Family outings in Los Angeles
Los Angeles sprawls for miles, so with kids it works best to pick one or two areas a day rather than trying to see everything. A car is almost essential, but the rewards are real: wide beaches where little ones can burn off energy, the Griffith Park hills with city views, and science and fossil museums that hook curious minds. The mild climate means you can be outdoors nearly all year, though mornings near the ocean can be cloudy. Allow time for traffic, pack sunscreen and water, and group activities by neighbourhood to keep the driving down.
Must-do activities
Griffith Observatory
Telescopes, a planetarium and cosmos exhibits, with great views over the city from the hills. Entry to the observatory is free; allow extra time for parking or the shuttle.
Griffith Park
A huge urban park with trails, picnic areas, a carousel and miniature trains. Perfect for running off energy before or after the observatory.
La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
Tar pits that have given up mammoth and sabre-toothed cat fossils, right in the middle of the city. Kids love watching paleontologists at work.
Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park
Beach, a Ferris wheel and rides at the end of the pier. Go early in the day to beat the crowds and the heat.
California Science Center
A hands-on science museum in Exposition Park, with spaces on life, space and technology. The Natural History Museum is next door if you want to extend the day.
Los Angeles Zoo
A zoo set on a hillside: go early, wear good shoes and bring a sturdy stroller for the youngest.
Free parks and playgrounds near Los Angeles
- 📚 Little Tokyo Library
- 🌳 Los Angeles City Hall Park
- 🛝 Evergreen Playground
- 🌲 Elysian Park
- 📚 Los Angeles County Law Library
- 🌳 Yaanga park
- 🛝 Hostetter Playground
- 🌲 Ascot Hills Park
- 📚 Chinatown Branch Library
- 🌳 Plaza de Los Ángeles
- 🛝 Carlin Smith Playground
- 🌲 Rose Hill Park
Making the most of Los Angeles as a family
Whether you live in Los Angeles or are just visiting for the weekend, there is no shortage of family outings: parks, playgrounds, libraries, museums and seasonal events are often free or low cost. FamiSwipe gathers these ideas in one place so you can stop searching.
To choose well, think about your children's ages, the weather and the travel time. A park with a splash pad suits hot days, while a library or community centre saves rainy or freezing ones. Pack a snack, water and a change of clothes.
Tip: swipe through the suggestions in the app, keep your favourites and share the shortlist with the other parent. Free activities are perfect for trying something new without pressure, and short trips close to home spare everyone a long car ride.
Bookable activities in Los Angeles
Tours, attractions and tickets in and around Los Angeles, often with free cancellation.
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Family outings not to miss
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FAQ
What can kids do in Los Angeles when it rains?
Rainy days are rare, but museums are the best bet: California Science Center, La Brea Tar Pits and Museum and the Natural History Museum. Indoor malls also have play areas.
What are the free family activities in Los Angeles?
Griffith Observatory, the trails and picnic areas of Griffith Park, and public beaches such as Santa Monica. FamiSwipe shows parks and playgrounds around you with the real distance.
Do you need a car in Los Angeles with kids?
It is the simplest option: distances are big and public transit does not reach every site. If you do not rent one, group visits by neighbourhood and use ride-share services that offer child seats.
When is the best time to visit Los Angeles with a family?
Spring and autumn are pleasant: warm without being extreme and with shorter queues than in midsummer. Near the coast, cloudy mornings are common in early summer, so bring a light jacket.