Best Time to Visit Los Angeles

Published: July 18, 2024

Los Angeles is one of those American cities that is brimming with tourists all year round. Thanks to the Pacific Ocean and the city’s coastal seat, the location is blessed with perennial sunshine all year round. Still, L.A. has a lot more to offer than just that. From only-in-L.A. attractions and fabled natural wonders to its unrivalled drinking and dining scene, the city never falls short of great things to see and do. Whether you’re an artsy type, an outdoor enthusiast or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest any time of the year. So, when is the best time to visit La La Land? From exciting events to great prices on accommodation, here’s a month-by-month breakdown of when to visit Los Angeles. Pick your favorite time of the year and head over to this magical West Coast city, STAT!

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September-November

Though you might not expect it, autumn is a fantastic time to visit Los Angeles. We especially like September - November, since it offers a lot of the perks of a summertime getaway, just with less of the fuss. During this time of the year, you’ll find that the air is more breathable and the crowds are less oppressive. This makes it perfect for exploring all of the city’s best outdoor attractions in comfort. Although it’s still warm around this time of the year, we still recommend bringing an umbrella or a light jacket, since rainfall intensifies towards the end of November. You’ll also find that the crowds are less oppressive and the lines are shorter during this time of the year since schools are back and families are less likely to visit. Since this is a less popular time for booking, you’ll be able to get a lot of great deals on flights and accommodation.

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December

Whilst L.A. probably isn’t the first place you might think of for a wintertime getaway, we’re here to tell you that a seasonal stay in the City of Angels is just so right. Why, you might ask? Well, for starters, when you travel to the West Coast in the wintertime the weather is temperate and balmy still without ever soaring into the high-80s. This means that you’ll be able to explore all of the city’s incredible attractions and points of interest just as you normally would. Of course, the atmosphere in L.A. around this time of the year remains unmatched. As with any major metropolitan city, L.A. is bustling with life around the holiday season, and you can most certainly feel the excitement. During the month of December you’ll also be able to find tonnes of magical activities and pop-up festive events around town. Some of our favorites include the Marina Del Rey Boat Parade, L.A. Zoo Lights, and Holiday Time at Disneyland. Whilst travelling to L.A. during the most magical time of the year might not be the most wallet-friendly, we promise you that this option is definitely worth the memories.

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January - February

Don’t rule out a wintertime vacation to Los Angeles! Marking another sweet spot for visitors to the City of Angels, the start of the year has a lot to offer all types of visitors. Much like December, you’ll find that the weather is cooler and more comfortable around January to February time, with average highs sitting around the upper 60s. Still, rain is more common around this time of the year, so we suggest packing accordingly: take a light jacket and a sweater, since temperatures can dip in the evening time, and you’ll be good to go! Around this time of the year, school is back in session and the holidays will have died down. With smaller dispersing crowds, the city is more manageable to explore. As if this all wasn’t enough, the winter months are the cheapest time to visit L.A., so don’t hesitate to book fast! Since it’s low season, you’ll also be able to find great deals on entertainment, dining, and more.

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March - May

If you’re drawn to Los Angeles for its beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes, you might want to consider heading over in the springtime. Springtime in L.A. is when things really start to heat up, so it’s perfect for sunseekers and outdoorsy types alike. There are a lot of great things to check out here, but some of our favorites include hiking the Santa Monica Mountains, stargazing at the Griffith Observatory and exploring tide pools at White Point/Royal Palms Beach. Just as you might have guessed, the city’s warm Mediterranean climate calls for a strong summer dress code and lots of water and sunscreen! Show up prepared, and you should be just fine. The city is pretty calm and quiet around this time of the year, though you might bump into some big crowds if you choose to travel during spring break or Memorial Day. With all of the advantages of travelling in the summertime and less of the fuss, couldn’t think of any reason not to visit L.A. in the spring!

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Summertime!

For those who like to be in the center of all the action, we suggest booking your L.A. getaway for the summertime. Of course, one of the best things about visiting Los Angeles in the summertime is the legendary West Coast weather. With temperatures hovering around the mid-80s, the beaches are a popular place to be. During this time of the year, it’s hot enough to sunbathe and the waters are warm enough to swim, surf, or scuba dive in - whatever takes your fancy! But still, there’s much more to look forward to around this time of the year than just the beach. Visit L.A. in the summertime, and you’ll find that there are countless exciting festivals, pop-ups and conventions to check out. Whilst this might be one of the more expensive times to visit La La Land, we promise that you’ll never be bored exploring Los Angeles in the summertime. Sun, surf, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city - what could be better than that?

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No doubt, Los Angeles is an exciting destination to visit any time of the year. Promising great weather, iconic attractions and unmatched natural beauty, there’s so much to see and do here no matter where your interests may lie. Maximize your travel experience with Go City’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
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in The South Bay Los Angeles

Looking for new areas of Los Angeles to explore? Well, you’ve come to the right place then! Lucky for you, Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis with so many areas to discover, each one better than the next. Whether you’re a seasoned visitor or just want to get a true taste of the city, this spot has so much to offer those visiting the City of Angels. Besides being to some of the best natural sights in L.A., the South Bay also boasts a strong museum game and a fantastic shopping and dining scene, too. Above all else, this laidback friendly neighborhood has a live like the locals vibe, offering a more authentic way to experience the city. If you’re not familiar with the area and need some handy advice, have no fear - we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite things to do in the region. How many of these classic South Bay attractions will you try? Check Out the Museums Los Angeles is primarily known for its exciting entertainment attractions and wonderful outdoorsy adventures. Yet beyond the sweeping landscapes and film sets, the city boasts a well-rounded museum scene, just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re new to the city or a seasoned visitor just looking to try something different, the South Bay is undoubtedly the place to be. There are countless museums to suit all types of interests here - all you have to do is pick your favorite! For artsy types visiting the area, we suggest heading over to the El Segundo Museum of Art. Breaking away from the typical gallery experience, this spot is less of a stuffy establishment and more of a welcoming whimsical art laboratory with a focus on education. Unique, quaint and thought-provoking all at the same time - hey, what’s not to love? But if art isn’t your jam, the South Bay is also home to some great history museums to check out. We recommend the Computer History Museum and the International Printing Museum, with one of the largest collections of kind in the United States. In addition, the area is known for its automotive and aviation institutions - if you’re a total electronics geek, The Western Museum of Flight should take your fancy. With so much to be discovered, it’s no wonder that South Bay is growing in growing in popularity each and every day! Spend Time in Nature In Los Angeles there’s a beach to suit everyone, and we mean everyone. Even just within the South Bay, there are a number of options to choose from for those who are looking to soak up the sun. The beaches here are a little less touristy than the shores of Santa Monica or Venice, but no less beautiful or fun. For first-time visitors to the South Bay, we recommend heading over to Hermosa City Beach, where you’ll find a sun-soaked shoreline complete with a bustling boardwalk, quaint stores and tempting eateries. Exciting activities to do here include swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, scuba diving and more. Volleyball tournaments and surf festivals also take place here throughout the year, so be sure to check those out. Another popular outdoor attraction in the area is Redondo County Beach, known for its carefree and laidback atmosphere. This spot is a great option for nature lovers, with Hopkins Wilderness Park and whale watching and nature cruises to be enjoyed. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more sophisticated, we suggest heading over to Manhattan County Beach. Here you’ll an upscale and pristine stretch with unique shopping, a wonderful pier and lots of bar and restaurant options serving up locally-sourced fresh seafood. Each spot has something a little bit different to offer, so there’s no harm in checking them all out whilst you’re there! For those who just can’t get enough of the outdoors, why not check out Sand Dune Park? Though this is one of the city’s lesser-known attractions of its kind, it’s a great way to soak up the city’s innate beauty. The park features a 100-foot high sand dune, making it a popular spot for families with young children. Visit any day of the week, and you’ll find kids running, jumping, playing and having a blast at this wonderful natural space. Near the slope, there’s also a children’s playground as well as other facilities including picnic areas and restrooms. The park also includes the Manhattan Beach Sand Dune Nature Preserve, with some great hiking trails with scenic flora, so be sure to check that out, too. Exhibiting the awesome natural attributes of the city, this space is perfect for any outdoorsy types visiting the area. Just remember to bring lots of sunscreen and water with you! Enjoy the Wonderful Architecture Another one of our favorite things to do in South Bay is visit the Wayfarers Chapel. Though visiting a chapel perhaps isn’t your usual tourist activity, this spot stands out for its unique architectural features. Designed by renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright way back in 1951, the structure very much still stands the test of time, drawing in guests from near and far to its peaceful oceanside position. Though it is billed as ‘’the Glass Church’’, its warm wood and stone features complement its organic surroundings. Take time to admire its tasteful wooden beams and the light glimmering through the windows, and then step outside to enjoy the towering redwoods and sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Undoubtedly beautiful and thoroughly serene, this stop offers something a little different from your typical L.A. attraction - but that’s what we love about it! No doubt, the South Bay is the perfect place for exploring a different side to the city. With its wonderful history, stunning beaches and fantastic museums to check out, this lesser-known area of Los Angeles has much to offer its visitors. Maximize your travel experience 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 Angeles in February

A quintessential West Coast city, Los Angeles showcases a fantastic mix of urban cool and wonderful natural beauty. There are countless things to do there for all types of travellers - no really, we mean it! Whether it’s viewing world-class art at The Broad or checking out the charming penguins at the Aquarium of the Pacific, you’re sure to find something to keep you busy! February is also a great time to visit since there should be smaller crowds and cooler, more comfortable weather for seeing the sights. We recommend bringing a light jacket, since it temperatures can dip in the evening time. Still need help planning your priorities for things to do in Los Angeles? Then you’ve come to the right place! Have a read through our list of the best things to check out in the City of Angels for February. We promise you won’t be disappointed! Hit the Classics Those looking for art and culture in L.A. won’t have to search very far. As the undisputed cultural capital of the West Coast, Los Angeles is bursting with fantastic museums of all kinds. From the big hitters to small speciality institutes, creative types exploring L.A. will have their pick of some of the best museums in the U.S. of A.. Still, The Broad has got to be one of our favorites for its impressive repository as well as its iconic structure. As one of the most Instagrammable buildings in downtown L.A., the building is well-recognized for its unique honeycomb-like facade and dimpled interior. Inside, visitors can enjoy a fantastic collection of contemporary and modern works, featuring over 200 artists. Highlights include Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog, Andy Warhol’s Single Elvis, and Roy Lichtenstein’s I...I’m Sorry! In addition, the museum is known for housing Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room, an immersive and enchanting starfield to capture your imagination. A thoroughly one-of-a-kind cultural experience, this spot is a total must-see. You can’t visit Tinseltown without learning more about its unique creative heritage. As one of the must-see sights in Los Angeles, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history of filmmaking. In fact, this spot is actually recognized as the largest museum of its kind in the world. The institute’s incredible collection is comprised of over a whopping 13 million objects, including film reels, props, costumes, and much more. The museum works to cover artefacts from all types of genres and time periods, so there’s a lot to be discovered here. Highlights include Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, the typewriter used to write the screenplay for Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho, and the only surviving shark mold from Jaws. In addition to the institute’s permanent collection, the Academy also hosts film premieres. A total dream for cinephiles, this spot is sure to fascinate. Find Fun Activities As the epicenter of the entertainment industry and home to the stars, Los Angeles has countless experiences to offer for pop culture lovers and artsy types alike. If you’re a seasoned visitor to L.A. and are looking for something new past the Hollywood Walk of Fame, we recommend checking out the Grammy Museum for its unique collection dedicated to the history and significance of American music. A fantastic stop for all music lovers, the institute works to provide a great look into the background of the Grammys through engaging and educational exhibits. Though young, the museum’s collection is no doubt impressive, with historical awards, remarkable costumes, and instruments to take your breath away. In addition, there are immersive instrument stations and recording stations to enhance the experience. Visitors can also catch educational talks, concerts, performances and film screenings at the Grammy Museum’s 200-seat theater. As fun as it is interesting, this spot is totally worth the trip. If you’re looking for a fun day trip, why not check out the Aquarium of the Pacific? Opened in 1998, this enchanting aquaspace offers a rich collection of wildlife native to the Pacific. Enjoy underwater life from a collection of over 11,000 animals representing over 500 species. The oceanarium houses everything from colorful reef fish and friendly sea turtles to unique jellyfish and charming penguins. Get up-close encounters with some of your favorite animals, including seals, sea lions, sting rays and even sharks! Enjoy a wide variety of talks, exhibitions and demonstrations and learn more about the natural world. The perfect stop for all nature lovers, this stop works well to provide a glimpse of the underwater world. Try Something Different If you’re looking for something a little bit different, don’t worry - we’ve got you covered! Located in Culver City, The Museum of Jurassic Technology seeks to preserve, present and interpret artefacts from the earliest era of the Jurassic Period. Though the institute is small, its collection is well worth seeing, with an impressive mixture of artistic, ethnographic and historic items to be enjoyed. Visitors can expect to see everything from folk remedies from around the world to a room dedicated to the string game of Cat’s Cradle. Don’t forget to check out the institute’s Georgian-style tea room, where you can meet the museum’s founder David Hildebrand Wilson and talk over the collection. A thoroughly one-of-a-kind educational experience, this spot is not to be skipped out on! A Los Angeles wintertime getaway is a unique experience well worth considering. Though the city cools down around this time of the year, it never runs out of exciting things to see and do. 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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