The Orange County Model Engineers (OCME) welcomes the public for free rides every third Saturday and following Sunday of each month. Table of Contents Things To Do 1 - Hollywood Sign 2 - Walk of Fame 3 - Venice Beach 4 - Santa Monica Pier 5 - Malibu 6 - Natural History Museum Of Los Angeles 7 - Kidspace Museum 8 - California Science Center 9 - LA Train Station 10 - The Farmers Market at the Grove 11 - Griffith Observatory and Park 12 - El Capitan Theater Mail the Foundation: P.O. The little ones will love walking around in the desert, Japanese, Chinese and rose gardens. Visit Thomas at the Southern California Railway Museum (formerly Orange Empire Railway Museum) 2201 South A Street Perris, CA 92570 . Take a little day trip to experience these charming train stations and enjoy a pleasant ride. Take a stroll through the picturesque Harbor Village,take in the California Surf Museum, rent a bike right on the beach, or do a little whale watching. Its actually visible for many parts of the city when the sky is clear. Friends and family of all ages will enjoy a train ride in wine country. It's definitely an excellent spot for walking, as the ocean views are truly beautiful. Youll arrive Jack London Square (pictured above), and you can walk to the ferry that will take you to San Francisco. There are pedestrian walkways for a stroll and there are picnic areas for when you want to rest for a bit. And theres no place like the City of Angels. This museum is an undiscovered gem for Southern California families. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Los Angeles Athletic Club, Also See:Things to Do in Morro Bay, CA with KidsVentura Attractions for Kids, 125 Paseo De La PlazaLos Angeles, CA 90012. Kids can also try their T-6 simulator ride! Ocean Front WalkLos Angeles, CA 90291(310) 396-6794. I will definitely recommend to our family and friends. After riding our miniature train, explore dozens of old-time railroad locomotives and cars. EVENT FAQ PHOTO GALLERY REVIEW & TIPS. If your little girl (or boy) is like Detective Amy Santiago (from the TV show Brooklyn Nine-Nine) then youre headed for a treat. Full of restaurants, bars, shops, and shows, this part of the city makes it easy to amble away the day wandering its sunny streets. If that time is doable for you, be sure to check out the stops on these routes for more trip ideas (including Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, Tucson and New Orleans). Its a great location for getting out in nature with the Williamette River bike trail, Mount Pisgah natural area, McKenzie River National Recreation Trail and Skinner Butte Park. You can find our trains here: 4400 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, image from https://www.tripsavvy.com/griffith-park-los-angeles-4123401. Whether you are local to Southern California or just visiting, these train rides will transport you to a different time when life was a bit more leisurely and old-fashioned. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. This LA museum has a ton of childrens activities that will undoubtedly keep them engaged for hours. This aquarium on the Santa Monica pier is run by a non-profit called Heal The Bay. You could also go for storytime but be sure to check out the timings in advance. You could also relax with a ride on the merry-go-round. For the return trip to L.A., you choose a Pacific Surfliner or Coast Starlight train. If you're near the Inland Empire, head to the University of California in Riverside and head to the Botanic Garden. The Coast Starlight offers the best departure time back to L.A., but book your trip early as seats can sell out on this train. There are 18 observation decks here which give you a stunning view of the city. Plus you can party in the Gaslamp Quarter, cruise the harbor, visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo, explore Balboa Park, experience the USS Midway Museum and shop at Seaport Village. Some of the objects here date as far back as 4.5 billion years. You'll be able to enjoy a striking garden that will give you some truly gorgeous photo opportunities. With an unending supply of beaches, mountains, deserts, and historic highways just a short distance away from the city, theres always an excuse for a day trip. If youre feeling a little adventurous, take the ferry over to Coronado Island, or just stay close to the train station and enjoy the Gaslamp Quarter. Then, one of the most fun things to do with kids in Los Angeles is taking them to this museum. Since 2001, we have been providing trackless train rentals and rides to customers throughout the Southern California area, giving you and your event an exciting new way to keep children entertained. One child ages 2-12 is eligible to receive a 50% discount on the lowest available adult rail fare on most Amtrak trains with each fare-paying adult (age 18+). From there plan for a live music or dance event if you happen to be around during the annual Las Posadas festival. the train ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, as well as a variety of Thomas & Friends themed entertainment, give-a-ways, and more. Departures start as early as 6 a.m. and as late as 9 p.m. Great for the whole family, Grover Beach is a small community with a great beach, dunes nature preserve, winery, escape room, ATV rentals and more. Photo courtesy of Visit Oceanside, Our celebrated neighbor to the southSan Diego is an ideal quick trip by train. The museum educates and informs the public about railroads from the past and present and how they will impact transportation in the future. 800 N Alameda StLos Angeles, CA 90012(800) 698-4833. Trains depart Los Angeles and San Jose mid-morning, so one overnight stay in San Jose is doable if that works best with your schedule. RELATED: Metrolink's stop-worthy spots from DTLA to Oceanside, Themed Restaurants Totally Worth the Trip, 10 Cool Spots To Throw Your Kids Birthday Party, By signing up to Tinybeans newsletters you agree to our Terms and Southern California Railway Museum covers 100 acres and is home to a vast collection of historical locomotives, railcars, trolleys, 3-foot gauge, model trains and much more. Kids Ride Free Weekends provides families an affordable way to take a weekend day trip to explore Southern California destinations. The return train to L.A. departs at night, so you could technically just spend a day here, then get back on the train to sleep. Each guest will take home a keepsake sleigh bell in addition to the wonderful memories made on this magical trip. Don't miss the Enchanted Railroad, daily story times, and the . The train at Griffith Park & Southern Railroad travels over one mile of track, across a bridge, through a forest and the Old Western Town. There are huge modern art galleries in the Ahmanson building. Admission is free. Trackless Train for Birthday Party & Ride Rentals in Los Angeles CA | Trains of the Move A PLUS Promotions Phone: (310) 532-6223 Email: info@trainsonthemove.com ESTABLISHED IN SEPTEMBER 2001 FEATURED IN THE L.A. COUNTY FAIR SERVING SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Parties are meant to be entertaining, enjoyable and exciting for everyone involved. Head to Albuquerque, New Mexico on the Southwest Chief for a trip full of outdoor and cultural activities. There is a great variety of items here that will mark any time period of your choice. The major landmarks in Southern California are so well known that they'd probably be recognizable throughout the country, but there are lots of great things to do once you've seen the big things already. The Klamath Fall Amtrak station is in walking distance of downtown restaurants, a few hotels and an Enterprise Rent-A-Car office. Train Ride Tickets Tickets are available for purchase in-person at both locations Adults $4.00 Children (17 and under) $3.00 Seniors (over 60) $3.00 Value (20+ tickets) $3.00 T-6 Simulator Ride at Griffith Park & Southern RR $5.00 Hours Griffith Park & Southern Railroad Dates Open Daily Summer & Fall hours (March to November) 10am - 4:30pm /5pm Bond with your children while participating in educational tours, interacting with the wildlife, and shopping for souvenirs. Box 21039 Glendale, CA 91221. The ride features a narrated story, while an original music score sets the tone, telling and educational story about the history of the Gold Rush In California. Of course if your little trainspotter is still obsessed with all things choo-choo come birthday-time, you can have a train-themed birthday party in one of their train cars. Train: Amtrak Get a shuttle from the Gold Line to the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden. Or if you are really going to make a train day of it, take the metro to the Civic Ctr/Grand Park stationAngel's Flight is 5 minute walk. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites Los Angeles Glendale, 12601 Mulholland DrBeverly Hills, CA 90210. Klamath Falls, Oregon. Hope your business is prosperous this year so you get to put BIG smiles on small people more often. Pick up some churros at Olvera Street and head towards Avila Adobe, the oldest home in LA. The view from the train as it travels through the charming beach in Del Mar is breathtaking. Located at the Metlox Plaza Corner of Manhattan Beach Boulevard and Valley Boulevard. Thank you! Families can see small model trains operating that will transport themselves and their imagination to a different time. It features over 2,700 five-pointed terrazzo and brass stars embedded in sidewalks along roughly fifteen blocks at Hollywood Boulevard. If you're looking forcoastal fun, walk down to Dana Point Harbor, known as the "Whale Capital of the West," and keep your eyes peeled. Go on an unforgettable food trip with your children by enjoying the ultimate gastronomic experience by trying various delicious dishes at the Grand Central Market. Located in Griffith Park, Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum, educates the public in railroad history and show live steam, gas-mechanical and electric railroad technology in actual operation. Kids from the ages two to seven will love the Helen and Peter Bing Childrens garden. Bike and paddle boat rentals, OC Zoo and pony rides are also in the park. Theres nothing like a weekend here exploring the wonders of science. LOS ANGELES - A high-speed bullet train connecting Southern California to Las . Check their website to confirm dates. Please remember to wear masks on the train and observe social distancing safety measures throughout the journey. Hours: Daily, 6:45 a.m. to 10 p.m.Cost: $1 each way or if you use your Metro TAP card, it costs just .50! Amtrak Guide aims to make rail travel easier with helpful information and tips on train routes, stations and destinations across the United States. Save the date for November 25, 2022! Train: Amtrak Pacific Surfliner The birthday boy was excited to take many rides on the train! The quaint town also offers a popular petting zoothat feels a bit like time travel. It is extremely family friendly, it is free and a great place to chill for people of all ages. Thats just one of the things that attracts locals and tourists to this place. This is a perfect addition to your Thomas the Train theme party. But if you have children you love burying their nose the old fashioned way, theres a childrens section that will enthrall them and a young adult section like no other library youve entered. Privacy Policy, By signing up to Tinybeans newsletters you agree to our Terms and The train was the first of one of the many surprises that we had in our Christmas Eve program, but it was by far the crowd favorite. Let us know if your family comes across any new places we should add to our list! Klamath Falls is a 22-hour train trip from Los Angeles. Take the kids on a pony ride where they get to choose the pace. (highlight, copy and paste the items below right into your e-mail): Thanks a million for the timely, friendly and professional service. Widely regarded as one of the most spectacular of all train routes, the Coast Starlight links the greatest cities on the West . If I were you, Id camp out in the lobby all afternoon. Rich wooden shelves, historic murals and storytimes, this place has it all. I really appreciate doing business with "good businesses". Prepare to be amazed as you and your little ones watch puppet shows, musicals, plays, kid-friendly concerts, and other entertaining shows. Yes, Im talking about Los Angeles, the second-largest urban region in the United States. Book a trip to Las Vegas, New Mexico (not Nevada) for an old west experience. 8039 Beach Blvd.Buena ParkOnline: knotts.com, RELATED: How to Spend a Fun 36-Hours in Buena Park, A post shared by Official Union Station LA (@unionstationla). Travel through the New Mexico desert and mountains to reach Trindad, Colorado. Top photo credit: Image by Steven Cox from Pixabay (San Diego sunrise), Your email address will not be published. Its the one that traveled to space 25 times from the 1990s to 2011. 3. . They also have many historic exhibits, including full-size vintage train cars, a stationary steam plant, and Walt Disneys Carolwood Barn. Doesnt taking a train ride in SoCal look like a fun way to spend the afternoon? Related: Southern California with Kids Fun Things to Do. This spectacular attraction was featured in numerous movies and TV shows, like Greys Anatomy, Hannah Montana, Sharknado, 90210, Modern Family, New Girl, and many others. If you want to feed the likes of a sea lion, you might want to make some bookings in advance with the Animal Encounters. You can travel along the California coast on the Pacific Surfliner, journey to the Pacific Northwest on the Coast Starlight, and see the desert on the Southwest Chief. This place on Hollywood Boulevard gives you a peek into cinema from the 1920s. From the parking lot to the outdoor space, it is a fantastic place for the family to have fun as a unit. Open: Fri. through Sun., 10a.m.5p.m.,Cost: $4 for adults, $2 for children, free for children under 2, 2137 W. 250th St.LomitaOnline:lomita-rr.org. The train ride at this Griffith Park spot is aboard a 7" gauge model train, which makes it about an eighth the size of a standard train. The collection of books here is across cultures and has the best treasure trove of items youve seen in a while. They can also build a dam or explore a mud kitchen. Located inside Balboa Park, inside the Casa de Balboa Building. Train Tickets Visit the Bay Area with an Amtrak trip to Oakland on the Coast Starlight. Theres plenty of parking, plus a concession stand, snack bar and a gift shop, as well as a small space-flight simulator and the nearby Griffith Park pony and wagon rides. It continues to offer rides to guests today. So thank you very much. If youre looking to extend your quick trip a day or two, there are countless hotels with cool pools the whole family will love. It opened in 1960 and welcomes about 10 million tourists annually, making it one of the most popular attractions in LA. It is one of the best kids activities in Los Angeles. You can also plan a picnic in the Hansen Dam Recreation Area. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Beach House at Hermosa. Also See:Kid Friendly Things to Do in OjaiThings for Kids to Do in MalibuKids Activities: Pasadena. What are the best day trips in Southern California? Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS for a . Do you want to hear a bit of history? Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta by Wyndham Santa Clarita Valencia, 4949 York BlvdLos Angeles, CA 90042(213) 250-9995. Because of this, we DO NOT cancel and provide you with a $25 guarantee that we will be at your event. Come visit us every week and ride our trackless train: Tuesday's we are at Manhattan Beach Farmers Market! Words can't describe my happiness when my son saw the train and was yelling Choo Choo at the top of his lungs and jumping up and down. Trains arrive in the evening and return to L.A. in the morning, so booking accommodations in the city for two nights is best in order to have a full day in Oakland (or San Francisco). THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride - Rail Events Productions. 20264 Broadway, Sonoma, CA | 707.938.3912. Top attractions includeSandia Peak Tramwayfor panoramic views of the area,Indian Pueblo Cultural Center,National Museum of Nuclear Scienceand thePetroglyph National Monument. 4400 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles , CA 90027, 2100 Washington Avenue, Wilson Park, Torrance, CA 90510, 5 Family Festivals and More Top Things To Do in Los Angeles This Weekend with Kids, The Butterfly Pavilion Ushers in Spring at the Natural History Museum, Free in March: 20 Best Things To Do in Los Angeles with Kids, Indoor Fun and Playspaces Guide for LA & OC Kids, 26 Best Things To Do in Los Angeles in March 2023 with Kids, Free and Cheap Summer Camps in Los Angeles, 23 Best Breakfasts in Los Angeles at Kid-Friendly Restaurants, 30 Best Indoor Playgrounds in Los Angeles: Indoor Play Spaces for Hot (or Rainy?) Cost: Free to enter; train rides are $3 & up, 5200 Zoo Dr.Los AngelesOnline:traveltown.org. The train ride is a four-minute, half-mile loop through four acres of Balboa Park, located outside the Zoos exit. For adults, there are many wineries in the area (the Kelsey See Canyon Vineyards has peacocks). Thats amazing, Carrie! Then catch a hosted tour! Visiting wineries is the top thing to do, and there are more than 200 to choose from.