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Best of Los Angeles

Kid-friendly cheap eats

Cheap eats that keep the budget intact without the usual trade-off of a space that is hostile to children.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Hansen Dam Aquatic Center image 1
Hansen Dam Aquatic Center image 2
Hansen Dam Aquatic Center image 3
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Enormous aquatic center combines beach-like pool with sandy beach area and waterslides, creating a family-friendly environment. The space feels relaxing and peaceful with plenty of shade from surrounding trees. Lifeguards maintain safety while visitors enjoy a casual, fun atmosphere.

Plenty of supervision keeps kids safe in the pool area. The facility offers a beach-like pool and pony rides on weekends for young children.

Admission costs just $4 for adults and $1 for kids, making it very cheap. The overall prices stay low, keeping it affordable for summer visits.

People are saying

"It's a great place for family fun and kids really enjoyed it."

"It's like a mini beach with sandy areas around the pool."

"The admission fee here is super cheap."

Good to know

1

Admission is $4 for adults and $1 for kids, making it very affordable.

2

The center only accepts cash payments.

3

The center hosts family movie nights with popcorn, drinks, and gift card giveaways.

02
QQ Nails & Spa image 1
Nail salon

Nail salon offers electric massage chairs and complimentary drinks creating a spa-like atmosphere that feels both relaxing and luxurious. Clean, well-lit space welcomes guests with a cozy vibe and attentive service. Energy stays calm and pleasant throughout visits.

Staff show patience and take time with kids, including those with autism. They deliver exact recreations of nail designs and offer gel nails that kids enjoy.

Prices stay very cheap while delivering good quality nails. Service runs efficient and affordable.

People are saying

"I loved getting my nails done here; they looked the best they have in a long time."

"I found the prices to be cheap and the quality good."

"I'd return for Bao Han's good, clean, and neat nail job."

Good to know

1

QQ Nails & Spa is open until midnight from Thursday to Sunday.

2

They prefer Venmo or cash for payments.

3

They offered free drinks during my visit.

03
Yama Sushi Marketplace image 1
Japanese grocery store

Small Japanese grocery store offers fresh sushi sliced on demand and a variety of sake selections. Busy atmosphere with limited indoor and outdoor seating creates a cozy, slightly cramped vibe. Customers follow Japanese customs, adding to an authentic market experience.

Kids enjoy the sushi and chicken options, with one child even trying to use chopsticks. The menu includes mochi, which appeals to younger tastes.

Fresh sushi comes at a cheap price all day. Large servings like tohoro sashimi go for about $13, offering high quality without the high cost.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sashimi, is incredibly fresh and affordable."

"It's so Kid Friendly, my son loved the sushi and mochi."

"The makis and rolls are cheap with large servings."

Good to know

1

A free parking lot is available.

2

Yama Sushi Marketplace can get pretty crowded during dinner time.

3

Yama Sushi Marketplace offers good affordable Japanese food.

04
Zombie Chicken & Nolbu Jjampong image 1

Small, family-run Korean restaurant offers generous portions and affordable prices with complimentary sides. Atmosphere feels cozy and unpretentious, reminiscent of an old market despite a modest, somewhat untidy interior. Seafood-rich dishes and crispy fried chicken define the menu's appeal.

Kids enjoy the wings here and often compare the food to other spots. Some find the flavors don't match their tastes, but many plan to return with their kids.

Food offers very cheap prices with good quantity and quality. Dishes like jjamppong and zzazang noodle come at low cost while staying tasty and filling.

People are saying

"This Korean fried chicken is crispy, tender, and unbelievably delicious."

"I found the food to be cheap and delicious."

"The Jjajangmyeon tasted nostalgic and was full of meat."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited, so consider takeout if it's busy.

2

Prices for Jjajangmyeon and Tangsuyuk are very affordable, around $4.99.

3

The dining space is small, leading to limited seating.

05
Andre's image 1
Italian restaurant

Building features Art Deco style with high ceilings and white glazed brick create a spacious, historic setting. Atmosphere blends sophisticated yet welcoming vibes with some noise, resembling a nostalgic cafeteria. Crowd tends to be friendly, enjoying a mix of vintage charm and contemporary decor.

Welcoming atmosphere suits kids well. Many families find it a favorite spot for children.

Large portions come with low prices here, making meals affordable. Spaghetti and other dishes offer generous servings without costing much.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, is so authentic and delicious."

"I found the food to be cheap with generous portions."

"It's a Kid Friendly place for family traditions and childhood memories."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $2 for 90 minutes with restaurant validation.

2

The back of the restaurant has a parking lot with an attendant.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted.

06
Qin West Noodle image 1
Chinese noodle restaurant

Chinese noodle restaurant offers an authentic menu with reasonably priced dishes like spicy noodle soup and dumplings. The space feels warm and cozy with flexible seating that suits both small groups and families. Lighting is soft and inviting, creating a quiet atmosphere suitable for all ages.

Kids find this place highly enjoyable and engaging. It offers a fun atmosphere that keeps children entertained and happy.

Large portions come at a cheap price here. Dishes like saozi and liang pi offer good value, though the sauce options are limited to cheap peanuts without sesame.

People are saying

"I found the Chinese noodles here to be delicious and authentic."

"This place is so Kid Friendly, my son said he'd give it 100 stars!"

"I found the prices really cheap and got a large amount of food."

Good to know

1

Qin West Noodle offers free parking for customers.

2

You can order food and pick it up at the front.

3

Liang Pi often sells out quickly, so arrive early.

07
Alameda Swap Meet image 1

Open-air market with live music and family-friendly entertainment creates a lively, authentic Mexican town vibe. Shaded areas and cozy seating offer spots to relax amid the rowdy, energetic atmosphere. Vendors sell a variety of goods, reflecting the city's cultural diversity.

Live music and pony rides create a lively atmosphere for kids. A small play area sits next to the food court, and about 15 to 20 coin-operated rides entertain small children.

Parking costs are very cheap. Many affordable finds and cheap knick knacks fill the swap meet. Quality varies, so caution is needed when buying.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very varied and good."

"They had live music to entertain the family."

"I found so many cheap knick knacks and great deals here."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $3.00, and cash is required for payment.

2

There is free parking available for swap meet visitors.

3

The swap meet features both indoor and outdoor vendors selling a variety of items.

08
Castle Batting Cages image 1
Batting cage center

Batting cages combine with arcade and mini golf to create a family-friendly and relaxing environment. Pricing is affordable with options for different pitching speeds and high arc softball. The place stays popular and clean, attracting visitors of all ages for casual fun and practice.

Offers a fun-filled experience for kids with plenty of chances to practice batting. Kids consistently have a blast and enjoy their time here.

Pricing stays consistently cheap across the board. Coins for the batting cages cost very little, making activities affordable.

People are saying

"It's a super fun place for the whole family."

"I found the mini golf here to be super fun."

"It's a fun-filled place that kids had my kids having a blast."

Good to know

1

Masks are required for the arcade area.

2

Parking is usually packed on weekends and from 6pm onwards on weekdays.

3

The cost is $6 for 30 pitches at the batting cages.

09
Style Outlet image 1
Novelty store

Novelty store offers a wide variety of anime merchandise including clothes, figurines, and posters at affordable prices. The space feels cool and modern with hip music that keeps energy fun and trendy. It attracts anime fans and those looking for unique, discounted items in a lively atmosphere.

Kids find the store appealing with lots of cute gifts and items just for them. Staff interactions can be intense, sometimes making children feel uncomfortable or shocked.

Prices stay consistently cheap across a wide range of products. You find anime shirts and cool figures at very low costs with lots of variety.

People are saying

"I found so many cool anime posters and stickers here."

"I found the shopping experience here to be really fun."

"I found amazing anime shirts and cool figures for really cheap."

Good to know

1

The store offers a wide variety of anime merchandise, including clothes, figures, and accessories.

2

Prices for anime merchandise are generally affordable, with many items on discount.

3

Expect to find a large selection of anime stickers and figures.

10
Angels Flight Railway image 1
Historical landmark

Historic funicular features restored wooden cars with a steep incline and vintage character. The ride offers panoramic city views and a sense of old Los Angeles charm. Surrounding areas include an amphitheater and hillside paths, creating a quiet, nostalgic atmosphere downtown.

Kids aged 2 and under ride for free, making it affordable for families. The ride offers a miniature train experience that captures a historical feel and is short but engaging for children.

Tickets cost around one dollar for a one-way ride, making it very cheap. Using a tap card cuts the price in half, offering a discounted fare for the railway up and down.

People are saying

"Riding this historic funicular felt like stepping back in time."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly old-fashioned train ride."

"The ride was so cheap, I only paid a dollar!"

Good to know

1

Angels Flight Railway offers rides for $1 each way.

2

The railway has been operational since 1901, providing a historic experience.

3

Expect crowds during lunchtime as locals and tourists visit.

11
New China Mongolian Bbq image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small spot with rustic decor and traditional Mongolian artwork creates an immersive atmosphere. Dimmed lighting adds a cozy, warm glow suited for intimate or festive meals. Self-service buffet and Mongolian BBQ grill offer interactive dining with fresh toppings.

Kids enjoy the varied food options and family members often share meals together. Staff attitude can affect the experience, so interactions matter when visiting with children.

Offers a cheap, self-service dining experience with very low prices. Meals come in large portions and the place does not expect customers to pick up orders.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really, really good."

"It's a quick, affordable, and healthy meal option that's Kid Friendly."

"The food here is good and cheap."

Good to know

1

The Mongolian barbecue costs $4.95 per pound, offering great value.

2

Expect a self-service dining experience where you weigh your food.

3

Cleanliness is a concern; some tables and bathrooms may be dirty.

12
The Win~Dow at American Beauty image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Outdoor patio offers a charming, spacious setting with good music and plenty of heaters for cooler evenings. Atmosphere stays relaxed and cozy, attracting young families and dog owners. Order and pickup happen through tiny windows, which can feel cramped but service remains quick.

Many young families with babies visit, making it very kid-friendly. Outdoor seating and takeout options suit kids and dogs well.

Burgers come at cheap prices and taste authentic and delicious. The food stays tasty without raising costs.

People are saying

"The burgers here are so juicy, especially with the outdoor seating."

"I found the burgers here to be cheap and delicious."

"It's a good spot for kids and dogs, with outdoor seating."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and dining is not available after 4 PM.

2

The place is dog-friendly, with a patio area for pets.

3

Mobile ordering is available and food is prepared quickly.

13
Chinatown Central Plaza image 1

Outdoor areas showcase early 1920s Chinese architecture with lanterns and decorations creating a picturesque setting. Atmosphere varies from quiet and empty to lively during events featuring food trucks and live performances. The place blends cultural heritage with family-friendly activities and traditional Asian food options.

Kids get drawn to the fortune teller's unique setup and enjoy exploring small shops full of trinkets and souvenirs. They also like playing with tiny poppers on the ground while adults take photos.

Many products and clothing options come at very cheap prices here. The area offers good, cheap eats and affordable rooms in a safe neighborhood without issues.

People are saying

"It's interesting to see the variety of shops and Asian curiosities."

"I always get the strawberry cake here; it's delicious."

"It's so kid-friendly; I loved visiting the little shops as a kid."

Good to know

1

Many shops are closed on Sundays, limiting shopping options.

2

Chinatown Central Plaza hosts various cultural events throughout the year.

3

The Lunar New Year parade is a major event attracting many visitors.

14
Griffith Park & Southern Railroad image 1

A 1-mile train ride winds through tunnels, bridges, and shaded groves with open-air passenger cars offering clear views. The atmosphere blends peaceful, green surroundings with festive holiday decorations and a cute western facade. Families with small children find it calm and enjoyable, especially during birthday parties and themed events.

Train rides keep kids entertained and excited. The spot works well for family bonding and hosts birthday parties in a kid-friendly area.

Train rides cost little and offer a fun experience for children. Promotional items include a packaged hot chocolate paired with a cheap key chain toy.

People are saying

"The train ride is cute and fun for kids."

"The parking available here is ample and free."

"I found the train ride to be cheap and fun."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times of up to 2 hours during peak events.

2

Tickets for expedited lines often sell out quickly on opening day.

3

Free parking is available, but it can be tricky to find during busy times.

15
Original Tommy's image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Outdoor area offers standing tables and bar seating, creating a casual, retro American style vibe. Atmosphere feels historic and cozy, often lively after sports events. Known for 24-hour service and iconic chili cheese burgers.

Kids enjoy the burgers here, making it a spot families return to across generations. The food appeals to both children and adults, keeping the experience consistent over time.

Meals come out cheap and fast, making quick dining easy. Chili cheese fries cost more than expected and the chili lacks flavor.

People are saying

"You have to try their chili burgers; they're an LA classic."

"It's so kid friendly; I brought my son before his first game and he loved it."

"I found the food to be really good and inexpensive."

Good to know

1

Tomorrow, 3/11, is the last day for the $2.99 burger specials.

2

Original Tommy's is open 24 hours for takeout only.

3

If there's no parking in the little lot, you can park across the street at their overflow lot.

16
Van Nuys Golf Club image 1

Golf course offers an 18-hole Par 3 layout with a chill atmosphere and unique targets like football field goals and barrels at the range. Frequent airplanes pass overhead, adding to the environment, while the course remains an affordable spot for practicing golf despite its worn condition.

Many kids learn golf during the daytime with a busy range for beginners. Some children feel at ease playing their first round, but practice restrictions limit swing practice for younger kids.

Rates stay very low for playing and practicing. The course offers a cheap option for working on your short game.

People are saying

"The golf course here is mostly dirt, not grass."

"It's a cheap place to practice your short game."

"The staff here are so welcoming and great with kids."

Good to know

1

Playing the executive course or the full 18 par 3 course costs only $18.

2

There is rarely ever a wait time to play.

3

The driving range is closing for renovations on November 3rd.

17
Kura Revolving Sushi Bar image 1
Conveyor belt sushi restaurant

Conveyor belts display sushi plates with names while robots deliver drinks, creating a tech-forward vibe. The atmosphere is lively and fun, featuring touch screen ordering and a game rewarding diners after multiple plates. Seating includes Japanese-style booths, and the environment can be loud and energetic.

Kids get excited watching sushi move on the conveyor belt and enjoy ordering from a screen with video clips. Small toys come after eating a set number of plates, adding to the fun.

Prices vary but tend to be higher than expected for a sushi spot. Plates once cost about $1 to $1.50, but a meal for four can reach around $150. Sushi quality and taste reflect the cheap price point.

People are saying

"It's a fun experience with the conveyor belt sushi and robot drink delivery."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place with prizes for eating plates."

"I was surprised by how affordable it was, even when I ordered a lot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is available for free for customers.

3

The restaurant has a unique prize system for eating 15 plates of sushi.

18
dd's DISCOUNTS image 1
Clothing store

Large selection of clothes, shoes, bags, and home items fills the space with affordable prices. Lines at checkout vary from quick to long, reflecting fluctuating customer flow. Offers a wide variety of products suitable for last-minute needs.

Employees assist with finding children's clothing. Restroom access for kids is limited and sometimes denied. Staff may restrict restroom use due to cleaning schedules.

Offers a wide range of cheap products with consistently good quality. Clothes stand out for being both nice and affordable.

People are saying

"I found nice Women's Clothing at affordable prices."

"I found great items and saved money shopping here."

"Jose really helped me find the perfect dress for my daughter."

Good to know

1

Expect to stand in line during busy hours, especially on weekends.

2

Prices are generally very affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

The store has a wide selection of clothes, shoes, and home items.

19
Los callejones image 1

Open-air market with lively atmosphere and authentic street market vibe. Offers a wide variety of clothes, accessories, and food with good prices suited for budget-conscious shoppers. Family-friendly environment with a mix of trendy and traditional Mexican elements.

Stores offer a good variety for children including toys and clothes at super prices. The area feels kid friendly and has shops suited for children's birthday parties, but it is not ideal for strollers or very young kids.

Prices stay consistently very cheap across a wide variety of products. Finding good-quality clothing at these low prices requires some searching but is possible.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, authentic, and very original."

"I found whatever I needed for a cheap price."

"It's a nice area for raising kids."

Good to know

1

Los callejones offers a wide variety of clothes, electronics, and household items.

2

Prices are generally affordable, making it suitable for budget shoppers.

3

Visitors should be cautious of their surroundings due to reports of sketchy behavior.

20
Little Caesars Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant offers affordable prices and quick bites with a menu featuring pepperoni and cheese pizzas. Atmosphere is casual with a clean appearance. Staff interaction includes some hygiene concerns during food preparation.

Easy dinner options keep kids happy here. The kids' pizzas are a common choice but may not satisfy every time.

Prices stay consistently cheap here, making it easy to grab a quick bite without spending much. The pizza offers good value for the cost.

People are saying

"I thought the cheese pizza was really good."

"The associates here are so caring and nice."

Good to know

1

Little Caesars Pizza offers affordable meals, making it budget-friendly for families.

2

The restaurant was out of sauce during my visit, so check availability before ordering.

3

Reservations are not needed, but calling ahead can help avoid long wait times.

21
Garment District image 1
Shopping mall

Crowded shopping area with wide variety of goods including clothes, electronics, and natural medicines. Energy is chaotic and lively, resembling an oversized flea market where haggling is common and most vendors accept cash. Parking is challenging and costly, especially on weekends.

Shopping in the Garment District works well for kids. Some incidents make it less suitable for families at times.

Prices stay consistently cheap throughout the Garment District. Clothing tends to be low-quality, reflecting the low cost.

People are saying

"Parking costs vary, sometimes around $20 or more."

"It's a great Kid Friendly place with lots to see."

"I found the prices here to be cheap."

Good to know

1

Parking costs around $20, and finding it can be challenging.

2

Most vendors only accept cash, so bring some with you.

3

Visiting from Monday to Friday is better than weekends for fewer crowds.

22
Kiddleton image 1
Toy store

Spacious toy store filled with claw machine arcade featuring mostly Kiddleton-branded prizes and some licensed toys. Bright yellow and orange lights create a flashy atmosphere that feels fun and lively. Games rely on luck with weak claw grips, making winning challenging but entertaining.

Kids find the arcade games fun and engaging with attendants ready to help explain the claw machines. Spending limits keep things controlled, but kids often want to stay and play longer.

Prices stay very cheap, around 1 to 2 dollars per play. Prizes look cheap and the payout stays low, giving a vibe like a depressing casino for kids.

People are saying

"The machines here are super fun and there are lots of different prizes."

"It's a fun, kid-friendly place that my daughter really enjoyed."

"It's cheap, about one to two dollars per play."

Good to know

1

The machines cost $2 per play, which is higher than average.

2

Most machines are games of chance, not skill-based.

3

You can receive free tokens for leaving a review.

23
Asia Buffet image 1
Asian restaurant

Brightly lit and spacious dining area offers a Mongolian grill and hibachi cooking stations. Atmosphere feels calm with a slightly cool temperature and a roomy buffet setup. Large families often gather, creating a lively but comfortable environment.

Kids find plenty to enjoy with pizza and fries on the menu and fresh fruit options. The setting welcomes families with a variety of choices that appeal to young tastes.

Prices stay very low, with meals for three around 82 dollars. Food quality matches the cheap cost, reflecting basic ingredients and preparation.

People are saying

"The buffet's sushi, ribs, and fried shrimp are surprisingly good."

"I found the buffet to be cheap, with drinks included."

"I found the food here excellent for spending time with my family."

Good to know

1

Asia Buffet closes at 8:30 p.m. most nights.

2

Lunchtime is cheaper than dinner at Asia Buffet.

3

The price is affordable at $22 with drinks included.

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