Winter in Southern California may not bring snow to the cities, but it absolutely brings a full season of family fun. From festive holiday light displays in December to snowy mountain adventures in January and February, there are dozens of ways to keep kids entertained all winter long. Whether you’re looking for magical nighttime outings, rainy-day indoor activities, or short family-friendly road trips, this guide highlights the best winter things to do with kids in Los Angeles and Orange County.
Below is a curated list of the top winter activities—perfect for December, January, and February—covering holiday lights, Christmas trains, mountain snow play, and indoor museum fun.
Holiday Lights & Winter Experiences
Winter in Southern California is full of beautiful light displays and immersive nighttime experiences. While many peak during December, several continue into January, and similar light festivals appear throughout the season. These outings offer magical evenings the whole family can enjoy.
Winter Fest OC
Winter Fest OC hosts one of the largest winter-themed festivals in the area, featuring ice tubing, snow play, stage shows, and tons of family attractions. It’s a full winter carnival perfect for multiple age groups. (Watch video | Buy tickets)
Enchant Christmas
Enchant’s famous light maze and ice skating trail create a magical winter environment. Even after the major holidays, the immersive lights and photo ops remain a memorable family outing. (Buy tickets)
Astra Lumina
Astra Lumina’s glowing nighttime trail features interactive lights and celestial-themed storytelling. This peaceful, immersive walk-through is ideal for families looking for a unique outdoor experience. (Read blog | Watch video | Buy tickets)
Imaginarium
Imaginarium features huge glowing lanterns, interactive light gardens, and vibrant art installations that kids love. The atmosphere stays festive all winter long. (Watch video | Buy tickets)
DreamGlow Festival
DreamGlow offers another illuminated lantern experience, with large-scale sculptures, glowing pathways, and plenty of family-friendly photo spots. (Buy tickets)
LA Zoo Lights
LA Zoo Lights transforms the zoo into a sparkling winter attraction with themed light paths and glowing animal displays. Even after Christmas, it’s a magical nighttime adventure for kids. (Buy tickets)
Descanso Gardens’ Enchanted Forest of Light
Descanso Gardens hosts one of Southern California’s most beautiful seasonal light shows, featuring artistic displays set among their botanical paths. It’s a serene, interactive winter walk for all ages. (Buy tickets)
Holiday Road
Holiday Road is a drive-through winter lights experience featuring themed sets, tunnels, and oversized ornaments. Families can enjoy the lights from the comfort of their car on chilly nights. (Buy tickets)
Marina Del Rey Lights (Free)
The waterfront comes alive with illuminated boats and holiday décor. It makes for a peaceful, free winter outing great for evening strolls or a casual family night out. (Visit website)
Christmas Tree Lane (Free)
This historic neighborhood is famous for its incredible displays, and while it peaks in December, the festive atmosphere often extends into early January. It’s a classic, cost-free way to enjoy winter lights. (Visit website)
Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade
This beloved parade features decorated yachts and boats cruising through Newport Harbor. It’s an iconic winter tradition that families return to year after year. (Buy tickets)
Christmas & Winter-Themed Train Rides
Southern California’s popular kids’ trains often stay decorated well into the winter season, with cheerful lights and seasonal music. These rides are great for younger kids and remain fun even after the holiday rush.
Griffith Park & Southern Railroad
The miniature train ride travels through themed displays and light tunnels—especially magical at night. It’s a gentle, nostalgic winter activity. (Watch video | Buy tickets)
El Dorado Frontier
Set in El Dorado Park, this western-themed train offers a cozy winter atmosphere with decorated scenery and festive accents. Kids love the old-time charm. (Watch video | Buy tickets)
Irvine Park Railroad
Even outside of the peak holiday season, the train at Irvine Park is a family favorite. During Christmas, it becomes the “Christmas Train,” and the winter theming often continues into early January. (Watch video | Buy tickets)
Snow Play in the Mountains
Southern California’s mountain regions often get fresh snow throughout January and February, making winter the perfect time for day trips. These spots offer sledding, snowball fights, and snowy fun without long drives.
Angeles Crest Highway
After winter storms, pull-off areas along Angeles Crest Highway become perfect spots for quick, spontaneous snow play. It’s one of the easiest ways to introduce kids to real snow. (Watch video)
Mount Baldy
Mount Baldy offers convenient snow play areas and tubing options with great mountain views. It’s ideal for families wanting a short, structured snow adventure close to LA. (Read blog | Watch video)
Wrightwood
Wrightwood is a charming mountain town with family-friendly snow play zones and easy access. It often gets great snowpack during January and February. (Read blog | Watch video)
Big Bear Lake
Big Bear is the go-to destination for bigger snow days. Families can enjoy tubing parks, sledding hills, and plenty of space for kids to run around and play. (Watch video)
Indoor Museums & Play Spaces (Great for Rainy Days)
Winter often brings rain to Southern California, making indoor museums and play spaces essential for keeping kids entertained. These spots offer hands-on learning, physical play, and full-day experiences perfect for colder months.
Discovery Cube
Discovery Cube is packed with science exhibits, interactive experiments, and seasonal installations. It’s a top choice for keeping kids learning and engaged indoors. (Watch video | Buy tickets)
Pretend City
Pretend City recreates an entire miniature town where kids can explore different careers and environments. It’s ideal for toddlers and young kids who love imaginative play. (Buy tickets)
Cayton Children’s Museum
This Westside favorite features creative rooms, climbing structures, and interactive play spaces that encourage curiosity and exploration. (Watch video | Buy tickets)
California Science Center
With free admission and incredible exhibits—like the Space Shuttle Endeavour—the California Science Center is a must-visit during winter. It’s both educational and fun for all ages. (Watch video | Visit website)
Columbia Memorial Space Center
This smaller space museum focuses on hands-on STEM learning, robotics, and space science. It’s a great winter outing for curious kids. (Watch video | Buy tickets)
Skyzone
Skyzone offers trampolines, obstacle courses, and active play zones, making it the perfect place for kids to burn energy on cold or rainy winter days. (Watch video | Buy tickets)
Funbox
Funbox features massive inflatable playgrounds with slides, climbing walls, and bounce zones. It’s an ideal option for high-energy indoor fun. (Watch video | Buy tickets)
Winter in Southern California brings a full season of family fun—from twinkling lights in December to snowy mountain adventures in January and February. Whether you’re planning festive outings, rainy-day museum trips, or quick mountain getaways, these activities make it easy to create memorable experiences with your kids all winter long.
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