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!

Find Fun Activities

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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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Things to do in Chinatown Los Angeles

Things to do in Chinatown Los Angeles L.A. is known for everything from its sweeping natural landscapes to Disneyland and Dodger dogs. It’s a total hive of activity, buzzing with life - that being said, there can be a whole lot to choose from here. In a city comprised of over 400 neighborhoods and districts, figuring out what to do next is a pretty bewildering task. Of course, for anybody looking to scratch beneath the surface of the city’s storied history and cultural development, Chinatown is always a must. Situated just Downtown, this unique ethnic enclave is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic areas of the city. Whether you’re looking for great shopping, unbeatable dining, or interesting hidden gems, there are just so many things to see and do in this area of the city. Still not sure quite where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From grabbing a bite to eat at the Far East Plaza to visiting the Chinese American Museum, we’ve made a list of all of the best things you won’t want to miss on your trip to Chinatown. Arrive with a game plan, check out your favorites and you’re sure to have a great time! Shop and Dine The next stop on our list truly is a little slice of history. First constructed in 1938, the Chinatown Central Plaza is known as one of the nation’s first shopping malls. Today, this spot remains the nucleus of Chinatown, and a total hub of excitement. As you might have guessed, this place is a little different from most modern shopping malls! Created to resemble the streets of Shanghai, it’s well-recognised for its fanciful architecture. Inside, you can pick up anything from vintage Chinese dresses and original art to loose leaf teas and stylish house plants. There are also a wide variety of great food stops to choose from. Still, the highlight of this place has got to be its massive 7-foot statue of Bruce Lee! We recommend visiting during the week if you prefer to skip the crowds. Of course, a trip to Chinatown just isn’t complete without exploring some of the area’s most delicious food stops. That’s right - just as any Chinatown should do, L.A.’s iteration of this historic ethnic enclave boasts some of the best fast casuals, bistros and pop-ups for you to sink your teeth into. If you’re looking for an unfussy quick bite whilst exploring, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Some of our favorites include Pearl River Deli, Phoenix Inn Chinese Cuisine and Lao Tao Street Food. The area is also home to the marvellous Philippe the Original, AKA the iconic progenitor of the French Dip sandwich. Pull up a chair, sit back and enjoy one of the best sandwiches of your life. Or, if you’re looking for a wide variety in choice, we suggest heading to the Far East Plaza. Built way back in 1976, this bustling food hall and beloved Chinatown mainstay earned its stripes as one of the best spots to grab authentic regional cuisine in the city long ago. Here you’ll find everything from steaming bowls of pho and classic crunchy spring rolls to lip-smacking ice cream in a wide range of adventurous flavors. No doubt you’ll be able to find something to take your fancy! Learn About the Area For those looking to learn more about the Chinese American experience, there couldn’t be anywhere better than the Chinese American Museum, located on North Los Angeles Street. A great stop for anybody who wants to incorporate a little education into their travel experience, this place works to document and present one of the biggest Chinese American populations in the U S of A. Inside, visitors can enjoy a wide array of exhibits covering fine art from Chinese creators as well as historical artefacts from as far back as the late 19th century. The nature of the displays is fascinating and broad; past ones have focussed on community settlement in Los Angeles, the growth and development of Chinese American enclaves and Asian American activist movements. A thoroughly unique cultural experience, this one is not to be missed. Undoubtedly, Chinatown is one of the best places to go for those who want to learn a bit more about the development of the city. Along with its great shopping destinations, pretty parks and delicious eats, the neighborhood is also home to some really unique historical sites. Standing out as one of our favorites, the Italian American Museum is a surprising and beautiful landmark tucked around the corner of Olvera Street. For those wondering about its background, the spot was constructed way back in 1908 to serve as a gathering place for the Italian community way back in a time when Chinatown was actually Little Italy! Today, this spot is recognized as the oldest remaining structure from L.A.’s Italian enclave and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, visitors can enjoy a fantastic repository documenting the history of Southern California’s Italian roots. Its collection includes over 6000 artefacts with art, photos, documents and more. With the history that lingers on-site and its remarkable displays, this spot is well worth the visit. Get in Touch With Your Spiritual Side If you’re looking to get in touch with your spiritual side, we suggest heading over to the Thien Hau Temple on Yale Street. Formerly an Italian Christian Church, this unique building was bought in the 1980s and converted into a Taoist worship house. Whilst the temple is young, it serves as one of the primary places of worship for Asian L.A. residents. Take time to marvel at its beautiful intricate facade before stepping inside. Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about the fascinating history of the building and explore its wonderful interior. Inside, you can expect to see statues, sculptures, artworks and more with a strong Chinese influence. We recommend visiting during Chinese New Year or Labor Day, since you can get in on all of the fun and festivities! A distinctive architectural marvel and well-recognized place of worship, this place is a total must-see. Vibrant and bustling with life, Chinatown is always a fantastic place to explore. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the city or just grab a bite to eat, you’ll never be bored here! 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
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July in LA: Unmissable Adventures Under the California Sun

Welcome to Summer in Los Angeles  There’s something magical about Los Angeles in July. Sunlight pours over palm trees, food trucks tempt you at every turn, and there’s a buzz in the air—on the sand, in the hills, and where movie dreams are made. Whether you’re planning your first trip or you’re a frequent LA explorer, July brings a calendar packed with outdoor concerts, world-class museums, and new summertime adventures at every corner.  We’re here to help you build a July itinerary filled with that perfect LA blend: a little movie magic, some seriously gorgeous stretches of sand, and plenty of only-in-July happenings. Want fireworks with your theme park thrills? Dreaming of whale watching or biking along Venice Beach? We’ve got it all mapped out below. Let’s get started!  Our favorite things to do in LA in July include:  Universal Studios Hollywood  Getty Center Guided Tour  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Knott’s Soak City Water Park  Griffith Observatory Tour  Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  Aquarium of the Pacific  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour  Outdoor movie screenings and concerts  The best Independence Day fireworks displays  Universal Studios Hollywood: Blockbuster Summer Thrills  Summer and movie magic—a match made in LA heaven! Universal Studios Hollywood comes alive in July. You can stroll sunny Main Streets, duck into the shade of Hogwarts, and step into the hilarious (and refreshingly cool) world of Springfield, home of The Simpsons. The weather is spot-on for riding open-air trams through the legendary studio backlot, spotting famous sets, and enjoying street performances between attractions.  If you love thrill rides, July means longer daylight hours and perfect blue skies for classics like Jurassic World or the high-adrenaline Revenge of the Mummy coaster. For kids (and kids at heart), there’s Minion Mayhem and endless meet-and-greet photo ops with your favorite characters. Don’t miss the dazzling WaterWorld stunt show, which delivers crowd-pleasing excitement every time.  There’s plenty of shady cafés for cooling off with LA’s signature frozen lemonades and gourmet burgers, and with shorter summer nights, the park sparkles after sunset. If you visit on the weekend closest to July 4th, enjoy special Independence Day fireworks over the Hollywood Hills—a picture-perfect end to a day of play. Whether you’re a theme park aficionado or just love good old-fashioned fun, Universal Studios consistently packs in everything summer should be: adventure, laughs, and blockbuster memories.  Getty Center Guided Tour: Art, Gardens, and Summer Views  What’s better than panoramic city views on a clear July day? Experiencing those views while surrounded by world-class art and the scent of blooming gardens at the Getty Center. Perched atop a hill in Brentwood, the Getty becomes a sanctuary with cooling breezes, striking modern architecture, and gallery spaces filled with masterpieces.  Take a guided tour to discover fabulous European art, photographs, and decorative arts that span centuries—but don’t feel pressured to rush. The tours move at a gentle pace, highlighting entertaining stories behind the art as well as the ingenious techniques behind the museum’s stacked-stone buildings. The gardens shine in July, especially the Central Garden with its winding stream and technicolor flowers, which provide an ideal picnic or photo spot.  The whole experience feels just the right mix of relaxed and enriching. Art lovers can appreciate rare pieces up close, while everyone else soaks up the sun on grassy terraces overlooking the city. Admission is free, making this a budget-friendly way to enjoy culture and summer serenity, with easy access from the Westside or Santa Monica.  Knott’s Soak City Water Park: Slide Into Summer  Nothing says July like a day in the water, and Knott’s Soak City (in nearby Buena Park) promises splashy fun for everyone. This vibrant water park has something for every age—towering tube slides for the thrill seekers, kid-friendly splash pads, and a classic lazy river for ultimate relaxation.  The atmosphere feels celebratory all summer long—lively music, colorful chairs, and plenty of shade for cooling off between rides. Challenge friends to race down dueling slides, or float together around the Sunset River. For smaller kids, Gremmie Lagoon is a scaled-down watery wonderland. Lifeguards and attentive staff keep things safe and welcoming, while food stands serve up icy drinks, pizza, and sweet treats whenever you need to refuel.  If you’re the sort who never sits still on vacation, Soak City’s endless variety—from gentle wave pools to heart-stopping drop slides—will keep your pulse (and spirits) high. It’s a guaranteed way to make the most of a sun-soaked LA day, and you’re just steps away from all the food and classic fun of nearby Knott’s Berry Farm when you’re ready to refuel.  Griffith Observatory Tour: Sky-High Science & Magical City Views  July evenings were made for stargazing, and nowhere does it better than the Griffith Observatory, perched above the sparkling city lights. Day or night, a guided tour here immerses you in LA’s most photogenic and storied science destination—think Hollywood history, cosmic wonders, and some of the best panoramas around.  The tour reveals the stories behind the Art Deco domes and their famous appearances in movies, but you’ll also get to peek through high-powered telescopes and explore hands-on exhibits that explain everything from moon phases to the sun’s solar storms. At sunset, the view is pure California drama—the mountains glowing gold, the city slowly lighting up, and the Pacific shimmer in the distance.  Visiting in July means warm evenings, ideal for public telescope viewings (often hosted every night the sky is clear). Friendly staff and volunteers are always on hand to answer cosmic questions or point out Saturn’s rings. The experience leaves you feeling inspired whether you’re obsessed with astronomy or just in it for the killer Instagram shots.  Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  If you want to experience the ultimate LA summer, hop on a bike and cruise the palm-lined paths of Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Unlimited Biking offers cheerful guided tours that hit all the famous spots plus the hidden gems, with plenty of photo stops.  Cycle past Santa Monica Pier—alive with artists, snack carts, and beachgoers—then zigzag through Venice’s bohemian boardwalk, where street performers paint, dance, and keep the good vibes alive. Guides share stories about the area’s surf-and-skate legacy, famous films shot on location, and the artists who give these neighborhoods their unmistakable personality.  In July, you’ll find impromptu volleyball games, electric scooter races, and food trucks lining the walkways. Sunset rides are especially memorable—the ocean glows pink and orange, and locals gather to watch the color show. Finish your ride with a lemonade or an ice cream cone at a beachside café, toes in the sand as you soak up the sounds of summer.  Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour: Explore LA Your Way  Want to see LA without worrying about parking or maps? The Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour brings a fun, elevated view of the city’s best highlights—ideal for a breezy July day. Air-conditioned double-deckers loop through neighborhoods like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica, letting you sightsee at your own relaxed pace.  Plug in your headphones for quirky commentary about movie palaces, celebrity homes, and Route 66 history. Jump off at must-sees like the Walk of Fame or Rodeo Drive for shopping and people-watching, then rejoin the tour whenever you’re ready. The open-air upper deck is perfect for soaking up sun and snapping the skyline, while shaded areas keep you cool during midday hours.  July brings seasonal celebrations—think lively parades, food truck festivals, and live outdoor music—so it’s a great month to explore different districts. This tour frees you up to choose your own adventure: try a farmers’ market, poke around Melrose’s vintage shops, or catch a street performer’s set in Venice. City sightseeing, made joyful and easy.  Outdoor Movie Nights and Concerts: LA’s Open-Air Magic  Summer in LA means moonlit movie nights and al fresco concerts in the city’s beautiful parks and amphitheaters. July’s calendar is packed; bring a picnic blanket to Griffith Park’s ‘Movies Under the Stars’, or catch indie films with skyline views at Rooftop Cinema Club.  Music lovers should hit up the Hollywood Bowl, where legendary acts, orchestras, and big family concert events take over the stage. Pack a picnic or treat yourself to wine and cheese from the Bowl’s gourmet vendors, then settle in as the band plays under the stars (bonus: many July concerts end with firework shows you’ll remember for years).  Smaller venues like The Ford, Pasadena’s Levitt Pavilion, and Echo Park Lake also deliver intimate July performances from jazz to world music. The vibe is laid-back, family-friendly, and wonderfully community-minded—plus, the snack options always include festival faves like tacos, chili dogs, and snow cones.  The Best Independence Day Fireworks Displays  When it comes to celebrating the Fourth of July, LA goes all out. The city’s skies light up with dozens of firework shows, block parties, and beachside extravaganzas. Classic favorites include the super-synchronized show at the Hollywood Bowl—often paired with a live orchestra—or the massive, crowd-pleasing beach displays in Marina del Rey and Redondo Beach.  Bring your own picnic to Grand Park DTLA and watch local families compete for the best blanket spot; or, catch the citywide booms from the Griffith Observatory lawns, where you can see multiple fireworks on the horizon at once. Some local theme parks throw in extra entertainment, like Knott’s Berry Farm’s all-American firework finale and Universal Studios’ high-flying celebration.  The sense of summer joy is contagious—LA in July feels like a giant, open-air party. Whether you’re in the middle of the crowds or watching from a hilltop, these fireworks displays deliver a magical, only-in-LA kind of night.  Wrap Up Your July in LA  July is LA at full speed: the surf’s up, tacos are tastier than ever, and the energy in the streets is pure California gold. Whether you’re feasting on museum masterpieces, diving into ocean adventures, or grooving at open-air concerts, you’ll find endless ways to make your summer unforgettable.  So pack your sunscreen, charge your camera, and get ready to enjoy long sunny days and warm, lively nights—there’s no better time to experience the city’s unbeatable blend of culture, sunshine, and pure summer freedom.    Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near the Aquarium of the Pacific or Things to Do with Family 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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