Los Angeles in November

Published: July 18, 2024

Los Angeles is a magical city: the mix of culture, nature and iconic attractions make every visit an absolute joy. There’s so much to see and do for every kind of traveller in the City of Angels. No, really - we mean it! Whether you’re a culture vulture, a creative type, or a foodie, L.A. is always bursting with exciting stops and consistently reforming itself with new and interesting things to check out. From soaking up the views at Santa Monica Pier to taking a fun family day trip at Disneyland, the list of the best things activities and events in Los Angeles is truly endless. Though the area cools down in November, it should still be warm enough to explore some of the city’s best-known outdoor attractions. And since November falls during shoulder season, the city will also be less crowded and you’ll be able to find better deals on accommodation and attractions. Still not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve done all the heavy lifting for you! Have a read through our round-up of the best things to do in the area. We promise you won’t be disappointed!

Hit the Classics

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A quintessential West Coast city, Los Angeles is well-known for its clear blue skies and beautiful beaches. And whilst the city cools down during the wintertime, there are still a lot of ways for seaside lovers to enjoy the city’s most wonderful natural attributes. Of course, one of our ultimate favorites has got to be the Santa Monica Pier for its wide variety of attractions. The most popular thing to do here has got to be Pacific Park, an admission-free theme park with thrilling rides, great shopping, fantastic restaurants and more. Aside from Pacific Park, this spot is known for its aquarium, which features 100+ local marine animals and wildlife species. In addition, you can grab a bite to eat at the bustling Santa Monica Pier Farmers’ Market and watch the sun go down over the Pacific Ocean. With so much to see and do here, this spot is a total crowdpleaser.

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Whether you’re travelling with kids or just young at heart, a visit to Disneyland is an absolute must. Bringing all of the magic of our favorite childhood movies to life, this spot solidified its position as a classic All-American dream vacation destination long ago. As one of the most popular theme parks in the world, Disneyland draws in over 18 million visitors each year - and it’s easy to see why! Among its 50 attractions, you’ll find everything from squeal-inducing twists and turns to kid-friendly rides and total classics. Highlights include Space Mountain, It’s a Small World and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. This place also has shows, parades and seasonal events to enhance the experience. We love this spot because it’s impossible to leave without a huge smile stretched across your face.

Find Fun Activities to Do

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Perhaps one of Los Angeles’ biggest draws is its star power. As the hub of the American film industry, the City of Angels is home to countless exciting activities and attractions for cinephiles and lovers of pop culture alike. If you’re looking to dive in, we recommend checking out the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Burbank. Visit one of the busiest and oldest working studios in Hollywood and learn more about the hard work, history and artistry behind some of your favorite TV shows and movies. See the original Friends fountain, explore the soundstages used to create Casablanca, and enjoy authentic props and costumes from the Harry Potter films. On the tour, you’ll be accompanied by a friendly and professional guide, there to answer all of your questions. Experience the magic of film and learn a lot of behind-the-scenes secrets! A thoroughly fun and one-of-a-kind experience, this stop is not to be missed!

Have A Blast!

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If you’re looking for something a little different, you won’t have to search much further than Designer Con. Running towards the end of the month, this event offers a fantastic inside look into the development of the contemporary art scene. With over 700 vendors and artists from around the globe, there truly is a lot to see here. Marvel at some unbelievable art, geek out over rare collectables, and meet some of the talented artists and tastemakers who are currently shaping the design world. You can also catch talks and seminars from some of the best working creative leaders in the industry. Definitely don’t forget to check out the concessions here, since you can pick up some really cool and unusual items. A thoroughly unique cultural experience, this event is well worth the visit.

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With its fantastic coastal location and mild wintertime climate, Los Angeles makes a great destination for a music festival even during November. It only makes sense then, that you can catch two epic days of punk rock right in the center of Oak Canyon Park whilst most other cities are huddled away indoors. Kicking off towards the start of the month, Punk in the Park promises great sounds, electric vibes and fun to be had by all. This fest welcomes both old favorites and newcomers to the genre, so there’s a little something for everybody here. Past performers have included NOFX, Dropkick Murphys, and Pennywise. With its fantastic lineup and vibrant atmosphere, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend time in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles in the wintertime a unique travel experience - one which we thoroughly recommend. 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

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January in LA: Sunshine, Culture, and Adventures Await

Kickstart Your Year: The Best Things to Do in Los Angeles in January  The holidays might be over, but in Los Angeles, the fun is just getting started. January in LA feels like a secret season: tourist crowds thin out, the weather settles into that perfect sweet spot (where scarves are optional and sunglasses are non-negotiable), and the city’s unique blend of outdoor beauty and creative energy really shines.  Maybe you’re in town for awards season glitz, or you just want to stroll palm-lined streets without sweating your sunscreen off. Either way, there’s no end to the things you can do: head from mountain hikes to beachfront brunches, stumble into a quirky winter festival, or chase film star dreams in the heart of Hollywood—all before lunch. We’ll show you hands-on experiences, must-see museums, and local favorites (including a few hidden gems). Ready to spend your January in style?  Here’s what we love to do in Los Angeles in January:  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Griffith Observatory Tour  Natural History Museum  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Discover Tour  Universal Studios  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Adventure  Grammy Museum  Battleship IOWA Museum  San Diego Zoo (make a day trip!)  Griffith Observatory Tour  If you only do one “only-in-LA” activity, head for Griffith Park. And January is arguably the best time to do it—the trails are green after winter rains, the air is fresh, and the city skyline glows under crystal-clear skies.  The Griffith Observatory is a true LA treasure. The atmosphere up here is energetic, with visitors from all over the world—astronomy buffs, school kids, and selfie-hunters capturing the city’s iconic views. The guided tour packs in LA history, cosmic trivia, and a touch of Hollywood glamour (after all, ‘Rebel Without a Cause’ filmed here).  Step inside for interactive exhibits, gaze through the historic Zeiss telescope, or catch a live demonstration in the planetarium. The rooftop decks deliver sweeping, panoramic cityscapes—come at golden hour for a front-row seat to one of California’s legendary sunsets. Even on cooler January evenings, the observatory stays warmer than you’d think, thanks to the city’s perpetual “winterlite” climate.  Why we love it: The experience blends science, local history, and unbeatable photo ops—not to mention free admission (planetarium shows are a small extra charge). Before or after your visit, hit a hiking trail, or simply hang out on the lawn and do some people- (and star-) gazing.  Natural History Museum  Need an indoor adventure in January? LA’s Natural History Museum is a winter favorite. The vibe inside is lively but not overwhelming—especially on weekdays, when you can wander at your own pace beneath towering dinosaur skeletons (the T. rex trio always steals the show), lush dioramas, and gleaming gems.  This isn’t your average old-school museum: there’s always a rotating lineup of interactive exhibits (like “be a paleontologist” or “explore LA’s wildlife right in the City”), plus hands-on science zones for younger travelers. January often brings new temporary exhibits, so check the calendar to catch something funky—perhaps ice age creatures, or the weird and wonderful wildlife of LA’s parks and rivers.  What really strikes us is the museum’s energy. Everyone seems curious and engaged, from families marveling at mammoth fossils to adults tracing the evolution of LA itself. The on-site café serves up surprisingly solid sandwiches and pastries, and the sunny outdoor Nature Gardens make a dreamy spot to relax if you get your fix of indoor exploring.  Insider tip: The NHM is a quick hop from Exposition Park’s Rose Garden (often still blooming in mild winters) and the California Science Center if you want to double-up on kid-friendly fun.  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Discover Tour  Want to make the most of your January days, catch all the highlights, and skip the traffic stress? Los Angeles is vast, so we always recommend spending a morning or afternoon aboard the Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Discover Tour.  The buses are open-top (with covered options for the cooler days), and offer routes that wind through neighborhoods from Hollywood and Westwood to Santa Monica and Beverly Hills. If you’re new in town, this is the best way to get the LA lay-of-the-land while learning quirky facts from the guides and audio commentary.  What makes this tour a January standout? It’s so easy to layer up, sit back, and people-watch as you cruise palm-lined streets, celebrity haunts, and architectural oddities. Hop off at any stop to explore museums, snap a photo at the Hollywood Sign overlook, or grab tacos along Sunset Strip. Buses run on a frequent schedule, so you can build the day at your own pace—with zero parking headaches.  Bonus: Pair this tour with one of the walking or biking adventures nearby (like the Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour or the Beverly Hills Bike Tour) for an even deeper dive into the city’s neighborhoods.  Universal Studios  Ready for a hit of California magic? Universal Studios Hollywood kicks January into high gear, with its blend of blockbuster movie rides, themed lands, and genuinely cinematic atmosphere. The crowds are noticeably lighter than summer and holidays, letting you bounce from “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” to thrill rides like Jurassic World—often with little to no wait.  The whole place feels primed for imagination: explore realistic film sets on the behind-the-scenes Studio Tour, catch live-action stunt shows, or sip a Butterbeer as you drift through Diagon Alley. Younger visitors (and plenty of adults) can meet costumed characters, while food options run the gamut from classic funnel cakes to creative LA-inspired eats.  In January, the backdrop is a little special: mountain peaks might be dusted with snow, and seasonal décor sometimes lingers. The weather rarely gets cold enough to need more than a hoodie, but there’s something fun about strolling through movie-set “winter” while palm trees sway overhead.  Why it works in January: Skip the summer heat, enjoy manageable lines, and experience LA’s most famous film playground at a relaxed winter pace.  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Adventure  Why not pedal your way through January sunshine? With cool, clear mornings and quieter paths, it’s genuinely one of the best times to explore LA’s iconic beach towns on two wheels. There are several guided rides on offer, but we love the Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour for its blend of classic scenery and insider stories.  You’ll breeze down the oceanfront bike trail—seeing the Santa Monica Pier, Muscle Beach, quirky Venice murals, and sunbathing surfers—while guides fill you in on local lore and pop culture. The energy feels laid-back, thanks to offseason crowds: you can snap pier photos without the summer chaos, and there’s always an oceanside coffee shop to duck into for a warm-up.  Not just exercise: It’s the best way to soak up local flavor, spot dazzling sunset views, and get a fresh angle on LA’s coastal culture. By the end, you’ll have sand in your shoes—and a reel of SoCal memories.  GRAMMY Museum  Music fans, rejoice: the GRAMMY Museum is a hands-on haven for anyone who’s ever tuned in for awards night or belted out a car karaoke hit. Tucked in the vibrant heart of Downtown LA, this modern space fuses interactive exhibits with priceless music memorabilia: think out-there costumes, hand-written lyrics, and behind-the-scenes videos spanning the entire history of popular music.  January’s museum programming often includes events tied to awards season: pop-up panels, listening sessions, or limited-time installations celebrating past (and soon-to-be) winners. The overall vibe is open and energetic, with hands-on sound booths and galleries that cover everything from hip hop to classical. We always recommend setting aside extra time for the museum’s upstairs terrace—there are city views and, if you’re lucky, live local musicians performing.  Nearby eats: After your music fix, LA Live’s restaurant row is just next door. Head for Katsuya for standout sushi and cocktails, or kick back at Tom’s Watch Bar for game-day bites.  Battleship IOWA Museum  History buffs (and anyone drawn to big, awe-inspiring machines) will find the Battleship IOWA Museum irresistible. Docked on the waterfront in San Pedro, the ship’s decks and command centers are fully open for exploration with interactive tours led by passionate docents (ask about the “Captain’s Quarters”—it’s basically a floating penthouse suite).  In January, cooler weather makes roaming the open-air decks comfortable, and the surrounding harbor is full of daily life: fishermen, container ships, and sea birds ride Pacific breezes overhead. Kids love the scavenger hunts and working periscopes, while adults appreciate the creative special exhibits focused on naval history and local heroes.  You’ll leave with real appreciation for both the engineering and daily drama of life at sea. Before you head out, stroll down the waterfront: breweries, seafood shacks, and seaside parks help round out the day.  Perfect for: Families, history fans, or anyone up for a slice of real Americana tucked right in LA’s own harbor.  San Diego Zoo (easy winter day trip!)  Craving a road trip? January is perfect for a San Diego detour—less traffic, cool breezes, and the San Diego Zoo in all its animal-rich glory. This world-renowned zoo shines when the weather is mild, meaning animals are livelier and you’re not wilting in the sun.  The lush, walkable park is vast but easy to navigate, especially in the quieter winter months. Expect up-close panda moments, wild river otters, and perhaps a glimpse of a baby gorilla or koala. Special keeper talks and behind-the-scenes experiences add to the magic (check the daily schedule as these rotate by season).  Feeling peckish? The zoo’s Albert’s Restaurant offers a leafy rainforest setting, California-focused fare, plus one of the city’s best margaritas. Time your visit right and you’ll catch views all the way to Balboa Park’s classic museums—making this an all-day adventure with plenty of “only in SoCal” appeal.  Ready to Start Your Year in LA?  January blends adventure and chill, creativity and coast, glamor and nature—serving up a distinctly Angeleno take on winter. Whether you’re hiking Griffith Park with new friends, cycling sun-splashed boardwalks, or discovering the next music legend downtown, every January day in LA brings a fresh surprise. Bring your sense of curiosity—and don’t forget the sunglasses!    Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Madame Tussauds Hollywood or Things to Do with Friends in Los Angeles    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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