Memorial Day in Los Angeles: Sunshine, Celebrations & Surprises

After an unforgettable Memorial Day in L.A.? We’ve got you covered!

Published: June 5, 2026
American Flags

Memorial Day weekend in Los Angeles is a recipe for fun: blue skies, lively crowds, and a little local history to kick off summer. Whether you’re here for parades and picnics, or prefer star-spotting, bike rides, or museum-hopping, L.A. always delivers something special. We’ve rounded up our absolute favorite things to do—each one is a classic way to make the most of the holiday weekend, whatever your vibe. Memorial Day plans, sorted! 

Our favorite Memorial Day activities in Los Angeles include: 

  • Battleship IOWA Museum 
  • Griffith Observatory Tour 
  • Santa Monica Beach Bike Ride 
  • Natural History Museum 
  • Whale Watching in Newport Beach 
  • The Autry Museum of the American West 
  • Knott’s Berry Farm 
  • Universal Studios Hollywood 
  • Picnic in Griffith Park 
  • Malibu Seafood and Coastal Walk 

Battleship IOWA Museum 

Feel the hum of history beneath your feet as you venture aboard the Battleship IOWA Museum in San Pedro. This floating legend served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War, and stepping on deck instantly puts you in touch with America’s seafaring legacy. Memorial Day here feels invigorating and respectful, thanks to special events, patriotic displays, and tuneful brass bands filling the waterfront air. 

With interactive exhibits, you’ll uncover sailors’ stories and discover wartime innovations—peek inside the officer’s quarters, clamber up to the captain’s bridge, and snap commanding harbor views. Kids love the scavenger hunts, while history buffs can spend hours poring over the ship’s little details. On Memorial Day, the atmosphere is warm and communal, making this is a must-visit for tradition, remembrance and a glimpse into L.A.’s naval heart. 

Griffith Observatory Tour 

How about gazing at the stars after a day of sunshine and celebration? Join a guided tour of the Griffith Observatory, perched high above the city on scenic Mount Hollywood. The lively, welcoming vibe is exactly what you want for a holiday—with families snapping sky-high selfies, couples picnicking on the lawn, and everyone marveling at distant planets through public telescopes. 

The tour will get you up close with the Observatory’s Art Deco architecture, the iconic Zeiss telescope, and interactive exhibits that make space science feel both fun and approachable. On Memorial Day, you’ll spot local Angelenos and travelers alike making the most of the extra-long daylight. Linger for sunset and you’ll be treated to panoramic city views turning golden, then sparkling bright as evening sets in. 

Santa Monica Beach Bike Ride 

No Memorial Day in Los Angeles is complete without some classic Pacific Coast sunshine! Grab a Bike Rental—with a basket for beach snacks—and cruise along the Santa Monica and Venice Beach bike paths. The breeze is gentle, the palm trees sway overhead, and the soundtrack is pure L.A.: street performers strumming, skateboarders carving past, and the distant sizzle of barbecue. 

The bike lanes here take you past funky murals, volleyball games in full swing, and quintessential SoCal surfers catching early summer waves. Pause for a sandy picnic or duck into a boardwalk cafe for an iced coffee or fresh tacos. The sense of freedom and fun is unbeatable—nothing says summer’s here like gliding along this iconic stretch of coastline. 

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum

If you’re hungry for discovery in between Memorial Day festivities, the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park is just the ticket. Wander through halls of towering dinosaur skeletons, sparkling gemstones, and immersive dioramas that whisk you from Ice Age L.A. to modern-day cityscapes. Kids’ eyes widen at the life-size T. rex, while adults find themselves just as delighted by the butterfly pavilion and ancient fossils.

Festive weekends often bring special presentations and hands-on science stations—perfect for curious crowds. The museum’s lush gardens lure you outside for fresh air and a shady break, right in the heart of the city. In a place designed for wonder, everyone leaves with a new favorite “wow” moment.

Whale Watching in Newport Beach 

Ready to take to the seas? Newport Beach offers one of the region’s best Whale and Dolphin Tours. Memorial Day marks the transition from grey whales to blue whales along the California coast, and you might spot pods of dolphins or even a bounding sea lion or two. There’s nothing like feeling the salty air and scan the horizon for spouts and tails—you’ll find everyone on board is as excited as you are. 

With expert guides calling out sightings and sharing ocean secrets, even seasoned Angelenos learn something new every trip. The energy on the boat is cheerful and hopeful—adults swap stories about past encounters, while kids stare wide-eyed at gliding giants. It’s a refreshing break from city bustle, all just a short drive from L.A.’s beaches. 

The Autry Museum of the American West 

Memorial Day often brings thoughts of the American spirit and greater journeys, so step inside the Autry Museum in Griffith Park for a taste of adventure and discovery. The museum’s expansive galleries showcase cowboy gear, Native American art, vintage film posters, and stories that shaped the West. You’ll find dynamic exhibits that bring together Hollywood legend and real-life pioneers—with artifacts, photos, and family-friendly activities spread across airy, color-filled spaces. 

On holiday weekends, local musicians or storytellers add extra buzz, and guided tours help you uncover the West’s living traditions. The outdoor gardens, inspired by native California plants, offer a peaceful place to relax afterwards. It’s the best way to enjoy a slice of American heritage with a uniquely Los Angeles twist. 

Knott’s Berry Farm 

Kick off summer with roller coaster thrills and old-fashioned family fun at Knott’s Berry Farm! This isn’t just an amusement park—it’s a California classic, with wild rides, Ghost Town shenanigans, and buckets of fried chicken. Memorial Day weekend often means live music and themed events, so the energy is at its peak and everyone’s got an ear-to-ear grin. 

Beyond the high-speed fun, Knott’s delivers quirky touches: try your hand at gold panning, say hello to Calico’s gun-slinging townsfolk, or slow down at Mrs. Knott’s for a slice of boysenberry pie. Whether you’re chasing adrenaline or just want to cheer on a cowboy show, you’ll find something to make every family member’s day. 

Universal Studios Hollywood

Friends at Universal Studios Hollywood

Take a walk on the wild side this Memorial Day with a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood! This L.A. staple drops you right into the movie magic, with dazzling rides, shows, and the chance to spot an actual film shoot. The energy is electric, whether you’re dueling Voldemort or dashing from dinosaurs in Jurassic World.

Check the park’s schedule for special holiday parades, themed snacks and spirited crowds—Universal goes all out for long weekends. After the main attractions, grab a butterbeer or chill at the CityWalk for live music and outdoor dining. It’s that hard-to-beat blend of thrills and Hollywood sparkle, perfect for making summer memories.

Picnic in Griffith Park 

If your style leans towards slow-and-scenic, pack a picnic basket and find your “secret” corner of Griffith Park. One of the largest urban parks in America, Griffith Park is dotted with shady groves, rolling lawns and charming hidden gardens. On Memorial Day, you’ll find Angelenos grilling, tossing frisbees, and lounging with books beside bubbling fountains. 

Spread your blanket near the Old Zoo ruins for a quirky twist, or up by the observatory for views stretching from the city to the sea. For an easy bonus adventure, hop on the historic merry-go-round or stroll the peaceful Fern Dell. It’s classic L.A. relaxation—cheerful, easy and endlessly photogenic. 

Malibu Seafood and Coastal Walk 

Wrap up your Memorial Day with a breezy drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu. The casual, oceanfront Malibu Seafood shack dishes up legendary fish-and-chips, shrimp and tangy ceviche; all best enjoyed at picnic tables with views of passing surfers. The buzz feels beachy and lively, an L.A. tradition since the 1970s. 

After your feast, stretch your legs on the nearby trails or wander barefoot at El Matador Beach—one of the coastline’s prettiest hidden gems. You’ll find tide pools, dramatic rock arches and a peaceful, sunset-watching crowd. It’s the perfect way to end a day of fun, flavors and SoCal sunshine. 

 

Memorial Day weekend is the perfect excuse to explore a different side of Los Angeles. From iconic landmarks and coastal escapes to cultural attractions and outdoor adventures, the city offers something for every type of traveller. However you choose to spend the long weekend, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to make lasting memories along the way. Happy exploring!

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Universal Studios Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes  

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