Best Things To Do in Southern California

LA County

1. Universal Studios Hollywood

Step into The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, speed through Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge in Super Nintendo World, and go behind the scenes on the legendary Studio Tour.

2. Griffith Park

This iconic landmark with unparalleled views in Los Angeles is home to the Griffith Observatory, train rides in Travel Town, family-friendly hiking trails like Ferndell, the Los Angeles Zoo, and the Autry Museum, to name a few things. 

 
Thrills await at the Santa Moinca Pier. Photo courtesy of Visit California

3. Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier offers classic seaside fun with amusement rides, carnival games, a historic carousel, and stunning Pacific Ocean views. 

4. Aquarium of the Pacific

Dive into marine life with interactive exhibits, touch tanks, otters, penguins, and more at this impressive aquarium in Long Beach. 

5. Hollywood

Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame looking for the stars of your favorite actors, peruse record stacks at Amoeba Music, and see a show at the famed Hollywood Bowl. 

6. Kidspace 

Kids will love all the hands-on activities at this beloved children's museum in Pasadena that shares a parking lot with the Rose Bowl Stadium. There are many wonderful seasonal events, but it's particularly fun in the summer when it's warm enough to splash into the water streams of the Arroyo Adventure. 

7. Catalina Island 

You might feel like you left California and landed on Capri Island in Italy when docking at Catalina Island. There is a lot of Wrigley history, bison tours, and adventures on the water with glass-bottom boats. 

8. Six Flags Magic Mountain 

Thrill-seekers can head to Santa Clarita for a day of roller coasters, rides, and action-packed experiences. 

9. La Brea Tar Pits

Walk around the La Brea Tar Pits to see woolly mammoth sculptures in the Lake Pit and learn about prehistoric Los Angeles. The Page Museum offers an even more detailed look at Ice Age fossils. 

10. Academy Museum

It only makes sense that a museum dedicated to movies would be in the middle of Los Angeles. If your kids are film buffs, they'll enjoy exploring the magic of movie-making, animation exhibits, and pop culture film props. 

11. The Getty Museums

The Getty and Getty Villa are full of interesting art pieces and artifacts. Both are stunning on the inside and outside. Take the time to meander through the lawns and gardens. Note that the Getty Villa is currently closed due to the Los Angeles wildfires. 

12. Dodger Stadium

California has the most sports stadiums in the country, but one that stands out from the crowd is Dodger Stadium. Kids who love baseball will appreciate a game at this renowned ballpark. 

Orange County

13. Disneyland

Nothing is more synonymous with Southern California than Disneyland, the happiest place on earth. Don your mouse ears, meet Mickey, and immerse yourself in Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland. 

14. California Adventure

Disneyland might get all the glory, but California Adventure holds its own. The two parks are right next to each other, making it easy to park-hop from one to the other. Pixar and Marvel fans will especially appreciate this one. 

15. Knott's Berry Farm 

At Knott’s Berry Farm, you can join Snoopy and the Peanuts gang for fun-filled adventures, all while indulging in the park’s famous boysenberry treats and its old-school Western themes. 

16. Discovery Cube 

Explore a rainforest, dig for dinosaurs, be a goalie, and spark kid's imaginations at this interactive science museum. There is a Discovery Cube in Orange County and one in Los Angeles. 

17. Irvine Park Railroad 

Train-loving kids will enjoy chugging through Irvine Regional Park. They are known for seasonal events, like their holiday Train of Lights and Pumpkin Patch. 

18. Balboa Island

Head to Newport Beach for family-friendly fun, like riding the Ferris wheel at the Balboa Fun Zone. Take the ferry to Balboa Island to stroll the charming streets and treat yourself to a famous frozen banana. 

19. Crystal Cove State Park 

Crystal Cove State Park is a stunning coastal paradise where visitors can hike scenic trails and relax on pristine beaches surrounded by breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Make a pit stop at the Crystal Cove Shake Shack for burgers and shakes. 

Climb on unique rocks at Joshua Tree National Park. Photo by NPS / Renata Harrison

Riverside County

20. Joshua Tree National Park 

Joshua Tree National Park is a desert wonderland where families can climb striking rock formations and hike through iconic, whimsical trees and cholla cacti. 

21. Palm Springs 

Palm Springs is a vibrant desert destination where you can ride an Aerial Tramway, soaring up to the San Jacinto Mountains for breathtaking views and trails for hiking and sledding. 

22. Cabazon Dinosaurs

The Cabazon Dinosaurs are a quirky roadside attraction that is movie-famous. Marvel at giant, towering dinosaurs and climb inside a T. Rex. Plus, the dinosaurs get dressed up for the holidays. 

San Bernadino County

23. Big Bear

Big Bear is a year-round mountain escape where you can race through the forest on the thrilling Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain, hit the slopes in winter, or enjoy hiking and lake adventures in the summer. 

24. Skypark at Santa's Village

SkyPark at Santa’s Village is a holiday wonderland in the San Bernardino Mountains. Meet Santa, ice skate, and enjoy year-round festive fun in a charming alpine setting at this magical adventure park.

25. Pioneertown 

Pioneertown is a historic Old West-style town in the California desert, originally built as a 1940s movie set. Visitors can stroll down dusty streets, explore rustic shops, and catch live reenactments of Wild West showdowns. 

26. Calico Ghost Town

Calico Ghost Town is a preserved 19th-century Old West silver mining town in the Mojave Desert. Go back in time with historic buildings, mine tours, and more. 

San Diego County

27. San Diego Zoo 

The San Diego Zoo is one of the world’s most famous zoos. There are thousands of animals to see (including pandas!), immersive habitats, and interactive exhibits. 

28. San Diego Safari Park 

The San Diego Safari Park is an entirely different park in a different part of San Diego. It offers an unforgettable adventure where you can watch rhinos, giraffes, and other wildlife roam expansive open habitats, take a thrilling safari tour, and experience up-close animal encounters. 

29. LEGOLAND 

LEGOLAND brings imagination to life with colorful, action-packed rides, themed lands, like Dino Valley, build stations, and hands-on experiences that transport visitors into a world created from LEGO bricks in this popular theme park in Carlsbad. 

30. Seaworld

SeaWorld San Diego lets you dive into the adventure with wild rides, close-up animal experiences, and jaw-dropping shows that bring the ocean’s magic to you. 

31. Sesame Place 

Families can enjoy water rides, lively shows, and meet iconic Sesame Street characters at Sesame Place. 

32. Balboa Park 

With its stunning gardens, museums, and cultural landmarks, Balboa Park offers a vibrant, scenic escape, featuring kid-friendly attractions like the San Diego Zoo, the Fleet Science Center, and the San Diego Natural History Museum. 

33. La Jolla Cove 

When you think of the stunning California coast, it's a place like La Jolla Cove that makes those images come to life. Aside from the idyllic views, admire sea lions, take a kayaking excursion, and explore the famous sea cave through Sunny Jim's Sea Cave Store. 

34. Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve 

Outdoor nature lovers who love the coast will appreciate breathtaking views along the coast, scenic hiking trails, and rare Torrey pine trees. 

35. Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

Stretching across California as the largest state park, the Anza-Borrego Desert dazzles with its dramatic desert vistas and giant Galleta Meadows sculptures. 

36. Oasis Camel Dairy

Meet friendly camels, sample camel milk products, and enjoy entertaining animal shows in a charming, family-friendly setting. 

37. Julian 

This historic mountain town is known for its gold rush past, scenic apple orchards, mine tours, and famous homemade pies. 

Santa Barbara County

 
Feed giraffes while admiring an ocean view. Photo courtesy of the Santa Barbara Zoo

38. Santa Barbara Zoo

From the Australian Walkabout, where you freely stroll among kangaroos, the zoo train, and giraffe feedings, the Santa Barbara Zoo stands out for its unique animal encounters and ocean views. 

39. Solvang

Windmills spin, the scent of freshly made aebleskivers fills the air, and Danish culture comes to life in Solvang, where visitors can also find California’s first permanent Thomas Dambo troll at the California Nature Art Museum. 

40. Ostrichland USA 

If you don't have time for the full Solvang experience and are just passing through the Central Coast, Ostrichland is a pit stop to make with kids. Feed massive ostriches and emus during this one-of-a-kind encounter. 

41. MOXI, The Wolf Museum of Exploration + Innovation 

Interactive exhibits, a giant playable guitar, and a rooftop deck with a glass sky deck, water play, and stunning views make MOXI a dynamic museum for kids of all ages. After your visit, go across the street to McConnell's for scratch-made ice cream from Santa Barbara. 

Ventura County 

42. Channel Islands National Park 

Dramatic sea cliffs, rugged hiking trails, and abundant wildlife, like island foxes, make Channel Islands National Park a remote paradise. Kayak through sea caves, see dolphins on the boat ride over, and explore coastal beauty.

43. Underwood Family Farms 

Meet barnyard animals, slide down tractors, pick your own seasonal produce, and enjoy a day of interactive fun on the farm. Underwood Farms is especially known for its seasonal festivals like Christmas on the Farm and the Springtime Easter Festival. 

44. Ojai 

Peruse the shelves of the world's largest outdoor bookstore at Bart's Books, taste Ojai Pixies when in season, and go on outdoor adventures in Los Padres National Forest, like Rose Valley Falls. 

Best Things To Do in Central California

Inyo County

45. Death Valley National Park 

Otherworldly landscapes, from rolling sand dunes to salt flats, make Death Valley National Park an awe-inspiring destination. Kids who love Star Wars can also explore filming locations, including the iconic Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes and Golden Canyon.

Mariposa County

46. Yosemite National Park 

No kid's California bucket list is complete without a visit to our state's crown jewel: Yosemite National Park. Explore Yosemite Valley, chase the waterfalls, and embark on an unforgettable outdoor adventure. 

Mono County

47. Mammoth Lakes 

Adventurous kids will love exploring must-see Mammoth Lakes sites, like Hot Creek Geological Area, Devils Postpile National Monument, Rainbow Falls, and picturesque alpine lakes. Ski in winter and hike in summer. 

Monterey County

48. Monterey Bay Aquarium 

It's one of the best aquariums in the country for a reason. Giant kelp forests, playful sea otters, and mesmerizing jellyfish exhibits make the Monterey Bay Aquarium a fascinating place to explore the wonders of marine life.

49. Big Sur 

Dramatic cliffs, winding coastal roads, and breathtaking ocean views make Big Sur a captivating destination where visitors can explore redwood forests, hidden beaches, and iconic spots like McWay Falls.

50. Pinnacles National Park 

Pinnacles is often one of the overlooked nine national parks in California. It's a particularly good one for kids as there are many unique caves to discover. 

San Luis Obispo County

51. Hearst Castle

Tour the lavish estate of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, and get a glimpse of grandeur. You might even see the famous wild zebras! 

52. Pismo Beach 

Cruise through vast sand dunes on an exhilarating dune buggy ride for a unique adventure along the coast. 

53. Morro Rock

It's hard to miss the gigantic volcanic plug that juts out of the ocean when traveling through the Central Coast. Get an up-close view of the majestic Morro Rock, eat seafood, and admire sea lions at Morro Bay. 

Everyone looks itty bitty next to the General Sherman tree at Sequoia National Park.

Tulare County

54. Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks 

Home to some of the largest trees on Earth, Sequoia & Kings Canyon National Parks are famous for their towering sequoias, including the General Sherman Tree. 

Best Things To Do in Northern California

Alameda County 

55. Oakland Zoo 

It's not every day you can take a gondola over camels up a mountain to see grizzly bears. The California Trail at the Oakland Zoo is a phenomenal experience. You can also collect unique trading cards throughout the zoo.  

56. Children's Fairyland

Did you know? Whimsical storybook scenes and interactive play areas at Children’s Fairyland helped inspire Walt Disney’s creation of Disneyland. 

57. Tilden Regional Park 

From the Little Farm to the steam train through redwood trees and the famed merry-go-round, it's easy to spend a memorable day at this beloved park in Berkeley. 

El Dorado County

58. Lake Tahoe 

Surrounded by stunning mountains, Lake Tahoe offers crystal-clear waters, year-round outdoor activities, and some of the most breathtaking scenery in California. 

59. Apple Hill

There's no better trip in the fall in Northern California than to Apple Hill for apple picking and fresh apple cider donuts. 

Humboldt County

60. Redwood National and State Parks

Giant trees, lush forests, and breathtaking coastal views make Redwood National and State Parks a must-visit destination in California. Marvel at the ancient, awe-inspiring redwoods and explore diverse trails.

61. Sequoia Park Zoo 

What makes this zoo unique is the Redwood Skywalk. Walk among the trees from a thrilling, elevated view. Sequoia Park Zoo is also the oldest zoo in California. 

62. Avenue of the Giants 

The Avenue of the Giants offers a scenic drive among giant redwoods. Stroll through ancient trees and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of California's coastal forests. 

Marin County

63. Muir Woods National Monument

Family-friendly Muir Woods National Monument offers a tranquil retreat with majestic redwoods and quiet trails. It's one of the most accessible ways to view redwood trees from San Francisco. 

64. Bay Area Discovery Museum 

With interactive exhibits, outdoor play areas, and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, the Bay Area Discovery Museum offers a fun and educational experience for children and families. 

65. Point Reyes National Seashore

With its iconic Point Reyes Lighthouse, rugged coastal trails, and abundant wildlife like elephant seals and tule elk, Point Reyes is ideal for an outdoor adventure. 

Search for treasures on Glass Beach. Photo courtesy of MeetMendocino.com

Mendocino County 

66. Glass Beach 

Known for its colorful sea glass scattered across the shore, kids can dig through the remnants of an old landfill turned natural treasure. Sift for rare red rubies and more unique gemstones. 

67. Skunk Train 

Ride the rails on a nostalgic adventure through Northern California's redwood forests on historic train cars. 

Sacramento County 

68. CA State Railroad Museum 

Kids (and parents) who love trains can learn about the history of rail travel through an impressive collection of trains and hands-on exhibits. 

69. Old Sacramento Waterfront

Travel back to the Gold Rush era with historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and museums. See what the bustling days of this area were like for gold miners and traders. 

You can't visit SF without taking a photo of the Golden Gate Bridge. 

San Francisco County

70. Golden Gate Park 

Golden Gate Park has something for everyone, from playgrounds, museums, boat rentals, bison, and gardens galore. 

71. California Academy of Sciences 

The California Academy of Sciences has so much for kids of all ages to explore. There's a rainforest, aquarium, penguins, and an albino alligator named Claude. 

72. Fisherman's Wharf 

The famous San Francisco sea lions tend to steal the show at Fisherman's Wharf. The lively waterfront has tons of attractions, from Musee Mecanique to the Aquarium of the Bay, shops, restaurants, and more. 

73. Alcatraz Island 

Sail over to "The Rock" to tour the infamous prison on Alcatraz Island. Step into a cell and learn about the lives of notorious criminals while overlooking unparalleled views of the San Francisco Bay. 

74. The Presidio 

Some of the best views of the Golden Gate Bridge can be seen from the Presidio. Discover historic military sites, scenic trails, and cultural gems like the Walt Disney Family Museum and Crissy Field. 

75. Golden Gate Bridge

Walk or bike across one of the most famous landmarks in California. Or, take a boat ride under it. No matter what vessel you choose, the views will be worth it so long as Karl, the San Francisco Fog, doesn't roll in. 

76. Chinatown 

North America's oldest, and one of the largest, Chinatown's is right here in California. San Francisco's Chinatown is full of culture, markets, and delicious cuisine. 

77. Lands End 

If your family enjoys hiking, add Lands End to your California bucket list. It's considered one of the most beautiful hikes in the Golden State, with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the coast. 

78. San Francisco Cable Car 

Riding a cable car is a quintessential San Francisco experience. Hang on to the edge while coasting up the famous hilly streets. 

79. Ghiradelli Square

After climbing all those San Francisco hills, reward the family with a chocolate-covered sweet treat. 

Santa Clara County

80. The Tech Interactive 

Tech-savvy kids can put those skills to use at The Tech Interactive in San Jose by discovering science and technology concepts from robotics to virtual reality. 

81. Gilroy Gardens 

Twirl in garlic and spin in a strawberry. Gilroy Gardens is an adorable theme park set in an enchanting garden. 

82. Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose 

Known as the "Purple Museum," the Children's Discovery Museum of San Jose offers a range of hands-on exhibits that inspire creativity and learning in children through interactive play and exploration. 

San Mateo County

83. Half Moon Bay

Half Moon Bay stands out for its dramatic coastline, rugged beaches, and picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean. 

84. CuriOdyssey 

Spark curiosity with immersive exhibits and up-close encounters with native wildlife at this science playground. 

85. Filoli

Stop and smell the flowers and bask in the breathtaking gardens of this beloved landscape in the Bay Area. 

Santa Cruz County 

86. Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk 

Take in entertaining thrills next to the Pacific Ocean. Ride the historic Giant Dipper wooden roller coaster and journey on the Cave Train. There are midway games, mini-golf, and a long list of endless amusement for families.  

 
Ride the rails through redwoods. Photo courtesy of Roaring Camp Railroad

87. Roaring Camp Railroads 

Climb aboard vintage steam trains that wind through the towering redwoods of the Santa Cruz Mountains and to the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk. 

88. The Mystery Spot 

Gravity seems to defy logic at The Mystery Spot. Experience mind-bending optical illusions and strange phenomena in a forest of redwoods. 

89. Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park 

Enter a tranquil escape exploring ancient redwoods via serene hiking trails and peaceful streams. 

90. Natural Bridges State Beach

Natural Bridges State Beach captivates with its dramatic rock arches. It also becomes a seasonal haven for thousands of monarch butterflies during their annual migration. 

91. Big Basin Redwoods State Park

As California's oldest state park, Big Basin Redwoods offers an awe-inspiring trek through ancient redwoods and scenic trails in the Santa Cruz Mountains. 

Shasta County

92. Lassen National Park 

Amidst Northern California’s rugged beauty, Lassen Volcanic National Park immerses visitors in a landscape of steaming fumaroles, bubbling hot springs, and towering volcanic peaks.

93. Turtle Bay Exploration Park 

 Journey through lush botanical gardens, discover fascinating wildlife, and dive into hands-on exhibits that connect art, science, and nature in unexpected ways. 

94. Burney Falls 

As far as waterfalls go, Burney Falls is probably one of the most beautiful in California. Water cascades 129 feet over moss-covered rocks into a serene pool, creating an enchanting spectacle. 

95. Lake Shasta Caverns 

Uncover a world of dazzling stalactites and stalagmites hidden beneath the surface. 

Solano County

96. Jelly Belly Factory

Embark on a sweet adventure of candy-making magic. Discover how the unique flavors of the iconic jelly beans come to life. 

Sonoma County

97. Safari West 

Go wild on thrilling safari tours to see exotic animals like giraffes, zebras, and cheetahs roaming freely in the vast, scenic landscape in the middle of Santa Rosa. 

98. Charles M. Schulz Museum 

The beloved world of Peanuts comes to life with original comic strips, artwork, and interactive exhibits that celebrate the genius of Charles M. Schulz.  

99. Children's Museum of Sonoma 

Kids can splash in the Little Russian River, play in the Ornithopter helicopter area, and explore hands-on exhibits like the Wild Zone and Imagination Playground at this imaginative museum. 

100. Sonoma TrainTown Railroad

Hop aboard a charming miniature train for a scenic ride through tunnels, over bridges, and past a petting zoo.