Best Things to do with Kids in Hollywood, CA

Last Updated: December 17, 2025By Tags:

Best Things To Do With Kids In Hollywood CA

Nestled in the heart of Los Angeles, Hollywood, CA offers an exciting mix of family-friendly attractions that go far beyond its famous red carpets. From interactive museums to iconic landmarks, this vibrant neighborhood is an ideal destination for parents seeking engaging activities that entertain and inspire. As you stroll along the star-st\\\udded sidewalks and explore world-renowned studios, you’ll discover plenty of things to do with kids in Hollywood that are both educational and fun. In addition, the area’s walkable layout and abundance of dining options make planning a full day of adventures surprisingly easy. Whether your children are obsessed with movies, love hands-on exhibits, or simply enjoy soaking in the California sunshine, Hollywood provides a memorable backdrop for your family getaway. With that in mind, let’s explore the top kid-friendly experiences in Hollywood, California that you won’t want to miss.

Best Things To Do With Kids In Hollywood CA

Planning a family trip to Hollywood, CA can be as exciting for children as it is for adults. From world-famous attractions to hidden gems, there are countless ways to keep kids entertained while also giving them a taste of Hollywood magic. This guide highlights the best things to do with kids in Hollywood, CA, helping you plan a fun, stress-free, and memorable visit.

Explore Family Friendly Attractions

To begin your Hollywood adventure, start with the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. Kids love searching for their favorite movie, TV, and animated characters among the more than 2,700 stars embedded in the sidewalks along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. Nearby, the TCL Chinese Theatre offers a fun photo opportunity where children can compare their hands and feet to the imprints of famous celebrities.

Another must-visit attraction is the Hollywood & Highland complex, now known as Ovation Hollywood. This family-friendly shopping and entertainment center offers spectacular views of the Hollywood Sign, convenient restrooms, and plenty of places to grab snacks. The open-air design also makes it easy to let kids move around safely while parents take in the scenery.

Visit Interactive Museums And Experiences

For families seeking more interactive fun, Hollywood boasts several kid-friendly museums. The Hollywood Museum showcases movie props, costumes, and historic memorabilia that can spark a child’s imagination. Meanwhile, attractions like MADAME TUSSAUDS Hollywood let kids pose with incredibly lifelike wax figures of their favorite superheroes, musicians, and actors.

Just a short drive away, Universal Studios Hollywood offers an unbeatable combination of rides, shows, and behind-the-scenes experiences. From the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the Studio Tour, this theme park is ideal for older kids and teens who love movies, thrills, and immersive environments.

Enjoy Outdoor Fun And Scenic Views

To balance indoor attractions with fresh air, consider heading to Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America. Families can enjoy hiking trails, playgrounds, and the classic Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round. The nearby Griffith Observatory is another family favorite, offering free admission, fascinating space exhibits, and panoramic views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign.

For a fun and manageable hike with kids, the trails near the Hollywood Sign provide scenic photo spots and a chance to explore nature without leaving the city. Always remember to bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes.

Sample Itinerary For One Perfect Family Day

To help you plan efficiently, here is a simple sample itinerary for a family day in Hollywood:

Time Activity Highlights For Kids
Morning Walk Of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre Star hunting, hand and footprint comparisons, photos
Midday Ovation Hollywood (Hollywood & Highland) Lunch, shopping, Hollywood Sign views
Afternoon Madame Tussauds Or Hollywood Museum Interactive exhibits, celebrity wax figures, movie props
Late Afternoon Griffith Observatory Space exhibits, telescopes, city and sign views

Tips For Visiting Hollywood With Kids

To ensure a smooth experience, it is wise to plan ahead. Arrive early at popular attractions to avoid crowds and long lines. Additionally, consider using rideshare services or public transportation, as parking in Hollywood can be both challenging and expensive. Keeping snacks, water, and sun protection on hand will help keep younger travelers comfortable throughout the day.

It is also useful to group nearby attractions together. For example, you can schedule the Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and museums in the same block of time, then dedicate a separate portion of the day to Griffith Park and the observatory.

Conclusion

From iconic landmarks to hands-on attractions, there is no shortage of fun things to do with kids in Hollywood, CA. By combining famous sites like the Hollywood Walk of Fame with interactive museums, outdoor adventures, and scenic viewpoints, you can create a balanced itinerary that keeps children engaged and parents satisfied. With thoughtful planning and a sense of curiosity, your family’s Hollywood visit can become a truly unforgettable experience.

Finding the Best Things to Do with Kids in Hollywood, CA

What are the best family-friendly attractions to visit with kids in Hollywood, CA?

Top family-friendly attractions in Hollywood include Universal Studios Hollywood for rides and shows, the Hollywood Walk of Fame for spotting favorite stars’ names, and the TCL Chinese Theatre forecourt where kids can compare their hands and feet to celebrity imprints. The Hollywood Wax Museum and Madame Tussauds offer interactive photo opportunities, while the Hollywood Museum gives older kids a look at classic film history. For a break from the crowds, Runyon Canyon and nearby Griffith Park provide open space, trails, and views of the Hollywood Sign that are suitable for school-aged children and teens.

How can I plan a kid-friendly day in Hollywood without feeling overwhelmed?

Start by choosing one “big” activity, such as Universal Studios Hollywood or a guided Hollywood sightseeing tour, and plan the rest of the day around that anchor experience. Schedule activities in the same general area to minimize walking and transit time, and build in breaks for snacks, restrooms, and downtime at a café or shaded courtyard. Visit popular sights like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre in the morning when it is cooler and less crowded, then move to indoor attractions or museums in the afternoon. Keep your itinerary flexible, and prioritize experiences that match your children’s ages and attention spans rather than trying to see every landmark in one visit.

Are Hollywood attractions appropriate for young children, or is it better for older kids and teens?

Many Hollywood attractions are suitable for families with a mix of ages, but the experience tends to be most engaging for older children and teens. Younger kids usually enjoy character sightings, colorful storefronts, and simple attractions such as candy shops, souvenir stores, and family-friendly sections of Universal Studios. Some areas of Hollywood Boulevard can be crowded and loud, and certain museums or street performances may not be ideal for very young children. Parents of toddlers and preschoolers often prefer to focus on shorter visits combined with nearby parks, playgrounds, or stroller-friendly walks with clear exit options if children become tired or overstimulated.

What is the best way to get around Hollywood with kids?

The most flexible way to get around with kids is by car, using public parking garages near Hollywood Boulevard or Universal City. If you prefer to avoid driving, the Metro B Line (Red) serves Hollywood/Highland and Hollywood/Vine stations, which are both close to major attractions and can be combined with short rideshare trips. For families who want to minimize walking and logistics, hop-on hop-off sightseeing buses provide narrated transportation between key stops. When exploring on foot, plan short segments, cross at designated crosswalks, and keep children close because sidewalks can be busy. Always account for extra time when traveling with strollers or large groups so you do not feel rushed between activities.

How can I keep my kids safe and comfortable while exploring Hollywood, CA?

Focus on basic city safety and comfort. Dress children in comfortable shoes and lightweight layers, and bring hats, sunscreen, and refillable water bottles because sidewalks can be hot and exposed. Stay on well-traveled streets, keep valuables out of sight, and establish a meeting point in case anyone gets separated in a crowd. Use restrooms and snack breaks regularly to avoid meltdowns, and step into a café or shop if kids feel overwhelmed by noise or costumed characters. When possible, visit popular areas during daylight hours, and end the day before children become overly tired, especially if you plan to navigate public transit or busy parking structures on the way back.

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