Los Angeles in January

By Sarah Harris
Published: July 18, 2024

Los Angeles is an exciting and extraordinary city with its unique own flair. A popular West Coast destination, L.A. is known for presenting a vibrant mix of urban and nature attractions to choose from. It’s the perfect amalgamation for those who want to see a little bit of everything. From quaint seaside towns to must-see sights and remarkable cuisine, Los Angeles has much to offer everyone. One of the best things about travelling during January is that it is off-peak season for California, meaning that there should be fewer crowds and better chance of finding great deals on accommodation and flights. Still not sure where to start? Don’t worry! This is how to get the best out of the city, from the beach to the city. Take note of the ideas that pique your interest and start planning your dream West Coast vacation today!

Hit the Classics

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Though California is known for its sunny weather, Los Angeles can get a little milder in the wintertime. Still, just because the city cools down during January doesn’t mean you’ll be running out of options for interesting things to do - in fact, far from it! Luckily, Los Angeles is brimming with things to do when it comes to spending the day indoors. Standing out for its one-of-a-kind repository and breathtaking architecture, the Getty Center tops the list as one of our favorite visitor locations in the area. Located atop a hillside in the Brentwood area of L.A., the institute provides spectacular 360-degree views of the cityscape. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy one of the finest art collections in the Western Hemisphere. Highlights include Van Gogh’s Irises, Rembrandt van Rijn’s joyful self-portrait Rembrandt Laughing, and the Center for Photographs. After seeing the art, step outside to take in the museum’s meticulously well-curated gardens. The perfect spot for all creative types, this spot is well worth the visit.

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As the epicenter of the film industry and home to the stars, it only makes sense that Los Angeles presents a myriad of cool things to do for cinephiles and pop culture lovers alike. Standing out as one of our favorites, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour provides an exciting look into one of the oldest film studios in the world. Experience the magic of Hollywood and learn more about the artistry, technology and hard work which goes into all of your favorite films and TV series. Highlights include the iconic Central Perk set, props and costumes from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and soundstages used to create the Big Bang Theory. Along the tour, you’ll be accompanied by a friendly and professional guide to explain some of the interesting behind-the-scenes details and answer any questions you may have. This tour lasts about two to three hours, we strongly recommend wearing your comfiest shoes. Whilst you’re in Hollywood, we also suggest checking out some of the other cool visitor attractions in the area, like the Burbank Town Center, the Gordon R. Howard Museum and the Burbank Aviation Museum.

Find Fun Activities

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When the weather is a little dull, a trip to the aquarium is a great idea for a day out. From bright topical fish to delightful penguins and gentle manatees, the Aquarium of the Pacific pretty much has it all. As an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, this spot is highly revered for its massive and impressive living repository. The aquarium features over 11,000 animals across over 500 species - so you know that there’s plenty to see here! Take a trip through an underwater world of color and learn as you go through a broad collection of engaging and educational exhibits. For those who like to get in touch with nature, this spot also offers hands-on exhibits where you can touch crabs, turtles, stingrays, and even sharks! Both exciting and fascinating, this spot is the perfect place to unlock that sense of childlike wonder.

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If you love food like we do, you definitely won’t want to miss out on our next stop. Located just downtown, Grand Central Market has been drawing in visitors from near and far since opening way back in 1917. From herbs and spices to fresh Cali produce and unbeatable ramen bowls, this place really hits the spot. Don’t miss out on warm handmade pupusas or fresh raw locally-sourced oysters, all washed down by a large glass of craft beer in the adjoining beer garden. Although the main draw of this spot is most certainly the food, that’s not all there is to do here. Visitors can also choose to browse whilst they eat, with a wide array of local crafters and artists choosing to trade here. We especially love this spot for its small kiosks punting speciality pantry items, so be sure to check those out. With its delicious eats and vibrant atmosphere, we couldn’t think of a better place to grab food in the city.

Try Something Different

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For those looking for something a little different, we’ve got you covered! Offering and thoroughly engaging day out, the Petersen Automotive Museum is well-recognized for its fantastic collection of unique, rare and historic vehicles. Set along Los Angeles’ Miracle Mile, the museum instantly stands out for its sleek wavy steel cutout construction and sweeping roofs. Inside, there are 25 galleries with over 350 vehicles on display, so you know that there’s a lot to see here. The museum features three themed floors; history, industry and artistry, highlighting the cultural impact and application of the automobile. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or an engineering geek, this spot is sure to wow!

No doubt, Los Angeles is one of the most exciting visitor destinations in the U.S. of A.. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor to the city, you’ll never be short of new things to see and do. 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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LA on a Wednesday: Unmissable Experiences for Travelers

Make the Most of LA: What to Do This Wednesday  If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Los Angeles on a Wednesday, you’re in for a treat. Here’s the scoop: LA doesn’t believe in “hump day.” In this city, Wednesday is just another chance to eat well, soak up some sun, and discover new stories—whether that means heading to a world-class museum with zero crowds, spotting A-listers in Hollywood, cruising down the beach boardwalk or biting into a taco that’ll spoil you for life. Midweek energy in LA is relaxed yet buzzing; queues are shorter, locals are friendlier, and you get the best of everything without the weekend scramble.  What will you find in this guide? We’re bringing you a mix of must-sees, quirky local experiences, foodie finds and hidden gems—all easy to slot into a single glorious Wednesday in LA. Expect a game plan that blends classic favorites with a few off-radar surprises, because that’s how Angelenos do it. Ready to build your dream day? Let’s get started.  Our ultimate Wednesday-in-LA picks include:  Griffith Observatory Tour  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour  Aquarium of the Pacific  Natural History Museum  Californian Science Center IMAX Movie  The Hollywood Museum  Lunch at Grand Central Market  Strolling Abbot Kinney Boulevard  Sunset at the Getty Center  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour: LA’s Most Famous Hike  If you've seen the sign from afar, why not get up close? Join a guided walk to the Hollywood Sign—one of those “only in LA” adventures that feels extra-special in the middle of the week.  Midweek tours are mellow; you’ll never be fighting crowds for a photo. The guides are full of behind-the-scenes stories (everything from movie trivia to how the sign survived its wilder days). And the route up through Griffith Park has plenty of shady patches, wildflowers, and jaw-dropping outlooks where you’ll want to stop for selfies.  Why is this hike a Wednesday winner? The atmosphere is friendly and exciting, but chill enough to enjoy the views at your own pace. You’ll learn the lore of classic Hollywood, spot hawks soaring overhead, and—from the final lookout—see LA stretched out below like a giant, sun-kissed postcard. It’s a workout, but nobody’s rushing you.  Hot tip: Bring water, wear your favorite sneakers, and don’t forget sunglasses. The memories (and the pictures) will last a lifetime.  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour: Sun, Sand and Street Art  By late morning, it’s time to trade hills for ocean breeze. Jump on a guided bike tour that loops from Santa Monica to that famously bohemian neighbor, Venice Beach.  This ride is all about Westside flavor: breeze by luxury hotels, the old-school Santa Monica Pier, buzzing beach playgrounds and vibrant murals splashed across boardwalk buildings. You’ll see muscle beach legends pumping iron, skateboarders catching air, and, if you’re lucky, friendly locals walking their dogs (in strollers—yes, really).  On a Wednesday, the boardwalk is lively but not packed, so you can cruise at a relaxed pace, stop for photos or stretch out on the sand. Guides love to point out local history and hidden gems—think Frank Gehry’s beach house or the best coffee shack for an iced latte with ocean views.  Venice’s canals are a highlight, too—gorgeous, peaceful, and a slice of LA few travelers ever see. Finish your ride with a quick swim or just park beneath a palm and watch the world roll by. You’ll come away sandy, salty and ready for your next local food find.  Aquarium of the Pacific: Dive Into Underwater Wonder  Ready for a splash of something different? Head south to Long Beach and step inside the Aquarium of the Pacific, one of America’s largest, most colorful marine destinations.  The first thing you’ll notice? The energy. Every exhibit pulses with movement—jellies floating by, kids squealing at clownfish, and sea otters making friends with everyone who stops by their habitat. Midweek, the atmosphere is vibrant but never overwhelming, so you can chat with staff, hang out at the touch pools, and really take your time getting face-to-face with sharks and moray eels.  The aquarium’s glass tunnels let you stroll “beneath” the water, and their Pacific Visions wing blows visitors away with its immersive art-meets-science displays. Don’t leave without timing your visit for the sea lion show—it’s pure LA fun: part animal antics, part conservation lesson, all delivered with love.  You walk out a little more fascinated by the ocean and, maybe, just a little inspired to do your part for Southern California’s wild coast.  Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs, Diamonds and LA Stories  Craving a dash of time travel? Head to the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park, where every room is packed with stories millions of years in the making.  On Wednesdays, you’ll often get the exhibit halls almost to yourself—imagine studying a T. rex’s grin or marveling at glittering gems without a selfie-stick forest blocking your view. The Dinosaur Hall is a Jurassic feast (and a favorite with all ages), while the the diorama galleries are filled with local wildlife, frozen in mid-pounce or perched among the towering redwoods.  But there’s so much more: rare fossils, gold nuggets from California’s wild rush days, and a truly stunning Butterfly Pavilion open seasonally (hint: spring and early summer are magical). Don’t skip the interactive Nature Lab, where you can meet LA’s surprise residents—foxes, hawks, even urban beehives.  The setting, nestled among palm trees and rose gardens, is as photo-worthy as the exhibits inside. After your visit, grab a lemonade and relax on the museum steps, watching birds wheel overhead or city squirrels squabble for crumbs. Science has never felt so SoCal.  The Hollywood Museum: Vintage Glamour and Pop Culture Curios  What’s LA without a little glitz? Step into the Hollywood Museum, housed in the historic Max Factor Building, and fall down the rabbit hole of movie magic. With four floors packed with costumes, props and set pieces from every era, this place feels like a walk through Hollywood’s best-dressed closet.  Classic movie buffs will swoon over Marilyn Monroe memorabilia and Dorothy’s ruby slippers, while modern fans will spot superhero suits and cult horror movie tributes. The décor is pure golden age LA—think art deco, mirrored walls and original makeup rooms where Hollywood royalty primped for the cameras.  On a Wednesday, the pace is relaxed. Take your time with exhibits, quiz the friendly staff about movie trivia and snap a selfie in Lucille Ball’s favorite chair. Don’t forget the eerie but oddly fascinating basement—otherwise known as the Dungeon of Doom, with a collection of Hollywood’s creepiest horror history.  You’ll leave with a deeper love for the glimmer and grit of Tinseltown, and enough stories to fill a star-studded dinner party.  Lunch at Grand Central Market: A Foodie Paradise  Feeling hungry? There’s no better Wednesday lunch spot than Grand Central Market, Downtown’s legendary open-air food paradise. Step inside and let your nose guide you—every stall wafts fragrant evidence the city’s best global eats are just yards apart.  Here’s why we adore this spot: One moment, you’re eyeing breakfast burritos at Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, then you’re swooning over golden chicken katsu at Sticky Rice, and before you know it the neon “Eggslut” sign is calling your name. Pastrami sandwiches, vegan ramen, wood-fired pizza and flaky Hungarian strudels—they’re all here, cooked up with care by passionate local chefs.  The atmosphere is electric, with office workers and foodies mingling side by side. Grab an iced coffee from G&B and find a counter seat or people-watch from the market steps. If you have a sweet tooth, the donuts at The Donut Man or ice cream at McConnell’s make the perfect finish.  Pro tip: Don’t be afraid to share and sample. LA’s flavor map unfolds on a single plate at Grand Central—and every vendor’s got a secret favorite if you ask.  Strolling Abbot Kinney Boulevard: LA’s Coolest Street  Ready for a change of pace? Swing over to Venice’s famous Abbot Kinney Boulevard, a mile-long stretch where creative LA comes to show off.  Here, indie boutiques snuggle up to gallery spaces, and street art peeks through between palm trees and cafés. On Wednesdays, the energy is relaxed—locals stroll with pups, shopkeepers have time to chat, and window shopping never felt so good.  Peek inside Salt & Straw for uniquely LA ice cream (the honey lavender is a fan favorite), browse handmade ceramics and sustainable fashion, or sip a craft latte at Blue Bottle. If you’re up for something different, check out tarot readings at Mystic Journey Bookstore or the pop-up art shows that sprout in unexpected places.  The vibe here is pure Cali-cool, and the people-watching is off the charts. If you get hungry along the way, Gjelina’s paper-thin pizzas or The Butcher’s Daughter’s avocado toast are not to be missed. As the afternoon sun slants through the palms, you’ll realize: this might just be the best street in LA for soaking up local color.  Sunset at the Getty Center: Art, Gardens and Golden Light  End your Wednesday in style with an early-evening adventure to the Getty Center, perched in the hills above West LA.  Here’s what makes the Getty so special: arrival is half the fun—a futuristic tram glides you up the hillside, and each turn reveals wildflower beds and bold architectural lines. The museum’s galleries brim with everything from Renaissance masters to edgy photography, and there’s always a chance of stumbling upon a live music event or an artist talk.  But the true magic is outside. The garden, designed by Robert Irwin, is a modern paradise of blossom-filled terraces, lively water features, and tranquil corners perfect for Instagram or quiet reflection. When sunset arrives, take your spot on the terrace and watch LA’s skyline turn copper, then neon, then a blanket of twinkling light.  Wednesdays are relaxed—ample space to find your favorite painting, a quiet bench, or just that ideal “goodbye to the day” view. Grab a gelato from the café, lean back and let the city’s hum fade into the wide, Western sky.  Wrap Up: Make Wednesdays Your Favorite Day in LA  LA doesn’t save its best for weekends. On Wednesdays, the city lets its hair down a bit—less hustle, more magic. You’ve got the freedom to chase sunbeams at the observatory, snag a selfie at the Hollywood Sign, wheel your way down the boardwalk or sip something delicious in the heart of Downtown.  Our Wednesday itinerary is only the beginning. The best LA days are those that blend the blockbuster and the unexpected, the famous and the only-you’ll-hear-about-it-here. So fill your midweek with museums, tacos, sea otters and sunsets—your LA adventure is just getting started.    Enjoyed this? Check out the Best Food Markets in Los Angeles or Things to Do in Los Angeles with Family    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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Free things to do near TCL Chinese Theatre

Hollywood dreams don’t have to cost a dime — here’s how to sightsee like an A-list celebrity near the TCL Chinese Theatre in LA.
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The Spectator's Guide to the Long Beach Marathon

The hours are ticking down to the 28th annual Long Beach International City Bank Marathon, which will take over the city on Sunday, October 7th. One of the most scenic and flat courses in America, the Long Beach Marathon draws tens of thousands of athletes and spectators each year. The course meanders through quaint seaside communities and urban landmarks, offering ocean views throughout 80% of the route. Although 23,000 athletes are expected to take part in the five events offered, only about 5,000 will be running the full marathon, making it a somewhat intimate event. Moreover, the certified marathon course is the perfect qualifier for other popular races, even the notorious Boston Marathon. As a spectator, you’ll appreciate Long Beach’s moderate Mediterranean climate and the spectacular views of the ocean and the cityscape along the race course. So whether you're a runner yourself, or just someone who loves excitement and good cheer, viewing the Long Beach Marathon is one of the truly unique things to do in Los Angeles. To make the most of your marathon experience, check out the guide below. Events Five separate athletic events will take place over the race weekend: the Marathon, Half-Marathon, 26.2 Mile Bike Tour, Run Forest Run 5k, and the Aquarium of the Pacific Kids Fun Run. The Kids Fun Run will take place on Saturday, October 6th, while all the other events will be held on the official race day (Sunday). The race day events will kick-off with the Bike Tour at 6 AM, followed by the Marathon and Half Marathon at 7AM and finally the Run Forest Run 5k at 8:30 AM. Fore more information on start times and specific waves, visit the Marathon’s official website. The Health & Fitness expo draws nearly 50,000 visitors each year, and is the perfect prelude to the race. A surplus of vendors and exhibitors will be on display, selling official Long Beach Marathon merchandise, including top-of-the-line performance gear, running caps, visors, headbands, and much more. The Finish Line Festival on Marina Green is THE place to be as exhausted runners cross the finish line. Celebrate with the athletes and enjoy a wide variety of vendors as well as a Beer Garden for those of age. Best Viewing Areas  The Long Beach Marathon boasts one of the most beautiful courses in the country. Start/Finish Line – As this is a loop course, you can catch the start and the end of the race without moving a muscle. You’ll also be able to enjoy the food, drinks, and other entertainment as the first runners cross the line. Situate yourself on Shoreline Drive between Linden and Pine. Belmont Plaza Olympic Pool (Mile 9) – Catch the runners here as they get into their groove. There’s a huge grass area to sit on while you wait for the runners. Colorado Lagoon (miles 14 and 22.5) – This is an ideal spot because you can catch the runners in two places, just by taking a quick walk along the grassy Lagoon. Cal State University (Mile 17-20) – If you want to be there for the runners as they “hit the wall,” find yourself a viewing spot by the California State Academy. Ocean Avenue between Livingston and Alamitos (Mile 24-26) – Cheer the runners on as they race to the finish on Ocean Avenue. You’ll also be able to catch the end of the half marathon from this spot. Accommodations Finding inexpensive accommodations on marathon weekend can be tricky. However, these hotels offer reasonable prices and still currently have vacancy. Best Western Golden Sails Hotel 6285 E Pacific Coast Highway Long Beach, California, 90803-4803 Phone: (562) 596-1631 Holiday Inn Downtown 1133 Atlantic Avenue Long Beach, California 90813 Phone: (562) 590-8858 Parking By far the most convenient place to park on race day is in the Convention Center/Arena/Terrace Theater parking lots. Although there is a $10 charge for parking, you will be located adjacent to the Long Beach Arena and will be within walking distance of the official start/finish line. Make Your Way Around LA While in Greater Los Angeles for the race day festivities, why not see what else the area has to offer? Spend the day before the marathon taking advantage of our Go Los Angeles Card including access to over 39 attractions for one low price. Some of the most popular attractions include the Warner Brothers Studio Tour, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, and Knotts Berry Farm—to name a few.
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