Imagine walking into a rainforest where the flowers are taller than your kids, the walls breathe with color, and the air suddenly smells like rain on warm earth. That's the pitch behind DATALAND Los Angeles, the new Museum of AI Arts that opened in June 2026 inside The Grand LA, right across the street from Walt Disney Concert Hall. Created by Los Angeles media artist Refik Anadol and his studio, DATALAND bills itself as the world's first museum devoted to art made with artificial intelligence. Its first exhibition, Machine Dreams: Rainforest, is on view through January 31, 2027, which gives LA families a comfortable window to plan a visit around school breaks and rainy weekends. But is a high-tech AI museum actually fun for kids, or is it a pricey art experience best saved for date night? We dug through everything DATALAND has published about the visit so you can decide which kids in your crew will love it, how to save a little money on parking, and how to avoid the classic "wrong entrance" mistake downtown. What Is DATALAND Los Angeles? Think of DATALAND as a museum where the paintings never hold still. Instead of hanging art on the walls, the museum uses an AI system to generate images, sound, and even scent in real time, so the rooms look a little different every time you visit. The studio calls it a "living museum," and the name fits. The engine behind the art is the Large Nature Model, an AI that Refik Anadol Studio trained on nature data gathered with permission from research institutions, environmental groups, and the studio's own fieldwork. For Machine Dreams: Rainforest, the museum says the model draws on more than 1.2 billion ecological data points plus live environmental feeds from rainforests around the world. If that sounds abstract, here's the kid-friendly version: a computer studied millions of real plants, animals, and rainforest sounds, and now it "dreams" about the jungle on giant screens while you walk through the dream. That one sentence tends to hook curious 10-year-olds immediately. DATALAND Los Angeles at a Glance Exhibition: Machine Dreams: Rainforest On view: Now through Sunday, January 31, 2027 Address: 100 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Hours: Tue–Thu 11 am–8 pm; Fri 11 am–10 pm; Sat 10 am–10 pm; Sun 10 am–8 pm Closed: Mondays Tickets: Timed entry, starting at $49 per person Visit length: About 1.5 to 2 hours Official site: DATALAND Hours and prices come straight from DATALAND's Plan Your Visit page and official ticket page. Because this is a brand-new museum, we'd double-check both the week of your visit. Inside Machine Dreams: Rainforest, Gallery by Gallery The visit unfolds across five multi-sensory galleries. You move at your own pace, but a few spaces run on scheduled sequences, so staff may pause your group briefly before a room begins. Here are the four spaces families talk about most. Gallery A: The Data Pavilion This is the jaw-drop room. Walls, ceiling, and architecture turn into one enormous moving canvas, powered by 84 synchronized projectors and a 200-channel soundscape composed live from rainforest data. The imagery swirls from neon purples into deep jungle greens, and it's big enough that kids tend to just stop and stare. The Pavilion also releases eight different scents in sequence, developed with L'Oréal Luxe, from the smell of first rain to damp forest floor and tropical fruit. Ask your kids to guess each scent before you check the list on the museum's website. It turns a sensory room into a game. Gallery B: The Latent Gallery The Latent Gallery is where hands-on kids will want to linger. At the "Thinking Brush" station, a swipe of your finger becomes flowers, landscapes, and flowing natural shapes created by the AI. At "Fluid Pigments," motion sensors turn your body's movements into swirling particles on a digital canvas, so a little dance party becomes an art lesson. This gallery also hosts DATALAND's edible twist: chocolate tasting elements inspired by rainforest data, created with Valerie Confections. It's a fun conversation starter about how data can become flavor, and yes, it's the part most kids remember first. Gallery C: The Infinity Room The Infinity Room wraps you in an LED jungle of oversized blossoms, vines, and light. Its story centers on Ruwe Pinu, a glowing hummingbird from a dream Anadol had in the Amazon, named with the Yawanawá community of Brazil, who shared the story with the museum. The soundscape even includes a recording of the Kauaʻi ʻōʻō, a Hawaiian bird that is now extinct. That detail opens the door to a meaningful talk with older kids about endangered species and why rainforests matter. For younger kids, it's simply a magical room full of flowers the size of beach umbrellas. Gallery D: The Sanctuary The Sanctuary is the museum's quiet space, and it arrives at exactly the right time. A 30-foot data painting slowly changes based on the collective heartbeat and movement signals gathered from visitors throughout the museum. At the end of each cycle, the room releases the scent of the Amazonian moonflower, a rare bloom that opens for just one night. Families with kids who get overstimulated will appreciate this calm finale. It's a good moment to sit, breathe, and ask everyone what their favorite room was before you head back out into downtown. The Wearables: How Your Heartbeat Becomes Art Here's what makes DATALAND different from other immersive shows. Guests can wear a small device, the Data.Token, that anonymously reads signals like heartbeat, movement, and position, and those signals help shape the sound and visuals around you. By the end, the museum's shared "emotional temperature" feeds the painting in The Sanctuary. Participation is optional, and DATALAND says visit data stays anonymous and is deleted after your visit unless you choose to save it through the museum's app. One key note for families: only guests 13 and older may wear the devices, so younger kids experience the rooms without them. Is DATALAND Good for Kids? Best Ages and What to Expect There is no age restrictions at DATALAND, so younger children can visit. Still, this is an art museum first, not a children's museum, and the experience clicks differently depending on your kids' ages. Tweens and Teens (Ages 10+) This is the sweet spot. Teens can wear the biosensing devices, understand the AI concept, and appreciate the "how did they do that?" factor. If your teen is into coding, gaming, or design, pair the visit with our list of free AI courses for teens and watch the questions roll in on the drive home. Kids 12 and Under Younger kids can absolutely enjoy the color, scale, and interactive stations in the Latent Gallery. They won't wear the devices, though, and the more conceptual parts of the museum may fly over their heads. Kids around 7 to 12 who love immersive spaces will likely have a blast; preschoolers may be dazzled for 30 minutes and then ready for a snack. Sensory Considerations Expect large-scale projections, dramatic lighting shifts, a surround soundscape, and released scents. Kids who love immersive experiences will be thrilled. If your child is sensitive to sound, light, or smell, check the accessibility section of the DATALAND FAQ or contact the museum before booking, and remember that you can opt out of the scent experience. DATALAND Tickets, Hours, and How Timed Entry Works Tickets are sold for specific 30-minute entry windows, and timed-entry tickets start at $49 per person. Prices vary by day and ticket tier, and priority options cost more. DATALAND's website does not currently list a separate child price, so check the ticket page carefully when you book for the whole family. A few details make check-in smoother: Arrive about 10 minutes before your entry time for check-in and onboarding. Every guest completes a participation waiver. Find it through the "View My Tickets" button in your "Your DATALAND order confirmation" email and sign it at home. Tickets can live on your phone as a QR code or in your digital wallet, and an account is optional. If you run late, the museum says it will try to fit you in, but entry may be delayed depending on capacity. Weekend mornings open at 10 am, while weekdays open at 11 am. Friday and Saturday nights run until 10 pm, which can be a fun late outing with teens. Getting There: Parking, Metro, and Finding the Entrance The number one tip: the entrance is not at the big DATALAND billboard on Grand Avenue. The door is on the fourth floor, which is street level, across from Walt Disney Concert Hall. If you end up at the billboard, keep walking through The Grand LA courtyard to find it. For self-parking, use The Grand LA garage at 121 S. Olive St. (your ticket may say 151 S. Olive St.). With DATALAND validation, parking is $4.50 for the first three hours and $5 for each additional hour, up to $42 per day. Take the North elevators to reach the Level 4 entrance. Valet at the Conrad Los Angeles on 1st Street is $15 for the first three hours with validation, then $5 per hour, up to $62. Skipping the car? DATALAND is a walk from two Metro stations: Civic Center/Grand Park and Grand Avenue Arts. Kids who love trains will count the ride as part of the adventure. Parent Tips for a Smoother DATALAND Visit Book a morning slot on weekends if you have younger kids, when energy and patience run higher. Eat before you go. Plan a snack or meal nearby since the museum visit alone takes up to two hours. Talk about the rainforest on the drive in. Kids who know what a canopy and a forest floor are will spot them in the art. Let teens wear the device and younger kids "direct" the Fluid Pigments station. Everyone gets a job. End in The Sanctuary and ask each child to name their favorite room. It makes a great memory-keeper for the car ride home. Make It a Downtown LA Culture Day DATALAND sits on Grand Avenue's arts corridor, so it's easy to build a bigger day around it. Walt Disney Concert Hall is directly across the street, and The Broad and MOCA Grand Avenue are a short walk up the block. Check each venue's current hours and reservation rules before you go. If your family is working through LA's newest museums, pair this visit with our guide to the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art. For more ideas, browse our list of 45 awesome museums to visit with kids, our roundup of immersive experiences in Los Angeles for families, and fun things to do with teenagers in Los Angeles. Rainy day coming up? Our indoor activities for kids in LA guide has you covered. 📬 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 DATALAND Los Angeles is one of the most ambitious new family outings in the city this year. The rooms are genuinely beautiful, the interactive stations give kids something to do rather than just look, and the rainforest theme opens real conversations about nature and technology. It's also a splurge, starting at $49 a ticket. For tweens and teens who love art, tech, or big immersive spaces, we think it's worth planning for before Machine Dreams: Rainforest closes on January 31, 2027. For toddlers and preschoolers, you may want to wait until they're a little older. Frequently Asked Questions About DATALAND Los Angeles 1. How much are DATALAND tickets? Timed-entry tickets start at $49 per person, and prices vary by day and ticket type. DATALAND's website does not currently list separate child pricing, so review the options on the official ticket page before you buy. 2. Can young children visit DATALAND? Yes. DATALAND does not publish a minimum age, but only guests 13 and older may wear the biosensing devices. Kids 12 and under can still explore the galleries and interactive stations without them. 3. How long does a visit to DATALAND take? DATALAND recommends allowing about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on how busy it is. Add time for parking and for finding the fourth-floor entrance across from Walt Disney Concert Hall. 4. Where do you park for DATALAND in downtown LA? Park at The Grand LA garage at 121 S. Olive St. and get DATALAND validation: $4.50 for the first three hours, $5 per additional hour, up to $42. Valet is available at the Conrad Los Angeles, or you can walk from the Civic Center/Grand Park or Grand Avenue Arts Metro stations. 5. How long is Machine Dreams: Rainforest open? Machine Dreams: Rainforest, DATALAND's first exhibition, is on view through January 31, 2027. The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday and closed on Mondays.

Los Angeles doesn't do fall the way the rest of the country does. Our leaves don't all turn at once, our sweaters stay in the closet until at least Halloween, and some October afternoons still feel like July. But ask any LA parent and they'll tell you: this is secretly the best season of the year to explore with kids. The summer crowds thin out, the trails cool down, and the calendar fills with pumpkin patches, apple orchards, glowing jack-o'-lantern trails, Día de los Muertos altars and some of the lowest daytime tides of the year. We checked every event below against official 2026 sources, so this fall bucket list gives you real dates, addresses, prices and parent tips, not just ideas. Grab a pen (or your phone's notes app) and start checking things off. Here are 45 of the best fall activities in Los Angeles and Southern California for families in 2026. Key Fall 2026 Dates LA Families Should Save Some of the most popular fall events sell out or only happen on a handful of days. These are the dates we'd put on the family calendar right now: Sat, Oct 3: Hocus Pocus outdoor movie at the Autry, plus the first day of Reyes Adobe Days in Agoura Hills. Weekends, Oct 10 to 31: Cal Poly Pomona PumpkinFest (weekends only). Fri, Oct 23: Scarium Family Night at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Oct 24 to 25 and Oct 31 to Nov 1: Boo at the L.A. Zoo. Oct 24 to Nov 2: Downtown Día de los Muertos at Grand Park, with Olvera Street's celebration running Oct 25 to Nov 2. Sun, Nov 1: Daylight saving time ends, which means earlier sunsets and easier stargazing with little kids. Thu, Nov 5: Free Day at The Huntington (tickets release Thu, Oct 29 at 9 a.m.). Nov 23 to 25: The lowest daytime tides of the season for tide pooling at Leo Carrillo. Pumpkin Patches, Farms and Apple Picking Near Los Angeles Nothing kicks off fall like wandering a field of pumpkins with a wagon and a kid who insists on the biggest one. For even more options, see our huge list of pumpkin patches and fall festivals near LA and our guide to the best corn mazes in Southern California. 1. Underwood Family Farms Fall Harvest Festival Underwood Family Farms 3370 Sunset Valley Road Moorpark, CA 93021 Saturday, Sept 26 to Saturday, Oct 31, 2026 Daily, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. This is one of the biggest fall farm festivals in Southern California, with themed weekends, farm animals and acres of harvest fun to explore. Weekday admission is $16 at the gate, while weekend tickets are sold online only and run $25 to $38 depending on the date. Kids under 2 are free, and parking is free. Parent tip: Weekday afternoons are the calmest time to go with toddlers. Read our full Underwood Family Farms Fall Harvest Festival guide before you buy weekend tickets. 2. Tanaka Farms Pumpkin Patch Tanaka Farms 5380 3/4 University Drive Irvine, CA 92612 Saturday, Sept 12 to Sunday, Nov 1, 2026 October: Mon to Thu, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Fri to Sun, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tanaka's family-run farm in the Irvine hills is an Orange County favorite for pumpkin picking and farm fun. Reservations with a set entry time are required, so book ahead instead of just showing up. Check the official ticket page for 2026 pricing. Parent tip: Last entry is one hour before closing, and hours can change with the weather. 3. Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch Irvine Regional Park 1 Irvine Park Road Orange, CA 92869 Saturday, Sept 12 to Saturday, Oct 31, 2026 Weekdays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; weekends, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Little train fans, this one's for you. Families ride a miniature train or wagon out to the patch, then stay for games and activities. You'll need a train or wagon ticket to enter, and select weekends require reservations ($16 to $22 per person, including a ride). Babies 12 months and under ride free. Parent tip: Walk-ins work on weekdays. Park parking is $3 on weekdays and $5 on weekends. 4. Cal Poly Pomona PumpkinFest Cal Poly Pomona 4102 S. University Drive Pomona, CA 91768 Saturdays and Sundays, Oct 10 to Oct 31, 2026 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Run by one of California's big agricultural universities, PumpkinFest bundles a hayride, mazes, a petting farm, live entertainment and kids' activities into one ticket. Pumpkins and animal feed cost extra. Tickets are required, capacity is limited and it usually sells out. Parent tip: Buy PumpkinFest tickets online ahead of time and budget $5 for weekend parking. 5. Pierce College Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze Pierce College 7100 El Rancho Drive Woodland Hills, CA 91367 Thursday, Oct 1 to Saturday, Oct 31, 2026 Mon to Thu, 4 to 9 p.m.; Fri, 4 to 10 p.m.; Sat, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sun, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. A Valley tradition with a brand-new corn maze for 2026. Entry is just $3 for adults and free for anyone under 18, though each attraction needs tickets. The corn maze is $15 (under 2 free), and parking is free. Parent tip: Weekday hours start at 4 p.m., which makes this an easy after-school outing. 6. Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch 10100 Jefferson Blvd. Culver City, CA 90232 Friday, Oct 2 to Saturday, Oct 31, 2026 The Westside's most photogenic patch is known for its photo-ready displays and colorful pumpkins. Admission is required for ages 3 and up: $10 to $12 on regular days and $15 to $25 on weekends and peak days, with online tickets recommended. Parking is run by a third party and starts at $7 on weekdays. Parent tip: Last entry is 45 minutes before closing, so don't cut it close on a school night. 7. Live Oak Canyon Pumpkin Patch Live Oak Canyon 32335 Live Oak Canyon Road Redlands, CA 92373 Select days through Monday, Nov 2, 2026 Mon to Thu, 4 to 9 p.m.; Fri, 4 to 10 p.m.; Sat, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sun, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. If you want to pick a pumpkin straight off the vine, this is the place. Live Oak Canyon has real u-pick pumpkin fields, a hayride and a sprawling farm setting in the Inland Empire. Admission is sold at the front entrance and varies by day; kids under 2 are free, and parking is free. Parent tip: The farm is closed on several weekdays, including Oct 5, 6, 13 and 19, and the u-pick fields close at sunset. Check the calendar before you drive out. 8. Apple Picking at Riley's Farm Riley's Farm 12261 S. Oak Glen Road Oak Glen, CA 92399 U-pick season through November 2026 Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (closed Sundays) Oak Glen is LA's closest real apple country, and Riley's lets kids pick their own for $3.50 per pound while the crop lasts. As of late September, Baldwin, Golden Russet, Braeburn and Spitzenberg apples were reported in good shape. Parent tip: GPS is often wrong on the mountain roads, so follow the farm's own directions. Call 909-797-7534 to check what's ripe before you go. We cover more orchards in our apple picking near Los Angeles guide. 9. Los Rios Rancho Los Rios Rancho 39611 Oak Glen Road Yucaipa, CA 92399 Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Just up the road from Riley's, Los Rios Rancho adds u-pick apples, berries and vegetables, tractor rides, cider pressing, a pumpkin patch and a corn maze. Live entertainment runs on weekends. Grab a caramel apple for the drive home and call it a perfect fall Saturday. 10. Harvest Fest at Julian Farm and Orchard Julian Farm and Orchard 4381 Julian Highway Julian, CA 92036 Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, Sept 4 to Nov 15, 2026 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Julian is a longer drive (about two and a half hours from downtown LA), but this historic gold-rush town is famous for apple pie, and fall is its season. Harvest Fest runs weekends through mid-November with free parking. Apple picking requires a separate Apple Tour reservation, so check the farm's site before you go. Parent tip: Make it an overnight trip and save the pie for breakfast. We won't tell. 11. Kfar Saba Urban Farm Kfar Saba Urban Farm 8436 Keokuk Ave. Winnetka, CA 91306 Private tours, Sunday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This small Valley sanctuary shelters rescued goats, alpacas, tortoises, chickens and more, and kids get a private one-hour tour to meet them up close. Weekday tours are $100 for up to four guests, and Sunday tours are $160 for up to six. Book through the inquiry form at least a week in advance; there are no walk-ins, and the animals rest on Saturdays. 12. Gibbon Conservation Center Gibbon Conservation Center 19100 Esguerra Road Santa Clarita, CA 91390 Guided public tours start at 10 a.m. Santa Clarita is scorching in summer, which is exactly why fall is the time to visit these singing apes. Their morning calls are something your kids won't forget. Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students, teens and seniors, and $10 for children 3 to 12, and reservations are required. Parent tip: The last stretch is a dirt road, so follow the center's signs and give yourself extra time. Glowing Pumpkins, Halloween Fun and Not-Too-Scary Frights October in LA is basically one long Halloween party. These picks lean family-friendly; for the complete calendar, see our 89 best family-friendly Halloween events in Los Angeles. 13. Night of the Jack King Gillette Ranch 26800 Mulholland Highway Calabasas, CA 91302 Select nights, Friday, Sept 25 to Sunday, Nov 1, 2026 Trail and Jack's Carnival, 6 to 9:15 p.m. Thousands of hand-carved, glowing jack-o'-lanterns line a walking trail at this Calabasas ranch, and it's as magical as it sounds. New for 2026, Jack's Carnival adds more than 10 rides. Timed tickets are required and use dynamic pricing ($24.99 to $74.99 plus fees); kids under 3 are free, and parking must be purchased in advance. Parent tip: Arrive 30 minutes before your time slot. Strollers and small wagons are allowed. Read our full Night of the Jack 2026 guide. 14. Carved at Descanso Gardens Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Drive La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011 Friday, Oct 2 to Sunday, Nov 1, 2026 6 to 10 p.m., timed entry Carved turns Descanso's oak woodland into a nighttime walk lined with real carved pumpkins. Non-member tickets run $29 to $52 for adults and $19 to $37 for kids, depending on the date; under 2 is free. It's rain or shine and cashless, with free self-parking. Parent tip: Come in costume on Oct 31 for trick-or-treating along the trail. 15. Magic of the Jack O'Lanterns South Coast Botanic Garden 26300 Crenshaw Blvd. Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274 Select nights, Friday, Sept 18 to Sunday, Nov 1, 2026 This illuminated pumpkin walk has moved to an all-new home at South Coast Botanic Garden this year, giving South Bay families a jack-o'-lantern trail closer to home. Tickets start at $19.99 for children and $28.99 for adults through the event's official ticketing partner. Check the site for nightly times. 16. Boo at the L.A. Zoo Los Angeles Zoo 5333 Zoo Drive Los Angeles, CA 90027 Saturday and Sunday, Oct 24 to 25, and Saturday and Sunday, Oct 31 to Nov 1, 2026 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Daytime, costume-friendly and free with regular zoo admission, Boo at the Zoo is the perfect first Halloween event for toddlers and preschoolers. Expect trick-or-treating, seasonal fun and animals getting in on the action. Our Boo at the L.A. Zoo 2026 guide has all the details. 17. Hallowe'en Spooktacular at Bob Baker Marionette Theater Bob Baker Marionette Theater 4949 York Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90042 Select dates through Sunday, Nov 8, 2026 LA's beloved puppet theater brings out its marionette ghosts, goblins and pumpkins for a musical Halloween revue that's more giggly than ghoulish. It's a wonderful choice for little kids who aren't ready for anything truly scary, and a sensory-friendly performance is scheduled for Saturday, Oct 10 at 10:30 a.m. Parent tip: Weekend shows sell out weeks ahead, so book early. 18. Halloween Time at the Disneyland Resort Disneyland Resort Anaheim, CA Through Saturday, Oct 31, 2026 (Plaza de la Familia through Monday, Nov 2) Halloween decor, seasonal treats and the Día de los Muertos celebration at Plaza de la Familia are all included with park admission. You'll need both a valid ticket and a park reservation. Our complete guide to Halloween Time at Disneyland covers the Oogie Boogie Bash party and more. 19. Knott's Spooky Farm Knott's Berry Farm 8039 Beach Blvd. Buena Park, CA 90620 Thursdays to Sundays, Sept 24 to Oct 31, 2026, plus Monday, Oct 12 Before Knott's turns into Knott's Scary Farm after dark, the daytime Spooky Farm is all about little ones, with kid-friendly Halloween fun that's silly, not scary. It's included with daytime park admission. 20. Brick-or-Treat at LEGOLAND California LEGOLAND California Resort One LEGOLAND Drive Carlsbad, CA 92008 Weekends in October 2026, plus Saturday, Oct 31 and Sunday, Nov 1 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. LEGO fans can trick-or-treat through the park and explore the new Brick-or-Treat Street for 2026. It's included with admission dated for an event day, with kids' tickets starting at $39. Read our LEGOLAND Brick-or-Treat guide to plan your day. 21. Kidspace Halloween Bash Kidspace Children's Museum 480 N. Arroyo Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91103 Through Saturday, Oct 31, 2026 Tuesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pasadena's hands-on museum celebrates all month with costume parades daily at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m., a LEGO Monster Build on Oct 3 to 4 and a Halloween Party on Oct 30 from 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Everything is included with $17 admission (babies under 1 are free), and parking in Rose Bowl Lot I is free. 22. Scarium Family Night Aquarium of the Pacific 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, CA 90802 Friday, Oct 23, 2026 6:30 to 9 p.m. Celebrate Halloween after hours at the aquarium during this special family night. Tickets are $30.95 for the general public, $20.95 for members and free for kids under 3, and they must be bought in advance. 23. Hocus Pocus with Street Food Cinema Autry Museum of the American West 4700 Western Heritage Way Los Angeles, CA 90027 Saturday, Oct 3, 2026 Gates open at 5:30 p.m.; movie starts at 8 p.m. Pack blankets and snacks for the Sanderson sisters under the stars. The PG classic is a great first outdoor movie night for big kids and tweens. General admission is $23, and parking is free. Parent tip: Bring layers. Griffith Park evenings get chilly fast once the sun goes down. Fall Festivals and Día de los Muertos Celebrations Fall is festival season in Southern California, and Día de los Muertos is one of the most meaningful, colorful traditions to share with kids. Families can talk about remembering loved ones while admiring altars, marigolds and papel picado. 24. Reyes Adobe Days Reyes Adobe Historical Site and Park 30400 Rainbow Crest Drive Agoura Hills, CA 91301 Saturday, Oct 3 and Sunday, Oct 4, 2026 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. This small-town festival celebrates its 2026 theme, Community Harvest, with pony rides, a petting zoo, food trucks and local artisans. Don't miss the parade on Saturday at 10 a.m. Check the website for admission details. 25. Día de los Muertos on Olvera Street El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument 125 Paseo de la Plaza Los Angeles, CA 90012 Sunday, Oct 25 to Monday, Nov 2, 2026 LA's birthplace hosts nine days of Día de los Muertos traditions, including a nightly procession. Admission is free, and face painting is available for a fee. Parent tip: Take Metro to Union Station, right across the street, and skip the downtown parking hunt. 26. Downtown Día de los Muertos at Grand Park Gloria Molina Grand Park 200 N. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012 Saturday, Oct 24 to Monday, Nov 2, 2026 Altars on view daily, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Seventeen artist-made altars plus a community altar fill the park, giving families a gentle way to talk about loved ones who have passed. The free opening celebration is Saturday, Oct 24 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Noche de los Muertos with live music and a mercado is Sunday, Nov 1 from 3 to 7 p.m. Parent tip: Parking is $10 at the Music Center Garage, or take the Metro B or D Line to Civic Center/Grand Park. Museums and Indoor Fall Activities in Los Angeles Heat wave in October? Rainy November day? These museums keep the fall fun going indoors. 27. Spider Pavilion at the Natural History Museum Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County 900 Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007 Through Sunday, Dec 6, 2026 Daily, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Walk among orb weavers spinning giant webs in this seasonal outdoor pavilion. It's the perfect Halloween-season adventure for brave little naturalists. Admission is a $10 add-on to general admission and free for members. 28. Orcas: Our Shared Future Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County 900 Exposition Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90007 Through Sunday, April 25, 2027 While you're at NHM, don't skip this life-size look at orca families, their science and the Indigenous cultures connected to them. It's included with general admission. Parent tip: LA County residents get free general admission on weekdays from 3 to 5 p.m. (onsite only). 29. Jelly Dreamscapes at the Aquarium of the Pacific Aquarium of the Pacific 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, CA 90802 Through Friday, April 30, 2027 The aquarium's reimagined Pacific Visions gallery glows with drifting jellies, and it's mesmerizing for all ages. General admission is $49.95 for adults and $34.95 for kids 3 to 11, and reservations are required. 30. Lucas Museum of Narrative Art Lucas Museum of Narrative Art 3800 S. Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90037 Closed Tuesdays LA's newest museum opened on Sept 22, 2026 in Exposition Park, and it's already one of the hottest tickets in town. Kids 17 and under are free, adults are $25, and everyone, including kids, needs a timed-entry ticket booked in advance. The park, gardens and library are free to explore. 31. California Science Center California Science Center 700 Exposition Park Drive Los Angeles, CA 90037 Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The permanent galleries are free, which makes this an easy add-on to an Exposition Park day. IMAX films and special exhibits require timed tickets. Homeschool families should also see our California Science Center Homeschool Days Fall 2026 guide. 32. Pretend City Children's Museum Pretend City Children's Museum 29 Hubble Irvine, CA 92618 Wednesday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This pint-sized town lets kids run the grocery store, the fire station and the farm, and it's pure magic for toddlers and preschoolers on a rainy fall day. Admission is $22 for children and adults, babies 12 months and under are free, and parking is free. Outdoor Fall Activities in Los Angeles: Tide Pools, Trails and Stars Fall's cooler mornings and golden afternoons are made for getting outside. Just check fire-weather alerts first; state parks can close during Red Flag Warnings. 33. Tide Pooling at Leo Carrillo State Park Leo Carrillo State Park 35000 W. Pacific Coast Highway Malibu, CA 90265 Day use, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fall brings the first good daytime low tides of the season. Based on NOAA predictions for nearby Santa Monica, try Oct 26 or 27 around 4 to 5 p.m., or the best tides of the fall on Nov 24 and 25 in mid-afternoon. Look for sea stars, anemones and crabs in the rocky reefs and caves. Day-use parking is $12 per vehicle. Parent tip: Arrive about an hour before low tide, wear shoes with grip, and teach kids to look with their eyes, not their hands. 34. Malibu Creek State Park Malibu Creek State Park 1925 Las Virgenes Road Calabasas, CA 91302 Day use, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Wide, mostly flat trails follow the creek through oak and sycamore groves, and fall's cooler temperatures make the walk to the Rock Pool much more pleasant for little legs. Parking is $12 per vehicle. For more color, see our guide to the best places to see fall foliage near Los Angeles. 35. Griffith Observatory Griffith Observatory 2800 E. Observatory Road Los Angeles, CA 90027 Tuesday to Friday, noon to 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. (closed Mondays) Here's our favorite fall hack: once daylight saving time ends on Sunday, Nov 1, the sun sets early enough for little kids to catch the sunset and the first stars before bedtime. Admission to the building is free. Parent tip: Parking at the top is paid. Ride the DASH shuttle for 50 cents, or park downhill near the Greek Theatre when no concert is scheduled. 36. Free Day at The Huntington The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens 1151 Oxford Road San Marino, CA 91108 Thursday, Nov 5, 2026 The Huntington's gardens are gorgeous in fall, and admission is free on the first Thursday of every month. Tickets for the Nov 5 Free Day go live on Thursday, Oct 29 at 9 a.m. and go fast. Everyone needs a ticket, including infants, and parking is free. 37. Descanso Gardens by Day Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Drive La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011 Daily, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Before Carved lights up at night, Descanso's daytime paths offer shady oak woodland and plenty of room to run. Admission is $20 for adults and $8 for kids 3 to 12, and parking is free. Fall Day Trips From Los Angeles Craving crisp air and real autumn leaves? These road trips deliver. 38. Fall Colors in Big Bear Lake Big Bear Lake, CA 92315 Peak color: mid-October to early November Big Bear's fall color usually peaks from mid-October into early November, and the lake is gorgeous against the gold. Bring jackets; mountain mornings are cold. The town's Oktoberfest runs select weekends through Nov 8, and kids 3 to 12 get in free on Sundays. 39. Lake Arrowhead Village Lake Arrowhead Village 28200 Highway 189 Lake Arrowhead, CA 92352 Village Halloween: Saturday, Oct 31, 2026, 3 to 6 p.m. Stroll the lakefront shops and warm up with cocoa in this cozy mountain village about 90 minutes from LA. The village's free-admission Oktoberfest runs weekends through Oct 25, and trick-or-treating on Halloween afternoon makes a charming alternative to crowded neighborhoods. 40. Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove 445 S. Dolliver St. Pismo Beach, CA 93449 Season: November to February; sunrise to sunset Thousands of western monarchs cluster in the eucalyptus trees here each winter, and seeing a branch shimmer with orange wings is unforgettable. It's free, and docents usually give talks on weekends at noon during peak season. Plan on about three hours of driving each way from LA. Parent tip: Parking is limited along Highway 1, so arrive early and bring binoculars. 41. Julian Apple Country Julian, CA 92036 If you loved Julian Farm and Orchard, spend the rest of the day on Main Street. This tiny mountain town is known for its apple pie shops, historic buildings and fall scenery. The Julian Chamber of Commerce lists what's happening each weekend. Cozy Fall Traditions at Home and Around Town Not every bucket-list item needs tickets. Some of our favorite fall memories cost almost nothing. 42. Decorate Pumpkins Without the Knife Painted, glittered or covered in stickers, no-carve pumpkins are safe for toddlers and last longer on the porch. Get inspired with our 39 no-carve pumpkin decorating ideas for kids. 43. Host a Halloween Movie Night Pop the popcorn, build a blanket fort and pick a flick from our list of 32 Halloween movies for kids, sorted so you can find the right level of spooky. 44. Go on a Fall Treat Crawl Pumpkin donuts, candy-corn cupcakes, ghost-shaped cookies: LA's bakeries go all in for October. Map out a sweet afternoon with our guide to LA's best Halloween treats. 45. Trick-or-Treat in a Classic LA Neighborhood Halloween falls on a Saturday this year, so it's the perfect night to explore a new neighborhood. Find the friendliest streets in our guide to the best LA neighborhoods for trick-or-treating, and still need a costume? Browse the biggest Halloween costume trends for LA kids. Parent Tips for Fall Outings in LA Book timed tickets early. Night of the Jack, Carved, the Lucas Museum and weekend farm tickets can sell out. Dress for two seasons. Afternoons can hit the 90s in October, while evenings at pumpkin trails and outdoor movies turn chilly. Watch for Red Flag Warnings. Fire weather can close state parks and trails with little notice. Mind the time change. Daylight saving time ends Sunday, Nov 1, so afternoon outings get dark around 5 p.m. Double-check before you drive. Farm hours often change with weather and crowds, so check official pages the morning you go. 📬 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 Fall in Los Angeles is sneaky good. In a single season, your family can pick apples in Oak Glen, wander through thousands of glowing jack-o'-lanterns, honor loved ones at a Día de los Muertos altar, spot sea stars at low tide and watch the first stars come out over Griffith Park. Pick a few favorites, book the ones that need tickets now, and leave room for lazy weekends too. And when the last pumpkin goes soft, it's time to start planning your holiday lights adventures in Los Angeles. Fall Activities in Los Angeles: FAQs 1. What are the best fall activities in Los Angeles for kids? Top picks include pumpkin patches like Underwood Family Farms and Tanaka Farms, apple picking in Oak Glen, glowing pumpkin trails like Night of the Jack and Carved at Descanso Gardens, Boo at the L.A. Zoo, the Spider Pavilion at the Natural History Museum and tide pooling at Leo Carrillo State Park. 2. What are free fall activities in LA for families? Free options include Día de los Muertos at Grand Park and Olvera Street, the California Science Center's permanent galleries, Griffith Observatory, the Huntington's first-Thursday Free Day and kids 17 and under at the Lucas Museum. Pierce College's pumpkin patch is also free to enter for kids under 18. 3. When is the best time to go apple picking near Los Angeles? Oak Glen's u-pick season typically peaks from September through October, and Riley's Farm lists u-pick through November 2026 while the crop lasts. Call ahead, since varieties ripen at different times. 4. When are the best low tides for tide pooling in LA this fall? NOAA predictions for Santa Monica show good late-afternoon low tides on Oct 26 and 27, 2026, with the lowest daytime tides of the fall on Nov 23 to 25. Arrive about an hour before low tide. 5. Where can families see fall colors near Los Angeles? Big Bear Lake usually peaks from mid-October to early November. Closer to home, creekside trails in Malibu Creek State Park and the gardens at Descanso and The Huntington offer seasonal color without a long drive.

Where to See Holiday Lights in or near Los Angeles? Twinkling lights, jolly Santas, boat parades glowing across the harbor, and holiday trains chugging through the orange groves: Southern California does the holidays its own way, and it is pretty magical. Whether your crew wants to stroll through a forest of lights, sip cocoa at an outdoor movie, or meet Santa at a farm, there are Christmas and holiday events in and near Los Angeles for every age and budget. We updated our list for 2026 with dates, prices, and details confirmed on each organizer's official website. Many beloved events have not announced their 2026 plans yet, so we grouped those separately and will keep checking. Bookmark this page and plan your merriest season yet. Holiday Lights Festivals in Los Angeles L.A. Zoo Lights Los Angeles Zoo 5333 Zoo Dr Los Angeles, CA 90027 Friday, November 20, 2026, to Sunday, January 10, 2027 6 to 10 PM The zoo transforms into a glowing wonderland of animal-themed light displays after dark. Pre-sale tickets are coming soon, and the zoo usually closes on select nights, so check the calendar before you go. Enchanted: Forest of Light at Descanso Gardens Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011 Sunday, November 22, 2026, to Saturday, January 9, 2027 5:30 to 10 PM Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this enchanting walk winds through the gardens with glowing installations and a brand-new laser show with a "snowfall" finale. Tickets range from $12 to $52 depending on the date, and members pay less. Enchant LA at Santa Anita Park Santa Anita Park 285 W Huntington Dr Arcadia, CA 91007 Friday, November 20, to Sunday, December 27, 2026 Enchant builds a giant light maze and holiday village where families can hunt for clues, shop, and snack under millions of lights. Tickets start at $25 and vary by date, and family four-packs are available. Capistrano Lights at Mission San Juan Capistrano Mission San Juan Capistrano 26801 Old Mission Rd San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675 Friday, December 18, to Wednesday, December 30, 2026 (select days) 10 AM to 7 PM; projection show nightly at 6:05 PM The historic mission glows with lights and a new projection show. Santa visits daily through December 23 from 3:30 to 6:30 PM. Admission is $23 for adults, $19 for seniors, $16 for youth 5 and up, and free for kids 4 and under. Festival of Lights at the Mission Inn Mission Inn Hotel & Spa 3649 Mission Inn Ave Riverside, CA 92501 Switch-on ceremony: Saturday, November 21, 2026, at 5 PM Festival: through at least December 31, 2026 (the Mission Inn lists January 3, 2027) Celebrating its 34th year, downtown Riverside lights up with millions of lights, and opening night brings fireworks and Santa. The city's Festival of Lights page lists an ice rink open 5 to 10 PM for $20 per skater with rentals, and closures on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Breakfast with Santa runs on weekends at the Mission Inn. NightTales at the Natural History Museum Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County 900 Exposition Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90007 Select nights, November 12, 2026, to January 10, 2027 Nightly schedule and times to be announced New this season, NightTales opens the museum after dark for a walk through glowing installations and projected artwork in the halls and gardens. Los Angeles artist Maggie West reimagines the museum's specimens in bold color and light, so it feels a bit like strolling through a dream version of the dinosaur halls. Tickets are sold online in advance, and prices are listed on the museum's ticket calendar rather than the event page. Limited prepaid spots in the NHM Car Park can be added at checkout, and Exposition Park parking is cashless on event nights. The Expo/USC Metro stop is an easy alternative. Want the full scoop? Read our NightTales at NHM family guide. Looking for neighborhood displays? See our guide to the best places to see holiday lights in Los Angeles. Santa, Parades, and Holiday Celebrations Hollywood Christmas Parade Hollywood Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90028 Sunday, November 29, 2026 Start time to be announced Floats, marching bands, celebrities, and Santa himself roll down Hollywood Boulevard in this televised tradition, which benefits Toys for Tots. Grandstand seating details have not been posted yet, so arrive early if you plan to watch from the curb. Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration Rodeo Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Thursday, November 19, 2026 Time to be announced All three blocks of Rodeo Drive light up for this free celebration with Santa's arrival and fireworks. Bundle up, grab a spot early, and enjoy the glitz. An American Christmas at the Reagan Library Ronald Reagan Presidential Library & Museum 40 Presidential Dr Simi Valley, CA 93065 Saturday, November 14, 2026, to Sunday, January 3, 2027 Daily 10 AM to 5 PM (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day) Replacing the library's longtime Christmas Around the World exhibit, this new display features 26 decorated trees celebrating America's 250th birthday. Santa visits between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and the exhibit is included with museum admission. Christmas on the Farm at Underwood Family Farms Underwood Family Farms 3370 Sunset Valley Rd Moorpark, CA 93021 Friday, November 27, to Thursday, December 24, 2026 Daily 9 AM to 5 PM (closes at noon on December 24) Farm fun meets holiday cheer with Santa visits on weekends and November 27 from 11 AM to 4 PM through December 20. Admission is $12 on weekdays at the gate and $16 on weekends and November 27 online. Kids under 2 and parking are free, and seniors, military, veterans, and first responders get $2 off with ID. Letters to Santa in Camarillo Pleasant Valley Recreation & Park District Community Center 1605 E Burnley St Camarillo, CA 93010 Monday, November 16, to Saturday, December 5, 2026 Kids can drop their letters in Santa's big red mailbox, no stamp needed. Include a return address, and Santa will write back. It is free and open to all ages. Camarillo Christmas Parade & Santa's Village Community Center Park 1605 E Burnley St Camarillo, CA 93010 Saturday, December 12, 2026 Parade 10 AM; Santa's Village 10 AM to 2 PM; Santa photos from 12:30 PM This free hometown celebration starts with a parade from Temple Avenue and Las Posas Road to the Community Center, followed by Santa's Village and photos with the big guy. Torrance Memorial Holiday Festival Torrance Memorial Medical Center (tent at Skypark Dr and Medical Center Dr) 3330 Lomita Blvd Torrance, CA 90505 Tuesday, December 1, to Sunday, December 6, 2026 Hours to be announced This South Bay tradition raises money for Torrance Memorial and fills a big white tent with professionally decorated Christmas trees, holiday gift shopping, entertainment, children's activities, and a food court. The fashion show on December 1 and the gala on December 4 are separately ticketed grown-up events, so plan your family visit around the festival itself. General admission prices and parking details for 2026 have not been posted yet. South Lake Avenue Holidayfest South Lake Avenue District S Lake Ave Pasadena, CA 91101 Saturday, December 5, 2026 12 PM to 6 PM Pasadena's South Lake Avenue turns into a free holiday block party, rain or shine. Kids can pose with Santa at Macy's (401 S Lake Ave), decorate cookies at The Commons, and make ornaments at Pasarroyo while live bands play at The Shops on Lake. Activities are first come, first served while supplies last, so arrive early. Anyone who buys something in the district that afternoon can enter raffles drawn at 2, 4, and 6 PM in Macy's Courtyard. Free and paid parking is available around the district. Christmas on Euclid Historic Euclid Avenue and Ontario Town Square 224 N Euclid Ave Ontario, CA 91764 Nativity scenes: Thanksgiving through New Year's Day Tree Lighting: Thursday, December 3, 2026, 5 PM to 8 PM Holiday Light Parade: Saturday, December 5, 2026, 6:30 PM to 9 PM Craft Fair: Saturday, December 12, 2026, 9 AM to 4 PM Community Sing-A-Long: Saturday, December 19, 2026, 6 PM Ontario has lined Euclid Avenue's grassy median with nativity scenes since 1958, and the twelve displays between C Street and G Street make a lovely free evening stroll all season. December adds a tree lighting, a glowing light parade, craft fairs, a 5K Reindeer Run, a menorah procession on December 10, and a community sing-along. Santa photos are free with your own phone, and parking is first come, first served on the side streets off Euclid. Holidays in the Village: A European Marketplace The Oaks 350 W Hillcrest Dr Thousand Oaks, CA 91360 Saturday, December 5, and Sunday, December 6, 2026 11 AM to 8 PM The Rotary Clubs of Westlake Village run this European-style Christmas market as a charity fundraiser, with more than 60 artisan vendors. Kids head for Kris Kringle's Village with Santa and Grinch photos, a train, a Ferris wheel, crafts, face painting, and a bear scavenger hunt, while grown-ups sip mulled wine or cocoa and the kids try Kinderpunsch. Entry is free; food, drinks, and shopping are pay as you go. Parking details for 2026 are coming soon. Santa's Electric Light Parade in Old Town Temecula Old Town Temecula (parade starts at Jefferson Ave and Del Rio Rd) Temecula, CA 92590 Friday, December 4, 2026 7 PM Temecula's holiday season, promoted by Visit Temecula Valley as Temecula Chilled, packs Old Town with family fun. Santa arrives at Pennypickle's Workshop on Friday, November 27 (6 to 9 PM) and then visits Saturdays from 10 AM to 1 PM and Sundays from 1 to 4 PM through December 20. The city tree lights up at the Temecula Duck Pond on Monday, November 30, at 7 PM. The light parade rolls south into Old Town on December 4, so bring blankets and chairs. The full 2026 Temecula Chilled calendar has not been posted yet; check the city's Holiday Fun page for updates. Passport to Santa at the Beverly Center Beverly Center, 8th Floor 8500 Beverly Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90048 November through December 2026 (exact dates to be announced) Timed entry between 10 AM and 5 PM Kids collect passport stamps as they hop from snowball time with Frosty to training with Rudolph and cookie decorating in Mrs. Claus' Kitchen. Then they build a toy in Santa's Workshop and meet Santa, with a professional photo included. The whole family also gets seats for a live show with dancers, aerialists, and tableside magic. Tickets are $55 for kids and $35 for adults plus fees, and children under 2 are free. Plan on about two hours, park strollers at the entrance, and book timed tickets through Fever. Brunch is sold separately. Christmas Nights at Casa Romantica Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens 415 Avenida Granada San Clemente, CA 92672 Saturday, December 12, 2026 5 PM to 7 PM San Clemente's ocean-view Spanish Colonial estate glows with lights through the house and gardens, plus live music, crafts for all ages, s'mores, and cocoa or coffee. Tickets are $15 for adults ($10 for members), and kids 12 and under get in free. More family fun happens here the week before: a free Family Sundays Christmas Open House on Sunday, December 6 (10 AM to 2 PM, RSVP required) with letters to Santa, and a Teddy Bear Christmas Tea on Saturday, December 5 ($85 per guest, kids included) where Mrs. Claus reads The Night Before Christmas. Candy Making Demonstrations at Logan's Candies Logan's Candies 125 W B St Ontario, CA 91762 New dates released every Monday at 10 AM Times vary by demo Ontario's old-fashioned candy shop lets families watch its candymakers pull and shape warm hard candy, then kids bend a piece of their own and taste warm samples. Depending on what the shop needs, the demo may feature candy canes, pillows, or ribbon candy. Tickets are $6.20 per person including fees and must be reserved online; kids under 2 don't need one. Check back on Mondays for new dates. Holiday Shows and Movies A Christmas Carol at A Noise Within A Noise Within 3352 E Foothill Blvd Pasadena, CA 91107 Saturday, November 28, to Thursday, December 24, 2026 Box office: 626-356-3121 This beloved staging of Dickens' classic is recommended for ages 5 and up, and everyone needs a ticket. Look for a relaxed performance on November 29 at 11 AM, a Pay What You Choose show on December 3 at 2 PM starting at $10, and captioned shows December 19 and 20 at 2 PM. Heads-up: the show uses fog and haze effects. Los Angeles Ballet: The Nutcracker Royce Hall, UCLA: December 11 to 13, 2026 Dolby Theatre, Hollywood: December 18 to 27, 2026 LA Ballet's Nutcracker, set in 1912 Los Angeles, features a live orchestra at the Dolby, and the December 26 matinee is sensory-friendly. See our full list of Nutcracker ballet performances in and near Los Angeles. Yuletide Cinemaland at Heritage Square Heritage Square Museum 3800 Homer St Los Angeles, CA 90031 Select nights, Saturday, November 28, to Wednesday, December 23, 2026 Gates 5:30 PM; movie 6:30 PM Cozy up under the stars for holiday movies among Victorian homes. Kid-friendly picks include The Grinch and Rudolph (November 28 and December 21), Home Alone pajama nights (December 5 and 23), Mickey's Once Upon a Christmas with The Muppet Christmas Carol (December 12), and Elf with The Year Without a Santa Claus (December 20). General admission is $39, and parking is free. Holiday Boat Parades and Cruises Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade Burton Chace Park Marina del Rey, CA 90292 Saturday, December 12, 2026 Park activities 4 to 8 PM; light show 5:45 PM; parade 6 to 8 PM The 64th annual parade sails under the theme "Hollywood Under The Stars," with decorated boats glowing across the marina. Burton Chace Park is the main viewing spot, so bring blankets and arrive early. Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade & Ring of Lights Newport Harbor Newport Beach, CA Wednesday, December 16, to Sunday, December 20, 2026 Parade about 6:30 PM nightly The 118th parade is free to watch, and Marina Park is a favorite public viewing spot. Opening night brings fireworks at Newport Pier at 6:15 PM, and other nights feature drone shows. The Ring of Lights home-decorating contest runs the same week. Newport Landing Holiday Lights Cruises Newport Landing 309 Palm St. No A Newport Beach, CA 92661 Friday, December 4, 2026, to Friday, January 1, 2027 Departures 5:30, 7, and 8:30 PM See the harbor's dazzling home displays from the water on a 75-minute cruise. Tickets are $36 for adults, $32 for juniors, and $10 for infants, and they are non-refundable. Special boat parade cruises also run during parade week. Dana Point Boat Parade of Lights Cruise Capt. Dave's Dolphin & Whale Safari 24440 Dana Point Harbor Dr Dana Point, CA 92629 Friday, December 11, to Sunday, December 13, 2026 6 PM Cruise alongside the 51st Dana Point Boat Parade of Lights on a 90-minute trip. Deluxe cruises cost $62.54 for adults and $57.24 for kids 12 and under. Dana Wharf also offers an Evening Holiday Harbor Cruise starting at $30.74, with 2026 dates to be announced. Holiday Trains Christmas Train & Santa's Village at Irvine Park Railroad Irvine Park Railroad 1 Irvine Park Rd Orange, CA 92869 Christmas Train: Friday, November 27, to Wednesday, December 23, 2026 Weekdays 4 to 9 PM; weekends and December 14 to 23, 10 AM to 9 PM Santa's Village: November 27 to December 30, 2026 (closed December 24 and 25) Ride a festive train through the park, then explore Santa's Village. Train tickets range from $22 to $37 depending on the time slot, and kids under 24 months ride free. Santa photos cost $15, Santa's Village entry is free with $8 activity tickets, and park entry is $3 to $7 per car (free after 6 PM). The Polar Express Train Ride Southern California Railway Museum 2201 South A St Perris, CA 92570 2026 schedule to be announced; sensory-friendly rides Tuesday, November 24, at 4 and 6 PM Hop aboard in your pajamas for hot cocoa, a reading of the story, and a visit with Santa. The ride has moved from Fillmore to Perris. The train ride lasts about an hour, with about two hours total. Adults pay $56.25 to $88.25, kids 2 to 11 pay $49.25 to $81.25, and kids under 2 ride free on a lap. Holiday Events at Theme Parks Holidays at the Disneyland Resort Disneyland Resort 1313 Disneyland Dr Anaheim, CA 92802 Friday, November 13, 2026, to Wednesday, January 6, 2027 Look for A Christmas Fantasy Parade, the "Believe... In Holiday Magic" fireworks, Haunted Mansion Holiday in its 25th year, "it's a small world" Holiday, and the Festival of Holidays and World of Color: Season of Light at Disney California Adventure. It is all included with park admission. Knott's Merry Farm Knott's Berry Farm 8039 Beach Blvd Buena Park, CA 90620 Friday, November 20, 2026, to Sunday, January 3, 2027 Knott's decks the halls with the "Home for the Holidays" show, a Peanuts ice show, Santa's Christmas Cabin, and nightly lights. It is included with admission, and online tickets start at $65. Holidays at LEGOLAND California LEGOLAND California One LEGOLAND Dr Carlsbad, CA 92008 Late November to early January (2026 dates to be announced) LEGOLAND's holiday season is a hit with younger kids, and it is included with admission. Kids' tickets start at $39 and adults' at $69. Winter Fest OC OC Fair & Event Center 88 Fair Dr Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Friday, November 27, 2026, to Sunday, January 3, 2027 (select dates) Ice tubing, snow play, lights, and Santa, all in Costa Mesa. See our Winter Fest OC guide for ticket prices and tips. Holidays at Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios Hollywood 100 Universal City Plaza Universal City, CA 91608 Dates and times to be announced. Last season brought Grinchmas and Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, included with admission. Nearby, Universal CityWalk usually puts up a 40-foot tree with free entertainment. December Nights at Balboa Park Balboa Park San Diego, CA Friday, December 4, 2026, 4 to 10 PM Saturday, December 5, 2026, noon to 10 PM Worth the drive if you are heading south, this free festival fills Balboa Park with lights, music, and international food. Terranea Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony Terranea Resort 100 Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 Date: Saturday, November 28, 2026 Times: To be announced Admission: To be announced Terranea’s annual coastal tree lighting returns for the 2026 holiday season. Families can expect a festive resort setting and holiday entertainment; the resort’s annual tradition has previously included carolers, a Nutcracker performance, Santa, and letters to the North Pole. Those activity details have not yet been confirmed for 2026, so check the official Terranea holiday page before making the drive. Parent tip: This date was confirmed directly by Terranea. Public hours, admission details, parking instructions, and the full 2026 activity schedule have not yet been announced. Holiday Favorites With 2026 Dates to Be Announced These annual favorites have not posted their 2026 plans yet. We will update them as details are announced. Science of Gingerbread at Discovery Cube LA and OC Discovery Cube Los Angeles, 11800 Foothill Blvd, Sylmar, CA 91342 Discovery Cube Orange County, 2500 N Main St, Santa Ana, CA 92705 Dates and times to be announced. Kids love voting for their favorite gingerbread creations, and the display has been included with admission in past years. Winter Lights: A Journey Home at Discovery Cube OC Discovery Cube Orange County 2500 N Main St Santa Ana, CA 92705 Dates and times to be announced. This holiday musical, created with Apples & Oranges Studios, is a sweet family outing for younger kids. ICE at Santa Monica 1324 5th St Santa Monica, CA 90401 Opening in November 2026; dates to be announced. Lace up for outdoor ice skating steps from the Third Street Promenade. Aquarium Holidays at the Aquarium of the Pacific Aquarium of the Pacific 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, CA 90802 Dates and times to be announced. Santa dives with the fish, Surfer Santa drops by on weekends, and holiday stories fill the galleries. Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena Santa Rosa Ave Altadena, CA 91001 2026 lighting ceremony: Date to be announced. The historic mile of lit deodar trees has asked families to save the date for its 2026 lighting ceremony. Santa Monica Holiday Tree Lighting Third Street Promenade, 1300 block Santa Monica, CA 90401 Dates and times to be announced. A free tree lighting with holiday entertainment on the Promenade. L.A. County Holiday Celebration Dorothy Chandler Pavilion 135 N Grand Ave Los Angeles, CA 90012 Dates and times to be announced. This free Christmas Eve tradition showcases dozens of LA's cultural performing groups. The 67th annual celebration is in the works. Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree and Yuletide Caroling The Original Farmers Market 6333 W 3rd St Los Angeles, CA 90036 Dates and times to be announced. The Farmers Market hosts a free holiday concert with a toy drive, plus caroling in the days before Christmas. Holidays at Greystone Greystone Mansion Beverly Hills, CA Dates and times to be announced. Beverly Hills hosts a free festive weekend at the mansion with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Parks After Dark Winter Wonderland Various L.A. County parks Dates and times to be announced. Free holiday fun at dozens of county parks, with activities for the whole family. SPARKLE DTLA at The Bloc The Bloc 700 W 7th St Los Angeles, CA 90017 Dates and times to be announced. Free nightly light shows downtown for all ages. Christmas at The Grove The Grove 189 The Grove Dr Los Angeles, CA 90036 Dates and times to be announced. The Grove's giant tree and nightly snowfall are an LA holiday classic. A Season of Celebration at The Americana at Brand The Americana at Brand 889 Americana Way Glendale, CA 91210 Dates and times to be announced. Holiday lights, snow, and entertainment fill The Americana every season. Holiday Family Faire at Theatricum Botanicum Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum Topanga, CA 90290 Returning in 2026; date to be announced. A cozy, crafty holiday faire in the Topanga woods. Holiday Craft & Gift Festival Ventura County Fairgrounds 10 W Harbor Blvd Ventura, CA 93001 Dates and times to be announced. Handmade gifts and holiday shopping by the beach. Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade Crown Valley Pkwy Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 Dates and times to be announced. A free hometown parade along Crown Valley Parkway. SkyPark at Santa's Village 28950 CA-18 Skyforest, CA 92385 Phone: 909-744-9373 Dates and times to be announced. The North Pole in the San Bernardino Mountains. See our SkyPark at Santa's Village guide. Lightscape at the LA Arboretum Los Angeles County Arboretum 301 N Baldwin Ave Arcadia, CA 91007 Dates and times to be announced. An illuminated trail through the Arboretum's gardens. The Santa Monica Nutcracker Westside Ballet Santa Monica, CA Dates and times to be announced. Southern California's longest-running Nutcracker, performed with a live orchestra. Holiday Thursdays on the Third Street Promenade Third Street Promenade, 1300 Block Santa Monica, CA 90401 Dates and times to be announced. In past years, Downtown Santa Monica has hosted free Thursday evenings in December with Santa photos, a letter-writing station, a brass band, crafts, artificial snow, and hot cocoa. Jingle & Mingle at Pasadena Playhouse Pasadena Playhouse 39 S El Molino Ave Pasadena, CA 91101 Dates and times to be announced. The Playhouse debuted this holiday concert and free open house in 2025, with sing-alongs, crafts, backstage tours, and family photos by the Christmas tree. A 2026 return has not been announced yet. Winter Frolic at Kidspace Children's Museum Kidspace Children's Museum 480 N Arroyo Blvd Pasadena, CA 91103 Dates and times to be announced. Last season, Winter Frolic ran from early November into January with a no-ice sock skating rink, pretend ice fishing, and ice-block building for kids ages 1 to 10. Admission is currently $17 for adults and kids 1 and older, and parking is free in Rose Bowl Lot I. Holidays at The Queen Mary The Queen Mary 1126 Queens Hwy Long Beach, CA 90802 Dates and times to be announced. The historic ship's holiday season has included Sunday brunch with Santa, pictures with Santa, gingerbread house workshops, and holiday movie nights. Some events on board are for adults only, so read the details before booking. Not Happening in 2026 Holiday Road at King Gillette Ranch in Calabasas is not happening this year; Night of the Jack will return with the full Holiday Road experience in 2027. Astra Lumina has left Los Angeles. Christmas Around the World at the Reagan Library has been replaced by An American Christmas, and The Polar Express no longer runs in Fillmore; it has moved to Perris. Tips for Enjoying LA Holiday Events With Kids Buy tickets early. Light festivals and holiday trains sell out, especially on weekends near Christmas. Go on a weeknight. Crowds are lighter and prices are often lower Monday through Thursday. Dress for the evening. SoCal nights get chilly, so pack jackets, blankets, and a thermos of cocoa. Plan the rest of the season. Find Santa with our best places to take pictures with Santa, pick out a tree with our places to buy Christmas trees in Los Angeles, and head to the mountains with our snow play guide. Takeaway From L.A. Zoo Lights and Descanso's forest of light to boat parades in Newport and holiday trains in Irvine, the 2026 season is packed with Christmas and holiday events for Los Angeles families. Lock in tickets for the big light shows early, sprinkle in free favorites like parades and tree lightings, and check back as more events announce their dates. Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Events in Los Angeles 1. When is the 2026 Hollywood Christmas Parade? The Hollywood Christmas Parade is on Sunday, November 29, 2026. The start time has not been announced yet. 2. When does L.A. Zoo Lights open in 2026? The L.A. Zoo lists Zoo Lights from November 20 to January 10, from 6 to 10 PM. Pre-sale tickets are coming soon. 3. What are some free Christmas events in Los Angeles? The Hollywood Christmas Parade, the Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration, the Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade, the Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade, and the Camarillo Christmas Parade are all free to watch. South Lake Avenue Holidayfest in Pasadena, Christmas on Euclid in Ontario, and Holidays in the Village at The Oaks in Thousand Oaks are free to attend, too. 4. Is Holiday Road happening in 2026? No. Holiday Road in Calabasas is not happening this year. Night of the Jack will return with the full Holiday Road experience in 2027. 5. Where is The Polar Express train ride in Southern California? The Polar Express Train Ride now runs at the Southern California Railway Museum in Perris. It no longer operates in Fillmore. Disclaimer: Event listings are believed to be accurate at the time of posting, but details are subject to change without notice. Please confirm all details with the event organizer before attending. FUN WITH KIDS IN LA® is not liable for errors, omissions, or changes to listings in our calendar. Some events have paid us to be on our events calendar, and some events contain an affiliate link.

If your family likes the idea of sampling museums, live music, hands-on art, dance and a little Downtown Los Angeles adventure without paying admission at every stop, circle Saturday, October 24. Grand Ave Arts: All Access returns for one packed afternoon, turning the cultural corridor along Grand Avenue into a free, all-ages celebration. The official 2026 program stretches from Temple Street to 6th Street and brings together more than 14 cultural institutions. Families can paint, build, listen, dance, explore famous performance spaces and discover organizations that may become future favorites. The event runs rain or shine, and every activity is free. Grand Ave Arts: All Access 2026 Quick Facts Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026 Time: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. for the main festival. A few individual activities have shorter hours, and the California Plaza program continues until 5:00 p.m. Location: Grand Avenue cultural corridor, from Temple Street to 6th Street in Downtown Los Angeles. Admission: Free. Individual activities and performances listed in the official program are also free. Ages: All ages. The strongest hands-on choices work well for preschoolers through teens, with plenty for adults too. Weather: Rain or shine. Check the forecast and dress for walking outdoors between venues. Best transportation: Metro is the simplest option for many families. The A and E Lines stop at Grand Av Arts/Bunker Hill, while the B and D Lines serve Civic Center/Grand Park. Why This Free DTLA Arts Day Works for Families Grand Ave Arts is not one long performance that requires kids to sit quietly. It is a choose-your-own-adventure day. You can spend 20 minutes making a monster at MOCA, walk to a music activity, watch dancers in Grand Park and then take a snack break without feeling as though you left something unfinished. That flexibility is especially helpful when siblings have different ages or attention spans. The event also gives families a low-pressure way to enter spaces that can feel formal on an ordinary day. A child who is unsure about opera may be delighted by costume displays and a short recital. A budding musician can try an instrument before committing to lessons. Art-loving tweens can see working artists and explore museum activities without a full-day museum plan. Because everything is free, parents can follow the kids’ energy instead of trying to squeeze value from a pricey ticket. The tradeoff is popularity: expect crowds, lines at the most hands-on stations and lots of walking. Pick three must-do activities and treat everything else as a bonus. The Best Family Stops at Grand Ave Arts: All Access The official schedule contains many more options, but these are the most family-friendly anchors. Each listing includes the confirmed 2026 time and the nearest useful street address. All activities below are free on October 24. Make Your Own Monster at MOCA Address: The Museum of Contemporary Art, 250 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Time: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Price: Free This is a smart first stop for kids who need to create something right away. Families can invent their own monsters while engaging with contemporary art in a playful, approachable way. The activity invites imagination rather than demanding one “right” result, which makes it a good fit for mixed ages. Build in time to look around, but keep the day moving if little artists want to carry their creations to the next stop. Instrument Petting Zoo at Walt Disney Concert Hall Address: Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Time: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Price: Free Kids can get close to instruments instead of only seeing them onstage. This tactile introduction is ideal for children who are curious about band or orchestra, and it gives parents a quick read on which sounds and instruments genuinely spark interest. Expect this to be a popular station, so visit early if it is one of your family’s priorities. Doodling Faces and ¡Ponte Mis Moños! at Grand Park Address: Gloria Molina Grand Park, 200 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Time: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Price: Free Grand Park offers room to reset between indoor venues. The program includes free face painting with Doodling Faces and the colorful ¡Ponte Mis Moños! activity. This area is a natural base for families with younger children because it provides open space, nearby seating and an easy place to regroup. Face-painting lines can grow, so one adult may want to wait while another takes the kids to see a nearby performance. El Rio Dance Performance at Grand Park Address: Gloria Molina Grand Park, 200 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Time: 11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Price: Free El Rio gives families a scheduled performance to build the morning around. Arrive a little before 11:15 a.m. so children can settle in and see. Pair it with face painting or another Grand Park activity afterward, then continue south along Grand Avenue. If your family arrives later, do not race across downtown for this one-hour window; choose from the many continuous activities instead. LA Opera Costume Showcase and Crafting the Magic of Opera Address: Jerry Moss Plaza at The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Time: Costume showcase 11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; crafting activity 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Price: Free The costumes provide instant visual drama, while the craft lets children take part instead of only observing. This combination can make opera feel more like storytelling, design and make-believe. Families who want a performance can add the LA Opera recital inside the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion from 11:30 a.m. to noon. Keep voices low when entering a performance space and choose an aisle seat if a younger child may need an early exit. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion Guided Tours Address: Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Time: Tours offered between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Price: Free A short tour can be surprisingly engaging for architecture fans, theater kids and curious families who have passed the building but never gone inside. Ask on arrival about the next departure and any capacity limits. This stop works best for school-age children who can stay with a guide; families with toddlers may prefer the drop-in craft stations nearby. Spray-Painting Workshops, DJs and Art at The Broad Address: The Broad, 221 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012 Time: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Price: Free festival activities The Broad’s Grand Ave Arts program includes spray-painting workshops and demonstrations plus DJs. This is a strong stop for older kids and teens who respond to contemporary art, street-art techniques and music. Confirm workshop participation rules and any waitlist when you arrive. Even if a session fills, the demos and outdoor atmosphere can still make the stop worthwhile. Lucha Libre x Sound x Vision at California Plaza Address: California Plaza, 350 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90071 Time: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Price: Free This family-friendly program stretches one hour beyond the main festival and combines live music, lucha libre exhibitions, film and interactive activities. It is an excellent finale for families who want high-energy entertainment after the craft stations close. Children sensitive to amplified sound or big crowds may be happier viewing from the edge; pack hearing protection if your child commonly uses it at festivals. Metro Art Bus at Grand Av Arts/Bunker Hill Station Address: Grand Av Arts/Bunker Hill Station, 211 S. Hope St., Los Angeles, CA 90071 Time: 11:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. Price: Free festival activity The Metro Art Bus makes transit part of the creative day and is especially convenient if you arrive on the A or E Line. It can help kids connect public transportation with art and city exploration. The station’s elevators reduce the hill-climbing burden, but allow extra time because festival crowds can slow elevator access. Family Art at Los Angeles Central Library Address: Los Angeles Central Library, 630 W. 5th St., Los Angeles, CA 90071 Time: Chalk art 1:00–2:00 p.m.; Octavia Lab tours 1:00–4:00 p.m.; repujado workshop 2:00–4:00 p.m.; sugar-skull activity and percussion program 2:30–3:30 p.m. Price: Free Central Library is a useful afternoon anchor with several choices under one roof. The Octavia Lab tours appeal to makers and tech-curious kids, while chalk art, metal-embossing-inspired repujado, sugar-skull art and percussion offer different levels of hands-on participation. Families should check age requirements and capacity at each station. The library is south of the core route, so budget time for the walk or use transit if little legs are fading. Three Easy Family Itineraries For Preschoolers and Early Elementary Kids Start at Grand Park around 10:45 a.m., giving everyone time for a bathroom stop and sunscreen before activities begin. Choose face painting or the noon-hour dance performance, then walk to Jerry Moss Plaza for the opera craft and costumes. After lunch, make monsters at MOCA. Keep the list short and finish while the day still feels fun. A stroller can help even children who rarely use one because the route includes hills and multiple city blocks. For Mixed-Age Families Begin at the Instrument Petting Zoo, add the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion tour for older siblings and the opera craft for younger ones, then continue to The Broad and MOCA. Take a planned snack break before heading to California Plaza. Giving each child one “must-do” choice keeps the day fair and reduces debates while you are moving between venues. For Tweens and Teens Start at The Broad’s spray-painting workshops and DJs, continue to the Metro Art Bus, then head to Central Library for the Octavia Lab or repujado workshop. End with Lucha Libre x Sound x Vision at California Plaza. Older kids may enjoy taking responsibility for navigation, photographing favorite architectural details and choosing a future museum to revisit. Getting There: Metro, Parking and Walking Metro: The event organizers recommend public transportation. Use the A or E Line to Grand Av Arts/Bunker Hill Station, or take the B or D Line to Civic Center/Grand Park. Check the Metro trip planner on the morning of the event for service changes. Riders should load TAP cards before joining the crowd and photograph the station name where they enter. Parking: Paid parking is available at cultural institutions and commercial garages, including The Broad garage and garages near The Music Center and Central Library. Rates, hours and availability can change, and special events can fill garages early. Choose one garage before leaving home, save a backup and take a photo of your level and stall. Do not assume you can move the car cheaply between stops. Walking: Grand Avenue has hills. The route from Temple Street to 6th Street looks compact on a map but feels longer with small children, crowds and activity stops. Comfortable closed-toe shoes are more important than a dressy arts-day outfit. Use the station elevators or Angels Flight area connections when helpful, and pause in shaded public spaces. Parent Tips for a Smoother Day Arrive before 11:00 a.m. if the Instrument Petting Zoo, face painting or a timed performance is essential. Let every child choose one priority. Build the route around those picks instead of trying to collect every activity. Pack refillable water bottles, sunscreen, hats, wipes and a small portable snack. Follow each venue’s food rules. Bring child-size hearing protection for amplified music, opera and the lucha libre program if anyone in your family is sound-sensitive. Write a phone number inside a young child’s wristband or pocket and choose a family meeting point. Downtown crowds can separate groups quickly. Photograph the official schedule or save the program page before leaving home. Cell service can slow in busy areas. Ask staff about accessible entrances, elevators, quiet areas and seating. Individual venues have different layouts and policies. Treat the published program as a plan, not a promise. Live events can shift, and workshop capacity may fill. Accessibility and Sensory Considerations The route links multiple independent institutions, so accessibility details vary by stop. Major venues such as The Broad, MOCA, The Music Center and Central Library offer accessible entrances and elevators, but the outdoor corridor includes hills, crossings and crowds. Families using wheelchairs or strollers should favor the Grand Av Arts/Bunker Hill Station elevators and allow extra time between street levels. For sensory-sensitive children, begin early when crowds are lighter, alternate energetic outdoor programs with calmer indoor stops, and carry headphones. A visual schedule with only two or three confirmed activities can reduce uncertainty. If your child needs a specific accommodation, contact the individual venue before October 24 rather than assuming one festival-wide policy applies everywhere. Where to Eat and Take a Break Downtown offers plenty of food, but lines can spike around lunch. California Plaza, Grand Park and the blocks near 2nd Street have fast-casual choices, coffee shops and seating. Pack a backup snack even if you plan to buy lunch. Families who need a quieter reset may prefer stepping a block away from the main plazas, then returning when everyone is ready. Restroom availability also varies. Use facilities when you are already inside a participating venue instead of waiting for an emergency. Before entering with a stroller, ask staff where the accessible restroom and elevator are located; this avoids a scavenger hunt later. 📬 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 Grand Ave Arts: All Access is one of those rare Los Angeles days when families can experience a major cultural district without building the outing around admission prices. The winning strategy is to choose a few age-appropriate anchors, arrive early, use Metro if practical and leave room for an unexpected performance or craft that captures your child’s attention. Go for the freedom to explore, not for a perfect checklist. If your child discovers one new instrument, artist, dance form or museum they want to revisit, the day has done its job. Frequently Asked Questions Is Grand Ave Arts: All Access really free? Yes. The organizers list Grand Ave Arts: All Access and the published festival activities as free. Food, parking and unrelated purchases are not included, so bring a payment method for those extras. What date and time is Grand Ave Arts: All Access 2026? The event is Saturday, October 24, 2026. The main program runs from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Lucha Libre x Sound x Vision at California Plaza continues until 5:00 p.m., and some individual activities have shorter windows. Where does the event take place? Activities are spread along the Grand Avenue cultural corridor in Downtown Los Angeles, generally from Temple Street to 6th Street. Major stops include Grand Park, The Music Center, Walt Disney Concert Hall, The Broad, MOCA, California Plaza, the Metro station and Central Library. Do families need tickets or reservations? General festival admission is free. Some tours, workshops or capacity-limited activities may use first-come procedures on site. Check the official program and each venue’s instructions shortly before attending. Is Grand Ave Arts good for toddlers and strollers? Yes, especially if you focus on Grand Park, simple crafts and short performances. The corridor is hilly and crowded, so a stroller can be helpful. Use elevators where available, schedule breaks and avoid overloading the itinerary.

Pumpkin Patches and Fall Festivals 2026 🍁🎃🍂 Looking for the perfect spot to pick pumpkins, take adorable photos, and soak in all the festive fun? We’ve rounded up the best pumpkin patches near you that are bursting with charm, games, and Instagram-worthy moments. From playful corn mazes and hayrides to colorful pumpkin displays and sweet treats, these spots offer something magical for every age. Whether you're planning a fun family outing or just want to wander through rows of pumpkins, these pumpkin patches near Los Angeles promise unforgettable memories and good vibes all around. 🎃🍂 Quick Link to Pumpkin Patches & Fall Festivals🎃🍂 🎃 Explore Top Pumpkin Patches in Los Angeles Los Angeles is bursting with pumpkin patches near you that welcome both locals and visitors with open arms (and wheelbarrows!). From stacks of bright orange pumpkins to over-the-top festive decor and quirky attractions, every patch brings its own twist to the pumpkin-picking experience. Family-Friendly Pumpkin Patches: Ideal for families with little ones, these locations offer activities such as petting zoos, pony rides, and easy pumpkin picking. Corn Mazes and Hayrides: Looking for more adventure? Explore the intricate corn mazes and take a leisurely hayride to immerse yourself in the fall atmosphere fully. Fall Festivals: Many pumpkin patches in Los Angeles host fall festivals featuring live music, food trucks, and games, making it a perfect spot for a family day out or a fun date. 🎃 Why Visit a Pumpkin Patch Near You? Visiting a local pumpkin patch is more than just picking out pumpkins; it's about creating cherished memories with loved ones. Whether you're snapping the perfect fall photo, sipping on hot cider, or carving a jack-o'-lantern, these experiences capture the essence of the season. 🎃 Plan Your Visit to a Pumpkin Patch Don't miss out on the festive fun! Check out the top pumpkin patches near you in Los Angeles and start planning your autumn adventure. From iconic spots like Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch to hidden gems waiting to be discovered, there's a patch perfect for everyone. 🎃 Pumpkin Patches & Fall Festivals 2026 Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch 10100 Jefferson Blvd Culver City, CA 90232 Opens Oct 2, 2026 Mr. Bones Pumpkin Patch is a cherished family-owned and operated Halloween destination. This beloved pumpkin patch offers a delightful Pumpkin Village, thrilling Pony Rides, a whimsical Tipi Village, creative Face Painting, exciting Giant Rocking Horses, an exhilarating Mr. Bones' Super Slide, a friendly Petting Zoo, a charming Straw Maze, a playful Dancing Spider Bounce, engaging Pumpkin Decorating, the entertaining Spider Bounce, and the fun-filled Rainbow Slide. It's the perfect place to celebrate the Halloween season with family and friends and create cherished memories amid the magic of Halloween. Shawn's Pumpkin Patch 6229 Bristol Parkway Culver City, CA 90230 Opens Oct 3, 2026 Are you searching for the perfect pumpkin for your Halloween festivities? Look no further than Shawn's Pumpkin Patch, where you'll immerse yourself in a charming "Country" atmosphere. This pumpkin wonderland features an abundance of straw bales, corn stalks, mountains of pumpkins, gourds, and more, creating the ideal backdrop for your autumn adventure. Kids will love an array of exciting activities, including bounce houses, pony rides, a petting zoo, a ball house, train rides, obstacle courses, a whimsical straw maze, giant slides, kiddie rides, and enchanting face painting. (It is recommended to go on weekdays to avoid long lines.) Fall Festival The Original Farmer's Market 333 W. 3rd St. Los Angeles, CA 90036 Oct 17 - 18, 2026 Join in the fun at The Original Farmers Market for a weekend full of fall festivities! Expect a petting zoo, pumpkin patch, fall-themed games, live music, kids' crafts, photo ops, and tons of family fun. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season! Westwood Recreation Halloween Carnival 1350 Sepulveda Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90025 Oct 31, 2026 Get ready for a spooky good time at the Halloween Carnival at Westwood Recreation! This family-friendly event offers a perfect blend of Halloween excitement with free admission for all. Held at the park, the carnival offers games, activities, and festive entertainment for both kids and adults. Whether you're looking to participate in costume contests or revel in the spooky atmosphere, this event promises a fun-filled day for everyone. (Please check for the date closer to the event.) All You Can Carry Pumpkin Patch 155-199 Arizona Ave Santa Monica, CA 90401 Date to be announced Head to the Downtown Farmers Market for a fun and unique pumpkin patch experience! The All You Can Carry Pumpkin Patch invites kids and adults to pick up as many pumpkins as they can manage in one trip. The only catch? No carts, bags, or help allowed! Put your muscles to the test and see if you can beat last year’s record of six pumpkins. Located at Arizona Avenue and Second Street, this event promises a day of fall fun for the whole family. Pumpkin Adoptions at Main Street Market 2640 Main St. Santa Monica, CA 90404 2026 date to be announced Bring the family to the Main Street Farmers Market for a delightful Pumpkin Adoptions event! Kids 12 and under can adopt a baby pumpkin to take home at no cost. In addition to pumpkin fun, enjoy local produce, coffee, prepared food, live music, and free kids' activities. It’s a great way to spend a day and celebrate the harvest season. Don’t miss out on the free pumpkins and vibrant market atmosphere! Spooky Splash! Santa Monica Swim Center 2225 16th St. Santa Monica, CA 90405 Oct 23, 2026 Ready to make a splash this Halloween? Dive into frightful fun at Spooky Splash!, a one-of-a-kind event where the pool becomes a playground of spooky surprises. Kiddos (and brave grown-ups) can paddle through the Floating Pumpkin Patch, tiptoe through the Sharks Haunted House, and take on the Floating Obstacle Course. There’ll be Spooky Flicks, festive crafts, food trucks, recreational swim, and treats galore! Fall Funtastic Harvest Festival 9300 Civic Center Dr. Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Oct 25, 2026 Join the seasonal celebration at the Fall Funtastic Harvest Festival & Day of the Dead Celebration at the Beverly Hills Farmers' Market! Families can immerse themselves in the magic of fall with a variety of fun activities suitable for all ages. Come dressed in your favorite costume and enjoy pumpkin carving and decorating contests, arts and crafts, a Kids Zone, a petting zoo, and plenty of photo ops to capture the festive spirit. Tina's Pumpkin Patch 4725 Woodman Ave. Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 Oct 1 - Nov 1, 2026 Tina's Pumpkin Patch is the perfect spot for a family-friendly fall adventure! With a huge selection of pumpkins, fun pony rides, and a petting zoo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Kids can explore the straw maze, take a train ride, or hop on the slide for some extra thrills. It’s a festive celebration of autumn that brings the community together for seasonal fun, laughter, and plenty of photo opportunities. Don’t miss out on this charming pumpkin patch experience! Baja Splash Cultural Festival Aquarium of the Pacific 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, CA 90802 Sept 26–27, 2026 Head to the Aquarium of the Pacific for a cultural splash that honors Hispanic heritage! The Baja Splash Festival is a magical mix of ocean life and Aztec dancers, mariachi music, bilingual education, and vibrant cultural performances. Where else can you see a shark tank AND traditional folklórico in one visit? Educational, entertaining, and totally unique. Pumpkin Patch at Forneris Farms 15200 Rinaldi Street Mission Hills, CA 91345 2026 dates to be announced Forneris Farms in Mission Hills is gearing up for its annual Pumpkin Patch this October, featuring some of the most beautiful pumpkins in Los Angeles County. Visitors can enjoy a variety of fall activities, including train rides, a hay bale mini-maze, and climbing the hay bale pyramid. Pick your own perfect pumpkin or shop the Farm Market for fall décor, decorative winter squash, and fresh produce—all without an entry fee. Fall Harvest at Underwood Family Farms 3370 Sunset Valley Road Moorpark, CA 93021 Sept 26 - Oct 31, 2026 Underwood Family Farms transforms the farm for the fall season into a giant Pumpkin Patch and Pick Your Own. With more than 30 acres to explore, the farm provides ample space for physical distancing. The event features acres of pumpkins, pony rides, a petting zoo, kids' activities and games, a corn maze, wagon rides, an animal race, live music, food, and much more! Mr. Jack O' Lanterns Pumpkin Patch 11404 Santa Monica Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90025 Opens Oct 2, 2026 17520 Prairie Ave. Torrance, CA 90504 Opens Oct 2, 2026 This family-owned pumpkin patch strives to fulfill the full potential of the Halloween spirit. It offers premium pumpkins, corn, games, activities, pumpkin decorating kits, pumpkin carving kits, and attractions to ensure the full Halloween experience! Mr. Jack O' Lantern's Pumpkin Patch starts on October 3rd at both locations and will continue until Halloween. Glendale Annual Fall Festival 201 E Colorado St. Glendale, CA 91205 Oct 24, 2026 This local favorite brings bounce houses, carnival games, music, a rock climbing wall, and even a pumpkin patch to the heart of Glendale! The Annual Fall Festival is perfect for families who love good, clean fun without the long drive. Whittier Pumpkin Patch 15600 Whittwood Ln Whittier, CA 90603 Oct 1 - Oct 30, 2026 Whittier Pumpkin Patch is your go-to spot for a festive fall outing! Choose from a bounty of pumpkins, visit the petting zoo to meet some adorable animals, or try your luck with Happy Prospector Gem Mining—every bag is guaranteed to have colorful gems and interesting stones! With activities like pumpkin painting, tractor rides, and the Jumpin' & Super Slide Area, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Admission is always free, and dogs are welcome as long as they're leashed or in carriers. Just remember: it's a cash-only patch, but there’s an ATM on-site for convenience. So grab your sunscreen, bring your cash, and get ready for a patch-tastic day! Carved at Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Dr. La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011 Oct 2 - Nov 1, 2026 Carved is a family-friendly event for all ages. Hundreds of carved pumpkins will line a one-mile walk through the Camellia Forest and Oak Grove. Along with pumpkins, exciting new oversized sculptures made of sticks and other natural materials will be on display. The ever-popular Pumpkin House, a hay maze, and themed food and beverages will all help create a fun harvest festival ambiance. New for 2026: Carved runs a night longer this year, through November 1, and October 31 adds a trick-or-treat experience for the first time, included with admission. There are also new sculptures in the labyrinth from Finnish artist Alexander Reichstein, and a new “Anytime” ticket that lets you visit on any night of the run instead of picking a date. Westminster Fall Festival 8200 Westminster Blvd. Westminster, CA 92683 Sept 24–27, 2026 This free weekend fest is a crowd-pleaser! With carnival rides, live music, food trucks galore, and a community vibe that’s both lively and laid-back, the Westminster Fall Festival draws in over 10,000 people ready to soak in the autumn fun. Bonus: there’s a beer garden for grown-up pumpkin enthusiasts. Reyes Adobe Days 30400 Rainbow Crest Dr. Agoura Hills, CA 91301 Oct 2–4, 2026 History comes alive at Reyes Adobe Days, where California heritage meets good old-fashioned fun. With pony rides, a petting zoo, live music, and a parade, it’s like stepping into a storybook. Kids will love exploring the adobe home and everyone will appreciate the community spirit and yummy fair food! Pumpkin Patch at Tanaka Farm 5380 3/4 University Dr. Irvine, CA 92612 Sept 12 - Nov 1, 2026 On weekends, the Fall Harvest Festival at Tanaka Farms is bursting with fun activities—think wagon rides, arts and crafts, and even a pumpkin cannon that’ll blow you away! But the fun doesn’t stop there. From Monday through Thursday all day and Friday mornings before noon, you can explore the U-Pick Pumpkin Fields, Barnyard Educational Exhibit, Wagon Rides, Corn Maze, and U-Pick Veggie Patch. Irvine Mid-Autumn Festival Great Park Irvine, CA Sept 25, 2026 Celebrate mooncakes and magical traditions at Irvine’s Mid-Autumn Festival! This family-friendly event includes live entertainment, lantern displays, interactive art stations, educational booths, and delicious bites. It’s the perfect combo of learning and fun under the glowing harvest moon. Hana Field Pumpkin Patch! 427 Anton Blvd Costa Mesa, CA 92626 Opens Oct 3, 2026 For those seeking a laid-back and unique pumpkin patch experience, the Hana Field Pumpkin Patch & Flower Field is the ideal fall destination. This charming venue boasts 8 acres of U-Pick Pumpkins, vibrant flower fields, and a variety of fun activities for all ages. Visitors can navigate the Corn Maze, pick their own flowers, meet friendly barnyard animals, or even try their luck at launching a pumpkin from the cannon. Advertisement Fallstivities Pumpkin Patch 100 Los Cerritos Center Cerritos, CA 90703 Oct 1 - Oct 31, 2026 Get ready for a season of fall fun at Fallstivities Pumpkin Patch! This pumpkin patch offers a variety of activities for all ages, from picking the perfect pumpkin to posing with photo booth props for memorable snaps, with a special day of trick-or-treating fun. With free admission, delicious treats like candy apples and cotton candy, and pumpkins of all shapes and sizes, it's the perfect way to celebrate autumn with family and friends. Don’t miss out—grab your pumpkins and make some memories at Fallstivities Pumpkin Patch! Gilchrist Farms' Pumpkin Patch 30116 Bouquet Canyon Rd. Santa Clarita, CA 91390 Sept 26 - Nov 1, 2026 Closed Mondays Get ready for the most fun-filled event of the fall season at the Gilchrist Farm Harvest Festival & Pumpkin Patch! This festival is bursting with exciting activities and entertainment for all ages. Watch the adorable pig races, enjoy live music, and catch local performances that will keep you dancing all day long. Feel the thrill of a pony ride, try your hand at archery or axe throwing, and explore the challenging straw bale maze. Little ones will love the farm animal visits, wagon rides, and crafts, such as pumpkin decorating. You can also witness fascinating demonstrations of wool spinning and goat milking. With delicious festival food and tasty concessions available, there's no shortage of treats to satisfy your cravings. So, gather your family and friends, and make your way to Gilchrist Farm for a day packed with festive fun and unforgettable memories! Halloween at Kidspace 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena, CA 91103 Sept 18 - Oct 31, 2026 Prepare for a spooktacular Halloween celebration at Kidspace Children's Museum! This event is tailor-made for your little ones, offering a range of exciting activities that will bring out their inner pirates, princesses, magicians, or mermaids. Let your child's creativity shine as they participate in the spirited Halloween parade. It's an event bursting with Halloween fun that your kids will absolutely love! Kidspace Halloween is free with Kidspace Admission. The Pumpkin Patch 300 Yorba Linda Boulevard, Placentia, California 92870 Opening Oct 7, 2026 – 50th season! The Pumpkin Patch offers a delightful mix of fall fun with attractions for all ages. From adorable baby animals and exciting tractor rides to carnival games, inflatables, human hamster balls, and gold mining, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to snap some cute photos at the many photo opportunities around the patch, pick out your perfect pumpkin, and stock up on gourds and other fall decorations. Although pets are no longer allowed, you can still enjoy plenty of furry friends on-site. Cal Poly Pomona Pumpkin Festival 4102 S. University Drive Pomona, CA 91768 Oct 10 – Oct 31, 2026 (Saturdays & Sundays only) Explore the stunning Pumpkin Hill, perfect for snapping those Instagram-worthy photos, or let the little ones roam free in the Kids Patch, filled with pint-sized pumpkins just waiting to be picked. Dive into the Country Fair Area for a taste of live music, farm demonstrations, and festival food vendors offering a variety of delicious treats. Don't forget to browse the marketplace for unique autumn goodies to take home. With over 100,000 visitors each year, this is an event you won't want to miss. Pa's Pumpkin Patch Lakewood Center 500 Lakewood Ctr Mall Lakewood, CA 90712 Oct 1 - Oct 30, 2026 Pa’s Pumpkin Patch has been bringing fall fun to the community for over 40 years! With a carnival-style environment featuring over 28 attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Choose from a wide variety of pumpkins—from extra-large Kronus pumpkins to mini Tiger Stripes—and don’t miss out on the haystacks, corn stalks, and gourds. Enjoy classic carnival food, such as BBQ, funnel cakes, and tacos, all made fresh to order. Kids will love the pony rides, petting zoo, and an array of games and rides. Magic of the Jack‑o’‑Lanterns South Coast Botanic Gardens Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA Sept 18 – Nov 1, 2026 Select Nights Step into a pumpkin wonderland at Magic of the Jack‑o’‑Lanterns, where over 7,000 hand-carved pumpkins and glowing light displays transform the lush gardens into an enchanting nighttime adventure. This half-mile walking trail is packed with larger-than-life jack-o’-lantern sculptures, themed installations, and dazzling light shows that bring the magic of Halloween to life—without the scares. Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch 1 Irvine Park Road Orange, CA 92869 Sept 12 - Oct 31, 2026 Get ready for some family fun at Irvine Park Railroad's Pumpkin Patch in the heart of Orange County! It's a jam-packed adventure with activities that'll delight kids of all ages. You'll find this fantastic Pumpkin Patch right behind the train station. Please note that the County of Orange charges a gate entrance fee for each vehicle entering Irvine Regional Park. Reservations are also required to enter the Pumpkin Patch in October. Pumpkins City's Pumpkin Farm 24203 Avenida de la Carlota Laguna Hills, CA 92653 Oct 1 – Oct 31, 2026 Get ready to have a blast at Pumpkin City, the ultimate spot for picking your perfect pumpkin! Celebrating its 47th anniversary as South Orange County's go-to family pumpkin patch and farm, this place is an autumn paradise. Wander through acres of pumpkins in every imaginable shape and size, all while soaking in the delightful farm ambiance. But that's not all – get ready for a wild ride with kiddie amusement rides, exciting game booths, and loads of activities, all happening beneath the gorgeous autumn sky. And here's a treat: FREE admission Monday through Friday before 4pm, and all day on Halloween! Plus, don't forget to check out the beer tent for some Halloween cheer (for adults)! PawFest Halloween 7550 E. Spring St. Long Beach, CA 2026 dates to be announced Get ready for a howlin’ good time at one of Long Beach’s quirkiest parks, where pups take center stage in their cutest or creepiest costumes! On October 4 & 5 from 11am–6pm, this dog-friendly Halloween bash is packed with tail-wagging fun—from a bubbly flavored bubble zone and splashy foam party to a paw-sitively fabulous costume contest and “Rip the Runway” Dog Fashion Show. Let your furry friend sniff their way through the Snifari Adventure, hop aboard the park train together, and browse a pup-approved marketplace. With tasty eats for both humans and hounds, this event promises plenty of treats, beats, and unforgettable memories. Asian Mid-Autumn Moon Festival Bowers Museum 2002 N Main St. Santa Ana, CA 92706 Sept 13, 2026 Enjoy a multicultural celebration of the harvest moon at the Bowers Museum! From colorful dances and live music to art projects and face painting, this FREE family day is filled with festive fun. Don’t miss the delicious food and enchanting cultural traditions—it’s an unforgettable way to celebrate the season. Anaheim Fall Festival and Halloween Parade Center Greens Park Downtown Anaheim, CA October 24, 2026 Now in its 100+ year, the Anaheim Fall Festival is iconic! Enjoy games, crafts, vendors, costume contests, and a dazzling Halloween Parade that lights up the night. This year’s new location at Center Greens makes it more walkable and welcoming. Bonus: a classic car show is back for the first time since 1957! Pumpkin Race Festival Manhattan Beach Pier Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Oct 18, 2026 This might just be LA’s wackiest pumpkin event! At the Pumpkin Race Festival, families turn pumpkins into racing machines and send them flying down the pier. There are prizes for speed and creativity, and costumes are highly encouraged. It’s a hilarious, unforgettable day by the beach—like Mario Kart, but pumpkin-style! Locale 90254 Oktoberfest Hermosa Beach Pier Plaza Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 2026 date to be announced Raise your (root) beer steins at Locale 90254 Oktoberfest! This South Bay bash serves up bratwurst, pretzels, German polka bands, carnival rides, and games with a sunny SoCal twist. Lederhosen is totally optional but highly encouraged. Live Oak Canyon's Pumpkin Patch 32335 Live Oak Canyon Rd Redlands, Ca 92373 Opens Sept 17, 2026 Ready for a full day of fall-tastic fun? Head over to Live Oak Canyon Pumpkin Patch & Christmas Tree Farm for a magical mix of farm adventures and family-friendly vibes! This real working farm turns into a festive playground, packed with endless pumpkins in all shapes and sizes, exciting rides, classic games, and a twisty corn maze that’s fun for all ages. Snap Insta-worthy pics in the blooming flower gardens, grab a bite at the tasty food court, and make memories that’ll last way beyond your pumpkin’s shelf life. It’s not just a visit—it’s a full-on fall adventure! New for 2026: Live Oak Canyon is debuting its first-ever haunted maze, The Hollow, this October – one for older kids and teens rather than the little ones. Note the farm is closed on a handful of September and early-October days, so check the calendar before you drive up. Oktoberfest on Catalina Island 1 Green Pier Avalon, CA 90704 Sept 12 - 13, 2026 Hop on the ferry to Catalina for a festive island-style Oktoberfest! Think schnitzel, steins, and live Bavarian music—plus the iconic schnitzelbank sing-along. With polka-rock bands and costume contests, this one is perfect for older kids and adventurous families looking for an island getaway with oom-pah-pah flair. Pumpkins in the Pines 28950 CA-18, Skyforest, CA 92385 Weekends in October 2026 (opens Oct 3) Every Saturday and Sunday, this whimsical event transforms the entire park into a pumpkin-lover’s paradise with fun for the whole family. Enjoy a festive pumpkin patch, seasonal bites and sips (hello, pumpkin spice lattes!), hands-on pumpkin painting, and the not-to-be-missed Legend of Sleepy Hollow Puppet Show. With charming outdoor activities, character meet-and-greets, and tons of photo ops around every corner, it’s a picture-perfect way to spend the day. And don’t miss the SkyPark Spooky Spectacular on October 31 at 4 pm, featuring trick-or-treating and a fabulous costume contest that’s fun for all ages! Access is included with your Day Pass or Annual Pass—just check the entertainment schedule when you arrive so you don’t miss a moment of the fun! Canoga Park Dia de los Muertos Festival Canoga Ave & Topanga Canyon Blvd Canoga Park, CA November 1, 2026 The streets of Canoga Park transform into a cultural wonderland for this annual Day of the Dead Festival. With a festive parade, catrina costume contests, community altars (ofrendas), delicious food, and live entertainment, it’s one of the best places in the Valley to experience this meaningful tradition. Mexican Day of the Dead Festival Bowers Museum 2002 N Main St. Santa Ana, CA 92706 Nov 1, 2026 Honor ancestors and celebrate life at this heartfelt Día de los Muertos festival. Expect beautifully decorated altars, face painting, traditional music and dance, and creative crafts for all ages. It’s a colorful, moving, and joyous way to connect with Mexican culture—and it’s free! Autumn Festival Aquarium of the Pacific 100 Aquarium Way Long Beach, CA 90802 November 21–22, 2026 This two-day festival highlights Asian cultures with traditional music, dance, storytelling, food, and crafts. Autumn Festival is a vibrant way to wrap up the fall season—plus, it all happens inside one of SoCal’s coolest aquariums. Don’t miss the taiko drums or Chinese calligraphy stations! Pumpkin Patches Near Me Disclaimer: FUN WITH KIDS IN LA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, we make no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. We strongly recommend that you confirm any event details, such as date, time, location, and admission, with the third-party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list.

Picture this: your street, a Saturday afternoon, and a glowing trailer pulling up to the curb while a pack of 9-year-olds loses its collective mind. That is the magic of a game truck party in Los Angeles. A mobile video game theater rolls right to your home, a friendly game coach runs the show, and your living room stays blissfully free of frosting fingerprints. We have seen game trucks become one of the most requested birthday ideas for kids ages 7 to 13 across LA, from the South Bay to the San Fernando Valley. But prices, parking needs and policies vary a lot from company to company. So we checked the official websites of the video game truck companies that serve Los Angeles and pulled everything a parent needs into one place: who comes to your neighborhood, what it really costs, the pros and cons, and the details nobody tells you until the truck is already double-parked. Here is your complete, parent-tested guide to throwing a video game truck birthday party in LA. 📬 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. What Is a Game Truck Party? A game truck is a trailer, bus or van that has been turned into a rolling gaming lounge. Think of it as a movie theater and an arcade that had a very cool baby. Inside, you will usually find five to eight big HD screens, stadium or limo-style seating, LED and laser lighting, surround sound and air conditioning. Many trucks also have one or two screens outside for dance and party games. Most trucks carry the current consoles, such as PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X and Nintendo Switch, along with a library of dozens of games. A trained game coach arrives with the truck, sets everything up, helps kids pick games, settles the inevitable "it's my turn" debates and packs everything up when the party ends. The trucks run on their own generators, so they can park at a curb, a school lot or near a park without plugging into your house. A standard party lasts two hours, which is the sweet spot for most kids. You handle the guest list, the cake and the pizza. The truck handles the fun. Game Truck Party Cost in Los Angeles (2026) Based on the published prices we found on official company websites, a two-hour game truck party in Los Angeles typically costs between $300 and $525 before add-ons. Weekday parties are usually cheaper than weekend parties, and a few companies offer early-bird discounts for morning time slots. Here is what drives the final price up or down: Day and time: Monday through Thursday slots often run $50 to $100 less than Saturday afternoon. Extra time: Additional hours generally cost $100 to $225 each. Travel fees: Many companies charge $20 to $100 once you are more than 15 to 30 miles from their home base. Online gaming: Fortnite, Roblox and other online-only games often require a paid add-on (commonly around $25) and sometimes your home Wi-Fi or router. VR and extras: Virtual reality headsets, laser tag, foam or yard games are usually extra. Holidays: Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve and Super Bowl Sunday often carry surcharges or special pricing. Most companies also require a deposit when you book, usually $100 to $150 or 50% of the total, and many of those deposits are non-refundable. Budget-wise, we suggest planning for about $450 to $700 once you add travel, an extra perk or two and a tip for the game coach. That still compares nicely to many indoor party venues, especially since you are not paying per child. For more ways to stretch your party dollars, see our budget-friendly birthday party tips. Game Truck Companies That Come to Your Home in Los Angeles Below are the video game truck companies that serve Los Angeles County and nearby Orange County. Prices come from each company's official website or booking page as of September 2026 and can change at any time, so always confirm the final quote, service area and travel fee before paying a deposit. A few company websites have not been updated in years, and we have flagged those so you know to call and confirm. GameTruck Los Angeles Serves: Manhattan Beach, Torrance, Redondo Beach, Santa Monica, Hollywood and nearby Capacity: Up to 20 guests; ages 7 and up recommended on its pricing page Price: Quote only (request pricing online); 50% deposit This local location of the national GameTruck brand has served the South Bay since 2012. Parties come in 1.5-hour and 2-hour lengths with a certified GameCoach, digital invitations and a library of 80-plus games on PlayStation, Xbox and Switch. The FAQ notes the trailer needs about 70 feet of street parking and does not park in driveways, so scope out your curb before booking. The company also offers ZTAG, a high-energy active tag game, if you want to mix screen time with running around. GameTruck East Los Angeles Serves: Los Angeles, Pacific Palisades, Santa Monica, Encino, Beverly Hills and nearby Capacity: Up to 15 guests inside the trailer, ages 7 and up Price: $450 (Monday to Thursday), $475 (Friday) and up to $495 on weekends for 2 hours Extra hour: $175 to $225 If you live on the Westside or in central LA, this GameTruck location posts its prices openly, which we love. Add-ons include Fortnite online play for $25 (your modem needs to be within about 300 feet of the trailer) and glow wristbands. The truck is roughly 45 feet long, so plan for about 60 feet of open street. Deposits are non-refundable but can move to a new date with at least 15 days' notice, and the company shows up rain or shine. L.A. Game Rock Serves: A 15-mile radius of Compton, reaching the South Bay, Westside, Downey, Lakewood, Pasadena and parts of Orange County Capacity: Up to 28 players at once (weather permitting) Price: $525 (Friday to Sunday) or $470 (weekdays and weekend 10 a.m. early bird) for 2 hours Extra hour: $150 L.A. Game Rock runs two game trucks and pairs them with some of the most creative combos we have seen, including a foam party and an arcade-style basketball trailer. Its trucks carry PS5, Xbox Series and Switch consoles plus a mobile hotspot for online games. Travel fees start at $50 once you are more than 15 miles out. Read the cancellation policy closely: the $150 deposit is non-refundable, and charges increase as your date gets closer, though severe-weather reschedules carry no penalty. Totally Rad Video Games Serves: The San Fernando Valley, Conejo Valley, Santa Clarita, the Westside and beyond Capacity: Up to 24 players (12 inside, 12 outside) Price: $449 for 1.5 hours or $525 for 2 hours Add-on: Meta Quest 3 VR for $50 This Woodland Hills company uses a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with six HD screens running PS5, Xbox Series X and Switch, plus bench seating outside so more kids play at once. Because it is a van rather than a long trailer, it is a good fit for tighter streets. There is no travel fee within 20 miles of Woodland Hills, and its policy says it will try to postpone rather than penalize if plans change. GameThrilla Serves: The San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita, San Gabriel Valley, LA County, Ventura County and Orange County Capacity: Up to 25 gamers, with 7 screens inside and 2 outside Price: $450 for 2 hours, weekday or weekend Extra hour: $140 Based in Sherman Oaks, GameThrilla keeps its pricing simple and its console lineup current with Switch, Xbox Series X, PS5 and Oculus Quest 2 VR. Travel is free within 15 miles of Sherman Oaks, $50 for 16 to 30 miles and $100 beyond that, and farther parties require a 3-hour minimum. Note that sales are final, with a one-time credit to reschedule, and a $100 holiday surcharge applies on holidays. Extreme Game Truck Los Angeles (Magic Game Bus) Serves: All of Los Angeles County, including Pasadena, Glendale, Arcadia, Alhambra and the San Gabriel Valley Capacity: Up to 30 kids, with 14 screens Price: From $460 on Extreme Game Truck's Los Angeles page; travel fees may apply This game bus appears as the Los Angeles and Pasadena location in the national Extreme Game Truck network, and its 14 screens are the most we found on a single LA vehicle. Beyond PS5, PS4, Xbox and Switch, it offers a retro arcade station and add-ons such as VR, laser tag, Fortnite and Roblox, and even a petting zoo. It needs only about 35 feet of level parking, which makes it one of the easier options for crowded LA blocks. Ask how many hours the starting price covers when you request a quote. Game Force Gaming Serves: Valencia, Santa Clarita and the San Fernando Valley Capacity: Up to 24 players on six 55-inch screens Price: Contact for a quote This family-run Valencia company has been rolling since 2014 with a self-powered, climate-controlled truck that seats up to 20 inside, with two outdoor screens for eight more players. It is a solid choice for Santa Clarita families who do not want to pay a long-distance travel fee from a company farther south. Awesome Game Truck To You Serves: The San Fernando Valley, Santa Clarita Valley and parts of Ventura County Capacity: Up to 28 players on 7 stations Price: $449 for 2 hours, any day of the week Extra hour: $125 This Valley company brings a 32-foot trailer with laser lights, outdoor screens for dance games and an online gaming add-on for $25. Its website appears to have been last updated several years ago and lists older consoles, so confirm the current equipment and games when you call. AV Gametruck Serves: Lancaster, Palmdale, Rosamond and the Antelope Valley Capacity: Up to 32 players on 8 screens Price: $350 on weekends or $300 Monday to Thursday for 2 hours; early-bird parties from $250 Extra hour: $100 to $125 Antelope Valley families get one of the best values in the county here. The truck packs a PS5, Xboxes, PS4s and Switches, a racing simulator, Meta Quest VR headsets and even a gaming PC. The company recommends ages 7 and up and asks for about 60 feet of fairly level space. The Big Game Truck Serves: Orange County and Los Angeles County Capacity: 16 to 22 gamers Price: From $450 (Friday to Sunday) for the game truck package; VR from $200; gratuity applies Established in 2016, The Big Game Truck offers PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, VR and online gaming, plus Nerf, GellyBall and foam parties if your crew wants to combine games with outdoor play. Its pages list slightly different starting prices, so lock in your exact total in writing. GameTruck Orange County Serves: Irvine, Huntington Beach, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Newport Beach and beyond, with travel to LA for a surcharge Capacity: Up to 15 kids inside, ages 7 and up Price: $350 (Monday to Thursday) or $415 (Friday to Sunday) for 2 hours Extra hour: $200 Long Beach and southeast LA County families near the Orange County line may find this GameTruck location worth a call. Its Orange County prices are among the most affordable we found, although events outside OC carry a travel surcharge. It also offers LaserTag, WaterTag and an indoor Gameplex setup for spaces where a trailer will not fit. Game On Game Truck Los Angeles Serves: Los Angeles neighborhoods including Downtown, Hollywood, Silver Lake, Venice, Brentwood, Sherman Oaks, Studio City, Encino, Woodland Hills and San Pedro Capacity: Up to 28 players on 7 stations (4 inside, 3 outside) Price: $425 for 2 hours on its Los Angeles page (its booking page also shows $400, so confirm your quote) This limo-style truck leans into the party vibe with a laser light show, a big sound system and climate control, plus online gaming and a library of 150-plus games on the latest PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo consoles. Game On also operates in several East Coast cities, and its Los Angeles page lists coverage across the city from the Valley to the harbor. Extra-hour and travel fees are not published, so ask for an all-in total. Party On The GoGo Game Truck Serves: LA County (including Hollywood, Long Beach, Glendale, Pasadena, Whittier and El Monte), the San Fernando Valley, the Inland Empire and parts of Orange County Capacity: Up to 24 gamers on 6 screens Price: $450 for the first 2 hours Extra hour: $125, plus a $25 fuel charge beyond 25 miles of its 91702 ZIP code Party On The GoGo recommends its parties for kids 5 and up and uses a 30-foot trailer that needs about 50 feet of fairly level space. Its refund policy is friendlier than most: a full refund 14 or more days out and 50% back 7 to 13 days out. The website still lists older consoles, including Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and Wii, so call to confirm today's equipment and pricing before you book. Step Your Game Up Serves: Los Angeles area (service area not published) Capacity: 16 gamers on six 55-inch TVs (12 for Fortnite packages) Price: $390 for the 2-hour Elite package or $425 for the 2-hour Fortnite Mania package, plus a surcharge on every package Extra hour: $150 This climate-controlled, limo-style truck offers packages up to four hours, each with a game coach and digital invitations. The website does not appear to have been updated in several years and adds an unspecified surcharge to every package, so get a written quote with the final total before you pay a deposit. TCB Party Game Truck Experience Based in: The Compton area Capacity: Up to 24 active players Price: Contact the company by phone or text for a quote TCB runs PlayStation, Xbox and Nintendo Switch with high-speed internet for online games. One nice detail for noise-sensitive neighbors: the truck uses onboard battery storage for quieter, generator-free gaming. It can also serve snow cones and fresh popcorn on site. Its one-page website does not list prices or policies, so ask about the service area, deposit and cancellation terms up front. Surf City Game Truck Serves: Orange County plus LA, Ventura and Santa Barbara counties; free within 15 miles of its Stanton-area base (ZIP 90680), then $2 per mile Capacity: Up to 28 players (Surf City truck) or 20 players (Game Pro truck) Price: $465 Friday to Sunday or $375 Monday to Thursday for the Surf City truck; $425 or $350 for the smaller Game Pro truck Deposit: $150 This Huntington Beach company keeps its lineup fresh with PS5, Xbox, Nintendo Switch 2, rumble seats and a rear gaming stage, and it recommends parties for ages 5 to 14. Laser tag starts at $350 for an hour, and a truck-plus-laser-tag combo is available. Plan for 60 feet of parking clear of low branches; driveway parking needs approval and adds a $25 fee. Long Beach and southeast LA County families will likely fall inside the free-mileage zone, but confirm when booking. The Ultimate Video Game Bus Serves: A 25-mile radius of Studio City (farther for an added mileage fee) Capacity: 26 gamers on 13 screens Price: $450 for a 2-hour minimum Extra hour: $125 This converted school bus packs Xbox, PlayStation and Nintendo systems, Wi-Fi for Fortnite and Roblox, and a game coach, with snow cones and virtual reality offered as add-ons. It needs at least 50 feet of level street and does not park in driveways. Deposits are refundable if you cancel seven or more days ahead. Much of the website's photo gallery dates back several years, so ask about current consoles. Toxic Gaming Truck Serves: Los Angeles County and Orange County Capacity: Six HD TVs in a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, plus covered outdoor bench seating Price: $450 for 2 hours, $575 for 3 hours or $700 for 4 hours, plus a distance-based travel fee Extra hour: $125 Based in Paramount and booked through the party rental company Cindy's Jumpers, this compact van carries two PS5s, an Xbox Series X and three Nintendo Switch 2 consoles, with Wi-Fi for online games. It is listed for ages 4 to 99, needs only about 30 feet, is described as driveway-friendly and can even plug into a standard outlet for indoor events. Prices may rise on high-demand dates, and payments are non-refundable (cancellations 7 or more days out receive store credit). RV Arcade Serves: The Los Angeles area, with its best pricing for San Fernando Valley customers Capacity: Up to 12 players online at once (total capacity not published) Price: $460 to $520 on weekends or $380 to $440 on weekdays for 2 hours, depending on date and location Add-on: VR experience for ages 13 and up (price on request) RV Arcade is one of the most current setups we found, with PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2 and 4K TVs, plus a free internet hookup for Fortnite and Roblox. It also offers 2.5-hour and 3-hour parties if your crowd needs a little more time. Parking needs and cancellation terms are not published, so ask when you request a quote. GameBusters Serves: Los Angeles and Ventura counties Capacity: 20 to 28 players (the site lists both), with five 55-inch indoor and two 65-inch outdoor 4K screens Price: Call for pricing Extra hour: $125 after the first two hours GameBusters offers a temperature-controlled truck with a limo-style interior, hardwood floors and more than 100 games, and it runs rain or shine by moving outdoor play inside when needed. Its website has not been updated in several years and does not name its consoles, so confirm the current equipment and your total price when you call. Retro Rolling Video Games Based in: Chino, serving the Inland Empire and nearby cities (travel fee may apply beyond 10 miles) Capacity: Up to 24 players on up to 11 TVs (9 inside, 2 outside) Price: From $400 for 2 hours on Sunday; $500 for 2 hours on Saturday; 3-hour parties from $425 to $575 Deposit: $100 (non-refundable) Retro Rolling is a fun pick for families who love old-school games. Outdoor retro stations with NES, Super Nintendo and GameCube sit alongside PS5, Xbox Series and Switch 2 consoles, a Just Dance station and more than 200 games, with Fortnite always included. Toddlers get pretend controllers, and the birthday child gets a VIP badge. The truck and trailer are about 55 feet long, so families on the eastern edge of LA County should confirm the travel fee. Pros and Cons of a Video Game Truck Birthday Party A game truck is not the right fit for every child or every block. Here is our honest take. The Pros No mess inside your home. The party happens at your house, not in it. Built-in entertainment. A game coach keeps kids busy, so you can actually talk to other parents. Weatherproof fun. Air conditioning makes it a lifesaver during a September heat wave in the Valley. Great for mixed groups. Kids who do not know each other bond fast over Mario Kart. No per-child pricing at most companies, within the truck's capacity. Perfect for tweens, who often feel "too old" for bounce houses and character parties. The Cons Parking can be tricky on narrow LA streets, hillside roads and permit-only blocks. Screen time. Two hours of gaming is a lot for some families. Capacity limits. Most trucks hold 15 to 30 players, so big parties need rotations. Younger kids may struggle. Most companies recommend ages 7 and up. Strict deposits. Many deposits are non-refundable. What Parents Should Know Before Booking a Game Truck in LA Measure Your Parking Space First This is the number one issue we hear about. Trailers generally need 50 to 70 feet of curb, roughly four or five parked cars, on a level, paved surface. Smaller vans and buses may need only 35 feet. Several companies do not park in driveways, and some will not park on grass or dirt. Check street-sweeping signs, red curbs and permit restrictions, and consider asking neighbors to leave spaces open that afternoon. Hillside homes in neighborhoods like Silver Lake or the Palisades may need a flat street nearby. Ask About Parks, Schools and HOAs Want the party at a local park? Some companies can park beside one, but many parks require a permit, and that responsibility usually falls on you. Check with your city's parks department early. Condo communities and HOAs may have their own rules about oversized vehicles, too. Match the Games to Your Guests Game coaches let you set rules before the party. Most companies avoid M-rated games unless a parent approves, and you can request specific titles like Minecraft, Mario Kart, Just Dance or sports games. If you are unsure about a game, check its rating on the ESRB ratings guide. For kids who already love gaming a little too much, our guide to managing gaming habits in teens has helpful ideas for setting healthy limits after the party. Plan for Online Games Fortnite, Roblox and Apex Legends only work online. Some trucks use their own hotspot, while others need a cable connected to your home router within a set distance. Ask in advance, especially if the birthday child has their heart set on one game. Book Early for Weekends Saturday afternoon slots fill fast, especially in spring, summer and during the holiday season. Booking four to six weeks out gives you the best choice of times. Weekday afternoons and early-bird morning slots are often cheaper and easier to get. Parent Tips for a Smooth Game Truck Party Schedule food and cake before or after the gaming session. Game trucks do not allow food or drinks inside, and kids will not willingly leave the screens for pizza. Plan a simple backup activity, like a piñata, sidewalk chalk or yard games, for siblings, younger guests or kids waiting for a turn. Keep one adult on-site the entire time. Most companies require it, and it keeps everyone safe near the street. Send parking notes with your invitations so guests do not take the spots you saved for the truck. Get your quote, travel fee, time slot and cancellation terms in writing before paying the deposit. Still weighing your options? Compare a game truck with the venues in our guide to birthday party places for kids in LA, our list of upscale birthday party venues in Los Angeles or our picks for the best party entertainers for kids. Takeaway A game truck party in Los Angeles is one of the easiest ways to throw a birthday that feels big without turning your home upside down. Expect to spend about $300 to $525 for two hours, plus any travel fees and extras. Measure your parking space, choose a company that serves your neighborhood and confirm every detail in writing. Do that, and you may just earn the title of coolest parent on the block, at least until next year's party. Frequently Asked Questions 1. How much does a game truck party cost in Los Angeles? Most two-hour game truck parties in LA cost between $300 and $525, based on published 2026 prices. Weekend afternoons cost the most, while weekday and early-bird slots are often cheaper. Travel fees, extra hours, online gaming and VR can add $25 to $225 or more. 2. How much space does a video game truck need? Most game trailers need 50 to 70 feet of level, paved curb space, about four or five car lengths. Smaller vans and game buses may need about 35 feet. Many companies will not park in driveways, so confirm the exact requirement when you book. 3. What is the best age for a game truck party? Most companies recommend ages 7 and up, and the parties are especially popular with kids ages 8 to 13. Younger children can often join if an adult stays with them. Teens love game trucks too, especially with online games and VR add-ons. 4. Can a game truck park at a park or school in LA? Often yes, since trucks are self-powered, but many parks and schools require a permit or advance approval. The host is usually responsible for getting permission, so contact the park or school office well before your party date. 5. What happens if it rains or is very hot? Game trucks are climate-controlled, so heat is rarely a problem, and most companies operate rain or shine. Outdoor screens may close in bad weather, and some companies will reschedule for severe weather. Check each company's weather policy before booking.

October in San Diego is a sneaky-good deal for families. The summer crowds have gone home, the weather is still beach-friendly, and two things happen at once: the region's Oktoberfests fire up the oompah bands, and the whole county goes "kids free" for the month. Put those together, and you get a weekend where the grown-ups can raise a stein while the kids ride a Ferris wheel, cheer on racing wiener dogs, and then walk into the San Diego Zoo without a ticket of their own. We rounded up the family-friendly San Diego Oktoberfest events for 2026, plus the best Kids Free San Diego deals, and checked every date and price against the official sources. One quick reality check before you load up the car: San Diego's Oktoberfests are not all created equal for kids. Some are free street festivals with bounce houses, and at least one is strictly 21 and over. We sorted them out for you below. San Diego Oktoberfest 2026 at a Glance La Mesa Oktoberfest: Friday, Oct. 2 to Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026 · free admission · all ages Oktoberfest in El Cajon: Sept. 25–27 and Oct. 2–4, 2026 · Sunday is Family Day ($5 adults) Ocean Beach Oktoberfest: Oct. 9–10, 2026 · 21+ only, so leave the kids home Kids Free San Diego: Oct. 1–31, 2026 · deals at 100+ attractions, hotels and restaurants If you only have one weekend, Oct. 2–4 is the sweet spot. Both family-friendly Oktoberfests overlap that weekend, and Kids Free San Diego is already in full swing. Family-Friendly San Diego Oktoberfest Events in 2026 These are the two Oktoberfests we would actually take our kids to this year. Both are in East County, about 15 minutes apart, so you could even do both in one weekend. La Mesa Oktoberfest La Mesa Village La Mesa Blvd La Mesa, CA 91942 Friday, October 2, 2026, 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, October 3, 2026, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday, October 4, 2026, noon to 8 p.m. La Mesa Oktoberfest bills itself as San Diego's most popular Oktoberfest, and after more than 50 years it has earned the title. The whole downtown village turns into a Bavarian street party with live music, German food, artisan booths, and three separate biergartens, including one set up with families in mind. The best part for parents? Admission to the festival is free. You only pay if you want to go into a biergarten, which costs $8 at the door (guests under 21 get in free), or if you buy one of the VIP passes, which tend to sell out. Kids head straight for the Kinder Village, with face painting, balloon art, bounce houses, slides and obstacle courses, plus a Ferris wheel for a bird's-eye view of the crowd. There is also a mini pumpkin patch with a pumpkin-decorating station and a cozy reading nook, which is a lifesaver when a little one needs five quiet minutes. And then there are the dogs. The Dackeldorf Dachshund Village hosts wiener dog races, a doggie fashion show and even a dachshund "planking" contest. If your kids have never watched a pack of short-legged pups sprint down a racetrack, trust us, it is the highlight of the weekend. Parent tip: Saturday runs the longest, so go early in the day when the Kinder Village is calmer and the lines for the Ferris wheel are short. Street parking fills fast, so check the festival's Get There page and parking map before you leave. Oktoberfest in El Cajon German American Societies of San Diego 1017 S. Mollison Ave. El Cajon, CA 92020 Friday, October 2, 2026, 4 to 10 p.m. Saturday, October 3, 2026, noon to 10 p.m. Sunday, October 4, 2026, noon to 9 p.m. (Family Day) If La Mesa is the big street party, El Cajon is the one that feels like a trip to Munich. The German American Societies of San Diego has hosted it for decades, and the music, dancing and food all lean traditional, with a band flown in from Germany's Baden-Württemberg region plus the club's own brass band. Expect bratwurst, ox-on-the-spit, potato pancakes, red cabbage, giant salted pretzels and a table of European pastries. Folk dancers, choir performances and stein-holding contests fill the stage, and a Kid Zone, games and shopping booths keep younger guests busy. The festival's first weekend ran Sept. 25–27, so Oct. 2–4 is your last chance this year. Tickets: On Fridays and Saturdays, adult admission is $15. Sunday is Family Day, when adult admission drops to just $5. Guests under 21 and active military get in free every day. You can buy ahead on the official Oktoberfest in El Cajon ticket page. Parent tip: Sunday is the obvious pick for families. On-site parking is free but very limited, and nearby church-lot parking usually runs about $10 (cards only), so consider a rideshare. Leave the dog home here, since pets are not allowed, and remember outside food and drinks are not permitted. Oktoberfests to Skip (or Save for Next Year) Ocean Beach Oktoberfest (Oct. 9–10, 2026) is a fun beachside party, but it is a 21+ event, so it is a date-night idea rather than a family outing. The free Encinitas Oktoberfest, which has a great kids' play zone, already took place on Sept. 27 this year, so put it on your calendar for late September 2027. What Is Kids Free San Diego? Kids Free San Diego is an annual promotion run by the San Diego Tourism Authority, and in 2026 it runs from October 1 through October 31. All month long, participating attractions, museums, tours, hotels and restaurants let kids play, eat or stay free, usually with the purchase of a paid adult ticket. Think of it like a county-wide buy-one-get-one sale where the "one" is your kid. The catch is that every venue writes its own rules. Age limits vary (some cover kids 11 and under, others 12 and under), some deals must be booked online in advance, and a few have their own start and end dates. The full, current list of offers lives on the official Kids Free San Diego page. Below are the deals we think give LA families the biggest bang for the buck. Best Kids Free San Diego Deals for 2026 San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park This is the most generous deal of the month. From October 1 to 31, each adult with valid admission (a ticket, membership or pass) can bring up to six kids ages 11 and under for free, and those kids do not need a ticket. The offer applies at both the Zoo in Balboa Park and the Safari Park in Escondido. At the Zoo, free kids' entry includes the Guided Bus Tour and the Skyfari aerial tram, subject to availability. The Zoo's HalGLOWeen runs Friday through Sunday nights in October, and the Safari Park hosts its fall festival on October weekends. Parent tip: If you have three or more kids under 12, this one deal can pay for your gas and lunch several times over. Just remember that kids 15 and under must be with an adult 18 or older. SeaWorld San Diego SeaWorld's Kids Go Free offer pairs a free child one-day ticket with a paid adult any-day ticket ($99.99). The ticket is good for visits through November 1, 2026, which conveniently covers SeaWorld Spooktacular, the park's daytime Halloween event with trick-or-treating and the new Baby Shark Halloween Show. Parent tip: The published age range for the free kids' ticket varies between SeaWorld's own offer page and the Tourism Authority listing (the Tourism Authority lists ages 3 to 9), so double-check the age shown at checkout before you buy. Kids under 3 are always free and don't need a ticket. LEGOLAND California Resort LEGOLAND's Kids Go Free deal gives you a free one-day child ticket with each gate-price adult one-day ticket. The adult ticket is $139 for LEGOLAND with SEA LIFE Aquarium included, or $169 for the Resort Hopper, which adds the Water Park. The offer is online only, and you can get up to three free child tickets per purchase. Visiting on a Brick-or-Treat weekend? LEGOLAND's Halloween season runs through November 1, so pack costumes. Sesame Place San Diego Sesame Place in Chula Vista offers a free kids' ticket for ages 3 to 9 with the purchase of a single-day ticket. It is a natural fit for preschoolers, especially during The Count's Halloween Spooktacular, which runs on select days from September 12 through November 1, 2026. Belmont Park Entry to this historic seaside amusement park in Mission Beach is always free, and in October the rides get cheaper too. Buy one Belmont Park Combo Wristband and get a Jr. Combo Wristband free for a kid 12 or under. The wristband covers more than 20 rides and attractions, including the Giant Dipper roller coaster, bumper cars, mini golf and the rock wall. This deal must be purchased in person at a Belmont Park ticket location. Flagship Cruises Harbor Tours Throughout October, kids 12 and under ride free on Flagship's narrated San Diego Bay harbor tours with a paying adult, with up to two free kids per paid adult on the one- and two-hour tours. It is an easy, low-effort way to see Navy ships, sea lions and the Coronado Bridge from the water. Old Town Trolley Tours The hop-on, hop-off trolley lets one kid ride free with each paid adult during October. It is a handy way to get around between Old Town, Balboa Park and downtown without moving the car. Find this and other tour deals on the Kids Free San Diego offers page. Free Museum Admission for Kids in October The San Diego Museum Council runs its own Kids Free in October program, and this year more than 70 museums, historic sites, gardens and aquariums are taking part, including a handful of locations in Tijuana. Kids 12 and under get free general admission with a paid adult at most spots. Here is the important part: you need a coupon. Download your Kids Free in October museum coupons before you go and show them on your phone or print them out. Offers and age limits can vary, so check each coupon. Family favorites on this year's list include: Fleet Science Center in Balboa Park San Diego Natural History Museum (The Nat) San Diego Air & Space Museum USS Midway Museum New Children's Museum Birch Aquarium at Scripps Maritime Museum of San Diego Museum of Us Comic-Con Museum Living Coast Discovery Center See the full list of participating museums on the Museum Council's site. Parent tip: Balboa Park Explorer Passes, CityPASS and Go San Diego passes do not count as the paid adult ticket for this program, so pay regular admission for the grown-up. Birch Aquarium requires online reservations in advance, and the offer doesn't cover its Halloween Aglow event. At The Nat, the coupon covers general admission, not special exhibitions. How to Plan an Oktoberfest and Kids Free Weekend from LA La Mesa and El Cajon sit east of downtown San Diego, so figure on a two-hour-plus drive from central LA depending on traffic. Here is one easy way to stitch it all together on the Oct. 2–4 weekend. Friday: Leave LA early in the afternoon to beat the worst of I-5 traffic, check in, and catch La Mesa Oktoberfest's opening night if the kids still have energy. Saturday: Spend the morning at the San Diego Zoo while the kids get in free, then head to La Mesa Oktoberfest in the late afternoon for the Kinder Village, the pumpkin patch and the dachshund action. Zoo die-hards can stay for HalGLOWeen instead. Sunday: Make your way to El Cajon for Family Day, when adult admission is just $5, then start the drive home before dinner. Staying longer? Swap in SeaWorld, LEGOLAND or a harbor cruise, and check our list of reasons San Diego is our favorite weekend getaway for more ideas. If you are considering a CityPASS, read our San Diego CityPASS guide first, and remember CityPASS does not count toward the museum Kids Free offer. A few more tips that will make the weekend smoother: Bring a small backpack with water, sunscreen and hats. October in San Diego can be warm and sunny, especially inland in La Mesa and El Cajon. Screenshot your coupons and e-tickets ahead of time, since festival crowds can slow down cell service. Carry a card. El Cajon's nearby lot parking is cards only, and many vendors are cashless. Pick a meeting spot the moment you arrive at a festival, in case anyone gets separated in the crowd. Compare prices. For some families on some days, a regular ticket or annual pass may still beat the Kids Free bundle, so run the numbers for your crew. 📬 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 San Diego Oktoberfest season and Kids Free October line up perfectly in 2026. For families, the winning weekend is Oct. 2–4, when La Mesa's free street festival and El Cajon's traditional Oktoberfest both run, and the Zoo, SeaWorld, LEGOLAND and more than 70 museums are offering free or discounted kids' admission. Download your museum coupons, book any online-only deals before you leave, and skip the 21+ Ocean Beach party this time. With a little planning, you can give the kids a weekend of wiener dog races, pretzels and pandas for a lot less than you would expect. Prost! Frequently Asked Questions 1. When is San Diego Oktoberfest in 2026? There are several. La Mesa Oktoberfest runs Oct. 2–4, 2026. Oktoberfest in El Cajon runs Sept. 25–27 and Oct. 2–4, 2026. Ocean Beach Oktoberfest is Oct. 9–10, 2026, but it is for adults 21 and over. 2. Is La Mesa Oktoberfest free for kids? Yes. Festival admission is free for everyone. Only the biergartens charge an $8 entry at the door, and guests under 21 get into those free. Kids' activities like the Kinder Village and Ferris wheel may have their own costs, so check the official site. 3. What is the best Oktoberfest in San Diego for families? For young kids, La Mesa Oktoberfest is hard to beat, with free admission, a Kinder Village, a pumpkin patch and dachshund races. For a more traditional German experience, go to Oktoberfest in El Cajon on Sunday, Oct. 4, when it is Family Day and adults pay $5. 4. What are the dates for Kids Free San Diego 2026? Kids Free San Diego runs October 1–31, 2026. A few partner tickets, including SeaWorld and Sesame Place, stay valid into early November, and LEGOLAND's deal can be purchased through Dec. 25, 2026. 5. Do I need a coupon for Kids Free San Diego museums? Yes. For the museum program, download the Kids Free in October coupons from the San Diego Museum Council and show them at admission. Attractions like the San Diego Zoo don't need a coupon, but others, like SeaWorld and LEGOLAND, require their special Kids Free ticket.

Looking for things to do in Pacific Palisades with kids? The Palisades is a special corner of Los Angeles, where the Santa Monica Mountains meet the Pacific. Families come here for canyon trails, a wide sandy beach, a Roman-style villa full of ancient art, and a small-town village feel that's hard to find anywhere else in the city. The January 2025 Palisades Fire changed this community in lasting ways, and many homes, businesses and beloved landmarks are still being rebuilt. But a lot has come back, and more returns every season. We checked the current status of every spot in this guide, so you'll find only places that are open to visitors, plus a clear, honest rundown of what's still rebuilding. Visiting, shopping local and spending an afternoon here is one of the nicest ways your family can support the Palisades as it recovers. 📬 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 (Pacific Palisades Edition): At a Glance Where it is: Pacific Palisades is a neighborhood of the City of Los Angeles (ZIP 90272), on the coast between Santa Monica and Malibu, bordered by Sunset Boulevard and Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Best for: Beach days, easy-to-moderate hikes, picnics, a free world-class museum (the Getty Villa), polo on weekend afternoons and a stroll through the reopened Palisades Village. Getting there & parking: Most families drive in via Sunset Boulevard or PCH. PCH is open, but expect reduced speed limits and occasional lane closures during rebuilding. State parks and the Getty Villa charge for parking; beach lots are run by LA County. What's open now: The Getty Villa, Will Rogers State Beach, Will Rogers State Historic Park (partially), Temescal Gateway Park (partially), Lake Shrine's gardens, Palisades Village, the temporary Palisades Branch Library, Rustic Canyon Recreation Center and the Palisades Farmers Market (Wednesdays for now). Free favorites: Getty Villa admission (reserve ahead), Lake Shrine's meditation gardens (reserve ahead), Will Rogers polo matches (with paid parking), library storytime, the beach bike path and the Palisades Village Green. What's Reopened (and What's Still Rebuilding) Before you head out, here's a quick, honest snapshot of the Palisades as of September 2026. Recovery is ongoing, so conditions can change quickly. It's always smart to check a venue's official page the morning you go. Open: The Getty Villa reopened in June 2025. Will Rogers State Historic Park reopened with limited access in November 2025. Temescal Gateway Park reopened on July 17, 2026. Palisades Village held its grand reopening in August 2026, and the farmers market returned on August 19, 2026. Partially open: At Will Rogers State Historic Park, the polo field, main lawn, picnic area and trails are open, but the historic Ranch House and stables were destroyed in the fire and the visitor center is closed for restoration. At Temescal Gateway Park, the picnic groves and the Rivas and Sunset trails are open, but the Temescal Canyon Trail to the waterfall remains closed. Still rebuilding: The Palisades Recreation Center's old gym was demolished in May 2026 to make way for a new, larger facility. The Palisades Branch Library is serving the community from temporary bungalows in its parking lot. Coming soon: Palisades Village's official directory lists Loomey's Toys and Erewhon as coming soon, so check the Village website before you plan a stop. Closed for now: The Bay Theater at Palisades Village remains closed. Gladstones, the longtime restaurant at PCH and Sunset, is closed and slated to be replaced by a new restaurant. At Will Rogers State Beach, parking Lot 5 is closed during wildfire recovery. Trail closures: In Topanga State Park, the Rustic Canyon, Rogers Road, Bent Arrow and Josepho Spur trails, the Temescal Canyon Trail and the Lower Topanga day-use area were still closed as of the park's latest update. Stay on open trails and obey posted signs. Parks, Hikes & Outdoor Fun in Pacific Palisades The canyons are healing, and the green coming back on the hillsides is something to see. These are the parks and trails that have reopened to families. 1. Will Rogers State Historic Park 1501 Will Rogers State Park Road Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: $12 parking per vehicle Best for: All ages Hours: 8 a.m. to sunset The former ranch of humorist and cowboy star Will Rogers sits at the top of a winding road off Sunset Boulevard, and its huge main lawn is back open for picnics and cartwheels. Kids love the sheer amount of room to run, and the view across the polo field toward the ocean still feels like a secret. The fire took the historic Ranch House and stables, and seeing the park now is a gentle way to talk with older kids about history and resilience. California State Parks staff saved more than 150 artifacts, including Will Rogers' typewriter, and the park is planning its restoration with community input. For now, come for the open space, the trails and the weekend polo. Parent tip: Parking is limited, so arrive before 10 a.m. on weekends. Pack a full picnic since there's no café on-site, and bring a ball or frisbee for the lawn. 2. Inspiration Point Loop Trail at Will Rogers 1501 Will Rogers State Park Road Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free with park parking Best for: Ages 5 and up; carriers for little ones This classic, moderate loop of about two miles climbs from the main lawn to Inspiration Point, where the view stretches from downtown to the Santa Monica Bay on a clear day. It's steady but manageable for school-age kids, and there's a real sense of accomplishment at the top. State Parks reopened the loop in stages after the fire, and some connecting routes remain closed. Follow the signed open route, and you'll pass hillsides already sprouting fresh green growth, a nice lesson in how chaparral recovers. Parent tip: The trail is exposed with little shade. Go early, bring more water than you think you'll need, and leave the stroller in the car. 3. Weekend Polo at Will Rogers State Historic Park 1501 Will Rogers State Park Road Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free (paid parking) When: Saturdays 2–5 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m.–1 p.m., May through mid-October Best for: All ages Here's a Los Angeles experience most kids have never had: watching horses and riders thunder across the same field where Will Rogers himself once played polo with Hollywood friends. Matches run on weekends through mid-October, and admission is free once you've paid for parking. Spread out a blanket on the sidelines, and the kids will be hooked by the speed, the swinging mallets and the thud of hooves. It's a relaxed, low-key scene, so little ones can snack, nap or wander the lawn while older kids follow the action and cheer for their favorite horse. Parent tip: You've got only a few weekends left in the 2026 season, so plan soon. State Parks notes there are no matches on Memorial Day, July 4 or Labor Day weekends. Bring sun hats, since the sidelines have little shade. 4. Temescal Gateway Park 15601 Sunset Boulevard Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free entry; parking $12 per day Best for: All ages After 18 months of closure, this woodsy canyon park reopened on July 17, 2026. The shady Sycamore Grove and Rubell picnic areas are back, and they make a lovely base for a family morning outdoors, especially on warm days. Crews removed damaged trees and continue restoring the habitat, so you'll notice new plantings and some fenced-off areas. The popular Temescal Canyon Trail to the waterfall remains closed until further notice, but two other trails are open and great for families. Parent tip: Parking at the entrance is $12 per day. The picnic groves are the easiest option for toddlers, and you can bring a full lunch. 5. Rivas Trail and Overlooks Temescal Gateway Park, 15601 Sunset Boulevard Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free ($12 parking at Temescal Gateway Park) Best for: Ages 6 and up The rebuilt Rivas Trail, with brand-new stairs, climbs from Temescal Gateway Park to two scenic overlooks and links over to Will Rogers State Historic Park. It's a satisfying mini-adventure for kids who are ready for more than a flat walk but not a full summit day. At the overlooks, pause for a snack and let the kids spot the ocean, the canyon and the regrowth on the ridges. Hikers with older kids can continue toward Will Rogers for a longer outing. Parent tip: Plan the turnaround before you start. Many families hike to the first overlook and back, which keeps little legs happy. 6. Sunset Trail to Temescal Ridge Temescal Gateway Park, 15601 Sunset Boulevard Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free ($12 parking at Temescal Gateway Park) Best for: Tweens and teens For stronger hikers, the Sunset Trail leads from Temescal Gateway Park up to the Temescal Ridge Trail and into Topanga State Park. It's a bigger climb, and the payoff is wide ridge views over the Palisades and the coast. This is a good pick for tweens and teens who want a real workout. Keep in mind that the Temescal Canyon Trail portion of the classic loop is still closed, so this is an out-and-back rather than the old waterfall loop. Parent tip: Check the Topanga State Park alerts before you go, since some connecting trails are still closed. Start early to beat the heat. 7. Los Liones Trail and Parker Mesa Overlook (Topanga State Park) Los Liones Trailhead, near 510 Los Liones Drive Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 4 and up (lower canyon); older kids for the overlook Just off Sunset Boulevard near PCH, the Los Liones trailhead is Topanga State Park's front door in the Palisades, and it's open again. The lower stretch winds up a shady canyon, which makes it a friendly first hike for younger kids. Keep going, and the trail connects to the East Topanga Fire Road and Parker Mesa Overlook, one of the best ocean viewpoints in the Santa Monica Mountains. That full trip is long, so save it for experienced hikers. Parent tip: Dogs aren't allowed on Topanga State Park trails. Parking near the trailhead is limited, so arrive early on weekends. Beaches & Bike Rides in Pacific Palisades The ocean side of the Palisades is open and looking great. These are the best Pacific Palisades beaches and paths for families. 8. Will Rogers State Beach 17700 Pacific Coast Highway Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free beach; paid parking lots Best for: All ages With more than three miles of shoreline, Will Rogers State Beach has plenty of space for sandcastles, boogie boards and wave-jumping. Lifeguards are on duty, and families will find restrooms, showers, picnic tables, volleyball courts and a playground near the sand. The water here is typically calmer than at many Malibu beaches, which is a relief for parents of new swimmers. It's also a favorite spot for beginner surfers, so older kids can watch lessons in action and pick up a few pointers. Parent tip: Lot 1 (14800 PCH) and Lot 3 (15800 PCH) are open, while Lot 5 is closed during fire recovery. Set up near a lifeguard tower and close to the restrooms if you have little ones. 9. Marvin Braude Bike Trail Starts at Will Rogers State Beach, 17700 Pacific Coast Highway Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free Best for: Kids who ride confidently; trailers and bike seats for little ones The northern end of LA's famous beach bike path begins right at Will Rogers State Beach. From here it runs south along the sand toward Santa Monica and beyond, so your family can ride as far as legs, and snacks, allow. The Palisades stretch is usually less crowded than the path near Santa Monica Pier, which makes it a good place for kids to build confidence. Ride south a few miles, and you'll reach the Santa Monica Pier for a treat before turning back. Parent tip: Bring your own bikes and helmets. Weekday mornings are calmest, and ride single-file when the path gets busy. Museums & Culture in Pacific Palisades Two of the most peaceful and beautiful places in Los Angeles are right here, and both are free with a reservation. 10. Getty Villa Museum 17985 Pacific Coast Highway Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free admission with timed reservation; parking $25 per car ($15 after 3 p.m.) Hours: 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Tuesdays Best for: Ages 4 and up The Getty Villa reopened in June 2025, and it's still one of the most magical museum visits you can make with kids in LA. The building is modeled on an ancient Roman country house, with long reflecting pools, fountains, herb gardens and thousands of years' worth of Greek, Roman and Etruscan treasures. Families should head straight to the Family Forum, a hands-on space where kids explore how ancient Greek vases were made and decorated. The museum also offers Art Detective Cards in English and Spanish and "The Demigods," an audio adventure inspired by the Percy Jackson books. Mythology fans will be in heaven, or at least on Mount Olympus. Parent tip: Reserve free timed-entry tickets online before you go (up to six people per booking). The entrance is reached from northbound PCH only. Free stroller rentals are available, and you can bring a picnic to the public seating areas. 11. Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine 17080 Sunset Boulevard Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free Reservations: Required (released Saturdays at 10 a.m. for the following week) Best for: Calm kids of all ages Just up Sunset from the beach, Lake Shrine is a spring-fed lake ringed by gardens, waterfalls, a windmill-style chapel and a gold-topped archway. Swans, ducks, turtles and koi make it easy to hold a young child's attention, and the paths are gentle and scenic. The meditation gardens reopened after the fire, and families and children are welcome. It's a place of worship and quiet reflection, so think of this as a peaceful stroll rather than a playground stop. For kids who need a reset after a busy week, it can be surprisingly soothing. Parent tip: The gardens are open Wednesday through Saturday and Sunday afternoon, with arrival windows from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. Book early, keep voices low and skip bringing pets, since only service animals are allowed. Libraries, Classes & Recreation in Pacific Palisades 12. Palisades Branch Library (Temporary Location) 861 Alma Real Drive Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 1–5 p.m. Best for: Babies through middle schoolers The Los Angeles Public Library is serving Palisades families from a temporary setup of bungalows in the library parking lot. It's cozy, welcoming and a lovely sign of community life returning to the heart of town. Little ones can join Baby and Toddler Storytime on Tuesday mornings in the Green Bungalow, and kids in grades 4 through 7 can join a monthly middle-grade book club. It's also an easy place to pick up a few new picture books for the week. Parent tip: Storytime starts at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesdays, before regular afternoon hours begin. Your LA library card also unlocks free perks, from museum passes to streaming. 13. Rustic Canyon Recreation Center 1311 Greentree Road Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free park; fees for classes and camps Best for: Ages 3 and up Tucked into leafy Rustic Canyon, this City of LA park is back in full swing for fall 2026. Kids' classes include tennis, basketball, ballet, dance and ceramics, plus new Hip Hop Dance for ages 5 to 10 and a Volleyball Clinic for ages 12 to 16. The park also runs seasonal camps during school breaks, which is handy for working parents. The pool reopened this summer and closed for the season after Labor Day, so mark it for next year. Parent tip: Call the park office at 310-454-5734 to ask about class openings and fall and winter camp registration. Popular classes fill quickly. Shopping, Strolling & Family Eats in Pacific Palisades Palisades Village reopened in August 2026 after a major restoration, and it's once again the neighborhood's favorite gathering place. Here's where to wander, shop and snack. 14. Palisades Village and the Village Green 15225 Palisades Village Lane Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free to stroll Hours: Mon–Thu 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; Fri–Sat 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.–6 p.m. (individual shop hours vary) Best for: All ages This walkable outdoor shopping village, owned by Caruso, reopened in August 2026 with every storefront repainted and cleaned after smoke damage. Most shops and restaurants are already open, and the rest are returning over the coming months. Families should keep an eye out for Loomey's Toys, the beloved local toy shop that lost its original store in the fire; the Village lists it as coming soon, along with Erewhon. The landscaped Village Green is a natural hangout for families, with room for little ones to wiggle while parents grab a coffee. It also hosts community events, like the plant-based Pali VegFest held there in August 2026, and live music on Swarthmore Avenue on weekends. Parent tip: Come on a Wednesday afternoon to pair a stroll with the farmers market on Swarthmore Avenue. Weekday mornings are the easiest time to find parking. 15. K Bakery Palisades Village, 15225 Palisades Village Lane Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Check in-store for current prices Best for: All ages K Bakery is back at Palisades Village, and a pastry stop is basically mandatory on any family outing. The case is filled with artisan pastries and sweet treats that pair well with a coffee for you and a hot chocolate for them. It makes an easy reward after library storytime or a walk around the Village. Grab a bag of treats and head to the Village Green to enjoy them in the sun. Parent tip: Go earlier in the day for the best selection, especially on weekends, before the most popular items sell out. Check the Village website for current hours. 16. Porta Via Palisades Village, 15225 Palisades Village Lane Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Check the menu for current prices Best for: Families with kids who can sit for a meal This relaxed neighborhood restaurant has returned to Palisades Village, and it's a comfortable pick for a sit-down lunch after a morning at the beach. The seasonal, California-inspired menu includes salads, house-made pastas, sandwiches and daily specials, with enough familiar options for picky eaters. Sitting down together in the Village feels like a small celebration of the town's return. It's a nice way to mark a family day out, especially with grandparents in tow. Parent tip: Weekend lunch gets busy, so reserve online or go on a weekday. Ask for a patio table so little ones can people-watch. 17. Blue Ribbon Sushi Palisades Village, 15225 Palisades Village Lane Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Check the menu for current prices Best for: Adventurous eaters and sushi-loving kids Blue Ribbon Sushi is another returning Village favorite, and it's a fun meal out for families with sushi fans. Kids who aren't ready for raw fish can usually find cooked rolls and simple sides. If your kids love watching the chefs work, ask for seats with a view of the action. It turns an ordinary meal into a little show, and it's a tasty way to support a Village favorite. Parent tip: Go at an off-peak time for the easiest seating with kids, and check the restaurant's current hours before you go since some Village tenants are still settling in. The expanded outdoor patio is a nice option with wiggly little ones. 18. Pacific Palisades Farmers Market Swarthmore Avenue at Palisades Village (1035 Swarthmore Avenue) Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free to browse When: Wednesdays, 1:30–5:30 p.m. (temporary schedule) Best for: All ages The Palisades Farmers Market came home to Swarthmore Avenue on August 19, 2026, and it's one of the most heartwarming stops in town. Local farmers bring seasonal produce, avocados, citrus, eggs and flowers, along with prepared foods and artisan vendors. For now, the market runs on Wednesday afternoons, which makes it a perfect after-school outing. Give each kid a few dollars to choose their own fruit, and watch them take the job seriously. Parent tip: The organizers describe this as a first step back, and it isn't yet the traditional Sunday market. Check the market organizer's site for updates on a return to Sundays. Related: LA Farmers' Markets for Families Annual Events & Seasonal Fun in Pacific Palisades Palisades Americanism Parade (Fourth of July) When: Usually July 4 Where: Along Sunset Boulevard and the Village area, Pacific Palisades For decades, the Palisades has celebrated Independence Day with a hometown parade, a morning race and fireworks, and it's one of the most beloved small-town traditions on the Westside. Kids line the curb with flags, and the whole town seems to turn out. Parent tip: If the parade runs, bring folding chairs and claim a curb spot early. Street closures make walking or biking in easier than driving. Will Rogers Polo Season When: May through mid-October; Saturdays 2–5 p.m. and Sundays 10 a.m.–1 p.m. Where: Will Rogers State Historic Park, Pacific Palisades The polo season is a longtime Palisades weekend ritual. Families picnic along the field, cheer for the riders and soak up one of the prettiest settings in Los Angeles. The season wraps up in mid-October, and matches typically return in May. Admission is free with park parking, which makes it one of the best-value weekend outings on the Westside. Parent tip: Sunday morning matches are cooler and easier with young kids than Saturday afternoons. Nearby: Easy Add-Ons in Topanga, Santa Monica and Brentwood Pacific Palisades is small, and it's still rebuilding, so we've rounded up great family stops a short drive away. Most are 10 to 15 minutes from Palisades Village, and Trippet Ranch in Topanga is closer to 20. Each one is outside the Palisades, and we've labeled the city for every stop. 19. Topanga State Park at Trippet Ranch (Topanga, nearby) 20828 Entrada Road Topanga, CA 90290 Cost: $10 parking per vehicle Best for: Ages 3 and up About 20 minutes from the Village, Trippet Ranch is the main entrance to Topanga State Park, and it reopened for day use in June 2026 along with most backcountry trails. A pond, shady oaks and picnic tables make it a gentle outing for young kids. The short nature loop is easy for small hikers, while older kids can head toward Eagle Rock for big views. It feels a world away from the city, even though it's so close. Parent tip: Dogs aren't allowed on the trails. Check the park's alerts page for the few trails that remain closed before you set out. 20. Palisades Park (Santa Monica, nearby) Ocean Avenue between Colorado Avenue and Adelaide Drive Santa Monica, CA 90401 Cost: Free Best for: All ages First, a quick clarification that trips up plenty of visitors: Palisades Park is in Santa Monica, not Pacific Palisades. This long, skinny clifftop park stretches along Ocean Avenue, with tall palms, grassy lawns, benches and big views over the bay and back toward the Palisades bluffs. The wide, flat paths are ideal for strollers, scooters and little bikes, and you'll find restrooms, picnic tables, a rose garden and the Camera Obscura Art Lab along the way. Time your walk for late afternoon, and the kids can watch the pier's Ferris wheel start to glow. Is there a better free show in town? Parent tip: Stay back from the bluff edges, which are off-limits because of erosion. Metered parking along Ocean Avenue fills fast, so try the structures near Third Street Promenade. 21. Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica, nearby) 200 Santa Monica Pier Santa Monica, CA 90401 Cost: Free to walk; pay per ride, game or treat Best for: All ages The historic Santa Monica Pier is about 10 minutes south of the Palisades, and it's an easy classic for kids of every age. Stroll past the vintage carousel, watch street performers, peek at people fishing off the rails and walk all the way out to the end for an ocean breeze. You can enjoy the pier without spending a dime, or add rides, arcade games and snacks as you go. Look back toward the coast, and the kids can pick out the Palisades bluffs rising above the beach where your day may have started. Parent tip: Go on a weekday morning or right at opening to avoid the biggest crowds. Pick a meeting spot, like the carousel, in case anyone gets separated. 22. Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica, nearby) 380 Santa Monica Pier Santa Monica, CA 90401 Cost: Free admission; pay per ride or buy a wristband (check the official site for prices) Best for: Ages 3 and up This compact, admission-free amusement park sits right on the pier, with 12 rides, including the solar-powered Pacific Wheel, the West Coaster roller coaster high above the water and a cluster of gentle kiddie rides. It's the right size for an hour or two of fun rather than an all-day commitment. Little ones gravitate to the smaller rides, while older kids make a beeline for the coaster. A Ferris wheel ride near sunset, with the coastline stretching all the way to Malibu, is one of those classic LA moments your family will talk about later. Parent tip: Height requirements vary by ride, so check them before buying a wristband. For toddlers who only want a ride or two, individual tickets may be the better deal. 23. Heal the Bay Aquarium (Santa Monica, nearby) 1600 Ocean Front Walk Santa Monica, CA 90401 Cost: $12 ages 13+, $5 ages 4–12, free ages 3 and under Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, noon–4 p.m. Best for: Ages 2–10 Tucked right under the Santa Monica Pier, this small, nonprofit-run aquarium focuses on the creatures that live just off our own coastline. Kids can get up close with local fish, sea stars, crabs and other marine life, and the touch tanks are usually the highlight for younger visitors. It's a quick, manageable visit that works well for short attention spans, and it makes a nice hot-day or gray-day backup. The educators are great at connecting what kids see in the tanks to caring for the beach just outside the door. Parent tip: The aquarium is open weekends only and occasionally closes for special events, so check the calendar before you go. Visit first, while everyone is fresh, then head up to the pier. 24. Annenberg Community Beach House (Santa Monica, nearby) 415 Pacific Coast Highway Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: Free beach and playground; fees for the pool and parking Best for: All ages Only about five minutes south of the Palisades on PCH, this public beach club makes a full beach day wonderfully easy. You'll find a playground, a splash pad, beach volleyball courts and a historic outdoor pool that opens seasonally, all steps from a wide, sandy beach. The property was once part of actress Marion Davies' oceanfront estate, and the restored guest house hosts tours and community programs. Older kids who like a little history with their beach time may find it surprisingly interesting. Parent tip: Pool season, hours and reservation rules change through the year. Check the official site before you promise the kids a swim. 25. Tongva Park (Santa Monica, nearby) 1615 Ocean Avenue Santa Monica, CA 90401 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 1–10 Across Ocean Avenue from the pier, Tongva Park is a sculpted green space with winding paths, overlooks, gardens and a creative play area. The rolling hills make it feel like a mini adventure, even for kids who say they've outgrown playgrounds. The park honors the Tongva people, the original inhabitants of the Los Angeles Basin, which makes for a good conversation starter with curious kids. It's also a much calmer place to regroup than the busy pier. Parent tip: Use Tongva Park as your home base on a pier day. Play here first, walk to the pier, then come back for a snack break on the grass. 26. Santa Monica Main Library (Santa Monica, nearby) 601 Santa Monica Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90401 Cost: Free Best for: Babies through teens This bright, modern library is a Westside favorite, with a large children's area, cozy reading spots and a busy calendar of storytimes, crafts and school-break programs. It's a comfortable place to spend a rainy morning or a hot afternoon. While the Palisades Branch Library serves the community from temporary bungalows, Santa Monica Main Library is a great nearby option for longer browsing sessions. Kids can stock up on picture books, chapter books and graphic novels for the week. Parent tip: The library has an underground parking garage, which makes it an easy stroller stop. Check the events calendar before you go to catch a storytime. 27. Third Street Promenade (Santa Monica, nearby) Third Street Promenade between Broadway and Wilshire Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90401 Cost: Free to stroll Best for: All ages This car-free, three-block shopping street is lined with shops, restaurants and street performers, so there's always something for kids to watch. Little ones especially love the dinosaur topiary fountains that have been Promenade landmarks for years. The Promenade is an easy walk from the pier and Tongva Park, so you can stitch together a whole Santa Monica day without moving the car. It's also handy for a quick lunch when everyone is hungry at the same time. Parent tip: Weekend afternoons bring the most performers and the biggest crowds. For a calmer stroll with a stroller, try a weekday morning. 28. Douglas Park (Santa Monica, nearby) 2439 Wilshire Boulevard Santa Monica, CA 90403 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 1–8 Douglas Park is a charming neighborhood park with a pond, a shallow seasonal water play area, playgrounds and big shade trees. It's a favorite with toddlers and preschoolers, and it feels relaxed compared with the busier parks near the beach. Kids can watch the ducks, run across the lawn and climb on the play structures, while parents enjoy a little shade. Pack a picnic, and you've got an easy, low-cost morning out. Parent tip: The water play area operates seasonally, so check the city's page before you promise a splash day. Bring a change of clothes either way. 29. Reed Park (Santa Monica, nearby) 1133 7th Street Santa Monica, CA 90403 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 2–12 Reed Park is a busy downtown Santa Monica park with a playground, tennis and basketball courts and open grass for running around. It's a short walk from Santa Monica Main Library, which makes storytime plus playground an easy combo. The park also hosts community events throughout the year, so keep an eye on the city calendar for family-friendly happenings. Parent tip: Street parking can be tight. Park once in the library garage and walk to both. 30. Brentwood Country Mart (Santa Monica, nearby) 225 26th Street Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: Free to stroll Best for: All ages Despite the name, this red-barn shopping courtyard sits just inside Santa Monica at the Brentwood border, about 10 minutes from the Palisades. It's been a family hangout for generations, with a central courtyard where kids can snack at picnic tables while parents browse. Kids head straight for Toy Crazy and Sweet Rose Creamery, while Barney's Burgers and Frida Taqueria cover a quick lunch. The Mart also hosts family events like movie nights, storytime and a fall pumpkin patch, and it's a natural stop after a morning at the Getty Center. Parent tip: The small parking lot fills up on weekends. Weekday mornings are the easiest time to visit with little ones. 31. Getty Center (Brentwood, nearby) 1200 Getty Center Drive Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free with timed reservation; parking $25 per car ($15 after 3 p.m.) Hours: 10 a.m.–6:30 p.m. Tuesday–Friday and Sunday; 10 a.m.–9 p.m. Saturday; closed Mondays Best for: Ages 4 and up The Getty Villa's hilltop sibling is about 15 minutes away in Brentwood, and for many kids the adventure starts before they see a single painting. A driverless tram carries you up the hill, where white travertine buildings, fountains and terraces open onto views from the mountains to the ocean. Wander the Central Garden, with its zigzag path and floating azalea maze, then duck into the galleries for a short, focused look. The cactus garden overlook is a favorite photo spot. Admission is free, so it's fine to keep the visit short and sweet. Parent tip: Reserve free timed-entry tickets online. Saturday evenings are a fun option, since the museum stays open until 9 p.m. and parking is free after 6 p.m. on Saturdays. Some galleries are closed for renovation, so pick two or three to visit. 32. Skirball Cultural Center and Noah's Ark (Brentwood, nearby) 2701 North Sepulveda Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Adults $20; seniors, students and kids 2–17 $15; under 2 free; free for everyone on Thursdays (free on-site parking) Hours: Tuesday–Friday noon–5 p.m.; Saturday–Sunday 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Mondays Best for: Ages 2–8 Noah's Ark at the Skirball is one of the most imaginative indoor play spaces in Los Angeles. A giant wooden ark sits at the center of the gallery, surrounded by hundreds of handcrafted animals made from everyday objects, and kids are invited to climb, build, pump water and help weather a make-believe storm. It's hands-on from start to finish, which makes it a lifesaver on a hot or rainy day. Noah's Ark reopened in December 2025 after a major renovation, and a ticket also includes the new outdoor Bloom Garden. Parent tip: Noah's Ark uses 90-minute timed entry, so reserve ahead. Weekend mornings, when the Skirball opens at 10 a.m., are the best time for little ones. Check the site before you go, since private events occasionally limit parking. Related: Discover the New Noah's Ark at the Skirball Heading up the coast instead? Our guide to fun things to do in Malibu with kids covers beaches, piers and parks about 20 minutes north on PCH. Check PCH conditions first, since rebuilding work can cause lane closures between the Palisades and Malibu. Parent Tips for Visiting Pacific Palisades With Kids Check status the morning you go. Recovery work is ongoing, so trail closures, parking lots and business hours can change. Official park and venue pages are your best source. Plan around PCH. Pacific Coast Highway is open with reduced speed limits and occasional lane closures. Sunset Boulevard is often the easier way into the village and the canyon parks. Reserve the free stuff. The Getty Villa and Lake Shrine are both free but require advance reservations, and weekend slots go fast. Bring water and sun protection. Many trails are exposed after the fire, with less shade than before. Hats and extra water make a big difference for kids. Be respectful. Many families are still rebuilding their homes. Stay on public streets and trails, keep noise down in residential areas and don't photograph private properties or construction sites. Shop local. Buying lunch, a toy or a pastry in town is one of the easiest and most meaningful ways to support the Palisades as it recovers. Takeaway Pacific Palisades is still healing, but families have plenty of reasons to visit this fall. You can explore the Getty Villa for free, spend a day at Will Rogers State Beach, picnic under the sycamores at Temescal Gateway Park or catch a polo match before the season ends in mid-October. When you're ready for more, Santa Monica, Brentwood and Malibu are just minutes away. Check out our guides to fun things to do in Santa Monica with kids and fun things to do in Brentwood with kids to build out your day. Every visit, every pastry and every toy bought in town helps the Palisades come back a little stronger. We'll keep this guide updated as more of the community reopens. 📬 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 Pacific Palisades with kids? The best free things to do in Pacific Palisades with kids include the Getty Villa (free with a timed reservation, paid parking), the Lake Shrine meditation gardens (free with a reservation), Will Rogers polo matches (free with paid parking), library storytime and the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. Will Rogers State Beach is free to enjoy, though the lots charge for parking. 2. Is Pacific Palisades open to visitors after the fire? Yes, Pacific Palisades is open to visitors, and many family favorites have reopened. The Getty Villa, Will Rogers State Beach, Palisades Village, Lake Shrine and parts of Will Rogers State Historic Park and Temescal Gateway Park are open, while some trails, the Bay Theater and the Palisades Recreation Center are still closed or rebuilding. 3. Is the Getty Villa open, and do kids need tickets? Yes, the Getty Villa is open daily except Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free for everyone, but every visitor, including children, needs a free timed-entry reservation. Parking is $25 per car, or $15 after 3 p.m. 4. Can you still hike to the Temescal Canyon waterfall? No, the Temescal Canyon Trail to the waterfall is still closed because of fire damage. Families can hike the reopened Rivas Trail and Sunset Trail from Temescal Gateway Park instead. 5. What is the best Pacific Palisades beach for kids? Will Rogers State Beach is the best Pacific Palisades beach for kids. It has lifeguards, restrooms, a playground, picnic tables and gentle waves, and Lots 1 and 3 are open for parking.

Brentwood has a reputation for leafy streets and quiet cul-de-sacs, but ask any local parent and you'll hear a different story. This is where kids ride a tram up to a hilltop art museum, climb aboard a giant wooden ark, and finish the day with a waffle cone at a red barn-style market that has been a family ritual for generations. If you're looking for things to do in Brentwood with kids, you have far more options than a quick drive down Sunset suggests. We've pulled together 47 verified, open-in-2026 ideas: museums and gardens, parks and trails, storytimes and classes, kid-approved restaurants, seasonal events, and a clearly labeled list of nearby add-ons in Westwood, Santa Monica and Pacific Palisades. We checked each place against its official website this fall, flagged what changed after the January 2025 Palisades Fire, and left out places that have closed. 📬 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 (Brentwood Edition): At a Glance Where it is: Brentwood is a Westside neighborhood of the City of Los Angeles (ZIP 90049), tucked between Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Westwood and the Santa Monica Mountains, with the Getty Center and Skirball Cultural Center along the I-405 corridor. Best for: Toddlers through tweens. Little kids love Noah's Ark, library storytimes and the Brentwood Country Mart courtyard; older kids can handle the Getty, Westridge fire road hikes and UCLA's museums nearby. Getting there & parking: The Getty charges for parking ($25 per car, less after 3 p.m.), while the Skirball's on-site parking is free. San Vicente Boulevard and Brentwood Village have metered street parking; the farmers market and the Mart fill up fast on weekend mornings. Best time to go: Weekday afternoons and early weekend mornings. The Getty stays open until 9 p.m. on Saturdays, and parking there is free after 6 p.m. on Saturdays. Free favorites: Getty Center admission (reservation required), Skirball general admission on Thursdays, Brentwood Branch Library storytimes, Crestwood Hills Park, Barrington Recreation Center, the Brentwood Farmers Market, the San Vicente coral trees and the Westridge-Canyonback trails. Reservations: Required for the Getty Center (free timed entry) and strongly recommended for Noah's Ark at the Skirball. Museums & Culture: Top Things to Do in Brentwood With Kids Brentwood is home to two of LA's best cultural destinations for families, and neither feels stuffy. Both sit right off the 405, so you can make a full day of either one. 1. Getty Center 1200 Getty Center Drive Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free admission with a timed-entry reservation; parking $25 per car ($15 after 3 p.m.) Best for: All ages Hours: Tue–Fri & Sun 10 a.m.–6:30 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; closed Mon For many kids, the adventure starts before they see a single painting. You park at the bottom of the hill and ride a tram up to a gleaming white campus with sweeping views from the mountains to the ocean. At the top, open plazas, fountains and terraces give little legs room to roam between galleries. Inside, the collection spans centuries of European paintings, sculpture, photography and decorative arts. Kids tend to gravitate toward the gilded furniture, the dramatic sculpture and the rotating photography shows. Heads-up: several gallery spaces are temporarily closed for modernization work, so check the Getty's visit page for what's on view before you promise anyone a specific painting. Parent tip: Book your free timed-entry reservation before you leave the house, and bring a picnic. On Saturdays, arrive after 6 p.m. Parking is free, which makes a sunset visit and early dinner on the terrace a budget-friendly date with the kids. 2. Getty Center Central Garden 1200 Getty Center Drive Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free with Getty Center reservation Best for: All ages; stroller-friendly paths Some families skip the galleries entirely and spend their whole visit in the gardens, and honestly, we get it. The Central Garden is a living artwork of zigzagging paths, a stream you can follow downhill, and a floating maze of azaleas in a pool at the bottom. The walk down feels like a treasure hunt, with something blooming in almost every season. Up top, the cactus garden on the South Promontory looks like a spiky alien landscape against the skyline. It's a great place for a snack break and a family photo. Pack sunscreen and hats, because the hilltop gets plenty of sun even on mild days. Parent tip: The zigzag path is long for toddlers on the way back up. Plan the garden walk right before a break, and park the stroller at the top if your little one prefers to walk the switchbacks. 3. Noah's Ark at the Skirball 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Adults $20; seniors, students and kids 2–17 $15; under 2 free; Free on Thursdays Best for: Ages 2–8 Reservations: Timed entry; advance tickets strongly recommended If you have little ones, this is the headliner. Noah's Ark reopened in mid-December 2025 after a major renovation, and it now features immersive lighting, a giant olive tree, slides for young visitors, a planting area and a watering hole. The hundreds of handmade animals built from everyday objects are still the stars, and kids can climb, crawl, pump water and help "load" the ark. Your ticket gives you 90 minutes aboard plus access to the Skirball's current exhibitions. It's designed around big themes like renewal, caring for the earth and second chances, but to a three-year-old, it simply feels like the best indoor playground in town. Noah's Ark is FREE to all on Thursdays, but advance reservations are highly recommended. Walk-up tickets are limited, and admission isn't guaranteed. Our full review of the new Noah's Ark at the Skirball has more details. Parent tip: Walk-up tickets are limited, so reserve online, especially for weekends. Weekday hours start at noon and the Ark closes at 4:30 p.m., so a morning nap followed by an early-afternoon Ark visit works well for toddlers.Parking is free. 4. Bloom Garden at the Skirball 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Included with a Noah's Ark ticket Best for: Ages 1–8 The Skirball's newest outdoor space adds nature play to the Noah's Ark experience. The Bloom Garden includes picnic zones, sensory garden paths, a splash stream and a beached rowboat that kids immediately turn into a pirate ship, a fishing boat or a spaceship, depending on the day. It's a lovely place to decompress after the high energy of the Ark. Parents can sit in the shade while kids pat plants, follow the paths and dip their fingers in the stream. We like it as a built-in "second act" so the outing doesn't end the minute your Ark time is up. Parent tip: Pack a spare shirt and a small towel. The splash stream is irresistible, and a damp toddler in a cool breeze is nobody's idea of fun on the drive home. 5. Skirball Cultural Center Galleries 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free to all on Thursdays; otherwise general admission applies Hours: Tue–Fri noon–5 p.m.; Sat–Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Mon Best for: Ages 6 and up Beyond the Ark, the Skirball's galleries host changing exhibitions on art, history, music and pop culture, and many are surprisingly kid-friendly. The campus itself, with its courtyards, reflecting pool and hillside setting, is a calm place to wander with school-age kids who like to ask big questions. Thursdays are free for everyone, which makes it an easy after-school outing. The Skirball also hosts family performances and holiday programs throughout the year, so it's worth browsing the calendar before you go. Parent tip: The Skirball is closed on major Jewish holidays and sometimes has limited parking during private events; check the website before you go. Free Things to Do in Brentwood With Kids: Parks, Hikes & Outdoor Fun Brentwood's green spaces range from neighborhood playgrounds to rugged fire roads with views of the whole basin. Most of them are free. 6. Westridge-Canyonback Wilderness Park North end of Westridge Road (trailhead) Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 6 and up (strong younger hikers in a carrier) This 1,500-acre wilderness park is Brentwood's front door to "Big Wild," the huge swath of open space in the eastern Santa Monica Mountains. The Westridge fire road climbs gradually along a ridgeline, so families can turn around whenever the kids have had enough and still feel like they've earned a view. The park closed after the January 2025 Palisades Fire and reopened on June 16, 2025, according to the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority. Some neighboring canyons and trails in the Palisades area remain closed, so stick to posted, open routes and read trailhead signs. Parent tip: The fire road is wide and exposed with almost no shade. Go early in the morning, bring more water than you think you need, and keep dogs leashed. Parking is on residential Westridge Road, so be a good neighbor and respect posted signs. 7. Crestwood Hills Park 1000 Hanley Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 1–8 Hours: Rec center Mon–Fri 10 a.m.–4 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Sun Tucked into the hills above Sunset, Crestwood Hills Park feels like a neighborhood secret. It has a children's play area, outdoor basketball courts, picnic tables and a community room, all surrounded by trees and canyon views. Because it's off the main roads, it tends to be quieter than the bigger Westside parks. That makes it a smart pick for toddlers who get overwhelmed by crowded playgrounds or for a low-key birthday picnic. Parent tip: Bring snacks and water because there are no shops nearby. If you want more playground ideas around the city, see our roundup of the best outdoor playgrounds in Los Angeles. 8. Barrington Recreation Center 333 S. Barrington Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free to visit; program fees vary Best for: All ages Hours: Mon–Thu 10 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Sun Barrington is Brentwood's big, busy sports hub. You'll find lighted tennis courts, indoor and outdoor basketball, lighted soccer and football fields, baseball diamonds, an indoor gym and a children's play area, plus two picnic areas that are popular for birthday parties. On weekday afternoons, the fields buzz with youth practices, and on weekends you'll see families spread out on blankets watching games. It's an easy place to let kids burn off energy, especially if you have a mix of ages. Parent tip: The lighted courts and fields mean you can squeeze in a sunset shoot-around after school. Picnic Area #1 is the only spot where moon bounces are permitted, so reserve early if you're planning a party. 9. Veterans' Barrington Dog Park 333 S. Barrington Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free Hours: Sunrise to sunset (closed Tue 6–10 a.m. for maintenance) Best for: Families with a dog; kids 5 and up If your family includes a four-legged member, Veterans' Barrington Park is a local favorite. Its off-leash dog park gives pups room to run, while kids get a front-row seat to the canine social hour. Next door, a baseball diamond adds a little extra space to stretch out. It pairs naturally with a visit to Barrington Recreation Center, so one parent can handle the dog while the other supervises the playground. Kids who are nervous around dogs can watch from outside the fence and work up their courage. Parent tip: Keep small children outside the off-leash area, where excited dogs can easily knock them over. Skip Tuesday mornings, when the park closes for maintenance until 10 a.m. 10. San Vicente Boulevard Coral Trees Grassy median of San Vicente Blvd. (easy access near Barrington Ave.) Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free Best for: All ages; scooters, strollers and runners The wide grassy median of San Vicente Boulevard, lined with twisting coral trees, is one of the Westside's most beloved walking and running routes. The trees are a designated Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument, and their sculptural branches make it feel more like a park than a street. It's flat, soft underfoot and long enough for a real walk, which makes it perfect for a scooter ride, a stroller run or an after-dinner loop. Kids love spotting the bright red blossoms when the trees flower and waving at the endless parade of joggers and dog walkers. Parent tip: Hold hands at every crossing, because traffic on both sides moves quickly. Start near SusieCakes or Coral Tree Café and use a treat as a finish-line motivator. 11. Brentwood Farmers Market 741 Gretna Green Way Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free to browse When: Sundays, 9 a.m.–2 p.m., year-round Best for: All ages Every Sunday, a short stretch of Gretna Green Way turns into Brentwood's weekly gathering spot. Farmers, artisan makers and prepared-food vendors line the street, and kids happily snack their way through fruit samples while parents pick up produce for the week. It's a great low-stakes outing for picky eaters: let each child choose one new fruit or vegetable to try at home. For more markets across the city, browse our guide to LA farmers markets for families. Parent tip: Arrive close to 9 a.m. for the best selection and easier street parking. Bring small bills and a reusable bag, and give kids their own "shopping budget" to spend. Libraries, Classes & Rainy-Day Fun 12. Donald Bruce Kaufman – Brentwood Branch Library 11820 San Vicente Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 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 Best for: Babies through age 8 Brentwood's branch of the Los Angeles Public Library is a quiet gem on San Vicente. Volunteer readers lead storytimes several times a week, and there's a sweet incentive: children who attend three times receive a free book to keep. The branch also hosts Brick-Building Playtime, where kids build with LEGO-style bricks and classic blocks. It's a lifesaver on a hot or rainy afternoon, and it's completely free. Parent tip: Check the branch calendar for current storytime days and times, since volunteer schedules shift. While you're there, make sure your kids have their own library cards and read up on the free perks that come with an LA library card. 13. My Gym Brentwood 11677 San Vicente Blvd., Suite 204 Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Paid classes; check the website for current pricing and trial offers Best for: Ages 6 weeks–10 years Upstairs in the Brentwood Gardens center, My Gym runs structured play and fitness classes for babies, toddlers and grade-schoolers. Classes mix tumbling, games, music and swinging equipment, and parents join in for the youngest ages. It's also a go-to for school-break camps and birthday parties. My Gym promotes no membership fees and flexible enrollment, which is handy if your schedule changes season to season. Parent tip: Ask about the introductory trial before you commit. Grab a frozen yogurt downstairs in Brentwood Gardens afterward as a post-class reward. 14. Classes & Sports Programs at Barrington Recreation Center 333 S. Barrington Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Program fees vary Best for: Ages 4 and up (varies by program) Beyond open play, Barrington offers a surprisingly wide list of youth classes through LA Recreation and Parks. Offerings have included basketball, tennis, flag football, futsal, boxing, fencing, gymnastics, volleyball, dance, arts, music and seasonal camps. City programs tend to cost less than private studios, and they're a great way to let kids sample a new sport without a big commitment. Fencing and boxing, in particular, can be tough to find elsewhere on the Westside. Parent tip: Register online through LA Recreation and Parks or in person at the center office near Picnic Area #2. Popular sessions fill quickly, so sign up as soon as each season's classes post. Related: 75+ Best Indoor Activities for Kids in LA Shopping & Strolling in Brentwood With Kids 15. Brentwood Country Mart 225 26th Street Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: Free to visit Best for: All ages Technically, the Brentwood Country Mart sits just across the Santa Monica line at 26th Street and San Vicente, but it's the beating heart of Brentwood family life. The red barn-style complex surrounds a courtyard with picnic tables, where kids munch on chicken and fries while parents sip coffee. More than 20 shops and eateries fill the Mart, including a toy store, a bookstore and kids' clothing boutiques. Throughout the year, the Mart hosts storytimes, movie nights, a pumpkin patch and a Halloween celebration, so there's often something extra happening. Parent tip: The small lot fills quickly on weekends. Try a weekday morning, or look for street parking on 26th Street and the side streets and walk over. 16. Toy Crazy 225 26th Street, Suite 46 Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: Free to browse Hours: Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Best for: Ages 1–12 Toy Crazy is the kind of independent toy shop where kids press their noses to the displays. Owner Melissa Moore brings more than three decades of toy-industry experience, and the shelves lean toward games, puzzles, arts and crafts and outdoor play rather than flashy screen tie-ins. It's our go-to for last-minute birthday gifts, and the staff can point you toward the right toy for a specific age. Toy Crazy also co-hosts occasional storytimes in the Mart courtyard. Parent tip: Set a budget before you walk in. A simple "one small thing" rule saves a lot of negotiating at the register. 17. Diesel, A Bookstore 225 26th Street, Suite 33 Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: Free to browse; events vary Hours: Mon–Fri 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Best for: All ages This beloved independent bookstore has a well-curated children's section and a busy events calendar. Author readings and storytimes, some held in the Mart courtyard with juice and snacks, make it easy to turn a book run into a mini-event. Browsing a real bookstore is a different experience from scrolling online, and kids often discover favorites they'd never find by algorithm. Let them choose one book each and read it over ice cream next door. Parent tip: Check the Brentwood Country Mart events page for upcoming kids' storytimes and author visits. Signings can draw a crowd, so arrive early. 18. Brentwood Village Barrington Ct. & Barrington Ave. (just south of Sunset Blvd.) Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free to stroll Best for: All ages Brentwood Village is a small, walkable cluster of cafés, boutiques and services around Barrington Court, just south of Sunset. It's where locals grab pastries, run errands and linger on sidewalk patios, and it has a relaxed small-town feel that kids pick up on. Longtime bakery-café Belwood Bakery sits on Barrington Court, and the village is only a few blocks from the Sunday farmers market on Gretna Green Way. Pair the two for an easy weekend morning. Parent tip: Metered parking is limited. On Sundays, park once near the farmers market and walk between the two. 19. Brentwood Gardens 11677 San Vicente Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: Free to visit Best for: All ages This open-air center on San Vicente has quietly become a practical family stop. Along with My Gym upstairs, you'll find Cafe Landwer, which has a broad menu with pizza, pasta and burgers, plus Go Greek Yogurt, Sweetgreen and Sichuan spot Guyi. It's handy for a quick lunch after class, or when you need a meal that will satisfy both adventurous and picky eaters. The layout makes it easy to keep an eye on kids between stops. Parent tip: The center's second-floor California Pizza Kitchen has closed, so don't plan on it. Go Greek Yogurt is a lighter treat option than ice cream if you're heading to dinner later. Family-Friendly Restaurants & Sweet Treats in Brentwood Brentwood's dining scene has changed a lot recently, with new openings along San Vicente in 2026. These spots are verified open and work well with kids. 20. Sweet Rose Creamery 225 26th Street, Suite 51 Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: $ (pay per scoop) Hours: Sun–Thu noon–9 p.m.; Fri–Sat noon–10 p.m. Sweet Rose has been scooping organic, small-batch ice cream at the Country Mart since 2010. The team makes nearly everything from scratch, including the dairy base, waffle cones, toppings and mix-ins, and seasonal flavors rotate with what's fresh at the Santa Monica Farmers' Market. Kids gravitate to the classics, while grown-ups can explore more creative seasonal scoops. Grab your cones and head to the courtyard picnic tables to people-watch. Parent tip: It opens at noon, so plan it as an afternoon treat rather than a morning stop. Ask for a taste if your child is torn between two flavors. 21. Edelweiss Chocolates 225 26th Street, Suite 22 Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: $–$$ Hours: Mon–Sat 10 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.–5 p.m. Best for: All ages (and grandparents with a sweet tooth) Edelweiss has been hand-making chocolates in Los Angeles for more than 60 years, and its little shop in the Country Mart feels like stepping into an old-fashioned candy box. Glass cases are lined with handcrafted chocolates and candies, many packed in pretty gift boxes. For kids, the fun is in choosing: one piece each, carefully selected after a very serious inspection of the case. It's also our favorite spot for a teacher gift or a thank-you for grandma. Parent tip: Chocolate and warm cars don't mix. On hot days, make Edelweiss your last stop before heading home, and ask the staff to pack your treats for the ride. 22. Reddi Chick BBQ 225 26th Street, Suite 23 Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: $ Hours: Daily 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Best for: All ages Reddi Chick is a Country Mart institution, family-owned since 1979, and its rotisserie chicken is a longtime favorite of Brentwood families. The counter-service setup and simple menu make it one of the easiest kid meals on the Westside. Order at the window, grab a courtyard table and let the kids dig in. It's casual, fast and reliably crowd-pleasing, which is exactly what you want after a morning at the park. Parent tip: Lunchtime lines can get long on weekends. Send one adult to order while the other grabs a table in the courtyard. 23. Barney's Burgers 225 26th Street, Suite 18 Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: $–$$ Hours: Mon–Sat 11 a.m.–7 p.m.; Sun 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Best for: All ages; great for mixed meat-eater and vegetarian families Barney's has been flipping burgers since 1978, and its Country Mart outpost is a reliable answer to "What's for lunch?" Sauces, toppings and dressings are made in-house, and the menu goes well beyond the classic cheeseburger. Families with a vegetarian in the mix will appreciate the long list of meatless burgers, from portobello to organic tofu. Take your trays out to the courtyard and let the kids trade fries with their siblings. Parent tip: Little kids can often share one burger and an order of fries, so start small and add more if needed. Pair lunch with a scoop at Sweet Rose a few steps away. 24. Frida Taqueria 225 26th Street, Suite 14 Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: $–$$ Hours: Daily 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Best for: All ages When the family votes for tacos, Frida Taqueria has you covered without leaving the Mart. This casual counter serves traditional Mexican dishes in a setting that feels like a neighborhood taqueria, which makes it an easy, relaxed lunch with kids. Simple tacos are usually an easy win with younger eaters, while parents can dig into something spicier. It's a nice change of pace from burgers and chicken on a Mart day. Parent tip: It closes at 6 p.m., so plan it as a lunch or early-dinner stop. Grab extra napkins and a courtyard table in the shade. 25. Farmshop 225 26th Street, Suite 25 Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: $$–$$$ Best for: Families with older kids or adventurous eaters When you want something a little more grown-up without leaving the Mart, Farmshop serves seasonal, California-style dishes built around local produce. It's a nice option for brunch with grandparents or a relaxed family lunch. If your kids aren't in a sit-down mood, you can still pick up something to go and eat in the courtyard. Parent tip: Weekend brunch (9 a.m.–2:30 p.m.) gets busy, so go early. The market counter is open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. for grab-and-go pastries and picnic supplies. 26. SusieCakes Brentwood 11708 San Vicente Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: $ Hours: Daily 10 a.m.–7 p.m. SusieCakes turns out from-scratch cupcakes, cookies, layer cakes and pies that feel like a trip to a favorite aunt's kitchen. The Brentwood shop on San Vicente is a local go-to for birthday cakes and after-school treats. Kids love choosing a cupcake from the case, and parents appreciate that everything is made with real ingredients. It's also the perfect finish line for a stroll along the coral tree median outside. Parent tip: There are four parking spaces behind the bakery, reached from Dorothy Street, plus metered spots on San Vicente. Order birthday cakes in advance. 27. Coral Tree Café 11645 San Vicente Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: $$ Hours: Daily 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m. (breakfast until 3 p.m.) Coral Tree Café is a laid-back neighborhood spot with a long menu of breakfast dishes, sandwiches, salads, pastas and smoothies. With something for everyone, it's a dependable choice when family members can't agree on what they want. The all-day hours make it easy to fit around naps and practices. Early breakfast on a weekday, before the coral tree walk, is our favorite way to use it. Parent tip: Breakfast is served until 3 p.m., which is great news for kids who want pancakes at lunchtime. 28. Jon & Vinny's Brentwood 11938 San Vicente Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: $$ Hours: Daily 8 a.m.–10 p.m. (breakfast 8–11:30 a.m.) Jon & Vinny's serves Italian-American comfort food, including pizza, pasta and meatballs, that works as well for toddlers as it does for grown-ups. The Brentwood location is bright and lively, so a little kid noise blends right in. Breakfast is a lesser-known treat here and is usually calmer than dinner. Families who want a cozy night in can also pick up takeout and eat at home. Parent tip: Dinner fills up quickly. Go early, around 5 p.m., when it's easier to get a table and kids are still in a good mood. 29. Pizzana Brentwood 11712 San Vicente Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: $$ Hours: Mon–Thu 4–10 p.m.; Fri 4–11 p.m.; Sat noon–11 p.m.; Sun noon–10 p.m. Pizzana's neo-Neapolitan pizzas, from chef Daniele Uditi, have earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand nod. A plain margherita is a safe bet for kids, and parents can branch out into more inventive pies. The dining room has a stylish feel without being stuffy. It's a good pick for a family celebration when you want something special but still kid-friendly. Parent tip: It opens at 4 p.m. on weekdays, which is perfect for an early family dinner before the evening rush. 30. Neighborly 11754 San Vicente Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90049 Cost: $–$$ Best for: All ages; families who can't agree on dinner Brentwood's newest family-friendly spot opened on April 11, 2026, and it solves a problem every parent knows: four kids, four cravings. Neighborly brings four chef-driven kitchens under one roof: What Gaby's Cooking from Gaby Dalkin, Mini Kabob, Questlove's Mixtape, and Palermo Pizza Club from New York pizzaiolo Frank Pinello. Everyone orders from whichever kitchen they want, then meets back at the table. There's also a market with fresh and frozen grab-and-go items for busy weeknights. Parent tip: As a new opening, hours may still shift. Check Neighborly's Instagram before you go, and arrive before the dinner rush on weekends. Related: 50 Kid-Friendly Restaurants in LA Annual Events & Seasonal Fun in Brentwood Brentwood's calendar centers on the Country Mart, with a few nearby favorites. Dates below come from official listings; anything not yet announced is marked as such. Pumpkin Patch at the Brentwood Country Mart When: October 1–31, 2026 Where: Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90402 Every October, the Mart's courtyard fills with heirloom pumpkins that families pick out on the honor system. It isn't a hay-ride farm; it's a charming, low-key spot for fall photos and a pumpkin you can carry to the car. For bigger fall outings, see our list of pumpkin patches and fall festivals near LA. Parent tip: Bring a wagon or stroller for heavier pumpkins, and go on a weekday when the courtyard is calmer. Halloween Spectacular at the Brentwood Country Mart When: Saturday, October 31st Where: Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90402 The Mart's Halloween party is a longtime Brentwood tradition, with costumed kids trick-or-treating through the shops. Past years have included a costume contest and an evening movie screening, so check the Mart's events page for this year's full lineup. It's a daytime option that works well for toddlers who aren't ready for evening trick-or-treating. For after-dark plans, see our guide to the best LA neighborhoods for trick-or-treating. Parent tip: Expect big crowds. Arrive on time and park on a side street. Tree Lighting & Giving Tree at the Brentwood Country Mart When: Usually the Friday before Thanksgiving Where: Brentwood Country Mart, 225 26th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90402 The Mart kicks off the holidays with a courtyard tree lighting featuring hot cocoa, festive treats and holiday music. Last year, it also hosted a Giving Tree benefiting Baby2Baby, where families could pick a tag and donate a gift through late December. It's a gentle way to teach kids that the season is also about giving. Find more festive outings in our list of Christmas and holiday events for LA families. Parent tip: Check the Mart's events page in early November for date and time. UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden Fall Fest When: Usually in October Where: UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden, Los Angeles, CA 90095 The UCLA garden has hosted a free fall festival with live music and crafts in past years. If it returns, it's an easy add-on to a Westwood afternoon. Parent tip: Watch the garden's website for an announcement, and plan to park in a UCLA pay lot. Nearby: Easy Add-Ons Within 15 Minutes Brentwood sits within easy reach of Westwood, Santa Monica and Pacific Palisades. These nearby favorites are all within about 10–15 minutes, depending on traffic. 31. UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden (Westwood, nearby) Tiverton Ave. & Le Conte Ave. (garden entrance), UCLA Los Angeles, CA 90095 Cost: Free Hours: October weekdays 8 a.m.–5 p.m., weekends 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; closes at 4 p.m. Nov–Jan This garden in a small canyon on UCLA's campus feels like a jungle hidden in the middle of the city. Shady paths wind past towering trees and water features, and kids enjoy hunting for the biggest leaves, strangest seed pods and brightest flowers they can find. It's free and open every day, which makes it one of the best low-cost nature outings on the Westside. It's small enough for toddlers and interesting enough for plant-curious big kids. Parent tip: Paths are steep in spots and partly unpaved, so a carrier beats a stroller. The garden closes on Thanksgiving and Christmas. 32. Hammer Museum (Westwood, nearby) 10899 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90024 Cost: Free Hours: Tue–Sun 11 a.m.–6 p.m.; closed Mon Best for: Ages 6 and up UCLA's Hammer Museum shows contemporary art and rotating exhibitions, and admission is always free. The central courtyard is open and airy, and the galleries are manageable in size, which is ideal for short attention spans. The museum also offers K–12 and family programs, so check the calendar for kid-focused events. Its on-site restaurant makes lunch easy. Parent tip: Play "find it": give each child something to look for, such as a color, an animal or a face, and let them lead you through the galleries. Self-parking under the museum is discounted with museum validation, and weekends are a flat rate. Explore more ideas in our guide to 45 museums to visit with kids. 33. Fowler Museum at UCLA (Westwood, nearby) 308 Charles E. Young Dr. N., UCLA Los Angeles, CA 90095 Cost: Free Best for: Ages 5 and up The Fowler focuses on arts and cultures from around the world, including textiles, masks, sculpture and everyday objects that spark big questions from curious kids. Exhibitions change regularly, and there's often something bold and colorful to discover. Admission is free, so you can pop in for 30 minutes without feeling like you have to "get your money's worth." It pairs well with the sculpture garden next door. Parent tip: Check the Fowler's website for current hours and exhibitions, since it can close between shows. Park in a UCLA pay lot and plan a walking loop that includes the Murphy Sculpture Garden. 34. Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden (Westwood, nearby) UCLA North Campus (near Charles E. Young Dr. N.) Los Angeles, CA 90095 Cost: Free Best for: All ages This sweeping lawn on UCLA's north campus is dotted with large-scale modern sculptures under shady trees. It works like an outdoor museum where running, rolling down the grass and picnicking are all fair game. It's a great way to introduce little kids to art without "please don't touch" stress, though climbing on the sculptures is off-limits. College students on blankets make it feel lively without being crowded. Parent tip: Bring a picnic blanket and snacks from Westwood Village. Weekends are quieter on campus than weekdays, and parking can be easier. 35. Diddy Riese (Westwood, nearby) 926 Broxton Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90024 Cost: $ (famously budget-friendly) Best for: All ages A Westwood Village institution, Diddy Riese is known for fresh-baked cookies and ice cream sandwiches made with the cookie and ice cream flavors you choose. It's a rite of passage for UCLA students and a delicious reward for kids after a museum visit. The line often stretches down the sidewalk, but it moves quickly. Watching the fast-moving counter team is part of the fun. Parent tip: Go in the afternoon before the evening student rush. Check the website for current hours and prices, and bring napkins; ice cream sandwiches get messy fast. 36. Holmby Park (Holmby Hills/Westwood, nearby) 601 Club View Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90024 Cost: Free Hours: Daily 5 a.m.–10:30 p.m. Best for: Ages 1–8 Just east of Westwood Village, Holmby Park is a leafy, rolling city park with a children's play area, picnic tables, barbecue pits and a jogging path under tall shade trees. It feels calm and residential, which makes it a nice break after a busy UCLA or Westwood outing. Kids are often fascinated by the park's lawn bowling greens, where players in crisp whites roll bowls across perfectly trimmed grass. Watching quietly from the sidelines is a fun, free lesson in a sport most kids have never seen. Parent tip: The park is unstaffed and group picnics are capped at 25 people, first come, first served, so it works better for a small family picnic than a big party. Bring your own snacks, since there's no café on-site. 37. UCLA Bruins Games (Westwood, nearby) UCLA campus venues (Pauley Pavilion and others) Los Angeles, CA 90095 Cost: Varies by sport; some events are free Best for: Ages 5 and up College sports are one of LA's best-kept family bargains. UCLA fields dozens of teams, and sports like volleyball, gymnastics, soccer, softball and women's basketball often offer affordable seats and an up-close, high-energy atmosphere. Kids get the marching band, mascots and cheering sections without the price and size of a pro game. It's an easy way to spark a love of a new sport. Parent tip: Check the Bruins' schedule for promo days and family-friendly events, and choose a daytime or early-evening game for younger kids. 38. Westwood Recreation Center (West LA, nearby) 1350 Sepulveda Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90025 Cost: Free to visit; pool and program fees vary Best for: All ages Just south of Wilshire, Westwood Recreation Center is one of the Westside's larger city parks, with Aidan's Place Playground, lighted sports fields, indoor and outdoor basketball courts and an aquatics facility. It's a great backup when Brentwood's parks are busy or when the kids want to swim. City pools offer lessons and recreational swim at far lower prices than private clubs. Our guide to public swimming pools for LA families has more options. Parent tip: Pool schedules change by season, so check LA Recreation and Parks' aquatics listings before you pack the swim bag. 39. Stoner Recreation Center (West LA/Sawtelle, nearby) 1835 Stoner Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90025 Cost: Free to visit; pool fees vary Best for: Ages 3 and up; skate park for older kids Stoner Park is a busy neighborhood park with a playground, sports fields, a skate park and a seasonal public pool. Tweens and teens can drop into the skate park while younger siblings play nearby, which makes it great for families with a wide age range. It's a few blocks from Sawtelle Boulevard's Japantown, so you can follow park time with ramen, Japanese snacks or boba. That combination makes for an easy half-day outing. Parent tip: Pack a helmet and pads for the skate park. The pool runs on a seasonal schedule, so check LA Recreation and Parks' aquatics listings before you pack swimsuits. 40. West Los Angeles Regional Branch Library (West LA, nearby) 11360 Santa Monica Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90025 Cost: Free Hours: Mon–Thu 10 a.m.–8 p.m.; Fri–Sat 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Sun 1–5 p.m. Best for: Toddlers through age 8 When Brentwood's branch is closed on Sundays, this bigger regional library a short drive south is open in the afternoon. Its Toddler Storytime and Songs session on Wednesday mornings is built for kids 18 months to 3 years, with stories, songs and movement to get the wiggles out. Volunteer-led STAR reading sessions run throughout the week, and kids can take home a free book after attending three times. The branch also offers sensory kits, which can be a big help for kids who need a calmer library visit. Parent tip: Toddler Storytime runs Wednesdays from 10 to 10:45 a.m. Combine it with a morning at Stoner Recreation Center's playground, which is only a few minutes away. 41. Will Rogers State Historic Park (Pacific Palisades, nearby) 1501 Will Rogers State Park Rd. Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: $12 parking per vehicle Hours: 8 a.m. to sunset Best for: All ages Will Rogers State Historic Park reopened on November 8, 2025, 10 months after the Palisades Fire. The historic ranch house was destroyed, but the wide polo field, main lawn and picnic area are open again, and kids can still watch horses when equestrian activity is underway. The Inspiration Loop and Rivas Canyon trails are open again, while some nearby routes, including the Rustic Canyon Trail, remain closed. It's a moving place to talk with older kids about wildfire recovery while enjoying a big, open picnic spot, and weekend polo runs through mid-October. Parent tip: Parking is limited, so arrive early on weekends. Bring a ball or kite for the lawn. For more nearby ideas, see our Pacific Palisades with kids guide. 42. Temescal Gateway Park (Pacific Palisades, nearby) 15601 Sunset Blvd. Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free entry; parking $12 per day Best for: Ages 4 and up Temescal Gateway Park reopened on July 17, 2026, after the Palisades Fire, according to the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority. The shady Sycamore Grove and Rubell picnic areas, with oak- and sycamore-lined paths nearby, have long made this an easy nature outing for families from Brentwood. The Rivas and Sunset trails are open, but the popular Temescal Canyon Trail to the waterfall remains closed until further notice. Follow posted signs and stick to open routes. Parent tip: Check MRCA and State Parks updates the morning of your visit, since trail status can change. Pack a picnic and plenty of water. 43. Getty Villa (Pacific Palisades, nearby) 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy. Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 Cost: Free with a timed-entry reservation; parking $25 per car ($15 after 3 p.m.) Hours: Daily 10 a.m.–5 p.m.; closed Tuesdays Best for: Ages 5 and up The Getty's sister museum recreates an ancient Roman country house on a hillside above the Pacific, with long reflecting pools, herb gardens and galleries full of Greek, Roman and Etruscan antiquities. Kids who love myths, gods and heroes will be in their element. The architecture alone keeps kids engaged, from the columned courtyards to the mosaic floors. It feels like stepping into a storybook set. Parent tip: Reserve your timed tickets online before you go, and remember the Villa is closed on Tuesdays, not Mondays like the Getty Center. Pair it with an afternoon at the beach. 44. Santa Monica Pier (Santa Monica, nearby) 200 Santa Monica Pier Santa Monica, CA 90401 Cost: Free to walk the pier; rides and games cost extra Best for: All ages About 15 minutes from Brentwood, the Santa Monica Pier is a classic LA day out. Kids can watch the fishermen, spot pelicans, run down to the sand and gaze at the Ferris wheel lit up at dusk. The pier is free to stroll, and the beach below is one of the easiest in LA for families. Our Santa Monica with kids guide has even more ideas nearby. Parent tip: Park in a city beach lot or a downtown Santa Monica structure and walk in. Weekday mornings are much calmer than summer weekends. 45. Pacific Park (Santa Monica, nearby) 380 Santa Monica Pier Santa Monica, CA 90401 Cost: Pay per ride or buy an unlimited wristband; check current prices Best for: Ages 3 and up The amusement park on the Santa Monica Pier packs a Ferris wheel, a small roller coaster and a lineup of kiddie rides and midway games into a compact, walkable space. Younger kids can ride plenty on their own, while big kids chase the coaster. It's small enough that you can see everything in a couple of hours, making it a manageable treat rather than a full theme-park day. Parent tip: Check the website for height requirements and current wristband prices before you go, so there are no surprises at the gate. 46. Heal the Bay Aquarium (Santa Monica, nearby) 1600 Ocean Front Walk Santa Monica, CA 90401 Cost: $12 ages 13 and up; $5 ages 4–12; free for ages 3 and under Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, noon–4 p.m. Best for: Ages 2–10 Tucked under the Santa Monica Pier, this small aquarium focuses on the creatures of Santa Monica Bay. Touch tanks let kids gently meet sea stars, sea cucumbers and other tide-pool residents, while staff answer every "what's that?" It's a perfect rainy-day or too-hot-for-the-beach option, and its bite-size scale keeps toddlers happy. See our list of the best aquariums in Southern California for bigger outings. Parent tip: The aquarium is open weekends only, so check the calendar for occasional closures before planning your day around it. 47. Annenberg Community Beach House (Santa Monica, nearby) 415 Pacific Coast Hwy. Santa Monica, CA 90402 Cost: Free to visit; pool and parking fees apply Best for: All ages This public beach club on the site of a historic oceanfront estate offers a beachside playground, sand volleyball courts and a seasonal public pool. It's a more relaxed alternative to the crowds near the pier. The playground and beach access make it an easy half-day outing, and families can stay for lunch nearby. The site's historic guest house adds a touch of old-Hollywood history. Parent tip: Pool days and hours are seasonal and often require a reservation, so check the website first. Arrive early on warm weekends, when parking fills quickly. Parent Tips for Visiting Brentwood With Kids Reserve ahead for the big two. The Getty Center requires a free timed-entry reservation, and Noah's Ark at the Skirball strongly recommends advance tickets. Book both before you leave home. Beat the 405. Both the Getty and the Skirball sit along the 405, one of LA's busiest freeways. Plan to arrive mid-morning after rush hour and leave before 3 p.m. on weekdays. Stack your stops. San Vicente Boulevard links the library, SusieCakes, Coral Tree Café, Pizzana, Neighborly and the coral tree median. Park once and make a walking loop. Use the free days. Getty admission is always free, the Skirball is free on Thursdays, and parks, the library and the farmers market cost nothing. Respect fire-recovery closures. Brentwood borders the area burned in the January 2025 Palisades Fire. Westridge-Canyonback has reopened, but some nearby canyon trails remain closed. Check MRCA and California State Parks before any hike. Pack sun gear. The Getty's hilltop, the Westridge fire road and the coral tree median are sunny and exposed. Bring hats, sunscreen and refillable water bottles. Mind the Monday closures. The Getty, Skirball and Hammer are all closed on Mondays. Save Mondays for parks, the library or the Country Mart. Takeaway Brentwood packs a lot of family fun into a small corner of the Westside. In one weekend, you can ride the tram to the Getty, climb aboard Noah's Ark, hike a fire road with views to the ocean, catch a library storytime and end the day with a scoop at Sweet Rose Creamery. Many of the best things to do in Brentwood with kids are free, and most are within a few minutes of each other. When you're ready to branch out, Westwood's campus museums, the Santa Monica Pier and the reopened parks of Pacific Palisades are just a short drive away. For more Westside adventures, check out our Santa Monica with kids guide and our Pacific Palisades with kids guide. Details change, especially with new restaurant openings and post-fire trail updates, so confirm hours on each official website before you head out. We'll keep this guide updated. 📬 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 Brentwood with kids? The best free things to do in Brentwood with kids include the Getty Center (free admission with a timed reservation; parking is extra), Skirball general admission on Thursdays, storytimes at the Brentwood Branch Library, Crestwood Hills Park, Barrington Recreation Center, the Sunday Brentwood Farmers Market, the San Vicente coral tree median and the Westridge-Canyonback trails. Nearby, UCLA's Mathias Botanical Garden, Hammer Museum and Fowler Museum are also free. 2. Is Noah's Ark at the Skirball open in 2026? Yes. Noah's Ark at the Skirball reopened in mid-December 2025 after a major renovation and is open in 2026 with timed-entry tickets. The Skirball recommends booking in advance because walk-up tickets are limited, and the new outdoor Bloom Garden adds nature play with a splash stream and a beached rowboat. 3. Are Brentwood hiking trails open after the Palisades Fire? Some are. Westridge-Canyonback Wilderness Park reopened on June 16, 2025, but several trails in neighboring Pacific Palisades and Topanga State Park, including the Temescal Canyon Trail and Rustic Canyon Trail, remain closed. Always check the Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority and California State Parks websites before you go. 4. What are the best kid-friendly restaurants in Brentwood? Families love Reddi Chick BBQ and Sweet Rose Creamery at the Brentwood Country Mart, plus Jon & Vinny's, Pizzana, Coral Tree Café and the new Neighborly food hall on San Vicente Boulevard. For treats, SusieCakes is a longtime favorite for cupcakes and birthday cakes. 5. What can families do in Brentwood on a rainy or hot day? On a rainy or hot day, head indoors to Noah's Ark at the Skirball, the Getty Center galleries, the Brentwood Branch Library's storytimes and Brick-Building Playtime, or a class at My Gym Brentwood. Nearby, the Hammer Museum and Fowler Museum in Westwood are free and air-conditioned, and Heal the Bay Aquarium in Santa Monica is a small indoor option.

If your child loves princess stories but may not be ready for a full-length classical ballet, Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty in a Sparkling Show could be a lovely middle ground. The touring production brings six local dancers to the stage in illuminated costumes, turning familiar ballet movement into a colorful, one-hour retelling that feels theatrical without becoming an all-night commitment. The Los Angeles edition is currently scheduled at The Eli and Edythe Broad Stage in Santa Monica, with 2026 performances listed for Sunday, October 4, and Sunday, December 20. The ticket selector also lists Saturday, January 16, and Saturday, February 13, 2027. The available session times shown are 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., although families should always confirm the exact time attached to their chosen date before paying. This guide covers the current dates, ticket prices, age rule, seating system, parking, accessibility, and the little practical details that can make or break an outing with kids. For a quick at-a-glance version, you can also find the show on the FUN WITH KIDS IN LA® events calendar. Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty uses illuminated costumes to turn classical dance into a glowing fairy-tale performance. Official image via Fever. Ballet of Lights Los Angeles: Quick Family Guide Event: Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty in a Sparkling Show Address: The Eli and Edythe Broad Stage, 1310 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401 2026 dates currently listed: Sunday, October 4, and Sunday, December 20 Additional dates currently listed: Saturday, January 16, and Saturday, February 13, 2027 Times currently shown: 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Select a date first and confirm its available session time in the ticket selector. Run time: Approximately 60 minutes, with no intermission Age requirement: Ages 5 and older. Children younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Arrival: Doors open 30 minutes before the performance, and the organizer warns that late entry is not permitted. Tickets: Prices vary by seating zone and session. When checked on September 27, 2026, standard listed prices ranged from $43.50 to $72, plus booking fees. Some zones were already sold out for the selected session. Accessibility: The venue is ADA accessible, and BroadStage offers wheelchair locations and additional accessibility services. What Is Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty? This is not a traditional, full-length production of Sleeping Beauty with a large corps de ballet, elaborate scenery, and several acts. It is a compact reimagining created by María Farelo and Cristian Pérez of Luma Artistas S.L. Six dancers tell the fairy tale through classical dance, choreography, music, and glow-in-the-dark costumes. The lighting is not just a background effect. The dancers’ illuminated costumes trace movement across the darkened stage, so spins, lifts, and turns become part dance and part light show. For children who respond strongly to visual storytelling, that glowing movement may make it easier to follow the mood and action even when no one is speaking. The official Ballet of Lights website describes the series as a fresh visual approach to familiar stories. Sleeping Beauty remains recognizable—the princess, the curse, the enchanted sleep, and the magical awakening—but the story is streamlined for a one-hour live show. That format is one of the biggest reasons this production may work for families. An hour is long enough to feel like a special theater outing, yet short enough for many elementary-age kids to stay engaged. There is no intermission, so families should handle restroom trips before taking their seats. Is Ballet of Lights Good for Kids? For the right child, yes. The official minimum age is 5, and that rule is important: this is not an event for toddlers or preschoolers who fall below the stated age requirement. Children under 16 must attend with an adult. Kids who enjoy dance, princess stories, costumes, music, and dramatic lighting are the clearest audience. It can also be an approachable first ballet because the story is familiar and the visual effects give children something concrete to watch. A child does not need to understand ballet vocabulary to appreciate glowing costumes moving across a dark stage. Parents should still consider temperament. The theater will become dark, the music can feel dramatic, and audience members are expected to remain seated and quiet during the performance. A child who is frightened by darkness or who has difficulty sitting through a movie-length activity may need extra preparation. Before you go, explain that the show uses movement instead of dialogue to tell much of the story. Let kids know that Sleeping Beauty includes a curse and an enchanted sleep, but the tale ends happily. That simple preview can prevent confusion without spoiling the fun. Current 2026 Dates and Showtimes The official Los Angeles ticket page currently lists two remaining 2026 dates: Sunday, October 4, 2026 The ticket selector shows 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. session options. Availability and prices can differ between sessions, so select the exact time before choosing a zone. Sunday, December 20, 2026 This date could make an easy holiday-season outing for families who want something festive without committing to a very long production. Confirm the currently available time in the live selector before purchasing. The same page also lists January 16 and February 13, 2027. Since schedules and inventory can change, use the live ticket page as the final authority. Do not rely on a screenshot or an older social-media post when planning your visit. How Much Are Ballet of Lights Tickets? Ticket prices are organized by seating zone. When checked on September 27, 2026, the selected session displayed the following prices before booking fees: Zone F, Balcony Boxes: $43.50 plus a $3.48 booking fee; shown as sold out for the selected session. Zone E, Balcony: $46 plus a $3.68 booking fee. Zone D, Mezzanine Boxes: $49 plus a $3.92 booking fee. Zone C, Rear Orchestra: $49 plus a $3.92 booking fee. Zone B: $57 plus a $4.56 booking fee. Zone A: $63 plus a $5.04 booking fee. VIP: $72 plus a $5.76 booking fee; shown as sold out for the selected session. These prices are a verified snapshot, not a promise for every date. Fever may change prices, discounts, inventory, or fees, and sold-out zones may vary by performance. Open your preferred date and time before calculating the family total. Remember to budget for every person. BroadStage’s general family guidance says each attendee needs a ticket regardless of age, and this particular production allows only guests age 5 and older. Families should not assume that a child can sit on an adult’s lap or enter without a separate ticket. How Seating Works Seats are divided into zones, but the event page says seats are assigned on a first-come, first-served basis within the purchased zone. That makes arrival time more important than it might be at a fully reserved-seat performance. Try to arrive when doors open, about 30 minutes before showtime. Early arrival gives your family time to use the restroom, settle coats and bags, and find seats together without feeling rushed. It also reduces the chance that a child’s first impression of live theater is a stressful dash through the lobby. If you are attending with another family, buy the same seating zone in one transaction when possible, arrive together, and check the current seating instructions in your confirmation. The organizer’s policy information may be updated, so the ticket confirmation should take priority over general advice. The organizer also says late entry is not permitted. Build in extra time for Sunday traffic, parking, and walking from the lot. A slightly early arrival is much better than missing a 60-minute show because the doors have closed. The Eli and Edythe Broad Stage in Santa Monica. Official venue image via Fever. Getting to The Broad Stage The performance takes place at The Eli and Edythe Broad Stage, part of the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center. Use the physical venue address—1310 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401—rather than BroadStage’s separate mailing address. BroadStage’s official plan-your-visit information is the best resource to check before leaving home. The venue is in a busy part of Santa Monica, so families coming from the Valley, Downtown Los Angeles, the South Bay, or the eastern side of the county should allow more time than a navigation app’s perfect-traffic estimate. Public transportation is an option. BroadStage notes that the Metro E Line’s 17th Street/SMC station is within walking distance. Whether that works for your family depends on your starting point, children’s ages, and comfort with the walk, but it can remove the uncertainty of finding a space close to showtime. Parking at BroadStage BroadStage’s official ticket and parking information says free parking is available in the lot directly in front of the theater, but capacity is limited. Metered and street parking are also available nearby, subject to posted restrictions. The practical parent takeaway is simple: do not plan to pull into the closest lot five minutes before curtain. Arriving 30 to 45 minutes early gives you a better chance at the free lot and still leaves time to walk from a legal street space if needed. Photograph the sign nearest your car if you use street parking, especially if the restriction is complicated. Add a reminder on your phone if the meter or time limit could expire near the end of the show. Because the performance lasts about an hour and doors open 30 minutes early, calculate parking time from arrival—not just from curtain. Accessibility and Sensory Considerations The venue is wheelchair accessible. BroadStage’s accessibility guide says all of its venues have wheelchair access, designated wheelchair locations can be chosen when ordering tickets, and assisted-listening devices are available in the Main Stage. Large-print materials are also available for performances. BroadStage recommends contacting Patron Services at least two weeks in advance when possible to arrange accommodations. Families who need a wheelchair location, hearing support, or another accommodation should not wait until the day of the performance if the need can be anticipated. This is a visually bright show presented in a dark theater. The glowing costumes are the main attraction, which means there may be strong contrast, changing light, and dramatic music. The event is not advertised as a sensory-friendly performance. If your child is sensitive to light, darkness, sound, or sitting still, contact the organizer before buying and ask specific questions about effects and exit options. Parent Tips for a Smoother Visit 1. Choose the earlier show for younger children A 4:00 p.m. performance may fit better with dinner and bedtime than a 6:00 p.m. show, especially when you add parking and the drive home. Older kids may enjoy the evening atmosphere, but an earlier session usually gives families more flexibility. 2. Explain the no-dialogue storytelling Tell children that dancers use faces, arms, posture, and movement to show feelings and events. Invite them to watch for how the lights change with the story. Giving kids a “job” can make a nonverbal performance feel more interactive. 3. Use the restroom before seating The show has no intermission, and the organizer says audience members should remain seated except in an emergency. Take care of bathroom needs before the house opens or immediately after arriving. 4. Bring a quiet layer Theater temperatures can feel cool, especially when kids are sitting still. A sweater or soft jacket is helpful. Avoid noisy packaging, light-up shoes, or accessories that could distract dancers and nearby guests. 5. Feed kids before the performance A one-hour show is manageable, but hunger can turn a short outing into a long one. Plan a snack or meal before entering. Check the venue’s current food and drink policy rather than assuming outside snacks can go into the theater. 6. Keep phones silent and away The Ballet of Lights FAQ says phones should remain silent during the performance. Photos and video are limited to the final piece and must be taken without flash. Model good theater manners and let children know in advance that this is a watch-with-your-eyes experience. 7. Save tickets before you leave home Fever tickets are generally accessed through the app or confirmation email. Load the QR codes before reaching the venue, turn up screen brightness at check-in, and make sure the phone with the tickets has enough battery. 8. Confirm the final details the day before Recheck the date, time, seating zone, arrival instructions, and ticket-transfer policies. Event information can change, and your confirmation email is the most useful last-minute source. What Kids May Learn From the Experience A family theater outing can be more than entertainment. Children see how music, costume design, lighting, and movement work together to tell a story. They also practice audience skills: arriving on time, sitting through a live performance, responding at appropriate moments, and respecting the artists. After the show, ask open-ended questions. Which color made a movement look most magical? How could they tell when a character was worried or happy? Did the glowing costumes change how the dance felt? There are no wrong answers, and the conversation can help children notice artistic choices they might otherwise forget. Ballet of Lights can also be a gentle introduction to classical dance. If a child becomes curious, watch a traditional Sleeping Beauty ballet excerpt afterward and compare it with the illuminated version. The goal is not to quiz them; it is to build a bridge from one memorable experience to a broader interest in dance and live performance. Make It a Santa Monica Family Day Because the show is only about an hour, families can pair it with another simple Santa Monica activity without overpacking the day. A beach walk, a playground stop, or an early meal can turn the performance into a fuller outing. Keep the schedule realistic. An afternoon at the beach followed by sand cleanup, traffic, dinner, parking, and theater seating may be too much for a 5-year-old. One small pre-show activity and one meal is often plenty. If you choose the December 20 performance, remember that holiday traffic and crowded restaurants can add time. Make reservations when appropriate, keep a backup casual meal option, and leave enough breathing room that the show still feels special instead of becoming the final deadline in an exhausting itinerary. Who Should Go—and Who Might Want to Wait? This show is a strong match for families with children age 5 and older who enjoy princess stories, colorful visual effects, music, or dance. It may also appeal to grandparents looking for a manageable intergenerational outing, because the familiar fairy tale and one-hour duration do not require extensive ballet knowledge. Consider waiting if your child is under 5, becomes very uncomfortable in dark theaters, cannot remain seated for about an hour, or is likely to need frequent exits. The official age minimum is not a suggestion, and late entry is not allowed. Parents hoping for a full traditional ballet should also adjust expectations. The production is intentionally concise and technology-forward. Think of it as an illuminated story ballet, not a substitute for a multi-act company production with an orchestra and large cast. Is the Higher-Priced Zone Worth It? There is no single correct answer. The illuminated costumes are designed to be seen across the theater, so a family does not necessarily need VIP or Zone A seats to understand the visual concept. A mid-priced section may offer the best balance for parents buying several tickets. Families with a child who benefits from seeing facial expression and detailed footwork may value a closer zone. Families primarily excited by the overall shapes and glowing patterns may be satisfied farther back, where the full-stage composition can be easier to take in. Before buying, compare the total after fees, not just the base price. For example, four Zone C tickets at $49 each plus a $3.92 booking fee apiece come to $211.68, not the $196 the headline price suggests. Decide your budget first, then choose the best available zone within it. Ticket Policies Parents Should Know Tickets must be purchased online in advance; the official Ballet of Lights FAQ says they are not sold at the venue. Date or time changes may be possible up to 48 hours before the experience, subject to availability, but refunds are generally not allowed. Review the terms shown during checkout because policies can change. Ticket transfer to another Fever account is available at no extra charge. That can be useful if one adult in a family group is arriving separately, but it is usually simpler to keep the group together and enter from one phone when everyone arrives at the same time. Seats should be purchased together if you want the family seated together. Even within a zone, arriving early matters. If your child needs an accessible position or a particular accommodation, contact the venue before buying or immediately afterward so the arrangement can be confirmed. The Takeaway Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty offers Los Angeles families a visually inventive, one-hour introduction to ballet at an intimate Santa Monica venue. The glowing costumes and familiar fairy tale give children an easy entry point, while the age-5 minimum and no-late-entry policy help set clear expectations. The remaining 2026 dates currently listed are October 4 and December 20, with 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. options shown in the ticket selector. Tickets were listed from $43.50 to $72 plus fees when checked on September 27, 2026, though availability and pricing vary. The best family strategy is to choose a session that fits your child’s routine, buy seats together, arrive 30 minutes early, and prepare kids for a dark theater and movement-based story. With those details handled, the show can feel like exactly what it promises: a familiar story seen in a new light. Frequently Asked Questions What ages can attend Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty in Los Angeles? Guests must be at least 5 years old. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Every attendee should have a ticket. How long is Ballet of Lights? The performance lasts approximately 60 minutes and has no intermission. Plan restroom and snack breaks before entering the theater. Where is the Los Angeles performance? The show is at The Eli and Edythe Broad Stage, 1310 11th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401. Use the physical venue address rather than BroadStage’s mailing address. Are Ballet of Lights seats assigned? Tickets are sold by zone, and the event page says seating within each zone is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive about 30 minutes early so your family has the best chance of sitting together. Can families take photos during the show? The official FAQ says photos and video are allowed only during the final piece and without flash. Keep phones silent and put away during the rest of the performance. Event details and prices were verified on September 27, 2026, and may change. Always confirm the final date, time, price, fees, and policies on the official ticket page before purchasing. 📬 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, new openings, and weekend ideas around Los Angeles.

Tokyo might be the most kid-friendly big city on earth. The trains run on time, the streets are spotless, the convenience-store snacks are legendary, and there's a Pokémon Center, a giant robot, or a themed café around nearly every corner. Kids who've grown up on anime and Nintendo feel like they've walked into their favorite game. Finding a hotel is the tricky part. Standard Tokyo rooms are often tiny by LA standards, many cap occupancy at two or three people, and a lot of hotel pools don't allow young children at all. This guide to the best family-friendly hotels in Tokyo focuses on the details that matter to parents: real room sizes, who can actually use the pool, kids programs, and how easy it is to get around with a stroller and jet-lagged kids. Quick Picks: The Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Tokyo Best for Disney fans: Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel Best kids program in the city: Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi Best big rooms in a great location: The Peninsula Tokyo Best for teens and skyline lovers: Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills Best for big and multigenerational families: The Prince Park Tower Tokyo and Oakwood Premier Tokyo Most fun for Godzilla fans: Hotel Gracery Shinjuku What LA Parents Should Know About Tokyo Hotels Room size is the first thing to check. We've listed square meters for each hotel below; for reference, 40 square meters is about 430 square feet. Also check the maximum occupancy, because many hotels count every child as a guest, and some charge older kids adult rates. Pools are the second big surprise. Several upscale Tokyo hotels restrict children to certain hours, and some are adults-only. We've noted each hotel's pool rules where they're published. Tokyo Disney Resort Hotels 1. Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel Neighborhood: Maihama (Tokyo Disney Resort) Family rooms: Fantasy Chateau rooms 41–48 m², sleep 4; Grand Chateau rooms 70–100 m², sleep 4 Pool: None Best for: Frozen, Tangled, and Peter Pan fans, and multigenerational splurges This is the newest and most magical way to do Tokyo Disney. The hotel connects directly to Fantasy Springs, the Tokyo DisneySea area themed to Frozen, Tangled, and Peter Pan, and guests still need a park ticket to enter. What we love: The biggest rooms of any Disney hotel in Tokyo, a direct gateway into the park, and Happy Entry, which lets hotel guests into the parks early. Hotel guests can also buy park tickets even when they're sold out online, which is a huge perk during Japanese school holidays. Know before you book: It's the most expensive Disney hotel tier, with rates that climb into the hundreds of thousands of yen per night for top rooms, and there's no pool. Parent tip: Book the moment your travel dates open. Fantasy Springs rooms sell out fast, especially around spring break. 2. Tokyo DisneySea Hotel MiraCosta Neighborhood: Inside Tokyo DisneySea Family rooms: 37–43 m² rooms sleep up to 4; Harbor Rooms 60 m² sleep 4 Pool: Terme Venezia (paid) Best for: DisneySea fans and grade-schoolers MiraCosta is built right into Tokyo DisneySea, so some rooms overlook the harbor and its nighttime show. Staying inside the park means mid-day naps are actually possible. What we love: A private hotel entrance into DisneySea, harbor-view rooms, and a pool. Trundle and cruise beds help families fit everyone in. Know before you book: The entry-level Superior room sleeps only three, so families of four should book a Balcony, Patio, or Harbor room. Early park entry is shorter than at Fantasy Springs. Parent tip: A harbor-view room is worth the splurge if your kids are too young to stay out for the evening show. 3. Tokyo Disneyland Hotel Neighborhood: Maihama, steps from Tokyo Disneyland Family rooms: Character rooms 40–71 m², sleep 3–4 Pool: Misty Mountains Pool (paid) Best for: Toddlers and princess fans This Victorian-style hotel sits about a minute's walk from the Tokyo Disneyland entrance, and its character rooms (Tinker Bell, Alice, Beauty and the Beast, and Cinderella) are pure little-kid magic. What we love: The shortest walk to Tokyo Disneyland, character-themed rooms, a pool, and Happy Entry into the park. Know before you book: Getting to Tokyo DisneySea requires the resort monorail, and you're about 30 minutes or more from central Tokyo sights. Parent tip: Split your trip, spending two or three nights at Disney and the rest in central Tokyo, so you're not commuting to Maihama every day. The Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Central Tokyo 4. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi Neighborhood: Otemachi, next to Tokyo Station Family rooms: Standard rooms 49–54 m², sleep 3; connecting rooms and a 162 m² Two-Bedroom Suite Pool: 20-meter indoor pool; kids 15 and under may swim 9 a.m.–6:30 p.m. Best for: Toddlers, young kids, and multigenerational trips If you want a luxury hotel that truly rolls out the welcome mat for kids, this is it. The Four Seasons family program includes a Kids Passport, family pajamas, a kids' tent in suites, free cribs and bottle sterilizers, and babysitting. What we love: Kids under 18 stay free, children 4 and under eat breakfast free, and kids 5 to 12 get 50 percent off. The pool welcomes kids for most of the day, and direct access to Otemachi Station puts the whole city within reach. Haneda Airport is roughly 25 minutes by car. Know before you book: Standard rooms max out at three guests, so families of four will need connecting rooms or a suite. The business district is quiet on weekends. Parent tip: Request connecting rooms when you book, not at check-in. They're limited. 5. The Peninsula Tokyo Neighborhood: Yurakucho, between Marunouchi and Ginza Family rooms: Standard rooms from 51 m², sleep up to 4 including children 11 and under; connecting rooms available Pool: 20-meter pool for ages 4 and up, with set children's hours Best for: Families with kids 4 to 12 The Peninsula has some of the largest standard rooms in central Tokyo, and they sleep up to four when two of the guests are kids 11 and under. It sits across from Hibiya Park and the Imperial Palace gardens, and Ginza is about a five-minute walk. What we love: Space, a walkable location, free cribs, and two kids 11 and under staying free. The Peninsula Tokyo pool welcomes kids 4 and up during children's hours (longer on weekends). Know before you book: There's no formal kids club, and children under 4 can't use the pool. Rollaway beds cost extra. Parent tip: Hibiya Park is right across the street and makes a perfect morning playground stop for early-rising, jet-lagged kids. 6. Andaz Tokyo Toranomon Hills Neighborhood: Toranomon Family rooms: 50 m² rooms on floors 47–52; twin rooms list occupancy of 2–4; suites 125–210 m² Pool: 20-meter pool (ask about children's rules) Best for: Teens and skyline-loving kids The Andaz sits high above Tokyo with views of Tokyo Tower that teens will photograph a hundred times. Rooms are a generous 50 square meters, and the hotel connects to both the Hibiya and Ginza subway lines. What we love: Big rooms, dramatic views, and a cool, design-forward vibe that feels grown-up in the best way for older kids. Know before you book: There's no kids program on the official site, and pool rules for children aren't published. It's better suited to tweens and teens than toddlers. Parent tip: Ask for a Tokyo Tower-view room. It's the view your teens will remember. 7. The Prince Park Tower Tokyo Neighborhood: Shiba Park, next to Tokyo Tower Family rooms: Familia Suites 70 m² for 4, Connecting Rooms 76 m² for 4, and Garden Suites for up to 6 Pool: Pool and onsen are adults-only (20 and up) Best for: Bigger families and multigenerational groups This is the easiest upscale hotel in Tokyo for families of five or six. Purpose-built Familia Suites and connecting rooms mean nobody sleeps on a rollaway, and many rooms face Tokyo Tower. What we love: Built-in family suites, a bowling alley, walking distance to Tokyo Tower and Zojoji Temple, and good value for the upscale tier. Haneda is roughly 20 minutes away. Know before you book: The spa pool and onsen are strictly 20 and older, and the neighboring outdoor pool is summer-only. Parent tip: Walk to Zojoji Temple early in the morning, then head up Tokyo Tower before the crowds. 8. Hilton Tokyo Odaiba Neighborhood: Odaiba waterfront Family rooms: Every room has a balcony; connecting rooms and cribs available Pool: Indoor pool (ask about fees and children's rules) Best for: Grade-schoolers and anime fans Odaiba is Tokyo's waterfront playground, with malls, Rainbow Bridge views, and the life-size Unicorn Gundam statue at DiverCity. Hilton Tokyo Odaiba puts you right in the middle of it. What we love: Balconies with bay views, connecting rooms, childcare options, and easy walks to Aqua City and DiverCity. Know before you book: Odaiba is a train ride from central sights, and the hotel's policy charges kids 6 and up as adults, which adds up for families with older children. Parent tip: Save Odaiba for your last day or two. It's a relaxing, easy area when everyone's energy is running low. 9. Hotel Gracery Shinjuku Neighborhood: Kabukicho, Shinjuku Family rooms: Triple rooms and a 32 m² Godzilla Room Pool: None Best for: Tweens, teens, and Godzilla fans A giant Godzilla head peers over the hotel's terrace, and kids go wild for it. It's a mid-range, fun splurge for a night or two, about five minutes on foot from JR Shinjuku Station's East Exit. What we love: The Godzilla theming, a central train hub, and friendlier prices than the luxury hotels on this list. Know before you book: Rooms are very small, and Kabukicho is Tokyo's nightlife district, which isn't a great walk with young kids after dark. Parent tip: Book one themed night here, then move to a roomier hotel for the rest of your stay. 10. Oakwood Premier Tokyo Neighborhood: Marunouchi, with underground access to Tokyo Station Family rooms: Two-bedroom apartments from 86 m² and three-bedroom apartments at 110 m² Pool: None Best for: Longer stays and larger families Serviced apartments are the secret weapon for families spending a week or more in Tokyo. Oakwood Premier gives you separate bedrooms and apartment-style space right next to Tokyo Station, which makes bullet-train day trips to Kyoto or Mount Fuji effortless. What we love: Real bedrooms with doors, more space than almost any hotel room in the city, and an on-site breakfast lounge. Know before you book: There's no pool, and you'll get fewer hotel-style services than at a luxury hotel. Parent tip: Stock the fridge from a nearby depachika (department-store food hall) for easy breakfasts and snacks. Honorable Mentions Park Hyatt Tokyo reopened in December 2025 after a 19-month renovation, with 55-square-meter rooms and its famous pool on the top floors. It's a stylish choice for families with teens. Sanrio fans should know the Hello Kitty and My Melody themed rooms are at Keio Plaza Hotel Hachioji in Tokyo's western suburbs, not the Shinjuku location. Getting to Tokyo from Los Angeles American, ANA, Delta, JAL, and United fly nonstop from LAX to Tokyo Haneda in about 12 hours, and several airlines also fly nonstop to Narita. Haneda is much closer to central Tokyo, so choose it when you can. U.S. citizens can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days with a passport valid for the entire stay. Check the latest Japan entry information from the U.S. State Department before you travel. Parent Tips for Tokyo with Kids Get kids a Welcome Suica card. JR East's Welcome Suica has a child version; bring your child's passport to buy it at the airport. Know the new tax-free rules. Starting November 1, 2026, Japan is switching to a refund system where you pay tax at checkout and get it back before leaving. JNTO explains the changes. Bring a compact stroller. Stations have elevators, but they can be a long walk from the platform. Plan around jet lag. Book an early-morning activity for the first few days, when everyone wakes up at 4 a.m. Time your trip for the seasons. Cherry blossoms usually bloom in late March to early April, and fall leaves peak in late November to early December. Planning your itinerary? Don't miss our list of 25 unforgettable adventures for families traveling to Tokyo with teens. 📬 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 best family-friendly hotels in Tokyo solve the city's two biggest challenges: tiny rooms and kid-unfriendly pools. For the most magical trip, spend a few nights at Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel or MiraCosta, then move to central Tokyo. The Four Seasons Otemachi has the best kids program, The Peninsula offers big rooms and a great location, and The Prince Park Tower and Oakwood Premier give larger families real space. Book early, check occupancy limits, and get ready for the trip your kids will talk about for years. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is the best family-friendly hotel in Tokyo? The Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi has the strongest kids program in central Tokyo, with family amenities, a pool open to kids most of the day, and free stays for kids under 18. For Disney-focused trips, Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs Hotel is the top pick. 2. Are Tokyo hotel rooms big enough for a family of four? Many standard rooms are small and cap occupancy at two or three guests. Look for hotels with 50-plus-square-meter rooms, connecting rooms, or family suites, like The Peninsula Tokyo, The Prince Park Tower Tokyo, or a serviced apartment such as Oakwood Premier Tokyo. 3. Can kids use hotel pools in Tokyo? It depends on the hotel. The Four Seasons Otemachi and The Peninsula Tokyo allow kids during set hours (The Peninsula requires ages 4 and up), while The Prince Park Tower Tokyo's pool is adults-only. Always check the pool policy before booking. 4. Should families stay at Tokyo Disney Resort or in central Tokyo? Most families do both. Stay two or three nights at a Tokyo Disney Resort hotel for early park entry and easy naps, then move to central Tokyo near a major train station for sightseeing. 5. Do U.S. families need a visa for Japan? No. U.S. citizens can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days with a valid passport for each traveler, including babies. Japan plans a future pre-arrival authorization system, so check current entry rules before your trip.

You booked the sitter. You found the earrings that aren't covered in yogurt. Now comes the hard part: deciding how to spend three precious, kid-free hours in a city with approximately a million options. This guide to the best date night ideas in Los Angeles is written for parents who want to make those hours count, whether that's a Michelin-starred tasting menu, a rooftop cocktail at sunset, a couples massage, or a Friday night at the museum. Every pick below was checked against its official website including the reservation tricks that are the difference between a table and a waitlist. Romantic Restaurants in Los Angeles for a Special Date Night Whether you're celebrating an anniversary or just celebrating that everyone's asleep by 8, these romantic restaurants in Los Angeles are worth the babysitter. Providence 5955 Melrose Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90038 The vibe: Three Michelin stars, seafood-focused tasting menus Price: $375 classic tasting menu; $495 chef's tasting menu Reservations: OpenTable or (323) 460-4170, up to two months ahead For a milestone anniversary, Providence is the gold standard. Chef Michael Cimarusti's seafood tasting menus are an experience from start to finish. Dinner runs Tuesday through Saturday. Insider tip: Cancel at least seven days out or you'll be charged $375 per person, so confirm your sitter before you book. n/naka 3455 Overland Ave Los Angeles, CA 90034 The vibe: Modern kaiseki, one of LA's most coveted reservations Price: $395 per person (plus tax and gratuity) Reservations: Tock, released Sundays at 10 AM for the week one month ahead Chef Niki Nakayama's modern kaiseki is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of dinner. It's open Wednesday through Saturday for dinner only, for parties of two to five. Insider tip: Set a 9:55 AM Sunday alarm and be on Tock the moment reservations release. Tock takes a $100-per-person deposit. Valet is behind the restaurant on Lawler Street. Kato 777 S. Alameda St., Building 1, Suite 114 Los Angeles, CA 90021 The vibe: Taiwanese-influenced tasting menu at ROW DTLA Seatings: 5–8:30 PM; closed Monday and Tuesday Price: Check the reservation page Kato's refined, Taiwanese-inspired tasting menu is one of LA's most exciting dining experiences, served in a sleek space at ROW DTLA. Insider tip: Kato also offers a tasting menu at the bar, which is booked separately and is a great second option when the dining room is full. Mother Wolf 1545 Wilcox Ave Los Angeles, CA 90028 The vibe: Chef Evan Funke's glamorous Roman trattoria Hours: From 5:30 PM (5 PM Saturday); until 11 PM Friday and Saturday Reservations: Resy Mother Wolf is Hollywood glamour on a plate: handmade pastas, a dramatic dining room, and a room full of energy. It's the date night that feels like a night out. Insider tip: Service runs until 11 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, which makes it a perfect post-show dinner after the Pantages nearby. Gwen 6600 Sunset Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90028 The vibe: Curtis Stone's butcher shop and live-fire restaurant Reservations: OpenTable, walk-ins welcome Phone: (323) 946-7500 Gwen pairs Curtis Stone's live-fire cooking with an in-house butcher shop, making for a warm, polished evening in the heart of Hollywood. Insider tip: Ask about the pre-theatre menu and pair it with a show at the Hollywood Pantages. Bestia 2121 E 7th Pl Los Angeles, CA 90021 The vibe: Buzzy Arts District Italian Hours: Daily 5–11 PM Reservations: OpenTable Bestia's industrial-chic dining room and rustic Italian cooking have made it an Arts District icon. The later hours are a gift when bedtime runs long. République Dinner 624 S La Brea Ave Los Angeles, CA 90036 The vibe: French-Californian in a stunning 1929 building Dinner: Tuesday–Friday 5:30–10 PM, Saturday 5–10 PM Reservations: OpenTable By day it's a family-friendly café, and by night République becomes one of the most romantic rooms in LA. Insider tip: Make it a Friday: LACMA is open until 8 PM and is about two miles away, so art then dinner is an easy, elegant plan. Rooftops, Hotel Bars & Couples Spas Perch 448 S. Hill Street Los Angeles, CA 90013 The vibe: French bistro on the 15th floor, rooftop bar on the 16th Happy hour: Monday–Thursday 4–6 PM, Friday 3–6 PM Reservations: OpenTable or (213) 802-1770 Perch is the rare downtown rooftop that feels romantic rather than rowdy, with live music, DJs, and sweeping skyline views. Insider tip: Friday lunch (11:30 AM–3 PM) is a perfect "the kids are at school" date, and happy hour gets you the same view for less. Spire 73 at InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown 900 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90017 The vibe: Open-air rooftop lounge on the 73rd floor Hours: Sunday, Monday, and Thursday 5–11 PM; Friday–Saturday 5 PM–midnight; closed Tuesday and Wednesday Reservations: SevenRooms For a sky-high cocktail, Spire 73 delivers the view. Stay in the tower for dinner at La Boucherie on the 71st floor. Hotel Bel-Air Bar & Lounge 701 Stone Canyon Road Los Angeles, CA 90077 The vibe: Old-world glamour with nightly live music (adults only) Hours: Sunday–Thursday 3–11 PM, Friday–Saturday 3 PM–1 AM Dress code: Smart casual Few places in LA feel as romantic as Hotel Bel-Air, tucked into a canyon with its famous swan lake. The bar's walls display Norman Seeff's celebrity portraits. Insider tip: Start with a cocktail and live music at the bar, then move to dinner at The Restaurant at Hotel Bel-Air (5:30–10 PM, book on SevenRooms). Hotel Casa del Mar 1910 Ocean Way Santa Monica, CA 90405 The vibe: Beachfront elegance in Santa Monica Golden Hour: Lobby Lounge, Sunday–Thursday 3–6 PM Dinner: Terrazza, daily (reservations recommended) Casa del Mar's Lobby Lounge, with its ocean views and live entertainment calendar, is one of the Westside's best places to watch the sun set with your partner. Insider tip: Go for Golden Hour on a weeknight, then stay for Mediterranean dinner at Terrazza. The Peninsula Spa, Beverly Hills 9882 South Santa Monica Boulevard Beverly Hills, CA 90212 The vibe: Rooftop spa for a daytime date Couples treatment: Duet Harmony Couple's Massage (60 minutes), $590 Includes: Spa facilities such as the serenity lounge and Himalayan salt sauna Sometimes the most romantic thing two tired parents can do is lie down in silence. The Duet Harmony is a side-by-side aromatherapy massage in the spa's Harmony Suite. Insider tip: Book it as a school-day date and arrive early to enjoy the salt sauna. Culture Nights: Concerts, Theater & Magic Walt Disney Concert Hall (LA Phil) 111 South Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012 Frank Gehry's masterpiece is date-night magic, and fall 2026 is packed: Kwamé Ryan conducts Mozart and Copland (Oct 2–4), Lang Lang gives a recital (Oct 6), and Ludovico Einaudi performs (Oct 9). Insider tip: Parking under the hall is $10 beginning at 4:30 PM for weekday concerts. Hollywood Pantages Theatre 6233 Hollywood Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90028 Broadway in Hollywood's fall lineup includes The Outsiders (Sept 30–Oct 18), The Who's Tommy (Oct 27–Nov 15), and Elf (Dec 1–13), followed by Disney's The Lion King starting Dec 17. Insider tip: Pair the show with dinner at Gwen or a late bite at Mother Wolf, both in Hollywood. Geffen Playhouse 10886 Le Conte Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90024 This intimate Westwood theater brings Broadway-caliber productions up close. Coming up: Purpose, the 2025 Tony and Pulitzer winner, running Nov 11–Dec 13, 2026 in the Gil Cates Theater. The Magic Castle 7001 Franklin Avenue Hollywood, CA 90028 Access: Members or guests with a member's guest card Evenings: 21+ only, with dinner required ($50 minimum per guest) Dress code: Formal (suits with ties, elegant dresses; no denim or sneakers) An evening at this private magicians' clubhouse is pure old-Hollywood fun: dinner, drinks, and close-up magic in a Gothic mansion above Hollywood. Insider tip: If you don't know a member, the Magic Castle Hotel offers a path to club access for its guests. Check its current terms before booking. Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave Los Angeles, CA 90068 The 2026 season wraps with its final concert on Wednesday, Sept 30, so put the Bowl on your list for next summer. A picnic under the stars here is one of LA's classic date nights. Insider tip: Parking is very limited and stacked. Consider the Park & Ride or Bowl Shuttle, and plan to arrive 90 minutes early. Art, Stars & Movies Under the Sky LACMA on Friday Nights 5905 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036 LACMA stays open until 8 PM on Fridays. Adult admission is $25 for LA County residents and $30 for non-residents, and the new David Geffen Galleries are open. Insider tip: LA County residents get free admission on weekdays after 3 PM with ID. LACMA is closed Wednesdays. The Getty Center on Saturday Evenings 1200 Getty Center Drive Los Angeles, CA 90049 The Getty is open until 9 PM on Saturdays, and admission is free with a timed-entry reservation. Watching the sunset from the Central Garden is one of the most romantic free things to do in LA. Insider tip: Parking drops to $10 after 6 PM, and it's free on Saturdays after 6 PM. Griffith Observatory at Night 2800 East Observatory Road Los Angeles, CA 90027 Free admission, public telescopes, and the entire city glittering below: the Observatory is open until 10 PM Tuesday through Sunday (closed Mondays). Cinespia at Hollywood Forever 6000 Santa Monica Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90038 Blankets, a picnic, and a classic film under the stars. The October 2026 lineup includes Carrie's 50th anniversary (Oct 10), Jennifer's Body (Oct 30), and The Thing (Oct 31); gates open at 5:30 PM and films start at 7:15 PM. Corpse Bride (Oct 3) is already sold out. Unique Date Night Experiences Mariner Sailing Charters Marina del Rey (310) 822-7550 Captain Mack's private sails include a two-hour ocean sail with a harbor tour for $485 (up to six passengers). Bring your own picnic, or ask the crew to help arrange food. Booking is confirmed with full payment and a signed charter agreement. Los Angeles Cooking School Couples Classes 8690 Washington Boulevard Culver City, CA 90232 Cook dinner together without anyone asking for chicken nuggets. The school runs couples date-night classes; check the calendar for upcoming themes and pricing. Parents' Date Night Hacks Try a lunch date. Perch's Friday lunch, a Peninsula spa appointment, or LACMA's free weekday-after-3 PM entry fit neatly into school hours. Book reservations first, then the sitter. Top tables like n/naka and Providence open weeks ahead. Pair dinner with a nearby show. Hollywood (Pantages, Gwen, Mother Wolf) and Mid-City (LACMA, République) make easy combos. Mind the cancellation policies. Some tasting menus charge the full price if you cancel late. Trusted LA Babysitting Services These are paid services; confirm current rates and availability directly. Destination Sitters serves all of LA County with hotel, Airbnb, and in-home care, from $35 per hour for one child (four-hour minimum). Sitters are background-checked, drug-tested, and CPR/First Aid certified, and you'll need to book 24 hours ahead. Babysitters Agency of West Los Angeles has served the Westside and Santa Monica for more than 50 years with licensed, bonded, CPR-trained sitters. Book by phone at (310) 306-5437. Jovie of Santa Monica provides evening babysitters and nannies for Santa Monica and the South Bay beach cities, with background checks, reference checks, and in-person interviews. Looking for more romance? Revisit our date night ideas for busy parents and our guide to LA's most romantic restaurants. 📬 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 best date night ideas in Los Angeles meet you where you are. Some nights call for a splurge like Providence or n/naka. Others are just as memorable at a free Getty sunset, a Friday at LACMA, or a rooftop happy hour at Perch. Book ahead, line up a trusted sitter, and put your phone away (after one quick check that the kids are asleep). You've earned it. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What are the most romantic restaurants in Los Angeles for a special occasion? For a true splurge, Providence (three Michelin stars, from $375 per person) and n/naka ($395 per person) are two of LA's most celebrated tasting menus. For a livelier night, Mother Wolf in Hollywood and Bestia in the Arts District are favorites. 2. What are some free or affordable date night ideas in LA? The Getty Center is free with a timed reservation and open until 9 PM on Saturdays (parking is free after 6 PM that day). Griffith Observatory is free with public telescopes, and LACMA is free on weekdays after 3 PM for LA County residents. 3. How do I get a reservation at n/naka? Reservations open on Tock every Sunday at 10 AM for the corresponding week one month ahead, for parties of two to five. Tock collects a $100 per person deposit. 4. Is the Hollywood Bowl still open for the 2026 season? The 2026 Hollywood Bowl season ends with its final concert on Wednesday, September 30, 2026. Plan a Bowl date for next summer, and use Park & Ride or the Bowl Shuttle when you go. 5. How much does a babysitter cost in Los Angeles for date night? As one example, Destination Sitters lists rates from $35 per hour for one child up to $44 per hour for four, with a four-hour minimum and a higher rate after midnight. Rates vary by agency, so confirm directly.

When LA is stuck in June Gloom or your kids have a three-day weekend in February, Scottsdale is the getaway that almost never disappoints. It's about a 90-minute flight from LAX, the sun is basically guaranteed from fall through spring, and the big resorts here are built around pools the way Hawaii resorts are built around beaches. We're talking sand-beach pools, three-story water slides, lazy rivers, FlowRider surf machines, and kids clubs with tortoises and Lego walls. This guide to the best family resorts in Scottsdale and Phoenix covers what each resort does best, current resort fees (which add up fast in Arizona), and the parent details that make the difference between a relaxing trip and a very expensive nap schedule. Quick Picks: The Best Family Resorts in Scottsdale at a Glance Best overall and best at Christmas: Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Best for toddlers and nature lovers: Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North Best close-to-the-airport luxury: The Phoenician Best freshly renovated pool scene: Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort Best water park: JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge (AquaRidge) and Arizona Grand (Oasis Water Park) Best for teens: The Westin Kierland, thanks to its FlowRider Best for history buffs and grandparents: Arizona Biltmore Heads-Up: Arizona Resort Fees Are Real Almost every major resort in greater Phoenix adds a nightly resort fee on top of the room rate, and most charge for parking too. The fees below come from each resort's own website as of September 2026, but they change, so confirm when you book. On the bright side, some fees include genuinely useful perks, like water-park wristbands for the whole family. The 8 Best Family Resorts in Scottsdale and Phoenix 1. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess Area: North Scottsdale Kids club: Camp Trailblazers (paid; ages and pricing vary by season, so confirm with the resort) Resort fee: $55 plus tax per night; parking extra Best for: Kids 5–12, multigenerational groups, and holiday trips If we had to pick one Scottsdale resort for most LA families, it's the Princess. There are six pools, and two of them are made for kids: Sunset Beach has 9,000 square feet of real white sand, and Sonoran Splash has two 200-foot water slides (42-inch minimum) plus a zero-entry area for little ones. The pools are heated in winter, so a January swim is completely doable. What we love: The sand beach, the slides, and Christmas at the Princess, which runs November 20, 2026, through January 2, 2027, with an ice rink, s'mores, and millions of lights. Overnight guests received free admission last season, so ask whether that perk continues this year. There's even lagoon fishing for kids. Know before you book: The resort fee, paid parking, and a separate charge for Camp Trailblazers stack up. The holiday season also brings big crowds on weekend evenings. Parent tip: Book a mid-week stay during the holiday festival. You get the lights and ice skating with shorter lines than on Saturday night. 2. The Phoenician, a Luxury Collection Resort Area: Camelback corridor, Scottsdale Kids club: Funicians Club (fees and ages not published; some craft time is free) Resort fee: $55 per day Best for: Toddlers through tweens who want a big pool complex close to the airport The Phoenician sits at the base of Camelback Mountain and is one of the closest luxury resorts to Phoenix Sky Harbor, about nine miles away. That short drive is a gift when you're traveling with a toddler. What we love: Two acres of pools with a 197-foot water slide (42-inch minimum), a Kids Zone with a treehouse and splash pad, and an adults-only pool for date-afternoon swims. The Funicians Club has a fish tank, a Lego wall, and a resident tortoise, and there's a 2,100-square-foot game room for rainy (or scorching) afternoons. Families can even book an in-room camping tent. Know before you book: The property is large and tiered, so expect a lot of walking with a stroller. Kids club ages and pricing aren't published online, so call ahead. Parent tip: Teens 14 and up can join a guided Camelback Mountain hike, which makes a great early-morning parent-and-teen outing before the heat kicks in. 3. Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort Area: Gainey Ranch, Scottsdale Kids program: Camp Hyatt seasonal programming Resort fee: $55 per night Best for: Toddlers through tweens and families who want casitas You may remember this resort as the Hyatt Regency Gainey Ranch. It reopened as the Grand Hyatt Scottsdale in November 2024 after a $115 million renovation, so it feels fresh in a way many desert resorts don't. What we love: Two and a half acres of water with 10 pools, a sand beach with zero-entry, a three-story water slide, and a splash pad. For larger families, 18 casitas with kitchenettes and the two-story Gainey House are a smart alternative to connecting rooms. Summer brings Camp Hyatt activities like canoe races, archery, and dive-in movies. Know before you book: Camp Hyatt ages and fees aren't posted online, and the water slide has set hours (it has been open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Parent tip: Summer rates drop dramatically, and the resort ran a "Kids Eat Free" promotion in summer 2026. If you can handle the heat, it's a great-value pool week. 4. Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale at Troon North Area: North Scottsdale, at Pinnacle Peak Kids club: Kids For All Seasons, ages 5–12, complimentary (reservations required) Parking: $30 self, $45 valet Best for: Families with babies, toddlers, and nature lovers This is the quiet, desert-luxury pick. Casitas are scattered across the foothills of Pinnacle Peak, and the vibe is more hiking boots than lazy river. What we love: The complimentary kids club, one of the best baby-gear programs we've seen (cribs, bottle warmers, diapers, and more on request), and a separate shallow kids' pool alongside the main bi-level pool. Both are saltwater and heated year-round. Guided hikes and horseback riding make the Sonoran Desert feel like part of the vacation, not just the view. Know before you book: It's about 35 minutes from the airport and farther from Scottsdale's attractions than other resorts. There's no water slide, so kids who want a water park should look elsewhere. Parent tip: Ask about the Jerome two-bedroom suite with a private spa pool. It's a game changer for families who want nap time without leaving the pool. 5. JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge Resort & Spa Area: North Phoenix Kids program: Children's recreation and a game room (no formal kids club listed) Resort fee: $60 per night, including AquaRidge wristbands for four Best for: Tweens and teens who want a real water park Desert Ridge is the resort for kids who think a vacation isn't a vacation without a lazy river. AquaRidge WaterPark covers 140,000 square feet, with the Canyon Creek lazy river, three slides, and Splash Island for small kids. What we love: The resort fee includes water-park wristbands for four, which takes the sting out. The Musical Instrument Museum is nearby, and there's an adults-only pool for parents who need a break from the splash zone. Know before you book: There's no formal kids club, and the water park keeps limited hours (it has been open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting). The biggest slide requires kids to be 48 inches tall. Parent tip: Arrive at AquaRidge right at opening and grab a shaded spot near Splash Island if you have little ones. 6. The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa Area: Kierland, Scottsdale Kids club: Westin Family Kids Club, ages 4–12 Resort fee: $50 per day Best for: Teens and tweens who want to surf The FlowRider is the headline here. This surf simulator lets kids 42 inches and up bodyboard and older kids (52 inches and up) try stand-up flowboarding. Teens will happily spend an entire afternoon wiping out and trying again. What we love: The Adventure Water Park with a 900-foot lazy river and a 110-foot slide, campfires with s'mores on Friday and Saturday nights, and a shuttle to Kierland Commons for easy dinners and shopping. Know before you book: The resort fee applies, and the water park is part of the resort's pool complex rather than a separate gated attraction, so it can feel busy on holiday weekends. Parent tip: Sign up for FlowRider sessions early in the day. Slots go fast when school is out. 7. Arizona Grand Resort & Spa Area: Phoenix, near the Tempe border Kids club: None listed Resort fee: Yes (includes water-park wristbands and self-parking; confirm the current amount) Best for: Thrill-seeking tweens and teens, and value-minded groups Arizona Grand isn't in Scottsdale and isn't ultra-luxury, but it has the most exciting water park of any resort on this list. The seven-acre Oasis Water Park, now open year-round with seasonal hours, has an eight-story slide tower (48-inch minimum), a wave pool, a side-by-side lazy river, and Wild Cat Springs for little kids. What we love: Every one of the 744 rooms is a suite, which gives families real space, and self-parking is included in the resort fee. South Mountain Park is right next door for sunrise hikes. Know before you book: There's no kids club, and kids under 12 must be with an adult in the water park. It's about a 25-minute drive from Old Town Scottsdale. Parent tip: Split your trip. Spend two nights here for the water park, then two nights at a quieter Scottsdale resort. 8. Arizona Biltmore, LXR Hotels & Resorts Area: Central Phoenix Kids club: Not published Resort fee: $45 per day plus a $14 historic-preservation charge; parking extra Best for: Multigenerational trips and families with older kids The Biltmore is Phoenix history you can swim in. Opened in 1929 and influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright, it's now part of Hilton's LXR collection, and its Paradise Pool has "The Twist," a 65-foot triple water slide styled after Wright's designs. What we love: Seven pools, a kids' splash area, air-conditioned cabanas, history tours for curious kids, and an airport drive of under 20 minutes. Know before you book: Fees add up to about $59 a day before parking, and there's no published kids club. Parent tip: Ask about the resort's history tours and bring the grandparents along. It's a sweet way for three generations to share the trip. Getting to Scottsdale from Los Angeles Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) is about a 90-minute nonstop flight from LAX, and most resorts are 20 to 35 minutes away. Many LA families also drive; plan on roughly six hours on I-10, depending on traffic and stops. When to Go: Weather, Holidays, and Spring Training The best months for families are October through November and February through April, when highs sit in the high 70s to 80s. Summer highs average above 100 degrees from June through September, so pool days need to happen early or late. Christmas brings resort light festivals, and spring training returns with the Cactus League, whose 2027 season opens February 19, 2027. The Giants play at Scottsdale Stadium, and the Diamondbacks and Rockies share Salt River Fields. Family Attractions Worth Leaving the Resort For OdySea Aquarium and Butterfly Wonderland sit side by side on the Arizona Boardwalk. McCormick-Stillman Railroad Park has train rides, a 1950s carousel, and a splash pad. The Musical Instrument Museum lets kids play instruments from around the world. The Desert Botanical Garden is gorgeous during its winter Las Noches de las Luminarias season. Parent Tips for Scottsdale with Kids Budget for fees. Add the resort fee and parking to every nightly rate before you compare resorts. Swim early, nap midday. Even in spring, the afternoon sun is intense. Check slide height minimums. Many slides require 42 or 48 inches, so set expectations with little ones. Reserve kids club and FlowRider spots on day one. Holiday weeks fill quickly. Pack hats, rash guards, and refillable water bottles. Desert air dehydrates kids fast. Looking for a drive-to desert option instead? See our guide to the best family-friendly resorts in Palm Springs and our list of weekend getaways for LA families. 📬 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 best family resorts in Scottsdale are really pool resorts with a desert backdrop, and that's exactly why kids love them. For most families, the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is the all-around winner, especially during Christmas at the Princess. Choose Four Seasons Troon North for babies and nature, The Phoenician for a short airport transfer, and JW Desert Ridge or Arizona Grand for serious water-park days. Go between October and April, budget for resort fees, and you'll have a sunny escape that's only 90 minutes from LAX. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is the best family resort in Scottsdale? The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess is our top overall pick, with a sand-beach pool, two 200-foot water slides, a kids camp, and the Christmas at the Princess festival from November 20, 2026, to January 2, 2027. 2. Which Scottsdale resort has the best water park? JW Marriott Phoenix Desert Ridge has the 140,000-square-foot AquaRidge WaterPark, and Arizona Grand in Phoenix has the seven-acre Oasis Water Park with a wave pool and an eight-story slide tower. The Westin Kierland adds a FlowRider surf simulator. 3. Do Scottsdale resorts charge resort fees? Yes. Most major resorts charge roughly $45 to $60 per night plus tax, and many charge separately for parking. Some fees include extras, like water-park wristbands at JW Desert Ridge. Always confirm current fees when you book. 4. When is the best time to visit Scottsdale with kids? October through November and February through April offer warm, comfortable weather. Summer is extremely hot, though resorts often offer lower rates and kid-focused summer programs. 5. How far is Scottsdale from Los Angeles? It's about a 90-minute nonstop flight from LAX to Phoenix Sky Harbor, plus a 20- to 35-minute drive to most resorts. By car, plan on roughly six hours from Los Angeles.

Some of the best family vacations don't require a passport, a middle seat, or a 5 a.m. wake-up call. Southern and Central California are packed with luxury resorts where kids can explore tide pools in the morning, build sandcastles all afternoon, and roast s'mores by a fire pit at night, and most of them are less than two and a half hours from your driveway. We've rounded up the best family resorts in California within an easy drive of Los Angeles, from Palos Verdes to Coronado to the Santa Ynez Valley. For each one, you'll find the kids club details, how the beach access actually works (some involve stairs, shuttles, or trams), current resort fees where published, and the parent tips that make a long weekend feel like a real getaway. Quick Picks: The Best Family Resorts in California Near LA Closest to LA: Terranea Resort, about 45 minutes away Best tide pools: Montage Laguna Beach Best beach right outside the door: Hotel del Coronado and Rosewood Miramar Beach Best water slides: Omni La Costa Resort & Spa Best nature program: The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara Best clearly priced kids camp and date night: Ojai Valley Inn Best for horse-loving kids: Alisal Ranch The 11 Best Luxury Family Resorts in California 1. Terranea Resort Location: Rancho Palos Verdes (about 45 minutes from central LA) Kids club: Terranea Kids Club, ages 3–12 (potty-trained) Resort fee: $75 per night ($90 for the Lifestyle Collection); valet $75 per night Best for: Toddlers, quick weekends, and multigenerational groups Terranea is the ultimate "we need a vacation but only have two days" resort. It sits on the Palos Verdes Peninsula with ocean views from nearly everywhere, and you can be checked in before the kids finish their car snacks. What we love: The kids club accepts children as young as three, which is younger than most luxury resorts. Casitas with kitchens and optional adjoining bedrooms, villas with private garages, and four oceanfront pools make it easy for big families. Tide-pool walks, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding round out the days, and toddlers can even ride in rented kid-size buggies. Know before you book: Between the resort fee and valet, fees can add $150 or more per night. There's no water slide. Parent tip: Book a casita with a kitchen for longer stays. Breakfast in pajamas beats a restaurant wait with toddlers. 2. Montage Laguna Beach Location: Laguna Beach (about 1 hour 15 minutes) Kids club: Paintbox, ages 5–12 (half and full days) Resort fee: Yes (amount not published); valet $75 per night Best for: Tide-pool explorers ages 5–12 and water-sports teens Montage sits on a bluff above Treasure Island Beach, one of the best tide-pooling spots in Orange County. Kids can spend hours searching for sea anemones, crabs, and sea stars in the marine-life area below the resort. What we love: The tide pools, beach chairs and umbrellas set up for guests, a children's play area at the Mosaic Pool, and stand-up paddleboarding, surfing, and kayaking. Three-bedroom villas give big families plenty of space. Know before you book: The beach is about a four-minute walk down from the resort, and the spa pool is adults-only. Paintbox pricing isn't published, so ask when booking. Parent tip: Check a tide chart before your trip and plan tide pooling around low tide. That's when the best creatures appear. 3. The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel Location: Dana Point (about 1 hour 15 minutes) Kids program: Ritz Kids, ages 5–12, with an Eco-Adventure Center Best for: Kids 5–12 and teens who want to learn to surf Perched above Salt Creek Beach, the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel has one of the most famous surf breaks in Orange County right below it. Ritz Kids leans into science and nature with hikes, animal yoga, crafts, and even squid dissection. What we love: Beach Butlers set up chairs and umbrellas, a surf experience includes transportation, and two heated pools plus a playground keep little ones busy. Rooms were recently redesigned. Know before you book: You'll take a shuttle down to the beach, and the resort fee isn't listed online. Parent tip: Book a surf lesson on your first morning. If your kids love it, you'll have time to go again. 4. Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort & Club Location: Dana Point (about 1 hour 15 minutes) Kids club: Kids' Club with daily lawn games and crafts; weekend Kids' Escape Room by reservation Resort fee: $63 per night; valet $75 per night Best for: Toddlers and multigenerational families Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach spreads across 175 acres, and its private Monarch Bay Beach Club is the highlight. A free tram runs under Pacific Coast Highway about every 15 minutes, and the beach club lends sand toys and offers surf, SUP, and snorkel rentals. What we love: A family pool with a "Sprayground" for little kids, the private beach club, junior golf, and a Kids' Escape Room that tweens love on weekends. Know before you book: The beach requires the tram ride, and connecting rooms aren't guaranteed, so request them early. Parent tip: Take an early tram to the beach club. You'll get the best cabana spots and calmer morning water. 5. Hotel del Coronado Location: Coronado (about 2 hours 15 minutes) Kids club: Ocean Explorers, ages 5–12, with a touch tank Resort fee: $50 per night (includes a historic-preservation contribution) Best for: Every age and multigenerational trips The Del is one of the most iconic beach hotels in the country, and it just finished a six-year revitalization. Its wide, sandy, lifeguarded beach is right outside the door, which is exactly what parents of little ones want. What we love: Easy beach access, pools heated to about 80 to 85 degrees, Ocean Explorers with a marine touch tank, and a range of rooms from historic Victorian rooms to beach cottages and villas with full kitchens. Private childcare is available through a partner service. Know before you book: It's the longest drive of the coastal resorts on this list, and as a famous landmark, it draws plenty of day visitors on weekends. Parent tip: Book a Beach Village cottage or Shore House villa if you want a kitchen and a quieter home base. 6. Omni La Costa Resort & Spa Location: Carlsbad (about 1 hour 45 minutes) Kids program: Kidtopia (ask about ages and pricing) Resort fee: $55 per night Best for: Water-slide lovers ages 4–12 and LEGOLAND trips Omni La Costa is the California resort that kids rank highest, because of Splash Landing. There are eight pools in total, including two 100-foot water slides, a splash pad, and a toddler slide. What we love: The slides, spacious 600-square-foot junior suites with sofa beds, and multi-bedroom villas. A multimillion-dollar renovation wrapped up in spring 2024, and LEGOLAND California is a short drive away. Know before you book: There's no beach on site. The big slides require kids to be 48 inches tall (42 to 47 inches with an approved life vest), and the toddler slide requires 36 inches. The Edge pool is 21 and older. Parent tip: Combine a LEGOLAND day with two pool days here. See our list of weekend getaways for LA families for more ideas. 7. Fairmont Grand Del Mar Location: San Diego (about 2 hours) Kids club: Kids Explorer's Club ($40 per hour, $150 half day, $300 full day) Resort fee: $70 per night; valet $70 overnight Best for: Little ones who love animals and families who want inland luxury This Mediterranean-style estate sits in a quiet canyon rather than on the beach, and it wins kids over with pony rides for ages two to six, archery, and horseback riding. What we love: Published kids club pricing, a sand area at the pool, and kids 5 and under eat free. Know before you book: The beach is a courtesy-car ride away, there's an adults-only pool, and the kids club runs on weekends (daily in summer). Parent tip: Pair a stay here with a morning at the San Diego Zoo or Del Mar's beaches. 8. Rosewood Miramar Beach Location: Montecito (about 1 hour 45 minutes) Kids program: Seasonal Rosewood Explorers programming Resort fee: Not published online Best for: Toddlers and beach-first families Rosewood Miramar is right on the sand in Montecito, and it has a family pool, The Manor Pool, set aside just for families. It's the resort we'd pick for young kids who want to spend every waking minute on the beach. What we love: Direct beach access, a dedicated family pool, private surf lessons, paddleboarding and kayaking, fireside s'mores, and a gelato shop. Beach House suites and garden bungalows give families more room. Know before you book: There's no published drop-off kids club schedule, and rates are among the highest on this list. Parent tip: Walk down the beach at sunset. Montecito's coastline is one of the prettiest in California. 9. The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara Location: Goleta, near Santa Barbara (about 2 hours) Kids club: Ritz Kids, ages 5–12, Friday–Sunday Resort fee: Not published online Best for: Nature-loving kids 5–12 and multigenerational groups Bacara sits on 78 bluff-top acres above Haskell's Beach, and its Ambassadors of the Environment program, created with Jean-Michel Cousteau, takes kids on tide-pool and beach explorations. What we love: The nature programming, two-bedroom suites, free e-bikes, and surf, kayak, and paddleboard outings through a local outfitter. Know before you book: Ritz Kids runs only Friday through Sunday, and the spa pool is adults-only. Parent tip: Plan a Friday-to-Sunday stay so your kids can join Ritz Kids and the Ambassadors of the Environment outings. 10. Ojai Valley Inn Location: Ojai (about 1 hour 45 minutes) Kids club: Camp Oak, ages 4–12 (potty-trained); full day $240, half day $108, Night Camp $180 Resort fee: Not published online Best for: Kids 4–12 and parents who need a date night Ojai Valley Inn trades the ocean for oak trees and mountain views, and it's celebrating its 100th year. Its Camp Oak program has the most transparent pricing of any resort on this list, including a Friday and Saturday Night Camp with dinner, a movie, and campfire s'mores. What we love: Night Camp gives parents a real dinner out, separate "Tranquility" and "Energy" pools let families and quiet-seekers coexist, and an Artist Cottage offers art classes for kids and adults. Know before you book: There's no beach, and day camp mainly runs on weekends, with weekdays by request. Parent tip: Book Camp Oak at least 24 hours ahead, as the resort requires, especially for Night Camp. 11. Alisal Ranch Location: Solvang (about 2 hours 30 minutes) Kids club: Ages 4 and up, $85 per child Fees: 22% ranch fee (partly paid to staff in place of tips) Best for: Horse-loving kids and multigenerational groups Alisal is a 10,500-acre working ranch celebrating 80 years in 2026, and it feels like stepping into a classic family summer camp. Breakfast and dinner are included in the nightly rate, along with lead-around horse rides, boating and fishing on Alisal Lake, bikes, and kids' programs. What we love: The ranch experience, meals included, and kids 6 and under staying free. Solvang's Danish bakeries are minutes away. Know before you book: The 22% ranch fee is added to your rate, and longer trail rides may cost extra, so ask what's included. Parent tip: Combine your stay with a Solvang day trip. Our Solvang Julefest guide is perfect for a December visit. Parent Tips for California Resort Getaways Add fees to every rate before you compare. Resort fees and valet can add $100 to $150 a night. Ask how the beach works. "Beach access" can mean a short walk, stairs, a shuttle, or a tram. Reserve kids club spots when you book. Holiday weekends fill fast. Pack layers. Coastal mornings are cool, even in summer, and ocean water is chilly year-round. Travel midweek when you can. Rates drop and pools are quieter. Leave early to beat traffic. Heading south on the 5 or north on the 101 before 2 p.m. on a Friday can save hours. Want more ideas close to home? Explore our favorite family-friendly resorts in Palm Springs and the top family-friendly resorts in Hawaii for when you're ready to fly. 📬 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 best family resorts in California prove you don't need to fly to take a real vacation. Terranea is the easiest quick escape from LA, Montage Laguna Beach and the Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel shine for tide pools and surf, Hotel del Coronado and Rosewood Miramar put the sand right outside your door, and Omni La Costa wins with water slides. For something different, Ojai Valley Inn and Alisal Ranch trade waves for oak trees and horses. Pick the one that fits your kids' ages, budget for fees, and enjoy a vacation that starts the moment you pull out of the driveway. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is the best family resort in California near Los Angeles? Terranea Resort in Rancho Palos Verdes is the closest luxury family resort to LA, about 45 minutes away, with a kids club for ages 3–12. Hotel del Coronado and Montage Laguna Beach are top picks if you're willing to drive a bit farther. 2. Which California resorts have kids clubs? Terranea, Montage Laguna Beach, The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel, Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach, Hotel del Coronado, Omni La Costa, Fairmont Grand Del Mar, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Ojai Valley Inn, and Alisal Ranch all offer kids programs. Ages, days, and pricing vary, so check with each resort. 3. Which California family resort has water slides? Omni La Costa Resort & Spa in Carlsbad has Splash Landing, with two 100-foot water slides, a splash pad, and a toddler slide. Height minimums apply. 4. Do California resorts charge resort fees? Many do. Published nightly fees include $50 at Hotel del Coronado, $55 at Omni La Costa, $63 at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach, $70 at Fairmont Grand Del Mar, and $75 to $90 at Terranea, plus parking at many resorts. Alisal Ranch adds a 22% ranch fee. 5. Which California resort is best for a multigenerational family trip? Hotel del Coronado, Terranea, and Alisal Ranch are excellent for multigenerational trips thanks to villas, cottages, and kitchens. Alisal also includes breakfast and dinner in its nightly rate, which simplifies group meals.

Cabo might be the easiest "real" vacation an LA family can take. The flight from LAX is about two and a half hours, there's no jet lag, and in winter you trade gray skies for 80-degree sunshine and whales breaching offshore. No wonder so many Westside and Valley families treat it like a second backyard. Here's the catch nobody mentions in the glossy photos: many of the most beautiful beaches in Los Cabos are not safe for swimming. Pick the wrong resort and your kids will be staring at gorgeous waves they can't touch. That's why this guide to the best family resorts in Cabo San Lucas and the wider Los Cabos area starts with the beach, then gets into kids clubs, family suites, all-inclusive value, and the small details that make or break a trip with children. Before You Book: The Swimmable-Beach Rule in Cabo Los Cabos stretches from Cabo San Lucas to San José del Cabo along a 20-mile "Tourist Corridor," then continues up the quieter East Cape. The Pacific side and much of the corridor get strong surf and undertow. Several resorts on this list say so plainly in their own FAQs. The calm-water pockets families look for are Santa María Bay, Chileno Bay, Palmilla Beach, Médano Beach in Cabo San Lucas, and the Sea of Cortez shoreline at Costa Palmas on the East Cape. If your kids are young or just love to splash in the ocean, book a resort on one of those beaches. If your crew is happiest in a pool with a swim-up snack bar, you have far more options. Quick Picks: The Best Family Resorts in Cabo at a Glance Best swimmable beach and water sports: Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas Best for little kids plus an easy airport transfer: One&Only Palmilla Best for snorkeling right off the sand: Montage Los Cabos Best for tweens and teens: Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, and Grand Velas Los Cabos Best all-inclusive with water slides: Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos Best for big multigenerational groups: Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal and Garza Blanca Best value all-inclusive: Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos The 9 Best Family Resorts in Cabo San Lucas and Los Cabos 1. Four Seasons Resort Los Cabos at Costa Palmas Area: East Cape (Costa Palmas) All-inclusive: No Kids club: Roadrunners Kids For All Seasons, ages 4–12, complimentary Best for: Families who want to swim, paddle, and play in calm water all day If the ocean is the reason you're going to Mexico, this is the resort we'd point you to first. Four Seasons describes its shoreline as roughly two miles of calm, swimmable Sea of Cortez beach, which is rare in Los Cabos. Kayaks, paddleboards, Hobie Cats, and a floating water trampoline are all complimentary, and there are seven pools, including a gently sloped family pool and a separate adults-only pool for when grandparents need a quiet hour. What we love: The free kids club (ages 4–12) with a teen hangout that has an arcade, billiards, and beach volleyball, suites with private plunge pools, and a three-bedroom beachfront villa for multigenerational trips. The private marina also makes snorkel and fishing outings easy. Know before you book: The resort is about 45 minutes from the San José del Cabo airport, and it's remote. You won't be popping into town for dinner. Rates are firmly in the ultra-luxury tier. Parent tip: Pack a snorkel mask for each kid. Calm, clear water is the whole point here, and resort rentals add up over a week. 2. One&Only Palmilla Area: Tourist Corridor, near San José del Cabo All-inclusive: No Kids club: KidsOnly, ages 4–11, complimentary Best for: Toddlers, young kids, and families who hate long transfers Palmilla is Cabo's grande dame, and it has one thing many newer resorts can't buy: a protected, swimmable cove. It's about 20 minutes from the airport, which matters more than you'd think when you're landing with a tired four-year-old. What we love: The KidsOnly club is complimentary, the beach is gentle enough for little swimmers, and the private villas give big families room to spread out. The resort has also run a family offer where up to two children under 11 stay and dine free on qualifying stays, so check the current One&Only Palmilla offers before you book. Know before you book: This is top-of-market pricing, and family offers come with conditions like minimum nights and age limits. It's a polished, classic resort rather than a splashy water-slide scene, so teens may want more action. Parent tip: Palmilla's short transfer makes it a smart pick for a Thanksgiving or Presidents' Day long weekend when you only have four nights. 3. Montage Los Cabos Area: Santa María Bay, Tourist Corridor All-inclusive: No Kids club: Paintbox, ages 5–12 (half- and full-day sessions) Best for: Snorkelers and kids ages 5–12 Montage sits right on Santa María Bay, one of the best snorkeling coves in Los Cabos. The resort advertises its beach as swimmable, and on calm days kids can float over tropical fish just steps from their towels. What we love: Snorkeling from the sand is a genuine "wow" moment for school-age kids. There's a family pool, a separate adults-only infinity pool, and residence-style accommodations if you want a kitchen and extra bedrooms. The Paintbox kids club also runs a Children's Night Out, so parents can have a real dinner. Know before you book: Montage charges a resort fee, and kids club pricing isn't published online, so ask when you book. Airport transfers booked through the resort are pricey (the resort lists private transfers at about $215 each way). Parent tip: Snorkel in the morning. The water is usually calmest early, and the cove gets busier with tour boats later in the day. 4. Zadún, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve Area: Puerto Los Cabos, near San José del Cabo All-inclusive: No Kids program: Guardians of Baja, a kids track (ages 5–12) and a youth track (ages 9–16) Best for: Tweens, teens, and multigenerational groups Zadún is the rare luxury resort in Cabo with real programming for older kids. Its Guardians of Baja program focuses on local nature and culture, with a separate youth track for ages 9–16, so your 13-year-old isn't stuck making friendship bracelets with the preschoolers. What we love: Beachfront suites with private pools, a five-bedroom Grand Reserve Villa for extended family, a heated family pool, and a fun in-suite "camping" setup for kids. It's also one of the shorter drives from the airport on this list. Know before you book: The resort's own pages don't promise a swimmable ocean, so plan on pool days and ask about the day's conditions before anyone heads into the waves. As a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, it's priced at the very top of the market. Parent tip: Ask the concierge to book a morning at La Playita or Palmilla Beach if your kids want calm ocean swimming. 5. Grand Velas Los Cabos Area: Tourist Corridor All-inclusive: Yes (taxes and tips included) Kids club: Ages 4–12, open 9 a.m.–11 p.m.; Teens' Club ages 13–18 Best for: Mixed-age siblings and families with teens If you want luxury all-inclusive with zero math, Grand Velas is the one LA parents talk about most. Every suite is over 1,100 square feet with a plunge pool, and tips and taxes are included, so there's no calculating gratuities at every meal. What we love: The kids club runs until 11 p.m. and serves a kids' dinner, and the Teens' Club (ages 13–18) has a DJ booth, karaoke, gaming consoles, and a pool table. The three-level infinity pool has separate family and adults-only levels, plus a dedicated kids' pool. Two-bedroom and duplex family suites make multigenerational trips simple. Know before you book: The resort's own FAQ says the beach in front is not swimmable because of undertow, and it points guests to Chileno Beach about a mile away. Transfers booked through the resort run roughly $170–$440 each way depending on vehicle. Parent tip: Book a morning trip to Chileno Beach for calm-water snorkeling, then come back for pool time and the kids club in the afternoon. 6. Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos Area: San José del Cabo hotel zone All-inclusive: Yes (tips included) Kids club: KidZ Club, ages 4–12, plus a teen lounge Best for: Kids ages 4–12 who want water slides This is the Cabo resort for kids who measure a vacation in water slides. The KidZ Zone has a mini water park with five slides and a toddler splash pool, and there's a teen lounge with billiards. It's also only about 20 minutes from the airport. What we love: The slides, the short transfer, and all-inclusive dining with gratuities included. It's a strong value compared with the ultra-luxury picks on this list while still feeling upscale. Know before you book: It's a large, busy resort, and ocean swimming in this stretch of San José del Cabo is limited by surf. There's also a small environmental tax charged per room, per night, as at many Los Cabos hotels. Parent tip: Claim loungers near the KidZ Zone early on weekends and holidays. It's the busiest corner of the resort. 7. Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Los Cabos Area: Tourist Corridor All-inclusive: Yes (Gourmet Culinary plan, taxes and tips included) Kids club: Ages 4–12, 9 a.m.–5 p.m., complimentary Best for: Big families who want a kitchen and residence-style space Garza Blanca is the pick for families who don't fit in a standard suite. Options range from junior suites to residences with up to four bedrooms and full kitchens, which makes it one of the easiest resorts in Cabo for grandparents, cousins, and a nanny to share. What we love: Residence-size accommodations, a free kids club, six restaurants plus 24-hour room service, and a "Little Luxuries" family program with kids' robes, cribs, and strollers. Babysitting is available for a published hourly rate. Know before you book: The resort's own FAQ says swimming in front of the property isn't recommended, and there's no dedicated teen club or water slides. Parent tip: Use the kitchen for easy breakfasts and snacks. Picky eaters are much easier to manage when you control the fridge. 8. Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal Area: Pedregal, Cabo San Lucas All-inclusive: No Kids club: Tortuguitas (the resort lists ages 4–12 on one page and 5–11 on another, so confirm when booking) Best for: Multigenerational groups and families with older kids You arrive at Pedregal through a private tunnel carved into the mountain, and kids never stop talking about it. It's tucked into the cliffs on the Pacific side, a few minutes from the Cabo San Lucas marina and town. What we love: Enormous accommodations, from beachfront suites to three- and four-bedroom private homes, plus a shallow kids' pool and a kids club with Spanish lessons and cooking classes. Being close to town means easy dinners, glass-bottom boat rides to El Arco, and marina strolls. Know before you book: The Pacific beach here is not swimmable, per the resort's own FAQ, which points guests to Médano Beach about five minutes away by taxi. It's also the longest drive from the airport on this list, about 45 minutes. Parent tip: Book the glass-bottom boat to El Arco and Lover's Beach from the marina. It's a quick, easy outing even for preschoolers. 9. Grand Fiesta Americana Los Cabos All Inclusive Golf & Spa Area: Cabo del Sol, Tourist Corridor All-inclusive: Yes (spa extra) Kids club: Fiesta Kids Club Best for: Families who want all-inclusive space at a lower price point This is our value pick, and it earns its place with family suites. Two- and three-bedroom suites give everyone their own room and bathroom, which is priceless on a week-long trip. Airport transfers have been included on longer direct bookings, so ask about that when you reserve. What we love: Big suites, all-inclusive pricing that's gentler than the luxury resorts above, and golf for the grown-ups. Know before you book: The main beach is not considered swimmable. It's also a step down in polish from the ultra-luxury resorts on this list, and there's no dedicated teen club. Parent tip: Compare the direct-booking rate against warehouse-club travel packages. They often bundle suites and transfers for families. Getting to Cabo from Los Angeles Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) sits near San José del Cabo. Alaska, American, Delta, and United fly nonstop from LAX, and the flight is roughly two and a half hours. Drive times to the resorts range from about 20 minutes (Palmilla, Hyatt Ziva) to about 45 minutes (Four Seasons Costa Palmas, Waldorf Astoria Pedregal). Every traveler, including babies, needs their own passport book to fly to Mexico. A passport card only works for land and sea crossings. If one parent is traveling alone with the kids, the U.S. government recommends carrying a notarized consent letter from the other parent; check the latest Mexico entry requirements from the U.S. State Department before you go. When to Go: Whale Season, Weather, and Hurricanes Whale season in Los Cabos runs roughly December through April, with the best sightings from January through March, according to Visit Los Cabos. That lines up perfectly with winter break, Presidents' Day weekend, and spring break for LAUSD and most private schools. The Eastern Pacific hurricane season runs May 15 through November 30 and is busiest from late summer into early fall. Summer is also hot and humid. For most families, November through May is the sweet spot. Parent Tips for Cabo with Kids Pick the beach first, the resort second. If ocean swimming matters, choose Four Seasons Costa Palmas, One&Only Palmilla, or Montage. Book kids club spots on arrival day. Popular activities and evening sessions fill up during holiday weeks. Pre-book your airport transfer. Resort transfers are pricey, but arranging one ahead avoids the aggressive timeshare pitches inside the airport. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and rash guards. The Baja sun is strong, even in January. Budget for tips at non-all-inclusive resorts. U.S. dollars are widely accepted, but small peso bills are handy. Plan one "off-resort" adventure. A whale-watching cruise or a glass-bottom boat to El Arco is the memory kids bring home. Planning more beach time? See our guides to the best family-friendly resorts in Cancún and the best all-inclusive family resorts in Mexico, plus our tips on how to plan kid-friendly vacations your family will actually love. 📬 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 best family resort in Cabo San Lucas depends on one question: do your kids want to swim in the ocean? If the answer is yes, book Four Seasons Costa Palmas, One&Only Palmilla, or Montage Los Cabos. If pools and kids clubs are the main event, Grand Velas and Hyatt Ziva deliver all-inclusive fun, while Zadún and Waldorf Astoria Pedregal shine for teens and big family groups. Aim for whale season, pre-book your transfer, and Cabo will feel like the easiest international trip your family has ever taken. Frequently Asked Questions 1. What is the best family resort in Cabo San Lucas for young kids? One&Only Palmilla is a top pick for young children because it has a swimmable cove, a complimentary kids club for ages 4–11, and one of the shortest airport transfers in Los Cabos. Four Seasons Costa Palmas is the best choice if you don't mind a longer drive for calm water and free water sports. 2. Which all-inclusive resorts in Cabo are best for families? Grand Velas Los Cabos is the leading luxury all-inclusive for families, with a kids club open until 11 p.m. and a dedicated Teens' Club. Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos is best for kids who want water slides, and Garza Blanca is ideal for big families who need multi-bedroom residences. 3. Can you swim in the ocean in Cabo San Lucas? Only at certain beaches. Many corridor and Pacific-side beaches have dangerous surf and undertow. Calmer, swimmable spots include Santa María Bay, Chileno Beach, Palmilla Beach, Médano Beach, and the Sea of Cortez shoreline at Costa Palmas. Always check local conditions and flags. 4. How long is the flight from Los Angeles to Cabo? Nonstop flights from LAX to Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) take about two and a half hours. Alaska, American, Delta, and United fly the route, and resort transfers take about 20 to 45 minutes. 5. When is the best time to visit Cabo with kids? November through May offers the most comfortable weather, and December through April is whale season, with peak sightings from January through March. Winter break and spring break are ideal, but book resorts and kids club spots early because those weeks sell out.