There is so much more to Los Angeles than the glitz and glamor of Hollywood. With over 250 days of sunshine each year, stunning beaches, and theme parks, it’s the ideal playground for families looking for an unforgettable adventure.
If you’re planning your next family vacation, LA could be the perfect destination for you and your kids. Let’s take a look at some of the top activities it has to offer, as well as how to get around and where to stay after a busy day of fun.
How to Navigate the City
Before you get excited about planning all the exciting experiences you’re going to have with your family, it’s worth taking a moment to think about some of the practical elements of the trip. Trust me, it’ll pay off and make the whole vacation run a lot smoother!
One of the big ones is how you’re planning on getting around the city. Now, LA does have an extensive metro and bus system that runs throughout the city. However, running between platforms or waiting at bus stops, all while herding the kids and carrying bags and beach paraphernalia, doesn’t exactly give out relaxing vacation vibes.
It may cost more, but you’re better off choosing to rent a car from LA airport. It makes it a lot easier to get from place to place. There’s no waiting for buses or trying to figure out metro maps; you can work to your own schedule, and overall have a lot more freedom.
However, while this is definitely the most convenient way to get around, there are a few things to bear in mind. First, LA is famous for its congestion, so you could get stuck in some pretty serious bumper-to-bumper traffic. Try to avoid heading out during rush hour to miss the worst of it.
Secondly, parking in LA can get expensive, so you need to factor that into your budget. To give you some idea, general parking at theme parks is around $35, whereas on-street parking can be as high as $6 per hour, and even higher in coastal areas.
Family-Friendly Accommodation
The next practical aspect of your family vacation is where you’re going to stay. This can set the tone for your trip as it’s where you’ll start your day and where you’ll unwind after a busy day exploring.
Vacation rentals are a great option for families. They provide a communal space to come together as well as the ability to prepare your own meals, not something to be overlooked if you’ve got some picky eaters or are trying to stick to a budget.
If you want to be close to the beach, look for one in Santa Monica. It has a great family-friendly vibe, it’s very walkable, and it has lots of good restaurants. It can get quite crowded in the summer, but worth it for sunset walks down the pier.
For families who prefer a quieter atmosphere and aren’t too concerned about being close to the beach, take a look at vacation rentals in Los Feliz. Los Feliz provides the perfect balance between city and the outdoors. You’ll definitely need a car, but there are plenty of hikes, local cafes, and it’s close to Griffith Park.
However, maybe you want a break from cooking. In that case, a hotel might offer more of what you’re looking for. Here are some of the best ones to check out:
The Langham Huntingdon: With large grounds and great amenities, this hotel is great for families. It has a dedicated kids’ program with special meals and a passport scavenger hunt that your little ones will love.
Terranea Resort: You’ll need a car if you choose to stay here, but the beach access, kids club, and resort feel make it an ideal place to unwind and enjoy time together as a family.
The Garland: Located close to Universal Studios, this is a great option if you want to be close to the theme park. With family rooms, a pool, and a more central location, it combines the best of both worlds.
Top Family Attractions
So, you know where you’re staying and how you’ll get from A to B, it’s now time to plan what you’re going to do while you’re on your family vacation, and LA does not disappoint. There really is something for everyone and all ages.
Theme Parks
The top three theme parks have to be:
- Disneyland Resort
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- Six Flags Magic Mountain
If you’re heading to the theme parks, make sure to book your tickets ahead of time and get there early. You’ll avoid the worst of the crowds and it’ll be a bit cooler to walk around. It’s also worth downloading the park apps to get access to maps, wait times, show schedules, and mobile food ordering.
Beaches
With such good weather year-round, you’re going to want to head to the beach with your kids. Some of the best include:
- Santa Monica Beach & Pier: Think the iconic Ferris wheel, arcade games, and classic family fun.
- Venice Beach: Known for its quirky boardwalk, the bike paths and skate parks make it a good option for older kids.
- Manhattan Beach: This beach offers a much calmer vibe with wide sandy beaches, a pier, and family-friendly dining.
Other Activities
There’s more to LA than theme parks and beaches, so for alternative experiences, consider some of the following:
- Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens
- Aquarium of the Pacific
- California Science Center
- La Brea Tar Pits & Museum
These provide the perfect balance between excitement and education and can work well when dotted around beach days and the thrills of the theme parks.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles is packed with family adventures from magical theme parks to sunny beaches. You can chase thrills, explore museums, or simply enjoy the ocean breeze. You’ll have no trouble keeping the family busy. With a little planning, your LA getaway will be filled with memories that last long after the trip ends.
