Explore LA
Hi, I’m Erika.
I’m a Los Angeles-area mom of two and the creator behind The Mommy Compass. This is a place for family adventures, budget-friendly ideas, and those little everyday moments that deserve a spot on the calendar, too.
My goal is simple: help parents and caregivers find ideas that feel doable. A big day out can be wonderful. So can a snack at the park.
Your guide. Your village. Your adventure.
Follow along for family inspiration around Los Angeles and surrounding areas, plus easy ideas for home.
Follow on FacebookFrequently asked questions.
Find a day out, keep an idea for later, or make something at home.
Where do I find today’s or this weekend’s plans?
Use Today in LA, This Week or This Weekend for published editions. Each guide shows its dates. Older editions stay available in the archive for reference.
How does Buddy help me plan?
Choose a date, area, budget and every age group in your family. Buddy uses the published collection to show up to three matching outing options. Choose a stop to make a plan, find a relevant printable, swap an outing, copy its link or print it.
Can I save places and printables?
Tap Save on a place or printable, then open Saved. Your collection stays in this browser on this device. You can remove individual ideas or clear the collection. No account or newsletter signup is needed. Clearing browser storage also clears saved ideas.
How do I download a printable?
Choose a page in Free Printables and open its PDF download. Save it to your device or print it using the instructions on that page. The previews show the actual available printables.
What should I check before an outing?
Use the listing’s official link for current hours, tickets, registration and age requirements. Free admission may still involve parking, supplies or optional extras. The map helps you compare locations before making a plan.
What do sensory labels mean?
An official sensory friendly offering is different from a general suggestion for a quieter outing. Read the listing’s explanation and linked venue information to see which applies. Contact the venue for specific access needs before a visit.
Useful details. Clear sources.
Know where details come from
Guides and Explore LA listings link to their source information. Dated guides keep their original dates, and past editions are marked as archived. Photography credits identify the source; illustrative photos are labeled.
Know when there is a partnership
Sponsored content and featured placements are labeled. Family Finds and shopping guides include affiliate disclosures. Follow each page’s disclosure for the relationship behind its links.
Browse Family FindsLet’s keep the Compass helpful.
Suggest a family outing or tell me about a detail that needs updating. Include the page or place name, what changed and an official link if you have one.
