Think December in Los Angeles is all about Tinseltown glitz? There’s so much more! As the city is sprinkled with festive lights and the air grows just a touch cooler, LA transforms into a playground of unique holiday happenings, dazzling displays, and cultural treats. From famous beaches with winter vibes, family-friendly attractions, to seasonal treats in buzzy neighborhoods, we’ve rounded up the ten very best ways to fill your December days (and nights) with fun, food, and a bit of California holiday magic.
Our favorite things to do in LA in December include:
- LEGOLAND® California
- Griffith Observatory Tour
- Universal Studios
- Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales
- Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking
- Battleship IOWA Museum
- Natural History Museum
- Stroll Abbot Kinney Boulevard’s Festive Shops
- Stare at the Dazzling Lights in Descanso Gardens
LEGOLAND® California: Holiday Bricktacular Fun
There’s no better place for a festive family adventure than LEGOLAND® California. In December, this imaginative theme park transforms into a winter wonderland—complete with giant LEGO® Christmas trees and “snow”-dusted bricks. Kids will love meeting LEGO Santa, snapping selfies with holiday characters, and joining themed building workshops. As you wander through the park, you’ll discover twinkling lights, live music, and special shows that crank the holiday spirit up to ten.
The laughter starts the minute you walk in the gate. Rides and attractions suit all ages, from the adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to gentler adventures in Miniland USA. December brings extra perks—think sweet treats (the hot chocolate stands are irresistible), playful parades, and special seasonal performances. Even if you’re not a master builder, the creativity here is contagious; you might even find your inner architect as you help the kids construct their wildest holiday creations. The vibe is friendly, playful, and—you guessed it—spectacularly photogenic.
Griffith Observatory Tour: Stars, Science, and City Views
Bundle up (yes, LA nights can get crisp!) and make your way to Griffith Observatory. This local legend is the ticket for anyone who wants head-spinning views of LA twinkling in the December dusk. The guided tour is a treat: expert docents share cool insider facts about astronomy, architecture, and LA history, all while pointing out constellations through the giant telescopes.
December skies tend to be clearer, so it’s a superb time for stargazing—how fitting for a city obsessed with “stars.” Browse fascinating exhibits inside, learn a bit about the cosmos, and step out onto the terrace for that wow-worthy panorama of the city and the Hollywood Sign. Plus, the mood in December is extra festive: you’ll spot the city’s holiday lights from above, and you might even catch a holiday-themed planetarium show.
Universal Studios: Holidays in Hollywood Style
Universal Studios: Holidays in Hollywood Style
Universal Studios knows how to go all-in on December fun. Expect plenty of holiday spirit woven throughout the movie magic—think Whoville decorations, Grinchy appearances, and the Hogwarts Castle dressed up for winter. Let’s be honest: where else can you catch a snowball fight with minions or stroll down a tinsel-lined Hogsmeade?
What makes it special? Universal combines high-energy thrills with top-tier entertainment—adrenaline rides, behind-the-scenes tours, and festive street performances all decked out for the season. The nightly tree lighting in the plaza and dazzling lights everywhere guarantee good cheer. If you need fuel after all that excitement, seasonal treats—peppermint churros, anyone?—await at every corner. Whether you’re a film buff, a family with kids, or just out for an unforgettable December day, this spot delivers the blockbuster vibes.
Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales: Winter Wildlife Spectacle
December means whale migration season in Southern California, and a Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour is pure magic for animal lovers. Bundle up, climb aboard, and get ready to spot gray whales making their journey along the Pacific—plus playful pods of dolphins leaping alongside the boat. The energy on board is infectious: passengers cheer for first sightings and naturalists share fun facts and sea stories between photo ops.
The scenery is just as memorable. Even if you don’t spot whales (though odds are excellent in December!), the glittering coastline, salty sea breeze, and the chance to wave at sea lions sunning themselves on the rocks make this an experience you’ll talk about long after your trip. For a different kind of LA adventure, trade city lights for salt spray and the thrill of close wildlife encounters.
Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking: SoCal Christmas, Beach Style
Who says you need snow to feel festive? Cruise the coast on a Bike Tour that takes you through the buzzy energy of Santa Monica Pier, the skateboarding action at Venice Beach, and plenty of quirky art along the way. In December, you’ll spot decorated palms, pop-up holiday markets, and maybe even a beachgoer or two in a Santa hat.
The tour is cheerful and informal, with friendly guides sharing local stories and tips for the best taco stands and coffee spots. It’s an active way to get your heart pumping and see LA’s surf culture up close. From Muscle Beach’s wintertime workouts to peace-loving art installations in Venice, this ride delivers a slice of LA life that’s both breezy and festive. There’s nothing more LA than swapping snow angels for sand angels!
Battleship IOWA Museum: Deck the Decks with History
Anchored in San Pedro, the Battleship IOWA Museum gives you a hands-on taste of American history—with a little seasonal sparkle added in December. Explore the mighty ship’s decks and hidden passageways, climb up to the captain’s bridge, and peer through binoculars for ocean views. During December, the ship’s deck hosts festive events like holiday movie nights and visits from “Santa at Sea,” making it even more family-friendly.
History buffs will geek out over the thoughtful exhibits on military life and navigation, while kids (and big kids) can test out the simulated gun turrets. The atmosphere: equal parts inspiring and playful, with volunteers brimming with stories. Visiting in December means you might just catch special installations or a pop-up cocoa stand on the main deck. It’s a perfect stop before exploring the nearby waterfront or taking in the festive Port of Los Angeles lights.
Natural History Museum: Dinos, Diamonds, and Dazzling Décor
Natural History Museum: Dinos, Diamonds, and Dazzling Décor
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County isn’t just a rainy-day fallback—though it’s perfect if you hit a rare LA drizzle. In December, the museum’s grand halls twinkle with winter decor, making your dino encounters and gem discoveries just a bit more magical. Grown-ups love the Exposition Park Rose Garden views, while kids can’t get enough of the hands-on exhibits and T. Rex skeletons.
Seasonal programming might include pop-up science activities, wintery crafts for little ones, or special planetarium shows. The highlight? Wandering from prehistoric giants to shimmering gemstones, all against a backdrop of festive lighting. After your visit, swing by the café for a slice of pie and a view of the lush grounds—proof that LA’s museums absolutely shine during the holidays.
Stroll Abbot Kinney Boulevard’s Festive Shops: LA’s Hippest Holiday Scene
Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice is a style mecca year-round, but December ups the charm. Boutiques and galleries deck their windows in glitter and greenery, art walls become backdrops for family photos, and there’s a fresh buzz as shoppers search for quirky gifts. Wander the boulevard, sip an oat milk latte from Blue Bottle, and pop into stores like Burro for creative stocking stuffers or TOMS for socially-conscious finds.
Street musicians provide the soundtrack, and you’re likely to stumble on a local pop-up market or tasting event if you time it right. Don’t miss Salt & Straw, where you can sample seasonal ice cream flavors like peppermint cocoa or gingerbread cookie dough. The vibe is effortlessly cool, with a little holiday mischief in the air—a perfect place to feel the pulse of modern LA.
Dazzling Lights at Descanso Gardens: Botanical Wonderland
A quick drive from central LA lands you at Descanso Gardens, where December means the garden’s famous Enchanted Forest of Light. As night falls, you’ll wander through one glowing installation after the next: tunnels of twinkling bulbs, magical projections on ancient oaks, and illuminated art that makes the whole experience surreal—in the best possible way. Descanso’s winter lights don’t scream commercial; instead, they blend gentle music, nature, and creative design to wrap you in a calming, wonder-filled glow.
What sets this spot apart? It’s both lively and peaceful. Kids dart down lantern-lit paths while grown-ups linger beneath glowing canopies, sipping hot drinks from festive pop-up stands—it’s the kind of outing that works for date nights, families, or solo wanderers seeking a little magic. You’ll want to bring your camera, since every corner delivers a new surprise, whether it’s a mirror-like lake sparkling with reflections or the forest floor alive with twinkling color. Descanso Gardens is December at its dreamiest—step inside and you’ll understand why Angelenos can’t get enough.
Ready for Your Best December Ever in LA?
With its never-boring neighborhoods, one-of-a-kind attractions, and a winter calendar bursting with festive fun, LA proves you don’t need snow for an unforgettable holiday season. Whether you’re hunting gray whales or sipping cocoa under twinkling garden lights, this city knows exactly how to make December extra bright. And with so much on offer, your only challenge will be squeezing it all in before your flight home!
Enjoyed this? Check out the Best Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Los Angeles or Things to Do with Family in Los Angeles
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