The 60 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 rebuilt a 320-year-old house from Japan.

Don’t miss: Roses, camellias and orchids are currently in bloom. Indoors, exhibition series “Stories From the Library” continues with its second installment, opening December 13, which will focus on women writers and early childhood education. See treasures including sci-fi writer Octavia E. Butler’s notebooks and the first schoolbook printed in California.

What is it? Pop-up fairs of mostly handmade, made-in-L.A. gifts held at spots around the city.

Why go? Perfect both for crossing people off your list and treating yourself to a little something special, holiday markets are your chance to procure unique year-end gifts directly from the makers themselves.

Don’t miss: The Unique Los Angeles Holiday Market on December 13 and 14, one of the best small-business shopping events in the country, and Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum’s old-fashioned Holiday Family Faire December 13.

What is it? The seventh edition of the Hammer Museum’s always-excellent art biennial.

Why go? This year’s show brings together works from 28 artists—spanning film, painting, theater, photography, sculpture and video—that engage with the city of Los Angeles. A 20-foot-high inflatable, Buggy Bear Crashes Made in L.A. by Alake Shilling, welcomes you to the museum on the corner of Wilshire and Glendon.

Don’t miss: Wistful Thinking by artist Kelly Wall, a custom penny press that looks like a wishing well. Take a penny from the pile, turn the crank and leave with a sweet souvenir imprinted with a vaguely inspirational message—mine reads “Something to hold on to.”

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.

Take a food tour of Downtown L.A.

What is it? Colorful displays that are lighting up now through the end of the year.

Why go? Each winter, L.A.’s botanical gardens are illuminated with dazzling light displays, infusing the city with holiday spirit. Some of our favorites are the celestial-inspired Astra Lumina at South Coast Botanic Garden, the charming L.A. Zoo Lights and the magical Enchanted at Descanso Gardens. Prices for ticketed events can be pretty steep, so consider a mid-week visit for a few dollars off. 

Don’t miss: Seeing Christmas lights (for free!) on the water. The waterfront Marina del Rey Holiday Boat Parade (Dec 13) and Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade (Dec 17–21) are a guaranteed good time. 

What is it? A meditation garden tucked into Pacific Palisades.

Why go? The Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine was closed for 7 1/2 months post–Palisades Fire, but it’s finally open again, and its lush beauty is miraculously mostly intact. Set on a 10-acre site that was used as a film set during the silent era, its lovely gardens offer some increasingly rare assets today: peace and tranquility. The spot has always been one of L.A.’s best-kept secrets—it’s the perfect place to get lost in your thoughts.

Don’t miss: A reservation. You’ll need one to visit during the gardens’ open hours from Wednesday through Sunday—and spots fill up quickly.

What is it? A handful of ice skating rinks that are opening this month for alfresco skating sessions.

Why go? The sheer novelty and absurdity of being able to bask in beachfront sun by day and glide around an icy rink by night. And for the fun of pretending that winter in L.A. is a thing. Skating makes for a perfect date-night or family-friendly activity.

Don’t miss: Ice at Santa Monica, which is located mere blocks from the ocean, and Pershing Square’s ice rink, where you can skate amid skyscrapers. New this year is a charming ice trail at Enchant LA in Arcadia.

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: Three shows on display now: California-based Chinese artist Zheng Chongbin explores the Golden State through video installations and paintings; graphic designer Beeple’s Diffuse Control lets visitors collaborate with AI on a video-based sculpture; and Tavares Strachan’s first museum exhibition in L.A. is a collection of immersive, multisensory installations.

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

Why go? Cruise along Grand Avenue and you can’t miss the Walt Disney Concert Hall, a twisted metallic explosion of 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: A festive lineup of holiday-themed shows this month, from the Holiday Sing-Along (Dec 13) to the Festival of Carols (Dec 20) to Los Angeles Master Chorale’s Messiah Sing-Along (Dec 22). On December 31, the Roots help ring in the new year.

What is it? A free charming mile-long road lined with illuminated cedar trees in Altadena (Santa Rosa Ave, between Woodbury Ave and Altadena Dr) that’s been running for over a century.

Why go? After the Eaton Fire in January, the future of this joyous holiday tradition was in question. But the trees miraculously survived the devastation, and thanks to some dedicated volunteers, Christmas Tree Lane is continuing as a beacon of hope and rebirth for the community.

Don’t miss: Your chance to see it. The trees will stay illuminated nightly until early January. We suggest arriving later in the evening and driving southbound to avoid the worst of the traffic.

What is it? Although outdoor movie season peaks in the summer, there are alfresco options year-round here—including lots of family-friendly screenings leading up to the holidays.

Why go? Even when the temperatures start to dip at night, Rooftop Cinema Club keeps things cozy with its Fireside Films series, with personal heaters and a hot cocoa included in the ticket price. And Street Food Cinema takes over Heritage Square Museum with four weekends of festive double features.

Don’t miss: New screenings and series are announced all the time, so make sure to check our calendar each week. Two December highlights: An Office holiday-party-episode marathon December 9 at Rooftop Cinema Club and stop-motion Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer paired with The Muppet Christmas Carol December 21 as part of Yuletide Cinemaland.

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)—a perfect date activity, especially at nighttime when the boats light up—or stroll around the path that hugs its borders. 

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: Descanso welcomes a winter wonderland, Enchanted—a whimsical illuminated holiday trail through the gardens—through the beginning of January.

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. Oh, and the gift shop is pretty fantastic, too.

Don’t miss: A new Jaws exhibition celebrates the 50th anniversary of Steven Spielberg’s blockbuster. You can film your own Chief Brody dolly-zoom moment and re-create John Williams’s iconic two-note score.

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: Holiday time at Disneyland, when the park turns into the merriest place on Earth for nearly two months (through Jan 7), with Christmas makeovers of popular rides and festive nighttime light shows.

What is it? A museum modeled after a first-century Roman country house, with views of the ocean.

Why go? After it survived the Palisades Fire, the Getty Villa closed for 5 1/2 months of cleanup efforts, but it’s finally back open. Inside, you’ll find oil magnate J. Paul Getty’s collection of Greek and Roman antiquities—roughly 1,200 artifacts dated between 6,500 BC and 500 AD. Even if you’re not interested in the art, the palatial courtyards and manicured gardens are well worth the visit.

Time Out tip: In order to visit, you’ll need to make a free reservation well ahead of time. While there, check out the reopening exhibition, “The Kingdom of Pylos: Warrior-Princes of Ancient Greece.”

What is it? Pyro, but not the amateur stuff your neighborhood is shooting off to ring in the new year.

Why go? Unlike your neighbor’s Roman candles, these handful of pro shows—held in theme parks and along waterfronts like Marina del Rey and Long Beach—are substantial, and some cases will be shooting off fireworks at both 9pm and midnight.

Don’t miss: There’s a ton more than just fireworks going on to ring in 2026, so make sure to scope out the rest of our New Year’s Eve event picks, including free events and parties. 

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: A new special exhibition entirely devoted to the large-scale sculptures and drawings of Robert Therrien—whose oversized table and chairs have been one of the Broad’s most photographed artworks since the museum opened.

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 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: The Venice Canals’ long-running and gleefully irreverent boat parade will float by on December 14 (4pm, starting at Eastern and Carroll Canals); if you’d like to take part in the fun, bring your own decorated, non-motorized vessel to the launch ramp at Venice Boulevard.

What is it? The vintage entertainment palace is the headquarters of Broadway in Hollywood, which specializes in big-budget musicals. 

Why go? Skip the Hollywood Walk of Fame and head inside to see a show at the gorgeous Art Deco theater, located at Hollywood and Vine. The Pantages dates back to 1930, when it switched off between Vaudeville shows and movies. Today, it welcomes touring productions of the hottest shows on Broadway. When it’s occupied by a long-running production such as Wicked or Hamilton, shows with shorter runs are booked into the Dolby Theatre, home of the Oscars.

Don’t miss: Snagging tickets for the shows on the schedule. The most Tony-nominated play of all time, Stereophonic, arrives at the theater December 9.

What is it? A celestial-themed, hour-long light-up trail at South Coast Botanic Garden with an array of celestial-inspired displays.

Why go? There’s nothing innately Christmassy about this Palos Verdes trail. Its nine stellar installations are cosmically mesmerizing, and one of the only after-dark events of its kind to run throughout the entire winter. Note: There’s basically zero street parking within a reasonable walk of the gardens, so you’ll need to pay up for the on-site parking (or a shuttle on weekends).

Don’t miss: This year the event is embracing a wellness-inspired approach, with pre-walk breathwork classes on select nights to encourage mindfulness.

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: Christmas at the Wizarding World, which decks out Hogsmeade and Hogwarts castle with holiday decor through January 4. You’ll find festivities in other parts of the park, too, most notably the Seuss-ian Christmas tree and its Grinch-led lighting ceremony and Christmas lights and seasonal treats in Super Nintendo World.

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.

Don’t miss: You can take a self-guided tour of the grounds, but make sure the road up there is open first, as it often closes for large stretches depending on the weather.

What is it? Just under a dozen destinations within a day’s drive of L.A. where you can ski or snowboard.

Why go? You can drive for about an hour into the mountains and meet snow in the winter. But burn through a bit of extra gas, and you’ll be rewarded with a proper high-altitude wonderland.

Don’t miss: Snow Valley, Mountain High and the twin slopes of Bear Mountain and Snow Summit are all within a three-hour drive from most parts of L.A.

What is it? A new collection of photo booths—four vintage film machines and one digital—in Silver Lake, courtesy of Photomatica.

Why go? The vintage machines—made by L.A.-based photo booth manufacturer Auto-Photo—date back to the 1950s, ’60s and ’70s, and have been lovingly restored so they’re in pristine working condition and churn out flattering film-strip portraits. There’s no admission fee to the “museum,” which is styled like a retro 1970s living room, but you can expect to pay $7.50 for each turn in a film photo booth or $6.50 in the very cute pink digital booth. 

Don’t miss: The keychain-making station, where you can turn your favorite shot of the day into a keepsake for an extra $10.

What is it? An open-air shopping center located blocks away from the museums of Miracle Mile. 

Why go? In a time when we’re seeing the slow death of indoor malls, this upscale open-air center is a perennial hit—even the most jaded can’t deny that the Grove is just delightful. There are only around 50 retailers, but the selection is strong (think a tree-filled Apple store, Nordstrom, Barnes & Noble and upscale boutiques like Diptyque, Gucci and Vince). There’s also a decent movie theater, a dancing fountain and restaurants including a new location of steakhouse American Beauty and its Win-dow smashburger stand. The Grove is adjacent to the Original Farmers Market, which has hosted mom-and-pop eateries and vendors since the ’30s and is a great spot for a quick bite.

Time Out tip: Through the end of the year, French boutique Sezane has popped up in an “Appartement” at the Grove. It’s the perfect place to pick out Parisian presents in the shadow of the shopping center’s massive Christmas tree and nightly snowfall.

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 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: “Smorg for the Holidays,” a holiday market with guest vendors and food specials, is in session every Sunday through Christmas. On December 14, you’ll also find a Festival of Tea, and on December 21, the last Smorg of the year, Bridgetown Roti hosts a Caribbean Christmas.

What is it? A ho-ho-whole lot of carol sing-alongs, Nutcrackers and Dickensian dramas bringing lively holiday cheer to performing arts venues across the city.

Why go? There’s no better way to get in the spirit than with a ticket to one of these festive plays or concerts. Whether you’re looking for an epic Secret Santa gift or a fun experience with family and friends, the best holiday shows in Los Angeles are a great way to celebrate the season. Think theatrical renditions of A Christmas Carol, a memorable Nochebuena with live mariachi-infused ballet and imaginative takes on The Nutcracker. 

Don’t miss: Even if ballet isn’t your thing, we defy you not to be charmed by Bob Baker Marionette Theater’s take on The Nutcracker, a beloved family-friendly tradition taking the stage at the Sierra Madre Playhouse.

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: A new exhibition in honor of feminist art collective the Guerrilla Girls’ 40th anniversary, with photography, protest art and the group’s famed posters, plus a newly commissioned work for the show.

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 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? Our top 12 spots for a quick getaway from the city whenever you need a reset.

Why go? L.A. is great and all, but sometimes you need a change of scenery. Luckily, living in L.A. means it’s an easy (well, depending on traffic) and often scenic drive to SoCal’s best beaches, small towns, wineries and gorgeous desert landscapes—all within three hours of the city. From wine tasting in Santa Barbara and vintage hunting in Palm Springs to camping in Joshua Tree or feeling the sand between your toes in San Diego, you’re sure to find a short trip worth taking. 

Don’t miss: A snowy excursion to Big Bear—if you’re not a skier or snowboarder, take a trip down the Alpine Slide at Magic Mountain or Mineshaft Coaster, then fuel up at tiki-themed poke spot Tropicali.

What is it? A gorgeous and instantly recognizable outdoor amphitheater 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), 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 many stairs. 

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 newer location that offers 500,000 books and Zen vibes.

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? 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. You can also take an idyllic hike along the summit of the beach’s namesake rock face or even repel up and down it.

Don’t miss: Alternately, skip the paid lots and search for free all-day street parking on Westward Beach, a stretch of sand between Point Dume and Zuma Beach.

What is it? A 103-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, Pam’s).

What is it? A traditional seaside amusement park on the iconic Santa Monica Pier.

Why go? It’s one of the most iconic images of Southern California—the colorful Pacific wheel (the only solar-powered Ferris wheel in the world) with its Pacific Ocean backdrop. There’s also a respectable roller coaster and—my favorite—the Sea Dragon, which was recently upgraded. There’s also an arcade, games and fairground food like churros and funnel cakes. It’s a busy spot to say the least, especially on warm weekends. 

Don’t miss: Holiday Cheer on the Pier, free family-friendly festivities, from visits with Santa to ornament painting to puppet shows from Bob Baker Marionette Theater (Dec 11, 18). 

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? 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 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). 

Don’t miss: An installation of ikebana—the art of flower arranging—by Ravi GuneWardena showcases the influence of Japanese art and design on the Hollyhock House.

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 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? 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 ringing, which only happens four times each year: Fourth of July, National Liberation Day of Korea (Aug 15), during Constitution Week in September, and on New Year’s Eve.

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’ parking lots pull double duty as swap meets, so you can shop during the day and stick around for a double feature at night. 

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 December 14.

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. 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. 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: A handful of holiday tours of Rose Bowl Stadium leading up to the world-famous Rose Bowl college football game on New Year’s Day.

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. 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.

Don’t miss: A new installation of 13 animatronic dinosaurs that you can hunt down with your dog.

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. Keep an eye on the store’s calendar for a lineup of live shows and signings slated around major record releases.

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 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? 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 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, whose model trains are open to riders on Sundays (11am–3pm).

Don’t miss: Every third Sunday of the month, you can visit the barn for free to find a collection of train models and memorabilia. 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.