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Guided tours in California

You want to take the kids on a guided tour that actually keeps them engaged and doesn't make you feel like an inconvenience.

Based on 505 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Mormon Battalion Historic Site image 1
Mormon Battalion Historic Site image 2
Mormon Battalion Historic Site image 3
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Historical landmark offers interactive exhibits and hands-on activities like gold panning and brick making. The atmosphere is welcoming and engaging, with well-designed rooms and a viewing tower overlooking the area. Visitors experience an immersive, educational environment that blends fun with history.

Interactive exhibits engage both kids and adults interested in history. Friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere for children, making the museum a super fun experience for families.

Missionaries greet visitors and lead complimentary guided tours focused on the Mormon battalion's role in the American-Mexican War. Tours are required and provide a well-timed, engaging overview of the site's history.

People are saying

"I found the historical sites here really interesting and interactive."

"The interactive exhibits and gold panning make it really kid friendly."

"I found the guided tours fun and informative."

Good to know

1

Tours run on a schedule.

2

No tickets or reservations are needed to visit.

3

The site has no entrance fee.

02
Medieval Torture Museum image 1

Museum features dark, eerie basement filled with medieval torture devices and vivid, realistic displays. Atmosphere is creepy and immersive, enhanced by interactive exhibits and optional audio guides. Decor includes skulls, cobwebs, and art scrolls, creating a suffocating and unnerving vibe.

Kids enjoy the interactive exhibits and find the museum engaging and fun. Families with children often spend time exploring the displays together.

Guided tours use a phone app that offers a self-guided experience with a unique twist. The app includes a ghost hunter feature and covers topics like human-created torture devices.

People are saying

"This museum's detailed displays were fascinating and immersive."

"The exhibits here are so fun for kids."

"I loved the self-guided tour; it was beautifully structured."

Good to know

1

Admission is $29.99 per person for the Medieval Torture Museum.

2

The museum is wheelchair accessible, but the elevator is currently broken.

3

Expect to pay for parking near the museum, which can be congested.

03
Mission San Juan Capistrano image 1

Historic mission grounds showcase beautiful gardens, grand ruins, and serene atmosphere. Visitors experience a peaceful, holy vibe with accessible paths and engaging audio tours. The site blends rich history with tranquil outdoor spaces.

Kids explore beautiful chapels and old church ruins while learning history. An audio tour and scavenger hunt keep them engaged throughout the visit.

Self-guided tours use a device that offers detailed information throughout the grounds and historic buildings. Taking a guided tour adds depth and helps visitors get the most out of the visit.

People are saying

"The historical sites' beautiful grounds and architecture are amazing."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with scavenger hunts and brick making."

"I found the self-guided tours to be amazingly well done."

Good to know

1

Admission is $20 for adults, $14 for children, and $17 for seniors.

2

The mission hosts summer concerts under the stars, a popular seasonal event.

3

Every day at 9 am, four historic bells ring to call for prayer.

04
Battleship IOWA Museum image 1
Maritime museum

Massive warship with tight corridors and original furnishings creates an immersive experience of naval life. Atmosphere blends 1940s and 1980s elements, offering a unique historical perspective. Visitors encounter interactive exhibits and scenic views that bring the ship's story to life.

Interactive walking tours let kids explore a real battleship up close. Guides stay patient and knowledgeable, helping children connect with the ship's history and the sacrifices made. A quest for children adds a fun, engaging element to the visit.

Guided tours include the Big Guns Experience featuring the 16-inch gun turret and an engineering tour. Both tours offer detailed insights and are worth the cost.

People are saying

"You can feel the history and learn a lot at this historical site."

"It's a pretty cool experience, and the ship is massive."

"I learned interesting knowledge about D-Day on the guided tour."

Good to know

1

Wear non-slip, low-heeled walking shoes due to the ship's high steps.

2

Parking costs $2 per hour and accepts credit card payments.

3

Entry is free for Iowa residents with valid ID.

05
American Military Museum image 1

Outdoor museum displays over 150 military vehicles, including tanks, helicopters, and armored trucks. The atmosphere is educational and family-friendly, with a self-guided tour and wheelchair accessibility. Admission is affordable, and a small shop offers unique souvenirs.

Military vehicles and tanks catch kids' attention here. The museum suits both kids and adults, offering space for children to run around and explore for about an hour.

Outdoor setting offers a self-guided tour that lets you explore at your own pace. Guided tours are also available, providing detailed insights into the exhibits.

People are saying

"It's a great place for kids, they loved seeing all the tanks."

"I found the guided tours here to be fascinating, showing neat military historical items."

"It's interesting how many real military vehicles they have."

Good to know

1

The admission fee is $5 for adults.

2

There is free parking available on site.

3

The museum is flat and wheelchair accessible.

06
Filoli Historic House & World-Class Garden image 1

Historic mansion and well-maintained gardens create a peaceful, beautiful setting. Visitors explore stunning landscaping and enjoy seasonal outdoor events with music and food. The atmosphere blends natural beauty with cultural richness.

Trolls add an adventurous touch that kids enjoy. Gardens offer a great setting for a half-day trip with toddlers and family.

Tours feature an incredibly knowledgeable guide who shares fascinating insights into the mansion's history and architecture. Both guided and self-guided options let visitors explore the gardens and house at their own pace.

People are saying

"The historical house and gardens are stunning and impressive."

"The holiday lights make everything so beautifully decorated and vibrant."

"The guided tours here are led by knowledgeable staff who share fascinating historical context."

Good to know

1

There is an admission fee to tour the house and gardens.

2

Tickets often sell out quickly, so it's best to buy in advance.

3

Reservations are recommended for popular events like the Halloween festival.

07
Dolby Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Performing arts theater combines vintage glamour with modernized design and art deco details. The atmosphere feels elegant and nostalgic, with exceptional acoustics that enhance live concerts and orchestra performances. Seating arranged in vertical levels offers good views from all areas, supporting an immersive experience.

Shows like The Nutcracker and Shen Yun attract families with kids. Performances are suitable for young audiences, including toddlers around 4 years old.

Tours include walking the red carpet staircase and visiting VIP rooms and backstage areas. The experience offers a close look at the venue known for hosting the Oscars.

People are saying

"The performing arts experience here is amazing and beautiful."

"I took a guided tour and stood on the Oscar stage."

"My kids enjoyed watching the ballet here."

Good to know

1

Parking at the Dolby Theatre is challenging, especially during events.

2

Reservations are required for guided tours of the Dolby Theatre.

3

Outside food and drink are not allowed inside the theatre.

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