A Day Out With My Kids in Los Angeles

 

Los Angeles is not just a city of movie stars and traffic jams; it's a sprawling metropolis brimming with fun-filled activities perfect for families. As a parent, I’ve tried and tested many places in LA with my kids, and every time I think we've done it all, LA always surprises us with something new. Here are some of our top picks for family-friendly fun in this sunny Californian city.

1. Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

I've always found that the best way to kick off our LA adventures is with a visit to the Griffith Observatory. Not only does it offer one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city, but it's also educational. My children love exploring the interactive exhibits and seeing the Tesla coil in action. Entry is free, though there might be charges for some shows.

And, if you're already at the Griffith Observatory, you're in Griffith Park! Boasting over 4,300 acres, it's one of the largest urban parks in North America. We often pack a picnic, rent bicycles or even take a pony ride. The LA Zoo is also located here, which is always a hit with the kids.

2. The Getty Center

The architectural beauty of The Getty Center is undeniable. But what's inside is even more captivating. My kids were initially hesitant about visiting an "art museum", but The Getty’s family-friendly activities and programs quickly changed their minds. The Family Room, for instance, offers interactive art installations and games that the children absolutely adore. Plus, the gardens outside are the perfect place for kids to run around and for parents to soak in some incredible views.

3. Santa Monica Pier and Beach

If you're in LA, you have to spend a day by the ocean. Santa Monica offers more than just a beach; the iconic Santa Monica Pier is an amusement-packed destination in itself. My children love riding the solar-powered Ferris wheel and indulging in some funnel cake. The adjacent beach is perfect for building sandcastles, flying kites, or just splashing in the waves.

4. Natural History Museum (NHM) and Exposition Park

The NHM was an instant hit with my children. They were fascinated by the Dinosaur Hall, which houses one of the most comprehensive collections of dino fossils. But the fun doesn't stop there. The museum also boasts insect, mammal, and bird exhibits. After you’re done with NHM, step out to explore the surrounding Exposition Park, which also includes the California Science Center and a beautiful rose garden.

5. The Original Farmers Market and The Grove

Looking for a relaxed afternoon? The Original Farmers Market offers an array of international food stalls, sweet treats, and novelty shops. After sampling some snacks, we love to take a trolley ride to The Grove, a next-door outdoor shopping and entertainment complex. With its dancing fountains and frequent live performances, it's a pleasure both for shopping and just hanging out.

6. Kidspace Children's Museum

Located in Pasadena, Kidspace is a hands-on children’s museum that my kids just can't get enough of. It's designed for kids aged 10 and under. From the Physics Forest with its 13 interactive exhibits to the Arroyo Adventure garden where they can play in the mud and water, it's easy to spend an entire day here.

7. OUE Skyspace LA

For a unique experience, we headed to OUE Skyspace in downtown LA. The observation deck gives a 360-degree view of the city, but the real thrill for my children was the transparent "Skyslide", which allows them to slide from the 70th to the 69th floor on the outside of the building. It's a short slide but certainly an unforgettable one!

8. El Matador Beach

While it's a bit of a drive from downtown LA, El Matador Beach is worth the trip. Its stunning sea stacks and hidden caves make for an adventurous day of exploration. We usually pack a picnic and enjoy a day of beachcombing, tide pool exploring, and of course, taking tons of photographs.

9. Universal Studios Hollywood

This place needs little introduction. Universal Studios isn't just a working film studio; it's a full-fledged theme park. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the Studio Tour, it offers a magical experience for both kids and adults. The shows, rides, and character meet-and-greets always leave my children excited and eager for more.

10. LA Live and Downtown LA

For a taste of modern LA, we love to wander around LA Live and Downtown LA. Often, we’d catch a family-friendly show at the Microsoft Theater or just enjoy the vibrant atmosphere with live music, massive LED screens, and tons of restaurants to choose from.

Wrapping Up

One of the beauties of LA is its diversity. Whether you're looking for beaches, museums, parks, or entertainment complexes, Los Angeles has it all. Every time we venture out, it feels like a mini-vacation, and there’s always something new on the horizon. So, pack your bags and your sense of adventure, and dive into the wonders that LA has to offer Steven Taylor, Los Angeles CA

Originally published at https://medium.com.

Steven Taylor on the coming Holiday Season in LA: Will it Be Merry and Bright?

At the time of writing this article, Steven Taylor will realize that December really is just around the corner! And when December comes, that familiar holiday season is also sure to come next too! 

 Steven Taylor is excited about the upcoming holidays. Truly, December really is the most wonderful time of the year. It’s because, during these months, Los Angeles shines up like a diamond especially under the night sky. It’s the time of the year where parks are decorated with outdoor Christmas trees and sparling outdoor lights. 

 

It’s not just the parks that will be shining throughout the night; even Steven Taylor’s neighborhood will also be decorating their homes, in anticipation of the coming holiday season.  

 

Steven Taylor’s heart is indeed filled with excitement, but it is also filled with worry. That’s because not everyone is going to enjoy a merry and bright holiday season.  

 

The current pandemic has left many homes devastated with the loss of lives and the loss of jobs. The economy is currently recovering, but as long as the pandemic continues to threaten everyone, businesses in LA remain on edge. You also have the tired front liners; the doctors, nurses, and hospital staff who are giving it their all, sacrificing their precious hours to make sure that those who got the disease are given the best of care. 

 

This is why Steven Taylor believes that even with all the anxiety, the scare, and the economic pressure that everyone in LA is experiencing, there is still hope. Hope that everyone in Steven Taylor’s community will get through this pandemic with bright smiles on their faces. Steven Taylor and his family are doing what they can to help and support their local community and make sure that everyone has the means to get through this time of hardship and anxiety.  

 

And it’s not just Steven Taylor who is giving back to the LA community; numerous business owners are also giving back to LA with whatever they can spare or muster. The local government is also doing its best by pushing for everyone in the community to get vaccinated and by helping the families of medical front liners through incentives. All in all, the whole city of Los Angeles is filled with hope, thanks to wonderful people who are willing to help each other out, all in the name of community and love. 

 

And with that, Steven Taylor still believes that this year’s holiday season in LA will still be merry and bright! 

Steven Taylor on the Top Best Things to do in LA during Thanksgiving

 

If there’s one holiday during the year where Steven Taylor is most excited about, it’s always during Thanksgiving. 

 

Well, apart from the delicious food and the warm atmosphere, Steven Taylor enjoys having a really great and fun time together with his family and friends. Especially since he lives in Los Angeles, one of the biggest cities in the United States and one of the most fun places to visit during Thanksgiving too. 

 

Everyone has their plans on how to celebrate Thanksgiving. Steven Taylor, LA native also has his own plans too. But for those who want something different for this year, join us in celebrating Thanksgiving here in the City of Angels. We promise that you’re going to have a really great time wandering around and exploring the sights and the sounds! 

 

Here are top best things that one can do while in LA during Thanksgiving: 

 

Encanto at the El Capitan 

 

Location: El Capitan Theatre Hollywood 

 

Visiting LA with the family? Then Encanto at the El Capitan might be the perfect distraction for the kids. Produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios, the Opening Night Fan Event opened last November 23 and will continue until the 5th of December 2021. The event promises a fun night of music, laughter, and fireworks display. 

 

Turkey Trot Los Angeles 2021 

 

Location: Downtown 

 

The Turkey Trot returns this year as a live event. Set on the 25th, participants are expected to make their turkey ‘work out’ before the festivities begin. What the workout means is a scenic course throughout downtown Los Angeles.  

 

Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train 

 

Location: 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange CA 92869 

 

After Thanksgiving, it’s always our favorite time of the year! The Irvine Park Railroad Christmas Train opens on November 26 and will continue to operate until December 24, Christmas eve. This is Irvine Regional Park’s annual event, so everyone is invited to participate and enjoy the wonderful Christmas ride. Apart from the train ride, there are other wonderful activities for the kids to enjoy too, like storytime and coloring activities.  

 

Hikari - Festival of Lights 

 

Location: Tanaka Farms, Irvine CA 

 

Ever wondered how it felt like to witness and be surrounded by hundreds of lights? Well, this coming November 26, prepare to experience the meaning of Hikari or “shine” with this Festival of Lights. Enjoy live music, food, photo ops, arts & crafts, and some cuddle time with barnyard animals. Santa is also there, ready to entertain guests and talk with the kids about their presents for being good little boys and girls. 

Originally published at https://steventaylorlandlord.com on November 24, 2021.