The 16 best things to do in Los Angeles with kids

What is it? A downright can’t-miss historic institution for all ages that spans over 35 million artifacts and specimens from the dino age until now. It’s educational storytelling at its finest.

Why go? Kids love it, parents love it—even teenagers admit it’s “pretty chill.” Expect life-size dino skeletons, 300-plus fossils, world-famous wildlife dioramas, a gem and mineral hall, and botanical gardens where kids can get their wiggles out. My toddler spent a whole hour at the Discovery Center on the second floor digging fossils, coloring “dinosaur skin” and gleefully saying “yuck” to the live insect displays. More incentive? L.A. County residents get in free weekdays from 3 to 5pm, and kids two and under are always free.

Don’t miss: The Dinosaur Encounters show and Butterfly Pavilion (which transforms into a spider pavilion in the fall). Both require an extra ticket on top of general admission, but they’re totally worth it. The Dinosaur Encounters show brings realistic T. Rex and triceratops puppets to the museum floor—this was my son’s favorite!

What is it? Smack dab in the middle of Griffith Park, the iconic L.A. Zoo is home to over 1,700 animals, from towering giraffes to colorful birds and everything in between.

Why go? Giraffes, gorillas, tigers and a reptile house—you might even spot elephants if you’re lucky (they don’t always make an appearance). It’s hard to believe that this wildlife oasis is just 15 minutes from Hollywood and right off the 5 and 134 freeways, both of which you won’t even hear while you’re “ooing” and “ahhing” at the occasional roaming peacock.

Don’t miss: The animal-themed playground is a great pit stop for kids. (The carousel is also a fun perk for an extra $3.) Pro tip: Bring your own snacks, wear comfy shoes for the inclines and consider the shuttle tram for easier exploring (though it comes at an extra cost). Visit early or late to avoid the heat—shade is limited!

What is it? A 3.5-acre museum in Pasadena where kids (geared toward those 10 and under) can climb, splash, tinker and explore all things physics. With 40-plus hands-on exhibits, daily activities and monthly events, it’s all about learning through play (the best way to do it).

Why go? This is hands-down one of my favorite interactive play spaces for kids in L.A. (and we’ve been to a lot of places). Kids can launch water bottle rockets at the mini “campground,” climb all kinds of things, splash around in water play zones, zip around a tricycle track, make music and race toy cars on indoor tracks. It’s the ultimate playground. Bonus: The on-site café serves healthy, kid-friendly eats (think dino-shaped sandwiches) that actually taste good for parents, too.

Don’t miss: Roll up your sleeves at the Muddy Boot Farm, where little farmers can “harvest” plastic veggies, weigh their crops and run a pretend farm stand. There’s even a chicken coop with oversized eggs for extra fun.

What is it? A legit Ice Age time capsule, right off Wilshire Boulevard. The tar pits have preserved mammoths, saber-toothed cats and other prehistoric creatures for thousands of years—and paleontologists are still digging up fossils today. Inside the museum, you’ll find interactive exhibits that bring primeval L.A. to life.

Why go? It’s not every day you get to see real fossils being unearthed in the middle of a city. Kids and adults alike will love watching scientists at work, checking out massive prehistoric skeletons and stepping into a piece of L.A.’s deep history.

Don’t miss: The Ice Age Encounters multimedia show, where a life-size, moving and roaring saber-toothed cat brings the fossils to life (it’s kind of creepy, but in the best way). Also, the Titans of the Ice Age 3-D film ties everything together, putting all those skeletons and tar pits into perspective for curious little minds. Both are $8 extra on top of general admission.

What is it? A massive, world-class aquarium in Long Beach that immerses you in the wonders of marine life, with over 100 exhibits, 19 major habitats and a staggering 12,000 animals from across the Pacific Ocean.

Why go? The sheer scale alone makes it worth the trip—glowing jellyfish, playful sea otters and a massive shark lagoon teeming with blacktip reef sharks, sand tigers and more. With daily shows, hands-on encounters and a prime spot by the harbor, it’s an easy day out with a scenic waterfront dinner to cap it off.

Don’t miss: Roll up your sleeves and dip your hands into the shark and ray touch pool—because when else do you get to pet a shark? Then, grab a cup of nectar and let the lorikeets land right on your arm (or head) as they sip their sugary treat.

What is it? A historic landmark that holds pride of place perched atop Los Angeles (and in the backdrop of many-a-film) where science, space and stunning views meet. Tourists, it’s also one of the best views of the Hollywood Sign.

Why go? Curious minds will love exploring the wonders of space and running around the park (great for a family hike or a picnic). You’ll get to see the city from a whole new perspective, and the observatory’s exhibits are super kid-friendly and hands-on.

Don’t miss: Peeking through the 12-inch Zeiss refracting telescope! It’s free to use every night when the observatory is open (Tue–Sun) and the sky is clear.

What is it? A classic L.A. landmark with a mini amusement park, a towering Ferris wheel and nonstop coastal views. Packed with rides, games and kid-friendly attractions, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Why go? It’s got everything kids love—carnival rides, arcade games, a small aquarium and sweet treats galore—without being a total headache for parents. Plus, the beach is right there for a quick dip, and Third Street Promenade is just a short stroll away for shopping and dining.

Don’t miss: The historic, hand-carved carousel (housed in the Looff Hippodrome) that’s been spinning for over a century. It’s pure nostalgia and a guaranteed hit for kids (and kids at heart).

What is it? A hands-on science museum where kids can explore everything from the deep sea to deep space. Curious minds can see science in action and get up close and personal with all kinds of aircrafts, a hurricane simulator, animals and astronaut suits.

Why go? For starters, everything but the IMAX screenings are free—as in you can bring your whole family for just the cost of parking ($15). Second, it’s a massive, well-curated museum where all ages can discover (and geek out at) interactive exhibits on space, ecosystems, the human body and so much more. It’s a great learning experience for all.

Don’t miss: The Discovery Rooms, where kids can get hands on with science experiments, storytelling and live animal displays. Near the aquarium, the touch zone lets little ones feel sea stars, sea cucumbers and sea anemones—an unforgettable, up-close ocean experience. For a small fee, thrill-seekers can test their balance on a high-wire bicycle suspended 43 feet above the ground—don’t worry, there’s a net! (Just a heads up that the bike is temporarily closed.)

What is it: An indoor speedway that brings all your racing (and Mario Kart) dreams to life. Zip around the track in high-speed electric go-karts—kids get their own junior-sized racers that hit speeds of up to 20 miles per hour, while teens and adults can reach double the speed.

Why go? It’s the closest kids will get to being a Formula 1 driver before they even get their license. I’ll admit it’s a bit on the pricey side ($29 per race), but the thrill of competition is a fun time for all. I went with my nieces and nephews (ages 7 to 16) and we still talk about it years later—some are even plotting their rematch.

Don’t miss: Hit the arcade for air hockey and vintage video games while you gear up for the next round.

What is it: A whimsical mini golf course in Sherman Oaks with three 18-hole courses, fit for putt-putt pros and first-timers alike. Expect classic windmills, tricky water hazards, lots of first dates and just the right amount of friendly competition.

Why go? It’s a budget-friendly way to keep the whole crew entertained ($8 for kids, $12 for adults). Mini golf brings out the competitive streak in all of us, and it’s one of those rare activities where everyone, from toddlers to grandparents, can get in on the fun.

Don’t miss: Sinking a hole-in-one isn’t the only way to show off your skills. Hit the arcade and batting cages for a little post-game action.