The 52 best things to do in Los Angeles

What is it? A 4,000-plus–acre rugged park in the center of the city.

Why go? The trails, the flora, the views, the howls of coyotes down the canyons at night, the twinkly lights of Downtown in the distance—L.A. may not have a grassy, centralized park, but Griffith’s massive, hilly wilderness makes for a stellar alternative. Even when the Griffith Observatory is closed (on Mondays), you can still drive or hike up to the grounds of the landmark Art Deco dome to take in the unparalleled views. 

Don’t miss: All year long, the Observatory is celebrating its 90th anniversary with new programming and community events, including a celestial celebration at sunset on May 14.

What is it? A historic library, museum and sprawling gardens that was the bequest of entrepreneur Henry E. Huntington.

Why go? The Huntington’s distinctly themed gardens are easily the most stunning manicured outdoor spaces in SoCal, especially its recently expanded Chinese garden. The library and museum are equally impressive; all require reservations on weekends. In the past couple of years, the Huntington has also renovated its historic Rose Garden Tea Room (and recently added a weekday walk-in wine service from 3 to 5 pm) and rebuilt a 320-year-old house from Japan.

Don’t miss: The rose garden, which is currently in full bloom. And in the Chinese garden’s Studio for Lodging the Mind, you can wander through a 3D landscape on painted silk panels as part of the exhibition “Without Us,” opening May 17.

What is it? A monthly after-dark party and lecture series at the Natural History Museum.

Why go? The first Friday of every month from March through June plays host to a KCRW-presented evening of music and hands-on learning, allowing visitors of all ages to stay late for a night at the museum. Each month offers a different lineup of musical guests and DJs, art installations, guided museum tours and scientist-led talks in the new NHM Commons. This year’s AMPLIFIED series puts sound and music under a microscope.

Don’t miss: If you miss the first Friday of the month, you can still head to the Natural History Museum (before dark) for “Butterfly Pavilion,” a seasonal outdoor exhibit where you can walk amid hundreds of butterflies through August.

What is it? A European-style food hall that’s been operating in Downtown L.A. since 1917.

Why go? Even if you’re not there for the food, it’s worth a trip; people from all corners of L.A. mix and mingle among rows of spices, produce and vintage neon signage. Of course, if you’re hungry it’s a great place to get cheap pupusas, carnitas tacos and aguas frescas, as well as food from trendy, foodie-favored eateries like Shiku, Fat + Flour, Sticky Rice, Broad Street Oyster Co., Eggslut, McConnell’s and Villa’s Tacos.

Don’t miss: Tacos Tumbras a Tomas serves the hall’s go-to taco, particularly the carnitas and al pastor. And Glendora’s famed The Donut Man also has a stall here, selling its doughnuts filled with fresh strawberries (February to September) and peaches (July to August).

Take a food tour of Downtown L.A.

What is it? The Rose Bowl Stadium—more specifically the adjacent Brookside Park—has become L.A.’s extremely convenient, close-to-home music-festival destination.

Why go? The venue will host three fests in May alone: Just Like Heaven (May 10), full of indie-aughts-nostalgia acts—think Vampire Weekend, TV on the Radio and a reunited Rilo Kiley; goth, new wave and punk fest Cruel World (May 17), with headliners including New Order and Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds; and pan-Asian music and media collective 88rising’s music fest Head in the Clouds (May 31–June 1), where G-Dragon, 2NE1 and Dean lead the lineup.

Don’t miss: In September, the stadium itself is welcoming Oasis for two nights; the duo chose the Rose Bowl for the L.A. stops on their much-anticipated reunion tour.

What is it? A former reservoir turned public recreation area at the center of one of L.A.’s most buzzing neighborhoods.

Why go? The historic Echo Park Lake in recent years finally became a family-friendly destination worthy of its bold backdrop: the Downtown skyline amid the lotus flower blooms, fountains and the Lady of the Lake statue.

Don’t miss: You can pedal your way through the lake in a swan boat ($13 per hour) or stroll around the path that hugs its borders. We also recently checked out Piknik, the first restaurant to return to the reservoir’s charming boathouse in quite a few years.

What is it? A permanent home for the history of moviemaking that opened just a few years ago.

Why go? The collection includes the sorts of cinematic treasures you’d expect from the people who put on the Oscars, like C-3PO and the sole surviving shark from Jaws. The museum’s gallery rotations currently celebrate Casablanca and Boyz N the Hood, plus composer Hildur Guðnadóttir and documentarian Lourdes Portillo. During our most recent visit, we spotted new props on display from Star Wars, The Matrix and the MCU, and also visited the special exhibitions on cyberpunk and color technology—where you can snap a shot of the legendary ruby slippers. Oh, and the gift shop is pretty fantastic, too.

Don’t miss: The first exhibition dedicated to Oscar-winning Parasite filmmaker Bong Joon Ho, where you can learn about his cinematic influences and creative process. Plus on Sundays, the museum’s on-site restaurant, Fanny’s, is offering an accompanying Korean Sunday Supper series with dishes like bibimbap and galbi jjim (reserve a spot here).

What is it? An annual celebration of deep-fried food and carnival rides, held from May 2 to 26.

Why go? It’s a century-old tradition, stuffed full of belly bombs, agricultural displays, concerts, a roller rink and a car show. You’ll also get a bit of relief from the heat: As of a few years ago, the L.A. County Fair has moved from its typical end-of-summer slot to May, a much more forgiving time of year in Pomona in terms of the weather.

Don’t miss: You can save a few dollars by attending earlier in the month, or pick up $17 tickets in person at Superior Grocers and O’Reilly Auto Parts.

What is it? Chris Burden’s Urban Light, a piece made up of 202 cast-iron street lamps gathered from around L.A. and restored to working order, that stands outside of the massive museum.

Why go? Yes, snag your streetlight selfies. But you’d be selling yourself short if you didn’t venture beyond the photo-friendly installation; LACMA’s collections boast modernist masterpieces, large-scale contemporary works, traditional Japanese screens and by far L.A.’s most consistently terrific special exhibitions.

Don’t miss: Jazz at LACMA, a beloved L.A. tradition that’s back for the season. Enjoy live music just behind Urban Light every Friday night—get there early to snag a seat, or you can bring a picnic for the lawn.

What is it? L.A.’s newest stadium, an indoor-outdoor space that can host up to 100,000 fans and is home to both the Los Angeles Rams and Chargers.

Why go? SoFi is hosting more than just NFL games. It’s also where you’ll find concerts by some of the hottest names in music—who make it well worth the drive to Inglewood (despite the stadium’s admittedly muddy acoustics). For concessions, you’ll find four concepts from local faves Jon & Vinny.

Don’t miss: Queen Bey herself is finishing a run of five Cowboy Carter Tour shows on May 9, after which Kendrick Lamar and SZA will take the stage for three nights, May 21, 23 and 24.

What is it? A screening series held at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Yes, a cemetery.

Why go? The outdoor screenings are an L.A. rite of passage. While the booze- and picnic-friendly vibe are enough for some people, the excellent film programming makes this outdoor series rise above the rest each year. That and the fact that it’s held at the final resting place of Old Hollywood’s screen legends.

Don’t miss: Cinespia’s first screenings of the season include The Big Lebowski and a 30th-anniversary celebration of Clueless over Memorial Day weekend, followed by a screening of Blue Velvet on May 31—a tribute to the late David Lynch. 

What is it? The renaissance fair—the oldest in the country—which returns to Irwindale in April and May.

Why go? Even if you’re not a ren-fair person, this Sante Fe Dam Recreation Area tradition is astoundingly fun. You’ll find fully armored joust tournaments and tea parties with the Queen, along with beguiling stage acts, human-powered rides, archery, artisans selling handcrafted goods, and delicious edibles and ales.

Don’t miss: Many stalls are cash-only, so you’ll want to hit up an ATM before you arrive (lest you deal with the on-site fees).

What is it? The Happiest Place on Earth is marking seven decades of magic with a yearlong anniversary celebration kicking off May 16.

Why go? It’s not like we ever need a reason to play hooky and head to Disneyland, but this milestone provides a good excuse. Expect special programming—including parades, a new light show and fireworks—across both Disneyland and California Adventure. If you haven’t been to the pair of parks in a while, there’s a lot that’s changed—and we’re not just talking about the additions of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Avengers Campus—so we suggest brushing up on some of our essential Disneyland tips first.

Don’t miss: The Princess and the Frog–inspired Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is the newest addition to the resort’s roster of rides—and we have four tips to get a little less wet.

What is it? A hillside botanical garden in La Cañada Flintridge that harbors a year-round collection of native flora.

Why go? This delightful tribute to the horticultural magic of Southern California includes more than 600 varieties of camellia (best seen in winter, throughout January and February), as well as groves and hillsides of native plants. The charming Descanso Railroad that opened last summer—complete with model trains and a train you can ride on—is a must-see.

Don’t miss: There’s always a seasonal bloom to scope out, including roses, irises and the fried-egg-like Matilija poppies right now. You can get your fill of flowers during a pair of guided spring bloom tours (May 17, 18 at 11am).

What is it? Super Nintendo World, Universal Studios Hollywood’s immersive Mario-themed land.

Why go? The colorful, kinetic land lets you throw shells on an augmented reality-enhanced Mario Kart ride, punch ? and POW blocks for coins, and dine inside an adorable Toad-themed café (order the short rib, trust us). We’ve had a chance to visit a few times now, and it’s by far the greatest addition to the park since the still-pretty-magical Wizarding World of Harry Potter—which, by the way, is currently celebrating “Butterbeer Season” through May 31, with magical new treats including a Butterbeer cream puff and the return of the ice lolly.

Don’t miss: On select nights this month, Universal is offering the brand-new Fan Fest Nights, a specially ticketed event where fans can step into the worlds of Star Trek, Back to the Future, Dungeons & Dragons, One Piece and Jujutsu Kaisen, in addition to Harry Potter and Super Nintendo.

What is it? An exhibition from the Icelandic–Danish artist Olafur Eliasson that brings a new series of optical installations to MOCA’s Little Tokyo location.

Why go? Don’t let the reflective, colorful pieces fool you into thinking this is some run-of-the-mill “immersive” exhibit: Olafur Eliasson’s works invite you to admire the everyday miracles of physics that shape how we see the world. The towering, mirror-lined stacks near the entrance and the two kaleidoscopes are our favorite of the bunch.

Don’t miss: You’ll need a timed ticket, but look for reservations on the first Friday of the month (5–8pm) to visit for free.

What is it? A free, contemporary art museum in Downtown L.A.

Why go? Three little words: Infinity Mirror Rooms. The persistently popular museum has two mirror-laden Yayoi Kusama installations (the more immersive of which you can reserve in advance). Of course, there’s plenty more to see, from Robert Therrien’s oversized Under the Table to a half-dozen Jean-Michel Basquiat paintings.

Don’t miss: The museum’s latest special exhibition, “Jeffrey Gibson: the space in which to place me,” opening May 10. The spotlight on the Indigenous artist makes its way to Downtown L.A. from the 2024 Venice Biennale. 

What is it? A comedy club operating out of the classic Coronet Theatre on La Cienega.

Why go? The Largo is L.A.’s home for cultured, bankable singer-songwriters and brilliant comedians. The likes of Colin Hay and Watkins Family Hour regularly ply their trade in the 280-seat theater, with other favorites like Jeff Tweedy stopping by every so often. But most nights, Largo rounds up a consistently stellar stable of comedy talent, from showcases hosted by Patton Oswalt, Nick Kroll, Judd Apatow and Kate Berlant to improv shows by Ben Schwartz and live recordings of Paul Scheer’s popular podcast How Did This Get Made?

Don’t miss: If you want a good seat, check in to will call early, as seat assignments are first-come, first-served. Fill the time by grabbing a beer or glass of wine at the adjoining cash-only bar, the Little Room.

What is it? The Pantages is welcoming Harry Potter and the Cursed Child as the play finally makes its L.A. debut.

Why go? The stage sequel to the Harry Potter series opened in London back in 2016, and is running to this day on the West End and Broadway—it even won the Tony for best play in 2018. Our patience is finally paying off, though, with the chance to see the touring production in the gorgeous Art Deco Pantages. The vintage entertainment palace is the headquarters of Broadway in Hollywood, which specializes in big-budget musicals. 

Don’t miss: Snagging tickets for the upcoming shows scheduled at the Pantages. Highlights include Tony winner Shucked, which is bringing it’s corn-y humor to L.A. in August, and “the world’s most popular musical,” Les Misérables, in October.

What is it? A mountaintop observatory, and a winding, scenic drive to get there.

Why go? High up in the San Gabriel Mountains, the Mount Wilson Observatory affords terrific views of the surrounding region. Admission to the area is free, but you’ll need to buy a Forest Service Adventure Pass in order to park at the site and its adjoining picnic area, as it’s located within the Angeles National Forest. You can take a self-guided tour of the grounds, or a seasonal docent-led tour ($15) of the observatory on weekend afternoons (same-day tickets are available at the Cosmic Cafe). 

Don’t miss: First off, make sure the road up there is open, as it often closes for large stretches. For late-night stargazing, keep your eyes peeled for the pricey but totally-worth-it ticketed events (the monthly lectures are a much cheaper alternative). And consider securing tickets for a concert inside the dome on select Sunday afternoons during the summer. New this year is a Saturday-afternoon screening series of sci-fi classics inside the museum’s auditorium.

What is it? A gorgeous and instantly recognizable outdoor amphitheatre that’s been hosting concerts since the LA Philharmonic first played there in 1922.

Why go? Nestled in an aesthetically blessed fold in the Hollywood Hills, the 18,000-seat venue can bring out the romantic in the terminally cynical. It’s the summer home of the LA Phil (and boozy picnics), but many don’t realize the grounds are open year-round.

Don’t miss: As long as there’s no performance going on (which is most days in the winter and spring), it also doubles as a public park, where you can picnic or even get in a workout on the venue’s stairs. During the busier summer season—which officially kicks off in June—you’re also welcome to bring your own food to ticketed shows (and even booze to LA Phil–produced ones). 

What is it? An 18,000-capacity arena in Inglewood that’s the new home for the L.A. Clippers as of late last year.

Why go? Basketball season is here, but this slick-looking billion-dollar-plus venue across from SoFi Stadium will continue to host major concerts, as well. For better or worse, you won’t have to worry about running down your phone battery from all of those mid-show TikToks because there are USB-C power outlets at every seat. 

Don’t miss: For a dose of culture, the team drafted some all-star L.A.-based artists to create installations across the grounds, including a ship with sails made of backboards by Glenn Kaino and a massive, mesmerizing video piece from Refik Anadol.

Heading to nearby SoFi Stadium instead? You can book a behind-the-scenes tour here.

What is it? A 22-mile bike path, officially known as the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, that traces nearly the entire extent of L.A.’s westward-facing coastline.

Why go? It’s the best way to tour the coastline. The path starts at Will Rogers State Beach and winds its way all the way down to Torrance Beach.

Don’t miss: If you’d rather take the path at a walking pace, you’ll find pedestrian-friendly forks in Santa Monica, Venice and Manhattan Beach.

Take a guided bike ride along the coast.

What is it? A Sunday market with dozens of food vendors in the Arts District.

Why go? The weekly food fest is like an incubator for L.A.’s next big food spot, with more than 80 food and retail stalls at ROW DTLA. You’ll also find the I Love Micheladas beer garden for local brews and micheladas. Feast on Afro-Caribbean cuisine from withBee, Lebanese street food from Teta, ice cream tacos from Sad Girl Creamery—just some of the new vendors that joined in 2025.

Don’t miss: May 18 is AAPI LA Day, where you’ll find guest vendors, specials, activities, performances and a special Taiwan row.

What is it? An independent video store and theater in Eagle Rock that hosts eclectic film screenings.

Why go? Vidiots is a must-visit for the city’s many cinephiles. Formerly a beloved Santa Monica video shop, the film nonprofit took over a nearly century-old theater in 2022 and screens indie releases alongside repertory picks, classics and hard-to-find features in both digital and film. Of course, it wouldn’t be Vidiots without a video store: The organization’s 50,000-strong DVD, BluRay and VHS collection are all available to rent. 

Don’t miss: While you’re at the shop, snap some pics in the on-site film photo booth. 

What is it? A free hilltop art museum with a rolling lawn overlooking the ocean.

Why go? From the ocean to the mountains northeast of Downtown L.A., the panoramic views from this artopolis more than compensate for its relative inaccessibility (you need to ride a tram to the museum). So, too, do the masterpieces on display, particularly its Impressionist paintings and baroque and French decorative arts. The museum is free, but requires a reservation, and parking ranges from $10 to $25 depending on what time of day you visit.

Don’t miss: Vincent van Gogh’s iconic Irises, part of the Getty’s collection. And no visit to the Getty is complete without a walk around the labyrinthine Central Garden.

What is it? The world’s most-Instagrammed bookstore, housed in an old bank building in DTLA.

Why go? One of the city’s best independent bookstores—certainly its largest and highest-profile—cleverly draws people in with its eye-catching book installations, but it’s not style over substance here. You’ll find a truly impressive collection of both new and used volumes, plus a rare-books annex, record shop, coffee bar and a robust calendar of literary events.

Don’t miss: Valley dwellers—and anyone who doesn’t feel like making a trip Downtown—should check out the Last Bookstore Studio City, a brand-new location that offers 500,000 books and Zen vibes.

What is it? A 1921, Mayan-inflected Frank Lloyd Wright house atop a hill in East Hollywood.

Why go? Though the home’s privileged hilltop perch is admirable from the outside, it’s best experienced from within: The exquisite wood detailing, long concrete hallways and geometric furniture are well worth the $7 tour.

Don’t miss: Saturday tours tend to sell out, so make sure to book in advance or try a weekday if you can (Thu–Sat 11am–4pm). A new photography exhibition, “Janna Ireland: Even by Proxy,” showcases photos of the city’s only World Heritage site captured at its centennial. 

What is it? A series of small, Italianesque canals that run through the beachfront neighborhood—hence the name Venice.

Why go? Tucked between the grimy Venice Boardwalk and the posh Abbot Kinney, the Venice Canals offer a completely different side of the famed beachfront neighborhood. Take a stroll through these three canal-lined blocks, and you’ll discover an idyllic scene with arching pedestrian bridges, charming (and astronomically priced) beach houses and bunches of ducklings.

Don’t miss: You can bring your own nonmotorized boat to the canals and tour the neighborhood at water level (enter via the launch ramp at Venice Boulevard).

What is it? Although outdoor movie season lasts year-round here, more screening series are starting up their seasons as the weather gets warmer.

Why go? Although Cinespia first started the craze, there are lots of other great series hosting alfresco screenings all across the city. At Rooftop Cinema Club, you can catch a flick in DTLA just about every night of the week. Mainstays Street Food Cinema, Melrose Rooftop Theatre and Rooftop Movies at the Montalbán are all back in action too. Meanwhile, the Hollywood Roosevelt is screening iconic L.A. films poolside every Thursday night, with proceeds supporting wildfire relief efforts. 

Don’t miss: New screenings and series are announced all the time, so make sure to check our calendar each week.

What is it? One of Southern California’s most beautiful beaches and a frequent Hollywood filming location, due to its iconic rock face.

Why go? If you can’t find a free space along Westward Beach Road and you’re willing to pay for parking, you’ll be rewarded with this wide and rarely crowded patch of sand and surf. As all the parking spots are only steps from the sand, Point Dume is the perfect place to pack a picnic for a beachfront meal as seals and dolphins frolic during sunset—just watch out for those hungry seagulls.

Don’t miss: An easygoing dirt path climbs from the sand to the top of the point, with tons of yellow wildflowers in the winter and spring.

What is it? A concert hall and home of the LA Philharmonic designed by famed local architect Frank Gehry.

Why go? Cruise along Grand Avenue and you can’t miss the Walt Disney Concert Hall, a twisted metallic explosion of Frank Gehry’s imagination. You can look inside the stunning auditorium on a self-guided tour—or catch some classical music before Gustavo Dudamel departs next year—but the exterior is also just as exquisite.

Don’t miss: Climb up the staircase on Grand Avenue, near 2nd Street, and you’ll find a garden hidden behind the hall. Bring a bagged lunch or a climb along the building’s lustrous exterior.

What is it? A 102-year-old theater built by the same architect as the Chinese Theatre and home to the first Hollywood premiere.

Why go: The Egyptian Theatre—which Time Out designated the #35 most beautiful theater in the world—is back after a three-year restoration project. Now under the ownership of Netflix, the streamer will hold special events and premieres there on weekdays. But the American Cinematheque, the nonprofit that first revived the venue in the ’90s, will continue to program it on weekends with excellent cinematic picks and Q&As.

Don’t miss: It’s not the only old theater to make its return recently: The Vista, now under the ownership of Quentin Tarantino, is once again regularly screening films (and serving coffee in an adjacent shop).

What is it? A postcard-worthy seafood shack on the Pacific Coast Highway toward the western edge of Malibu.

Why go? Although, like many Malibu restaurants, Neptune’s Net was closed in the aftermath of the Palisades Fire (and around it, parts of PCH have closed and reopened and closed again), the resilient restaurant has reopened its doors. The fried seafood and weekend biker crew make Neptune’s a unique destination. (Alternatively, dine up the coast with locals at Malibu Seafood, where the long line is worth the wait for fresh fish and seafood, or grab a superlative lobster roll at Broad Street Oyster Co.)

Don’t miss: Take your food across the street and park in the dirt patch by the water, with views of surfers and kite boarders.

What is it? A pooch-friendly paradise in Paradise (that doubled for Venice in L.A.’s Olympic handoff).

Why go? The four-acre waterfront spot is the only legal off-leash dog beach in L.A. County. The park is named after the area’s late local canine celebrity, Rosie the English bulldog. The entrance can be easy to miss; there are no fences marking the dog-friendly area—though you’ll know you’re in the right spot if you see the signs and colorful “Dogs at Play” sculpture—so you’ll want to stay between Granada Avenue and Roycroft Avenue between 6am and 8pm daily. 

Don’t miss: Monty’s Dog Beach & Bar, an adorable (and very crowded) new bar/snack shop with outdoor seating and an agility course for your pup.

What is it? Dozens of public, outdoor stairways scattered around Silver Lake’s verdant hillsides.

Why go? These WPA-era staircases are well-suited for a workout or a fitness-forward tour of the area. Though some homeowners have tried to prevent open access, make no mistake: These sets of stairs are for public use. You can find an exhaustive list in author Charles Fleming’s Secret Stairs.

Don’t miss: Highlights include the heart-painted Micheltorena Stairs (Sunset Blvd and Micheltorena St) and the Music Box Steps (Vendome St and Del Monte Dr), of Laurel and Hardy fame.

What is it? Ten miles of streets, mostly along Palos Verdes Drive, hugging the coast from the Torrance border to San Pedro.

Why go? The first third of the drive sticks mostly to spectacular real estate a few blocks inland, but after you round Point Vicente, the drive changes dramatically. For a few miles past Terranea, there’s nothing but undeveloped oceanfront hillsides, winding roads and golden-hued bluffs.

Don’t miss: Take a stroll by the Point Vicente Interpretive Center for views of the nearby lighthouse. Also, part of the peninsula is literally in the midst of a slow-moving landslide, which has already closed the iconic Wayfarers Chapel—so, you know, explore the area while you still can. 

What is it? A mighty metallic bell and pavilion in San Pedro donated by South Korea in 1976.

Why go? Perched over the Pacific, this grassy spot overlooking the ocean is known for its namesake bell, with an ornately painted hipped roof. The exposed hillside is an ideal spot to fly a kite, thanks to persistent winds coming off the ocean.

Don’t miss: The bell rings only four times each year: Fourth of July, National Liberation Day of Korea (Aug 15), New Year’s Eve and during Constitution Week in September.

What is it? About a half-dozen drive-in movie theaters in SoCal that are still going strong.

Why go? During the pandemic, it was one of the only ways to see a first-run movie that wasn’t on your couch. But even with regular theaters open again, we still think it’s tons of fun, nostalgic and cost-effective.

Don’t miss: Some theaters are only open seasonally, while others only screen on weekends, so you’ll want to check the schedule before you drive over.

What is it? A staggeringly colossal flea market held outside of the Rose Bowl the second Sunday of each month. The next market will be held May 11.

Why go? The sheer size and scale of this flea market means that it encompasses multitudes: new and old, handcrafted and salvaged, the cheap and the costly. There are plenty of duds, to be sure, but come out early enough and you may go home with that perfect purchase.

Don’t miss: Stray from the main loop around the stadium; there are rows and rows of old furniture, albums and vintage clothes and accessories that fill the adjacent parking lot.

What is it? A Westside lookout best known for its 282 steep, concrete stairs to the top.

Why go? The views from the top offer some of the best views of the region, with the ocean on one side and the Downtown L.A. skyline on the other (set against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains in the winter). Once you reach the summit, sit at the long park bench and take in the 360-degree views.

Don’t miss: If you’d rather not beat up your knees but still want the view, we’ve driven up to the top of the hill and parked in—on a weekday, at least—one of the many empty spaces ($6).

What is it? A warehouse-sized record store in the middle of Hollywood.

Why go? Sure, Spotify is great, but anyone in search of that arcane track off of that mid-’80s Tom Robinson album knows it isn’t perfect. Neither is Amoeba, but it is the largest independent record store in the United States, and the variety of music on offer is amazing, the prices are fair and the staff really know their music.

Don’t miss: Its new address—the shop recently moved from its longtime home on Sunset Boulevard to a spot at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Argyle Avenue.

What is it? Take a fuel-efficient walking tour and cherish Los Angeles’ urban architectural heritage.

Why go? The Los Angeles Conservancy walking tours take in the city’s top sights and most beautiful buildings, including Downtown’s historic theaters and Art Deco buildings (on a weekly basis), as well as the modern skyline (monthly). Be sure to reserve a place well ahead of time, because the tours are incredibly popular.

Don’t miss: The tour of Victorian homes in Angelino Heights (first Saturday of the month, 9:45am), which takes you past some gorgeous houses you’ve probably seen onscreen. Afterward, walk down the hill and grab brunch in Echo Park. 

What is it? Holey Moley, a boozy new putt-putt place on Third Street Promenade that stays open late.

Why go? There are surprisingly few spots for putt-putt golf in L.A., so this project from Australian company Funlab is a welcome addition. The 27 themed holes offer hours of campy fun and let you cut loose and feel like a kid again—albeit with booze, in the form of playful cocktails.

Don’t miss: For a more traditional take on mini golf, Castle Park in Sherman Oaks and and Golf N’ Stuff (of Karate Kid fame) have you covered.

What is it? A small but beautiful state beach in Malibu dominated by rocky coves.

Why go? Because it’s easily the most scenic stretch of coastline in the region. It’s only accessible via a steep, gravelly path from a paid parking lot. But the effort is worth it, whether it’s to watch the waves lap against the rocks or see the sunset.

Don’t miss: The tide. The beach here is pretty narrow, and sand comes at a particular premium when high tide rolls in.

What is it? A grand, white concrete tower that’s served as L.A.’s city hall since 1928.

Why go? It’s the cheapest way to take in an elevated view of Downtown and beyond. If you’re ever passing through the Civic Center during weekday public hours, enter on Main Street—then you owe yourself a visit to the 27th-floor observation deck.

Don’t miss: Look for the 1984 Olympic torch near the Spring Street exit.

What is it? An 8,000-acre mountainous park that looks unlike anything else in L.A.

Why go? With dramatic gorges, open pastures, lush forests, hidden pools and jagged peaks, Malibu Creek is simply one of the most stunning spots in Southern California.

Don’t miss: A bit of silver-screen history; you can spot remnants of the M*A*S*H set and splash in the rock pool that was featured in Planet of the Apes. Consider using your library card to secure a free parking pass.

What is it? A series of farmers’ markets held every week year-round in Santa Monica.

Why go? The next time you’re at a restaurant and are tempted to ask the waiter where your astonishingly fresh beets came from—don’t. We’ll save you the trouble and answer for you: the Santa Monica Farmers’ Market.

Don’t miss: While the market takes place a few different days of the week in various parts of Santa Monica, the best day to go is Wednesday, along Arizona Avenue (8am–1pm).

What is it? An outdoor oasis of pools, mineral baths and hot and cold plunges tucked into a tropical plant-filled valley in Corona.

Why go? Like a wellness-focused playground for adults, Glen Ivy sits in the sweet spot where it’s close enough (about an hour or two drive) to go for the day, but far enough to feel like an escape from L.A. Though it’s largely more of a resort-like spa than its name implies, there is indeed a 104-degree naturally fed hot spring at Glen Ivy (you’ll certainly smell the sulfur).

Don’t miss: Muddying the waters at Club Mud, a spring-water mud pool where you can slather yourself with California red clay, known for its exfoliating and detoxing properties. Just make sure to wear a swimsuit you don’t mind getting stained.

What is it? A once-a-month block of dog-friendly hours at the Palos Verdes botanical garden.

Why go? To spend some quality outdoor time with your four-legged best friend, of course. One Sunday a month, you can roam the gardens’ 87 acres with your fur baby. We were able to bring our dog to nearly every corner of the grounds, with the exception of the rose garden and a few other small paths that are closed off to pups.

Don’t miss: You—the human—will need a reservation, while your best friend—the pup—will need to remain on their leash at all times, including in the parking lot.

What is it? A model train workshop housed inside of a red barn that used to reside in Walt Disney’s Holmby Hills backyard.

Why go? Walt Disney used to ride his own 1/8th-scale live-steam railroad—the “Carolwood Pacific Railroad”—around his backyard until he shifted his focus to a much bigger project: Disneyland. In 1999, the red barn that he used as his workshop was moved to Griffith Park’s Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum. The model trains are open to riders on Sundays (11am–3pm), and every third Sunday of the month, you can visit the barn to find a collection of train models and memorabilia.

Don’t miss: Legendary Disney artists and engineers are known to pop in during open hours.

What is it? An Arts District arcade bar.

Why go? If ever there was a bar to geek out in, this one is it. L.A.’s first arcade bar—it was founded in 2014—boasts more than 55 classic arcade cabinets and pristinely preserved pinball machines—all fixed with cup holders for endless booze-fueled sessions. An homage to the golden age of arcade games, cocktails here have names like Kill Screen, Wizard Mode and Dr. Mario. There’s also a big outdoor patio and a listening bar with a DJ spinning full time. 

Don’t miss: If you’re feeling competitive, join the L.A. Pinball League, which plays at EightyTwo on Tuesday nights.