Familiar to many even in Japan, Universal Studios is a theme park full of movie-themed attractions. Speaking of movies? That’s right—Hollywood! The authentic “Universal Studios Hollywood” is the only theme park in the world where real film shooting takes place.
The attraction “Studio Tour,” where you can ride a tram and get a full view of real filming locations, is incredibly popular. It lasts about 45 minutes, so it’s best to go there first. The vast grounds of Universal Studios Hollywood are practically part of a movie studio set.
If time allows, the “VIP Tour” is also highly recommended. You can enter staff-only filming areas on a private trolley, have lunch in a VIP room, and enjoy attractions with no waiting—truly a dreamlike tour. Gather the whole family and dive into the world of Hollywood movies!
Name: Universal Studios Hollywood
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, USA
Official/Related Website URL: https://goo.gl/1Vf7A3
2. Knott's Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm is the very first theme park ever created in the world. Greeting all visitors are the beloved Snoopy and his friends, popular across the globe. This is a dream-come-true theme park for Snoopy fans, offering a full experience of the Snoopy world.
But Knott’s Berry Farm’s charm isn’t just its cute characters! There are thrilling rides too, like the “Boomerang,” which flips you upside down six times in one minute, and the “GhostRider,” which features over 10 dramatic drops. From the tops of these rides, you can look out over Orange County—so if you can handle the adrenaline, don’t miss the views!
Name: Knott's Berry Farm
Address: 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620, USA
Official/Related Website URL: https://www.knotts.com/
3. Six Flags Magic Mountain
Six Flags Magic Mountain is a theme park home to a world-record 19 top-tier thrill roller coasters. Known as the “Thrill Capital of the World,” it’s a popular spot in the San Fernando Valley, bustling with tourists and local middle and high schoolers alike.
The “X2,” an evolution of the world’s first 4D coaster “X,” launches backward and spins the seats 360 degrees while rapidly ascending and plunging. Another terrifying ride, “Déjà Vu,” earns applause just for returning safely. And in 2018, the park debuted “CraZanity,” the world’s tallest pendulum ride. In the San Fernando Valley, you can hear the screams riding the wind even from the streets.
Although Six Flags is all about extreme rides, there are also family-friendly attractions like go-karts, merry-go-rounds, and tea cups. So rest assured, families can enjoy it too.
Name: Six Flags Magic Mountain
Address: 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355, USA
Official/Related Website URL: https://www.sixflags.com/magicmountain/rides-and-attractions
4. Aquarium of the Pacific
Opened in 1998, the “Aquarium of the Pacific” is the largest aquarium in Southern California, located in Long Beach. The life-sized whale model at the main entrance is sure to wow everyone. It’s so realistic, some kids might hesitate to swim in the Long Beach ocean afterward!
Inside, you'll find tanks that replicate real ocean waves, pitch-black tanks with deep-sea creatures, and a giant tank in the back that simulates entire ecosystems. The aquarium houses over 10,000 aquatic animals, primarily local marine life. Outside tanks feature popular animals like penguins and otters! Be sure to visit this signature Long Beach attraction, the Aquarium of the Pacific.
Name: Aquarium of the Pacific
Address: 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802, USA
Official/Related Website URL: http://www.aquariumofpacific.org/
◎ Summary
We introduced four theme parks in Los Angeles. While Disneyland is certainly the most famous, there are many other must-see facilities that you might miss if you don’t know about them—each one a popular spot in its own right. When visiting Los Angeles, be sure to enjoy these theme parks where both kids and adults can have a blast together.