Spot #1: The farmer’s market (take your pick!)
If you’re just looking to get some fresh air and not exactly go on some wild adventure with your little one in tow, then look no further than your neighborhood’s farmer’s market. One of the very lovely things about Los Angeles and its neighboring cities is how so many of them embrace the Sunday farmer’s market. You can buy local, fresh and help out the small businesses and entrepreneurs around you all at the same time. This is a lovely space to peruse with a stroller or let your little ones explore the taste testing. It’s often low key and typically still early in the morning before things get too busy and in action.
Spot #2: Runyon Canyon
Now, we’re sure you’ve heard of Runyon Canyon, as it’s sometimes scoffed at and is considered just a little too trendy – but the truth is that it’s popular for a reason. It’s a pretty decent workout and not too tough once you’ve got the lay of the land down. We wouldn’t exactly suggest a stroller but perhaps you can use a wrap and carry your little one. This isn’t exactly a casual stroll for a toddler either. Consider doing this hike as a couple first to see if your little one is up for it. If not, put it on the back-burner because this is definitely a fun family activity with an incredible view overlooking all of Hollywood and the rest of the center of the city. Take the paved path up and back!
Spot #3: The Santa Monica Pier
It’s important not to forget The Santa Monica Pier! Not only is it surrounded by the always gorgeous Pacific Ocean, but you can stroll down to the end of the dock for some impromptu music performances and lessons on catching fish. There’s plenty of room on the pier for a stroller or two, so don’t be shy about space during this visit. To make this trip extra special, you can stop by the arcade right on the pier and maybe even grab a cotton candy or two. There’s lots of wonderful elements for a child to interact with here and who knows, maybe the sound of the waves will soothe your little one into a sound sleep!
Spot #4: Lake Shrine
Fourth on our list would have to go to the somewhat unknown Lake Shrine. Although you’ll have to be sure to check out its schedule based on all things COVID, this is an absolute must to be experienced. Your baby may be entranced by all the space there is to play in the grass, the birds flying by and the colorful flowers that are abound – and you may adore the silence and peace that Lake Shrine has to offer.
Spot #5: The Getty
Our final and very favorite, yet a little unrealistic in terms of , is a trip to The Getty Villa and/or The Getty Museum. Although this is not exactly a stroller terrain, as there are many steps and escalators – it’s still totally doable. If you can partner up with your partner or a family member or friend, then spending a day here is oh so worth it. It’s incredibly beautiful and provides an air of all things refreshed and renewed. It truly takes you to another place so be sure to put it as a must on your LA Baby Bucket List.
Be on the lookout in the future for a revisit to this list with so many more ideas to come. One of the incredible parts about living in Los Angeles is that there’s so much to offer to every age, you just have to be on the lookout and keep an ear or two open. Many more memories to unfold!
