40 Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids

One of the most well known amusement parks in Los Angeles, 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, or Super Nintendo World! 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.

An active paleontology site, this is one of the more unique kid-friendly activities in Los Angeles. Your admission gives you a glimpse into what scientists are working on in the Fossil Lab, and a chance to talk with scientists and volunteers about recent finds that make the past come to life. Changing programs can include 3D movies and new fossils as they are found.

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, so be sure to check out their event calendar before planning your visit.

Among the multiple gardens with plants from around the world is the spectacular 3-acre Children's Garden. Highlights include nursery rhyme-themed areas like a dollhouse, bridge, secret tunnel, alphabet garden, and worm bin. Kids will also love the plant maze and dinosaur dig area!

Enjoy the view from underwater on a glass bottom boat tour! These guided boat tours are a fun thing to do with kids, and offer a chance to view both underwater wildlife along with an above-water visit to look for California Sea Lions.

One of the best beaches for kids in Los Angeles County, this man-made beach was designed especially for families with little ones! Grab your beach chairs and stretch out on this almost half-mile beach featuring a playground, volleyball, windsurfing and kayaking. No surf in the swimming area means little ones can splash safely. And picnic tables, nearby restaurants, BBQ grills, and restroom facilities mean you can make a day of it with the whole family.

While most people associate Santa Monica Pier with its iconic ferris wheel and historic carousel, those are just a few of the must-see attractions and things to do with kids in Santa Monica! 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.

The central feature of this park in the Santa Monica mountains is the 31-room ranch house where Will Rogers lived with his family, offering a glimpse into the life of this beloved entertainer. Visitors can also enjoy the stables, riding arenas, and some great hiking trails for kids in Los Angeles.

Kristy Pepping said:  Rock N Rope Adventures offers rock climbing for parents and children outside at Malibu Creek State Park. They offer several grades for climbing starting with a super easy one for younger children and beginners. Safety is super important to them and everyone will receive detailed instructions before beginning.

This quintessential California burger chain is a must-do for both visitors and locals.