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Southern California boasts diverse landscapes with plenty of activities to keep even finicky children entertained. From theme parks to museums and wildlife, Southern California has things to do for kids of all ages- even when you decide to skip Disneyland! These are some of the best activities for kids in Southern California.
Legoland
Legoland in Carlsbad, Calif., offers thrilling rides, a waterpark, and an aquarium all within one park. The toys that children adore come to life in this adventure park. More than sixty rides and shows keep kids entertained throughout the day. Visitors that stay on the resort at the Legoland hotel can take advantage of special deals for the park and enjoy kids’ favorite foods in one of the many hotel dining options.
San Diego Zoo
The San Diego Zoo in San Diego, Calif., is one of the best places for children in Southern California. The zoo houses hundreds of animals with interactive exhibits to give children an up-close view of wildlife. Children can see a range of animals and insects, such as lions, polar bears, komodo dragons, meerkats, and much more. Families can even take a trip on the Skyfari, a cabled lift, to see the animals from a bird’s-eye view.
California Science Center
The California Science Center in Los Angeles, Calif., is an interactive science museum that is sure to peak any child’s interest with over 100 exhibits, including a tour of the Endeavor Space Shuttle. Children learn about the world around them and themselves through exhibits, 4D shows, and live entertainment. As a bonus for parents, access to most of the exhibits is free.
Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, Calif., is like a small carnival that is open year-round. Kids and parents alike ride on a Ferris wheel, a rollercoaster, and a few other rides all right above the Pacific Ocean. Kids play games to win prizes, and families have several options for a meal right on the pier. After a day of fun on the pier, the beach beside the pier offers even more activities for children to play.
Aquarium of the Pacific
The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, Calif., houses five acres of aquatic life. Kids can watch and even touch sharks and listen to the sounds of whales in the sea. Parents can spark their children’s interests even further by taking a tour of the veterinary hospital at the aquarium, where visitors see the care each sick or hurt animal receives.
The Living Dessert
Children can view animals in their natural habitat at The Living Dessert in Palm Springs, Calif. Nature trails stretch throughout the area for a safe, up-close view of natural dessert life. Mountain lions, badgers, jaguars and other dessert and mountainous animals call this preserve home. Kids interact with some of the animals, including a ride on a camel’s back.
Tanaka Farms
Tanaka Farms in Irvine, Calif., shows children the origins of healthy food and lets them experience a day on the farm. Visitors taste fresh produce straight out of the garden as they tour throughout the farm. This family-owned farm encourages children to get involved on the farm through tours and educational programs.
With all there is to see and do, Southern California provides kids and adults with plenty of adventure. The weather of Southern California makes these activities fun to enjoy throughout the entire year as well- so if you’re in need of a fun vacation, look no further!
Darren Davis is a truck driving instructor and published travel writer from Tucson, Arizona.
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