Los Angeles is a vibrant and exciting city that offers a wealth of opportunities for teenagers to explore and have fun. From its iconic beaches to Hollywood, theme parks and world-famous attractions, Los Angeles is the perfect destination for families with teens.
Table Of Contents
Know before you go. Our top Los Angeles travel tips Where to stay in L.A with teenagers L.A apartment alternative for your stay Getting to Los Angeles How to get around Los Angeles Weather in Los Angeles Los Angeles for international visitors Where can I take my teenager if they are sick? Travel accessories for teenagers Get the GO CITY Los Angeles Pass Things to do in LA with teens Warner Bros Movie Studio Universal Studios amusement park Watching Sport in Los Angeles Things to do in LA for teens – The Hollywood Sign Third Street Promenade in Los Angeles Los Angeles teenager activities – visit Venice Beach Hiking in Malibu Going to the beach in Malibu Stand-up paddleboarding in Malibu Things to do with teens in Los Angeles – Learn to Surf Go Kayaking Getty Museum Disneyland – Things to do in California for teens Things for teens to do in LA – Pacific Park Six Flags Magic Mountain Battleship USS Iowa General Access Pass Fun things to do with teens in Los Angeles – Go Jet skiing Santa Monica Donut Shop Walking Tour with Tastings Bungee Jumping in LA with older kids Marina Del Rey Hollywood Boulevard Griffith Observatory The La Brea Tar Pits Madame Tussauds Take a scenic helicopter flight over Los Angeles See a live taping of a TV show Skateparks in Los Angeles Family fun adventures in Beverly Hills – Segway Tour Los Angeles Hop-on hop-off bus tour Chinatown Ghost Hunting Adventure Tour Funko Hollywood Footgolf for teens in LA Things to do in Los Angeles with teenage girls – High Tea The Hollywood Movie Experience in Los Angeles Hollywood and Celebrity Homes Bus Tour Museum of Dream Space Playing Laser Tag Things to do in Los Angeles with kids – Scavenger hunt Indoor Go Karting in Los Angeles with kids Amusement Arcades in Los Angeles Los Angeles fun places for teenagers -Indoor Skydiving Have a food experience with a local Aquarium of the Pacific The Petersen Automotive Museum Mulholland Trail Horseback Riding Tour Santa Monica Ghosts and Phantoms of the Pier Medieval Torture Museum and Ghost hunting The most Instagramable shots in Los Angeles Los Angeles Tiktok inspiration Professional photoshoot in Los Angeles Street Art in Los Angeles Get Event Tickets for LA attractions and activities Pin Bowling in Los Angeles with teenagers Axe Throwing in Los Angeles Bike riding in Los Angeles Family holidays in Los Angeles – Going to the cinema Escape rooms in Los Angeles for teens Going to the gym in Los Angeles for young adults Shopping in Los Angeles with teens Free things to do in L.A with teens Annual events in Los Angeles that teens will love Day trips from Los Angeles with teens San Diego Fun restaurants in Los Angeles for teens Street food in Los Angeles Frequently asked questions about Los Angeles What is the legal drinking age in California? How do I call emergency services in L.A.? Do I need to tip in California? Can I drink tap water in Los Angeles? What type of power sockets are used in the USA? Where are the best places to stay in Los Angeles for teenagers More travel inspiration for your trip to North America
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s something for everyone in the city from adventurous activities to cultural experiences, here are the best things to do in Los Angeles with teenagers. Get ready for an unforgettable trip filled with adventure, culture, and fun for all!
Know before you go. Our top Los Angeles travel tips
Travelling to southern California with teens can be such an enriching experience for the whole family and LA is one of the top family destinations in the US. Did you know that Los Angeles is one of only 2 megacities in the world that has (Wild) big cats living in its city limits?
There are so many things to do in Los Angeles and having information on the best place to stay, how to get around, which currency to use and more is extremely important. Below you will find some information for planning a hassle-free family vacation.
Where to stay in L.A with teenagers
Great vacations with teens start with some great vacation planning. When you are planning a trip to the USA with teens, you’ll never be short of options for your family accommodation in Los Angeles. In the city, you find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels for families on holiday.
You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families, and groups on every budget on your family trip to Los Angeles, California
For luxury family-friendly hotels in Los Angeles, we recommend Kimpton La Peer Hotel , an IHG Hotel that has doubles and 4-person suites, Langham Huntington, Pasadena, Los Angeles has rooms fitting 2-5 people and the Conrad Los Angeles with suites and a rooftop pool.
For more midprice and budget-friendly options in Los Angeles, families should consider staying at Residence Inn by Marriott Pasadena Arcadia , Hilton Long Beach Hotel with family suites and pool and Holiday Inn La Mirada , an IHG Hotel with suites for 4 near Anaheim
If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or have specific needs for your teen travel holidays, we recommend using Expedia and Trivago to find the best prices for your family vacation to Los Angeles.
L.A apartment alternative for your stay
If you prefer a home away from home-style accommodation when on your trip with teenagers in Los Angeles, then an apartment is the best choice for you on your family vacation. There are so many options for singles, families, and budget-friendly options in L.A.
You can search VRBO or if you’re looking for something a bit fancier, maybe with an amazing view or a swimming pool, then Plum Guide will help you find the perfect apartment in Los Angeles for teens on your North America trip with family.
Getting to Los Angeles
L.A. is one of the best family destinations in the USA for family travel with teens. It is the largest city in California and is connected by highways, long distant buses, trains and planes all bringing people daily to the city. This makes Los Angeles one of the easiest family travel destinations to get to in The United States.
Los Angeles is served by several airports, with the primary international airport being Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). LAX is one of the busiest airports in the United States and is located approximately 18 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles. Search flights to Los Angeles with Skyscanner.
If your flights have a long stopover, or you just want to relax before your trip you should consider getting a lounge pass with Priority Pass. Priority Pass have access to airport lounges all over the world. Search now for your lounge pass
You can book a private transfer to your Los Angeles accommodation with i’way
You can catch a train from most major cities in the USA and more than 150 destinations in the Golden State, including top cities such as San Diego, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, San Francisco and Sacramento
LA can be reached directly from 36 Cities and indirectly from anywhere across the country. Flixbus tickets are available at great prices. Bus travel with teens in the USA can add so many wonderful experiences for teens on vacation. Book your bus tickets to L.A with Flixbus
If you plan to road trip with teenagers in the USA, you can hire a car at any international airport and dealership across the country. Book with Economy Bookings for the largest options
Maybe you want to make a trip cross-country? An RV is a great way to travel to Los Angeles with teens. Search RV hire options today.
How to get around Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, you have several options for public transportation.
Metro Bus provides bus services throughout Los Angeles with over 200 lines while LA Metro’s rail system which includes the Red, Purple, Blue, Green, and Gold lines serves various parts of the city and connects with the Metro bus system.
Metrolink is a commuter rail service serving the greater Los Angeles area, including Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Ventura counties. DASH and Commuter Express are bus services operated by LA Metro that provide service within individual cities and downtown Los Angeles.
Angels flight tram also takes you on a short ride between Hill Street and Grand Avenue on Bunker Hill.
Taxi, ridesharing services (e.g. Uber, Lyft), and bike-sharing services (e.g. Lime, Jump) are also available options in Los Angeles.
Weather in Los Angeles
The average weather in Los Angeles is mild, with temperatures ranging from 60°F to 80°F (15°C to 27°C) throughout the year. The best time to visit Los Angeles is from late September to November and from March to May when the weather is mild and comfortable.
The hottest month in Los Angeles is August, with average temperatures reaching into the low 80s°F (28°C). The coldest month in Los Angeles is December, with average temperatures around 60°F (16°C)
Summer essentials for Los Angeles
Winter essentials for LA
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Water bottle
Men’s & women’s sunhat
Convertible pants
Compact travel towel
Winter scarf
Small travel umbrella
Base layers for warmth
Gloves
Winter jacket
Waterproof shoes
Los Angeles for international visitors
International travel to the USA requires a bit more thought. You will need travel insurance in America. Medical care is not cheap and if you want good quality care it will cost you a fortune if you don’t have travel insurance.
The official currency of the USA is the U.S Dollar. If you use your bank account from home you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an international rate. These are just some of the things you need to think about.
For International travellers, travel insurance is a must get a quote through Insurance Masters and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses
Load a Revolut Travel Money card with U.S dollars for your visit and save on transaction fees
Make phone calls with an international sim card that you can buy before leaving home or buy a voucher for a virtual e-sim for your mobile phone
A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can rent a pocket modem that you can pick up at the airport or your hotel, alternatively buy a pocket modem that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet or computer
Do you need a visa to visit Los Angeles? The United States basically requires EVERYONE to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic travel authorisation) to enter the country. You can check and buy these documents at iVisa.
Where can I take my teenager if they are sick?
Los Angeles has many hospitals that offer emergency services, including Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Centre, and Keck Hospital of USC . Another option is retail clinics, stores such as CVS and Walgreens, have on-site clinics that offer basic medical services.
Travel accessories for teenagers
For teenagers, travelling can be a fun and exciting experience. However, there are a few things that they need to take into account in order to make the trip as comfortable and safe as possible. One of these is ensuring that they have the necessary travel accessories.
Powerbank to keep phones going
Action camera
Foldable jewellery case for girls
Bluetooth travel speaker
Compression packing cubes for luggage
Lightweight daypack
Travel journa l
Travel neck wallet
Wearable super soft travel blanket
Scarf with hidden pockets for money & cards
Get the GO CITY Los Angeles Pass
Get digital delivery of the Go City Los Angeles Pass to your device for easy use when you visit the Californian city with kids. The Go City Los Angeles Pass offers the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which is brilliant when you are vacationing with teens.
There are so many things to do in Los Angeles for families, and you can save on admission to 40+ top local attractions and tours, including the Aquarium of the Pacific, Dolby Theatre, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, and many more. Multi-entry passes such as this are great for families visiting L.A. Book your pass, which ranges from 1 day to 3 days.
Things to do in LA with teens
Now that we have covered all the essential Los Angeles travel tips for families, here are all the very best things to do in L.A with teenagers.
Warner Bros Movie Studio
Warner Bros in Los Angeles is one of the most successful studios in the world, producing blockbuster movies and popular TV Shows. Some of the most famous franchises produced by WB Studios include Harry Potter, DC Comics, The Lord of the Rings, and Batman. A visit to the studios is always high on the list of teens visiting L.A.
Teens in LA will definitely want to visit Warner Bros
Some of the most popular things to do at the studios include WB Studio Tour Hollywood, The Making of Harry Potter, DC Universe and the Exhibit, and stage to-screen experience. The WB shop is popular for grabbing all your souvenirs. Why not combine a visit to Warner Bros Studio and Madame Tussauds?
Universal Studios amusement park
Universal Studios Hollywood offers a unique blend of thrills, laughs, and excitement, making it a must-visit destination for teens and families.
Whether you’re a fan of Harry Potter, Jurassic World, The Simpsons, movies and tv shows there’s something for everyone at Universal Studios Hollywood.
Universal is a must when on a family vacation in Los Angeles
Visiting teens will love The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and its associated rides Flight of the Hippogriff and the Forbidden Journey. Get on the world-famous studio tour, where you visit the largest sets on the lot where many famous movie scenes and sitcoms were filmed.
Roller coasters and rides such as Mario Kart, King Kong 360, Revenge of the Mummy and Transformers 3D. Why not combine a visit to Universal Studios and Madame Tussauds?
Watching Sport in Los Angeles
Whether your teen like sports or not, there are bound to know some of the sports teams from Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles Lakers are a successful NBA basketball team founded in 1948 with 16 championships, playing at the Staples Centre, while the Los Angeles Dodgers are a Major League Baseball team with a rich history, playing at Dodger Stadium. Y ou can easily book tickets to see a Dodgers game.
Things to do in Los Angeles with a teenager – watch a sporting event
The LA Galaxy is a Major League Soccer team playing at Dignity Health Sports Park and the Anaheim Ducks are an NHL ice hockey team playing at the Honda Center, with one Stanley Cup championship. Watching sports is one of the many quintessential things to do in LA.
See more of the US: 43 things to do in San Fransisco with teenagers
Things to do in LA for teens – The Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is located in Griffith Park in Los Angeles, California. The best spot to take a picture of the sign is from Griffith Observatory, which offers a great view of the sign and the surrounding area.
Fit and healthy young adults in Los Angeles will enjoy the hike
You can also hike to the sign on the Griffith Observatory Trail, which is a popular option for getting a closer view of the sign. If you prefer not to hike, you can drive to Lake Hollywood Park or Mount Lee Drive, both of which offer great views of the sign.
Third Street Promenade in Los Angeles
The 3rd Street Promenade in Santa Monica is a popular outdoor shopping and dining destination with malls, boutiques, premium movie theatres, street performers, dining options, and over 80 retailers in all. The area is known for its street performers, including musicians, magicians, and comedians, which will keep you entertained as you explore the area .
The Santa Monica Pier with an amusement park and aquarium is also fun to see nearby. There is plenty to see and do for teenagers, making it a great place to spend a day in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles teenager activities – visit Venice Beach
Venice Beach in Los Angeles offers a variety of activities for visitors, including walking along the iconic boardwalk, visiting Muscle Beach, viewing street art, renting bikes or skates, and exploring the Venice Canals. It is a fun and unique destination for people of all ages, including teenagers.
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Hiking in Malibu
Parker Mesa Overlook is a popular hiking destination in Malibu, California, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains. The trailhead is located at the end of Winding Way, off of Sunset Boulevard, and the hike is approximately 3.5 miles round trip with a moderate difficulty level.
Hiking with teenagers at Parker Mesa Overlook is a great way to spend time together and enjoy the beauty of nature. Make sure everyone is wearing appropriate footwear and clothing, and bring plenty of water, snacks, and sunscreen.
Going to the beach in Malibu
A trip to the beach at Malibu is a must for anyone looking for some good summer fun. With its picturesque sandy beaches, crystal blue waters and plenty of activities to enjoy, it’s no wonder why teens flock here from all over the country.
Fun things for teens to do in LA – Hang out at the beach
Whether you’re looking for a day of swimming, sunbathing or people-watching, Malibu offers something for everyone.
The beach in Malibu is ideal for teenagers looking to take a dip in the ocean. The temperature of the water is perfect and inviting, with plenty of areas that are shallow enough to get accustomed to swimming without getting overwhelmed by deep waters.
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Stand-up paddleboarding in Malibu
If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy the water on your holiday, stand-up paddle boarding (SUP) might be just the thing. SUP is a relatively new sport that involves standing on a large, surfboard-like paddleboard and using a long paddle to move through the water.
It can be done in lakes, rivers, and oceans, and is suitable for all ages and abilities. On your vacation, you can do it in Malibu on a private paddleboarding tour that is suitable for all levels of experience
Things to do with teens in Los Angeles – Learn to Surf
When it comes to surfing, there are a lot of common misconceptions. Many people think that you have to be born with a natural talent in order to surf well. Others believe that the only way to learn how to surf is by going out and hitting the waves yourself. However, both of these beliefs are wrong.
In reality, anyone can learn how to surf – you just need some basic instruction and a little bit of practice. If you’re a beginner, your best bet is to take a lesson from an experienced instructor.
Surfing is one of the popular things for teens to do in LA
They’ll teach you the basics of surfing techniques, how to read the waves, and how to stay safe while out in the water.
Los Angeles is a great place to learn to surf for teenagers who love the water. You can take a lesson at places such as Santa Monica , Venice Beach, Redondo Beach and Hermosa Beach. What can be more Californian than learning to surf with teens in LA?
Pack like a pro:
Go Kayaking
Kayaking is a popular outdoor activity in Los Angeles where visitors can explore the city’s waterways. Popular spots include Marina del Rey, Malibu, Long Beach, and Santa Monica Bay.
These areas offer scenic views, calm waters, and opportunities to see wildlife. Rental companies and guided tours are available for kayakers of all skill levels. Kayaking in Los Angeles is a unique and enjoyable way to experience the city’s natural beauty and get some exercise.
Getty Museum
If you have a teen with a keen interest in art then a stop at the Getty Museum is a must. The Getty Center, also known as the J. Paul Getty Museum, is definitely worth visiting, it is one of the largest art museums in the United States, and its collections are considered among the finest in the world.
The collection includes European paintings by Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Cézanne, and Monet. You will find sculptures, manuscripts and photography to admire.
Disneyland – Things to do in California for teens
Los Angeles is synonymous with Disneyland. It is the location of the first Disney theme park in the world. Disneyland is located in Anaheim, which is a part of greater Los Angeles. Disney welcomes millions of visitors every year and has some amazing attractions for teenagers.
Disney, a must for all
Typical teenagers who visit Disneyland will love the thrill rides such as Space Mountain, California Screaming and Guardians of the Galaxy. Star Wars Galaxy Edge is an immersive land that offers the opportunity to explore Batuu, meet characters from the films and ride the smuggler’s run ride.
The Adventure land area of Disneyland offers a range of exciting attractions, including the Indiana Jones Adventure and the Jungle Cruise rides. The World of Colour is a nighttime show featuring dancing fountains, light projections, and special effects. Disneyland is a must for the whole family.
Book Disneyland tickets today!
Things for teens to do in LA – Pacific Park
Pacific Park is a family-friendly amusement park located on the Santa Monica Pier. At Pacific Park in Los Angeles, teenagers can enjoy several thrill rides, including the Inkie’s Wave Coaster, Sea Dragon, Pacific Plunge, Beach Boardwalk, and West Coaster that teenagers visiting Los Angeles will love.
Popular teenage attractions in Los Angeles
Other rides offer a variety of thrills, from mini roller coasters to drop tower rides, and a Ferris wheel offering 360-degree views is sure to provide an exciting experience for visitors of all ages.
The Santa Monica Pier is a historic landmark and offers a variety of attractions, including restaurants, shops, and street performers. Your teenagers will enjoy exploring the pier and taking in the sights and sounds. Overall, Pacific Park is a great place to spend an afternoon in Santa Monica.
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Six Flags Magic Mountain
Just 30 miles from downtown Los Angeles is Six Flags magic mountain theme park. This theme park is special in the aspect that it features 20 rollercoasters, yes I said 20.
There are more rollercoasters and thrill rides here than at any other theme park on the planet, overall the park is home to over 100 games and attractions. Some of the most exciting coasters include Apocalypse, Batman the ride and Full Throttle, you will also find live shows, shopping and dining onsite.
If you have a teen that is not so keen on the big fast rides, there are family-friendly rides to suit everyone at 6 flags
Battleship USS Iowa General Access Pass
The Battleship USS Iowa, a famous and historic ship of the United States Navy, is now welcoming families and visitors from all over the country onboard. With a general access pass, you will have the opportunity to explore this integral piece of American history.
Best things to do in LA with teenagers included a bit of history
You can download the accompanying mobile app which offers an interactive, multimedia experience while onboard. You will learn about the ship’s history and hear stories from its former crew. Step back in time and book your tickets today.
Fun things to do with teens in Los Angeles – Go Jet skiing
Jet skiing is a great way to get your adrenaline fix. The thrill of the speed and the excitement of the action make it a popular choice for those looking for an adventure. Jet skiing can be a lot of fun and one of the most memorable experiences you will be talking about for a long time to come.
In LA, you can hire jet skies at Marina del Rey by the hour for some fun on the calm waters. You could even go on
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