Family Fun in Los Angeles

Traveling to Los Angeles with a tween and teen means finding that sweet spot where everyone’s excited—and somehow, this city makes it easy. One of our go-to stops is the Funko Hollywood, right near the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. After a stroll past the stars, stepping into Funko feels like entering a pop culture playground—walls lined with favorite characters, athletes, and collectibles. You can even create your own custom figure. Pro tip: Go early—the line builds fast.

For a mix of culture and fun, Museum Row is always a win. Between the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures—where spotting those iconic ruby red shoes from The Wizard of Oz feels a little magical—and the Petersen Automotive Museum (don’t miss the Twister truck or the Batmobile from the 1989 movie, which fulfilled my husband's childhood dream!), you can easily spend half a day here without anyone getting bored.

Art lovers (and even reluctant museum-goers) will appreciate a visit to the Getty Center, perched high above the city with sweeping views, beautiful gardens, and an impressive collection. For something a little different, the Getty Villa offers a more intimate experience inspired by an ancient Roman estate—both are equally special and worth choosing based on your vibe for the day. The tween in our family was partial to the villa just to see the mummy they have displayed.

Head west and the vibe shifts completely. Santa Monica Pier offers that classic California mix of beach day meets boardwalk fun. Whether you’re soaking up the sun or hopping on the Pacific Wheel for sweeping ocean views, it’s one of those places that just feels like vacation.

If your timing lines up, catching a Los Angeles Dodgers game at Dodger Stadium is an absolute must. There’s nothing quite like a warm evening under the lights, a Dodger Dog in hand, and that unbeatable skyline view—it’s one of those quintessential L.A. experiences that both kids and adults remember long after the trip ends.

And one of the best tips? Always check what’s happening while you’re in town. L.A.’s event calendar is packed year-round, but spring brings favorites like the Los Angeles Times Festival of Books at University of Southern California—a dream outing for book lovers. My teen recently met her favorite author and had her books signed, and it ended up being one of those unexpectedly perfect travel moments.

Dining in Los Angeles is such a fun experience. Since it is a large city, there really is something for everyone here!

Dha Rae Oak

A Koreatown staple known for its duck-focused Korean barbecue, especially smoked duck cooked tableside and served with rich banchan and delicious soups. The clay-pot-roasted duck has to be ordered a day in advance.

Yellow Paper Burger

A modern smash-burger-style spot serving simple, ultra-juicy burgers with crispy edges, soft buns, and a minimalist, no-frills, L.A. street food vibe. They offer tots instead of fries, and there's pickled egg on the menu, too—always fun to order with kids in tow for the laughs alone!

Laurel Hardware

A stylish West Hollywood restaurant set in a converted hardware store, known for New American small plates (get the spicy salmon on crispy rice—you won't be mad!), craft cocktails (my personal favorite is the elderflower fizz—a refreshing drink with cucumber and mint), and a lively indoor-outdoor patio scene.

Canter's Deli

A must stop for nostalgic deli vibes alone! We love the pastrami on rye with steak fries and side of pickles (whole plate of pickles? always and forever for this girl!). In true deli style, there is something for everyone here.

LadyHawk

A Lebanese spot created by former Top Chef contestant Chef Charbel Hayek. In traditional Mediterranean style, there are mezze and small plates along with wood-fired meat options. This is a must-visit—I don't normally like falafel, but Chef Charbel's falafel is fluffy and delicious and perfection (especially with the beet hummus).

Sal’s Place

A cozy, old-school Italian-American style restaurant with hearty pastas, classic sauces, and a nostalgic, neighborhood-dining feel. The orecchiette and tiramisu are memory makers!

Yeastie Boys Bagel

The perfect grab-and-go option should you find yourself in DTLA, Silver Lake, or Highland Park. As a Jersey girl, I take my bagels seriously, and these guys hit the nail on the head! The bagel is soft and delicious, they overload it up with cream cheese (true East Coast style), and their cold oat milk latte even impressed my husband.

Pink's Hot Dogs

Last, but certainly not least, is a visit to Pink's. This is L.A. nostalgia for a reason. Think up all the variations on a hot dog, and you aren't even close to what they offer. This is a spot for locals, celebrities, and tourists alike. Whatever you get, don't miss out on a classic chili cheese dog. Afterwards, walk right next door to Voodoo Doughnuts for a little sweet treat (if you have room left) and grab the bacon maple bar—it's award-winning for a reason!