The best things to do in Los Angeles when traveling with kids

The City of Angels may be known for glitz and glamour, but many of the top activities delight visitors of all ages. Plan your family's visit with this guide to the best kid-friendly experiences in Los Angeles.

Is Los Angeles good for kids?

While the weather is predominantly great, traveling through Los Angeles with kids does pose some challenges, and it is not all sunshine.

One big issue is the sprawling nature of the city. Mix in heavy traffic and it can be a recipe for disaster, especially when getting around with kids. While the obvious fix would be to skip the car and use public transportation, many parts of LA lack efficient transit systems.

There is a solution, however: proper planning and a well-thought-out itinerary. Organization can minimize how much time you might spend stuck in traffic and working out how to get between sights. Narrow down your hit list with these top places to visit with kids.

Best things to do in Los Angeles with babies and toddlers

Play is for everyone at Shane's Inspiration Playground in Griffith Park

Griffith Park is known for the Los Angeles Zoo and some of the city's best hikes, and it's also home to Shane's Inspiration, an accessible playground. Parents Scott and Catherine Williams launched the playground in honor of their son Shane, who died when he was only a few weeks old due to a degenerative spinal condition. Knowing that their son would have needed a play space that was wheelchair accessible, they created the first accessible playground on the West Coast.

Shane's Inspiration Playground has 2 acres of play structures, like traditional yet accessible swings and slides, and interactive and sensory features. The founders wanted to create a judgment-free environment that encourages inclusion. This park is not only a great place to let kids burn off some extra energy; it's a friendly place to mix and meet other families, too.

Get hands-on at Cayton Children's Museum in Santa Monica

With science exhibits, a real-life helicopter, a theater and a large art room, the Cayton Children's Museum in downtown Santa Monica excels in providing educational and interactive experiences that spark kids' creativity and imaginations. Little tots have dedicated play areas to crawl and explore freely, with visitors up to 8 years old likely to have the most fun.

Planning tip: Family rest areas can be found throughout to recoup between play, and nursing and changing rooms are available.

Watch a puppet show at Bob Baker Marionette Theater in Highland Park

The Bob Baker Marionette Theater, founded in 1963, is the oldest children's theater company in Los Angeles. Its 100 beautifully designed and handcrafted marionettes are charmingly brought to life by puppeteers in colorful and choreographed displays.

The interactive 1-hour shows keep little ones captivated. Audiences are encouraged to participate through clapping, singing and dancing, and some kids may even find a puppet on their shoulder during the show. Ice cream afterward also makes it a winner.

Best things to do in Los Angeles with school-age kids

Connect with nature at Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark

Underwood Family Farms in Moorpark is a quick and easy day trip from Los Angeles. The working farm hosts activities that encourage kids to connect with nature and learn about agriculture, including fruit picking, farm tours and tractor rides. It also has an animal center where kids can pat and feed baby goats, sheep, pigs, alpacas and rabbits – a wholesome dose of fun for the entire family.

Learn about cars at Petersen Automotive Museum in Mid-Wilshire

If your child is a car enthusiast, take them to Petersen Automotive Museum for an unforgettable experience. The Los Angeles expo boasts a diverse collection of over 300 vehicles – including rare and custom cars – and does a great job at detailing the evolution and history of vehicles through the eras.

Activities and workshops are available for car buffs as young as 3, and exhibitions are frequently rotated. Following your visit, head across the street to see the fossils and other discoveries at La Brea Tar Pits and LACMA's art installation Urban Lights.

Best things to do in Los Angeles with tweens and teenagers

Linger with a great read at The Last Bookstore in Downtown

Bookworms unite at The Last Bookstore. California's largest indie new and used bookstore, this spot is both a reader's haven and an immersive experience. Books aren't just sitting on traditional shelves – they've been transformed into arch displays and sculptures. It is a popular spot for teens in search of great photo backdrops.

When you're done at the bookstore, visit the Natural History Museum – home to nearly 35 million artifacts – and take a ride on Angel's Flight, the shortest railway in the world.

Explore the exhibits at the California Science Center in Exposition Park

Even if your teen is not a science lover, the hands-on exhibitions at the California Science Center will win them over. Admission to the core exhibitions, like "Wave Physics" and "Air and Space," is free; there is an admission fee for special exhibits and IMAX screenings.

Outside of the California Science Center is the gorgeous and charming Rose Garden. Stop and smell the roses while you relax in the serenity and enjoy a bite outside.