Day in LA With My Kid — Roughly Under $60

Taking the scenic route—my son leading the way through Malibu’s coastal trails

Let’s be real—LA is expensive. But that doesn’t mean we can’t make magic on a budget. As a single mom who’s been here for 10 years, I’ve learned how to stretch a dollar without shortchanging the fun. I created this day not just because we needed a break, but because I wanted to prove to myself (and to other moms out there) that we could still thrive—even on a tight budget. This wasn’t about just filling time. It was about filling our day with connection, joy, and discovery.

This total doesn’t include gas, but I’m challenging myself to do a full day via train next—what we can explore along the Metro line is coming soon!

☀️ Morning – Free Play + Café Breakfast ($10)

We started our morning early, just after 8 a.m. I packed a backpack with water bottles, sunscreen, and a small first aid kit (because, kids). We headed to Kenneth Hahn Park where there’s plenty of open space, hidden trails, and shaded playgrounds. My son climbed, ran, and played while I had a moment to breathe in the stillness before the city really woke up. There's something about early morning sun through trees that makes me feel like I can handle anything.

After an hour, we headed toward Griffith Park. On the trail, we stopped at a small café and each got something simple: a pastry and hot chocolate for him, a small iced coffee for me. It came out to just under $12 with tax. We sat outside, and he asked me questions about clouds and ants and how money works. We laughed. I felt rich in all the ways that count.

🎭 Midday – The Getty or Natural History Museum ($18–$20 parking)

**Option 1: The Getty Center We chose The Getty on a previous trip and spent hours there. Parking is $20, but admission is free. My son loved the gardens, and we brought a small notebook so he could draw things he saw. We made a game out of picking our "favorite piece" in each gallery. The tram ride up to the museum? That alone felt like an adventure.

**Option 2: Natural History Museum This time, we picked the NHM. With my EBT card, our admission was free (thanks to the Museums for All program), and parking was $18. He loved the dinosaur exhibit. We wandered through fossils, crystals, and insects, and ended up sitting in the Nature Gardens for a snack we had packed. He learned and observed. I rested. It was a win.

🍔 Lunch – Budget Eats ($17.88)

By 1:30, we were hungry. We headed to In-N-Out and order two double-doubles, fries, and a soda. Simple, affordable, and hits the spot every time. Other favorites of ours for days like this include Zankou Chicken (the garlic sauce is elite), or Leo’s Tacos for quick bites that feel like a feast. You don’t need a fancy sit-down place to feel full and happy.

I always keep a picnic blanket in the trunk, so we found a nearby park and turned lunch into an outdoor picnic.

🌺 Afternoon – Splash Pads + Playgrounds (Free)

After food, we hit up Griffith Park. You can spend hours here without spending a dime. We visited the Travel Town Museum, climbed on trains, and watched horses trot by near the pony rides. He made a new friend near the climbing rocks. I got to chat with another mom who told me about a puppet show that happens there some weekends. It reminded me that community often shows up when we least expect it.

Other solid park options that we love: Pasadena Park (near the Rose Bowl) and Hansen Dam (especially in summer with the splash pad).

🍦 Evening Treat – Ice Cream or Froyo ($8.65)

We ended our day with a sweet treat. My son chose Menchie’s this time (he always loads up on gummy bears). Sometimes we go to Salt & Straw when I’m feeling bougie. Either way, we usually share one or get two smalls and stay under $9. It’s not about the ice cream. It’s about ending the day on a high note.

🚗 Grand Total: ✅ Total Spent: $56.53 (with $18 NHM parking)

✅ or $58.53(with $20 Getty parking)

We laughed. We learned. We slowed down. All for less than the cost of brunch in this city.

Planning Your Own Day Under $60

Here’s how I recommend building your own version:

1. Pick your zone: Stay within a 5-10 mile radius to keep travel (and gas) low.

2. Start with nature: LA’s best stuff is often free (hikes, parks, beaches).

3. Mix one splurge: Museum, treat, or fun meal—but keep the rest low-cost.

4. Pack smart: Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, and a blanket.

5. Stay flexible: The best moments are usually unplanned.

Final Thoughts

Being a mom in LA isn’t always easy. But days like this remind me that I don’t have to do the most. I just have to be present. My son won’t remember every toy I bought him. But he will remember when we chased butterflies, ate lunch on the grass, and got brain freeze from froyo.

More budget days, train adventures, and mom hacks coming soon. We're not just surviving LA.

We're sur-thriving.

— Love Always and Forever, Grace