Things to Do in Southern California

Where urban energy meets nature and art—ride a swan boat in Echo Park, climb vintage trains in Griffith Park, or get inspired at world-class museums made for curious kids.

1. Kidspace Children’s Museum

   • Location: 480 N Arroyo Blvd, Pasadena

   • Best For Ages: 2–10

   • Why It’s Awesome: This outdoor/indoor wonderland blends science, nature, and imagination with mud kitchens, water play, and trike tracks.

   • Pro Tip: Bring water shoes and a change of clothes!

   • Icon Tags: Creative Play, Wet & Wild, Educational Fun

     
     

2. Travel Town Museum

   • Location: 5200 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles (Griffith Park)

   • Best For Ages: All ages

   • Why It’s Awesome: Climb aboard vintage trains and learn about railway history. It's outdoors and free!

   • Pro Tip: Bring a picnic and pair it with a ride on the nearby Griffith Park Mini Train.

   • Icon Tags: Budget Friendly, Outdoor Adventure, Wheels & Things

     
     

3. La Brea Tar Pits & Museum

   • Location: 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles

   • Best For Ages: 5+

   • Why It’s Awesome: Watch paleontologists dig up Ice Age fossils in real time, and explore bubbling tar pits.

   • Pro Tip: Check out the Observation Pit — it’s often missed but super cool!

   • Icon Tags: Science Buff, Budget Friendly, Chill Vibes

     
     

4. Echo Park Swan Boats

   • Location: 751 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles

   • Best For Ages: 3+ with grown-up help

   • Why It’s Awesome: Pedal-powered swan boats let you float in the city, with skyline views and lotus flowers all around.

   • Pro Tip: Book a sunset ride for golden hour family photos.

   • Icon Tags: Wet & Wild, City Views, Insta Moments

     
     

     

     Echo Park Swan Boat Rentals

     
     

5. El Capitan Theatre Movie Experience

   • Location: 6838 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood

   • Best For Ages: 3+

   • Why It’s Awesome: Disney films with live stage shows, confetti blasts, and character appearances.

   • Pro Tip: Book balcony seating for a less crowded experience.

   • Icon Tags: Movie Magic, Indoor Fun, Bucket List Stop

     
     

6. The Getty Center Garden & Art Scavenger Hunt

   • Location: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles

   • Best For Ages: 6+

   • Why It’s Awesome: Beautiful gardens, cool art, and a free tram ride up the hill = fancy fun.

   • Pro Tip: Pack sketchbooks and let kids recreate their favorite pieces.

   • Icon Tags: Chill Vibes, Educational Fun, Free Entry

     
     

7. Annenberg Community Beach House

   • Location: 415 Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica

   • Best For Ages: All ages

   • Why It’s Awesome: Splash pad, beach access, playground, and historic pool (seasonal).

   • Pro Tip: Check their free event calendar for storytime, crafts, and beach games.

   • Icon Tags: Beach Day, Budget Friendly, All-Day Fun

     
     

8. The Gentle Barn

   • Location: 15825 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita

   • Best For Ages: 4+

   • Why It’s Awesome: Hug cows, feed chickens, and connect with rescued animals in a loving, peaceful setting.

   • Pro Tip: Advance reservations required — it books out fast!

   • Icon Tags: Animal Lover, Heartwarming Vibes, Outdoor Learning

     
     

9. The Huntington Children’s Garden

   • Location: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino

   • Best For Ages: 3–10

   • Why It’s Awesome: Mist tunnels, musical rocks, and bubbling fountains — nature play meets Zen!

   • Pro Tip: Entry can be pricey, but it's free the first Thursday of each month (reserve early!).

   • Icon Tags: Botanical Beauty, Creative Play, Water Fun

     
     

10.      Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area

    • Location: 4100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles

    • Best For Ages: All ages

    • Why It’s Awesome: Massive park with hiking trails, duck ponds, playgrounds, and city skyline views.

    • Pro Tip: Go at golden hour for epic views of downtown and the Hollywood Sign.

    • Icon Tags: Outdoor Adventure, Budget Friendly, Scenic Picnic

 Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area