5 Family-Friendly Activities for a Layover in Los Angeles

Traveling can be an exciting activity for families, but waiting in the airport due to a flight delay or unexpected layover isn’t appealing. Despite Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) being one of the world’s busiest airports, it’s a surprisingly unglamorous structure with few inspiring options in which travelers can pass the time in a fun way. Fortunately, LAX is within Uber distance to a multitude of unforgettable points of interest. Depending on the length of your layover (assuming moderate traffic and a half-hour visit), here are five destinations for your family to check out:

Venice Beach Boardwalk

Capture the quintessential Californian experience at Venice Beach Boardwalk, one of the state’s trendiest beaches and most prominent tourist destinations. Venice Beach is known for its picturesque coastline and vibrant art scene, with plenty of intriguing vendors selling handmade crafts and souvenirs, as well as street performances by energetic dance groups, talented painters, and soulful musicians. With its dynamic yet easygoing spirit, Venice Beach boasts an abundance of remarkable sights, sounds, and authentic restaurants to easily keep a family occupied for hours on end. (1800 Ocean Front Walk)

Length of layover: at least 3 hours

The Original Farmers Market Nestled in LA’s Fairfax District, the Original Farmers Market is a historic landmark with roots dating back to 1880. In addition to being home to fresh produce, seafood, and meat vendors, this farmers market is particularly notable for its diverse selection of ethnic food stalls and sit-down eateries, as well as specialty dessert shops. Adjacent to the Original Farmers Market is The Grove, an expansive outdoor mall within several minutes’ walking distance. (6333 W. 3rd Street)

Length of layover: at least 4 hours

Universal CityWalk Universal CityWalk encompasses the glitz and alluring atmosphere of Hollywood with bright, neon-lit signs and shops in a convenient center—without the hassle of congested sidewalks and having to cross traffic-jammed streets. Offering a movie theater, numerous restaurants, and apparel and novelty stores, Universal CityWalk has plenty of activities to entertain family members of all ages. For longer layovers that may last half a day or more, it could be worthwhile to visit the renowned amusement park Universal Studios Hollywood, located right next to this shopping center. (100 Universal City Plaza)

Length of layover: at least 5 hours

In-N-Out Burger One of the most beloved fast food chains on the West Coast is In-N-Out Burger. Although the burger joint’s menu is simple and straightforward, the laid-back eatery maintains profound popularity and regularly caters to long lines of patrons at almost all hours of the day. With delicious and inexpensive offerings—especially when compared to overpriced airport food—In-N-Out Burger is a solid choice for hungry families with a short layover. (9149 S. Sepulveda Boulevard)

Length of layover: at least 90 minutes

Hollywood Walk of Fame The Hollywood Walk of Fame is an iconic attraction that features embedded brass stars on sidewalks that remembers influential entertainers from the past and present. The Walk of Fame stretches for several blocks down Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street. Along the former, the Walk of Fame is adjacent to other points of interests, including the Hollywood and Highland Center (a large shopping and entertainment complex), and the historic TCL Chinese Theatre. (7018 Hollywood Boulevard)

Length of layover: at least 4 hours