Parks & Outdoors Get Outside & Explore 1 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Griffith Observatory Perched above the city with one of LA’s most iconic views, Griffith Observatory is a must for curious kids. The exhibits about space, planets, and the cosmos are completely free to explore. On clear evenings, the 12-inch Zeiss telescope is open to the public at no cost, so kids can actually peer at stars and planets up close. Planetarium shows cost extra, but the rest of the observatory, the grounds, and that unbeatable Hollywood Sign view are all 100% free. Insider Tip: Arrive early on weekends to snag parking. Hike up from the Ferndell Trail for a scenic approach and extra adventure! 2 Free Entry Outdoor Toddlers–Tweens Ferndell Nature Trail, Griffith Park One of LA’s most magical and underrated hikes, Ferndell is a shady, fern-lined trail that winds through a cool canyon inside Griffith Park. The flat, paved path is stroller and toddler friendly, and there’s free parking, free entry, and a fantastic playground at the end of the trail waiting for you. It makes for a perfect half-day family outing. In spring, the greenery is absolutely stunning. Insider Tip: After the hike, grab snacks at The Trails Cafe nearby, a local family favorite. 3 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Elysian Park Just minutes from Downtown LA near Dodger Stadium, Elysian Park is the oldest public park in the city and a fantastic free destination for families. There are multiple hiking trails, wide open fields for playing, and several playgrounds scattered throughout. The Stadium Way overlook offers stunning city views, and the park rarely feels as crowded as Griffith or Runyon. It is a truly local, underrated gem worth adding to your list. Insider Tip: Combine with a drive around Dodger Stadium for extra excitement for baseball fans. 4 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Venice Beach Boardwalk Venice Beach is one of the most uniquely LA experiences on the planet, and it is completely free. Walk the famous boardwalk where street performers, artists, and skaters all come together in one big, joyful parade. Kids will love watching brave skateboarders at the legendary Venice Skate Park, checking out Muscle Beach, and playing in the sand. The energy here is really unlike anywhere else in the world. Insider Tip: Visit on a sunny weekend morning for peak atmosphere. The beach is spacious and great for sandcastle building too! 5 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Venice Canals Walk Just steps from the boardwalk, the Venice Canals feel like a hidden slice of European charm tucked into the heart of LA. Stroll across charming footbridges, admire colorful canal-side homes, and spot ducks and turtles in the water. Kids love the little bridges and the peaceful, storybook atmosphere. It is a short, easy walk and a lovely contrast to the busy boardwalk nearby. Insider Tip: The canals are best explored in the late afternoon golden light. Combine with a visit to the boardwalk for a full Venice day. 6 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Point Dume State Beach, Malibu For a gorgeous, more nature-forward beach experience, Point Dume in Malibu is something special. A 1.5-mile easy family hike takes you up a bluff with sweeping views of the Pacific, and if you are lucky you might even spot dolphins or sea lions along the way. The beach below is pristine and calm, perfect for playing in the sand and exploring tide pools. Entry to the beach itself is free, though parking fees can apply on busy days. Insider Tip: Arrive early to get free street parking and beat the Malibu crowds on weekends. 7 Free Entry Outdoor Ages 5+ Runyon Canyon Park One of LA’s most famous urban hikes, Runyon Canyon offers spectacular views of the Hollywood skyline and the Hollywood Sign from multiple lookout points. The trails are well-maintained and beginner-friendly, so you do not need to be a serious hiker to enjoy them. The park is also dog-friendly and popular with locals, which means kids will often get to meet friendly pups along the way. It is free, easy to reach by public transit, and feels like a true LA rite of passage. Insider Tip: The lower loop is easiest for young children. Morning hikes offer the clearest views of the Hollywood Sign. 8 Free Entry Outdoor Toddlers–Kids Annenberg Community Beach House This Santa Monica gem has a fantastic free beachside playground, splash pad, and open green space for families. Located right on Pacific Coast Highway, there is also a beach volleyball court, seating areas, and grassy fields, all completely free of charge. In summer, they host free storytime events right on the beach. The pool is a paid amenity, but families can easily spend hours here without spending a cent. Insider Tip: Bring snacks and set up for a full morning, the splash pad is a huge hit with toddlers on warm days. Free Museums & Culture Learn Without Spending a Dime 9 Free Entry Indoor + Outdoor Toddlers–Kids Travel Town Museum, Griffith Park Train-obsessed kids, rejoice! Travel Town is a completely free outdoor museum dedicated to historic locomotives and rail cars inside Griffith Park. Kids can climb aboard vintage engines and explore the grounds at their own pace, and it genuinely feels like stepping back in time. There is a paid miniature train ride around the museum for just a couple of dollars if you want to add a little extra fun, but the museum itself costs nothing to enter. Insider Tip: On the third Sunday of every month, the nearby Carolwood Barn (Walt Disney’s personal barn and train) is open to the public for free! 10 Free Entry Indoor All Ages California Science Center, Exposition Park One of the most impressive free museums in the entire country, the California Science Center is an absolute must for families. The exhibits cover everything from ecosystems and space exploration to the human body and engineering, and they are all genuinely engaging for kids of every age. The undeniable highlight is the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the real retired NASA orbiter displayed in all its towering glory inside the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center. Special IMAX films and the shuttle experience cost extra, but the general museum admission is completely free. Plan to spend at least half a day here. Insider Tip: Reserve your free timed-entry tickets online before visiting, as the museum gets very busy on weekends and during school holidays. 11 Free Entry Indoor + Outdoor All Ages Getty Center, Brentwood Sitting high above the 405 freeway in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Getty Center is one of the most spectacular free destinations in all of Los Angeles. Admission to the museum is always free, and the building itself, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the city and the ocean, is worth the trip on its own. The galleries are filled with an extraordinary collection of European paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts, and the central garden is genuinely loved by kids. The tram ride up from the parking area is also a fun experience for little ones. Insider Tip: Parking costs $20 per car, but you can take the Big Blue Bus from Santa Monica for free access. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the garden at its best. 12 Free Entry Indoor + Outdoor All Ages Getty Villa, Pacific Palisades Set dramatically on a bluff above the Pacific Coast Highway, the Getty Villa is one of LA’s most unique and transportive cultural experiences. The museum is styled after an ancient Roman country house and is dedicated to the art and culture of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. The outdoor peristyle garden alone is worth the visit, and kids are often mesmerized by the ancient artifacts, mosaics, and the sheer drama of the architecture. Admission is always free, though advance tickets are required. Insider Tip: Reserve your free tickets online well in advance as they fill up quickly, especially on weekends. The drive along PCH to get there is beautiful in itself. 13 Always Free Indoor All Ages Hammer Museum, Westwood Located right next to the UCLA campus in Westwood, the Hammer Museum is a wonderful, always-free contemporary art museum that consistently puts on some of the most thought-provoking exhibitions in Los Angeles. The galleries are intimate and approachable, making it a great introduction to modern and contemporary art for older kids. The outdoor courtyard is a lovely spot to sit and rest, and the museum frequently hosts free public programs, talks, and family-friendly events throughout the year. Insider Tip: Check the Hammer’s events calendar online before your visit. They regularly host free family days and hands-on art activities for kids. 14 Free Outdoor Access Outdoor All Ages LACMA Outdoor Installations, Miracle Mile You do not need to buy a LACMA ticket to enjoy one of LA’s most photographed art spots. Chris Burden’s iconic Urban Light installation, featuring 202 restored cast-iron antique street lamps, is free to visit 24 hours a day on the LACMA grounds. Kids love running between the lamp posts, and it is one of the most magical and photogenic spots in all of LA, especially at dusk when the lamps glow golden. Insider Tip: Visit just after sunset when Urban Light is at its most magical and the photo opportunities are incredible. 15 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Watts Towers A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of LA’s most awe-inspiring pieces of folk art, the Watts Towers were hand-built over 33 years by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia using scavenged materials like broken tiles, shells, glass, and pottery. The tallest spire reaches nearly 100 feet. The outdoor grounds are free to visit, and the sheer scale and craft of the towers sparks genuine wonder in kids of all ages. It is a truly unique and moving piece of Los Angeles history. Insider Tip: Guided tours of the interior are available for a small fee on weekends. Check ahead for special free community events. 16 Free (Donation Suggested) Indoor + Outdoor All Ages Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, San Pedro Tucked next to Cabrillo Beach, this wonderful aquarium showcases hundreds of marine species native to Southern California. The exhibits cover three ecosystems: rocky shores, sandy beaches, and open ocean. Admission is technically free (a small donation of $5 per person is suggested but not required). Kids can touch real sea creatures at the touch tank, learn about local marine life, and enjoy the beach right outside the door. Insider Tip: Reserve your visit online in advance (Friday through Monday). Combine with a walk along Cabrillo Beach for a full family outing. Neighborhoods & Culture Only-in-LA Experiences 17 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Olvera Street & El Pueblo Historic Monument The birthplace of Los Angeles, Olvera Street is a vibrant and colorful slice of Mexican culture and history right in the heart of Downtown. You can browse the oldest street in LA, watch mariachi musicians perform live, and explore the historic buildings and murals of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, all for free. It is a living, breathing piece of LA’s roots and a wonderful cultural experience for kids of any age. Insider Tip: Visit on weekends for the most lively atmosphere with street performers. Try some fresh churros or tacos while you are there! 18 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Grand Park, Downtown LA This 12-acre urban park in the heart of DTLA is one of the city’s best free gathering spaces for families. With wide lawns, a splash pad, a playground, and stunning views of City Hall, Grand Park hosts free public programming year-round, from outdoor movie nights to holiday festivals. The splash pad is a summertime hit with little ones, and the park’s central location makes it easy to pair with other Downtown activities. Insider Tip: Check the Grand Park events calendar before your visit. Many free seasonal events and concerts are held here throughout the year. 19 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Picnic at Lake Hollywood Park Tucked behind the Hollywood Hills, Lake Hollywood Park is one of LA’s most peaceful and photogenic hidden spots. The grassy park sits right below the Hollywood Reservoir and offers some of the closest, most spectacular views of the Hollywood Sign you will find anywhere in the city. It is the perfect setting for a family picnic, with wide open lawns, a small walking path around the reservoir, and a relaxed, neighborhood vibe that feels a world away from the tourist crowds nearby. Completely free to visit and genuinely beautiful. Insider Tip: This is hands down one of the best spots in LA for a Hollywood Sign photo. Come in the morning on weekdays for the quietest experience and the best light. 20 Free Outdoor All Ages Hollywood Walk of Fame Stretching along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most famous streets in the world and it costs absolutely nothing to walk. Kids love searching for their favorite celebrities, musicians, and cartoon characters among the more than 2,700 stars embedded in the sidewalk. The surrounding area is full of energy, street performers, and iconic landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre and the El Capitan. It is lively, it is free, and it is unmistakably Los Angeles. Insider Tip: Go in the morning before the tourist crowds arrive. Look out for the stars of Disney characters and famous animated heroes, which tend to be especially popular with young kids. 21 Free Outdoor All Ages The Grove, Fairfax While The Grove is technically an outdoor shopping center, it is also one of the most beautifully designed and family-friendly public spaces in Los Angeles, and wandering through it is completely free. The open-air promenade has fountains, a vintage-style trolley that kids absolutely love, beautiful landscaping, and a warm, festive atmosphere year-round. During the holiday season, it transforms into one of the most magical free experiences in the city, complete with a giant Christmas tree and festive decorations. You do not need to spend a dime to enjoy the ambiance and have a lovely family outing here. Insider Tip: The trolley that runs through The Grove is a highlight for toddlers and young kids. During the holidays, come in the evening to see the full festive atmosphere at its best. 22 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Santa Monica Pier The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most iconic spots in all of Southern California and exploring it is completely free. Walk to the end of the pier for sweeping ocean views, watch street performers and fishermen, and soak in the classic California coastal atmosphere. The pier has a small amusement park and a trapeze school if you want to add paid activities, but simply walking the pier, watching the waves crash below, and watching the sun dip toward the horizon is a wonderful and totally free family experience. Insider Tip: The pier sits right at the end of Route 66, marked by a small sign. It makes for a fun fact to share with older kids who are into road trip history. Only in LA Uniquely Los Angeles Experiences 23 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Dockweiler Beach, Watch Planes Land Dockweiler Beach is a long, wide, and surprisingly uncrowded stretch of sand just south of LAX, and it offers one of the most uniquely thrilling free experiences in the city. Every few minutes, massive commercial jets roar directly overhead on their final approach into Los Angeles International Airport. It is incredibly dramatic and kids absolutely go wild for it. The beach itself is beautiful, with fire pits available for rent if you want to make an evening of it. It is free to visit and unlike anything else you will find on the LA coastline. Insider Tip: The planes fly lowest and loudest in the late afternoon and evening. Bring a blanket, lie on the sand, and let the kids count the aircraft as they pass over. 24 Free Outdoor All Ages Watching Planes Land at In-N-Out by LAX This is one of those only-in-LA experiences that locals absolutely love and visitors rarely know about. The In-N-Out Burger location on Sepulveda Boulevard, right next to LAX, sits directly under the flight path, and planes descend just a few hundred feet overhead as they come in to land. Grab a burger, find a spot in the parking lot or on the patch of grass nearby, and watch the show. Kids are completely transfixed, and honestly so are the adults. It is free to sit and watch, and combining it with an In-N-Out meal makes for an incredibly fun and affordable family outing. Insider Tip: The planes land from the east, so the best viewing is in the late afternoon when LAX switches to westward landings over the ocean. Check a flight tracker app to see when traffic is heaviest. 25 Free Outdoor All Ages Sunset at Palos Verdes Peninsula If you have never watched the sun set over the Pacific from the cliffs of Palos Verdes, you are genuinely missing one of the most beautiful free experiences Southern California has to offer. The Palos Verdes Peninsula juts out into the ocean south of Los Angeles, and its dramatic bluffs and rocky coves offer sweeping, unobstructed views all the way to Catalina Island on a clear day. Bring a picnic, find a cliff overlook, and watch the sky turn every shade of orange and pink as the sun disappears into the sea. It is free, it is breathtaking, and it is the perfect way to end a day of LA adventures. Insider Tip: Lunada Bay and Point Vicente are two of the best sunset viewpoints on the peninsula. Point Vicente also has a lighthouse and a small free interpretive center that kids enjoy. Ready to Explore LA With Your Kids? Bookmark this guide, share it with other parents, and start checking off these free LA adventures one by one! Save This Guide FAQ Frequently Asked Questions Are there really free things to do with kids in LA? Absolutely! Despite its expensive reputation, Los Angeles has a remarkable number of completely free activities for families, from world-class museums like the Getty Center and California Science Center to iconic outdoor spots like Griffith Observatory and Venice Beach. Many of LA’s most beloved family experiences cost nothing at all. What is the best free museum in LA for kids? The California Science Center in Exposition Park is one of the best free museums in the entire country and a must for families. The Getty Center in Brentwood is another outstanding free museum with incredible art and views. Travel Town in Griffith Park is a beloved free outdoor museum for train-loving kids, and the Hammer Museum in Westwood is always free and great for older children. What are the best free outdoor activities in LA for families? Top picks include Griffith Observatory, Ferndell Nature Trail, Venice Beach Boardwalk, Venice Canals, Grand Park’s splash pad, Lake Hollywood Park for Hollywood Sign views, and the sunset cliffs at Palos Verdes. All of these are completely free and well-suited for families with children of all ages. What are some unique only-in-LA free experiences for kids? Watching planes land directly overhead at Dockweiler Beach, sitting at In-N-Out on Sepulveda Boulevard as jets roar over just seconds before touching down at LAX, catching a sunset over the Pacific from the Palos Verdes cliffs, and riding the free trolley at The Grove are all experiences that are uniquely and wonderfully Los Angeles. Do you need a car to visit these free LA activities? Some activities like Venice Beach, Grand Park, Olvera Street, and the Hollywood Walk of Fame are accessible by public transit. However, for spots like Griffith Park, Malibu, Palos Verdes, and San Pedro, having a car makes the visit much easier. Ride-share services are also a great option for car-free families. Source link Post navigation Día Mundial de la Salud Bucodental 2026 Experimente la vida en cada viaje con la nueva tarjeta Toyota Platinum Metrobank
1 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Griffith Observatory Perched above the city with one of LA’s most iconic views, Griffith Observatory is a must for curious kids. The exhibits about space, planets, and the cosmos are completely free to explore. On clear evenings, the 12-inch Zeiss telescope is open to the public at no cost, so kids can actually peer at stars and planets up close. Planetarium shows cost extra, but the rest of the observatory, the grounds, and that unbeatable Hollywood Sign view are all 100% free. Insider Tip: Arrive early on weekends to snag parking. Hike up from the Ferndell Trail for a scenic approach and extra adventure!
2 Free Entry Outdoor Toddlers–Tweens Ferndell Nature Trail, Griffith Park One of LA’s most magical and underrated hikes, Ferndell is a shady, fern-lined trail that winds through a cool canyon inside Griffith Park. The flat, paved path is stroller and toddler friendly, and there’s free parking, free entry, and a fantastic playground at the end of the trail waiting for you. It makes for a perfect half-day family outing. In spring, the greenery is absolutely stunning. Insider Tip: After the hike, grab snacks at The Trails Cafe nearby, a local family favorite.
3 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Elysian Park Just minutes from Downtown LA near Dodger Stadium, Elysian Park is the oldest public park in the city and a fantastic free destination for families. There are multiple hiking trails, wide open fields for playing, and several playgrounds scattered throughout. The Stadium Way overlook offers stunning city views, and the park rarely feels as crowded as Griffith or Runyon. It is a truly local, underrated gem worth adding to your list. Insider Tip: Combine with a drive around Dodger Stadium for extra excitement for baseball fans.
4 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Venice Beach Boardwalk Venice Beach is one of the most uniquely LA experiences on the planet, and it is completely free. Walk the famous boardwalk where street performers, artists, and skaters all come together in one big, joyful parade. Kids will love watching brave skateboarders at the legendary Venice Skate Park, checking out Muscle Beach, and playing in the sand. The energy here is really unlike anywhere else in the world. Insider Tip: Visit on a sunny weekend morning for peak atmosphere. The beach is spacious and great for sandcastle building too!
5 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Venice Canals Walk Just steps from the boardwalk, the Venice Canals feel like a hidden slice of European charm tucked into the heart of LA. Stroll across charming footbridges, admire colorful canal-side homes, and spot ducks and turtles in the water. Kids love the little bridges and the peaceful, storybook atmosphere. It is a short, easy walk and a lovely contrast to the busy boardwalk nearby. Insider Tip: The canals are best explored in the late afternoon golden light. Combine with a visit to the boardwalk for a full Venice day.
6 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Point Dume State Beach, Malibu For a gorgeous, more nature-forward beach experience, Point Dume in Malibu is something special. A 1.5-mile easy family hike takes you up a bluff with sweeping views of the Pacific, and if you are lucky you might even spot dolphins or sea lions along the way. The beach below is pristine and calm, perfect for playing in the sand and exploring tide pools. Entry to the beach itself is free, though parking fees can apply on busy days. Insider Tip: Arrive early to get free street parking and beat the Malibu crowds on weekends.
7 Free Entry Outdoor Ages 5+ Runyon Canyon Park One of LA’s most famous urban hikes, Runyon Canyon offers spectacular views of the Hollywood skyline and the Hollywood Sign from multiple lookout points. The trails are well-maintained and beginner-friendly, so you do not need to be a serious hiker to enjoy them. The park is also dog-friendly and popular with locals, which means kids will often get to meet friendly pups along the way. It is free, easy to reach by public transit, and feels like a true LA rite of passage. Insider Tip: The lower loop is easiest for young children. Morning hikes offer the clearest views of the Hollywood Sign.
8 Free Entry Outdoor Toddlers–Kids Annenberg Community Beach House This Santa Monica gem has a fantastic free beachside playground, splash pad, and open green space for families. Located right on Pacific Coast Highway, there is also a beach volleyball court, seating areas, and grassy fields, all completely free of charge. In summer, they host free storytime events right on the beach. The pool is a paid amenity, but families can easily spend hours here without spending a cent. Insider Tip: Bring snacks and set up for a full morning, the splash pad is a huge hit with toddlers on warm days.
9 Free Entry Indoor + Outdoor Toddlers–Kids Travel Town Museum, Griffith Park Train-obsessed kids, rejoice! Travel Town is a completely free outdoor museum dedicated to historic locomotives and rail cars inside Griffith Park. Kids can climb aboard vintage engines and explore the grounds at their own pace, and it genuinely feels like stepping back in time. There is a paid miniature train ride around the museum for just a couple of dollars if you want to add a little extra fun, but the museum itself costs nothing to enter. Insider Tip: On the third Sunday of every month, the nearby Carolwood Barn (Walt Disney’s personal barn and train) is open to the public for free!
10 Free Entry Indoor All Ages California Science Center, Exposition Park One of the most impressive free museums in the entire country, the California Science Center is an absolute must for families. The exhibits cover everything from ecosystems and space exploration to the human body and engineering, and they are all genuinely engaging for kids of every age. The undeniable highlight is the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the real retired NASA orbiter displayed in all its towering glory inside the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center. Special IMAX films and the shuttle experience cost extra, but the general museum admission is completely free. Plan to spend at least half a day here. Insider Tip: Reserve your free timed-entry tickets online before visiting, as the museum gets very busy on weekends and during school holidays.
11 Free Entry Indoor + Outdoor All Ages Getty Center, Brentwood Sitting high above the 405 freeway in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Getty Center is one of the most spectacular free destinations in all of Los Angeles. Admission to the museum is always free, and the building itself, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the city and the ocean, is worth the trip on its own. The galleries are filled with an extraordinary collection of European paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts, and the central garden is genuinely loved by kids. The tram ride up from the parking area is also a fun experience for little ones. Insider Tip: Parking costs $20 per car, but you can take the Big Blue Bus from Santa Monica for free access. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the garden at its best.
12 Free Entry Indoor + Outdoor All Ages Getty Villa, Pacific Palisades Set dramatically on a bluff above the Pacific Coast Highway, the Getty Villa is one of LA’s most unique and transportive cultural experiences. The museum is styled after an ancient Roman country house and is dedicated to the art and culture of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. The outdoor peristyle garden alone is worth the visit, and kids are often mesmerized by the ancient artifacts, mosaics, and the sheer drama of the architecture. Admission is always free, though advance tickets are required. Insider Tip: Reserve your free tickets online well in advance as they fill up quickly, especially on weekends. The drive along PCH to get there is beautiful in itself.
13 Always Free Indoor All Ages Hammer Museum, Westwood Located right next to the UCLA campus in Westwood, the Hammer Museum is a wonderful, always-free contemporary art museum that consistently puts on some of the most thought-provoking exhibitions in Los Angeles. The galleries are intimate and approachable, making it a great introduction to modern and contemporary art for older kids. The outdoor courtyard is a lovely spot to sit and rest, and the museum frequently hosts free public programs, talks, and family-friendly events throughout the year. Insider Tip: Check the Hammer’s events calendar online before your visit. They regularly host free family days and hands-on art activities for kids.
14 Free Outdoor Access Outdoor All Ages LACMA Outdoor Installations, Miracle Mile You do not need to buy a LACMA ticket to enjoy one of LA’s most photographed art spots. Chris Burden’s iconic Urban Light installation, featuring 202 restored cast-iron antique street lamps, is free to visit 24 hours a day on the LACMA grounds. Kids love running between the lamp posts, and it is one of the most magical and photogenic spots in all of LA, especially at dusk when the lamps glow golden. Insider Tip: Visit just after sunset when Urban Light is at its most magical and the photo opportunities are incredible.
15 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Watts Towers A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of LA’s most awe-inspiring pieces of folk art, the Watts Towers were hand-built over 33 years by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia using scavenged materials like broken tiles, shells, glass, and pottery. The tallest spire reaches nearly 100 feet. The outdoor grounds are free to visit, and the sheer scale and craft of the towers sparks genuine wonder in kids of all ages. It is a truly unique and moving piece of Los Angeles history. Insider Tip: Guided tours of the interior are available for a small fee on weekends. Check ahead for special free community events.
16 Free (Donation Suggested) Indoor + Outdoor All Ages Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, San Pedro Tucked next to Cabrillo Beach, this wonderful aquarium showcases hundreds of marine species native to Southern California. The exhibits cover three ecosystems: rocky shores, sandy beaches, and open ocean. Admission is technically free (a small donation of $5 per person is suggested but not required). Kids can touch real sea creatures at the touch tank, learn about local marine life, and enjoy the beach right outside the door. Insider Tip: Reserve your visit online in advance (Friday through Monday). Combine with a walk along Cabrillo Beach for a full family outing.
17 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Olvera Street & El Pueblo Historic Monument The birthplace of Los Angeles, Olvera Street is a vibrant and colorful slice of Mexican culture and history right in the heart of Downtown. You can browse the oldest street in LA, watch mariachi musicians perform live, and explore the historic buildings and murals of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, all for free. It is a living, breathing piece of LA’s roots and a wonderful cultural experience for kids of any age. Insider Tip: Visit on weekends for the most lively atmosphere with street performers. Try some fresh churros or tacos while you are there!
18 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Grand Park, Downtown LA This 12-acre urban park in the heart of DTLA is one of the city’s best free gathering spaces for families. With wide lawns, a splash pad, a playground, and stunning views of City Hall, Grand Park hosts free public programming year-round, from outdoor movie nights to holiday festivals. The splash pad is a summertime hit with little ones, and the park’s central location makes it easy to pair with other Downtown activities. Insider Tip: Check the Grand Park events calendar before your visit. Many free seasonal events and concerts are held here throughout the year.
19 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Picnic at Lake Hollywood Park Tucked behind the Hollywood Hills, Lake Hollywood Park is one of LA’s most peaceful and photogenic hidden spots. The grassy park sits right below the Hollywood Reservoir and offers some of the closest, most spectacular views of the Hollywood Sign you will find anywhere in the city. It is the perfect setting for a family picnic, with wide open lawns, a small walking path around the reservoir, and a relaxed, neighborhood vibe that feels a world away from the tourist crowds nearby. Completely free to visit and genuinely beautiful. Insider Tip: This is hands down one of the best spots in LA for a Hollywood Sign photo. Come in the morning on weekdays for the quietest experience and the best light.
20 Free Outdoor All Ages Hollywood Walk of Fame Stretching along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most famous streets in the world and it costs absolutely nothing to walk. Kids love searching for their favorite celebrities, musicians, and cartoon characters among the more than 2,700 stars embedded in the sidewalk. The surrounding area is full of energy, street performers, and iconic landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre and the El Capitan. It is lively, it is free, and it is unmistakably Los Angeles. Insider Tip: Go in the morning before the tourist crowds arrive. Look out for the stars of Disney characters and famous animated heroes, which tend to be especially popular with young kids.
21 Free Outdoor All Ages The Grove, Fairfax While The Grove is technically an outdoor shopping center, it is also one of the most beautifully designed and family-friendly public spaces in Los Angeles, and wandering through it is completely free. The open-air promenade has fountains, a vintage-style trolley that kids absolutely love, beautiful landscaping, and a warm, festive atmosphere year-round. During the holiday season, it transforms into one of the most magical free experiences in the city, complete with a giant Christmas tree and festive decorations. You do not need to spend a dime to enjoy the ambiance and have a lovely family outing here. Insider Tip: The trolley that runs through The Grove is a highlight for toddlers and young kids. During the holidays, come in the evening to see the full festive atmosphere at its best.
22 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Santa Monica Pier The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most iconic spots in all of Southern California and exploring it is completely free. Walk to the end of the pier for sweeping ocean views, watch street performers and fishermen, and soak in the classic California coastal atmosphere. The pier has a small amusement park and a trapeze school if you want to add paid activities, but simply walking the pier, watching the waves crash below, and watching the sun dip toward the horizon is a wonderful and totally free family experience. Insider Tip: The pier sits right at the end of Route 66, marked by a small sign. It makes for a fun fact to share with older kids who are into road trip history.
23 Free Entry Outdoor All Ages Dockweiler Beach, Watch Planes Land Dockweiler Beach is a long, wide, and surprisingly uncrowded stretch of sand just south of LAX, and it offers one of the most uniquely thrilling free experiences in the city. Every few minutes, massive commercial jets roar directly overhead on their final approach into Los Angeles International Airport. It is incredibly dramatic and kids absolutely go wild for it. The beach itself is beautiful, with fire pits available for rent if you want to make an evening of it. It is free to visit and unlike anything else you will find on the LA coastline. Insider Tip: The planes fly lowest and loudest in the late afternoon and evening. Bring a blanket, lie on the sand, and let the kids count the aircraft as they pass over.
24 Free Outdoor All Ages Watching Planes Land at In-N-Out by LAX This is one of those only-in-LA experiences that locals absolutely love and visitors rarely know about. The In-N-Out Burger location on Sepulveda Boulevard, right next to LAX, sits directly under the flight path, and planes descend just a few hundred feet overhead as they come in to land. Grab a burger, find a spot in the parking lot or on the patch of grass nearby, and watch the show. Kids are completely transfixed, and honestly so are the adults. It is free to sit and watch, and combining it with an In-N-Out meal makes for an incredibly fun and affordable family outing. Insider Tip: The planes land from the east, so the best viewing is in the late afternoon when LAX switches to westward landings over the ocean. Check a flight tracker app to see when traffic is heaviest.
25 Free Outdoor All Ages Sunset at Palos Verdes Peninsula If you have never watched the sun set over the Pacific from the cliffs of Palos Verdes, you are genuinely missing one of the most beautiful free experiences Southern California has to offer. The Palos Verdes Peninsula juts out into the ocean south of Los Angeles, and its dramatic bluffs and rocky coves offer sweeping, unobstructed views all the way to Catalina Island on a clear day. Bring a picnic, find a cliff overlook, and watch the sky turn every shade of orange and pink as the sun disappears into the sea. It is free, it is breathtaking, and it is the perfect way to end a day of LA adventures. Insider Tip: Lunada Bay and Point Vicente are two of the best sunset viewpoints on the peninsula. Point Vicente also has a lighthouse and a small free interpretive center that kids enjoy.