California is packed with places to explore, from sunny coastal towns and scenic hiking trails to unforgettable theme parks and family-friendly adventures. But with so many options, figuring out what is actually worth doing with kids can feel overwhelming.
That’s where we come in.
At Chasing Wild Adventures, we’re sharing the places we’ve explored as a family and the experiences that have made our own travels memorable. Whether you’re looking for an easy day trip, a kid-friendly hike, or a theme park adventure, our goal is to help you find experiences your family will actually enjoy.
From quick weekend escapes to action-packed days, here are some of our favorite things to do in California with kids.
SoCal Day Trips
You don’t always need a long vacation to have an adventure.
Southern California is filled with family-friendly destinations that are perfect for a day away from home. From charming beach towns and mountain escapes to unique attractions and seasonal adventures, there are plenty of places to explore without committing to a full weekend trip.
Our SoCal day trips feature destinations we’ve visited as a family, along with ideas to help you plan your own adventure.
Whether you want to:
- Explore a new California beach town
- Escape to the mountains
- Visit a unique family attraction
- Find a fun seasonal activity
- Take a scenic train ride
- Plan a budget-friendly family outing
There’s always another adventure waiting just a short drive away.
Hiking Adventures
California’s great outdoors is one of the best playgrounds for families.
You don’t have to be an experienced hiker to enjoy the trails. We’re all about finding hikes and outdoor adventures that families can experience together, including trails with incredible scenery, unique landscapes, wildlife, waterfalls, caves, and plenty of opportunities for kids to explore.
Our hiking adventures focus on real family experiences, so you can get a better idea of what to expect before you hit the trail.
Looking for a hike with kids? You’ll find adventures ranging from easier family-friendly trails to more challenging outings for families ready to explore a little farther.
Find Your Next Trail
Best Theme Parks in California
California is home to some of the most exciting theme parks in the country—and we’re always up for a family adventure.
From meeting favorite characters and building LEGO creations to thrilling rides, animal encounters, water attractions, and seasonal events, California’s theme parks offer something for every age.
But which parks are actually worth visiting with kids?
We’re sharing our family experiences to help you decide where to go, what to do, and how to make the most of your day.
Explore our guides to some of California’s best theme parks, including tips on attractions, hotels, food, parking, special events, and things to know before you visit.
Start Planning Your Theme Park Adventure
You don’t need to travel across the world to make incredible memories with your kids.
Sometimes the best adventures are a road trip away, a trail you’ve never explored, or a theme park where you spend the day laughing together.
We created Chasing Wild Adventures to inspire families to unplug, explore wildly, and make meaningful memories—one adventure at a time.
So pick a destination, pack the snacks, and get ready to chase your next adventure.