Los Angeles in May

Published: July 18, 2024

There are so many great things to see and do in Los Angeles in May! The sun is out, the days are longer, and spring is in full swing. Around this time of the year, the city comes alive with countless seasonal activities and events for all types of travellers. As for the month’s major holidays, don’t forget to check out the awesome things to do for Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. The weather is warm and balmy, so this is also prime time for exploring a lot of L.A.’s best outdoor attractions. Still daunted by the prospect of exploring a new city? Don’t worry - we’ve got you covered! Have a read through our list of the best things to check out in the area. However you choose to explore Los Angeles, we’re sure you’ll have a blast!

See the City

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As one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States, Los Angeles isn’t exactly short of great attractions to choose from. Still, when the sun comes out, nothing quite beats a day at the Santa Monica Pier. Since first opening to the public way back in 1909, this beloved tourist hotspot now draws in a whopping 8 million visitors annually - and who are we to argue with that many people? Perhaps the pier’s most popular draw is Pacific Park, an admission-free amusement park with a great blend of rides for kids and thrillseekers alike. Or, if you’re looking to just take it slow, the Santa Monica Pier Farmers’ Market is the place to be. Open on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, this spot works to highlight California’s agricultural heritage with a fantastic array of local vendors. And of course, it just wouldn’t be a pier if you couldn’t grab a rod and try a hand at fishing for yourself. The pier is an ideal place for catching everything from small sea creatures like clams to even mackerel and sea bass. A quintessential Los Angeles attraction, this spot is well worth the visit.

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Los Angeles is a sprawling seaside metropolis made up of countless unique neighborhoods. Still, one of our favorite spots to check out has got to be Venice for its distinctive style and laidback, funky atmosphere. One of the most popular things to do there is hit the beach - that is, Venice Beach, of course. A prime tourist destination, this spot is known for its sun-kissed shorelines and bohemian boardwalk. Still, there’s a lot more to do in Venice than just the beach. Another one of our favorite activities has got to be walking the Venice Canals. Nestled away between the Venice Boardwalk and the Abbot Kinney, the Venice Canals offer a scenic stroll along the charming beach houses and romantic bridges of the area. All in all, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in Los Angeles.

Get Cultured

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It practically goes without saying that Los Angeles is a total treat for art lovers and culture vultures. Whilst there are countless cultural amenities for creative types in the city, one of our favorite spots to visit when the sun comes out has got to he the Hollywood Sculpture Garden. Combining the innovative energy of the city with its most wonderful natural attributes, this place is well worth the visit. Perched up high in the Hollywood Hills, the garden offers 360-degree spectacular views of the area. Here, visitors can enjoy a wholly unique collection of outdoor sculptures from well-established and up-and-coming artists. There are over 100 pieces in the garden, so you know that there’s plenty to see here. Visitations are by appointment only, so make sure to reserve your spot before showing up! A thoroughly enjoyable cultural experience, we love this spot for bringing something a little different to the table.

Find Fun Activities

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Those travelling with family might just enjoy the next item on our list. Since establishing itself way back in 1921, the L.A. County Fair has been drawing in visitors in from near and far ever since. Nowadays, this classic crowdpleaser is recognized as the fourth largest fair in the United States - and with good reason! Guests can expect to experience a heck of a lot all in one place - no, really, we mean it! Whilst this attraction initially began as an agricultural show, it has since spread its wings with everything from wine tastings and exhibitions to modern acrobats and concerts. Still, the fair maintains some of its old-style charm with classic carnival rides like the Ferris wheel. And if you were wondering about food (and let’s face it - why wouldn’t you be?) you’ll find plenty of different vendors serving up traditional fairground favorites like chilli cheese curly fries, deep-fried Oreos and cotton candy. A little bit old-school and a whole lot of fun, this spot is a total must-see.

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After a long day of touring, you might just want to kick back and relax with a great movie. And of course, there’s no place quite like Los Angeles to catch a movie. During the springtime, you can find all types of twists on the typical movie theater experience around the city, but our favorite is the fantastic rooftop experience. Taking cinema out from the theater to under the starry night’s sky, this experience most certainly ups the ante. The Rooftop Cinema Club are known for their broad programming, showing everything from old favorites and cult classics, to modern box-office hits. There is also a concession stand with traditional movie theater snacks, like hotdogs, popcorn and candy. The perfect way to spend a balmy springtime evening, this place is sure to hit the spot.

L.A. is a great city to visit all year round, though we especially love it in the springtime. From taking a stroll down the Venice Canals to checking out the L.A. County fair, you’ll never run out of things to see and do. Explore the city 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

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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! 

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