Knott's Berry Farm Vs Universal Studios

By <a href="#author-bio">Stuart Bak</a>
By Stuart Bak
Published: July 18, 2024
The Sol Spin ride at Knott's Berry Farm, LA.

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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
Freelance travel writer

Stu caught the travel bug at an early age, thanks to childhood road trips to the south of France squeezed into the back of a Ford Cortina with two brothers and a Sony Walkman. Now a freelance writer living on the Norfolk coast, Stu has produced content for travel giants including Frommer’s, British Airways, Expedia, Mr & Mrs Smith, and now Go City. His most memorable travel experiences include drinking kava with the locals in Fiji and pranging a taxi driver’s car in the Honduran capital.

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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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