Looking for free things to do with kids in Los Angeles this April? You’re in the right place. From outdoor nature walks and STEM fairs to toddler playdates and art workshops, LA is packed with family-friendly events that are actually worth leaving the house for.
Whether you have a toddler or older kids, here’s a curated list of free and family-friendly events happening across LA this April 2026.
Best things to do with kids in LA in April
Spring break and outdoor fun
Free Spring Break Activities
A mix of drop-in activities, crafts, and outdoor fun perfect for keeping kids entertained during spring break. Expect relaxed, no-pressure programming.
- Best for: All ages
- Why go: Easy, flexible, and free
View Free Spring Break Activities on Play Map LA →
Trail Tales: Bezzi the Bug Brigade
A nature storytelling experience that introduces kids to bugs, ecosystems, and outdoor exploration.
- Best for: Toddlers and preschoolers
- Parent tip: Bring snacks and stroller-friendly shoes
View Trail Tales: Bezzi the Bug Brigade on Play Map LA →
Toddler-friendly play and social events
Little Explorers
A sensory-based play session with interactive stations, music, and movement.
- Best for: Toddlers
- Why go: Great for socializing (for both kids and parents)
View Little Explorers on Play Map LA →
StrongStart DadTime
A special program focused on father-child bonding through play, music, and storytelling.
- Best for: Toddlers and early learners
- Why go: Rare dad-focused programming
View StrongStart DadTime on Play Map LA →
The Big Play Date at The Village
A lively community playdate with open-ended play, music, and family-friendly vibes.
- Best for: All ages
- Why go: Easy way to meet other parents
View The Big Play Date at The Village on Play Map LA →
Creative workshops and art experiences
Boone Children’s Gallery Pop-Up Art Workshop
Hands-on art sessions where kids can paint, create, and explore freely.
- Best for: Ages 3+
- Parent tip: Dress for mess
View Boone Children’s Gallery Pop-Up Art Workshop on Play Map LA →
Art Lab
A more structured art session with guided creative projects.
- Best for: Preschool and elementary
- Why go: Great balance of fun and learning
View Art Lab on Play Map LA →
Building, STEM, and hands-on fun
LEGO F1 Mini Build (Take Home!)
Kids can build their own mini LEGO car and take it home.
- Best for: Ages 5+
- Why go: Free and you leave with something
View LEGO F1 Mini Build on Play Map LA →
Little Builder Classes
Hands-on building activities that introduce kids to basic construction skills.
- Best for: Ages 4+
- Parent tip: Great for high-energy kids
View Little Builder Classes on Play Map LA →
Lowe’s Kids Workshop: Terrarium Build
Kids build their own mini terrarium and learn about plants.
- Best for: Ages 5+
- Why go: Educational plus a take-home project
View Lowe’s Kids Workshop: Terrarium Build on Play Map LA →
Special events and festivals
Earth Day Celebration
Family-friendly activities focused on nature, sustainability, and environmental awareness.
- Best for: All ages
- Why go: Great mix of fun and learning
View Earth Day Celebration on Play Map LA →
City of STEM + LA Maker Faire (2026)
One of the biggest free STEM events in LA with experiments, robots, science demos, and maker booths.
- Best for: Ages 4+
- Don’t miss: Hands-on science exhibits
View City of STEM + LA Maker Faire on Play Map LA →
Public Star Party (April 25, 2026)
Observe planets and stars through telescopes with experts guiding you.
- Best for: Ages 5+
- Parent tip: Bring layers—it gets cold
View Public Star Party on Play Map LA →
Bonus (members only)
Travel Town Special Playday
A special access day at Travel Town for foundation members.
- Note: Free only for members
- Why go: Train-loving toddlers will love this
View Travel Town Special Playday on Play Map LA →
Ongoing weekend activities parents love
Even beyond events, here are some reliable weekend staples in LA:
- Storytime at Barnes & Noble (multiple locations)
- Nature and museum storytime at Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
- Kids’ clubs and casual play vibes at Paper or Plastik Cafe
These are perfect when you don’t want to overplan but still want to get out of the house with your toddler.
Tons more on the Play Map LA events page
This guide is a starting point—but there are many more library storytimes, recurring programs, and other family events on the Play Map LA events page. Browse by date, neighborhood, and age to fill your calendar with things to do with kids in LA all month.
Frequently asked questions
Looking for free things to do with kids in LA in April?
Top picks include spring break activities, toddler playgroups, outdoor storytime, art and LEGO workshops, Earth Day events, and big family events like City of STEM—perfect for easy, fun days out across Los Angeles. For even more options (especially library and weekly events), open the events page and explore the full listings.
Do I need to sign up in advance for these free kids events in LA?
It depends on the event. Some free events like workshops (LEGO builds, Lowe’s kids workshops, or art labs) usually require advance registration and fill up quickly, while others like playdates, outdoor storytelling, or spring break activities are often drop-in friendly. It’s always a good idea to check the event page ahead of time.
Are there educational events for kids in Los Angeles in April 2026?
Yes. April is a great time for educational events in Los Angeles, including STEM-focused experiences like the City of STEM + LA Maker Faire, hands-on workshops like terrarium building at Lowe’s, LEGO building events, and Earth Day programs focused on sustainability and nature learning.
