July in LA: Unmissable Adventures Under the California Sun

Published: June 15, 2026
family water fun

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. 

Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales: Wild Encounters on the Water

July brings playful pods of dolphins and the tail end of blue whale migration to SoCal’s coast, making this the best time to head out on a whale watching trip from Newport Beach. From the marina, climb aboard a comfortable vessel with wraparound decks perfect for ocean breezes and up-close wildlife viewing. 

The friendly crew provides running commentary—sharing fun facts, pointing out sightings, and handing out high-fives when dolphins surf the boat’s wake. Spotting a blue whale (the world’s largest animal!) is exhilarating, but you’ll likely see several species, including curious sea lions and acrobatic common dolphins that sometimes number in the hundreds. 

This activity fits every sort of traveler—families, couples, and even solo adventurers looking for something unique. Pack your sunscreen and a camera, and enjoy being rocked by the waves with the California coastline as your backdrop. After your cruise, Newport Beach’s waterfront is packed with lunch spots serving fresh seafood and ice-cold drinks—the perfect reset before heading back to LA proper. 

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. 

Aquarium of the Pacific: Dive Into a Cool Coastal Adventure

Sometimes, even in LA, you need a break from the sun, and the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach is the city’s best underwater escape. Families (and anyone feeling beachy) will love spending a July afternoon here—no sunscreen required. The enormous aquarium is home to thousands of sea creatures from giant sea turtles to vibrant coral reefs and touch pools filled with bat rays. 

Try the shark lagoon or the playful penguin habitat, and don’t skip the outdoor decks where you can watch seals and sea otters, or picnic with a view of Long Beach Harbor. All summer, special events add extra fun—like ocean-themed craft stations for families or animal encounter talks that let you meet staff experts. 

The whole place feels like a mini-vacation from the city’s bustle, with cool ocean breezes on the terrace and an endless parade of jellies, seahorses, and kaleidoscopic tropical fish inside. The neighboring harbor is also home to high-speed boat tours and waterfront eating spots—think fresh ceviche and French fries by the water. 

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.   

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Seal underwater in the Californian Channel Islands
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Best things to do near Los Angeles

With long, golden beaches, stylish promenades and an average temperature that rarely dips below 60 degrees, Los Angeles is a dream vacation spot for anyone who loves chasing the sun or life in the chilled lane. And with nearby mountain ranges circling the city to the east, and the pacific ocean brimming with explorable islands to the west, the city of angels really is the ultimate outdoor destination. Whether you prefer island hopping, walking trails or snooping on the rich and famous, these things to do outside Los Angeles will give you plenty of reasons to be ga-ga about la-la-land: Santa Catalina Island Laguna Beach Whale and dolphin watching Ojai Valley Palm Springs Big Bear Lake San Diego ‘Fly’ over to Catalina Nestled in the California channel islands south of LA is the small Island of Catalina, where the adventurous can get their adrenalin going with scuba diving, kayaking, parasailing or even jet ski rental. If you’re more of an introvert, you can indulge in a spa day or explore the island’s numerous museums and galleries. Catalina is small enough to walk everywhere, and visitors with families can enjoy glass-bottomed boat rides, mini-golf and walking trails around the island. The best way to get there is on the Catalina Flyer, which docks in the historic port of Avalon. Let the sea breezes wake you up on the trip over in the morning, then relax on the open deck on the way back, sipping a cool beverage as you enjoy views of the glittering LA coastline. Lounge around on Laguna Beach About one hour from the city is Laguna Beach, making it one of the best day trips from Los Angeles if you feel the need for sand at your feet. Beach lovers will be in their element here, with seven miles of coves, caves, tide pools and bluffs to explore. It’s a popular spot for surfers, and animal lovers will relish a visit to the Pacific Marine Mammal Center, which rehabilitates seals and sea lions that have been stranded along the shores of the OC. If you prefer to keep your feet dry you can explore the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park or take a self-guided walking tour along the beach past public art spaces, architectural landmarks, coastal wildernesses and several bars. When you need to rest your legs, jump on the iconic blue and gold Laguna Beach Trolley for a free ride along the scenic Laguna Canyon Road. Go Whale watching from Newport Beach Okay, so technically Newport Beach is still in Los Angeles, but once you’re on the boat and out in one of the largest marine sanctuaries in California you’ll feel like you’ve left the city far behind. A two-and-a-half-hour whale and dolphin spotting tour includes a drink and binoculars, as well as commentary from the crew to help you spot any marine life that may be gamboling around in the waters around you. Depending on the time of year you might spot dolphins, orcas, minke, humpback, California gray or even the elusive giant blue whale. Later in the afternoon, swap whale watching for people watching with a stroll along Newport’s historic pier, try a surfing lesson at Newport Beach, or sample some local brews at one of the town’s atmospheric beach breweries. Sample sauvingnon and sunsets at Ojai A slightly more grown-up option for an LA day trip, Ojai is a small, picturesque city nestled in a valley of the Topatopa Mountains. About 90 minutes up the coast from Los Angeles, it’s known for its New Age and ecologically friendly galleries, shops and farmer’s market. It’s bordered by Lake Casitas and the Los Padres National Forest, both excellent for hiking and horseback riding, and the surrounding country is dotted with olive groves and wineries, perfect for sampling! And if you’re still there at sunset you might witness a magical ‘pink moment’, when the entire Ojai Valley glows with stunning peach, pink and lavender hues. Be sure to have your camera and tripod handy! Spot celebs at Palm Springs As the name suggests, this stylish city is dotted with hot springs and spas and is a modern-day lair of luxury with lavish hotels, immaculate golf courses and magnificent mid-century architecture. It’s been a magnet for the rich and famous since the 1930’s, when Hollywood stars needed a place to escape within a couple hours of the city. Shopaholics will love the vintage boutiques and interior design shops on Palm Canyon Drive, while movie fans can get the goss on famous inhabitants of the past on a Celebrity Tour. Before the drive home, take a ride on the Aerial Tramway over the Chino Canyon to Mount San Jacinto State Park, where there are restaurants, theaters, observation decks and a museum. Survey the seasons at Big Bear Lake If the blinding lights of the city are getting you down, escape into the mountains at Big Bear Lake, a small settlement a couple of hours away in the San Bernardino Mountains. Depending on what time of the year you’re visiting you’ll find plenty of activities on offer, from water sports in summer to skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Mountain trails around the lake are particularly stunning in the fall, and anglers can hope for a catch of salmon, trout and carp from spring through summer. The scenic Sky Chair runs year-round, so you can dangle your legs all the way to the top, while the young – and young-at-heart – will love the Big Bear Alpine Zoo, which provides sanctuary for animals that can’t be released into the wild. Have a close encounter at San Diego If you’re not planning a separate stay in ‘America’s finest city’ then it’s worth an early start and a trip down for the day, especially if you’re an animal lover, as the 100-acre San Diego Zoo is famous all over the world. Its rich botanical collection of over 700,000 plants provides lush, natural habitats for more than 4,000 rare and endangered animals, and you can experience unique animal encounters – such as early morning cheetah watching or the Skyfari Aerial Tram – that you won’t find anywhere else. If zoos aren’t your thing, there’s SeaWorld San Diego, Legoland California and of course the city’s picture-perfect 70 mile coastline to explore. Explore Los Angeles with Go City From crags to coast, zoos to ziplines, there’s a day trip from Los Angeles for every kind of adventurer. Get the most out of your stay in the city of angels and save money on popular attractions with a Go City Explorer or All-Inclusive Pass.
Karleen Stevens
The signature globe logo at Universal Studios, Los Angeles.
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Universal Studios Vs Warner Bros. Los Angeles

Ever had the urge to pull back the curtain and peep behind the scenes of Hollywood’s legendary movie industry? Well, now’s your chance. Between them, Warner Bros. and Universal Studios have produced some of the best-loved movies and TV shows of all time. We’re talking nothing less than Jurassic Park, Spartacus, Psycho, Back to the Future, La La Land and many more classics that span the entire history of movie-making. We put these two titans of the silver screen head to head in our expert guide to all things Hollywood. Universal Studios Vs Warner Bros. Los Angeles: the Lowdown You’ll recognize Warner Bros. Studios by the iconic water tower emblazoned with the company logo that’s been standing sentinel on the lot since the studios opened here in Burbank way back in the late 1920s. But there’s so much more to this movie-making mecca, with studios and sets that you’ll know and love from films and TV shows as diverse as My Fair Lady, Blade Runner and – for viewers of a certain vintage – 70’s TV favorite The Waltons. Fans of 90s TV juggernaut Friends will also delight at the opportunity to hang out in a painstakingly recreated Central Perk Café. Hollywood’s Universal Studios over in the San Fernando Valley has been around for even longer. Known as ‘the entertainment capital of LA’, the lot opened in 1915, later adding a theme park, which is what really differentiates it from its Burbank rival. Classics including The Sting, Die Hard 2 and Creature from the Black Lagoon were filmed on the stages here and a tour of the working studio highlights these and other household name productions. But it's the adjacent theme park that's the big draw here, with Harry Potter, Minions and Transformers experiences providing some of the heavy hitters. Warner Bros. Studios: What to See and Do The standard tour of the Warner Bros. Studios includes one hour of expert commentary from your guide, after which you’ll likely want to spend another two hours or so exploring the various exhibits at your leisure. Guided Studio Tour This is the part where you get to feel the true thrill and excitement of modern movie-making. Film buffs will be in clover as they speed through backlots in golf carts, visiting sets, stages and exterior locations from the likes of The Dark Knight, Gilmore Girls and Friends. There’s also a chance to visit Stage 48 for an immersive ‘script and screen’ experience that explores all aspects of the production process, from screenwriting and storyboarding to set design and special effects, as well as including authentic memorabilia from some of the planet’s best-loved movies and TV shows. You might even spot live recordings taking place (this is a working studio after all), and it’s not unheard of to run into the occasional Hollywood star! The One with the Perfect Selfie Friends fanatics will find much to enjoy at Warner Bros. Studios. Snap the perfect selfie on a replica sofa in front of the (actual) fountain from the opening credits and unleash your best Gunther impersonation over coffee in the lovingly recreated Central Perk Café, where you can also choose to dine in Monica’s apartment. Or indeed Chandler and Joey’s if you prefer things a little more laidback. Heck, there’s even a Friends boutique, with exclusive merch and gifts including branded mugs, keyrings and yup, even socks. Best of the Rest There’s an opportunity to visit even more real sets, including the likes of The Big Bang Theory, as well as recreating classic movie scenes in front of a green screen. Think flying Harry Potter’s broomstick, or gunning Catwoman’s motorbike through the mean streets of Gotham. Exhibitions that include blockbuster franchises like Harry Potter and the DC superheroes universe cap a quite excellent day out for movie buffs. Universal Studios: What to See and Do You won’t want to miss the Universal Studios tour either, though here it’s more of an amuse bouche to the main event: stacks of theme park rides for thrill-seeking film fans. Guided Studio Tour There’s a whopping 400 acres of active studio lots to explore at Universal. Hop aboard the tram and take in the famous sets and scenes accompanied by expert narration by none other than Jimmy Fallon. See the sets from Jordan Peele’s 2022 horror epic Nope, come face to face with some of Hollywood’s best-loved creature feature monsters, including King Kong and the shark from Jaws, and hold onto your hats for the high-octane tour finale based on the Fast & Furious film franchise. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Whether you’re Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw or Slytherin, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here, where you can visit Hogwarts Castle, visit the Hogsmeade shops and – best of all – experience some of the park’s top rides. Hagrid ushers you on board the Flight of the Hippogriff, which swoops and soars over the friendly giant’s pumpkin patch and hut, while Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey uses a sprinkling of magic to take you through the halls and passageways of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry before flying high over the castle grounds. Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge Strap in, pop on your goggles and get ready to take on the mighty Bowser on this thrilling 3D ride that replicates some of your favorite locations from the classic video game. Speed through underwater courses and up into the clouds, collecting coins and throwing shells along the way in your bid to win the coveted Golden Cup. Best of the Rest There are stacks more movie-themed zones to explore, including an epic Transformers ride that pits you against four-storey-high 3D Decepticons, a laugh-a-minute gentle Minions ride that ends, of course, with an interactive dance party, and the terrifying immersive universe of Jurassic World, where you’ll need your wits about you if you want to avoid becoming lunch! Fast facts: Warner Bros. Studios Tickets You can get the standard studio tour with an attraction pass from Go City, and save $$$ if you’re planning to visit two or more big attractions while you’re in town. Or pimp up your tour with a variety-pack of options available on the official website, including access to the Prop Department and lunch in the Central Perk Café. Opening Hours Open daily from 8:30AM to 3:30PM daily. Closed June 13–14. Getting There Warner Bros. Studios is at 3400 W Warner Dr, Burbank, CA 91505. Bus routes 155, 222 and 501 connect from downtown LA. Parking is also available for $15. Fast facts: Universal Studios Tickets You can buy tickets and VIP experiences direct from the official website, or get one-day access with an attraction pass from Go City and save when visiting multiple attractions, including Universal Studios, Warner Bros. Studios, the Hollywood sign tour and more. Opening Hours Park hours vary throughout the year, but it generally opens daily from morning until late. You’ll find the most up-to-date opening hours here. Getting There Universal Studios is at 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608. There are multiple ways to get there, including by bus and metro, and a range of parking options are also available. You’ll find all the latest information here.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
Friends Having a Picnic
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Los Angeles’ Dreamiest Picnic Spots for Sunshine and Views

Planning a picnic in LA? Here’s where to lounge, snack, and chill.

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