77 Free Things To Do in Los Angeles This Summer With Kids

Free things to do in Los Angeles can be found just about everywhere. And so, while the water parks are open, camps are starting, and your wallet is draining faster than a contaminated kiddie pool, fear not! There are plenty of amusement parks and attractions that allow kids in for free; you can take advantage of all the city's free museum days, or you can spend the day at a free event like The Lotus Festival in Echo Park. So go ahead and look at the list below and create your bucket list of free fun for kids in LA. 

Want some ideas for free summer fun at home? Check out our Ultimate Summer Bucket List Ideas: 100 (Mostly) Free Outdoor Games and Activities for Kids.

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Best Free Things To Do in Los Angeles This Summer with Kids

1. Travel Town - Griffith Park 

Take your train-obsessed tot over to Travel Town in Griffith Park. While a ride on the train isn't free, entrance to the grounds where you can see all the trains (and even see some ongoing preservation work taking place) is always free, seven days a week.

2. Grunion Runs - San Pedro 

These slippery little fish light up the beaches on summer evenings.

3. Concerts on Canon - Beverly Hills 

Bring your picnic baskets and blankets for a relaxing evening packed with excellent music on the lawn at the Beverly Canon Gardens, adjacent to the Montage Hotel. These concerts put on by the City of Beverly Hills span a wide variety of musical genres from rock to pop, to Persian, to Caribbean, and more. 

4. Friday Movie Nights at Ovation - Hollywood 

Nothing is better on a warm summer night than an outdoor movie—especially when it's free. Ovation Hollywood screens blockbusters on the last Friday night of each month from March through November.  

5. Grand Park Splash Pad - DTLA 

There are splash pads all across the city, the perfect way to beat the heat for free! One of our favorites is the epic splash pad at Grand Park- which is as "grand" as the rest of the park is. 

RELATED: Beach Playgrounds in LA & OC

Zuma Beach is a great beach for kids. Photo by Ben and Rachel Apps/Flickr

6. Mother's Beach - Long Beach 

The coast is packed with excellent beaches that are free to visit, though sometimes parking for free can be a challenge. Mother's Beach provides a gentle seaside spot for toddlers with lapping waves and a sandy shore. 

 
Broad Museum photo by Gina Ragland

7. Broad Museum - DTLA 

Learn about modern art at this DTLA museum on Bunker Hill. Free museum tickets go fast, so be sure to register online well in advance of the date you'd like to visit, especially if you're hoping to take a peek in Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrored Room. 

8. Newport Dunes Movies on the Beach - Newport Beach

Catch a family-friendly film on the sand this summer at Newport Dunes Resort, for free. Just bring blankets and snacks.

9. Sand Sledding - Point Mugu

The giant sand hill is a Malibu icon and a right of passage for any Southern California kid. This one isn't built just for sledding in the winter—kids can sled here in the summer, too. 

10. Los Angeles Audubon Society Bird Tours - Various Locations 

The organization leads guided walks in parks all over the city. Space is limited so sign up in advance!

11. California Science Center - Exposition Park 

While tickets to the IMAX are not free, entrance to the museum is. You never have to pay a cent to see the sharks that live in the Kelp Forest, play in the touch tanks, and discover the magic of the science center's new exhibit: Goosebumps! The Science of Fear. 

12. Grand Central Market  - DTLA 

The food isn't free, but the sights, sounds, and smells sure are. And while some of the trendier lunch places are a little pricier, there are still spots where you can get cheap candy or fruits to snack on. Grand Central Market is also steps away from Angel's Flight, an iconic LA attraction that isn't free, but it is only $2 per ticket. 

13. Malibu Bluffs Park - Malibu 

This stunning park has a zip line, a playground, and stunning views of the coastline where you can sometimes spot dolphins and whales. 

RELATED: Best Botanical Gardens for Los Angeles Kids, Plus Cool Hidden Oases

 
Stroll the grounds and take in Hollywood history. Photo courtesy of the Hollywood Forever Cemetery

14. Hollywood Forever Cemetery - Hollywood

See the last resting places of film and music stars, and visit more than 50 peacocks and 70+ cats that call the cemetery home. 

15. Painted Stairways - Silver Lake

Painted stairs are hiding in plain sight in the hills of Silver Lake—perfect for photos and exercise. 

16. Venice Canals - Venice Beach 

These man-made wetland canals by Venice Beach, built in 1905 by the developer Abbot Kinney, make for a fun walk with kids where they can look for boats and birds before swinging by the popular Abbot Kinney Boulevard for a snack.

17. Venice Electric Light Parade - Venice Beach

Every Sunday, Venice locals hop on their bikes in neon outfits to promote bike safety and ride through the streets. Kids (and parents) can join the ride with their own brightly decorated bikes, or watch from the sidewalks. 

18. Pacific Marine Mammal Center - Laguna Beach 

Seeing the sea lions at the Laguna Beach rescue center is free (though donations are appreciated). The center is open daily from 10am to 4pm, and reservations are required for groups of 10 or more. 

19. Marine Mammal Care Center - San Pedro 

This is another free place to see rescued marine life. Reserve your spot online to visit Friday to Monday from 10am to 4pm. A donation of $5 per person is suggested, but not required.

RELATED: Best Dance Classes for Kids in Los Angeles: Ballet, Hip Hop, Toddler 

 
Dance under the stars in DTLA. Photo courtesy of the Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles

20. Dance DTLA - DTLA 

Swing, samba, or dance as the sun sets on Friday evenings in DTLA this summer.

21. LA Arboretum - Arcadia 

The third Tuesday of every month is a free day. Just remember that tickets for free days must be booked in advance.

22. Hammer Museum - Mid-Wilshire

The Hammer Museum in Westwood is home to eclectic artwork, from the classics to groundbreaking modern works. Best of all, it's always free. 

23. Mural Mile - Van Nuys 

Check out the city's vibrant street art scene. This giant mural in Van Nuys is over 300 feet wide. Looking for more street art? We know just where to find it. 

24. Annenberg Beach House - Santa Monica 

 

The splash pad, playground, and beach area are all free and open to the public year-round. The pool area has more limited hours and charges an entry fee. 

RELATED: The Best Playgrounds with Shade in Los Angeles

 
Entertainment awaits at Universal CityWalk. Photo courtesy of Universal Studios

25. Universal CityWalk - Universal City 

The lights, the sounds, and the music provide hours of entertainment. While you may have to put up a penny or two for parking, there are plenty of free photo ops, shops to browse, and live performers to admire without having to pony up too much cash. 

26. Leo Carrillo State Park Tidepools - Malibu 

From crabs to tiny octopuses, you never know what you'll find lurking in these pools. 

27. MOCA Geffen Contemporary -  Little Tokyo 

Explore modern art for free. The MOCA happens to have two locations—the MOCA Grand is located on Bunker Hill. Free tickets are available online.

28. The Strand - Pacific Palisades to Palos Verdes 

This seaside bike path is the perfect way to catch some rays and get exercise at the same time. We love to bust out our scooters, skates, or wheels and take a spin by the ocean. 0

29. Avila Adobe - DTLA 

Yes, Los Angeles is a historic city! Learn more about the early days of the Pueblo at the Avila Adobe on a free tour.

30. Ferndell - Griffith Park 

This perfect grotto in Griffith Park has easy walking trails for little legs. Nestled in the trees is a whimsical playground, with a cafe across the road. 

RELATED: Insider's Guide to Griffith Park: More Things to do Than Most Angelenos Know

Welcome to my mansion! Greystone Mansion is a great place for outdoor hide-and-seek. Photo by Meghan Rose

31. Greystone Mansion - Beverly Hills 

Greystone is open to the public and you can tour the grounds seven days a week, though check the website for daily closures as it's a frequent filming location. The whole family can relax at this gorgeous public park in Beverly Hills with rolling green hills, turtle ponds, and just a great atmosphere for pretending that you're a knight defending a castle. 

32. Wende Museum - Culver City 

Beat the heat indoors while learning about the Cold War at this little-known Culver City museum. Admission is always free and the museum is open Friday to Sunday.

33. Nothin' but Sand Beach Clean Up - Santa Monica 

Heal the Bay hosts Nothin' But Sand beach cleanups at a different LA County beach each month. We all use these gorgeous beaches, so we all should help keep them clean.

34. La Brea Tar Pits - Mid-Wilshire 

The grounds are always free and LA County residents receive free admission to the museum Monday to Friday from 3-5pm, or you can get in for free through the Discover & Go Los Angeles Public Library program. 

 
The Fun Zone on Balboa Island, photo by Gina Ragland.

35. Balboa Island - Newport Beach 

Stroll about, window shop, look at all the boats, and don't forget to stop by the free Balboa Island Museum. Ask about the Kids Scavenger Hunt!

RELATED: Kid-Friendly Always-Free Museums in Los Angeles

36. The Getty Center - Crestwood Hills 

Ok, we said art, but you're a parent. What we meant was riding up and down the tram about 100 times with your kids. They just adore it. Take a break in the middle to chase them around the garden. And maybe see a little art.

37. Point Vincente Interpretive Center - Rancho Palos Verdes 

No need to pay for a boat ride, when you can search from shore with the experts at Point Vicente Interpretive Center.

38. Shakespeare by the Sea - Various Locations

Performances of Hamlet and Twelfth Night are performed on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays for most of the summer in various parks throughout LA and the OC. 

39. Olvera Street - DTLA

Step back into history, as this is the oldest part of downtown LA. And while you're here, don't forget to grab a snack at Mr. Churro.

RELATED: Hiking in Los Angeles: The Best Hiking Trails for Families 

Hike up Mt. Lee to see the Hollywood sign up close. Photo by David Fulmer/CC BY 2.0 

40. Hollywood Sign Hike - Hollywood

You can't quite get to all the letters anymore, but you can come pretty darn close! And every kid growing up in LA needs to do this once.

41. Star Party at Griffith Observatory - Griffith Park

Once a month, the Griffith Observatory hosts a free Star Party. Amateur astronomers are on hand to answer any questions you have about the cosmos.

 
Visit the American Girl Store at the Westfield Century City Mall. Photo by Kylie Williams

42. Westfield Century City - Century City 

Who says you have to buy anything at the mall? Stroll around the gorgeous outdoor Westfield Century City, and take the kids to the first-floor play space after you peruse the shops.  

43. Bronson Caves - Hollywood Hills

A hike to the original Bat Cave is easy for even the littlest legs and can give kids a peek at some Hollywood history. Want to take your kids to more historical movie sites and sets? We have a guide of some of our favorite spots from iconic film and TV scenes. 

44. Museum of the San Fernando Valley - Northridge

Can you tell we just love these little-known free museums? Not only is admission free, but parking is free, too. 

45. Paradise Falls - Thousand Oaks

No, this isn't Paradise Falls from the movie UP, but it is a great waterfall hike that is easy for kids and adults alike! 

RELATED: Wonderful Wildlife Hikes for Kids in Los Angeles 

Dive into ocean exploration. Photo courtesy of the Roundhouse Aquarium

46. The Roundhouse Aquarium - Manhattan Beach 

The Roundhouse Aquarium welcomes families to the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier to meet the animals and learn about the ocean. Admission is free, though donations are always appreciated.

47. Kidspace Free First Fridays - Pasadena 

Kidpsace is one of our favorite spots in the LA area, but admission can be pretty steep if you are paying for your whole crew. On the first Friday of every month, families can enter the museum for free between 3pm and 6pm. Keep in mind that you do need reservations to enter—and spots open up online two weeks beforehand. I recommend setting an alarm- these coveted spots fill up fast, especially in the summertime! 

48. Cerritos Library - Cerritos

I consider the Cerritos Library to be the absolute best library in the LA area—especially for kids! This library is absolutely worth the drive. 

49. Will Rogers State Park Polo Matches - Pacific Palisades 

Free guided tours are offered of the house and grounds, and all summer long you can catch a free polo match on Saturday or Sunday.

50. Point Fermin Lighthouse - San Pedro 

Historic Point Fermin Lighthouse near San Pedro is free, though a donation is suggested. There are also free guided tours in the afternoon!

RELATED: The Best Playgrounds in Los Angeles: They're Even Worth Crossing the 405

51. Lake Balboa - Van Nuys

Swan boats, a jogging path, fishing, kayaking, children's play areas, and more abound at this gem of a park in the valley. 

52. Dockweiler Beach - Playa Vista 

Visit one of LA County's most underrated beaches where there are 40 fire pits. Make sure to bring your chocolate, graham crackers, and marshmallows. This is the perfect way to make a classic So Cal summer memory. 

 
Brookside Park photo courtesy of the City of Pasadena

53. Rose Bowl Loop - Pasadena 

Grab a scooter, pair of skates, or your running shoes for a jaunt around this 3.3-mile paved path that traces the iconic Rose Bowl stadium. Stop off at Brookside Park (my kids call it the Pirate Park) afterward for some swashbuckling and water play. 

54. Mile Square Regional Park Archery Range  - Fountain Valley

With a reservation, kids and adults alike can channel their inner Robin Hood at this free archery range. The Mile Square Regional Park Archery Range happens to be the largest in the OC. 

55. Garvey Ranch Observatory - Monterey Park 

The Garvey Ranch location of the LA Astronomical Society hosts free public viewings every Wednesday night. 

56. Jazz Nights at  LACMA - Mid-Wilshire

LACMA offers free jazz concerts by some of the greatest musicians in the city on Friday nights in June. Seating is limited, so come early to grab a spot. 

57. Rodeo Drive - Beverly Hills 

Strolling Rodeo is as ionically LA as hiking to the Hollywood Sign. And just as free. Though the items in the shops certainly are not. There are always a few sweater-clad poodles strolling down boulevards in Beverly Hills. 

58. Mann's Chinese Theatre - Hollywood 

You can soak in some classic Hollywood, and stand where legends stood in front of Mann's Chinese Theatre. Then, stroll the Walk of Fame and look for your favorite celebrities. 

59. Amoeba - Hollywood 

While you'll have to pay if you fall in love with a vinyl, you can browse Amoeba for free, and take in a slice of the Hollywood music scene. 

It's all about the trucks. Photo courtesy of LA Sanitation & Environment

60. LA Sanitation & Environment Open House - West LA (and various locations) 

If you have a toddler who can't wait for trash day, then he or she will love these special open houses at LA Sanitation and Environment Yards in different Los Angeles locations. There's one scheduled at the West LA yard in June. 

61. Getty Villa - Malibu 

We mentioned the Getty Center earlier, but this smaller Getty venue in Malibu is a sight to behold and offers free family workshops throughout the summer. 

62. Parks After Dark - Various parks in LA 

From sports challenges to back-to-school bashes, these free events at 34 local parks are hosted by the LA County Parks and Rec department and are completely free. 

63. Original Farmers Market - Mid-Wilshire 

Keep it free by sticking to complimentary samples, or spare a few dollars on delicious Cajun fare, French cheeses, kitty and dinosaur donuts, and more at this Los Angeles staple. My kids love the small Sticker Planet store wedged near Trejo's Tacos, as well. 

64. Wilson Park - Torrance 

The Southern California Live Steamers offers free rides on their miniature train on the first Sunday and third Saturday of every month. 

 
Enjoy Hawaii without leaving the mainland. Photo courtesy of the Pacific Islander Festival

65. Pacific Islander Festival - Long Beach 

Pretend you took a vacation to Hawaii without even leaving the mainland at this much-anticipated annual event featuring Polynesian performances, artisanal craft demonstrations, and more. 

66. Lotus Festival - Echo Park 

This free festival at Echo Park Lake highlights a different Asian culture every year. This year, the festival celebrates The Phillippines. 

67. OCMA - Costa Mesa 

Orange County's newest art museum hosts special events for babies and toddlers on weekday mornings, as well as several family-focused weekend events. Check out their calendar to see what is brewing. Admission to the museum is always free. 

68. Gloria Molina Grand Park 4th of July Block Party - DTLA 

We update our fireworks guide annually, and note which shows are free to watch. Grand Park is the most popular event of them all, and the block party, fireworks show, and new drone show are free every year. 

69. Skirball Cultural Center - Westside 

Noah's Ark (and the rest of the Skirball) is free on Thursdays, though we suggest you reserve a visitation time in advance on their website. 

70. 36th Annual Palos Verdes Street Fair and Music Festival - Palos Verdes 

This annual festival is more like a carnival than a local celebration, with plenty of thrill rides, game booths, food trucks, live entertainment, and more. 

71. Pasadena Chalk Festival - Pasadena 

Every June, the sidewalks in Pasadena come alive with chalk art by professional artists showcasing their talent and their love for their favorite movies.

72. US Open of Surfing - Huntington Beach 

Little groms will love watching surfer dudes and dudettes "shred the gnar" at this epic surfing competition that comes to Huntington Beach every summer. It's free to find a spot on the beach to watch the action. 

73. Jazz and Blues Festival - Santa Ana 

Feel the jazz at this festival celebrating music hosted by The Bowers Museum. 

74. Fiesta La Ballona - Culver City 

Another carnival-style festival beckons families to enjoy. Keep in mind that the rides aren't free- tickets are $1 each. 

 
Pier 360 photo courtesy of Santa Monica Travel & Tourism

75. Pier 360 Summer Kick-off - Santa Monica 

Santa Monica ushers in the summer with a two-day festival packed with volleyball, paddleboarding, swimming, and skateboarding competitions. 

76. Wallis Annenberg Pet Space - Playa Vista 

Snuggle some pups and kitties for free at this awesome, kid-friendly center focused on teaching children the value of caring for animals. Many pets at the center are adoptable, too. 

77. Adventure Playground - Yorba Linda 

You'll want to make a reservation in advance to get into this fantastic playground with a zip line, splash pad, wiffleball field, and fort-building area. Kids can spend a whole day exploring this gated playground. 

And don't forget there are always more free things to do in Los Angeles in our daily events calendar. Stay cool, and have (free) fun!