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Culver City Stairs hiking area in Culver City, CA
Photo: Shawn Gong
View of Culver City Stairs in Culver City, CA
Photo: Michele Anthony
View of Culver City Stairs in Culver City, CA
Photo: Alex

Culver City Stairs

4.8(798 reviews)FreeAdventure
🕑 30-60 minutes (depending on how many times your family climbs and rest breaks)👶 Best for ages 6 and up. Younger elementary kids can handle the climb with encouragement and rest breaks, while tweens and teens love the physical challenge and competitive aspect of timing their climbs. Toddlers may struggle with the steep incline and numerous steps.

About

The Culver City Stairs offer an exciting outdoor fitness challenge that turns exercise into an adventure for active families. Kids will feel a sense of accomplishment climbing the 282 steps, and the rewering panoramic views of Los Angeles at the top make the effort worthwhile. It's a perfect quick workout destination that combines physical activity with quality family time in the fresh air.

Highlights

  • 282 steps that provide a real sense of accomplishment when conquered
  • Stunning panoramic views of Los Angeles, the ocean, and downtown from the top
  • Natural outdoor setting that makes exercise feel like an adventure
  • Opportunity to set personal goals and track fitness progress together
  • Free activity that combines quality family time with healthy habits

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Arrive early morning (before 9am) or late afternoon to avoid heat and crowds, especially on weekends when fitness enthusiasts flock here
  2. 2.Park on the residential streets near Hetzler Road - parking is free but limited, so weekday mornings are easiest
  3. 3.Bring plenty of water and encourage kids to take breaks on the way up - there are small platforms where you can rest
  4. 4.Make it a game by counting steps together or timing each climb to see if kids can beat their personal record
  5. 5.Wear good athletic shoes with grip - the stairs can be slippery, and the descent requires careful footing

Best Time to Visit

Early morning on weekdays (7-9am) offers cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and easier parking. Avoid midday heat, especially in summer, and weekend mornings when serious fitness enthusiasts are training.

What to Know

This is a free outdoor fitness destination with no facilities - no restrooms, water fountains, or shade, so come prepared. Street parking only, and the stairs are not stroller or wheelchair accessible due to the steep, step-only design.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round, but summer months can be extremely hot - best enjoyed in fall, winter, and spring. Morning fog in June provides cooler conditions. Stairs may be slippery after rain, so avoid during wet weather for safety.

Nearby Eats

Head to Sunnin Lebanese Cafe (5 minutes away) for delicious shawarma wraps and falafel that kids enjoy, or try The Wallace for family-friendly American comfort food with a nice kids menu.

More Activities Near Culver City

Park

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

4.8Free

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook offers an exciting outdoor challenge for active families, featuring a famous 282-step stairway that kids love to conquer while counting along the way. Once at the top, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of Los Angeles,from downtown to the Pacific Ocean,plus shaded picnic areas perfect for a celebratory snack after your climb.

Museum

Star Eco Station

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Star Eco Station is a hidden gem that combines wildlife rescue with hands-on environmental education, giving kids the chance to meet and interact with rescued exotic animals like snakes, parrots, tortoises, and chinchillas. Unlike traditional museums, this intimate facility lets children get up close with animals while learning about conservation, sustainability, and how humans impact wildlife,making it both educational and memorable for animal-loving families.

Activity

Culver City Teen Center

4.7Free

The Culver City Teen Center is a welcoming community hub that serves youth and families with an array of engaging programs throughout the year. From sports and creative arts to hands-on crafts and exciting seasonal camps, this city-run facility provides a safe, supervised environment where kids can explore new interests, make friends, and stay active after school and during breaks.

Park

Culver City Park

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Culver City Park is a spacious community hub that delivers everything families need for a perfect park day. With well-maintained playgrounds for multiple age groups, open sports fields for impromptu soccer games, shaded picnic areas, and scenic walking paths, it's the kind of neighborhood gem that keeps kids entertained for hours. Parents especially appreciate the regular family-friendly events and festivals that bring the community together throughout the year.