Westside and Harbor
Choose a brief animal-themed story session for younger kids, or a reserved marine-science session for ages eight and up.
Date: Sat Nov 14, 11:30 AM–noon
Area: Wallis Annenberg PetSpace, Playa Vista
Price: Free; registration optional in current listing
Best for: Younger children who enjoy animal stories.
Why we picked it: A half-hour animal-centered session offers an outing that can finish before lunch. That shorter commitment makes it a practical alternative to a full museum or festival day.
Parent tip: Check the current session information before arriving. Animal-related programming does not guarantee hands-on contact with an animal.
Date: Sun Nov 15, 11 AM; other sessions at 1, 2 and 3 PM
Area: Marine Mammal Care Center, San Pedro
Price: $1 booking fee per person, waivable; reserve ahead
Best for: Ages 8+ interested in marine mammals and conservation.
Why we picked it: An expert-led hour connects ocean science with the center’s work caring for marine mammals. Patient viewing and the exhibit hall give older kids something concrete to connect with the lesson.
Parent tip: Adults must accompany children 13 and under. Reserve the exact session; this is not a toddler drop-in or an animal-touching activity.
Date: Sat Nov 14; confirm session hours
Area: Club Joyful
Price: Free for members; $40 day pass for non-members
Best for: Young children who want bubbles, crafts and a bounce house.
Why we picked it: Club Joyful pairs a family play morning with a child-friendly brunch menu. Members attend free; non-members need a $40 day pass.
Parent tip: Book through the organizer and confirm the start time. Outside food and drinks are not allowed.
Date: Sat Nov 14, 10 AM–12 PM
Area: Fox Hills Park (picnic area #1)
Price: Free
Best for: Children under six who enjoy sensory play.
Why we picked it: Culver City’s free drop-in morning brings bubbles, chalk, water tables and art to Fox Hills Park, picnic area #1, from 10 AM–noon.
Parent tip: The park changes by month. Use Fox Hills for November 14 and check weather updates.
Date: Sat Nov 14, 4 PM–7 PM
Area: Broxton Plaza
Price: Free
Best for: Families looking for a free holiday start before bedtime.
Why we picked it: Broxton Plaza’s 4–7 PM celebration includes holiday crafts, Santa photos, carolers and a tree lighting.
Parent tip: Allow for Westwood parking and crowds, and check the organizer’s lighting schedule before promising the exact moment.
Date: Sat Nov 14, 5 PM
Area: The Crow
Price: $12.45–$23.11
Best for: Parents and caregivers bringing a baby to adult comedy.
Why we picked it: The Crow’s BYOBaby show lets caregivers attend comedy with their babies. This is adult material, not a children’s comedy performance.
Parent tip: Tickets are $12.45–$23.11 in the listing. Free venue parking is listed at Bergamot Station; keep older children’s suitability in mind.
Tinker Bell's Neverland
Date: Sat Nov 14, 5:30 PM–8:30 PM
Area: South Coast Botanic Garden
Price: Paid timed tickets; check booking calendar for prices. Children under 2 free.
Best for: Families who enjoy an outdoor illuminated trail.
Why we picked it: Tinker Bell’s Neverland opens at South Coast Botanic Garden this weekend. Timed entries run 5:30–8:30 PM; allow 60–90 minutes.
Parent tip: Buy timed tickets and parking separately where required. Paths have slopes; check accessibility and shuttle arrangements before booking.
