3 Days of LA with the Family

Family Studio Workshop at Hauser & Wirth in the Arts District
Family Studio Workshop at Hauser & Wirth | Photo: Mario de Lopez
Overview

The secret to successfully traveling with kids? Keep them moving. With your starting point in the Valley, transport is easy and the nights are quiet. Enjoy Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk on the first day, so you can fit in more fun and activities the rest of the trip; and parents get to experience the city too.

NOTE: Hours and opening dates change frequently. Check individual websites for updated information.


Day 1

Fun is Universal. Universal Studios Hollywood, that is. Start the day with breakfast at the oldest Bob's Big Boy in the country. Take advantage of the free shuttle from your hotel and get to the rides, photo-ops and shopping at Universal Studios and CityWalk. End the day with a meal at the legendary Smoke House Restaurant. Kid-friendly, but adults will enjoy the iconic room and crafty cocktails. You've earned it.


Bob's Big Boy
Bob's Big Boy

Breakfast milkshakes are A-OK at this OG Bob's Big Boy.

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Primary image for Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood

Super Nintendo World, Harry Potter and much more.

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Primary image for Universal Citywalk®Hollywood
Universal Citywalk®Hollywood

After the rides, shop for LA souvenirs and more.

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Primary image for Smoke House Restaurant
Smoke House Restaurant

Iconic watering hole famous for its garlic cheese bread.

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Day 2

Today begins with a trip to the waterfront and ends with Mexican BBQ - how LA can you get? Along the way, you'll shop a landmark open air market and visit Museum Row in the Miracle Mile.


Primary image for Battleship IOWA Museum
Battleship IOWA Museum

Tour the legendary "Battleship of Presidents."

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World Famous Shrimp Tray at San Pedro Fish Market
San Pedro Fish Market - San Pedro

The whole family can dive into a signature seafood tray.

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Cabrillo Beach

Enjoy the family-friendly Cabrillo Beach.

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Original Farmers Market

Iconic open air market with gourmet goods and gifts.

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La Brea Tar Pits & Museum

Ancient mammoths and saber-toothed tigers live again.

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The Batmobile from "Batman" (1989) and "Batman Returns" (1992)at the Petersen Automotive Museum
Petersen Automotive Museum

Cool cars from movies and private collections.

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Tacos and more at Salazar in Frogtown
Salazar

Dig into Mexican BBQ in the heart of Frogtown.

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Day 3

Experience LA's diversity with cultural trips to Mexico, China and more - no passport required. Take a ride on "the world's shortest railway," then view dinosaur fossils and the Space Shuttle at two of LA's most famous museums. Finish the busy day with Anthony Bourdain's favorite LA restaurant and a show at El Capitan. You did it!


Olvera Street
Olvera Street

Find souvenirs galore at this colorful marketplace.

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Chinatown

Dim sum and then some in this historic neighborhood.

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Grand Central Market in Downtown LA
Grand Central Market

Iconic food hall with global options for the whole family.

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Angels Flight® Railway

A ride on "the world’s shortest railway" is a must.

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Kids playing in the Splash Pad at Grand Park in Downtown LA
Gloria Molina Grand Park

The kids can't resist playing in the Splash Pad.

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Space Shuttle "Endeavour" at the California Science Center
California Science Center

Take flight at the Space Shuttle Endeavour exhibit.

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"Dueling Dinos" in the Grand Foyer of the Natural History Museum
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Live butterflies, "Dueling Dinos," dioramas and more.

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Primary image for In-N-Out Burger - Hollywood
In-N-Out Burger - Hollywood

Tony Bourdain's favorite LA burger might be yours too.

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Main image for business titled El Capitan Theatre
El Capitan Theatre

Enjoy a kid flick with a show in this historic theatre.

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