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!

Image of Vegetation, Land, Nature, Outdoors, Tree, Woodland, Adventure, Hiking, Person, Bag, Jungle, Grove, Rainforest, Female, Girl, Teen, Backpack, Backpacking, Photography, Handbag,

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.

Image of Cityscape, Urban, City, Nature, Night, Outdoors, Metropolis,

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.

Image of Cityscape, Urban, City, Metropolis, Nature, Outdoors, Sky, Tree, Landscape, Palm Tree, Sunset, Scenery, Car, Neighborhood, Downtown,

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.

Image of Person, Car, Amusement Park, Fun, Theme Park,

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!

Image of Back, Person, Nature, Outdoors, Sea, Water, Adult, Male, Man, Swimwear, Female, Woman, Child, Girl, Shorts, Boy, Baby, Sea Waves, Summer, Swimming, Water Sports,

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?

Image of City, Road, Street, Urban, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Accessories, Bag, Handbag, People, Male, Man, Hat, Shoe, Wristwatch, Glasses,

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

Continue reading

Blog

Things to do in Koreatown Los Angeles

Koreatown stands in the very center of Los Angeles, a distinct melange of bright neon lights, shops, restaurants, cafes and so much more. Though it may not be the first stop visitors think of when travelling to the city, we maintain that it should rank high up on everyone’s travel bucket list. A traditional ethnic enclave and emblematic symbol of the Asian immigration story, this spot is great for those who want to learn more about the history and development of the city. Plus of course, there are just so many exciting things to do there! Whether you’re looking to see the city from a different point of view or catch some great movies, you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to picking fun activities. So, if you’re planning a trip to L.A. and are thinking of exploring this unique area of the city, have a read through our list of the top places to check out. These suggestions are activities you won’t find anywhere else and are the best ways to experience K-town. GET TO KNOW THE AREA The history of the Asian American community runs deep - and there’s no better way to learn about it than by making a visit to the Korean American National Museum. The perfect stop for all history buffs, this unique speciality museum works to highlight Korean Americans who have made meaningful contributions and provide insight into the development of the community. It’s a pretty comprehensive collection, whereby its broader approach allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding for Korean culture. Thematic galleries cover and discuss the stories of those who have lived in Koreatown, as well as the generations of those who came before them. Though the institute is one of L.A.’s smaller and lesser-known visitor attractions, it’s repository is pretty impressive, with priceless historic artworks and artefacts on show. A thoroughly fascinating cultural endeavor, this spot is not to be missed. Souvenir shopping can sometimes seem like a bit of a chore - but not with this next stop! If you’re looking to shop til you drop and truly get to know what Koreatown’s all about, we recommend heading over to the Koreatown Plaza. Built as the area’s first American-style shopping mall, this stop stands as a great example of the Asian-American experience. Comprised of dozens of shops across multiple floors, this stop packs a whole lot into a small space. Inside, you’ll be able to browse everything from hard-to-find skincare and fashion items to unique houseplants, homewares and more! There’s also a fantastic food hall with a wide variety of vendors to choose from if you’re thinking about grabbing a bite. Some of our favorite places include Town Noodle and Awoolim. A little bit different with a lot to offer, this is a great little stop-off for those who want to pick up a little memento to remember their time spent in Koreatown. FIND FUN ACTIVITES Tinseltown, The City of Angels, La La Land... whatever you want to call it, Los Angeles is known for one thing above all else - movies! Still, if you’re a veteran visitor to L.A. you’ll probably already have hit up the city’s top entertainment-themed attractions like Universal Studios and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. But don’t worry, there’s still plenty to do here for lovers of the performed arts and captured light. For those who are looking to rest their weary feet after a long day of touring, why not catch a Korean movie at CGV Cinemas? This place is the only movie theater in the area, but it most certainly lives up to that responsibility. Its programming is well-thought-out and immensely broad, with a wide variety of American and Korean movies (with subtitles) to choose from. Still, perhaps the most impressive aspect of this place though is its 270-degree panoramic viewing format, allowing visitors to see movies from a whole other point of view. Don’t fill up before you go, since the theater also has some great Korean snacks like sesame balls and deep-fried rice cakes. A little bit different and a whole lot of fun, this place is great for those of all ages. Another one of our top spots to visit in Koreatown has got to be The Wiltern Theatre. A designated city landmark and must-see attraction, this place is recognized as one of the oldest theaters in Los Angeles and as well as the oldest remaining original Orpheum theater in the United States. Though this spot has seen a lot of renovation and restoration over the years, it still stands as a mesmerising example of Art Deco architecture in the city. Take time to soak up its unique terracotta facade and moulded low ceiling before heading inside. The interior of the building is known for its sweeping staircases, gilded columns and perhaps most notably, its auditorium ceiling which boasts a fantastical sunburst pattern of Art Deco skyscrapers set against a rainbow of multi-colored stars. Though this spot maintains much of its original design, it boasts the newest state-of-the-art of the art technology, making for a fantastic viewing experience. Here you can catch everything from your favorite singers and side-splitting comedians to dance performances and more. Sophisticated and fun, there’s nothing about this place to hate. HIT THE LANES For those who just want to spend some good old-fashioned quality time with the family, why not head over to the bowling alley? Offering the perfect antidote to a long hard day of exploration, Shatto 39 is a fun and relaxing space well worth checking out. Complete with a bar, an arcade, a billiards room and (surprise) 39 lanes, this spot is great for those travelling in crowds. With its friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, we couldn’t think of a better place to practice your game in the city. With its storied history and vibrant energy, Koreatown tops the charts as one of our favorite places in the city to explore. From visiting the Korean American National Museum to catching Korean movies, there’s just so much to see and do here! 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
girls having fun in the city
Blog

September in LA: Sun, Culture, and the Best City Adventures

Every September, Los Angeles transforms into a sweet spot for city exploration. The sticky heat of high summer fades, crowds thin out, and the calendar bursts with outdoor concerts, food fests, and quirky neighborhood celebrations. Sunsets stretch just a little longer, while the city’s endless creative energy offers up everything from movie magic to world-class science and nature adventures. Whether you’re here to bask on legendary beaches, bike down palm-lined boulevards, or dive into LA’s endlessly rich cultural scene, September lets you have it all—often with a little extra elbow room. Here’s everything you need to plan your perfect September trip to LA, from must-see attractions and seasonal events to local eats worth traveling for.  Our favorite things to do in Los Angeles in September include:  Griffith Observatory Tour  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Getty Center Guided Tour  Universal Studios  Highlights of Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  Natural History Museum  Sunset Movies at Hollywood Forever Cemetery  Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes  Exploring Grand Central Market  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Ask us for our favorite September adventure, and we’ll send you straight to the water. September sits in a sweet window for whale watching in Southern California—humpback wales, blue whales, and pods of playful dolphins all love cruising the coastline during the early fall.  The Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales is our pick for the best sea safari within easy reach of the city. Board a comfortable catamaran and feel the ocean breeze as experienced guides help you spot the marine action. You’ll want to bring a camera: dolphins frequently leap alongside the boat, and you’ll often spot sea lions sunning themselves on buoys or harbor rocks. Sometimes, you might even catch the spout of a mighty blue whale—the world’s largest animal—breaking the surface nearby.  The vibe is laidback and immersive. Staff provide insider info on all the local species, including seabirds and the coastal ecosystem. September’s crisp mornings and sunny afternoons offer up ideal sailing conditions and calm seas. Take a morning tour, then spend your afternoon strolling Newport Beach’s pretty boardwalks or grabbing fresh fish tacos at Bear Flag Fish Co. No matter how many times you do this, the thrill of seeing those wild giants never wears off.  Getty Center Guided Tour  Get your culture fix with a September trip to the Getty Center, where striking architecture meets one of the most celebrated art collections in the world. Perched atop a hill in Brentwood, the Getty’s white travertine buildings glow in the soft late-summer sun, and the spectacular gardens below burst with blooms—even this late in the year. Admission is free; the experience, priceless.  Hop aboard the hillside tram and arrive in style. On a guided tour, you’ll unravel the stories behind European masterpieces—think Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt—as well as sculpture gardens and cutting-edge photography exhibitions. But the real fun comes from wandering—spacious courtyards, sparkling fountains, and rolling lawns invite you to linger. The atmosphere feels both grand and laidback, with plenty of outdoor seating if you want to picnic with a bakery treat from the café.  Don’t skip the garden walks: the Central Garden, designed by Robert Irwin, shifts colors with the seasons and features hundreds of plant varieties. Pick a bench under the sycamores and soak up the views over LA. In September, the air buzzes with anticipation—art season is picking up, and you might catch a pop-up concert or outdoor film night. Even if you’re not a diehard art fan, the experience of exploring the Getty’s rich interiors and lush outdoors is a delight for every traveler.  Universal Studios  Let’s be honest: when you’re in Los Angeles, the call of movie magic is impossible to resist. September offers a brilliant opportunity to enjoy Universal Studios with shorter lines, cooler temperatures, and all the “behind the scenes” thrills you can handle.  From the moment you walk through the gates, you’re immersed in worlds straight from your favorite films. The Studio Tour remains an absolute must—rumbling trams take you past real sets, sound stages, King Kong’s rampage and the explosive Fast & Furious finale. September also ushers in Halloween Horror Nights (on select evenings later in the month), transforming the park into a maze of movie-inspired haunted houses and scare zones for those seeking a seasonal thrill.  Families flock to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can sip buttery cold drinks, cast spells at shop windows and zoom through the air on “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.” Action fans won’t want to miss the “Jurassic World” ride, with its epic splashdown, while “The Simpsons Ride” delivers laughs every single time.  The whole park pulses with energy, from character encounters to street performances to culinary treats (hot tip: sample a pink sprinkle donut from Lard Lad). Visiting Universal Studios in September lets you enjoy all the movie magic with space to roam, plenty of sunshine, and a little Halloween sneak preview.  Natural History Museum  September in LA means “back to school” for locals, but for visitors, it’s the perfect moment to rediscover a sense of wonder. The Natural History Museum—set in stunning Exposition Park—delivers just that. It’s a dinosaur-lover’s dream, and so much more.  Inside, you’ll roam through towering skeletons in the Dinosaur Hall and see some of the world’s most complete fossils, from Triceratops to the mighty T. rex trio. The Nature Lab is full of hands-on fun, letting curious travelers of every age get up close to LA’s wild side, learning about the city’s coyotes, hummingbirds, and even urban bees. Interactive exhibits encourage you to touch, explore, and discover for yourself.  The museum isn’t just for rainy days (although it’s a lifesaver when showers hit). Step into the glass-walled Butterfly Pavilion and you’ll find yourself surrounded by clouds of living color. In September, many species still flutter about, making for magical photo ops. Outside, the museum’s gardens provide a peaceful escape for a midday snack or a picnic on the lawn.  The atmosphere here buzzes with excitement and curiosity—little ones will love the Discovery Center, while adults get swept up by the rotating special exhibitions. Add in food trucks, weekend family programs, and even occasional outdoor movie nights, and you’ve got a cultural winner perfect for an early fall visit.  Sunset Movies at Hollywood Forever Cemetery  Looking for a classic LA experience, with a twist? Every September, Hollywood Forever Cemetery transforms from tranquil memorial garden into one of the city’s most unique open-air movie theaters. The Cinespia film series draws a stylish local crowd who come for cult classics, vintage hits, and the fun of watching movies under the stars—quite literally surrounded by Hollywood history.  Here’s how it works: you bring your blanket and picnic basket (think artisanal cheese, sushi from nearby Sugarfish, or a sprinkle-covered cake from Magnolia Bakery) and stake out your spot on the grassy lawn. As dusk falls, vintage shorts screen while everyone socializes and snaps selfies in the themed photo booths. Lines might seem long for the pre-movie cocktails, but the fun atmosphere makes time zip by.  Once the movie begins, there’s a wonderful community feel—laughter ripples across the crowd, everyone cheers at the best lines, and there’s a sense of being part of an authentic LA tradition. Arrive a little early for a walk around the famous monuments and tombstones; you might spot the final resting places of Judy Garland, Rudolph Valentino, or even Johnny Ramone.  It’s unbeatable for people-watching, too—local Angelenos unleash their picnic creativity, and there’s a joyful blend of families, film buffs, and starry-eyed travelers. If your trip overlaps with a screening, grab tickets! It’s pure LA entertainment with a twist of history and a huge helping of personality.  Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes  Want to see LA’s glamorous side with a bit of feel-good exercise? The Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes is a September standout. Guided by a local expert, you’ll pedal gently through Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, where stunning mansions, palm-dotted boulevards, and impossibly fancy cars form the backdrop.  September weather highlights this experience: mornings are breezy and quiet, while afternoons see golden sunlight streaming through the oaks and jacarandas. Ride past iconic hotels (hello, Beverly Hills Hotel), peek at movie-star homes, and learn the juicy stories behind legendary Rodeo Drive. Your guide knows all the hidden corners: think secret gardens, art-filled plazas, and neighborhood favorites that never make the tourist maps.  Stops along the way give you time for photos, and maybe even a coffee or pressed juice from a local cafe—try Verve Coffee Roasters for an energizing pick-me-up, or if you want a classic treat, Nate ’n Al’s deli is legendary for old-school pastrami sandwiches. The vibe? Both glamorous and down-to-earth, as you mingle with locals out walking their dogs or bustling between appointments. This bike tour leaves you feeling like you’ve glimpsed a more relaxed, sun-filled side of LA—without breaking a sweat.  Exploring Grand Central Market  There’s no flavor quite like Downtown LA in September. Our foodie hearts beat fastest for Grand Central Market, the century-old culinary bazaar where old-school LA meets global food culture, all under the glow of neon signage.  Arrive hungry. Start with a breakfast sandwich at Eggslut (order the “Fairfax”—soft-scrambled eggs, chives, cheddar, caramelized onions and sriracha mayo, all on a fresh brioche bun) or go for a breakfast burrito from Villa Moreliana. If it’s lunchtime, grab tacos from Tacos Tumbras a Tomas or check out Sari Sari Store’s Filipino rice bowls. Foodies swear by the wood-fired pizza at Olio, and vegans flock to Ramen Hood for plant-based, all-day comfort food.  What sets Grand Central Market apart is the buzz: everyone from cool downtown creatives to LA’s old-timers mingles at shared tables, and the energy feels contagious. In September, the market often hosts harvest-themed pop-ups, live jazz brunches, and the city’s best cold brew tastings. Take your lunch to nearby Angels Flight funicular for a ride up to California Plaza, then return for dessert—Sticky Rice’s coconut-mango rice is always a hit.  With its mix of art deco architecture, playful signage, and non-stop people-watching, Grand Central Market embodies the city’s always-inventive, never-boring dining scene. It’s a must-visit—easy to dip into before catching METRO rides or exploring the rest of downtown.    September is LA’s not-so-secret “best month.” The crowds have drifted out, the weather plays it cool, and every corner of Los Angeles offers something special, from starry movie nights and cultural icons to wild dolphin encounters and the ultimate foodie finds. Whether you’re rediscovering the classics or diving into neighborhood adventures, LA in September feels full of possibility and surprises. Pack your sense of curiosity—and perhaps a picnic blanket—because this is a city that rewards wanderers at every turn. See you under the LA sun!    Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do During a Heatwave in Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes.      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!  

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.