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Kid-friendly spots in California

Keeping the kids entertained while getting things done is a delicate balance.

Based on 567 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Vail Headquarters image 1
Vail Headquarters image 2
Vail Headquarters image 3
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Shopping mall

Repurposed old buildings create a historic outdoor plaza with unique shops and family-friendly activities like a model train and playground. The atmosphere stays welcoming and lively, drawing groups for casual dining and hands-on crafts. Plenty of open space and seating support a relaxed, communal vibe.

An outdoor shopping mall with a plaza filled with good restaurants and small specialized shops. It hosts a nice Farmer's Market on certain days and offers some restaurant choices within the center.

A model train ride offers fun for kids and families. Open spaces let kids run around freely and enjoy playful activities.

People are saying

"It's a great Kid Friendly spot with a playground for the kids."

"I found Vail Headquarters to be a fun historical place with lots of eating options."

"This mall has so many good restaurant choices."

Good to know

1

The Starlight Bazaar features live music, face painting, and circus entertainment.

2

On Tuesday mornings, there is a farmers market, rain or shine.

3

Vail Headquarters hosts free events like music and history lectures.

02
Japan Center Malls image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall blends traditional Japanese architecture with modern cultural exhibits, featuring wooden bridges, red lanterns, and a towering pagoda. Atmosphere feels vibrant yet relaxed, with festive decorations and lively sounds from eateries and shops. Visitors engage in cultural activities and enjoy unique entertainment like old-school arcades and claw machines.

Indoor mall offers a Japanese-style shopping experience with many restaurants, shops, and a supermarket featuring Japanese products. It includes a ninja market, a large selection of anime goods, and new stores like boba tea shops and trinket stores in a clean and tidy environment.

Kids enjoy the claw machines and the kids arcade. Shopping and browsing keep them entertained for hours alongside adults.

People are saying

"This mall has tons of anime goods, manga, and unique collectibles."

"I found many authentic Japanese eateries and experiences here."

"It's really kid friendly; the claw machines are a hit."

Good to know

1

The mall hosts special events like the Cherry Blossom Festival, attracting lively crowds.

2

Monthly pop-up events at OKMARKETPLACE offer unique shopping experiences.

3

Parking can be difficult to find, especially in busy times.

03
Fashion Island image 1
Shopping mall

Open-air design combines multiple mall sections with stunning architecture and scenic ocean views. Atmosphere feels classy and spacious with relaxing koi ponds and plenty of outdoor seating. Family-friendly features include kid playgrounds and accessible amenities.

An upscale open-air mall with a great mix of high-end stores and popular brands. The center offers beautiful ocean views and outdoor escalators in a very clean, spacious setting.

Koi pond with stepping stones draws kids in, letting them walk across and watch fish. Small playgrounds and open areas offer space for running and play, making it a clean, family-friendly spot.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful, upscale outdoor mall with a great vibe."

"I loved the beautiful ocean sunset views here."

"The fish pond area is so kid friendly and relaxing."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tricky during peak hours; arrive early.

2

Security measures are heightened due to recent incidents.

3

High-end stores feature a variety of luxury brands.

04
Plaza Americana image 1
Shopping mall

Indoor arcade and train rides create a lively, family-friendly environment with play areas for children. The space feels neat and pleasant, attracting families who enjoy combining shopping with entertainment.

A large shopping center with a wide variety of shops including food, clothes, and shoes. It offers free parking and Wi-Fi, plus fun features for kids like a train ride and trampoline area.

Many games keep children entertained with a variety of options to play. The train ride with Josรฉ stands out as a fun and safe activity, with Josรฉ being energetic and great with kids.

People are saying

"It's super fun for kids with lots of games."

"I found the food here to be delicious and varied."

"This mall is a great place to bring the kids."

Good to know

1

Plaza Americana offers free parking for visitors.

2

The plaza features a variety of family-friendly activities, including arcade games.

3

There are many shops with affordable prices throughout Plaza Americana.

05
Manhattan Village image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall combines indoor-outdoor mixed space with quiet, peaceful atmosphere and upmarket style. Central courtyard features children's play area with water elements and seating with free Wi-Fi. Renovated design emphasizes clean, modern aesthetics and family-friendly environment.

A quiet, peaceful atmosphere defines the mall, featuring a pond and greenery at its center. It offers a beautifully redone layout with lots of parking and a wide selection of restaurants and brands.

Kids enjoy the central courtyard and the outdoor area where they can run freely. The spot is clearly family-friendly, making it easy to bring kids along for a fun outing.

People are saying

"This mall has a great variety of shops and restaurants."

"I found free parking available at the multilevel structures."

"It's really kid friendly with a great outdoor fountain area for them to play."

Good to know

1

Happy hour menu is available with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The mall hosts seasonal events and activities throughout the year.

3

Free parking is available, making it easy to visit.

06
Bella Terra image 1
Shopping mall

Open-air layout with a European vibe creates a relaxed, coastal-casual atmosphere. Live music and outdoor seating add to the peaceful, family-friendly environment. Entertainment options include a movie theater, paint studio, and golf simulator, making it a versatile spot for various activities.

Outdoor layout features a centralized plaza for events and dining. The mall offers a wide variety of shops and restaurants plus a clean, well-kept environment with ample parking.

Weekends bring a lively vibe with a space where kids come out and dance. Staff accommodate special diets, and Creative Parties for Kids offer engaging entertainment.

People are saying

"This mall has a great variety of food options and shops."

"There's usually plenty of parking available."

"It's nice and kid friendly, especially on weekends."

Good to know

1

Parking can be tough at certain times, especially on weekends.

2

Bella Terra's parking lot allows only 90 minutes before towing.

3

Expect a busy parking lot during peak hours.

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