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Feb 21, 2024 · Additionally, California’s vibrant cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles offer cultural attractions, museums, and delicious cuisine. Whether it’s building sandcastles on the shores of Santa Monica or marveling at the wonders of Yosemite National Park, here are the best places to visit in California with kids!
- Disneyland
- Universal Studios
- San Diego Zoo
- Exploratorium
- Dolphin and Whale Watching
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
- Ride A Steam Train Through The Redwoods
- Sea Glass Beach
- Visit A Kid-Friendly Winery in Sonoma and Napa
- Columbia State Historic Park
Would a post about things to do in California with kids be complete without a mention of Disneyland? My dreams came true when I went there as a kid, and then we did the same for Otis and Arlo when they were 3 and 5 (and I’m sure we’ll return again!). It’s about 45 minutes from downtown L.A. and it requires a bit of planning to get it right. You don...
Universal Studios is a big crowd pleaser for all ages – it’s exciting to be in Hollywood and see the setting for some of your favourite programmes on the studio tour. Plus there are rides and shows for every age, ranging from fun animal actor performances to the thrill-seeking Revenge of the Mummy rollercoaster. And that’s not even to mention the i...
Ever since I first watched Rainbow Brite goes to San Diego Zoo(any other 80s kids out there?!), I dreamt of visiting the 100-acre zoo in real life. That dream came true age 11 and it lived up to all my expectations. It’s still as good today, rated as one of the world’s top zoos and home to around 4,000 animals. It’s one of the top things to do for ...
The Exploratorium in San Francisco is a brilliant interactive science museum that’ll entertain kids and adults alike. We went with Otis and I’m not sure who loved it most – us or him! Step inside a tornado, build electrical circuits, and visit the mad scientists’ penny arcade. Skip the ticket line and book your ticket now. It’s a really fun place f...
You can see whales off the California coast all year round, including giant blue whales in the summer and autumn, and grey whales in winter and spring. Species that can be seen all year are finback whales, humpbacks and dolphins. Places that offer whale watching tours include Mendocino, San Francisco, Newport Beach, Santa Cruz, Monterey, Santa Barb...
The iconic Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk has been the backdrop to countless cinema scenes. The old-fashioned funfair fronts the beach and features classic rides like a big dipper roller coaster and a spinning carousel. And don’t forget to try all the typical boardwalk treats, like kettle corn, saltwater taffy and deep-fried Twinkies. It’s the top Sant...
One of the most unique things to do in California for families is to head to Roaring Camp Railroadsin the Santa Cruz mountains where you can take a steam train through the redwoods, offering a perspective like none other. The 19th-century logging steam train and tracks were originally used to haul giant redwood logs off the mountains. And the 1-hou...
Just 30 minutes from downtown Mendocino is the famous glass beach in Fort Bragg. There seem to be various theories about why the phenomenon has occurred, but either way it’s resulted in a surprising beach made up largely of coloured glass pebbles. It’s a really fun place to take kids in California. Our boys loved searching for their favourite treas...
Visiting a winery with kids might sound like an odd idea, but there are plenty of kid-friendly wineries in California. In Sonoma, we found lots that have lawn games and farm animals on site, and one that even has a playground. See more in our guide to things to do in Sonoma – it’s a surprisingly family-friendly place in California. In Napa, one of ...
If you find yourself in Tuolumne’s gold country, make sure to visit Columbia State Historic Park. The perfectly preserved gold rush town offers the chance to experience what it was like to live in the 1850s. There are historic working businesses, including a blacksmiths, a homemade candy store, a candle shop, and an old-fashioned bowling alley. And...
- San Diego. If you are planning a California road trip with family, it seems obvious to begin in San Diego. The city has endless opportunities for family fun.
- Carlsbad. As you drive north along the California coast with kids you will find Carlsbad, home to unique hiking trails, beaches, flower fields, and LEGOLAND California.
- Anaheim. Anaheim is home to Disneyland Resort, California Adventure, and Knott’s Berry Farm. In nearby Universal City is Universal Studios Hollywood. An hour north of Los Angeles in Valencia is Six Flags Magic Mountain.
- Los Angeles. Los Angeles isn’t my favorite city to visit with kids, but it is a good landing point for exploring some local landmarks. Families should consider a stop in Santa Monica where they can spend time at the beach or playing carnival games on Santa Monica pier.
- Lake Tahoe. The largest alpine lake in North America, Lake Tahoe is filled with sparkling clear blue water. It’s also surrounded by majestic mountains perfect for hiking or biking.
- Disneyland. California’s Disneyland is one of the most popular theme parks in the world. It is one of the best places to visit in California with kids.
- Universal Studios Hollywood. Universal Studios Hollywood offers a lot of attractions and shows that are suitable for children, including the Harry Potter and Jurassic Park-themed attractions, and live shows such as Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.
- San Diego Zoo Safari Park. The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is home to over 2,600 animals and is one of the best places to visit in California with kids to see and learn about animals.
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Apr 6, 2023 · Table of Contents. Epic Things to Do in California with Kids. 1. Road Trip down the Pacific Coast Highway. Pacific Coast Highway, California. Oh, the feel of wind in your hair, and sun on your face as you drive down the best of California’s scenic coastlines.
May 8, 2022 · On the waterfront near Stearns Wharf, you can rent a variety of two- and four-wheeled cycles by the hour (prices vary). The ride along the paved boardwalk is one of the most beautiful in California, with wide beaches, waving palms and gorgeous ocean views. For families with younger kids, the four-wheel buggies might be the best bet.
Feb 28, 2023 · Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter – Gaslamp is a fun neighborhood with restaurants and shopping but also nice proximity to the water. It’s very convenient for visiting the USS Midway and New Children’s Museum. Get more suggestions for where to stay in San Diego with kids. Don’t miss Disneyland’s magic. Thanks to Marcie of Marcie in Mommyland.
