40 Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids

This expansive property includes botanical gardens, a library and art collections. The gardens have themed areas including a wonderful Children's Garden with interactive sculptures, water features and topiary animals.

Flat and calm water is ideal for families, especially those new to kayaking. Travel along the Naples Island Canals, kayak to restaurants, and even visit the moon jelly cove- it's where Long Beach Aquarium collects their non-stinging jellyfish for exhibits. You can also try Stand Up Paddling at this location! Everyone must wear life vests (provided) and know how to swim.

The historic Queen Mary ship is anchored in Long Beach, where families can enjoy a one-of-a-kind experience with one of their historical - or paranormal! - tours. They also offer various dining experiences, as well as an on-site hotel.

This aquarium in Los Angeles county celebrates life in the Pacific Ocean. Exhibits include everything from jellies and frogs to Shark Lagoon, featuring several species and sizes of sharks - some of which you can even touch! The sea otter and penguin habitats are sure to be kid-favorites, and you can also book special Animal Encounters for a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Catching a baseball game at Dodger Stadium is a fun Los Angeles experience, complete with a great view of the city.

Button Mash is the perfect spot for an evening dinner out with kids in LA. They have classic arcade games and pinball for extra fun before or after your meal.

This unique retail store was created by 826LA, a non-profit organization that provides free tutoring and creative writing programs for students ages 6-18. It's a whimsical shop filled with humorous and imaginative items with a time travel theme. All proceeds support 826LA's educational programs, so it's a fun and quirky spot to visit for a unique souvenir and to support a good cause.

Jenny said:  A unique learning center and gift shop

Enjoy the sights at Echo Park Lake by renting a Swan pedal boat with the family! You'll see seasonally blooming lotus beds, plenty of wildlife, and picturesque fountains. Reservations are required, and each rental includes life jackets and a quick orientation and safety instructions to get you started.

This is probably one of the top things to do with kids in Los Angeles! 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.

If you're looking for things to do with kids in Los Angeles on a budget, admission to the permanent galleries at the California Science Center is always free, and does not require a reservation. Permanent exhibits include World of Life, Fire! Science & Safety, and Ecosystems. Timed tickets are required for the IMAX Theater and special exhibits.

Always free admission

Though the weather will almost always be perfect for going outdoors, if you are looking for things to do with kids in Los Angeles indoors, check out one of its many excellent museums! The Natural History Museum will appeal to the whole family, with family-friendly exhibits about birds, dinosaurs, insects, and mammals, and caters to kids in particular with its touchable minerals, furs and fossils, authentic scientific exploration tools, and insect zoo. Interactive shows (some feature actors dressed as dinosaurs!) round out the educational entertainment.

Iconic landmark and symbol of the entertainment industry overlooking Hollywood, Los Angeles.

Shila said:  We hiked behind the sign as a family (at that time an unofficial path began off Beachwood Drive). It's a memorable LA experience! The hike is a challenging walk due to the heat and grade, but still doable with young kids because the beaten path up the mountain is relatively wide and accessible to *sturdy* jogging strollers. If with kids, too, better to start early in the cooler morning.

Get a sneak peek at WB's outdoor sets and soundstage, and see where all the magic happens on this iconic tour! Every tour includes exclusive access to props, costumes, and sets from some of your favorite movies and TV shows. Kids will love seeing the DC Universe - DC Comics Exhibit and a collection of original Batmobiles! The tour concludes on Stage 48, an interactive soundstage, where you'll see how special effects come to life with a green screen experience.

One of the most iconic things to do with kids in Hollywood! Take a stroll down Hollywood Boulevard to see the names of some of entertainment's biggest and brightest stars, 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!

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.