Los Angeles | MommyPoppins - Things to do in Los Angeles with Kids

Spotlight Los Angeles

Candy Cane Lane in El Segundo puts on a gorgeous display. Photo courtesy of TripAdvisor

Best Christmas Light Displays and Christmas Lights on Houses in Los Angeles

Who's up for a drive after dinner?

Help us give back this holiday season by adopting a letter to Santa.

You're Invited to Join the Mommy Poppins Operation Santa Project

Spread some holiday cheer by granting a child's holiday wish.

Keep kids occupied while waiting for holiday fun. Photo courtesy of Tiny Expressions

Tried and Tested — 10 Brilliant Gifts and Kid-Entertaining Ideas for December 2021

We tested all the top toys and gifts so you don't have to.

Photo courtesy of Irvine Park Railway

Guide to Holiday and Christmas Events for Los Angeles Families

There are so many Christmas events and holiday activities to help families enjoy the season around...

The New Year's Noon Bash is on for 2021! Photo courtesy of the La Habra Children's Museum

Awesome Things To Do in Los Angeles in December 2021 with Kids

With Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa, and New Year's, December has almost too much to do.

Santa greets the crowd at the annual Hollywood Christmas Parade. Photo courtesy of thehollywoodchristmasparade.org

Ultimate List of Free Holiday, Hanukkah, and Christmas Events in Los Angeles for Kids

These celebrations ring in the holidays without wringing out your pockets!

Take in a winter wonderland from the car. Photo courtesy of World of Illumination: Reindeer Road

Holiday Light Shows: Walkable and Drive-through Christmas Lights near Los Angeles

These Christmas light shows dazzle whether you're on foot or in the car.

Photo courtesy of Irvine Park Railway

Christmas Trains, Polar Express Rides, and Holiday Railroad Fun around Los Angeles and Orange County

The North Pole Express has fewer seats in 2020, so you'll want to book earlier!

See Descanso Gardens in a whole new light. Photo courtesy of Descanso Gardens

Enchanting Christmas Light Displays in Los Angeles' Gorgeous Gardens

Bask in the glow of the holidays at these stunning lighting displays in local gardens.

The whole family can lend a hand at Food on Foot. Photo courtesy of Food on Foot

Holiday Volunteer Opportunities in Los Angeles: How Kids Can Help Neighbors in Need

Here are some ways that LA kids can give back this holiday season.

Wander through the twinkling lights and amazing animals at Zoo Lights. Photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Zoo

50+ Favorite Holiday and Christmas Activities in Los Angeles in 2021

Only the best of the best will do this holiday season, and that's what we've got here.

Take part in the Sand Snowman Contest! Photo courtesy of the City of Hermosa Beach Community Resources Department

20 Best Things To Do in Los Angeles this Weekend with Kids: Hanukkah, Tree Lightings, Christmas Light Shows

Do you want to build a sand snowman? You can also light the menorah and bike through the city.

Many organizations are distributing free toys for kids in need this holiday season.

How To Find Free Toys for Kids this Christmas and Holiday Season—Apply Soon!

Here's a list of organizations distributing free toys for kids this holiday season.

Santa's in the bullpen and ice is in the outfield at the Dodgers Holiday Festival 2021.

New Holiday Festival Alert: Santa Claus is Coming to Dodger Stadium

Scherzer's not the only new ace for the Dodgers--this winter we've got Santa in the bullpen.

The La Brea Tar Pits are one of the most famous fossil discovery spots in the world.

The La Brea Tar Pits and Page Museum: Have a Historic Visit with Kids

Get a hands-on lesson in science and history that really sticks with kids!

Santa Claus greets the trolley at Elf on the Shelf Magical Holiday Journey.

Elf on the Shelf's Magical Holiday Journey: Christmas Lights, Ice Skating, and a Ride to Santa Claus

Hop on a holiday trolley to see a right jolly old elf—and ice skate!—in Pomona.

Leavenworth, WA transforms itself into a snow globe at Christmastime. Photo courtesy of the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce

20+ Christmas Towns and Santa's Villages That Absolutely Sparkle

Discover the country's best Christmas towns and Santa's villages.

Kids' classes like art lessons can help your LA kid grow and develop.

Best Classes for Kids in Los Angeles in 2021

Have fun with great classes for kids in Los Angeles.

Selfies with the T-Rex, who can resist? Photo courtesy of the LA Natural History Museum

Insider Tips for Visiting the Natural History Museum with Kids

With so many exhibits, where should you start? We know just where to go.

Ice cream tacos come in every flavor and color. Photo courtesy of Sweet Rolled Tacos

The 17 Most Insane, Over the Top LA Desserts to Treat (and Wow) Kids

From cotton candy wigs to unicorn ice cream cones.

So many ways to play at the beach in Santa Monica. Photo courtesy of Santa Monica Travel & Tourism

20 Great SoCal Beach Towns for a Day Trip or Weekend Getaway

These SoCal beach towns have much more than just sand and surf.

STEM-based learning centers offer kids access to tools that many kids don’t ever get to enjoy and learn from.

16 Homeschool Learning Centers near Los Angeles for Fun and Enrichment

Support your child's learning—and get a little break from your at-home learners.

There's something to explore in every season at Kidspace. Photo courtesy of Kidspace Children's Museum

33 Things To Do with Los Angeles Babies Before They Turn 1

Introduce your little Angeleno to the joys of SoCal living.

Hello new friend. Photo by Jamie Pham

Secrets of the LA Zoo: Top Tips for a Great Visit with Kids

Lions, and tigers, and bears–plus elephants, giraffes, and flamingos, too!

Huttopia's tents are set in the middle of so much lush greenery.

Huttopia Paradise Springs: Discover the Best New Glamping near Los Angeles

With giant pines, a babbling fresh spring, and exquisite tents, a glamping paradise awaits.

Who knew there was so much nature to see in the Las Vegas area? Photo courtesy of Springs Preserve

25 Road Trips From Los Angeles for a Weekend Family Getaway

Hit the road and put LA in your rearview mirror for a while?

There are rides that delight tots and teens at Six Flags.

How To Have a Blast at Six Flags Magic Mountain with Kids of All Ages

Six Flags has plenty of fun for the whole family—if you plan ahead!

Camping at Joshua Tree National Park. Photo by Hannah Schwalbe/NPS

Go Camping This Weekend: Last Minute Campgrounds near LA

Pitch a tent tomorrow at one of these SoCal campgrounds that accommodate last minute campers.

There's so much to do at Victoria Beach. Photo by Carl Glover/CC BY 2.0

Hidden Gem Beaches: LA's Secret Seaside Spots that Only Locals Know

Escape the heat and the crowds at one of these secret SoCal beaches.

Check out the academic calendars for the Los Angeles 2021-22 school year.

School Calendars 2021-2022: Start & End Dates for Los Angeles County Schools

Wondering when school starts this year?

S'mores by the firepit! Photo courtesy of Terranea

Best Kid-Friendly Hotels for a Los Angeles Family Vacation

These LA hotels offer getaways with perks kids and parents will love.

Visit LACMA's Levitated Mass. Photo by Joey Zanetti

100 Things To Do with LA Kids Before They Grow Up

It's the ultimate LA childhood bucket list!

The Making Table is a big hit with kids of all ages.

The New Meri Cherry Drop-in Art Shop Is Open

Drop in and start creating at this gorgeous new art spot in the Valley.

Elephant Seal Vista Point in San Simeon. Photo by Meghan Rose

Road Trip on the PCH: Where To Stop and What To Do with Kids from LA To San Francisco

A drive up the PCH is the perfect family road trip.

No matter where you are, you can book virtual classes for kids.

Online Camps, Virtual Classes, and Shows for Toddlers, Preschoolers, Kids, and Tweens

These classes and after-school activities are available with a click from our calendar!

Put your young helpers to work and you can all sleep under the stars this weekend.

17 Best Campgrounds for Tent Camping with Kids near LA

Marshmallows and bug spray, here we come!

Balance on Black Bear's Bridge at SkyPark. Photo courtesy of SkyPark at Santa’s Village

Best Things To Do with Kids in Lake Arrowhead Any Time of Year

Lake Arrowhead is the perfect mountain getaway in winter, spring, summer, or fall!

No one worries about noisemakers when it's a party in the park!

23 Top LA Parks for Birthday Parties Kids Will Rave About

Local parks are great for parties, but some of these extraordinary LA parks really raise the bar.

The Outdoor Play Plaza at Greensboro Children's Museum in North Carolina.

The Best Children’s Museum in Every State

Did your favorite children's museum make the list?

Photo courtesy of Redwood SkyWalk

The Stunning Redwood Sky Walk Opens: Take Your Family To the Treetops

A stunning new family adventure just opened in California.

Inflatable screens and sitting on the car is all part of the fun. Photo courtesy of City of Irvine

Drive-in Movie Theaters around LA: Family Movie Night in the Car

Drive-in movies are an old-school summer treat.

Photo courtesy of Head Above Water Swim School

Best Private Swimming Classes and Swim Schools for LA Kids

Private or semi-private swim lessons are more accessible than you might think!

Moving day! Get the inside scoop on everything you need to know about moving to LA with kids.

Moving Guide: Top Los Angeles Neighborhoods for Families

Moving in LA? Check out these top neighborhoods.

Slide it, the water's fine. Photo courtesy of Legoland Water Park

10 Best Water Parks and Water Slides near LA for Families

From thrilling slides to splash pads for babies, these water parks have something for everyone.

Swim and play at the water park at this campground. Photo courtesy of Lake Hemet Campground

SoCal Campgrounds with Extra Entertainment for Kids —What's Open in 2021

If just camping out isn't enough for your kids, these campgrounds have a little extra.

Kids are in the drive seat at Pacific Park. Photo by Matt Matasci

Best Amusement Parks for Preschoolers in and near LA

These amusement parks have rides perfect for the pint-sized set.

Play, sip, relax, repeat. Photo courtesy of Wirtshaus

Family-Friendly Beer Gardens: 14 Spots Where LA Kids and Parents Can Chill Together

Who says kids can't join you at the pub?

Learn to fly a falcon! Photo courtesy Sky Falconry

Kids Birthday Party Ideas in LA: 16 Places To Celebrate Now

These unique parties make birthday celebrations extra special this year.

Kids love the rocks and climbing structures at Tongva Park. Photo courtesy of James Corner Field Operations

The Best Toddler Playgrounds in LA: 15 Top Destinations for Kids Under 5

Playgrounds with big fun for little people.

Imaginations run the show at Dream Big. Photo courtesy of Dream Big Children's Center

25 Things To Do with LA Preschoolers Before They Turn 5

An early childhood bucket list for raising a wee Angeleno.

Sundays are for bagels. Photo courtesy of Pop's Bagels

13 Better Than NY Bagels in LA

Where to get the best bagels in the city.

Would you like fries with that? Photo by Matt Matasci

Where Young Imaginations Soar: Pretend City Children's Museum in OC

Pretend City is a mini city where kids are in charge.

Castaway Cove lets kids play while parents relax. Photo courtesy of Howard Johnson Hotel Anaheim

LA's Best Swimming Pools with Play Areas and a Little More for Kids and Parents

These souped-up pools make a splash with something extra.

Wander to a local waterfall, with excited kids in tow.

11 Waterfall Hikes Every LA Family Should Know

A hike to one of these waterfalls is the stuff that family memories (and Facebook posts) are made...

Wide trails and gentle grades are perfect for kids at Kenneth Hahn Park. Photo by Jeremy Miles/Flickr

10 Toddler-Friendly Hikes and Nature Walks in and around Los Angeles

Get those little legs out on the trails with these toddler hikes.

West Coast Racers is one wild ride. Photo courtesy of Six Flags Magic Mountain

When Are All the Theme Parks Reopening? We've Got (Some) Reopening Dates

How and when to visit your favorite parks this spring.

Look for whales and dolphins right from your table at Malibu Farm. Photo by Meghan Rose

40+ Fabulous LA Restaurants with Outdoor Seating for Kids

Find any kind of food, in any part of town—all outdoors.

At-Home Guide for Families: 100s of Activities for Kids

Indoor activities, games, and online fun to keep kids busy during the pandemic.

Vincent Lugo Park, also called Dinosaur or Monster Park, was nominated to the California Register of Historic Places. Photo courtesy of the City of San Gabriel

The Best Playgrounds in Los Angeles: They’re Even Worth Crossing the 405

These amazing playgrounds are worth braving traffic!

Party hats and pretty punch make virtual birthday celebrations special.

Virtual and Social Distancing Birthday Party Ideas for Kids

Birthday? How about a drive-by parade, a Zoom party, or a Broadway show from home?

She finds sea urchins by the sea shore. Photo courtesy of VisitLagunaBeach.com

The Best Tide Pools for Kids To Explore in and around LA and OC

Discover the underwater worlds that lurk under the sea.

Go surfing on the trunk of an elephant at the Museum of Illusions.

Hollywood's Museum of Illusions: Where Kids Can Defy the Laws of Gravity and Physics

Giant, upside down, or 3D—it's all an illusion.

Photo courtesy of Descanso Gardens

Descanso Gardens: An Insider’s Guide to LA’s Best Garden for Kids

What secrets keep kids entranced at this beautiful botanic garden?

Photo by Mommy Poppins

The Best Los Angeles Area Hiking Trails for Families

Kids climbing the walls? Sounds like it's time to take a hike.

Creating a baking soda volcano is a classic science experiment for kids. Photo by Sara Marentette Nighswander

64 Easy Science Experiments for Kids to Do at Home

Execute mind-blowing science experiments with stuff you have around the house.

15 Brainy Puzzle Games and Jigsaw Puzzles for Kids

These brainy games keep kids thinking while they play.

Start kids hiking when they're young, and you've created a hiker for life.

9 Stroller-friendly Hiking Trails for LA Parents To Hike with Toddlers

Some of us prefer hiking without someone on our back—and that's OK.

Homeschool & Online Learning Resources for Families

We'll help you navigate a complex school year with these tools and resources.

Photo courtesy of LA Surf and Swim

Best Private Swimming Classes and Swim Schools for LA Kids

Private or semi-private swim lessons are more accessible than you might think!

Best LA Bike Rides, Trails, and Paths for Biking with Kids

As long as there are kids and bicycles, a family bike ride will always be a hit.

Type C motorhome, photo courtesy of GoRVing.com

RV Camping and Campgrounds for Families: A Beginners' Guide to Planning an RV Trip

RV camping is a great way to vacation with social distance, as long as you know the basics.

These free online classes and educational resources are perfect for homeschooling and remote learning..

30+ (Mostly FREE) Online Learning Resources, Apps, and Games for Kids

Supplement distance learning with these online lessons, apps, and more.

Iconic LA Street Art and Murals for Must-Have Angeleno Kid Photo Ops

Snap some of LA's best photo ops before the kids are too big to pose!

Courtesy of Silly Circus Show

Best Virtual Party Performers and Kids Birthday Parties to Celebrate Online

Surprise your child with a virtual party starring one of these talented entertainers.

360 VR experience in Venice with Geneeo

Giant List of Virtual Tours, Field Trips, and Museums with Free Educational Programming Online

From Buckingham Palace to Mt. Everest, visit some of the world's most famous landmarks from home!

Super Soccer Stars now has virtual soccer programs available for kids 7 days a week.

Best Kids Enrichment Classes Now Online: STEM, Arts, Sports and More

Many programs are moving ahead with virtual offerings.

Make a Lava Lamp with Kids for a Groovy Boredom Buster

Stuff you probably have at home can become this groovy science experiment.

Charades is a great pick for virtual game night with the friends or family.

Best Games Kids Can Play on Zoom Virtually with Friends

Connect and play with friends and family with these fun games perfect for virtual hangouts.

Pull out a block, place it on top but don't let the tower fall in the fun and challenging Jenga.

Best Board Games for All Ages: Two Dozen Picks for Family Game Night

Pandemic playtime is lots of fun with these all-ages pleasing picks.

The Pepper and Soap Experiment for Kids: Easy Science Activity To Do at Home

Show kids the importance of washing their hands in an easy science experiment.

Face to face with the giraffes at the Santa Barbara Zoo. Photo courtesy of Visit Santa Barbara

100 Things To Do in California with Kids Before They Leave The Nest

There are at least 100 things in California worthy of any family's bucket list. How many have your...

Photo courtesy of Action Tours

Zipline Courses and Treetop Adventures for SoCal Kids

If your kids love a good adrenaline rush, it's time for a family outing in the tree tops.

Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner heads down the coast. Photo courtesy of Amtrak

7 Best Train Ride Day Trips To Take from Los Angeles

Let someone else do the driving on your escape this weekend.

Take a stunning hike up to Cap Rock. Photo by Ken Lund/Flickr

Joshua Tree: 12 Things Not To Miss with Kids in this Desert National Park

Easy hikes, fairy tale flora, and stunning vistas await at this national park.

Photo courtesy of San Diego Zoo

San Diego with Kids: 50 Best Things To Do Besides the San Diego Zoo

It will take a while to do all the things on this list, but chances are the weather will be great!

Photo by Bill Soistmann

Los Angeles Visitors' Guide for Families

Southern California is so full of things to do with kids—where do you start?

Restaurants Guide for Los Angeles and Orange County Families

Los Angeles area restaurants that are great for kids and families, with play areas, happy hours...

Museum Guide for Kids in Los Angeles and Orange County

Like everything else, LA's museums are some of the best—and most unusual—in the world.

Hiking and Camping Guide for Los Angeles Families

Let other states boast about their cheese; we know they envy our weather. LA's hiking season starts...

Photo courtesy of Tanya Rothman

10 Things Not To Miss in Hermosa Beach with the Kids

Sneaking away to the South Bay: they don't call this place Hermosa for nothing.

Adventure Playground: Orange County's Park for Free-range Kids

It's the closest thing to playing in a vacant lot until the street lights come on.

Photo courtesy of Smoke Tree Stables

25 Top Palm Springs Resorts, Attractions, & Things To Do for Families

The desert resort with 350 days of sunshine per year is a great starting point for fun.

People bustle along Olvera Street

Olvera Street: a Day Trip to Mexico in the Heart of Downtown LA

DTLA's Calle Olvera is our oldest street, rich in history, shopping, and great eats.

25 Things To Do in Beverly Hills with Kids

There is more to Beverly Hills than swimming pools and movie stars—like these 25 kid-pleasers for...

Latest Articles

Best Kids' Christmas Movies to Watch This Holiday Season

Ally Noel , Dec 6 - These kid-friendly holiday and Christmas movies deliver laughs and plenty of cheer.READ MORE

Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in Los Angeles

Martha Hall , Dec 5 - Sometimes the best present is not having to cook Christmas dinner!READ MORE

Yellowstone National Park with Kids: A Year-Round Guide

Erica Velander, Dec 4 - Here are our top tips for visiting Yellowstone National Park with kids in any season.READ MORE

Best Christmas Light Displays and Christmas Lights on Houses in Los Angeles

Roberta B, Dec 3 - Who's up for a drive after dinner?READ MORE

Online Santa Visits: Zoom with Santa Claus and Virtual Santa Photos for Kids this Christmas

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Liz Alterman, Dec 2 - Spread some holiday cheer by granting a child's holiday wish.READ MORE

Holiday Fun in LA

Take in a winter wonderland from the car. Photo courtesy of World of Illumination: Reindeer Road

Holiday Light Shows: Walkable and Drive-through Christmas Lights near Los Angeles

These Christmas light shows dazzle whether you're on foot or in the car.

Photo courtesy of Irvine Park Railway

Guide to Holiday and Christmas Events for Los Angeles Families

There are so many Christmas events and holiday activities to help families enjoy the season around...

Wander through the twinkling lights and amazing animals at Zoo Lights. Photo courtesy of the Los Angeles Zoo

50+ Favorite Holiday and Christmas Activities in Los Angeles in 2021

Only the best of the best will do this holiday season, and that's what we've got here.

Many organizations are distributing free toys for kids in need this holiday season.

How To Find Free Toys for Kids this Christmas and Holiday Season—Apply Soon!

Here's a list of organizations distributing free toys for kids this holiday season.

The whole family can lend a hand at Food on Foot. Photo courtesy of Food on Foot

Holiday Volunteer Opportunities in Los Angeles: How Kids Can Help Neighbors in Need

Here are some ways that LA kids can give back this holiday season.

Santa meets with everyone on the Polar Express. Photo courtesy of the Southern California Polar Express Train Ride

The Best Polar Express and Christmas Trains near Los Angeles in 2021

All aboard for a magical Christmas adventure.