Hi guys, on my website, I already wrote an article about Los Angeles without a car (I will put the link to it at the end of this article). In today’s article, I will help you to find the best places to stay in Los Angeles for families with kids.
I will share with you what I believe are the best areas to stay in Los Angeles for families, along with a map. I’ll also share where I stayed in Los Angeles and recommend some of the best family-friendly hotels in Los Angeles for all budgets.
Before going into the main topic of this article, let’s look at some facts about Los Angeles.
Los Angeles, often abbreviated as L.A., is the largest city in California and the second-largest city in the United States, after New York City. It is located in Southern California, along the Pacific Ocean coast and is known for its diverse geography, including mountains, beaches, and valleys.
LA is often referred to as the Entertainment Capital of the World. It is home to Hollywood, which is the epicenter of the global film and television industry. The city is known for its entertainment culture, including movie studios, theaters, and music venues.
Some famous landmarks in LA include the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, the Getty Center, Universal Studios Hollywood, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
The city has an extensive transportation network, including a network of freeways and highways, public buses, commuter trains, and the Los Angeles International Airport, one of the busiest airports in the world.
The city is known for its diverse food scene, with a wide range of culinary options, including Mexican, Korean, Chinese, and many others.
Is Los Angeles a good place to visit with family?
Yes, I believe Los Angeles is a great place to visit with family. The city offers a wide range of family-friendly attractions, including iconic destinations like Disneyland and Universal Studios.
Your family can explore the diverse neighborhoods, beautiful beaches, and world-class museums. The mild climate also allows for outdoor activities year-round. But, the sprawling city can be overwhelming, and traffic can be a challenge. Planning is key to make the most of your visit.
Where to stay in Los Angeles for families with kids?
The best areas to stay in Los Angeles for families with kids are Santa Monica, Hollywood, West Hollywood, Downtown LA, Pasadena, and Anaheim/ Disneyland. These are popular tourist areas, so your family will have easy access to kid-friendly attractions and amenities.
Santa Monica is a popular choice for families due to its beautiful beach, pier, and vibrant atmosphere. You’ll find a variety of family-friendly hotels, excellent dining and shopping options.
Hollywood is known for its entertainment and tourist attractions like the Walk of Fame and Universal Studios. It is a fun place to stay if your kids are interested in movies and pop culture.
West Hollywood is a trendy area with a variety of upscale hotels and dining options. It is a great base if your family prefers a more luxurious atmosphere.
Downtown LA is becoming increasingly family-friendly with attractions like The Broad Museum, LA Live, and the historic Olvera Street. It can be a convenient central location for exploring the city.
Pasadena is a quieter and more suburban part of Los Angeles known for the famous Rose Bowl. If you prefer a peaceful environment with easy access to attractions, Pasadena is a good option.
If your primary focus is Disneyland, staying in Anaheim is a great choice. There are many hotels around Disneyland Resort, and you’ll have easy access to the theme park.
During my trip to LA, I stayed in the Hollywood area as it is the popular area for first-time tourists. I stayed at the 2-star Hollywood Celebrity Hotel. It is a good value money hotel, centrally located, easy access to major landmarks, as well as bus to Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
Below is a map of the popular areas in Los Angeles for families. You can scroll down to view the live map.
Let’s get into the details of the recommended areas to stay in Los Angeles, especially for families. I’ll provide you with some suggestions for the best places to stay in each area, catering to every budget.
All hotels in Los Angeles have been carefully selected by me, with guest review scores of at least 8.0 or higher at the time I chose them. If you don’t like my suggestions (perhaps they don’t suit your budget or preferences), you can click the “MORE HOTEL DEALS” button where you can choose your own hotel.
6 Best areas to stay in Los Angeles with family:
1. Santa Monica
Santa Monica is one of the best areas to stay in Los Angeles for families with kids due to its beautiful beach, family-friendly atmosphere, and a variety of activities.
Santa Monica Beach is a fantastic place for families. You can relax on the sandy shores, build sandcastles, play beach volleyball, or take a swim in the ocean. The Santa Monica Pier, with its iconic Ferris wheel and amusements, is also a must-visit.
You and your family can take a leisure stroll and enjoy shopping and dining on Third Street Promenade. This pedestrian-friendly area is known for its shops, restaurants, and street performers. The Santa Monica Place upscale shopping mall is also a great base near the beach to shop.
Located on the Santa Monica Pier, Pacific Park is an amusement park with rides and games suitable for all ages. It’s a fun spot for the whole family.
Your family can consider renting bikes and exploring the beachfront bike path, which runs for miles along the coast. It’s a great way to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise as a family.
Santa Monica offers opportunities for outdoor activities like surfing lessons, paddleboarding, and beach yoga. It’s a chance to experience the California lifestyle.
Santa Monica’s location makes it a convenient base for day trips to other Los Angeles attractions, such as Universal Studios Hollywood or the Getty Center.
In addition to Santa Monica, if your family wants a beach holiday, you can also consider staying in other beach areas such as Venice Beach, Marina del Rey, Manhattan Beach, Redondo Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Long Beach.
Best places to stay in LA in Santa Monica for family with kids:
- Luxury ($$$): Casa Del Mar, 5-star family-friendly beachfront hotel located on Ocean Way, Santa Monica, only a few mins walk from 3rd Street Promenade. It has Outdoor swimming pool, good breakfast, family rooms, and Private parking for those who drive.
- Mid-range ($$): Huntley Santa Monica Beach, 4-star children-friendly modern beach-side hotel, located within a short walk from Santa Monica State Beach path. It has paid airport shuttle services, Fabulous breakfast, and family rooms. Children 18 years and above will be charged as adults
- Budget ($): Venice Breeze Suites, 3-star hotel, featuring family rooms, located on Breeze Avenue, Venice Beach, a short ride from Santa Monica. It is also only a short walk from Ocean Front Walk shops, street performers and shops.
2. Hollywood
Hollywood is an exciting place to stay for families with kids, particularly if your family is interested in entertainment and iconic attractions. Keep in mind that while Hollywood offers many exciting attractions, it can also be busy and crowded.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a famous sidewalk featuring the stars of celebrities. Kids can enjoy looking for their favorite stars, and you can take memorable photos along the way.
One of the major attractions in Hollywood is Universal Studios Hollywood, which offers thrilling rides, shows, and opportunities to see movie sets and characters from popular films. It’s a must-visit for families.
Kids may find the Hollywood Wax Museum fascinating. It’s home to lifelike wax figures of celebrities from various eras of entertainment. Another wax museum, Madame Tussauds, features incredibly realistic wax figures of celebrities. It’s an interactive and fun experience for kids and adults.
You can also visit theGrauman’s Chinese Theater, a historic theater known for its handprints and footprints of famous stars in the forecourt. It’s a unique Hollywood experience for the whole family.
Your family can go shopping at the Hollywood & Highland Center: This entertainment complex houses shops, restaurants, and the Dolby Theatre (home to the Oscars).
While not technically in Hollywood but nearby, the Griffith Observatory offers stunning views of Los Angeles, educational exhibits, and a chance to stargaze through telescopes. It’s both fun and educational.
You can get close to the famous Hollywood Sign by hiking in Griffith Park. It can be a memorable family adventure, and there are various trails suitable for different fitness levels.
You can check the schedule for family-friendly concerts and events at the Hollywood Bowl. It’s a unique and iconic outdoor venue for live music performances.
Best places to stay in Los Angeles in Hollywood with family:
- Luxury ($$$): The Hollywood Roosevelt, popular 4-star family-friendly located on Hollywood Boulevard, a short ride from Universal Studios, and a short walk from major attractions such as the Dolby Theater. It has an outdoor swimming pool, private parking, spacious family rooms, and 5 restaurants.
- Luxury ($$$): Dream Hollywood, Part Of Hyatt, popular 4-star children-friendly hotel, located in the foreground of the Hollywood sign, within walking distance from Capitol Records Building and Dolby Theatre.
- Mid-range ($$): Holiday Inn Express Hollywood Walk of Fame, an IHG Hotel, great 3-star accommodations, located on North Highland Avenue, a short distance from major attractions, including TCL Chinese Theatre, Hollywood Wax Museum, Rodeo Drive, and Universal Studios.
- Budget ($): Hollywood Celebrity Hotel, 2-star family-friendly budget-friendly accommodation centrally located on Orchid Avenue, easy access to the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame.
3. West Hollywood/ Beverly Hills
West Hollywood and Beverly Hills are known for their upscale and trendy atmosphere, making them a great choice for families who want to enjoy luxury and style while exploring Los Angeles.
West Hollywood’s Sunset Strip is famous for its nightlife, but it’s also a great place for shopping and dining during the day. While it may not be the most family-oriented area, there are family-friendly options.
The area also offers easy access to Melrose Avenue, featuring a mix of trendy boutiques, street art, and unique shops. Kids and teenagers might enjoy exploring this eclectic street.
Your family can spend a fun outdoor day at the West Hollywood Park, which has a playground, basketball courts, and open spaces for picnics or playing.
Beverly Hills is renowned for Rodeo Drive, a high-end shopping district where you can window-shop or splurge on designer goods. While it’s more geared toward adults, it can still be interesting for kids to see.
Greystone Mansion is a historic estate with beautiful gardens. It’s a peaceful place for a stroll, and the mansion has been featured in movies and TV shows.
Beverly Gardens Park features cactus gardens, a rose garden, and a small cactus garden. It’s a nice place for a leisurely walk and some relaxation.
Consider taking a trolley tour of Beverly Hills, which can be an enjoyable way for the whole family to see the city’s highlights.
Best places to stay in LA in West Hollywood with family:
- Luxury ($$$): The London West Hollywood at Beverly Hills, 5-star children-friendly boutique hotel located a short distance from Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive shopping, and Melrose Avenue shopping. It has an outdoor pool, good breakfast, and family rooms.
- Mid-range ($$): Sunset Marquis Hotel, 4-star kid-friendly hotel located in the heart of West Hollywood, short walk from the famous sidewalks of the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood.
- Mid-range ($$): Chamberlain West Hollywood, 4-star hotel welcomes children of all ages, Children 18 years and above will be charged as adults. It is conveniently located within a short walk/ride from Pacific Design Center, West Hollywood Design District, and The Grove.
4. Downtown Los Angeles
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) is a central location that provides easy access to other parts of the city, and it’s well-connected by public transportation. It offers a unique urban experience with cultural attractions and historical landmarks that can be enjoyable for families with kids.
The Broad is a contemporary art museum with a distinctive, honeycomb-like exterior. While contemporary art may not be every child’s cup of tea, it’s a unique experience and often features interactive exhibits that can engage kids.
Even if you don’t attend a concert, the Frank Gehry-designed Walt Disney Concert Hall is an architectural marvel worth admiring from the outside.
Grand Central Market offers a diverse selection of food stalls and eateries. It’s a great place to sample a variety of cuisines, making it suitable for families with different tastes.
The Last Bookstore is an iconic independent bookstore known for its eclectic collection and labyrinthine layout. It’s a great spot for families who enjoy reading and exploring quirky spaces.
Downtown’s historic core features beautiful architecture, including the Bradbury Building and the Spring Street Arcade. Take a leisurely stroll and appreciate the history of the city.
Located near the Staples Center, LA Live is an entertainment complex with restaurants, a movie theater, and the Grammy Museum. It’s a convenient place for dining and entertainment.
Just south of downtown, you can visit Exposition Park where you can find several family-friendly attractions, including the California Science Center, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, and the California African American Museum.
Located in the US Bank Tower, OUE Skyspace LA observation deck offers panoramic views of the city. Kids can enjoy the SkySlide, a glass slide on the exterior of the building.
Best places to stay in Downtown Los Angeles with children:
- Luxury ($$$): Hotel Figueroa, Unbound Collection by Hyatt, 5-star kid-friendly hotel located in the heart of Downtown LA, close to the LA Live entertainment complex (home of Microsoft Theatre & Staples Centre). It features outdoor swimming pools, 2 restaurants, and family rooms.
- Mid-range ($$): The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites, Los Angeles, 4-star family-friendly accommodation, centrally located in DTLA, offering easy access to some of the attractions such as the Grammy Museum and Los Angeles Convention Center.
- Budget ($): Cityscape Luxury Rental Homes, great accommodation in DTLA, offering BBQ facilities, family rooms, and private parking for those who drive.
5. Pasadena
Pasadena is known for its relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere and is a great place to explore at a leisurely pace. It’s also conveniently located for day trips to other parts of Los Angeles, making it a comfortable base for families who want to explore the greater Los Angeles area.
Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is a fantastic destination for families. It features beautiful gardens, art collections, and interactive exhibits in the children’s garden. Kids can explore the outdoor spaces and engage in educational activities.
Kidspace Children’s Museum is designed specifically for kids. It has hands-on exhibits, outdoor play areas, and educational programs. It’s a great place for younger children to learn through play.
The historic Old Pasadena district is full of shops, restaurants, and cafes. It’s a pleasant place for a family stroll, and you can often find street performers and events.
Just outside Pasadena, Eaton Canyon Natural Area offers hiking trails suitable for families. The highlight is the Eaton Canyon Falls, a relatively short and rewarding hike.
The Norton Simon Museum has a beautiful garden and features family programs and special events. It can be an opportunity for kids to explore art in a relaxed setting.
If your family is interested in space exploration, consider visiting the JPL Visitor Center, where you can learn about NASA’s missions and planetary exploration.
You can also take a tour of the historic Rose Bowl Stadium, home to the annual Rose Bowl college football game.
If you’re visiting in the winter or looking for a fun indoor activity, check out the ice skating rink in Pasadena.
Best places to stay in Los Angeles in Pasadena with kids:
- Mid-range ($$): Hilton Pasadena, 3-star family-friendly hotel centrally located within a short distance from major attractions such as the Rose Bowl parade route, Paseo Colorado Mall, and Old Pasadena with lots of dining and nightlife options.
- Mid-range ($$): Hyatt Place Pasadena, great 3-star accommodation, featuring Outdoor swimming pool, good breakfast (according to guest’s review), on-site parking, and a Fitness center.
- Budget ($): Saga Motor Hotel Pasadena, popular 2-star family-friendly hotel, located within a short distance from Rose Bowl and on route to the annual Rose Parade, Also close to Eaton Canyon Golf Park, Norton Simon Museum, Huntington Library, and Botanical Gardens.
6. Anaheim/ Disneyland
Anaheim is an excellent choice for families with kids, especially if your primary focus is visiting Disneyland and other nearby attractions.
Of course, the main attraction in Anaheim is Disneyland Resort, which includes Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Make sure to plan your visit to both parks, as they offer unique experiences. Consider purchasing multi-day tickets to fully explore all the attractions.
Located between the two Disney parks, Downtown Disney is a lively entertainment district with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It’s a great place for shopping, dining, and even some street performances.
Disney’s MaxPass service allows you to book FastPass reservations for popular rides through your smartphone, reducing wait times. It can be especially useful during busy times.
If you have extra time and want to explore more theme parks, Knott’s Berry Farm is located nearby and offers a variety of rides and attractions suitable for families.
Just a short drive from Anaheim, you can enjoy a medieval-themed dinner show at Medieval Times. It’s a unique and interactive experience for kids and adults.
Anaheim GardenWalk is located near Disneyland and offers additional dining and shopping options.
Anaheim is within driving distance of several beautiful beaches, including Huntington Beach and Newport Beach. Consider spending a day at the beach to relax and enjoy the ocean.
Best places to stay in LA in Anaheim/ Disneyland for family with kids:
- Luxury ($$$): The Viv Hotel, Anaheim, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, great 5-star kid-friendly hotel, located in Anaheim, ideal location for Disneyland. Its location offers easy access to the ART bus system to get to Disney parks.
- Mid-range ($$): Cambria Hotel & Suites Anaheim Resort Area, popular 4-star accommodation, conveniently located close to Disneyland, featuring spacious family rooms and 2 swimming pools.
- Budget ($): Howard Johnson by Wyndham Anaheim Hotel & Water Playground, very popular 3-star kid-friendly hotel, located within only a few mins from Disneyland Resort. It has a private themed waterpark and outdoor pools.
In conclusion, Santa Monica, Hollywood, West Hollywood, Downtown LA, Pasadena, and Anaheim are some of the best places to stay in Los Angeles for families with kids. Each area has its own charm and advantage, so consider your family budget and interest to choose the right base in LA.
You can continue reading about LA in these articles:
There you have it, my recommendations for the popular areas and neighborhoods that you can stay during your family trip to Los Angeles. I hope you found my article helpful and enjoy your holiday!
If you have any questions or would like to share your thoughts, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create more quality travel guides.