Here's a deal every bookworm (and every burger-loving parent) can get behind: from October 3 to November 14, 2026, kids ages 4 to 12 can earn a FREE In-N-Out hamburger or cheeseburger for every five books or 300 minutes they read, up to three burgers each. The In-N-Out Cover to Cover reading program is free, and you sign up at a participating public library in Los Angeles or Orange County. Little ones who aren't reading yet still count, because parents can read to them. Below, we break down exactly how the program works, how to join at LA Public Library, Long Beach, and OC Public Libraries, and our tips for collecting all three burgers before the deadline. In-N-Out Cover to Cover 2026 at a Glance When: Saturday, October 3 through Saturday, November 14, 2026 Who: Kids ages 4 to 12 The goal: Read 5 books or 300 minutes The reward: An Achievement Award good for a free hamburger or cheeseburger at In-N-Out Limit: Up to 3 awards per child (15 books total) Cost: Free Where to sign up: Participating public library branches in LA County and Orange County Dates can vary slightly by library (a few LA Public Library branches started sign-ups October 1), so check your branch's event page or give them a quick call before you go. How the In-N-Out Cover to Cover Reading Program Works In-N-Out runs Cover to Cover with local libraries every year, and the rules are refreshingly simple. Your child picks up a reading log, reads, and turns in the completed log for a reward. Kids ages 4 to 12 can join. If your child isn't reading on their own yet, you can read the books aloud or read together for 300 minutes. Each time your child finishes 5 books or 300 minutes, they earn one Achievement Award for a free hamburger or cheeseburger at In-N-Out. A parent or guardian signs the reading log once the 5 books or 300 minutes are done. Each child can earn up to 3 awards during the program. Children must be present when the award is handed out at the library, and when it's used at In-N-Out. Books at your child's reading level count, and so do the stories you already read at bedtime. Libraries typically want titles (or minutes) written on the log, so keep it handy. How to Join in Los Angeles Most LA families will sign up through their local public library. Here's how the big systems are handling it this fall. Los Angeles Public Library Dates: October 3 – November 14, 2026 (some branches started October 1) How to join: Visit a participating branch to sign up and get a reading log Branches confirmed online include: Cahuenga, Chinatown, Lincoln Heights, North Hollywood, Robert Louis Stevenson, Van Nuys, and Woodland Hills LAPL lists the program as Cover to Cover Reading Club on individual branch calendars. Children must be present to redeem, and participants can earn up to three awards. If your neighborhood branch isn't listed, call or ask at the children's desk, since more branches may be participating. Parent tip: All LAPL branches are closed Monday, October 12, for Indigenous Peoples' Day, so plan your sign-up or award pickup around it. Long Beach Public Library Dates: October 3 – November 14, 2026 How to join: Pick up the official reading tracker at any Long Beach Public Library location Questions: Children's Information Desk, (562) 570-5644 Long Beach asks families to write book titles or minutes on the log along with a parent or guardian signature. Kids must be present with a parent or guardian to redeem, and award cards can be redeemed up to one week after the program ends. Other LA County Libraries Many city libraries run their own Cover to Cover programs. South Pasadena Public Library starts sign-ups October 3, and kids must be present with a parent to pick up certificates. Monterey Park Bruggemeyer Library is also participating, with up to 15 books logged for three certificates. If you use LA County Library, Pasadena, Glendale, Burbank, or Santa Monica libraries, check your branch's calendar or call ahead. Participation varies by library, and we couldn't confirm every system's 2026 plans online. How to Join in Orange County OC Public Libraries Dates: October 3 – November 14, 2026 How to join: Visit your local OC Public Libraries branch to sign up Branches: OC Public Libraries has 29 branches countywide, from Aliso Viejo to Westminster OC Public Libraries has a few extra rules worth knowing before you go: Only one certificate is given per visit. No certificates are issued on the day you sign up. Claim certificates at the same library where your child registered. Your child must be present with a parent or guardian at redemption. City-run libraries in Orange County (like Anaheim, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, or Placentia) operate separately from OC Public Libraries, so check their websites for their own Cover to Cover details. Step by Step: From Library Card to Cheeseburger Step 1: Call or check your library's online calendar to confirm they're participating. Step 2: Bring your child to the library to sign up and pick up a reading log. Step 3: Read 5 books or 300 minutes and write each title (or the minutes) on the log. Step 4: Sign the log as the parent or guardian. Step 5: Return to the same library with your child to collect the Achievement Award. Step 6: Bring your child to In-N-Out to enjoy the free hamburger or cheeseburger. Repeat up to two more times! Parent Tips to Earn All 3 Free Burgers Start early: Six weeks goes fast. Reading about 15 minutes a day gets you to 300 minutes in less than three weeks. Mix books and minutes: Picture books add up quickly for younger kids, while minutes work better for chapter-book readers. Count family reading: Bedtime stories and read-alouds with siblings count toward the log. Keep the log in one spot: A clipboard by the bookshelf makes it easy to jot titles before you forget. Spread out pickups: Some libraries give out only one certificate per visit, so don't wait until the last week to collect all three. Bring your child every time: Kids need to be present to receive their award at the library and to use it at In-N-Out. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join fellow LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway The In-N-Out Cover to Cover program is one of the easiest ways to keep kids excited about reading this fall. Sign up at a participating LA or OC library between October 3 and November 14, 2026, read 5 books or 300 minutes, and your child earns a free burger, up to three times. Our favorite part? It turns reading into a family goal, and the reward is a meal everyone in SoCal already loves. Frequently Asked Questions When is the In-N-Out Cover to Cover reading program in 2026? At LA Public Library, Long Beach Public Library, and OC Public Libraries, the 2026 fall program runs October 3 through November 14, 2026. A few branches started sign-ups slightly earlier, so check your local library's calendar for its exact dates and any award pickup deadlines. Who can join In-N-Out Cover to Cover? Children ages 4 to 12 are eligible. Kids who aren't reading on their own yet can still take part, because a parent or guardian may read five books aloud or read with them for 300 minutes. The program is free, and you sign up at a participating public library. How many free burgers can my child earn? Each child can earn up to three Achievement Awards during the program, one for every five books or 300 minutes read. That means reading 15 books (or 900 minutes) gets your child three free In-N-Out hamburgers or cheeseburgers by the end of the program. Can I sign up for In-N-Out Cover to Cover online? LA Public Library, Long Beach, and OC Public Libraries ask families to sign up in person and pick up a paper reading log. Some libraries elsewhere use the Beanstack app, so ask your branch whether online logging is available before you start tracking reading. Does my child need to be there to get the free burger? Yes. Libraries require the child to be present to receive the Achievement Award, and OC Public Libraries and Long Beach also require a parent or guardian. Bring your child along to In-N-Out when you redeem the award for a free hamburger or cheeseburger. ❤️ You May Also Like FREE Perks that Come With Your LA Public Library Card! Free Birthday Treats for Kids in LA: 55+ Freebies for 2026! Free Events Near Me: The Ultimate 2026 Guide to LA Family Fun on a Budget! 📌 Share the Love & Pin It!

Somewhere between Pokémon cards and a first crush, your little boy starts changing in ways that can catch you both off guard. Puberty is a completely normal part of growing up, and it goes a lot more smoothly when parents know what's coming and can explain it before he has to look it up on his own. Puberty in boys usually starts between ages 9 and 14, and the very first sign is one you probably won't see: the testicles quietly getting bigger. Body odor and a few underarm hairs can show up years before that. From start to finish, the whole process typically takes two to five years. If your son suddenly needs deodorant, eats like a linebacker at age 10, or cracks his voice mid-sentence, you're in good company. We dug into guidance from pediatricians and children's hospitals to map out what happens, in what order, and how to talk about it so he hears it from you first, not from a group chat. A quick note: we're family writers, not doctors. This guide is for general information, so bring any specific worries about your child to his pediatrician. Key Takeaways: Puberty in Boys at a Glance When it starts: most boys begin between ages 9 and 14. Puberty is considered early before age 9 and delayed if it hasn't started by 14. First sign: the testicles start to enlarge, followed by pubic hair and, later, the big growth spurt. What can come years earlier: body odor, oily skin and a few hairs from adrenarche, which often begins around ages 6 to 8. Biggest growth spurt: Stage 4, when some boys grow close to 4 inches in a year. How long it lasts: about two to five years. Most boys finish growing by around age 17. When Does Puberty Start for Boys? According to the American Academy of Pediatrics' HealthyChildren.org guide to delayed puberty, about 95% of boys start puberty between ages 9 and 14. Boys also tend to start about two years later than girls, which is why the tallest kids in a fifth-grade class photo are often girls. It all kicks off in the brain. The pituitary gland releases hormones that tell the testicles to make more testosterone, and that hormone drives most of the changes your son will notice over the next few years. Timing varies a lot from kid to kid. Two boys born the same month can look years apart in middle school, and both can be perfectly healthy. Doctors pay attention to the order and pace of the changes, not just his birthday. The 5 Stages of Puberty in Boys (Tanner Stages) Doctors track puberty with the Tanner scale, a five-stage system named after British pediatrician Dr. James Tanner. Your pediatrician may check it quickly during a well-child visit. Here's what each stage generally looks like, with age ranges from Cleveland Clinic's guide to the Tanner stages. Stage 1: Before Puberty Typical ages: childhood, until puberty begins No visible pubertal changes yet. Behind the scenes, the adrenal glands may already be maturing, which is why some kids get stinky armpits or oily hair well before anything else changes. Stage 2: Puberty Officially Begins Typical ages: about 9 to 14 The testicles and scrotum begin to grow, and a small amount of fine pubic hair may appear. Height picks up to roughly 2 to 2.5 inches a year. Most boys don't announce this one, so it often comes and goes without parents noticing. Stage 3: Growing Fast and Voice Cracks Typical ages: about 10 to 16 Growth continues, and hair gets darker and coarser. Height speeds up to about 2.75 to 3 inches a year, and the voice may start to crack as the voice box grows. Some boys also notice temporary swelling or tenderness under the nipples, which is common and usually goes away. Stage 4: The Big Growth Spurt Typical ages: about 11 to 16 This is the peak growth window, with some boys growing close to 4 inches in a year. Acne often shows up, body hair fills in, the voice keeps deepening, and the appetite can feel bottomless. Expect new shoe sizes and pants that are suddenly too short. Stage 5: Adult Development Typical ages: varies; most boys finish growing by about 17 Physical development is complete or nearly complete, and growth in height slows and stops. Facial hair often doesn't fill in until this stage. Every boy moves through these stages at his own speed. One may go from Stage 2 to Stage 4 in two years; another may take much longer. Both can be completely normal. What Really Happens First: The Order of Puberty Changes in Boys Puberty doesn't follow a neat checklist. Some changes start years before puberty itself, and many others overlap. Here's how the timeline actually unfolds. Body odor often comes first: body odor, oily skin and the first few underarm or pubic hairs come from the adrenal glands. This separate process, called adrenarche, usually starts around ages 6 to 8, about two years before puberty begins. Testosterone drives the rest: true puberty begins when the testicles start making more testosterone, a process called gonadarche. It kicks off at Stage 2 and powers every change through Stage 5. Wet dreams happen mid-puberty: most boys have their first ejaculation, often as a wet dream, between about 12 and 16, typically around 14. That's usually well before they finish growing. Changes overlap: voice, hair and skin changes don't arrive one at a time. Most happen together during Stages 3 and 4. Why does this matter? If body odor shows up at age 8, your son may worry that something is wrong. Knowing the real order helps you reassure him that he's right on track. Puberty Changes That Surprise Boys (and Parents) Some changes arrive with zero warning, and a little heads-up goes a long way. These are the ones worth mentioning before they happen. Body odor and sweat: puberty hormones ramp up sweat glands, and skin bacteria create the smell. A daily shower and deodorant usually solve it. Acne and oily skin: common in mid-puberty. A gentle face wash twice a day helps; ask the pediatrician if breakouts are painful or leaving marks. Voice cracks: the voice box grows and the voice deepens during Stages 3 and 4. The squeaks are temporary. Breast tissue swelling: about half of boys get temporary swelling or tenderness under one or both nipples, according to Cleveland Clinic, and it usually fades by the end of puberty. Wet dreams and surprise erections: both are normal parts of a body making more testosterone. Telling him ahead of time saves a lot of private panic. A bottomless appetite: a fast-growing body needs plenty of fuel and sleep, so expect pantry raids. Bigger feelings: mood swings, a need for more privacy, and wanting more independence often show up alongside the physical changes. How to Talk to Your Son About Puberty (Without the Cringe) Start earlier than feels necessary. KidsHealth's advice on talking about puberty suggests opening the conversation before puberty begins, since some kids start as young as 8 or 9 and many won't bring it up on their own. Our Favorite Ways to Make It Less Awkward Talk side by side, not face to face: car rides, walks and hikes take the pressure off eye contact. A loop on a Griffith Park trail or a stroll on the beach path can turn into your best conversation of the month. Go small and often: a few minutes here and there beats one big "talk." Circle back after he's had time to think. Use the real words: correct names for body parts keep the information clear and show that nothing about his body is shameful. Hand him a good book: a title like Guy Stuff: The Body Book for Boys by pediatrician Dr. Cara Natterson gives him something private to read, and you can offer to answer questions after. Say the magic sentence: "You can ask me anything, and I won't be weird about it." Then try very hard not to be weird about it. Moms, you've got this too: boys benefit from hearing from every trusted adult in their lives, not only dads. Parent tip: If you're nervous, practice out loud first. Kids are usually relieved when a parent takes the lead, even if they roll their eyes. Need a low-pressure place to start? Our list of fun things to do with teenagers in Los Angeles is full of side-by-side outings. What California Schools Teach About Puberty Under the California Healthy Youth Act, comprehensive sexual health education is required at least once in middle school and once in high school, and districts may choose to teach age-appropriate lessons earlier. According to the California Department of Education, schools must notify parents, let them review the materials, and honor written opt-out requests. Ask your child's school when puberty lessons happen and preview the materials. Then talk at home before and after, so your son hears your family's voice alongside the facts. When to Call Your Pediatrician About Puberty Most timing differences are normal, but a quick check-in is smart if: Signs start before age 9: testicular growth, pubic hair or a sudden growth spurt before 9 can signal early puberty, according to KidsHealth's guide to precocious puberty. No signs by age 14: HealthyChildren.org considers puberty delayed if it hasn't started by 14. Something seems off: he's much shorter or taller than his peers, or very worried about how his body is changing. Breast swelling doesn't fade: most cases go away on their own, but it's worth asking about if it sticks around. He's struggling emotionally: ongoing sadness, anxiety or withdrawal deserves a conversation with his doctor. CHLA Teenage and Young Adult Health Clinic Address: 3250 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 300, Los Angeles, CA 90010 Phone: 323-361-2153 Ages: 12 to 24 Part of Children's Hospital Los Angeles' Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine program, this clinic offers routine medical care for teens and young adults, plus mental health counseling. It's a helpful option if your teen would benefit from a doctor who focuses on adolescents. Call ahead about appointments, hours and insurance. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join fellow LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway Puberty in boys usually begins between 9 and 14, starts with changes you can't see, and unfolds over two to five years. Body odor may arrive years before the rest, and the biggest growth spurt usually lands in Stage 4. The most powerful thing you can do is go first. Talk early, keep it short and frequent, and let your son know no question is off-limits. A calm, informed parent turns a confusing time into a manageable one. Frequently Asked Questions What is the first sign of puberty in boys? The first true sign of puberty in boys is enlargement of the testicles, usually between ages 9 and 14, and it's easy for parents to miss. Body odor, oily skin and a few underarm hairs often show up earlier, but those come from adrenarche, a separate process that can start around ages 6 to 8. At what age do boys start puberty? Most boys start puberty between ages 9 and 14, about two years later than girls on average. Puberty that begins before age 9 is considered early, and puberty that hasn't started by age 14 is considered delayed. Both are worth discussing with your child's pediatrician. What are the 5 stages of puberty in boys? Doctors use the five Tanner stages. Stage 1 is before puberty. Stage 2 brings testicular growth and early hair. Stage 3 brings faster growth and voice cracks. Stage 4 is the peak growth spurt, with acne and a deeper voice. Stage 5 is adult development, when growth slows and stops. How long does puberty last for boys? Puberty in boys typically lasts two to five years, from the first changes to the end of growth. Most boys finish growing in height by around age 17, though timing varies. Boys who start later often finish later, and that pattern is usually normal. When should I talk to my son about puberty? Start before puberty begins, ideally around ages 8 or 9, since some boys show early signs by then. Keep it to short, frequent conversations instead of one big talk, use correct terms, and make it clear he can always come to you with questions. ❤️ You May Also Like 20 Free Mental Health Services and Resources for Youth and Their Families 65 Fun Things to Do with Teenagers in Los Angeles: The Ultimate Guide How to Handle a Disrespectful Teen with Confidence

Every fall, the kids at school start trading stories about Halloween Horror Nights: who screamed loudest, who bailed halfway through a maze, and which clown was the absolute worst. Sooner or later, one of those stories comes home with a question attached. "Can I go?" Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood is Southern California's biggest scare event, and it's built for grown-ups who love horror movies. That doesn't mean every family needs a flat "no." In this guide, we cover what's happening at Universal Studios Hollywood in 2026, what Universal says about age, why we'd leave the little ones at home, and how to decide whether your teen is ready, with you or with friends. What Is Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood? Halloween Horror Nights (HHN) is a separately ticketed, after-dark event at Universal Studios Hollywood. Once the sun goes down, the studio lot fills with fog, strobe lights and professional scare actors whose whole job is to make you jump. Your regular daytime park ticket does not get you in. The heart of the night is the haunted houses (fans call them mazes). Each one is a walk-through set built around a horror movie, TV series or original story, with scare actors popping out of walls, windows and hidden doors. Add outdoor scare zones, the famous Terror Tram on the backlot and a fiery stunt show, and you have a long, loud, very intense night. Halloween Horror Nights 2026 at Universal Studios Hollywood: At a Glance Dates: Select nights, Thursday, September 3 – Sunday, November 1, 2026 (a record 42 nights) Remaining nights: Sept. 26–27 and 30; Oct. 1–4, 7–11, 14–18, 21–25 and 28–31; Nov. 1 Start time: 7:00 p.m. (subject to change); closing times vary by night Early Access: Select haunted houses open at 5:30 p.m. for Early Access ticket holders Location: Universal Studios Hollywood, 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608 Age advisory: Not recommended for children under 13 Tickets: Separate ticket required; prices vary by night Here's the planning reality: weekend and late-October nights are the most popular, and prices climb as Halloween gets closer. If you're on the fence, a Thursday or Sunday earlier in October is usually the gentler choice for your wallet. You can check the current calendar and buy tickets on the official Halloween Horror Nights ticket page. The 2026 Haunted Houses Universal announced eight houses for Hollywood this year. Five are shared with the Orlando event and three are Hollywood's own. Knowing what each one is based on is the single best way to judge whether it's right for your teen, since most of the source material is rated R. Sinners Based on the Academy Award-winning Warner Bros. film. If your teen hasn't seen the movie, know that the house leans into vampires, blood and mature themes. Stranger Things Inspired by the fifth season of the Netflix series. This is the one most teens will beg to do first, and it's the most familiar entry point for fans who aren't hard-core horror viewers. Hellraiser Drawn from the first three films, with Pinhead and the Cenobites. It's gory, disturbing and firmly in adults-only movie territory. We'd skip it for younger teens. Evil Dead Burn Based on the sixth film in the Evil Dead franchise. Expect possession, screaming and plenty of fake blood. Ozzy Osbourne: Prince of Darkness A heavy-metal tribute house built around the legacy of the rock star. It's loud, theatrical and a bit more "concert from the underworld" than pure gore. Killer Klowns From Outer Space The 1980s cult classic returns to Hollywood with murderous alien clowns in a candy-colored funhouse. It's campy and silly, but clowns are a hard no for some kids. KILLceañera: Music by SLASH An all-original house that turns a quinceañera into a revenge story, with an original Spanish-guitar score by SLASH. It continues Universal's tradition of houses rooted in Latin American myths and legends. Dead, Deader, Deadest An original house set inside an abandoned funeral home where terrible things once happened. The setting alone makes it one of the creepier options. Parent tip: Watch trailers together first. If a movie trailer is too much for your teen, the house will be too, because the house puts them inside the scene with actors inches away. Terror Tram, Scare Zones and Shows Terror Tram starring Art the Clown The Terror Tram drops you on the Universal backlot and lets you walk through it on foot. This year's host is Art the Clown from the Terrifier movies, which are some of the goriest horror films of recent years. He hijacks the tram for a twisted Christmas party set to new music from metal band Ice Nine Kills. Art also roams the park, so he can pop up anywhere. Scare Zones Scare zones are outdoor areas packed with roaming scare actors, and they're the part of HHN you can't avoid on your way between houses. This year's lineup includes Hackerz (chainsaw killers), Fortnitemares (based on Fortnite's Halloween in-game event, a big hit with teens), El Circo de la Muerte (a sinister 1930s Mexican circus), Blood Bog (moss monsters) and Murder of Crowz. Nikki from the horror film Obsession also turns up on the streets. The Purge: Dangerous Waters This stunt show returns to the WaterWorld venue with fire, explosions and a fight-to-survive storyline. It's a good place to sit down and catch your breath between houses. Rides That Stay Open Select attractions run during the event, including Revenge of the Mummy, Transformers: The Ride-3D and The Simpsons Ride. Super Nintendo World is also open during HHN, but access depends on your ticket type, so check your ticket terms before you promise anyone a Mario Kart run. Death Eaters roam The Wizarding World of Harry Potter starting in the early evening. If you have a thrill-seeker at home, our guide to Fast & Furious: Hollywood Drift covers the park's newest coaster, which is included with some HHN ticket types. Halloween Horror Nights Age Limit: What Universal Actually Says There is no minimum age to enter Halloween Horror Nights. Universal's official warning says the event "may be too intense for young children" and is not recommended for children under 13. That's advice, not a gate rule, and the call is left to parents. A few official rules matter for kids and teens, too. Costumes are subject to Universal's costume policy and costume masks are not allowed, so your teen can't show up disguised as Ghostface. Your ticket may require photo ID at the gate. Alcohol is served to guests 21 and older with a valid ID only. We also looked for a written chaperone rule for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood and did not find one in Universal's published event information. That can change, especially after a busy season, so check the official Halloween Horror Nights page right before you buy a ticket for a teen going without a parent. Why We Don't Recommend Taking Little Kids We love a spooky season as much as anyone, but HHN isn't "Halloween, a little scarier." It's a horror-movie event for adults, and it's hard on young kids in ways that aren't obvious until you're inside. Scare actors don't pull punches for small guests. They don't touch you, but they're trained to startle everyone who walks by. A 7-year-old gets the same chainsaw roar as a 30-year-old. There's no easy way out. Once you're inside a house, you're moving through it with the crowd. Carrying a terrified, crying child through a dark maze is no fun for anyone. The content is R-rated. Most of the houses are based on R-rated movies, with gore, dismemberment and disturbing imagery your child can't unsee. It's a sensory overload. Strobe lights, thick fog, loud music and sudden noises go on for hours. Kids with sensory sensitivities, anxiety or seizure concerns can really struggle. It runs very late. The event starts at 7 p.m. and lines for popular houses can stretch past an hour, so most families are out well past bedtime. Nightmares are real. A few minutes of screaming fun can turn into weeks of bad dreams and a kid who won't sleep with the lights off. If your younger kids want spooky fun, there are dozens of better fits across LA. Check out our list of family-friendly Halloween events in Los Angeles for daytime parties, trick-or-treat trails and pumpkin patches built for them. Is Your Teen Ready for Halloween Horror Nights? Turning 13 doesn't flip a switch. Some 13-year-olds will have the night of their lives, and some 16-year-olds will want to go home after one house. Ask yourself a few honest questions: Does your teen watch R-rated horror movies and enjoy them, without trouble sleeping afterward? Have they done a haunted house or scare maze before, and how did it go? Can they handle a late night and still function the next day? Are they going because they want to, or because their friends are going? Can they tell you "I'm done" without feeling embarrassed? If you answered yes to most of these, your teen may be ready. If you hesitated on more than one, a year of waiting (or a tamer haunt first) is a perfectly good plan. Tips for Parents Going With Teens Pick Your Night Wisely Earlier dates and weeknights tend to be less crowded than Friday, Saturday and the final week of October. Fewer people means shorter lines and a calmer night, which helps a first-timer. Consider Early Access or Express Early Access gets you into select houses starting at 5:30 p.m., before the full crowd arrives. Universal Express lets you skip the regular line once per house. Both cost more, but they can turn a late, exhausting night into a manageable one. Start With the Tamer Houses Build your house order like a warm-up. Start with something campy like Killer Klowns or a familiar favorite like Stranger Things, and save the gorier houses for later, if at all. Your teen can always skip one. Set a Code Word Agree on a word that means "I need a break, no questions asked." It gives your teen an easy exit without losing face in front of friends. Stores, restrooms and restaurants are good spots to regroup. Eat Before the Scares Outside food and drinks aren't allowed, so plan to buy dinner inside or eat before you go. The event has its own themed menu, and the Halloween Horror Nights Dining Pass returns for 2026 if you'd rather pay once for several meals and snacks. Should You Let Your Teen Go to Halloween Horror Nights With Friends? This is the question most parents are really asking. There's no single right answer, but here's how we'd think it through. Why It Can Work For an older teen with a good track record, a night at HHN with friends can be a fun rite of passage. It's a ticketed event with security screening, lots of staff and a well-lit park between houses. If your teen is responsible, keeps their phone charged and sticks with the group, it can be a great night out. Why You Might Wait The event runs late, crowds are huge, and adults are drinking in the park. Teen groups also tend to split up when one friend wants to do "just one more house" and another wants to leave. For a younger teen, especially a first-timer, we'd strongly suggest going together first so you know how they handle it. Ground Rules If You Say Yes Share locations on everyone's phones and pack a portable charger. Set a check-in time and a firm pickup time and place. Agree on a meeting spot in case the group gets separated. Nobody leaves the park or wanders off alone. Bring photo ID and keep tickets on their own phone. Know who's driving and how they're getting home. Our honest take: for 13- and 14-year-olds, go with them. For 15- and 16-year-olds, it depends on the teen and the friends. For 17 and up with a solid plan, it's usually a reasonable yes. Tickets, Parking and What to Bring Ticket options include General Admission, Early Access, Universal Express, the R.I.P. Tour (a guided VIP experience), Day/Night and After 2 P.M. Day/Night tickets, plus the Frequent Fear Pass and Ultimate Fear Pass for repeat visits. Prices change by date, so compare nights on the official ticket page. The event runs rain or shine, and there are no refunds. Parking isn't included with HHN tickets. Universal offers several parking tiers, and current prices are on its Directions and Parking page. The Metro B Line's Universal City/Studio City station is another option if you'd rather skip the parking structures. Pack light: comfortable closed-toe shoes, a light jacket (the backlot gets chilly after dark), a phone charger and photo ID. Leave costume masks at home. If you want to see what else is happening at the park this season, our guide to Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood covers the family-friendly Grinchmas season that follows HHN. Family-Friendly Halloween Alternatives for Kids Under 13 If your crew is too young for HHN, you've got plenty of spooky options that still feel special. Here are a few we love: Halloween Time at Disneyland: Haunted Mansion Holiday, the Main Street pumpkin and Oogie Boogie Bash. Boo at the L.A. Zoo: daytime trick-or-treating with the animals. Brick or Treat at LEGOLAND California: a colorful, not-scary Halloween party for younger kids. The best LA neighborhoods for trick-or-treating: a classic Halloween night out. Halloween movies for a family movie night: all the spooky vibes, none of the chainsaws. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood is a fantastic night out for horror-loving adults and teens who are truly ready for it, but it's not a kids' Halloween event. Universal doesn't recommend it for anyone under 13, and after looking at this year's R-rated lineup, we agree. For teens, the best first visit is usually one with a parent, on a less crowded night, starting with the tamer houses. Once you've seen how they handle it, you'll know whether a friends-only night next year makes sense. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is there an age limit for Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood? No. There is no minimum age to enter, but Universal says the event may be too intense for young children and is not recommended for kids under 13. Parents make the final call. 2. Can a 12-year-old go to Halloween Horror Nights? Technically yes, since there's no age gate. We don't recommend it, though. The houses are based mostly on R-rated films, and the scares, gore, strobe lights and late hours are a lot for kids under 13. 3. What is the least scary house at Halloween Horror Nights 2026? No house is truly mild, but Killer Klowns From Outer Space is the campiest, and Stranger Things is the most familiar for teens who know the show. Hellraiser and the Terror Tram starring Art the Clown are among the most intense. 4. Can teens go to Halloween Horror Nights without a parent? Universal's published Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood information doesn't list a chaperone requirement as of our check, but policies can change. Check the official event page before buying, and set clear ground rules like location sharing and a pickup time. 5. What time does Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios Hollywood start? The event begins at 7 p.m. on event nights, subject to change. Early Access ticket holders can enter select haunted houses starting at 5:30 p.m. Closing times vary by night.

Halloween candy is still rattling around in the pantry, and suddenly the calendar flips to November. Thanksgiving gets all the attention, but it is only one day. What about the other 29? That is where this guide comes in. We put together a fun idea for every single day of November 2026, mixing quirky national days and real November holidays with easy activities at home and family outings around Los Angeles. Some ideas take five minutes. Others are worth putting on the family calendar right now. Use it as a daily boredom buster, an after-school idea list, or a planning tool for long weekends. You do not have to do all 30. Just pick the days that make your crew smile. November Holidays 2026 at a Glance Here are the big November holidays and LA dates to know before you start planning. We double-checked every 2026 date below with official sources. Sunday, Nov. 1: Daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. (clocks fall back one hour), and Día de los Muertos begins Tuesday, Nov. 3: Election Day in California Sunday, Nov. 8: Diwali Wednesday, Nov. 11: Veterans Day (LAUSD schools are closed) Friday, Nov. 13: Holidays at the Disneyland Resort begin Friday, Nov. 20: L.A. Zoo Lights opens, and the LA Auto Show opens Thursday, Nov. 26: Thanksgiving 🦃 🍭 Friday, Nov. 27: Native American Heritage Day (and Black Friday) Sunday, Nov. 29: Hollywood Christmas Parade School breaks vary across LA. LAUSD's instructional calendar marks Thursday and Friday, Nov. 26 and 27, as the Thanksgiving holiday, while many other LA-area districts are off the whole week of Nov. 23. Check our LAUSD 2026-2027 calendar guide and your own school's calendar before you book anything. Week 1: November 1 to 7 November 1 (Sunday): Daylight Saving Time Ends + Pumpkin Smash Day Clocks fall back one hour at 2 a.m., which means one glorious extra hour of sleep. In theory. Anyone with a toddler knows the body clock does not read the news, so plan an easy, low-key day. It is also the day after Halloween, which makes it the perfect time to say goodbye to those slumping jack-o'-lanterns. Set up pumpkin bowling in the backyard with plastic bottles as pins, or let kids smash them (safely, with goggles) and toss the pieces in your green bin. Some LA groups, like the nonprofit LA Compost, have hosted community pumpkin smash events in past Novembers, so check their site for 2026 dates. Parent tip: Shift bedtime by 10 to 15 minutes a night for a few days instead of all at once. Your future self will thank you. November 2 (Monday): Día de los Muertos Día de los Muertos is celebrated on Nov. 1 and 2, and it is one of the most beautiful traditions in Los Angeles. It is a joyful time to remember loved ones with ofrendas (home altars), marigolds, photos, and favorite foods. At home, help kids build a small ofrenda with a photo of a grandparent or a beloved pet, then share one favorite story about them. Looking for a free family outing? See our guide to Forest Lawn Día de los Muertos 2026, with celebrations across Southern California. The L.A. Zoo's Beloved Pets Ofrenda is another sweet way to remember a family pet. November 3 (Tuesday): Election Day + National Sandwich Day California's general election is Tuesday, Nov. 3. If you vote in person, bring the kids along so they can see how it works, or let them drop your mail ballot in the box. The California Secretary of State elections page has polling and ballot info. Keep the democracy going at home with a family vote on dinner. Since it is also National Sandwich Day, let everyone campaign for their dream sandwich. Bonus points for the best speech. November 4 (Wednesday): National Candy Day 🍭 Yes, there is a day for candy, and it lands right when the Halloween stash is overflowing. Turn it into a math lesson: sort candy by color, make a bar graph, or estimate how many pieces are in a jar before counting. Then pick a few favorites to keep and set the rest aside. Many local dentists run candy buy-back programs in early November, so give yours a call. Also check out our Guide to LA's Must-Visit Candy Stores on this National Candy Day if you have a sweet tooth! November 5 (Thursday): Start a Gratitude Jar November is a month for giving thanks, so kick it off with a simple gratitude jar. Every night at dinner, each person writes one thing they are thankful for on a slip of paper and drops it in. Read them all out loud on Thanksgiving. Fair warning: your 6-year-old's note that says "I am thankful for my mom's tacos" may make you cry into your pumpkin pie. November 6 (Friday): National Nachos Day + a Drone Show Celebrate National Nachos Day with a build-your-own nacho bar. Set out chips, beans, cheese, and toppings, and let kids design their own sheet-pan masterpiece. Planning a big night out instead? The DroneArt Show: Space Chase lights up the sky at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia on Nov. 6 and 7. Read our DroneArt Show Space Chase family guide for times, tickets, and parking. November 7 (Saturday): Bake Something With Leftover Pumpkin Got leftover canned pumpkin or a pie pumpkin that never got carved? Spend Saturday morning making pumpkin muffins or pancakes together. Little kids can measure and stir, while big kids can handle the oven with you nearby. Kitchen projects are sneaky learning time, too. Measuring cups teach fractions, and waiting for the timer teaches patience. (Mostly.) Week 2: November 8 to 14 November 8 (Sunday): Diwali, the Festival of Lights Diwali's main day falls on Sunday, Nov. 8, in 2026. Celebrated by Hindu, Sikh, and Jain families around the world, it marks the victory of light over darkness. Make colorful rangoli designs on the driveway with sidewalk chalk, line the windowsill with battery-operated tea lights, and read a picture book about the holiday together. If your family celebrates, invite friends over to share sweets. If not, it is a wonderful way to learn about a tradition celebrated by many LA neighbors. November 9 (Monday): Plan Your Holiday Lights Calendar Holiday season sneaks up fast in LA, and popular light shows sell out on weekends. Spend 15 minutes tonight picking your must-dos and blocking dates on the calendar. Start with our list of magical places to see holiday lights in Los Angeles. Then let the kids vote on which one goes first. November 10 (Tuesday): Happy Birthday, Sesame Street Sesame Street first aired on Nov. 10, 1969. Throw a mini birthday party for the neighborhood with a cookie for Cookie Monster (and you), an episode marathon, and a game of counting everything in sight, Count von Count style. For older kids, talk about which characters they grew up with versus the ones you remember. You might be surprised how many are still around. November 11 (Wednesday): Veterans Day + Origami Day Veterans Day honors everyone who has served in the U.S. military. LAUSD schools are closed, so it is a good day to make thank-you cards for a veteran in your family or neighborhood, or to talk about what service means. Nov. 11 is also Origami Day in Japan. Fold paper cranes, frogs, or fortune tellers together. Hang a string of cranes in the window as a little symbol of peace and thanks. November 12 (Thursday): Get a Library Card A library card is one of the best free things in LA. The Los Angeles Public Library offers cards to California residents, plus free e-books, audiobooks, storytimes, and museum passes at many branches. Let kids pick a stack of books about November holidays, from Thanksgiving to Diwali. Then make a cozy reading fort at home. November 13 (Friday): World Kindness Day + Disneyland Holidays Begin World Kindness Day is all about small, good deeds. Challenge each family member to do three kind things today, like writing a note to a teacher, helping a sibling, or leaving a thank-you for your mail carrier. It is also opening day for the holiday season at Disneyland. Here are the details: Event: Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Where: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, Anaheim Dates: Nov. 13, 2026, through Jan. 6, 2027 Cost: Included with theme park admission (park reservations and tickets required) Santa visits run Nov. 13 through Dec. 24, 2026. For planning tips, see our Christmas at Disneyland guide. November 14 (Saturday): National Pickle Day Pickle fans, this is your day. Make quick refrigerator pickles with cucumbers, vinegar, water, salt, and a little dill. They are ready in a few hours, which feels like forever to a 5-year-old but is lightning fast in pickle time. Host a family taste test of dill, bread-and-butter, and spicy pickles. Rate them on a scale of one to five puckers. Week 3: November 15 to 21 November 15 (Sunday): America Recycles Day America Recycles Day is a good excuse to turn the recycling bin into a craft station. Cardboard tubes become binoculars, cereal boxes become puppet theaters, and egg cartons become caterpillars. Then quiz the kids on what goes in which bin. LA Sanitation has a handy guide to blue, black, and green bins for City of LA residents. Spoiler: the greasy pizza box is a trick question. November 16 (Monday): National Button Day Raid the button jar. Younger kids can sort buttons by size, color, or number of holes, which is basically a free preschool lesson. Older kids can glue buttons onto cardstock to make a fall tree or a turkey with a rainbow tail. Keep tiny buttons away from babies and toddlers who still put everything in their mouths. November 17 (Tuesday): National Take a Hike Day + Homemade Bread Day Two holidays, one perfect plan: bake a simple loaf of bread in the morning, then pack sandwiches for an afternoon hike. Cooler November days are some of the best hiking weather in Southern California. Need a trail? Our guide to easy LA hikes for kids with gorgeous views has great picks. Remember that the sun sets around 5 p.m. after daylight saving time ends, so start early. November 18 (Wednesday): Mickey Mouse's Birthday Disney celebrates Mickey Mouse's birthday on Nov. 18, the day "Steamboat Willie" premiered in 1928. Watch the short together (it is now in the public domain, so it is easy to find), bake mouse-ear cupcakes, and whistle along. If you are lucky enough to have a Disneyland trip planned this month, the parks will already be decked out for the holidays. Talk about a birthday party. November 19 (Thursday): Family Board Game Night When it gets dark early, board games win. Pull out a classic or try something new, and let the youngest player pick first. Gearing up for Thanksgiving? Practice with our list of fun Thanksgiving games to play with your family, so you are ready to crush your cousins at dessert. November 20 (Friday): Universal Children's Day + Zoo Lights Opens Universal Children's Day, recognized by the United Nations, celebrates kids everywhere. Make it a "Yes Day" with kid-picked dinner, kid-picked music, and a kid-planned outing (within reason). Our vote for that outing? L.A. Zoo Lights, which opens tonight with all-new lantern displays of birds, butterflies, marine creatures, and Ice Age giants. Event: L.A. Zoo Lights Where: Los Angeles Zoo, 5333 Zoo Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027 Dates: Nov. 20, 2026, through Jan. 10, 2027 Time: 6 to 10 p.m. Cost: Tickets start at $19 The zoo says the walk takes about 60 to 90 minutes. Plan around Thanksgiving week: Zoo Lights is closed Nov. 26 through 30, so go before or after the holiday rush. Car-loving kids may prefer the LA Auto Show, which also opens Nov. 20 and runs through Nov. 29 at the Los Angeles Convention Center. Check the LA Auto Show visitor info for hours and tickets. November 21 (Saturday): National Adoption Day + World Hello Day National Adoption Day is traditionally held on the Saturday before Thanksgiving, and Los Angeles County has been part of it from the start. It is a lovely day to talk with kids about the many ways families are made. Learn more at National Adoption Day. Ready for a furry family member? LA Animal Services has dogs, cats, and rabbits looking for homes. It is also World Hello Day, so challenge kids to say hello in as many languages as they can. LA makes that one easy. Week 4: November 22 to 28 November 22 (Sunday): Kick Off Nutcracker Season Nutcracker season starts earlier than you think, and some performances open the weekend before Thanksgiving. Pick a show now before the best seats disappear. Our roundup of Nutcracker ballet performances in and near Los Angeles covers big productions, tea parties, and budget-friendly community shows. Tonight, play the music at home and let the kids choreograph the Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. November 23 (Monday): Fibonacci Day Nov. 23 is written 11/23, the start of the famous Fibonacci sequence: 1, 1, 2, 3. Each number is the sum of the two before it. Go on a spiral hunt for pinecones, sunflowers, and seashells, which often show this pattern in nature. It is math hiding in plain sight, and kids love spotting it. November 24 (Tuesday): Make Thanksgiving Decorations Time to deck the table. Handprint turkeys, paper-plate wreaths, and leaf garlands are easy, cheap, and adorable. For step-by-step ideas, try our fun Thanksgiving crafts to make with your kids and these free Thanksgiving printables for kids. Place cards made by kids are always the hit of the table. November 25 (Wednesday): Thanksgiving Eve Kitchen Crew Give everyone a real job. Kids can wash veggies, tear bread for stuffing, roll pie dough, or set the table. When kids help make the meal, they are more likely to eat it. (We said more likely.) Not cooking this year? No judgment. See our picks for the best places for Thanksgiving take-out dinner in Los Angeles, or check out our guide to hosting a kid-friendly Thanksgiving at home. November 26 (Thursday): Thanksgiving 🦃 Happy Thanksgiving. Start the morning with a turkey trot or the parade on TV, open the gratitude jar at dinner, and leave room for pie. Want to get out of the house? Our list of what is open on Thanksgiving Day in Los Angeles covers turkey trots and places open for family fun. The LA Auto Show is open on Thanksgiving Day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Keep the giggles going with our Thanksgiving jokes for kids. November 27 (Friday): Native American Heritage Day November is Native American Heritage Month, and the Friday after Thanksgiving is Native American Heritage Day. Learn about the Tongva people, the original inhabitants of the Los Angeles Basin, and read books by Native authors together. The Autry Museum of the American West in Griffith Park is a great place to explore Native history and art. It is also a calm alternative to Black Friday crowds. Skip the mall, take a family walk, and save your energy for leftovers. November 28 (Saturday): Small Business Saturday Shop local today. Visit a neighborhood toy store, an independent bookstore, or a farmers market, and let kids pick out a small gift for someone else. It is a great way to talk about how money supports the businesses that make your community special. Grab a hot chocolate from a local cafe while you are at it. Week 5: November 29 and 30 November 29 (Sunday): Hollywood Christmas Parade Santa makes his big entrance on Hollywood Boulevard. The Hollywood Christmas Parade features floats, marching bands, giant balloons, and celebrity guests. Event: Hollywood Christmas Parade Where: Hollywood Boulevard, starting at Orange Drive Los Angeles, CA 90028 Date: Sunday, Nov. 29, 2026 Time: 5:30 p.m. (per the official Ticketmaster listing) Cost: Grandstand seats sold through Ticketmaster; check the official site for viewing options Expect road closures and big crowds. Arrive early, bring layers, and consider taking the Metro B Line to Hollywood/Highland or Hollywood/Vine instead of hunting for parking. Check the official site for the route map and road closures before you go. November 30 (Monday): Get Ready for December You made it. Spend the last day of November getting ready for the month ahead. Pull out the holiday decorations, write letters to Santa, or plan your Elf on the Shelf arrival. Hanukkah 2026 begins at sundown on Friday, Dec. 4, so it is a good time to check out our list of Hanukkah celebrations and menorah lightings for LA families. And tomorrow, Dec. 1, is Giving Tuesday, a perfect chance to let kids pick a cause to support. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join fellow LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway November holidays give families a reason to celebrate almost every day, whether that means smashing pumpkins, lighting Diwali lamps, folding origami cranes, or cheering for Santa on Hollywood Boulevard. Mix simple at-home ideas with a few special LA outings, and the month feels full without feeling frantic. Bookmark this page, pick your favorites, and save the rest for next year. And if you try any of these ideas, we would love to hear which ones your kids loved most. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What are the main November holidays in 2026? The big ones are Día de los Muertos (Nov. 1 and 2), Election Day (Nov. 3), Diwali (Nov. 8), Veterans Day (Nov. 11), Thanksgiving (Nov. 26), and Native American Heritage Day (Nov. 27). Daylight saving time also ends on Sunday, Nov. 1. 2. When is Thanksgiving 2026? Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, Nov. 26, 2026. LAUSD's calendar marks Nov. 26 and 27 as the Thanksgiving holiday, and many other LA-area districts take the whole week of Nov. 23 off, so check your school's calendar. 3. What fun national days in November are good for kids? Kid-favorite national days in November include National Sandwich Day (Nov. 3), National Candy Day (Nov. 4), National Nachos Day (Nov. 6), National Pickle Day (Nov. 14), National Button Day (Nov. 16), and National Take a Hike Day (Nov. 17). Mickey Mouse's birthday (Nov. 18) is a hit, too. 4. When does L.A. Zoo Lights open in 2026? L.A. Zoo Lights runs Nov. 20, 2026, through Jan. 10, 2027, from 6 to 10 p.m., with tickets starting at $19. The event is closed Nov. 26 through 30, plus select dates in December and January, so check the zoo's website before you go. 5. When is the Hollywood Christmas Parade in 2026? The Hollywood Christmas Parade is on Sunday, Nov. 29, 2026, the Sunday after Thanksgiving. The official Ticketmaster listing shows a 5:30 p.m. start. Grandstand seats are sold through Ticketmaster, and the official parade website has the route map, road closures, and viewing details.

Yes, that old iPhone collecting dust in your junk drawer can turn into Costco money. Through Costco's Trade-In Program, run by the trade-in company Phobio, you get a free online quote, mail in an eligible phone, tablet, laptop, smartwatch or other device at no cost, and receive a Digital Costco Shop Card once it passes inspection. The whole process usually takes about two to three weeks. The program is making the rounds on Instagram again, and plenty of LA parents are asking us whether it's legit. It is, but the fine print matters. We went straight to Costco's official page, Phobio's Costco quote tool and Phobio's own trade-in terms, so you know what pays, what doesn't, and the one mistake that can turn your trade into $0. Key Takeaways What it is: Costco's online trade-in program, powered by Phobio. You're paid with a Digital Costco Shop Card, not cash. What you can trade: Phones, laptops, tablets, smartwatches, Apple desktops and Apple TV, plus action cameras and bike computers from select brands. Top payouts: Up to $935 for a phone, $3,950 for a laptop, $970 for a tablet and $931 for a smartwatch, per Phobio's Costco quote tool on Oct. 4, 2026. Most older devices quote far less. Cost: Free. Shipping supplies and the label are included. Timing: About two to three weeks from quote to Shop Card. Membership: Not required to trade in, and non-members can shop with a Costco Shop Card. Biggest catch: Turn off Find My (or any activation lock) first. Locked devices are valued at $0 and recycled, not returned. Where to start: Costco's Trade-In Program How Costco's Trade-In Program Works, Step by Step Step 1: Get an instant quote. Head to Costco's Trade-In Program page and click Start Your Trade-in Now, which opens Phobio's Costco quote tool. Choose the device type, brand, model and storage size, then answer a few questions about its condition. You'll see an estimated value right away. Step 2: Get your shipping supplies. Print a prepaid shipping label, or have a box with prepaid supplies and packing instructions mailed to you. Costco says the box takes three to five business days to arrive. Phobio says some trades also qualify for QR code drop-off, where a carrier associate packs and labels the device for you. Step 3: Wipe it and ship it. Follow the instructions to erase your device, pack it and drop it off with the carrier. Shipping is free. Phobio's terms say your device needs to arrive within 21 days of accepting the quote, or the offer can be revised or withdrawn. Step 4: Inspection. Phobio inspects the device and wipes all data. If it matches your description, Phobio honors the quote and queues your payout. Step 5: Get your Digital Costco Shop Card. Costco says the card arrives by email in about three to five business days, loaded with your trade-in value and ready to use in the warehouse or on Costco.com. What Devices Can You Trade In at Costco? Costco's landing page still spotlights Apple gear, but when we ran through Phobio's Costco quote tool on Oct. 4, 2026, it listed eight device types and a long list of brands. Here's what we found, with the maximum payout the tool showed for each: Phones (up to $935): Apple, Samsung, LG, Motorola, Google, Huawei and OnePlus Laptops (up to $3,950): Apple, Asus, HP, Acer, Dell, Lenovo, Microsoft and MSI Tablets (up to $970): Apple, Samsung, Lenovo, Microsoft, Sonim and Zebra Smartwatches (up to $931): Apple, Samsung, Motorola and Garmin Desktops (up to $3,210): Apple Media players (up to $5): Apple TV Action cameras (up to $200): Garmin, DJI, Insta360 and GoPro Cycling computers (up to $300): Garmin, Wahoo, Hammerhead and Bryton Those are best-case numbers for the newest, highest-storage models in top shape. A phone that's a few years old will usually quote much lower, so plug in your exact model before you start planning your shopping spree. One thing that surprised us: Costco's page still pictures a HomePod, and the viral posts list HomePods too, but the quote tool we checked had no speaker category at all. If your device type isn't in the tool, it isn't eligible right now. Parent tip: Kids' outgrown iPads and old school laptops are great candidates. Get a quote before handing a device down to a younger sibling. Sometimes the trade-in value covers a big chunk of a new, kid-proof tablet. Before You Ship: How to Prep Your Device So You Don't Lose Money Back it up. Every device is erased during inspection, and Phobio says nothing left on it can be recovered. Turn off Find My and sign out of your accounts. Phobio's terms say devices that arrive Activation Locked are adjusted to $0 and recycled rather than returned, unless you remove the lock after they notify you. Make sure it's paid off. Finance-locked devices with a carrier balance aren't eligible. Make sure it powers on. Phobio says devices that don't turn on aren't eligible. Skip devices with third-party repairs. Replacement screens and other non-original parts make a device ineligible, per Phobio's FAQ. Pop out the SIM card. If you use an eSIM, there's nothing to remove. Keep the accessories. Chargers, cases, watch bands and boxes aren't needed, and anything you send generally isn't returned. Answer the condition questions honestly. Cracks, dents or other damage found at inspection will lower your quote. Phobio's trade-in FAQ has step-by-step help for removing Activation Lock, reinstalling a laptop's operating system and packing each type of device. What Happens If Phobio Lowers Your Quote? This is the part most viral posts skip. If inspection shows your device doesn't match what you described, Phobio can send a revised offer. According to Phobio's trade-in terms, you then have 14 days to accept or decline it, and if you don't respond, the new offer is automatically declined. If you decline, Phobio ships the device back to you for free, but it erases the device first, and that same serial number can't be traded in through the program again. Once your device arrives, the trade is final unless Phobio contacts you about a mismatch. Online reviews are a mix of smooth, easy trades and frustrated customers whose values dropped after inspection. Our advice: snap photos of every side of the device (with the screen on) before you pack it, and ask for a drop-off receipt when you hand over the box. That gives you proof of condition if you ever need to dispute anything. Also good to know: Costco puts its name on the program, but Phobio runs it, so questions about your trade go to Phobio's customer support, not your local warehouse. How to Spend a Digital Costco Shop Card (and Where You Can't) Your payout arrives by email as a Digital Costco Shop Card. You can use it at regular checkout lanes in U.S. warehouses and on Costco.com, and you don't need a membership to spend a Shop Card. The catch: Costco's Digital Shop Card help page says digital cards can't be redeemed at self-checkout, food court kiosks or Costco gas stations. Want to use it for gas or a hot dog combo? Bring it to your local warehouse and use it to buy a physical Shop Card of the same value. Parent tip: Earmark the card for something specific, like holiday gifts, birthday party supplies or a bulk run of school snacks, so the trade-in money doesn't quietly disappear into your regular grocery bill. Is Costco's Trade-In Program Worth It? If you already shop at Costco and want a free, no-hassle way to clear out the junk drawer, it's a solid option. It's not the best fit if you want cash. Selling a device yourself often brings in more money, and Apple, Best Buy and Amazon all run their own trade-in programs with different payout types. Our tip: run the same device through two or three trade-in tools on the same day, since values change over time. Lock in the best offer, then ship within the 21-day window so your quote holds. Costco also points out that trading in gives old electronics a second life and reduces demand for conflict minerals. That makes it a great moment to talk with kids about e-waste and why old gadgets don't belong in the trash. If a device doesn't qualify, Phobio recommends taking it to a certified electronics recycler. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join fellow LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway Costco's Trade-In Program is a legit, free way to turn old phones, tablets, laptops and smartwatches into Costco spending money, as long as you prep the device right. Get your quote, turn off Find My, ship within 21 days, and remember the digital Shop Card won't work at self-checkout, the food court or the gas pump. Compare a couple of quotes first, and that dusty drawer could cover this month's snack run. Frequently Asked Questions Do you need a Costco membership to use the trade-in program? No. You don't need a membership to trade in a device through Costco's program with Phobio. You're paid with a Digital Costco Shop Card, and non-members can use Shop Cards to shop in U.S. warehouses at regular checkout and on Costco.com. How long does a Costco trade-in take? Plan on about two to three weeks. Costco estimates three to five business days for each stage: getting your shipping supplies, shipping the device to Phobio, and receiving your Digital Costco Shop Card by email after it passes inspection. Can I trade in a cracked iPhone at Costco? Often, yes. Phobio says many damaged devices are still eligible if they power on, though the value will be lower, so describe the damage accurately. Devices with replacement screens or other third-party repairs aren't eligible, and devices that won't turn on can't be traded in. Can I use a Costco trade-in Shop Card for gas? Not directly. Digital Costco Shop Cards can't be used at Costco gas stations, self-checkout or food court kiosks. Take the digital card to your local warehouse and use it to buy a physical Shop Card of the same value, which you can then use for gas. What happens if I forget to turn off Find My before shipping? Phobio will notify you with instructions to remove the Activation Lock so the device can be re-inspected. If the lock isn't removed, the device is adjusted to a $0 value and recycled for data security, and it won't be returned to you. ❤️ You May Also Like Living Economically in LA: Practical Tips for Moms to Save Money! Where to Find The Best Black Friday Deals! Free Birthday Treats for Kids in LA: 55+ Freebies for 2026!

There is something about a toddler's wide-eyed stare, a big kid's carefully rehearsed wish list, and a baby who is not so sure about that beard that makes the annual Santa photo pure gold. Whether you want a classic mall visit, a Breakfast with Santa, a boat ride with the big guy, or a calm sensory-friendly session, there are plenty of places to take photos with Santa in and near Los Angeles. We updated our guide for 2026 using each venue's official website. We start with Santa spots in the City of Los Angeles, then head out to nearby cities from closest to farthest, so your family can find a Santa visit close to home. Many venues have not posted 2026 details yet, so check their websites as the season gets closer. Photos With Santa in Los Angeles Santa Photos at Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza 3650 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90008 Dates and times to be announced. Visit Santa in Center Court, with photo packages, online booking, and walk-ins welcome. Meet Santa at The Grove 189 The Grove Dr Los Angeles, CA 90036 Dates and times to be announced. The Grove's Santa's Workshop, with its giant tree and nightly snowfall nearby, is one of LA's most iconic Santa visits. Reservations are typically required. Photos with Santa at Beverly Center 8500 Beverly Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90048 Dates and times to be announced. Beverly Center has offered complimentary Santa photos and dog photos with Santa. On select days in past seasons, families could also visit a Black Santa. Westfield Century City Holiday Village 10250 Santa Monica Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90067 Dates and times to be announced. Century City's Holiday Village has offered reservations to visit Santa in his bungalow. Watch the events page for 2026 details. Photos with Santa at Westfield Fashion Square 14006 Riverside Dr Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 Dates and times to be announced. Fashion Square has hosted a "Santa Cares" sensory-friendly session plus fun theme nights like pajama and ugly-sweater nights. Photos with Santa at Westfield Topanga & The Village 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd Canoga Park, CA 91303 Dates and times to be announced. Santa usually sets up on Level 1 near Target, with online reservations. Photos With Santa Near Los Angeles Up for a short drive? These Santa visits are listed from closest to farthest from downtown Los Angeles, starting in Glendale and Pasadena and heading out to the beach, Orange County, and the mountains. Santa's House at The Americana at Brand 889 Americana Way Glendale, CA 91210 Dates and times to be announced. Santa's House is the centerpiece of The Americana's Winterland, with online booking and festive photo packages. Pictures with Santa at Glendale Galleria 100 W Broadway Glendale, CA 91210 Dates and times to be announced. Glendale Galleria hosts Santa photos and has offered pet photo nights. One Colorado Santa Photos 41 Hugus Alley Pasadena, CA 91103 Dates and times to be announced. Santa sets up in The Courtyard in Old Pasadena on weekends, first come, first served with no reservations. Cocoa with Cole and Santa Culver City Police Department 4040 Duquesne Ave Culver City, CA 90232 Dates and times to be announced. Sip cocoa with Culver City PD's wellness dog Cole and visit Santa on his sleigh. It has been free in past years, and visitor parking is on level 1 of the City Hall structure. Photos with Santa at Burbank Town Center 201 E Magnolia Blvd Burbank, CA 91502 Dates and times to be announced. Reservations are strongly recommended. A $20 booking deposit counts as a credit toward your photos, and walk-ins are taken when the schedule allows. Photos with Santa at The Shops at Santa Anita 400 S Baldwin Ave Arcadia, CA 91007 Dates and times to be announced. Formerly Westfield Santa Anita, the mall books Santa visits online. Photos with Santa at South Bay Galleria 1815 Hawthorne Blvd Redondo Beach, CA 90278 Dates and times to be announced. A convenient South Bay stop for Santa photos, with pet nights offered in past seasons. Photos with Santa at Santa Monica Place 395 Santa Monica Place Santa Monica, CA 90401 Dates and times to be announced. Santa's beachside residence near the Third Street Promenade is a Westside favorite, and the mall has hosted pet photo nights in past seasons. Photos with Santa at Lakewood Center 500 Lakewood Center Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 Dates and times to be announced. Lakewood Center offers a Sensitive Santa session for kids who do best with a calmer visit. Santa in the Sand Manhattan Beach, CA 2026 dates: To be announced. This private photography business pairs a Santa visit with a family portrait session on the beach. A 20-minute Holiday Mini Session is $200 for 20 images, booked online. Photos with Santa at Los Cerritos Center 239 Los Cerritos Center Cerritos, CA 90703 Dates and times to be announced. Choose from several photo packages, with free rescheduling up to 48 hours before your visit, and look for Santa Pet Nights. Santa Photo Experience at Del Amo Fashion Center 3525 W Carson St Torrance, CA 90503 Expected to open Saturday, November 14, 2026 Main Level near Macy's Women (enter by Lucille's) One of the first Santa sets to open in the South Bay. Hours, prices, and any pet or sensory nights have not been posted yet, so check the booking page as the season approaches. Aquarium Holidays at the Aquarium of the Pacific 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, CA 90802 Dates and times to be announced. Watch Santa dive with the fish and look for Surfer Santa photos on weekends, included with admission. Holiday Family Faire at Theatricum Botanicum Will Geer's Theatricum Botanicum 1419 N Topanga Canyon Blvd Topanga, CA 90290 Returning in December 2026; date to be announced. This cozy woodland faire includes photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, crafts, and holiday fun. An "It's a Wonderful Life" live radio play is a $25 add-on. Breakfast with Santa at Terranea Resort Terranea Resort, Palos Verdes Ballroom 100 Terranea Way Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Dates and times to be announced. Reservations: (866) 547-3066 Santa swaps the North Pole for ocean views at this festive holiday breakfast. Breakfast with Santa at Naples Ristorante e Bar Downtown Disney District 1550 Disneyland Dr Anaheim, CA 92802 2026 dates: Please check the reservation page. Santa stops by Naples' upstairs dining room for an Italian-style holiday breakfast. Kids 10 and under get a photo with Santa, a stuffed animal, and a personalized stocking. Reservations are prepaid for parties of 2 to 10, and prices on the booking page have varied, so confirm when you book. Breakfast with Santa in Malibu Malibu City Hall 23825 Stuart Ranch Rd Malibu, CA 90265 Dates and times to be announced. The City of Malibu's festive breakfast requires registration and usually fills up fast. Photos with Santa at Valencia Town Center 24201 W Valencia Blvd Valencia, CA 91355 Dates and times to be announced. Formerly Westfield Valencia, this Santa Clarita mall has offered sensory-friendly photos with Santa. Photos with Santa at South Coast Plaza 3333 Bristol St Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Dates and times to be announced. South Coast Plaza has hosted two Santa sets, Santa's Village and The North Pole, and a free train ride with any Santa photo purchase. Breakfast with Santa at Gilchrist Farm 30116 Bouquet Canyon Rd Santa Clarita, CA 91390 Saturdays and Sundays, December 5 and 6, 12 and 13, and 19 and 20, 2026 8 to 10 AM Enjoy breakfast with Santa on the farm, then stay for Holidays at the Farm. Tickets are $25 per child, $30 per adult, or $100 for a family four-pack, and reservations are required on the Gilchrist Farm ticket page. Holidays at the Farm runs weekends through December 20, 9 AM to 5 PM, and some wristband packages include a printed Santa photo. Photos with Santa at Fashion Island 401 Newport Center Dr Newport Beach, CA 92660 Dates and times to be announced. Santa visits on the Atrium Lawn at this open-air Newport Beach center. Photos with Santa at The Oaks 350 W Hillcrest Dr Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 Dates and times to be announced. The Oaks has hosted Santa Paws pet nights and sensory-friendly Santa Cares visits in past seasons. Christmas on the Farm at Underwood Family Farms 3370 Sunset Valley Rd Moorpark, CA 93021 Friday, November 27, to Thursday, December 24, 2026 Santa: weekends and November 27, 11 AM to 4 PM, through December 20 Snap your own photos with Santa on the farm, included with admission. Admission is $12 on weekdays at the gate and $16 online on weekends and November 27, and kids under 2 and parking are free. Weekend online tickets go on sale November 1. Surfing Santa Contest Salt Creek Beach at The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel 1 Ritz Carlton Rd Dana Point, CA 92629 Dates and times to be announced. Surfers in Santa suits hang ten for a good cause, benefiting Surfers Healing. Bring beach chairs and cheer them on. Boat Ride with Santa at Dana Wharf Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching 34675 Golden Lantern Dana Point, CA 92629 Saturday and Sunday, December 5 and 6, 2026 Set sail with Santa on a 20-minute ride aboard the Dana Pride. Kids can chat with Santa on board, though there is no direct contact. Tickets are $10.60 for adults and $7.42 for kids 12 and under, reservations are required, and proceeds benefit Soroptimist of Capistrano Bay. SkyPark at Santa's Village 28950 CA-18 Skyforest, CA 92385 Saturday, November 7, 2026, to Sunday, January 10, 2027 Thursday to Sunday Visit Santa at his house in the San Bernardino Mountains, where snowy pines make the perfect backdrop. Santa visits are first come, first served at Santa's House or through a standby line, and they are not guaranteed, so arrive early. Breakfast with Santa and Tea with Mrs. Claus are separate tickets you must buy online in advance. Read more in our SkyPark at Santa's Village guide. Tips for a Happy Santa Visit Book ahead. Many malls take reservations, and weekend slots in December fill quickly. Go early in the season. Lines are shorter in November and on weekday mornings. Time it around naps. A fed, rested toddler is far more likely to smile, though a crying-baby photo is a classic too. Ask about sensory-friendly sessions. Several malls offer quieter visits with dimmed lights and no lines. Make a day of it. Pair your visit with the best Christmas and holiday events for LA families or the best places to see holiday lights in Los Angeles. Takeaway From mountain cabins at SkyPark at Santa's Village to farm breakfasts in Santa Clarita, boat rides in Dana Point, and classic mall sets across LA, there are plenty of places to take photos with Santa in 2026. Book early where you can, check each venue's page as dates are announced, and bring the wish lists. Frequently Asked Questions About Photos With Santa in Los Angeles 1. When do Santa photos start in Los Angeles in 2026? SkyPark at Santa's Village opens its holiday season November 7, 2026, and Del Amo Fashion Center expects Santa on November 14. Most malls start in mid to late November. 2. Where can I get free photos with Santa in LA? At Underwood Family Farms, Santa visits are included with admission and you take your own photos. Beverly Center has offered complimentary Santa photos in past years. 3. Are there sensory-friendly Santa visits near Los Angeles? Yes. Lakewood Center, Valencia Town Center, The Oaks, and Westfield Fashion Square have offered sensory-friendly Santa sessions. 4. Can I take my dog to see Santa? Many malls, including Glendale Galleria, Los Cerritos Center, The Oaks, and Beverly Center, have hosted pet photo nights with Santa. 5. Where can we have breakfast with Santa near LA? Gilchrist Farm in Santa Clarita hosts Breakfast with Santa on December weekends in 2026, and SkyPark at Santa's Village, Naples Ristorante at Downtown Disney, Terranea Resort, and the City of Malibu also offer Santa breakfasts.

Studio City sits right where the Santa Monica Mountains meet the Valley floor, and that geography is exactly what makes it such a good place to raise explorers. In one morning, you can hike a shady canyon trail, wander a farmers market with a kids' zone, and grab a chili dog inside a real railroad car. If your "things to do in Studio City with kids" list ends at Ventura Boulevard, you’re missing out on the good stuff. Strap in—there's way more to explore than a quick cruise down the main strip! We've rounded up 44 fun ideas for your family: canyon parks and river walks, playgrounds, storytimes, bowling, a sensory-friendly gym, family restaurants and sweet treats, seasonal events, and a clearly labeled list of nearby add-ons in Universal City, North Hollywood, Burbank, Griffith Park and beyond. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Kids Activities Near Me (Studio City Edition): At a Glance Where it is: Studio City is a San Fernando Valley neighborhood of the City of Los Angeles (ZIP 91604, with a slice of 91602), between Sherman Oaks, North Hollywood, Toluca Lake and Universal City, with the Hollywood Hills and Mulholland Drive along its southern edge. Best for: Babies through tweens. Toddlers love the fenced playgrounds, library storytimes and the farmers market kids' area; older kids can handle the Wilacre and Fryman Canyon trails, bowling at Pinz and a day at Universal Studios Hollywood next door. Getting there & parking: Most parks have free street parking or free lots. Wilacre Park's lot charges $7 for up to two hours. The Sunday farmers market offers free parking in the Radford Studio Center garage. Best time to go: Weekend mornings before 10 a.m. for trails and the market; weekday afternoons for playgrounds and the library. Summer afternoons in the Valley get hot, so plan hikes early. Free favorites: Kids Club at The Shops at Sportsmen's Lodge (Wednesdays through October), the LA River and Valleyheart greenways, TreePeople's Coldwater Canyon Park, Woodbridge and Moorpark parks, Studio City Branch Library storytimes and Kids Bowl Free at Pinz (through October 31, 2026, registration required). Heads-up for 2026: Harvard-Westlake River Park, on the former Weddington Golf & Tennis site on Whitsett Avenue, is still under construction, and no public opening date has been announced. Parks, Hikes & Outdoor Things to Do in Studio City With Kids Studio City's best-kept secret is how quickly you can go from a busy boulevard to a quiet canyon trail. These parks and paths range from stroller-easy river walks to real hikes with a view. 1. Wilacre Park 3431 Fryman Road Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free entry; parking lot $7 for up to 2 hours Best for: Ages 5 and up (strong toddlers in a carrier) Wilacre Park is the classic Studio City family hike. This 128-acre park, managed by the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority, climbs from a large parking lot at the corner of Fryman Road and Laurel Canyon Boulevard into walnut woodland and coastal sage scrub. The wide trail is well shaded, which makes it a smart pick on warm Valley days. Fair warning: the first stretch is steep, so little legs may need a pep talk (or a snack bribe). Once you level out, the path connects to the Betty B. Dearing Trail and the wider Cross Mountain Park trail system. There are restrooms, drinking fountains and a picnic area at the bottom, and leashed dogs are welcome. Parent tip: The lot now charges $7 for up to two hours (maximum four hours per day), payable by pay station or cash. Turn around at the first big bench with a view for a 45-minute outing that works for most 5-year-olds. 2. Betty B. Dearing Trail Trailheads at Wilacre Park 3431 Fryman Road Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free (parking fee at Wilacre lot) Best for: Ages 8 and up; confident hikers Ready for more than a quick loop? The Betty B. Dearing Trail is the backbone of the Studio City hills, a moderate 4.9-mile route with about 468 feet of elevation gain, according to Los Angeles County's trail guide. It links Wilacre Park, Fryman Canyon, Coldwater Canyon and Franklin Canyon, so you can choose your own adventure. Older kids get a real sense of accomplishment here, with skyline peeks over the Valley and plenty of lizards to spot along the way. Many families hike it as the popular Fryman Canyon loop, climbing from Wilacre and returning through the neighborhood below. Parent tip: Download the trail on the Trails LA County app before you go, since cell service can be spotty in the canyons. Pack more water than you think you'll need, and skip it entirely on red flag warning days, when MRCA parks may close. 3. Fryman Canyon Park 8401 Mulholland Drive Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free Best for: All ages for the overlook; ages 6 and up for the trail Up on Mulholland Drive, Fryman Canyon Park's paved lot at the Nancy Hoover Pohl Overlook gives you a sweeping view of the Valley without any hiking at all. That alone makes it a fun stop for a car ride with grandparents or a quick sunset look. The 122-acre park also includes a fitness course, year-round springs, native chaparral and wooded canyons. The Betty B. Dearing Trail runs through it, and hikers, equestrians and leashed dogs share the path (mountain bikes are not allowed). Kids who love spotting horses might get lucky here. Parent tip: Starting from the top at Fryman means your hike begins downhill, which is great until you have to climb back out. With younger kids, walk 15 minutes down, then turn around while everyone still has energy. 4. TreePeople's Coldwater Canyon Park 12601 Mulholland Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Cost: Free Best for: All ages Perched on the ridge between Studio City and Beverly Hills, TreePeople's Coldwater Canyon Park is one of the friendliest nature stops in the city for little kids. The 45-acre park has gentle trails, a native plant nursery, gardens, an orchard and an outdoor amphitheater, all run by the environmental nonprofit that has been planting trees across LA for decades. Kids can wander the trails, peek at the plants and learn why trees matter to a hot city. TreePeople also hosts eco-tours, park work days and evening events, and says most of its events are family friendly. The park is free and open to the public from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m., with restrooms near the nursery. Parent tip: The entrance is on the Valley side of Mulholland where Coldwater Canyon Avenue meets Franklin Canyon Drive. Carpool if you can, since TreePeople reserves spaces for cars with two or more people, and keep dogs leashed at all times. 5. Studio City Recreation Center (Beeman Park) 12621 Rye Street Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 2–12 Beeman Park is Studio City's all-purpose neighborhood park, the kind of place where Little League, tennis lessons and toddler playdates all happen at once. It has a children's play area, lighted baseball diamond, outdoor basketball courts, tennis courts, picnic tables, barbecue pits and outdoor fitness equipment. One update for 2026: the recreation center building itself has been closed since September 2024, according to LA Recreation and Parks, but the outdoor amenities remain open. For most families, that means the playground and fields work just as they always have. Parent tip: Weekday late afternoons are the sweet spot, after school pickup rush and before evening games. Pack your own bathroom plan, since the building closure can affect indoor facilities. 6. Woodbridge Park 11240 Moorpark Street Studio City, CA 91602 Cost: Free Best for: Babies and toddlers through age 8 Woodbridge Park is a small, leafy favorite for parents of little ones. It has a separate toddler play area, shade canopies over the seating, picnic gazebos, chess tables, outdoor fitness equipment and walking paths, so there's something for the adults while the kids dig and climb. It's unstaffed and compact, which is exactly the appeal: you can see your kids from almost any bench. It's a great spot for a morning meetup with a baby group or a quick after-nap outing. Parent tip: The shade canopies make this one of the more comfortable Studio City playgrounds on hot afternoons. The park is open dawn to dusk, and street parking along Moorpark Street is usually easy on weekdays. 7. Moorpark Park 12061 Moorpark Street Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free Best for: Toddlers and preschoolers On the northeast corner of Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Moorpark Street, this little pocket park has a fenced children's play area and a lawn big enough for a picnic blanket and a game of tag. It's unstaffed and simple, and that's fine. What makes it handy is its location. It's a short walk from the Studio City Branch Library, so you can pair storytime with a swing session. It also hosts the Rotary Club of Studio City/Sherman Oaks Arts and Crafts Show, which traditionally takes over the park one weekend in spring and one in fall. Parent tip: The fence is the big win for parents of runners. Bring a picnic from Ventura Boulevard and plan on 30 to 45 minutes; it's a perfect library-day add-on. 8. North Weddington Recreation Center 10844 Acama Street Studio City, CA 91602 Cost: Free to visit; program fees vary Hours: Mon–Fri 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Sun Tucked near the LA River on the east side of Studio City, North Weddington is a staffed recreation center with an indoor, lighted basketball gym, a children's play area, handball courts, a community room, a stage and picnic tables. Because it's staffed, it's also a good place to find youth sports, fitness classes, cultural programs and seasonal camps run by LA Recreation and Parks. If your child is ready for a first basketball league or a school-break camp, check here before you look further afield. Parent tip: Call (818) 506-1467 or stop by the front desk to ask about current youth programs and camp sign-ups, since the best ones fill fast. Remember it's closed on Sundays. 9. South Weddington Park 10600 Valleyheart Drive Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free Best for: Ball-loving kids of all ages South Weddington Park is mostly open fields and a baseball diamond along Valleyheart Drive, right by the river. It isn't a playground park, but it's a great place to run off energy, kick a ball, or practice batting on a weekday afternoon. The fields are often used by leagues through private contracts, so weekend mornings can be busy with games. For families who already play youth sports in the Valley, there's a decent chance you'll end up here for a game day at some point. Parent tip: Pair it with a walk along the nearby LA River paths, and bring your own soccer ball or T-ball set. The park is open dawn to dusk. 10. LA River Greenway Park Along the LA River between Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Whitsett Avenue Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free Best for: All ages; strollers and scooters Did you know the LA River has one of its most pleasant walking stretches right in Studio City? The LA River Greenway runs about 0.6 miles between Laurel Canyon Boulevard and Whitsett Avenue, with decomposed granite paths, native plantings, rock seating and river-rock ramps. Kids can watch the water flow over the weir at Laurel Canyon Boulevard and look for ducks and egrets in the channel. From the Radford Avenue bridge, you can see the low-flow channel below. It's an easy, flat outing that feels surprisingly peaceful for being so close to Ventura Boulevard. Parent tip: This is our go-to walk with a scooter-age kid. Grab coffee and snacks on Ventura Place first, then enter near Radford Avenue and walk toward Whitsett for an easy out-and-back. 11. Valleyheart Greenway Laurelgrove Avenue footbridge at Valleyheart Drive Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 2–10 The quarter-mile Valleyheart Greenway is short, sweet and full of things for kids to discover. The star is the Great Toad Gate, designed by artist Lahni Baruck with input from local students, but there's also a Rattlesnake Wall with engraved names and a butterfly garden planted with California natives in wing-shaped beds. Look for the Butterfly Bench with a Thoreau quote, then turn it into a scavenger hunt: who can find the toad first? It's a small space, but it packs in more art and nature per step than almost any path in the Valley. Parent tip: Combine Valleyheart and the LA River Greenway for a roughly 1.9-mile walk. With toddlers, just do the Valleyheart stretch and a snack stop, and call it a big win. 12. Laurel Canyon Park Dog Park 8260 Mulholland Drive Los Angeles, CA 90046 Cost: Free Best for: Dog-loving families Just over the hill from Studio City on Mulholland Drive, Laurel Canyon Park is best known for its large off-leash dog area, which makes it a delight for kids who want to watch (and meet) a parade of friendly pups. LA Recreation and Parks lists it among the city's official off-leash dog parks. For families without a dog, it's still a fun, low-key outing. Kids can sit on the grass and watch the dogs race around, and the canyon setting feels a world away from the Valley below. Parent tip: Keep little ones out of the off-leash zone unless they're comfortable around big, fast dogs, and always ask before petting. Weekend mornings are busiest, so try a weekday afternoon if your child is dog-shy. Related: Easy Kid-Friendly Hikes in LA With Gorgeous Views Markets, Shops & Strolling in Studio City Ventura Boulevard is the heart of Studio City, and a few spots along it are genuinely built for families. Here's where to shop, stroll and snack with kids in tow. 13. Studio City Farmers Market Ventura Place (between Radford Avenue and Laurel Canyon Boulevard) Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free to enter; kids' activities and food extra Hours: Sundays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. The Studio City Farmers Market is a Sunday-morning ritual for Valley families, and it's easy to see why. Co-owned by the Studio City Chamber of Commerce Foundation and the Studio City Residents Association, it fills Ventura Place with produce, flowers, baked goods, prepared food and local makers every week. The market has a dedicated children's section with vendor-run activities, including Non Stop Fun and face painting. Over the years, families have come for pony rides, a petting zoo and a mini train, so it's worth checking what's running on your visit. Either way, kids get to taste samples, pick out fruit and burn off energy while you shop. Parent tip: Park free in the Radford Studio Center's Sater Parking Garage, just past the studio's main gate at 4200 Radford Avenue. Bring small bills for kids' activities, and arrive before 10 a.m. for the best produce and shortest lines. For more ideas, see our guide to LA farmers markets for families. 14. The Shops at Sportsmen's Lodge 12833 Ventura Boulevard Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free to visit Best for: All ages Built on the site of the famous old Sportsmen's Lodge, this open-air center on the Studio City and Sherman Oaks border is a relaxed place to grab lunch, browse and let kids wander. Erewhon anchors the center, and the terraced decks make it feel more like a village square than a strip mall. The center runs a steady calendar of community events, from run clubs and markets to fitness classes. For families, the headline is the free weekly Kids Club, but it's also an easy stop for a smoothie and a stroll after a morning hike at Wilacre. Parent tip: Check the events calendar before you go, since holiday and seasonal happenings change month to month. The lower deck is where most family events take place. 15. Kids Club at The Shops at Sportsmen's Lodge Lower Deck 12833 Ventura Boulevard Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free When: Wednesdays, 5–6 p.m., February through October Kids Club is one of the best free weekly things to do in Studio City with kids. Every Wednesday evening, the lower deck turns into a mini stage for musicians, puppet shows, storytellers, magicians, jugglers and other interactive performers. It's exactly the right length for little kids (one hour), it starts late enough for working parents to join, and there's dinner nearby when it wraps. The 2026 season runs through October, with remaining dates on October 7, 14, 21 and 28. The October 28 session is a Halloween edition with trick-or-treating, a costume contest and live performers. Parent tip: Bring a small blanket or be ready to sit on the deck floor with your kids, since front-row spots go quickly. Wear costumes on October 28, and grab an early dinner at the center afterward to skip the dinner rush. 16. Tujunga Village Tujunga Avenue between Moorpark Street and Woodbridge Street Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free to stroll Best for: All ages; strollers Tujunga Village is a two-block stretch of Tujunga Avenue lined with independent shops, cafés and little boutiques under shady trees. It has a small-town feel that's hard to find in LA, and it's a lovely place to push a stroller or let a preschooler practice their "walking nicely" skills. It's also home to We Rock the Spectrum (see below), so you can easily pair open play with a coffee and a browse. Many families walk over from nearby Woodbridge Park for a mini morning adventure. Parent tip: Metered and street parking fills quickly on weekends, so try a weekday morning. Shop hours vary, and some small businesses open later in the morning, so time your stroll for late morning. 17. Bookstar Studio City (Barnes & Noble) 12136 Ventura Boulevard Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free to browse; events vary Best for: Readers of every age This isn't your average bookstore. Bookstar, run by Barnes & Noble, lives inside the historic Studio City Theatre, so you're browsing picture books under the bones of an old Valley movie house. Kids usually get a kick out of learning that a theater once stood where the shelves are now. The children's section is a cozy spot to spend a rainy afternoon, and the store hosts storytimes, author signings and book readings through its events calendar. It's an easy, low-cost outing that ends with a new book for bedtime. Parent tip: Check the store's events page for storytime dates before you go. Set a budget before walking in, because the kids' section is very good at its job. Indoor Fun, Libraries & History in Studio City Rainy day, heat wave or just need a change of scenery? These indoor spots and history stops keep kids busy when the park isn't calling. 18. Pinz Bowling Kitchen + Bar 12655 Ventura Boulevard Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Paid; Kids Bowl Free (ages 2–15) through Oct. 31, 2026, with registration Best for: Ages 3 and up Pinz has been a Studio City landmark since 1958, and it still delivers a classic family bowling afternoon. Along with the lanes, there's an arcade, a full kitchen for pizza and snacks, and party packages that make it a birthday staple for Valley kids. In 2026, Pinz is part of the national Kids Bowl Free program through October 31. Registered kids ages 2 to 15 get two free games per day, weekdays from 1 to 5 p.m. and weekends from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shoe rental is required ($7 per visit, or a $32 shoe pass), and it's walk-in only, subject to lane availability. Parent tip: Register on the Kids Bowl Free website before you go. Weekend afternoons fill up, so a weekday after school is your best bet. Our roundup of kid-friendly bowling alleys in LA has more ideas. 19. We Rock the Spectrum – Studio City 4397 Tujunga Avenue Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Paid; call for current open-play pricing Best for: Toddlers through early elementary; sensory-friendly We Rock the Spectrum is a sensory-friendly indoor gym designed for all kids, including children with autism and other special needs. Expect swings, crash pads, climbing and sensory equipment built to help kids move, regulate and play together. It's open seven days a week and hosts open play, classes and birthday parties. The whole space is designed so every kid can play comfortably, which makes it one of the more relaxing indoor play spots for parents, too. Parent tip: Call (818) 980-5437 to confirm open-play times and pricing before you go, and bring grip socks. Afterward, stroll Tujunga Village for a snack. 20. Studio City Branch Library 12511 Moorpark Street Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Free Hours: Mon & Wed 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Tue & Thu noon–8 p.m.; Fri & Sat 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; closed Sun The Studio City Branch Library is one of the best free things to do in Studio City with kids, especially for the under-5 crowd. The branch offers a Baby & Toddler Storytime with stories, songs and movement (sign-up required), plus volunteer-led STAR storytimes where kids can read one-on-one or in small groups. Monthly drop-in crafts give families another reason to stop in. And for reluctant readers, the BARK program lets kids read aloud to Vida, a certified therapy dog, which may be the most motivating reading session ever invented. Parent tip: Sign up early for Baby & Toddler Storytime, since spots are limited. Your free LA library card unlocks much more than books; see our guide to free perks with your LA library card. 21. Campo de Cahuenga 3919 Lankershim Boulevard Studio City, CA 91604 Hours: Thursday–Saturday, 10 a.m.–2 p.m. Best for: Ages 7 and up; history buffs Right across from the Universal City Metro station, Campo de Cahuenga marks the spot where the Treaty of Cahuenga was signed in 1847, ending the fighting in California during the Mexican-American War. Today, a reconstructed adobe and small historic park honor that turning point in California history. It's a quick stop, but it's a meaningful one for elementary-age kids studying California history in school. It's also a fun "did you know?" moment right before or after a Universal Studios day. Parent tip: The site is open only Thursday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., so plan around that window, or call the museum manager at (818) 623-4166 about group tours. Otherwise, pair it with the Metro ride below. 22. Ride the Metro B Line From Universal City/Studio City Station Lankershim Boulevard near Cahuenga Boulevard, across from Universal Studios Hollywood Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Metro fare (check Metro for current fares) Best for: Train-loving kids of all ages For a lot of kids, the subway is the attraction. The Metro B Line stops at Universal City/Studio City Station, and a short ride underground to North Hollywood or Hollywood can be a thrilling mini adventure for a preschooler. Ride one stop to North Hollywood and you can walk to the NoHo Arts District and the Amelia Earhart library (see the Nearby section). Ride the other way, and you're in Hollywood in minutes without fighting for parking. Parent tip: Check Metro's website for current fares and kids' fare rules before you go, and load a TAP card in advance. Ride midmorning on a weekday to skip commuter crowds. Family Eats & Sweet Treats in Studio City Studio City has no shortage of restaurants, but these three are easy wins with kids, whether you want a quick bite, a relaxed lunch, or dessert. 23. Carney's 12601 Ventura Boulevard Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Casual, order at the counter Hours: Daily, 11 a.m.–10 p.m. Carney's serves chili dogs, burgers and fries inside a real vintage railroad car, and it has been parked at this spot on Ventura Boulevard since 1981. For kids, eating in a train is basically the whole point, and the red booths, old photos and narrow windows make it feel like a trip back in time. The menu is simple and kid-approved, with house-made chili as the signature. It's a great post-hike stop, since it sits right at the corner of Ventura Boulevard and Laurel Canyon, near the Wilacre Park trailhead. Parent tip: Grab a booth by the windows so kids can "ride" the train. Street parking is along Ventura Boulevard, and weekday afternoons are calmer than weekend lunch. 24. Joan's on Third – Studio City 12059 Ventura Place Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Moderate Hours: Daily, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. Joan's on Third's Studio City outpost is a bright café and marketplace on Ventura Place, and it's a lifesaver for families who want something a bit nicer than fast food without a sit-down dinner. The case is full of salads, sandwiches and baked treats, and there's plenty to please picky eaters. Because it's steps from the Sunday farmers market, it's a natural pairing for a weekend morning. Kids tend to zero in on the baked treats, so plan accordingly. Parent tip: Weekend mornings get busy, especially on market Sundays. Try a weekday breakfast or late lunch, or order to go and picnic along the LA River Greenway a few blocks away. 25. Salt & Straw – Studio City 12180 1/2 Ventura Boulevard Studio City, CA 91604 Cost: Paid, per scoop Hours: Daily, 11 a.m.–11 p.m. Salt & Straw is the scoop shop kids beg to visit after a Ventura Boulevard stroll. The Portland-born creamery is known for adventurous flavors that rotate monthly, alongside classics that picky eaters can count on. The staff is happy to hand out samples, so kids can try the wild stuff before committing to chocolate. With late hours every day, it's also a reliable after-dinner treat. Parent tip: Lines can stretch out the door on warm weekend evenings. Go in the afternoon, and let each child pick one "weird" sample as part of the fun. Nearby: Easy Add-Ons Within 15 Minutes of Studio City One of the best things about Studio City is how close it is to some of LA's biggest family attractions. These spots are in neighboring Universal City, North Hollywood, Burbank, Griffith Park, the Hollywood Hills, and the Valley, most within about 15 minutes by car. 26. Universal Studios Hollywood (Universal City) 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608 Cost: Paid; check the official site for current ticket prices Best for: All ages; many rides have height requirements Studio City's famous neighbor is a full theme park and working movie studio just over the freeway. Kids can explore Super Nintendo World, cast spells in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, ride Jurassic World, and take the legendary Studio Tour through real backlot sets. Fall brings Halloween Horror Nights, but that event is designed for teens and adults, not little kids. Families with young children will have a better time on regular daytime visits, and the holiday season brings family-friendly celebrations. Parent tip: Check height requirements for your kids' favorite rides before buying tickets. For planning help, read our tips for two days at Universal Studios Hollywood and our guide to holidays at Universal. 27. Universal CityWalk (Universal City) 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608 Cost: Free to enter; paid parking Best for: All ages You don't need a theme park ticket to enjoy CityWalk. This outdoor promenade just outside the Universal Studios Hollywood gates is lined with restaurants, shops and bright signage, and it's home to the AMC Universal CityWalk movie theater with IMAX. It's a fun evening outing for a family dinner and a movie, and kids love the neon energy after dark. If you're visiting Universal, it's also the natural place to eat before or after the park. Parent tip: Parking is paid, so consider taking the Metro B Line to Universal City/Studio City Station and using Universal's shuttle up the hill. Weeknights are much calmer than weekends. 28. Miceli's (Universal City) 3655 Cahuenga Boulevard West Los Angeles, CA 90068 Cost: Moderate Best for: All ages; dinner with a show Miceli's has been serving Italian food in LA since 1949, and its Universal City location adds something kids remember: singing servers and a classic piano. Waitstaff perform Italian arias and classics during service, turning a pizza night into a mini concert. The old-school atmosphere feels like a special occasion, but the menu of pizzas and pastas is easy for kids to love. It's a fun choice for a birthday or grandparents' night. Parent tip: Call (323) 851-3344 to reserve for a larger group. Ask when the singing usually starts so you can time dessert with the show. 29. The Front Yard at The Garland (North Hollywood) 4222 Vineland Avenue North Hollywood, CA 91602 Cost: Moderate Hours: Breakfast daily from 7 a.m.; weekend brunch 11 a.m.–3:30 p.m.; dinner nightly from 5:30 p.m. Best for: All ages The Front Yard is the restaurant at The Garland hotel, just east of Studio City, and it's a relaxed, garden-style spot for a family brunch or an early dinner. The open, leafy setting gives families a bit more breathing room than a typical restaurant. It's close to Universal City, so it works well as a meal before or after a park day. The vibe is laid-back enough that a wiggly toddler won't feel out of place. Parent tip: Call (818) 255-7290 to book, and ask for the outdoor patio under the sycamores. Weekend brunch is the most kid-friendly window. 30. NoHo Arts District (North Hollywood) Around Lankershim Boulevard and Magnolia Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91601 Cost: Free to stroll Best for: Ages 6 and up One Metro stop from Studio City, the NoHo Arts District is a walkable neighborhood of small theaters, murals, cafés and shops. Kids who like art will enjoy spotting murals, and the area makes for a fun "take the train somewhere new" outing. The historic El Portal Theatre anchors the district, though its fall 2026 lineup is aimed at adults. Families can still enjoy a mural walk and lunch, then head to the nearby library and park. Parent tip: Take the Metro B Line from Universal City/Studio City to North Hollywood Station and skip parking entirely. Make it a loop with the Amelia Earhart library and North Hollywood Park. 31. North Hollywood Amelia Earhart Regional Library (North Hollywood) 5211 Tujunga Avenue North Hollywood, CA 91601 Cost: Free Hours: Sun 1–5 p.m.; Mon–Thu 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri & Sat 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Named for the famous aviator who once lived in North Hollywood, this regional library is a great rainy-day stop. It offers a Fall Preschool Storytime for ages 2 to 5 with stories, songs and action rhymes, plus a student zone, computers and Tech2Go bundles. It's larger than the Studio City branch and open on Sundays, which makes it a handy backup when your home branch is closed. Kids who love planes can learn a little about Amelia Earhart while they're there. Parent tip: Check the library calendar for the current storytime day and time. Pair your visit with the playground at North Hollywood Park next door. 32. North Hollywood Park (North Hollywood) 11430 Chandler Boulevard North Hollywood, CA 91601 Cost: Free Best for: All ages North Hollywood Park is a big, green city park with a children's play area, a seasonal outdoor pool, a jogging path, sports courts and shady trees, right next to the Amelia Earhart library. It's a good spot for a long picnic or a birthday party in the park. Because it's larger than most Studio City parks, it's great for kids who need room to run, bike or kick a ball. It also pairs perfectly with a NoHo Arts District visit. Parent tip: Weekend afternoons get busy with parties, so claim a picnic table early. Check LA Recreation and Parks for current programs and pool schedules. 33. Lake Hollywood Park (Hollywood Hills) 3160 Canyon Lake Drive Los Angeles, CA 90068 Cost: Free Best for: All ages; photo lovers Want the Hollywood Sign as your picnic backdrop? Lake Hollywood Park offers one of the closest views of the sign from a grassy park, and it's only a short drive from Studio City through the hills. There's a children's play area and picnic tables, so it works as a real outing and not just a quick photo op. Kids love running on the lawn with the sign looming above. Parent tip: The park is open sunrise to sunset. Come on a weekday morning, since weekend afternoons can get crowded with sign-seekers, and follow posted parking rules on the residential streets. 34. Franklin Canyon Park (Beverly Hills) 2600 Franklin Canyon Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Cost: Check MRCA's site for current fees Best for: Ages 2 and up Just over Mulholland from Coldwater Canyon, Franklin Canyon Park feels like a hidden valley with a lake, a small duck pond and easy trails. Kids can look for turtles, ducks and frogs around the pond, and the shaded paths are gentle enough for small hikers. The park connects to the same trail network as Wilacre and Fryman, so ambitious families can link them together. For most families, though, a slow loop around the pond is the perfect pace. Parent tip: Bring binoculars for bird and turtle spotting, and pack snacks, since there's nothing to buy in the canyon. Check MRCA's site for closures on red flag warning days. 35. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood (Burbank) 3400 Warner Boulevard Burbank, CA 91505 Cost: Paid; check the official site for current ticket prices Best for: Ages 5 and up; children under 5 are not permitted For movie-loving older kids, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Burbank is a behind-the-scenes look at a working studio, with backlot sets, soundstages and exhibits from famous films and shows. Fans of superheroes, wizards and classic sitcoms will find plenty to geek out over. It's a guided tour, so it's better suited to kids with a longer attention span than to toddlers. Children under 5 aren't allowed on any studio tour, and guests ages 5 to 17 must be with an adult. Parent tip: Book ahead online, and note the tour is closed on some dates, including November 3–5 and November 26 this fall. Pair it with a burger at Bob's Big Boy nearby. Our Burbank guide has more ideas. 36. Johnny Carson Park (Burbank) 400 South Bob Hope Drive Burbank, CA 91505 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 2–10 Named for the late-night legend, Johnny Carson Park in Burbank is a pleasant neighborhood park with play structures, bridges, ladders and balance beams for climbing, plus open lawns, a nature trail and picnic tables. It's close to the studios in Burbank, so it's a great place to let kids run before or after a studio tour. The shady setting also makes it comfortable for a summer picnic. Parent tip: Bring a picnic and let kids explore the nature trail. It's an easy stop on the way home from Burbank errands. 37. Bob's Big Boy (Burbank) 4211 West Riverside Drive Burbank, CA 91505 Cost: Casual family diner Best for: All ages Bob's Big Boy in Burbank is a mid-century diner landmark, complete with the famous Big Boy statue out front. Kids get a kick out of posing with the statue, and the menu of burgers, shakes and breakfast classics is an easy win for picky eaters. It's a fun slice of Southern California car culture and a great stop after a studio tour or a day at the Burbank parks. Parent tip: Snap a photo with the Big Boy statue on your way in, and check the official site for any current car show nights or special events. Related: 41 Fun Things to Do in Burbank With Kids 38. Los Angeles Zoo (Griffith Park) 5333 Zoo Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027 Cost: Paid; check the official site for current prices Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m. The L.A. Zoo is an easy 15-minute drive from Studio City and one of the most rewarding full-day outings in the area. Kids can see gorillas, elephants, giraffes and hundreds of other animals, along with gardens and play areas throughout the grounds. Fall is an especially good time to go, with Boo at the L.A. Zoo on two weekends in late October and L.A. Zoo Lights in the evenings starting November 20, 2026. Parent tip: Arrive right at opening when animals are most active and the air is cooler. Wear comfortable shoes, since the zoo is hilly. 39. Travel Town Museum (Griffith Park) 5200 Zoo Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027 Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Mondays Best for: Train-obsessed toddlers and preschoolers Travel Town in Griffith Park is an outdoor railroad museum where kids can climb aboard real steam locomotives and vintage railcars. For little train fans, it's pure bliss. There's also a miniature train that loops around the grounds; check the official site for current ride times and prices. It's an easy outing that can fill a whole morning. Parent tip: Remember Travel Town is closed on Mondays. Go early on weekends to beat the crowds, and bring cash or a card for the train ride. It's close to the L.A. Zoo if you want to combine them. 40. Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum (Griffith Park) 5202 Zoo Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027 Cost: Check the official site for current ride details When: Public ride days vary; check the official site Right next to Travel Town, the Los Angeles Live Steamers run small-scale steam trains that kids and grown-ups can ride. Volunteers maintain the trains and tracks, and the rides are a family favorite. Nearby, Walt Disney's Carolwood Barn, the workshop from Walt's backyard railroad, is open on select days, making this a wonderful stop for Disney fans. Parent tip: Check the Live Steamers website for current ride days and times before you go. Lines can be long, so arrive early. 41. Shane's Inspiration (Griffith Park) 4800 Crystal Springs Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027 Cost: Free Best for: All ages and abilities Shane's Inspiration is a two-acre inclusive playground in Griffith Park, designed so kids of all abilities can play together. It features slides, climbing structures, zip lines, spinners, musical instruments and shaded play areas. It's one of the best playgrounds in LA for mixed-age siblings, because there's something for every stage. It's a great stop on the way to or from the zoo. Parent tip: Bring sunscreen and water, and use the nearby Griffith Park picnic areas for lunch. See our list of the best outdoor playgrounds in LA for more. 42. Griffith Observatory (Griffith Park) 2800 East Observatory Road Los Angeles, CA 90027 Cost: Free admission; planetarium shows and parking extra Hours: Check the official site for current hours Griffith Observatory offers free admission, space exhibits, planetarium shows and one of the best views in LA. Kids can see a real Tesla coil in action, explore exhibits about the planets and peek through telescopes on clear evenings. It's an amazing late-afternoon outing, and the free public telescope viewing on clear nights is a highlight for curious kids. Parent tip: Parking fills quickly, so arrive early or use the shuttle. Read our complete Griffith Observatory guide for more tips. 43. Autry Museum of the American West (Griffith Park) 4700 Western Heritage Way Los Angeles, CA 90027 Cost: Paid; check the official site for current prices Best for: Ages 5 and up The Autry, across from the L.A. Zoo, tells stories of the American West through art, artifacts and hands-on exhibits. Kids tend to love the historic objects, cowboy gear and interactive spaces. It's a great indoor option for a hot or rainy day in Griffith Park, and it pairs well with the zoo or Travel Town. Parent tip: Check the Autry's website for family days and current hours. Combine it with the zoo or Travel Town for a full Griffith Park day. 44. Lake Balboa Park (Van Nuys) 6300 Balboa Boulevard Lake Balboa, CA 91406 Cost: Free; pedal boat and bike rentals extra Hours: Sunrise to sunset About 15 to 20 minutes west of Studio City, Lake Balboa Park is a big Valley park built around a lake with a 1.3-mile walking loop. Kids can watch ducks and geese, play on the children's play equipment and ride bikes along the paths. Pedal boat and bike rentals add to the fun, and kayak classes are offered too. Swimming and paddleboards aren't allowed, but a pedal boat ride is plenty exciting for most kids. Parent tip: The park may close in rainy weather, so check before you go. Bring a picnic and a bike, and keep dogs on a leash and out of the lake. Annual Events & Seasonal Fun in Studio City Studio City's calendar is especially lively in fall. Here are the seasonal events worth circling, with 2026 dates where they've been officially announced. Halloween Kids Club at The Shops at Sportsmen's Lodge When: Wednesday, October 28, 2026, 5–6 p.m. Where: The Shops at Sportsmen's Lodge, Studio City The final Kids Club of the 2026 season goes full Halloween, with trick-or-treating, a costume contest and live performers on the lower deck. It's free and ends early enough for little ones to be home by bedtime. Parent tip: Bring a small treat bag and arrive a few minutes early for the costume contest. TreePeople Moonlight Hikes When: October 23, November 20 and December 18, 2026, 7 p.m. (check-in around 6:30 p.m.) Where: TreePeople's Coldwater Canyon Park, 12601 Mulholland Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 TreePeople hosts evening Moonlight Hikes at Coldwater Canyon Park, with music and a chance to experience the trails after dark. Tickets are required; check the event page for pricing and any age guidance before booking with kids. Parent tip: Bring flashlights or headlamps, warm layers and a blanket, and consider it for older kids who can stay up past 8 p.m. Rotary Arts and Crafts Show at Moorpark Park When: Usually one weekend in October and one in May (2026 fall dates to be announced) Where: Moorpark Park, 12061 Moorpark Street, Studio City, CA 91604 The Rotary Club of Studio City/Sherman Oaks hosts an arts and crafts show at Moorpark Park, featuring original, handmade goods. It's a pleasant browse with kids, especially for early holiday gifts. Parent tip: Go early in the day and pair it with a playground break at the park's fenced play area. Trick-or-Treating in Nearby Toluca Lake When: Halloween night, Saturday, October 31, 2026 Where: Around Toluca Estates Drive and Valley Spring Lane, Los Angeles, CA 91602 Just east of Studio City, Toluca Lake is one of LA's best-known trick-or-treating neighborhoods, with elaborate yard displays and a block-party vibe. Our best LA neighborhoods for trick-or-treating guide has tips for navigating the crowds. Parent tip: Park a few blocks away and walk in, and start right at dusk before the biggest crowds arrive. Boo at the L.A. Zoo and L.A. Zoo Lights When: Boo at the L.A. Zoo, October 24–25 and October 31–November 1, 2026; L.A. Zoo Lights, November 20, 2026–January 10, 2027 Where: Los Angeles Zoo, 5333 Zoo Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027 About 15 minutes from Studio City, the L.A. Zoo hosts Boo at the Zoo from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with trick-or-treating stations, keeper talks and animal enrichment, all included with zoo admission. Then the holiday light show L.A. Zoo Lights runs evenings from 6 to 10 p.m. Parent tip: Costumes are welcome at Boo at the Zoo; go on the first weekend for smaller crowds. For more fall fun, see our pumpkin patches and fall festivals guide. Coming Soon: Harvard-Westlake River Park When: Opening date not yet announced Where: Former Weddington Golf & Tennis site, Whitsett Avenue, Studio City Harvard-Westlake is transforming the old Weddington Golf & Tennis property into a sports park with a pool, fields, tennis courts and a gym, and the school describes community partnerships as part of the plan. Construction updates posted in late September 2026 show tennis courts getting their final surface and pool bleachers going in, but no public opening date yet. Parent tip: Check the project's construction updates page for public-access details before you visit. Parent Tips for Visiting Studio City With Kids Hike early. Valley afternoons get hot, especially from June through October. Start Wilacre, Fryman and Betty B. Dearing hikes before 10 a.m., and skip trails entirely on red flag warning days. Budget for Wilacre parking. The Wilacre Park lot now charges $7 for up to two hours, with a four-hour daily maximum. Street parking nearby is limited and signed, so read the signs carefully. Make Sunday your market day. Park free in the Radford Studio Center garage, then walk to the farmers market, Joan's on Third and the LA River Greenway without moving your car. Use the Metro. Universal City/Studio City Station on the B Line connects you to Universal, North Hollywood and Hollywood, which saves parking fees and doubles as an adventure for kids. Mark your Wednesdays. The free Kids Club at The Shops at Sportsmen's Lodge runs through October 28, 2026. Register for Kids Bowl Free. Pinz's free bowling program for ages 2–15 ends October 31, 2026, and requires online registration plus shoe rental. Double-check hours. Small shops, historic sites and special events change schedules often, so confirm hours on official websites before you go. Takeaway Studio City packs a lot of family fun into a compact, easy-to-navigate neighborhood. Canyon trails, river walks and playgrounds give kids room to explore, while the farmers market, Kids Club, bowling, library storytimes and a railroad-car chili stand make every weekend feel a little different. And when you want to go bigger, Universal Studios Hollywood, Griffith Park, North Hollywood and Burbank are all just minutes away. Pair this guide with our 41 fun things to do in Burbank with kids and our 75+ indoor activities for kids in LA for even more ideas. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What are the best free things to do in Studio City with kids? The best free things to do in Studio City with kids are the Wednesday Kids Club at The Shops at Sportsmen's Lodge, the LA River and Valleyheart greenways, TreePeople's Coldwater Canyon Park, and storytimes at the Studio City Branch Library. Woodbridge, Moorpark and Beeman parks have free playgrounds, and registered kids ages 2–15 can bowl free at Pinz through October 31, 2026. 2. Where can kids hike in Studio City? Kids can hike at Wilacre Park, Fryman Canyon Park and TreePeople's Coldwater Canyon Park, all in the hills above Studio City. Wilacre's wide, shady fire road is the most popular family hike, while the Betty B. Dearing Trail is a moderate 4.9-mile route better suited to older kids. 3. Is the Studio City Farmers Market good for kids? Yes, the Studio City Farmers Market is very kid-friendly, with a dedicated children's section run by vendors such as Non Stop Fun and face painters. It takes place every Sunday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Ventura Place, and free parking is available in the Radford Studio Center garage at 4200 Radford Avenue. 4. What can kids do indoors in Studio City on a hot or rainy day? Indoor options in Studio City include bowling at Pinz, sensory-friendly play at We Rock the Spectrum on Tujunga Avenue, storytimes at the Studio City Branch Library and browsing the kids' section at Bookstar (Barnes & Noble) inside the historic Studio City Theatre. For a bigger day, Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk are next door in Universal City. 5. Is Weddington Golf & Tennis still open in Studio City? No, Weddington Golf & Tennis has closed, and the property is being rebuilt as Harvard-Westlake River Park. As of late September 2026, construction is still underway and no public opening date has been announced, so check the project's official updates page for public-access details.

The Best Kid-Friendly Museums in And Near Los Angeles LA Families don’t have to travel far to explore some of the best kid-friendly museums. With 51 awesome museums to choose from, you can be sure there is something to interest everyone. Whether you’re looking for interactive exhibits, educational experiences, or just a day of fun, Los Angeles museums have it all. From the Natural History Museum to the California Science Center, you’ll find something to keep the kids amused for hours. So, get out and explore all that Los Angeles has to offer with your family – you won’t be disappointed! 🗓️ Updated for 2026: We checked every museum on this list for 2026, added notes about big changes (like the La Brea Tar Pits museum renovation and the brand-new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center), and added 9 new kid-friendly museums, including the brand-new Lucas Museum of Narrative Art! ✨Quick Links: ✨ kid-Friendly Museums Near Me 🦖(Find Museums on the map) Kid-Friendly Museums with Dinosaurs Near Me Kid-Friendly Museums in Los Angeles Kid-Friendly Museums in Santa Monica Kid-Friendly Museums in Culver City New Kid-Friendly Museums Added for 2026 ✨ Best Museums for Kids in Los Angeles Natural History Museum of Los Angeles 900 Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007 ​​The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles is an extensive natural history museum with beautiful displays of North American and African mammals, and a hands-on, interactive Discovery Center with live animals, shells, rocks, bones, insects, and other specimens. It protects over 35 million specimens, dating back 4.5 billion years, and serves as an authority on the "big picture" of the planet, encompassing both the natural and cultural worlds. Watch for special exhibits like the butterfly pavilion, spider pavilion, and dinosaur lab. L.A. County residents receive free Museum Admission from 3-5 pm Monday through Friday. Additional tickets are required to view special exhibitions, the Butterfly and Spider Pavilion, the 3D Theater, and other select ticketed experiences. La Brea Tar Pits & Museum 5801 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036 The La Brea Tar Pits in Hancock Park had pits of tar in which animals got stuck and died during the latter part of the last Ice Age (10,000 to 40,000 years ago). The animals thought the black pools of tar were water and got stuck. The black ozee preserved the bones that have been excavated and are still being excavated today. Explore the tar pits and get the inside story of the La Brea Tar Pits by watching how an actual Ice Age dig site works. When the renovated museum reopens, it will once again showcase skeletons of mammoths, mastodons, dire wolves, saber-toothed cats, and a variety of birds. Take your lunch, or grab something nearby, and have a picnic in Hancock Park right in the middle of the La Brea Tar Pits, and roll down the hills with the kids! Heads up for 2026: The La Brea Tar Pits museum building closed on July 7, 2026, for a major renovation and is expected to reopen in summer 2028. Hancock Park, the bubbling tar pits, and the outdoor excavation sites are still open and free to explore, and some La Brea fossils are on view at the Natural History Museum in the meantime. California Science Center 700 Exposition Park Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90037 ​The California Science Center is a dynamic destination where families and children can explore the wonders of science through interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, innovative programs, and awe-inspiring films for free. The Science Center offers self-guided experiences of Permanent and Special Exhibit galleries, Big Lab interactive programs, and IMAX Movies. The IMAX Theater is great for older kids. The Discovery Rooms are filled with hands-on experiments, including a kitchen, a garden, a construction site, and a kid-sized TV studio with costumes, which are perfect for exploring for kids 6 and under. After your exploration, you can enjoy a meal from one of the dining options located on the Science Center's 1st floor or grab a snack at the IMAX Theater's concession stand. Admission to the California Science Center is always free. Coming November 13, 2026: The new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center opens with Space Shuttle Endeavour standing upright in launch position. General admission to the Science Center stays free, but you'll need a timed reservation (with a small service fee) to see Endeavour. Skirball Cultural Center 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 The Skirball features an extraordinary museum, changing exhibitions, engaging music, theater, comedy, film, family, and literary programs, Zeidler's Café, Audrey's Museum store, and an interactive family destination inspired by the Noah's Ark story—all in a stunning architectural setting. Play, climb, build, explore, make-believe, and make friends–all while exploring a floor-to-ceiling wooden ark, filled to the rafters with whimsical animals. All of the Skirball exhibitions are free to the public on Thursdays (12 pm-5 pm). The Noah's Ark portion of the museum, while also free on Thursdays, requires a timed ticket to enter. Petersen Automotive Museum 6060 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036 The Mission of the Petersen Automotive Museum is to explore and present the history of the automobile and its global impact on life and culture using Los Angeles as a prime example. At the Petersen Automotive Museum, you get to drive into the world of the automobile in lots of different ways. There are interactive exhibits, art projects, automotive awareness workshops, and more. Through a groundbreaking partnership with Disney/Pixar, you can be a part of the Cars Mechanical Institute, inspired by the animated film CARS. At this permanent Exhibit, you can learn about the mechanical systems that make cars work. You can also paint and personalize virtual cars as well as race and color your own Cars character to take home. And the littlest car enthusiasts can zoom toy cars around a racetrack. Academy Museum of Motion Pictures 6067 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036 The seven-story, 300,000-square-foot museum showcases various exhibits that focus on the history and art of filmmaking. The museum offers ongoing educational and family programs, including Family Studio Activities, Teen Programs, and School Field Trips, throughout the museum, in exhibition galleries, and in the Shirley Temple Education Studio. Reserve timed entry to the Academy Museum in advance online. General admission tickets grant access to the museum's galleries. Related: Explore Famous Museums from Anywhere in the World! The Broad 221 S. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012 The Broad is a contemporary art museum on Grand Avenue in downtown Los Angeles. The Broad is home to more than 2,000 works of art in the Broad collection, which is among the most prominent holdings of post-war and contemporary art worldwide. While you are there, you must check out Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room–The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away. This must-see installation only accommodates one visitor at a time for 45 seconds each. Download The Broad’s free mobile app to access guided tours, including a family tour for kids called Looking with Levar. Admission to The Broad is always free, but you must reserve your tickets online. Hammer Museum 10899 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90024 Hammer Museum is one of three public art institutions of the School of the Arts and Architecture at UCLA. It is fueled by dynamic exhibitions and programs, including lectures, symposia, film series, readings, and musical performances. The Hammer holds over 2,000 contemporary art collections and hosts a series of more than 100 contemporary exhibitions and installations featuring local, national, and international emerging artists. The Hammer offers over 300 programs each year, some of which are family-friendly and all of which are free. Autry Museum of the American West 4700 Western Heritage Way Los Angeles, CA 90027 ​Discover the art, history, and cultures of the American West! Located in beautiful Griffith Park, the Autry features world-class galleries filled with Native American art and artifacts, film memorabilia, historic firearms, paintings, and more. Throughout the year, Autry also presents a wide range of public events and programs, including lectures, films, theater, festivals, family activities, and music, as well as performs scholarship, research, and educational outreach. The Autry’s collection of more than 500,000 pieces of art and artifacts includes the Southwest Museum of the American Indian Collection, one of the largest and most significant collections of Native American materials in the United States. Kids adore the chance to pan for gold, to be in a cowboy movie, and be fascinated by the newest permanent exhibit, Admission to the Autry in Griffith Park may be purchased onsite or online. Advance reservations are not required at this time. The museum is free on the second Tuesday of each month! Los Angeles County Museum of Art 5905 Wilshire Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90036 This world-class art museum is an excellent introduction to art for kids of all ages. The Boone Children’s Gallery is a free, creative space where visitors of all ages are invited to explore the art of brush painting. No prior art-making experience is necessary. Friendly and helpful staff introduce painting techniques, offer tips, and even provide high chairs for very young artists. Visitors sit at communal tables in this fun, family-friendly, and resourceful place to relax, create, and make new friends. While you're here, explore Material Play, a collaborative artwork made by families and artist Zheng Chongbin. Children (12 and under) and Teens (13–17) residing in L.A. County are admitted free every day. L.A. County residents can visit for free on weekdays after 3 pm with a valid ID. All visitors are welcome to visit for free on the second Tuesday of each month. New in 2026: LACMA's David Geffen Galleries opened on April 19, 2026, giving the museum's permanent collection a stunning new home that stretches across Wilshire Boulevard. Note that LACMA is closed on Wednesdays. The Getty Center 1200 N Sepulveda Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 The Getty Center, also known as the J. Paul Getty Museum, is a museum complex located in Los Angeles, California. It is home to a collection of art, architecture, and gardens. The museum's collection includes works of art from the Middle Ages to the present, with a focus on European paintings, drawings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the 13th to the 18th centuries. The center also houses the Getty Research Institute, a facility dedicated to the study of the arts and humanities. The center is located in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles and is a popular museum for all ages. Admission to the Getty Center is always free. Plan ahead: The Getty Center is scheduled to close on March 15, 2027, for about a year of modernization and reopen in spring 2028. Until then, admission is free with a timed reservation, and parking is $25 ($15 after 3 pm). The Getty Center is closed on Mondays. The Getty Villa 17985 Pacific Coast Highway Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 The Getty Villa is another facility of the J. Paul Getty Museum, located in Pacific Palisades, California. It is modeled after the Villa of the Papyri, an ancient Roman country house in Herculaneum, and features a collection of ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan art. The museum's collection includes Greek and Roman sculptures, vases, frescoes, and other decorative arts, as well as a collection of Roman and Greek manuscripts. The villa also features gardens and a theater that hosts lectures, concerts, and other events. The Getty Center also hosts family-friendly events almost every day of the week. Good news: The Getty Villa reopened on June 27, 2025, after closing because of the Palisades Fire. Admission is free with a timed-entry reservation (parking is $25), and the Villa is closed on Tuesdays. Travel Town Museum 5200 Zoo Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027 The mission of Travel Town is to educate the public about railroad history as it pertains to the development of the Southwest Region of the United States, particularly the Los Angeles area. At Travel Town Railroad, you can travel around the Travel Town Museum. After riding the miniature train, you can explore dozens of old-time railroad locomotives and cars. On the 2nd Saturday of each month, guided tours are offered. The Travel Town Museum is always free. Related: 9 Best Museums in LA to Visit with Your Kids for Free! Griffith Observatory 2800 East Observatory Rd. Los Angeles, CA 90027 Griffith Observatory is an icon of Los Angeles, a national leader in public astronomy, a beloved civic gathering place, and one of Southern California's most popular attractions. It is 1,134 feet above sea level and is visible from many parts of the Los Angeles basin. At Griffith Observatory, you can look through telescopes, explore exhibits, see live shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, and enjoy spectacular views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign. Admission to the building and grounds is always free. Discovery Cube Los Angeles 11800 Foothill Blvd Los Angeles, CA 91342 Discovery Cube is a hands-on science education center that delights, challenges, and encourages kids. This nonprofit museum is dedicated to teaching STEM proficiency, promoting early childhood education, encouraging healthy living, and fostering environmental stewardship. Discovery Cube offers permanent exhibits, including the Planetary Research Station, Science of Hockey, 3D Theater, Helicopter Tour, Discovery Market, Race to Zero Waste, Aquavator, Inspector Training Course, and park science, as well as new interactive exhibits that change every few months. Grammy Museum at LA Live 800 W. Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015 The Grammy Museum explores and celebrates the enduring legacies of all forms of music, the creative process, the art and technology of the recording process, the history of the Grammy Awards, and the premier recognition of recorded music accomplishments. Kids will enjoy seeing photos, hand-written lyrics, costumes, and more. You can even play electronic musical instruments in the “Roland LIVE” section. African American Firefighter Museum 1401 South Central Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90021-2607 The history of African American firefighters in Los Angeles spans over 100 years, providing a unique glimpse into the evolution of firefighting, race relations, and segregation in the City. African American Firefighter Museum's exhibits display a wide array of firefighting paraphernalia including vintage engines (a 1940 Pirsch ladder truck and an 1890 hose wagon), uniforms from New York, LA County, and LA City firefighters, badges, helmets, displays of African American women firefighters, photographs, and other authentic firefighting artifacts. Museum of Illusions 6751 Hollywood Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90028 The Museum of Illusions comes Instagram-ready with a completely 3D Illusions and Upside-Down House exhibit that will take your breath away, transporting you to a world of fantasy and imagination! The 30+ 3D illusions produce eye-popping pics, inspired by cartoons, art, current events, movies, and more! The Upsidedown house features 7 unique rooms, all flipping the world as you know it, upside down! Los Angeles Railroad Museum 5202 Zoo Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90027 Experience the fun and lore of railroading at the Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum in Griffith Park. Founded in 1956 by a group of train enthusiasts, they educate the public on railroad history and show live steam, gas-mechanical, and electric railroad technology in actual operation. As you look around the facility, almost everything you see, including the trains, was built by members. All riders must be at least 34″ tall to ride (no infants in carriers or on laps) and weigh less than 350 pounds. Public train rides are a suggested donation of $4.00 per person. Craft Contemporary 5814 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036 Craft Contemporary is dedicated to contemporary craft and design. The museum is located in the Mid-City neighborhood of Los Angeles, in the former Millard Sheets Art Center building. It was established in 2015 as the Craft and Folk Art Museum but changed its name to Craft Contemporary in 2018 to reflect its focus on contemporary craft and design. The museum presents exhibitions, educational programs, and public events that explore the intersection of craft, art, and design and how they shape our world. It is a non-profit organization and is supported by donations, memberships, and grants. The Chinese American Museum 425 N Los Angeles St. Los Angeles, CA 90012 The Chinese American Museum is a museum in Los Angeles, California that is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of Chinese Americans in the United States. The museum's collection includes artifacts, photographs, and other materials that tell the story of Chinese immigration to the United States and the contributions of Chinese Americans to American society. The museum's exhibits focus on the history of Chinese immigration to the United States, the experiences of Chinese Americans in California and the Western United States, and the role of Chinese Americans in the development of the United States. The museum also hosts educational programs and events for the public, including lectures, workshops, and cultural performances. If you're interested in Chinese American history and culture, the Chinese American Museum is a great place to visit. Cayton Children's Museum 395 Santa Monica Pl Suite 374 Santa Monica, CA 90401 The state-of-the-art space in the Santa Monica Mall spans 21,000 square feet and is filled with immersive elements, including a full-size helicopter, a fire truck, and a veterinary clinic. The kids get to shop for groceries, eat at a café, play chef, visit the vet, become firefighters, or pretend to be pilots. "The Together We" section offers group activities and team-building exercises, and the "Reflect On" section is where children learn to connect more deeply with nature. You’ll also find the “Courage Climber,” an entire level made from nets, which kids find extremely fun to explore. There is a separate space for infants to 2-year-old kids to explore through touch, and it is intended to help them strengthen their coordination. Museum of Flying 3100 Airport Avenue, Santa Monica, CA 90405 The Museum of Flying features a display and exhibit area of nearly 22,000 square feet. The museum features approximately a dozen aircraft chronicling flight from its beginning with a replica Wright Flyer and Lockheed Vega both of which are featured in the film Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian. The Museum also features a broad collection of aviation art, rare artifacts, and ephemera from famous aviators, as well as an extensive collection of photographs of historic aircraft and aircraft manufacturing. Kids would love watching the planes and riding them. Heritage Square Museum 2612 Main St., Santa Monica, CA 90405 Heritage Square Museum is a living history museum in Los Angeles, California, that is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Southern California. The museum is situated on a 2.5-acre site that features a collection of historic houses, commercial buildings, and other structures built between 1887 and 1912. The museum's collection includes artifacts, photographs, and other materials related to the history of Southern California, with a focus on the period from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. The museum's exhibits focus on the history of Los Angeles and the surrounding region, including the city's development, the growth of the region's transportation networks, and the oil industry's impact on the area. The museum also hosts educational programs and events for the public, including guided tours, workshops, and special events. If you're interested in the history of Southern California, Heritage Square Museum is a great place to visit. Museum of Jurassic Technology 9341 Venice Blvd. Culver City, CA 90232 The museum is known for its unique and unusual exhibits, which often focus on obscure or obscurely related subjects. The museum's exhibits range from historical artifacts to contemporary artworks and are presented in a way that encourages visitors to question their understanding of the world. The museum is also recognized for its innovative approach to exhibitions and its utilization of unconventional materials and techniques. Some of the exhibits at the Museum of Jurassic Technology have included a collection of micro-miniature sculptures, a display of rare and unusual plants, and an exhibit on the history of the homing pigeon. Star Eco Station 10101 Jefferson Boulevard Culver City, CA 90232 The STAR Eco Station is an environmental science museum and exotic wildlife rescue facility in Culver City, California. The center's mission is to promote sustainability and ecological awareness through education and hands-on exhibits. The STAR Eco Station is home to a diverse array of animals, including exotic species such as parrots, reptiles, and small mammals. It also features a variety of interactive exhibits and educational programs, including animal encounters, nature hikes, and workshops on topics such as composting and water conservation. Wende Museum 10808 Culver Boulevard Culver City, CA 90230 The Wende Museum, located in Culver City, California, is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history and culture of the Cold War era. The museum was founded in 2002 and is named after the "Wende," the German word for the period of change that marked the collapse of the Soviet Union and the reunification of Germany. The museum's collection comprises over 70,000 objects, including photographs, artwork, film, and other cultural artifacts from the Cold War era. It also hosts exhibitions, lectures, and educational programs that explore the history and legacy of the Cold War. Los Angeles Fire Department Museum 1355 N. Cahuenga Blvd. Hollywood, CA 90028 639 S. Harbor Blvd. San Pedro, CA 90731 The Los Angeles Fire Department Museum is dedicated to the history of the Los Angeles Fire Department (LAFD). The museum is situated in the former Fire Station 27, which was constructed in 1922 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The museum features exhibits on the history of the LAFD, including firefighting equipment, photographs, and other artifacts. The museum also hosts educational programs and public events. Old Station 27 includes a Fire Service Research Library and a learning center where fire and life safety lessons are shared with both children and adults. If you're interested in the history of the LAFD and firefighting in Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Fire Department Museum is a great place to visit. Funko Hollywood 6201 Hollywood Blvd. Suite 100 Los Angeles, CA 90028 Funko is a leading pop culture lifestyle brand. They provide a connection to pop culture with a product line that includes vinyl figures, action toys, plush, apparel, board games, housewares, NFTs, and accessories. As the world’s largest proprietor of licenses, entertainment enthusiasts display their fandom through the lens of Funko products. Funko Hollywood is like a museum for Funko Pops. There are lots of places where you can take pictures with Funko Pops on Display, and find all different types of Funko Pops. Ballona Discovery Park 13110 Bluff Creek Drive Los Angeles, CA, 90094 Ballona Discovery Park is a museum without walls where visitors can learn about the natural and cultural history of Ballona Wetlands. From the always-buzzing native plant demonstration gardens, including pollinator and medicinal gardens, to the serene walk along the riparian corridor where coots and other birds can be spotted hidden in the waters below, there is plenty to explore. Children and parents can stroll through the interpretive Watershed Walk, following the movement of water through every habitat from the mountains to the ocean. Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum 23200 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265 Overlooking the ocean at the Malibu Lagoon State Beach, the Adamson House is an architectural beauty with an unusual interior that has earned it the moniker “The Taj Mahal of Tile.” The Spanish Colonial Revival style home—today a National Historic Site, California Historical Landmark, and a California State Park—casts a magical spell, allowing visitors to evoke old California in a way few places can. Built in 1929, it occupies one of the most idyllic oceanfront spots in all of Southern California. Situated near the Malibu Pier, between popular Surfrider Beach and the Malibu Lagoon, the house boasts an exotic mix of Spanish and Moorish influences, featuring dazzling displays of decorative tiles and one-of-a-kind craftsmanship. This includes hand-carved doors, hand-painted frescoes, molded ceilings, distinctive cast ironwork, and lead-framed bottle glass windows. Equally compelling is the story of the close-knit family that once lived here, whose aura continues to permeate the interior, where most of their original furnishings remain. Poverty Encounter at Children's Hunger Fund 13931 Balboa Blvd., Sylmar, CA 91342 Poverty Encounter is a 16,000-square-foot exhibit that immerses you in four distinct environments from the developing world. After boarding an airplane and taking a simulated flight, you will visit a dump in Guatemala City, walk the earthquake-damaged streets in Haiti, go inside a brickyard in Nepal, and enter an underground sewer in Romania. Each environment highlights the story of a real child living in these circumstances. Each tour includes a service activity, enabling you to offer both assistance and hope to those in need. Battleship Iowa Museum 250 S. Harbor Blvd. San Pedro, CA 90731 Battleship USS Iowa served our country proudly in WWII, Korea, and the Cold War. Today, the historic U.S. Navy ship is an iconic Los Angeles landmark and is considered one of the region’s best outdoor museums for families and visitors of all ages. During your visit and tour, you will follow in the footsteps of sailors and mischievous mascot Vicky the Dog, and experience firsthand why she is known as the “Battleship of Presidents”, “The Grey Ghost”, and “The Big Stick”. LA Fire Department Harbor Museum 639 S. Harbor Blvd. San Pedro, CA 90731 Old Fire Station 36 is housed in one of the oldest buildings still standing in San Pedro, California. At the southern-most tip of Los Angeles, San Pedro is home to the Los Angeles Harbor, Ports O Call Village, and some of the most unique seascapes in the LA area. Old Station 36 features some remarkable LAFD apparatus, artifacts from the San Pedro area, and is home to some of the most famous fires in this part of the city, among other notable features. A small store offers up a variety of goodies, ranging from authentic LAFD merchandise to memorial bracelets. Related: Get Free Passes to LA Museums with Your Library Card! Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum 40 Presidential Drive Simi Valley, CA 93065 The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is a presidential library located in Simi Valley, California, dedicated to the life and presidency of Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States. The library is operated by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and is the burial site of President Reagan and his wife, Nancy Reagan. The library's collection includes documents, photographs, and other artifacts related to Reagan's life and presidency. The museum features exhibits on Reagan's life and career, including his time as an actor, his tenure as governor of California, and his presidency. The museum also features interactive exhibits, such as a simulated White House press briefing room and a full-scale replica of the Oval Office. If you're interested in the life and presidency of Ronald Reagan, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is a great place to visit. Kidspace Children's Museum 480 North Arroyo Boulevard Pasadena, CA 91103 There is always so much to do at Kidspace Children's Museum. The hands-on exhibits inspire children to be the innovators and creators of tomorrow. From the bottle rocket, tennis ball launcher, and pulleys, there are activities to touch, teach, and nurture children's love of science. Discover adventure and uncover possibilities in the Arroyo Seco Exhibit. For the little ones (ages 0-3), a space is designed to inspire wonder, stimulate exploration, and prompt interaction between children and their parents. Crawlers and early walkers can enjoy the tactile nature of the Shiny Stream, exploring different surfaces, climbing, and sliding. Kidspace hosts a free Family Night on the first Tuesday of every month (except September) from 4:00 – 8:00 pm. Pretend City Children's Museum 29 Hubble Irvine, CA 92618 Pretend City Children’s Museum is “the world in a nutshell.” This Museum is designed for children to learn how the real world works. The museum is a child-sized interconnected city built with rich educational intentions, where children can assume various real-world roles. Through interactive exhibits and activities facilitated by highly trained professional staff, children learn foundational math, reading, and science skills while fostering curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. The Museum is a nut-free facility. Discovery Cube Orange County 2500 N. Main Street Santa Ana, CA 92705 Discovery Cube is a hands-on science education center that delights, challenges, and encourages kids. This nonprofit museum is dedicated to teaching STEM proficiency, promoting early childhood education, encouraging healthy living, and fostering environmental stewardship. Discovery Cube Orange offers permanent exhibits, including Mission Control, Helicopter Tour, Water Gallery, Inspector Training, Petersonville Healthy Kitchen, Science of Hockey, Discovery Theater, Eco-Challenge, Planetary Research Station, and other interactive exhibits and shows that rotate every few months. Bowers Museum 1802 N. Main Street Santa Ana, CA 92706 The Bowers Museum in Santa Ana showcases art and artifacts from cultures around the world, plus rotating special exhibitions that make for a great family outing. Please note: Kidseum, the Bowers' hands-on children's wing, is now used only for school and education programs and is not open to the general public. Kids under 12 get in free with a paying adult (adult admission is $18). The Bowers is open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 am–4 pm, and Santa Ana residents get in free on Sundays. The Huntington 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, CA 91108 The Huntington consists of a Library, an Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Spanning approximately 120 acres, the botanical gardens comprise 16 stunning themed gardens. Featuring several innovative interactive exhibits, the Garden provides "hands-on" experiences primarily for young children ages 2-8. In four separately themed areas, exploring primary natural elements —air, water, earth, and fire —whimsical displays and playful interactives invite and engage children to better understand scientific principles related to their natural world. The Children's Museum at La Habra 301 South Euclid Street La Habra, CA 90631 The Children's Museum at La Habra features 7 dozen hands-on exhibits, many of which remain unique to the field today. In addition to these exhibits, the Museum features an outdoor dinosaur garden and a historic 1942 caboose, as well as an exhibit that changes twice a year. Visit with "real" wild animals, as children can explore through their senses by seeing, touching, and hearing taxidermy mounts from Africa, the Pacific Northwest, and our own Southern California wildlife zones. March Field Air Museum 22550 Van Buren Blvd. Riverside, CA 92518 The museum is dedicated to preserving the history of March Field and the United States Air Force, and to honoring the men and women who have served in the Air Force. The museum features a wide range of exhibits, including aircraft, uniforms, equipment, and other artifacts from the history of military aviation. The museum also hosts educational programs, events, and special exhibitions. It is a non-profit organization and is supported by donations, memberships, and corporate sponsorships. ✨ New Kid-Friendly Museums Added for 2026 Lucas Museum of Narrative Art (NEW!) One Lucas Plaza, 3800 S. Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90037 The newest museum in Los Angeles opened in Exposition Park on September 22, 2026, and it's all about storytelling. Star Wars fans can see real costumes, props, and concept art, while the Children's Stories gallery displays original illustrations from beloved books like Peter Rabbit and Winnie-the-Pooh. Little ones love riding the glass elevators, free films screen throughout the day, and 11 acres of gardens surround the building. Kids 17 and under are free; adults are $25 and seniors are $21. Everyone, including babies, needs a timed-entry reservation. The museum is closed on Tuesdays, and the park, gardens, and library are free to visit without a ticket. Columbia Memorial Space Center 12400 Columbia Way Downey, CA 90242 Built on the site where parts of the Apollo spacecraft and the Space Shuttle were made, this hands-on space science center is the perfect size for young astronauts. Kids can explore interactive space exhibits, and the center hosts Saturday workshops and fun family nights like Astronomy Night. Admission is $5 for ages 4 and up and free for kids 3 and under. Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am–5 pm. Southern California Children's Museum 459 E. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91101 This cozy play museum is a sweet, low-key spot for toddlers and preschoolers. Its Wild California exhibit lets little ones scale a climbing wall, balance on surfboards, explore a toddler tide pool, and play camp-out in Joshua Tree, and other exhibits rotate throughout the year. Admission is $12 per person (ages 1 and up), free for babies under 1, and $5 with an EBT card. Planes of Fame Air Museum 14998 Cal Aero Dr. Chino, CA 91710 Aviation-loving kids will be wide-eyed among nearly 100 aircraft from World War I through Vietnam, and many of them still fly! Plan your visit around a monthly flying day to watch vintage warbirds take off, and stop by the Aviation Discovery Center for hands-on learning. Admission is $20 for adults, $10 for ages 5–11, and free for kids 4 and under. Open Wednesday through Sunday, 10 am–4 pm. Lyon Air Museum 19300 Ike Jones Rd. Santa Ana, CA 92707 Right next to John Wayne Airport, this sparkling hangar is filled with World War II aircraft, vintage cars, and motorcycles. Kids also love watching real jets take off and land just outside. Admission is $15 general, $9 for ages 5–17, and free for kids under 5. Open daily, 10 am–4 pm. Southern California Railway Museum 2201 S. A St. Perris, CA 92570 Home to more than 200 locomotives, streetcars, and trolleys, this museum is a dream for train-loving kids. On weekends, families can hop aboard vintage trains and trolleys for a ride, and the museum hosts special seasonal train events throughout the year. The grounds and parking are free (open Tuesday through Sunday, 9 am–5 pm). Weekend train and trolley rides are $8–$13 per person. Western Science Center 2345 Searl Pkwy. Hemet, CA 92543 Dinosaur and Ice Age fans will love this museum, which displays real fossils, including an enormous Pacific mastodon. Watch for Science Saturdays and hands-on labs for kids. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for ages 5–12, and free for kids 4 and under. Open Tuesday through Sunday, 10 am–4 pm. Valley Relics Museum 7900 Balboa Blvd., Hangar C 3 & 4 Lake Balboa, CA 91406 Two airport hangars are packed with San Fernando Valley pop culture: giant glowing neon signs, classic and movie cars, BMX bikes, and vintage arcade games. Kids love the colors and cars, and parents get a big dose of nostalgia. Admission is $15 and free for kids 10 and under. Open Saturday and Sunday, 10 am–3 pm (the entrance is on Stagg St.). Museum of Neon Art 216 S. Brand Blvd. Glendale, CA 91204 Glowing, flickering vintage signs and moving neon artworks make this small museum feel a little bit magical to kids. A visit takes under an hour, so it pairs perfectly with a stroll around the Americana at Brand across the street. Kids 12 and under get in free with an adult; general admission is $10. Open Thursday through Sunday, starting at noon. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to the best family events, activities, and things to do with kids around Los Angeles. FUN WITH KIDS IN LA® IS THE BEST SOURCE OF FUN THINGS TO DO WITH KIDS IN LA! FIND KID-FRIENDLY MUSEUMS NEAR ME Hours and prices change often, so check each museum's website before you go.

Get ready, LA families: a space shuttle, a portal to another dimension, and a whole lot of sprinkles are all headed our way. The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, Space Shuttle Endeavour's shiny new home, opens Friday, November 13, 2026. Meow Wolf Los Angeles and the Museum of Ice Cream are coming too, with opening dates still TBA. Picture this: your kids standing beneath a real space shuttle, pointed at the sky like it's about to blast off. Now imagine them stepping into a fridge door that leads somewhere wild and unexpected, then wrapping up the day surrounded by all things ice cream. That's the kind of year we have ahead of us, and we can't wait. We've rounded up everything we know so far about all three, from where they're landing to what tickets might look like and what will make your kids' jaws drop. We'll keep this guide fresh as new dates and prices roll in, so bookmark it and check back. Trust us, you'll want to be first in line. Space Shuttle Endeavour in launch position at the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center. Photo: Mike Kelley, as published by Los Angeles Magazine. Key Takeaways Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center: opens November 13, 2026, with Space Shuttle Endeavour standing upright. General admission is free, but timed reservations with a small service fee are required. Meow Wolf Los Angeles: targeting late 2026 or early 2027 at HHLA near LAX. Date and ticket prices: TBA. Museum of Ice Cream: a three-story museum in West Adams with a 100-foot slide. Opening date and ticket prices: TBA. Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center: See Space Shuttle Endeavour Standing Upright The California Science Center's new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center opens Friday, November 13, 2026, and the star of the show is Space Shuttle Endeavour. Instead of lying flat, the orbiter will stand upright in launch position, attached to its orange external tank and twin solid rocket boosters, just as it would have been before liftoff. According to the Science Center, it is the only place in the world where you can see a complete, authentic space shuttle stack. The building around it is just as big. The shuttle gallery rises about 20 stories, and the new center adds 100 hands-on exhibits and about 100 aerospace artifacts across three galleries: the Samuel Oschin Shuttle Gallery, the Korean Air Aviation Gallery and the Kent Kresa Space Gallery. Kids who like to climb, slide and press every button have plenty to do. Highlights include a 140-foot ride up a gantry-style elevator alongside the shuttle stack, a 115-foot Shuttle Descent Slide with a 45-foot drop, and a replica flight deck where visitors can try the controls. Plan Your Visit to the Air and Space Center When: Opens Friday, November 13, 2026. The Science Center is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. Where: California Science Center, 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037. Tickets: general admission is free. The new center requires an advance timed reservation with a small service fee. The fee and the date reservations open: TBA. Parking: please check the Science Center website for current parking details. Because timed reservations are required, we recommend booking as soon as they open and choosing the earliest slot you can manage with kids. Reservations and updates will be posted on the official California Science Center website. Meow Wolf Los Angeles: An Immersive Art World in a Former Movie Theater Meow Wolf turns buildings into walk-through worlds of art, story and secret passages, and its sixth permanent location is coming to LA. The Los Angeles exhibit is taking over a former Cinemark movie theater at HHLA, and the design draws on Old Hollywood and the magic of cinema. Meow Wolf has said it is partnering with LA artists, including the video art collective Everything Is Terrible! and sculptor Gabriela Ruiz. An immersive Meow Wolf installation at another location; the Los Angeles design has not been revealed. Photo: Atlas Media, as published by My Modern Met. There is no exact opening date yet. Meow Wolf's official Los Angeles page lists the location as coming in late 2026 or early 2027, and tickets are not on sale. Meow Wolf describes its exhibits as appropriate for all ages and not meant to be scary, though it also notes that spaces often include several steps up and down and varied flooring, which may be tricky for strollers or limited mobility. When: late 2026 to early 2027. Exact date: TBA. Where: HHLA, 6081 Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90045 (Westchester, near the 405). Tickets: not yet on sale. Prices and hours: TBA. To be first in line when tickets are released, sign up for alerts on the official Meow Wolf Los Angeles page. Museum of Ice Cream in West Adams: A Three-Story Sweet Spot With a 100-Foot Slide Museum of Ice Cream is building its first ground-up location in LA: a three-story, 23,000-square-foot museum on West Adams Boulevard. According to Urbanize LA's reporting, the plans include 15 interactive installations, including a 100-foot double-helix slide that runs the full height of the building, a Santa Monica Pier-themed carnival, a tiki bar and what is billed as the world's largest sprinkle pool. Rendering of the planned Museum of Ice Cream at 5252 W. Adams Blvd. Image: as published by Urbanize LA. The museum's official Los Angeles page says it is opening soon but does not list a date, hours or prices yet. Local reports have pointed to a 2026 opening, so treat that as a target rather than a promise. The official page offers early-access and presale sign-ups. When: expected in 2026. Exact date: TBA. Where: 5252 W Adams Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90016. Tickets: not yet on sale. Prices, hours and age guidance: TBA. Watch for opening news and presale details on the Museum of Ice Cream Los Angeles page. How to Plan Around Three Different Opening Timelines Start with Endeavour, since it is the only attraction with a confirmed date. If you are heading there during the first weeks, expect crowds and plan your timed reservation around nap and meal schedules. Admission to the Science Center itself is free, so it can fit into a budget-friendly weekend alongside Exposition Park. For Meow Wolf and Museum of Ice Cream, the smartest move is to sign up for the official alerts now and hold off on planning around a date. Both attractions say details are still coming, and plans like this can shift. We will update this post when dates, hours and ticket prices are confirmed. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway Space Shuttle Endeavour is the sure thing this fall: the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center opens November 13, 2026, with free general admission and a timed reservation required. Meow Wolf Los Angeles and the Museum of Ice Cream are the ones to watch, with no confirmed dates yet. Bookmark this guide, sign up for the official alerts, and check back with us. We will share opening dates, tickets and family tips the moment they are announced. Frequently Asked Questions When does the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center open? The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center at the California Science Center opens Friday, November 13, 2026. The Science Center is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm. General admission is free, but the new center requires a timed reservation, so plan to book ahead once reservations open. Is it free to see Space Shuttle Endeavour? General admission to the California Science Center is free. The Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, where Endeavour is displayed, requires a timed reservation with a small service fee. The exact fee and the date reservations open were not announced on the pages we checked, so watch the Science Center's official website for updates. When does Meow Wolf Los Angeles open? Meow Wolf has not announced an exact opening date. Its official Los Angeles page says the location is coming in late 2026 or early 2027 at 6081 Center Dr in Westchester. Tickets are not on sale yet, but you can sign up on the official page to get early notice when they are released. Is Meow Wolf good for kids? Meow Wolf says its exhibits are appropriate for all ages and are not meant to be scary. Its spaces often include several steps up and down and varied flooring, which can be tricky for strollers or limited mobility. Check the official accessibility information once the Los Angeles opening details are released. When does the Museum of Ice Cream open in West Adams? No exact date has been announced. Local development reports point to a 2026 opening, and the museum's official Los Angeles page says it is opening soon with early-access sign-ups. The three-story museum at 5252 W Adams Blvd is planned to include 15 installations and a 100-foot slide. Ticket prices: TBA. ❤️ You May Also Like DATALAND Los Angeles: Is LA's New AI Museum Worth It for Kids? Dune: The Experience Is Coming to Los Angeles: A Parent's Guide La Brea Tar Pits Insider Tour: 2026 Family Guide to Fossils and Excavation

Looking for things to do in Redondo Beach with kids? You're in luck. This laid-back South Bay city packs a working harbor, a horseshoe-shaped pier, a mile and a half of sandy beach and a surprising number of neighborhood parks into one easy drive from the rest of LA. Sea lions bark from the docks, fishing boats head out at dawn, and there's usually a shave ice line somewhere nearby. Here, you'll find harbor adventures, free parks and beaches, rainy-day picks, kid-approved food, annual events and a handful of easy add-ons in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach, Torrance and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Kids Activities Near Me (Redondo Beach Edition): At a Glance Where it is: Redondo Beach is a coastal South Bay city in Los Angeles County (ZIP codes 90277 and 90278), between Hermosa Beach to the north and Torrance and the Palos Verdes Peninsula to the south. Best for: Toddlers through teens. Little ones love the beach, the glass bottom boat and the playgrounds, while older kids go for paddleboarding, sportfishing, skating and whale watching. Getting there & parking: Most waterfront fun clusters around the Redondo Beach Pier and King Harbor, where you'll find paid parking structures and lots. Riviera Village in South Redondo has metered street parking and a paid garage. Best time to go: Weekday mornings are calmest. Whale watching peaks with gray whales in winter and spring and blue whales in summer. Summer weekends get busy, so arrive early. Free favorites: Redondo Beach, The Strand bike path, fishing off the pier (no license needed on a public ocean pier in California), Hopkins Wilderness Park, Dominguez Park, the Historical Museum, the libraries and free summer concerts on the pier. Heads-up for 2026: Seaside Lagoon is closed for the 2026 season while the city plans renovations, the Redondo Fun Factory arcade and the SEA Lab are closed, and the South Bay Galleria building is closing for redevelopment. Things to Do in Redondo Beach With Kids on the Pier and in King Harbor Start here. The pier and harbor are the heart of Redondo, and you can easily fill a whole day without moving the car. 1. Redondo Beach Pier 100 Fisherman's Wharf Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free to walk; food and activities vary Best for: All ages The Redondo Beach Pier isn't a straight line like most SoCal piers. It bends into a horseshoe, so kids get ocean views on both sides and a loop that feels like an adventure for small legs. Along the way you'll find seafood counters, snack stands, souvenir shops, fishing spots and wide-open views of the Palos Verdes hills. Sea lions are the real stars. Listen for barking near the harbor end and you'll often spot a few lounging on docks and buoys. The pier is also the launch point for whale watching, sportfishing, paddleboarding and more, so treat it as base camp. Parent tip: The pier parking structures fill fast on summer weekends. Arrive before 10 a.m., and keep a hand on little ones near the railings since some sections have wide gaps. 2. Fishing Off the Redondo Beach Pier 100 Fisherman's Wharf Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free (bring or buy bait and tackle) Best for: Ages 5+ Here's a fun fact for budget-minded parents: California doesn't require a fishing license to fish from a public pier in ocean waters. That makes the Redondo Beach Pier one of the easiest places in LA to hand a kid a rod and let them try their luck. Local anglers are usually happy to share what's biting. The pier association lists a bait and tackle shop right on the pier, so you don't need to arrive fully outfitted. Mackerel and small fish are common catches, which is perfect for short attention spans that need action. Parent tip: Bring a small towel, hand wipes and a bucket. Pier fishing rules (bag limits and size limits) still apply, so check the California Department of Fish and Wildlife rules before you keep anything. 3. Redondo Beach Whale Watch 140 International Boardwalk Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Paid; check the official site for current prices Best for: Ages 4+ Redondo Beach Whale Watch runs daily cruises from the pier with a fleet of six boats. Gray whales pass through in winter and spring, and blue whales, the largest animals on Earth, show up in summer. Dolphins are a frequent bonus, and sometimes they put on more of a show than the whales. Cruises and departure times change with the season, and the live schedule is posted on the operator's reservation site. It's a great "big day out" activity for school-age kids who can handle a couple of hours on the water. Parent tip: Even on sunny days it's chilly offshore. Pack layers, snacks and motion-sickness remedies if your crew is prone to it, and sit near the middle of the boat where the ride is smoothest. 4. Redondo Beach Sportfishing 140 International Boardwalk Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Half-day trips from $51.75 when booked online Best for: Ages 8+ Ready to graduate from pier fishing? Redondo Beach Sportfishing runs half-day trips to local fishing grounds that the operator describes as perfect for families and first-timers. Full-day trips head toward the islands and offshore for older kids who've caught the bug. Rod rentals, a tackle shop and fishing licenses are all available on-site, so beginners can show up with just sunscreen and snacks. Private charters are also available if you're planning a birthday or a family reunion. Parent tip: The half-day trip is the sweet spot for kids. Book online for the lower rate, and remember that anyone 16 or older needs a California fishing license on the boat (you can buy it on-site). 5. Redondo Glass Bottom Boat 181 N. Harbor Drive Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Kids 12 and under $15; teens $25; adults $35 Best for: Ages 2–10 This yellow semi-submarine might be the best 45 minutes in Redondo for little kids. The tour starts on the top deck, where you'll cruise past California sea lions, then everyone heads below the waterline to peer through the underwater viewing windows at fish, kelp and whatever else swims by. It's short, calm and easy, which makes it a great intro to boats for preschoolers. The operator even offers a wildlife guarantee, promising a refund if you don't see wildlife. Parent tip: Toddlers do best on a morning tour before nap time. Check the online schedule before you go, since departures vary by season and weather. 6. Paddle House 164 International Boardwalk Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Stand-up paddleboard rental $35 for 2 hours (includes a free lesson) Best for: Ages 10+ and parents King Harbor's protected water is one of the calmest places in the South Bay to try stand-up paddleboarding. Paddle House rents boards right on the International Boardwalk, and every rental comes with a quick lesson from staff who clearly love this sport. Older kids and teens can paddle alongside you, and younger children can sometimes ride on the front of a parent's board once you're steady. Keep an eye out for sea lions popping up to see what you're doing. For something different, Paddle House also offers glowing LED night tours for groups of six or more. Parent tip: Summer hours are weekdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and weekends 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; winter hours shift to Tuesday through Friday plus weekends. Ask about kids' age and life jacket requirements when you call ahead. 7. Pedal Boats and Kayaks in King Harbor 181 N. Harbor Drive Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Paid; check with the rental desk for current prices Best for: Ages 4+ with an adult Pedal boats are the easiest way to get a whole family out on the water with zero experience. You pedal, you steer, you laugh when someone goes in circles. The harbor rental shops near the glass bottom boat also rent kayaks and paddleboards, so older kids can graduate to their own craft. The inner harbor is sheltered from ocean swells, and you'll putter past sailboats, fishing boats and the resident sea lions. It's an easy one-hour adventure that kids talk about for weeks. Parent tip: Read our kayaking safety tips for kids before you go. Afternoon winds pick up in the harbor, so mornings are easier for little paddlers. 8. South Bay Sailing 181 N. Harbor Drive Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Paid; check the official site for lessons and charters Best for: Ages 10+ and families South Bay Sailing is an American Sailing Association school based in King Harbor, offering sailing lessons and captained charters. A private family sail is a memorable way to see the coastline from the water, and teens who get hooked can go on to take real certification courses. A sunset sail is a lovely splurge for a birthday or a visit from grandparents. Kids get to watch the crew work the sails, and some captains let older kids take a turn at the helm. Parent tip: Ask about family-friendly charter options when booking. Bring closed-toe shoes with good grip and a warm hoodie for the ride back in. 9. Stroll King Harbor and the Redondo Beach Marina N. Harbor Drive at Portofino Way Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free Best for: All ages; stroller-friendly Sometimes the simplest outing is the best one. King Harbor's walkways wind past docks full of sailboats and fishing boats, and kids love reading the boat names and spotting sea lions and pelicans. It's an easy, flat stroll that's great for strollers and scooters. The harbor also connects to restaurants, rentals and cruises, so you can turn a walk into a longer outing whenever energy allows. Around the holidays, the docks become the stage for the King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade. Parent tip: Pair a morning harbor walk with an early lunch at Captain Kidd's (see below), then head home before the afternoon parking crunch. 10. Moonstone Park Western end of Marina Way Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free Best for: All ages Tucked at the far end of Marina Way, Moonstone Park sits right at the edge of King Harbor with views of boats heading in and out of the marina. It's a quiet little patch of green where kids can run while you soak up the harbor scenery. It's a good spot for a picnic lunch or a break from the busier pier area. Watching the boats glide past is surprisingly entertaining for toddlers. Parent tip: This is a lovely place for a low-key snack break. Bring a picnic blanket since there's not much else here, and that's the point. 11. Redondo Beach Pier Skatepark 500 Fisherman's Wharf Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 6+ with boards, scooters or skates Listed among the pier's official activities, this oceanfront skatepark gives young skaters a place to practice with a salty breeze and a view. It's a fun stop for kids who bring their own boards or scooters. Watching the older skaters is its own form of entertainment for younger siblings. Just be clear with little ones about staying off the ramps unless they're riding. Parent tip: Helmets and pads are a must. Go early on weekends before the park gets crowded with teens. Beaches and Outdoor Fun in Redondo Beach 12. Redondo Beach 400–1700 Esplanade Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free (paid parking) Best for: All ages Redondo Beach stretches more than a mile and a half from the pier south to Torrance Beach, with sand for digging, waves for boogie boarding and lifeguards on duty during daylight hours. There are restrooms, showers and volleyball nets, and the county even offers beach wheelchairs. The beach sits below a bluff along the Esplanade, so you'll take stairs down from street level in many spots. The payoff is a less crowded feel than many LA beaches, especially on weekdays. Parent tip: The stairs can be a workout with a wagon full of gear. For the easiest access, park near the pier and walk south along the sand, or use one of the beach access points closest to the lifeguard towers. 13. The Strand and the Marvin Braude Bike Trail Access at Redondo Beach Pier, 100 Fisherman's Wharf Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free (bike rentals available at the pier) Best for: Ages 5+ on bikes; all ages in strollers LA County's famous beach bike path runs along the sand through Redondo and north into Hermosa and Manhattan Beach. It's flat, scenic and car-free, which makes it ideal for kids who are still getting confident on two wheels. The pier association lists bike and e-bike rental shops near the pier if you'd rather not haul bikes from home. Ride north to Hermosa Beach Pier for a snack stop and head back when legs get tired. Parent tip: The path gets crowded on weekend afternoons. Ride in the morning, keep kids to the right, and remind them the path is for bikes, not a racetrack. 14. Veterans Park 309 Esplanade Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free Best for: All ages Veterans Park sits on the bluff just south of the pier with wide lawns, shade trees and big ocean views. It's where the Thursday farmers market sets up, and it's an easy place to spread out a blanket before or after a pier visit. The city has also been preparing a Veterans Historical Library at the park. Kids mostly come for the grass and the view, and on clear days you can see all the way down the coast to Palos Verdes. Parent tip: This park works as a great "meet-up" spot if you're coordinating with other families. Use the pier parking structure and walk up. 15. Hopkins Wilderness Park 1102 Camino Real Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free for day visits Hours: 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; closed Wednesdays Best for: Ages 2–10 This 11-acre park feels like a secret forest tucked into a residential neighborhood. Hopkins Wilderness Park packs four little habitats into one place: a small forest, meadows, a stream and a pond. Kids can wander trails, look for birds and turtles, and pretend they're miles from the city. There's an amphitheater, restrooms and picnic sites, and the rules keep it peaceful: no pets, no bikes, no alcohol and no smoking. It's a wonderful outing for preschoolers who want to explore without a big hike. Parent tip: Remember it's closed on Wednesdays for maintenance. Wear closed-toe shoes, bring a magnifying glass or a nature bingo card, and pack your lunch since there's no food on-site. 16. Family Camping at Hopkins Wilderness Park 1102 Camino Real Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Staffing fee per overnight reservation (see city site) Reservations: Required, 2 weeks to 6 months ahead Best for: Scout troops, school groups and big family gatherings Want to camp without leaving the city? Hopkins Wilderness Park offers overnight tent camping by reservation, with three campgrounds that can each hold a group of up to 40 people. It's a popular spot for scout troops, but a big group of families can book it, too. Campers arrive at 2 p.m. and leave by noon the next day. Tent camping only, so no RVs. The city lists a staffing fee of $374 per overnight reservation, which becomes pretty affordable when you split it among several families. Parent tip: Reservations are handled through the Alta Vista Racquet Center at 715 Julia Avenue. Book early for spring and fall weekends, and see our guide to family campgrounds near LA for bigger camping trips. 17. Dominguez Park 200 Flagler Lane Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free Best for: All ages At 24 acres, Dominguez Park is one of Redondo's biggest green spaces, with lots of shade trees, picnic areas, a playground and two Little League fields. It's the kind of park where you can set up for the whole afternoon. It's also home to the Heritage Court and the Redondo Beach Historical Museum, so you can mix playground time with a quick peek into local history. Weekend Little League games add a fun, community-day energy in season. Parent tip: Bring a picnic and plan a combo visit with the Historical Museum, which is open limited hours on Wednesdays and weekends. 18. Redondo Beach Dog Park Dominguez Park, 200 Flagler Lane Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free Hours: Dawn to dusk; closed Wednesday mornings until noon Best for: Families with dogs If the family dog counts as one of the kids, this is their spot. The off-leash dog park inside Dominguez Park has separate areas for large and small dogs, so tiny pups don't get bowled over. Kids who love animals enjoy watching all the breeds come and go, even if you don't have a dog of your own. Just keep little ones by your side and ask before petting. Parent tip: Young children should stay outside the fence or close to a parent inside. Pair this with the playground on the other side of the park. 19. Alta Vista Park 715 Julia Avenue Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free (court fees apply) Best for: All ages Alta Vista Park sits on a hill in South Redondo and is a true neighborhood hub. There's a playground, a picnic shelter, a big field, a dog run and the city's racquet center, where older kids can take tennis lessons or play pickleball. It's a local favorite for weekend soccer and after-school play. And as the name hints, there are nice views from the higher ground. Parent tip: This is where you'll reserve Hopkins Wilderness Park campsites, so it's easy to handle both errands in one trip. Check the racquet center for youth tennis programs. 20. Anderson Park 2229 Ernest Avenue Redondo Beach, CA 90278 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 2–12 North Redondo families know Anderson Park for its playground, courts and party-friendly setup. The city has designated moon bounce areas here, which makes it a go-to for birthday parties, plus tennis, basketball and pickleball courts for older kids. Scout houses and a senior center round out the park, giving it a real community feel. It's a solid everyday park when you just need to get the wiggles out. Parent tip: Planning a party? Ask the city about moon bounce permits and picnic reservations well ahead of busy spring weekends. 21. Franklin Park 807 Inglewood Avenue Redondo Beach, CA 90278 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 2–12 Franklin Park is another friendly North Redondo park with a playground, basketball and pickleball courts and even shuffleboard, which grandparents can teach kids in about 30 seconds. Like Anderson Park, it has designated moon bounce areas for parties. It's a quieter alternative when the beach feels like too much. Pack scooters, a ball and a few snacks and you're set for a relaxed afternoon. Parent tip: Shuffleboard is a great intro game for kids 5 and up. Bring your own ball and sidewalk chalk for extra play. 22. Perry Park and Teen Center 2301 Grant Avenue Redondo Beach, CA 90278 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 3–17 Perry Park covers a little over four acres in North Redondo, with play equipment, picnic areas, lighted basketball and pickleball courts and a sports field with a small stadium and dugouts. It's a nice all-rounder for siblings of different ages. The park is also home to the city's Teen Center, a 4,000-plus-square-foot space for local teens. It's worth knowing about if you have a tween or teen looking for a place to hang out and join activities. Parent tip: Check the city's Teen Center page for current programs and hours before sending teens over. 23. Aviation Park 1935 Manhattan Beach Boulevard Redondo Beach, CA 90278 Cost: Free for public areas; programs vary Best for: Active kids and sports families Aviation Park is Redondo's sports and recreation campus, with gyms, a dance room, a lighted track and a football and soccer field. Many city youth classes and sports leagues meet here, so it's a great place to find an after-school activity. It's also home to the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, so you might find yourself here for a recital or a family show, too. Parent tip: Browse the city's recreation classes before the season starts. Popular youth programs fill quickly. Related: Fun Things to Do in Manhattan Beach With Kids Museums, Libraries and Rainy-Day Fun in Redondo Beach 24. Redondo Beach Historical Museum and Heritage Court 302 Flagler Lane Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: No admission fee listed Hours: Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.–2 p.m. Best for: Ages 6+ This little museum lives inside a 1904 Queen Anne house in Dominguez Park, and it's filled with photos, artifacts and old school yearbooks that show how Redondo grew from a seaside resort town. Kids enjoy spotting the differences between the old beach photos and the pier they know today. Outside, Heritage Court has a rose garden, fountain and arbor that make a pretty backdrop for family photos. The neighboring Morrell House, built around 1906, is being restored to become more museum space. Parent tip: It's closed on major holidays. Visit on a weekend, then walk over to the Dominguez Park playground afterward. 25. Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center 1935 Manhattan Beach Boulevard Redondo Beach, CA 90278 Cost: Varies by show Best for: Ages 4+ With more than 1,400 seats, the Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center hosts concerts, dance, theater and speaker events all year. Local dance companies and touring productions often bring family-friendly shows, especially around the holidays. It's a great way to introduce kids to live theater without driving to downtown LA. The schedule changes constantly, so check what's coming up and look for shows geared toward children. Parent tip: Buy tickets only through the center's website or its official ticket links. Aisle seats make bathroom breaks much easier with little kids. 26. Redondo Beach Main Library 303 N. Pacific Coast Highway Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free Hours: Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Fri 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Best for: All ages The Main Library is a lifesaver on gray June mornings and rainy winter days. Kids can browse picture books, chapter books and graphic novels, and the library hosts children's programs throughout the year. Free parking in the structure beneath the building makes this an easy stop. A library card also unlocks plenty of free perks, from e-books to special programs. Parent tip: Check the library's events calendar for storytime days and times. Read our guide to free perks with your library card to get even more out of it. 27. Redondo Beach North Branch Library 2000 Artesia Boulevard Redondo Beach, CA 90278 Cost: Free Hours: Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sat 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Fri and Sun Best for: All ages North Redondo families have their own branch on Artesia Boulevard. It's smaller and cozier than the Main Library, which many parents prefer when they're wrangling toddlers. It's a handy stop before or after errands in the neighborhood. Grab a stack of books for the week and let the kids pick one "just because" title each. Parent tip: Park for free behind the library on Green Street. Remember this branch is closed on Fridays. Shopping, Strolling and Farmers Markets 28. Riviera Village S. Catalina Avenue at Avenue I Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: Free to stroll Best for: All ages Riviera Village is South Redondo's walkable shopping district, just a few blocks from the beach. More than 200 boutiques, restaurants, galleries and cafes line the streets, and it has a friendly small-town feel that's easy to enjoy with a stroller. Kids love the treat shops and the festive events, including Halloween trick-or-treating on October 31, 2026, and the annual Holiday Stroll with Santa in December. It's the perfect place to wander, grab ice cream and walk down to the sand. Parent tip: Use the metered street spots or the paid Plaza Riviera garage. Weekday mornings are quietest, and Sunday brings the Riviera Village farmers market. 29. Redondo Beach Farmers Market at Veterans Park 309 Esplanade (George Freeth Way and south side of Veterans Park) Redondo Beach, CA 90277 When: Thursdays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. Cost: Free to browse Best for: All ages The city calls this its "market with a view," and it lives up to the name. California farmers sell fresh seasonal produce, nuts, eggs, honey, baked goods, flowers and plants just steps from the pier. Farmers markets are a sneaky-good learning outing for kids. Let them pick a new fruit to try, count out the money and chat with the growers. Then walk down to the pier for a picnic with your haul. Parent tip: Park in the pier parking structure. Bring small bills and a reusable bag, and visit our roundup of LA farmers markets for families for more ideas. 30. Riviera Village Farmers Market Riviera Village, S. Catalina Avenue Redondo Beach, CA 90277 When: Sundays, 8:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Cost: Free to browse Best for: All ages Can't make a Thursday? The city-run Sunday market in Riviera Village is an easy weekend ritual. Browse produce and flowers, then turn it into a morning out with coffee, pastries and a stroll to the beach. It's a relaxed way to start a Sunday, and kids love sampling fruit in season. Strawberries in spring and stone fruit in summer tend to disappear fast. Parent tip: Arrive early for the best selection and easiest parking. Combine it with a scoop at Hand & Spoon afterward. Family Eats and Sweet Treats in Redondo Beach Seafood rules in Redondo, but there's plenty for picky eaters, too. Here are our verified-open family favorites. 31. Captain Kidd's Fish Market & Restaurant 209 N. Harbor Drive Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: $$ Hours: Restaurant opens at 10 a.m. daily Best for: All ages Captain Kidd's is a casual harbor-front fish market and restaurant where you pick your seafood from the case and they cook it up. The vibe is relaxed, the portions are big and the harbor views keep kids entertained while you wait. Fish and chips, shrimp and grilled plates make it easy to feed everyone, and the market side lets you take fresh fish home for dinner. It's a classic Redondo meal without the white-tablecloth fuss. Parent tip: Go for an early lunch to beat the weekend lines. Grab a table by the windows so kids can watch the boats. 32. Quality Seafood 130 S. International Boardwalk Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: $$ Best for: Adventurous eaters of all ages Quality Seafood has been a pier institution since 1953, and eating here is half meal, half aquarium visit. Tanks of live crab, lobster and shellfish line the counter, and kids love pointing at the creatures before they're steamed. It's messy, casual and loud in the best way. Grab a table on the boardwalk, crack some crab legs and let everyone get their hands dirty. Parent tip: Bring wet wipes and expect weekend crowds. Ask for simpler items like shrimp or fish if your kids aren't ready for whole crab. 33. Handel's Homemade Ice Cream 1882 S. Pacific Coast Highway Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: $ Hours: Daily 11 a.m.–10 p.m. (subject to change) Best for: All ages Handel's makes its ice cream fresh in small batches, and the menu is long enough to cause at least one family debate about flavors. The walk-up window and outdoor setup make it a favorite after-dinner stop. Scoops are generous, so kids' sizes are plenty for little ones. It's a sweet way to end a beach day in South Redondo. Parent tip: Evening lines can stretch on summer weekends. Go earlier in the afternoon or send one parent to hold a spot. 34. Wanna Chill? Shave Ice 800 S. Pacific Coast Highway Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: $ Best for: All ages Hawaiian-style shave ice is the perfect hot-day treat, and Wanna Chill? lets kids go wild with it. Pick up to three syrup flavors, add a base like ice cream or mochi bites, and top it off with sweetened condensed milk. They also serve frozen yogurt, ice cream, smoothies and acai bowls, so there's something for everyone. The bright colors alone make it a kid magnet. Parent tip: Order a bowl instead of a cone for little kids. It drips a lot less. 35. Hand & Spoon 320 Avenue I Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Cost: $ Best for: All ages Right in Riviera Village, Hand & Spoon scoops handmade ice cream and gelato that makes a perfect reward after a stroll or a farmers market morning. It's small, cheerful and easy to find. Pair it with a walk down Avenue I to the beach and you've got an easy, happy afternoon. Parent tip: Check the shop's Instagram for current hours and rotating flavors. Grab napkins, since beach breezes and melting scoops are a real combo. Related: 16 Best Aquariums in Southern California Annual Events and Seasonal Fun in Redondo Beach Save these dates. Some are free and all of them are local favorites. Redondo Beach Super Bowl Sunday 10K/5K When: Sunday, February 14, 2027 Where: Starts at 200 Portofino Way, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 This beloved Super Bowl morning race includes a Kids 1K Fun Run for children 12 and under, plus a 10K Baby Buggy Run and a 5K Stroller Walk. The course winds along the pier and King Harbor, and the whole morning has a festive, community feel. Parent tip: The Kids 1K starts at 7 a.m., so plan to arrive early. Register ahead online since race day gets hectic. Festival of the Kite at the Redondo Beach Pier When: Usually in March (2027 date to be announced) Where: Redondo Beach Pier, 100 Fisherman's Wharf, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 This free festival has been filling the sky over the pier for more than 50 years. Expect kite-flying competitions, music, face painting and demonstrations. The 2026 festival took place on March 8. Parent tip: Bring your own kite, or buy one early before the wind picks up. The festival is weather-permitting, so check the official page that morning. Summer Concerts on the Pier When: Summer evenings, usually July and August (2027 dates to be announced) Where: Redondo Beach Pier, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Free live music on the pier is a summer tradition. In 2026, concerts ran on Thursday and Saturday evenings from early July through late August. Kids dance, parents relax and the sunset does the rest. Parent tip: Bring low beach chairs or a blanket and grab dinner from a pier counter to eat during the show. Riviera Village Halloween Trick or Treat When: Saturday, October 31, 2026 Where: Riviera Village, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Riviera Village turns Halloween into a costume parade as kids trick-or-treat through the shops. It's a safe, walkable alternative to neighborhood door-knocking for younger kids. Parent tip: Arrive early for parking and check the Riviera Village site for times. See our list of the best LA neighborhoods for trick-or-treating for more ideas. Riviera Village Holiday Stroll When: Usually the first week of December (2026 date to be announced) Where: S. Catalina Avenue, Riviera Village, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 The Holiday Stroll kicks off the season with evening shopping, kids' activities and visits with Santa. In 2025, the event closed South Catalina Avenue to cars and added photo spots and lighted holiday displays. Parent tip: Bring your camera for Santa photos, and browse our photos with Santa guide for more options. King Harbor Holiday Boat Parade When: Saturday, December 12, 2026 Where: King Harbor, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Boats decked out in holiday lights parade through King Harbor in one of the South Bay's most magical holiday traditions. A paddle craft parade runs from 3:30 to 5 p.m., followed by the main boat parade from 5:30 to 7 p.m., with a community viewing party. Parent tip: Claim a harbor-side spot before sunset and dress warmly. For more twinkly outings, see our guide to the best places to see holiday lights in LA. Redondo Beach Lobster Festival When: Traditionally in late September (check the official site for current plans) Where: Redondo Beach This long-running festival celebrates lobster with food, music and family activities. Its traditional home, Seaside Lagoon, is closed for 2026, so check the official site for the latest details before making plans. Parent tip: Look for kids' pricing and family hours when details are announced. Nearby: Easy Add-Ons Within 15 Minutes of Redondo Beach Redondo sits in the middle of the South Bay, so these nearby favorites make great add-ons. Each one is in a neighboring city, which we've labeled. 36. Hermosa Beach Pier and Pier Plaza (Nearby: Hermosa Beach) Pier Avenue at Hermosa Avenue Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 Cost: Free Best for: All ages Just north of Redondo, the Hermosa Beach Pier and the pedestrian-only Pier Plaza make a lively beach-town stop. Walk to the end of the pier, grab a snack on the plaza and watch the surfers and volleyball players. It's an easy bike ride from Redondo along The Strand. Every Memorial Day weekend, Fiesta Hermosa brings rides and crafts to town. Parent tip: Evenings on Pier Plaza can get rowdy, so daytime is best for families. Read our Fiesta Hermosa guide for event details. 37. Manhattan Beach Pier and Roundhouse Aquarium (Nearby: Manhattan Beach) 2 Manhattan Beach Boulevard Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Cost: Check the official site; donations welcome Hours: Oct–Mar: Mon–Fri 2–5 p.m., Sat–Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Best for: Ages 2–10 At the very end of the Manhattan Beach Pier, the Roundhouse Aquarium Teaching Center is a small nonprofit aquarium with hands-on ocean exhibits and local marine life. It's the perfect size for little kids, and the pier walk to get there is half the fun. The nonprofit's mission is hands-on ocean learning, so expect curious kids asking a lot of questions. Plan a longer day with our Manhattan Beach family guide. Parent tip: Weekday hours start at 2 p.m. from October through March, so plan a weekend or afternoon visit. Hours are longer April through September. 38. Torrance Beach and RAT Beach (Nearby: Torrance) 387 Paseo de la Playa Torrance, CA 90277 Cost: Free beach; check the county site for parking fees Best for: All ages At the southern end of Redondo's sand, Torrance Beach and the nearby area locals call RAT Beach (short for "Right After Torrance") feel quieter and more local. The beach curves toward the Palos Verdes cliffs, and the scenery is gorgeous. It's a great choice when the pier area feels too crowded. The bike path also begins here, so you can start a ride right from the sand. Parent tip: The county lot fills on summer weekends, so arrive early. There's a concession stand, restrooms and showers, but packing your own snacks and water is still smart. 39. Madrona Marsh Preserve (Nearby: Torrance) 3201 Plaza del Amo Torrance, CA 90503 Cost: Free (donations welcome) Hours: Tue–Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Sun & Mon Best for: Ages 3+ Madrona Marsh is one of the last vernal marsh habitats in LA County, surrounded by the city of Torrance. A nature center with exhibits sits across the street from the preserve, and trails let kids look for birds, lizards and seasonal ponds. After winter rains, the marsh fills up and birdwatching gets especially good. It's a peaceful, educational outing that feels far from the city. Parent tip: Check the Friends of Madrona Marsh site for docent-led walks and preschool Nature Storytime (pre-registration required). Bring binoculars if you have them. 40. Wilson Park (Nearby: Torrance) 2200 Crenshaw Boulevard Torrance, CA 90501 Cost: Free Best for: All ages Wilson Park is one of Torrance's biggest parks, with playgrounds, wide lawns and plenty of space for bikes and scooters. It's also home to a seasonal splash pad (the 2026 season runs through November 11) and the popular Torrance Farmers Market. Bring bikes, a ball and a picnic, and plan to stay a while. It's an easy stop on the way home if you're heading inland from the beach. Parent tip: The Torrance Farmers Market runs Tuesdays and Saturdays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m., rain or shine, at 2400 Jefferson Street. The splash pad is unsupervised, so stay close to little ones. 41. Columbia Park (Nearby: Torrance) 4045 190th Street Torrance, CA 90504 Cost: Free Best for: All ages Columbia Park is Torrance's largest park, spanning 52 acres with a playground, four soccer fields, walking paths, a cherry tree grove and lots of grass. It's a local favorite for weekend soccer and big family picnics. With so much space, it's an easy place to let kids run while you relax in the shade. Parent tip: Bring a ball, a kite and a picnic blanket. Weekend mornings bring soccer crowds, so afternoons can be quieter. 42. Del Amo Fashion Center (Nearby: Torrance) 3525 W. Carson Street Torrance, CA 90503 Cost: Free to visit Best for: Rainy days, all ages When the weather turns or the South Bay Galleria isn't an option, Del Amo Fashion Center is a huge indoor-outdoor mall in Torrance with plenty of shops, restaurants and seasonal events. It's a go-to for rainy-day walks and holiday shopping. Look for kid-friendly stores, treats and seasonal Santa photos. It's easy to spend an afternoon here without anyone getting bored. Parent tip: Check the mall's website for current kids' events and holiday activities. See our 75+ indoor activities for kids in LA for more rainy-day ideas. 43. South Coast Botanic Garden (Nearby: Palos Verdes Peninsula) 26300 Crenshaw Boulevard Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274 Cost: Adults $18; kids 3–12 $8; ages 2 and under free Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–5 p.m. (last entry 4:30 p.m.) Best for: All ages South Coast Botanic Garden is a sprawling garden on the Palos Verdes Peninsula with paths that wind through themed gardens, including a rose garden, a Japanese Garden and a Garden for the Senses. Right now, kids can hunt for Thomas Dambo's giant recycled-wood trolls, which are included with general admission. It's a lovely stroller-friendly outing any time of year, and the seasonal events can be a highlight for families. Parent tip: Check the garden's website for current hours, prices and any special family events. Bring water and hats for sunny days. 44. Point Vicente Interpretive Center (Nearby: Rancho Palos Verdes) 31501 Palos Verdes Drive West Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Cost: Free; donations accepted for the museum Best for: Ages 4+ Perched on the cliffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, Point Vicente Interpretive Center is one of the best spots in the area for whale watching from land. Exhibits explain local marine life and history, and the views over the Pacific are breathtaking. Winter and spring bring migrating gray whales past the bluff. It's a lovely add-on for families who want whale watching without a boat. Parent tip: Bring binoculars and layers since it can be windy on the bluff. Check the city site for current hours before you go. 45. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium (Nearby: San Pedro) 3720 Stephen M. White Drive San Pedro, CA 90731 Cost: Check the official site Hours: Tue–Fri noon–5 p.m.; Sat–Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Best for: Ages 2–12 Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a local aquarium focused on Southern California sea life, with exhibits and touch tanks that are perfect for curious kids. It's a bit farther than the others on this list, but worth the drive. Pair it with a walk on nearby Cabrillo Beach for a full ocean day. Parent tip: The aquarium is closed Mondays and some holidays, so check the website for admission details before you go. 46. White Point Beach (Nearby: San Pedro) Paseo del Mar at Kay Fiorentino Drive San Pedro, CA 90731 Cost: Free (paid parking) Best for: Ages 4+ White Point is a rocky San Pedro beach known for its tide pools, where kids can look for crabs, snails and sea anemones at low tide. It's a great hands-on nature outing for curious explorers. Our full guide to White Point Beach with kids covers what to expect and when to go. Parent tip: Check a tide chart and visit at low tide. Wear water shoes with good grip, and remind kids to look but not take. Parent Tips for Visiting Redondo Beach With Kids Park once, walk a lot. The pier, King Harbor, Veterans Park and the beach are all walkable from the pier parking structures. Mornings win. Parking, rentals and restaurants are easiest before 11 a.m., and harbor winds usually pick up in the afternoon. Pack layers. The coast can be cool and foggy even in summer, especially on the water. Know what's closed. Seaside Lagoon is closed for the 2026 season, and several older attractions have closed. Always double-check official sites before a big outing. Mix free and paid. Pair one paid activity like the glass bottom boat or whale watching with free fun like the beach, pier fishing or a park. Watch the tide and waves. Check lifeguard flags at the beach and tide charts before tide pooling nearby. Takeaway From sea lions barking in King Harbor to a quiet forest at Hopkins Wilderness Park, there are so many fun things to do in Redondo Beach with kids. Most of the best moments, like beach days, pier fishing and farmers markets, are free or cheap. Mix a harbor adventure with a park, add a scoop of ice cream and you've got a perfect South Bay day. For another beach-town adventure, see our Manhattan Beach family guide or our roundup of the best aquariums in Southern California. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What are the best free things to do in Redondo Beach with kids? The best free things to do in Redondo Beach with kids are the beach, the pier, fishing off the pier and Hopkins Wilderness Park. You can also ride The Strand bike path, explore Dominguez Park and the Historical Museum, visit the libraries and catch free summer concerts on the pier. 2. Is Seaside Lagoon open in 2026? No, Seaside Lagoon is closed for the 2026 season. The City of Redondo Beach says to check back for updates on renovations for the 2027 season. 3. Do kids need a fishing license to fish off the Redondo Beach Pier? No, California does not require a fishing license to fish from a public pier in ocean waters. Size and bag limits still apply, and a license is required on sportfishing boats for anyone 16 or older. 4. When is the best time to go whale watching in Redondo Beach? The best time to go whale watching in Redondo Beach depends on which whales you want to see. Gray whales migrate through in winter and spring, and blue whales usually appear in summer, with dolphins spotted year-round. 5. What are the best things to do in Redondo Beach with toddlers? The best things to do in Redondo Beach with toddlers are the glass bottom boat, the beach, Hopkins Wilderness Park and the neighborhood playgrounds. The harbor walk and library storytimes are easy, low-stress outings too.

Día de los Muertos in Los Angeles is one of those traditions that surprises kids in the best way. They expect something spooky, and instead they find towering altars covered in orange marigolds, grandmothers' photos surrounded by pan dulce, folklórico skirts spinning like pinwheels, and faces painted as smiling calaveras. It's a celebration of love and memory, and LA does it on a scale few cities in the world can match. Our city hosts Day of the Dead events in nearly every corner, from Downtown and Boyle Heights to the San Fernando Valley and Long Beach. We already have a separate guide to Forest Lawn's free Día de los Muertos 2026 celebrations, so this guide covers everything else: the big festivals, the quieter community altars, and the kid-friendly workshops worth putting on your family calendar this fall. What Is Día de los Muertos? A Kid-Friendly Guide Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a Mexican tradition with deep Indigenous roots that families observe around November 1 and 2. The idea is beautifully simple: once a year, the spirits of loved ones who have died come home to visit, and the living welcome them with their favorite foods, music, stories and flowers. It's not Mexican Halloween, even though the two land on the calendar at the same time. Halloween plays with fear, while Día de los Muertos is about remembering people with joy. If your kids watched Coco, they already have a head start on the big idea. The Ofrenda (Altar) An ofrenda is a home altar built to welcome a loved one back. Families add photos, candles, water for a thirsty traveler, the person's favorite snacks and small objects that tell their story, like a baseball cap, a deck of cards or a favorite song. Marigolds (Cempasúchil) The bright orange cempasúchil flower is the signature bloom of the holiday. Its strong scent and glowing color are said to guide spirits home, which is why you'll often see petal paths leading up to an altar. Sugar Skulls (Calaveras de Azúcar) Sugar skulls are decorated candy skulls, sometimes with a name written across the forehead. They're playful, not scary, and decorating one is one of the most popular kids' activities at LA celebrations. Papel Picado Papel picado is colorful tissue paper cut into delicate patterns and strung like flags. When it flutters in the breeze, it represents the wind and the fragile, fleeting nature of life. It's also surprisingly fun to make with a folded sheet of tissue paper and safety scissors. Pan de Muerto and Calaveritas Pan de muerto is a soft, slightly sweet bread decorated with dough "bones" on top. Calaveritas literarias are short, funny poems that playfully imagine someone meeting La Catrina, the elegant skeleton lady. Older kids love writing them about their friends and teachers. Parent tip: Before you go, ask your kids who they would put on an ofrenda. A grandparent, a beloved pet, even a favorite author all count. It turns a festival visit into a meaningful family conversation. Día de los Muertos Los Angeles Events for Families in 2026 Every event below was checked on the organizer's official website for 2026. Details can change, so confirm before you head out, especially for ticketed events and outdoor celebrations. Gloria Molina Grand Park's Downtown Día de los Muertos Gloria Molina Grand Park 200 N. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012 Exhibition: Saturday, October 24 through Monday, November 2, 2026, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily Opening Celebration: Saturday, October 24, 2026, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closing Celebration: Sunday, November 1, 2026, 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. Price: Free, no ticket needed Downtown's Civic Center turns into an open-air gallery of 17 large ofrendas created by artists and community groups, all curated by altarista Consuelo G. Flores around the 2026 theme "The Power of One." Families can wander the altars at their own pace, read the stories behind each one and leave a framed photo, memento or note at the community altar. The opening day brings live music, a processional and blessing, face painting, sugar skull workshops and wellness activities. The closing celebration adds more music plus hands-on crafts like sugar skull decorating, face painting, paper weaving and Indigenous Mexican ribbon braiding. It's free, stroller-friendly and easy to pair with a stop at one of the Grand Avenue museums. Parent tip: Take Metro to the Civic Center/Grand Park station on the B or D Line to skip the parking hunt. If you drive, the park lists paid parking at Music Center garages for $10 per vehicle. Día de los Muertos at Olvera Street El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, Olvera Street 125 Paseo de la Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90012 Sunday, October 25 through Monday, November 2, 2026 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily Price: Free to attend; face painting is extra Olvera Street's nine-night festival is one of the most traditional ways to experience the holiday in LA. The highlight is the nightly Novenario procession, led by an Indigenous Aztec group with incense and blessings, followed by Aztec dancers and "Living Muertos" dressed as skeletons. The procession ends at the plaza kiosk, where a merchant family or community member is honored each night. Along the historic street, families will find community altars, daytime entertainment on select days and a nightly theatrical performance of La Danza de la Muerte at 6 p.m. Organizers also list free sweet bread and beverages for guests at the nightly ceremony. Parent tip: Arrive in the late afternoon, grab taquitos along the marketplace, visit the altars while it's still light, then stay for the evening procession. Union Station is just across the street for an easy Metro trip. LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes Día de los Muertos Family Day LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes 501 N. Main St. Los Angeles, CA 90012 Sunday, October 25, 2026 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. Price: Free with RSVP Right next door to Olvera Street, LA Plaza's Family Day is built with kids in mind. Families can join three hands-on workshops: painting papier-mâché calavera masks, making flower crowns and boutonnieres, and bundling fragrant herbs. Live music and dance performances honor the ancestors throughout the afternoon. Kids can collect stamps at each workshop for a special giveaway, which is a clever way to keep little ones moving from table to table. Food and drinks are available for purchase. Parent tip: RSVP ahead. Walk-ins are welcomed only as space allows, and this one tends to be popular. Pair it with Olvera Street on the same day for a full afternoon Downtown. Hollywood Forever Día de los Muertos Hollywood Forever Cemetery 6000 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90038 Saturday, October 24, 2026 Noon to midnight Entry windows: 12 to 4 p.m., 4 to 7 p.m., or 7 to 11 p.m. Ages: Children under 5 free; ages 5 and up need a ticket Now in its 27th year, Hollywood Forever's celebration is the biggest and busiest Día de los Muertos event in the city. The 2026 theme is "All Under One Sky / Bajo un Mismo Cielo," and the day includes a massive altar exhibition, a ceremonial procession, Aztec and folklórico dancers, an art exhibit in the cathedral, arts and crafts vendors, food vendors and a Children's Plaza. Musical headliners for 2026 include DannyLux, Trish Toledo, Tropa Mágica and Los Shadows. Tickets are sold by admission window through the organizer's official ticketing link, and you may stay past your window once you're inside. Current ticket prices are posted on the official ticketing page, so please check there before you go. All sales are final, and the event runs rain or shine. Outside food and drinks and pets are not allowed. Parent tip: With little kids, book the noon to 4 p.m. window. The crowds and volume build after dark. Hollywood Forever lists several paid parking structures nearby on Van Ness Avenue and Gower Street, and ticket buyers receive parking details by email before the event. Self Help Graphics & Art's 53rd Annual Día de los Muertos Procession: Mariachi Plaza, 1831 1st St., Los Angeles, CA 90033 Celebration: Outdoors on Anderson Street next to Self Help Graphics & Art, 1300 1st St., Los Angeles, CA 90033 Saturday, November 7, 2026 Procession 1:45 p.m. to 3 p.m.; celebration 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Price: Free for all ages; free tickets available through the organizer Self Help Graphics helped spark LA's modern Día de los Muertos movement back in the 1970s, and its celebration still feels like a true neighborhood homecoming. In 2026, the Boyle Heights arts center hosts a block-party-style celebration just outside its building, beginning with a procession from Mariachi Plaza. Expect altars, a Muertos market with local artists and food vendors, art workshops, face painting, live music and dance. It's free and open to all ages, though the organizer asks guests to grab free tickets in advance. Self Help Graphics Free Community Art Workshops East Los Angeles Library, Community Room 4837 E. 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90022 Saturdays, October 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31, 2026 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Price: Free, all materials provided This is our favorite hidden gem for crafty families. Every Saturday in October, Self Help Graphics teaching artists lead a free Día de los Muertos workshop for all ages. Each week includes papel picado and paper marigold crafts, plus a special project: stamp collages, calavera masks, memory posters, mini "living candle" paintings and candle decorating. Parent tip: Each workshop has its own registration link on the Self Help Graphics page. Sign up early, since free craft sessions fill fast. Día de los Muertos Mass and Celebration at Calvary Cemetery Calvary Cemetery 4201 Whittier Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90023 Saturday, October 24, 2026 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Price: No admission fee listed The Archdiocese of Los Angeles' Catholic Cemeteries & Mortuaries hosts a bilingual celebration at this historic East LA cemetery. The day opens at noon with Mass, a procession and the blessing of the altars. At 1:30 p.m., a cultural celebration begins with music, children's activities and folklórico dancers. Parent tip: This one feels more like a family gathering than a festival. It's a lovely fit if you'd like your kids to see how many LA families honor loved ones where they're actually laid to rest. Día de los Muertos in the San Fernando Valley Valley families don't need to fight the 101 for a meaningful celebration. Two events are confirmed for 2026. San Fernando Día de los Muertos Cultural Festival Recreation Park 208 Park Ave. San Fernando, CA 91340 Saturday, October 24, 2026 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Price: Free The City of San Fernando's festival is a relaxed, hometown-style celebration with ofrenda displays, an art exhibit, arts and crafts, live performances, and food and artisan vendors. Kids ages 5 and up can enter the Catrín and Catrina costume contest, so this is a great excuse to go all out with the face paint and flower crowns. Día de los Muertos Mass and Celebration at San Fernando Mission Cemetery San Fernando Mission Cemetery 11160 Stranwood Ave. Mission Hills, CA 91345 Saturday, November 7, 2026 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. Price: No admission fee listed Archbishop José H. Gomez presides over the noon Mass, procession and blessing of the altars at this large Valley celebration. The cultural program begins at 1:30 p.m. with music, children's activities and folklórico dancers. Families who can't attend can watch the livestream through the Archdiocese's Día de los Muertos page. Día de los Muertos in Long Beach Heading south? Long Beach has two family-friendly options this year. City of Long Beach Día de los Muertos Festival Rainbow Lagoon Park 400 E. Shoreline Dr. Long Beach, CA 90802 Sunday, November 1, 2026 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Price: Free After last year's parade was canceled, the City of Long Beach is bringing its celebration back in a festival format at Rainbow Lagoon in Downtown Long Beach. The city lists cultural performances, vendors, food trucks and a community resource fair. It's an easy add-on to a weekend at the waterfront or the nearby Aquarium of the Pacific. Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) Day of the Dead Museum of Latin American Art 628 Alamitos Ave. Long Beach, CA 90802 Sunday, October 25, 2026 Time: To be announced Price: To be announced MOLAA's 2026 calendar lists a Day of the Dead program on October 25, with a chance to learn about the elements of a traditional ofrenda and write your own calavera poem. As of our deadline, the museum had not posted the schedule or pricing, so check the museum's page or email MOLAA before you go. Forest Lawn's Free Día de los Muertos Celebrations Forest Lawn hosts some of the most popular free, family-friendly Day of the Dead events in Southern California, with celebrations at several of its parks. We cover all the 2026 dates, locations and kid activities in our dedicated guide, Forest Lawn Día de los Muertos 2026: Free Family Celebrations Across Southern California. Cemetery Etiquette: How to Visit Respectfully With Kids Many Día de los Muertos events in Los Angeles take place in working cemeteries, where families are visiting the actual graves of people they love. A quick talk before you arrive helps kids enjoy the color and music while showing respect. Walk on paths, not on graves or grave markers. Look at altars with your eyes, not your hands, unless a sign invites you to add something. Ask before photographing people, especially families gathered at a gravesite. Keep voices at a friendly volume near family plots and chapels. Leave candles, flowers and food offerings exactly where you found them. Pack out all your trash, and stick together in the crowds. Parent tip: Explain that the smiling skeletons are not meant to be scary. They're a reminder that everyone is equal in the end, and that death is a natural part of life. Kids often find that comforting, not creepy. How to Make a Simple Ofrenda at Home You don't need a festival to celebrate. Building a small family ofrenda is a gentle, hands-on way to talk about loved ones, including pets. Pick a spot: a bookshelf, side table or a stack of sturdy boxes covered with a bright cloth makes a simple two- or three-level altar. Add photos of the people or pets you want to remember. Include marigolds, real or paper. Tissue-paper marigolds are an easy craft for little hands. Set out a glass of water, a little salt and a favorite snack or treat for each person you're honoring. Use battery-operated LED candles if you have little ones or pets around. Hang homemade papel picado across the top. Add small keepsakes that tell each person's story, and invite everyone to share a favorite memory. Parent tip: Keep your ofrenda up from late October through November 2, and let kids add a drawing or a letter each day. You can pick up tissue paper, face paint and flower crowns at the shops in our Los Angeles costume shops and Halloween stores guide. More Fall Fun for LA Families Día de los Muertos lands right in the middle of LA's busiest season for family outings. For even more ideas, check out our 89 best family-friendly Halloween events in Los Angeles, our roundup of the best things to do with kids in Los Angeles in October, and our huge list of pumpkin patches and fall festivals. When everyone is ready for a cozy night in, our list of Halloween movies for kids is a great place to find your next family movie night pick. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join fellow LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway Día de los Muertos in Los Angeles is a gift for families. In one short season, your kids can see world-class altars at Grand Park, walk beside a candlelit procession on Olvera Street, paint a calavera mask at LA Plaza, and craft paper marigolds at a free library workshop. Choose one big festival and one quieter community event, build a little ofrenda at home, and let the kids lead the storytelling. It's a tradition that teaches something many of us struggle to explain: the people we love stay with us as long as we keep remembering them. Día de los Muertos Los Angeles FAQs When is Día de los Muertos in 2026? Día de los Muertos is traditionally observed on November 1 and 2. In 2026, those dates fall on a Sunday and Monday. Many Los Angeles events start in late October, and some, like Self Help Graphics and San Fernando Mission Cemetery, take place on Saturday, November 7. What are the best free Día de los Muertos events in Los Angeles for kids? Grand Park's ofrenda exhibition, the Olvera Street festival, LA Plaza's Family Day (with RSVP), Self Help Graphics' celebration and October workshops, the San Fernando Cultural Festival and the Long Beach festival are all free in 2026. Forest Lawn's celebrations are free as well. Is Hollywood Forever's Día de los Muertos good for young children? It can be, especially if you choose the noon to 4 p.m. entry window and head straight for the Children's Plaza. Kids under 5 are free, while ages 5 and up need a ticket. Expect big crowds and loud music later in the day, so plan an early exit with toddlers. Is it okay for non-Mexican families to celebrate Día de los Muertos? Yes. LA's public celebrations welcome everyone. The key is to come to learn and participate respectfully: listen to the stories behind the altars, follow organizers' guidance, and avoid treating the holiday like a costume party. Can my kids wear sugar skull face paint? Yes. Calavera face painting is a common and welcomed part of many public celebrations, and several 2026 events offer it on-site. Keep designs festive and avoid adding horror-style gore, which misses the spirit of the holiday.

Marigolds, mariachi, and a whole lot of love for the people we miss. Forest Lawn Día de los Muertos 2026 brings free, family-friendly celebrations to four Southern California locations, giving kids a colorful, gentle introduction to one of Mexico's most meaningful traditions. Families can expect folklórico dancers, mariachi music, community ofrendas, towering Catrina sculptures, crafts, face painting, and food trucks. At Glendale, Covina Hills, and Cypress, Bob Baker Marionette performances add an extra treat for little ones. Here are the confirmed 2026 dates, times, and addresses, plus tips for making the day meaningful for your family. Photo courtesy of Forest Lawn. Forest Lawn Día de los Muertos 2026: Quick Facts Admission: Free and open to the community Sunday, November 1, 2026: 12–3 p.m. at Forest Lawn–Glendale, Covina Hills, and Cypress Monday, November 2, 2026: 5–8 p.m. at Forest Lawn–Cathedral City Highlights: Folklórico dance, mariachi music, community ofrendas, Catrinas and alebrijes, crafts, face painting, refreshments, and food trucks Bob Baker Marionettes: Glendale, Covina Hills, and Cypress Official page: Forest Lawn Día de los Muertos 2026 Forest Lawn's official event page confirms all four 2026 dates and times and notes that the location and time vary, so pick your spot before you go. Confirmed 2026 Forest Lawn Día de los Muertos Celebrations Forest Lawn–Glendale Día de los Muertos Celebration Forest Lawn–Glendale 1712 S. Glendale Avenue Glendale, CA 91205 Sunday, November 1, 2026 12–3 p.m. Glendale is the easiest pick for families coming from central Los Angeles, the Eastside, the San Fernando Valley, and the foothills. The historic grounds make a striking backdrop for the ofrendas, dance performances, and Catrina displays, and kids who love puppets will want to catch the Bob Baker Marionette performance. Admission is free and the celebration is open to all ages. Expect this location to be one of the busiest, so arriving near noon gives you more room to explore before the biggest crowds. Parent tip: Let kids set the pace. Some will want to watch every performance, while others will head straight for the crafts and face painting. Forest Lawn–Covina Hills Día de los Muertos Celebration Forest Lawn–Covina Hills 21300 Via Verde Drive Covina, CA 91724 Sunday, November 1, 2026 12–3 p.m. Covina Hills is a great fit for San Gabriel Valley, Pomona Valley, and eastern Los Angeles County families. It offers the same core traditions, including music, folklórico dance, community ofrendas, crafts, and a Bob Baker Marionette performance, with free admission for everyone. The hillside grounds are spacious, so comfortable walking shoes are a smart choice. Parent tip: If you have a stroller or a grandparent with limited mobility, ask staff where the activities are set up before you start walking. Forest Lawn–Cypress Día de los Muertos Celebration Forest Lawn–Cypress 4471 Lincoln Avenue Cypress, CA 90630 Sunday, November 1, 2026 12–3 p.m. Cypress brings the celebration close to Orange County and Long Beach-area families. Kids can enjoy mariachi music, folklórico dancers, crafts, face painting, and a Bob Baker Marionette show, while parents take time to view the community ofrendas. Like the other Sunday events, it is free and open to all ages, and food trucks and carts are part of the fun. Parent tip: Bring a small amount of spending money for food trucks, and pack water for sunny November afternoons. Forest Lawn–Cathedral City Día de los Muertos Celebration Forest Lawn–Cathedral City 69855 E. Ramon Road Cathedral City, CA 92234 Monday, November 2, 2026 5–8 p.m. The Coachella Valley celebration takes place in the evening on November 2, the traditional day of Día de los Muertos itself. The glow of candles and marigolds after sunset gives it a special feel, and families can enjoy music, dance, ofrendas, and crafts. Bob Baker Marionette performances are listed only for the three Sunday locations. Parent tip: Desert evenings cool off fast after sunset. Bring a light jacket, and consider a later nap for younger kids since it is a school-night event. Photo courtesy of Forest Lawn. What Families Can Expect at Forest Lawn's Día de los Muertos Music and Dance Folklórico dancers in swirling skirts and mariachi musicians are at the heart of each celebration. For kids, the bright costumes, rhythm, and energy make it easy to connect with the tradition, even before they understand every detail. Community Ofrendas Ofrendas are altars made to honor and remember loved ones. They may include photographs, candles, marigolds, sugar skulls, favorite foods, and personal mementos. Encourage kids to look closely and ask questions, and remind them that these are personal tributes, not decorations to touch. Catrinas and Alebrijes Forest Lawn's celebrations have featured tall Catrina sculptures crafted by its floral designers, along with traditional Catrina and alebrije artwork. Catrinas are the elegant skeletal ladies closely tied to Día de los Muertos imagery. Colorful alebrijes, or spirit animals, are often a favorite with kids, who love spotting their wild patterns and imaginary creature shapes. Crafts, Face Painting, and Food Arts and crafts and face painting let younger visitors participate instead of simply watching. Refreshments plus food trucks and carts round out the afternoon, so you can easily make it a lunch or dinner outing. Photo courtesy of Forest Lawn. How to Talk With Kids About Día de los Muertos A short conversation in the car can make the visit more meaningful. Explain that Día de los Muertos is a celebration where families remember people they love who have died, share their stories, and honor them with flowers, food, photos, and music. For young children, keep it simple: "Families gather to remember people they love and keep their stories alive." Older kids may want to learn about the holiday's roots in Mexican and Indigenous traditions and why marigolds and candles help guide the spirits of loved ones home. If your family has lost someone, consider sharing one happy memory before you go. You might even bring a photo or drawing to talk about together, if that feels right for your family. Remind kids that Día de los Muertos is not Halloween. The skulls and skeletons are joyful and loving symbols, and the altars deserve quiet respect. Parent Tips for a Smooth Visit Arrive early. The first hour is usually the calmest time to view ofrendas and find a spot for performances. Wear comfortable shoes. Forest Lawn's parks are large outdoor properties with hills and lawns. Dress for the weather. Sunscreen and hats for Sunday afternoons; a warm layer for Cathedral City's evening event. Be respectful at altars. Ask before photographing people at a personal ofrenda, and never touch items on display. Pack a small kit. Water, snacks, wipes, and a few dollars for food trucks make the day easier. Plan for sensory needs. Mariachi and amplified performances can be loud, so ear protection helps sensitive kids. Choose one or two must-dos. Picking a performance and the craft table keeps the day fun instead of rushed. Accessibility and Multigenerational Visits Each Forest Lawn park is a large outdoor property, and the layout varies by location. If someone in your group uses a wheelchair or needs to avoid long walks, call the location or check the official event page ahead of time for the best drop-off and seating options. Día de los Muertos is a wonderful multigenerational outing. Grandparents can share family stories while kids enjoy the music and crafts. Build in rest breaks and plan a shady meeting spot in case your group splits up. Planning more fall fun? Browse our 89 best family-friendly Halloween events in Los Angeles for 2026, our guide to Knott's Spooky Farm 2026 for little ones, and our list of dog Halloween parades and pet costume contests in LA. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join fellow LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway Forest Lawn's Día de los Muertos 2026 celebrations offer four free, family-friendly ways to honor loved ones and share a beautiful tradition with your kids. Choose Glendale, Covina Hills, or Cypress on Sunday, November 1, from noon to 3 p.m., or Cathedral City on Monday evening, November 2, from 5 to 8 p.m. Talk with your kids about the meaning of the day before you go, arrive early, and leave time to linger at the ofrendas. It is a colorful, heartfelt outing that can become a new family tradition. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is Forest Lawn's Día de los Muertos free? Yes. Forest Lawn describes all four 2026 celebrations as free, family-friendly community events. 2. When and where is Forest Lawn Día de los Muertos 2026? The celebrations are Sunday, November 1, 2026, from 12 to 3 p.m. at Forest Lawn–Glendale, Covina Hills, and Cypress, and Monday, November 2, 2026, from 5 to 8 p.m. at Forest Lawn–Cathedral City. 3. Which Forest Lawn locations have Bob Baker Marionettes? Bob Baker Marionette performances are listed for the Sunday, November 1, celebrations at Glendale, Covina Hills, and Cypress. 4. Is Día de los Muertos appropriate for young children? Yes. The celebrations focus on music, dance, crafts, face painting, and remembrance. The skeleton imagery is joyful rather than scary, and a short, simple explanation before you go helps kids feel comfortable. 5. Do we need to bring a photo or offering? No. Families can attend, observe, and join the public activities without bringing anything. If you would like to honor a loved one, a photo or happy memory to share together is a meaningful way to take part. ❤️ You May Also Like November Holidays for Kids: A Fun Idea for Every Day 89 Best Family-Friendly Halloween Events in Los Angeles 45 Awesome Museums to Visit With Your Kids

Dodger Stadium is showing Home Alone (rated PG) on Saturday, November 28, 2026, with gates opening at 4:00 PM and the movie starting at 6:00 PM. Families can watch from the outfield grass or field-level seats on UNIQLO Field. Think of it as a holiday kickoff with a baseball twist: a giant videoboard, a blanket on the grass, and Kevin McCallister outsmarting the Wet Bandits under the night sky. Add pre-show photo ops and bullpen pitching, and it becomes an easy way to start the Christmas season with kids of all ages. Key Takeaways When: Saturday, November 28, 2026. Gates open at 4:00 PM, and the movie begins at 6:00 PM. Where: UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium, 1000 Vin Scully Ave, Los Angeles 90012. Main entrance is Sunset Gate A. Seating: outfield grass or field-level seats, first come, first served. Tickets: Tickets start at $35 + 3 fee. Kids under 3 are free on a lap. Parking: free. Uber drop-off and pick-up are allowed at Sunset Gate A. Home Alone Movie Night at a Glance Event: Movie Night at Dodger Stadium featuring Home Alone (1990), rated PG. Date: Saturday, November 28, 2026. Gates open: 4:00 PM. Movie begins: 6:00 PM. Screen: the stadium's DodgerVision videoboards. Address: 1000 Vin Scully Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Get the latest details and ticket access on the official Dodgers Movie Night page. What Families Can Expect Gates open two hours before the movie, and that early window is the best part. According to the Dodgers, pre-show activities include photo opportunities, pitching in the bullpen, behind-the-scenes tours and family activities, available until the movie starts or supplies run out. Then the lights go down and Home Alone plays on the DodgerVision videoboards. You can choose outfield grass, where most families will want a blanket and cushions, or field-level seats. Both are first come, first served, so arriving early helps if you want a favorite spot. Select concessions with movie-style items are available, and the stadium is cashless. For more on what the Dodgers say about the event, see the Dodgers 365 events page. Tickets, Seating and Age Rules We could not find a ticket price on the official Dodgers pages we checked, so check the ticket page for current rates before you plan your budget. Buyers must accept a waiver and likeness authorization before purchasing, and all sales are final with no refunds, returns or exchanges. Children under 3 enter free when sitting on a parent's or guardian's lap. If a child under 3 needs their own seat, you will need to buy a ticket. Accessible seating is available in premium baseline seats through the Welcome Center in Centerfield Plaza. The movie is rated PG. Home Alone has some slapstick mishaps and booby traps, so it suits most elementary-age kids and up. Parents of very young children may want to check the rating details and decide what works for their family. What to Bring and What to Leave Home Blankets, seat cushions and chairs without metal framing are encouraged. Inflatable furniture, bean bags and seats with metal framing are not permitted, so leave the beanbag chairs in the garage. Bag Policy Only adult diaper bags, infant diaper bags, clear plastic bags (12" x 12" x 6") and non-clear wristlets or clutches (5" x 8" x 2") are permitted. Food and Drinks Outside food is allowed only in clear bags up to 12" x 12" x 6" and non-glass containers. Factory-sealed plastic bottles of one liter or less, non-alcoholic, are also allowed. Concessions are available if you would rather buy a Dodger-style bite. Parking and Getting There Parking is complimentary for the event. The main entrance is Sunset Gate A, and Uber is permitted for drop-off and pick-up at that gate. The stadium is at 1000 Vin Scully Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Gates open at 4:00 PM, so you do not need to rush to catch the 6:00 PM movie. Leave extra time for traffic around Chavez Ravine, especially on a holiday weekend, and have your tickets ready on your phone. Are There Other Movie Nights at Dodger Stadium? Not at the moment. As of early October 2026, Home Alone on November 28 is the only upcoming movie night listed on the Dodgers 365 events page. The stadium screened The Sandlot on August 8 earlier this season, so more dates could appear in the future. The same events page lists Upper Deck Golf on December 4 to 6, which is a separate ticketed experience with tee times rather than a family movie. We will update this post if the Dodgers add more movie nights. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway Home Alone Under the Stars is a relaxed, kid-friendly way to see Dodger Stadium without a ballgame. Pack blankets, arrive when gates open at 4:00 PM, and use the pre-show time for photos and bullpen fun before the 6:00 PM movie. Check the official ticket page for current pricing, remember that all sales are final, and plan on free parking at Sunset Gate A. Frequently Asked Questions When is Home Alone Under the Stars at Dodger Stadium? Saturday, November 28, 2026. Stadium gates open at 4:00 PM, and the movie starts at 6:00 PM on UNIQLO Field. Pre-show activities run until the movie begins or supplies run out, so arriving early is the best way to enjoy the photo spots, bullpen pitching and tours. How much are tickets for Home Alone at Dodger Stadium? The official Dodgers pages we checked did not list a ticket price, so check the ticket page for current rates. Children under 3 enter free on a parent's lap. All sales are final, and buyers must accept a waiver and likeness authorization before purchasing. Is parking free for Dodger Stadium movie night? Yes. The Dodgers list parking as complimentary for this event. The main entrance is Sunset Gate A, and Uber drop-off and pick-up is permitted at that gate. Plan extra time for arrival, since the stadium is large and traffic around Chavez Ravine can build up. Can I bring chairs and food to Dodger Stadium movie night? Blankets, seat cushions and chairs without metal framing are encouraged. Inflatable furniture, bean bags and seats with metal framing are not allowed. Outside food is allowed in clear bags up to 12 by 12 by 6 inches, plus sealed non-alcoholic plastic bottles of one liter or less. Are there other movie nights at Dodger Stadium this season? As of early October 2026, Home Alone on November 28 is the only upcoming movie night listed on the Dodgers 365 events page. The stadium screened The Sandlot on August 8 earlier this season. Check the official Dodgers page for any new dates added later. ❤️ You May Also Like 59 Dazzling Christmas and Holiday Events for LA Families in 2026 43 Free Christmas Events in Los Angeles Kids Will Love (2026) The Best Family-Friendly Movie Theaters in Los Angeles: 28 Kid-Approved Spots

Calling all young witches and wizards: this one deserves a full-volume "Accio!" LEGOLAND Deutschland Resort in Günzburg, Germany, is building the world's first LEGO Harry Potter land, plus the first official Harry Potter-themed hotel anywhere on the planet. Picture Hogwarts and the Wizarding World rebuilt brick by colorful brick, then imagine your crew heading "upstairs" to sleep in a Harry Potter-themed room instead of a plain hotel bed. That overnight piece is what makes this announcement so special. Universal's Wizarding World parks don't offer official Harry Potter hotel rooms, so this will be a true first for fans who've always wanted the magic to last past closing time. Key Takeaways What: the world's first LEGO Harry Potter land plus the first-ever Harry Potter-themed guest accommodation. Where: LEGOLAND Deutschland Resort in Günzburg, Bavaria, Germany. Nothing has been announced for LEGOLAND California. Who: Merlin Entertainments, Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences and the LEGO Group. When: no opening date announced. Merlin said more details would come over the 12 months after the December 2025 announcement. Still unknown: room count, room designs, ride lineup, ticket prices and hotel rates. What Has Been Announced So Far The first details came in a Merlin Entertainments press release dated December 1, 2025. It confirms two things: a themed land that recreates Hogwarts and the Wizarding World in LEGO bricks, and Harry Potter-themed guest accommodation at the same resort. Merlin describes the project as its largest-ever single investment into an existing site. That is a notable statement from a company that runs LEGOLAND parks around the world, and it suggests the land will be a major addition rather than a small themed corner. The official LEGOLAND Deutschland Harry Potter page calls it "a magical new land in the making" and describes a blend of creativity, wizardry and play. It does not list rides, room details or a timeline. Who Is Behind the Project Three well-known names are involved. Merlin Entertainments operates the LEGOLAND parks, Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences handles the Harry Potter side of the partnership, and the LEGO Group brings the brick-built look. Merlin CEO Fiona Eastwood said the partnership marks "Merlin's largest-ever single investment into an existing site." Peter van Roden of Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences said the destination will let fans "step into the familiar LEGO Harry Potter aesthetic." Theme park trade coverage, including this report from Theme Park Insider, notes that this is the first time a Harry Potter hotel has been announced anywhere, since Universal has not built one at its Wizarding World parks. What We Don't Know Yet Quite a lot is still open, and it is worth being careful here because some travel sites have printed details that official sources have not confirmed. Opening date: Merlin has not given a year. A few travel websites say 2026, but neither the press release nor the LEGOLAND Deutschland page confirms it. Hotel details: we found no official room count, no room designs and no rates. Some sites mention four house-themed rooms, but we could not find that in any official announcement. Land details: no ride lineup, height rules or ticketing information has been published. Booking: reservations are not open. The resort asks interested visitors to sign up for its newsletter for updates. We will update this post when LEGOLAND Deutschland releases official details. About LEGOLAND Deutschland Resort LEGOLAND Deutschland sits near Günzburg in Bavaria, between Munich and Stuttgart, and is one of the largest theme parks in the region. Its official site lists 68 rides and attractions, and the park is designed for families with kids ages 2 to 12. The resort already has several places to stay, including the Forest Adventure Lodge, the NINJAGO Quarter, the Pirate Island Hotel, themed cottages, castles and campsites. The Harry Potter rooms will be the first official accommodation of their kind, so it is not yet clear whether they will be a new building, a themed section of an existing hotel, or something else. What This Means for Los Angeles Families Start dreaming up that European adventure. Günzburg sits in Bavaria between Munich and Stuttgart, so a LEGO Harry Potter stop fits easily into a bigger family trip filled with fairy-tale castles, pretzels the size of your kid's head, and Alpine scenery straight out of a storybook. For SoCal families who have already done the Wizarding World at Universal Studios Hollywood, this is the next level: Hogwarts in LEGO brick form and a themed hotel room to fall asleep in. We'll share opening dates, ticket details, and hotel booking info here as soon as they're announced, so you can start planning your own magical getaway. Harry Potter Fans Closer to Home Right now, the nearest official Harry Potter experience for LA families is the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood. Our guide to Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood 2026 covers the seasonal fun, including the Harry Potter Christmas décor. LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad None of the announcements mention LEGOLAND California, so we have nothing to report there. If your family loves LEGO, our LEGOLAND California annual pass guide can help you decide how to plan your next visits. How to Get Updates We expect to share more about the land over the 12 months after the announcement. The best place to watch is the official LEGOLAND Deutschland Harry Potter page, where you can sign up for the park's newsletter, and we will keep this article current as news arrives. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join 8,000+ LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway A Harry Potter hotel and a LEGO Harry Potter land at LEGOLAND Deutschland is exciting news for fans, and a first for the franchise. For now, it is an announcement without a date, so there is nothing to book and no reason to rearrange travel plans. Bookmark the official page, keep an eye on our updates, and enjoy the Wizarding World at Universal Studios Hollywood in the meantime. Frequently Asked Questions Is there a Harry Potter hotel at LEGOLAND Germany? Not yet. LEGOLAND Deutschland Resort announced on December 1, 2025 that it will add the first official Harry Potter-themed guest accommodation, but the resort has not confirmed an opening date, room count or prices. Check the official LEGOLAND Deutschland Harry Potter page for updates. When will the LEGO Harry Potter land open at LEGOLAND Deutschland? No official opening date or year has been announced. Merlin Entertainments said more details would follow over the 12 months after the announcement. Some travel sites guess at 2026, but the official LEGOLAND page only describes the land as "a magical new land in the making." Who is building the Harry Potter land at LEGOLAND Germany? It is a partnership between Merlin Entertainments, which operates the LEGOLAND parks, and Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, with the LEGO Group involved. The project will recreate Hogwarts and the Wizarding World in LEGO brick form, and Merlin calls it its largest-ever single investment into an existing site. Is there a LEGO Harry Potter land at LEGOLAND California? No. The announcements cover only LEGOLAND Deutschland Resort in Günzburg, Germany, and none mention LEGOLAND California in Carlsbad. Harry Potter fans in Los Angeles can visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood. Check official LEGOLAND California channels for any future news. What ages is LEGOLAND Deutschland best for? The resort is designed for families with children ages 2 to 12 and has 68 rides and attractions, according to its official site. Whether the Harry Potter land follows that same audience has not been announced, so check ride details and any height or age rules once they are released. ❤️ You May Also Like Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood 2026: Grinchmas, Harry Potter Christmas & More LEGOLAND Christmas Bricktacular 2026: New Holiday Lights, Shows & Family Guide LEGOLAND California 2027 Annual Passes: What Families Should Know Before Buying

Have you ever watched a movie with your kids and wished you could step through the screen? In late November, Dune: The Experience gives Los Angeles families that chance, turning a corner of downtown into the desert planet Arrakis. Dune: The Experience Los Angeles opens at 330 S Alameda St. in late November 2026, and tickets go on public sale Wednesday, October 7, at 9:00 AM. We gathered everything the official sources have shared so far, plus practical tips to help you decide whether it is worth the trip with your crew. Dune: The Experience Los Angeles at a Glance Here are the essentials in one place, so you can screenshot this and move on with your day. Location: 330 S Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA 90013 (downtown Los Angeles) Opens: Late November 2026. Dates and times vary by ticket date and will appear when tickets go on sale. Tickets on sale: Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 9:00 AM through Fever Length: About 60 minutes Ages: All ages are welcome. Children under 3 enter free, and kids under 12 need adult supervision. Prices: Ticket prices are to be announced. Please check the official website for updates. Official site: Dune: The Experience Our calendar listing: Dune: The Experience on our events calendar What Families Can Expect Inside Dune: The Experience Think of it as a walk-through movie set with plenty to touch, test, and photograph. Guests travel through an interactive re-creation of Arrakis built with life-size sets, a scale sandworm, original props, and costumes from the films. Between the set pieces, you get challenges to try. Your family can test itself against the Bene Gesserit, hunt for hidden Fremen messages, and explore an immersive sietch environment. Kids who love puzzles and scavenger hunts will have plenty to poke at. Photo Stops Kids Will Talk About The big photo moments include sitting on Paul Atreides' throne, posing beside an ornithopter, and standing in front of a colossal sandworm. Charge your phone before you go, because these are the pictures that will make next year's holiday card a lot more interesting. A Break for Food and Shopping The experience includes a dining area inspired by the world and flavors of Dune, with gluten-free and vegan options. Seating is limited, so plan on a snack break rather than a long sit-down meal. There is also exclusive merchandise themed to Dune: Part Three, so agree on a souvenir budget before you walk in. Is Dune: The Experience Good for Kids? Officially, Dune: The Experience is suited for all ages, with no minimum age. Children under 3 enter free, and kids under 12 need adult supervision the whole time. All ages does not mean every age will get the same thing out of it. The first two Dune films are rated PG-13, and the experience builds on their world. Younger kids may enjoy touching props and spotting the sandworm more than following the story, while tweens and teens who love the movies will catch the details. If your kids have not seen the films, give them a two-minute preview in the car: a desert planet, giant sandworms, and a young hero trying to protect his people. That is plenty to make the rooms feel exciting instead of confusing. The venue is indoors, air-conditioned, and wheelchair accessible, and trained service animals are permitted. The experience could not be adapted for guests with visual or hearing disabilities, so read the accessibility details on the official site if that applies to your family. Dune: The Experience Tickets, Parking, and Getting There Tickets are sold through Fever, and you choose a specific date and time slot when you buy. Public sale starts Wednesday, October 7, at 9:00 AM, and the official page says pricing will be announced then. One early news report mentioned prices in the $30 to $45 range, but the organizer has not confirmed that, so we will update this guide as soon as official prices appear. The experience is produced by Fever with Legendary Entertainment and Warner Bros., and its timing lines up with the December release of Dune: Part Three. Early reports say the Los Angeles run lasts at least through the end of December, but no official end date has been posted. Parking is limited on site, and passes are sold as add-ons. Public pay lots and street parking are nearby, and the organizer recommends rideshare, which is the simplest option for most families. Parent Tips for Visiting Dune: The Experience Buy early if you want a specific date. Weekends and Thanksgiving week are likely to fill first, and you pick your time slot at checkout. Plan for about an hour inside, plus time for the dining area and the merchandise shop. A well-fed, well-rested kid is a much better sandworm explorer. Wear comfortable shoes and keep one hand free for photos. If you have little ones, remember that kids under 12 must stay with an adult. Looking for more indoor outings? Browse our guide to immersive experiences and exhibits in Los Angeles for families for other ideas. 📬 Get LA's Best Family Fun in Your Inbox Join fellow LA parents who get our free weekly guide to things to do with kids: weekend events, free activities, and seasonal ideas. Takeaway Dune: The Experience Los Angeles is a hands-on, roughly one-hour walk through the world of the films, with sets, props, a sandworm, and plenty of photo moments. It is officially open to all ages, but it will land best with kids who already know the story or who love interactive, puzzle-style rooms. Opening is set for late November 2026, and tickets go on sale October 7 at 9:00 AM. Bookmark the official Dune: The Experience site, and check back here, because we will update this guide when dates and prices are announced. Frequently Asked Questions About Dune: The Experience in Los Angeles 1. When does Dune: The Experience open in Los Angeles? It opens in late November 2026. Tickets go on public sale Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at 9:00 AM, and available dates and times appear when you buy. 2. Where is Dune: The Experience in Los Angeles? It is at 330 S Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA 90013, in downtown Los Angeles. 3. Is Dune: The Experience okay for kids? Yes. It is officially suited for all ages. Children under 3 enter free, and kids under 12 need adult supervision. 4. How long does Dune: The Experience take? The visit lasts about 60 minutes, not counting time in the dining area or the shop. 5. How much are Dune: The Experience tickets? Ticket prices are to be announced. Please check the official website for updates. Tickets are sold through Fever starting October 7.