Things to do in Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles is a captivating and diverse city known for its excitement and can be quite expensive. However, there are numerous free activities to enjoy without breaking the bank. From hidden waterfall hikes to complimentary ballet lessons taught by professional dancers, there are plenty of fun and cost-free things to do in L.A. if you know where to look. While the city’s near-perfect weather makes outdoor activities at beaches and parks a year-round option for no- or low-cost fun, there are also many indoor freebies to explore. One of the city’s best-kept secrets is its free-admission museums. In addition to those mentioned in the list below, many others are free or have only a suggested donation admission fee, including the Hammer Museum, California Science Center, Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), Institute of Contemporary Art, LA Plaza De Cultura y Artes, Wende Museum, Fowler Museum at UCLA, Holocaust Museum LA, and the Los Angeles Maritime Museum.

1. Enjoy panoramic views from Los Angeles City Hall. Visit the observation deck at the top of City Hall for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city, all for free. It’s a unique experience located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, where you can also obtain a marriage license or apply for a construction permit.
   
   
   
2. Attend a live TV show taping for free. Whether you’re a fan of late-night talk shows or game shows, you can secure tickets to popular shows like The Voice, The Price Is Right, Wheel of Fortune, The Kelly Clarkson Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and more. Due to high demand, it’s advisable to plan ahead to secure tickets for this exciting free activity in Los Angeles.
   
3. Explore the enchanting world of The Last Bookstore in Downtown L.A. This isn’t just an ordinary bookstore; it’s an immersive experience. Wander through a tunnel of books, discover volumes suspended mid-air inside an old bank vault, and peek through a peephole made entirely of books. It’s a captivating and free activity that book lovers will truly appreciate.
   
4. Experience the magic of stargazing at Griffith Observatory. Located on Mount Hollywood’s southern slope above Los Feliz, it is the most visited public observatory in the world. Visit on a clear night to explore the solar system through public-viewing telescopes and peer through a 9,000-pound Zeiss telescope perfectly aligned with the axis of Earth.
   
   
5. Enjoy outdoor activities along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. Head to Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades and take a jog, rollerblade, bike ride, or leisurely walk along the 22-mile trail north toward Torrance County Beach. The flat, paved path, also known as The Strand, offers a great opportunity for people-watching and enjoying the fresh air.
   
6. Immerse yourself in the captivating Infinity Mirrored Room at The Broad. This contemporary art museum features works by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Jasper Johns. Don’t miss the chance to reserve a free time slot and experience Yayoi Kusama’s mesmerizing Infinity Mirrored Room, adorned with hundreds of tiny twinkling lights.
   
   
7. Take a leisurely stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Explore the famous sidewalks along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, adorned with over 2,700 terrazzo-and-brass stars commemorating famous celebrities. Capture a memorable moment by finding your favorite legend’s star and snapping a photo.
   
8. Embark on a scenic hike to a hidden waterfall at Escondido Canyon Park in Malibu. This 4-mile out-and-back hike leads you through shallow streams to the beautiful Escondido Falls. After rainfall, witness the impressive volume of water cascading down the falls. Note that parking in the official lot qualifies as an inexpensive option, but you can also find free parking along the Pacific Coast Highway with a bit more effort.