Family-friendly Fun: Handpicked Entertainment and Things to Do in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city bursting with opportunities for family friendly entertainment at every turn. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something exciting and engaging to discover. From world-class theme parks to unique interactive museums, LA offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to families looking for memorable things to do. This guide will unveil some of the best spots that promise fun for the whole family, ensuring everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, has a fantastic time.

When it comes to family entertainment, Los Angeles is a treasure trove of handpicked gems. The city and its surrounding areas are home to numerous attractions that guarantee fun, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Whether you’re in the mood for an adventurous day out or a relaxed afternoon exploring fascinating exhibits, this handpicked list has you covered. Let’s dive into the top family friendly places in Los Angeles that you simply can’t miss.

World of Illusions

The World of Illusions is a standout attraction that guarantees a unique and interactive entertainment experience for the whole family. Located on Hollywood Boulevard, this destination is renowned for its four distinct exhibits. The Museum of Illusions features mind-bending 3D paintings that trick the eye and provide perfect photo opportunities. Each artwork is designed to transport you into a different world, making it a hit among families looking for fun and creative things to do in Los Angeles.

In addition to the Museum of Illusions, the World of Illusions includes the Upside Down House, where seven upside-down rooms challenge your perception of reality. The Giant’s House allows visitors to feel like they’ve shrunk in size, surrounded by enormous everyday objects. For those needing to release some pent-up energy, Smash It! offers a unique stress-relief experience by letting you smash plates against a wall. This variety of exhibits ensures that every family member finds something to enjoy, making it a must-visit spot.

Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory

Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in North America and a prime location for family friendly entertainment. With its vast green spaces, hiking trails, and picnic areas, it offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Families can enjoy horseback riding, visit the Los Angeles Zoo, or explore the numerous playgrounds scattered throughout the park. The park’s natural beauty and active things to do make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

At the heart of Griffith Park lies the iconic Griffith Observatory, which offers breathtaking views of Los Angeles and the stars above. The observatory features interactive exhibits that educate and entertain visitors of all ages. Kids will love the planetarium shows, which provide a fascinating look at the universe. The combination of outdoor fun in the park and the educational excitement of the observatory makes Griffith Park a perfect destination for family entertainment.

Disneyland Resort

No handpicked list of family friendly entertainment in Los Angeles would be complete without mentioning Disneyland Resort. Located in Anaheim, just a short drive from downtown Los Angeles, Disneyland is known as “The Happiest Place on Earth” for a reason. The resort includes two theme parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Both parks offer a variety of rides, shows, and attractions that cater to all ages, making it a perfect destination for family fun.

Disneyland Park is home to classic attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, and It’s a Small World, while Disney California Adventure Park features newer things to do such as Guardians of the Galaxy – Mission: BREAKOUT! and Pixar Pier. The magical atmosphere, beloved characters, and thrilling rides ensure that the whole family has an unforgettable experience. Disneyland’s reputation as a top family friendly entertainment destination is well-deserved, and it remains a must-visit spot for families visiting Los Angeles.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a fantastic thing to do for families interested in learning about the natural world. Located in Exposition Park, the museum boasts an impressive collection of handpicked exhibits that cover everything from dinosaurs to gems and minerals. Kids will be captivated by the life-sized dinosaur skeletons in the Dinosaur Hall, while the Nature Gardens provide an opportunity to explore the local flora and fauna.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum hosts temporary exhibits and special events throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something new to discover. Interactive displays and hands-on things to do make learning fun and engaging for children and adults alike. The Natural History Museum is a wonderful place to spend a day exploring and discovering the wonders of the natural world, making it a top choice for family friendly things to do in Los Angeles.

Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is an iconic Los Angeles landmark that offers a variety of family friendly entertainment options. Located at the western end of Route 66, the pier features an amusement park, aquarium, and numerous restaurants and shops. Pacific Park, the pier’s amusement park, is home to the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel, as well as other fun rides and games that the whole family can enjoy.

In addition to the amusement park, the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium offers an educational and interactive experience with local marine life. Families can also rent bikes or take a leisurely stroll along the beach, enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery. The combination of rides, games, and ocean views makes the Santa Monica Pier a perfect spot for a day out for the whole family in Los Angeles.

Kidspace Children’s Museum

Kidspace Children’s Museum in Pasadena is an entertainment haven for young explorers and curious minds. Designed for children ages 1 to 10, the museum features a variety of interactive exhibits and outdoor spaces that encourage hands-on learning and play. The museum’s handpicked exhibits cover a range of topics, from science and nature to art and music, providing a stimulating environment for kids to discover and learn.

Highlights of Kidspace include the Imagination Workshop, where children can build and create, and the Arroyo Adventure, an outdoor play area with climbing structures, water features, and a nature garden. The museum also hosts special events and workshops throughout the year, ensuring there’s always something new for families to enjoy. Kidspace Children’s Museum is a fantastic destination for families looking for fun and educational things to do in Los Angeles.

California Science Center

The California Science Center in Exposition Park is a top thing to do for families interested in science and technology. The museum features a wide range of interactive exhibits that cover topics such as space exploration, biology, and engineering. One of the highlights of the Science Center is the Space Shuttle Endeavour, which is on display in the Samuel Oschin Pavilion. Visitors can get an up-close look at the shuttle and learn about its history and missions.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the California Science Center hosts temporary exhibits and IMAX movies that provide additional educational and entertainment opportunities. The museum’s hands-on approach to learning makes it a hit with kids and adults alike. The California Science Center is a must-visit destination for families looking for engaging and educational things to do in Los Angeles.

FAQs