Quirky Museums & Exhibits That Kids Actually Love

1. Jurassic Museum of Technology — Culver City

Best for ages: 10 and up 
Why it's a gem: No, it's not what you're thinking. This museum isn't all about dinosaurs. The Jurassic Museum of Technology is "random" and "bizarre." It's a life-sized "cabinet of curiosities," according to TripAdvisor reviews. The displays are quirky and confusing in the best way, and housed in dimly lit exhibit halls. This one is better for the older set, especially if you have kids who are into all things "weird." It's an experience unlike any other in LA. This museum is only free for children under the age of 12. Adults are expected to donate $15 for admission. Reservations are required, and can be booked online. 

2. Valley Relics Museum — Lake Balboa

Best for ages: 10 and up 
Why it's a gem: If you're a fan of pop culture, bright signs, and retro memorabilia, this is the place for you. The Valley Relics Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum inside two airplane hangars. This pop culture collection includes everything from BMX bikes to restaurant menus, from retro arcade games to classic cars, and of course, plenty of bright neon signs. This is also an amazing venue space and is perfect for a reunion or a party. While kids 10 and under are free, adults are expected to pay $15 for admission. This spot is only open on Saturdays and Sundays. 

3. In-N-Out Burger Museum — Baldwin Park

Best for ages: 8 and up 
Why it's a gem: Are you even an Angeleno if you don't love your In-N-Out? The first time I stumbled upon this adorable replica of the first In-N-Out in Baldwin Park, we were searching for cheeseburgers and didn't realize we had turned up at a museum, not a functional store (don't worry, there's an active In-N-Out just minutes away with a giant merchandise store on-site). This tiny replica of the first ever In-N-Out houses prices and memorabilia from those early days of burger flipping. The museum is open Thursdays - Sundays from 11am - 2pm. 

4. Cerritos Library — Cerritos

Best for ages: 3 and up 
Why it's a gem: A library? Yes, a library. This is, hands down, the best library in the Los Angeles area. The Cerritos Library has larger-than-life books framing the entrance to a children's area with a large fish tank, a giant dinosaur skeleton, and a red lighthouse. Settle down to read at the coolest spot in the city. 

5. Carolwood Barn — Griffith Park

Best for ages: 4 and up
Why it's a gem: The Carolwood Barn, also known as Walt's Barn, is a piece of movie magic set in Griffith Park. It's one of the many fun things to do in Griffith Park with kids. The barn only opens to the public on the third Sunday of every month from 11am - 3pm, when admission and parking are free. The barn is where Walt Disney dreamed up some of his most amazing ideas, including the first seeds of what later became Disneyland. 

6. Roundhouse Aquarium — Manhattan Beach

Best for ages: 2 and up 
Why it's a gem: Did you know that there is a totally free aquarium at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier? It is open daily (2pm - 7pm on weekdays and 10am - 7pm on weekends) and is home to fascinating sea life such as Moray Eels, Two-Spot Octopi, Horn Sharks, Moon Jellies, Sea Horses, and more. The Roundhouse Aquarium is dedicated to ocean education and conservation for all ages, and the kindly staff are happy to answer all your marine life questions and even let you get up close with some creatures in the touch tanks.

Your mission is to discover this hidden space gem. Photo courtesy NASA/JPL-Caltech

7. Jet Propulsion Lab — Pasadena 

Best for ages: 10 and up 
Why it's a gem: It's not rocket science. The Jet Propulsion Lab is home to some of America's most talented scientists. Visitors can get an inside look at the lab on pre-booked tours, which are offered on weekdays free of charge. In order to book a tour, you'll have to schedule at least three weeks in advance. These tours last approximately 2 to 2.5 hours and take the public on a journey through the impressive laboratories. Keep in mind that JPL has started requiring REAL ID verification for all guests over the age of 18. 

8. Castle Peak & Thunder Railroad — Garden Grove 

Best for ages: 5 and up 
Why it's a gem: Do you love Disneyland? Well, not as much as this couple, who have re-created an entire miniature Disneyland, available for free public viewing on select Open House days. This miniature theme park is literally in the family's backyard (talk about a hidden gem), and they offer visitation on some weekends from 1pm - 4pm. Reservations can be made through Eventbrite a few weeks before each open house, and capacity is capped at 250 people to minimize unnecessary crowds. 

Secret Outdoor Spaces and Natural Wonders

9. The Blue Ribbon Garden at the Walt Disney Concert Hall — DTLA 

Best for ages: 5 and up 
Why it's a gem: Several of my friends have gotten engaged at this picturesque garden that is tucked on the roof of the Walt Disney Concert Hall. It is open daily from 5am - 10pm and is the perfect place to enjoy a snack in peace or admire beautiful flowers and trees in the heart of a concrete jungle. 

10. Ferndell Trail — Griffith Park 

Best for ages: This walk is perfect for all ages 
Why it's a gem: When I posted a reel about this incredible spot several months ago on our @mommypoppinsla Instagram channel, I received quite a lot of comments. Many people were saying, "Please, don't tell anyone else about this!" Others were saying, "This isn't a hidden gem; everyone already knows about it." I'll say that I did not know about Ferndell until semi-recently, and when you find an enchanted fern grotto in the midst of chaotic Hollywood, you tell people about it.

Wander a paved trail that leads to a perfect playground set amongst the pine trees, with a cafe offering "snake dogs", pastries, and coffee, only a quick walk across the way. Ferndell is a wonderland. 

RELATED: Insider's Guide to Griffith Park: Top Things To Do with Kids 

Ascend Vasquez Rocks for an adventure. Photo courtesy of Meghan Rose

11. Vasquez Rocks Natural Area and Interpretive Center — Agua Dulce

Best for ages: 5 and up 
Why it's a gem: The rock formations at Vasquez are other-worldly. In fact, they've been featured in a variety of movies and television shows over the years, including Star Trek, Planet of the Apes, Hail, Caesar!, Little Miss Sunshine, and more. There are plenty of beautiful and easy-to-navigate hiking trails in the area, plus a nature center with animals on display. The exhibits inside the visitor center include live snakes and other desert animal friends, as well as great explanations of the history of Vasquez. Be mindful of wild snakes;  we saw a few on our last visit! Once you are done exploring, hop over to the Agua Dulce Winery for a relaxing wine tasting while the kids play in the spacious yard with colorful picnic tables. 

12. UCLA Mathias Garden — Westwood 

Best for ages: All ages are welcome
Why it's a gem: The UCLA Mathias Garden is the only free botanical garden in the greater LA area, and it is absolutely stunning. It's also why it's on our list of best botanical gardens for LA Kids. Open 7 days a week, this garden has plenty of space to wander, including a waterfall train and an amphitheater that is the perfect place to stop for a picnic lunch or snack. The garden welcomes K-12 field trips, and has several different educational packages available for groups that make a reservation in advance. 

13. Los Angeles Live Steamers — Griffith Park

Best for ages: 2 and up 
Why it's a gem: Take a ride on a steam train on a Sunday afternoon at the Los Angeles Live Steamers, the somewhat secret third train ride in Griffith Park. Riders must be 34" tall and be able to sit upright unassisted. Infants are not permitted to ride. While entry to the Live Steamers area is free, the train ride has a suggested $4 donation per person. 

Parks Locals Don't Want You to Know About

14. Adventure Playgrounds — Irvine, Huntington Beach, & Yorba Linda 

Best for ages: 4 and up 
Why it's a gem: These adventure playgrounds are not your age park with a few slides and some monkey bars. They capitalize on creative play and use unique elements to inspire. The Irvine location is famous for its giant LEGO bricks and incredible castle play structure. The Huntington Beach location (my favorite) is like Huckleberry Finn's dream, with inner tubes, a rope bridge, and a tarp slide.

The Yorba Linda location has splash zones and lots of high-rising playground equipment. All three are worth a visit, but make sure to register online before showing up; admission is monitored. While Irvine and Yorba Linda are completely free, the Huntington Beach playground costs $4 per child (accompanying adults get in for free). 

15. Frankin Canyon Park — Beverly Hills

Best for Ages: All ages 
Why it's a gem: Frankin Canyon Park is one of the prettiest natural areas in LA, and locals love it. If you have littles, the duck pond is of particular interest. Spend an afternoon wandering and enjoying nature in this peaceful spot. 

16. The Hollywood Bowl — Hollywood 

Best for ages: 5 and up 
Why it's a gem: Wait... is that a typo? No, it's not! The Hollywood Bowl is officially considered a park, so when there is not a concert going on, it is open to the public. Bring a picnic and relax in this beautiful setting. Time it right, and you may just be able to catch a Los Angeles Philharmonic rehearsal. These are free, as well! 

17. Hollywood Resevoir — Hollywood

Best for ages: All ages are welcome 
Why it's a gem: Take a stunning stroll around the reservoir with the Hollywood sign in view. This walk is one of LA's best hidden gems, and it's paved, so it's perfect for a stroller or some scooters.  

18. Williams S. Hart Park Barnyard — Santa Clarita 

Best for ages: All ages are welcome 
Why it's a gem: For little farmers, this free barnyard is a great place to see some adorable animals (including ducks, deer, alpacas, pigs, chickens, rabbits, a donkey, and a horse). There are no reservations required, and the barnyard is next to a beautiful, tree-shaded grassy area. There is also a hike up to the famous Williams S. Hart mansion, with a view of some buffalo rumored to have once been Walt Disney's. 

Cool, Free Pop Culture & Movie Locations to Explore

19. Spadena House — Beverly Hills

Best for ages: 5 and up 
Why it's a gem: The Witch's House is an LA classic and has been featured in many a movie in its day. The home is a private residence, so tours are not allowed, but it's a great place to snap a quick picture and tell your kids the eerie story of Hansel and Gretel. 

20. The Bradbury Building — DTLA 

Best for ages: 10 and up 
Why it's a gem: (500) Days of Summer, Blade Runner, and Chinatown were all filmed at this iconic building in LA with the famous birdcage elevators. There's also a Blue Bottle Coffee in the building, and Grand Central Market is steps away. 

21. The Gamble House — Pasadena 

Best for ages: 10 and up 
Why it's a gem: This beautiful home is considered an architectural masterpiece of the Arts & Crafts movement... but chances are your kids won't be enamoured with the craftsmanship. What they will love is recognizing the home from Back to the Future. Every year, The Gamble House hosts a Back to the Future night every summer to celebrate its part in the famous movie, and also hosts regular storytimes for kids. 

Secret Art and History Hiding in Plain Sight

22. Watts Towers — Watts 

Best for ages: 10 and up 
Why it's a gem: Immigrant artist Simon Rodia created these 100-foot towers over the span of 33 years using mosaic panels created from a variety of objects and seashells. For those who love obscure folk art, these towers are a must (they also make a great photo for the 'gram). 

RELATED: Visiting the Getty Villa with Kids: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Look up at the Watts Towers mosaics. Photo by Bryan Frank via Flickr

23. Frank Lloyd Wright Hollyhock House — Hollywood

Best for ages: 10 and up 
Why it's a gem: This beautiful piece of Hollywood history is an architectural masterpiece created for Aline Barnsdall, a famed producer and oil heiress. When much of the project was left unfinished due to roadblocks and a lack of funding, Aline Barnsdall gifted the beautiful property to the City of Los Angeles, which has enshrined it as a feat of architectural creativity.

Note that this museum is free for children 18 and under with a paying adult, but adults must pay $12. Also, strollers are not allowed in the house, but can be checked with an attendant upon entering. Reservations are recommended for guided tours. Bob Baker Marionettes frequently performs free shows on the lawn at the Hollyhock House. Check our Los Angeles calendar for showtimes as we update when we hear of them. 

24. Mosaic Tile House — Venice 

Best for ages: 10 and up 
Why it's a gem: The Mosaic Tile House is a world of glittering glass that will have you feeling as if you have been transported to Barcelona, Spain. The home is only open for tours on Saturdays from 12pm to 3pm, and guests are asked to email in advance to make a reservation. Children under the age of 10 may visit for free, but adults must pay $20 per person to enter. This one is quirky, but it has a charm to it that makes it undeniably unique. 

25. Bunnyhenge — Newport Beach 

Best for ages: 2 and up 
Why it's a gem: Think Stonehenge... but with large white bunnies? Yes, this odd little sculpture really does exist in Newport Beach near City Hall, and it's a great place to stop for a photo op that will have everyone asking, "Where are they?" Set up a picnic, and let the kiddos play amongst twelve sentinel bunnies at this random art installation in the OC. 

Restaurants with Hidden Charm & Intrigue 

26. Happier Camper Cafe — Frogtown 

Best for ages: 2 and up 
Why it's a gem: Take a break on your bike ride on the LA bike path at this adorable little coffee stop with a sand pit for the kids. 

27. Elixir Tea Craft — Costa Mesa 

Best for ages: 8 and up 
Why it's a gem: This magical tea shop is the epitome of a hidden gem- it is literally hidden. The speakeasy-style tea shop is filled with whimsical wizardry. A peek is free, but you'll have to pay for a drink if you want to sit and stay awhile (and it's worth it, you should!) Fantasy freaks will completely geek out at this spot that will make you feel like you are in Harry Potter. 

28. Padaro Beach Grill — Carpinteria

Best for ages: All ages are welcome 
Why it's a gem: This one is a bit of a drive, but if you are headed to the beach, consider going north and stopping at Padaro Beach Grill for lunch or dinner. This counter-service spot will make you feel like you are in Hawaii, with grassy lawns, picnic benches, wavy palm trees, sandboxes for the kids, and a view of the ocean. 

29. Carney's — West Hollywood 

Best for ages: All ages are welcome.
Why it's a gem: Eat a delicious hot dog in a famous train car! The kids will love it, and adults will enjoy the good eats. 

30. The Proud Bird — LAX area 

Best for ages: All ages are welcome.
Why it's a gem: The Proud Bird is an amazing food hall with great barbecue, a playground, and a view of the planes flying into LAX. You don't have to order to enjoy the patio, with vintage planes on display. We love this spot and frequent it when dropping off or picking up loved ones at the airport. It makes that trek to LAX just a little less unbearable! 

31. Vicky's Doghouse — San Pedro

Best for ages: 2 and up
Why it's a gem: Eat a gourmet hot dog... on a battleship! This delicious hot dog joint is tucked into the Battleship Iowa in San Pedro, and you can enter the boat for free if you intend to eat there. Try out a whole host of creative hot dog combos. Enter through the rear gangway and go straight towards the fantail to find the spot. Parking is also free for the first hour, and only $2 per hour thereafter. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Secret Spots in LA for Kids

Are these locations stroller friendly?
Yes, almost all of these locations are stroller-friendly (a few of the smaller restaurants may ask you to keep the stroller outside).

Are these spots truly free? 
To give some clarity, restaurants are obviously not truly free- chances are that you will want to grab some food. Los Angeles is infamous for parking charges, and some of these locations charge for parking.

Also, a few of these locations are not free for all ages. There are several museums that welcome children free of charge, but have a small to moderate charge per adult. I've made sure to note those discrepancies in the descriptions above. 

How can I make a full day out of visiting one of these? 
Some of these are quick stops, but many of the museums, parks, and attractions can be a full-day plan. Bundle several of the locations on this list together (for example, hit up The Hollywood Bowl and Ferndell on the same day, or try all of the Griffith Park attractions one after another). 

Is parking available at these spots?
Parking in LA varies, but we chose these locations based on accessibility. Most spots are connected to a lot, or there is a parking garage or monitored lot nearby.