Playing at one of the many California beaches is a free activity for kids.
While many things in Southern California may scream glitz, glam and wealth, there are also free things that people, especially kids, can take advantage of. Southern California is a huge area and the terrain ranges from rocky coastlines to barren deserts. No matter where you go, you can find something free to do with kids.
Riverside Art Museum
In the city of Riverside, nestled in the Inland Empire, you can visit the art museum. The building is beautiful and has various art exhibitions, which are constantly changing. Kids under 12 years old are free at this museum. When you are finished looking at the art you can wander around the beautiful Mission Inn and check out the quaint downtown section of this city.
Riverside Art Museum
3425 Mission Inn Ave.
Riverside, CA 92501
951-684-7111
riversideartmuseum.org
UCR/California Museum of Photography
Also in Riverside is the California Museum of Photography. This museum works in conjunction with the University of California, Riverside and has ever-changing exhibitions. They are often edgy and intriguing. The museum is located in the downtown Riverside area. Kids under 12, students and senior citizens all get in free.
UCR/California Museum of Photography
3824 Main St.
Riverside, CA 92501
951-784-4787
cmp.ucr.edu
Grunion Run
If you are in Southern California during the grunion run, this is a great experience for kids. Every year, grunion, small, silver fish, wash up on shore to mate at night between the months of March and August. You can go out with your child at night and grab grunion by the handful and put them in a bucket to cook and eat later on. This occurs on beaches all over the coastline, so check with the California Department of Fish and Game to find a beach near you. Children under 16 years old do not need a fishing license; however, if you want to catch the fish too you will need one.
California Department of Fish and Game
1416 Ninth St.
12th Floor
Sacramento, CA 95814
916-445-0411
dfg.ca.gov
Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is located in Santa Monica and provides a family-oriented experience. There are carnival games, an aquarium and rides such as a Ferris wheel. It is walking distance from the Third Street Promenade, where you can find shopping, a farmers market and eateries. The pier is free to walk around and the beach is free; however, you will need money to ride the rides or play the games.
Santa Monica Pier
200 Santa Monica Pier
Suite A
Santa Monica, CA 90401
santamonicapier.org
Balboa Park
Balboa Park in San Diego is a 1,200-acre park where you will find areas to play, museums and much more. The park is free and some of the museums are as well. Research the various attractions ahead of time, or decide when you get there.
Balboa Park Visitors Center
1549 El Prado
San Diego, CA 92101
619-239-0512
balboapark.org
Tags: Santa Monica, Monica Pier, Santa Monica Pier, Southern California, Balboa Park, California Museum, California Museum Photography