Relaxing Things to do in Los Angeles

Relaxing Things to do in Los Angeles

By Dom Bewley

If you're looking for relaxing things to do in Los Angeles, you've come to the right place. From whale watching to yoga on a sandy beach, we've got you covered. Check out our picks of the best relaxing things to do in the city, and prepare for some much-needed R&R!

Including:

  • Fishing at Santa Monica or Venice Beach
  • Natural History Museum
  • Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour
  • Yoga on Huntington Beach
  • and more!
Image of Water, Waterfront, Pier, Nature, Outdoors, Sky,

Guided Pier Fishing at Santa Monica or Venice Beach

If you're looking for relaxing things to do in Los Angeles, why not choose a spot of fishing? If you're new to the area, or even new to fishing, you needn't worry. Join this guided fishing adventure, choose between Santa Monica or Venice Beach, and then go throw some hooks - or something.

Your guide is more of an instructor, and an experienced one at that. They'll bring all your gear and show you how to use it. If you're a seasoned fishing pro, show them how it's done. But don't be too adverse to picking up some new tricks.

Look out for fish, rays, and even sharks as you try to reel in a big catch.

Image of Animal, Dinosaur, Reptile,

Natural History Museum

You can even travel back through time in a relaxing fashion. How, you may ask? Well, take a trip to Los Angeles' Natural History Museum and explore millions of years of history! If you're a history buff and looking for things to do in the city, it doesn't get much better than this.

Step inside the museum's doors, and you'll find one of the biggest collections of ancient artifacts on the planet. Dinosaur fans will be well-served thanks to the appropriately-named 'Dinosaur Hall', which exhibits 300 real dinosaur fossils, as well as 20 complete dinos of varying shapes and sizes for you to gaze at.

That's just one of the many amazing exhibits at LA's Natural History Museum, so why not take a relaxing stroll around the premises and see what else you'll find?

Image of Animal, Mammal, Sea Life, Whale,

Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour

If natural history isn't your thing, how about some very-much-alive nature? Yes, even in LA, you can go whale and dolphin watching. And, on this tour, you'll do just that. So, if you're looking for relaxing things to do in Los Angeles, this should be top of your list.

You'll hop on board a 65-foot double-decker ship, replete with sundeck, both indoor and outdoor seating, and a snack bar if you get hungry. Then, you'll take the waves to spot some freaking whales and dolphins! Get lucky, and you may spot any number of humpback whales, orcas, and even a blue whale if you're super lucky. You're also likely to see some dolphins, which is obviously awesome. Seals, too - this tour is the gift that keeps on giving!

If you're a fan of ocean life, book this tour right now.

Image of Animal, Sea Life, Jellyfish,

Aquarium of the Pacific

If you'd rather see underwater wonders up close and personal, take a relaxing trip to Los Angeles' Aquarium of the Pacific.

There's so much to see and do here; we'd recommend blocking out an afternoon in your vacation calendar to see it all. With over 100 exhibits to explore and 19 major habitats to walk through, you'll need all the time you can get!

Meet finned friends at Shark Lagoon, hang out with some penguins, and check out the Pacific Visions immersive cinema experience to see the ocean like never before. All that and much, much more await you at Aquarium of the Pacific.

Image of Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Child, Girl, Fitness, Warrior Yoga Pose, Working Out, Yoga, Diaper,

Yoga on Huntington Beach

Is there anything more relaxing than finding inner peace? How about doing it on a sunny Los Angeles beach? Align your chakras today at a yoga session on Huntington Beach!

Pick a morning or evening session and join an experienced yoga instructor as you downward dog your way to Nirvana. And what better setting than Huntington Beach? It's one of Orange County's finest.

Whether you're a seasoned stretcher or a complete newbie, all are welcome to this calm, mindful environment. Then, when you're done, you'll be in top shape to enjoy many of LA's more exhilarating attractions!

Image of Baby, Person, Food,

Downtown LA Food and Culture Tour

Just because you're looking for relaxing things to do in Los Angeles doesn't mean you should ignore your belly! Take a day off your diet and explore LA's vibrant food culture on this tour of downtown!

You'll pass City Hall, The Music Centre, and The Walt Disney Concert Hall, plus hidden gems like The Last Bookstore. Make sure your phone has plenty of picture space! Then, try delicious morsels at the Spring Arcade Building food market and Grand Central Market.

Just make sure you bring some dollars so you can sample as much as possible! If you're looking for a great way to immerse yourself in LA's food culture, book a tour and get immersed!

Image of Palm Tree, Tree, Boy, Male, Person, Teen,

Rent a Beach Cruiser or Roller-Skates

And finally, how does a relaxing beach bike ride sound? Good? Why not rent a bike and take your time cycling around LA's serene sands? Or, if two wheels don't cut it, rent some roller skates instead!

The area is brimming with things to do and see. You can visit the historic Santa Monica pier and pass the homes of some of Hollywood's biggest stars. Travel through Venice Beach and see all the weird and wonderful denizens of Los Angeles going about their day. Soak it all up, and then return your bike to Perry's Cafe and grab a coffee.

And hey, maybe a cake too. After all, you just burned off a ton of calories - why not treat yourself?

And those are our picks of the best relaxing things to do in Los Angeles! Of course, vacations aren't always about relaxing. So, if you want to hit up some of LA's more heart-thumping experiences in between your relaxation time, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of LA's best bits for one low price!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

Hollywood Sign
Blog

Is Los Angeles Safe?

Eternal sunshine, movie makers, star-studded hilltops, and a strip of sunny beaches - Los Angeles is an enviable city on California’s coastline. The real-life La La Land is where dreams are made, and not just for wannabe film stars. However, turn the city on its head and L.A. has a more cynical side including infamous gangs and criminal neighborhoods. So you might be wondering, is Los Angeles safe to visit? Yes, Los Angeles is safe for tourists. In reality, L.A. is in fact a safe city to visit, with most tourist attractions and sites of interest situated within affluent neighborhoods overlooking the ocean. Of course, like any popular destination, visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant for pickpockets in crowded areas, but overall it’s very easy to stay safe in L.A. To cover your bases, we’ve put together an insider guide to staying safe in Los Angeles... Yes, Los Angeles is safe for tourists. In reality, L.A is in fact a safe city to visit, with most tourist attractions and popular sites situated within affluent neighborhoods overlooking the ocean. Of course, like any popular destination, visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant for pickpockets in crowded areas, but overall it’s very easy to stay safe in L.A. To cover your bases, we’ve put together an insider guide to staying safe in Los Angeles... Transportation in Los Angeles Los Angeles is a sprawling city and whilst public transportation is available, the most recommended way to travel is by car. If car hire isn’t an option for your trip to the city, then rest assured, taxis including Uber or Lyft, and the reliable bus system are also safe. It is recommended however to avoid public transportation at night time if you are unaccompanied or traveling through neighborhoods with a higher crime rate. Check out our full guide to getting around LA for more information. Los Angeles crime threats Like any popular destination, visitors are encouraged to remain vigilant for pickpockets and petty theft in crowded areas. At key tourist spots such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame and on public transport, be aware of concealing your money, keeping your wallets in front pockets, and holding purses tightly. If possible, don’t carry valuables around with you, and check your bags if you are bumped by a group of people. Similarly, remain alert to potential scams such as tampered ATMs, distracting flashing signs, and fake talent scouts. Never follow an individual who approaches you claiming to be a producer, casting agent, etc. and if you’re unsure, ask for a business card that you can use to do an internet search. There are legitimate talent scouts in Hollywood - just be sure to do your research and always tell someone where you are going. Although not a high risk, to avoid more serious crime, be careful not to wander into dangerous neighborhoods by sticking to the main streets. Natural disasters in Los Angeles Natural disasters are not a high-risk concern in Los Angeles. There have been earthquakes, but the last most dangerous major earthquake occurred in 1994. If you are however caught in a serious earthquake, you’re encouraged to either: Get under a sturdy desk or table if indoors and cover your head and neck with your arms Stay clear of windows, mirrors, or anything that may fall Avoid elevators, running in the street, trees and power lines Pull to the side of the road away from bridges and overpasses and stay inside the car Duck into a doorway if you are near buildings on a sidewalk If you are swimming in the ocean, you need to be aware of strong currents known as riptides. If you find yourself being carried offshore, try not to panic or swim against the current and instead swim parallel to the shoreline. Once the current stops, you’ll be able to swim back to shore. Solo travel and female travelers in Los Angeles The risk for female travelers in Los Angeles is low. For solo travelers of either gender, the advice applies to follow common sense, avoiding certain neighborhoods in the dark, deserted areas, and poorly lit streets. Another way of staying safe is to inform hotel staff or hostel guests where you’re going and keep emergency numbers close on your phone. You could also join a guided tour as a great way to see the city, stay safe, and meet new people! To summarize Los Angeles might not actually be a city of angels but it's definitely a safe destination to visit for all travelers. With a little common sense, tourists can see and enjoy this fantastic city with very little risk to their own safety. Save on admission to top Los Angeles attractions with Go City® Discover our full line-up of Los Angeles attractions including the Hollywood Sign Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott's Berry Farm, and more. 🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you. 😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. Whichever Los Angeles pass you pick, you'll have your pick of LA's very best bits!
Eppie Shepherd
Rainbow-colored lifeguard station on Venice Beach during LA Pride
Blog

Things to do in Los Angeles for Pride Day

Los Angeles is an integral part of the Pride origin story. For it was here in 1970, around a year after the riots at New York’s Stonewall Inn (and three after police raids at LA gay bars the Black Cat Tavern and New Faces) that one of the world’s very first Pride marches took place, alongside similar events in Chicago, San Francisco and the Big Apple itself. More than half a century later, LA Pride is a much-loved feature of the festival calendar: a vibrant, love-soaked celebration of diversity and inclusion that has the whole city partying for weeks on end. Better still, LA now has not one but TWO inclusive festivals running every June, since the welcome addition of WeHo Pride in 2022. WeHo is based out of LA Pride’s former location in and around West Hollywood Park, while LA Pride has moved back to the OG 1970s location in Hollywood proper. Still with us? If not, all you need remember is that it’s twice the fun it was previously! Rea don as we break down the deets (as chronologically as possible!) with all the essential events from LA's Pride festival season... Harvey Milk Day WeHo traditionally kicks off proceedings with an all-singing, all-dancing drag extravaganza on Harvey Milk Day, May 22. The annual José Sarria Drag Pageant is named after the first openly gay person to run for office in the United States, aka the drag performer Widow Norton. Expect dizzyingly high camp and a celebratory atmosphere. In a nod to Harvey, who later became the first openly gay elected official in California, milk and cookies are provided. The event is free, but you’d be well advised to reserve your spot online.  Date: May 22. More info here. Venice Pride Block Party The annual Venice Pride Block Party promises live DJs, a queer market, drag performers (of course), a whole host of enticing food trucks, and a few surprises to boot! And all this just inches from the beach. Way to get the party started.  Date: usually the Friday of WeHo weekend. More info here.  Outloud One of the major success stories of the breakout WeHo Pride celebration, Outloud is a three-day extravaganza of live music at West Hollywood Park. The Friday night opening party is free (but spots must be booked), while Saturday and Sunday are ticketed, with passes available for one or both days. We’re talking some major names, too: acts to appear in the first few years alone include Kylie, Kesha, Janelle Monáe, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Grace Jones. Date: first weekend of June. More info and tickets here. WeHo Pride Street Fair  WeHo Pride’s free street party is quite the amuse bouche ahead of the following weekend’s main event, featuring two days of performances – DJ’s, drag acts, fashion parades, mariachi and country bands, and more – across its Rainbow and Celebration stages at Santa Monica Boulevard. The annual Dyke March also kicks off from here on the Saturday afternoon. Date: first weekend of June. More info here. WeHo Pride March The WeHo Pride celebrations culminate with a march through West Hollywood, a river of flamboyant floats and colorful costumes that flows from N. Crescent Heights Boulevard, west along Santa Monica Boulevard to N. San Vicente Boulevard in Hollywood’s iconic Rainbow District. The parade kicks off around noon, and crowns a ‘Parade lifetime ally icon’ each year, with Cyndi Lauper becoming the inaugural holder of the title in 2024. Date: first Sunday of June. More info here. An Evening Among The Roses Soirees don’t come much swankier than The Huntington’s annual garden party celebrating the LGBTQ+ community and its stellar contribution to the museum and its work. Expect string quartets, specialty cocktails, decadent hors d’oeuvres, and slow-dancing in the beautiful rose garden. Tickets start at upwards of $100 for general admission with VIP entry and other increasingly pricey ticket bundles also available. Dress to impress! Date: first or second Friday in June. More info and tickets here. LA Pride in the Park Since returning to its Hollywood Boulevard roots in 2022, the original LA Pride has held its accompanying music festival further east still, in the LA State Historic Park. It’s a big ‘un, too: previous headliners to have filled the 80-foot stage include Megan Thee Stallion, Ricky Martin and Miss Mariah Carey herself! Add some 20 acres of activities, bars, food vendors, a ‘sober garden’ for natural highs, and an X-rated ‘erotic city’ and a good time is more or less guaranteed. Date: second Saturday of June. More info and tickets here. LA Pride Parade No shrinking violet, the epic LA Pride Parade kicks off on Highland Avenue at 11AM, painting a rainbow right across Hollywood Boulevard and down Cahuenga Boulevard. The pot of gold at the end? The LA Pride Block Party, a free all-day street party with live entertainment, drag acts galore, and more food trucks and beer gardens than you can shake a very large stick at. The best spots for ogling the parade’s fantastical floats and outlandish costumes are along the middle of Hollywood Blvd, or opposite the ABC7 broadcast area on Highland. Keep your peepers peeled for the grand marshals; previous incumbents include Harvey Milk, Paris Hilton, Demi Lovato and George Takei.  Date: second Sunday of June. More info here. Pride is Universal Ever wanted to experience LA’s Universal Studios after hours? Now’s your chance! The annual Pride is Universal event sees doors open to ticket holders as early as 2PM (VIPs) and 4PM (general admission). So far so normal. But when doors close to the general public at 9PM, you get to stick around! Pride gets the party started with multiple DJ sets and dance zones across the park, with the music continuing until 2AM. Better yet, most of the rides, attractions and restaurants stay open too, but without the long lines! Magical. Date: varies, but usually the weekend after LA Pride. More info and tickets here. Save on LA’s Most Popular Attractions Hey, you could always check out some of LA’s best tours, activities and attractions while you’re in town. Buy an attraction pass from Go City and you could save up to 50% on regular prices at nearly 50 attractions, including: Universal Studios Hollywood Big Bus hop-on hop-off tour Madame Tussauds Hollywood La Brea Tar Pits The Natural History Museum … and more! Find out more and bag your Los Angeles attraction pass here.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Universal Studios Hollywood, la nuit
Blog

Things to Do Near Universal Studios Hollywood

Looking for fun things to do on your California trip that will fit into your Universal Studios Hollywood itinerary? Look no further, we've rounded up the best of the best.
Casey Makovich

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

Thick check Icon