A fun-filled family day in LA can easily cost an arm and a leg, but it doesn’t have to. There are plenty of budget-friendly activities for the whole family to enjoy if you just know where to look. Wrangle up the kids and make a day out of it with one of these free local activities.
The California Science Center
There is so much to see and do at the California Science Center at Exposition Park. Get up close and personal with the space shuttle Endeavour, learn all about Earth’s ecosystems with help from live animals, and enjoy a number of hands-on exhibits. Admission is free, as well as a variety of shows and demonstrations. Attractions such as the High Wire Bicycle, Motion-Based Simulator, and Ecology Cliff Climb are available to enhance your visit for just $3-$5. More information at https://californiasciencecenter.org/.
Cabrillo Marine Aquarium
The Cabrillo Marine Aquarium in San Pedro has so much to discover. The kids will love the Tide Pool Touch Tank and the Research Station. You won’t want to miss the Aquatic Nursery, a working laboratory aimed at growing and caring for young animals. Special events include beach cleanups, summer whale watch, and discovery lecture series. Admission is free, but in order to keep this community resource available, a suggested donation of $5 for adults and $1 for children is appreciated. Find out more by visiting their website, https://www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org/.
Travel Town
The whole family will love exploring this outdoor transportation museum in Griffith Park. Let the kids climb on real steam trains, and don’t forget to check out the various antique vehicles on display. Docent tours are held the 2nd Saturday of the month. Check the events calendar for more special events such as Junior Engineer Play Day, Passenger Car Tours, and more. Admission is free, but the little ones will love a ride around the park on a mini train for just $3. Get more information here, https://traveltown.org/.
Family-friendly activities don’t have to cost a fortune. There are so many fun things to do in LA that won’t break the bank, these are just a few of our favorites. Follow us on Facebook for more budget-friendly and local insider tips.