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3 Days in Los Angeles — Family with Kids

family los-angeles theme-parks beaches hollywood
Length
3 days
Stops
12
3 Days in Los Angeles — Family with Kids
Destination
Dates
Guests 1 room, 1 adults, 0 children
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What this plan covers

This 3-day itinerary is packed with kid-friendly attractions, from thrilling theme parks and iconic Hollywood sights to sandy beaches and interactive museums. Designed for families with children of all ages, it balances excitement with relaxation, ensuring memorable moments for everyone.

Sightseeing 2 Activity 3 Food 1 Viewpoint 1 Nature 2 Shopping 1 Culture 2

Opening hours, prices and routes can change, so check the details before you set off.

Day 1 4 stops · about 6.5 hrs
1

Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre

Sightseeing 1.5 hours

Kids will love searching for their favorite stars and seeing the famous handprints and footprints of movie legends.

Good to know

Arrive in the morning to avoid the biggest crowds and enjoy a more relaxed stroll along this iconic street.

2

Universal Studios Hollywood

Activity Full day

Experience thrilling rides, immersive shows, and the magical Wizarding World of Harry Potter, perfect for all ages.

Good to know

Purchase tickets online in advance to save time and money, and consider arriving before opening to maximize your day.

3

Universal CityWalk

Food 2 hours

A vibrant outdoor promenade offers diverse dining options and entertainment, making it a fun spot for a family dinner after the park.

Good to know

Many restaurants offer kid-friendly menus; check options beforehand to suit your family's preferences.

4

Griffith Observatory

Viewpoint 2 hours

Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city skyline, the Hollywood Sign, and the stars, inspiring wonder in young astronomers.

Good to know

Parking can be challenging; consider taking public transit or a ride-share service, especially during peak evening hours.

Day 2 4 stops · about 7.5 hrs
5

Santa Monica Pier

Activity 2 hours

This iconic pier features an amusement park with rides, arcade games, and an aquarium, providing endless fun for children.

Good to know

Ride the Ferris wheel for great views, and bring cash for some of the smaller games and vendors.

6

Santa Monica Beach

Nature 2 hours

Build sandcastles, splash in the Pacific Ocean, or simply relax on the wide sandy shores, a classic California family experience.

Good to know

Pack sunscreen, towels, and beach toys; lifeguards are on duty during daylight hours.

7

Third Street Promenade (Santa Monica)

Shopping 1.5 hours

Enjoy street performers, unique shops, and outdoor dining in a lively pedestrian-only area, perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Good to know

Keep an eye out for talented buskers and street artists who often entertain crowds with magic, music, and acrobatics.

8

Venice Beach Boardwalk

Sightseeing 2 hours

Experience the unique and eccentric atmosphere with street performers, artists, and the famous Muscle Beach, a vibrant cultural spectacle.

Good to know

This area is best explored on foot; be mindful of crowds and keep an eye on young children.

Day 3 4 stops · about 11.5 hrs
9

California Science Center

Activity Half day

Spark curiosity with interactive exhibits, live demonstrations, and the awe-inspiring Space Shuttle Endeavour, engaging minds of all ages.

Good to know

Admission to the general exhibits is free, but timed reservations are often required for popular attractions like the Space Shuttle Endeavour.

10

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Culture 2.5 hours

Discover fascinating dinosaur skeletons, explore ancient ecosystems, and marvel at precious gems, captivating young paleontologists and explorers.

Good to know

Check the museum's website for current exhibits and any special family programs or workshops.

11

Exposition Park Rose Garden

Nature 1 hour

Take a peaceful break amidst thousands of fragrant roses in a beautiful, sprawling garden, offering a serene contrast to the bustling city.

Good to know

This is a great spot for a picnic or simply to let kids run around a bit in a contained, beautiful space.

12

The Getty Center

Culture Half day

Explore stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and world-class art collections with incredible city views, providing an enriching experience for the whole family.

Good to know

Take the tram up to the center; parking is available for a flat fee, and admission to the museum and gardens is free.

Where to stay

Hotels in Los Angeles

Book direct on our own Los Angeles hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Things to book

Tours and activities in Los Angeles

Guided tours, day trips and tickets to book alongside your stay.

Keep planning

More Los Angeles itineraries

Other ways to spend a few days in Los Angeles, from our own travel research.

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