From snow leopards at the zoo, to miniature city installations, and glow-in-the-dark bowling, LA is full of amazing activities that you can book to make the most of your family holiday. So, if you’re thinking of visiting LA with your children, have a look at our guide for some of the best things to do in Los Angeles with kids…
Watch a movie at El Capitan Theatre
Showing a variety of the latest Disney movies and the most beloved classics like Hocus Pocus, Flubber and Who Framed Roger Rabbit, watching a movie at El Capitan Theatre is a must for anyone wondering what to do in Los Angeles with kids. Dating back to the 1920s, El Capitan was the largest legitimate theatre in Hollywood before being converted from a playhouse to a cinema in 1941. Having been completely restored by the Walt Disney Company when they bought the venue in 1989, movie-goers can still experience all the glitz and glamour of the prohibition era when they spend an afternoon here.
What’s more, the theatre offers tours where children can explore the auditorium, get backstage access, and learn all about the history of the venue. Go on a Tuesday for special prices or make an evening of it and opt for the dinner and movie deal.
Hollywood Loop, Stop: TCL Chinese Theatre
Let them run free at Griffith Park
If you’re stuck for things to do in Los Angeles with kids, one of the best and least expensive activities is getting in touch with Mother Nature at Griffith Park. Spanning over 4,210 acres, it’s one of the largest municipal parks with urban wilderness areas in the United States. And the attractions on offer don’t disappoint either, from pony rides to merry-go-rounds, a southern railroad and equestrian centre, there’s something exciting on offer for your little ones.
If you’re travelling with children slightly older, why not pick from one of four trails that lead to Mount Lee and go for a hike at Griffith Park? With a stellar view of the Hollywood Sign at the other end, it’s a great way to tire out teenagers and snap a family-photo beside an iconic LA landmark at the same time.
Paint and create at Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
First opening its doors in 1965, LACMA is home to a collection of over 135,000 objects that shine a light on 6,000 years of art history from new and unexpected perspectives. Made up of five separate buildings each housing amazing pieces of modern art, families can easily spend an entire afternoon here exploring the various galleries, exhibitions and deciding which work of art is their favourite.
We recommend visiting Urban Light, a collection of vintage urban streetlights that have gone on to become one of the museum’s most famous installations, and going on a scavenger hunt to find the paintings by Andy Warhol and Picasso. You’ll also want to check out the quirky Japanese Pavilion and Metropolis II, a piece of art designed to look like a small city. One of the most fun and inspiring things for kids to do in Los Angeles.
Hollywood Loop, Stop: LACMA / La Brea Tarpits
Bowl a strike at Pinz
Bowling is a family-friendly activity that everyone can enjoy and arguably the best place to throw a ball for the highest score is Pinz in LA. With 32 bowling lanes available, you can expect an electric atmosphere where professional bowlers, families and friends come together for a fuss-free activity. Known to host a lot of A-list clientele, be on the lookout for your favourite celebrity too.
For a classic spin on a fun game, you can also book a lane for glow-in-the-dark bowling, an experience that’s sure to bring out your competitive streak. One of our top picks for things to do in LA with kids, there’s also a games arcade, air hockey and billiard tables where you start your own tournament, or wile away the time until your lane is free if you visit during peak hours.
See the animals at LA Zoo
Home to over 270 species, 58 of which are endangered, LA Zoo is a fantastic place to take kids in Los Angeles. Open from 10am – 5pm every day of the year except for Christmas, no matter when you’re visiting the City of Angels, it’s the perfect location to add to your travel itinerary.
Bound to be a favourite amongst animal lovers, spend a day exploring the immersive Rainforest of the America’s exhibit, visiting the Elephants of Asia, gazing at the Dragons of Komodo or marvelling at some of the most unique animals you won’t see anywhere else like snow leopards, Sumatran tigers and mountain tapir.
Whether you choose to pick one of our suggestions for the best things to do in Los Angeles with kids or discover your own hidden gem, there’s plenty to do in the city that will keep your little ones entertained all day long. And if the kids still want more, why not hop on one of our bus tours for the perfect way to take in the sights and visit LA’s landmarks and attractions. The city’s one and only hop on, hop off bus tour experiences.
