10+ things to do in LA when it rains

If you choose Los Angeles as your family vacation destination, chances are you're picturing yourself basking in the abundant California sunshine. And chances are you will be — but for those few days per year that contribute to Los Angeles' 15-inch average rainfall, here's a list of fun and exciting indoor activities and things to do in LA when it rains.

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
Rain over Los Angeles, CA

Then, as the time of your trip gets closer, check the weather forecast — if you see a chance of bad weather, you'll already know what to do in LA when it rains:

  • Madame Tussauds Hollywood
  • California Science Center & IMAX Movie
  • K1 Speed Indoor Karting
  • Natural History Museum
  • Hollywood Museum
  • and many more!

Planning to visit lots of Los Angeles attractions? With Go City® you won't miss a thing, plus with a pass you can save up to 50% compared to buying individual entry to everything you want to do - winning!

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Madame Tussauds Hollywood

One of the top things to do on a rainy day is to get up close to Hollywood's top stars at Madame Tussauds Hollywood. The life-like wax figures you'll find at the museum are so real-looking that you can easily fool your friends back home with pictures of you and your favorite celebrity standing side by side. The 100+ wax figures span a variety of interests and time periods, so adults and kids alike will be entertained. So whether it's Harry Styles, James Dean, or Beyoncé you swoon over, make sure to bring your camera!

👉Don't miss: the newest figures immortalized in wax, and the non-waxwork experiences.

🎟️ Getting in: Admission to Madame Tussauds Hollywood is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

California Science Center & IMAX Movie

The California Science Center is a great idea for things to do indoors on a rainy day. The Science Center features exciting science exhibits that will engage visitors of all ages. Experience a simulated earthquake or volcano, climb a rock wall, or play a game of virtual volleyball. At the Science Center, adventure takes place right indoors.

To make the most of your trip, catch an IMAX movie at the Center's state-of-the-art theater featuring a 7-story tall screen. With a variety of films to choose from, you'll find something entertaining for the whole family.

 

Aquarium of the Pacific

Head down to Long Beach and explore the majestic wildlife of the seas from indoors at the Aquarium of the Pacific. You'll have access to 19 different habitats, with over 100 exhibits, where you can view 12,000 aquatic creatures! There's something for everyone here.

You'll delight in seeing the playful sea otters and learning about conservation efforts to keep their natural habitats alive. You’ll also come face-to-face with, and even touch, the ocean’s ultimate predators in Shark Lagoon; you can hand-feed colorful lorikeet birds, and watch the Magellanic Penguins play.

👉Don't miss: the immersive Honda Pacific Visions Theater experience, where you'll enjoy two films with multi-sensory effects played on a 180-degree curved screen.

🎟️Getting in: Admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific is available on all Los Angeles Passes - but you'll need to book in advance.

 

Natural History Museum

Visit the first museum in Los Angeles, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. It's the authority on exploring the 'big picture' of the planet of the natural and cultural world. This museum has amassed one of the world's most extensive and valuable collections of natural and cultural relics that date back 4.5 billion years. You'll see dinosaur skeletons and mammal fossils, rare gems and minerals, intricate habitat dioramas, and ancient Latin American archaeological treasures.

🎟️Getting in: Admission to the Natural History Museum is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

GRAMMY Museum®

Love music? Leave LA on a high note and visit the GRAMMY Museum®'s impressive collection of artifacts, exhibits, films, and more, in the museum's interactive permanent and traveling exhibits. Pay tribute to legendary artists such as John Lennon, Barbra Streisand, Roy Orbison, Bob Marley, and more. The special exhibits will inspire a new-found appreciation for the music-making process, and for the talent and precision it takes to produce award-winning music.

👉Don't miss: the special exhibits which change from year to year

🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

Hollywood Museum

See a hundred years of Hollywood history from your favorite films and TV shows at the Hollywood Museum. You'll explore the most extensive collection of Hollywood memorabilia in the world, boasting over 10,000 authentic show business artifacts. See Rocky's boxing gloves, Marilyn Monroe's iconic dresses, Indiana Jones' whip, Cary Grant's Rolls-Royce, and much more! It's the perfect indoor activity for a film lover, and it's a must-see when you come to Hollywood.

🎟️Getting in: Admission to the Hollywood Museum is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

Studio Tours

One of the best things to do in Hollywood is to visit to a real working studio!

Places like Universal and Warner Bros. offer exciting, behind-the-scenes looks at the way Hollywood works. You'll enjoy tours through back lots, across sound stages, around prop rooms, and through wardrobing. Get a real chance to see where (and how!) movie magic is made with a tour through the amazing studios.

If the rainy day clears up, take advantage of the theme park of Universal Studios Hollywood, which offers some delightful outdoor fun, too. Keep in mind that some portions of these studio tours will involve being outdoors, so be sure to plan accordingly with your gear.

🎟️ Getting in: One-time admission to Universal Studios is only available on the Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass. Admission to Warner Bros. is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

Dolby Theatre® Guided Tour

Get VIP access to the home of the Academy Awards® Ceremony with a guided tour of the Dolby Theatre®. You'll see areas of the theater not seen on TV, and get a behind-the-scenes look at where events such as the American Idol finals, the AFI Awards, the Daytime Emmys, and Victoria's Secret Fashion Show take place.

👉Don't miss: seeing an Oscar® statuette, visiting the Dolby Lounge, and viewing the images from previous Academy Awards ceremonies.

🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Los Angeles Passes -  book in advance.

 

Autry Museum of the American West

Regarded as one of Los Angeles’s premier cultural institutions, the Autry Museum of the American West features art, artifacts, and special exhibitions that focus on the history of American West. The Autry is known for its dedication to educating visitors. Enjoy a selection of informative tours, special events, and family activities. There are film screenings, lectures, workshops, and more.

🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

Get in some retail therapy

We’re firm believers that you don’t need an excuse to shop. Even so, a rainy day is the perfect reason to dip into your souvenir funds. Los Angeles is one of the best shopping destinations and home to a variety of stores that cater to every price point. Stroll around the shops (and be ready to splurge) on the famous and iconic Rodeo Drive, and find a variety of luxury boutique shopping along Melrose Avenue.

Catch a movie at a luxury theater

Take shelter from the rain with oversized popcorn, a blockbuster hit, and a luxury experience. Lots of movie theaters in the Los Angeles area now focus on offering a luxury movie viewing experience. It's a fun and relaxing way to wait out the weather.

Check out the newer iPic movie theaters for the ultimate luxury experience, or book a lounge experience at Landmark Theatres. You could also head to AMC DINE-IN Marina 6 for a classic dinner and a movie combination, right from the comfort of your oversized seat.

🎟️ Getting in: Admission isn't included with the Los Angeles Pass, so check with each theater for show times and prices.

 

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Katie Sagal
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The Ultimate LA Father’s Day Adventure Guide

Father’s Day is around the corner, and this year, why not give Dad something he’ll actually remember? Forget the socks and novelty ties—Los Angeles is bursting with ways to show your appreciation. Whether he’s into classic cars, blockbuster movies, sandy beaches, or culinary adventures, LA has Dad-sized experiences that go way beyond your average brunch. We’re talking science, history, laughter, and thrills—moments that’ll have Dad smiling long after the day is done. So grab your planner (and maybe some sunscreen), and let’s design the ultimate Father’s Day filled with adventure, great eats, and plenty of family bonding time.  Our favorite Father’s Day things to do in Los Angeles:  Battleship IOWA Museum  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood  Grammy Museum  Knott's Berry Farm  Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Heal the Bay Aquarium  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  Mariners Café and Bar at Fisherman’s Village  Griffith Observatory Tour  Classic LA steakhouse: The Smoke House in Burbank  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood: Dad Meets Movie Magic  Got a film buff in the family? Treat Dad to the ultimate behind-the-scenes experience at Warner Bros. Studio. The iconic backlots, the Batmobiles, and sound stages—this tour is like getting the golden ticket to movie magic. Your guide whisks you past rows of famous facades, sneaks you onto working sets, and pulls back the curtain on some of TV and film’s most beloved productions.  It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia, Hollywood glitz, and hands-on fun. Pose with a Sorting Hat or the actual Friends couch, marvel at Batman’s collection of jaw-dropping vehicles, and wander through Harry Potter props and costumes. The vibe is laid-back yet thrilling — you never know what surprise set you’ll visit or which star might zip by on a golf cart (hey, it happens!).  We love how the tour strikes the balance between guided storytelling and letting you explore. The guides love fielding questions (no query too geeky), and everyone walks away with new trivia tidbits. For the dad who's always quoting movie lines or debating superhero casting, this is pure gold.  Grammy Museum: Dad’s Soundtrack, Live and Up Close  Think of the Grammy Museum as a love letter to music in every form. For the dad whose vinyl collection takes up half the garage (or who simply hums along to everything), this downtown LA gem is a can't-miss. Spread across four floors, it’s a hands-on deep-dive into the making, meaning, and milestones of every genre, from jazz and hip-hop to rock and country.  There’s so much to check out. Step into replicated recording booths, gawk at sparkly stage costumes, and get hands-on with mixing boards. The highlight? The interactive exhibits—jam on drums, try your hand at producing, or belt out a power ballad in a soundproof mini-studio. You might just discover Dad’s karaoke alter ego.  The space is sleek and modern, but the stories are pure nostalgia: iconic performances, Grammy moments, and artifacts that will remind Dad of his favorite concert memories. Whether you do a deep-dive on one genre or wander the whole space, you’ll leave humming, swapping stories, and ready to make your next road trip playlist right then and there.  Knott's Berry Farm: Thrills, Chills, and Famous Fried Chicken  Theme park, wild west history, and berry pie—Knott’s Berry Farm is a triple threat for Father’s Day fun. This sprawling destination in Buena Park combines adrenaline-pumping rides with old-timey Americana and some of California’s most delicious comfort food.  Coasters like Silver Bullet will get your heart racing, but there’s plenty for every speed: log rides, carnival games, and Camp Snoopy for younger adventurers. Wander through Ghost Town and pan for gold, spar with cowboys in staged street showdowns, or just soak up the kitschy charm at every turn. The crowds feel more local and relaxed than some other parks, so your crew can take it easy and savor every ride, funnel cake, and photo op.  No trip to Knott’s is complete without their legendary fried chicken dinner at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant. The crispy, juicy chicken is world-famous, and the boysenberry pie (secret recipe, of course) has inspired generations of family dinners and happy bellies. If Dad loves a comfort-food splurge, this is where you’ll win major brownie points.  Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes: See LA In Style  Ready to get moving and see LA’s most storied neighborhoods? Grab a couple of e-bikes and let a guide whirl you around Beverly Hills’ star-studded streets. This two-wheeled adventure is a classic for a reason: you’ll pedal (or coast) under palm trees, past palatial mansions, and through legendary shopping districts like Rodeo Drive.  The best part? Local guides peel back the curtain with awesome trivia—anything from celebrity architecture to behind-the-scenes Hollywood lore. There’s plenty to gawk at, but you’ll always have time for photos thanks to frequent stops. The pace is relaxed, designed for sightseeing not sweating, with the option to cruise on an e-bike for an extra boost.  If Dad always wanted to see how the other half lives, or simply loves fresh air and easy banter, this tour mixes classic LA glam with a genuinely fun, active experience. Don’t forget to treat yourselves to a milkshake or cold brew at one of the small cafés you’ll pass along the way—a reward for all your pedaling.  California Science Center IMAX Movie: Big Science and Big Thrills  Calling all science-loving dads! The California Science Center in Exposition Park makes learning an adventure, and the IMAX Theatre takes it into another dimension. With a five-story-tall screen and state-of-the-art sound, you’re right in the middle of everything—from deep space to the ocean’s depths. The films change seasonally, often featuring dazzling nature documentaries or thrilling journeys through space.  Pair a show with a whirl through the Science Center itself—home to the space shuttle Endeavour, robot zones, and hands-on experiments for every age and curiosity. The place buzzes with excitement, discovery, and, yes, a few “whoa, check this out!” moments from both grown-ups and kids. The gift shop is prime for clever souvenirs, if Dad collects quirky mugs or sciencey T-shirts.  This is the spot where the whole family can geek out together, and the sheer scale of the IMAX experience makes even familiar stories feel fresh and magical.  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking: Beachy Bliss  Looking for the classic LA beach day, but with a twist? Sign up for this scenic guided ride from Santa Monica to Venice Beach. Wide ocean views, endless bike paths, and pure California sunshine set the stage for a tour that’s both laid-back and packed with people-watching entertainment.  Your guide leads the way, pointing out Muscle Beach, quirky murals, skate parks and the vibrant Venice Boardwalk community. Each stop unveils another layer of this famous coastline, from boho surfer culture to sleek modernist architecture. Most tours include a few fun facts, photo stops, and recommendations for where to grab the best iced coffee or beach fries for refueling.  For dads who love to be active but want to keep it chill, the pace is just right—enough to work up an appetite but easy for all fitness levels. Bring your camera for quintessential LA snapshots: palm trees, lifeguard towers and (if you time it right) unforgettable sunsets.  Mariners Café and Bar at Fisherman’s Village: Lunch with a View  After the morning’s explorations, treat Dad to a chilled-out lunch and killer marina views at Mariners Café and Bar in Fisherman’s Village, Marina del Rey. This breezy, waterside spot blends classic SoCal seafood (think fish tacos and clam chowder bread bowls) with burgers, flatbreads, and a refreshing drinks menu.  What stands out is the relaxed, sun-soaked atmosphere. Colorful boats bobbing in the marina, patio tables perfect for people-watching, live music drifting over from nearby stage performances—Mariners lets you slow down and soak in the California vibe. Their loaded nachos and classic shrimp cocktail are standouts, ideal with a cold beer or watermelon margarita. The kids’ menu is solid, and the servers are always ready with a local’s tip for your next adventure.  After the meal, stroll the waterfront, pop into quirky souvenir shops, or hop on a harbor cruise—routes regularly include sea lion sightings!  Griffith Observatory Tour: Reach for the Stars, Literally  Elevate your Father’s Day with a trip high above LA at the Griffith Observatory. Perched on the slopes of Mount Hollywood, this classic landmark feels like a cross between a science temple and art deco palace. You’ll score panoramic city views—downtown, Hollywood Sign, even the ocean on a clear day—as well as a chance to peer through world-class telescopes.  Knowledgeable volunteers lead public tours (check schedules), and the hands-on displays make everything from moon landings to black holes engaging and accessible. Swing into a planetarium show for immersive journeys through the galaxy, or channel your father-son/daughter competitive streak by seeing who can spot Jupiter’s moons through the public scopes first.  As dusk falls, the whole place sparkles with an old-Hollywood vibe—think Rebel Without a Cause meets outer space. Bring a picnic (or grab a snack at the café), and toast to Dad under the stars.  Classic LA Steakhouse: Dine at The Smoke House in Burbank  No Father’s Day is complete without a hearty meal, and The Smoke House in Burbank delivers. This old-school steak spot has been serving up prime rib, massive steaks, and their legendary garlic bread since the days when movie stars smoked cigars in the red-leather booths.  Step inside and it’s pure Hollywood nostalgia—dim lighting, classic tunes playing, movie memorabilia on every wall. Despite its fame (it’s a locals’ favorite for both birthdays and “I just got a raise” dinners), the vibe stays warm, inclusive, and celebratory, packed with families tipping their hats and servers who know every regular’s usual order.  Order Dad the prime rib or the New York strip, and don’t forget the signature garlic cheese bread—one bite and you’ll understand why everyone raves about it. Old-fashioned cocktails (Manhattans and whiskey sours are house specialties) complete the experience. The portions are generous, the laughter even more so, and it’s the kind of dinner that feels like a celebration.    With so much to see, do and savor, Father’s Day in Los Angeles is a surefire win—no matter what Dad is into. From oceanfront bike rides to star-studded studio tours, and from classic battleships to sizzling steaks, you’ll find unforgettable ways to treat the guy who deserves the best. So set out together, snap a ton of photos, collect new stories, and remind Dad that LA really is the city of dreams—especially on his day.    Looking for more L.A. inspo? Find free things to do near the Richard Nixon Library, and the best gratis attractions around Knott’s Berry Farm.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®      We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 
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Three Days in LA: Sun, Stars and Seriously Good Eats

See the best of LA in three sun-drenched, star-studded days!
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Make Memories in LA: Family Experiences to Try

Sunshine, palm trees, and a whole lot of excitement—Los Angeles delivers the kind of family vacation that doesn’t just fill your camera roll but fuels stories for years. Whether you’re traveling with tiny tots, teens who crave adventure, or grandparents with a love for Hollywood nostalgia, LA has a knack for bringing generations together. Want to touch a moon rock, spot dolphins at sea, whiz down rollercoasters, and chow down on the best tacos you’ve ever tasted—all in one trip? In LA, it’s not wishful thinking. We’ve pulled together our absolute favorite family experiences, from mind-blowing museums and behind-the-scenes tours to sandy beaches and wild animal encounters. Read on for our handpicked family adventures that promise fun, learning, and fantastic stories for everyone.  Our top things to do as a family in Los Angeles include:  Aquarium of the Pacific  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood  Natural History Museum  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Universal Studios  Griffith Observatory Tour  Knott’s Berry Farm  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Santa Monica Beach and Pier  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood: Walk in the Footsteps of Movie Magic  You can’t visit LA without feeling that spark of Hollywood excitement, and Warner Bros. Studio Tour is where families get to peek behind the velvet curtain. The air practically sizzles with anticipation as you walk past iconic sound stages and sets where stories are born.  This isn’t just any studio—it’s the real deal, where superhero blockbusters, classic sitcoms, and Harry Potter’s magical world come to life. Guides keep things engaging for all ages, mixing film trivia with hands-on moments: ever wanted to sit on the actual Central Perk couch from Friends or hold a real–live Oscar? You can. Budding filmmakers will love seeing sets, props, and costumes up close. One moment you’re learning how special effects make Quidditch a reality, the next you’re gazing at Batmobiles from every era.  The interactive soundstage experience lets your family try their hand at movie magic—from Harry Potter wand waving (yes, it’s every bit as fun as it sounds) to creating your own superhero scenes in the DC Universe. There’s a contagious sense of wow for parents, kids, and even the hardest-to-impress teens.  Studio tours rotate sets and showcase new features, so every visit offers a slightly different adventure. Top tip: Save time for the Central Perk Café on-site. The décor channels ’90s sitcom nostalgia, and you can sip a latte under the watchful gaze of a classic orange couch. It’s a great place to fuel up—and relive the highlights of your Hollywood day.  Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs, Gems, and Dazzling Discovery  There are plenty of museums in Los Angeles, but if your family is hoping for that wide-eyed, “wow” moment, look no further than the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park. Step through the doors, and curiosity takes over—giant dinosaur skeletons tower above you, sparkling gemstones glimmer under lights, and immersive exhibits turn science into hands-on fun.  The dinosaur halls steal the show. Head straight for the T. rex trio—one of only a handful of places where you’ll see baby, teenage, and adult skeletons together. With creative lighting and interactive panels, you’ll learn fascinating prehistoric facts without ever cracking a textbook. There’s always a sense of wonder as kids compare their own footprints to giant fossilized dinosaur tracks right beneath their feet.  Don’t miss the stunning Gem and Mineral Hall (imagine a cathedral of crystals!) or the insect zoo, where you can meet real-life tarantulas and honeybees. The Nature Gardens just outside are perfect for a family break—you can ramble along winding paths or try a scavenger hunt among native California plants and pollinators.  With its balance of discovery and play, the Natural History Museum brings generations together. Even parents rediscover their inner child here. Leave plenty of time (and phone memory) for family selfies with those awe-inspiring fossils. It’s science, but with a dazzling, heart-pounding twist.  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales: Ocean Adventures  You haven’t truly experienced Southern California until you’ve set sail along its sparkling coastlines—and a Newport Whales tour is the family-friendly way to do it. Kids and parents alike feel the wind in their hair as the catamaran cruises into open water, eyes peeled for the next grand splash or playful leap.  Each trip is part adventure, part science lesson. Naturalist guides help spot everything from gray whales gliding gracefully past to pods of dolphins that seem to race the boat itself. You might even glimpse seals, porpoises, or an occasional sunfish. The atmosphere isn’t just about sightseeing—your hosts are experts at mixing education and fun, answering every “what’s that?” and “why do whales spout?” with fascinating stories and animal facts.  Bring layers, binoculars, and a camera—every tour brings different surprises. If you’ve got a budding marine biologist in the family, they’ll love learning about migration patterns and conservation efforts from the crew. But even the youngest travelers delight at the simple thrill of spotting a dolphin or getting gently misted by a whale’s spout.  After the boat ride, you can stroll along Newport Beach’s classic boardwalk, grab a scoop of hand-dipped ice cream, or burn off energy in the sand. It’s the kind of adventure that turns a family trip into a memory-making event—full of laughter, fresh air, and stories to tell for years.  Universal Studios: Movie-Themed Thrills for Every Generation  If everyone in your group has a different LA must-see, Universal Studios is your all-in-one crowd-pleaser. This theme park brings Hollywood dreams to life, blending high-energy rides, live shows, and the legendary Studio Tour that puts you right in the heart of blockbuster action.  Wander through themed “lands” as your family dodges dinosaurs in Jurassic World, shrinks down to minion-size in Super Silly Fun Land, or enters the spellbinding world of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, complete with butterbeer and wand-waving lessons in Hogsmeade. Rides mix heart-pounding 3D effects with immersive set design, ensuring just the right level of “wow” for every age.  The Studio Tour is the can't-miss highlight—see real film sets, watch special effects demonstrations, and get a taste of old-school Hollywood glamour with a dash of modern movie magic. Younger kids have plenty of meet-and-greets with costumed characters, while tweens and up will love the adrenaline-fueled rides and behind-the-scenes glimpses.  Eats inside the park range from themed treats (don’t miss the Simpsons’ pink donuts) to international fare in CityWalk, just outside the park’s gates. The atmosphere is one of pure celebration: music in the air, performers on the street, and excitement around every corner. Whether you’ve come for the blockbusters or just a day of laughs, Universal Studios delivers non-stop family fun.  Knott’s Berry Farm: Classic California Fun  For families craving classic amusement park fun, Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park has held generations spellbound. Drawing on Old West nostalgia, zippy rollercoasters, and world-famous fried chicken, Knott’s delivers big thrills with a smaller-town spirit.  The park divides into themed areas, so everyone in the family finds their jam. Little kids love exploring Camp Snoopy, with pint-sized rides and gentle thrills starring everyone’s favorite Peanuts pals. Older kids and teens can tackle high-octane coasters like Silver Bullet and GhostRider, or challenge each other in the video arcades.  Shows pop up daily and often surprise—the Wild West stuntmen might lasso volunteers from the crowd, while musical acts take over the Calico Park stage. When lunch rolls around, don’t skip Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant, famous for golden-brown fried chicken, fluffy biscuits, and boysenberry pie. The dining room’s country décor and friendly vibe add to the homey feeling.  Between rides, the park’s shady paths and live music offer plenty of breathing room. Shopping for boysenberry treats to take home is just as much a part of the tradition. And for summer visitors, Knott’s Soak City water park next door offers a cool-down zone with slides and wave pools. From giggles in the splash pads to adrenaline on the coasters, Knott’s is a day out that leaves everyone in your party grinning (and maybe a little sticky from all that berry goodness).  California Science Center IMAX Movie: Edutainment at Its Finest  You could pack your LA agenda with hands-on learning, and the California Science Center would lead the way. This justly famous museum lets families dig into everything from space exploration to ecosystems, with a style that makes learning feel nothing like homework.  But it’s the IMAX Theater that adds a blockbuster twist—screenings place you in the heart of deep-sea expeditions, shuttle launches, or even prehistoric dino encounters, with surround sound and a screen taller than a T-Rex. The sense of immersion grabs kids’ attention from the first frame and doesn’t let go.  Pair a film with wandering the Center’s galleries: touch a moon rock, see space shuttles up close (do NOT miss the Space Shuttle Endeavour), launch an airship, or get grossed out in the life sciences area, which tackles digestion and body systems with a wink. There’s even an aquatic zone where you can get up close with kelp forest critters.  The Center is bright, spacious, and—best of all—entry to the main exhibits is free (IMAX movies are ticketed). Pack a picnic for the neighboring rose garden, or grab snacks at the on-site cafe. It's a day out where everyone learns something new, but the buzz of excitement means you’ll forget you’re at a museum at all.  Santa Monica Beach and Pier: Sun, Sand, and Classic California Vibes  No LA family adventure is complete without at least one day at the beach—and Santa Monica is your ultimate playground. Sun-drenched sand stretches as far as the eye can see, inviting sandcastle architects, volleyball pros, and surf enthusiasts alike.  Start at Santa Monica Pier, where vintage arcades, street performers, and classic carnival games get everyone into holiday mode. The Pacific Park amusement rides offer that perfect blend of throwback and thrill—try the solar-powered Ferris wheel for ocean views or race the kids on the spinning West Coaster. Grab hand-dipped corn dogs from the boardwalk stands or stop by the bustling Pier Burger (their signature burgers with crinkly fries go down a treat, especially when eaten with your feet in the sand).  Just below the pier, Heal the Bay Aquarium offers hands-on fun with tide pool critters and interactive marine science displays—perfect for a quick break from the sun without leaving the beach vibes behind. Afterward, stroll the beachfront path, hop on rented bikes, or play at the Annenberg Community Beach House playground.  Santa Monica’s relaxed atmosphere keeps everyone smiling. Kids can run wild while grownups soak up the California sun, and there’s no better ending to a day than watching the sunset with toes in the Pacific.    LA doesn’t just offer family-friendly attractions—it serves up whole new ways to play, wonder, and connect. Whether you’re weaving between dinosaurs, riding a coaster with the Pacific at your back, delighting in an aquarium touch tank, or sharing street tacos under neon lights, you’ll make memories that outlast any souvenir. Whatever your family’s pace—creative, outdoorsy, thrill-seeking, or a little bit of everything—Los Angeles guarantees an adventure that everyone will rave about all the way home.    Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Universal Studios Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes.     Step up your sightseeing with Go City®      We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 

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