KidTripster Teen: Top 5 things for thrill-seeking teens to do in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is often called the “City of Angels,” so you’d never suspect that it would be such a great place for daredevils. Yep, L.A. is a thrill seeker’s paradise. These nail-biting activities are not for the faint of heart, but if you’re an adrenaline junkie like me, buckle up! Warning: read at your own risk.
1. Skyslide
Having recently opened, the Skyslide is one of the coolest new attractions to hit the Los Angeles scene. It’s a heart-pounding thrill unlike anything that you’ve probably ever experienced. Skyslide is located on the 70th floor of the U.S. Bank Tower in downtown L.A. and is part of OUE SkySpace L.A. which boasts the tallest open-air observation deck in California. This glass slide takes you on an electrifying 45-foot ride on the outside of the building from the 70th floor to the 69th floor, all while giving you a magnificent aerial view of the city. Since the slide is made entirely out of glass, you also are able to see below – 1,000 feet to the pavement. If you’re afraid of heights, this is definitely not the attraction for you. Cost for timed-ticket entry to the observation deck: Youth (3-12) $19; Adult: $25, plus $8 a single ride.
2. iFLY Hollywood at Universal CityWalk
iFLY in Hollywood makes the impossible possible. It’s an indoor skydiving venue, right next to Universal Studios. For the eager adventurist, it’s a perfect way to begin or end a visit to the theme park. The instructors are very professional and really know what they’re doing. You can walk up and buy your tickets on the spot. However, it’s probably better to book in advance. The price includes the use of all gear required, instruction, a flight certificate, and two very memorable, 1-minute flights in the vertical wind tunnel. Cost: All (3 and up) $59.95; group rates available for families; look for a $10 off online coupon code here.
KidTripster Tip: If you don’t plan on hanging around CityWalk after your flight, save on parking and valet your car. With your iFLY receipt, you get 2-1/2 hours of free parking. From start to finish, the iFLY experience lasts about an hour and fifteen minutes, so you’ll have plenty of time. Or stay as long as four hours with the iFLY receipt for $15. (General parking for CityWalk is $18.)
3. Trapeze School New York in Los Angeles
Do you wanna know the only thing cooler than taking a trapeze lesson? That would be taking a trapeze lesson next to the Pacific Ocean! The Trapeze School New York is situated on the Santa Monica Pier. I got a jolt of excitement when jumping from the platform – 23 feet off the ground – and then came the sensation of soaring through the air like a bird! It’s a great way to spend a morning or afternoon doing something totally unique. Because the class is two hours long, it’s most appropriate for ages 6 and up. The school also offers aerial silks and trampoline classes, if soaring through the sky isn’t your style. Cost: Weekday morning class $47; Weekday afternoon class $57; weekends and holidays $65, plus $10 fee for first-time students.
KidTripster Tip: After your lesson, check out Playland Arcade a little further down the pier or just go chill on the beach.
4. Orange County’s Great Park Balloon
If you want to view some amazing vistas of beautiful Southern California, then give this balloon ride a try. You’ll take a trip 400 feet up in the air in a giant, tethered helium balloon, the first of its kind in the U.S. Great Park Balloon offers unbeatable 360-degree views; on a clear day, you can see 40 miles! The balloon can hold up to 30 passengers per trip and offers an unforgettable experience. For this adventure, head 50 minutes south of Los Angeles to Irvine; I promise, the thrill will be well worth the drive. Cost: Youth (18 & under) free with paying adult or $5 solo; Adult $10; park is closed Mondays through Wednesdays.
KidTripster Tip: If you have younger kids who don’t want to experience the balloon, there’s a carousel nearby that they can ride, while your older kids have some sky-high fun.
5. Helicopter ride
Do you want to have a high-flying, one-of-a-kind experience? Then take a helicopter ride over Los Angeles. You’ll find the best deals on Adrenaline.com. The top-selling excursion leaves from Hawthorne Municipal Airport, about 20 minutes from LAX. It’s a 15-minute, breathtaking tour of Los Angeles. Cost: Varies based on length of trip and what you want to see.
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