Planning a Family Vacation to Los Angeles
Experience the dynamic energy of downtown Los Angeles — where soaring skyscrapers meet iconic California palm trees!
Los Angeles is one of those rare destinations where families can blend sun, culture, and a little Hollywood magic into one unforgettable trip. From iconic sights to hidden gems, there's something here for every traveler — even if you’re not planning to spend the entire vacation chasing celebrities or standing in line at theme parks.
Whether you're dreaming of a beachside stroll in Santa Monica, a studio tour in Hollywood, or a museum day in Griffith Park, Los Angeles delivers family-friendly experiences that are both fun and flexible. Here’s how to make the most of your family vacation in LA — without the overwhelm.
Top Family Attractions in Los Angeles
Ride the Ferris wheel, play games, and soak up the sunshine at the vibrant Santa Monica Pier — a family favorite!
LA offers an incredible mix of outdoor adventure, kid-friendly museums, and classic California charm. A few family favorites include:
Griffith Park: Home to the Griffith Observatory, LA Zoo, and Travel Town Museum. Pack a picnic, go for a hike, or enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Santa Monica Pier: This iconic boardwalk is a hit with kids of all ages — think arcade games, a small amusement park, and beachfront dining.
Hollywood Walk of Fame: Touristy? Sure. But spotting names on the stars and snapping a family photo in front of the TCL Chinese Theatre is still a must-do for first-timers.
The Getty Center: A surprising win for families, thanks to the kid-friendly exhibits, outdoor gardens, and scenic tram ride up to the museum.
La Brea Tar Pits: Where else can your kids learn about ice age fossils while watching real scientists at work?
For even more helpful tips on planning stress-free family vacations, be sure to check out our Summer Vacation Planning Guide!
Budget Tips Without Sacrificing the Fun
Soak in the magic of Los Angeles from the iconic Griffith Observatory — one of the best sunset views in the city!
Los Angeles doesn’t have to break the bank — here are a few smart strategies to stretch your vacation dollars:
CityPASS or Go City LA: These attraction bundles can save you money if you plan to visit multiple top spots.
Free museum days: Many museums offer free admission on select days — including The Natural History Museum and The California Science Center.
Skip the car when you can: LA traffic is real. Stay in a walkable area or use the Metro to avoid parking fees and stress.
Choose the right time to travel: Spring and fall offer great weather, fewer crowds, and better hotel rates than peak summer months.
Why Plan Your LA Trip With a Travel Advisor?
Capture the excitement of Hollywood with a stroll along the world-famous Walk of Fame!
Los Angeles is massive — and it can be tough to know where to stay, what to prioritize, and how to keep everyone happy. That’s where I come in. I help busy families plan smart, personalized vacations that blend the best of Los Angeles with your family’s unique travel style.
From hotel recommendations with kid-friendly perks to custom itineraries that keep everyone engaged (and no one exhausted), I’ll help you skip the overwhelm and focus on the fun.
Ready to start planning your family vacation to Los Angeles?
Let’s build a trip your whole crew will remember! Click the link below to submit your Custom Vacation Proposal Request and your agent will be in touch right away!
