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Local picks in Los Angeles

Kid-friendly malls

Made for those who need to navigate a shopping center without the stress of managing restless children.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Japanese Village Plaza image 1
Japanese Village Plaza image 2
Japanese Village Plaza image 3
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Cobblestone paths and wooden facades mimic traditional Japanese shopping streets, creating an immersive small-town feel. Bright red lanterns and a 50-foot replica fire lookout tower add to the authentic Edo-period design. The plaza buzzes with lively energy, especially on weekends, drawing crowds to its outdoor dining and arcade games.

Offers a clean shopping plaza with a strong focus on Japanese culture through stores and food. Located next to a metro line, it provides easy access and a relaxing atmosphere that feels like a slice of Japan.

Families find plenty to enjoy with kid friendly shops and a lively atmosphere. Kids have fun exploring the little stores and the overall vibe suits families well.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Japanese food and casual sweets."

"This mall has unique anime shops and creative merchandise you can't find elsewhere."

"It's Kid Friendly with amazing tasting noodles and diverse food options."

Good to know

1

The plaza hosts cherry blossom events in spring with sakura-themed stalls.

2

Nisei Week Japanese Festival in August includes Obon dancing, taiko drums, and a parade.

3

Parking can get crowded and expensive on weekends.

02
The Vineyards at Porter Ranch image 1

Open-air plaza features vineyard-inspired design with waterfall sections and fire pits that create a classy, lively atmosphere. Outdoor seating areas and a small playground encourage socializing and family visits. Evening brings spectacular lighting and jazz music, enhancing the enjoyable vibe.

Outdoor setting offers varied activities like food, shopping, and walking. Features include a waterfall section, a movie theater, an ice cream spot, and a playground for kids.

A small playground and a creek-side park offer play areas for kids. The plaza includes activities for children and a movie theater nearby. The design allows views from a restaurant terrace with tables and alcohol close to the playground.

People are saying

"This outdoor mall has so many great stores and restaurants to explore."

"It's really kid friendly with a nice playground for them to play."

"I found Gus's BBQ to be consistently good and really enjoyed it."

Good to know

1

Parking is often difficult, especially during evenings and weekends.

2

There are many dining options, including a variety of cuisines.

3

Happy hour specials offer great value at several restaurants.

03
NOHO West image 1
Shopping mall

Open layout and modern design create a clean, peaceful atmosphere with string lights adding a cozy touch. Quiet energy prevails, with families enjoying the splash pad and seating areas, while teens find a chill hangout spot. Plenty of parking and charging outlets support a relaxed, connected experience.

A modern shopping plaza with a well-balanced variety of 35 stores including Nordstrom Rack, Trader Joe's, and a Regal movie theater. The mall stays calm and clean with a mix of retail, food options, and a spa.

A splash pad and a water fountain provide fun spots for kids to play and cool off. Birthday parties here come with a classy and beautiful setup that stands out.

People are saying

"Parking available here is easy and there's a lot of it."

"This mall has a great mix of stores, restaurants, and cafes."

"The fountain is so fun for kids; it's really kid friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking at NOHO West is difficult during busy times.

2

The mall has a variety of stores and amenities in one location.

3

I appreciated the bar that offers happy hour from 3 to 6 pm.

04
Runway Playa Vista image 1
Shopping mall

Small, modern shopping mall with a pedestrian-friendly market and family-friendly outdoor play areas. Atmosphere stays quiet and relaxed, offering a well-kept movie theater and a variety of dining options. Parking is abundant but can be expensive.

Open layout defines this small mall with a clean and well maintained environment. It sits near the beach and offers a nice neighborhood outdoor shopping plaza feel.

Outdoor areas offer space for kids to play. Silk costumes and dance performances provide engaging activities. Martial arts demonstrations add variety to the kid-friendly environment.

People are saying

"I found the parking here to be plentiful and convenient."

"I went to the farmers market on Saturday."

"I found it to be a nice open mall."

Good to know

1

The farmer's market is open on Saturdays from 9am to 2pm.

2

Parking is free for movie customers at the theater.

3

Two hours of free parking is available with validation.

05
Ovation Hollywood image 1
Shopping mall

Shopping mall offers striking cityscape views including the Hollywood sign from multiple levels. Atmosphere blends festive energy with refined dining spaces, featuring interactive entertainment like dance performances, photo opportunities, and a large arcade. Central courtyard and open-air park provide relaxed spots amid lively activity.

Multi-story mall blends indoor-outdoor design with shops, restaurants, and a theater. A terrace offers a view of the Hollywood sign and proximity to major attractions adds convenience.

Staff make children feel special and encourage taking pictures. A small playground offers a spot for kids to play.

People are saying

"This mall has tons of parking, even underground."

"The Beetlejuice experience was so much fun with the engaging characters."

"It's a kid-friendly spot with a playground and ice cream."

Good to know

1

Parking validation is available at shops and restaurants, reducing fees to $3.

2

Events typically end between 7 and 8 PM, so plan accordingly.

3

Impromptu performances and photo opportunities with characters occur during events.

06
The Shops at Sportsmenโ€™s Lodge image 1

Outdoor shopping area resembles a modern village square with water features and beautiful seating. Atmosphere feels relaxed and intimate, enhanced by trendy design and scenic ponds. Variety of shops and restaurants attract a diverse crowd despite parking challenges.

Small and beautiful, the shopping center offers a highly curated mix of small retail stores, restaurants, and a grocery store with a wide selection of items.

A nice little outdoor area welcomes kids and families. Many families with children enjoy hanging out, having ice cream, and strolling around together.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the great food choices, like delicious taquitos and spring rolls."

"The outdoor seating area is beautiful and kids friendly."

"It's a nice little outdoor area that's kid friendly."

Good to know

1

Parking is free for the first 90 minutes, but can be challenging on weekends.

2

Expect to pay $40 if you lose your parking ticket.

3

Valet parking is available but may not always be operational.

07
Plaza Del Valle image 1
Shopping mall

Open, spacious mall with a Mexican-style atmosphere and colorful art including murals and sculptures. The vibe is relaxing and family-friendly, featuring a playground and games for kids. Many small businesses offer a variety of food and services, creating a lively yet comfortable environment.

A variety of small businesses and food vendors create a lively atmosphere. The plaza offers clothes stores, a playground, and decent parking, making it convenient for shopping and leisure.

A playground and games keep kids entertained. Shops include a vendor selling kid toys and children's wear. The spot is generally quiet and suitable for families.

People are saying

"I found a great variety of authentic Mexican food here."

"The parking here is plentiful and convenient."

"This local plaza is a great hangout spot with lovely small businesses."

Good to know

1

Parking at Plaza Del Valle is often difficult on weekends due to crowds.

2

There are many restaurants and shops, including food stalls and bakeries.

3

Live music and outdoor events happen occasionally at Plaza Del Valle.

08
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.

A vibrant hub with unique shops and tasty eats, this mall features beautiful Chinese architecture and a memorable Bruce Lee statue. It offers a great spot for family outings and lively events like the Dragon Festival.

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.

People are saying

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

"The mall's architecture is beautiful, especially the gate."

"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.

09
Northridge Fashion Center image 1

Large mall offers spacious common areas and a relaxing atmosphere with a friendly vibe. Entertainment options include an arcade, cinema, and children's play areas, making it suitable for families and groups. Ample parking surrounds the mall, enhancing accessibility.

Ample parking and a thoughtfully designed layout make navigation easy. The mall stays clean and well maintained with a wide variety of shops and entertainment options like a cinema and special events.

Fun games and a train ride around the mall keep kids entertained. A dedicated play area offers space for children to enjoy themselves.

People are saying

"This mall has a great selection of stores and restaurants."

"I found plenty of parking available, it was ample."

"It's a great kid-friendly spot with a play area and train rides."

Good to know

1

A local vendors pop-up shop happens on the first Saturday of each month.

2

On Wednesdays, street food and organic fruits and vegetables are sold in the parking lot.

3

There is only one handicap parking spot in front of Macy's.

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Los Angeles, California

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