LA might not be your first thought when it comes to a family vacation destination but, in fact, LA has a lot to offer everyone, from the very youngest to the very oldest member of your party. Relaxed gardens, sweeping beaches, child-focused parks and museums…it’s very easy to plan a group vacation to LA that will suit a range of ages. Here, we’ll go through some suggestions for a multigenerational break to Los Angeles:

Sort out logistics early

Before you start exploring, think about transport. While many of the attractions on this list are relatively close to one another, others are further afield – and LA public transport is, frankly, awful. To avoid logistical stress and frustration, it’s a good idea to have a reliable transport plan. If you’re flying into LAX, we recommend looking into rental cars at the airport. By far the most reliable way to get around LA is by personal vehicle (as you’ll quickly discover if you hit the city at rush hour!). Remember to pick a car that suits everyone’s needs, that’s comfortable enough to support older relatives and has enough space to carry all the toys, snacks, and accoutrements that come with kids.

Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

Griffith Observatory and Park truly do have something for people of all ages. Kids enjoy the interactive observatory exhibits and the giant telescopes. Adults enjoy the skyline views and the peaceful grounds. For older members of your party, there are well-spaced benches for whenever a rest is needed. And the outdoor decks give everyone a chance to take photos and enjoy the mild LA climate. All in all, the combination of views, science, and relaxing outdoor space makes this one of the best multigenerational outings in the city.

Travel Town Museum

If you hang around Griffith Park for a bit longer, you might come across the Travel Town Museum. This museum gives families a hands-on look at historic trains – and we really do mean hands-on. You can clamber through railcars and explore retired locomotives in person.  There’s also a miniature train ride that charms kids and adults alike. 

Santa Monica Pier and Beach

Santa Monica Pier offers classic seaside fun. Children enjoy the small amusement rides, teens like the arcade, and adults appreciate the shops and restaurants along the boardwalk. If the hustle and bustle of the beach gets a bit much, more sedate family members can take a seat on shaded benches by the pier and watch the waves. 

The beach stretches out on both sides and offers smooth paths for easy walking. You can also rent bikes for a family ride by the Pacific. Ultimately, the pier delivers non-strenuous fun, and the beach gives everyone a chance to unwind at their own pace.

The Getty Center

The Getty Center is an art museum with a strong focus on family-friendly art education. It offers families a mix of art, gardens, and architecture in a peaceful hilltop setting. It’s easy to reach via a classic LA tram (which in itself is an adventure for kids who’ve never ridden a tram before!). The galleries themselves offer stunning art, spaces for quiet reflection, and plenty of interactivity for kids to enjoy. The Central Garden, meanwhile, has gentle paths and beautiful views of the city. 

Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden

The Los Angeles County Arboretum is a beautiful and very accessible spot. It’s easy to navigate with strollers and wheelchairs, but also has plenty of space for kids to play or for adults to connect with nature. Famously, the gardens are home to peacocks, which are often popular with kids. Anyone with an appreciation for the natural world will love the mix of tropical plants, lakes, beautifully landscaped gardens, and year-round flower displays. It’s a great location for mixed-age groups who want to experience nature without long hikes.

La Brea Tar Pits 

The La Brea Tar Pits are a natural history site that offer a clear and personal glimpse into prehistoric California. Young children enjoy the life size animal models and the bubbling pits, while older children (and adults!) learn about the science and history of the tar pit fossils. Older members of your party may appreciate the outdoor walkways and the short distances between displays. 

The Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is a very family-friendly attraction, with bright exhibits and easy viewing windows. Kids enjoy the sea otters and tropical fish, teens enjoy the shark lagoon, and adults will find plenty to appreciate as well.

Again, it’s a very accessible place, with a smooth layout and plenty of rest spots for the less mobile. Groups are encouraged to move slowly through the aquarium, which is useful for keeping groups of differing walking speeds together. Outside, you can stroll and grab snacks along the waterfront.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

If you’re looking for something slower-paced that still won’t bore the kids, the Huntington is a great option. It’s a peaceful escape with themed gardens, art galleries, and historic collections. It’s lovely to stroll through the Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and Desert Garden – all of which offer plenty of scope for getting a nice group photo. 

El Matador Beach and the Malibu Coast

El Matador Beach offers dramatic coastal scenery that works well for multigenerational outings. There are tide pools and small sea caves for kids to explore, great scenery and relaxed beach vibes for adults, and some gorgeous coastal vistas that everyone can enjoy. If you’ve rented a car, go for a drive here to take in the winding Malibu coast and the wide stretch of the Pacific. 

Los Angeles Zoo

The LA Zoo gives families a full day of activity without too much strenuous effort. There are plenty of animal habitats to enjoy, combined with educational talks about everything from conservation to funny animal habits. There are play areas dotted throughout the zoo for overexcited kids to let off steam, and shaded rest areas and tram options for party members who get tired. 

A shared city for every generation

Los Angeles offers families a wide range of activities to support the needs of grandparents, parents, and children. The city is full of a range of gardens, museums, beaches, and scenic parks that family members of all ages can enjoy meaningful time together and build lasting multigenerational memories.