Six Tips for a Family Trip to Los Angeles

LA can feel huge, but with the right plan you can have a great time with kids without running yourselves ragged 🙂.

This quick guide is made for mobile reading. It sets expectations for Aussie travellers: jet lag, long distances and timing. You’ll get six practical tips that help you decide where to base yourself, how to get around and which high-impact days to book.

Two make-or-break choices matter most: where you stay (Santa Monica vibe or Universal City for shows) and how you move (hire a car or use TAP card days). Pick your adventure: younger kids or older kids, beaches or museums, studio tours or theme parks.

You don’t need to do everything to feel like you’ve truly visited Los Angeles. Read on for compact, real-world tips that save time and keep the mood easy.

Key Takeaways

• Plan around hubs: Santa Monica or Universal City shape your days.
• Decide car days vs public transport (TAP card) before you arrive.
• Prioritise 2–3 big experiences to avoid burnout for the kids.
• Expect jet lag and allow gentle starts to your itinerary.
• Use beaches, Griffith Park views and museums for high-value days.

Why Los Angeles works so well for Aussie families right now

LA pairs headline attractions with plenty of free or cheap options, which is great when you’re planning for kids.

Big-name icons like theme parks and studio tours give you headline moments. Mix those with beach mornings, Griffith Park hikes and free-entry spots such as the California Science Center to keep costs down.

Big-ticket icons mixed with free and low-cost wins

You can balance one big day with several low-cost ones. Plan a theme-park anchor, then add neighbourhood parks, playground stops and a cheap museum arvo.

What “spread out” really means for travel time with kids

Remember: nearby in LA often takes 45–90 minutes once traffic and parking are factored in. That affects how much you can pack into a day.

• Rule of thumb: one anchor attraction per day, plus flexible local things around it.
• Plan energy, not just time — snacks, playground breaks and early finishes help everyone enjoy the visit.

Choose the right base for your family trip los angeles

Where you sleep sets the tone for every day — choose wisely and you’ll save travel stress. Pick a base that fits how you like to spend time: beach-side relaxation or entertainment-centred action.

Beach stay convenience in Santa Monica

Santa Monica is perfect if you want easy beach access, promenades and playground stops. It works well without a car using the Expo (E) line plus local buses.

Younger kids tend to do better here because mornings can be calm and short walks replace long drives.

Staying near Universal Studios for a theme park-heavy plan

For a theme park-focused schedule, base yourself near Universal City to cut commute stress. Being close to Universal Studios means late starts and shorter evenings between rides.

This strategy is ideal for older kids who want more park time and less transit.

How your hotel location changes the whole vibe

Your hotel shifts dinner options, walkability and how often you’ll sit in traffic. Pick Shore Hotel or Regent Santa Monica Beach for beach days.

Consider Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica for no-car convenience, or Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City and The Garland when you want park proximity.

“Base your decision on the top two priorities: beach + museums or theme park + studio days.”

Getting around Los Angeles with kids without losing your cool

A few practical rules will keep navigation easy and mornings gentle with kids. Choose zones for the day and avoid cross-city dashes.

When hiring a car makes the most sense

Hire a car for multi-neighbourhood days, early starts or beaches + Hollywood combos. It saves you time and keeps schedules flexible.

Navigation apps that help you dodge traffic

Use Waze, Apple Maps or Google Maps for live traffic. Keep a spare USB cable in the car so maps don’t die mid-freeway — small fix, big relief.

Using Metro, buses and TAP cards

TAP cards are easy: about US$25 for a 7-day unlimited pass. Kids under 6 ride free. The bus colours matter — LA local orange, express red, Santa Monica blue, Culver City green.

Simple “no-car” day examples

From Santa Monica, take the Expo (E) line plus local buses to Exposition Park (~40 mins) or Museum Row (~1 hour).

From Universal City you can walk to Universal Studios and use the B (Red) line; the Burbank pink route links to Warner Bros.

Most families do best with a hire car for part of the stay, plus a couple of no-car days to breathe.

Parking and driving realities families should know before day one

Expect driving to take longer than the map suggests, especially when you’re juggling kids and gear. Give yourself extra margin so you arrive calm, not rushing.

Build buffer around peak windows

Peak traffic adds real minutes. Aim to leave earlier than your estimate. A 30-minute cushion can save meltdowns over loo stops or snack runs.

Tip: Plan the most important visit early in the day when roads and patience are both kinder.

Budget for parking at major attractions

Parking is a line item. For example, California Science Center parking is commonly around US$15. Treat it like a ticket when you budget your trip.

• Practical tactics: pre-save parking locations in your maps and keep coins or cards ready for meters.
• Cluster nearby museums and parks so you pay once and walk more.
• Arrive early for cheaper spots and calmer queues.

“A calmer day often beats a maxed-out day, especially with kids.”

Money-saving tips for LA attractions that add up fast

Budget leaks in LA often hide in tickets, parking and meals. They stack quicker than you think. Spotting those small costs before you go keeps days fun and low-stress.

Bring membership cards that earn real savings

Pack ASTC, AZA and ACM cards. ASTC can grant free entry to the Natural History Museum and Page Museum. AZA zoo or aquarium memberships often cut LA Zoo fees by half. ACM reciprocity can score half-price entry at select children’s museums. These cards can wipe out museum costs for a family.

Choose the right Go City pass for your pace

All-Inclusive is day-based and suits groups doing heaps in a short time. Note: the All-Inclusive can include Universal Studios when you buy 3+ days — that can swing value fast. Explorer works if you want flexibility; it’s attraction-based and valid over two months.

Compare discounted ticket outlets

Use Undercover Tourist for lower-priced tickets to Disneyland, Universal Studios, Warner Bros and more. Always price-compare before you buy.

Check Groupon for surprise deals

Look at Groupon the week of your visit for last-minute offers — great for filler arvos between bigger things kids want to do.

Tip: Make beach days easy with the right stretch of sand

Beaches vary by vibe and facilities—picking the right one makes the day easier. Choose based on convenience, water temperature and how much gear you want to haul. A calm morning on the right sand sets up a great time for everyone. 😊

Santa Monica Beach and practical facilities near the pier

Santa Monica is spot-on for convenience but it gets busy. Head just north of the pier toward the Annenberg Community Beach House for better facilities and a summer splash pad that helps keep kids entertained.

Will Rogers State Beach sits a little quieter if you want a calmer shore without a long drive.

Malibu stretches for confident swimmers and older kids

For bigger surf and coastal views choose Malibu spots like Zuma, Point Dume or Westward. These beaches warm up slightly and suit boogie boarding and stronger swimmers.

Note: surf can be intense—best for adventurous, older kids and confident swimmers.

Warmer-water alternatives: Long Beach and Orange County day trips

If you want warmer water, plan a Long Beach visit (pair it with the Aquarium of the Pacific) or an Orange County day to Newport Beach and Balboa Island. Both options give you gentler surf and family-friendly bays.

Sunset essentials: layers for chillier evenings

Southern California evenings turn breezy fast. Pack a small checklist:

• Light jacket or sweatshirt
• Towels and a quick-change top
• Snacks and a refillable water bottle
• One nearby treat—ice cream, pier stroll or a playground stop

“One beach + one nearby treat is enough to make a relaxed, memorable day.”

Tip: Build one iconic day around Griffith Park and Hollywood views

Pick one clear day to explore Griffith Park so you get views, fresh air and a Hollywood sign photo without rushing.

Start at Shane’s Inspiration to burn off energy. The inclusive playground suits all abilities and gives kids space to run, climb and reset. 😊

Griffith Observatory for city views and planetarium shows

Head to the Observatory late afternoon for the best light. Bring snacks, plan viewpoint time and book planetarium shows in advance if you want a timed session.

Playgrounds and energy-burners at Shane’s Inspiration

Use the playground as your morning anchor. It’s a clutch parent move — kids get tired out and the rest of the park feels easier.

Planning logistics for a massive, hilly park with multiple entrances

Griffith Park is big and steep. Treat each stop as its own mini-destination; sometimes the fastest route between points is to exit and drive the local roads.

• Simple flow: playground first → Observatory late arvo → easy dinner nearby.
• Expect walking, some hills and great skyline views tied to the shows/movies vibe of the area.

“One well-planned day here gives you big views, playground wins and a genuine Hollywood moment.”

Tip: Add an active nature break with an easy family hike

A short, active hike can be the secret weapon that resets energy and makes evenings calm. 😊

Point Dume — quick coastal views

Point Dume for short coastal views and wildlife spotting

About 1.5 miles round trip, this is a high-reward, low-effort walk. Coastal cliffs and sea air make the walk feel big while the route stays short. You might spot sea lions or shore birds with the kids on lookout points.

Chesebro Canyon for flat trails and spring wildflowers

The Chesebro (Cheeseboro) loop is roughly 2 miles and mostly flat. It’s the easiest option and shines in April when wildflowers appear. It’s ideal for young kids and for a gentle nature hour between museums or attractions.

Eaton Canyon waterfall for older kids who want a reward

Eaton Canyon is ~4 miles return. The waterfall payoff works well for older kids who like a goal. There’s a nature centre at the carpark and Old Town Pasadena is a tidy food stop afterwards — great for refuelling.

“Hiking breaks break up queues, tire kids in a good way and make evenings calmer.”

• Safety micro-checklist: water, hats, comfy shoes, sunscreen, and an early start.
• Keep snacks and a basic first-aid kit handy.

Tip: Go hands-on at the California Science Center and see the Space Shuttle Endeavour

If you want a big “wow” without a big ticket bill, start your day at the California Science Center. It’s one of the best-value museum days for los angeles kids — huge exhibits, hands-on displays and a real spacecraft to gaze at. 😊

What to expect from the Space Shuttle Endeavour experience

Why Endeavour feels special in person

Seeing the space shuttle up close is startling. The scale is real and the engineering details reward curious eyes. Kids often stop and stare — it’s a genuine bucket-list science moment.

Free entry strategy and likely extra costs

Plan for add-ons so nothing surprises you

General admission at the california science center is free. Still, budget for IMAX, VR simulators or special exhibits. Parking is commonly about US$15 and snacks or premium experiences add up.

Make it a full day without extra driving

Walk across the rose garden to the Natural History Museum for a seamless loop. Arrive early, head to the space shuttle endeavour first, then let the rest of the science centre unfold at your pace.

“One big exhibit + a nearby museum makes an easy, high-value day.” — practical travel note

For official visitor info and opening details see California Science Center visitor guide.

Tip: Double up on dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum

If your kids love dinosaurs, the Natural History Museum is a perfect indoor reset. The halls are cinematic, with multiple T‑Rex displays and large-scale skeletons that feel alive to curious eyes.

The dinosaur halls kids love most

Start early and head straight to the main fossil halls. The scale of the skeletons grabs attention quickly and keeps energy high. Let children wander a little; the exhibits are designed to engage and inspire.

Seasonal must-do: the butterfly pavilion in spring

In spring the butterfly pavilion is a surprise highlight. Check dates before you go — it’s a calm, colourful contrast to the roaring dinosaurs and makes for a lovely photo stop.

Saving money with ASTC reciprocity

Admission is commonly about US$15 adult / US$7 child. If you have an ASTC-affiliated card, ask at the desk about reciprocity before paying. It can turn this into a near-free day when paired with nearby science attractions.

• Timing tip: go early → lunch nearby → keep the afternoon flexible.
• Why go: a top natural history stop and one of the best children museums-style experiences in the area.

“One museum day here pairs brilliantly with the Science Center next door for a low-drive, high-value plan.”

Planning note: for tips on introducing young children to big museums see tips for visiting with young kids.

Tip: See Ice Age discoveries at the La Brea Tar Pits and Page Museum

The La Brea area is one of those rare urban spots where prehistoric meets pavement. You can stroll the outdoor dig sites for free and see active excavation slabs right beside city streets.

Quick outdoor loop vs the Page Museum experience

Choose a short, free outdoor loop if you have young kids or short attention spans. It’s an easy 30–45 minute stop with viewing platforms and interpretation signs.

For school-age kids who want depth, the Page Museum offers exhibits, bones and fossils, plus a 3D film called “Titans of the Ice Age.”

What to expect from the live show

The Ice Age Encounters live show is dramatic. It can thrill older children but feel spooky for sensitive young kids. Consider skipping the show if someone is easily startled.

Tickets, savings and pairing ideas

Admission: US$15 adult / US$7 child. If you carry an ASTC card, you may score free entry to the Page Museum — definitely check at the desk.

Pair this stop with a short mid-city drive to museums or a nearby park so the day stays full but relaxed. Even 60–90 minutes here often becomes a standout memory.

“A quick outdoor wander or a deeper museum visit — both show why tar pits are uniquely LA and unforgettable for kids.”

Movie magic days for older kids who love shows and movies

If your kids light up at screen magic, plan one full sparkle day that leans into rides, sets and behind-the-scenes stories. This is where Los Angeles feels cinematic and immediate — real props, film history and loud, fun rides all in one loop.

Universal Studios Hollywood: rides, shows and the backlot tour

Universal Studios is smaller than Orlando but still doable in one solid day. Arrive early and head to Wizarding World of Harry Potter first to avoid long queues.

Prioritise the backlot studio tour — it gives context to the rides and is non‑negotiable for movie fans. Finish at Universal CityWalk for dinner if you want a relaxed evening.

Warner Bros Studio Tour highlights for film and TV fans

The Warner Bros studio tour suits around 8+ year old visitors who can follow longer stories. It features backlot sets, famous props (yes, the Friends couch) and the Harry Potter archives.

Book timed slots and expect guided anecdotes that delight older kids who like inside trivia.

Hollywood Boulevard: Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre handprints

Keep this stop short and photo-focused. The Walk of Fame and handprints are iconic, but crowds can slow you down.

Tip: pick a few stars you know, snap quick photos and move on to avoid overwhelm.

Melrose Avenue murals for teens who want photo ops

Melrose is a low-cost win. Let a 12–16 year old lead a DIY mural walk — fast, colourful and great for social photos.

It’s an easy add-on between studio visits or a gentle finale after a big theme park day.

“One sparkle day of studios, sets and murals can turn interest in shows into a proper LA moment.”

Low-effort afternoons that still feel like LA

Let one gentle arvo be a highlight: easy movement, fresh air and iconic scenes without a full schedule. These are the sorts of things that become the lovely, unexpected memories.

Biking from Santa Monica to Venice Beach along the promenade

Biking Santa Monica to Venice is an easy ~3‑mile ride along the boardwalk. It’s flat, scenic and stops are simple when you want a break.

Win-win: kids burn energy, you get coastline views, and it’s simple to pop into cafés or playgrounds.

Venice Beach people-watching and skate park energy

Venice is high-energy: skate park tricks, buskers and colourful murals. It’s brilliant for people-watching but it can be busy.

Watch little ones closely in crowds and choose a quieter stretch if you want calmer sights.

South Bay favourites: Manhattan Beach and Hermosa for a local vibe

For a more local arvo, head to Manhattan Beach or Hermosa. Fewer tourists, relaxed cafes and a true beach-town feel.

These spots are perfect when you need a simpler, slower end to the day.

• Bike hire, sunscreen and refillable water are essentials.
• Plan an early finish if younger kids need bedtimes.
• Allow one low-key afternoon — it often turns into a great time.

“Not every day needs tickets and queues; sometimes the best LA moments are the simplest ones.”

Kid-friendly shopping and easy meals between big attractions

When energy dips between big attractions, shopping hubs can be your best low‑stress rescue. They fix hunger, toilets and bored kids quickly so you can enjoy the next stop. 😊

The Grove + The Original Farmers Market: a flexible feed and quick wins

The Grove offers music‑synchronised fountain shows at the top of each hour — a short, free spectacle that kids love.

Next door, The Original Farmers Market gives you food-court style choices so everyone picks what they want. It’s a classic reset between museums or park days.

There’s a little green space nearby for quick wriggles and the free trolley runs from 1pm (board near Gap) — a mini attraction that turns a lunch stop into a memory.

Fountain shows, green space and the free trolley ride

Quick checklist:

• Fountain shows — on the hour, short and musical.
• Free trolley — boards near Gap from 1pm, always a hit with kids.
• Green space — ideal for running off energy after a museum visit.

Westfield Century City: comfort, kid stores and calm dining

Pick Westfield Century City when you need reliable comfort. Two family lounges let you change, feed and rest with privacy.

The mall hosts kid-focused shops like American Girl and a “Camp” program for short activities. Dining options (Eataly, Din Tai Fung) cover picky eaters and adventurous palates alike.

“These predictable stops have worked for visitors for years ago — simple, calm and practical when elsewhere gets busy.”

Pro tip: Use shopping hubs strategically — they solve small logistic problems fast and often save the day after long drives or children museums visits. For more kid-focused ideas, see this best things to do with kids.

Quick itinerary building blocks for first time visits

Start by grouping must-sees into simple blocks so you can stop researching and start booking. Pick one anchor for each day, add a nearby low-effort stop and finish with an easy meal.

Best one-day plan if you’re short on time

Choose a single zone. Example: Exposition Park day — California Science Center + Natural History Museum. Spend the morning at the shuttle, lunch at the museum cafe and a relaxed park walk in the afternoon.

Best two-to-three day mix: younger kids vs older kids

Younger kids: Santa Monica morning beach, playground lunch, Exposition Park afternoon. Keep travel short and naps possible.

Older kids: Theme park day (Universal) + studio tour day, then Griffith Observatory for late-afternoon views.

How to slot in a San Diego or Orange County side trip

Orange County works as a straightforward day: Newport / Balboa for warmer water and calm bays. It’s a near, full‑day beach option.

San Diego earns the longer drive when you have extra days — La Jolla and warmer swimming are the draw. If you only have a single day, skip it and save San Diego for next time.

Build one “floating” half-day in every plan for naps, laundry or an unexpected favourite — LA rewards flexibility.

Conclusion

Conclusion

End with a simple promise: sensible planning makes visiting Los angeles with kids feel relaxed and fun. Pick your base, decide car days versus TAP-card days, and budget for parking and peak windows.

Do this first: choose the right base, plan transport, and save with museum reciprocity or attraction passes.

Quick checklist to screenshot: beaches; Griffith Park/Observatory day; an easy hike; California Science Center + Endeavour; Natural History Museum dinosaurs; La Brea Tar Pits Ice Age wow.

Combine one major anchor with a flexible low-effort add-on and you’ll have a great time without rushing. Which zone are you basing yourself in — Santa Monica or near Universal?

For help choosing where to stay, see where to stay in Los Angeles.