15+ Things to Do in Los Angeles with Teenagers During Your Trip

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
Los Angeles Santa Monica

Family vacations are wonderful, but finding attractions that everyone will love can be a challenge. Especially when you’ve got teens in the mix! How do you find something that keeps them entertained and sees them spending time with the whole family?

Fortunately, we’re here to help you out. If you’re looking for things to do in Los Angeles with teenagers, check out this list of our favorite teen-friendly activities, including...

  • Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Knott's Berry Farm
  • Six Flags Magic Mountain
  • Madame Tussauds Hollywood
  • Long Beach Whale Watch
  • K1 Speed Indoor Go Karting
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
  • Aquarium of the Pacific
  • L.A. Zoo
  • and more...

Immerse yourself in the world of Universal Studios Hollywood 

Universal Studios

The whole family can agree that Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit destination in Los Angeles. They’ve got attractions to appeal to the whole family, such as thrilling rides like TRANSFORMERSTM: The Ride-3D, and many more.

There are plenty of other franchise-based attractions, too, like Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. You're bound to find something your teens love! Another central feature of the Universal experience is their famed Studio Tour, which escorts guests behind the scenes of one of the world’s most prolific movie studios.

Please note: Admission is only available on the Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass and can only be used on a single day during the duration of the pass.

Meet celebrities at Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Madame Tussauds
The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds.

If all your teen does is gush over celebrities, visiting Madame Tussauds Hollywood will be a real treat. Get a few awesome photos with your favorite stars and craft that perfect Instagram snap for your friends at home. You'll find famous figures organized throughout multiple exciting exhibits, including themes like movie characters, pop stars, and sports icons.

Who wouldn't love the chance to meet some of the most famous people in the last few years? After all, a wax replica of Beyoncé is probably the closest most of us will come to meeting the real deal!

The Kylie Jenner figure is a must-see for fans of the Kardashian clan. Sculpted to represent the reality star in her custom-made Balmain gown from the 2016 Met Gala, this figure is so realistic it actually fooled her fans.

Indulge your love of Hollywood

Hollywood star

It’s hard to avoid celebrity culture when you’re visiting L.A., so why not embrace it? There are plenty of amazing attractions that will keep your teen enthralled as you explore the world of Hollywood stardom, from a fascinating visit to the Hollywood Museum to a comprehensive movie star homes tour.

Or, you could opt for a fun Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes walking tour that highlights many of the Hollywood hotspots and historic sites, from the Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre to the Hollywood sign.

Enjoy L.A.'s other amazing theme parks

Theme parks in L.A.

If Universal Studios Hollywood isn’t enough to quench your theme park thirst, then bring the kids to one of the many other amazing theme parks in the Los Angeles area. From the charming, old-school style of Pacific Park to the always exciting Knott’s Berry Farm (which also has a sister water park!), there are so many choices. Another local favorite is the fantastic Six Flags Magic Mountain, featuring a wide variety of thrill rides and other entertainment.

Getting in: Knott's Berry Farm is included on the Go City® All-Inclusive Pass.

Get out on the water

Whale watching

California's coast is teeming with stunning marine life, so don't waste the opportunity to get the teens outdoors and onto a boat trip to spot these beautiful creatures!

Join a Whale Watch tour to get up close to orca whales, humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, and sperm whales. They can be seen year-round engaging in lunge feeding, breaching, fluking, and more. You might even spot bottlenose and Pacific white-sided dolphins and California sea lions, harbor seals if you're lucky!

Get wild on indoor karts

Indoor karting

Let the kids race each other for the title of best go-kart driver at an exhilarating indoor kart racing facility operated by K1 Speed Indoor Go Karting. Get a feel for some of the newest and best kart technology out there as you all enjoy riding laps with K-1 Speed’s new European electric karts.

State-of-the-art scoring technology will make you feel like you’re in a real kart race, too! And don't worry, parents, even if they don't have their driver's license yet, it's totally safe for them to operate these karts. Kind of like practice for the real thing!

Explore famous movie studios

Warner Bros studios potion making

If your teens loved the Universal Studios Hollywood experience and are looking for more movie action, you're in luck. Hollywood is chock full of famous studios with movie lots to tour, including the iconic Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood and the family-favorite Sony Pictures Studio Tour.

Warner Bros. is an especially fun experience because you'll be essentially walking through a working studio, which is something cinematically inclined teens will love.

Encounter aquatic animals

Penguins

Animal-loving teens will find much to enjoy about Los Angeles. Aquatic creatures abound at the delightfully interactive Santa Monica Pier Aquarium (which is located in a fun neighborhood to explore). For those who want to focus exclusively on the vast array of sea life found in the Pacific Ocean, the Aquarium of the Pacific is a sure bet.

If your teen prefers the fuzzy over the scaly, then a visit to the L.A. Zoo in Griffith Park is a great option. Featuring over 1,000 different creatures from around the globe, in addition to more than 7,000 different plants in the Botanical Garden, this is an unbeatable attraction in Los Angeles.

Battleship Iowa museum

Battleship Iowa museum

Can't choose? No need, see it all with Go City®

There you have it. Our list of some of the top things to do in Los Angeles with teenagers during your upcoming trip. Consider adding a few of these teen-friendly options to your vacation itinerary. Enjoy!

With an All-Inclusive Pass from Go City, you can visit both attractions for a fraction of the cost. Plus, you could save up to 50% on all your Los Angeles must-sees. Or pick an Explorer Pass, if you've chosen your fave and have a specific bucket list you're dreaming of ticking off. Whichever Los Angeles attraction pass you pick, it'll help you make the most of your trip!

☀️ Compare Los Angeles passes ☀️ – 🌏 Explore other destinations 🌏 – ✈️ Buy a pass ✈️

 

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Win a 2 Night Stay at the Sheraton Universal this Black Friday

Our Black Friday Giveaway has now ended. Make yourself at home in the Hollywood Hills in the AAA 4-diamond Sheraton Universal Hotel. The Sheraton’s ideal location puts you moments away from Universal Studios (with their free shuttle) and with the Metro Red Line a short walk away you’ll be easily in reach of top central LA attractions like the Walk of Fame and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. Rather unwind? They’ve got that covered too. Relax by the pool, grab a drink in the glamorous hotel bar, or just chill out in your room looking out of floor-to-ceiling windows over stunning views of the San Fernando Valley. For an even more magical view, head up to the roof top Starview Room for 270° panoramas of Hollywood. You’ll also get a delicious breakfast at The California’s Restaurant. Enjoy regional American fare and a full menu of breakfast options in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere, all with friendly and accommodating service. Park hopping or putting your feet up, you’re in for a getaway made for the movies! How to enter For a chance to win this incredible prize, all you have to do is purchase any of our Los Angeles passes between 9AM Tuesday 22 November 2022 and 11:59PM Tuesday 29 November 2022. Once you’ve purchased, you’ll be automatically entered into the giveaway. Easy! If you’re the lucky winner, we’ll contact you by email by December 15, 2022, so look out for us in your inbox. Click here to view giveaway terms and conditions
Alice Padfield
Alice Padfield
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Best Museums in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the best. Known for its many famous landmarks and sun-kissed shorelines, the city is one of the most popular visitor destinations in the United States. Still, no visit to La La Land is complete without checking out its fantastic selection of museums. Yup, that’s right - contrary to what some might say, Los Angeles is teeming with wonderful cultural amenities of all kinds. From ancient history to modern art, there’s a little something for everybody here. So, if you’re heading over to the City of Angels and aren’t quite sure how to spend your time, check out our guide to the best museums in the area. However you choose to explore LA, we’re sure you’ll have a blast! See the Sights If you’re a seasoned visitor to Los Angeles, you just might be familiar with the Hollywood Sign and Universal Studios. Still, there’s a lot more to unpack here for cinephiles and pop culture lovers. If you’re looking to learn more about Hollywood history, there’s no better place to be than the Academic Museum of Motion Pictures. Located on the Museum Row in Miracle Mile, this unique attraction is dedicated to the fascinating history and incredible impact of the film industry. The institute works to provide deeper insight into the creative process; the art and technology of film; and the fascinating background of the artform. Though young, the museum holds over 13 million objects, including costumes, sketches, film reels, props and more. A thoroughly fascinating cultural experience, this spot is great for those of all ages. When you hear L.A., the first thing that springs to mind is usually all of the glitz and glam. So it only makes sense then that the city provides a number of great cultural institutions dedicated to the entertainment industry. Standing out against the number of museums dedicated to television and film, the Grammy Museum works to provide a comprehensive look into the music business. A total dream space for music buffs, this spot consists of four floors worth of historical artefacts, interactive music stations and recording booths. In addition, the museum hosts special talks, programs and concerts. We love this place because it works to educate visitors about the history and significance of American music in a fun and engaging way. Another one of our favorite museums to visit in L.A. has got to be The Broad. As one of the most famous art museums in the city, the institute is probably just as recognizable for its distinct and striking structure as it is for its revered collection.Inside, visitors can enjoy a fantastic collection from some of the world’s most popular modern artists. Highlights include Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog and Roy Lichtenstein’s ‘’I... I’m Sorry!’’ In addition, the museum is known for housing Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room, an animated twinkling starfield and total magnet for selfie-lovers. Get Cultured If you’re looking for art and culture in Los Angeles, you won’t have to look much further than the Getty Center. A wonderful estate perched atop a hill in Brentwood, the center provides art, architecture and nature all wrapped into one wonderfully unique experience. The circular concrete and steel structure is a total sight to behold, whilst the museum’s location and surrounding gardens provide spectacular 360-degree views of Los Angeles. Inside, visitors can enjoy a wonderful mixture of ancient and modern art. Expect to see everything from classical paintings and historic carvings to surrealist works and contemporary installations. We recommend setting aside a good few hours for the Getty - trust us when we say that you won’t want to rush this one! As the West Coast’s answer to the Morgan Library, the Huntington Library definitely doesn’t disappoint. This spot is actually a triple whammy, with a world-class library, wonderful art museum and stunning botanical garden all wrapped up into one fantastic attraction. We suggest making enough time so that you can see everything. With over 430,000 rare books, historical documents and one-of-a-kind manuscripts, the library is a total dream for bibliophiles. Meanwhile, the art gallery displays one of the best collections of 18th and 19-century British art in the country. And as the museum’s crown jewel, the institute’s botanical garden most certainly doesn’t disappoint, with over 150,000 plant varieties on its 120 acres. With its superb repository and old-world vibe, this spot is perfect for anybody who wants to get in a bit of education on their travels. Learn Something New No doubt Los Angeles has a lot of great museums dedicated to the arts. Still, that’s not all there is to see here. Perfect for those visitors of a curious mind, the California Science Center is filled with educational and engaging exhibits pertaining to the world around us. Billed as the west coast’s largest hands-on science center, this spot works well to break down complicated ideas for a broad audience. There are four major exhibit areas covering the natural world, biology, innovation and invention and space travel. Special highlights include the Space Shuttle Endeavor, the High Wire Bicycle, and the ice wall. We love this spot because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. Whilst museums come in all shapes and sizes, few are quite as iconic as the Natural History Museum. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just plain curious, this spot has so much to offer. The institute’s repository is wildly impressive, with over 35 million specimens and artefacts spanning over 4.5 billion years of history. Marvel at the full-size t-rex skeletons, see some incredible gemstones, or play with microscopes and dig for fossils in the Discovery Center. Pro tip: if you’re in the area during the springtime, be sure to check out the butterfly pavilion. Though the bones are old, this spot is always introducing new exhibits to be enjoyed. A real treasure trove of discovery, you know know what you’ll find next among the beautiful dioramas and interactive displays. The best vacations always include a trip to the museum - and thankfully in Los Angeles, you won’t be short of choice! Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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Best Time to Visit Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of those American cities that is brimming with tourists all year round. Thanks to the Pacific Ocean and the city’s coastal seat, the location is blessed with perennial sunshine all year round. Still, L.A. has a lot more to offer than just that. From only-in-L.A. attractions and fabled natural wonders to its unrivalled drinking and dining scene, the city never falls short of great things to see and do. Whether you’re an artsy type, an outdoor enthusiast or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest any time of the year. So, when is the best time to visit La La Land? From exciting events to great prices on accommodation, here’s a month-by-month breakdown of when to visit Los Angeles. Pick your favorite time of the year and head over to this magical West Coast city, STAT! September-November Though you might not expect it, autumn is a fantastic time to visit Los Angeles. We especially like September - November, since it offers a lot of the perks of a summertime getaway, just with less of the fuss. During this time of the year, you’ll find that the air is more breathable and the crowds are less oppressive. This makes it perfect for exploring all of the city’s best outdoor attractions in comfort. Although it’s still warm around this time of the year, we still recommend bringing an umbrella or a light jacket, since rainfall intensifies towards the end of November. You’ll also find that the crowds are less oppressive and the lines are shorter during this time of the year since schools are back and families are less likely to visit. Since this is a less popular time for booking, you’ll be able to get a lot of great deals on flights and accommodation. December Whilst L.A. probably isn’t the first place you might think of for a wintertime getaway, we’re here to tell you that a seasonal stay in the City of Angels is just so right. Why, you might ask? Well, for starters, when you travel to the West Coast in the wintertime the weather is temperate and balmy still without ever soaring into the high-80s. This means that you’ll be able to explore all of the city’s incredible attractions and points of interest just as you normally would. Of course, the atmosphere in L.A. around this time of the year remains unmatched. As with any major metropolitan city, L.A. is bustling with life around the holiday season, and you can most certainly feel the excitement. During the month of December you’ll also be able to find tonnes of magical activities and pop-up festive events around town. Some of our favorites include the Marina Del Rey Boat Parade, L.A. Zoo Lights, and Holiday Time at Disneyland. Whilst travelling to L.A. during the most magical time of the year might not be the most wallet-friendly, we promise you that this option is definitely worth the memories. January - February Don’t rule out a wintertime vacation to Los Angeles! Marking another sweet spot for visitors to the City of Angels, the start of the year has a lot to offer all types of visitors. Much like December, you’ll find that the weather is cooler and more comfortable around January to February time, with average highs sitting around the upper 60s. Still, rain is more common around this time of the year, so we suggest packing accordingly: take a light jacket and a sweater, since temperatures can dip in the evening time, and you’ll be good to go! Around this time of the year, school is back in session and the holidays will have died down. With smaller dispersing crowds, the city is more manageable to explore. As if this all wasn’t enough, the winter months are the cheapest time to visit L.A., so don’t hesitate to book fast! Since it’s low season, you’ll also be able to find great deals on entertainment, dining, and more. March - May If you’re drawn to Los Angeles for its beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes, you might want to consider heading over in the springtime. Springtime in L.A. is when things really start to heat up, so it’s perfect for sunseekers and outdoorsy types alike. There are a lot of great things to check out here, but some of our favorites include hiking the Santa Monica Mountains, stargazing at the Griffith Observatory and exploring tide pools at White Point/Royal Palms Beach. Just as you might have guessed, the city’s warm Mediterranean climate calls for a strong summer dress code and lots of water and sunscreen! Show up prepared, and you should be just fine. The city is pretty calm and quiet around this time of the year, though you might bump into some big crowds if you choose to travel during spring break or Memorial Day. With all of the advantages of travelling in the summertime and less of the fuss, couldn’t think of any reason not to visit L.A. in the spring! Summertime! For those who like to be in the center of all the action, we suggest booking your L.A. getaway for the summertime. Of course, one of the best things about visiting Los Angeles in the summertime is the legendary West Coast weather. With temperatures hovering around the mid-80s, the beaches are a popular place to be. During this time of the year, it’s hot enough to sunbathe and the waters are warm enough to swim, surf, or scuba dive in - whatever takes your fancy! But still, there’s much more to look forward to around this time of the year than just the beach. Visit L.A. in the summertime, and you’ll find that there are countless exciting festivals, pop-ups and conventions to check out. Whilst this might be one of the more expensive times to visit La La Land, we promise that you’ll never be bored exploring Los Angeles in the summertime. Sun, surf, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city - what could be better than that? No doubt, Los Angeles is an exciting destination to visit any time of the year. Promising great weather, iconic attractions and unmatched natural beauty, there’s so much to see and do here no matter where your interests may lie. Maximize your travel experience with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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