Outdoor Adventures
4 hiking, farms, nature centers, and outdoor adventure spots rated and reviewed by families.
🎨 MuseumThe Huntington is a sprawling 120-acre wonderland that combines beautiful gardens, world-class art, and interactive spaces perfect for curious kids. The dedicated Helen and Peter Bing Children's Garden features hands-on nature play, a fog grotto, and a prism tunnel, while the expansive grounds offer endless opportunities for exploration, picnicking, and discovering everything from koi ponds to desert plants.
⭐ ActivityThe Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden is a magical 127-acre wonderland where kids can wander through diverse gardens from around the world, feed ducks at the pond, and chase free-roaming peacocks. With wide, stroller-friendly paths, plenty of grassy areas for picnics, and endless opportunities for nature discovery, it's an ideal outdoor escape that combines education with adventure for the whole family.
🌾 FarmDinosaur Farm in South Pasadena is a delightful specialty toy and book store that brings prehistoric adventures to life for young dino enthusiasts. This highly rated family destination combines quality educational toys, dinosaur-themed books, and interactive displays that spark imagination and learning in a welcoming, kid-friendly environment.
🧗 AdventureBig Santa Anita Canyon offers families an accessible mountain escape just minutes from Los Angeles, featuring waterfalls, shaded trails, and a historic cabin. The moderate 3.3-mile roundtrip hike to Sturtevant Falls rewards kids with a stunning 50-foot waterfall and plenty of stream crossings that make the journey feel like an adventure. The well-maintained trail and scenic picnic spots make this a perfect introduction to hiking for families ready to graduate beyond neighborhood walks.