33 Fun Things To Do With Family in Los Angeles in 2024
If you’re looking for things to do with family in Los Angeles, buckle up, because this sun-drenched city is a playground for all ages. From iconic attractions that will leave your little ones wide-eyed to hidden gems that will delight even the most seasoned adventurers, LA has something for every member of your crew.
With so much to see and do in the big city, where do you even begin? Whether you’re a local seeking new things to do with family in Los Angeles or you’re visiting from out of town, this list of 33 exciting family activities in LA is sure to give you lots of great ideas for your next family outing!
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- Foodie Things To Do With Family in Los Angeles
- Best Things To Do at Night in Los Angeles With Family
- Cheap and Free Things To Do in Los Angeles With Family
- Indoor Things To Do With Family in Los Angeles
- Outdoor Things To Do With Family in Los Angeles
Foodie Things To Do With Family in Los Angeles
1. Participate in Kid-Friendly Cooking Classes
Taking some cooking classes is an excellent way to bond with your family while learning valuable life skills. While it can be hard to find things to do with family in Los Angeles that everyone agrees on, cooking classes are fun and engaging activities that are sure to bring everyone together.
There are many options for those searching for cooking classes in Los Angeles for kids which allow them to explore their culinary interests and creativity. These classes not only teach essential cooking techniques but also promote teamwork, patience and a sense of accomplishment. Cooking classes in Los Angeles for teens can be particularly engaging as they cater to your older kids’ unique tastes and preferences, fostering more independence in the kitchen.
2. Treat Your Family to Hibachi Catering
For those seeking unique and engaging things to do with family in Los Angeles, sharing a hibachi meal is the perfect idea. The skilled chef’s performance, complete with sizzling sounds and mesmerizing knife skills, captivates audiences of all ages. You can conveniently find hibachi catering in Los Angeles with kid-friendly options for a memorable and interactive dining experience. The private chef setting adds an exclusive touch, making it a truly special occasion.
3. Embark on a Food Tour
Another fun family activity is a food tour in Los Angeles, which offers an exciting way to explore the city’s diverse culinary scene together. These guided tours provide an opportunity to sample various cuisines while learning about the local culture and history. This thing to do with family in Los Angeles will create lasting memories through shared experiences. You may even discover your new favorite spot for a family dinner. Do note that it’s essential to verify if the tour is family-friendly as some tours are geared towards adults only. With proper research, food tours can be an enjoyable and educational activity for families visiting Los Angeles.
4. Devour Hotdogs at Tail O’ The Pup
Things to do with family in Los Angeles don’t get much quirkier than visiting Tail O’ The Pup, a hot dog-shaped eatery that’s been an LA landmark since 1946. This unique restaurant provides a delightful dose of nostalgia and whimsy that kids and adults alike will enjoy.
Fun restaurants in Los Angeles are plentiful, but few capture the imagination quite like this iconic hot dog stand. Menu options include classic hot dogs, perfect for picky eaters, as well as those with toppings like chili, jalapeños and sauerkraut. You can also get corn dogs and hamburgers, including plant-based options, as well as ice cream, meaning there’s guaranteed to be something for everyone in the family.
5. Indulge in Ice Cream at Wanderlust Creamery
Savoring inventive ice cream flavors makes for an enchanting family excursion. Wanderlust Creamery provides a whimsical, imaginative ambiance, perfect for those looking for out-of-the-box yet casual things to do with family in Los Angeles.
With distinctive flavor blends inspired by international delights, from ube ice cream to pistachio or Kinder candy flavor, choosing a sweet treat is the ideal family-friendly outing in itself or a great add-on to a busy day of other family-friendly activities in LA.
6. Feast at John’s Incredible Pizza
Heading to John’s Incredible Pizza for a few slices is one of the best things to do with family in Los Angeles when it comes to foodie fun. With an all-you-can-eat buffet, plus games and attractions, it’s so much more than just a restaurant.
Sit down with your family and let even the pickiest eaters enjoy their own selection of favorites, then head out onto the floor for some family-fun time. The best fast food in Los Angeles is not just about grabbing a quick bite, it’s about creating lasting memories with loved ones in a vibrant and engaging environment like this unique pizza parlor.
Best Things To Do at Night in Los Angeles With Family
7. Stargaze at Griffith Observatory
One of the most captivating things to do with family in Los Angeles at night is visiting the iconic Griffith Observatory. This renowned landmark offers breathtaking views of the twinkling city skyline and even more stunning views of the stars above. Gaze at the stars through the powerful telescopes and explore the fascinating exhibits about space and science. With its beautiful setting and educational experiences, the Griffith Observatory provides an enjoyable and enriching evening for families.
8. Strike Out at Back Alley Bowling
Going to Back Alley Bowling in Glendale for an evening of friendly competition is an exciting thing to do with family near Los Angeles after the sun goes down. Its retro vibe and glow-in-the-dark lanes offer a thrilling twist on the classic game.
Things to do with kids around Los Angeles don’t get much cooler than night bowling at this trendy bowling alley! It’s the perfect spot to bond over friendly competition, share laughs and create lasting memories together. You can also get food and drink on-site, including many kid-friendly options like chicken tenders and nachos.
9. Play Games at Two Bit Circus
Another of the best things to do with family in Los Angeles if you want to enjoy lots of amusements under one roof is going to Two Bit Circus. This innovative venue boasts an arcade, immersive virtual reality experiences and mind-bending story rooms that are fun for all ages.
With its lively atmosphere and cutting-edge technology, Two Bit Circus is an indoor playground of whimsy that your family is sure to love. It’s important to note that after 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, this venue transitions to an 18+ environment.
10. Glide Around at Moonlight Rollerway
One of the most fun things to do with family in Los Angeles, especially at night, is visiting the Moonlight Rollerway. The nostalgic atmosphere of this indoor roller rink brings the adults back to the good old days and lets kids experience something new while bonding with their families. Embrace the neon lights and upbeat music as you glide across the smooth wooden floors and show off your roller skills. Laughter and excitement fill the air as families skate together for a cherished evening activity.
11. Watch a Movie and Play at Cinépolis
For a laid-back thing to do with family near Los Angeles, watching a movie at Cinépolis is a surefire hit! This cinema kicks things up a notch with mind-blowing 3D and 4DX experiences that’ll have you feeling like you’re part of the action.
For kids, the junior theater features a play structure with slides, allowing them to burn off energy before the show. You can also get food and drinks, including kid-friendly options and more elevated dishes, plus wine or beer, for the adults. With its unique amenities, Cinépolis is the perfect place for the whole family to get together and enjoy a movie with some added fun for the kids.
12. Experience the Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament
This unique thing to do with family in Los Angeles is a must if you want to plan an unforgettable evening of entertainment! The Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament is an immersive experience that transports you to a medieval castle setting, where you can witness thrilling jousting tournaments, sword fights and falconry displays, all while enjoying a themed dinner feast. The combination of live action, horsemanship and a festive atmosphere makes it a memorable one-of-a-kind activity for the whole family.
Cheap and Free Things To Do in Los Angeles With Family
13. Snap Family Photos With the Hollywood Sign
Visiting the iconic Hollywood Sign is one of the top free things to do with family in Los Angeles. It offers great photo opportunities and scenic views of the city. Hiking up close to the sign is a fun adventure for all ages and is a once-in-a-lifetime activity for many. With no cost besides transportation, hiking to the Hollywood Sign is an ideal cheap family outing in LA.
14. Wander Along the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Strolling along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and looking at all the celebrity plaques is one of the most iconic things to do with family in Los Angeles. This world-famous attraction is much more than just a collection of stars, it’s a living, breathing celebration of the entertainment industry. Stroll along the star-studded sidewalks and spot your favorite stars' handprints, snap some photos and make a family-fun day of it along Hollywood Boulevard.
15. Visit Long Beach
While there are many things to do with family in Los Angeles, planning a day trip can be exciting as well. Long Beach, located about an hour from central LA, depending on traffic, is a fun and affordable day trip location for families.
With its beautiful beaches, parks and attractions like the Aquarium of the Pacific, there are lots of things to see and do, with most activities being free or low cost. Although it requires a bit of travel from Los Angeles, Long Beach promises a delightful day out for the whole family.
16. Discover La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
Going to La Brea Tar Pits and Museum ranks among the top things to do with family in Los Angeles on a budget. This unique outdoor museum lets you see real fossils and learn about prehistoric animals that roamed present-day LA. Kids love watching the bubbling tar pits and exploring the museum’s interactive exhibits. Best of all, admission is free for all LA County residents during the week from 3 to 5 p.m.
17. Hike Around Griffith Park
Griffith Park offers numerous things to do with family in Los Angeles that are cheap or free. From hiking along trails to checking out playgrounds and museums, there’s something for everyone. With wide open spaces perfect for a family picnic or outdoor games and endless opportunities for great photos and exploring nature, Griffith Park has everything you’re looking for in an outdoor adventure. Things to do in Los Angeles don’t get much better than a day spent checking out this massive urban oasis!
18. Stroll Through South Coast Botanic Gardens
When it comes to free and cheap things to do with family in Los Angeles, exploring the South Coast Botanic Gardens is a real treat for everyone. With 87 acres of gardens, numerous trails and more than 2,500 species of plant life, you can spend all day exploring the massive grounds of this park. Events often take place here as well, like evenings where the grounds get transformed into a family-fun playground complete with food, drinks, live music and games for the kids.
This is another attraction that is around 45 minutes to an hour outside of central LA, but it's well worth the trip. Combining a visit to the South Coast Botanic Gardens with a trip to Long Beach is a great idea due to their relatively close proximity.
19. Explore the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
When looking for affordable things to do with family in Los Angeles, going to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County should absolutely be on your to-do list. This engaging and educational attraction offers fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, mammals and the natural world. With free admission for LA County residents during the week from 3 to 5 p.m. and affordable rates for other circumstances, it’s an excellent budget-friendly attraction.
Indoor Things To Do With Family in Los Angeles
20. Journey Through a Universal Studios Tour
Taking a memorable Universal Studios Tour immerses families into the fascinating world of filmmaking. As one of the top things to do with family in Los Angeles, it combines interactive exhibits, live-action shows and thrilling rides. Touring real working studios provides an authentic glimpse into the movie magic that goes on behind the scenes.
For an engaging and one-of-a-kind experience, it definitely ranks among the best things to do with kids in Los Angeles. Do note that some parts of this tour take you outdoors but you’re transported in a covered tram, so the activity is appropriate for almost all weather conditions.
21. Dive Into the World of Candyland Indoor Playground
World of Candyland Indoor Playground offers an exciting play space for kids to let loose while parents can relax nearby. With giant candy-themed climbing structures, ball pits and slides, spending a morning or afternoon here is one of the sweetest things to do with family in Los Angeles. While the little ones live out their sugary dreams, parents can kick back and unwind, watching and enjoying the smiles on their kids' faces.
22. Get Hands-On at Kidspace Children's Museum
While museums in Los Angeles are plentiful and appeal to a wide range of visitors, the idea of a kid-friendly and focused museum just makes sense. The Kidspace Children’s Museum is the perfect place to let your children's imaginations run wild as they explore the many hands-on interactive exhibits and activities.
Designed to foster a sense of curiosity and creativity and stimulate all the senses, checking out the Kidspace Children’s Museum is one of the best things to do with family in Los Angeles if you have little ones. This museum is in Pasadena, but it’s easy enough to get to, and is well worth the trip
23. Behold the Wonder of Dinosaurs
Imagine stepping back millions of years into the realm of towing prehistoric giants. One of the best things to do with family in Los Angeles is none other than spending an afternoon at the Wonder of Dinosaurs.
With the largest display of dinosaurs on the entire West Coast and a newly unveiled Dinos-A-Glow exhibit with dazzling glow-in-the-dark dinosaurs, this place is sure to inspire wonder in both kids and adults. Visiting Wonder of Dinosaurs has become a favorite kid-friendly activity in Los Angeles and for good reason.
24. Win Prizes at The Clawcade
Arcades have long been a staple for family fun, but The Clawcade offers a unique twist on the classic experience that makes it one of the top things to do with family in Los Angeles. This brand-new arcade, which opened in May 2024 in Torrance, is entirely dedicated to claw machines, boasting 25 different machines with prizes of all sizes. Trying your luck at winning prizes together makes for an entertaining and memorable family bonding experience.
25. Admire Prestigious Vehicles at Petersen Automotive Museum
Unleash your family’s sense of wonder at the Petersen Automotive Museum, where metal masterpieces come to life. Taking you on a captivating journey through automotive history, children and adults alike can marvel at the stunning collection of classic cars, race cars and concept vehicles. This thing to do with family in Los Angeles is sure to pique the interest of the entire family, from kids to adults and everyone in between.
26. Mind-Boggle Yourself at World of Illusions
Step into a world of optical illusions and mind-bending fun at World of Illusions! Visiting this attraction is one of the quirkiest things to do with family in Los Angeles and allows you to explore the upside-down house that defies gravity, wander through the larger-than-life giant’s house and even allow the adults to unleash their inner child with out-of-this-world experiences. This whimsical wonderland promises plenty of fun and photo opportunities to commemorate this wild and wacky family adventure.
Outdoor Things To Do With Family in Los Angeles
27. Enjoy Ocean Views at Santa Monica Pier
An iconic symbol of Los Angeles, heading to the Santa Monica Pier is one of the quintessential things to do with family in Los Angeles. With its Ferris wheel towering over the Pacific, carnival games beckoning visitors and delicious and tempting food stands, this famous attraction offers endless entertainment for all ages. The nearby beach also provides opportunities for sandcastle building and splashing in the waves. Make a day of it and absorb the lively spirit of Santa Monica.
28. Thrill-Seek at Theme Parks Like Knott’s Berry Farm
A popular thing to do with family in Los Angeles, that's also one of the best birthday ideas in Los Angeles, is exploring some of the many captivating amusement parks within the region. The Los Angeles area boasts numerous theme parks, including the renowned Disneyland and Universal Studios. The smaller Knott’s Berry Farm is also an iconic destination for thrilling rides and family fun that's well worth checking out. No matter which park you decide to take your family to, you’re sure to have a fun-filled day with memories that will last a lifetime.
29. Spot Exotic Animals at Los Angeles Zoo
Seeing all the animals at the Los Angeles Zoo is a fantastic option for things to do with family in Los Angeles. With over 1,700 animals from all around the world and close to 800 different plant species, it’s a wonderland of exploration, learning and discovery. Get up close and personal with some of your favorite animals and watch your kids' sense of wonder flourish as you wander the park, checking out exhibits and grabbing some tasty snacks and cute gifts from the shop.
30. Camp Under the Stars at Leo Carrillo State Park
A short drive out of the city, nestled along the Malibu coast, a hidden gem awaits families seeking adventure and quality time together. Camping at Leo Carrillo State Park is one of the top activities and is an ideal thing to do with family in Los Angeles if your group enjoys outdoor adventures.
With its scenic beaches and coastal hiking trails, of varying difficulty levels, there are many kid-friendly things to do during the day. Once night sets in, camping under the stars and roasting marshmallows by the fire is the perfect way to end the day.
31. Pick Berries at Underwood Family Farms
For an authentic farm experience and a delightful thing to do with family in Los Angeles, plan a day of berry picking at Underwood Family Farms. Pluck ripe strawberries, raspberries and blueberries while bonding over this classic activity. Kids will love the chance to feed the animals, while adults can indulge their delights with the extensive farmer's market of fresh local delicacies.
32. Venture Along Venice Beach Boardwalk
Bursting with energy and character, strolling along the Venice Beach Boardwalk offers one of the most entertaining things to do with family in Los Angeles. From street performers and artists to quirky shops and delicious food stalls, there’s something for everyone. Kids will love the vibrant atmosphere, while adults can appreciate the culture and people-watching opportunities.
33. Putt Around Sherman Oaks Castle Park
Escaping the ordinary and stepping into a magical world at Sherman Oaks Castle Park is one of the most exciting things to do with family in Los Angeles. The elite mini-golf course provides a challenging yet fun experience for the whole family. The batting cages allow you to practice your swing, while the arcade promises hours of entertainment and fun. It’s the perfect destination for a fun-filled family outing!
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If you’re looking for things to do with family in Los Angeles, this article should have shown you that the possibilities are endless in the City of Angels. Explore world-famous theme parks, hike along stunning state parks and take in the wonder of the many museums. With its sunny climate and diverse offerings, LA provides an ideal setting for cherished family memories.
For even more ways to explore Los Angeles and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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