The 22 best things to do in Los Angeles with kids

What is it? A true L.A. icon, the Hollywood Bowl is a legendary open-air venue that hosts world-class concerts under the stars each summer. From global superstars to the beloved L.A. Phil, it’s where unforgettable performances come to life.

Why go? It’s a magical spot to introduce kids to live music, go for a picnic, soak in the scenery and enjoy performances ranging from movie nights with full orchestras to kid-friendly concerts.

Don’t miss: Jurassic Park in Concert (a full screening with live orchestra Aug 8, 9) and Maestro of the Movies: Celebrating the Music of John Williams (Aug 22–24). The Star Wars finale is a fan favorite—kids will love waving their lightsabers as the whole amphitheater lights up in epic fashion. It’s a must for the big kids (and the grown-up superfans, too).

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? Throughout the summer, L.A. transforms into one big open-air cinema, with parks, rooftops and even iconic landmarks hosting outdoor movie nights.

Why go? It’s a fun, low-key way to spend a summer evening (think lawn chairs, cozy blankets, local food trucks and your favorite flicks alfresco). There are plenty of family-friendly titles, sing-alongs and themed snacks and festivities. 

Don’t miss: Ratatouille at the Queen Mary (Aug 6), part of Movie Night Markets ( come early for shopping and street food); Encanto at Grand Hope Park (Sept 6), presented by Street Food Cinema; Wicked at the Bloc in DTLA (Sept 13)—this rooftop screening will have you defying gravity with the whole fam.

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? Game On! is a brand-new interactive exhibit at the California Science Center all about the science of sports, movement and play.

Why go? You’ll swing, leap, kick and climb through hands-on challenges while learning how science powers athletic performance and keeps bodies moving at their best. Exhibit admission is free (though there’s a small fee for the rock climbing experience).

Don’t miss: Hit a simulated 60-mph pitch, train like a soccer pro, swim virtually with a para athlete and sharpen your focus with breath and vision exercises.

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? “Wired for Wonder” (though Sept 1), a trippy, interactive maze at the Pasadena museum packed with sensory surprises, plus the Sunset Music Series, which brings live music, dancing and hands-on artmaking for the whole family to the Stone Hollow Amphitheater on select Friday nights in the summer.

Why go? It’s a memorable way to spend a summer evening with the whole family. Explore 25-plus playful exhibits at the Pasadena museum that invite you to see, smell, hear and taste science in action at “Wired for Wonder.” And stick around for Sunset Music Nights to soak up those golden summer evenings with interactive performances and creative activities that let kids move, groove and stay up past bedtime.

Don’t miss: Upgrade your visit with the Chill Lab ($8), where you’ll try flash-frozen popcorn, mysterious black ice cream and unexpected shaved ice flavors that bring the science of frozen treats to life.

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 summer staple: free, all-ages outdoor parties with live music, DJs, art and community energy at iconic venues across L.A.

Why go? Whether you’re there to dance, discover a new favorite artist or just soak in the summer air with good food and better company, these nights are pure L.A. magic. Did we mention free?

Don’t miss: Pop-up sets from top KCRW DJs, live bands, food trucks and special late-night access to museums and cultural spaces at venues like CAAM and the Autry.

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.