Unwrap the Magic: Best Ways to Celebrate Christmas in LA

Here’s how to make Christmas sparkle in Los Angeles—no snow required!

Published: June 8, 2026

So, you want to make your LA Christmas truly unforgettable? Whether you love twinkling lights, festive shows, or a beachside Santa sighting, Los Angeles is bursting with holiday cheer. We’re talking world-class attractions, decked-out neighborhoods, and more hot cocoa stands than you can shake a peppermint stick at. Ready to design your perfect Yuletide itinerary? Let's dive into LA’s most memorable Christmas experiences—there’s magic on every corner.

Our favorite ways to spend Christmas in Los Angeles include:

Universal Studios Hollywood
Griffith Observatory Tour
Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour
Aquarium of the Pacific
Getty Center Guided Tour
Grand Central Market Holiday Eats
Rodeo Drive and Beverly Hills Lights
The Grove’s Christmas Extravaganza

Universal Studios Hollywood: Christmas Spectacular for All

From mid-November through early January, Universal Studios Hollywood transforms into a festive paradise. The park's “Grinchmas” celebration brings whimsical charm, but that's just the beginning. Giant sparkling trees, snow falling on cue, and costumed characters make every corner feel magical. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter glows with extra charm, especially during “The Magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle,” a nighttime show where dazzling projections light up the castle and carolers fill the air with music. It's a holiday party, LA style—sunshine by day, snow machines by night!

Strolling through the park with a warm Butterbeer in hand and a view of the glittering lights, you'll quickly forget there’s not a snowflake in sight. We think this is the perfect family-friendly Christmas adventure—there’s enough magic for kids and teens, but plenty of laughs and nostalgia for grown-ups, too. Take a selfie with the Grinch, catch a holiday parade, and cap off the night with fireworks if you time it right. Who says LA doesn’t know how to do Christmas?

Griffith Observatory Tour: Christmas with the Best Views

There's something special about seeing LA draped in holiday lights from up high. That's why we always recommend a visit to Griffith Observatory during December. By day, enjoy the Observatory’s fascinating exhibits and telescopes; by night, the city below transforms into a twinkling wonderland. On select evenings, the lawn fills with music and hot chocolate stands while the iconic art deco dome glows under the stars.

Besides the unbeatable views, the hilltop setting brings that crisp, fresh December air (yes, it does get chilly in LA after sunset!). Griffith Park nearby often hosts festive events, which makes it easy to combine astronomy with a dash of Christmas spirit. Share a thermos of spiced cider, admire the city-wide glow, and take classic photos of the LA skyline—sparkling brighter than ever for the holidays.

Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour: A Glamorous Festive Spin

Want to see how LA’s most famous residents celebrate Christmas? The Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour is a great pick if you want to soak up some sun and spot over-the-top holiday décor in Beverly Hills and Hollywood. Learn which stars transform their mansions into winter wonderlands and see top neighborhoods lit up with dazzling displays. Guides sprinkle holiday trivia alongside celeb stories for seriously entertaining vibes.

We love how festive music and sweeping city views put everyone in a jolly mood. Bring a Santa hat and you’ll get waves from passing locals—and maybe spot a front-yard reindeer or two. After dark, the neighborhood lights create pure holiday magic. For those who crave a break from traditional walking tours, this is fast, fun, and a total crowd-pleaser.

Aquarium of the Pacific: Under-the-Sea Christmas

At the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach, even the fish get festive. They deck the halls (and tanks) with creative decorations, hosting special events like “Aquarium Holidays” throughout December. Pose for selfies with Santa (he scuba dives, naturally), catch the “Holiday Treats for the Animals” feedings, and take part in themed crafts or story times. Kids love the frosty faux-snow zones and the twinkling lights reflected across the water.

The sea life becomes part of the Christmas celebration—where else will you find a penguin parade or a sea-otter stocking stuffer? It’s a unique twist on the usual holiday experience and combines learning with heaps of fun. After you’ve explored, stroll over to Shoreline Village for more eats and drinks, or catch the holiday boat parade if you're lucky with the timing. It’s festive, educational and memorable—a true LA original.

Getty Center Guided Tour: Artistic Inspiration with a Holiday Touch

For a dash of culture with your Christmas, head straight to the Getty Center. From late November, the Center decks its gardens and courtyards with subtle lights and seasonal displays—think minimalist trees, artful wreaths, and twinkling terraces with endless city views. The guided tours here offer a fabulous way to get the inside scoop on seasonal artwork and special exhibits.

While the art inside is always impressive, we especially love the outdoor spaces at sunset. Bundle up and stroll through the sculpture gardens aglow with fairy lights. Sip hot cocoa at the airy café as you take in panoramic city scenes. The blend of high art and festive cheer makes it easy to slow down and savor the season, LA style. Check for pop-up performances or free family art workshops, too—they often have a holiday twist.

Grand Central Market: Seasonal Eats and Festive Flavors

Nothing says Christmas quite like the smell of gingerbread and cinnamon wafting through one of LA’s most beloved food markets. At Grand Central Market, local vendors roll out cozy winter flavors—try Eggslut’s maple-laced breakfast sandwich or Madcapra’s festive falafel wrap. As you eat, holiday tunes play and string lights make every meal feel like a celebration.

This is the place to discover locally roasted holiday coffee, quirky LA-made candies, or even a Christmas tamale that’ll have you coming back next year. It’s a buzzy, communal, and unfussy spot—a great way to taste LA’s diversity under one friendly roof. Stock up for a holiday picnic, or just enjoy the lively vibe.

Rodeo Drive and Beverly Hills: Christmas Shopping with a Sparkle

For pure holiday razzle-dazzle, Beverly Hills is tough to beat. Every window glows with creative displays; every palm tree sparkles with fairy lights. Browse for gifts at luxury boutiques, then hit the sidewalk to catch impressive public art installations and massive Christmas trees. Many shoppers head here for the photo ops alone—giant nutcrackers, glittering archways, and celebrity-worthy decorations at every turn.

Between bagging gifts and sipping peppermint lattes, you might spot a stroll-by caroling group or impromptu holiday street performance. The area feels lively, sophisticated, and just perfectly over the top. If you’re on a budget, just window shopping and soaking up the festive atmosphere can be a holiday treat in itself.

The Grove’s Christmas Extravaganza

Every December, The Grove transforms into an open-air holiday playground. The centerpiece? A towering Christmas tree decked out in thousands of sparkling lights, plus a Santa house where the big guy himself greets kids (and grown-up fans). Snow falls each night on the hour, blanketing the palm trees with perfect Instagrammable moments.

Holiday concerts, pop-up markets, and themed treats add to the vibe. Pull up a chair at Dominique Ansel Bakery (don’t miss the hot chocolate and signature cronut), then shop, stroll, and enjoy the cheery crowds. The trolley rides get a festive twist, and you can finish your night with a seasonal film at the nearby theater. The Grove is always lively, but at Christmas, it’s pure holiday spirit—California style.

Whether you want candy-cane views of the city, a Hollywood-style holiday, or sandy toes at a Christmas market, Los Angeles delivers endless ways to make festive memories. From famous studios to oceanside lights, seasonal eats to star-studded shopping, this city wraps all the best holiday spirit into a sunny SoCal package. All that’s left to do? Start your LA Christmas adventure—cheer, sparkle, and all!

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near the Aquarium of the Pacific or Things to Do with Family 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!

This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

Discover {{destinationFullName}} itineraries

Continue reading

Blog

Top Los Angeles Theme Parks - A Quick Guide for First Timers to Southern California

Los Angeles County is home to more than 10 million people, and the sunny locale boasts more than its fair share of theme parks. If your vacation will take you to Los Angeles this year, you'll want to add a day or an afternoon spent at one of Southern California's most exciting destinations. The ideal theme park awaits your family whether you're traveling with wee ones and need some gentle rides or you're vacationing with teenagers who love whirling, twirling roller coasters. Need some help selecting your Los Angeles theme park s and other fun destinations? Here's all the information you need to arrange an exciting and one-of-a-kind Los Angeles vacation at theme parks near Los Angeles. Admission to Los Angeles Theme Parks A number of these popular Los Angeles theme parks, plus other great Los Angeles area attractions, are included on the Go Los Angeles® Card. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Universal Studios Hollywood Known for its slogan as the "Entertainment Capital of L.A.," Universal Studios is an expansive historic landmark that sits north of Hollywood in the San Fernando Valley. The world famous studio first opened in 1919, and the amusement park came along in 1951. (we also recapped some of the best Hollywood Studio Tours - if that interests you) The property is home to a slew of working television stations and a busy movie studio, and it also welcomes more than 6 million visitors each year to its thrill rides, shows, and the famous studio tour. The attractions at Universal often feature flight simulations and 3D technology, so you won't see a park full of traditional roller coasters when you visit this place. The park recently opened its "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" to much acclaim. Getting In: Universal Studios Hollywood tickets are available as a premium option on the 3- ,5-, and 7-Day Go Los Angeles® Cards. Knott's Soak City Water Park Located just a half mile from the entrance of Knott's Berry Farm, Knott's Soak City is one of Southern California's popular water parks with rides and attractions that cater to all ages. Some attractions, like the six-lane race ride "Banzai Falls" require riders reach a height of at least 42", and other attractions like Gremmie Lagoon are designed for children and have no height requirement. The park operates from May until September, and visiting Knott's Berry Farm one day and Knott's Soak City the next is a fun and easy way to spend a few days of your Los Angeles visit. Getting In: Knott's Soak City Water Park tickets are included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. Disneyland A Southern California landmark since 1955, Disneyland Park lures a whopping 16 million visitors each year to its sunny Anaheim location. Disneyland is located in Anaheim, which is south of Los Angeles in Orange County. The size of Disneyland, as well as its proximity to Disney California Adventure Park (right across the street), means an overnight stay in an Orange County hotel is an excellent way to make sure you get to the park early. Most of the rides at Disneyland are appropriate for children, and there are only a few rides that have a strict height requirement and a recommendation on age. The "big kid" rides are usually found across the street at Disney California Adventure Park. Getting In: Disneyland admission is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. For more information about this attraction and to purchase tickets, please visit the attraction website. Disney California Adventure Families often choose to visit Disneyland and Disney California Adventure at the same time since the park entrances are right next to one another. While the rides at Disneyland cater mostly to very young visitors (and the young-at-heart), Disney California Adventure offers some genuine thrill rides. The park opened in the not-too-distant past in 2001, but it wasn't as popular as Disneyland until the park's designers began adding extra attractions and thrill rides. A massive expansion of the park occurred in 2012 with the addition of Cars Land, which is based on the popular series of Pixar "Cars" features. Disney California Adventure features traditional rides like the California Screamin' coaster, as well as 3D rides like the kid-friendly Toy Story Midway Mania. Thrill-seekers will like the Tower of Terror and the Grizzly Rapids water ride, which is a must-see in the summer. Getting In: Disney California Adventure admission is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. For more information about this attraction and to purchase tickets, please visit the attraction website. Let's Recap Remember, you can save on admission to a number of the Los Angeles area's most popular theme parks with the Go San Los Angeles® Card. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate.

Go City Expert

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

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.