10+ Free Things to Do in Los Angeles & How to Save on the Ticketed Attractions

By Go City Expert

Planning a vacation to Los Angeles? Our insiders put together a list of our top free things to do in Los Angeles. Check out these free attractions for fun adventures that won't break the bank. They offer the best of LA's history, entertainment, and scenery. Whether you want to explore the great outdoors or enjoy LA’s diverse cultural scenes, you’ll find something to love on this list. Our local experts put together a list of some of the best free things to do in Los Angeles, all great suggestions that can help round out your vacation itinerary.

A Way to Save on Ticketed Los Angeles Attractions

We know that this blog post is about listing the FREE things to do in Los Angeles, but, are you looking to visit a few of the ticketed attractions during your vacation? Consider using a Go Los Angeles Card - which includes free admission to dozens of the area's most popular attractions - all for one low price. See all available Los Angeles attractions, passes & prices – Learn more. A Go Los Angeles Card can save you up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate.

By BrianLiao (http://www.flickr.com/photos/brianliao/3007830928/) [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Paramount Ranch

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Hollywood’s version of the Wild West was created at the Paramount in 1927, and the site has been used for filming ever since. Visiting this Old West town set is free, and you can take all the photographs you want at this “movie ranch.” You’ll also find two easy hiking trails nearby, which can make for a fun (free) daytime activity. If you're interested in touring more movie sites and sets, you can take a few studio tours for less with the Go Los Angeles® Card, including the Warner Bros VIP Tour and a behind-the-scenes tour of Universal Studios Hollywood.

Hollywood Lights: The Magic of Movies at the TCL Theatre

The TCL Theatre features a spectacular light show accompanied by sound that covers the facade of the famous TCL Chinese Theatre with iconic moving images using 3D projection mapping. The four-minute show plays every 20 minutes starting at 8:30 pm every night. You'll see big-screen moments you'll recognize from movies that have premiered or played at the theatre over the last 90 years. Just head to the front of the theatre and wait for the next show to begin. Insider tip: use a Go Los Angeles Card to save on admission tickets to the TCL Chinese Theatres VIP Tour earlier in the day!

Hollywood Walk of Fame & Forecourt of the Stars

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You can’t visit LA without strolling along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Enjoy a free self-guided tour on Hollywood Boulevard while searching for the names of your favorite celebrities beneath your feet. Along the Walk of Fame, you’ll stumble across world-famous TCL Chinese Theater. At the Forecourt of the Stars in front of the theatre, put your own hands in the handprints of legendary Hollywood celebrities. Both activities are free!

The Hollywood Sign

Image of Landmark, Hollywood Sign, By Scott Catron (Sunset on HollywoodUploaded by zaui) [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Although you can’t get right up to the sign (it’s fenced off from the public), you can still get a prime (free) view of the iconic Hollywood Sign from several nearby spots. The Hollywood & Highland Center offers an excellent viewing area, or drive up Beachwood Canyon for a closer look.

Point Dume State Beach

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This Malibu state park is the perfect nature getaway offering a diversity of landscapes. You’ll find wide beaches, coastal bluffs, sand dunes, and rocky cliffs overlooking the ocean. The wide beaches are quieter than most, so you can really relax while basking in the sun. If you have kids with you (or if you’re a kid at heart), explore the shallow tide pools to discover some small sea creatures. The best part? It’s all free. If you'd prefer a more comprehensive overview of Malibu, or perhaps, a celebrity-focused tour, try out a themed Malibu Tour. Stairways built into the bluffs make for safe access to breathtaking ocean views, so snap a few photos while you're there.

The Getty Center & Getty Villa

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The J. Paul Getty Museum is one of the top-rated attractions in Los Angeles. And guess what—admission is absolutely free. Although parking (in a garage) costs $15, it’s truly an unbeatable price for what the Getty Center offers. It houses one of the biggest and most beautiful art collections in the world. But another popular reason to visit is for the stunning architecture and some of the best views of LA. Designed by Richard Meier, this structure was built with concrete and steel to overlook all of Los Angeles. You can easily spend quite a few hours roaming the building to take in all the famous works of art, like Vincent Van Gogh’s “Irises.” Just north of Santa Monica, the Getty Center is a very popular attraction that is a cultural high note of Los Angeles. You can also check out the Getty Villa in Malibu to see the Getty’s collection of Greek and Roman art. Although admission is free, you’ll have to reserve timed tickets in advance for the Villa.

Venice Beach Boardwalk

Image of Fun, Person, Tourist, Vacation, Handbag, Boardwalk, Bridge, Spring Break, Hat, Boy, Male, Teen, People, Shoe, Adult, Man, City, Urban, Shorts, The boardwalk is perfect for people watching! Image credit: venicebeach.com
The Venice Beach Boardwalk practically epitomizes LA with street performers, hard-bodied beach-goers, and a whole slew of interesting characters wandering around. In fact, Venice Beach Boardwalk is the most visited destination in Los Angeles. In addition to the unparalleled people-watching, you’ll enjoy unique shops, cafes, street vendors, and the chance to observe beach sports on Muscle Beach. While the boardwalk itself is free, parking can be up to $15 depending on the lot and time of year While you're in the area, don't forget to stop by Pacific Park - you can get discounted admission with your Go Los Angeles® Card, so you don't need to worry about straining your budget!

Downtown Art Walk

If you’re in town on the second Thursday of the month, be sure not to miss this exciting local thing to do. Each month has a different theme and features different galleries and art installations, even including performance art and graffiti. This free self-guided tour is a great way to explore the LA arts scene with friends.

Griffith Park

Image of Building, Observatory, Grass, Tower, The Griffith Observatory at Griffith Park.
Griffith Park is the largest municipal urban wilderness area in the United States, where you’ll find both landscaped “parkland” and natural terrain. What’s really special about Griffith Park is that it is home to lots of bargain attractions that attract both locals and visitors alike year-round. For no cost, you can take your kids on the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round, stargaze through the super Zeiss telescope at the Griffith Park Observatory, or discover old empty train cars at the historical Travel Town Museum. You could also rent a bike and pedal around the park's beautiful expanse, or hike up to the Hollywood Sign. Tip: If you want to catch a glimpse of the stars from the Observatory, get in line before dark! Tip: this is one of the ways you can hike up to the Hollywood sign. If you’re traveling with kids, take them to the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round, a historic hand-carved carousel that has attracted visitors since 1937.

Runyon Canyon Park

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Enjoy the natural paradise in the Santa Monica Mountains that is Runyon Canyon Park. Expect to be blown away by scenic views of all of LA and the gorgeous West Coast sunset. As it’s well known for it’s liberal off-leash pet policy, this place is perfect for the dog-lover. Whether you’re bringing your pets or not, pack a picnic and bring a kite for some outdoor fun at Runyon Canyon...all free, free, free!

California Science Center

Image of Lighting, Chandelier, Lamp, Skylight, Window, Art, The California Science Center’s interactive exhibits appeal to visitors of all ages. The permanent exhibits, featuring human and wildlife environments as well as air and space displays, are all free to the public. There is a fee for parking, but at only $10 per car, you won’t hurt your wallet. The Science Center also has a 7-story IMAX theatre which is not included in the free admission, but you will get into the IMAX for free with your Go Los Angeles Card!

Page Museum & La Brea Tar Pits

Image of Animal, Zoo, Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Park, Pond, Water, Elephant, Mammal, Wildlife, House, Housing, Villa, An outdoor exhibit at the La Brea Tar Pits.
The La Brea Tar Pits in Hancock Park is the largest source of prehistoric fossils ever excavated. The largest collection of these fossils is housed in the park at the Page Museum. It’s free to wander around the park and look at the tar pits and outdoor exhibits, but if you want to explore more of the prehistoric, admission to this unique Museum is only $7.

Graystone Mansion

This historic home is located in the charming, more remote part of Beverly Hills, away from the hustle and bustle of Rodeo Drive and the like. Explore this beautiful historic structure and its stunning gardens during regular business hours. You can always roam the gardens for free, although tours inside the mansion are offered for a modest fee (advance reservations required for interior tours).

Levitt Pavilion

This outdoor amphitheater in Old Town Pasadena offers free performances throughout the summer months, from musical genres as diverse as jazz/blues, fusion folk, and even interactive musical performances just for kids. With over 50 free shows to choose from in June, July, and August of each year, you can find something to appeal to practically every taste. Be sure to bring a blanket (or chairs) and a picnic dinner to enjoy as you soak up the music.

Gagosian Gallery

The outpost of the Gagosian Gallery in Beverly Hills is a popular place to visit. This is one of 16 contemporary galleries around the world owned by Larry Gagosian. It’s free to the public and boasts works of modern art by up and coming artists. If you can catch an opening reception each time the collection changes, you might even score some free wine and nibbles. Check out their website for a list of upcoming exhibitions.

Travel Town Museum

Hop on board to the Travel Town Museum and enjoy the many stationary train exhibits. Young children love to climb through the old empty trains at this Griffith Park historical site. A miniature train ride also runs around the perimeter of the facilities, providing a magical experience for kids. This low-key attraction with a gift shop on location is great for a laid back afternoon.

Metro Art Tours

Want to learn more about the fascinating artwork of the LA Metro system? Then be sure to join up with one of these free, docent-guided tours, offered through the Metro’s official art site. The various paintings, sculptures, mosaics, and murals scattered throughout the Metro system represent several decades of commissioned artwork and a wide variety of artistic styles and creative voices. A must-do for artsy folk.

The Korean Friendship Bell

Another famous and free landmark in LA is the Korean Friendship Bell. This was donated by the People’s Republic of Korea to celebrate the United States Bicentennial in 1976. It’s located in San Pedro, with gorgeous views of the Los Angeles harbor. This is a great spot to bring a picnic lunch and spend a couple of hours strolling the lush scenery here.

Let's Recap on How to Visit Los Angeles for Cheap

So there are some fun ideas for free things to do in in Los Angeles. Remember, if you want to add some attractions to your itinerary that normally cost money, consider purchasing a Go Los Angeles Card. With the Go Los Angeles Card you get free admission to dozens of attractions all for the one low price of the pass. You can save up to 55% off combined admission costs vs paying at the gate. Enjoy!

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Week in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a fantastic sprawling metropolis with its own unique character. Boasting an endless list of top tourist attractions, fun things to do, and points of interest to explore, it’s no wonder why the city ranks so high on many peoples’ travel bucket lists. With the perfect mix of quirky chaos and laidback bliss, the city never falls short of great things to see and do. And whilst one week might not seem like enough time to experience all that L.A. has to offer, with the right planning you’re sure to have a blast! Still daunted by the prospect of visiting a new city? Don’t worry - you’ve come to the right place! From must-see sites to cool hidden gems, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite things to do in the city. Day 1 - Hit the Beach What better way to kick off a vacation in Los Angeles than by hitting the beach? Whilst there are countless great beaches in the city, one of our favorites has got to be White Point/Royal Palms for its exceptional beauty and panoramic views. The area was first discovered by Spanish explorers way back in 1770, and has since become a popular nature attraction for locals and tourists alike. Today, visitors can enjoy sea life in its natural habitat at the site’s wonderful tide pools. Along the shore, you’ll be able to view sea stars, hermit crabs, anemones, and other fantastic marine creatures. Be sure to time your visit for when the tide is out so you can avoid getting wet! Other popular activities to do here include swimming, surfing, scuba diving and more. There is also a children’s playground and small park at the top of the bluff. We recommend staying until dusk, so you can watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean and Catalina Island. Day 2 - Get Cultured True to its reputation for innovation and creative thought, Los Angeles is home to some of America’s finest cultural institutions. For those who are having trouble choosing between some of the city’s best art museums to visit within the short space of a week, we recommend checking out the LAMCA. Founded in 1961, the institute is recognized as the largest of its kind in the western United States. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy an impressive and expansive collection featuring over 150, 000 works. The repository spans from ancient times right through to the present day, so you know that there’s a lot to see here. Highlights include Andy Warhol’s famous Cambell Soup paintings, some of Picasso’s best works, and the Urban Light installation. A thoroughly fantastic cultural experience, this one is not to be missed! Day 3 - Explore Nature With all of the glitz and glam, it’d be pretty easy to overlook one of L.A.’s most desirable attributes - its wonderful natural beauty. Still, we don’t recommend making a trip to such a startling beautiful area without checking out some of its most fantastic nature parks. Standing out as one of our favorites, Descanso Gardens is a 150-acre botanical park located just a short drive from downtown. This natural treasure offers the perfect break from the city complete with gleaming ponds, flower gardens and trailing forests. Reconnect with nature and amble through the park’s wide collection of fruit orchids, or explore its magnificent oak woodlands. This spot is also home to the largest concentration of camellia plants in the Western Hemisphere. And if you’re an animal lover, you’re just in luck! The park is also known for its incredible biodiversity, with over 100 species of birds, as well as turtles, deer, bobcats - and even the occasional bear. The perfect spot for all nature enthusiasts, this picturesque oasis provides the perfect way to spend a sunny day in Los Angeles. Day 4 - Head to the Museum Los Angeles solidified its position at the very center of the world entertainment industry long ago. Today, visitors can learn more about how L.A. came to be known as the city of fame and fortune through a number of its most prized institutions. Inaugurated in 2021, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures stands out as one of the city’s top visitor attractions dedicated to the history, technology and artistry of the American film industry. It is the first large-scale museum of its kind in the United States, and certainly one of the most impressive. Though the institute is young, its repository is remarkable, with over 13 million objects to be enjoyed. Highlights include Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, the typewriter used to write Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho, and the only surviving shark model from Jaws. Combining the fun with the educational, this stop is a total dream for all cinephiles. Day 5 - Spend a Day at the Pier If you’re looking to experience the true nature of the city, we recommend making a trip to the Santa Monica Pier. Vibrant and bustling with life, this historic L.A. attraction is packed with a whole myriad of fun things to see and do. Perhaps one of its most beloved hotspots has got to be Pacific Park, an admission-free theme park with world-class entertainment, fantastic restaurants, shopping, and much more. But if rides aren’t quite your scene, we suggest checking out the Heal the Bay Aquarium. With over 100+ local marine and animal species, this spot provides a fascinating glimpse into underwater life. In addition, the pier has long served as a popular spot for deep sea fishing for both amateurs and seasoned anglers alike. Its fishing decks grant spectacular views of the Pacific whilst allowing visitors great access to some of the best catches in the area. A total crowd-pleaser, this spot surely won’t disappoint. Day 6 - See the Hollywood Sign Of course, a trip to Los Angeles just wouldn’t be the same without checking out the Hollywood Sign. Standing as a global symbol of glamor and ambition, this spot has been enchanting visitors way back since its completion in 1923. To get the best views, we suggest heading over to The Griffith Observatory - though you can’t get up close to the famed landmark, you can get great views and take photos from afar. We recommend staying until dusk, so you can watch the sun set over the sign. We couldn’t think of a better way to end a week in Los Angeles! Culturally-rich, exciting and bursting with life, Los Angeles really has it all! From famed historical landmarks and nature parks to brilliant cultural institutions, a week should be just enough to provide a real slice of the L.A. life. 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
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San Diego to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary - A California Vacation for Tons of Fun

There are so many amazing things to see and do in California that we know it can be overwhelming when planning out your vacation. That's where we come in! Our local experts put together a California road trip itinerary covering a ton of fun family attractions from San Diego to San Francisco! Best yet, visiting these attractions with Go City Cards will allow you to save up to 55% on attraction admission. Enjoy! This itinerary includes family favorite attractions like: SeaWorld® San Diego LEGOLAND® California Universal Studios Hollywood Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Aquarium of the Bay and more! You Can Save on Attraction Admission Admission to these top California attractions are available on our Passes. Go City Cards give you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose as you go from dozens of top attractions to create a vacation tailored to your family's interests. Remember, this California itinerary is just one of many ways to experience this beautiful region. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. LEGOLAND® California Upon entering the LEGO® world, you'll find an endless combinations of LEGO-related activities and fun for the whole family to share. At LEGOLAND California, there are more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions all along the themes of your favorite LEGO characters, games, and movies. The SEA LIFE® Aquarium in LEGOLAND is the home to more than 5,000 creatures that you can experience alongside your LEGO characters and friends. Don't forget about the LEGOLAND Water Park! This attraction offers more than 7 slides and other watery adventures to explore, and is a great family-oriented place that all ages will fully enjoy. NEW for Summer 2018 at LEGOLAND is the much-anticipated LEGO CITY: Deep Sea Adventure. This submarine-style ride sees you hunting for treasure alongside real sharks, rays, and fish. If you're lucky, you'll even get to see a shipwreck with LEGO divers! Getting In: LEGOLAND California tickets are included on the Go San Diego Card. Fun San Diego Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the San Diego area, including these activities, many of which are included on the Go San Diego Card. San Diego Zoo Safari Park - This sister attraction to the San Diego Zoo recreates a real African safari right outside the city. Pick a custom safari adventure for a specific journey, or take a trip around the park on the African Tram to see a little bit of everything! This park is a great experience for all ages and will transport you halfway across the world without getting on a plane. Belmont Park - This amazing beachfront amusement park offers endless fun for the whole family alongside a beautiful ocean view. From laser tag to countless rides to adventures in the waves, Belmont Park has an incredible amount of activities that will keep you busy all day long. More Time in Balboa Park - From museums to performances to restaurants to beautiful gardens, this Park has an incredible collection of exciting interesting and beautiful experiences. Many of the museums are also included with the Go San Diego Card, appealing to those interested in art, natural history, air & space, anthropology, and much more. Visit La Jolla - La Jolla, San Diego's jewel by the sea, is the most popular beach in California. This beautiful peninsula beach with spectacular views has many outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. This is a great destination with so much to do and a view that will take your breath away. Visit Torrey Pines - Torrey Pines is a natural state reserve located within the city limits of San Diego. It's comprised of 2,000 acres of preserved wilderness, untouched since the first development of the city. This expanse of wild land gives visitors an idea of what California must have looked like when it was first discovered by early settlers. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood The Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Hollywood brings you through one of the busiest movie studios in L.A. The tour includes the opportunity to visit several soundstages and backlots, as well as the exterior sets of classic Warner Bros. productions. Then, visit the interior of a current set and see what the team is working on at that moment and how the magic happens. Next, visit the Archived Exhibits of the preserved sets, costumes, and everything that went into some of the most famous movies. The tour will also include a visit to the Warner Bros. Prop Department (the largest in the world), as well as a visit to "Stage 48: Script to Stage" which will provide an interactive journey of how the creation process really happens. Getting In: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Hollywood Movie Star Homes Tour This tour will bring you to the homes of 45 famous L.A. residents, while providing a glimpse into the lives of many of your favorite celebrities that you hear so much about. Your narrated trip, conducted in a comfortable air conditioned tour bus, reveals all the popular places celebrities can be found in the city. If you're lucky, you may spot more then just houses -- so bring your camera! This 3 hour experience is also a great opportunity to become more familiar with the layout of the city in a fun and exciting way. Getting In: Hollywood Movie Star Homes Tour tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Fun LA Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the Los Angeles area, including these activities, many of which are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. OUE Skyspace LA - The exhilarating OUE Skyspace in Los Angeles is the tallest open air observation deck in California and will give you a spectacular 360 degree view of the city from almost 1,000 feet above the streets. The deck is amazing both in the day and at night, so you can't really go wrong with a visit here. Other Great Theme Parks - If the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier wasn't enough for your thrill-seeking family, there are many other great theme park options in the area including: Six Flags Magic Mountain, Knott's Berry Farm, and Knott's Soak City Waterpark. All have great rides and games and everything you need for a day of complete and exciting family fun! Aquarium of the Pacific - Experience sea life up close through countless engaging exhibits. The incredible creatures of the sea will amaze the whole family, and you'll all learn more about the ocean and the organisms that live in it then you could have ever imagined. Sony Picture Studio Tour - This 2-hour guided walking tour of the Sony Picture Studio will allow you to visit historic sound stages and get to experience what a real working studio is like. Griffith Observatory - At this gateway to the sky, you will be able to look through the famous Griffith Observatory telescope, experience exhibits, see a live show and enjoy the incredible views of the city of L.A. and the famous Hollywood sign. Hop On Hop Off San Francisco Tour This easy and convenient bus tour is a great way to see a lot of the city and orient yourself quickly. Your guided adventure will take you through all the main parts of the city including Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf, the Ferry Building, and so much more. The best part of this bus tour is its flexibility. If you see something that interests you, like the great shops in the Ferry Building, you can just hop off the bus, take your time looking around, and then catch another bus when you are ready to move on. This is a truly great way to see the city and experience all it has to offer. Getting In: Hop on Hop Off Big Bus San Francisco Tour tickets are included on the Go San Francisco Card. Fun San Fran Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the San Francisco area, including these activities, many of which included on the Go San Francisco Card or the Build Your Own Pass. Golden Gate Park - The Golden Gate Park is home to the de Young museum and the California Academy of Sciences and many more attractions. This beautiful park is made up of large grassy spaces (great for picnics), incredible gardens, lakes, museums, and more. Fisherman's Wharf - On Fisherman's Wharf you'll find lots of activity and excitement. From the street performers to the fresh seafood stands, there isn't a dull moment at this iconic place. Other Cruise Options (Escape From The Rock, Golden Gate Bay Cruise) - If you're interested in spending more time on the San Francisco Bay, there are other great cruise options. Some of these options include the Escape From the Rock boat trip (a trip to Alcatraz, the prison of the San Francisco coast) and the Golden Gate Bay Cruise (which will take you around the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge for great views and an unforgettable experience). Wine Country Tours - Wine Country Tours will take you outside the city of San Francisco and into the rolling hills of the surrounding country. On a Wine Country Tour, you will find yourself on a beautiful vineyard and with the opportunity to explore everything it has to offer. Blazing Saddles Bike Rental - Explore the city on your own time with a bike rental. One of the best ways to use this bike rental is to take a ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. At any of the Blazing Saddles Bike Rental locations, the employees will direct you to the fastest route to the Golden Gate Bridge. This unforgettable and thrilling experience will provide you with amazing views of the city and the bay. Let's Recap This California itinerary was designed to be a fun San Diego to San Francisco road trip packed full of the west coast's top attractions and things to do. Remember, many of these great attraction options and more are available on our California attractions pass options, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We hope you consider adding a few of these fun options to your California vacation itinerary!
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Los Angeles in December

L.A. in December is a unique and unforgettable experience. At variance with New York in the wintertime, it marches to the beat of its own drum - but that’s kind of what we love about it! Seasonal events, fun Christmas traditions and endless holiday cheer make this one of the most exciting times of the year to visit. And of course, everything is still open up until Christmas Day, meaning that visitors can enjoy all of the city’s most famous attractions. From seeing some of the best contemporary artwork in the city to meeting Santa at the Hollywood Christmas Parade, Los Angeles never runs short of exciting activities to choose from. Whether you’re travelling with family or exploring the city solo, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. Still not sure how to make the best of your L.A. vacay? Don’t worry! Here’s everything you’ll need to know... See the Sites Los Angeles can get a little milder during the winter months, but that’s no reason to stay holed up inside! Luckily, the City of Angels is filled with fantastic opportunities for spending time with friends and family. Standing out as one of our favorites, the Natural History Museum is well-revered for its spectacular and engaging collection. As the largest natural and historical museum in the western United States, the institute is home to around 35 million specimens and artefacts covering over 4.5 billion years of history. Marvel over whole dinosaur skeletons, explore the diversity of the earth’s foundation in the Gem and Mineral Hall, and learn more about the unique adaptations of creatures over the years. There’s most certainly a lot to see here, so we recommend setting aside a good few hours for this so that you don’t miss a single thing! Offering a thoroughly engaging and educational experience for those of all ages, this spot is perfect for those travelling in groups. A well-recognized hub of innovation and creative thought, Los Angeles is home to countless cultural institutions which are well worth the visit. Still, The Broad ranks pretty high up on our bucket list for its fantastic contemporary collection and sleek design. Located on Grand Avenue in the downtown area of the city, the museum stands out for its porous, honeycomb-like exterior, and is well-known for its dimpled interior. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy an impressive collection of around 2,000 works, with many household names. Whether you’re a creative type at heart or just trying to dip your toes into the art world, this spot is perfect. Highlights include Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog, Robert Therrien's enlarged table and chairs and Roy Lichtenstein's Black Flowers. In addition, the museum is known for housing Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirror Rooms, a starry installation piece perfect for anybody who’s interested in capturing the perfect vacation snap. We love this spot because its collection serves to fascinate all types. Find Interesting Activities Another one of our favorite things to do during the month of December in Los Angeles is checking out Descanso Garden’s Enchanted Forest of Light. Whilst Descanso Gardens is a total treat for nature lovers all year round, the spot totally transforms into a festive wonderland around the holiday season. Running towards the end of the month, the Enchanted Forest of Light exhibit offers a one-mile walk through an entire town of magical stained glass creations by contemporary sculptor Tom Fruin. Enjoy rainbow sycamores, glowing roses and a dazzling celestial garden. Combining art with nature, this event works to perfectly capture the magic of the most wonderful time of year. A thoroughly captivating and exciting experience, this stop is not to be missed. We recommend bringing a cozy jacket for this one, since L.A. can be pretty chilly at night time around this time of the year! Get Into the Spirit What better way to get into the holiday spirit than with a Christmas Parade? Join over 10,000 people at the Hollywood Christmas Parade as it follows a 3.5 mile route up Hollywood Boulevard. Head out to see massive balloons, colorful floats, street performers, marching bands and much more. As per tradition, the parade will feature Santa Claus himself, along with his reindeer. And or course, it just wouldn’t be a Hollywood parade without celebrities - past guests have included Danny Trejo, Kel Mitchell and Tom Arnold. Make sure to show up early - this way you can get a good viewing spot, and catch the pre-parade concert. A spectacular visual experience, this one is fun for the whole family. It’s the biggest Christmas parade in Southern California - so don’t miss it! If you’re looking for a total crowdpleaser, look no further than Christmas at Universal Studios. As if this spot wasn’t exciting enough all year round, they really go all out for the festive season. Enjoy the holidays in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where Hogsmeade is transformed with elaborately-themed festive decor and holiday food, beverages and entertainment. In addition, experience the magic of Christmas at Hogwarts Castle with a stunning spectacle of dazzling lights and music. For those who want something a little bit more traditional, the annual event ‘’Grinchmas’’ runs all throughout the month, where you can meet the Grinch. There’s also a tree lighting in the evening time, where guests can gather and celebrate with the characters from the Christmas classic. With so much fun and festivities packed into one place, there’s no reason not to go! Unlike New York or Chicago, Los Angeles might not be the first place to come to mind when you think of the holidays. Still, with so much to see and do, you’ll never be bored visiting Tinseltown in December. 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

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