Whether you’re a local planning a weekend staycation or a tourist looking for things to do in downtown Los Angeles, this guide to amazing destinations that are perfect for kids and adults alike. From interactive museums to historic landmarks and green parks, discover the best kid friendly Los Angeles activities right in the heart of the city. As one of the most beautiful places in the US, LA offers stunning urban landscapes, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences for the whole family.
1. California Science Center
The California Science Center is a must-visit for families seeking kid friendly Los Angeles activities. Located near Downtown LA, this engaging science museum offers hands-on exhibits that make learning fun for all ages. The star attraction is the Space Shuttle Endeavour, a real spacecraft that has been to space and back. Visitors can walk beneath it and explore the interactive displays about space exploration.
In addition to space, the museum features exhibits on ecosystems, human biology, and the science of motion. The “World of Life” and “Creative World” galleries are packed with interactive experiments and activities perfect for kids. There’s even a seven-story IMAX theater that shows educational films in breathtaking clarity.
For families looking for educational and exciting things to do in downtown Los Angeles, the California Science Center delivers a full day of exploration, learning, and fun. Admission is free (though some exhibits and IMAX shows require a fee), making it an accessible option for budget-conscious travelers as well.
2. The Broad Museum
Art might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about kid friendly Los Angeles activities, but The Broad Museum changes that perception entirely. Located in the heart of Downtown LA, The Broad is home to one of the most impressive collections of contemporary art in the United States.
Children are often captivated by the colorful and whimsical works of artists like Jeff Koons and Takashi Murakami. The famous Infinity Mirror Rooms by Yayoi Kusama offer a mind-bending experience that feels more like an immersive playground than a traditional art gallery. Entry is free, though you’ll want to reserve tickets in advance.
As one of the more unique things to do in downtown Los Angeles, The Broad encourages families to engage with modern art in a setting that’s both welcoming and awe-inspiring. Parents can also enjoy the creative ambiance while introducing children to a love for visual expression.
3. Grand Park
Located between the Music Center and City Hall, Grand Park is an urban oasis in the middle of Downtown LA. It’s a favorite for families seeking open green space and playgrounds amid the city bustle. The splash pad is a huge hit during warmer months and provides endless entertainment for kids who love to get wet and wild.
Families can enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawns, explore gardens filled with native plants, and participate in seasonal community events. Grand Park also offers views of iconic buildings and the Downtown skyline, perfect for family photos and sightseeing breaks.
For parents looking for free and relaxing kid friendly Los Angeles activities, Grand Park is an ideal destination. It’s a peaceful yet energetic spot that provides a great balance to the more structured attractions found elsewhere in the city.
4. El Capitan Theatre
While technically just a short drive from the core of Downtown, El Capitan Theatre deserves a mention for families visiting Los Angeles. This historic theater is owned by Disney and offers an unforgettable movie-going experience. Special effects, live performances, and pre-show activities make every visit feel like a special event.
Children love watching their favorite Disney characters come to life on stage before the movie begins. The ornate interior, complete with a vintage pipe organ, adds to the magic. From classic animated films to the latest blockbusters, El Capitan provides family entertainment at its finest.
If you’re compiling a list of memorable things to do in downtown Los Angeles, a trip to El Capitan is a theatrical adventure your kids will treasure. Be sure to check the theater’s schedule for family-oriented events and themed movie nights.
5. The Last Bookstore
One of the most quirky and iconic spots in Downtown LA is The Last Bookstore. It’s more than just a place to buy books—it’s an immersive experience filled with book sculptures, labyrinths, and cozy reading nooks. Families can easily spend an hour or two exploring the unique interior that feels like a real-life storybook adventure.
Kids can discover new worlds through children’s literature, graphic novels, and young adult fiction. The upper level, called the Labyrinth Above the Last Bookstore, offers a maze-like path filled with fun photo ops, including the famous book tunnel.
For families in search of creative and laid-back things to do in downtown Los Angeles, this bookstore combines art, literature, and fun in one unforgettable destination. It’s also a great way to encourage kids to enjoy reading in a visually stimulating environment.
6. Olvera Street
No visit to Downtown LA is complete without a stroll down Olvera Street, one of the oldest parts of the city. This colorful Mexican marketplace is filled with street vendors, mariachi music, and vibrant culture that appeals to children and adults alike. Kids will love browsing handcrafted toys, sampling fresh churros, and watching live performances.
Families can also explore the Avila Adobe, the oldest standing residence in Los Angeles, and learn about the city’s multicultural history through interactive exhibits and walking tours. The festive environment makes it feel like a daily celebration of tradition and community.
As a lively and historic entry in your list of kid friendly Los Angeles activities, Olvera Street offers a taste of LA’s roots in a way that’s entertaining and enriching for all ages. It’s a must-see for any family exploring Downtown Los Angeles.
7. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Just south of Downtown LA lies the Natural History Museum, a treasure trove of educational experiences and family-friendly exhibits. From towering dinosaur skeletons to glittering gemstone halls, this museum offers interactive displays that spark curiosity and wonder in children.
The Discovery Center and Nature Lab are designed especially for younger visitors, providing hands-on activities like fossil digging, live animal displays, and nature exploration. Seasonal exhibits and special events add variety and excitement to every visit.
For families compiling a list of engaging things to do in downtown Los Angeles, the Natural History Museum offers a perfect blend of fun and learning. Its proximity to Exposition Park makes it easy to combine with other attractions like the California Science Center and the Rose Garden.
8. LA Live and Grammy Museum
For music lovers young and old, LA Live and the Grammy Museum are thrilling places to visit. Located in the heart of Downtown LA, this entertainment complex includes restaurants, theaters, and the Grammy Museum, where interactive exhibits let kids explore the world of music and performance.
Children can learn about their favorite musicians, try out instruments, and record their own tracks in the museum’s sound booths. The museum also features kid-oriented programming and special family days with live performances.
If you’re looking for high-energy, entertaining things to do in downtown Los Angeles, LA Live is a hotspot for culture, food, and fun. Pair it with lunch at a family-friendly eatery and make it an unforgettable day in the city.
9. Walt Disney Concert Hall
Another gem of Downtown LA’s cultural scene is the Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. Its stunning architecture is a sight to behold, and its family concerts and youth programs make it a great option for music-loving families.
On certain weekends, the LA Philharmonic offers kid-friendly concerts that introduce young audiences to classical music in a fun and accessible way. There are also interactive activities before performances to engage children and enhance their musical experience.
For families looking to mix culture with fun, visiting the Walt Disney Concert Hall ranks among the top things to do in downtown Los Angeles. Even if you don’t attend a concert, guided tours of the building are available and provide insights into its history and design.
10. Angels Flight Railway
Wrap up your Downtown LA adventure with a ride on the Angels Flight Railway, the shortest railway in the world. This historic funicular has been transporting Angelenos up and down Bunker Hill since 1901. It’s a quick but thrilling ride that kids absolutely love.
After your ride, you can explore the nearby Grand Central Market for a family meal or snack. The market offers a wide variety of food options, from tacos and ramen to donuts and smoothies—something to satisfy every palate.
Among the most iconic things to do in downtown Los Angeles, Angels Flight provides a bite-sized piece of history wrapped in fun. It’s a simple, affordable activity that creates lasting memories for both kids and parents.
