Family trip to California: our ideas that will delight children
Heading to the American West with your children is a chance to have family fun! Outdoor activities, gold rush, theme park visits – like Disneyland or Legoland – whale watching, and more.
Heading to the American West with your children is a chance to have family fun! Outdoor activities, gold rush, theme park visits – like Disneyland or Legoland – whale watching, and more: here are 9 things to do on a family trip to California!
1. Visit Legoland Park – the must-see stop on a family trip to California!
Legoland is a theme park devoted to the world of the famous building block toy. But you don't need to be a brick enthusiast to enjoy it! Located in Carlsbad (at the far south of California), this playground is the ideal spot for a day of family activities...
Thrill rides (Captain Cranky's Challenge or Coastersaurus), building zones (perfect for the younger ones), plus water play areas (slides, beaches), boat rides (Coast Cruise), climbing, or a visit to the interactive aquarium: Legoland will delight every family member!
2. Have fun at Disneyland with your children
If you prefer Walt Disney's universe, head to Anaheim to discover Disneyland. In this park (which ranks among the most visited theme parks in the world), you'll find all of Mickey's world...
As well as themed lands – like the highly sought-after Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge. Right next door, you'll find Disney California Adventure, renowned for its thrill rides and impressive Radiator Springs Racers!
3. Admire whales on a California trip
Located south of San Francisco, Monterey Bay is an incredible vantage point for whale watching! Each year, between late December-January and March-April, hundreds of whales come to breed and give birth in this area of the Pacific Ocean. Excursions led by marine biologists will let you learn more about these majestic marine mammals...
4. Experience thrills inside a cave
Looking for some adrenaline? Head to Calaveras County and Moaning Cavern Adventure Park, which houses California's largest cave! Inside, you'll discover many attractions tailored to the unique geology: cave exploration, rock climbing, zip-lining, and more. You can also admire the cave's stunning stalactites and stalagmites via the Spiral Chamber route (which descends vertically into the cavern's depths)!
5. Explore Columbia village
Founded in 1850, Columbia village is an exceptional heritage site, born from the famous "Gold Rush" era. Designated as a National Historic Site, this boom town remains intact and bears witness to a prosperous period when – as gold was discovered in the region – construction and population expanded rapidly.
During your visit, you'll be charmed by its old-fashioned atmosphere, quaint shops, and saloons. You can also try your hand at gold panning (gold prospecting)... An unusual and authentic experience!
6. Step into the shoes of a gold prospector
If the gold panning experience caught your interest, discover mining operations in the Sierra Nevada mountains (at Grass Valley)! During your visit to the Empire Mine State Historic Park you'll learn everything about gold mining! Well-equipped, the site also allows you to stroll through the surrounding countryside… A magical place for children and mineral enthusiasts!
7. Follow the Gold Rush trail
In Sacramento's historic district, you'll find the California State Railroad Museum, dedicated to the "iron horse": the legendary train of the American West! You can admire a rich collection of locomotives, and also ride the same railway as during the Gold Rush era...
After choosing your rail car (El Dorado? The French Quarter? The Audubon dining car?) aboard the Sacramento Southern Railroad, you'll depart on an unforgettable journey through time with your children!
8. Travel through the forest on a legendary train
To extend your journey into the past, board the Skunk Train! This historic train will take you through the Noyo Valley, along the river, through the forest, groves, and redwoods, as well as under picturesque tunnels and viaducts!
9. Go canoeing at Forestville
If you pass through Sonoma County, make a stop in Forestville! Located near a river, this lush town (with barely more than 3,000 residents) is the ideal place for outdoor activities with your children – like canoeing or picnicking near Mom's Beach.
Family trip to California Planning a family trip to the American West requires excellent organization! Traveling between cities, renting a vehicle, booking accommodations: such a journey can quickly become complicated with children. To simplify logistics and make the most of your adventure, discover the California dream family circuit. |
Frequently asked questions
Spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) are the best times to visit California with family: temperatures are pleasant, crowds are smaller, and prices are more affordable than summer. If you want to watch whales at Monterey, choose December-January or March-April.
Legoland (in Carlsbad) is ideal for children ages 2 to 12, with attractions suited for the youngest visitors and an interactive aquarium. Disneyland (in Anaheim) suits all ages thanks to its many themed lands, including Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge for older kids. If you have time, both parks are worth visiting!
Yes, renting a car is strongly recommended for a family trip to California. Must-see attractions (Legoland in Carlsbad, Disneyland in Anaheim, Monterey, Sacramento, Forestville) are spread across long distances. A car will give you the flexibility to travel at your own pace with your children.
Several activities are free or inexpensive: California beaches, gold panning at certain historic sites, forest walks among redwoods, and picnics by the river in Forestville. The historic Columbia village also offers accessible activities for the whole family.
For a well-organized California family trip, it's recommended to book in advance (theme parks, accommodations), arrange a car rental, and avoid overscheduling daily activities to respect your children's pace. You can also opt for an all-inclusive package, like the California dream family circuit, which handles all logistics for you.
