10 Fun End-of-Summer Kids Adventures in Los Angeles Before School Starts

In Los Angeles, summer doesn’t end when the calendar says so — but the school year is coming fast. Whether you’ve got a whole day or just an afternoon, there’s still time to pack in some family-friendly kids adventures before those first homework assignments hit the backpack.

Here are 10 exciting things to do with kids in Los Angeles that will help you finish summer on a high note.

1. Spend the Day at Santa Monica Pier

Keywords: Santa Monica Pier with kids, LA family attractionsRide the Ferris wheel, play arcade games, and enjoy the ocean breeze. Wrap it up with a sunset stroll along the beach.

2. Explore the California Science Center

Keywords: California Science Center kids, free museums LAFrom hands-on experiments to the Space Shuttle Endeavour, this free museum is a hit for curious minds.

3. Paddle Boats at Echo Park Lake

Keywords: Echo Park Lake paddle boats, LA family activitiesPedal across the lake under the shadow of downtown LA’s skyline, with lotus flowers in bloom and plenty of photo ops.

4. Visit the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Keywords: Natural History Museum LA, dinosaur exhibits for kidsDinosaurs, gems, and live nature gardens make this a full-day educational adventure.

5. Have a Beach Day at Manhattan Beach

Keywords: Manhattan Beach family activities, best LA beaches for kidsBuild sandcastles, boogie board, and grab fish tacos nearby. This beach is clean, wide, and perfect for families.

6. Griffith Park Train Rides

Keywords: Griffith Park train rides, LA train attractions for kidsHop aboard the historic train or visit Travel Town Museum to explore real locomotives.

7. Cool Off at Annenberg Community Beach House

Keywords: Annenberg Beach House kids, LA summer swimmingA pool, splash pad, playground, and direct beach access — all in one family-friendly spot.

8. Hike to the Hollywood Sign (Kid-Friendly Route)

Keywords: Hollywood sign hike with kids, LA family hikesTake the shorter Brush Canyon Trail for a manageable but memorable summer adventure.

9. Visit the La Brea Tar Pits

Keywords: La Brea Tar Pits kids, prehistoric LA attractionsWatch bubbling tar pits in action and learn about the ancient animals that once roamed LA.

10. End the Day with Ice Cream on Abbot Kinney

Keywords: best ice cream LA, family dessert spots Los AngelesSalt & Straw is a must — let the kids sample flavors before picking their favorite.

Make Kids Adventures Easy: Get More Local Ideas in One Tap

Planning last-minute adventures in LA shouldn’t mean endless scrolling. The Things to Do with Kids app has hundreds of Los Angeles family activities, updated daily — from hidden gems to big attractions — all in one place.

🎯 Download on the App Store🎯 Get it on Google Play

Spend less time searching and more time soaking up summer fun.