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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Free things to do near TCL Chinese Theatre

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Aerial view of the Six Flags Magic Mountain theme park in California.
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Knott's Berry Farm Vs Six Flags Magic Mountain LA

Thinking of visiting an LA theme park but just can’t decide which to choose? Fair enough: the City of Angels has more fab amusement parks than even the most dedicated thrill seeker could hope to experience in a single visit. There’s Universal Studios Hollywood for starters. Also Disneyland and its sibling, the Disney California Adventure Park so, y’know, we’re talking some pretty big beasts of the amusement park scene here. Holding their own among these titans are Knott’s Berry Farm (aka America’s first theme park) and Six Flags Magic Mountain (current holder of the record for most rollercoasters in an amusement park). Read on to discover the relative merits of these two fine LA parks... Knott's Berry Farm Vs Six Flags Magic Mountain: A Short History Opened in 1971, Six Flags Magic Mountain is a mere baby to Knott’s Berry Farm’s century-old theme park. But blimey, it’s one heck of a great big bouncing baby, weighing in at 209 acres and 35 rides, of which a record-smashing 20 (yes, twenty) are rollercoasters. Located in Valencia, 35 miles north of downtown LA, this is a park that has always pushed the boundaries in terms of number of loops, heights and angles of drops and, well, just sheer terror levels as your (thankfully strapped in) body hurtles towards terra firma at frankly unnatural speeds. In other words, Six Flags Magic Mountain will appeal primarily to adrenalin junkies, as well as fans of the DC universe: the park has rides themed around Superman, Wonder Woman, Lex Luthor and the Justice League. Quirky fact: Michael Jackson visited the park in 1985, riding attractions including Colossus (now the New Colossus) and the Roaring Rapids. Whether Bubbles accompanied him on the rides or not is, we're sorry to say, lost to history. Sure, at a relatively diminutive 57 acres, Knott’s Berry Farm isn’t on quite the same scale as Magic Mountain. But what this Buena Park stalwart does have is great boysenberry pie, pedigree in spades and a smart use of space that equates to nearly 50 rides across its five zones. It’s no slouch when it comes to thrill rides either. From humble beginnings as a berry farm and roadside stand a century ago, Knott’s has been through many iterations, launching a ghost town in the 1940s and adding a log ride in the 70s. But it was the sale of the park to Cedar Fair in the 1990s that really upped the thrill factor with the addition of several high-octane rides. However, at the Knott’s family’s wishes, the park has retained much of the personality of its founders Walter and Cordelia Knott, meaning that, among other things, the (huge) fried chicken dinners and sweet berry pies that many consider synonymous with the park can still be sampled in its cafes and restaurants. Quirky fact: all boysenberries today are genetically traceable to Knott’s Berry Farm, where Walter first cultivated the raspberry-blackberry-loganberry-dewberry hybrid in the 1920s. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Six Flags Magic Mountain: Thrill Rides Thrill rides is really where both of these parks excel, and hopeless adrenalin fiends should definitely make a beeline for both when spending time in LA. But, by sheer dint of numbers, Magic Mountain has the edge here. And, with a world-beating 20 rollercoasters, how could it not? Start queuing early for Superman: Escape from Krypton, one of the park’s most popular rides. Once the tallest coaster in the world, this thrill-a-second adventure reaches 100mph in just seven seconds before flipping its victims riders through backward and forward-facing drops at lightning speeds. DC fans will also thrill to the 4D effects and immersive battle scenes on the Justice League; Battle for Metropolis ride. Full Throttle does exactly what it says on the tin, rattling around the tallest vertical loop in North America at terrifying speeds, while Goliath and Scream’s names are also helpfully descriptive in terms of what to expect. In short, if it’s thrills, spills and squeals you’re after, Six Flags Magic Mountain is the LA theme park for you. This is an impossible category for any theme park to win when pitted against Magic Mountain, but Knott’s Berry Farm holds its own admirably, with a fine selection of rip-roaring hair-raisers. Rides like the Xcelerator, which catapults passengers sky high, reaching 82mph in a (literally) breathtaking 2.3 seconds. HangTime is definitely one to try before you’ve eaten lunch, given that its hook is the stomach-dropping sensation that you’re floating (hence the name) as you take the utterly terrifying 96-degree drop. Ghost Rider is the longest, tallest and fastest wooden rollercoaster in the West, ideal if you like your thrill rides to create the illusion of being rickety and unsafe (which it isn’t, of course), while Silver Bullet is a foot-dangling inverted coaster with a whopping six loops. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Six Flags Magic Mountain: Family Rides There’s no denying that there are better theme park options for kids around LA – *cough* Disneyland *cough* – but Knott’s and Magic Mountain do also offer a few gentler rides for the kiddiwinks to enjoy. Each puts their own spin (geddit?) on the traditional teacup ride, with a Mad Hatter theme at Knott’s and cute Pepe Le Pew cups at Magic Mountain. Meanwhile, Magic Mountain’s Bugs Bunny World – chock full of Looney Tunes themed rides – is the answer to Knott’s Berry Farm’s Camp Snoopy, where you’ll find the Peanuts gang in residence. Expect carousels, bumper cars, miniature trains and character meet and greets at both locations, as well as a strong selection of rides for the whole family to enjoy together, from log flumes to swinging pirate ships and mine rides. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Six Flags Magic Mountain: Water Rides Getting a drenching is an essential ingredient of any successful amusement park excursion so you'll be delighted to hear that both parks really deliver on this front. The Calico River Rapids in Knott’s Ghost Town zone takes riders splashing and spinning downriver in big round family-friendly dinghies. But if you really want to guarantee that soaking, hit up the Timber Mountain Log Ride (pictured) for an early bath at the end of its 42-foot free fall finale. Over at Magic Mountain, the Jet Stream log flume is a family favorite that has the drop’n’drench maneuver down to a fine art. The 11-seater Roaring Rapids ride is a little more lively than its Knott’s rival, tossing hapless riders through unpredictable currents, white water waves and treacherous whirlpools, meaning that coveted drenching is all but guaranteed. NB: Both Knott’s and Magic Mountain also have separately ticketed water parks that are open from May to September. Fast facts: Knott’s Berry Farm Tickets Go City’s All-Inclusive attraction pass includes general admission and saves you money when visiting multiple attractions in LA. Buy a 1, 2, 3 or 5-day pass to access as many attractions as you like in that time period, including Universal Studios and Six Flags Magic Mountain. You can also book tickets direct via the Knott’s Berry Farm website. Opening Hours The park generally opens daily at 10AM. Closing times vary by season. Check the calendar on the Knott’s Berry Farm website for the most up-to-date information. Getting There Knott’s Berry Farm is at 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 9062. There’s paid parking on site, or you can take a train to nearby Buena Park Metrolink station. More info on transport options here. Fast facts: Six Flags Magic Mountain Tickets An All-Inclusive attraction pass from Go City includes general admission and saves you money when visiting multiple attractions in LA. Buy a 1, 2, 3 or 5-day pass to access as many attractions as you like in that time period, including La Brea Tar Pits and Knott’s Berry Farm. You can also book tickets direct via the Six Flags Magic Mountain website. Opening Hours Hours vary throughout the year but Magic Mountain usually opens between at 10:30AM and stays open until anywhere between 6PM and 10PM depending on the season. View the calendar here. Getting There Six Flags Magic Mountain is at 26101 Magic Mountain Parkway, Valencia, CA 91355, just north of Los Angeles, at the Magic Mountain Parkway exit off Interstate 5. Some public transport is seasonal and you’ll find the best and most up-to-date options here. Save on attractions in Los Angeles Save on admission to Los Angeles attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
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Stuart Bak
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LA on a Monday? Here’s How to Make It Epic

Monday in LA: Why It’s Anything But Ordinary  Who says Mondays are for catching up on emails and counting down to Friday? Not us. In Los Angeles, Monday isn’t just the first day of the week—it’s a golden ticket to calmer crowds, hidden gems, and laid-back West Coast cool. The city wakes up a little slower. Famous attractions are just waiting for you to wander in. Eateries serve up perfect breakfasts. Art, science, and movie magic? It’s all at your fingertips. Whether you want to take it slow or pack in the fun, LA on a Monday sets the stage for a day you’ll talk about for weeks. We’ll show you exactly how.  Looking for the ultimate way to spend your Monday in LA? Our top picks include:  The Griffith Observatory Tour  Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour  Natural History Museum  California Science Center IMAX Movie  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes  Aquarium of the Pacific  Soak up the sun at Santa Monica Beach  Explore the Arts District Murals  Grand Central Market food adventure  Rooftop cocktails at Perch LA  Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour: Go Star-Spotting Like a Pro  You’ve landed in the land of the stars, so why not dive headfirst into LA’s celebrity scene? The Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour gives you the chance to explore legendary neighborhoods like Beverly Hills and Bel-Air, all from the comfort of a breezy open-top bus. Monday means lighter traffic and fewer crowds on Rodeo Drive—you’ll actually glimpse those glittering gates and palm-tree-lined avenues without craning your neck.  Cruising past jaw-dropping mansions, you’ll catch the playful commentary of local guides dishing up stories about famous residents, wild parties, and movie moments. We find that in-person storytelling paints a picture you just can’t get from a map—suddenly those ornate doorways become clues to a real Hollywood fairy tale. It’s a parade of Lamborghinis, movie premieres, and maybe even the odd sighting of an A-lister walking their dog.  Best of all, you’ll learn the secrets behind some of cinema’s most luxurious backdrops: film locations, iconic hotels, and the shops where stars actually shop. From Mulholland Drive’s jaw-dropping overlooks to Sunset Boulevard’s neon-spattered fun, the Big Bus tour blends sightseeing with a dose of Tinseltown sparkle. Even locals rediscover the city doing this trip. Just don’t be surprised if you start planning your own glitzy Hollywood movie debut by the time you step off!  Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs, Diamonds, and Modern Discovery  Mondays are for big discoveries, and if there’s anywhere you’ll rediscover your sense of wonder, it’s the Natural History Museum in Exposition Park. This isn’t your average stuffy gallery—it’s a place buzzing with the excitement of 65-million-year-old dino skeletons, glittering gems, and swampy diorama adventures. Monday brings a welcome sense of calm, leaving you plenty of room to get up close with a T. rex, stroll through the Butterfly Pavilion (seasonal), or dive into LA’s surprising natural past.  The Dinosaur Hall always draws a crowd, with its towering fossils posed against glowing windows—a true "wow" moment for visitors of all ages. Across the museum, interactive displays transport you from Ice Age sabertooths to the city’s earliest residents. Kids and inner-children alike can try fossil digs, watch scientists at work in real-time, and snap endless selfies in the jewel-bright Gem and Mineral Hall.  The building itself? Pure old LA grandeur with its marble columns and mosaics. Step outside and you’ll find yourself in the Civic Center’s rose-filled gardens, just minutes from other major attractions like the California Science Center (more on that soon). We recommend giving yourself plenty of time for each space—you’ll leave feeling smarter, inspired, and ready for at least three more visits.  California Science Center & IMAX Movie: When You Crave Hands-On Fun  A little further along in Exposition Park, the California Science Center cranks up the volume on hands-on fun. Yes, it’s a science museum—but this one invites you to pedal bikes on highwires, launch air rockets, and (of course) visit the famed Space Shuttle Endeavour. It’s the mix of huge science “wow” moments and clever, interactive play that makes this spot so perfect for Monday adventuring.  Start with the exhibits—the Life! Gallery explores everything from how plants grow to how humans adapt, while World of Life introduces you to critters from land, sea, and sky. The Ecosystems pavilion, with its living kelp forest, brings you face-to-face with sharks, stingrays, and sometimes even otters.  But the real showstopper? Head into the state-of-the-art IMAX Theater for mind-blowing movies that cover everything from earth’s deepest oceans to outer space. The giant curved screen pulls you into every detail, and the sound system rumbles the popcorn right out of your box. Whether you geek out about robots or just love discovering something new, Monday’s quieter pace makes this one of LA’s best spots for a family day out—or any science-hungry explorer.  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes: Hike into Movie History  Ever wondered what it’s like to stand right under the Hollywood Sign? The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour gives you a chance to get jaw-droppingly close while learning the true stories of LA’s most recognizable landmark. Mondays deliver a relaxed energy ideal for photos, quiet reflection...and panoramas that make your friends jealous.  Professional guides lead the way through the sun-drenched trails of Griffith Park, sharing stories about movie magic, old-time legends, and the sign’s turbulent past (it was once a giant real estate ad!). Along the trek, you’ll discover hidden viewpoints, secret paths, and plenty of spots for epic selfies. The landscape switches from wild sage-scented slopes to city-sparkling vistas in just a few paces.  We’re especially fans of the way the tour captures that classic "only-in-LA" blend of nature and showbiz. Expect laughs, a serious workout, and that unique joy of seeing LA spread beneath your feet. If you want to fill your Monday with fresh air, wildflowers, and legendary stories, you really can’t beat this experience.  Soak Up the Sun at Santa Monica Beach  Few LA experiences deliver the all-American sunshine-and-sand fix quite like Santa Monica Beach. On Mondays, you’ll notice a dreamy hush—the sand feels endless, the air is crisp, and there’s space to sprawl or stroll at your own pace. Sink your toes into the sand, hit the cool Pacific, or relax beneath candy-colored lifeguard towers.  After your beach time, step up to the Santa Monica Pier. It’s a playground of rides, arcades, street performers, and snack bars. Families love grabbing hand-cut fries or cotton candy and taking a spin on the world-famous Ferris wheel, with panoramic views from Catalina Island to Malibu. For a different perspective, rent a cruiser and pedal the sun-dappled boardwalk, or, for serious cyclists, check out Unlimited Biking for rentals and explore nearby Venice Beach with its quirky murals and skateparks.  No two Mondays are ever the same here, but every one feels like a genuine LA treat—bonus points if you catch sunset as the pier’s lights flicker on.  Explore the Arts District Murals  LA’s Arts District, once a haven for warehouses, has transformed into the city’s most colorful open-air gallery. Mondays mean there’s barely a soul on the streets—leaving ample space to wander at your own pace, find surprise masterpieces, and snap perfect photos without heads in the frame.  What’s special about this area? Every block explodes with creative expression. Towering murals depict everything from soulful faces to witty pop-art critters and wild geometric worlds. Renowned local and international street artists—think Shepard Fairey, RETNA, and JR—have all left their mark here, so the backdrop is as star-studded as any Hollywood sidewalk.  Duck into indie galleries tucked between espresso bars and retro boutiques. Hauser & Wirth, a massive repurposed flour mill with striking modern exhibits, makes the perfect counterpoint to the neighborhood’s quirky street art. Refuel with a cortado from Stumptown Coffee, or taste a pastry at Bread Lounge, all while soaking up the area’s warehouse-chic vibes. It’s a Monday walking tour at its most creative.  Grand Central Market: The Ultimate LA Foodie Playground  If your Monday calls for a flavor adventure, Grand Central Market is calling your name. This downtown food emporium dates back to 1917, and today it delivers one of LA’s most eclectic, buzzworthy food scenes. The energy crackles even at the week’s start—you’ll find chefs serving up everything from addictive Filipino silog plates (Sari Sari Store) to LA’s famous egg sandwiches (Eggslut, naturally), spicy carnitas tacos (Tacos Tumbras a Tomas), and glorious piles of fresh oysters.  Each stall has its own loyal following. Maple Block’s brisket is smoky and melt-in-the-mouth, while Wexler’s serves bagels and lox to rival the best in Brooklyn. The best way to visit? Gather a hungry crew, order from multiple stands, and share bites at communal tables beneath soaring neon signs.  We especially adore the market’s sensory overload: aromatic spice shops, fruit vendors hawking sweet guavas, cold brew bars, and fresh doughnuts from Donut Man, whose legendary strawberry treats sell out daily in spring. Sundays are always rowdy, but on Mondays, it’s all about lingering, sampling, and rubbing elbows with the locals who know exactly when the tortillas are hottest.  Rooftop Cocktails at Perch LA  Let’s wrap up Monday with something sparkling: cocktails at Perch LA, downtown’s sky-high French-inspired bistro. Arrive before sunset to snag a table on the twinkling open-air terrace, where string lights and Parisian-style bistro chairs set the scene. What makes this spot special? The jaw-dropping views. Sip a Lavender Collins or classic French 75, nibble on truffle fries, and watch the city transform as the high-rises glow against the violet sky.  Perch’s menu covers brunch-y bites and elegant small plates, but the vibe is as much about the setting as the food. Jazz floats from inside, the crowd is stylish yet laid-back, and the fire pits keep things cozy even on breezy evenings. Whether you’re after a romantic nightcap or a group hangout, there’s no more quintessential way to toast a perfect LA Monday. Pro tip: snuggle up with a signature cocktail and soak in the rare LA panorama—downtown on one side, the Hollywood Hills on the other.  Make Mondays Matter in Los Angeles  Mondays in LA don’t mean “slow start”—they’re a secret playground for those in the know. Swap the weekend hustle for laid-back city magic, creative adventure, and discoveries with room to breathe. From stargazing and movie lore to sandy toes, epic eats, and sky-high cocktails, you’ll return home swearing this is the way every week should begin. So next time you find yourself in LA on a Monday? Jump in with both feet—the city’s wide awake and waiting for you.    Enjoyed this? Check out our favorite ways to spend an L.A. morning, and peruse our pick of the best downtown markets.   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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