Los Angeles, the city of dreams, offers many free activities suitable for all interests and ages. From stunning beaches to vibrant cultural centers, there’s something for everyone. So, in this blog post, we will discuss free things to do in LA or free LA attractions.
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Free Things To Do In LA – Los Angeles Free Activities
Please take a look at this detailed guide on the best free things to do in LA or best places to visit in Los Angeles for free, why they are worth visiting, what interests they cater to, their locations, how to reach them, and nearby attractions.
Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
Griffith Observatory offers breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood Sign. It’s a haven for astronomy enthusiasts, with free public telescopes and informative exhibits about space and science.
Interest Type: Astronomy, nature, hiking
Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take the I-5, exit Los Feliz Boulevard, and follow the signs to Griffith Park.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Red Line to Vermont/Sunset Station and then catch the DASH Observatory Shuttle.
Nearby Travel Options:
- Greek Theatre: Catch a show at this iconic outdoor theatre.
- Hollywood Sign Hike: Embark on one of the trails leading to a closer view of the Hollywood Sign.
The Getty Center
The Getty Center boasts an impressive art collection, beautiful gardens, and stunning architecture. The museum features European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Though there is entry fee for this museum, but there are free resources to have a look on.
Interest Type: Art, architecture, gardens
Location: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take the I-405 to Getty Center Drive.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Bus 761 to Getty Center Drive and transfer to the free Getty Center Tram.
Nearby Travel Options:
- Skirball Cultural Center: Explore more art and cultural exhibits.
- UCLA Campus: Walk around the beautiful University of California, Los Angeles grounds.
Santa Monica Pier and Beach
Santa Monica Pier is iconic with its historic carousel, arcade games, and street performers. The adjacent beach offers golden sands and ocean waves, perfect for a relaxing day.
Interest Type: Beach, entertainment, family-friendly
Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take the I-10 West to the 4th Street exit.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Expo Line to Downtown Santa Monica Station.
Nearby Travel Options:
- Third Street Promenade: Shop, dine, and enjoy street performances just a short walk away.
- Palisades Park: Stroll through this scenic park with stunning ocean views.
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Venice Beach and Boardwalk
Venice Beach is known for its bohemian spirit, vibrant street art, and Muscle Beach. The boardwalk is a great place to people-watch and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
Interest Type: Beach, street art, culture
Location: Venice Beach, Los Angeles, CA 90291
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take the Venice Boulevard exit from the I-405.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Bus 33 to Venice Boulevard.
Nearby Travel Options:
- Venice Canals: Wander through the picturesque canals modeled after those in Venice, Italy.
- Abbot Kinney Boulevard: Explore this famous street’s trendy shops and restaurants.
The Broad
The Broad is a contemporary art museum with an extensive post-war and contemporary art collection. Its unique architecture and free admission make it a must-visit.
Interest Type: Contemporary art, architecture
Location: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take the US-101 to Grand Avenue.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Red or Purple Line to Civic Center/Grand Park Station.
Nearby Travel Options:
- Walt Disney Concert Hall: Marvel at the stunning architecture by Frank Gehry and attend a concert.
- Grand Park: Relax and enjoy the green space in the heart of downtown LA.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Walk along the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and see the stars of your favorite celebrities embedded in the sidewalk. It’s an iconic and bustling part of LA.
Interest Type: Pop culture, history, sightseeing
Location: Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take the US-101 to Highland Avenue.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland Station.
Nearby Travel Options:
- TCL Chinese Theatre: Admire the handprints and footprints of stars in the forecourt.
- Hollywood Museum: Explore the history of Hollywood cinema.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
LACMA is the largest art museum in the Western United States, offering a diverse collection of art from different cultures and eras. Note: General admission is free on the second Tuesday of each month and on certain holidays.
Interest Type: Art, culture, history
Location: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take the Wilshire Boulevard exit from the I-405.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Purple Line to Wilshire/Western Station and transfer to the Metro Bus 20.
Nearby Travel Options:
- La Brea Tar Pits: Explore this active Ice Age Fossil Excavation site and museum.
- Petersen Automotive Museum: Discover the history and future of the automobile industry.
Runyon Canyon Park
Runyon Canyon Park offers some of the best hiking trails in LA. It offers panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood Sign, making it a popular spot for locals and celebrities alike.
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Interest Type: Hiking, nature, fitness
Location: 2000 N Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take Franklin Avenue to Fuller Avenue.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland Station and walk north on Fuller Avenue.
Nearby Travel Options:
- Hollywood Bowl: Catch a concert at this famous amphitheater.
- Hollywood & Highland: Visit this shopping and entertainment complex.
El Matador State Beach
El Matador State Beach is one of Malibu’s most beautiful beaches. It is known for its dramatic cliffs and rock formations, which make it perfect for photography and a peaceful beach day.
Interest Type: Beach, photography, nature
Location: 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) north to the beach’s entrance.
- By Public Transport: Public transport is limited; driving or renting a cab is recommended.
Nearby Travel Options:
- Malibu Pier: Enjoy the views and dining options.
- Zuma Beach: Another beautiful beach option nearby.
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The Last Bookstore
The Last Bookstore is an iconic spot in downtown LA. It is a haven for book lovers, with a vast selection of new and used books, vinyl records, and art installations.
Interest Type: Literature, art, culture
Location: 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take the US-101 to Spring Street.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Red or Purple Line to Pershing Square Station.
Nearby Travel Options:
- Bradbury Building: Visit this architectural gem featured in numerous films.
- Grand Central Market: Enjoy diverse food options from local vendors.
Rodeo Drive – Free LA Attractions
Rodeo Drive is a world-renowned shopping street famous for its luxury boutiques and designer stores. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s worth visiting for the glamorous atmosphere and celebrity sightings.
Interest Type: Luxury shopping, sightseeing, pop culture
Location: Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take Wilshire Boulevard to Rodeo Drive.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Purple Line to Wilshire/Western Station and then the Metro Bus 20.
Nearby Travel Options:
- Beverly Gardens Park: A beautiful park perfect for a relaxing stroll.
- Beverly Hills Hotel: Visit this historic hotel and its iconic pink facade.
Citadel Outlets – Los Angeles Free Activities
Citadel Outlets offer a great shopping experience with discounts on popular brands. The outlet’s unique architecture and sculptures make it an exciting place to visit.
Interest Type: Shopping, architecture
Location: 100 Citadel Dr, Commerce, CA 90040
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take the I-5 South and exit on Atlantic Boulevard.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Bus 60 to Telegraph Rd/Citadel Dr.
Nearby Travel Options:
- Commerce Casino: Try your luck at one of the largest card casinos in the world.
- East Los Angeles Civic Center: Explore the local culture and parks.
Universal CityWalk – Free Things to do in LA this weekend
Universal CityWalk is an entertainment and shopping district adjacent to Universal Studios Hollywood. It offers a lively atmosphere with street performers, shops, and dining options.
Interest Type: Entertainment, shopping, dining
Location: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
How to Reach:
- By Car: Take the US-101 to Lankershim Boulevard.
- By Public Transport: Take the Metro Red Line to Universal City/Studio City Station and then take the free shuttle.
Nearby Travel Options:
- Universal Studios Hollywood: Although not free, the theme park offers a variety of attractions and shows.
- Hollywood Bowl: Enjoy a concert at this famous amphitheater, a short drive away.
Los Angeles is brimming with free attractions that offer a taste of its rich culture, history, and natural beauty.
Now, you know there are many exciting free things to do in LA, which are also major tourist attractions. So make the most of your time exploring these Los Angeles free activities without burning holes in your pockets.
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