Los Angeles in October

Published: July 18, 2024

Fall in Los Angeles is a wonderful time of the year. As the heat winds down, the fun really kicks off during October with a myriad of cool and interesting things to do. Whether you’re an art lover, a thrill-seeker, or a nature enthusiast, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. And of course, since this is October after all, the city comes to life with lots of fun seasonal activities and pop-up events. From spooktastic Halloween events at Disneyland to unique Oktoberfest events, there should be more than enough to keep you busy. This is also an especially good time of the year to visit L.A. since there should be cooler weather, smaller crowds, and a better chance of finding great deals on accommodation and travel. So, if you’re thinking about making the trip, have a read through our list of some of the best things to do in the city during this time of the year. We promise that you won’t be disappointed!

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Los Angeles is home to some of the best theme parks on the planet, but of course, none of them quite stand out like Disneyland! Since opening way back in 1955, this place has become one of the most visited theme parks in the world - and it’s easy to see why! A classic all-American vacation spot, Disneyland is home to some of the most iconic rides, including It’s a Small World, Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean. Within the park there are over 30 rides, so you know that there’s always something to choose from. October is a great time to visit since the weather will be temperate and dry. During this time of the year, the park also hosts some fantastic seasonal events, including the Oogie Boogie Bash and Halloween Screams. Whether you’re a kid or just young at heart, this quintessential L.A. attraction is sure to leave you with a huge smile stretched across your face.

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Of course, it just wouldn’t be an article about things to do in October without mentioning Oktoberfest. In a sprawling city like Los Angeles, there are a lot of ways to celebrate this traditional Bavarian holiday - all you have to do is pick your favorite! If your ideal Oktoberfest involves kicking back with a beer on the beach (and let’s face it, why wouldn’t it be?), then the Old World Oktoberfest might just be your jam. Billed as ‘’Orange County’s Biggest Party since 1977’’, this event really hits the spot. Or, if you love the idea of bratwurst but have devoted yourself to clean living, why not check out the Vegan Oktoberfest? Complete with vegan breweries and plant-based vendors, this spot is perfect for all cruelty-free visitors. For something a little bit different, check out the San Gabriel Dumpling and Beer Fest. However you choose to enjoy Oktoberfest in L.A., we’re sure you’ll have a blast!

Learn Something New

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Those looking for history and culture in Los Angeles won’t have to search very far. Though there are countless great cultural amenities to choose from whilst visiting L.A., we particularly love the Huntington Library for its world-class repository. Combining art, history and nature all in one, this beloved tourist attraction is well-recognized for its all-encompassing collection. A total dream for all bibliophiles, the institute’s library houses more than 430,000 rare books, original manuscripts and historic documents. Meanwhile, its art gallery houses one of the best collections of British art in the United States. Still, perhaps the institute’s main draw is its botanical garden, which is home to over 150 plant varieties on its 150 acres. There’s a whole to lot see and do here, so we recommend setting aside a good amount of time aside for your visit to ensure that you don’t miss a single thing!

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As the epicenter of the United States’ entertainment industry, Los Angeles is a fantastic visitor destination for pop culture lovers and creative types alike. There are countless museums and cultural institutions to choose from, though we particularly love the Grammy Museum. Standing out from all the other institutes in Los Angeles, this unique speciality institute provides a fun and fascinating look into the history and significance of American music. Though young, the museum’s collection is impressive, with historical instruments, iconic costumes, awards, and much more. There are interactive instrument stations and recording booths to enhance the experience. The institute’s 200-seat theater also hosts live events including performances, screenings and lectures. Working to honor a long history of innovation and creative thought, this spot is perfect for all music lovers.

Get in Touch With Nature

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Seated along the western coastline, Los Angeles is well-recognized for its beautiful natural attributes. If you’re looking to take in some of the area’s most wonderful greenery, we recommend Descanso Gardens. Just a short trip from downtown, this lush forested area offers a much-needed respite from the bustling city. Over its vast 150 acres, visitors can enjoy an extraordinary living repository. The site is home to a fantastic collection of exotic and native flora - there are magnificent oak woodlands, a wide collection of fruit trees, and the largest concentration of camellia plants in the Western Hemisphere. This spot isn’t too difficult to walk through - overall, it should take about an hour explore the full space. Still, we recommend wearing your comfiest shoes and bringing plenty of water with you to stay comfortable. A treasure trove of natural beauty, this spot is a total must-see.

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With its soft breezes and cooler temperatures, Los Angeles is a pleasure to explore in autumntime! Whatever Tinseltown lacks for in foliage, the city more than makes up for with exciting events and activities of all kinds. From kicking back with a nice cold one at Oktoberfest to ambling through the beautiful Descanso Gardens, the City of Angels never falls short. 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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Top Los Angeles Theme Parks - A Quick Guide for First Timers to Southern California

Los Angeles County is home to more than 10 million people, and the sunny locale boasts more than its fair share of theme parks. If your vacation will take you to Los Angeles this year, you'll want to add a day or an afternoon spent at one of Southern California's most exciting destinations. The ideal theme park awaits your family whether you're traveling with wee ones and need some gentle rides or you're vacationing with teenagers who love whirling, twirling roller coasters. Need some help selecting your Los Angeles theme park s and other fun destinations? Here's all the information you need to arrange an exciting and one-of-a-kind Los Angeles vacation at theme parks near Los Angeles. Admission to Los Angeles Theme Parks A number of these popular Los Angeles theme parks, plus other great Los Angeles area attractions, are included on the Go Los Angeles® Card. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Universal Studios Hollywood Known for its slogan as the "Entertainment Capital of L.A.," Universal Studios is an expansive historic landmark that sits north of Hollywood in the San Fernando Valley. The world famous studio first opened in 1919, and the amusement park came along in 1951. (we also recapped some of the best Hollywood Studio Tours - if that interests you) The property is home to a slew of working television stations and a busy movie studio, and it also welcomes more than 6 million visitors each year to its thrill rides, shows, and the famous studio tour. The attractions at Universal often feature flight simulations and 3D technology, so you won't see a park full of traditional roller coasters when you visit this place. The park recently opened its "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" to much acclaim. Getting In: Universal Studios Hollywood tickets are available as a premium option on the 3- ,5-, and 7-Day Go Los Angeles® Cards. Knott's Soak City Water Park Located just a half mile from the entrance of Knott's Berry Farm, Knott's Soak City is one of Southern California's popular water parks with rides and attractions that cater to all ages. Some attractions, like the six-lane race ride "Banzai Falls" require riders reach a height of at least 42", and other attractions like Gremmie Lagoon are designed for children and have no height requirement. The park operates from May until September, and visiting Knott's Berry Farm one day and Knott's Soak City the next is a fun and easy way to spend a few days of your Los Angeles visit. Getting In: Knott's Soak City Water Park tickets are included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. Disneyland A Southern California landmark since 1955, Disneyland Park lures a whopping 16 million visitors each year to its sunny Anaheim location. Disneyland is located in Anaheim, which is south of Los Angeles in Orange County. The size of Disneyland, as well as its proximity to Disney California Adventure Park (right across the street), means an overnight stay in an Orange County hotel is an excellent way to make sure you get to the park early. Most of the rides at Disneyland are appropriate for children, and there are only a few rides that have a strict height requirement and a recommendation on age. The "big kid" rides are usually found across the street at Disney California Adventure Park. Getting In: Disneyland admission is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. For more information about this attraction and to purchase tickets, please visit the attraction website. Disney California Adventure Families often choose to visit Disneyland and Disney California Adventure at the same time since the park entrances are right next to one another. While the rides at Disneyland cater mostly to very young visitors (and the young-at-heart), Disney California Adventure offers some genuine thrill rides. The park opened in the not-too-distant past in 2001, but it wasn't as popular as Disneyland until the park's designers began adding extra attractions and thrill rides. A massive expansion of the park occurred in 2012 with the addition of Cars Land, which is based on the popular series of Pixar "Cars" features. Disney California Adventure features traditional rides like the California Screamin' coaster, as well as 3D rides like the kid-friendly Toy Story Midway Mania. Thrill-seekers will like the Tower of Terror and the Grizzly Rapids water ride, which is a must-see in the summer. Getting In: Disney California Adventure admission is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. For more information about this attraction and to purchase tickets, please visit the attraction website. Let's Recap Remember, you can save on admission to a number of the Los Angeles area's most popular theme parks with the Go San Los Angeles® Card. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate.
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Best Nature Spots in Los Angeles

Are you heading to Los Angeles on vacation but don't want to spend all your time in the city? Fortunately, there are plenty of nature spots in and around LA. While on vacation in Los Angeles, make sure to soak up the beautiful weather and spend some time in the great outdoors. There are so many fun attractions that involve being outside in the best nature spots in Los Angeles, including... LA Zoo Santa Monica Beach Malibu Celebrity Homes Tour Whale Watching and Dolphin Cruises Hollywood Hills Hike by Hikes & Bikes LA Sunset Cruise by Newport Landing And many more! LA Zoo Santa Monica Beach Malibu Celebrity Homes Tour Perry’s Beach Café and Rentals Another great opportunity to spend some time outdoors is Perry's Beach Café and Rentals. It has been a part of the beach scene in Los Angeles for over 35 years. Rent a mountain bike or skates for the entire day from Perry's, then head to the beachside café for a bite to eat after biking or skating. You can explore the Santa Monica beach, Venice Beach, and Venice Canals by bike. Start as early as you wish and bike all day. There is so much to see around here and you never know what you might come across. It's a great way to travel and explore the area – the canals are beautiful and close by. Whale Watching and Dolphin Cruises Hollywood Hills Hike by Hike & Bike LA The Huntington Library, Art Collection, and Botanical Garden The Huntington Library, Art Collection and Botanical Garden has been in operation since 1919 and has a foundation in conservation, to protect the art, books, manuscripts, and other materials. It is an institution that has collection-based research and serves scholars, as well as the general public. Plus, it's home to a massive 8 million manuscripts, over 400,000 reference books, over 400,000 rare books, and over 700,000 pictures. The Huntington Art Collection collection spans over 500 years. It displays sculptures, decorative art, and drawings, and hosts temporary exhibits focusing on masterworks. Sunset Cruise by Newport Landing Save on admission to LA attractions So there you go! There are plenty of outdoor attractions that allow you to make the most of the beautiful LA weather. We hope you consider adding a few of these LA attractions to your vacation itinerary. Also, why not make the most of the sunshine and take a day trip out of the city? Check out our best day trips from LA guide for some ideas. Remember, using your pass for Los Angeles means you can save on admission vs gate price. Be sure to share your snaps with us on Instagram and Facebook and follow @GoCity for top tips and itineraries.
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September in LA: Sun, Culture, and the Best City Adventures

Every September, Los Angeles transforms into a sweet spot for city exploration. The sticky heat of high summer fades, crowds thin out, and the calendar bursts with outdoor concerts, food fests, and quirky neighborhood celebrations. Sunsets stretch just a little longer, while the city’s endless creative energy offers up everything from movie magic to world-class science and nature adventures. Whether you’re here to bask on legendary beaches, bike down palm-lined boulevards, or dive into LA’s endlessly rich cultural scene, September lets you have it all—often with a little extra elbow room. Here’s everything you need to plan your perfect September trip to LA, from must-see attractions and seasonal events to local eats worth traveling for.  Our favorite things to do in Los Angeles in September include:  Griffith Observatory Tour  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Getty Center Guided Tour  Universal Studios  Highlights of Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  Natural History Museum  Sunset Movies at Hollywood Forever Cemetery  Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes  Exploring Grand Central Market  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Ask us for our favorite September adventure, and we’ll send you straight to the water. September sits in a sweet window for whale watching in Southern California—humpback wales, blue whales, and pods of playful dolphins all love cruising the coastline during the early fall.  The Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales is our pick for the best sea safari within easy reach of the city. Board a comfortable catamaran and feel the ocean breeze as experienced guides help you spot the marine action. You’ll want to bring a camera: dolphins frequently leap alongside the boat, and you’ll often spot sea lions sunning themselves on buoys or harbor rocks. Sometimes, you might even catch the spout of a mighty blue whale—the world’s largest animal—breaking the surface nearby.  The vibe is laidback and immersive. Staff provide insider info on all the local species, including seabirds and the coastal ecosystem. September’s crisp mornings and sunny afternoons offer up ideal sailing conditions and calm seas. Take a morning tour, then spend your afternoon strolling Newport Beach’s pretty boardwalks or grabbing fresh fish tacos at Bear Flag Fish Co. No matter how many times you do this, the thrill of seeing those wild giants never wears off.  Getty Center Guided Tour  Get your culture fix with a September trip to the Getty Center, where striking architecture meets one of the most celebrated art collections in the world. Perched atop a hill in Brentwood, the Getty’s white travertine buildings glow in the soft late-summer sun, and the spectacular gardens below burst with blooms—even this late in the year. Admission is free; the experience, priceless.  Hop aboard the hillside tram and arrive in style. On a guided tour, you’ll unravel the stories behind European masterpieces—think Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt—as well as sculpture gardens and cutting-edge photography exhibitions. But the real fun comes from wandering—spacious courtyards, sparkling fountains, and rolling lawns invite you to linger. The atmosphere feels both grand and laidback, with plenty of outdoor seating if you want to picnic with a bakery treat from the café.  Don’t skip the garden walks: the Central Garden, designed by Robert Irwin, shifts colors with the seasons and features hundreds of plant varieties. Pick a bench under the sycamores and soak up the views over LA. In September, the air buzzes with anticipation—art season is picking up, and you might catch a pop-up concert or outdoor film night. Even if you’re not a diehard art fan, the experience of exploring the Getty’s rich interiors and lush outdoors is a delight for every traveler.  Universal Studios  Let’s be honest: when you’re in Los Angeles, the call of movie magic is impossible to resist. September offers a brilliant opportunity to enjoy Universal Studios with shorter lines, cooler temperatures, and all the “behind the scenes” thrills you can handle.  From the moment you walk through the gates, you’re immersed in worlds straight from your favorite films. The Studio Tour remains an absolute must—rumbling trams take you past real sets, sound stages, King Kong’s rampage and the explosive Fast & Furious finale. September also ushers in Halloween Horror Nights (on select evenings later in the month), transforming the park into a maze of movie-inspired haunted houses and scare zones for those seeking a seasonal thrill.  Families flock to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can sip buttery cold drinks, cast spells at shop windows and zoom through the air on “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey.” Action fans won’t want to miss the “Jurassic World” ride, with its epic splashdown, while “The Simpsons Ride” delivers laughs every single time.  The whole park pulses with energy, from character encounters to street performances to culinary treats (hot tip: sample a pink sprinkle donut from Lard Lad). Visiting Universal Studios in September lets you enjoy all the movie magic with space to roam, plenty of sunshine, and a little Halloween sneak preview.  Natural History Museum  September in LA means “back to school” for locals, but for visitors, it’s the perfect moment to rediscover a sense of wonder. The Natural History Museum—set in stunning Exposition Park—delivers just that. It’s a dinosaur-lover’s dream, and so much more.  Inside, you’ll roam through towering skeletons in the Dinosaur Hall and see some of the world’s most complete fossils, from Triceratops to the mighty T. rex trio. The Nature Lab is full of hands-on fun, letting curious travelers of every age get up close to LA’s wild side, learning about the city’s coyotes, hummingbirds, and even urban bees. Interactive exhibits encourage you to touch, explore, and discover for yourself.  The museum isn’t just for rainy days (although it’s a lifesaver when showers hit). Step into the glass-walled Butterfly Pavilion and you’ll find yourself surrounded by clouds of living color. In September, many species still flutter about, making for magical photo ops. Outside, the museum’s gardens provide a peaceful escape for a midday snack or a picnic on the lawn.  The atmosphere here buzzes with excitement and curiosity—little ones will love the Discovery Center, while adults get swept up by the rotating special exhibitions. Add in food trucks, weekend family programs, and even occasional outdoor movie nights, and you’ve got a cultural winner perfect for an early fall visit.  Sunset Movies at Hollywood Forever Cemetery  Looking for a classic LA experience, with a twist? Every September, Hollywood Forever Cemetery transforms from tranquil memorial garden into one of the city’s most unique open-air movie theaters. The Cinespia film series draws a stylish local crowd who come for cult classics, vintage hits, and the fun of watching movies under the stars—quite literally surrounded by Hollywood history.  Here’s how it works: you bring your blanket and picnic basket (think artisanal cheese, sushi from nearby Sugarfish, or a sprinkle-covered cake from Magnolia Bakery) and stake out your spot on the grassy lawn. As dusk falls, vintage shorts screen while everyone socializes and snaps selfies in the themed photo booths. Lines might seem long for the pre-movie cocktails, but the fun atmosphere makes time zip by.  Once the movie begins, there’s a wonderful community feel—laughter ripples across the crowd, everyone cheers at the best lines, and there’s a sense of being part of an authentic LA tradition. Arrive a little early for a walk around the famous monuments and tombstones; you might spot the final resting places of Judy Garland, Rudolph Valentino, or even Johnny Ramone.  It’s unbeatable for people-watching, too—local Angelenos unleash their picnic creativity, and there’s a joyful blend of families, film buffs, and starry-eyed travelers. If your trip overlaps with a screening, grab tickets! It’s pure LA entertainment with a twist of history and a huge helping of personality.  Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes  Want to see LA’s glamorous side with a bit of feel-good exercise? The Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes is a September standout. Guided by a local expert, you’ll pedal gently through Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, where stunning mansions, palm-dotted boulevards, and impossibly fancy cars form the backdrop.  September weather highlights this experience: mornings are breezy and quiet, while afternoons see golden sunlight streaming through the oaks and jacarandas. Ride past iconic hotels (hello, Beverly Hills Hotel), peek at movie-star homes, and learn the juicy stories behind legendary Rodeo Drive. Your guide knows all the hidden corners: think secret gardens, art-filled plazas, and neighborhood favorites that never make the tourist maps.  Stops along the way give you time for photos, and maybe even a coffee or pressed juice from a local cafe—try Verve Coffee Roasters for an energizing pick-me-up, or if you want a classic treat, Nate ’n Al’s deli is legendary for old-school pastrami sandwiches. The vibe? Both glamorous and down-to-earth, as you mingle with locals out walking their dogs or bustling between appointments. This bike tour leaves you feeling like you’ve glimpsed a more relaxed, sun-filled side of LA—without breaking a sweat.  Exploring Grand Central Market  There’s no flavor quite like Downtown LA in September. Our foodie hearts beat fastest for Grand Central Market, the century-old culinary bazaar where old-school LA meets global food culture, all under the glow of neon signage.  Arrive hungry. Start with a breakfast sandwich at Eggslut (order the “Fairfax”—soft-scrambled eggs, chives, cheddar, caramelized onions and sriracha mayo, all on a fresh brioche bun) or go for a breakfast burrito from Villa Moreliana. If it’s lunchtime, grab tacos from Tacos Tumbras a Tomas or check out Sari Sari Store’s Filipino rice bowls. Foodies swear by the wood-fired pizza at Olio, and vegans flock to Ramen Hood for plant-based, all-day comfort food.  What sets Grand Central Market apart is the buzz: everyone from cool downtown creatives to LA’s old-timers mingles at shared tables, and the energy feels contagious. In September, the market often hosts harvest-themed pop-ups, live jazz brunches, and the city’s best cold brew tastings. Take your lunch to nearby Angels Flight funicular for a ride up to California Plaza, then return for dessert—Sticky Rice’s coconut-mango rice is always a hit.  With its mix of art deco architecture, playful signage, and non-stop people-watching, Grand Central Market embodies the city’s always-inventive, never-boring dining scene. It’s a must-visit—easy to dip into before catching METRO rides or exploring the rest of downtown.    September is LA’s not-so-secret “best month.” The crowds have drifted out, the weather plays it cool, and every corner of Los Angeles offers something special, from starry movie nights and cultural icons to wild dolphin encounters and the ultimate foodie finds. Whether you’re rediscovering the classics or diving into neighborhood adventures, LA in September feels full of possibility and surprises. Pack your sense of curiosity—and perhaps a picnic blanket—because this is a city that rewards wanderers at every turn. See you under the LA sun!    Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do During a Heatwave in Los Angeles 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!  

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