Why Go?
The sprawling city of Los Angeles has no shortage of sunshine, lush landscapes and, of course, Hollywood glamour. With beckoning beaches, boutique stores lining the streets and famous sights like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, there’s endless opportunities for families here.
What to Do
If you like the outdoors try the Hollywood Bowl. The whole family will enjoy its fun offerings of open-air concerts, firework displays and picnics (or eat at one of the onsite restaurants) during the summer season.
Then take the scenic route on Laurel Canyon Boulevard to Universal Studios, for a world of exciting theme rides.
The Backlot Tour is not to be missed by movie fans – it includes visits to your favorite sets like the explosive effects from The Fast and the Furious and a scary 3D experience with King Kong.
Culture lovers will like Wilshire Boulevard, running all the way from the beach to downtown, it’s home to the excellent LA County Art Museum.
Or, travel into pre-historic times at the exciting La Brea Tar Pits, where mammoths, sabre-tooth tigers and giant sloths became trapped 40,000 years ago. Here, kids will enjoy the Ice Age fossils in the Page Museum as well as the prehistoric footprints.
For the best shopping options, The Grove is a new outdoor shopping mall with designer boutiques. Also be sure to check out famous Rodeo Drive or funky Melrose Avenue. For more eclectic little shops, visit Main Street, which runs between Santa Monica and neighboring Venice, famous for its Muscle Beach and charming canals.
Where to Eat
With so many options, you’ll never be hungry in LA. For sea-view dining go down to the pier and visit The Lobster, or drive up Pacific Coast Highway to lovely Malibu, where eateries like Moonshadows make it possible to dine right on top of the crashing surf.
Excellent and affordable Mexican food can be found at B.S. Taqueria. Or, if you’re partial to a burger, try the famous fast food burger at In-N-Out or head to Nate’n’Al‘s, a Beverly Hills deli that uses Angus beef and is frequented by the movie crowd.
For a real Smörgåsbord, visit West Hollywood farmer’s market. The bustling area is divided into kiosks offering every kind of food imaginable, so each family member can choose their favorite and eat together at a table in the middle of this lovely retro spot.
Where to Stay
To avoid the notoriously busy freeways, base yourself in fashionable West Hollywood, smart Beverly Hills or family-friendly Santa Monica. West Hollywood is close to Hollywood proper with attractions including Sunset Strip and the laid-back farmers’ market. We especially love Santa Monica for its easy public transportation system.