Babies in the City: Where to Go in Los Angeles

Published: May 29, 2026
baby on the beach

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!) 

Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs and Discovery Zones

If there’s one museum you should bookmark for your trip with a baby, this is it. The Natural History Museum in Exposition Park is spacious, stroller-friendly, and packed with wonders for all ages—including babies who are just starting to notice the world. You can cruise the airy Dinosaur Hall (watch out for the big T. rex, always a photo op), stroll through the glimmering Gem & Mineral Hall, and enjoy wide-open room to maneuver when those first steps happen. 

For the tiniest visitors, the museum’s Discovery Center is a game-changer. The hands-on area includes soft blocks, touchable fossils, and gentle crawl spaces. Even if your baby spends the entire visit snoozing, you’ll love the gorgeous Rose Garden just outside, perfect for impromptu stroller naps. Nursing rooms are available, and there are plenty of changing tables throughout. It feels easy here, with something magical to see around every corner. You’ll leave with at least a dozen adorable photos, guaranteed. 

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. 

Stroll the Santa Monica Pier and Beach: Classic LA with Baby in Tow

Some moments just shine with simple family magic. A morning or sunset stroll along the Santa Monica Pier—with its old-fashioned funfair lights, ocean breezes, and general hum of excitement—feels made for baby’s first trip photos. The boardwalk is flat and stroller-friendly, with smooth ramps onto the sand (look for designated beach paths west of the pier), and there are picnic tables, cafés, and a shady playground right nearby. 

Babies enjoy watching street performers, feeling the salty air, or, if you’re feeling brave, dipping tiny toes into the surf. Parent tip: the Pier’s Restroom Plaza is unusually clean for a beachside spot, with family-friendly amenities. Stop by Heal the Bay Aquarium beneath the pier for a splash of learning, then grab a smoothie or coffee and melt into the moment. 

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   

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Christmas in Los Angeles - lights and sights

It might not fit the stereotype for a White Christmas, but if you’re heading west in December you'll find plenty of holiday spirit in Los Angeles. You’ll find festivals, parades, ice rinks and theme parks going all out on Christmas rides and costumes. Hotel lobbies get decked out in festive decorations, making them worth a trip on their own, and when the sun sets at around 5pm the city comes to light, with shows and displays twinkling from house to harbor. And if you’re the kind of person who likes to keep your fingers and toes warm, then an LA Christmas could be the perfect escape for you, with the mercury in December rarely dipping below 60 degrees. Most of the festivities are hard to miss, but to truly make the most of your time, here are our top tips for the best lights and sights to experience at Christmas in Los Angeles: Knott’s Berry Farm Six Flags Magic Mountain Universal Studios Disneyland Snow hunting Self-drive lights tour Solvang Knott’s Berry Farm For nine months of the year Knott’s Berry Farm is an exciting, bustling theme park filled with thrill rides, roller coasters, water rides and visitors tucking into home made preserves and boysenberry pie – but from November through January it transforms into Knott’s ‘Merry’ Farm winter wonderland of holiday sights, sounds and scents. There are holiday ice shows with world-class figure skaters, carolers singing songs old and new and a Christmas craft village. Children will love looking for Santa’s Christmas Cabin, and the whole family can watch the spectacle of the nightly Snow and Glow Show and tree lighting ceremony. Six Flags Magic Mountain Thrill seekers flock to Six Flags Magic Mountain at any time of year, as this theme park is where they'll find the world’s tallest looping roller coaster, the fastest and longest flying coaster and the only 5th-dimensional coaster. But it’s even better during the holidays when millions of twinkling lights add even more dazzle to this dare-devil’s wonderland. Of course, there’s plenty for the less-adventurous too, with the nightly tree-lighting ceremony and choreographed sound and light show. Romantics will love the Victorian Christmas Village, where young and old alike will be transported to the time of Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol with themed costumes, handcrafts and décor. Universal Studios A must-see for movie-lovers any time of year, Universal Studios in LA really turns it on in the holiday season – especially if you’re a Harry Potter fan. Immerse yourself in the magical Wizarding World with the Harry Potter Studio Tour, then stroll through HogsmeadeTM – transformed for the season with lights, garlands and wreaths – and watch the dazzling music and light show featuring the Hogwarts Frog Choir and the majestic HogwartsTM Castle as its background. Elsewhere around the park you’ll find festive food and plenty of holiday gift shopping ideas – but watch out for the Grinch! If you’re there for New Year’s, hang around at a themed party for the midnight fireworks display. Disneyland Los Angeles There’s just something about the fairy-tale charm of Disney that makes everything here seem more magical at Christmas. Is it the twinkling luminescence of Cinderella’s Castle? The twice-daily Christmas parade bringing back memories of childhood Christmases and favorite gifts? Or perhaps it only happens when the sun goes down and streets and rides light up like the set of our favorite holiday movie. Whatever it is, a visit to Disneyland at Christmas will have your inner child bursting with happiness. Be sure to see the massive Christmas tree all lit up, catch the Small World light display and if you’re a fan of Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas then don’t miss the haunted mansion, where you may just bump into your favorite characters from Halloween Town. Snow hunting Ok, so you won’t be able to recreate your favorite holiday rom-com scene in this city (you know, the one where boy and girl go ice-skating and it just happens to start snowing), but because LA is surrounded by mountains you can still escape to cooler climes where you can get your annual snow angel making fix. A couple hours inland, in the San Bernardino Mountains, is Lake Arrowhead, known as ‘The Alps of Southern California’, where visitors can go ice skating at Santa’s Village and drop off a letter at Santa’s Workshop Museum. Or at Big Bear Lake ski enthusiasts will find 400 acres of slopes to explore and night time glow tubing on the weekends. A self-drive lights tour As well as in theme parks and in shopping centers, plenty of the LA locals get into the festive spirit, decorating their homes and gardens for the season. Dana Point Harbor lights up with illuminated palm-trees, light sculptures and its famous ‘Merry Kiss Me’ arch, and it’s worth the drive to Palm Springs for some of the magnificently astonishing displays on offer there. But for local, personality-filled displays closer to home try Christmas Tree Lane in Altadena, the eight square-block area of Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills – where residents regularly try to out-do each other with ever-increasingly extravagant displays – or Harbeck Lights in Pasadena, where light-show themes in recent years have included Space Invaders, Hello Kitty and Star Wars. Solvang Danish village There’s no denying that Europeans know how to do Christmas, and it doesn’t get more fairy-tale-like than the Danish village of Solvang. Scandinavian architecture and wooden windmills are the backdrop for the annual holiday of Julefest, decorated for the season with lights and Christmas trees. Warm up with local wines and Danish pastries and, depending on when you’re there, you can witness the tree-lighting ceremony, watch a parade or live nativity, join a candlelight tour, visit Santa’s Grotto or go on a gnome hunt. And if you’re still around in January, you can attend the annual tree-burning festival which officially closes the holiday season. Experience the joy of the season with Go City With a Go City Explorer or All-Inclusive Pass you’ll save money on attractions all around Los Angeles – leaving you with more to spend on Christmas treats!
Karleen Stevens
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Make It an Epic August: Essential LA Experiences

August in Los Angeles feels electric. Mornings bring gleaming sunshine, afternoons buzz with energy, and the city’s famous beaches, parks, and museums swing into high gear. Whether you want to soak up open-air concerts, thrill your tastebuds at food festivals, spot dolphins off the coast, or just snap that perfect Hollywood shot, LA’s calendar in August never lets up. We’ve scouted out classic attractions, new discoveries, breezy bike tours, and quirky summer happenings so you can experience LA with all its summer sparkle, no matter your mood. Ready to plan the ultimate sun-kissed escape? We’ve got you sorted.  Our favorite things to do in LA in August include:  Universal Studios Hollywood  Whale Watching & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  Griffith Observatory Tour  California Science Center + IMAX movie  Madam Tussauds Hollywood  Knott’s Soak City water park  Getty Center Guided Tour  Open-air outdoor cinema  Smorgasburg LA food fest  Universal Studios Hollywood: Thrills, Movie Magic & Summer Shows  Hollywood comes alive at Universal Studios. In August, blockbuster energy fills the air—think summer crowds, splashy parades, and brand-new showtimes. If you love action-packed rides, movie-inspired lands, and a healthy dose of Hollywood nostalgia, this theme park is impossible to beat. Enter The Wizarding World of Harry Potter for spell-casting, or let dinosaurs chase you at Jurassic World — The Ride (spoiler alert: you will get soaked, perfect for a hot August afternoon).  The real treats of summer here are the extra entertainment spectacles. The park rolls out exclusive seasonal shows, character meet & greets, and interactive street parties, all set against that famous panoramic hilltop view. Don’t sleep on the famed Studio Tour—riding the open-air tram through real sets and FX explosions is a quintessential LA experience, and when the sun’s beaming, you’ll want those shady moments. Food trucks and themed eateries keep you fueled (Butterbeer, anyone?) for a day where every corner promises a new wow moment. Whether you arrive early to beat the heat or stick around for fireworks, Universal in August feels as close as you’ll get to stepping inside the silver screen.  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales: Summer’s Splashiest Wildlife  August is prime time for hitting the water along Southern California’s spectacular coast, and few adventures compare to a half-day on the Pacific in search of dolphins and whales. From Newport Beach—about an hour’s scenic drive from LA—you’ll climb aboard a comfortable vessel for an unforgettable close-up with the region’s stars. Humpback, blue, and fin whales roam these waters in summer, while pods of acrobatic common dolphins steal the spotlight with their leaps and spins.  The crew brings infectious enthusiasm, layering in fascinating ocean trivia and making sure you catch every tail slap or spout. There’s nothing like the salty breeze, warm sun on your face, and blue waves glinting all around. We love how every trip feels unpredictable—one day it’s a sea lion sunbathing on a buoy, the next it’s a parade of pelicans overhead or a giant whale surfacing right beside the boat. There’s ample space onboard for photos (bring your zoom lens!) and most tours last just a few hours, leaving time to grab fish tacos harborside or stroll Newport Pier. For any traveler, this is the purest SoCal summer joy—wildlife, ocean vistas, and a touch of explorer magic.  Griffith Observatory Tour: The Sky’s the Limit  August stars shine bright above LA, making this hilltop observatory a dreamy destination for daytime discovery and magical twilight views. Perched high above the city in Griffith Park, the Observatory is as much about jaw-dropping panoramas as hands-on science. Take a guided tour for behind-the-scenes access and fun astronomy snippets—think space telescopes, meteorite fragments, and the history of how Angelenos mapped the cosmos.  The Observatory’s planetarium shows are legendary. Day or night, you’ll learn what’s visible in the sky that week (August’s Perseids meteor shower is a treat if your trip’s timed right). Then, stick around for the iconic sunset—there’s nothing like watching the LA skyline’s glass towers start to twinkle as the sky turns gold and purple.  The paths winding up to the Observatory are thick with fragrant sage, while the lawn outside buzzes with stargazers and local astronomers setting up telescopes. Everyone’s invited to try a peek! You’ll leave with a headful of galaxy facts, about 100 terrific photos, and maybe plans to return for a free public telescope night. It’s the LA sunset experience even locals treasure.  California Science Center + IMAX Movie: Cool Down, Fuel Up on Wonder  Looking for a midday break from August’s sizzle? The California Science Center is the perfect spot to duck into a world of hands-on wonder. This destination mixes jaw-dropping space exhibits—NASA’s Space Shuttle Endeavour is the star!—with everything from living ecosystems to themed galleries for kids and adults alike.  Summer brings special programming and rotating exhibits, plus the IMAX Theater, which soars you across the planet (and beyond) with their gigantic screen and immersive sound systems. The films range from deep-sea dives to journeys through the cosmos, and on a hot afternoon, nothing’s more refreshing than a couple of hours in that plush, darkened theater.  The vibe inside the Science Center is pure curiosity—families, groups of friends, and solo travelers all get hands-on with live animal encounters, illusion-busting displays, and sometimes even robots that dance. It’s spacious, bright, and easy to navigate, with a cafe for sandwiches and cold drinks when your feet need a pause. We love pairing a visit here with a quick stroll through Expo Park’s rose gardens or checking out nearby museums that make this corner of LA a cultural feast.  Madame Tussauds Hollywood: Rub Shoulders with the Stars  Who says you can’t meet all your favorite celebrities in one afternoon? At Madame Tussauds Hollywood, it’s one dazzling photo op after another. Located right on buzzing Hollywood Boulevard, this ultra-fun wax museum lets you pose with perfect (and uncannily lifelike) replicas of everyone from Leonardo DiCaprio to Zendaya, Marvel heroes, classic icons, and chart-topping musicians.  August means crowds and sunshine on the boulevard outside, but step indoors and you’ll find air-conditioned comfort and selfie opportunities galore. Each set is intricately themed—glam red carpets, pop star stages, even a wild Pacific surf zone—so every snapshot tells a story. The vibe is playful and friendly: no one’s too cool to get goofy, dress up in provided accessories, or act out their red-carpet fantasies.  What sets this spot apart is its Hollywood heart. You’re smack in the middle of the Walk of Fame, with easy access to the TCL Chinese Theatre and Dolby Theatre tours when you’re done. Whether you’re a movie buff, pop culture lover, or just in it for top-quality people-watching, Madame Tussauds is pure LA entertainment.  Getty Center Guided Tour: Art, Gardens & Views  Set high on a hill above the west side, the Getty Center is not just a museum but an experience—a blend of art, architecture, and those famous LA-light-filled gardens. In August, the tram ride up from the parking area reveals sun-drenched views stretching to the ocean. On arrival, join one of the free guided tours for insider stories about masterpieces by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Monet, plus lessons on the museum’s futuristic travertine architecture.  Step inside cool, airy galleries, then wander out to the sculpture gardens, where streams trickle through flowerbeds and visitors lounge on the grass with iced lattes. The air here feels pure and calm—a world away from the city’s bustle. In summer, the Getty hosts garden concerts, sculpture walks, and creative workshops, making it perfect for everyone from art aficionados to curious newcomers.  The real showstopper? The 360-degree terrace views at sunset, when August’s golden hour turns downtown skyscrapers and the Santa Monica Mountains into silhouettes. Bring a sketchbook or camera, grab a gelato from the cafe, and let the creative buzz wash over you. For anyone wanting a mix of culture and total chill, the Getty Center is LA’s go-to.  Open-Air Cinema: Movies Under the Stars  Long, warm August nights call for one thing: outdoor movies! LA’s open-air cinema scene is legendary—join locals sprawled on blankets at spots like Hollywood Forever Cemetery, The Rooftop Cinema Club, or Griffith Park’s Autry Museum lawn. Each venue spins classic films, cult hits, or recent blockbusters, with festive touches like pre-show DJs, local food trucks, and cool breezes swirling under the stars.  What’s so special here? It’s more than just a movie—it’s a full-on LA summer party. Grab a popcorn bucket (or that trendy Korean fried chicken box), order frosty cocktails, and vibe to the DJ’s sunset playlist. Watching a film as the sun sets behind swaying palms is both cinematic and pure Los Angeles magic. Film selections change every week, so check listings and buy tickets in advance (they often sell out!)  Experiencing an open-air movie lets you blend in with Angelenos and soak up that classic outdoor spirit, whether you’re cheering for retro rom-coms, animated crowd-pleasers, or spine-tingling thrillers. Don’t forget a jacket—nights stay cool even in August!  Smorgasburg LA: The Ultimate Summer Food Feast  Every Sunday, Downtown LA’s ROW DTLA becomes food heaven thanks to Smorgasburg—America’s biggest weekly open-air food market. Imagine rows of creative food stalls, scents of BBQ mingling with sizzling bao buns, craft soda samplers, and a parade of Angelenos grazing and chatting over their culinary finds.  August means new pop-up vendors, live music, and fresh-squeezed lemonade to keep you cool. Standout bites include the legendary fried chicken sandwich at Hotville Chicken, vegan sushi from Cena Vegan, beautiful mochi ice cream, or spicy birria tacos best eaten with plenty of napkins. Craft beer gardens and boutique shopping stalls round out the festival vibe—everything is casual, friendly, and supremely social.  We love Smorgasburg for its contagious community spirit. There’s no “just looking” here—grab something wild (ramen burgers! lobster fries!) and find a shaded spot with views of LA’s industrial-chic skyline. If you love food, creativity, and people-watching, you’ll want every Sunday to taste like this.  August in LA: There’s No Place Like It  So there you have it: endless ways to soak up Los Angeles in August, whether you’re cooling off with dolphins, cruising boardwalks, feasting your way through food markets or dancing beneath starry skies. This city glows in summer, and with a mix of classic attractions and only-in-LA surprises, you’ll find every day brings a new adventure. Get ready for long sunny mornings, laughter-filled nights, and a vacation that sparkles from start to finish. See you in the city of angels this August!    Enjoyed this? Check out our favorite ways to spend an L.A. morning, and peruse our pick of the best downtown markets.   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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Things to do in Chinatown Los Angeles

Things to do in Chinatown Los Angeles L.A. is known for everything from its sweeping natural landscapes to Disneyland and Dodger dogs. It’s a total hive of activity, buzzing with life - that being said, there can be a whole lot to choose from here. In a city comprised of over 400 neighborhoods and districts, figuring out what to do next is a pretty bewildering task. Of course, for anybody looking to scratch beneath the surface of the city’s storied history and cultural development, Chinatown is always a must. Situated just Downtown, this unique ethnic enclave is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic areas of the city. Whether you’re looking for great shopping, unbeatable dining, or interesting hidden gems, there are just so many things to see and do in this area of the city. Still not sure quite where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From grabbing a bite to eat at the Far East Plaza to visiting the Chinese American Museum, we’ve made a list of all of the best things you won’t want to miss on your trip to Chinatown. Arrive with a game plan, check out your favorites and you’re sure to have a great time! Shop and Dine The next stop on our list truly is a little slice of history. First constructed in 1938, the Chinatown Central Plaza is known as one of the nation’s first shopping malls. Today, this spot remains the nucleus of Chinatown, and a total hub of excitement. As you might have guessed, this place is a little different from most modern shopping malls! Created to resemble the streets of Shanghai, it’s well-recognised for its fanciful architecture. Inside, you can pick up anything from vintage Chinese dresses and original art to loose leaf teas and stylish house plants. There are also a wide variety of great food stops to choose from. Still, the highlight of this place has got to be its massive 7-foot statue of Bruce Lee! We recommend visiting during the week if you prefer to skip the crowds. Of course, a trip to Chinatown just isn’t complete without exploring some of the area’s most delicious food stops. That’s right - just as any Chinatown should do, L.A.’s iteration of this historic ethnic enclave boasts some of the best fast casuals, bistros and pop-ups for you to sink your teeth into. If you’re looking for an unfussy quick bite whilst exploring, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Some of our favorites include Pearl River Deli, Phoenix Inn Chinese Cuisine and Lao Tao Street Food. The area is also home to the marvellous Philippe the Original, AKA the iconic progenitor of the French Dip sandwich. Pull up a chair, sit back and enjoy one of the best sandwiches of your life. Or, if you’re looking for a wide variety in choice, we suggest heading to the Far East Plaza. Built way back in 1976, this bustling food hall and beloved Chinatown mainstay earned its stripes as one of the best spots to grab authentic regional cuisine in the city long ago. Here you’ll find everything from steaming bowls of pho and classic crunchy spring rolls to lip-smacking ice cream in a wide range of adventurous flavors. No doubt you’ll be able to find something to take your fancy! Learn About the Area For those looking to learn more about the Chinese American experience, there couldn’t be anywhere better than the Chinese American Museum, located on North Los Angeles Street. A great stop for anybody who wants to incorporate a little education into their travel experience, this place works to document and present one of the biggest Chinese American populations in the U S of A. Inside, visitors can enjoy a wide array of exhibits covering fine art from Chinese creators as well as historical artefacts from as far back as the late 19th century. The nature of the displays is fascinating and broad; past ones have focussed on community settlement in Los Angeles, the growth and development of Chinese American enclaves and Asian American activist movements. A thoroughly unique cultural experience, this one is not to be missed. Undoubtedly, Chinatown is one of the best places to go for those who want to learn a bit more about the development of the city. Along with its great shopping destinations, pretty parks and delicious eats, the neighborhood is also home to some really unique historical sites. Standing out as one of our favorites, the Italian American Museum is a surprising and beautiful landmark tucked around the corner of Olvera Street. For those wondering about its background, the spot was constructed way back in 1908 to serve as a gathering place for the Italian community way back in a time when Chinatown was actually Little Italy! Today, this spot is recognized as the oldest remaining structure from L.A.’s Italian enclave and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, visitors can enjoy a fantastic repository documenting the history of Southern California’s Italian roots. Its collection includes over 6000 artefacts with art, photos, documents and more. With the history that lingers on-site and its remarkable displays, this spot is well worth the visit. Get in Touch With Your Spiritual Side If you’re looking to get in touch with your spiritual side, we suggest heading over to the Thien Hau Temple on Yale Street. Formerly an Italian Christian Church, this unique building was bought in the 1980s and converted into a Taoist worship house. Whilst the temple is young, it serves as one of the primary places of worship for Asian L.A. residents. Take time to marvel at its beautiful intricate facade before stepping inside. Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about the fascinating history of the building and explore its wonderful interior. Inside, you can expect to see statues, sculptures, artworks and more with a strong Chinese influence. We recommend visiting during Chinese New Year or Labor Day, since you can get in on all of the fun and festivities! A distinctive architectural marvel and well-recognized place of worship, this place is a total must-see. Vibrant and bustling with life, Chinatown is always a fantastic place to explore. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the city or just grab a bite to eat, you’ll never be bored here! Explore the area 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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