Weekend in Los Angeles
This weekend plan beautifully blends free community offerings with worthwhile ticketed attractions, designed for Los Angeles families seeking maximum fun without breaking the bank. It focuses on engaging activities that cater to young children, incorporating opportunities for active play, creative learning, and family bonding, while allowing for easy transitions and considering kid-friendly schedules.
Friday Evening - Creative & Aquatic Adventures
Friday, October 3Free Museum Play
Experience Kidspace Children's Museum for free during their 'Free First Fridays' event.
General admission is complimentary, offering three hours of imaginative play across various exhibits like the Arroyo Adventure, Water Play, and Discovery Garden. This is a perfect opportunity for hands-on learning and active exploration.
Ideal for children ages 3-12, offering interactive exhibits that encourage creativity and physical activity. The museum is stroller-accessible and has multiple restrooms. Duration: 3 hours. Advance reservations are required and usually released about two weeks prior to the event date.
Ample paid parking is available on-site at the Rose Bowl, adjacent to the museum. Consider carpooling. The museum is easily accessible via major freeways.
Shark Lagoon Stroll
Enjoy a tranquil evening exploring the Shark Lagoon at the Aquarium of the Pacific for free.
'Shark Lagoon Nights' offers complimentary access to the outdoor Shark Lagoon, allowing families to observe various species of sharks and rays up close.
Kids will be captivated by the fascinating marine life, including sand tiger sharks and zebra sharks. It's a relaxed, outdoor experience, great for winding down. Restrooms are available. This event is suitable for all ages. Duration: 1-2 hours.
Metered street parking and paid parking structures are available nearby. The Aquarium is easily accessible from the 710 Freeway. Stroller access is good in the outdoor lagoon area.
Saturday - Spooky Theme Park & Beach Fun
Saturday, October 4Knott's Spooky Farm
Dive into the Halloween spirit at Knott's Spooky Farm, a family-friendly daytime event included with regular park admission.
Kids can enjoy trick-or-treating in Ghost Town (for ages 11 and under), join a costume parade with the Peanuts gang, and experience themed ride overlays like the 'Timber Mountain Log Ride Halloween Hootenanny.'
Perfect for energetic kids aged 3-11 looking for mild Halloween fun without the scares. Costumes are highly encouraged! The park offers stroller rentals and numerous family restrooms. Arriving right at opening helps avoid the biggest crowds. Duration: 4-5 hours.
On-site paid parking is available. Buena Park is accessible via the 91 and 5 Freeways. Consider traffic for travel time.
Themed Park Lunch
Grab a fun, themed lunch inside Knott's Berry Farm.
Enjoy specialty Halloween treats and family-friendly dining options within the park's various areas, such as Ghost Town or Camp Snoopy. There are also craft activities like cookie and pumpkin decorating in Calico Park for a creative break.
Kid-friendly meal options are plentiful, from classic theme park fare to unique Halloween-themed snacks and desserts. Look for quick-service restaurants with outdoor seating for a relaxed break. Duration: 1 hour.
Within Knott's Berry Farm, easily walkable from various attractions.
Manhattan Beach Fun
After a morning of thrills, head to Manhattan Beach for some relaxed seaside fun.
Enjoy the sandy beach, take a stroll along the iconic pier, and visit the free Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium located at the end of the pier. Kids can enjoy touch tanks and learn about local sea life.
A great change of pace, offering fresh ocean air and beautiful views. The Roundhouse Aquarium is small but engaging for younger children. The beach also features a children's play area, restrooms, and showers. Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
Metered street parking and paid parking lots are available near the pier. Expect some traffic when traveling from Buena Park to Manhattan Beach (approx. 30-45 min drive without heavy traffic). Stroller-friendly boardwalk and pier.
Coastal Dinner Treat
Enjoy an early, casual dinner in the charming Manhattan Beach downtown area.
Explore the family-friendly restaurants along Manhattan Avenue or Manhattan Beach Boulevard, many of which offer special kids' menus and a relaxed atmosphere.
A perfect way to wind down the day with ocean breezes. Many options available, from pizza to casual American fare. Early timing ensures kids can get to bed at a reasonable hour. Duration: 1 hour.
Restaurants are within walking distance of the pier or a short drive from beach parking. Public parking structures and street parking are available.
Sunday - Relaxed Exploration & Stargazing
Sunday, October 5Local Market Finds
Start Sunday with a visit to the Good Times Farmers Market at LA Valley College.
Browse fresh produce, artisan goods, enjoy live music, and sample delicious treats from local food vendors. It's a vibrant community hub perfect for a leisurely morning.
A relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere where kids can explore and parents can find local delights. Great for a budget-friendly breakfast or snacks. Stroller-friendly with restrooms available. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Plenty of free parking is usually available in Parking Lot A at LA Valley College.
Celestial Wonders
Journey to the Griffith Observatory for an afternoon of science and breathtaking views.
Admission to the building, exhibits, and grounds is free, offering interactive displays about space and physics. Enjoy panoramic views of the city, the Pacific Ocean, and the Hollywood Sign.
Engaging for all ages, with hands-on exhibits that fascinate kids and stunning photo opportunities. Consider a jacket as it can be windy. Restrooms are available. Planetarium shows are ticketed and optional; check show schedules for age appropriateness. Duration: 2-3 hours.
Paid parking is available on-site, but it can fill quickly. Consider using the DASH Observatory bus from the Vermont/Sunset Metro Red Line station or a rideshare service to avoid parking hassles. The Observatory is stroller-accessible.
Park Play & Treat
Conclude your weekend with some free play at Shane's Inspiration, a fantastic inclusive playground within Griffith Park.
This universally accessible playground offers diverse play structures that cater to children of all abilities, making it a perfect spot for kids to burn off their last bursts of energy. Afterwards, grab a sweet treat like ice cream.
An excellent way for kids to play freely and parents to relax before the school week. Ample space for running, climbing, and imaginative play. Accessible restrooms are available. Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
Free parking is available within Griffith Park. Easily accessible by car. Ensure you have quarters or a card for parking meters if you find street parking.
This weekend itinerary for Los Angeles can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.