Visiting Los Angeles on a Budget - A Simple Way to Save on Your Vacation

Published: July 18, 2024

It’s no secret that family vacations can get expensive in a hurry - airfares, hotels, attractions, dining... the list goes on and on. There are tons of fun family things to do, whether you want to get closer to nature in the Los Angeles sun or hop on a roller coaster. You can take in some history or visit a few of the most iconic studios in television and movies. Los Angeles truly has some of the most unique attractions in the world. Best yet, L.A. can be a great choice for budget-minded travelers, especially when you use a Go Los Angeles Card, which makes visiting Los Angeles on a budget a breeze.

Save on Admission to Tourist Attractions

Admission to many of these Los Angeles tourist attractions and are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Go Los Angeles Cards give you the flexibility to choose as you go from dozens of top attractions to create a vacation tailored to your family's interests. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. A few of the attractions include:

Universal Studios Hollywood
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
Madame Tussauds Hollywood
Aquarium of the Pacific
and more!

Top Attractions to Visit for a Budget Friendly Trip Universal Studios Hollywood

Image of Blonde, Hair, Person, Head, Face, Glove, Adult, Female, Woman, Happy, Laughing, Photography, Portrait, If you love the movies, Universal Studios in Hollywood is likely at the top of your “must see” list in Los Angeles—and it should be! Each attraction takes you up close and personal with some of Universal Studios’ biggest movies. Get ready for the ultimate Hollywood movie experience! Getting In: Universal Studios Hollywood tickets are included on 3, 5, and 7-Day Go Los Angeles Cards.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Image of Person, Adult, Male, Man, Bus, Vehicle,

Image Credit: Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Go behind the scenes of some of your favorite movies and shows with the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Hollywood. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour is a tour inside a real, working Hollywood Studio You’ll see props, costumes, and sets that are actually used currently and in prior shows and movies. Tour guests also get to see the Harry Potter Exhibit and a DC Comic Exhibit as well. Getting In: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Image of Person, Fashion, Urban, Monitor, City, Traffic Light, Madame Tussauds Hollywood’s famous wax museum lets you unbelievably close to wax versions of some of the most famous celebrities of all time. You will be in shock and awe when you see how life-like these figures can be. One of the guests’ favorite activities is taking photos with their most adored celebs, from crushes to idols. Even President Obama makes an appearance. Getting In: Madame Tussauds Hollywood tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card.

Aquarium of the Pacific

Image credit: Andrew Reitsma/Aquarium of the Pacific

Explore the ocean depths at the Aquarium of the Pacific. See the beautiful creatures of the deep blue without ever leaving land. The Aquarium is a great way to see and observe many of the area’s natural wildlife, from sharks to birds. Children and adults alike will enjoy this educational and interesting stop. Some of the awe-inspiring exhibits cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. Getting In: Aquarium of the Pacific tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card.

Whale Watch or Harbor Cruise in Long Beach

Image of Vehicle, Yacht, Person, Boat, Get out on the water and see whales, dolphins, and other marine life up close, right off the coast of California. Experienced and knowledgeable marine mammal educators from the Aquarium of the Pacific narrate each tour providing valuable insight and interesting facts about the sea animals, their environment, and more. It’s a great way to spend some time during a gorgeous Los Angeles afternoon. Getting In: Long Beach Cruise tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card.

Fun Options to Visit During Your Trip:

Are you looking for some more exciting ideas to include during your trip? There is something for everyone in Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean it has to be expensive! There are plenty of other fun options to choose from, including these activities included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Knott's Berry Farm - Adventure seekers head to Knott’s Berry Farm for roller coasters and gravity-defying thrill rides. Children’s rides and family rides are also a plenty. Pacific Park- Santa Monica Pier - Take a ride on the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel or ride one of the exciting roller coasters at Pacific Park. You can also play games and get all of the traditional mouth-watering fair food available on the Santa Monica Pier. Sony Pictures Studio Tour - If you are looking for an adults-only option, the Sony Pictures Studio Tour provides behind the scenes looks at sets of many of your favorite shows and movies. Only children ages 12 and up are permitted. Perry's Beach Cafe and Rentals - If you want to get outdoors and work up a sweat, you can rent bikes, rollers skates, and much more from Perry’s Beach Café and Rentals! They also have beach gear for rent as well. Hollywood Museum - See some of the most iconic items from your favorite movies and shows—from famous props to jaw-dropping costumes. Get close to “old Hollywood” in a completely new way.

Free Activities for a Budget Friendly Vacation

The Beaches - Los Angeles is known for its beaches, and many are free and open to the public. Los Angeles is home to eight amazing beaches. Every visit to Los Angeles on a budget should include at least one beach visit! Griffith Observatory - Griffith Observatory offers unique views into the night sky and breathtaking views of the city high above Los Angeles. They also offer exhibits and live shows. Hike to the Hollywood Sign - The iconic Hollywood sign is just a hike away! The hike goes through the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains and offers amazing views of the city below. Although you cannot touch the sign, hiking directly to the sign is the closest you can get! La Brea Tar Pits - This exhibit is home to the most well-known fossil site. See the pit itself and check out their amazing fossil lab. The history and the excavation process will fascinate adults and kids alike. Explore Santa Monica Pier - No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a trip to the Santa Monic Pier for special events, concerts, and more. There is something for everyone on the pier!

Let's Recap on Visiting Los Angeles on a Budget

Don’t let your vacation budget limit your fun! Visiting Los Angeles on a budget is possible, and the Go Los Angeles Card can help, where you can save up to 55% on combined attraction admission vs paying at the gate. Remember, many of these great budget friendly attraction options and more are included on the Go Los Angeles Card, So when you are planning your trip, consider including some of these options to your Los Angeles vacation itinerary.

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June Days in LA: Sun, Stars, and Splashy Experiences

Sunshine on your face, palm trees overhead, and the infectious buzz of summer in the air—LA in June just feels like pure possibility. While some cities are just warming up, here you’ll find celebrations and outdoor fun in full swing, sandy beaches already buzzing, and local hotspots serving up great eats and cool experiences. Whether you want family-friendly thrills, epic sightseeing, or a sun-kissed day by the Pacific, June is absolutely packed with reasons to love Los Angeles. Ready to plan the ultimate start-of-summer trip? We’re serving up a handpicked list of must-dos, from legendary theme parks to can’t-miss cultural gems, plus the very best ways to enjoy that endless California blue sky. The Best Things to Do in June in Los Angeles: Universal Studios Hollywood California Science Center & IMAX Movie Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales Griffith Observatory Tour Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking Battleship IOWA Museum Knott’s Soak City Water Park GRAMMY Museum Getty Center Guided Tour LA’s Best Summer Festivals and Free Events 2. California Science Center & IMAX Movie: Cool Off with Wonder Need a break from the heat? Step inside the California Science Center, where you’ll find hours of hands-on science exhibits and, in June, plenty of families on the hunt for cool discoveries. This isn’t just about learning facts—it’s about launching rockets, building robots, and touching marine creatures in the Discovery Rooms. Kids (and adults) will love the new interactive displays that change with the seasons. What’s truly special, though, is the Space Shuttle Endeavour, perched in its own pavilion and looking all kinds of epic. Just try to resist snapping a dozen photos! Pair your visit with a larger-than-life IMAX movie experience, where you can travel to the micro-world of cells, dive into deep oceans, or zoom through outer space across a five-story screen. With a lively atmosphere, great café options, and the lush Exposition Park Rose Garden just outside, the Science Center turns a hot June afternoon into a cool day trip—no sunscreen required! 3. Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales: Wild Encounters on the Pacific Ready to get out on the open water? In June, marine life migrates along the coast, making it prime time for an unforgettable whale watching tour. With Newport Whales, you’ll hop on a comfortable boat, spot playful pods of dolphins, sunbathing sea lions, and—if you’re lucky—migrating blue and humpback whales. Cruising down the coast with the salty breeze and sun sparkling on the water, you’ll see LA from a totally new perspective. Onboard naturalists share fascinating facts, and you’ll come away with a camera full of action shots and a mind full of ocean trivia. This tour is perfect for families, couples, or anyone craving a taste of untamed California. And if you’re planning a full day out, pair the cruise with a stroll around Newport Beach’s lively harbor, or grab a classic seafood lunch nearby. Pro tip: June’s early morning or late afternoon tours often get great light—and sometimes even better wildlife activity! 4. Griffith Observatory Tour: Go Starry-Eyed Over LA Nothing says “summer in LA” quite like sunset views from atop Griffith Park. The observatory itself—a white-domed Art Deco masterpiece—sits perched over the city, ready to grant unbeatable views of LA’s twinkling skyline and the Hollywood Sign. In June, the late-setting sun means extra time to wander hiking trails before hitting the observatory for telescopes, cosmic exhibits, and free planetarium shows. The vibe here is pure LA: movie buffs relive their favorite “La La Land” scenes, astronomy lovers get hands-on with solar telescopes, and every visitor is welcome to peek at planets through the public telescopes after dusk (on clear nights, of course). Friendly volunteers share cosmic facts and the gift shop is packed with quirky astronaut swag. Planning tip: It’s worth joining a guided tour to hear behind-the-scenes stories—plus, you’ll snag insider tips on the park’s hiking routes and hidden photo spots. 5. Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking: See the Coast in Style If you want to embrace California summer the local way, there’s only one answer: hop on a beach cruiser and roll from Santa Monica to Venice Beach. In June, a light breeze and sunny skies create perfect cycling weather—no crowds, no stress, just you and miles of classic coastline. The guided bike tour with Unlimited Biking feels equal parts adventure and chill session. Start on Santa Monica’s wide, bustling boardwalk, stopping at iconic spots like the Santa Monica Pier—with its twirling Ferris wheel and street performers. Then, cruise south towards Venice, where skate parks, energetic street art, and boho shops create a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll get great stories about local legends, hidden gems, and the wild history of these beach towns. Plus, there are plenty of stops for photos, snacks, or just sitting with your toes in the sand. Wrap up with fresh juice at Venice’s beachside cafes and a heart full of SoCal summer spirit. 7. Knott’s Soak City Water Park: Splash Into Summer When temps rise, LA locals know the secret to staying cool: water parks! Knott’s Soak City, located next to Knott’s Berry Farm, opens up for summer in June with wave pools, lazy rivers, and swirling slides for every age (and adrenaline level). For families or anyone who loves a good pool day, it’s pure, splashy bliss. Chill out in cabanas with snacks and icy drinks delivered to your lounge chair, or race friends down wild body slides. The Shore Break area is filled with multi-story slides sure to thrill, while Gremmie Lagoon has mini adventures for tiny swimmers. There’s even a giant wave pool when you want to float and soak up the sun. Once you’ve towelled off, take a stroll over to neighboring Knott’s Berry Farm, where rides, Peanuts characters, and fried chicken dinners await for the perfect Southern California day. 8. GRAMMY Museum: Discover Music’s Legends and Local Sound Music fans, June is the month the GRAMMY Museum ramps up with fresh summer exhibits, live events, and hands-on fun. Located in downtown LA’s glitzy L.A. LIVE complex, this museum captures all the charisma of the music industry—from legend-spotting in dazzling exhibits to actual recording booths where you can try singing like a star. Wander through galleries filled with costumes, archival footage, and instruments from rock, jazz, hip-hop, and Latin icons. The rotating exhibits are always worth a look—June often brings immersive tributes to summer music festivals, legendary performances, and the ever-expanding story of LA’s role in the global music scene. Thanks to interactive displays, you’re not just looking—you’ll play, mix, and dance your way through, discovering everything from songwriting secrets to the evolution of the music video. Whether you grew up with The Beatles or Kendrick Lamar, you’ll find something that hits the right note. 9. Getty Center Guided Tour: Art, Views, and Garden Strolls In June, the Getty Center is pure West Side magic. Sun pours in through its glass-wrapped hills, gardens are in bloom, and the views from the hilltop campus take in all of West LA to the distant shimmer of the ocean. It’s the perfect day for art, architecture, and an outdoor lunch surrounded by lush landscaping. Start with a guided tour—always lively, thanks to Getty’s friendly educators—and get the stories behind European masterpieces, ancient Greek sculptures, and vivid impressionist works. The museum’s open courtyards, spectacular fountains, and modern marble design create an atmosphere that’s peaceful, inspiring, and, honestly, great for Instagram. Stroll the Central Garden, designed by Robert Irwin, for a riot of summer color, and don’t miss rotating exhibits that bring fresh energy to every visit. When hunger strikes, the Getty’s on-site café and restaurant offer everything from quick snacks to garden-facing dining for a picture-perfect break. Every angle at the Getty feels like a summer postcard. 10. LA’s Best Summer Festivals and Free Events: Celebrate All Month Long No June visit to Los Angeles would be complete without joining a local festival or open-air event. Summer in LA means the whole city comes alive! Look out for big hitters like the LA Pride Parade & Festival (a dazzling, joyous celebration full of music, food, and parades—generally held in West Hollywood), the outdoor Hollywood Bowl summer concert series (bring a picnic and your favorite people), and the eclectic LA Film Festival or Korean Festival for film fans and foodies alike. For something a little more chill, check out free Shakespeare in the Park performances, family movie nights on the beach (Manhattan Beach puts on a great show), or outdoor yoga in Runyon Canyon Park. Farmers’ markets and street fairs pop up everywhere, offering samples, crafts, and some of the region’s freshest produce. With so many options—from major citywide parties to small local happenings—there’s always an excuse to join a spontaneous celebration, catch live music, or simply soak up the buzz of summer in LA. Los Angeles in June is a swirl of fun and possibility. Whether you’re hunting down dolphins along the Pacific, stargazing over Griffith Park, cycling lazy beach trails, or indulging in splashy rides and giant scoops of gelato, there’s a memory waiting around every palm tree. Add in unbeatable summer festivals, world-class museums, and those long, golden evenings—and it’s easy to see why LA is the place to kick off summer in style. Pack your sunhat, bring your camera, and let the June magic unfold. Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Madame Tussauds Hollywood or Things to Do with Friends in Los Angeles. 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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