Outdoor Adventures
7 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.
🌳 ParkPeter F. Schabarum Regional Park offers families 575 acres of outdoor adventure in the hills of City of Industry. With over 10 miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate, fishing ponds stocked with catfish and bass, and expansive picnic areas with playgrounds, this free park provides a perfect escape from the urban sprawl for families seeking nature without traveling far from Los Angeles.
🧗 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.
🌳 ParkSouth Hills Park is a natural oasis in the Alhambra area that offers families the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and playground fun. With scenic hiking trails winding through natural landscapes, dedicated play areas for kids, and a dog-friendly environment, it's an ideal spot for families who want to explore nature without venturing too far from home.
🧗 AdventureGlendora Mountain Road is a scenic mountain drive and hiking access point that treats adventurous families to stunning panoramic views of the San Gabriel Valley. This free outdoor destination offers multiple trailheads and pull-off points where families can enjoy easy to moderate hikes, picnic spots, and breathtaking vistas that make kids feel like they're on top of the world.