Visit These 5 Fun-Filled LA Locations to Unlock Your Inner Child

There is much to love about Los Angeles, but the hustle and bustle can lead to more business than pleasure, especially if you’re trying to make it in the entertainment industry. Embracing your inner child is a great way to unwind and have some innocent fun. Here are five locations to unlock your inner child.

1. Pacific Park

Whether you live in LA or across the country, you’ve likely heard of the Santa Monica Pier. Aside from beach access and gorgeous views, you can do so many kid-friendly attractions with your little ones or on your own.

Pacific Park sits on the pier, which has an aquarium, a Ferris wheel, games and traditional fair food like funnel cakes and cotton candy. There is no fee to enter the park, so you can check everything before deciding what to do. Rides typically range between $5-$12.

There are plenty of fun-filled restaurants around the park, including cookie and ice cream shops to indulge in. The park is a great place to let loose and enjoy the benefits of fresh air and sunshine.

2. The Dr. Seuss Experience

The Dr. Seuss Experience is a newer experience in Santa Monica that lets you explore nine of the author’s famed environments, including the Whoville and Thneedville. While there, you can meet characters like Thing 1 and Thing 2 and the Grinch. The fun photo opportunities let you get silly and creative, and the fun doesn’t stop there.

The experience also features family-friendly rides and games that let you interact with the zany environments. Entering the center takes you right into the pages of your favorite childhood stories. While this may seem like a place for just kids, adults who engage in playful activities can have reduced stress levels and an improved mood.

It opens in November 2023 and tickets are now available. The cost is $37 for adult admission and $32 for children.

3. Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific sits in Long Beach and provides larger-than-life ocean experiences. Visit various aquatic animals, like octopuses, sharks, otters and penguins. You can even pet some creatures or admire others in their elaborate, realistic habitats.

The aquarium features different sections that geographically match animals with where they’re found along the Pacific. As gorgeous as the facility is, it’s also dedicated to educating about the care and conservation of ocean species.

You can book adventures such as an extensive gray whale watching event that takes you out on the ocean. Take a narrated harbor tour, dine at Cafe Scuba and pick out a new friend at the gift store.

Admission is $45 for adults and $30 for children, with add-on options for events and excursions.

4. The Los Angeles Zoo

If you’re exploring Griffith Park, you’ll likely run into LA Zoo. You can view hundreds of animals worldwide, including elephants, giraffes and koalas. The zoo rarely feels crowded thanks to its smart layout, letting you freely roam. Plenty of interactive activities and play areas allow you to feel like a kid again.

While there, you can check out the safari shuttle or carousel. You can also visit during special events like “Boo at the Zoo,” where you might catch some of the animal residents enjoying their pumpkins. The zoo also has an extensive aviary that features birds from across the globe. The zoo is also a conservation program that educates and breeds endangered species. You may also like visiting The Gentle Barn in Santa Clarita, a sanctuary for abused animals who would not otherwise be able to find homes.

General admission to the zoo is $22 for adults and $17 for children.

5. Griffith Observatory

Located in the city’s heart, the Griffith Observatory provides spectacular views while offering many exhibits and shows to entertain all ages. Embrace your inner awe by looking at the giant telescopes and star displays. Planetarium shows in state-of-the-art theaters guide you through a breathtaking educational experience.

The observatory is a great place to escape downtown LA’s chaos without leaving it. It’s relatively peaceful to walk around the museum and its grounds. Throughout the year, special events help you see the universe in new and exciting ways.

Admission to the observatory is free, making it a favorite for local and traveling families.