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If you’re planning a vacation to Los Angeles, you’re probably looking to save some money without having to sacrifice your fun or comfort. For sure, you’de like to keep more cash in your pockets and less in the hands of others.
That’s why I’ve teamed up with Reserve Direct to put together an ideal Los Angeles family vacation just for you! I selected 3 of my favorite Southern California theme parks, a historical hotel and a special entertainment discount card that will save you both time and money.
Best Theme Parks in Los Angeles
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is an ideal theme park for families, especially if you enjoy movies like Harry Potter. Unlike other theme parks in the area, 90% of Universal’s rides are virtual, not the traditional rollercoaster-type ride, and they’re all movie-themed.
In 2017, the most popular attraction is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Suitable for all ages, this intriguing world of both magic and mystery, includes the village of Hogsmeade, the engine of Hogwart’s Express, Hogwart’s Castle, and the incredibly fast-moving ride “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey”.
Two other not-to-miss attractions at Universal Studios Hollywood are the Special Effects Show and Jurassic Park – The Ride. If your child dreams of becoming a stuntman or stuntwoman one day, then watching the Special Effects Show is a must do. During the show, audiences are taken on a comical behind-the-scenes tour of many special effects, like Foley work, horror make-up and stunt person action.
And then there’s my personal favorite, Jurassic Park – The Ride, which is a thrilling river raft adventure based on the movie Jurassic World. Here, you’ll see dinosaurs in their natural jungle habitat and hold on tight as you narrowly escape a 50-foot T-rex as your raft makes an exhilarating 84-foot plunge to safety. For sure, this ride was built for thrill seekers!
LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA
Second up on the list of the best theme parks in Southern California, is LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA. Located within the coastal community of Carlsbad, California, LEGOLAND is ideal for children ages 2 – 12 years old. Since they cater exclusively to youngsters with rides and attractions, parents are just along for the fun!
My daughter enjoys riding the more gentler rides such as the galloping Royal Joust, the magical Fairy Tale Brook and the fun Safari Trek. My son, on the other hand, is a roller coaster fanatic and likes to conquer the indoor/outdoor Dragon coaster and the knee-buckling Knight’s Tournament.
While in town, your family may also enjoy the LEGOLAND Water Park, which is built into the theme park, but requires a separate admission.
Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is a lovely theme park with events and activities for all ages. Knott’s offers daily entertainment by Snoopy and Friends and Ghost Town Characters.
For adventure seekers, there are nine roller coasters in all, including Xcelerator, GhostRider, Jaguar and Montezooma’s Revenge.
For the younger guests, Camp Snoopy offers 14 fun rides. In 2014, Knott’s completely revamped Camp Snoopy and added three new rides – the Charlie Brown’s Kite Flyer, Pig Pen’s Mud Buggies and Linus Launcher Flying Ace.
Knott’s Berry Farm is also famous for their Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant. Here you can order a complete dinner of fried chicken, mashed potatoes, salad, hot biscuits and jam for one low price. But don’t forget the dessert! Their boysenberry pie is magnificent!
Overall, Knott’s Berry Farm is one of the least expensive theme parks in Southern California and gets you a lot of bang for your buck!
Best Hotel Deal in Los Angeles
Hollywood Hotel
Finding a family-friendly hotel in LA can be difficult at times. Either the rooms are sold out months in advance or you have to book a hotel that is miles away from the heart of the city. Plus, since LA has a lot of traffic, the closer you are to the action, the better.
So, if are you are looking to stay in the heart of LA, I recommend booking a room at the historic Hollywood Hotel. The fame of the Hollywood Hotel came from its identity with the Hollywood movie industry, beginning in the 1910s.
Today, this family-friendly property is conveniently located near Barnsdall Art Park, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Dolby Theater and TCL Chinese Theatre.
Amenities include complimentary Wi-Fi and daily breakfast, an on-site exercise center, an outdoor heated pool with a patio and palm trees, a 1930s-themed bar and lounge, a beautiful atrium garden, and more.
Best LA Theme Park Discount Card
Go Los Angeles® Card
The Go Los Angeles® Card offers several package options for seeing California’s most iconic entertainment destinations. The LA discount card lets guests visit their choice of attractions at a discounted rate—up to 55% off regular rates. Attractions include Warner Bros. VIP Studio Tour, Six Flags Magic Mountain, LEGOLAND, Flagship Harbor Cruises, Hop-On/Hop-Off Bus Tours, and more.
How To Save Money On A Los Angeles Vacation
To learn how to book one or all five of my personal recommendations for a fantastic vacation in Los Angeles, visit Reserve Los Angeles.
Reserve Direct is your best choice for complete destination planning and booking—designed and operated by people who love to travel. Not only will you get all the best prices on attractions and hotels, but insight and tips to enhance your trip too. Reserve Direct’s first-hand experience and know-how ensures you’ll discover more than expected on your next LA vacation!
Go Los Angeles® Card Giveaway
Now enter to win two (2) Go Los Angeles® Cards to experience the City of Angeles with your own family!
Giveaway Rules: US Residents Only. No purchase necessary to enter. One winner will be randomly selected via RaffleCopter and notified via email. Winner must respond within 24 hours to claim the prize or a new winner will be chosen via RaffleCopter. The prize package will be fufilled by the sponsor.
Happy Field Tripping!
Jilleen
CL
Wednesday 26th of July 2017
I'd love to go to Universal for Harry Potter!
Bernadette Swails
Tuesday 25th of July 2017
I would love to visit Universal Studios
Joyce
Tuesday 25th of July 2017
I would like to visit the museums, tar pits, and every where in between!
Megan Guess
Tuesday 25th of July 2017
I would love to go to universal studios
Jennifer M
Monday 17th of July 2017
Universal!