If you need a break from the urban jungle, visit the 4,300-plus-acre Griffith Park. Not only is its observatory and its medley of museums worth exploring, but its trees and trails and picnic grounds aplenty provide a literal breath of fresh air. The Griffith Park & Southern Railroad miniature train is a hit with toddlers and preschoolers (and their accompanying adults), and there are pony rides available right next to it.