Hedgehog, Skirball Cultural Center
Go directly to La Brea Tar Pits. Regardless of age, they’ll be captivated by saber-toothed cats, mastodons and dire wolves frozen in time — in the middle of Los Angeles no less. Or you can give them an education on the cosmos with a visit to the recently refurbished Griffith Observatory. Ready for some real stealth education? Head to the Getty Center where kids can discover a world of art, make a mask, create a sculpture, hunt for art treasures and more. Start your trip at the Getty’s Family Room where kids can participate in hands-on activities and pick up some Art Detective Cards to make exploring the gardens and galleries an interactive event.
The Noah’s Ark exhibit at the Skirball Cultural Center is another great hands-on experience for kids. Visitors brave a storm, then climb aboard a gigantic wooden ark — inspired by the ancient flood story of Noah's Ark — to interact with handcrafted animals. From life-size giraffes and elephants to snow leopards, flamingos and iguanas, the fanciful puppets and figures represent a total of 186 species.
Also perfect for families interested in learning and having fun, the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is located less than an hour from Downtown Los Angeles in the mountains near Simi Valley. As the ultimate destination for budding history buffs, the museum has exhibits such as the McGovern Gallery of Presidents, the Citizen Governor Gallery and a full-size replica of the Oval Office that will make the history of our 40th President of the United States come alive. Visitors can also tour the actual Air Force One used by President Reagan and six other U.S. presidents to see what it’s like to travel the world aboard the “Flying White House.” After you’re done exploring the museum, have lunch in the cafe and then pick up some presidential souvenirs in the gift shop.
