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Find your fun in Los Angeles this summer

Raise your fun factor this summer with our guide to the best events and activities in town—and how to kick the good times up a notch

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Summer is full of opportunities for adventure—waterways to explore, trails to discover and gorgeous parks to plant yourself in for sunny afternoons (okay, that last one isn’t so adventurous—but we’re totally there). And we love all of that good stuff. This year, though, we want something more, and so Time Out is teaming up with Crocs to say no to standard summers. First, we’re helping you find your fun with dozens of great activities right near you; then, we’re telling you how to take that fun to the next level. Try these great fun-stuffed activities below and use the hashtag #FindYourFun to show the world your summer of good times.

Photograph: City of Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks

Go for a swim in a public pool


For those summer days when you can't be bothered to brave beach traffic, try one of LA's sparkling public pools instead.

Make it more fun: Don't feel like competing for pool time with kids? Be on the lookout for the Annenberg Community Beach House's (415 Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica) adults-only sunset swims—just make sure to bring your waterproof Swiftwater Clogs with you. Shop now

Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

Enjoy a weekend dim sum brunch in Chinatown


Stop at Empress Pavilion (988 N Hill St #201) or CBS Seafood (700 N Spring St)  for dumplings and steamed pork buns on Sunday morning to take a break from the regular farm-to-table brunch crowd.

Make it more fun: Plan a visit for the third Saturday in June, July and August when Chinatown Nights fills the streets with food vendors, cooking demos, video projections and DJs; the Isabella Sandal will keep you looking good and feeling comfortable throughout the night. Shop now

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Photograph: Courtesy Grand Park

Get to know the Civic Center


Climb atop City Hall (200 N Spring St), explore the Music Center plaza (135 N Grand Ave) and relax in the middle of Grand Park (200 N Grand Ave), all within a few blocks of each other.

Make it more fun: Stay into the evening every other Friday night and get ready to cut a rug in your Leigh Graphic Wedges at Dance Downtown, the Music Center's free dance lesson and party series. Shop now

Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

Try a few off-the-menu dishes around LA


Here are some hush-hush examples to get you started: Look for a fried chicken sandwich at Night + Market Song (3322 Sunset Blvd), the Jazz burger at Jitlada (5233 Sunset Blvd) or the not-so-secret animal-style fries at In N Out (7009 Sunset Blvd).

Make it more fun: Go underground by signing up for one of LA's underground supper clubs. Strap on your Sienna Flats for an unforgettable night of new friends, an incredible meal and the satisfaction of knowing that some of the best food in the city comes from a secret location. Shop now

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Photo courtesy The Queen Mary

Spend a day in Long Beach


Explore the area’s humble cityscape and its revived downtown waterfront, home to the Queen Mary (1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach), Aquarium of the Pacific (100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach), the shops at Pike (99 S Pine Ave, Long Beach) and Shoreline Village (401-435 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach).

Make it more fun: Hop on board the Catalina Express—it's free on your birthday—with your Swiftwater Clogs and spend a day exploring Southern California's coastal playground. Shop now

Photograph: Courtesy Lou Wine Shop & Tastings

Try a flight of wine at one of LA's best wine bars


Enjoy robust reds, sparkling whites or summery roses at the many tastings offered by wine shops across the city. Most are reasonably priced and come with a few snacks too—you may even get a discount on bottles you buy post-tasting.

Make it more fun: Take in a view of Los Angeles with a glass of wine in hand at Barnsdall Art Park's Friday night Wine Tastings (4800 Hollywood Blvd), where you can kick back in your Karin Floral Clogs while sampling four wines presented by Silverlake Wine. A DJ will provide the tunes; you just need to come thirsty. Shop now

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Photograph: Shutterstock

Explore Abbot Kinney


Peruse the trendy shops and restaurants along Abbot Kinney for an afternoon, stopping for coffee or ice cream before taking a detour to the beach for a glimpse of the ocean at sunset.

Make it more fun: Walk along the Venice canals in a pair of Sienna Flats. The quiet, tree-lined waterways easily transport you outside of the city while you daydream about which house you'd like to live in. Shop now

Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

Indulge in a donut for breakfast


Head to one of LA’s iconic donut shops for a decadent morning (or anytime!) meal, like Randy’s Donuts in Inglewood (805 W Manchester Blvd) or, for vegan-friendly options, Donut Farm in Silver Lake (2609 Sunset Blvd).

Make it more fun: Eat your way through sprinkled, frosted and cream-filled donuts at Time Out LA’s Donut Party, held at the Avalon (1735 Vine St) on June 11, featuring donut bites from six local shops, plus coffee and hard cider. Work it off with a stroll around Hollywood in your Sloane Platform Flips. Shop now

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Photograph: Courtesy Taking the Reins

Go horseback riding


Take in the sights of LA on horseback by taking a trail ride up to the Hollywood Sign with Griffith Park Horse Rentals (480 W Riverside Dr, Burbank).

Make it more fun: Stop by a store on your way up to the ranch to pick up a bag of carrots to learn how to feed the horses. Don't have a pair of cowboy boots? No worries, a pair of Yukon Mesa Clogs are good for a slow walk in a Western saddle. Shop now

Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

Take a bike ride


Head to one of the beach cities and either bring your own or rent a bike for a ride up and down the Strand.

Make it more fun: Be sure to also bring a bike lock so you can stop along the piers in Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach and Venice for a drink or some shopping. Be sure to wear some Karin Floral Clogs for a comfortable trip. Shop now

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Photograph: Courtesy Mel's Drive-In

Watch a movie at a drive-in theater


Enjoy the weather and a newly released movie at one of Southern California's drive-in theaters.

Make it more fun: Bring a lawn chair and a picnic to enjoy the movie from right outside your car—and don't forget wear a pair of Yukon Mesa Clogs so you can easily kick back while enjoying the movie. Shop now

Photograph: Kristopher Bicknell

Watch Shakespeare in a park


From Shakespeare by the Sea to the Theatricum Botanicum (1419 N Topanga Canyon Blvd, Topanga), head to one of the many Shakespeare events that take place outdoors this summer.

Make it more fun: Grab a bottle of wine and a blanket to relax under the stars while enjoying the show. The events can get packed, so prepare for a bit of a walk by wearing a pair of Sloane Platform Flips. Shop now

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Photo courtesy Fiesta Hermosa

Celebrate at Fiesta Hermosa


Memorial Day weekend means Fiesta Hermosa! Enjoy the long weekend at this three-day event featuring food and drink vendors, shopping and more.

Make it more fun: There is something for everyone at Fiesta Hermosa, from shopping to carnival rides and more, but be sure carve out time in your day to head over to the beach for a little fun in the sun and a splash in the waves in your Swiftwater Clogs. Shop now

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/incidencematrix

Check for whales at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center


Whales have been seen all along the coast lately, and one of the best spots to see them is the Point Vicente Interpretive Center (31501 Palos Verdes Dr W, Rancho Palos Verdes) on the Palos Verdes Peninsula.

Make it more fun: Bring a pair of binoculars and wear a pair of comfortable Sienna Flats so you can stand for as long as it takes to see whales in real life, and then head inside to walk around the Interpretive Center to learn even more about them. Shop now

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Photograph: Shutterstock

Visit the Griffith Observatory


Venture up to the beloved hilltop observatory (2800 E Observatory Rd) and look out on the city below; it's the perfect spot to start a sunset hike or to take in a twinkly view of LA at night.

Make it more fun: Gaze into the cosmos with the help of some amateur astronomers at the monthly Public Star Parties. If you plan on waiting in line for the historic 12-inch telescope, consider slipping into a comfy pair of Yukon Mesas Clogs first. Shop now

Discover more fun activities

Photograph: Courtesy Rooftop Film Club

Watch a movie with a view


Attend a screening at Rooftop Film Club, which shows classics, cult favorites and new releases up on the Montalbán rooftop in Hollywood. The venue provides lawn chairs, blankets and even personal-audio headsets, so all you have to do is enjoy.

Make it more fun: Show up early! Movies start at 8pm, but doors open at 6pm, which means two hours of rooftop hangs, complete with dinner and drink options. Why meet up at a crowded bar before the movie when you have a rooftop all to yourself? Wear your Yukon Mesa Clogs so you can easily slip ’em off and get comfy once the movie starts. Shop now

Photograph: Courtesy Los Angeles Philharmonic Association/Adam Latham

See a Hollywood Bowl concert


Enjoy a summer night under the stars at one of Hollywood Bowl’s many shows this summer, whether it’s the LA Phil or Chicago plus the July 4th Fireworks Spectacular.

Make it more fun: Prepare ahead and bring along some delicious snacks and drinks, and maybe a warm blanket, to picnic at the show. Just make sure to wear some Sienna Flats so you're comfortable in case you have to park far away. Shop now

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Photograph: Riley Carithers

Spend the day at Echo Park Lake


Stroll around the dog-friendly lake, grab a bite or coffee at Square One, spread out a blanket on the grass, and do a little lazing in the sun.

Make it more fun: Get out on the water! Rent a pedal boat and cruise around on the lake. Just be sure to wear your waterproof Swiftwater Clogs if you plan on pedaling close to the fountain. Shop now

Photograph: Benny Haddad

Take a hike


There are quite a few options when it comes to hiking in LA. Head to the Santa Monica Mountains, San Gabriel Mountains or more local spots like Runyon Canyon to enjoy LA's natural playground.

Make it more fun: Pick a hike that leads to a waterfall, like Escondido Falls in Malibu, and wear your waterproof Swiftwater Clogs to take a dip. See you on the trails! Shop now

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Photograph: Courtesy Home

Dine alfresco


Patio dining is plentiful in sunny LA, and when it comes to eating really, really great food with an ocean breeze, we have more than a few ideas for you.

Make it more fun: Go on a food crawl: Strap on your sturdy Karin Floral Clogs and hit the streets for a culinary tour of Los Angeles. Six Taste and Melting Pot Food Tours are two fantastic food tour companies, but you can always create your own adventure with a DIY food crawl. Shop now

Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

Eat some ice cream


Beat the heat with LA’s best ice cream shops, from a travel-inspired spot in the Valley to a Santa Barbara–import in Downtown’s Grand Central Market.

Make it more fun: Can’t decide on a flavor? Salt & Straw in Larchmont Village offers ice cream flights for $10, letting you pick four flavors for prime sampling. Wear your drip-proof Swiftwater Clogs and you’re golden. Shop now

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Photograph: Courtesy Three Weavers

Go to a brewery


Check out some of the best breweries in LA and their new summer beers. Bonus points if they have an outdoor patio for sunny day drinking.

Make it more fun: Take an LA Beer Hop tour: Choose from three tours focusing on various neighborhoods in LA, each making stops at a few different breweries for some extensive tasting. You’re guaranteed to be a little wobbly on your feet at the end—good thing those Sloane Platform Flips are super sturdy. Shop now

Photograph: Courtesy U.S. Army Corps of Engineers/Dave Palmer

Visit the Frog Spot


This happening place along the LA River is worth hopping to. The community gathering space is run by Friends of the Los Angeles River and offers tons of educational and recreational activities.

Make it more fun: Feeling more adventurous? Slip on a pair of Swiftwater Clogs and get your feet wet with an exciting kayak excursion. LA River Kayak Safari offers multiple three-to-four-hour long trips for paddlers of all levels. We suggest opting for the Sunset Safari to really optimize the photo ops along your trek. Shop now

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Photograph: Jeff Gross

Go to a Dodgers Game


Dig into a Dodger Dog over a ball game in the third-oldest (and most picturesque, in our opinion) baseball stadium in the country.

Make it more fun: Grab a drink outside of Chavez Ravine at one of Echo Park’s classic dive bars, like the Short Stop. Consider packing a pair of Isabella Sandals if you’ll be hoofing it to and from the stadium in the heat. Shop now

Photograph: Courtesy Apolis Common Gallery

Explore the Arts District


This is one of the hippest neighborhoods in Downtown Los Angeles (if not all of LA), and you can easily fill a day strolling from unique shops like Poketo and the Springs to notable grub stations like Fritzi and Wurstküche.

Make it more fun: If you want to bring the inherent coolness of the Arts District home with you, do some shopping at Artists & Fleas. This artisan flea market pops up on the third weekend of each month at 647 Mateo Street and is your one-stop-shopping destination for jewelry, books, snacks and vintage-inspired threads. Bring the kids along, let them wiggle their toes in a comfortable pair of Crocslight Fire Dragon Clogs and be sure to check out every vendor! Shop now

Advertising
Photograph: Pedro Szekely/Flickr

Visit the Griffith Observatory


Venture up to the beloved hilltop observatory and look out on the city below; it's the perfect spot to start a sunset hike or to take in a twinkly view of LA at night.

Make it more fun: Gaze into the cosmos with the help of some amateur astronomers at the monthly Public Star Parties. If you plan on waiting in line for the historic 12-inch telescope, consider slipping into a comfy pair of Yukon Mesa Clogs first. Shop now

Photograph: Courtesy Rooftop Film Club

Watch a movie with a view


Attend a screening at Rooftop Film Club, which shows classics, cult favorites and new releases up on the Montalbán rooftop in Hollywood. The venue provides lawn chairs, blankets and even personal-audio headsets, so all you have to do is enjoy.

Make it more fun: Show up early! Movies start at 8pm, but doors open at 6pm, which means two hours of rooftop hangs, complete with dinner and drink options. Why meet up at a crowded bar before the movie when you have a rooftop all to yourself? Wear your Yukon Mesa Clogs so you can easily slip ’em off and get comfy once the movie starts. Shop now

Photograph: Courtesy Los Angeles Philharmonic Association/Adam Latham

See a Hollywood Bowl concert


Enjoy a summer night under the stars at one of Hollywood Bowl’s many shows this summer, whether it’s the LA Phil or Chicago plus the July 4th Fireworks Spectacular.

Make it more fun: Prepare ahead and bring along some delicious snacks and drinks, and maybe a warm blanket, to picnic at the show. Just make sure to wear some Sienna Flats so you're comfortable in case you have to park far away. Shop now

Advertising
Photograph: Riley Carithers

Spend the day at Echo Park Lake


Stroll around the dog-friendly lake, grab a bite or coffee at Square One, spread out a blanket on the grass, and do a little lazing in the sun.

Make it more fun: Get out on the water! Rent a pedal boat and cruise around on the lake. Just be sure to wear your waterproof Swiftwater Clogs if you plan on pedaling close to the fountain. Shop now

Photograph: Benny Haddad

Take a hike


There are quite a few options when it comes to hiking in LA. Head to the Santa Monica Mountains, San Gabriel Mountains or more local spots like Runyon Canyon to enjoy LA's natural playground.

Make it more fun: Pick a hike that leads to a waterfall, like Escondido Falls in Malibu, and wear your waterproof Swiftwater Clogs to take a dip. See you on the trails! Shop now

Advertising
Photograph: Courtesy Home

Dine alfresco


Patio dining is plentiful in sunny LA, and when it comes to eating really, really great food with an ocean breeze, we have more than a few ideas for you.

Make it more fun: Go on a food crawl: Strap on your sturdy Karin Floral Clogs and hit the streets for a culinary tour of Los Angeles. Six Taste and Melting Pot Food Tours are two fantastic food tour companies, but you can always create your own adventure with a DIY food crawl. Shop now

Photograph: Jakob N. Layman

Eat some ice cream


Beat the heat with LA’s best ice cream shops, from a travel-inspired spot in the Valley to a Santa Barbara–import in Downtown’s Grand Central Market.

Make it more fun: Can’t decide on a flavor? Salt & Straw in Larchmont Village offers ice cream flights for $10, letting you pick four flavors for prime sampling. Wear your drip-proof Swiftwater Clogs and you’re golden. Shop now

Advertising
Photograph: Courtesy Three Weavers

Go to a brewery


Check out some of the best breweries in LA and their new summer beers. Bonus points if they have an outdoor patio for sunny day drinking.

Make it more fun: Take an LA Beer Hop tour: Choose from three tours focusing on various neighborhoods in LA, each making stops at a few different breweries for some extensive tasting. You’re guaranteed to be a little wobbly on your feet at the end—good thing those Sloane Platform Flips are super sturdy. Shop now

Photograph: Courtesy U.S. Army Corps of Engineers/Dave Palmer

Visit the Frog Spot


This happening place along the LA River is worth hopping to. The community gathering space is run by Friends of the Los Angeles River and offers tons of educational and recreational activities.

Make it more fun: Feeling more adventurous? Slip on a pair of Swiftwater Clogs and get your feet wet with an exciting kayak excursion. LA River Kayak Safari offers multiple three-to-four-hour long trips for paddlers of all levels. We suggest opting for the Sunset Safari to really optimize the photo ops along your trek. Shop now

Advertising
Photograph: Jeff Gross

Go to a Dodgers Game


Dig into a Dodger Dog over a ball game in the third-oldest (and most picturesque, in our opinion) baseball stadium in the country.

Make it more fun: Grab a drink outside of Chavez Ravine at one of Echo Park’s classic dive bars, like the Short Stop. Consider packing a pair of Isabella Sandals if you’ll be hoofing it to and from the stadium in the heat. Shop now

Photograph: Courtesy Apolis Common Gallery

Explore the Arts District


This is one of the hippest neighborhoods in Downtown Los Angeles (if not all of LA), and you can easily fill a day strolling from unique shops like Poketo and the Springs to notable grub stations like Fritzi and Wurstküche.

Make it more fun: If you want to bring the inherent coolness of the Arts District home with you, do some shopping at Artists & Fleas. This artisan flea market pops up on the third weekend of each month at 647 Mateo Street and is your one-stop-shopping destination for jewelry, books, snacks and vintage-inspired threads. Bring the kids along, let them wiggle their toes in a comfortable pair of Crocslight Fire Dragon Clogs and be sure to check out every vendor! Shop now

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