Knott's Berry Farm Vs Disneyland Comparison LA

Published: July 18, 2024

Riders at the top of the drop on the HangTime rollercoaster at Knott's Berry Farm, 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

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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.

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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

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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

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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

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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

Freelance travel writer

Stu caught the travel bug at an early age, thanks to childhood road trips to the south of France squeezed into the back of a Ford Cortina with two brothers and a Sony Walkman. Now a freelance writer living on the Norfolk coast, Stu has produced content for travel giants including Frommer’s, British Airways, Expedia, Mr & Mrs Smith, and now Go City. His most memorable travel experiences include drinking kava with the locals in Fiji and pranging a taxi driver’s car in the Honduran capital.

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2 Days in Los Angeles - A Weekend in LA Itinerary That Covers It All

Spending the weekend in Los Angeles, but unsure what to do to maximize your time? Here’s our suggested itinerary for 2 days in Los Angeles that will showcase the best of LA in just a few days. From sightseeing tours and museums to amusement parks and beyond, L.A. has so much to offer that we know you’ll love your trip. This itinerary includes: Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens GRAMMY Museum® California Science Center & IMAX Exposition Park (free!) Natural History Museum Warner Bros. Studio Tour Six Flags Magic Mountain We’ve also put together a 1 day and 3 day itinerary, if you're looking to explore L.A. for more or less time. Save on Attraction Admission Pick up a 2-Day Go Los Angeles® Card and save off combined admission vs paying at the gate. Remember, this 2 days in Los Angeles itinerary is just one of many ways to experience the area, there are tons of attractions, landmarks, and more to explore. The Go Los Angeles® Card gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose from dozens of top attractions and create a vacation tailored to your interests. DAY 1 Stop #1: Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens Located in the beautiful Griffith Park, the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens is a joint attraction that ought to be your first stop of the day. The Zoo hosts over 1000 different creatures great and small, from gorillas and giraffes to seals and snow leopards. They've got critters from all across the proverbial species map, from mammals and birds to amphibians and reptiles. It's your go-to place for the wild world in L.A.! The Botanical Gardens are flush with natural beauty, featuring impressive replicas of the animals' natural habitats with an array of plant species from around the world. You’ll even get a chance to see some plants that have been growing on the earth since prehistoric times! We recommend leaving around 1-2 hours to spend at this attraction. Getting In: LA Zoo and Botanical Gardens tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Stop # 2: The GRAMMY Museum® Change it up a little with a visit to one of the best museums in Hollywood – the Grammy Museum®. This is a must-see attraction for any music lover, and a great introduction to the music and production scene in L.A. and around the country. This 30,000 square-foot venue features dozens of interactive exhibits, both permanent and temporary, that showcase various aspects of the music industry and its historic and cultural significance in the US. Some highlights include the “Songwriters Hall of Fame” gallery, the “Recording Art and Technology” exhibit, and the “Artistic Voices: The Creative World” exhibit. We recommend reserving between 1-2 hours to spend at this attraction. Getting In: GRAMMY Museum® tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Stop # 3: The California Science Center & IMAX Conveniently located a short drive south of Downtown L.A., this exciting and interactive science museum is filled with over 150 fascinating and interactive exhibits. Some featured exhibits include “Ecosystems,” “Creative World,” the demo-filled “Science Court,” and more! Don't forget about the iconic Space Shuttle Endeavour, a retired orbiter from NASA's space program that completed a whopping 25 missions in space! It's located temporarily in the Samuel Oschin Pavilion as its permanent home is being built. Although admission to the California Science Center itself is free, your Go Los Angeles® Card gets you into one free IMAX movie! Their 7-story tall screen and state-of-the-art sound system make an IMAX showing an experience you won’t want to miss. Visitors in 2018 will not want to miss the spectacular new King Tut: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh exhibition. This landmark exhibit features over 150 real objects from King Tut's tomb -- many of which have never been on display outside of Egypt, and may never be found outside the country again. It's a must-see. We recommend reserving at least an hour for this attraction, plus any additional time for your IMAX film of choice. Film lengths vary. Getting In: California Science Center IMAX tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Stop #4: Exposition Park (free!) Just outside the California Science Center, Exposition Park is a charming urban greenspace and another great place to enjoy some nature in busy Los Angeles. There’s a beautiful fountain and an enchanting rose garden to explore as well. In the park, you can see the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena, The Natural History Museum (your next stop) and more. There’s a beautiful fountain and an enchanting rose garden to explore as well. Getting In: We recommend reserving about 30 minutes to visit the park. Stop #5: Natural History Museum For your last stop of day 1 on your weekend getaway to Los Angeles, check out the Natural History Museum, right in Exposition Park. The very first museum to be founded in Los Angeles, this institution has one of the most extensive and varied collections of natural artifacts around. Some highlights of their collection include massive dinosaur and mammal fossils, an impressive collection of gems and minerals, ancient Latin American treasures, and more! The whole family will love this educational institution. We recommend reserving between 1-2 hours for this attraction. Getting In: Los Angeles Natural History Museum tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. DAY 2 Stop #1: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Image Credit: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Begin your day with a visit to one of the most famous studios in Los Angeles at the 110-acre backlot of Warner Bros. Studio. A Warner Bros. Studio Tour is a great, behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood’s movie and TV culture. It’s a rare chance to visit a fully working studio, so you’ll actually get to watch scenes being filmed, edited, and more. Some of the sights you’ll see on your tour may include sound stages, sets, collections of props, lighting displays, and special effects equipment. Some shows you may see being filmed include many of today’s big hits, such as The Big Bang Theory , Conan, Pretty Little Liars, and more! This tour lasts a little longer than two hours. Reservations are recommended. Getting In: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Stop # 2: Six Flags Magic Mountain This next stop is sure to be a big hit with the teens and younger kids. Six Flags Magic Mountain is one of the premier theme parks in California, with 260 acres of thrills and excitement. They’ve even added several new rides, including the area's first floorless roller coaster! With 19 world-class roller coasters and nearly 100 other games, rides, and attractions to enjoy within the park, you’ll never run out of things to do at this truly “magic” destination. Even if you're not a huge thrill ride fan, you'll find plenty to do at Six Flags. You can even meet some of your favorite Looney Tunes characters, like Bug Bunny, Yosemite Sam, Sylvester, and Tweety Bird. Don't miss the immensely popular JUSTICE LEAGUE: Battle for Metropolis. Enjoy 4-D effects, high intensity scenes, and state-of-the-art gaming graphics as you join forces with your favorite DC Super Heroes to beat the baddies. We recommend reserving between 3-4 hours for this attraction. Getting In: Six Flags Magic Mountain tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Let’s Recap So if you’ve got only the weekend in town, here’s our sample itinerary for 2 days in Los Angeles for you to follow. It’s filled with must-see sights and great things to do, plus some fun extras and a few tasty dining recommendations.

Casey Makovich

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LA on a Monday? Here’s How to Make It Epic

Monday in LA: Why It’s Anything But Ordinary Who says Mondays are for catching up on emails and counting down to Friday? Not us. In Los Angeles, Monday isn’t just the first day of the week—it’s a golden ticket to calmer crowds, hidden gems, and laid-back West Coast cool. The city wakes up a little slower. Famous attractions are just waiting for you to wander in. Eateries serve up perfect breakfasts. Art, science, and movie magic? It’s all at your fingertips. Whether you want to take it slow or pack in the fun, LA on a Monday sets the stage for a day you’ll talk about for weeks. We’ll show you exactly how. Looking for the ultimate way to spend your Monday in LA? Our top picks include: The Griffith Observatory Tour Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour Natural History Museum California Science Center IMAX Movie The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes Aquarium of the Pacific Soak up the sun at Santa Monica Beach Explore the Arts District Murals Grand Central Market food adventure Rooftop cocktails at Perch LA Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour: Go Star-Spotting Like a Pro You’ve landed in the land of the stars, so why not dive headfirst into LA’s celebrity scene? The Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour gives you the chance to explore legendary neighborhoods like Beverly Hills and Bel-Air, all from the comfort of a breezy open-top bus. Monday means lighter traffic and fewer crowds on Rodeo Drive—you’ll actually glimpse those glittering gates and palm-tree-lined avenues without craning your neck. Cruising past jaw-dropping mansions, you’ll catch the playful commentary of local guides dishing up stories about famous residents, wild parties, and movie moments. We find that in-person storytelling paints a picture you just can’t get from a map—suddenly those ornate doorways become clues to a real Hollywood fairy tale. It’s a parade of Lamborghinis, movie premieres, and maybe even the odd sighting of an A-lister walking their dog. Best of all, you’ll learn the secrets behind some of cinema’s most luxurious backdrops: film locations, iconic hotels, and the shops where stars actually shop. From Mulholland Drive’s jaw-dropping overlooks to Sunset Boulevard’s neon-spattered fun, the Big Bus tour blends sightseeing with a dose of Tinseltown sparkle. Even locals rediscover the city doing this trip. Just don’t be surprised if you start planning your own glitzy Hollywood movie debut by the time you step off! Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs, Diamonds, and Modern Discovery Mondays are for big discoveries, and if there’s anywhere you’ll rediscover your sense of wonder, it’s the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park. This isn’t your average stuffy gallery—it’s a place buzzing with the excitement of 65-million-year-old dino skeletons, glittering gems, and swampy diorama adventures. Monday brings a welcome sense of calm, leaving you plenty of room to get up close with a T. rex, stroll through the Butterfly Pavilion (seasonal), or dive into LA’s surprising natural past. The Dinosaur Hall always draws a crowd, with its towering fossils posed against glowing windows—a true "wow" moment for visitors of all ages. Across the museum, interactive displays transport you from Ice Age sabertooths to the city’s earliest residents. Kids and inner-children alike can try fossil digs, watch scientists at work in real-time, and snap endless selfies in the jewel-bright Gem and Mineral Hall. The building itself? Pure old LA grandeur with its marble columns and mosaics. Step outside and you’ll find yourself in the Civic Center’s rose-filled gardens, just minutes from other major attractions like the California Science Center (more on that soon). We recommend giving yourself plenty of time for each space—you’ll leave feeling smarter, inspired, and ready for at least three more visits. California Science Center & IMAX Movie: When You Crave Hands-On Fun A little further along in Exposition Park, the California Science Center cranks up the volume on hands-on fun. Yes, it’s a science museum—but this one invites you to pedal bikes on highwires, launch air rockets, and (of course) visit the famed Space Shuttle Endeavour. It’s the mix of huge science “wow” moments and clever, interactive play that makes this spot so perfect for Monday adventuring. Start with the exhibits—the Life! Gallery explores everything from how plants grow to how humans adapt, while World of Life introduces you to critters from land, sea, and sky. The Ecosystems pavilion, with its living kelp forest, brings you face-to-face with sharks, stingrays, and sometimes even otters. But the real showstopper? Head into the state-of-the-art IMAX Theater for mind-blowing movies that cover everything from earth’s deepest oceans to outer space. The giant curved screen pulls you into every detail, and the sound system rumbles the popcorn right out of your box. Whether you geek out about robots or just love discovering something new, Monday’s quieter pace makes this one of LA’s best spots for a family day out—or any science-hungry explorer. The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes: Hike into Movie History Ever wondered what it’s like to stand right under the Hollywood Sign? The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour gives you a chance to get jaw-droppingly close while learning the true stories of LA’s most recognizable landmark. Mondays deliver a relaxed energy ideal for photos, quiet reflection...and panoramas that make your friends jealous. Professional guides lead the way through the sun-drenched trails of Griffith Park, sharing stories about movie magic, old-time legends, and the sign’s turbulent past (it was once a giant real estate ad!). Along the trek, you’ll discover hidden viewpoints, secret paths, and plenty of spots for epic selfies. The landscape switches from wild sage-scented slopes to city-sparkling vistas in just a few paces. We’re especially fans of the way the tour captures that classic "only-in-LA" blend of nature and showbiz. Expect laughs, a serious workout, and that unique joy of seeing LA spread beneath your feet. If you want to fill your Monday with fresh air, wildflowers, and legendary stories, you really can’t beat this experience. Soak Up the Sun at Santa Monica Beach Few LA experiences deliver the all-American sunshine-and-sand fix quite like Santa Monica Beach. On Mondays, you’ll notice a dreamy hush—the sand feels endless, the air is crisp, and there’s space to sprawl or stroll at your own pace. Sink your toes into the sand, hit the cool Pacific, or relax beneath candy-colored lifeguard towers. After your beach time, step up to the Santa Monica Pier. It’s a playground of rides, arcades, street performers, and snack bars. Families love grabbing hand-cut fries or cotton candy and taking a spin on the world-famous Ferris wheel, with panoramic views from Catalina Island to Malibu. For a different perspective, rent a cruiser and pedal the sun-dappled boardwalk, or, for serious cyclists, check out Unlimited Biking for rentals and explore nearby Venice Beach with its quirky murals and skateparks. No two Mondays are ever the same here, but every one feels like a genuine LA treat—bonus points if you catch sunset as the pier’s lights flicker on. Explore the Arts District Murals LA’s Arts District, once a haven for warehouses, has transformed into the city’s most colorful open-air gallery. Mondays mean there’s barely a soul on the streets—leaving ample space to wander at your own pace, find surprise masterpieces, and snap perfect photos without heads in the frame. What’s special about this area? Every block explodes with creative expression. Towering murals depict everything from soulful faces to witty pop-art critters and wild geometric worlds. Renowned local and international street artists—think Shepard Fairey, RETNA, and JR—have all left their mark here, so the backdrop is as star-studded as any Hollywood sidewalk. Duck into indie galleries tucked between espresso bars and retro boutiques. Hauser & Wirth, a massive repurposed flour mill with striking modern exhibits, makes the perfect counterpoint to the neighborhood’s quirky street art. Refuel with a cortado from Stumptown Coffee, or taste a pastry at Bread Lounge, all while soaking up the area’s warehouse-chic vibes. It’s a Monday walking tour at its most creative. Grand Central Market: The Ultimate LA Foodie Playground If your Monday calls for a flavor adventure, Grand Central Market is calling your name. This downtown food emporium dates back to 1917, and today it delivers one of LA’s most eclectic, buzzworthy food scenes. The energy crackles even at the week’s start—you’ll find chefs serving up everything from addictive Filipino silog plates (Sari Sari Store) to LA’s famous egg sandwiches (Eggslut, naturally), spicy carnitas tacos (Tacos Tumbras a Tomas), and glorious piles of fresh oysters. Each stall has its own loyal following. Maple Block’s brisket is smoky and melt-in-the-mouth, while Wexler’s serves bagels and lox to rival the best in Brooklyn. The best way to visit? Gather a hungry crew, order from multiple stands, and share bites at communal tables beneath soaring neon signs. We especially adore the market’s sensory overload: aromatic spice shops, fruit vendors hawking sweet guavas, cold brew bars, and fresh doughnuts from Donut Man, whose legendary strawberry treats sell out daily in spring. Sundays are always rowdy, but on Mondays, it’s all about lingering, sampling, and rubbing elbows with the locals who know exactly when the tortillas are hottest. Rooftop Cocktails at Perch LA Let’s wrap up Monday with something sparkling: cocktails at Perch LA, downtown’s sky-high French-inspired bistro. Arrive before sunset to snag a table on the twinkling open-air terrace, where string lights and Parisian-style bistro chairs set the scene. What makes this spot special? The jaw-dropping views. Sip a Lavender Collins or classic French 75, nibble on truffle fries, and watch the city transform as the high-rises glow against the violet sky. Perch’s menu covers brunch-y bites and elegant small plates, but the vibe is as much about the setting as the food. Jazz floats from inside, the crowd is stylish yet laid-back, and the fire pits keep things cozy even on breezy evenings. Whether you’re after a romantic nightcap or a group hangout, there’s no more quintessential way to toast a perfect LA Monday. Pro tip: snuggle up with a signature cocktail and soak in the rare LA panorama—downtown on one side, the Hollywood Hills on the other. Make Mondays Matter in Los Angeles Mondays in LA don’t mean “slow start”—they’re a secret playground for those in the know. Swap the weekend hustle for laid-back city magic, creative adventure, and discoveries with room to breathe. From stargazing and movie lore to sandy toes, epic eats, and sky-high cocktails, you’ll return home swearing this is the way every week should begin. So next time you find yourself in LA on a Monday? Jump in with both feet—the city’s wide awake and waiting for you. Enjoyed this? Check out our favorite ways to spend an L.A. morning, and peruse our pick of the best downtown markets. 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!

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Best Time to Visit Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of those American cities that is brimming with tourists all year round. Thanks to the Pacific Ocean and the city’s coastal seat, the location is blessed with perennial sunshine all year round. Still, L.A. has a lot more to offer than just that. From only-in-L.A. attractions and fabled natural wonders to its unrivalled drinking and dining scene, the city never falls short of great things to see and do. Whether you’re an artsy type, an outdoor enthusiast or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest any time of the year. So, when is the best time to visit La La Land? From exciting events to great prices on accommodation, here’s a month-by-month breakdown of when to visit Los Angeles. Pick your favorite time of the year and head over to this magical West Coast city, STAT! September-November Though you might not expect it, autumn is a fantastic time to visit Los Angeles. We especially like September - November, since it offers a lot of the perks of a summertime getaway, just with less of the fuss. During this time of the year, you’ll find that the air is more breathable and the crowds are less oppressive. This makes it perfect for exploring all of the city’s best outdoor attractions in comfort. Although it’s still warm around this time of the year, we still recommend bringing an umbrella or a light jacket, since rainfall intensifies towards the end of November. You’ll also find that the crowds are less oppressive and the lines are shorter during this time of the year since schools are back and families are less likely to visit. Since this is a less popular time for booking, you’ll be able to get a lot of great deals on flights and accommodation. December Whilst L.A. probably isn’t the first place you might think of for a wintertime getaway, we’re here to tell you that a seasonal stay in the City of Angels is just so right. Why, you might ask? Well, for starters, when you travel to the West Coast in the wintertime the weather is temperate and balmy still without ever soaring into the high-80s. This means that you’ll be able to explore all of the city’s incredible attractions and points of interest just as you normally would. Of course, the atmosphere in L.A. around this time of the year remains unmatched. As with any major metropolitan city, L.A. is bustling with life around the holiday season, and you can most certainly feel the excitement. During the month of December you’ll also be able to find tonnes of magical activities and pop-up festive events around town. Some of our favorites include the Marina Del Rey Boat Parade, L.A. Zoo Lights, and Holiday Time at Disneyland. Whilst travelling to L.A. during the most magical time of the year might not be the most wallet-friendly, we promise you that this option is definitely worth the memories. January - February Don’t rule out a wintertime vacation to Los Angeles! Marking another sweet spot for visitors to the City of Angels, the start of the year has a lot to offer all types of visitors. Much like December, you’ll find that the weather is cooler and more comfortable around January to February time, with average highs sitting around the upper 60s. Still, rain is more common around this time of the year, so we suggest packing accordingly: take a light jacket and a sweater, since temperatures can dip in the evening time, and you’ll be good to go! Around this time of the year, school is back in session and the holidays will have died down. With smaller dispersing crowds, the city is more manageable to explore. As if this all wasn’t enough, the winter months are the cheapest time to visit L.A., so don’t hesitate to book fast! Since it’s low season, you’ll also be able to find great deals on entertainment, dining, and more. March - May If you’re drawn to Los Angeles for its beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes, you might want to consider heading over in the springtime. Springtime in L.A. is when things really start to heat up, so it’s perfect for sunseekers and outdoorsy types alike. There are a lot of great things to check out here, but some of our favorites include hiking the Santa Monica Mountains, stargazing at the Griffith Observatory and exploring tide pools at White Point/Royal Palms Beach. Just as you might have guessed, the city’s warm Mediterranean climate calls for a strong summer dress code and lots of water and sunscreen! Show up prepared, and you should be just fine. The city is pretty calm and quiet around this time of the year, though you might bump into some big crowds if you choose to travel during spring break or Memorial Day. With all of the advantages of travelling in the summertime and less of the fuss, couldn’t think of any reason not to visit L.A. in the spring! Summertime! For those who like to be in the center of all the action, we suggest booking your L.A. getaway for the summertime. Of course, one of the best things about visiting Los Angeles in the summertime is the legendary West Coast weather. With temperatures hovering around the mid-80s, the beaches are a popular place to be. During this time of the year, it’s hot enough to sunbathe and the waters are warm enough to swim, surf, or scuba dive in - whatever takes your fancy! But still, there’s much more to look forward to around this time of the year than just the beach. Visit L.A. in the summertime, and you’ll find that there are countless exciting festivals, pop-ups and conventions to check out. Whilst this might be one of the more expensive times to visit La La Land, we promise that you’ll never be bored exploring Los Angeles in the summertime. Sun, surf, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city - what could be better than that? No doubt, Los Angeles is an exciting destination to visit any time of the year. Promising great weather, iconic attractions and unmatched natural beauty, there’s so much to see and do here no matter where your interests may lie. Maximize your travel experience with Go City’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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