first theme park is still going strong, with delightful park characters, exhilarating coasters, and a nice selection of children’s rides. Check out the newly opened Hang Time rollercoaster at Knott’s, the steepest coaster in California that plunges over the water, creating some cool thrills for riders. Visit their sister park, Knott’s Soak City, on a particularly hot day. They’re right next to each other, so they could also be part of the same fabulous day! Getting In: Knott’s Berry Farm tickets and Knott’s Soak City tickets are both included with the Go Los Angeles Card.
Pacific Park
More of a classic amusement park, Pacific Park is the perfect beachside attraction for the whole family to enjoy. Hop aboard charming rides like their solar-powered Ferris Wheel. Then, get your thrills on with the West Coaster, a steel roller coaster right at the water’s edge. There are also many gentler rides for the little ones, like Inkie’s Wave Jumper and Inkie’s Pirate Ship. Come for the rides, stay for the cotton candy and carnival-style games.
Aquarium of the Pacific
With its specific focus on the marine life of the vast Pacific Ocean, this top-notch aquarium is perfect for the animal lovers in your family. See creatures as diverse as brilliant fish from the coral reefs Tropical Pacific to the fascinating creatures of the chilly Northern Pacific, scattered across their 19 major habitats. Highlighted exhibits include Jellies, Shark Lagoon, June Keyes Penguin Habitat, and more.
Natural History Museum
Featuring an expansive collection of natural and cultural artifacts from throughout history and across the globe, the Natural History Museum in Downtown L.A. is a great family attraction. Exhibitions highlight biodiversity and cultural change in fascinating ways. Walk through halls of dinosaur fossils, gemstones and minerals, and ancient Latin American archaeological treasures. A visit here is sure to inspire curiosity!
Griffith Park & LA Zoo
.A.’s massive Griffith Park is the perfect family destination. It’s a large expanse with plenty of trails for hiking or cycling, spaces for picnics or Frisbee-tossing, and many of its own delightful attractions. For example, the Griffith Observatory is a nice scientific institution with exhibits, telescopes, and live shows, and the L.A. Zoo (and accompany botanical gardens) are enchanting and educational. If nothing else, you should take a drive through the park to soak up the beautiful natural vibes.
Bike Rentals
Stay active and enjoy the weather with a bike ride! Whether you want to explore Griffith Park or the sunny boardwalks of Santa Monica, there are plenty of options for you to pedal around. Choose this option for a wide selection of rental options in Santa Monica. They also offer roller blade rentals for some retro fun your kids will love! Perry’s Café (the rental place) also sells a nice selection of food and drinks for lunch, so make an entire afternoon of it!
Torrance certified farmers market
Torrance Certified Farmers Market is the largest Farmers Market in the South Bay, offers live music, prepared foods, pastries, fruit, vegetables, and flowers.
