While an afternoon spent at the local park is often the best kind of entertainment, sometimes you or your children are looking for something more. If you live near or around Los Angeles, like I do, here are 5 FREE (or almost free) things you can do with your children this weekend!

5 Free Places to take the kids near LA

1. Griffith Park

   Griffith Park is almost synonymous with Los Angeles, at least for locals. Nestled on the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains, this vast municipal park encompasses over 4,000 acres worth of beauty, hills, activities, attractions and nature. Housing the LA Zoo, the Griffith Observatory, the Travel Town Museum, the Autry National Center and many other Attractions, this spacious Park has something for everyone. While visiting the Park itself is free, many of the Attractions charge – so be sure to check before you head out!

2. The Getty Center

   The Getty Center, AKA, ‘The Getty’ is a Los Angeles staple, and for good reason. Panoramic views of LA accompany wonderful exhibits, wide open lawns, numerous dining options and educational displays that will have you coming back again and again. Bring your camera, your imagination and some time, because this attraction will entertain you and your little ones for hours, if not all day! The Getty itself is free to enter, though parking is $15 if you choose to park in the lot.

3. The Central Library

   Downtown LA offers a myriad of activities for children and adults of all ages, yet the Los Angeles Public Library’s Central Branch may be one of the most enticing. This haven of education and respite has an entire department devoted to the little ones, with an array of books, murals and activities to choose from. Story time, puppets, music, it’s all here – and it’s all free! This Library is the perfect spot to encourage reading and enjoy a fun, and hopefully quiet, afternoon.

4. The Beach

   No LA list would be complete without mentioning The Beach. From The rides at Santa Monica Pier to the sidewalk shops on the Venice Boardwalk, the bike trails at Manhattan Beach or the dog filled sand dunes at Redondo, there is a beach suitable for all. Sun, sand, spray and fun will last the entire day – no matter which area of the coast you choose to visit. Be sure to pack your sunscreen, a swimsuit, bikes if you aren’t renting and some change, just in case you need to fee a meter.

What is your favorite activity to do with your kids? It doesn’t matter if it is in California – we travel often and I am ALWAYS on the look out for places to take my girls! Leave a comment, let me know, I would love to hear from you!

Milkandhugs