Other-worldly attractions
Prepare imaginations for lift off and conquer the final frontier with a visit to Los Angeles’s extraordinary space-based attractions. They really are out of this world. Griffith Observatory
The huge planetarium paints a hypnotic picture of the cosmos, but nothing beats the awe you'll feel as you press your eye against the Zeiss Telescope at the Griffith Observatory. Become one of 7 million people to have looked through its lenses since 1935, as you take a closer look at the cratered moon and beyond. It’s not just the solar system that Griffith Observatory gives you great views of, however. You'll also be in the perfect position to look down over Los Angeles’s sparkling universe of streets below, and at the proud Hollywood sign that beams in the hills just behind you.
2800 E Observatory Road, Los Angeles CA 90027. California Science Center
See the battered exterior of the Space Shuttle Endeavour, which is enjoying its well-earned retirement here, before settling down for an IMAX movie where you'll experience the roar of the engines and the thrill of spaceflight for yourself. Free exhibits let young scientists conduct colorful experiments, learning Darwin’s theories as they observe slippery eels, sharks, and manta rays.
700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles CA 90037.
Amusement parks
OK, everyone knows about Disneyland – it's one of the world's most famous theme parks and draws legions of visitors to the LA region. And then of course there's Universal Studios Hollywood, giving everyone the chance to star in their own blockbusting adventures. But there's even more to discover in Los Angeles beyond those firm favorites. Six Flags Magic Mountain
Buckle up for a marathon of high octane rides at Magic Mountain, which has more roller coasters than any other amusement park on the planet. Experience the G-force as you drop vertically from the heights of the Apocalypse, before screaming for more as Goliath accelerates you along the track like a missile. Slower-paced rides mean younger children won't miss out on any of the fun, while water-based attractions offer a great way to cool off.
26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia CA 91355.
Museums
Kids will have a great time at Los Angeles’s museums, and you’ll feel like a yo-yo as the exhibits hurl you forwards and backwards in time. Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits
Escape the sweltering Californian sun, and visit a portal back to the Ice Age. Before entering, you’ll be mesmerized by the large tar pit at the front, which belches and burps with activity. These asphalt pits are so thick that any Ice Age animals that stumbled into them were trapped and preserved for ever - and their fossilized bones have been excavated and assembled inside the museum. Meet Zed, a wooly mammoth, and watch out for a fearsome saber-toothed tiger.
5801 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90036.
Family food
Los Angeles is such a large city that there’s no shortage of great eateries, and many places make a special effort to welcome families. Add an extra sprinkling of fun to the food by eating in a former fire station, or by stopping in at a hotdog stand with a difference. Pink's Hotdog Stand
You might be a little shocked to see the queue for what looks like a humble hot dog stand, but these are no ordinary dogs. Pink’s is a Hollywood institution, and the family-run cart - which was paid for with a $50 loan - is now a world famous example of the Hollywood dream coming true. With over 30 mouthwatering varieties, there's little doubt that Pink’s is LA’s top dog when it comes to fast food with heart.
709 N La Brea Avenue, Los Angeles CA 90039.
Engine Co. No. 28
Every kid loves fire trucks - so where better to eat than in a renovated fire station? Tuck in to a tasty fiery chili, or try a zingy lemon drizzled salad, as you eat surrounded by photographs from the fire station’s past. Growing firefighters need to keep their strength up, and the kids’ menu offers hearty pastas, burgers, and chicken dishes.
644 S Figueroa Street, Los Angeles CA 90017.
