So, you’re set on celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in sunny Los Angeles. Lucky you! This city’s irresistible fusion of world-class attractions, lively Irish pubs, and endless sunshine means you can party like the Irish and explore like an Angeleno—all in one go. Want to know where to soak up the best green-themed events, scenic sights, and festive flavors? We’ve rounded up plenty of memorable ways to make your St. Paddy’s Day in LA truly shine. Get ready for live music, Irish ales, unique tours, and plenty of reasons to don your boldest green.
Our favorite St. Patrick’s Day experiences in LA include:
- Big Bus Hollywood Hop-on Hop-off Discover Tour
- The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes
- Griffith Observatory Tour
- Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking
- Universal Studios
- Aquarium of the Pacific
- Celebrate at Tam O’Shanter
- St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Hermosa Beach
- Catch Live Music at Molly Malone’s
- Irish Cheer at Casey’s Irish Pub
Big Bus Hollywood Hop-On Hop-Off Discover Tour
Kick off your St. Patrick’s Day adventure with a ride on the Big Bus Hollywood Hop-on Hop-off Discover Tour. As the city gears up for festivities, the open-top double-decker bus becomes the perfect moving perch for green-clad sightseeing. Cruise through the heart of Hollywood, snap selfies with costumed revelers along the Walk of Fame, and hop off to explore themed events or legendary pubs hosting St. Patrick’s Day specials. With multiple loop routes, you can easily tailor your day—maybe even discover a green donut or two en route!
One of the best parts of the Big Bus tour is the freedom it gives you to craft your own luck-filled day. Whether you jump off in Beverly Hills to people-watch amid Irish décor or head downtown for festive pop-up events, you never have to worry about parking. So sit back, enjoy live commentary full of movie gossip (and a little LA trivia), and soak up the city’s infectious energy—St. Patrick’s Day style.
The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes
Why not celebrate St. Paddy’s with an amazing view? The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour takes you on a guided trek up into the hills for one of the city’s best perspectives. Your enthusiastic guide livens up the climb with Hollywood stories, hidden shortcuts, and plenty of photo stops—ideal for showing off your brightest green attire with the Hollywood sign in the background.
On St. Patrick’s Day, the trail is extra fun—locals may surprise you with green hats and shamrock face paint, and the hillside wildflowers might even offer a bit of Irish luck. The tour is equal parts energetic hike and Hollywood storytelling session, keeping everyone engaged whether you’re an avid walker or just along for those Instagram-worthy moments. And nothing beats raising a water bottle (or post-hike pint) to the LA skyline on a festive day!
Griffith Observatory Tour
For visitors who want to mix stars and shamrocks, the Griffith Observatory Tour delivers. This LA landmark sits perched above the city, promising stellar views by day and cosmic discoveries by night. A guided tour lets you uncover celestial secrets in a lively, interactive way—spot distant planets through historic telescopes, wander through science exhibits, and debate which constellations look most like a shamrock.
On St. Patrick’s Day, the observatory often joins the party with themed programming and extended hours. The relaxed, welcoming spirit makes it perfect for families, couples, and curious explorers alike. Grab a picnic, lounge on the Observatory’s sprawling front lawn, and toast to new friends under the LA sun. If you want celebrations with a side of stargazing, this is your spot.
Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking
Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking
Trade your green hat for a bike helmet on this fun, breezy ride along some of LA’s most famous beachfront. The Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour zips you down palm-lined paths with the ocean as your backdrop. Your local guide adds colorful tales of surf legends, movie stars, and street artists as you cruise from Santa Monica Pier to Venice’s bustling boardwalk.
During St. Patrick’s Day, the scene takes a festive turn—expect green streamers on bikes, sandy pop-up parties, and maybe even Irish folk musicians busking as the waves crash nearby. With cheerful pit-stops for ice cream or coffee, you’ll blend classic LA beach life with a touch of Irish sparkle. Sun, sea, and friendly vibes make this a surprisingly joyful way to mark the big day.
Universal Studios
Movie magic meets Irish mischief at Universal Studios Hollywood this time of year. The park often rolls out special St. Patrick's Day decor in the streets of its themed lands, and you’ll find extra treats and green-tinted trimmings from restaurants and snack bars alike. Think: green butterbeer, St. Patrick’s Day photo ops, and maybe a costumed character or two celebrating along with you!
This is perfect for families or groups who want all-day entertainment, a dose of LA’s film history, and that fun, high-energy atmosphere you’re craving. Between adrenaline-fueled rides and live shows, there are countless ways to fill your day with laughter and excitement—and keep the Irish fun going from morning ‘til night.
Aquarium of the Pacific
Why not bring some Irish luck to the sea? The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is the perfect blend of lively learning and St. Patrick’s Day fun. Wander beneath colorful jellyfish, greet playful sea otters, and discover the vibrant ecosystems of the Pacific—all while enjoying any seasonal activities or crafts the aquarium might whip up for the occasion.
It’s a wonderful way to celebrate if you prefer your green in the form of vibrant underwater habitats. The setting offers a mellow escape from bustling city parades and pubs, while still feeling like you’re part of something festive and special. Don’t forget to check out the shark lagoon—legend has it, a few of the resident sharks are partial to four-leaf clovers!
Celebrate at Tam O’Shanter
Over in Los Feliz, Tam O’Shanter claims the title as LA’s original Scottish pub with a fiercely Irish spirit come March 17th. The pub brims with old-world charm: think carved wood beams, tartan décor, and cozy fireplaces. On St. Patrick’s Day, expect live Celtic bands, Guinness on tap, and a food menu stacked with hearty shepherd’s pie and their legendary Yorkshire pudding.
Tam O’Shanter’s patio transforms into a lively green-laced beer garden where giddy crowds swap stories over pints and plates. There’s genuine warmth to the celebrations, and the staff lean into the holiday with humor, cheer, and plenty of toasts. This is a must-stop for anyone seeking historic vibes and a crowd that truly loves to celebrate.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Hermosa Beach
St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Hermosa Beach
If you’d rather take your festivities ocean-side, make the drive to Hermosa Beach for its beloved St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Streets fill with bagpipers, classic cars, Irish dancers, and creative community floats. The parade has a charming small-town flair, but the crowd’s enthusiasm feels big—everyone from toddlers to retirees comes decked out in green.
Finish the march at Hermosa Pier, where local restaurants and bars host live music, special menus, and gallons of cold brew. You can spend the afternoon watching the waves crash from an Irish-themed patio, soak up sunshine, and toast your good fortune with sand between your toes.
Catch Live Music at Molly Malone’s
Famous for launching legendary acts and championing Irish music, Molly Malone’s on Fairfax is a go-to for St. Patrick’s Day revelry. This long-standing pub oozes neighborhood charm, with dark wood interiors, walls lined with faded photographs, and a stage that’s hosted everyone from LA folk icons to touring fiddlers straight from Ireland.
On March 17th, Molly’s is non-stop action: the bar serves Guinness, whiskey, and their “Shamrock Sour” special; local and visiting bands play energetic rock, folk, and traditional tunes; and the crowd’s energy is spirited (but always friendly). It’s as close to Dublin as you’ll find in LA, and newcomers are always welcomed with a cheer.
Irish Cheer at Casey’s Irish Pub
No celebration of St. Patrick’s Day in Los Angeles is complete without raising a glass at Casey’s Irish Pub. Situated right in Downtown LA, Casey’s transforms into a lively hub every March 17th with one of the city’s most legendary street parties. The energy spills out onto the surrounding blocks, where crowds gather for pints of Guinness, live bands, and classic Irish fare—think corned beef sandwiches, fish and chips, and savory beef and Guinness pie.
Casey’s festive atmosphere makes it easy to make new friends, sing along to fiddles, and join in pub games that pop up throughout the day. The interior is all dark wood, vintage posters, and the unmistakable sound of laughter echoing around every corner. Grab a themed cocktail, try your luck with giveaways, and don’t be surprised if you get swept up in a rousing chorus of “Danny Boy.” Whether you’re looking for a late-night dance party or a casual spot to mingle, Casey’s delivers that authentic, warm Irish welcome.
Los Angeles might not be Dublin, but when it comes to St. Patrick’s Day, the city knows how to mix Irish spirit with a splash of California sun. From scenic bike rides and famous film spots to neighborhood parades and rollicking pubs, there’s something festive for every kind of traveler. So, throw on your best green, grab your friends, and discover a pot of golden moments scattered across LA—your perfect St. Paddy’s adventure awaits!
Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Universal Studios Hollywood or Things to Do with Friends in Los Angeles
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