When it comes to a city that has it all, LA is an effortless contender. It’s got the glitz and the glam, the fine dining establishments and plenty of places to go to feel special and really go all out, but it’s also got a rugged sense of personality that makes it ideal for those looking for something a little more laid back. While many think of LA for the former, with bronzed bodies doing pull ups on Venice beach, celeb spotting at award ceremonies and dipping into designer boutiques, it’s actually a fantastic family destination with something for everyone. Consistently ranked as a top family-friendly holiday spot due to its diverse attractions like museums, beaches, and entertainment, it combines the traditional family hotel experience with so much more. As it gets more difficult to tear tweens and teens away from devices, LA makes getting out and about in the real world an easy winner, prioritising family-time, entertainment and countless chances to make memories together than will last a lifetime.
Los Angeles has always been high on my travel bucket list. I’d seen it countless times in movies and across social media, Natasha visited Santa Monica and was filled with praise (and plans to relocate) and I had dreamed of visiting myself. After having a child of my own and having the trip of a lifetime, I went with the view of discovering the appeal for all ages – and it certainly didn’t disappoint.
As soon as I arrived, LA felt strangely familiar, even though it was my first time there. I’ve always been a big fan of London, and in some ways, the cities share a lot – incredible restaurants, stylish cocktail bars, and endless things to do. The main difference? LA comes with sunshine and heat in abundance, and from my experience, it would be great as a family break away. Here’s everything you need to do to get the most of your family trip to LA.
Arriving and staying at W Hollywood
When you arrive in LA, be sure to stay at the W Hollywood, a stylish hub right in the heart of the city. As soon as I walked in, I was impressed by the sleek design, buzzing atmosphere and loved the fact it had a rooftop pool (I’ve recently written a piece on the best infinity pools in London, so you can imagine this was a win straight away). Check-in was smooth, and the room exuded a modern, chic vibe with a subtle nod to classic Hollywood glamour. Plush beds, a marble bathroom, and thoughtful touches – like an in-room espresso maker and a range of spirits (available for an extra fee) – made it feel both luxurious and welcoming.
After settling in and freshening up, it was time to explore the W’s dining scene. I headed to the Living Room at W Hollywood, which perfectly balanced LA glamour with a relaxed, welcoming vibe. The menu was full of fresh, vibrant dishes, and everything we tried was absolutely delicious. It was the perfect first taste of LA’s culinary scene and a lovely way to unwind after the flight. Book your table in advance to make sure you get the time you want as it’s a popular haunt for locals and tourists alike!
Adventure at Universal Studios Hollywood
The next morning, we were up early and ready for a half day of adventure at Universal Studios Hollywood. I’d visited Universal in Florida a few years ago, and this was just as exciting. In many ways, it was very similar, with many of the rides either the same or slightly adapted. The main difference, however, is that Universal Studios Hollywood is built around a real, working studio – the studio tour is an absolute must when visiting, and I got to go to SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, which is incredible.
Stepping into Universal Studios Hollywood is like stepping into a movie set come to life. The park is an effortless blend of cinematic magic and heart-pumping thrills, with every corner designed to transport you into another world. From the spellbinding corridors of Hogwarts to the action-packed chaos of Jurassic World, it’s impossible not to get swept up in the excitement. And then there’s the Studio Tour – a behind-the-scenes glimpse of a working Hollywood studio that makes you feel like you’re part of the film industry, if only for a few hours. The recently opened SUPER NINTENDO WORLD adds a pop of playful colour, with interactive rides and challenges that make you feel like you’ve jumped straight into a video game. It’s fun, it’s vibrant, and it’s quintessentially LA – perfect for families.
Evening at the Intuit Dome
After an action-packed morning at Universal, we returned to the hotel for a little downtime. A quick refresh was just what we needed before heading out again – this time for an evening of sports and entertainment. Our next stop was the brand-new Intuit Dome, home of the Los Angeles Clippers. From the hotel, it was a short drive, although LA traffic makes it feel like it’s a long drive, as you are stuck in traffic for a very long time.
I’ve been to a basketball game in the past, watching the Brooklyn Nets, but wow, does the Intuit Dome impress you. The arena is sleek, state-of-the-art, and instantly gives you a buzz for the upcoming NBA game. In many ways, it feels futuristic: everything runs through facial recognition, a bit like the Amazon Fresh shops. You don’t even need to pull out your tickets – GameFace ID recognises you and allows entry. The same system is used throughout the stadium for buying food, drinks, or merchandise, making the whole experience seamless, modern, and effortlessly high-tech. The LA Clippers won, putting on a fantastic show – I’d say this is one of my favourite arenas I’ve been to!
After an evening of high-energy basketball and a buzzing arena, it was back to the hotel to unwind and recharge ahead of a busy day to come.
Day 2
Hiking Griffith Park and exploring Griffith Observatory
The next day, we kicked off our LA adventure with a leisurely hike in Griffith Park, finishing at the Griffith Observatory for a tour of the facilities. The trail wound through rugged hills dotted with native flora, offering peaceful moments of escape from the bustling city below. As we ascended, the views of Los Angeles gradually unfolded, revealing a stunning panorama of the city and, of course, the iconic Hollywood Sign perched proudly on the hills. I find a morning hike like this is the perfect respite from the busy city centre, and it provides many photo opportunities. We were accompanied by a brilliant tour guide for the hike, who was very knowledgeable and happy to answer our questions.
The Griffith Observatory itself is equally impressive, both inside and out. Perched in the hills, it offers sweeping 360-degree views of Los Angeles and beyond. Inside, we explored the interactive exhibits, from fascinating displays on astronomy to the historic telescopes. What’s great about the Observatory – aside from its striking architecture and panoramic views – is that entry is completely free. This is always a benefit when you have spent a lot on holiday already.
Arts District: De La Nonna and the Balloon Museum
In the afternoon, we made our way to the Arts District, stopping for lunch at De La Nonna, a market-driven pizza restaurant right in the heart of the neighbourhood. The atmosphere was really nice and the pizza was delicious! From there, we headed to the Balloon Museum, a whimsical, interactive exhibition that instantly sparks your imagination.
LA has a constantly evolving arts scene, with new exhibitions and pop-ups appearing throughout the year, and the Balloon Museum was a particularly playful and memorable highlight. At first, I was dubious, but when I left, I loved it. Perfect for families, the exhibition transforms the space into a world of playful, oversized inflatables that invite interaction and exploration. Walking through, you’re surrounded by bold shapes, bright colours, and imaginative forms that blur the line between art and experience. Some installations are whimsical and humorous, others abstract and thought-provoking, but all encourage you to engage – whether by touching, climbing, or simply marvelling at the artistry. The best thing to do is see it; I don’t feel like words do it justice.
Check in at Omni Los Angeles Hotel
The day finished with a short journey to the Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza, where we stayed for the remainder of the trip. The Omni is a sophisticated oasis in the heart of downtown LA. Inside, sleek interiors, a coffee shop, and an elegant international restaurant set the tone, while the patio with fire pits and an outdoor lap pool offers relaxing spots to unwind. One of the things I really loved about the Omni was having access to the Club Level, which included a dedicated lounge where we could enjoy complimentary breakfast and drinks. As someone who loves cocktails (check out my tips and recipes on Shakeit Makeit), I couldn’t resist making a couple of cocktails for the group before heading out to dinner – they had a selection of spirits which you could use to make them yourself.
Dinner at Asterid by Ray Garcia
Dinner was at Asterid by Ray Garcia, a stylish and contemporary restaurant just a short walk from the hotel. The restaurant celebrates Los Angeles through its bold, authentic flavours, with a menu that showcases the city’s rich culinary diversity. Every dish felt thoughtful and inventive, perfectly reflecting the vibrant, modern spirit of LA dining. I particularly enjoyed the roasted chicken, and the Winder Racer Anderson Valley Pinot Noir paired really nicely with it.
Experiencing Disneyland
The trip had already been full of incredible experiences, but one thing I was especially looking forward to was Disneyland. Disneyland is something that’s been high on my bucket list of things to do, and I was so pleased I got to tick it off.
I’ve never been to Disneyland in Florida, so I can’t compare the two, but what I can say is that Disneyland in LA truly lived up to the magic. Walking through the park felt like stepping into a fairytale, and I couldn’t help but think how much Theo would have loved it – everything from the characters to the rides is designed to make you feel like a kid again. Every corner is bursting with colour, music, and atmosphere, whether you’re strolling down Main Street with its nostalgic charm or gazing up at the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle.
What really stands out is the attention to detail – the way every land feels like its own world, from the car’s land (which Theo would have also loved), to the world of Star Wars, where you can walk through and it feels like you’ve stepped onto another planet, complete with stormtroopers roaming the streets and the chance to pilot the Millennium Falcon.
The parades are fantastic, and the true highlight comes at the very end. As night falls, the park transforms – the castle sparkles, music fills the air, and the famous firework display lights up the sky. This is something you can’t miss.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour: Behind the scenes of Hollywood
Our last morning in LA began with a relaxed breakfast at the Omni before checking out and heading off for one final adventure. A short drive took us to Warner Bros Studios, where we had the chance to step behind the curtain of Hollywood magic on the famous Warner Bros Studio Tour.
The tour is a dream for film and TV lovers, offering the chance to wander through real sets and soundstages used for productions like The Big Bang Theory and Gilmore Girls. You get up close with authentic props and costumes, while the dedicated DC Universe section immerses you in the world of superheroes. It’s a unique mix of nostalgia and excitement, making you feel as though you’ve stepped straight into your favourite shows and films. I got to see where the famous upside-down kiss was filmed, as well as the cafe that featured in You on Netflix. And for any Friends fans out there, yes, we did get to sit on the couch for a photo and see the real fountain from the show.
Lunch at Gjelina and exploring Venice
The afternoon ended with a late lunch at Gjelina, a well-loved restaurant in Venice that has become a staple on Abbot Kinney Boulevard since opening in 2008. The space blends rustic charm with a cool, contemporary vibe, and the menu is all about fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From wood-fired pizzas to inventive vegetable dishes, every plate felt vibrant and full of flavour. It was the perfect spot to soak up Venice’s laid-back energy before winding down the trip.
Of course, you can’t complete a trip to LA without a stroll along Venice Beach. After lunch, we wandered down to the boardwalk, where the energy is infectious – street performers, skaters, and artists line the promenade, creating a vibrant snapshot of LA’s eclectic spirit. We got to see the famous Muscle Beach, whilst also stopping at the famous Erewhon Venice – the health-conscious hotspot loved by locals and celebrities alike – celebrities such as Hailey and Justin Bieber, Kourtney Kardashian, Winnie Harlow, Gisele Bündchen, and Kaia Gerber have all been spotted shopping at, or collaborating with Erewhon.
As the sun began to set over Venice Beach, it felt like the perfect moment to pause and take it all in. LA is a city of contrasts – bustling streets and serene hikes, iconic landmarks and hidden gems, high-energy entertainment and moments of quiet escape. From the rooftop pool at the W Hollywood to the whimsical Balloon Museum, the cutting-edge Intuit Dome, and the magic of Disneyland, every experience was fantastic, and it was a shame I was flying home that evening.
Whether you’re chasing the magic of Hollywood, soaking up the California sunshine, or exploring its diverse neighborhoods, Los Angeles is the ideal family getaway. Will I be returning, 100%. Do I think LA is a place I could bring my own family for the ideal getaway? Absolutely. Will you be heading to LA? Let us know!
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