Things to do in Los Angeles at Night

Published: July 18, 2024
Things to do in Los Angeles at Night

Ahoy there, traveler! Are you a creature of the night? Do you sleep all day and party all night? If so, check out our picks of the best things to do in Los Angeles at night, and make the most of your evening!

Including:

  • Ghost Hunting Tour of Chinatown
  • Yoga on Huntington Beach
  • A nighttime tour of LA by Star Track
  • Two Bit Circus
  • and more!
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Ghost Hunting Tour of Chinatown

It's a nighttime blog, so let's kick things off with some spooky evening fun! Chinatown is one of the most popular districts of Los Angeles, and it's also seen its fair share of gruesome goings-on. So, why not follow in Jack Nichelson's footsteps and see what's really going on in Chinatown on this ghost-hunting tour?

With a professional paranormal investigator in tow, you'll walk the streets, learn about the tools and tricks every paranormal investigator should use, and stop off every time their equipment starts popping off.

Starting at the Chinatown Metro Station, you'll pass the cemeteries that were uncovered during the station's building. Next, you'll explore a nearby warehouse said to be haunted by its former employees. Next up is the neighborhood's oldest cottage, which has received claims of haunting for decades.

If you can stomach the spookiness, this ghost-hunting tour is one of the best things to do in Los Angeles at night!

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Haunted Hollywood Walking Tour

But wait, there's more! You thought one spooky tour of Los Angeles was enough? Think again. Hollywood is known for many things; the glitz and glamor, the A-list celebrities, the home of cinema, and more. But did you know it's also been the scene of many a grisly murder?! Shocking, we know. If you fancy seeing the sights and learning all about them, this haunted Hollywood walking tour should be top of your list of things to do in LA at night!

Your fright-filled walk will take you down the Boulevard of Broken Dreams as you visit haunted landmarks aplenty. Hotels, theaters, and other landmarks where gruesome hijinks have taken place. And don't worry; you won't be alone. Your spook-certified guide will be right there with you, dropping knowledge bombs about each location like some kind of information exploder.

Highlights include the Pantages Theatre, where Howard Hughes supposedly wanders the halls; the Knickerbocker Hotel, where Houdini put in his final performance; the Hollywood Sign, which has seen its fair share of violence; the Hollywood & Highland Complex, where both the Hollywood Ripper and Manson murders occurred; and finally the Roosevelt Hotel, where famous ghosts such as Marylin Monroe's are said to lie in wait. Spooky stuff, indeed!

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Yoga on Huntington Beach

Now we're going to swiftly shift gears from outer spooks to inner peace. If you're longing to align your chakras, do a downward dog, and breathe in that sweet sea air on your Los Angeles vacation, why not do a beach-based yoga class? And don't worry; if you have a busy day, you can even do one during sunset.

Interested? Head to LA's famous Huntington Beach for blissful views of Orange County's sunset while your certified teacher takes you through the steps, stretches, and poses. These classes are for all types, so if you're a seasoned stretcher or a yoga newb, you'll be welcomed with open arms. And, with a whole host of chakra-aligning activities to choose from, including yoga, pilates, and qigong, you're sure to find something to help you unwind - or prepare you for a night of fun.

Huntington Beach's sun-kissed sands provide a picturesque setting for your class, creating a calming and mindful environment as the waves lap gently at the shore. So, why not take a load off and check it out?

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A nighttime tour of LA by Star Track

Of course, not every tour of Los Angeles needs to be filled with spooks and shocks. You don't even need to use your legs. So, why not hop aboard one of Star Track's luxurious vehicles, and get an A-list tour of the City of Angels?

Your tour vessel is fitted out with comfortable seats and massive TV screens that'll give you sweet morsels of information as you drive. Then, your driver/guide will take you on a rollercoaster of sightseeing wonder. You'll pass places from famous movie scenes and learn some behind-the-scenes gossip. You'll pass several celebrities' homes and, thanks to the TVs on board, you'll even see walkthroughs from inside said homes. Imagine yourself living there, and slap yourself and put such foolish ambitions to rest. Luck out, and you may even see some famous faces in their driveways as they stumble home from the latest celeb house party.

So whose houses will you see? Well, you may have heard of them. Tom Cruise, anyone? How about Ellen DeGeneres? That's right, star chasers, and those are but two of the many homes you'll see on your travels from Hollywood Boulevard to Mulholland Drive.

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Two Bit Circus

If the tour life just isn't for you, why not explore the digital delights that Los Angeles has on offer? At Two Bit Circus, you'll enter the virtual world to do battle with beasts, or just settle in for some classic arcade fun.

Two Bit's piece de resistance is unarguably its Virtual Reality Playground, where state-of-the-art equipment will transport you to other realms, where possibilities are endless. Jump incredible distances, fight unimaginable horrors, and do it all with $30 credit on us.

Or, if you'd rather stay in actual reality, hit the arcade to play some old-school cool like Pacman, or team up with a buddy on NBA Jam. Remember NBA Jam? Ah, simpler times. You can even dare to challenge one of their escape rooms. Oh, and there's a bar. Happy days.

If you're looking for some digital evening fun, then Two Bit Circus is a must-visit, and one of the best things to do in Los Angeles at night!

And those are our picks of the best things to do in Los Angeles at night! If you're looking for some daytime fun too, 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

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The Essential LA Bucket List for Couples

Los Angeles: a city where ocean breezes meet palm-lined boulevards, and date nights can swing from the casual to the glamorous. Whether you and your partner are movie buffs, adrenaline chasers, beach loungers, or simply looking for some cozy moments to share, LA is an adventure playground for couples. With so many vibrant neighborhoods, star-studded attractions, and hidden gems, planning that perfect getaway or day out together can feel a little overwhelming. But that’s where we step in! From iconic studios and lush gardens to sunset cruises and playful bike rides, we’ve done the research (tough job, right?) and rounded up the most exciting, fun, and romantic experiences for couples in Los Angeles.  Ready to fill your trip with romance, laughter, and maybe a little movie magic? Here are our favorite LA experiences for couples:  Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour  Griffith Observatory Tour  Universal Studios  Sunset at El Matador Beach  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  The Getty Center Guided Tour  Grammy Museum  Rooftop cocktails at Perch LA  Natural History Museum  The Haunt Ghost Tour  A cozy dinner at Bestia  Griffith Observatory Tour: Starry-Eyed Together  For a classic LA date, it’s hard to top stargazing at the Griffith Observatory. The Observatory’s dome presides over endless city views—think twinkling skyline, mountain silhouettes, and, on clear days, even Catalina Island in the distance. But it’s not just the panorama that wows. Inside, hands-on exhibits make space science feel playful, and knowledgeable staff are always ready to help you spot Saturn’s rings through a public telescope.  The real magic happens outside, especially as day melts into night. Bring a blanket, settle onto the lawn, and watch the city lights flicker on. It’s both intimate and awe-inspiring—a perfect backdrop for whispered plans and “remember-when” photos. If you’re feeling active, hike up from Fern Dell or the Greek Theatre for bonus couple points (and bragging rights). Plus, fans of classic cinema will recognize the site from “La La Land,” so you can even reenact your own waltz beneath the stars.  Universal Studios: Movie Magic for Two  Couples who play together, stay together—which is why Universal Studios cranks up the fun meter for a date. Step inside LA’s working movie lot and go from hand-holding in Springfield (yes, The Simpsons’ town!) to surviving dinosaurs together in Jurassic World. The rides bring out your sense of adventure—hold tight during the Revenge of the Mummy rollercoaster or take selfies with life-sized Minions.  But the park’s real draw for couples? Shared, spontaneous laughter and the chance to geek out together over movie sets, secret special effects, and pop-culture trivia. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a crowd favorite. Sip Butterbeer, cast spells with interactive wands, and snag a cozy spot in Three Broomsticks for a rest. Don’t miss backstage tours either—the behind-the-scenes secrets and “Did you see that?” moments will fuel your conversations for days.  And if you’re ready to dial up the adventure, grab “front of line” access passes and pack more magic into your day—more time for a moonlit stroll back at the hotel.  Sunset at El Matador Beach: Pure Romance  Looking to turn up the romance? Head out to El Matador Beach in Malibu. This tucked-away stretch is a favorite for engagement shoots and with good reason: sea caves, rugged rock formations, and crashing waves make for a surreal, almost movie-set backdrop. Pack a beach blanket, your favorite snacks, and a bottle of something bubbly.  As the sun dips into the Pacific, the sky dials up shades of orange and pink. Wandering barefoot along the tide line, you’ll feel both relaxed and awed—no Hollywood budget required. El Matador feels wild but not remote; you’ll see locals photographing the surf and spotting dolphins. If you’re feeling playful, explore the hidden coves hand-in-hand or leave a message in the sand to commemorate your day.  Pro tip: arrive early for a quiet spot, and bring sandals (the path down is a little rocky). The sense of discovery here turns a simple date into a highlight of your LA experience.  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Adventure lives just down the coast! Set sail together from Newport Beach for a Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour designed to thrill. There’s a sense of anticipation as you stand on deck side by side—binoculars at the ready—hoping to spot enormous grey whales or playful pods of dolphins. Naturalist guides pepper the trip with fun facts, so you’ll learn a little marine trivia between photos and excited “there they are!” moments.  The ocean breeze, salty air, and rushing waves dial up the senses and bring a spark to any couple’s day. Seeing whales breach or dolphins leap right beside the boat feels extraordinary—in-the-moment magic that you’ll talk about long after you’re back on dry land. Many couples tell us this adventure feels surprisingly intimate: the shared excitement, team-spotting skills, and cozy boat vibes make memories that last far beyond your trip.  If you’re heading back to LA, swing through Santa Monica—Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking offers another playful way to keep the momentum going.  The Getty Center Guided Tour: Art, Gardens, and a View to Remember  Culture-loving couples, this one’s for you. The Getty Center is renowned for its stunning art collection, tranquil gardens, and sweeping city views. Take the tram up to the hilltop campus, and you’ll feel transported—there’s something about the airy pavilions and vast lawns that sets the tone for a lovely day together.  The guided tour is both enlightening and friendly; guides mix art history with quirky stories and insider tips. Wander together through luminous Impressionist paintings, sculpture gardens, and architecture that encourages slow admiration. Snap selfies among the bougainvillea, rest by the tranquil water features, or claim a bench overlooking LA’s skyline.  But the Getty isn’t just about looking. The café’s garden terrace offers an alfresco lunch worth lingering over—try their chef’s salad paired with a fruit-forward rosé. The ambiance feels both relaxed and quietly elegant, just right for savoring each other’s company in between cultural discoveries.  Grammy Museum: Your Own Love Song  If you and your partner have ever argued over playlists or bonded over band tees, the Grammy Museum is your nirvana. This sleek, modern space in Downtown LA is packed with interactive exhibits, legendary music memorabilia, and hands-on activities—from mixing your own track to testing your vocal chops in a sound booth.  Walk through decades of music history together, peek at the outrageous costumes, and discover fun facts about your favorite artists. If you get to the roof, the views of vibrant LA Live are a bonus—great for a breezy couple’s selfie. Temporary exhibits keep things fresh, so even repeat visits offer something new. And on select nights, the museum hosts intimate performances and talks, perfect for snagging tickets to a mini date-night concert.  A quick tip: pair this with a show at the nearby Microsoft Theater or a pre-museum snack at Broken Spanish (be sure to try the chicharrón—crispy pork belly perfection—and the mezcal cocktails).  Natural History Museum: Wildly Interesting Together  Looking for a quirky, memorable day date? The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County brings out the kid in everyone. Wander past towering T. rex skeletons, peer at sparkling gemstones, and get hands-on with interactive exhibits. For couples who love a little friendly competition, try spotting the most dazzling fossil or finding the rarest species in the butterfly pavilion (open seasonally).  One reason we always recommend this spot: it’s equally fun for science nuts and novelty seekers, so there’s a discovery around every corner. The museum’s staff are approachable and full of interesting facts—ask them about the massive dinosaur head in the foyer, and you’ll leave knowing something wild.  Don’t forget to stroll through the museum’s gardens if the weather’s pleasant; it’s surprisingly peaceful (and you might spot hummingbirds or butterflies if you linger). If you want to keep the science theme going, the California Science Center is right next door—catch a dazzling IMAX Movie for the perfect afternoon double bill.  A Cozy Dinner at Bestia: LA’s Pasta Paradise  No romantic trip is complete without an unforgettable dinner—and Bestia stands out in LA’s culinary scene. This buzzy Arts District gem tucks you into a chic, industrial space with exposed brick, flickering candles, and a lively open kitchen. The atmosphere feels both special and vibrant, perfect for couples looking to celebrate or just end the day on a high note.  Bestia earns raves for Chef Ori Menashe’s creative take on Italian classics. The handmade agnolotti (pillowy pasta stuffed with rib eye) and the roasted bone marrow served with spinach gnocchetti are signatures you’ll keep talking about long after dessert. Their cocktails play with Italian liqueurs and seasonal fruit—try the “Spritz Me Baby” for a modern Aperol spritz with a twist.  Tables fill quickly, and the service team always seems genuinely excited to welcome you in. Whether you’re reminiscing over a perfect LA day or making plans for your next adventure, Bestia delivers a thoughtful, flavorful, and joyfully romantic dining experience.  Wrap-Up: Your Perfect LA Romance Awaits  Whether you dream of sunset strolls, movie magic, wild adventures, or cozy corners, Los Angeles offers couples a vibrant playground where romance and fun go hand in hand. With our favorite experiences, you can craft a weekend or a week packed with laughter, surprises, and memories that’ll stick. Surround yourselves with Hollywood dazzle, beachside bliss, and new discoveries—because in LA, your story together is only just beginning.    Enjoyed this? Check out (Ticketed) Things to Do Near Universal Studios Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes.    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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LA Adventures for Little Ones: Top Spots with Pre-Schoolers

Los Angeles is more than just movie stars and palm trees—if you’re exploring with a preschooler, you’ll find a city bursting with color, discovery, and energy. Whether your little one loves splashing in the waves, gazing at sea creatures, riding pint-sized trains, or conquering playgrounds with wild abandon, there’s a slice of LA that’s just right for them. You’ll find quirky museums, interactive learning spaces, hassle-free parks, and hands-on delights fit for curious explorers aged five and under. Ready to plan a trip where your only worry is running out of time to do it all? Stick with us for the ultimate guide to things to do with preschoolers in Los Angeles.  Our favorite things to do in LA with preschoolers:  Aquarium of the Pacific  California Science Center  Natural History Museum of Los Angeles  Heal the Bay Aquarium  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Echo Park Lake Pedal Boats  Travel Town Museum in Griffith Park  Universal Studios Hollywood (Super Silly Fun Land!)  Santa Monica Beach & Playground  The Original Farmers Market  California Science Center  Science feels like magic at the California Science Center. This enormous, light-filled museum transforms STEM into an adventure playground—specially geared for pre-K visitors. Tucked inside is the Discovery Rooms, designed JUST for kids ages 7 and under, where pint-sized explorers can build, splash, play grocery store, and pretend to be bugs for the afternoon.  Step inside the World of Life and we guarantee you’ll hear a delighted “Look at this!” every five seconds. Kids can climb through a model stomach, peek at squirmy insects, and explore larger-than-life exhibits that make learning about the human body and animals a total breeze. The Space Shuttle Endeavour is a must, even for little ones. Dwarfed by the shuttle’s sheer size, children gasp in awe at this real piece of space history.  The museum is stroller-friendly, never stuffy, and packed with interactive exhibits at every turn. For downtime, the on-site rose garden gives grown-ups a beautifully scented breather while toddler legs run wild nearby. Plus, if excitement runs high, a nap in the car amid all those new memories isn’t a bad thing. With easy parking and plenty of indoor/outdoor spaces, you’ll find this is one of the easiest (and most memorable) family outings in LA.  Natural History Museum of Los Angeles  Dinosaur fans, get ready—LA’s Natural History Museum is the place where preschool imaginations can take a giant leap. This museum, nestled in Exposition Park, dazzles with towering T. rex skeletons, fossil dig pits, and a Butterfly Pavilion filled with rainbow-hued wings flitting all around you.  Right from the entrance, young adventurers are on a quest—hunting for fossil footprints, peering up at mammoth bones, and shrieking with excitement in the interactive Discovery Center. There, kids can brush “dirt” off real fossils, play pretend veterinarian, and touch ancient artifacts—all at a pint-sized level.  What truly sets this museum apart is its easygoing, welcoming vibe. You’ll find staff ready to answer questions and hands-on demonstrations that make science approachable. Toddler attention spans meet their match with the museum’s dazzling Diorama Hall—a chill, dimly lit stroll past lions, wolves, and critters from all over North America. On sunny days, the outdoor Nature Gardens become the best playground in town, with winding paths, fairy-tale bridges, and secret spots perfect for a snack.  There’s always something new to discover at this LA gem, whether you make dinosaurs roar or butterflies flutter.  Heal the Bay Aquarium  Nestled beneath the Santa Monica Pier, Heal the Bay Aquarium delivers big ocean adventure in a cozy, child-sized package. This small-but-mighty space is packed with tanks and touch pools filled with the creatures that call Santa Monica Bay home. Preschoolers peer into windows at scuttling crabs, graceful sea stars, and fish that shimmer like confetti.  What preschoolers love most here is “touch time”—gentle staff encourage little hands to meet sea creatures, with plenty of attention paid to safe, positive animal interactions. Docents chat with families about tidepool etiquette, ocean-friendly tips, and what makes each critter unique. Kids love the “shark egg” models and jellyfish that glow in the dark.  The aquarium’s location is a major plus—after your visit, step outside for hours of fun on the sand, take a ride on the vintage carousel, or grab a snack from the bustling food court above. The atmosphere is mellow and beachy, perfect for winding down after a day of adventure. Plus, your visit supports local marine life protection, so it’s feel-good fun from start to finish.  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Little explorers get their sea legs aboard the Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour out of Newport Beach—an exciting excursion where even the youngest travelers can see dolphins, sea lions, and whales up close. Set sail on a comfortable, open-decked boat with plenty of room for strollers and wiggly kids.  The best part? The guides know how to keep every eye glued to the waves, spotting playful dolphins that leap alongside the boat and, on lucky days, massive gray or blue whales. Crew members hand out fun facts and stories that bring the ocean’s giants to life for curious preschoolers.  The experience is relaxed and flexible—children are welcome to sit, roam safely under your watch, or just marvel as the boat glides over rolling surf. There’s no need to worry about endless waiting; trips last around two hours, just long enough to keep even the shortest attention spans engaged. Fresh air, sea spray, and the thrill of seeing real-world wildlife make this outing one you’ll remember long after you’re back on dry land.  Travel Town Museum in Griffith Park  Chugga chugga, choo choo! For every train-obsessed preschooler, the Travel Town Museum in Griffith Park is an absolute treat. Kids can clamber aboard vintage locomotives, ring the bells, twist levers, and pretend to drive—a dream for every little engineer. Outside, a real miniature train whisks families on a scenic loop through Griffith Park (don’t be surprised if your little one asks for “just one more ride!”).  Travel Town’s open-air setting gives energetic kids space to run wild between engines, hopping from caboose to caboose. Informational signs offer fun tidbits for curious parents without overwhelming the experience. Everything is hands-on and tactile, with plenty of picnic tables for snack breaks or birthday parties.  Travel Town is a gentle throwback to LA’s train history, but it’s also a simple way to let littles lead the adventure. Bonus: Hop across Griffith Park afterward for pony rides, playgrounds, and, if you’re feeling ambitious, a peek at the dinosaurs just down the road at the Natural History Museum.  Universal Studios Hollywood: Super Silly Fun Land  Think theme parks are just for older kids? Not here! Universal Studios Hollywood is home to Super Silly Fun Land, a madcap playground with brightly colored fountains, spinning rides, and climbing towers designed for the under-six crowd. Preschoolers—and their parents—love the Minion-themed splash area, which runs year-round thanks to LA’s endlessly sunny weather.  Here, even the smallest park-goers have space to play, get soaked, and giggle for hours. The play zone is fenced for safety with plenty of shady benches for resting grown-ups. Staff keep everything tidy, and the vibe is pure joy, from the whimsical ride operators to the playground music that’ll have you tapping your toes.  Elsewhere in the park, check the schedule for character meet-and-greets and shows featuring favorites like Curious George. Universal gets high marks for cleanliness, kid-friendly snacks, easy bathrooms, and stroller-accessible paths. If you want to mix big-kid magic with plenty of playtime for your little Minion, this spot’s a no-brainer.  Santa Monica Beach & Playground  Who can resist the lure of the Pacific Ocean—and Santa Monica’s wide sandy beaches? Spread out your towel while your preschooler races to splash at the water’s edge, build castles, or chase seagulls with joyful abandon. The gently sloping waves are perfect for new toe-dippers, with lifeguards on hand for peace of mind.  When the sand loses its appeal, head up to the North Beach Playground, a candy-colored wonderland inspired by waves and boats, designed just for littles. The squishy ground, ramps, and easy-climb towers give kids a fun, safe place to burn energy while you enjoy cool ocean breezes.  The vibe here is fuss-free—casual, cheerful, always buzzing yet never overwhelming. Nearby, grab hand-cut fries or classic corn dogs from Pier Burger on the Santa Monica Pier, where you can spot the carousel or maybe catch a glimpse of trapeze artists practicing their tricks. Happy, sandy, and sleepy: the holy trifecta of any successful preschool day out.  The Original Farmers Market  For a true taste of LA, wander through the historic Original Farmers Market. Open since 1934, this spot is a blend of open-air stalls, gourmet groceries, and food court treats—all beneath shady awnings and bustling with friendly locals. Let pint-sized foodies choose from homemade doughnuts at Bob’s Coffee & Doughnuts or pick up a fresh fruit cup loaded with perfectly sweet seasonal finds.  A stroll here is an adventure for the senses: colorful stands packed with fresh berries, bakers slicing up wildberry pies, and the sights and sounds of a real working marketplace. There are plenty of places to perch and snack, plus high chairs are plentiful for the youngest visitors. On weekends, catch live music and kid-friendly entertainment.  Right next door, The Grove outdoor shopping center has a great dancing fountain and plenty of opportunities for window-shopping between snack breaks. The environment is safe, friendly, and packed with goodies for every age and craving—a relaxed LA tradition for young families.    Planning a trip to Los Angeles with preschoolers is all about balancing big adventure with pint-sized play. Whether your little one dreams of meeting starfish, digging in soft sand, riding tiny trains, or just sharing a doughnut with you under the sun, LA offers up countless ways to make family memories. Squeeze the most fun out of every day—and don’t be afraid to linger a little longer at the places that make your kids’ faces light up. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to turn LA into your own family’s playground, where happiness comes pint-sized and possibilities feel endless.    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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