Planning a weekend family getaway in Los Angeles? Whether you’re a local looking for new adventures or visiting for the first time, this city is packed with family-friendly activities that will keep everyone entertained. But with so much to do, it can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with some fun, stress-free ideas that will make your family weekend getaway one to remember!
Start with Some Beach Fun
You really can’t say you’ve enjoyed Los Angeles without spending some time by the ocean. Whether your little ones love building sandcastles or the older kids want to try boogie boarding, the beach is the perfect place to kick off your weekend. Santa Monica Beach is the perfect spot, with its soft sand and the famous Santa Monica Pier. The pier has a little bit of everything—an amusement park, arcade games, and even a small aquarium. If you prefer something a bit quieter, El Matador Beach is ideal.
Book a Boat Cruise
Looking for an adventure your kids will talk about for weeks? Treat the family to a boat cruise! There are several companies in LA offering relaxing harbor cruises. Some of these companies also provide whale watching LA tours, where you experience close-up views of the whales and joyous dolphins. These tours take you out into the open water to search for magnificent gray and blue whales during their migration season. It’s an incredible experience for both kids and adults—after all, nothing compares to seeing one of the ocean’s giants glide gracefully by your boat.
Explore Griffith Park
You could easily spend a whole day here! Start with a hike to the Griffith Observatory. It’s a bit of a workout, but the view at the top is worth it. Plus, the observatory has plenty of fun, interactive exhibits that make learning about space exciting for kids.
Another must-visit is the LA Zoo, which is right in Griffith Park. From gorillas to flamingos, it’s a great way to get some animal time in while keeping the little ones entertained.
Get Artsy at the Museum
If you’re looking for something a little more laid-back but still fun, head over to the Getty Center. Yes, it’s an art museum, but it’s also surprisingly family-friendly. The tram ride up the hill is an adventure in itself, and the museum grounds are perfect for kids to roam around. The Getty also offers special family programs, like art workshops and scavenger hunts, making it easy to keep everyone engaged.
Grab Lunch at a Food Truck Park
Los Angeles is known for its food trucks, and they are a great way to keep everyone happy (because, let’s face it, pleasing multiple picky eaters isn’t always easy). Head to Smorgasburg on a Sunday if you’re in town—it’s a massive food market with trucks serving everything from tacos to ice cream. If you’re out on a Saturday, check out the food truck gathering at Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice.
Hit the Theme Parks
If your kids are theme park lovers, it’s hard to beat a day at Universal Studios Hollywood or Disneyland.
Universal Studios is perfect for a shorter visit—kids can meet their favorite movie characters and enjoy some thrilling rides, all within a manageable space. Plus, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a must-see! If you’ve got a full day (and a lot of energy), head to Disneyland in nearby Anaheim.
Discover Downtown LA
You might not think of Downtown as a family-friendly destination, but it’s full of surprises. Start at the California Science Center, where kids can learn about space and ecosystems and even see the real Endeavour Space Shuttle up close. It’s educational but also super fun—and did I mention it’s free? After that, take a stroll through Grand Park, where the kids can splash around in the interactive fountain while you enjoy the city views.
Wind Down with a Movie Under the Stars
End your weekend on a relaxing note with an outdoor movie night. During the warmer months, outdoor screenings are hosted in parks all over the city, with family-friendly films that are perfect for a cozy evening under the stars. Bring a blanket and some popcorn, and let the kids wind down while you enjoy a glass of wine (or a soda—no judgment). Check the schedule on sites like Street Food Cinema or Cinespia to find a screening during your visit.
Wrapping Up
Exploring Los Angeles with your family can be so much fun. With a little planning and a flexible attitude, you’ll discover that this city is full of exciting adventures for kids and parents alike. Hit the beach, ride ponies, or see a family movie under the stars; there’s no shortage of ways to make your weekend getaway in LA unforgettable.