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California with Kids: 20 Must-Do Activities for Family Fun

Pack your bags for a family adventure in California, a state known for its sunny beaches, varied landscapes, and must-see attractions. From the enchantment of Disneyland in Anaheim to the grandeur of Yosemite National Park, California offers an array of experiences to suit every family.

This guide presents 20 family-friendly adventures, carefully chosen across the state. Picture the joy at Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles, the natural wonder of Yosemite’s waterfalls in the Sierra Nevada mountains, or the excitement of the San Diego Zoo in Southern California. Each destination is a unique thread in California’s rich tapestry of family-friendly attractions.

Discover theme park thrills in Los Angeles, lakeside tranquility in Lake Tahoe, and cultural gems in San Francisco. Whether it’s roller coasters in Buena Park, beach fun in Huntington Beach, or the allure of Hollywood in Los Angeles, California welcomes families with diverse interests and sizes.

1. Live out your fantasies at Disneyland Park

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Experience the enchanting realms of Disneyland in Anaheim, where magic comes to life. Traverse Fantasyland alongside wide-eyed kids, meet beloved characters and embark on the exhilarating journey of Space Mountain. The day crescendos with a mesmerizing fireworks display, leaving families immersed in pure joy and wonder.

address: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802, USA, United States

2. Meet animals at the San Diego Zoo

Spanning 100 acres, the San Diego Zoo captivates families with its diverse inhabitants. Marvel at playful pandas in the Giant Panda Research Station, journey through the immersive African Rainforest aviary, and elevate your experience on the Skyfari Aerial Tram for breathtaking views—an educational day filled with laughter and wildlife fascination.

Address: 2920 Zoo Dr, San Diego, CA 92101, United States

Hours: 9 am to 5 pm daily

Phone: +1 619-231-1515

3. Savor nature’s best at Yosemite National Park

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Nature takes center stage in Yosemite National Park. Wander the family-friendly Lower Yosemite Fall Trail, stand in awe of iconic granite monoliths like El Capitan, and soak in the breathtaking vistas from Glacier Point—a perfect backdrop for family bonding and exploration. Note a reservation may be required to drive through. Check out the to plan your visit.

4. Build and play at LEGOLAND California Resort

Transforming LEGO bricks into a canvas of imagination, LEGOLAND California Resort unveils intricate replicas of major U.S. cities in Miniland. Watch the Junior Driving School empower little ones, indulge in the interactive fun of Ninjago: The Ride, and embark on a day filled with imaginative play and family adventures.

Address: One Legoland Dr, Carlsbad, CA 92008, United States

Phone: +1 888-690-5346

5. Spend a day at Huntington Beach

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Known as “Surf City USA,” Huntington Beach invites families to the quintessential California beach lifestyle. Enroll in beginner surf lessons, embark on a family bike ride along the scenic Huntington Beach Bike Trail, and culminate the day with a beach bonfire—creating cherished moments by the shore.

6. Catch the thrill at California’s Great America

For thrill-seekers, California’s Great America features heart-pounding rides for a fun-packed family day out. Planet Snoopy ensures joy for the little ones, with pint-sized thrills and playful Peanuts pals. From coaster screams to waterpark splashes, California’s Great America packs summer-sized fun for every thrill-seeker, sun seeker, and character lover in the family. Dates, hours, and prices are subject to change so check the website before visiting.

Address: 4701 Great America Pkwy, Santa Clara, CA 95054, United States

Phone: +1 408-988-1776

7. Hands-on fun at San Francisco Exploratorium

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The San Francisco Exploratorium turns science into a captivating playground. Engage with over 650 interactive exhibits, venture into the unique Tactile Dome for a sensory adventure, and witness the spark of curiosity in your kids—a haven for hands-on learning and shared moments of discovery.

Address: Pier 15 Embarcadero at, Green St, San Francisco, CA 94111, United States

Hours: Tue-sat 10 am to 5 pm, sun 12-5 pm

Phone: +1 415-528-4444

8. Hike at Sequoia National Park

Sequoia National Park stands as a testament to nature’s grandeur. The family-friendly Big Trees Trail immerses you among majestic sequoias, creating cherished family memories amidst towering giants. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a family eager for nature play, there is something for everyone.

 Pack a picnic basket and make a day of exploring! Many meadows and groves offer perfect picnic spots, so fuel up on yummy snacks and soak in the beauty of the park. No reservation is required, and the park is open all year.

Address: 47050 Generals Highway Three Rivers, CA 93271

Phone: 559 565-3341

9. Dive into coastal fun at Santa Monica Pier

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Santa Monica Pier blends nostalgia with modern amusements. Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel and roller coaster offer thrills, while classic treats like funnel cakes and churros evoke timeless joy against the Pacific Ocean’s backdrop. Build sandcastles that rival medieval fortresses on the wide, sandy beach, then savor a scoop of creamy ice cream as you stroll hand-in-hand along the pier, serenaded by street performers and artists showcasing their talents. Just steps away, the Third Street Promenade invites you to browse unique shops and indulge in gourmet treats.

Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States

Phone: +1 310-458-8900

10. California Academy of Sciences

Picture a vibrant playground of science where curiosity runs wild and wonder spills around every corner. That’s the California Academy of Sciences, a family-friendly wonderland where dinosaurs come alive, rainforests whisper secrets, and the mysteries of the universe unfold before your eyes in the state-of-the-art planetarium.

Touch a starfish, build robots, or watch holograms bring extinct giants back to life – this place lets exploration run wild, leaving you awestruck and wanting more. Pack a picnic for the living room rooftop with Golden Gate views, or fuel up at cafes, then dive back into tinkering studios where creativity meets discovery.

Address: 55 Music Concourse Dr, San Francisco, CA 94118, United States

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9:30 am-5 pm, Sunday: 11 am-5 pm

Phone: +1 415-379-8000

11. Rides & fun at Knott’s Berry Farm

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Knott’s Berry Farm seamlessly blends history with berry-fueled joy. Experience the GhostRider roller coaster, enjoy live entertainment at the Calico Saloon, and indulge in Knott’s famous boysenberry treats—a day filled with excitement, nostalgia, and delightful flavors for the entire family.

Camp Snoopy welcomes little adventurers with Peanuts pals and playful rides, while Soak City’s wave pools and waterslides promise splashtastic fun. Dazzling acrobatics, toe-tapping musicals, and juicy burgers fuel your laughter, while cowboy hats and boysenberry jam become souvenirs of a thrilling adventure.

Address: 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620, United States

Phone: +1 714-220-5200

12. Cruise through Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe, an alpine oasis, beckons families with serene beauty. Hike to Vikingsholm Castle with the kids, embark on a family cruise on crystal-clear waters, and unwind on the sandy shores of Sand Harbor Beach—moments of alpine bliss and family connection.

13. Swing by Monterey Bay Aquarium

The Monterey Bay Aquarium is an oceanic marvel, captivating families with diverse marine exhibits. Dive into the kelp forest exhibit, let the kids interact with marine life in touch pools, and witness the playful antics of sea otters—an educational and entertaining underwater adventure.

Address: 886 Cannery Row, Monterey, CA 93940, United States

Hours:10 am to 5 pm mon-sun

Phone: +1 831-648-4800

14. Check in at Universal Studios Hollywood

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Universal Studios Hollywood brings the magic of Hollywood to life. Immerse in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, embark on the iconic Studio Tour and let the kids experience cinematic thrills with rides like Jurassic World—The Ride—a day filled with Hollywood enchantment and shared movie magic.

Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, United States

Phone: +1 800-864-8377

15. Museum crawl at Balboa Park

Balboa Park, a cultural extravaganza, invites families to explore diverse offerings. Wander through world-class museums, stroll amidst lush botanical gardens, and enjoy live performances at the outdoor Spreckels Organ Pavilion—a harmonious blend of art, history, and nature for families.

From kid-friendly playgrounds to serene Japanese gardens, Balboa Park promises endless adventure for every soul. So pack your picnic basket, and your sense of wonder, and get ready to create memories. Check out the official for your ideal itinerary.

16. Joshua Tree National Park

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Joshua Tree National Park unfolds as a desert adventure, offering families a unique landscape to explore. Hike to the iconic Arch Rock, let the kids scramble over colossal boulders, and marvel at unique rock formations—an exploration-filled day amidst desert wonders. For the adventurous, rock climbing trails beckon, offering adrenaline-pumping ascents with breathtaking views. Bring your food, water, and supplies.

Pro Tip: Check park conditions and closures before you go, especially during peak season.

Address: 74485 National Park Drive Twentynine Palms, CA 92277-3597

Phone: 760 367-5500

17. Aquarium of the Pacific

Dive into an underwater wonderland at the Aquarium of the Pacific. Traverse a tunnel surrounded by graceful sharks, let the kids touch rays in interactive pools, and marvel at the vibrant hues of jellyfish exhibits—an immersive, hands-on marine exploration for the entire family.

Address: 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802, USA

Phone: +1 562-590-3100

Hours: 9 am to 6 pm mon-sun

18. Family picnic at Golden Gate Park

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Golden Gate Park provides an urban oasis for families. Explore the de Young Museum’s American art collections, rent paddleboats at Stow Lake for a family adventure, and enjoy a leisurely picnic near the Dutch Windmill—a day of cultural enrichment and outdoor relaxation.

19. Catch the fun at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

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The Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a classic destination for timeless family fun. Experience the thrills of the Giant Dipper roller coaster, try classic arcade games with the kids, and indulge in cotton candy and corn dogs—an authentic boardwalk experience, echoing the joy of yesteryears.

Address: 400 Beach St, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, United States

Hours may vary, check the website

Phone: +1 831-423-5590

20. Explore charming towns

Discovering charming towns in California is a delightful family activity that promises a blend of quaint charm and local warmth. Whether strolling through the Victorian streets of Ferndale, with its colorful storefronts and horse-drawn carriages or exploring the historic architecture of Solvang, reminiscent of a European village, these towns offer a unique glimpse into California’s diverse cultural tapestry.

The picturesque streets of Carmel-by-the-Sea invite families to meander through art galleries and boutique shops, while Julian, famous for its apple orchards, provides a sweet escape into a small-town atmosphere. Each charming town unfolds as a treasure trove of unique experiences, inviting families to enjoy local cuisine, discover hidden gems, and create lasting memories amidst the welcoming communities of the Golden State.

As you plan your visit, consider researching each town in advance to uncover local events or festivals that might coincide with your trip. Dress comfortably, especially for the possibility of extensive walking, and don’t forget to layer up, particularly if your wanderings take you to coastal areas with variable weather.