Take the kids and travel down L.A.’s own stretch of the historic Route 66

There’s something magical about the open road — kids in the backseat and the anticipation of adventure along the way. And no road holds more nostalgia than Route 66, which marked its 100^th anniversary this year. This historic highway, which spans 2,400 miles from Chicago to Santa Monica, is an enduring symbol of hope and collective memories of station wagons, milkshakes, neon-lit signs and Nat King Cole singing “Get Your Kicks on Route 66.”

To celebrate, we’re taking you on a vintage weekend road trip on the last stretch of this iconic route right here in L.A. We’ll hop around some classic spots and show the kids and ourselves a little old-school SoCal charm.

We know these streets; we drive them in rush-hour traffic, not realizing we’re rolling over the “Mother Road” that brought generations of families west to start new lives. But this weekend’s drive is different. We’re slowing down and really noticing as we step into our unique L.A. history.

Start: Pasadena on Colorado Boulevard

*Start with Breakfast Burritos All Day (BBAD) inside the historic Pasadena Hotel & Pool, built in 1926. This simple counter spot is known for having one of the best breakfast burritos in town.

*Grab some buttermilk pancakes at Andy’s Coffee Shop, a Route 66 staple with a classic roadside diner feel featured in many movies and TV shows.

*Stop to marvel at the Colorado Street Bridge. Built in 1913, it’s one of the most iconic historic structures on Route 66 in California.

*Stroll through  Vroman’s Bookstore, a beloved independent bookstore offering a huge selection of books since 1894. The children’s area includes books, art supplies and educational toys.

*Introduce the kids to vinyl at Canterbury Records, a classic, long-running independently owned shop still operating on Colorado Boulevard.

Next Stop: West Hollywood

*Have lunch at The Formosa Café, reveling at its old Hollywood glamour and original red trolly car dating back to 1904. The café has served the likes of Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Humphrey Bogart and James Dean.

*Enjoy chili-cheese fries at Barney’s Beanery, opened in 1920 as a little chili stand that became a favorite spot for celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe, Dean Martin, Jerry Lewis, Lucielle Ball and Jim Morrison. The walls tell the old stories with vintage signs, photos and license plates.

*Grab a 1946 pup, split and grilled at Tail o’ the Pup – a historic hot dog shack located in the studio space where The Doors recorded “L.A. Woman.”

Last Stop: Santa Monica

*Have a burger and a chocolate/strawberry/vanilla milkshake at Mel’s Drive-In, located at the official end of Route 66 in a historic 1950s building at the intersection of Lincoln and Olympic boulevards. A colorful Route 66 mural in the parking lot and mosaic at the entrance, plus tons of memorabilia all add to the retro vibe of this classic diner.

* The “End of the Trail Sign” on the Santa Monica Pier is the symbolic end of Route 66. With the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop, it’s a perfect photo spot.

*Steps away is Pacific Park, with games and rides, including the Route 66-themed West Coaster.

Elena Epstein is Editorial Director of L.A. Parent.

Fun L.A. Route 66 History

• In 1880, A.F. Gilmore and a partner bought two dairy farms in L.A. Ten years later, Gilmore took control of the 256-acre ranch on the corner of what is now 3^rd and Fairfax. In 1900, he struck oil on the property, eventually opening thousands of Red Lion gas stations along the California stretch of Route 66.
• The Pasadena Civic Auditorium is a block off the route, and it’s where Michael Jackson first moonwalked (as seen in the “Michael” movie).
• Route 66 follows Santa Monica Boulevard through West Hollywood, where you can see public art featured throughout the city, including temporary installations along the route, as well as permanent fixtures.
• The Annenberg Community Beach House is a family-friendly gathering stop that has stood throughout the lifespan of Route 66. Enjoy a dip in the preserved Art Deco-era swimming pool, one of the remaining elements from the historic Marion Davies Estate built in the late 1920s.
• The historic Beverly Hills City Hall, opened in 1932, is another landmark with Santa Monica Boulevard running directly alongside the complex. This iconic building makes an appearance on the U.S. Postal Service’s stamp collection commemorating Route 66’s centennial.
• In the same plaza, you’ll find the Beverly Hills Public Library, which has a whimsical children’s section with an “Enchanted Forest” housing rare and classic fairy tales.
• In 2006, Pixar’s animated film “Cars” introduced Route 66 to a new audience, with many scenes inspired by real landmarks.

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As travel costs and complications rise, the most rewarding summer adventure might be right here at home. And it’s easy to be a tourist in Los Angeles County, which comprises 88 cities and dozens of enchanting neighborhoods rich with unique foods, shopping, history and culture. 

I encourage you to explore some new-to-you parts of our region this season. Here are a few local ideas to help you introduce the kids to the deeply diverse range of cultures right here at home.

A Taste of Japan: Little Tokyo

Starting off with one of the more popular areas, Little Tokyo Japanese Village Plaza is an obvious choice. Most people hit J-Town (as longtime denizens call it) because it is one of L.A.’s most walkable districts.

My daughter and I frequently make our way over to Little Tokyo, where we usually grab  a milk tea boba or matcha. If we’re hungry, we’ll order ramen, yakitori or sushi. There are dozens of tasty restaurants on First and Second streets, including Monzo Udon and Daikkokuya. To satisfy our sweet cravings, we order confections at Fugetsu-Do Bakery, a legacy business on First Street that’s been there since 1903.

For shopping, check out Japangeles, a clothing boutique in the village founded in 2010. It quickly became legendary for its sleekly designed shirts, hats, jackets and hoodies. For anime lovers, the village boasts several stores selling anime-themed merchandise. 

For anyone who loves to take photos of iconic Angeleno scenery, the 150-feet tall Shohei Ohtani mural painted by Robert Vargas on the eastern side of the Miyako Hotel towers high over First Street. Titled “LA Rising,” the two-year-old mural has become one of our city’s most photographed images. Though the Japanese American National Museum is currently being renovated, you can still embed a history lesson into your visit by stopping to read J. Matsukuma’s history mural at the entrance of the village plaza and the “Home is Little Tokyo” mural on the corner of 1st Street and Central Avenue. It depicts more than 130 years of Japanese American history. 

Where L.A. Began: Olvera Street & Union Station

Less than a mile north of Little Tokyo lies the birthplace of Los Angeles, El Pueblo de Los Angeles, where the city was established in 1781. Within three short blocks, experience some of the city’s oldest brick buildings in a bustling Mexican marketplace, a historic fire station, the Avila Adobe, (which is one of the oldest houses in the city), La Placita Church, a Catholic house of worship from 1814, and América Tropical, the mural painted by David Alfaro Siqueiros in 1931.

The Siqueiros mural was whitewashed shortly after it was painted in the early 1930s because of its political content, but it was restored by the Getty Conservation Institute and Los Angeles city officials and reopened to the public in 2012. Considered one of the most important murals ever painted, it is tucked above the marketplace upstairs but is easily accessible. There are also several museums nearby, including La Plaza de Cultura y Artes, the Italian American Museum of Los Angeles and the Chinese American Museum. 

Of course, there is no shortage of scrumptious Mexican food in the pueblo, including Cielito Lindo, which has been serving taquitos, tamales and burritos on Olvera Street since 1934. 

If all of this is not enough, Union Station stands nearby in all of its Spanish architectural glory. Inside, you can enjoy a nice variety of public art and take Metrolink or the Metro Rail to another corner of Southern California or hop on an Amtrak to explore another major city.

Arts & Rhythm: Leimert Park

Leimert Park is one of my family’s longtime favorite neighborhoods, and now with a Metro stop in the village along the Crenshaw Line, it’s more accessible than ever.

Dating back to 1990, The World Stage is Leimert’s longest lasting space and is renowned for its jazz and poetry events. Round out a visit with a stop inside Ora Cafe, where you can grab coffee, smoothies and vegan food, Harun Coffee, a coffeehouse and hangout by day and a speakeasy at night, and a bookstore called Lore Leimert Park. 

Throughout the year, Leimert Park is home to a variety of street festivals, including the annual Juneteenth festival. Many people flock here for the Sunday drum circles. As the new massive public art project, Destination Crenshaw, prepares to open, there are several murals and sculptures along the Crenshaw Line, just a few blocks south of the village. 

A World Away: Little India & Cerritos

Located about a mile apart, Little India in Artesia and the Cerritos Millennium Library are two underrated places in southeast L.A. County. Artesia’s Pioneer Boulevard is the heart of Little India and boasts the highest concentration of Indian restaurants and businesses in California. Aside from being a foodie’s dream with eateries such as Ashoka the Great Cuisine of India and the vegetarian favorite Jay Bharat, there are many shops selling Indian fashions, jewelry, spices and sweets. Whether you come ready to eat or shop, you will find spots you won’t see anywhere else.

The three-story, state-of-the-art Cerritos Millennium Library is one of the most monumental libraries anywhere. In addition to being the first building in America to have a titanium-clad exterior (six months before the Disney Concert Hall), the architectural gem holds a 15,000-gallon saltwater aquarium and a 40-foot replica of a T-Rex fossil near a space shuttle model, a quaint kids’ theater, an art studio and a lighthouse. Called the world’s first “experience library,” it contains more than 300,000 books and museum-quality displays of local maps, abstract paintings, sculptures, an art deco multimedia room and a skyline room on the third floor, where the library hosts readings, workshops and receptions. 

Little Osaka Vibes: Sawtelle

Sawtelle in West L.A. is sometimes called “Little Osaka” because of the many Japanese restaurants, boutiques, nurseries, art galleries and small Japanese markets dotted along Sawtelle Boulevard, but the area is also home to the Nuart Theatre, one of America’s best independent movie houses for foreign film, avant-garde cinema and a weekly screening of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.”

On the northern end of the district, you’ll find several eateries and shops on Santa Monica Boulevard, including a delicious Peruvian restaurant, Qusqo Bistro and Gallery. Sawtelle is also home to my daughter’s favorite ice cream spot, Somi Somi.

To plan the perfect summer staycation, dive deep into these neighborhoods and many more — and consider weaving in some dynamic day trips to places like Solvang, Ojai and even Riverside. You can hop in the car or ride the rails for an incredible destination only an hour or two away. There’s no shortage of magic sites to play tourist in and around home.

Mike Sonksen is an educator, father, author of “Letters to My City” and is a native Angeleno. He and his daughter, Eka Sonksen, love exploring the city together and sharing their stories. 

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We’re dreaming about beach days, concerts in the park, road trips, sunset sailing, ice cream on a warm night and, most of all, making family memories together. Our Beyond L.A. summer travel guide is filled with places to go, must-do events and much more.

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From getting ready to host family, to preparing for my winter baby’s birthday and everything else in between, a little excursion for pure entertainment felt indulgent, but it was actually just what we needed. My husband and our two daughters, ages 2 and 6, visited Bubble Planet, DTLA’s newest immersive experience located inside Exhibition Hub Los Angeles Art Center where all four of us were whisked away to a magical world of bubbles.

Bubble Planet Experience first opened in 2023, and has visited over 20 cities across the globe, including Paris, Milan, Toronto and New York. The immersive universe returns to L.A. through the end of March, giving SoCal families another chance to play.

My ocean obsessed two-year-old could’ve spent her whole time in the first room, an underwater LED light experience where she chased sea turtles and baby sharks “swimming” beneath her feet. Both girls loved dancing and finding different shapes in the kaleidoscope room, while I particularly enjoyed the infinity room, a maze of dazzling lights and mirrors. A highlight for my whole family was the “bubble bath” room, where we swam through a giant pink ball pit.

Halfway through the exhibit, we stopped to do some activities: animating our own underwater character and getting plenty of whimsical pictures in the selfie room. At the end, we had the option of a VR experience, which I was wary of as virtual reality can make me feel uneasy. But after seeing the joy on my husband’s face as he traveled through imaginary worlds, I had to give it a try. The colorful, playful journey through all things bubbles—the bottom of a champagne glass at a party, soap suds escaping a bubble bath—was a welcome escape from my mounting responsibilities that week.

We left a little lighter (like a bubble!) and decided to extend our family outing into lunch at nearby Bike Shed Moto Co. Bubble Planet was a helpful reminder that sometimes an escape is the reset you need to tackle life’s day-to-day stresses.

Bubble Planet is $19.90 for adults; $14.90 for children; free for ages 2 and under. Open Monday through Sunday, closed on Tuesdays. Exhibition Hub Los Angeles Art Center is located at 634 Mateo St., Los Angeles, 90021.

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From sweet, neighborhood traditions like Candy Cane Lane in El Segundo and Woodland Hills to large, immersive holiday installations, like Holiday Road in Calabasas or Enchant in Arcadia, there are plenty of places in and around L.A. to enjoy holiday lights this winter.

1. Imaginarium: Zenthara

5 p.m. – 11 p.m. through Jan. 4, 2026 | Lakewood Center

Imaginarium’s Zenthara lights up Lakewood with storybook gardens, glowing forests, and thrilling circus shows.

Imaginarium’s first indoor-outdoor exhibit, Zenthara will offer picture-perfect moments through surreal storybook realms brought to life with millions of lights and cutting-edge creativity. Guests will wander through romantic rose gardens blooming in gradient pinks and pastels; pass through a heart tunnel lit with warm hues; cross a misty Swan Lake; and enter a golden Sunflower Garden with a wish-making windchime wall. In the Fluorescent Forests, each grove will glow in a different color theme, from yellow to blue to pink and more, while interactive installations will invite visitors to bounce on illuminated spheres or doodle across projection walls. The experience also features nightly performances from John’s Adrenaline Circus, a high-energy fusion of traditional circus flair and extreme sports.

2. Astra Lumina: An Enchanted Night Walk Amongst the Stars

5 p.m. – 9 p.m. select nights through Jan. 31 | South Coast Botanic Garden

The immersive night walk experience returns to South Coast Botanic Garden. Stroll along an enchanted 1-mile night walk, guiding visitors of all ages on a journey to discover the wonder of visiting stars.

3. Lights on The Lily Pond

5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., nightly through Jan. 4, 2026 | Beverly Gardens Park

Nightly, every 15 minutes from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., enjoy Lights on The Lily Pond, an incredible holiday light show at the City’s Beverly Gardens Park by the iconic Beverly Hills sign. Then stroll Rodeo Dr. and enjoy holiday window displays, festive photo ops and iconic palm trees lit up for the holidays.

4. LA Zoo Lights: Animals Aglow

6 p.m. – 10 p.m., through Jan. 11, 2026 | Los Angeles Zoo

This light-filled walk-through experience is back with larger-than-life animal-themed 3D light sculptures, themed nights, hot cocoa and churros, appearances by Santa and plenty of photo ops. 

5. Dream Glow Lights Festival

4:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. through Dec. 31 | Wild Rivers

This holiday season, Wild Rivers Waterpark in Irvine transforms into a luminous winter wonderland for the Dream Glow Lights Festival, an all-new immersive light experience making its West Coast debut Nov. 14 – Dec. 31. Guests will journey through glowing pathways featuring handcrafted light sculptures that reimagine holiday tales, mythical creatures and fantastical worlds.

Highlights include the dazzling Christmas Wonderland, the fiery Realm of Dragons, and the oceanic Under the Sea tunnel. Visitors can enjoy interactive installations like an infinite mirror maze and illuminated dance floor, along with immersive photo opportunities throughout the park—from the glowing Arctic Snow Village to larger-than-life lantern displays—perfect for capturing magical holiday memories. Guests can also indulge in festive eats & treats, featuring themed food, holiday snacks, and seasonal drinks.

6. Enchanted Forest of Light

5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. through Jan. 4, 2026 (closed Dec. 24-25) | Descanso Gardens

At nighttime, Descanso Gardens is transformed into a winter wonderland with its interactive light installments. Families can enjoy walking around the gardens to observe stained glass cottages by Tom Fruin, dazzling sculptures by HYBYCOZO, the Flower Power experience along the Promenade, and the Ancient Forest. Families can also ride on the Descanso railroad, decorated with holiday lighting.

For two nights only, from Dec. 10-11, guests can enjoy craft cocktails and live music from a six-piece yacht rock band called Yachty by Nature. 

7. Enchant Christmas

4:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m., through Dec. 28 | Santa Anita Park

This new immersive holiday adventure features the World’s Largest Light Maze, a sparkling ice skating trail, snow slide, live entertainment, theme nights, photos with Santa, holiday treats and more.

8. Winter Fest OC

Through Jan. 4, 2026 | OC Fair & Event Center

Winter Fest OC, Southern California’s largest winter festival, returns to Costa Mesa on select dates through Jan. 4. Experience the magic of the holiday season with dazzling lights, fresh snow, thrilling attractions, live entertainment and festive activities for families, couples and holiday lovers of all ages. Guests can enjoy unlimited ice tubing, real snow play, immersive experiences, live entertainment, seasonal food & drinks, countless photo opportunities, and much more as the OC Fair and Event Center is transformed into a magical winter wonderland.

9. 35th Annual Lighting of the Bay and the Fire & Lights Festival

4 p.m. – 9 p.m. through Jan. 4, 2026 | Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort

Newport Dunes Waterfront Resort & Marina announces the return of its beloved holiday traditions with the 35th Annual Lighting of the Bay and the Fire & Lights Festival. The Fire & Lights Festival runs Thursday through Sunday evenings through January 4, 2026. The Lighting of the Bay illuminates the water nightly at dusk throughout the season with more than 50 floating trees and festive displays.

10. Grand Illuminations

Dec. 3 – Jan. 4, 2026 | California Plaza

L.A.-based artist Liquid PXL transforms The Yard at Cal Plaza into an illuminated holiday wonderland. From dazzling Electric Dandelions to a towering LED light tree, The Yard at Cal Plaza glows nightly through Jan. 4, 2026. The Opening Night Celebration on Dec. 3 features live entertainment, Holiday Gift Fair by Goddess Mercado and community countdown at 5 p.m. as the plaza lights up the night.

Grand Illuminations is proudly supported by Grand Performances, Plaza Commons, Inc., and the DTLA Alliance.

11. River of Lights Holiday Show

Dec. 3 – 31 | Central Park

The City of Santa Clarita invites residents to enjoy a brand-new holiday light show now illuminating the River of Lights at Central Park (27150 Bouquet Canyon Road). Running nightly from dusk to 10 p.m. through New Year’s Eve, the seasonal display adds even more color, movement and festive charm to the community.

The River of Lights Holiday Show incorporates vibrant reds and greens, shimmering candy cane effects and soft Hanukkah blues, all woven between the existing programming. Holiday-themed sequences appear frequently throughout the evening, so if you are enjoying Central Park, snap a photo and share with #RiverofLights!

12. Holiday Light Show Spectacular

6 p.m. – 9 p.m., Dec. 3 – Jan. 1, 2026 | 3901 Longview Valley Rd., Sherman Oaks

Lights on Display, one of Los Angeles’ most beloved and anticipated holiday traditions returns with an all-new 15-minute spectacular featuring custom-built animatronics, dazzling lights, and fan-favorite holiday characters.

Winner of ABC’s The Great Christmas Light Fight, Lights on Display is renowned for its handcrafted artistry and immersive musical choreography of lights. This year’s presentation reunites beloved characters including Frosty, Crystal, Snowy, DJ Jingles, and Santa, all performing a selection of holiday hits. Shows run Wednesday through Sunday from 6-9 p.m. each week throughout the season.

New for 2025, visitors will experience computer-controlled search lights sweeping the night sky, adding a dynamic new element visible from blocks away. As in previous years, Lights on Display will be collecting donations on behalf of the American Lung Association, continuing its tradition of supporting community health and charitable giving.

13. Luminaria Nights 2025

6 p.m. – 9 p.m., Dec. 5 – 20 | California Botanic Garden

Southern California winter spectacular with art, food and drink, and live music for the whole family returns to California Botanic Garden weekends Dec. 5-20.

Come find your glow this winter during Luminaria Nights at California Botanic Garden. This winter lights experience is like no other in Southern California, featuring peaceful luminarias, food and drink, and live music at three beautifully illuminated musical venues.  

14. Christmas Tree Lane

5 p.m. – 11:30 p.m., Dec. 9 – Jan. 5, 2026 | Christmas Tree Lane, Altadena

For the 105th year, Santa Rosa Avenue’s deodar towering cedar trees illuminate with thousands of twinkling lights. See the lights and decorations along Santa Rosa Avenue, between Woodbury Avenue and Altadena Drive. Lights are on Dec. 6-Jan. 7, 2026 from 5:30 p.m.-midnight along Santa Rosa Avenue.

15. Holiday Lights Train Ride

5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Dec. 9 – Jan. 11, 2026 | Griffith Park

Holiday Lights Train Ride returns to Griffith Park with its festive 10-minute trip around a mile-long loop decorated with thousands of lights and holiday scenes. 

This all-ages holiday tradition also features a gift kiosk and winter-themed, open-air photo ops.

16. Upper Hastings Ranch Association Holiday Light Up

6 p.m. – 10 p.m., Dec. 9 – 31 | Upper Hastings Ranch

Upper Hastings Ranch’s holiday tradition returns for its 74th year, featuring community walking events, local bands and elaborate holiday light displays. The beloved Pasadena tradition pays tribute to the 80 homes lost in the Eaton Fire with 80+ illuminated stars posted throughout the neighborhood. 

17. Holiday Road

5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Dec. 11 – 28 | King Gillette Ranch

In this immersive holiday experience for the whole family take the self-guided walking trail past larger than life holiday installations, thousands of twinkling lights, live carolers and more. Plus, enjoy food trucks and vendors selling holiday treats and drinks.

18. 49th Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks: “Let It Glow”

4 p.m. – 8 p.m., Dec. 12 – 13 | Ventura Harbor Village

From 6:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. witness magnificent twinkling boats amid festive décor at the 49th Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights & Fireworks. The vibrant procession from a distance will light up Ventura Harbor sky with more than two dozen decorated boats per night is a spectacle to behold. Visitors from near and far are invited to kick off this year’s “Let It Glow” themed boat parade that pays homage to all things bright.

Starting at 4 p.m. family fun is on tap with carnival and kids rides, live roaming entertainers, professional bubble show, waterfront dining, and boutique shopping at Ventura Harbor Village. From 5:30 p.m. on, faux snowfall & pop-up entertainment along the Ventura Harbor Village Promenade At 6:30 p.m. “Let it Glow” on the water with a myriad of decorative boats cruising twice through the harbor, competing for top prized while showcasing a luminous array of lights as part of the 49th Annual Ventura Harbor Parade of Lights and Fireworks.  At 8 p.m. immerse in breathtaking fireworks finale that illuminates the sky following the parade each evening near Harbor Cove Beach in the Ventura Harbor. (weather permitting). 

19. OC Parks’ Holiday Lights

5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Dec. 12 – 14 | Heritage Hill Historical Park

Explore the historical buildings decked out with dazzling light displays and seasonal décor. Snap festive pictures at holiday-themed photo opportunities throughout the park. Pets are welcome to join the festivities outdoors on leashes no longer than 6 feet. Please note that additional entertainment and refreshments will not be available during Holiday Lights.

20. 6th Annual Holiday Lights Tour & Contest

5 p.m. – 9 p.m., Dec. 12 – 28 | Westchester

See the best outdoor holiday decorations on neighborhood homes in Westchester and Playa del Rey and vote for your favorite.

Drive yourself to see the amazing outdoor decorations on about 20 participating neighborhood homes and then vote for your favorite. View the homes from Dec. 12-28 each night from 5-9 p.m. You can vote online before 9 p.m. on Dec. 28, the last day of the Tour.

21. Candy Cane Lane

5 p.m. – 10 p.m., Dec. 13 – 23 | Candy Cane Lane – El Segundo

El Segundo’s annual tradition returns for its 76th year. See the brightly decorated homes, yards and trees with beautiful seasonal displays along the 1200 block of East Acacia Avenue, also known as El Segundo’s Candy Cane Lane.

The neighborhood tradition kicks off Dec. 13 with Santa’s arrival at 7 p.m. and the holiday displays will be up through Dec. 23.

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In the San Gabriel Valley, dessert isn’t an afterthought — it’s the main event. And while my list below only scratches the surface, there are countless delicious Asian cafés, tea houses, bakeries and dessert shops flooding the San Gabriel Valley.

A 2024 Los Angeles Times analysis of U.S. Census data revealed that out of 14 Asian-majority suburbs in L.A. County, all but one are in the San Gabriel Valley. That means you can get boba, Japanese soufflé pancakes and dim sum all in the same afternoon.

You could spend years eating your way through the SGV (I’m up for the challenge). But if you want a teaser, spend this holiday season indulging in the unique sweet treats this food mecca has to offer.

MeloMelo Coconut Dessert

529 E. Valley Blvd., San Gabriel (with additional locations in City of Industry, Rowland Heights, Koreatown, Westchester, Sawtelle and Irvine)

This dessert shop does one thing, and it does it well: coconut jelly pudding. With a rotating list of seasonal flavors, plus a wide variety of staples like red bean, ube, matcha, mango and dragon fruit, you can come back again and again to try something new. Not too sweet and surprisingly refreshing, each dessert comes in a cute little glass jar, making it perfect for holiday picnics or a hostess gift. melomelo.us

Jiu Ji Dessert

1261 E. Valley Blvd., Alhambra

Like many hidden gems, this place is in a strip mall with an unassuming exterior. But walk inside and find an open, inviting dessert shop specializing in the Cantonese-style sweet dessert soup known as tang shui.

I’m a dessert soup novice, but the kind employees tried to explain to me their signature ingredients, including peach gum and snow swallow, assuring me they’re healthy and “good for the skin.” I opted for the Snow Swallow with Taro Balls in Coconut Milk, which you can order hot or cold — a sweet, colorful textured soup that is hard to explain; you’ll just have to try it! jiujidessert.com

With Love

819 W. Las Tunas Dr., San Gabriel

This Korean dessert shop specializes in soft serve topped with taiyaki, a Japanese fish-shaped cake traditionally filled with red bean paste. With Love lets you choose your filling: Nutella, custard, cream cheese and more. Soft-serve flavors include original milk, pineapple Dole whip, Ghirardelli chocolate and matcha. Add complimentary toppings such as Oreo crumbs or mini pretzels and you’ve got yourself a decadent, custom treat. dessertswithlove.com

Oh My Pan

801 E. Valley Blvd., San Gabriel

If you’re craving a little savory with your sweet, then add this Asian bakery and café to your holiday treats tour. Select from a variety of breads — green onion hot dog and spicy seaweed sausage, red bean bun or boba milk tea bun — but leave room for a slice of matcha tiramisu, a red velvet cupcake or the star of the show: volcano and honey toasts. Fluffy brick toast is piled high with strawberries, bananas, custard cream, marshmallows and the like. With a 20- to 35-minute toasting time, toasts are dine-in only. ohmypan.com

Other places to satisfy your sweet tooth this holiday season:

• Fresh Roast (308 S. San Gabriel Blvd., San Gabriel), known for its Hong Kong egg “bubble” waffles.
• Motto Tea Café (250 W. Valley Blvd., San Gabriel), the spot to get those viral Japanese soufflé pancakes.
• Fujiwara Tofu Café (9216 Flair Dr., El Monte), inspired by the ‘90s street racing anime “Initial D” and specializing in soybean-based snacks and desserts.

Nina Harada is an artist, writer, mom of two and Digital Editor of L.A. Parent.

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Discover the best places to shop, eat, and play with kids in this charming Los Angeles neighborhood.

We joke in our family that we live in a small town — that’s what Los Feliz feels like even though it’s home to such famous attractions as the Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park. And the way someone pronounces Los Feliz will tell you if they’re from here or not. (We welcome you, either way!) What no one can deny is its charms: walking-friendly, historic movie theaters (The Vista and Los Feliz 3), a beloved bookstore (Skylight Books), legacy businesses, a dedicated bus line (just 50 cents for adults; kids 4 or younger ride free) and a convenient Metro station. There’s so much to do in over a 1-mile radius of Los Feliz Village that we go days without leaving it. Come with us and enjoy just some of the many places that make our neighborhood’s heart beat — and a special community in the heart of Los Angeles!

SHOP + PLAY

We Are Little Giants, 4675 Hollywood Blvd., wearelittlegiants.com, (323) 928-2226

The first time I walked by I was immediately drawn to its massive, red winding slide. Attention, parents: It’s just for kids, so just enjoy our laughter. And kids: no running, shoes off, but socks on! Big plus: We Are Little Giantshas a large ball pit at the bottom of the slide for more fun. They also sell stylish clothes, shoes and more for infants to size 10/12 for pre-teens. Check their calendar for events, including a back-to-school gathering, or to plan birthday parties. —Dominie

More kids’ stores nearby: LaLaLing, 1810 N. Vermont Ave., lalaling.com; The Reckless Unicorn, 2124 Hillhurst Ave., therecklessunicorn.com

Skylight Books, 1818 N. Vermont Ave., skylightbooks.com, (323) 660-1175

How lucky are we to have a top indie bookstore walking distance from our home? While you browse the latest titles, your kids can pick books from the children’s section and then park themselves on the circular bench under its indoor tree. Many writers live nearby so ask the staff for suggestions to support them! I also frequent their next-doorish Arts Annex (1814 Vermont) for a collection of magazines, zines and graphic novels you can’t find just anywhere. —Teena

Floral Art by Mia, 4657 Melbourne Ave., floralartbymia.com, (818) 660-8730

My mom always gets nostalgic with “This used to be…” where something new stands in our neighborhood. For instance, Floral Art by Mia used to be home to an actual newsstand when I was a baby. There, beneath a long awning that once had hundreds of magazines, now has abundant flower bouquets, shelves of succulents, plant varieties, vases, floral gifts and a flower-bedecked frame I love for taking selfies. You can pick more flowers from buckets in their neighboring storefront. This stretch of Melbourne has a certain vibe that I just love. And I love the misters on a hot day! Most of the time I don’t have the money to afford flowers, but it’s still the best place to take pictures. My IG highlights are full of this spot. Seriously, I think my friends might think I live there. —Dominie

More shops we heart: Carol Young | Undesigned,1953 1/2 Hillhurst Ave., carolyoung.com; Spitfire Girl, 1939 1/2 Hillhurst Ave., spitfiregirl.com; Kingswell, 4651 Kingswell Ave., kingswell.tv.

EATS + TREATS

Yuca’s, 2056 Hillhurst Ave., yucasla.com, (323) 662-1214

Generations of our family have frequented the James Beard Award–winning Yuca’s Hut, ensconced in a nondescript parking lot where the Herrera family has served matriarch Mama’s beloved recipes since 1976. She passed away last year, but her spirit lives on in every menu offering. Our family always picks up carne asada tacos. Others crave their cochinita pibil and double cheeseburgers. Open for breakfast and lunch. —Teena

Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice LA, 4661 1/2 Hollywood Blvd., instagram.com/ululanis.la, (323) 302-8059

I was excited to have another sweet way to cool down in Los Feliz besides Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams (1954 Hillhurst Ave). Ululani’sis tucked into the art supply store Blue Rooster, and you’ll often see families gathered on the benches outside enjoying their fave combos of icy delights. I’m obsessed with the No Ka Oi (mango, coconut, passion fruit) with mochi. —Dominie

Messhall, 4500 Los Feliz Blvd., messhallkitchen.com, (323) 660-6377

Messhall is our family’s go-to spot. Before a concert? Messhall. Don’t know where to eat? Messhall. Family reunion? Messhall. We’ve gone there so much I had their kids’ menu crossword puzzle memorized. I love the large outdoor dining space with its soft lighting at night and firepits. Our family has tasted everything on their menu. I get the Mac N Cheese, and my dad likes the Mess Burger and Shrimp & Grits. We both love their smokey ketchup. It’s so good. —Dominie

Palermo’s, 1858 N. Vermont Ave., palermorestaurant.net, (323) 663-1178

Come hungry and bring quarters! For nearly 50 years, the Fanara family has been serving hearty Italian dishes (large, shareable portions) and a lively atmosphere. Dominie and her friends always get pizza and spaghetti and have been feeding Palermo’s toy vending machines for more than a decade. Look for the Italian flag patterned awning, slide into a vinyl booth or table and dine beneath twinkling lights, amidst faux brick archways and murals of Italian cityscapes. —Teena

Dominie Apeles is a 13-year-old writer, filmmaker, actor and dreamer living in Los Feliz. She enjoys wandering the streets of Los Angeles and taking photos of flowers and city scenes. Follow her on Instagram.

Teena Apeles founded the creative collective Narrated Objects and is a writer and editor of many things. Her guidebook, 52 Things to Do in Los Angeles, is a 250-page love letter to her hometown. She can be found on Instagram or online at: narratedobjects.com.

The post Family-Friendly Day Trip Guide to Los Feliz appeared first on L.A. Parent.

Experience the magic of live music under the night sky with family-friendly concerts across Los Angeles this summer.

As the sun sets and the temperatures cool, Los Angeles transforms into a vibrant stage for music lovers of all ages. From jazz melodies at LACMA to global beats at the Skirball Cultural Center, this summer’s outdoor concert series invites you to connect with your community and create lasting memories under the stars.

Whether swaying to jazz at LACMA or dancing to global beats, here are some of the best ways to make memories under the stars through the sound of music.

KCRW Summer Nights

July & August; locations and times vary

The beloved local radio station’s seasonal all-ages, outdoor parties present DJs, live bands, food and drink at various venues including Union Station on July 19 (DJ José Galván), Kidspace Museum on Aug. 2 (“Yo Gabba Gabba” DJ Lance Rock) and Descanso Gardens on Aug. 29 (DJ Jason Bentley), plus so much more. Visit kcrw.com/summer-nights-2025.

Grand Performances

July & August; 6 p.m. 

Downtown’s California Plaza backdrops an array of family-friendly early evening music events reflecting the city’s diverse culture and creativity — from “Mystical Melodies” on July 12 to Latin ska on Aug. 9. More at grandperformances.org.

Levitt Pavilion

July & August; 6-7 p.m. 

MacArthur Park’s summer concert series showcases bilingual evening gatherings where jazz, hip-hop, rock and more uplift the local community and visitors alike. Visit levittlosangeles.org.

Jazz at LACMA

Friday nights; 6 p.m., now through October

Every Friday night, the iconic Urban Light display outside the Los Angeles County Museum of Art makes for an atmospheric free live jazz experience and kickoff to the weekend. More at lacma.org.

Gloria Molina Grand Park

Holidays and Sundays through August; times vary

Beginning with a huge summer block party on July 4 headlined by Grammy-nominated hip-hop artist D Smoke, Gloria Molina Grand Park in Downtown L.A. is one of the places to be for summer. Dance the night away during the park’s “Sunday Sessions” series, plus family activities and food truck stops. More at grandparkla.org/blockparty.

Off the 405 at the Getty

July & August; 6 p.m.

The Getty Museum’s free outdoor music series features top music artists including Nashville-based singer Madi Diaz on July 12, L.A.-based singer/songwriter Empress Of (Lorely Rodriguez) on July 26 and musician/film composer Emile Mosseri on Aug. 23. Reservations required. Visit getty.edu.

Sunset Concerts at the Skirball

July & August; 6 p.m.

The annual music series features genres from around the globe via local and touring artists in the museum’s courtyard. Guests can arrive early and stroll through the exhibits for free, but there is a $20 parking fee. Check out Helado Negro and Rodrigo Amarante (July 17), Meridian Brothers and La Perla (July 24), Frente Cumbiero and MULA (July 31) and Say She She (Aug. 7). Reservations recommended. skirball.org/sunsetconcerts.

Lina Lecaro is an award-winning editor and journalist born and based in L.A. covering entertainment and culture. Follow her on Substack and @linalecaro on Instagram.

Michele Raphael is a culture, lifestyle and travel writer and editor based in L.A. Find her @michelebraphael on Instagram.