The 55 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.

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 on select summer nights, beginning June 29, the Huntington takes advantage of the extra sunlight with Twilight Garden Strolls, a popular after-hours series that lets you wander the gardens during golden hour.

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? Street fests, parades, performances and special events across L.A. that celebrate the LGBTQ+ community.

Why go? WeHo Pride may already be over, but L.A. Pride (June 8) is one of the biggest and longest-running Pride events in the country. Expect the parade and street fair to attract thousands. Later in the month, SaMo Pride takes over Third Street Promenade and the Santa Monica Pier.

Don’t miss: Though the major events are early on in June, you’ll find talks, concerts and meet-ups throughout the month. Some highlights include Pride Night at Dodger Stadium (June 13) and after-hours Pride Nites at Disneyland (June 16, 18). 

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 foodie-favored eateries like Shiku, Fat + Flour, Sticky Rice, Broad Street Oyster Co., Eggslut, McConnell’s and The Donut Man, famous for its doughnuts filled with fresh strawberries (February to September) and peaches (July to August).

Don’t miss: GCM is also the only place outside of Highland Park where you can find a Villa’s Tacos, the onetime roadside stand which is now on Michelin’s Bib Gourmand list. Order the Villa’s Trio for some of the best tacos you’ll ever eat, period.

Take a food tour of Downtown L.A.

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 person) 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? 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: The chance to see LACMA’s new building, the David Geffen Galleries, almost a year before it opens to the public. Three nights this month (June 26–28), saxophonist Kamasi Washington and an ensemble of more than 100 musicians are performing inside the space. The last batch of tickets goes on sale June 12.

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 even in the terminally cynical. It’s the summer home of the LA Phil (and boozy picnics), and this year’s summer season officially kicks off June 7 with none other than A-lister Hugh Jackman. Two things to note: While you can bring your own alcohol for LA Phil–presented shows, it’s not allowed for lease events, so check the guidelines for your concert before you head out. And don’t try driving to a show: There are fewer parking spots now, so you’ll want to opt for a shuttle instead for an all-around smoother experience.

Don’t miss: The stellar on-site dining options from James Beard Award–winning chef Suzanne Goin, if you don’t have time to pack a picnic. (Either way, we recommend picking up a slice of Magpie’s soft-serve pie at the Marketplace.) 

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: This month, Post Malone and Jelly Roll (June 19), Shakira (June 20) and the Weeknd (June 25, 26, 28, 29) are all taking the stage. And for something different, on Father’s Day, the stadium is hosting Dine With Dad, which includes brunch and a behind-the-scenes stadium tour.

What is it? The L.A. Conservancy’s summer time machine in the form of classic films, screened inside Downtown’s grand old movie palaces.

Why go? The series re-creates the glory days of these beautiful historic theaters. This year’s lineup includes The Freshman (with live organ accompaniment) and Roman Holiday at the Orpheum on June 7, a Hitchcock Double Feature of The 39 Steps and The Lady Vanishes at the United Theater on Broadway June 14, and High Noon and Carmen Jones at the Million Dollar Theatre on June 21. Some screenings will be preceded by classic Betty Boop cartoons.

Don’t miss: Most screenings include a special introduction and a post-film Q&A, and there are also ticket bundles that add in a proper theater tour.

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 June screenings: Once Upon a Time in Hollywood (June 7), a 30th-anniversary Pride screening of Showgirls (June 14), Ferris Bueller’s Day Off (June 21) and Casablanca (June 28). 

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

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 projection show, fireworks and 70+ new dining items—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 daily Celebrate Happy Cavalcade, where characters including Duffy and ShellieMay make their way down Main Street, and the Paint the Night Parade, which we think tops the Main Street Electrical Parade (sorry not sorry).

What is it? Friday-evening wine tastings held on the west lawn of Frank Lloyd Wright’s historic Hollyhock House throughout the summer.

Why go? One of our favorite summer traditions—and a win-win way to support Barnsdall Art Park—Friday Night Wine Tastings feature pours provided by Silverlake Wine, food trucks and music. You’re welcome to bring along a blanket and picnic basket, too, and watch the sun set over the city.

Don’t miss: You’ll need to book early to nab a guided tour of the Hollyhock House (an additional $30), but if those sell out, you can take a self-guided (and cheaper) tour outside of the event—you’ll find more info in our stand-alone entry for the Hollyhock House later on in this list.

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: The brand-new on-site restaurant, Farmhouse, which offers farm-to-table dining for lunch, dinner and weekend brunch. Also this month, the Summer Music & Dance Series kicks off with Ukrainian folk dance on June 12.

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: A brand-new exhibition spotlights the production design duo behind films including Barbie and Pride and Prejudice. Also, the first exhibition dedicated to Oscar-winning Parasite filmmaker Bong Joon Ho sheds light on his cinematic influences and creative process.

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? Bard fanatics watch their favorite works come to life for free at the historic Old Zoo in Griffith Park.

Why go? Independent Shakespeare Co. puts on a series of lively productions each week, inviting audiences to take a seat on the grass (read: bring a picnic blanket) and enjoy performances like this season’s headliner, Love’s Labour’s Lost. With construction resuming on a permanent stage on the main lawn, this summer’s shows will move back to the dell at the top of the Old Zoo—meaning available space is smaller and reservations are required. 

Don’t miss: The also-free (but somewhat misnomered) Shakespeare by the Sea tours its productions of Julius Caesar and As You Like It from the South Bay and Long Beach to Downtown and even Encino.

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.

Don’t miss: Universal Mega Movie Summer, an all-new seasonal event kicking off June 13. Find new menu items, merch and summer-themed fun including additions to the Jurassic World ride and the return of the hanging shark Jaws photo op to celebrate the film’s 50th anniversary. (Over in CityWalk, Voodoo Doughnut is serving a punny “Doughnut Go in the Water” treat for the occasion.)

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.” The colorful, thoughtful and ultimately joyous spotlight on the Indigenous artist makes its way to Downtown L.A. from the 2024 Venice Biennale. 

What is it? A host of free concerts that pop up over the summer at some of the city’s top cultural institutions.

Why go? Well, because they’re free. And you might discover your new favorite band. But also because museums like the Getty Center, LACMA and the Skirball stage some fantastic gratis shows over the summer, as do series like Grand Performances.

Don’t miss: Some series, like Off the 405 at the Getty, require free tickets (and those tend to get snatched up quickly), so make sure to scope out the situation for each event before you hit the road.

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? 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: 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 slew of free summer concerts programmed by everyone’s favorite NPR member station.

Why go? Familiar KCRW DJs and local buzz bands will be providing free, open-air tunes on select nights from June through September at Union Station, CAAM, Descanso Gardens, Bowers Museum, Wende Museum, the Autry, Benny Boy Brewing, Cabrillo Marine Aquarium, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes, California Plaza and Chinatown Central Plaza.

Don’t miss: Food trucks, a beer garden and oftentimes after-hours access to the host museum. Our favorite events are the party-till-midnight bashes in Chinatown.

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: Summer of Smorgasburg, kicking off June 8 and running every Sunday through August 24. Highlights include a rotating Smorgasburger Stand with creations from renowned chefs and live DJ sets every weekend.

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: Just in time for Pride Month, exhibition “Queer Lens” (opening June 17) and the accompanying “$3 Bill” look at the intersection of art and the LGBTQ+ community.

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 that’s also L.A.’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Why go? Though the home’s striking exterior is iconic, experiencing it from within is a must: The exquisite wood detailing, long concrete hallways and geometric furniture are well worth the $12 tour. Saturday tours tend to sell out, so make sure to book in advance or try a weekday if you can (Thu–Sat 11am–4pm). Through the summer, you’ll find a display of 21 photographs of the house’s intricate details as captured by L.A.-based artist Janna Ireland.

Don’t miss: Friday Night Wine Tastings, one of our very favorite summer traditions. The series resumes June 6 and stretches into September this year. Enjoy sips from Silverlake Wine as you watch the sun set from your hilltop perch.

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, tons more screening series start up their seasons as the weather warms up.

Why go? Cinespia first started the craze, but 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, Rooftop Movies at the Montalbán, Movie Night Markets and the free Moonlight Movies on the Beach are all back in action too. 

Don’t miss: New screenings and series are announced all the time, so make sure to check our calendar each week. Two June highlights: Movie Night on the Field at Dodger Stadium June 27 and 28, and Outdoor Movies at the Skirball, which is showing two Marvel flicks June 13 and 27 to complement its Jack Kirby exhibition.

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: You can repel up and down the beach’s namesake rock face or take an idyllic hike along its summit. 

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? The recent reopening of PCH is the perfect opportunity to support Malibu’s resilient restaurant community in the wake of the Palisades Fire. The fried seafood and weekend biker crew make Neptune’s a unique dining destination. Alternatively, chow down 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? What’s more classic than a drive-in movie during summer? 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. You can typically find a mix of new releases and cult-classic films to watch from the comfort of your car.

Don’t miss: Some theaters are only open seasonally, while others only screen on weekends, so you’ll want to double-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 June 8.

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.