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L.A. Times Concierge: Help me plan a family day out that won't bore my teen boys!

  //humor-quirks.news-articles.net/content/2025/11 .. family-day-out-that-won-t-bore-my-teen-boys.html
  Published in Humor and Quirks on Monday, November 10th 2025 at 6:07 GMT by Los Angeles Times

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Teen‑Friendly Adventures in Los Angeles: A Curated Guide by the LA Times Concierge

If you’re planning a family trip to Los Angeles and need ideas that will keep teenagers entertained, the LA Times Concierge’s latest “Things to Do with Teens” guide offers a carefully crafted list of activities that combine culture, science, sports, and pure fun. Below is a roundup of the top picks highlighted in the article, complete with practical tips for parents and teens alike.

1. Griffith Observatory & Planetarium

The Griffith Observatory remains a staple for science‑loving teens. Admission is free, and the planetarium shows—especially the “Stellar Tour”—are a hit with school‑age visitors. The Observatory’s expansive rooftop provides panoramic views of downtown L.A. and the Hollywood Sign. Teens can also explore the observatory’s interactive exhibits on astronomy, satellite technology, and the cosmos.

Pro tip: Arrive early for a chance to catch a live telescope session, and consider the evening “Stargazing” nights if you’re visiting during a clear night.

2. The Getty Center

The Getty Center offers a mix of art and architecture that appeals to creative teenagers. With its extensive collections ranging from Renaissance paintings to contemporary installations, the Getty’s “Art‑and‑Life” workshops—open to teens—provide a hands‑on exploration of color, composition, and design. The lush gardens and stunning views of L.A. also make for a perfect photo stop.

Pro tip: Teens who enjoy photography will appreciate the Getty’s “Photography Trail,” a self‑guided walk that showcases the building’s modernist design.

3. California Science Center

Housing the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the California Science Center is a must‑visit for tech‑savvy teens. Interactive displays cover everything from the physics of flight to the biology of ecosystems. The “Kids’ Space” area, with a rocket‑launch simulator and STEM activities, is particularly engaging for younger teens.

Pro tip: Book the Endeavour tour in advance to avoid long lines, especially during peak summer months.

4. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

For teens fascinated by dinosaurs and natural wonders, the Natural History Museum offers an immersive experience. The “Dinosaur Hall” showcases towering skeletons, while the “Paleontology Studio” allows visitors to examine replicas and learn about fossil excavation. The museum’s “Night at the Museum” event—complete with guided tours and interactive exhibits—provides an extra layer of excitement.

Pro tip: Look for the museum’s “Teen Advisory Board” program, which invites high‑school students to help curate future exhibits.

5. Venice Beach & Muscle Beach

Venice Beach is a cultural melting pot that offers a perfect blend of leisure and spectacle. Teens can explore the skate park, watch street performers at the Boardwalk, or try out the Muscle Beach outdoor gym. The iconic Venice Canals walk provides a quieter, picturesque escape. Additionally, the eclectic shops along Abbot Kinney Boulevard offer a range of trendy apparel, accessories, and quirky gifts.

Pro tip: Sunset is the best time to visit for lively street performances and the vibrant “Sunset Culture” showcase.

6. Santa Monica Pier & Arcades

The Santa Monica Pier combines amusement rides, arcade games, and classic boardwalk fun. Teens can ride the historic carousel, try out the “Silver Dollar Casino” for some nostalgia, and indulge in carnival foods like popcorn and cotton candy. The pier’s marine aquarium offers an educational twist with its interactive touch pools and informative displays.

Pro tip: Check the pier’s “Weekend Family Package” that offers discounted tickets for multiple attractions, including the pier’s mini‑theme park rides.

7. Hollywood Sign & Griffith Park Hike

A trip to L.A. is incomplete without viewing the Hollywood Sign. Teens who enjoy hiking can tackle the “Easy Trail” from Griffith Park, which takes roughly 30–45 minutes to reach the base of the sign. The trail is well‑marked, offers scenic overlooks of the city, and provides an excellent photo opportunity. After the hike, teens can relax at the Griffith Park Merry‑Go‑Round or explore the “Hiking Trails” map for more adventures.

Pro tip: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at the “Griffith Park Picnic Pavilion,” which offers a quiet spot amid nature.

8. The Museum of Jurassic Technology

For teens who crave the quirky and the bizarre, the Museum of Jurassic Technology offers a blend of science, history, and surreal art. With exhibits ranging from “ancient dinosaur paintings” to “invisible murals,” the museum challenges conventional notions of reality and encourages curiosity. It’s a great spot for teens who enjoy unconventional storytelling.

Pro tip: The museum’s “Teen Curators’ Workshop” opens every Tuesday and invites visitors to create their own mini‑exhibits based on scientific phenomena.

9. Los Angeles Live & The Greek Theatre

The Greek Theatre hosts a variety of concerts and events, making it an excellent spot for music‑loving teens. The venue’s open‑air setting and historic architecture add to the concert experience. Nearby, the LA Live complex offers a range of activities—from indoor skating at the “World Ice” rink to interactive gaming at the “E3 Expo” booth.

Pro tip: Check the LA Live events calendar a week in advance to snag tickets to popular shows or family‑friendly events.

10. Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios combines the thrill of theme‑park rides with behind‑the‑scenes film production tours. Teens will enjoy attractions like Jurassic Park: The Ride, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the Studio Tour, which showcases real movie sets. The park also offers live entertainment, including stunt shows and character meet‑and‑greet sessions.

Pro tip: Opt for the “Express Pass” to skip the most popular rides, especially during the busy summer season.

11. Sports Events (Lakers, Dodgers, Rams)

For sports‑enthusiastic teens, attending a live game at the Staples Center (home of the Lakers), Dodger Stadium (home of the Dodgers), or the Los Angeles Rams’ football game provides an unforgettable experience. The article highlights family‑friendly ticket packages, such as the “Family Day” discounts and pre‑game tours that explore the stadium’s history.

Pro tip: Book your tickets through the official team websites or the LA Times Concierge portal to secure early‑bird discounts.

12. Tech & Innovation Tours

Teens fascinated by technology can take advantage of the “Tech Hub” tours at the Los Angeles Public Library’s Innovation Center. These sessions offer hands‑on experience with robotics, coding workshops, and VR demos. The library also hosts weekly “Maker Spaces,” where teens can build gadgets, design apps, and collaborate with peers.

Pro tip: Enroll in the “Teen Innovator Program” for a monthly project that culminates in a showcase event at the library.

13. Los Angeles Farmers Market

The farmers market is a culinary adventure that lets teens explore fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local craft vendors. Teens can participate in a “Taste‑of‑LA” workshop, where they learn to create healthy snacks and smoothies. The market’s weekend schedule often includes live music and cooking demonstrations, adding to the interactive experience.

Pro tip: Attend the “Family Cooking Class” on Saturdays to bring home a new recipe and a shared memory.

14. Burbank Studios Tour

For film‑fanatic teens, the Burbank Studios Tour offers a behind‑the‑scenes look at set construction, special effects, and the film‑making process. The tour includes a visit to the soundstage used for The Big Bang Theory and a walk through the animation department. Teens can also participate in a “Storyboard Sketch” workshop.

Pro tip: Reserve the “Teen Spotlight” slot, which allows participants to ask questions directly to a director or producer.

15. Los Angeles Public Library – Teen Reading Groups

The LA Public Library offers a series of teen reading groups, author talks, and interactive workshops that cater to diverse interests—from contemporary fiction to graphic novels. Teens can join the “Digital Storytelling” program, where they create podcasts and short films based on library themes.

Pro tip: Check the library’s event calendar for “Summer Reading Challenges” that come with prizes and special author visits.

Wrapping Up

The LA Times Concierge’s “Things to Do with Teens” guide covers an impressive spectrum of attractions that ensure every teenager finds something that sparks curiosity, excitement, or creativity. Whether your teen is into the arts, science, sports, or simply wants a taste of L.A. culture, this curated list offers practical advice, timing suggestions, and unique experiences that transform a typical family trip into a memorable adventure. The next time you plan a visit to Los Angeles, let the concierge guide help you make the most of the city’s teen‑friendly offerings.