10+ Things to Do in Los Angeles in Spring - April to June Activities & More

Published: July 18, 2024

Everybody loves a good trip to L.A. From Hollywood to Santa Monica, there is something for all visitors who come to the City of Angels. Spring is an especially good time to visit, with more reliably warm weather (although Los Angeles never gets very cold), noticeably shorter lines, and easier admission into top attractions. If you’re looking for things to do in Los Angeles in Spring, check out our list of some of the best activities and attractions, including...

  • Knott's Boysenberry Festival at Knott's Berry Farm
  • Pacific Park at Santa Monica Pier
  • Huntington Library and Gardens
  • Newport Landing Whale Watch
  • Explore Griffith Park
  • and more!

Save on Springtime Activities in Los Angeles

Regular admission to a number of these attractions are available on the Go Los Angeles® Card. Choose as you go from popular attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Check out all available Los Angeles attractions, passes, and prices. Please note, some of these special spring events may be separately ticketed and not available on the Go Los Angeles® Card.

Knott's Boysenberry Festival at Knott's Berry Farm

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Come visit Knott's Berry Farm to enjoy their amazing annual event, the Boysenberry Festival. Located in the Ghost Town region of the park, this special event celebrates the iconic berry at the heart of Knott's heritage. Knott's Berry Farm is the birthplace of the Boysenberry and each spring, Knott's celebrates the flavorful berry and its historic roots with unique food and live entertainment during the Festival. Enjoy dozens of boysenberry-inspired drinks, food, snacks, and more. Sample new adult beverages at the Wine and Craft Brew Tasting Garden. Delight in an extensive line up of live entertainment from Snoopy's Boysenberry Jamboree to all kinds of live music. Getting In: Admission to Knott's Berry Farm and admission to the Boysenberry Festival are both included with the Go Los Angeles® Card.

Butterfly Pavilion at the Natural History Museum

From March to September, the Natural History Museum in L.A. opens up their famed Butterfly Pavilion to the public. See these delicate little beauties flit and flutter around, and perhaps even land on you! The best time to visit is about mid-morning. Due to its popularity, you'll need a timed ticket to enter the pavilion. Getting In: Natural History Museum tickets are included with the Go Los Angeles Card.

Commune with Whales

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Marvel at the majestic gray whales and their calves as they migrate north along the Southern California coast. In honor of this amazing natural event, Dana Point Harbor throws a two-weekend party that includes a parade, a street fair, and even a whale-themed musical performance. Families can also enjoy arts and crafts. Want to see the whales up close? Hop aboard a whale-watching cruise. Getting In: Newport Landing Whale Watch tickets are included with the Go Los Angeles® Card.

Enjoy Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is one of those magical places that delight kids and adults in equal measure. There's the fascinating behind-the-scenes studio tour, then dozens of rides and attractions to enjoy afterward. Some of the popular areas of the park include the newer "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" (beloved by all), several Simpsons attractions, and the wonderful "Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem" ride. Don’t forget to explore Universal CityWalk after you’re done with all the rides and attractions – it’s a great evening activity with food, dining, and entertainment options. Getting In: Admission to Universal Studios Hollywood is included with the 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Los Angeles® Cards.

Soak up Celebrity Culture

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If you're in Los Angeles, why not take advantage of your proximity to Hollywood to explore some of the most exciting elements of cinematic culture? First, pay a visit to Madame Tussauds, where you're guaranteed to "meet" your favorite celebs across a variety of themed exhibit areas. Then, head to the Hollywood Museum, where you can see props, costumes, and sets from iconic Hollywood blockbusters. Getting In: Admission to Madame Tussauds Hollywood and admission to the Hollywood Museum are both included with the Go Los Angeles® Card.

Explore Griffith Park

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There’s nothing quite like the great outdoors in spring; with the first hints of warmer weather and the blooming trees and flowers, it’s a truly beautiful time to enjoy nature. This year, spend some time exploring the expansive and impressive Griffith Park. There’s the fascinating Griffith Observatory (which offers free admission!), several bike trails and driving paths, a golf course, and even the L.A. Zoo and Botanical Gardens. That’s just the beginning, too! Getting In: Admission to the L.A. Zoo is included with the Go Los Angeles® Card.

Visit Santa Monica

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Visitors often forget about this little paradise nestled on the Los Angeles coastline, but locals love it for a number of reasons. There’s so much to do, so many places to dine and shop, you’ll never run out of ideas. Take the kids to the charming Pacific Park or the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. Rent a bike and enjoy the leisurely pace of life by the beach. Or, just get in some sunbathing – just stay out of the chilly water! Getting In: Admission to Pacific Park and admission to the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium are both included with the Go Los Angeles® Card.

Roam Seasonal Gardens

While it is a little bit of a hike from downtown Los Angeles (you can actually get there via mass transit, however, it’s just a longish ride), the Huntington Library is a fabulous attraction that combines the appeal of a historic research library, an art gallery, luxurious gardens, and literary artifacts all into one inspiring destination. Be sure to explore the gardens in particular this time of year – the roses are spectacular. Visitors might also enjoy the "Orbit Pavilion," a garden art installation that echoes the shapes and sounds of the International Space Station and 19 Earth satellites. It was even designed by people who work at NASA! Getting In: Admission the Huntington Library and Gardens is included with the Go Los Angeles® Card.

Local EventsLA Times Festival of Books

USC Campus April

This is one for the book lovers. The LA Times Festival of Books is a fantastic free event that promises tons of bookish fun and excitement. In addition to dozens of famous author readings and signings, you’ll also enjoy special workshops, professional talks, and of course, plenty of books for sale. Getting In: Admission to the LA Times Festival of Books is free.

Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival

Santa Clara April

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Have a taste for country western tunes? Got a kid who is horse-crazy? Then the Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival is a must-see event for you and your family. Unfolding at historic Old Town Newhall, this year’s festival promises to be a great one. Guests will enjoy musical acts spanning the gamut from bluegrass to spoken word, delicious BBQ fare, fascinating tours of local venues like the Reagan Library, and unique goods at original, Western-inspired vendors. Come with your cowboy boots on! Getting In: Admission to the Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. For more information, please visit the event website.

PPLA Food Fare

Santa Monica

Known for being the oldest culinary event in Los Angeles, the PPLA Food Fare brings together over one hundred restaurants, chefs, caterers, wineries, bakeries, and more. From high-end cuisine to inventive food trucks, you’ll be able to sample cuisine from all across the city at this fantastic event. Getting In: Admission to the PPLA Food Fare is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. For more information, please visit the event website.

Cherry Blossom Festival

Monterey Park April

Few things signal the onset of spring quite like the fragrant blooming of the delicate cherry blossom. This year in Los Angeles, the Cherry Blossom Festival in the nearby city of Monterey Park will be the place to celebrate these delightful natural wonders. Enjoy musical performances, guided nature walks, delicious food, and even origami classes. Getting In: Admission to the Cherry Blossom Festival is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. For more information, please visit the event website.

Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival

Various locations May

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Founded in 1983, the annual Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival is now a local institution. Having shown thousands of original films over that time period and presented hundreds of seminars, panels, guest speakers, and awards, they’ve certainly got the credibility when it comes to showcasing great art. It’s the largest festival of its kind in SoCal and you won’t find anything like else quite like it. A must-see for film buffs. Getting In: Admission to the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. For more information, please visit the event website.

Remember to Save on Admission

Did we miss anything? A few things to do in Los Angeles in the spring, including some special events, other seasonal activities in April, May, and June. Please note, the spring events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not available with the Go Los Angeles® Card. We hope you consider adding some of these fun ideas to your spring vacation itinerary.

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Best LA attractions for thrill-seekers

If you're on your way to LA and making plans for what to do there, let us help you out. We've compiled a list of some of the top Los Angeles attractions for thrill-seekers – there's much more to Los Angeles than Disneyland and Universal Studios. (Although these are great attractions, too!) Many of these popular attractions are perfect for the thrill-seekers and roller coaster fans in your group. However, most of these LA attractions also have family-friendly rides and activities for children. With a little planning and preparation, you and your whole family will have a fun-filled vacation. Check out our guide to the top LA attractions for thrill-seekers, including... Knott's Berry Farm Pacific Park Six Flags Magic Mountain Knott's Soak City Waterpark Universal Studios Disneyland and much more! Knott’s Soak City Waterpark Cool down at Knott’s Soak City Waterpark on one of their 23 speed, tube, and body slides –or all 23! The Shore Break slide provides a floor dropping, heart stopping good time through the entire seven story ride. There's also a 75,000-gallon wave pool, 200 water guns, and other toys available. And when you're ready to relax, the Lazy River will be waiting for you. After you've worked up a good appetite, you have the choice between a pizza joint and a grill. Hurricane Harbor If you're looking for some more water adventures, Hurricane Harbour might just be the place for you. Travel down the Tornado’s 132 foot tunnel, and ride Reptile Ridge through its twisted routes. Then, jet through the Black Snake Summit’s twists and turns, and hold your breath as the Bonzai Pipelines’ trapdoor disappears from beneath your feet sending you on a six-floor drop. Try to stay afloat in the wave pool, dine on some delightful dishes, or relax in a private cabana. On Fridays, chill out at the dive-in theater. Universal Studios Universal Studios Hollywood has something for everyone. Film buffs will experience movies like never before. With behind-the-scenes tours, authentic stunt and special effects shows, dining at Hogsmeade and trying some Butterbeer, surviving the Walking Dead, and shopping to your heart’s content, you will have an unforgettable time. As if the room full of walkers isn't scary enough, thrill-seekers can hop on some 3D rides that will send your heart racing. You might also meet dinosaurs, Transformers, and more along the way. Don’t forget that there is plenty of family fun, too, including kid-friendly rides and character encounters. You might even find Shaggy and Scooby hiding with a snack! As there is so much to see and do at this attraction, check out our Universal Studios Hollywood guide to make the most of your visit. Disneyland No Los Angeles trip can be considered a vacation without a visit to see Mickey! Check out the ghost-infested Haunted Mansion, meet the beauties behind the crowns, and make your child’s Disney-dreams come true with a royal makeover. Be wowed by the pyrotechnical splendor of Mickey’s Fantasmic battle. Dine in the beautiful and quaint Victorian restaurant, Plaza Inn. For the space lovers out there, Tomorrowland and the fabulous Star Wars characters will make your day. And do not forget to check out the beautiful Disneyland Forever fireworks show, or the enlightening Main Street Electrical Parade. Save on admission to LA theme parks With so many great activities, how do you choose which ones to do? Admission to many of these attractions is included with Go City®.
Go City Expert
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LA on a Wednesday: Unmissable Experiences for Travelers

Make the Most of LA: What to Do This Wednesday  If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Los Angeles on a Wednesday, you’re in for a treat. Here’s the scoop: LA doesn’t believe in “hump day.” In this city, Wednesday is just another chance to eat well, soak up some sun, and discover new stories—whether that means heading to a world-class museum with zero crowds, spotting A-listers in Hollywood, cruising down the beach boardwalk or biting into a taco that’ll spoil you for life. Midweek energy in LA is relaxed yet buzzing; queues are shorter, locals are friendlier, and you get the best of everything without the weekend scramble.  What will you find in this guide? We’re bringing you a mix of must-sees, quirky local experiences, foodie finds and hidden gems—all easy to slot into a single glorious Wednesday in LA. Expect a game plan that blends classic favorites with a few off-radar surprises, because that’s how Angelenos do it. Ready to build your dream day? Let’s get started.  Our ultimate Wednesday-in-LA picks include:  Griffith Observatory Tour  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour  Aquarium of the Pacific  Natural History Museum  Californian Science Center IMAX Movie  The Hollywood Museum  Lunch at Grand Central Market  Strolling Abbot Kinney Boulevard  Sunset at the Getty Center  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour: LA’s Most Famous Hike  If you've seen the sign from afar, why not get up close? Join a guided walk to the Hollywood Sign—one of those “only in LA” adventures that feels extra-special in the middle of the week.  Midweek tours are mellow; you’ll never be fighting crowds for a photo. The guides are full of behind-the-scenes stories (everything from movie trivia to how the sign survived its wilder days). And the route up through Griffith Park has plenty of shady patches, wildflowers, and jaw-dropping outlooks where you’ll want to stop for selfies.  Why is this hike a Wednesday winner? The atmosphere is friendly and exciting, but chill enough to enjoy the views at your own pace. You’ll learn the lore of classic Hollywood, spot hawks soaring overhead, and—from the final lookout—see LA stretched out below like a giant, sun-kissed postcard. It’s a workout, but nobody’s rushing you.  Hot tip: Bring water, wear your favorite sneakers, and don’t forget sunglasses. The memories (and the pictures) will last a lifetime.  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour: Sun, Sand and Street Art  By late morning, it’s time to trade hills for ocean breeze. Jump on a guided bike tour that loops from Santa Monica to that famously bohemian neighbor, Venice Beach.  This ride is all about Westside flavor: breeze by luxury hotels, the old-school Santa Monica Pier, buzzing beach playgrounds and vibrant murals splashed across boardwalk buildings. You’ll see muscle beach legends pumping iron, skateboarders catching air, and, if you’re lucky, friendly locals walking their dogs (in strollers—yes, really).  On a Wednesday, the boardwalk is lively but not packed, so you can cruise at a relaxed pace, stop for photos or stretch out on the sand. Guides love to point out local history and hidden gems—think Frank Gehry’s beach house or the best coffee shack for an iced latte with ocean views.  Venice’s canals are a highlight, too—gorgeous, peaceful, and a slice of LA few travelers ever see. Finish your ride with a quick swim or just park beneath a palm and watch the world roll by. You’ll come away sandy, salty and ready for your next local food find.  Aquarium of the Pacific: Dive Into Underwater Wonder  Ready for a splash of something different? Head south to Long Beach and step inside the Aquarium of the Pacific, one of America’s largest, most colorful marine destinations.  The first thing you’ll notice? The energy. Every exhibit pulses with movement—jellies floating by, kids squealing at clownfish, and sea otters making friends with everyone who stops by their habitat. Midweek, the atmosphere is vibrant but never overwhelming, so you can chat with staff, hang out at the touch pools, and really take your time getting face-to-face with sharks and moray eels.  The aquarium’s glass tunnels let you stroll “beneath” the water, and their Pacific Visions wing blows visitors away with its immersive art-meets-science displays. Don’t leave without timing your visit for the sea lion show—it’s pure LA fun: part animal antics, part conservation lesson, all delivered with love.  You walk out a little more fascinated by the ocean and, maybe, just a little inspired to do your part for Southern California’s wild coast.  Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs, Diamonds and LA Stories  Craving a dash of time travel? Head to the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park, where every room is packed with stories millions of years in the making.  On Wednesdays, you’ll often get the exhibit halls almost to yourself—imagine studying a T. rex’s grin or marveling at glittering gems without a selfie-stick forest blocking your view. The Dinosaur Hall is a Jurassic feast (and a favorite with all ages), while the the diorama galleries are filled with local wildlife, frozen in mid-pounce or perched among the towering redwoods.  But there’s so much more: rare fossils, gold nuggets from California’s wild rush days, and a truly stunning Butterfly Pavilion open seasonally (hint: spring and early summer are magical). Don’t skip the interactive Nature Lab, where you can meet LA’s surprise residents—foxes, hawks, even urban beehives.  The setting, nestled among palm trees and rose gardens, is as photo-worthy as the exhibits inside. After your visit, grab a lemonade and relax on the museum steps, watching birds wheel overhead or city squirrels squabble for crumbs. Science has never felt so SoCal.  The Hollywood Museum: Vintage Glamour and Pop Culture Curios  What’s LA without a little glitz? Step into the Hollywood Museum, housed in the historic Max Factor Building, and fall down the rabbit hole of movie magic. With four floors packed with costumes, props and set pieces from every era, this place feels like a walk through Hollywood’s best-dressed closet.  Classic movie buffs will swoon over Marilyn Monroe memorabilia and Dorothy’s ruby slippers, while modern fans will spot superhero suits and cult horror movie tributes. The décor is pure golden age LA—think art deco, mirrored walls and original makeup rooms where Hollywood royalty primped for the cameras.  On a Wednesday, the pace is relaxed. Take your time with exhibits, quiz the friendly staff about movie trivia and snap a selfie in Lucille Ball’s favorite chair. Don’t forget the eerie but oddly fascinating basement—otherwise known as the Dungeon of Doom, with a collection of Hollywood’s creepiest horror history.  You’ll leave with a deeper love for the glimmer and grit of Tinseltown, and enough stories to fill a star-studded dinner party.  Lunch at Grand Central Market: A Foodie Paradise  Feeling hungry? There’s no better Wednesday lunch spot than Grand Central Market, Downtown’s legendary open-air food paradise. Step inside and let your nose guide you—every stall wafts fragrant evidence the city’s best global eats are just yards apart.  Here’s why we adore this spot: One moment, you’re eyeing breakfast burritos at Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, then you’re swooning over golden chicken katsu at Sticky Rice, and before you know it the neon “Eggslut” sign is calling your name. Pastrami sandwiches, vegan ramen, wood-fired pizza and flaky Hungarian strudels—they’re all here, cooked up with care by passionate local chefs.  The atmosphere is electric, with office workers and foodies mingling side by side. Grab an iced coffee from G&B and find a counter seat or people-watch from the market steps. If you have a sweet tooth, the donuts at The Donut Man or ice cream at McConnell’s make the perfect finish.  Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to share and sample. LA’s flavor map unfolds on a single plate at Grand Central—and every vendor’s got a secret favorite if you ask.  Strolling Abbot Kinney Boulevard: LA’s Coolest Street  Ready for a change of pace? Swing over to Venice’s famous Abbot Kinney Boulevard, a mile-long stretch where creative LA comes to show off.  Here, indie boutiques snuggle up to gallery spaces, and street art peeks through between palm trees and cafés. On Wednesdays, the energy is relaxed—locals stroll with pups, shopkeepers have time to chat, and window shopping never felt so good.  Peek inside Salt & Straw for uniquely LA ice cream (the honey lavender is a fan favorite), browse handmade ceramics and sustainable fashion, or sip a craft latte at Blue Bottle. If you’re up for something different, check out tarot readings at Mystic Journey Bookstore or the pop-up art shows that sprout in unexpected places.  The vibe here is pure Cali-cool, and the people-watching is off the charts. If you get hungry along the way, Gjelina’s paper-thin pizzas or The Butcher’s Daughter’s avocado toast are not to be missed. As the afternoon sun slants through the palms, you’ll realize: this might just be the best street in LA for soaking up local color.  Sunset at the Getty Center: Art, Gardens and Golden Light  End your Wednesday in style with an early-evening adventure to the Getty Center, perched in the hills above West LA.  Here’s what makes the Getty so special: arrival is half the fun—a futuristic tram glides you up the hillside, and each turn reveals wildflower beds and bold architectural lines. The museum’s galleries brim with everything from Renaissance masters to edgy photography, and there’s always a chance of stumbling upon a live music event or an artist talk.  But the true magic is outside. The garden, designed by Robert Irwin, is a modern paradise of blossom-filled terraces, lively water features, and tranquil corners perfect for Instagram or quiet reflection. When sunset arrives, take your spot on the terrace and watch LA’s skyline turn copper, then neon, then a blanket of twinkling light.  Wednesdays are relaxed—ample space to find your favorite painting, a quiet bench, or just that ideal “goodbye to the day” view. Grab a gelato from the café, lean back and let the city’s hum fade into the wide, Western sky.  Wrap Up: Make Wednesdays Your Favorite Day in LA  LA doesn’t save its best for weekends. On Wednesdays, the city lets its hair down a bit—less hustle, more magic. You’ve got the freedom to chase sunbeams at the observatory, snag a selfie at the Hollywood Sign, wheel your way down the boardwalk or sip something delicious in the heart of Downtown.  Our Wednesday itinerary is only the beginning. The best LA days are those that blend the blockbuster and the unexpected, the famous and the only-you’ll-hear-about-it-here. So fill your midweek with museums, tacos, sea otters and sunsets—your LA adventure is just getting started.    Enjoyed this? Check out the Best Food Markets in Los Angeles or Things to Do in Los Angeles with Family    Step up your sightseeing with Go City®      We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 

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