10+ things to do in LA when it rains

If you choose Los Angeles as your family vacation destination, chances are you're picturing yourself basking in the abundant California sunshine. And chances are you will be — but for those few days per year that contribute to Los Angeles' 15-inch average rainfall, here's a list of fun and exciting indoor activities and things to do in LA when it rains.

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024
Rain over Los Angeles, CA

Then, as the time of your trip gets closer, check the weather forecast — if you see a chance of bad weather, you'll already know what to do in LA when it rains:

  • Madame Tussauds Hollywood
  • California Science Center & IMAX Movie
  • K1 Speed Indoor Karting
  • Natural History Museum
  • Hollywood Museum
  • and many more!

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Madame Tussauds Hollywood

One of the top things to do on a rainy day is to get up close to Hollywood's top stars at Madame Tussauds Hollywood. The life-like wax figures you'll find at the museum are so real-looking that you can easily fool your friends back home with pictures of you and your favorite celebrity standing side by side. The 100+ wax figures span a variety of interests and time periods, so adults and kids alike will be entertained. So whether it's Harry Styles, James Dean, or Beyoncé you swoon over, make sure to bring your camera!

👉Don't miss: the newest figures immortalized in wax, and the non-waxwork experiences.

🎟️ Getting in: Admission to Madame Tussauds Hollywood is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

California Science Center & IMAX Movie

The California Science Center is a great idea for things to do indoors on a rainy day. The Science Center features exciting science exhibits that will engage visitors of all ages. Experience a simulated earthquake or volcano, climb a rock wall, or play a game of virtual volleyball. At the Science Center, adventure takes place right indoors.

To make the most of your trip, catch an IMAX movie at the Center's state-of-the-art theater featuring a 7-story tall screen. With a variety of films to choose from, you'll find something entertaining for the whole family.

 

Aquarium of the Pacific

Head down to Long Beach and explore the majestic wildlife of the seas from indoors at the Aquarium of the Pacific. You'll have access to 19 different habitats, with over 100 exhibits, where you can view 12,000 aquatic creatures! There's something for everyone here.

You'll delight in seeing the playful sea otters and learning about conservation efforts to keep their natural habitats alive. You’ll also come face-to-face with, and even touch, the ocean’s ultimate predators in Shark Lagoon; you can hand-feed colorful lorikeet birds, and watch the Magellanic Penguins play.

👉Don't miss: the immersive Honda Pacific Visions Theater experience, where you'll enjoy two films with multi-sensory effects played on a 180-degree curved screen.

🎟️Getting in: Admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific is available on all Los Angeles Passes - but you'll need to book in advance.

 

Natural History Museum

Visit the first museum in Los Angeles, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. It's the authority on exploring the 'big picture' of the planet of the natural and cultural world. This museum has amassed one of the world's most extensive and valuable collections of natural and cultural relics that date back 4.5 billion years. You'll see dinosaur skeletons and mammal fossils, rare gems and minerals, intricate habitat dioramas, and ancient Latin American archaeological treasures.

🎟️Getting in: Admission to the Natural History Museum is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

GRAMMY Museum®

Love music? Leave LA on a high note and visit the GRAMMY Museum®'s impressive collection of artifacts, exhibits, films, and more, in the museum's interactive permanent and traveling exhibits. Pay tribute to legendary artists such as John Lennon, Barbra Streisand, Roy Orbison, Bob Marley, and more. The special exhibits will inspire a new-found appreciation for the music-making process, and for the talent and precision it takes to produce award-winning music.

👉Don't miss: the special exhibits which change from year to year

🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

Hollywood Museum

See a hundred years of Hollywood history from your favorite films and TV shows at the Hollywood Museum. You'll explore the most extensive collection of Hollywood memorabilia in the world, boasting over 10,000 authentic show business artifacts. See Rocky's boxing gloves, Marilyn Monroe's iconic dresses, Indiana Jones' whip, Cary Grant's Rolls-Royce, and much more! It's the perfect indoor activity for a film lover, and it's a must-see when you come to Hollywood.

🎟️Getting in: Admission to the Hollywood Museum is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

Studio Tours

One of the best things to do in Hollywood is to visit to a real working studio!

Places like Universal and Warner Bros. offer exciting, behind-the-scenes looks at the way Hollywood works. You'll enjoy tours through back lots, across sound stages, around prop rooms, and through wardrobing. Get a real chance to see where (and how!) movie magic is made with a tour through the amazing studios.

If the rainy day clears up, take advantage of the theme park of Universal Studios Hollywood, which offers some delightful outdoor fun, too. Keep in mind that some portions of these studio tours will involve being outdoors, so be sure to plan accordingly with your gear.

🎟️ Getting in: One-time admission to Universal Studios is only available on the Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass. Admission to Warner Bros. is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

Dolby Theatre® Guided Tour

Get VIP access to the home of the Academy Awards® Ceremony with a guided tour of the Dolby Theatre®. You'll see areas of the theater not seen on TV, and get a behind-the-scenes look at where events such as the American Idol finals, the AFI Awards, the Daytime Emmys, and Victoria's Secret Fashion Show take place.

👉Don't miss: seeing an Oscar® statuette, visiting the Dolby Lounge, and viewing the images from previous Academy Awards ceremonies.

🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Los Angeles Passes -  book in advance.

 

Autry Museum of the American West

Regarded as one of Los Angeles’s premier cultural institutions, the Autry Museum of the American West features art, artifacts, and special exhibitions that focus on the history of American West. The Autry is known for its dedication to educating visitors. Enjoy a selection of informative tours, special events, and family activities. There are film screenings, lectures, workshops, and more.

🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Los Angeles Passes.

 

Get in some retail therapy

We’re firm believers that you don’t need an excuse to shop. Even so, a rainy day is the perfect reason to dip into your souvenir funds. Los Angeles is one of the best shopping destinations and home to a variety of stores that cater to every price point. Stroll around the shops (and be ready to splurge) on the famous and iconic Rodeo Drive, and find a variety of luxury boutique shopping along Melrose Avenue.

Catch a movie at a luxury theater

Take shelter from the rain with oversized popcorn, a blockbuster hit, and a luxury experience. Lots of movie theaters in the Los Angeles area now focus on offering a luxury movie viewing experience. It's a fun and relaxing way to wait out the weather.

Check out the newer iPic movie theaters for the ultimate luxury experience, or book a lounge experience at Landmark Theatres. You could also head to AMC DINE-IN Marina 6 for a classic dinner and a movie combination, right from the comfort of your oversized seat.

🎟️ Getting in: Admission isn't included with the Los Angeles Pass, so check with each theater for show times and prices.

 

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Discover our full line-up of Los Angeles attractions including the Hollywood Sign Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott's Berry Farm, and more. 

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.   

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Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Los Angeles in October

Fall in Los Angeles is a wonderful time of the year. As the heat winds down, the fun really kicks off during October with a myriad of cool and interesting things to do. Whether you’re an art lover, a thrill-seeker, or a nature enthusiast, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. And of course, since this is October after all, the city comes to life with lots of fun seasonal activities and pop-up events. From spooktastic Halloween events at Disneyland to unique Oktoberfest events, there should be more than enough to keep you busy. This is also an especially good time of the year to visit L.A. since there should be cooler weather, smaller crowds, and a better chance of finding great deals on accommodation and travel. So, if you’re thinking about making the trip, have a read through our list of some of the best things to do in the city during this time of the year. We promise that you won’t be disappointed! Find Fun Activities Los Angeles is home to some of the best theme parks on the planet, but of course, none of them quite stand out like Disneyland! Since opening way back in 1955, this place has become one of the most visited theme parks in the world - and it’s easy to see why! A classic all-American vacation spot, Disneyland is home to some of the most iconic rides, including It’s a Small World, Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean. Within the park there are over 30 rides, so you know that there’s always something to choose from. October is a great time to visit since the weather will be temperate and dry. During this time of the year, the park also hosts some fantastic seasonal events, including the Oogie Boogie Bash and Halloween Screams. Whether you’re a kid or just young at heart, this quintessential L.A. attraction is sure to leave you with a huge smile stretched across your face. Of course, it just wouldn’t be an article about things to do in October without mentioning Oktoberfest. In a sprawling city like Los Angeles, there are a lot of ways to celebrate this traditional Bavarian holiday - all you have to do is pick your favorite! If your ideal Oktoberfest involves kicking back with a beer on the beach (and let’s face it, why wouldn’t it be?), then the Old World Oktoberfest might just be your jam. Billed as ‘’Orange County’s Biggest Party since 1977’’, this event really hits the spot. Or, if you love the idea of bratwurst but have devoted yourself to clean living, why not check out the Vegan Oktoberfest? Complete with vegan breweries and plant-based vendors, this spot is perfect for all cruelty-free visitors. For something a little bit different, check out the San Gabriel Dumpling and Beer Fest. However you choose to enjoy Oktoberfest in L.A., we’re sure you’ll have a blast! Learn Something New Those looking for history and culture in Los Angeles won’t have to search very far. Though there are countless great cultural amenities to choose from whilst visiting L.A., we particularly love the Huntington Library for its world-class repository. Combining art, history and nature all in one, this beloved tourist attraction is well-recognized for its all-encompassing collection. A total dream for all bibliophiles, the institute’s library houses more than 430,000 rare books, original manuscripts and historic documents. Meanwhile, its art gallery houses one of the best collections of British art in the United States. Still, perhaps the institute’s main draw is its botanical garden, which is home to over 150 plant varieties on its 150 acres. There’s a whole to lot see and do here, so we recommend setting aside a good amount of time aside for your visit to ensure that you don’t miss a single thing! As the epicenter of the United States’ entertainment industry, Los Angeles is a fantastic visitor destination for pop culture lovers and creative types alike. There are countless museums and cultural institutions to choose from, though we particularly love the Grammy Museum. Standing out from all the other institutes in Los Angeles, this unique speciality institute provides a fun and fascinating look into the history and significance of American music. Though young, the museum’s collection is impressive, with historical instruments, iconic costumes, awards, and much more. There are interactive instrument stations and recording booths to enhance the experience. The institute’s 200-seat theater also hosts live events including performances, screenings and lectures. Working to honor a long history of innovation and creative thought, this spot is perfect for all music lovers. Get in Touch With Nature Seated along the western coastline, Los Angeles is well-recognized for its beautiful natural attributes. If you’re looking to take in some of the area’s most wonderful greenery, we recommend Descanso Gardens. Just a short trip from downtown, this lush forested area offers a much-needed respite from the bustling city. Over its vast 150 acres, visitors can enjoy an extraordinary living repository. The site is home to a fantastic collection of exotic and native flora - there are magnificent oak woodlands, a wide collection of fruit trees, and the largest concentration of camellia plants in the Western Hemisphere. This spot isn’t too difficult to walk through - overall, it should take about an hour explore the full space. Still, we recommend wearing your comfiest shoes and bringing plenty of water with you to stay comfortable. A treasure trove of natural beauty, this spot is a total must-see. With its soft breezes and cooler temperatures, Los Angeles is a pleasure to explore in autumntime! Whatever Tinseltown lacks for in foliage, the city more than makes up for with exciting events and activities of all kinds. From kicking back with a nice cold one at Oktoberfest to ambling through the beautiful Descanso Gardens, the City of Angels never falls short. Explore the area to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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Los Angels in March

Springtime in L.A. is full of excitement. When the flowers begin to bloom, the city awakens with a myriad of fantastic activities and events of all kinds. From the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame and Santa Monica Pier to funky Venice Beach, L.A. has much to offer its visitors. Coming out of the wintertime, daytime high temperatures range from the upper 50s to the low 70s, so you’ll only need a light jacket. March is one of the best times of the year for exploring L.A. since the crowds are minimal, the days are longer, and you’ll be able to find easier admission into the city’s top attractions. So, without further ado, here is our roundup of some of the best things to do in L.A. for springtime. How many of these great springtime activities will you try? See the Sites Whilst L.A. can be pretty beautiful in the springtime, the West Coast is also susceptible to the odd rainy day. Still, just because it’s raining doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all that the city has to offer. Though L.A. has a lot of fantastic indoor attractions, one of our favorite spots has got to be the Huntington Library. This place is actually a three-pronged attack, with a jaw-dropping main library, a fantastic art gallery and stunning botanic garden. The institute’s library houses over 430,000 rare books, original manuscripts, and historic documents. Meanwhile, the gallery is a total dream for art lovers, with 1,200 pieces dating way back to the 15th century. And as if that wasn’t enough, the Huntington Library’s botanic garden is known for showcasing 150 plant varieties on its 120 acres. A thoroughly one-of-a-kind experience, this one is a total must-see. No doubt Los Angeles has a lot to offer for cinephiles and pop culture lovers. Still, no attraction could be quite as iconic as the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This spot draws in around 10 million visitors each year - and it’s easy to see why! Established way back in 1960, this attraction now spans over 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard, with over 2,000 stars and counting. If you’re going to find a particular star of your favorite celebrity or artist, use the Walk of Fame’s online Star Search tool to help you. We recommend checking out some of the other fantastic attractions in the area whilst you’re there, such as the TCL Chinese Theatre, El Captain Theatre, and Madame Tussauds Hollywood. Oh, and don’t forget to bring a camera! Explore the City If you’re looking for a total crowdpleaser, look no further than Santa Monica Pier. Since opening to the public in 1909, this historic attraction has been drawing in visitors from near and far. Perhaps the pier’s most popular attraction is Pacific Park, a theme park complete with shopping, restaurants, as well as an arcade. Or, if you’re looking to just relax a little, why not head over to the Santa Monica farmers’ market? A great stop for all foodies, we love this spot for its delicious eats and laid-back atmosphere. This place works to showcase California’s rich agricultural heritage through a wide array of local vendors. And of course, it wouldn’t be a pier if you couldn’t try your hand at a little bit of fishing. With so much to see and do, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in Los Angeles. Los Angeles is a sprawling seaside metropolis, made up of countless exciting neighborhoods to explore. Still, when the sun comes out, one of our favorite places to check out has got to be Venice. Well-recognized for its bohemian spirit, nowhere quite says ‘’California’’ like this famed beachfront neighborhood. One of the most popular things to do here is hit the beach - that is, Venice Beach, of course. Still, that’s far from all that Venice has to offer. Another great activity in the area is the Venice Canals, where you can take a scenic stroll along charming beach houses, bunches of ducklings and romantic bridges. There’s also The Mosaic Tile House - once a rather simple and drab space, this spot has now been alchemized into an undoubtedly unique attraction now open to the public. As quirky as it is fun, we love Venice for its laidback and unassuming atmosphere. Soak Up the Atmosphere One of the best things about travel has got to be exploring the local food scene. Thankfully, you won’t have much trouble with that in L.A. - as one of America’s biggest food cities, Los Angeles comes to life in the springtime, with a whole host different events to choose from. Standing out as one of our favorites, Knott’s Boysenberry Festival kicks off right in the middle of March each year, with a unique lineup of seasonal dishes to take your fancy. To highlight the berry that started it all, the dishes focus on boysenberries in some way. There are also local crafters, live music and shows to be enjoyed. In addition, there are special activities and games for younger guests - so nobody feels left out! We love this event because it offers something a little different from your typical food festival. Of course, it just wouldn’t be an article about things to do in March without mentioning St. Paddy’s Day. There are a heck of a lot of ways to celebrate this traditional Irish holiday, but if you’re looking for a parade, we recommend heading down to Hermosa Beach, where you’ll find an exciting celebration of Irish culture. Other family-friendly activities include the St. Patrick’s Day Market and the Original Farmers’ Market. Still, there’s no shame in partying the day away on March 17th. For the best way to let loose, we suggest checking out the annual block party and pub crawl. Or, check out Tam O Shanter’s can’t miss event, with live music, green beer and plenty of fun and games. So as far as St. Patrick’s Day celebrations go, I guess you could say that Los Angeles has it covered. Los Angeles is an exciting city any time of the year; still, our favorite season has got to be the springtime. Explore the area to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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