Los Angeles Weekend Activities & Things to Do
Weekend in Los Angeles
This itinerary strikes a perfect balance between free, engaging outdoor activities and highly recommended ticketed experiences that offer great value for families with children aged 3-12. It emphasizes interactive learning, active play, and cultural exploration, all while being mindful of your budget. Remember to check attraction websites closer to the date for any special holiday hours or last-minute event updates, especially for early January.
Friday Evening - Family Fun Night
Friday, January 2Griffith Park Play
Kick off the weekend with some active fun at Shane's Inspiration, an inclusive playground within Griffith Park.
It's one of the largest universally accessible playgrounds in the Western United States, offering fantastic structures for all abilities, including swings, slides, and sensory play elements.
Perfect for energetic kids to run and play after school. The playground is fully fenced, making it safe for younger children, and has restrooms nearby. It's suitable for all ages, but particularly engaging for 3-12 year olds. Plan for about 1.5 - 2 hours of play.
Ample free parking is available in the Griffith Park area near Shane's Inspiration. Stroller-friendly paths lead to and around the playground.
Family Dinner & Treats
Enjoy a casual, kid-friendly dinner at The Americana at Brand, which often has family-friendly dining options and a lively atmosphere.
Afterward, treat the family to a scoop of ice cream from a local shop or enjoy the outdoor ambiance.
The Americana offers a variety of dining choices, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants, many with kids' menus. The outdoor space is pleasant for a post-dinner stroll, and there's often a dancing fountain show that mesmerizes little ones. Restrooms are readily available. Early dinner timing allows for getting kids home for bedtimes.
Parking is available in the Americana's parking garages (first hour often free, then hourly rates apply). The area is very walkable and stroller-friendly.
Saturday - Family Adventure Day
Saturday, January 3California Science Center
Spend the morning at the California Science Center, home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour and numerous interactive exhibits across various halls like World of Life, Creative World, and Ecosystems.
It offers a fantastic educational and engaging experience for all ages.
This is a hands-on paradise for curious kids! The 'Discovery Room' is specifically designed for younger children. Plan for at least 3-4 hours here. Restrooms and stroller access are excellent. While general admission is free, there is a small fee for special exhibits (like Endeavour reservations) and IMAX films. Suitable for ages 3-12 and beyond.
Parking is available in the Exposition Park parking garage for a flat fee (typically $15-20). Public transport (Metro Expo Line) also stops directly at Exposition Park/USC. Stroller-friendly throughout.
Picnic Lunch & Play
Enjoy a picnic lunch at Exposition Park, right outside the California Science Center.
The Rose Garden is a beautiful spot, or find an open grassy area for kids to stretch their legs after the museum.
Pack sandwiches and snacks to save money. There's plenty of open space for kids to run around and burn off energy. Restrooms are available within the park grounds. A great way to enjoy the beautiful LA weather and offer a budget-friendly meal option.
Easily accessible from the California Science Center. If driving, you've likely already parked for the museum.
Santa Monica Pier Fun
Head to the iconic Santa Monica Pier for classic seaside fun.
Enjoy the lively atmosphere, watch street performers, take a walk along the pier, and perhaps even try a few rides at Pacific Park or visit the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium (Heal the Bay Aquarium) for an engaging marine experience.
Kids will love the energy of the pier. The aquarium is a smaller, more intimate experience perfect for younger children (ages 3-10) and often less crowded than larger aquariums. Restrooms are available on the pier. Pacific Park has rides suitable for various ages, though ride costs can add up quickly. Consider focusing on the free pier experience and the aquarium.
Parking is available in several paid lots around the pier and beach, but can be expensive and fill up quickly. Public transit (Metro Expo Line to Downtown Santa Monica) is an option, followed by a walk. Stroller access is good on the pier itself.
Beachside Dinner
Grab an early dinner at a casual, family-friendly restaurant near Santa Monica Pier, or enjoy some classic pier-side treats like hot dogs or churros before heading home.
Many casual eateries offer kids' menus. The vibe in Santa Monica is relaxed and perfect for an early family dinner. Consider finding a spot with outdoor seating to enjoy the evening air. This is a great way to wind down after a busy day before traffic picks up.
Walkable from Santa Monica Pier. If you moved your car, various paid parking lots are available.
Sunday - Relaxed Family Day
Sunday, January 4Natural History Museum
Discover the wonders of the natural world at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.
Explore dinosaur exhibits, gems and minerals, and the 'Nature Lab' and 'Nature Gardens' which are particularly engaging for kids.
Kids ages 3-12 will be captivated by the dinosaur skeletons and the hands-on opportunities in the Nature Lab. The outdoor Nature Gardens are fantastic for exploring and letting kids discover. Restrooms and stroller access are readily available. Plan for 2-3 hours.
Parking is available in the Exposition Park parking garage (shared with the Science Center) for a flat fee. The Metro Expo Line also serves Exposition Park. Stroller-friendly throughout.
Echo Park Swan Boats
Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at Echo Park Lake, featuring beautiful views of the downtown skyline.
Rent a swan boat for a gentle paddle around the lake, providing a unique and memorable family experience. The park also has a playground if kids need more active play.
The swan boats are a serene and fun activity for families. Kids will love pedaling and spotting ducks. Life vests are provided for all ages. The adjacent playground offers swings and slides for additional entertainment. Restrooms are available. Plan for about 1-1.5 hours on the boats and some playground time.
Paid street parking and some paid lot parking are available around Echo Park. It can sometimes be challenging to find parking on weekends. The area is stroller-friendly.
Farmers Market Visit
Conclude your weekend with a visit to a local farmers market.
While exact Sunday markets vary, the Hollywood Farmers Market is a popular choice for families, offering fresh produce, delicious prepared foods, and often live music. It's a great way to experience local culture and grab an early, casual dinner.
Farmers markets are wonderful for kids to see and try new foods. There are usually food trucks or stands offering diverse and affordable dinner options. It’s an easy, relaxed activity before heading home to prepare for the school week. Restrooms are generally available nearby. The atmosphere is vibrant and engaging for all ages.
Parking can be found in nearby paid lots or metered street parking. Public transport (Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Vine) is also an option. Stroller-friendly paths, though it can get crowded.
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