Three family-friendly things to do in Los Angeles today

By The Mommy Compass · Checked September 25, 2026, 7:18 a.m. Los Angeles time

Guide dates: 2026-09-25.

Friday’s short list starts with a celebratory bookstore morning in Pasadena, then moves to two easy evening options: classic cars in Burbank and a free robotics-and-space night in Downey.

Dolly Parton Day at Vroman’s

Vroman’s is marking Dolly Parton Day with live music, crafts and a special storytime. The bookstore also lists commemorative pins and bookmarks while supplies last.

• When: Friday, September 25, at 11 a.m.
• Where: Vroman’s Bookstore, 695 East Colorado Boulevard, Pasadena, CA 91101.
• Cost: Free to attend; books and other purchases are separate.
• Ages: Families and young readers.
• Planning: No registration is listed. Limited giveaway items are available while supplies last.

Official Vroman’s event listing.

Bob’s Big Boy Classic Car Show

The long-running Friday gathering is a casual stop for kids who like cars. Families can walk the display without committing to a meal.

• When: Friday, September 25, 4–10 p.m.
• Where: Bob’s Big Boy, 4211 West Riverside Drive, Burbank, CA 91505.
• Cost: Free to view; food is separate.
• Ages: All ages; children should stay close to an adult around moving and parked vehicles.
• Planning: Parking can be busy during the show. The lineup varies by week.

Official Bob’s Big Boy event information.

Family Nite: Robotics + Space

Columbia Memorial Space Center’s monthly family night keeps the museum open after hours with a robotics focus, including demonstrations and a robotic dog.

• When: Friday, September 25, 6–8 p.m.
• Where: Columbia Memorial Space Center, 12400 Columbia Way, Downey, CA 90242.
• Cost: Free.
• Ages: All ages.
• Planning: The event includes access to museum exhibits. No advance registration is listed.

Official Columbia Memorial Space Center event listing.

Choose the pace that fits

Pick Vroman’s for a morning book-and-craft outing, the car show for a flexible local stop, or Family Nite for a free hands-on evening. For more ideas beyond today, browse the Explore LA family map.