Topanga is a Tongva word meaning “where mountain meets the sea.” You’ll find Topanga within the Santa Monica Mountains, and though it’s not far from downtown Los Angeles, you’ll feel as if you’re quite far from the hustle and bustle of daily life. This neighborhood just beckons families to spend their time outdoors.
Los Angeles Horseback Riding
2623 Old Topanga Canyon Road, Topanga, CA 90290
Enjoy an outdoor adventure with your family and Los Angeles Horseback Riding. Riders of all experience-levels are welcome, but keep in mind, that children must be at least six years old to ride these horses, and children are required to wear helmets while riding. You’ll enjoy both mountain and ocean views as you ride. Be sure to check the website for an important list of what is and isn’t allowed (long pants and closed-toe shoes are both required). Advance reservations are required, and a variety of packages are offered so you can select the ride that is best for your family.
Summit Valley Edmund D. Edelman Park
North Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA 90290
There are 652-acres here to explore in Summit Valley. Families can hike or ride mountain bikes to explore the area. You’ll find a variety of vegetation and wildlife, as well as picnic benches and restrooms so you can plan to spend some time here enjoying the surroundings.
Topanga Library
122 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA 90290
The Topanga Library is a part of the County of Los Angeles Public Library system. Within the children’s area, you’ll also find a “Family Place.” A Family Place Library offers special resources for families with young children. You’ll find books, toys, videos, workshops, and information all in one convenient spot. The Topanga Library offers a variety of special events including a toddler story time, kids’ art activities, special teen activities, and more.
Top of Topanga Overlook
3400 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA
Take a drive up to this special outlook and get ready for some incredible views. Your family will be able to see the Santa Monica Mountains and the San Gabriel Mountains as well as the valley below. You’ll also find restrooms, interpretive displays, and picnic areas at this 9-acre site.
Topanga Canyon Certified Farmers’ Market
1440 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA 90290
You can shop at the Topanga Canyon Certified Farmers’ Market each Friday from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. You’ll find a wide assortment of fruits and vegetables, juices, breads, prepared foods, and more.
Topanga State Park
20828 Entrada Road, Topanga, CA
Topanga State Park is located within the Santa Monica Mountains, and consists of 36 miles of trails. Spend some time hiking and exploring, and you’ll see amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. Topanga State Park is considered “the world’s largest wildland within the boundaries of a major city.” The Visitors Center (open on Sundays from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, January through July) contains information about the history, trails, plants, and wildlife within Topanga State park. Check the website for information about different trails, so you can find the best one for your family.
Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum
1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA 90290
Will Geer founded the Theatricum Botanicum in 1973. Since then, families have been enjoying plays and education programs in this special outdoor setting. The 299-seat amphitheater offers a variety of special programs. To completely engage the youngest audience members, “Playing at Will” is a program available to those ages 5-17. Before the show, participants can learn some of the behind-the-scenes involved in the production as well as learn a new skill (such as dance steps or a song). Participants are also provided a healthy snack. (Check with the Box Office about adding on “Playing at Will” to your experience.) A series of special “Family Fundays” is also offered, with more information available online. Bring a picnic to enjoy before the show, and be sure to dress in layers.
Red Rock Canyon Park
23601 W. Red Rock Road, Topanga, CA
At Red Rock Canyon Park, you may feel as if you’ve left town. You’ll find red and tan rocks as well as a variety of wildflowers, fossils, and caves as you hike and explore the rock formations that seem to change color before your eyes. The park has a small picnic area as well.
MomsLA is your source for Things to do with Kids in Los Angeles
Disclaimer: MomsLA has made every effort to confirm the information in this article; however, things can often change. Therefore, MomsLA makes no representations or warranties about the accuracy of the information published here. MomsLA strongly urges you to confirm any event details, like date, time, location, and admission, with the third party hosting the event. You assume the sole risk of relying on any of the information in our list. MomsLA is in no way responsible for any injuries or damages you sustain while attending any third-party event posted on our website. Please read our Terms of Use which you have agreed to based on your continued use of this website. Some events have paid to be listed on MomsLA.