Los Angeles · With kids
WITH KIDS
The densest cluster of theme parks in the country, plus an aquarium, an observatory and heavy traffic.
Disneyland Resort
Forty miles south in Anaheim. The original park suits ages three to ten best; California Adventure next door carries the bigger rides for eight upwards.
Knott's Berry Farm
Buena Park, cheaper than Disney and less crowded midweek. Camp Snoopy is pitched at under-sevens; the wooden and steel coasters want ten and up.
Universal Studios Hollywood
The studio backlot tram plus Super Nintendo World and Harry Potter. Height limits shut out most under-fives, so it earns its money from eight upwards.
Aquarium of the Pacific
In Long Beach, with touch pools, lorikeets and a sea otter habitat. Ages two to ten, and it pairs neatly with the Queen Mary alongside.
Griffith Observatory
Free entry, a Tesla coil demonstration on the hour and public telescopes on clear evenings. Ages six upwards; park below and take the shuttle up.
Distances and car seats
Nothing is closer than forty minutes in traffic — plan one anchor a day. Hire cars legally need seats for children under eight or 4ft 9in.