Los Angeles in July

Published: July 18, 2024

Looking for interesting things to do in July in Los Angeles? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! As the summer begins to heat up, get ready for fantastic activities and pop-up events of all kinds. The city’s cultural calendar has a little something for everybody around this time of the year, no matter where your interests may lie. From walking the charming Venice Canals to sinking your teeth into some of the city’s best dishes at Smorgasburg, there’s always something to keep you busy. July is one also of L.A.’s hottest months, so this is a great time for exploring some of California’s best outdoor attractions - just so long as you pack accordingly! Still aren’t sure how to get started? Have a read through our list of the best things to see and do in Los Angeles in the summertime! However you choose to explore the area, we’re sure you’ll have a blast!

Hit the Classics

Image of City, Urban, Road, Street, Path, Sidewalk, Metropolis, Downtown, Person, Bag, Handbag, Car, Vehicle, People, Plant, Shop, Shopping Mall, Advertisement, Bus, Pedestrian,

Of course, a visit to Los Angeles just wouldn’t be complete without making a stop at the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Since its establishment way back in 1960, this historic attraction has become one of the city’s most iconic spots as it sees more and more footwork each day. Spanning 15 whole blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and consisting of over 2, 000 brass stars, the Walk of Fame continues to draw in millions of visitors each year. If you’re looking for the star of your favorite celebrity or artist, use the Walk of Fame’s Star Search tool on their website. Whilst you’re in the area, we also recommend checking out some of Hollywood’s great attractions, like the TCL Chinese Theatre, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, and Ovation Hollywood.

Image of Urban, Shoe, Person, Amusement Park, Fun, Theme Park, Handbag,

A quintessential West Coast city, Los Angeles is bursting with great summertime spots to check out. Ranking high up on the itinerary, Santa Monica Pier has been a long-time favorite from way back since its establishment in 1909. This classic L.A. hotspot presents a myriad of cool things to do, though its most popular attraction has got to be Pacific Park - an admission-free theme park with tons of rides, restaurants, shopping destinations as well as a full-blown arcade. Or, if you’re looking to take it slow, why not check out the Santa Monica Pier Farmers’ Market? This laidback stop pays homage to the city’s agricultural heritage with a wide range of vendors to choose from. In addition, there are local crafters and live musical performances to check out. And for those who want to kick back and enjoy those sweeping oceanfront views, we recommend trying your hand at fishing. The Santa Monica Pier is an excellent spot for catching everything from small ocean creatures like clams to mackerel and even sea bass. With so much to see and do here, you’re sure to have a good time!

Explore the City

Image of Neighborhood, Palm Tree, Plant, Tree, City, Road, Street, Urban, Path, Summer, Boy, Male, Person, Teen, Sidewalk, People, Skateboard, Building,

Los Angeles is a massive metropolis made up of dozens of notable neighborhoods. Though each spot most certainly has its charm, one of our favorite places has got to be Venice for its eclectic style and laidback atmosphere. There are a lot of great things to do in Venice, though the most popular activity has to be hitting the beach. With its palm-fringed shorelines and soft surf, this spot makes for a fantastic family day trip. In addition, the Venice Boardwalk is a fantastic place for shopping and people watching. Of course, though, Venice has much more to offer away from the beach. One of its best-hidden gems has got to be the Venice Canals, offering a scenic tour of the area’s most gorgeous beach houses. In addition, the neighborhood is known for its quirky attractions, like the Mosaic Tile House and Muscle Beach. With its funky energy and so much to see and do, this place is a total must-see.

Find Interesting Activities to Do

Image of Urban, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Male, Man, Backpack, Bag, City, Shoe, Handbag, Pants,

It goes without saying that one of the best parts of travel is discovering the local food scene. And whilst L.A. undoubtedly has a lot of great food stops to choose from, there’s nothing quite like heading over to the market for some delicious eats. Standing out as one of our favorites, Smorgasburg is a total treat for anybody who considers food their religion. Drawing in around 50, 000 people each weekend, this event is well-recognized as the largest open-air food market in America - and with good reason! Gorge yourself on Hawaiian garlic shrimp served right from a traditional pineapple boat, try fresh top-quality oysters, and then cool down with speciality ice cream from Wanderlust Creamery. There are also a lot of vegan options here, so you know that there’s a little something for everybody to enjoy! Whether you’re a big meat-lover or a self-diagnosed sweet tooth, this stop is well worth the visit.

Image of Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Park, Person, Garden,

Whilst we love all of the hustle and bustle of the city, sometimes it’s good to take a bit of time to yourself. Thankfully, Los Angeles is filled with wonderful green spaces where you can get in touch with Mother Nature. Located just twenty minutes from downtown Los Angeles, the Descanso Gardens cover over 150 acres of lush forestry to be enjoyed. This spot is accredited by the American Association of Museums as a repository of living collections and welcomes around 250,000 visitors annually. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy an impressive collection of native and exotic flora, including stunning oak woodlands, a vast collection of fruit trees, and one of the largest concentrations of camellia plants in the Western Hemisphere. An undoubtedly serene experience, this spot is well worth the visit.

We love Los Angeles all year round, though there’s no better time to visit than summertime! With a whole host of exciting events and attractions, there should be more than enough to keep you busy. 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
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

friends on an night out
Blog

LA With Friends: Your Ultimate Adventure Guide

Ready to take on Los Angeles, but not sure where to start? From the sun-soaked beaches of Santa Monica to the glitzy backlots of Hollywood, this city is home to day-brightening activities that pack in adventure, laughter, and tons of Instagrammable moments—especially when you bring your friends along for the ride. Whether you want to cheer together at a baseball game, bike the boardwalk, snap selfies with A-list wax figures, or eat tacos at sunset, LA is your playground. Let’s break down the experiences and attractions that make every group get-together unforgettable in the City of Angels.  Our favorite things to do in LA with friends include:  Universal Studios Hollywood  Highlights of Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour  Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour  Natural History Museum  Knott's Berry Farm  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour  GRAMMY Museum  The Hollywood Museum  Heal the Bay Aquarium  Highlights of Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour: Ride the Coast in Style  A group that pedals together, stays together—especially in LA’s coolest coastal neighborhoods! The Highlights of Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking takes your squad from the iconic Santa Monica Pier, through lively Venice Boardwalk, and into hidden beachy corners with colorful murals, quirky street performers, and panoramic Pacific vistas.  Why do we always recommend this tour? First, it’s active—enough for a guilt-free ice cream after, but totally doable for all fitness levels. You’ll weave past Muscle Beach (flex those biceps with your friends for a photo op), marvel at skateparks, and roll into “Instagram alleyways” lined with ever-changing graffiti art. Along the way, the guide doles out tidbits about LA’s creative history, famous residents, and beach bum legends.  With the ocean breeze in your hair and friends beside you, it’s impossible not to feel that sunshiny, carefree California energy. Stop for snacks at the pier, grab a group selfie with the sunset in the background, and finish up with sandy toes and full hearts. If you want to extend the fun, keep your bikes a bit longer with Unlimited Biking’s rentals and explore Abbot Kinney’s boutiques or Third Street Promenade’s shops. It’s a group day that absolutely sings summer, any time of year.  Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour: Star-Spotting With Friends  Let’s be honest—star-spotting and Hollywood dream-chasing is so much better with friends. The Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour offers a breezy double-decker ride past the city’s most extravagant zip codes: Beverly Hills, the Sunset Strip, and Hollywood. The guide’s stories are half-glamour, half-gossip, and always entertaining—you might finally find out who really lives behind those immaculate hedges.  The best part? You all get to act like tourists together, snapping photos where Hollywood legends hang out and competing to see who can spot the swankiest mansion or coolest classic car. There’s plenty of time for dramatic group selfies under the palm trees and in front of Insta-famous spots like the Hollywood sign and Rodeo Drive.  Insider tip: The open-top bus feels like your own private sightseeing party, with a soundtrack of clever stories and movie trivia. It’s a laid-back way to cruise LA’s legendary streets with none of the usual parking drama. After, your group can wander Sunset Strip or hit a cafe—maybe Alfred for their signature iced vanilla lattes. Whether you’re a die-hard film buff or just here for the ride, this is Hollywood fun at its finest.  Natural History Museum: Time Travel With Your Crew  Sometimes you just need a break from sun and surf to step into another universe, and LA’s Natural History Museum is the perfect place. This isn’t your average dusty museum—it’s vibrant, interactive, and packed with hands-on experiences that will have your group exploring together. Wander through halls of towering dinosaurs (the T. rex trio is easily one of the best group photo ops in town), get up close with ancient gems and glowing minerals, and uncover mind-boggling fossils together.  The museum’s standout is its seamless way of mixing the “wow” of natural science with cool stories and creative, immersive exhibits. The sprawling Nature Gardens outside make for a great post-museum hang or even an impromptu picnic after you’ve checked out the butterflies. And did we mention the special exhibitions? Whether it’s dioramas of prehistoric LA or live animal encounters, there's always something to keep the group curious and engaged.  If your friends are craving an afternoon where you all laugh, learn, and compare awkward photos in front of a woolly mammoth, a visit here delivers. Bonus: Exposition Park’s beautiful grounds are next door, so stroll on over and enjoy one of LA’s favorite green spaces as you recap your favorite discoveries.  Knott’s Berry Farm: Thrills, Nostalgia, and Legendary Fried Chicken  Just a short road trip southeast lies one of California’s most iconic theme parks, and your whole group will thank you for adding Knott’s Berry Farm to your itinerary. Known for a clever mix of wild rides, old-school Americana, and Peanuts-themed nostalgia, there's something here for every friendship dynamic. Grab a map and let the adventure begin.  Are you a brave bunch? Test your nerves on Silver Bullet, GhostRider, or HangTime. Prefer to keep things a little more mellow? The Calico Railroad and Timber Mountain Log Ride promise plenty of laughs without any white-knuckle moments. Wander Ghost Town to discover quirky shows and try your hand at gold panning, or ham it up in a Wild West group photo.  Here’s the not-so-secret must-do: Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant. This legendary spot has been around since the 1930s, dishing out juicy fried chicken, fluffy biscuits, and homey berry pie. It’s comfort food perfection, best devoured family-style with your favorite people. End the day grabbing berry jams at the Marketplace and agreeing: the theme park joy never gets old.  GRAMMY Museum: Feel the Music With Your Besties  For crews with playlists as varied as LA traffic, consider a stop at the GRAMMY Museum in Downtown LA. This spot hits all the right notes for music fans, with immersive exhibits, interactive mixing stations and glittering displays of Grammy outfits and instruments. Everyone in your group can geek out over different genres—rock, pop, hip-hop, and even classical are all here, and there’s always something new thanks to rotating exhibitions.  What sets this museum apart for friends? You can actually make (and giggle through) your own music videos, test your music trivia knowledge in digital games, and belt out your favorite tunes at singalong booths. The fourth floor, with its wall of classic red carpet looks and legendary artists’ memorabilia, is a selfie wonderland.  After you’ve rocked out, the museum’s central downtown location puts you steps from LA Live (check for live events or games), and near restaurants like Broken Spanish, famous for tamales and seriously good cocktails. Altogether, it’s a cultural highlight that’s as celebratory as your favorite playlist on road trip day.  The Hollywood Museum: Glitz, Glam, and Behind-the-Scenes Gold  Located in the historic Max Factor Building, The Hollywood Museum is one of those under-the-radar stops that surprises every friend group. Inside you’ll find four floors packed with real movie props, elaborate costumes (including the infamous Marilyn Monroe dresses), and dazzling makeup rooms from Hollywood’s golden age.  Every friend crew can find something to love, whether it’s the eerie dungeon level with classic creepy movie sets, or the wall of Lucille Ball memorabilia for old-school TV fans. Costumes from superhero flicks? Check. Oscar-winning scripts? Absolutely. Rare photography and tiny behind-the-scenes details? All here.  There’s an infectious, nostalgic energy that will get even movie skeptics reminiscing about their favorite on-screen moments, and the building’s art deco architecture is an experience all its own. Top it off by walking Hollywood Boulevard’s Walk of Fame just outside—the Museum makes the perfect launching pad for downtown Hollywood discoveries, from sipping milkshakes at Mel’s Drive-In to hunting for that perfect celebrity star.  Heal the Bay Aquarium: Discover Underwater Wonders Together  Down at the Santa Monica Pier, Heal the Bay Aquarium delivers just the right mix of marine discovery and beachside fun. This charming spot lets friends of all ages get hands-on with tidepool animals, meet rescued sea creatures, and learn how to help protect LA’s magical coastline.  Why does it hit the mark for groups? First, it’s compact—no getting lost, plenty of time to see everything, and always nearby the pier’s arcades, food stalls and amusement rides for extra post-aquarium fun. With friendly staff and plenty of interactive exhibits, you’ll find yourself swapping sea star trivia, snapping fisheye selfies, or debating which local shark looks friendliest.  Besides, finishing up your visit with a classic funnel cake or a ride on the historic carousel is peak Santa Monica. Want to extend the aquatic fun? The nearby Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach (also available with your pass) is a larger option, perfect for an all-day group outing.  Ready to Make Group Memories in LA?  Making the most of LA with friends isn’t about ticking off a list, but about finding the experiences that get you laughing, sharing wide-eyed awe, and heading home plotting your next LA adventure together. Whether you’re thrill-seeking, sea-gazing, music-loving or simply here for the tacos and sunsets, you can craft a trip that matches your group’s vibe perfectly. LA’s best memories are always meant to be shared—so round up your favorite people and let the city surprise you.    Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do in Los Angeles in the Morning or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes.    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! 
family in la
Blog

Parents’ Day Out in LA: Iconic Sights, Bites & Delights

Planning a trip to Los Angeles with your parents? Good call! The City of Angels isn’t just about Hollywood star-spotting or boardwalk roller-blading—it’s packed with experiences that’ll charm travelers from every generation. Whether your crew loves scenic views, hands-on learning, laid-back beaches, or legendary bites, LA invites you to slow down, bond, and savor its sunny, eclectic spirit together. From dazzling museums to beachside strolls, here’s our guide to unforgettable parent-approved adventures across LA’s neighborhoods—plus a few insider tips on where to eat, relax, and soak up the local color along the way.  Our favorite things to do with parents in Los Angeles include:  The Getty Center Guided Tour  Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood  Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour  Aquarium of the Pacific  Enjoying Griffith Observatory & Park  Dining at The Original Farmers Market  Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County: Dinosaurs, Gems & Living Gardens  Parents and kids of all ages find a shared buzz of excitement here! The Natural History Museum isn’t just for science fans—it casts a spell with its towering dinosaur skeletons, dazzling gem halls, and beautifully curated gardens. The entrance alone hints at the grandeur: a soaring, sunlight-filled rotunda capped with a monumental stained glass dome.  For families, the highlight might be the Dinosaur Hall, where you can “meet” one of the world’s only T. rex growth series—juvenile to adult. Kids get wide-eyed; parents sneak in photos. Head upstairs to explore the sparkling gemstone displays and see gold nuggets larger than a fist (California’s gold rush, anyone?).  The museum’s Nature Gardens, just outside, are a smart break. Wander among native plants and butterflies, or follow the hummingbirds from blossom to blossom. In the spring and summer, the gardens come alive with color and gentle buzz.  But this museum isn’t all about what’s behind glass. Temporary exhibitions and live encounters with scientists make each visit unique. Ever wanted to watch a paleontologist clean a real fossil? Here, you can.  The vibe is lively, hands-on, and inviting: a real crowd-pleaser for parents seeking both nostalgia and fresh discoveries.  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales: Ocean Thrills for Everyone  If your parents love wildlife or ocean breezes, this experience is hard to top. Newport Beach, just south of LA, sets the stage for an aquatic adventure that wows every generation in your family. Board a comfortable boat (with plenty of shaded seating and open decks), and expert naturalists will narrate as you head out to spot playful pods of dolphins and majestic whales.  Depending on the season, you may glimpse gray whales, blue whales, or even orcas. The dolphins often steal the show—racing alongside the boat, leaping from the water, and sometimes spinning just for fun. Cameras come out, laughter rings, and everyone feels like a kid again.  The vibe is relaxed and friendly. Staff supply lots of fun facts, so you walk away knowing the difference between a minke and a fin whale (plus, plenty of coastal trivia about the area’s history and habitats). There’s a sense of wonder staring out at the Pacific’s endless blue and, with a coastal breeze on your face, that California magic comes alive.  Tip: Make a whole day of it by grabbing fresh seafood at one of Newport’s bayside restaurants after your tour. Your parents will talk about this one for years.  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood: Behind the Scenes of Movie Magic  Ready to give your parents a true Hollywood experience? The Warner Bros. Studio Tour hits that sweet spot between movie nostalgia and current pop culture. Guided tours whisk you through real working sets, legendary soundstages, and prop rooms bursting with cinematic history.  See Batman’s car up close, sit on the Central Perk couch from Friends, and peek inside the DC Universe or Harry Potter displays. Knowledgeable guides pepper tours with fun behind-the-scenes stories, sharing insider trivia that’ll earn you major “wow” points at family brunch.  Your parents will love seeing just how movies and TV shows come together, while younger family members snap selfies with memorabilia. The backlot is a living piece of Hollywood history—wandering the “New York” streets or stepping into iconic TV sets, it’s impossible not to get swept up in the movie magic.  At the end, pop into the Central Perk Café for a themed latte or pick up a souvenir (that Friends mug? Absolutely). It’s the perfect blend of nostalgia, fun, and southern California sunshine.  Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes: Glitz, Greenery & Celebrity Stories  If your parents appreciate a touch of luxury with their exercise, look no further than a Beverly Hills bike tour. This guided ride blends easy pedaling with jaw-dropping sights. Cruise leafy avenues lined with historic mansions, roll past Rodeo Drive’s high-end boutiques, and spot local landmarks where screen legends once sipped martinis.  Your guides keep things lively, sharing celebrity stories and architectural tidbits in a friendly, approachable style. The pace is relaxed—think more sightseeing than spin class—and e-bikes are often available if your folks want to keep it super easy.  Expect shady stops under massive palms, quick peeks at famed hotels, and plenty of “that’s where Marilyn lived!” moments. Along the way, there are chances to grab a coffee or juice (try Alfred Coffee for bright, leafy ambiance and signature blends).  The tour balances exercise with indulgence; parents get fresh air and fun facts, kids can snap glamorous backdrops for their social feeds, and everyone ends up grinning. Exploring Beverly Hills on two wheels is endlessly charming, and the guides’ stories add welcome sparkle.  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking: Sand, Surf & Sun  Some LA favorites never go out of style, and bike touring Santa Monica and Venice Beach fits in that category. This route hugs the famous Ocean Front Walk, breezing past Muscle Beach, colorful street performers, and artists at work along Venice’s ever-changing mural walls.  The tour guides here know all the shortcuts (and the hidden gems). Your parents can pause to watch surfers brave the waves, people-watch from shaded benches, or grab a coffee at Dogtown Coffee—a beloved local hangout that captures LA’s laid-back verve.  You’ll see the historical Santa Monica Pier (complete with its photogenic Ferris wheel), spot skate parks where locals show off their moves, and ride sparkling stretches of sand the way true Angelenos do. Don’t forget to snap a group selfie by the Venice sign! The mood is sun-soaked and energized, but easy enough that everyone can keep pace.  Afterward, tuck into lunch at The Albright on Santa Monica Pier. The fish tacos and garlic fries come highly recommended, and the views—waves breaking, people strolling, seagulls wheeling overhead—are pure California movie magic.  Aquarium of the Pacific: Sea Life Encounters in Long Beach  Immerse your family in ocean wonder at the Aquarium of the Pacific. This vibrant, interactive destination is perfect for parents who enjoy a mix of entertainment and education—with shimmering jellyfish, playful sea otters, and up-close experiences galore.  Touch pools let you meet gentle bat rays and colorful sea stars, while enormous glass tanks showcase dazzling schools of fish weaving through sunken coral reefs. Parents might be especially enchanted by the Sea Otter Habitat, where these charismatic creatures frolic and play.  The aquarium’s focus on Pacific ecosystems ties the adventure to California’s broader coastal story. Don’t miss Lorikeet Forest, an outdoor aviary where friendly parrots might land right on your hand.  The on-site Café Scuba offers fresh sandwiches and salads with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking Rainbow Harbor. It’s a fantastic spot to relax after your adventure, watch boats breeze by, and share your favorite moments from the day. This is one of those places that keeps both the young and the young at heart entertained for hours.  Griffith Observatory & Park: LA’s Most Legendary Views  If your parents are fans of classic LA moments, few spots bring as much joy as Griffith Observatory. Set atop Mount Hollywood, this destination serves up panoramic sights of downtown LA, the ocean, and those famous white block letters of the Hollywood Sign.  The building itself feels straight out of an old movie—think art deco domes, marble floors, and telescopes you can use for free. The Samuel Oschin Planetarium hosts daily shows that blend state-of-the-art projection with just the right dose of stargazing magic.  Stroll the hiking paths through Griffith Park for a taste of local life or pack a picnic for the sloped lawns. Sunset here is extraordinary: city lights twinkle to life while the sun paints the skyline in pastel hues.  Love a little Hollywood nostalgia? The Observatory starred in many a blockbuster, and chatting about old film scenes is half the fun. There’s a bustling energy here and, in the evening especially, the views will leave your parents grinning ear to ear.  Dining at The Original Farmers Market: Eats That Please Every Palate  When it comes time to eat, make a beeline for The Original Farmers Market next to The Grove. This bustling food market has been feeding Angelenos since 1934, and it remains the ultimate spot for families with mixed tastes.  Stalls dish up cuisines from across the world: fresh Mexican tamales, tangy Singaporean noodles, Southern BBQ, smoky pastrami, and must-try LA donuts. Du-par’s pies are legendary (banana cream is the local favorite), while Bennett’s Ice Cream churns out decadent sundaes with chunks of fudge.  The market’s outdoor patio shaded by umbrellas is tailor-made for lingering. The vibe is friendly, colorful, and just a little bit old-school. Parents love the nostalgia; kids love the choice. With everyone busy exploring the dozens of options, you’re guaranteed happy taste buds all around.  Wrapping Up: LA Adventures, Family-Style  Traveling with parents in LA isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about sharing the city’s energy, tastes, and surprises as a family. Whether you’re wandering museum galleries, cruising the beach boardwalk, or chasing dolphins across the Pacific, every outing brings a new story to share around the dinner table. LA proves that intergenerational trips can be equal parts fun, relaxing, and truly memorable. The best part? You’ll want to do it all again next year.    Enjoyed this? Check out our favorite after-dark activities and attractions, and discover all the best aquariums in town.  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! 

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.