Updated for 2025
Hey there parents! We know that traveling with kids can sometimes be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with the hustle and bustle of a busy airport. But we’ve got some good news for you: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) has a bunch of fun activities your little ones will absolutely love, and will keep them entertained while you await your boarding call.
Besides places to play, there are dozens of places to eat and grab snacks at LAX, and what’s great to know is that there are nursing rooms and family bathrooms in every terminal. They’ve also added water bottle refilling stations in all the terminals recently.
Take advantage of the fun LAX has to offer the next time you’re traveling! We hope this list of family-friendly things to do at LAX helps you have as close to a stress-free family travel experience as possible.
Activities for Kids at LAX
As we’re sure you’re aware, LAX is undergoing a massive upgrade, and has been for several years. As we get closer to 2028 and the start of the Olympics, you’ll see new amenities within all the terminals, new off-site places to park or pick up a rental car, new green space within the airport loop area, and probably the most anticipated change – we’ll all soon be able to ride the Automated People Mover trains.
LAX Beach
There are several places that kids can play at LAX. The best-known play area is called LAX Beach and it’s located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT). Intended to look like the LA shoreline, complete with a lifeguard tower, surfboards, dolphin, and beach ball, this play area is carpeted and has soft structures kids can climb on, while caregivers can sit on the benches provided. There are dining options close by, as well as a changing room/family bathroom, and right next to the play area is a fascinating dynamic artwork/display you can spend a lot of time watching.
Artwork at LAX
Speaking of art, there are many permanent public artworks on display in every terminal at LAX. Within the Tom Bradley International Terminal, you’ll see massive works by various artists, as well as the famous “clock tower” which broadcasts artistic videos and advertising. In the West Terminal, there’s a piano available for anyone who likes to play, and an interactive video animation that’s a big hit with kids – it’s filled with sleepy alligators that take turns waking up and (seeming to) give the announcements heard over the loudspeakers.
Related: Traveling with Toddlers
Airplanes for the Win
Of course, when you’re at the airport, you’ll get to see planes take off and land, which is usually a big hit with everyone, but especially if you have any aviation fans in your family. Terminal 3 has some of the biggest windows and best viewing spots for watching planes, along with the West Terminal. But every Terminal has at least one great viewing spot.
Dining Options at LAX
There are dozens of options for dining at LAX, depending on which terminal you’re in. You’ll find everything from grab-and-go for quick snacks and food to eat one the plane to sit-down service. You’ll find National brands like California Pizza Kitchen, Shake Shack, and Starbucks, as well as local favorites like Ford’s Filling Station, Loteria Grill, Homeboy Café, and Rock and Brews.
In case you need a treat, or maybe you need one to incentivize your kids’ best behavior, you can choose from delightful options (depending on the terminal) like Treat Me Sweet, See’s Candy, Jamba Juice, Vanilla BakeShop, Sprinkles Cupcakes, Dunkin’ Donuts, La Provence Patisserie, Randy’s Donuts, and more.
Shopping at LAX
There are dozens of shops within the airport, starting with the classic Hudson Books for some of your basic needs. In addition, there are plenty of specialty stores, catering to different tastes and shopping needs. Are your kids into video games? You can book time at one of the Gameway stores (located in Terminals 3 and 6), or even just spread out and play with toys at one of the many open spaces you’ll find at LAX.
Other shopping opportunities, depending on your terminal, include: Vera Bradley, FAO Schwarz, Magic Johnson Sports, M.Fredric, Bartel’s Harley Davidson, Coach, Gucci, Hermès, DFS Duty Free, Book Soup, currency exchange stations, and for stressed-out parents who can take turns: Be Relax massage stations.
See all detailed information about shopping, dining, and amenities on the official LAX website.
Puppies at LAX
Do you know about the “LAX PUP Program”. This program involves therapy dogs that are trained to provide comfort and reduce stress for passengers. The dogs are part of a volunteer program and if the timing is right and they’re in the terminal when you are, you and your kids can interact with these super friendly dogs who love to be petted. It can be a great way to calm your kids down or just cheer them up before your flight.
Pet Services
Speaking of dogs, if you’re traveling with a pet, you’ll probably already know all the rules and procedures your airline has, but it may be comforting to know that LAX has places where you can take care of your pet while in the airport. Just be sure to check the website for the different facilities provided within each terminal.
Keeping Kids Entertained While at LAX
Long flights (and long layovers) can be tough on kids, but with a little creativity, you can keep them entertained and happy. Before you leave home, pack a bag with snacks, drinks, and activities to keep your kids occupied.
Some great travel activities for kids include coloring books, puzzles, and small toys. You can also download movies, TV shows, and games onto a tablet or phone to keep your kids entertained during the flight.
If you have a layover at LAX, take advantage of the airport’s play areas. These areas are designed for kids of all ages and include climbing structures, slides, and interactive games.
Overall, traveling with kids can be challenging, but with a little preparation and creativity, you can make it a fun and memorable experience for the whole family.
Scavenger Hunt
Keep your child’s age in mind when designing your scavenger hunt. Maybe you’d like your preschooler to practice his alphabet. Wander around together and see if you can find an item that starts with every letter of the alphabet. (You can also look for colors or shapes as well). For an added bonus, document your findings. Use a disposable camera, your smart phone, or an older model smart phone that still has a working camera to take photos of your discoveries.
Exercise
If you can find some open space, get the family moving. Challenge family members to 10 jumping jacks, 10 lunges, 10 push-ups, etc. Do an experiment and see who gets upstairs faster — the family member on the escalator or the family member taking the stairs.
People Watch
Watch people. Look at their body language, their gestures, and their facial expressions. Can you make up stories about them? What are they saying to each other? Where are they traveling? What will they do there? (You can even record your “stories” into your phones while you invent them).
Practice Random Acts of Kindness
Can each family member find 5 pieces of litter to pick up and throw away? Chairs that need to be pushed in? A book that has fallen off a display and needs to be put back?
Play With Your Food
Make a “Tic Tac Toe” game using pretzel sticks for the grids. Use cereal, raisins, or chocolate chips as the “x” and “o” pieces.
Navigating the Airport at LAX
Navigating an airport with kids can be stressful, but with a little preparation, it can be a breeze. Before you arrive at LAX, make sure to familiarize yourself with the airport layout and terminal maps. This will help you get to your gate quickly and easily.
When you arrive at LAX, look for signs that lead to family restrooms, nursing rooms, and play areas. These areas are designed to make traveling with kids easier and more comfortable. If you need any assistance, don’t hesitate to ask an airport employee for help.
If you’re traveling with a stroller, make sure to check it in at the gate. This will allow you to use it until you board the plane.
Safety Measures for Kids at LAX
Traveling with kids can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to their safety. At LAX, there are several measures in place to ensure the safety of your children.
Lost and Found
It’s easy for kids to get separated from their parents in the hustle and bustle of the airport. If your child gets lost, the first thing you should do is contact the nearest airport employee. They will be able to assist you in finding your child and will alert the airport’s lost and found department.
The lost and found department is located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal. If your child is found, they will be taken to this location. You can also check with the lost and found department if you have lost any items during your travels.
It’s not a bad idea to have a conversation with your kids before embarking on the trip with regards to safety. You can let them know some basic rules you have as a family, some expectations about how to stay safe and how to find each other if you get separated.
Emergency Services
In case of an emergency, LAX has several services available to assist you and your child. If your child requires medical attention, you can contact the airport’s medical services department. They have trained medical professionals available 24/7 to handle any medical emergencies.
If there is a security threat or any other type of emergency, the airport’s police department should be contacted immediately. They are trained to handle any emergency situation and will be able to assist you and your child.
Overall, LAX takes the safety of your children seriously and has measures in place to ensure their well-being. By following these guidelines and staying aware of your surroundings, you can help ensure a safe and stress-free travel experience for you and your family.
FAQs About LAX and Fun Facts
What is the Automated People Mover and when will it be operational?
According to the official LAX website, the Automated People Mover is an elevated electric train system that we’ll all be riding between the off-site parking lots, public transportation hubs, and the new car rental facility coming soon. Designed to limit the number of vehicles driving within the airport loop, this new train system is expected to be in use in 2024.
Are there any nursing rooms at LAX?
Yes, there are many nursing rooms and family restrooms at LAX, many of which are brand new. These rooms are designed to provide a private and comfortable space for mothers who need to breastfeed or pump, or in the case of family restrooms, they’re designed to allow caregivers of any gender to change diapers and clean up.
Are there any water bottle filling stations at LAX?
Yes, there are water bottle filling stations located in every terminal at LAX. Alternatively, there are also many shops selling water bottles and other beverages.
Fun Fact: LAX has an Official Song
In case you were wondering, LAX does indeed have an official song, and according to their website, this song was a hit. “LA International Airport” was written by Leanne Scott and first recoded in 1970.
Things to do Nearby LAX Airport
Flight Path Learning Center and Museum
6661 W. Imperial Highway, Los Angeles, CA 90045
Depending on how much time you’ve got to spend at LAX, you might want to plan a little “field trip” to the Flight Path Learning Center and Museum. Your family will be treated to models, photographs, uniforms, and artifacts depicting the history of air flight. Kids can see the South runways and get a tour of the DC-3 plane parked outside. The Flight Path Learning Center offers free admission and is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10:00 am to 3:00 pm (except on major holidays).
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.
Ilana
Thursday 12th of April 2018
Really useful thanks!