LA with Kids
How to spend a family vacation in LA
We love living in Arizona and having California as our neighbor. We have taken countless family vacations there over the years and are excited to share our favorite things to do in Los Angeles with kids.
There are so many great beaches, but Santa Monica is one of our favorite.
You’ll find rides and midway games on the pier, as well as the end of the famed Route 66.
It's fun to explore under the pier and there’s also a playground on the beach to the left of the pier. Be sure to grab a sweet treat from Carlo’s Bakery while you’re in Santa Monica!
Hiking to the Hollywood Sign is a must! The best time to go is just before sunset where you can watch the city lights glittering below. Take the Hollyridge Trail, it’s four miles out and back
Stroll along Hollywood Boulevard and spot your favorite stars. Don’t miss the hand/foot/wand prints of the Harry Potter cast in the courtyard of the TCL Chinese Theater.
If you’re hungry, eat a burger in a train car at Carney’s, or grab a hot dog at the famous Pink’s Hot Dogs stand.
If you’re looking for a quiet place to escape, try the West Hollywood library where you can soak up the stunning city views from their large picture windows.
There are no shortage of amusement parks in California! Besides Disneyland and Universal Studios, our kids also love Knott’s Berry Farm and Six Flags Magic Mountain. Knott’s Berry is more affordable and is generally less crowded.
Take the one-hour ferry ride from LA and spend a day at Catalina Island. Our favorite thing to do here is rent a golf cart and take a scenic drive around the island. It is also a great spot for snorkeling and kayaking. Be sure to grab some ice cream from Lloyd’s Confectionery!
With so much to do in Los Angeles, it is bound to be a favorite family vacation destination!
