We get tons of messages about things to do in Los Angeles so we compiled this comprehensive list of some of our favorites. We really love our city and all the whimsical, wholesome, and off-beat attractions it boasts. Let us know in the comments if we missed any of your must-sees!

AMOEBA MUSIC 6400 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

This is the ULTIMATE music shopping experience. It's expansive, with two levels, an awesome movie and music poster selection, a photo booth (our personal favorite), and live music. I love taking my kids here, seeing what music peaks their interest, and sharing memories of my favorite bands. We suggest following them on social media at https://www.instagram.com/amoebahollywood/ to stay on top of all their events.

BOB BAKER MARIONETTE THEATER 4949 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042

An absolute staple in Los Angeles, this theater boasts one of the most magical experiences you could bring your kids to. Aside from the amazing puppet shows, we especially love the 60's time-warp feel we get from it and of course, the ice cream after the performances. They've recently moved to Highland Park and you can check them out here: https://www.instagram.com/bobbakermarionettes

THE RENAISSANCE PLEASURE FAIRE 15501 Arrow Hwy, Baldwin Park, CA 91706

Okay, I KNOW it's only once a year from April-May, but this event has been our Easter tradition since forever. For adults, the mead is a must-try and for kids, you don't want to miss the joust that happens at the end of the day. There's a zillion fun vendors, jester and comedy acts, and even a treasure hunt happening during the day. Also who doesn't love to dress up? Check it out here: https://www.instagram.com/renaissancepleasurefaire/

THE LAST BOOKSTORE 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

This is where I take all of our out of town guests for obvious reasons. It's massive, located in a former bank and includes a book maze, books organized by color to create a photo-worthy rainbow, whimsical book sculptures, and it's independently owned so even more reason to go! You can find them at: https://www.instagram.com/lastbookstorela/

FIRST ORIGINAL MCDONALD'S MUSEUM 1398 N E St, San Bernardino, CA 92405

In all my time living in LA, I had never heard of this place until this year when my Australian friend suggested it. I'm so glad she did because this is the quirkiest, most fascinating attraction we've been to in awhile. Not actually funded by the restaurant itself, this is a private collection of all things McDonald's. If you want a walk down memory lane, you've found it. An unexpected bonus was seeing The Mystery Machine parked outside. Follow them here: https://www.facebook.com/FirstOriginalMcdonaldsMuseum/

THE GENTLE BARN 15825 Sierra Hwy, Santa Clarita, CA 91390

Okay, I realized this is a poorly timed follow up to the last one on our list, but WE LOVE THIS PLACE. Another LA-area institution, The Gentle Barn is humbling and full of love. Naomi just visited in the spring and couldn't stop talking about all the horse kisses they got. You can even sign up to sponsor an animal! Learn more at: https://www.instagram.com/thegentlebarn

VENICE BEACH BOARDWALK 1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291

We have countless memories at Venice Beach, one of which is renting bikes to ride along the ocean path to the Santa Monica Pier. This beach is unlike any other beach in the LA area which is why you will recognize it from iconic movies like "Romy & Michele's High School Reunion". It's artsy with amazing wall murals and graffiti everywhere you look, a skate park, the forever gawkable Muscle Beach, and all the summertime treats you could dream of. You can see more photos here: https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/854177742/venice-beach-boardwalk/

LA FASHION DISTRICT 920 Maple Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015

 

Since it's an entire district, we listed the address of Michael Levine's because there are two parking structures nearby. This is somewhere you absolutely need to visit if you are a fashion lover or DIYer with more fabric and accessory shops than you can count. We recommend checking out Santee Alley for shopping and elotes (street corn) and our favorite store Foxblood at 840 Santee St. Unit 102 for all your goth babe needs and it's conveniently located next to the alt-shoe staples YRU and STRANGE CVLT. Find out more here:https://www.instagram.com/lafashiondistrict/

FLUTTER 217 S South La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036

This was a completely unique museum experience. While it's very instagrammable, we were particularly struck by the passion of the staff and depth of each installation. Every room is done by a different artist expressing a beautiful message and entering them is like exploring whole new worlds. You can learn more about Flutter here: https://www.instagram.com/flutterexperience/

SOAP PLANT / WACKO 4633 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

How do I even go about describing this store? Quirky doesn't quite suffice. It's a massive gift store, boutique, and gallery that my kids INSTANTLY fell in love with. From ray guns to animal masks to books about butts, you'll find everything you never knew you needed. If you are a Francesca Lia Block reader, you'll definitely get Weetzie Bat vibes from this. Follow them here: https://www.instagram.com/soapplantwacko/

GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Alright nerds, sight-seers, and nerdy sight-seers. This landmark is for you. Nestled in the hills and providing our personal favorite view of the Hollywood sign, you can picnic on the beautiful lawn and wait for sunset to look over the city, instantly remembering why Los Angeles is so magical when the buildings light up like fireflies. Inside the observatory, we always beeline to the Tesla Coil which makes a sound like you're going to see a newly animated Frankenstein's monster pop out at any moment. There's also a portion to see how much you'd weigh on different planets' atmospheres which is a total crowd pleaser. Check out their Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/griffithobservatory/ 

FARMER'S MARKET AT THE GROVE 6333 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Another extremely nostalgic spot for us is The Farmer's Market. With all the ritz and glitz of The Grove, it's a nice change of pace to visit this part. It's like Noah's Ark of food, with dishes from every corner of the world. The seating area is especially cute with it's mint green steel chairs, tables, and open air atmosphere. Don't forget to stop by the various gift shops like one exclusively stocked with rare and weird hot sauces! See more at: https://www.instagram.com/farmersmarketla/

ECHO PARK LAKE SWANS 751 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026

First of all, we love Echo Park. We're here constantly to shop, visit friends, and play at the lake. You can rent paddle boat swans at Wheel Fun Rentals surprisingly inexpensively. We're suckers for kitsch and this has to be one of our favorite ways to spend a lazy day outside. Check out photos here: https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/252412737/echo-park-lake/

DRAG QUEEN STORY HOUR Various bookstores & libraries

We are so in love with this non-profit and could not recommend their events enough. Drag performers read uplifting and progressive books that explore gender, identity, feminism, and more to kids of all-ages that even parents can enjoy. Their message of love and inclusion will stay with your kids forever. Follow their Facebook to stay on top of readings in your area: https://www.facebook.com/dragqueenstoryhour/?ref=br_rs

GALCO'S SODA POP STOP 5702 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042

I first visited Galco’s when I moved to Highland Park forever ago and it wasn't until yesterday did I visit again with my kids because Naomi saw that it’s a favorite of Billie Eilish's. It definitely has that old school charm with hard to find sodas and candy from your childhood. A little something for kids and adults alike. Follow them here: https://www.instagram.com/galcossoda/

CHINESE NEW YEAR FESTIVAL & PARADE Chinatown, LA

Only once a year, but totally worth mentioning is Chinese New Year in Chinatown. There's confetti cannons, snap pops, and a generally joyous and kid-friendly time learning about different cultures. Lots of local food to try while you're there too! Find out more here: https://www.instagram.com/lachinatown

TAKE A DAY TRIP

Recommendations for when you want to get out of LA 

SALVATION MOUNTAIN Beal Rd, Calipatria, CA 92233

We've made more trips than I can count here because nothing quite matches it's beauty and inspiring views. Pure passion motivates the volunteers working to maintain this massive man-made mountain so tread carefully on the art and respect the signs. You can also donate paint when you make the trek which is always appreciated. Learn more at: https://www.instagram.com/salvationmountainofficial

MADONNA INN 100 Madonna Rd, San Luis Obispo, CA 93405

Easily one of our favorite places on EARTH! It's an inn that was created in 1958 and maintains that retro-kitsch aesthetic. Each room is a different color explosive theme and the restaurant is something you have to see to believe. A true fairytale land. You can sight-see without booking a room, but if you do have a specific room in mind, make sure you book waaay in advance because availability can be tricky. Feast your eyes at: https://www.instagram.com/madonnainn1958

ALIEN FRESH JERKY 72242 Baker Blvd, Baker, CA 92309

You can't storm Area 51 without visiting this landmark first! Flying saucers, alien sculptures, and alien-themed gifts galore, this place is out of this world. Rumor has it they're opening a motel soon too! See more here: https://www.instagram.com/alienfreshjerky/