Explore LAThings to Do in Los Angeles With Kids This Weekend: September 19–20, 2026
Looking for something fun to do with the kids this weekend without spending your whole night scrolling through event calendars?
I pulled together a few family-friendly picks happening around Los Angeles and nearby areas this Saturday and Sunday — including free events, fall fun, art, puppets, and even spiders.
Guide dates: 2026-09-18–2026-09-20.
Touch-A-Truck at ONEgeneration
This one is especially worth saving for families with little ones who love trucks. Kids can get an up-close look at working vehicles and enjoy a morning of family activities.
The announced sensitivity hour is 8–9 AM, with no sirens or other loud vehicle sounds. Confirm that arrangement with the organizer if your family is relying on it.
Budget approximately $10–$15 per ticket; children 2 and under are listed as free. Check the organizer’s current ticket options before purchasing.
Mommy Compass pick for: toddlers, preschoolers and vehicle-loving kids.
Check ONEgeneration’s event and ticket information →Zootoberfest at the L.A. Zoo
Fall is arriving at the zoo! Zootoberfest is a family-friendly Oktoberfest-inspired weekend with live music, lawn games, seasonal decorations, keeper talks, a giant ribbon tunnel, themed photo spots, German-inspired food and even root beer floats.
The Zootoberfest activities are included with regular zoo admission. Food and drinks are available separately.
Mommy Compass pick for: a family outing with plenty to see without needing a packed itinerary.
See the zoo’s schedule and tickets →Pasadena ARTWalk
If you want something casual where you can wander at your own pace, Pasadena ARTWalk is back for the weekend. Browse more than 180 artisans, handmade goods, food and art. There’s also free fan coloring and decoration for all ages.
It’s outdoors and open to all ages. Shopping, food and some activities may cost extra.
Mommy Compass pick for: families who want an easy stroll and art activities without committing to an entire day.
Explore ARTWalk’s activities and event map →Bob Baker Day
One of the sweetest free family options of the weekend. Bob Baker Marionette Theater’s annual community festival celebrates puppetry, art and the legacy of Bob Baker with a full day of performances and family fun.
RSVP before going: the theater’s homepage says it is required, while the event page strongly encourages it. Pack the stroller, sunscreen and a blanket and make a day of it.
Mommy Compass pick for: little kids, puppet lovers and families looking for a special free LA event.
RSVP and view the official schedule →Spider Pavilion opening day at NHM
Spider season officially begins this weekend. Walk through an open-air habitat with orb weavers and their webs, then explore enclosed habitats featuring other spiders, including tarantulas and wolf spiders.
Museum educators are on hand to answer questions — a fun option for curious kids who love bugs and nature. The seasonal exhibition runs through December 6, 2026. Reserve an available time before visiting.
Mommy Compass pick for: science kids, nature lovers and anyone already ready for spooky season.
Check Spider Pavilion availability →Which one would your family pick?
My goal with The Mommy Compass is to make finding something to do with your kids a little easier — whether you want a whole-day adventure or just one good stop.
You can also use the Explore LA to discover more family-friendly places around Los Angeles and surrounding areas.
Save this guide for the weekend, send it to your mom-friend group chat, and check back for more local family finds.
