San Diego Zoo & Beyond: Fun, Free Adventures Nearby

Your San Diego Zoo trip just got richer—with these totally free picks nearby!

Published: June 3, 2026
Tiger at San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo may bring you in with its world-famous animal residents, but there’s so much more to explore nearby—without spending more. Conveniently tucked inside lush Balboa Park, the zoo sits at the heart of a neighborhood packed with peaceful gardens, free museums, outdoor art, and scenic spots you’ll want on your camera roll. Whether you’re wandering before the gates open or searching for something to do after you wave goodbye to the pandas, we’ve rounded up the best free things to do just steps from the San Diego Zoo. Ready to check out what’s waiting right outside the zoo’s gates? 

Our favorite free things to do near San Diego Zoo include: 

  • Botanical Building & Lily Pond 
  • Spanish Village Art Center 
  • Timken Museum of Art 
  • California Tower Courtyard & Plaza de Panama 
  • Palm Canyon Trail 
  • Spreckels Organ Pavilion 
  • Zoro Garden Butterfly Garden 
  • Balboa Park Trails & Gardens 
  • San Diego Model Railroad Museum (Free Tuesdays) 
  • House of Pacific Relations International Cottages (Open Houses Sundays) 

Botanical Building & Lily Pond 

Step out of the zoo and into a stunning green wonderland—the historic Botanical Building and Lily Pond. You don’t need to buy a ticket to enjoy this century-old masterpiece, with its arching latticed roof and jaw-dropping collection of orchids, ferns, and palms. The peaceful air is tinged with floral notes, making it a dreamy spot to snap photos or simply unwind after zoo excitement. 

Right in front, the Lily Pond reflects everything in shimmering detail, from lotus blooms to the towering palms. It’s also a hotspot for wildlife spotting, with koi fish and ducks happily making their rounds. Whether you linger on the benches, marvel at the ever-changing floral displays inside, or strike a pose for the perfect Instagram shot, this oasis offers a serene break, just steps away from the bustling main path. 

Spanish Village Art Center 

Give your senses a treat with a meander through the Spanish Village Art Center. The vibrant tiles leading to the village feel almost magical as you explore studios and galleries nestled in colorful Spanish-style cottages. It’s free to visit and wander, with artists at work painting, sculpting, blowing glass, and creating jewelry—no two visits ever feel the same. 

Pause to chat with a friendly ceramicist or get inspired by the explosion of colors and creativity. On weekends, you’ll often find demonstrations or mini pop-up art fairs, adding even more energy. There’s no pressure to purchase—just enjoy the creative buzz and maybe make a wish list for your next trip. 

Timken Museum of Art 

While most art museums require an entry fee, the Timken Museum of Art does things differently: its doors are always open for free public appreciation. Just steps from the zoo, this stately building houses a glittering collection of European old masters, Russian icons, and American art, all in an elegant, light-filled setting. 

The peace and quiet inside the galleries feels miles from the outside bustle. Browse paintings by Rembrandt and explore rarely-seen pieces that’ll make any art lover’s heart beat just a little faster. With regular rotating exhibits, there’s always something new on display. For art fans and casual visitors alike, the Timken is a perfect zero-cost retreat in Balboa Park. 

California Tower Courtyard & Plaza de Panama

Dome of California

Even if you don’t head up the California Tower itself, simply strolling through its grand courtyard and neighboring Plaza de Panama is an experience all on its own. You’ll find ornate Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, sunny plazas, and bubbling fountains, all buzzing with the energy of festival-goers, performers, and day-trippers.

Take a seat by the tiled fountain, enjoy the shade from historic palm trees, and soak up the vibes as families and street musicians bring the area to life. Bring your snack or coffee and people-watch to your heart's content—a true slice of San Diego’s cultural heart.

Palm Canyon Trail 

Hidden in plain sight, the Palm Canyon Trail is a miniature jungle escape tucked just behind the main museums. Towering fan palms, gentle streams, and rustling leaves make this a cool, peaceful hike, even on hot days. It’s a short, shady stroll perfect for anyone needing a quiet moment, and you never know what birds or critters you’ll spot amidst the greenery. 

A picturesque wooden footbridge marks the entrance, and the entire path feels a world away from city life—even though you’re only minutes from the zoo gate. Whether for a morning amble or a post-zoo wind-down, Palm Canyon is a lush, leafy detour worth taking. 

Spreckels Organ Pavilion 

Bring your appreciation for the dramatic—free concerts ring out from the majestic Spreckels Organ Pavilion on many Sundays. While performances are an event, the pavilion itself is open for wandering year-round. Enjoy the soaring columns, intricate architecture, and peaceful benches facing the world’s largest outdoor pipe organ. 

Check the schedule for free happenings, or simply swing by and let your imagination fill the seats with music. The open-air venue is a great spot for family photos or a mid-afternoon rest between adventures. 

Zoro Garden Butterfly Garden 

Tucked away behind the Reuben H. Fleet Science Center, Zoro Garden is a secret paradise for pollinators and people alike. Native plants lure butterflies galore, making this a whimsical stop for kids and grownups who enjoy a natural treasure hunt. Free interpretive signs help you spot monarch eggs, caterpillars, or even a swallowtail on the wing. 

With winding paths and dappled shade, it’s a lovely place to catch your breath and enjoy the sights and sounds of busy insects and songbirds. The mysterious layout even hints at its past as a Depression-era nudist colony—there’s always another story to discover! 

Balboa Park Trails & Gardens

Balboa Park

Balboa Park teems with hidden nooks, rose gardens, cactus patches, and quiet lawns—all perfect for exploring for free, no map required. Lace up your walking shoes and embark on the park’s network of scenic trails that wind through groves of eucalyptus, past trickling fountains, and over arched bridges.

Each route offers something unique, from the tranquil Japanese Friendship Garden grounds (free to browse the exterior landscaping) to the bustling Inez Grant Parker Memorial Rose Garden, blooming with thousands of roses in spring. Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch in the sunshine—no extras needed except maybe your favorite travel buddy.

San Diego Model Railroad Museum (Free Tuesdays) 

All aboard for a delightfully quirky experience—every Tuesday, entrance to this beloved museum is totally free. Just a short hop from the zoo, the San Diego Model Railroad Museum features intricate miniature landscapes, bustling rail towns, and zippy trains whizzing by. It’s a nostalgic treat for little engineers and grown-up enthusiasts alike. 

Wander through expertly crafted dioramas, peek behind the scenes to see model makers in action, and let yourself get swept up in the magic of tiny worlds. Even if you just have a half hour to spare, it’s an engaging and whimsical addition to your Balboa Park adventure. 

House of Pacific Relations International Cottages (Open Houses Sundays) 

World cultures take center stage every Sunday during free open houses at the adorable House of Pacific Relations International Cottages. Here, each tiny cottage represents a different country, and volunteers offer free tours, snacks, performances, and cultural displays from their homelands. 

It’s a joyful blend of music, dance, and chitchat, as visitors mingle with San Diegans who love sharing their customs and stories. You might catch traditional dancers, taste homemade pastries, or learn to say hello in a brand-new language—all at no cost, and just steps away from the zoo action. 

 

You don’t need to splurge to enjoy a day packed with adventure near the San Diego Zoo. Balboa Park and its neighboring attractions layer art, nature, local history, and vibrant culture into your trip—no ticket required. So, when you’re done counting koalas and admiring gorillas, keep the fun going with these wallet-friendly finds that deliver even more reasons to love this corner of San Diego. 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do with Family in 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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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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Babies in the City: Where to Go in Los Angeles

Traveling with a baby in tow can make any city feel like a maze—unless you know exactly where to look for comfort and fun. Los Angeles, with its sunshine, laid-back vibes and endless options for families, makes it a dream for parents and their tiniest explorers. We’ve watched brand-new moms and dads swap worried whispers for wide smiles as they discover LA’s abundance of stroller-friendly adventures. Curious about introducing your little one to stingrays, sunshine picnics, splash zones or hands-on exhibits? We’ve found the best cultural gems, soothing parks, snacks and gentle-thrill attractions to enjoy—naps and snack time included. Ready to strap your baby in and discover LA’s softer side?  Our favorite things to do with babies in LA include:  Natural History Museum  Aquarium of the Pacific  Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden  Heal the Bay Aquarium  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Stroll the Santa Monica Pier and Beach  Griffith Park and the LA Zoo  The Original Farmers Market  South Coast Botanic Garden  Universal Studios (with tips for tiny visitors!)  Aquarium of the Pacific: Soothing Splashy Scenes  Babies love aquariums. Blame it on the cool, dim spaces and slow, mesmerizing movement of fish and jellies—which can turn even the fussiest nap-fighter into a wide-eyed onlooker. The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach checks every box for new families: plenty of room for strollers, clean bathrooms, quiet nooks for feedings, and wave after wave of baby-friendly sights.  The touch pools invite gentle hands (or curious toes!), and the colorful Pacific Collections wing is brimming with easy-to-see tanks—ideal for little ones at eye level. If you have a crawler or early walker, check out the Explorer’s Cove play area. And when you need a break, the on-site café offers high chairs and healthy kid-friendly bites. You’ll feel relaxed, and it’s always cool, even in the LA summer.  Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden: Flower Trails and Giant Peacocks  Swap downtown bustle for the peace of 127 acres of green space, shaded paths, and gentle gardens at the LA Arboretum. With its wide walking trails, stroller access everywhere, and endless visual treats (giant lily ponds, arched bridges, and those famous roaming peacocks!), this is a wonderfully chill outing for new parents and their babies.  Find a quiet bench among blooming camellias, spread out a blanket for a bottle break, or introduce your little one to the sights and sounds of nature. The Arboretum’s gardens are well-maintained year-round, and on sunny days, the dappled shade keeps everything cool. There’s a handy café for snacks and restrooms with changing tables, making this an easy full-morning or afternoon escape.  Heal the Bay Aquarium: Ocean Wonders for Tots  Right under the Santa Monica Pier, Heal the Bay Aquarium offers a small-but-mighty lineup of sea life, touch tanks and interactive displays perfect for young minds. Babies and toddlers can get close to sharks, rays, starfish, and dozens of bright local fish at floor-level tanks—think big wow factor with minimal crowds or overstimulation.  You can easily wheel your stroller through the compact space, and the friendly staff love to chat about fishy facts or let curious hands gently explore shells and other sensory delights. Nursing-friendly benches, a mellow atmosphere, and pristine restrooms make this an easy win for caregivers. If nap time calls, transition upstairs and enjoy a gentle stroll along Santa Monica’s beachfront paths.  California Science Center IMAX Movie: Chill Out in the Big Screen Calm  Worried your museum tour might leave your baby snoozing or fussy? Plan for a break at the California Science Center’s astonishing IMAX theater—a perfect low-key stop, even with a tiny one in your carrier. The theater is spacious and dark, with booming visuals and soothing sounds that can be mesmerizing (and often nap-inducing) for babies.  Here’s the secret: choose a short, nature-focused documentary. At under 45 minutes, they’re the right length for most attention spans and not too loud for sensitive ears. The lobby has plenty of space to park strollers, and you’ll find changing tables in convenient locations. Combining this calm break with a quick stroll through the museum’s Life! Gallery (check out the colorful sea stars and tropical fish) makes for an easy, flexible day with your baby in LA.  Griffith Park and the LA Zoo: Urban Wilderness for Even the Youngest Adventurers  Griffith Park is LA’s green lung—a sprawling space filled with everything from old-fashioned trains to picnic groves and gardens. For families with babies, its wide, mostly flat trails and shaded lawns offer lots of freedom to wander at your own pace.  The LA Zoo, found inside Griffith Park, is surprisingly navigable with a stroller. You’ll find well-marked stroller paths and several shaded, quiet areas ideal for feedings or picnics. Animal exhibits are set at just the right height for curious little eyes. The petting zoo area has soft brushes and low-key animal encounters, making it a joyful addition for both parents and tots. Need a spark of nostalgia? Check out the Griffith Park & Southern Railroad for a gentle vintage train ride.  The Original Farmers Market: Food, People Watching and Colorful Sights  LA’s oldest market, opened in 1934, blends classic Americana charm with all the food options you could dream up. Fortunately, it’s also a wonderland for families with a baby on board. The market is mostly flat, with wide aisles and lots of covered areas for shade—stroller heaven!  Grab an excellent coffee from Bob’s Donuts while your baby people-watches, or sample the market’s standout fare: Pampas Grill’s Brazilian cheese bread, Magee’s homemade peanut butter or Trejo’s Tacos’ soft, flavorful rice bowls (mild enough for sharing snacks). Kids’ seating options, clean bathrooms, and a playful uncrowded energy make the Farmers Market a favorite reset button on any busy LA itinerary.  South Coast Botanic Garden: Colors and Calm on the Peninsula  For a more off-the-beaten-path retreat, the South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes invites families to wander through 87 acres of themed gardens and play spaces. Paved loop trails weave past ponds, rainbow-colored flower beds and gentle shaded areas ideal for nursing or changing breaks.  The garden’s Children’s Garden is tailored for tiny visitors and features oversized mushrooms, bright interactive sculptures and a butterfly habitat (in season). Your little one can crawl through grassy picnic circles or just take in the peace and color. Benches and wide open spaces make this an easy half-day trip, especially lovely in spring or autumn.  Universal Studios: Movie Magic—Yes, Even with a Baby  At first glance, Universal Studios may seem more big-kid than baby, but with a few tricks it’s actually a fantastic family day. Strollers are welcome everywhere, and the park even offers a “child switch” service so both parents can enjoy big rides—one rides while the other waits with baby, then you swap without waiting again. Most venues feature stroller parking, nursing lounges (check the Family Services Center), and comfy shaded spots for snack times.  Babies enjoy the atmosphere: watching costumed characters, catching short shows (like the Animal Actors stage), and soaking up the buzz of the bustling Main Street area. Air-conditioned shows and play zones mean happy babies—even during heat or rain. There’s lots to do just outside the entrance, too, including splash pads and colorful water features perfect for cooling off.    Planning a trip to Los Angeles with a baby doesn’t have to mean sacrificing fun or comfort. From the underwater adventures at the Aquarium of the Pacific to garden strolls under the canopies of the South Coast Botanic Garden, we’re big believers in LA’s power to make new parents feel confident and relaxed. Whether you’re seeking dinosaurs, sunshine, gentle walking tours or baby-friendly eats, LA’s attractions thrive on making all ages welcome—including your smallest traveler. Pick and choose a handful from our favorites above, and you’ll come away with easy memories—and maybe a souvenir or two slipped into the diaper bag for later.    Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Knott’s Soak City Water Park 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! 
The Sol Spin ride at Knott's Berry Farm, LA.
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Knott's Berry Farm Vs Universal Studios

Want to get under the skin of some of LA’s oldest and greatest institutions? Sharing over 200 years of history between them, Universal Studios Hollywood and Knott’s Berry Farm have become bucket-list attractions for visitors drawn in by their irresistible back stories and seriously scary 21st-century thrill rides. We took a peep behind the scenes at both attractions to find out what makes them so special and why their popularity continues to endure after all these years. Knott’s Berry Farm Vs Universal Studios: the Lowdown Universal requires no introduction. One of the biggest, oldest and most successful film studios on the planet, its Hollywood HQ is responsible for such big-screen classics as Psycho, Jurassic Park, Back to the Future, Die Hard 2 and King Kong (sets from some of which are included in the current studio tour). The lot opened in the San Fernando Valley way back in 1915, adding a modest theme park in the 1960s which formed the basis for the entertainment behemoth that guests can visit today. And, with attractions and rides themed around household favorites like Harry Potter, Minions and Transformers, it’s little wonder that Universal Studios Hollywood has become known as ‘the entertainment capital of LA’. Knott’s Berry Farm is no slouch in the entertainment stakes either. Sure, it may lack an international movie-making pedigree, but it does have one heck of a cute origin story. It starts back in 1923, when entrepreneurial Buena Park farmer Walter Knott developed, cultivated and introduced the boysenberry to the world by way of a modest roadside stall selling preserves and pies. As the stall’s reputation and popularity grew Walter, along with wife Cordelia, opened a fried chicken restaurant to help keep up with with demand. The addition of a ghost town and summer fairs in the 40s and 50s paved the way for the theme park that was to follow in the 1970s and the rest, as they say, is history. Today, Knott’s Berry Farm is a fully fledged amusement park, with around 50 attractions including thrill rides, log flumes, children’s activities and more. Best of all, you can still tuck into a traditional fried chicken dinner followed by a hefty slice of sweet boysenberry pie. Yum. What to See and Do at Universal Studios Studio Tour The studio tour is really what sets Universal apart from other theme parks in the area. Expect live stunt demonstrations and other staged events as you weave your way through familiar scenes and sets from future classics like Jordan Peele’s 2022 horror epic Nope to the instantly recognizable Courthouse Square from 80s fave Back to the Future. A tram ride narrated by Jimmy Fallon brings the whole experience to life as you come face to face with movie monsters including King Kong and the great white shark from Jaws. Hold onto your hat for the Fast & Furious finale which brings the tour to a high-octane close. Transformers: The Ride 3D This immersive ride sees brave humans (that’s you) fight alongside the mighty Optimus Prime in a bid to defeat the Decepticons – they’re only about four stories tall and have names like Bonecrusher, Starscream and Devastator, so no pressure. It’s not a ride for the faint-hearted, with fast-paced action, loud explosions and smoke effects at nearly every turn. Oh, you may also get a little wet. Afterwards, survivors are ejected into the relative safety of the Supply Vault shop, where the only danger is how much damage your bank account will sustain when the kids start begging for Transformers merch, including figures, apparel and green-screen photo shoots. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter There’s plenty for aspiring Gryffindors to enjoy in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Wizards young and old will be wowed by Hogwarts Castle and can even invest in their own wands, capes and souvenir train tickets for services departing Platform 93⁄4. There are some top rides to potter around too. Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey takes you on a magical journey through the halls and corridors of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Meanwhile Hagrid, the most affable giant in fiction since the BFG, ushers riders on board the Flight of the Hippogriff. It’s wizard! Best of the Rest There are plenty more movie-themed rides and zones to explore at Universal Studios, including Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge, a fun 3D motion ride that replicates your favorite locations from the classic video game, a rollercoaster ride through Springfield with America’s favorite cartoon family (that’s The Simpsons, not the Kardashians), the immersive frightfest that is Jurassic World and a much gentler (and hilarious!) Minions ride that ends, as you’d expect, with a cute interactive dance party. What to See and Do at Knott’s Berry Farm Thrill Rides Adrenalin junkies can get a satisfying fix at Knott’s, which has really ramped up the thrill factor since its sale to Cedar Fair in the late 90s. We’re talking rides like HangTime, which promises an eerie floating sensation as it crests its highest point ahead of a gut-churning 96-degree drop. Then there’s the Xcelerator, which catapults passengers sky high, reaching 82mph in a body-shocking 2.3 seconds. Silver Bullet is an inverted coaster that hurtles you around 3,125 feet of snaking track, taking in cobra rolls, corkscrews and a terrifying 105 feet vertical loop. And try not to get spooked on the Ghost Rider, only the longest and tallest wooden rollercoaster in the West. Family Rides In terms of kid-friendly attractions, it does feel a little unfair to pit Knott’s against the Universal juggernaut with its army of Minions, Harry Potters, Marios and Transformers. But there’s a certain sweet charm to the kiddie rides at Knott’s, with miniature trains, carousels, bumper cars, mini rollercoasters and a Mad Hatter-themed spinning teacups ride. The Camp Snoopy zone also features live shows with the titular beagle and the rest of the Peanuts gang. Snoopy on ice, anyone? The park also has a few rides with no height restrictions, including the Calico Mine Ride, Dragon Wing pirate ship and Knott’s Bear-y Tales, all great family fun. Water Rides No theme park visit would be complete without that essential souvenir shot of your log flume hitting the water, everyone’s face a picture of delight, surprise or, in the case of the person who takes the biggest drenching, total and utter horror. Here’s where Knott’s Berry Farm really gets one up on Universal with not one but two water rides to enjoy. The first, Calico River Rapids, is a spinny splashy adventure that sees passengers race through white water rapids aboard circular six-seater dinghies. But the Timber Mountain Log Ride is the main event here, culminating as it does in a 42-foot freefall that all but guarantees that coveted theme park soaking. Knott’s also boasts a separately ticketed water park (Knott’s Soak City) that’s open between May and September. Fast facts: Universal Studios Tickets Buy tickets and VIP experiences direct from the official website, or get one-day access with an attraction pass from Go City and save when visiting multiple attractions, including Universal Studios, the Hollywood sign tour and more. Opening Hours Park hours vary, but it generally opens early in the morning and closes late in the evening. You’ll find up-to-date opening hours here. Getting There Universal Studios is at 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608. There are multiple ways to get there, including by bus and metro, and a range of parking options are also available. You’ll find all the latest information here. Fast facts: Knott’s Berry Farm Tickets An All-Inclusive attraction pass from Go City includes general admission and saves you money when visiting multiple attractions in LA. Buy a 1, 2, 3 or 5-day pass to access as many attractions as you like in that time period, including the Warner Bros. Studio Tour and LA Zoo. You can also book tickets direct at the Knott’s Berry Farm website. Opening Hours The park generally opens daily at 10AM. Closing times vary so check the calendar on the Knott’s Berry Farm website for the latest information. Getting There Knott’s Berry Farm is at 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 9062. There’s paid parking on site, or you can take a train to nearby Buena Park Metrolink station. More info on transport options here. Save on attractions in Los Angeles Save on admission to Los Angeles attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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