California is a paradise for road trip enthusiasts, with endless ways to create memorable experiences. The whole family can enjoy stunning coastal drives and epic national parks. To help make your trip planning easier, we’ve listed 15 road trip ideas from Los Angeles so you and your family can have an unforgettable journey through the Golden State.
Disneyland Resort
Experience the magic of Disney California Adventure Park in Anaheim, just a short distance from Los Angeles. Enjoy thrilling rides, live entertainment, and beloved Disney characters for a fun-filled day that the whole family will cherish.
Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier, an iconic landmark in Southern California, has a rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Opened in 1909, it offers attractions like the Pacific Park amusement park, featuring a Ferris wheel and roller coaster. The pier is also home to shops and street performers, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is where you can explore thrilling attractions, immersive shows, and behind-the-scenes tours of your favorite blockbuster films. Take advantage of iconic rides like Jurassic World or The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Getty Center
Immerse yourself in art, culture, and architecture at the Getty Center in Los Angeles. Witness stunning exhibitions, lush gardens, and panoramic views of the city skyline. Admission is free, making it affordable and enriching for the whole family.
Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory offers a family-friendly experience with panoramic views of Los Angeles, interactive astronomy exhibits, and engaging planetarium shows. It provides educational opportunities for all ages and inspires curiosity and wonder about the universe. With free admission and scenic hiking trails in Griffith Park, it’s an ideal stop for road-tripping families.
La Brea Tar Pits
Step back into the dinosaur age at the La Brea Tar Pits, where you can witness ongoing fossil excavations and learn about prehistoric Los Angeles. Children will enjoy the interactive exhibits and can watch paleontologists at work. Little ones will marvel at life-sized replicas of extinct animals.
Malibu Beach
Visit Malibu Beach on your California road trip for a scenic escape. Enjoy sun-soaked shores, gentle waves for swimming, and golden sands perfect for building sandcastles. Malibu Beach offers a relaxing and memorable experience for the whole family because of its stunning coastal views and opportunities for beach volleyball and picnics.
Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Walk through lush gardens, exquisite art collections, and educational exhibitions at the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino. The museum has diverse attractions appealing to all interests. Moreover, it’s an enriching destination for families, offering a glimpse into history and nature.
San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo has over 3000 animals representing more than 650 species. You and the family can learn about diverse habitats, participate in interactive exhibits, and see animal encounters that delight visitors of all ages.
Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park is a captivating desert wilderness characterized by iconic Joshua trees, towering rock formations, and star-filled skies. Furthermore, it has diverse flora and fauna, which makes it a haven for nature lovers seeking adventure and serenity.
Legoland California Resort
Let your imagination run wild when you visit Legoland California Resort in Carlsbad. You can explore themed rides, interactive attractions, and intricate Lego sculptures here. Kids can also go on thrilling roller coasters and participate in creative building challenges.
Palm Springs Aerial Tramway
The Aerial Tramway in Palm Springs is one of the world’s largest rotating tramcar, ascending 2.5 miles from the desert floor and up to Mount San Jacinto. It offers breathtaking views of the Coachella Valley and access to hiking trails, dining options, and a pristine wilderness playground.
Pacific Coast Highway
Did you know The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, stretches approximately 656 miles along California’s scenic coastline, from Dana Point in the south to Leggett in the north? Stop along the way to explore quaint shops, sample fresh seafood, and capture stunning ocean views.
Catalina Island
Take a ferry to Catalina Island for a day of island adventure and relaxation. Journey through scenic hiking trails, snorkel in crystal-clear waters or enjoy a glass-bottom boat tour to glimpse the island’s vibrant marine life.
Solvang
Solvang is a charming Danish-inspired village located in California’s Santa Ynez Valley. Founded in 1911 by Danish immigrants, it features picturesque windmills, half-timbered buildings, and cobblestone streets. Known for its Danish pastries, wine-tasting rooms, and boutique shops, Solvang offers a unique blend of Old World charm and California hospitality.
