Universal Studios is one of the chief attractions for families in Los
Angeles. Universal City Walk, attached to the studios, is a plaza lined
with theme restaurants and shops. With no traffic and good security,
it's a great place to take the kids. It can, though, get crowded with
local teenagers at weekends. There are two family-friendly hotels in
Universal City: the Sheraton Universal and the University City Hilton
Towers. You could save a little by staying in nearby communities such as
Studio City (Days Inn) or North Hollywood (Best Western Mikado Hotel). Travelers may also find the Ramada Inn Hollywood a great fit. The hotel, which was recently renovated, is conveniently located near a slew of Hollywood attractions.
The beaches are always a must for children. The beautiful, restored
carousel and the ocean-side Ferris wheel make Santa Monica pier an
attraction for kids. Most Los Angeles beaches are safe for playing in
the sand and swimming, as long as you heed life guard warnings about rip
tides.
Dockweiler Beach in Marina del Ray is also known as "mother's
beach," and is safe and secure for the very little ones. Marina del
Ray is also quieter and more low key than the "party" towns of Santa
Monica and Venice, and a good place for families to stay. If you are going to Six Flags Magic Mountain, the Hyatt Valencia and the Valencia Hilton Garden Inn are close by.
To cut down on restaurant meals, shop at farmers' street markets.
Almost every neighborhood has one weekly. You'll find the best of
California's locally grown fruits and vegetables year round, and enjoy
the street scene as a bonus.
