Easter in Los Angeles: Our Guide to Fun, Sun, and Surprises

Swap bunnies for beaches and discover LA’s unique spin on Easter fun!

Published: June 8, 2026
Children on an Easter Egg Hunt

So, you're in Los Angeles for Easter—lucky you! The city comes alive with spring energy, sparkling Pacific views, and a mix of traditions from around the world. Whether you're hunting for eggs, soaking up the sun on Venice Beach, or brunching under blue skies, there’s no shortage of fun ways to celebrate. We’ll guide you through the best attractions, from museums with seasonal crafts to whale-watching adventures, breezy rides down the boardwalk, and garden strolls where flowers are bursting into bloom. Ready for a holiday you’ll want to make an annual tradition? Here are our favorite ways to celebrate Easter in LA! 

Our favorite things to do at Easter in LA include: 

  • Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales 
  • Griffith Observatory Tour 
  • Universal Studios Hollywood 
  • La Brea Tar Pits and Museum 
  • Santa Monica Beach Bike Ride by Unlimited Biking 
  • Heal the Bay Aquarium 
  • Egg Hunt at Descanso Gardens 
  • Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour 
  • Natural History Museum 

Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales 

If you’re craving a bit of adventure for your Easter, LA’s coast delivers. The Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales takes you out into the shimmering Pacific for a wild, unforgettable morning. Spring is one of the best times to catch gray whales migrating along the shore. Spotting these gentle giants and their playful dolphin friends feels a bit like finding the golden egg of the ocean—a true thrill for families and nature lovers. 

The crew creates an energetic, friendly vibe, providing fascinating facts and even pointing out sea lions sunbathing on buoys. You’ll get incredible views of the shoreline and a salty breeze that reminds you Easter isn’t just about chocolate eggs—sometimes it’s about creating jaw-dropping memories. Bring your camera and layer up; you might spot a leaping dolphin before your coffee’s cooled. 

Griffith Observatory Tour 

For a timeless LA Easter, head uphill for a Griffith Observatory Tour. This is a favorite for visitors and locals alike—not just for the stellar views of downtown LA and the Hollywood Sign, but for the dazzling space exhibits and accessible telescopes that make science exciting for all ages. Climb the steps, take in sweeping panoramas, and let the city’s energy set the tone for your holiday. 

Easter often means fresh starts and new perspectives; what better way to get yours than by peering through the Zeiss telescope to explore the stars? The observatory hums with curiosity, hosts knowledgeable guides, and transforms a city visit into a sky-high adventure. Whether you’re drawn to the cosmic displays inside or the hikes outside, you’ll leave with plenty of inspiration (and some pretty epic holiday snaps). 

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Globe

Easter at Universal Studios? Yes, please! The park buzzes with movie magic, and springtime means shorter lines, sunny weather, and a festive atmosphere the whole family will love. From wand-waving in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to thrill rides like Jurassic World and The Simpsons, your day will be full of laughter, adventure, and the kind of contagious energy that makes LA famous. 

And the seasonal treats don’t stop at churros—look out for themed snacks and special events (hello, Easter egg scavenger hunts!) scattered around the park. Studios staff go all out to make every detail feel fun and cinematic, so whether you’re flying on a broomstick or lunching at Springfield’s Krusty Burger, you’ll be creating spring memories that last long after the last ride stops spinning. 

La Brea Tar Pits and Museum 

If you like your Easter with a dash of science (and maybe a bit of fossilized mammoth), the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum is your go-to. Located right in the heart of LA, this spot blends outdoor fun with indoor discovery. Start by wandering the bubbling tar pits, where the prehistoric past comes alive, then head inside to marvel at saber-toothed cats and ancient mastodons. 

Many families come here for the hands-on exhibits and family-friendly workshops, which often get an Easter spin with craft tables and special events. It’s a quirky-yet-fascinating day out that’s as educational as it is entertaining—ideal for curious kids and grown-ups who still remember dino-mania. 

Santa Monica Beach Bike Ride by Unlimited Biking 

Wanna soak up Southern California sunshine? Hop on a two-wheeler with Unlimited Biking for a breezy Easter ride along the Santa Monica coastline. This stretch is a classic for good reason: palm trees, surfers catching the morning waves, and the carnival soundscape of the Santa Monica Pier. Rent a cruiser and glide your way from Venice to Malibu, taking pitstops for selfies, churros, or an impromptu sandcastle competition. 

You’ll pass street performers, pop-up art, and maybe even an Easter Bunny or two handing out eggs at the pier. The energy is pure LA—sporty, creative, and blissfully free-spirited. Plus, you’ll burn off enough brunch calories to feel absolutely guilt-free about that extra slice of carrot cake. 

Heal the Bay Aquarium 

Give your Easter some aquatic enchantment with a visit to Heal the Bay Aquarium, located just beneath the Santa Monica Pier. This spot is small but packed with local sea life—touch tanks let you get tactile with sea stars, urchins, and anemones, while kid-friendly exhibits explain how LA keeps its beaches clean and beautiful. 

What truly sets it apart is the friendly staff and the focus on local wildlife. On Easter, you might catch special eco-workshops or surprise events that let little ones turn learning into art (egg-dyeing, anyone?). The aquarium’s blend of fun and purpose makes it a refreshing (and cool) stop on a sunny spring day. 

Egg Hunt at Descanso Gardens

Easter Eggs in the Grass

If traditional Easter magic means a good old-fashioned egg hunt, head out to Descanso Gardens. Just a short drive from central LA, these peaceful grounds burst into spring flower displays—camellias, tulips, and cherry blossoms galore. The real highlight for families: their annual egg hunt, where little ones search for hidden treasures among winding woodland paths. 

It’s the kind of place that makes you want to linger long after the hunt is over. Grab a coffee from the garden café, stroll through the Japanese teahouse, or relax under a canopy of oaks while the kids play. The garden keeps the pace relaxed and wondrous, with nature always stealing the spotlight. 

Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour 

Looking to add a splash of Hollywood dazzle to your Easter? Hop aboard the Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour. This is your chance to see LA from a whole new (air-conditioned) perspective, weaving past star-studded neighborhoods like Beverly Hills and Bel Air. You’ll spot mansions, palm-lined avenues, and maybe even a movie location or two. 

The guides supply fun stories, behind-the-scenes trivia, and just the right amount of glamour. As you cruise through streets you’ve only seen in movies, Easter turns into a blend of sightseeing, pop culture, and top-notch people-watching. Ideal if you want to relax, learn, and leave with some star quality of your own. 

Natural History Museum 

Cap your LA Easter adventure with a trip to the Natural History Museum. This South LA destination is springtime in a nutshell—dinosaur skeletons, glittering gems, and a seasonal butterfly pavilion where clouds of monarchs and painted ladies flutter around you. The exhibits are interactive and immersive, turning a holiday visit into an inspiring journey through time and nature. 

Around Easter, the museum often hosts family activities with a creative twist. It’s a burst of learning, play, activity, and sunshine all in one. Whether you’re fascinated by fossils, obsessed with butterflies, or just want an afternoon surrounded by LA’s lush spring blooms, the museum never disappoints. The grand architecture, engaging storytelling, and world-class collections make for an Easter outing that will have everyone buzzing with discoveries by the end of the day. 

 

Easter in Los Angeles means swapping the ordinary for the extraordinary—think marine life instead of chocolate bunnies, garden picnics in full California bloom, and brunches with a dash of Hollywood flair. Wherever your interests lie, LA brings a fresh burst of energy and sunshine to your spring getaway. So grab your sunnies, round up your favorite people, and hop into an Easter weekend you’ll be talking about until next year rolls around! 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Universal Studios Los Angeles or Things to Do with Kids in Los Angeles  

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Los Angeles Labor Day Weekend 2019 - 10+ Fun Things to Do in September

Make sure your summer goes out with a bang this year – spend Labor Day Weekend in Los Angeles and you’re guaranteed to have a fantastic time. If you’re looking for Los Angeles Labor Day Weekend 2019 ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in Los Angeles in September, including: Six Flags Magic Mountain Friday Night Jazz at LACMA 626 Night Market L.A. County Fair The Taste Cinecon Classic Film Festival Pacific Park Universal Studios Hollywood Knott's Berry Farm L.A. Zoo & Botanical Gardens Whale Watching Cruise 2. Friday Night Jazz @ LACMA View this post on Instagram A post shared by LA County Museum of Art (@lacma) on Jun 7, 2019 at 6:18pm PDT Every Friday from April to November the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) hosts a free jazz concert outdoors. It's one of the museum's most beloved ongoing programs. The style and performers vary each week, so you're bound to find something new each time you go. Bring a blanket, the whole family, and just relax at this free community event. Be sure to arrive early to secure the best spots! 3. 626 Night Market This summer marks the 8th year of this annual food festival. Evocative of classic Asian night markets, this festive local event is billed as a "quintessential Californian experience." Come here to taste authentic, mouth-watering Asian fare of the type you don't see in the hot new sushi joint. This year's theme of the 626 Night Market is "Bring on the Memories," which seems pretty appropriate for the combination of excitement and nostalgia that this event evokes for many of us. The 626 Night Market is located at Santa Anita Park in Arcadia. The event dates closest to Labor Day are August 30-September 1, 2019. The event is free to attend and food is available for purchase. 4. L.A. County Fair Making its debut on Labor Day Weekend, the popular L.A. County Fair has a little bit of something for everyone. Like most county fairs, it was originally designed as an agricultural festival; things like livestock beauty contests and fresh local produce attest to that heritage. But you’ll also find fun modern events like dance performances, wine tastings, cultural exhibits, children’s activities, and more. This year the fair begins on August 30, 2019 and runs through September 22, 2019. 5. The Taste Yet another food-centric event, The Taste is a great Hollywood attraction for just about everyone. It's sponsored by the L.A. Times, and is a great experience for locals and visitors alike. Sip, savor, and celebrate with food and beer samples, cooking demonstrations, mixologist demonstrations, wine tastings, and even special competitions. Remember to come with an empty stomach! The 2019 dates are yet to be announced, but it usually takes place around Labor Day. 6. Cinecon Classic Film Festival Held in one of Hollywood’s most historic theaters, Cinecon Classic Film Festival is a Hollywood darling. It's located at the Grauman's Egyptian Theatre (somewhere worth touring on your own time, like the TCL Chinese Theatres) and features a lovingly curated selection of classic cinema. If you just can’t get enough of old black and white films, this is the event for you. The first night opens with a grand gala featuring the silent comedy Bare Knees (1928) and the whole thing only gets better from there. The 2019 event dates are August 29 - September 2, 2019. Tickets are available now, and act quickly -- this event does sell out! 8. Universal Studios Hollywood If you're in search of some extreme theme park fun with an emphasis on your favorite movies and TV shows, then Universal Studios Hollywood should be your next destination. Combine the exhilaration of amazing theme park coasters and other rides with the fun of an interactive studio tour - it sure makes for one unbeatable day! Don't forget to leave an hour or so to explore Universal CityWalk, which boasts dozens of shops, restaurants, and attractions. It's a nice place for dinner after a long afternoon on the rides, or a convenient place to pick up a souvenir. We've also written a specific guide for how to make the most of your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, if you're looking to maximize your time there. 11. Whale Watching Cruise Take a break from the heat with a venture far out into the ocean to explore the great waters of the Pacific and its magnificent creatures. A Newport Landing Whale Watch is a 2.5-hour excursion out to one of the largest marine sanctuaries in California, where you'll see dolphins, orcas, humpback whales, and even the massive blue whale--the largest creature in the world. As you're waiting to reach the marine sanctuary, just sit back and enjoy the cruise on a 65-foot double-deck ship that comes with a lovely sundeck. Save on Attraction Admission Regular admission to a number of these Los Angeles attractions is included on the Go Los Angeles pass. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 50% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We hope you consider visiting some of these attractions to help round out your summer vacation in style. Share your adventure with us Remember to tag @GoCity in your holiday snaps and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and events and inspiration for your chosen destination too!
Katie Sagal
Riders at the top of the drop on the HangTime rollercoaster at Knott's Berry Farm, LA.
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Knott's Berry Farm Vs Disneyland Comparison LA

You’re never far from a thrill ride in California, where adrenalin junkies, rollercoaster riders and log flume aficionados are spoiled for choice thanks to the abundance of great theme parks. Knott’s Berry Farm and Disneyland are two of the oldest in the state. Indeed, Knott’s dates all the way back to the 1920s when a solitary stand hawking berry pies, jams and preserves planted the seed for the multi-million-dollar amusement park that stands on the exact same spot today. We took a deep dive into these two magical worlds in our comparison of Knott’s Berry Farm and Disneyland in LA. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Disneyland: A Short History California's Disneyland needs no introduction. The original and (many would say) still the best, it’s the only Disney park to have been designed and constructed under the watchful eye of Walt himself. Since opening in 1955, this Anaheim stalwart has been the dream ticket for wide-eyed kids around the world, so it’s little wonder that even after all these years it remains one of the planet’s most-visited theme parks, regularly topping 18m visitors in the pre-Covid era and outgunned only by its younger Disney sibling, Florida’s Magic Kingdom, in the world rankings. The souped-up 21st Century Disneyland contains no less than nine themed zones across 100+ acres, with over 50 attractions to explore, and a whole host of characters to meet: Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Donald, to name just a few. The charming old Disney Railroad ferries enchanted visitors around the park, covering around 1.2 miles and saving you a small fortune in shoe leather. Quirky fact: Walt Disney secretly kept a private apartment inside Disneyworld, and it’s still there today. Look out for a light in the window above the fire department on main street to see if the maestro’s spirit is in residence. Knott’s Berry Farm operates on a slightly smaller scale, but still packs a punch with nearly 50 rides across its 57 acres. And, oh boy, that boysenberry pie. From its humble beginnings as a roadside berry stand a century ago, Knott’s has expanded organically over the years, adding Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant as well as several shops and other attractions by the 1940s, including a ghost town, which is still there (though somewhat modernized) today. By the 70s, Knott’s Berry Farm boasted a log ride, bumper cars and a steeplechase rollercoaster. And the rest, as they say, is history. Today, it’s a fully fledged theme park, chock full of thrill rides and other fun attractions. And yes, you can still tuck into a classic fried chicken dinner or sweet, sweet slice of boysenberry pie – though perhaps not immediately prior to boarding the frankly terrifying HangTime rollercoaster. Quirky fact: when the Knott family sought to sell the park in the late 1990s, they ruled Disney out as a potential buyer because of concerns the park would become unrecognizable from their parents’ original vision. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Disneyland Comparison: Thrill Rides The cash injection that followed the sale of Knott’s Berry Farm to Cedar Fair in 1997 saw a rapid increase in the number of thrill rides in the park. And, nearly three decades later, there are stacks of great options for the adrenalin fiends among you. Chief among these is the Xcelerator (pictured above), the name of which alone will have most shrinking violets running for the bumper cars and spinning teacups. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be catapulted 20 stories high, reaching speeds up up to 82mph in a little over two seconds, now’s your chance. Definitely not for the faint of heart, it’s joined by the likes of the HangTime coaster with its stomach-churning 96-degree drop, and the epic GhostRider: the tallest and longest wooden rollercoaster in the West. Disneyland’s slightly more child-friendly focus means fewer adrenalin-fueled rides, but there are still a good few here that will get your pulse racing. Case in point: golden oldie Space Mountain has really stood the test of time. Debuted way back in 1977, this pimped-up sci-fi coaster tears through dark tunnels with flashing lights and a booming soundtrack that will make your hair stand on end. The Indiana Jones Adventure is another hair-raising dark ride that allows you to step into the shoes of the famous hat-wearing octogenarian archaeologist before hurtling through terrifying tunnels at a velocity no OAP should ever have to endure. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Disneyland Comparison: Water Rides If you don’t come away from your theme park adventure with a drenched shirt and the souvenir photo to prove it, can you really say you’ve been to a theme park? Calico River Rapids forms part of the Ghost Town zone at Knott’s Berry Farm and sees riders spin and splash down the river in family-friendly six-seater dinghies. The Timber Mountain Log Ride is an altogether wetter affair, and the park’s most popular attraction. Ride through a 330-foot long mountain before enjoying (or should that be enduring?) a 42-foot free fall and early bath. Knott’s also has a separately ticketed water park (Knott’s Soak City) that’s open between May and September. Disneyland has a number of sedate boat rides, including the Jungle Cruise and cute Storybook Land Canal Boats, but it’s Splash Mountain you came for, right? Don’t be fooled by the relatively gentle start, with its kid-friendly Br’er Rabbit, Br’er Fox and Br’er Bear storyline: there’s an inevitable drop towards the end that comes with a near-cast-iron guarantee of a soaking. Exit to the sounds of animatronic characters gleefully singing ‘Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah’ at you as you wring out your shirt. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Disneyland Comparison: Family Rides Both of these titans of the theme park world are ostensibly geared towards kids, though Disneyland definitely has the upper hand here, both in terms of pester-power, instantly recognizable characters and child-friendly attractions. In fact, the vast majority of rides and attractions here have no height restrictions, and many are even suitable for babies and toddlers. You’ll find these in every single zone, but particularly Fantasyland, which you’ll recognize straight away from the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle at its entrance. Inside, expect more nostalgic adventures based around your childhood favorites, including a cute flying Dumbo carousel, the Mad Hatter’s spinning teacups, and a meet and greet with Tinker Bell and her fairy friends in Pixie Hollow. Camp Snoopy is Knott’s Berry Farm’s main children’s zone, with kid-friendly coasters, miniature trains and carousels, primarily designed for children 36” and over. There’s also a chance to meet Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang. Some other attractions around the park, including the Calico Mine Ride, the Merry-Go-Round and Knott’s Bear-y Tales have no height restrictions and are great for families. Fast facts: Knott’s Berry Farm Tickets An All-Inclusive attraction pass from Go City includes general admission and saves you money when visiting multiple attractions in LA. Buy a 1, 2, 3 or 5-day pass to access as many attractions as you like in that time period, including the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, LA Zoo and Natural History Museum. You can also book tickets direct via the Knott’s Berry Farm website. Opening Hours The park generally opens daily at 10AM. Closing times vary by season. Check the calendar on the Knott’s Berry Farm website for the most up-to-date information. Getting There Knott’s Berry Farm is at 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 9062. There’s paid parking on site, or you can take a train to nearby Buena Park Metrolink station. More info on transport options here. Fast facts: Disneyland Tickets Browse ticket options and book direct on the Disneyland website. Opening Hours Hours vary throughout the year but Disneyland usually opens between 8AM and 10AM and closes between 10PM and midnight. View the calendar here. Getting There Disneyland is at 1400 South DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Get info on Disney-themed paid parking here. The park is also served by the Metro Express Line 460 bus from downtown LA and elsewhere, and there’s a Greyhound station about half a mile from the park, which connects to thousands of bus stations across the US. Save on attractions in Los Angeles Save on admission to Chicago attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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