LA in November: Sun, Sights and Surprises Await!

LA welcomes you in November with fun, flavor, and LA-only surprises!

Published: June 16, 2026
Los Angeles at Night

There’s something special about Los Angeles in November: the summer haze fades, the city’s energy sharpens, and that famous LA sun sticks around just long enough to warm up every day. Locals trade pumpkin lattes for cactus-cool cocktails, and visitors discover that fall in LA means hardly any lines, big events, and a whole spread of fresh-air fun. Whether you’re coming for music, museums, the open sea, or that soul-stirring view of downtown from a mountain trail, November delivers peak LA vibes. Ready for an unforgettable autumn adventure? Let’s dive into our favorite November experiences! 

Our November picks for LA include: 

  • Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales 
  • Getty Center Guided Tour 
  • Knott’s Berry Farm 
  • Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Discover Tour 
  • GRAMMY Museum 
  • Griffith Observatory Tour 
  • Madame Tussauds Hollywood 
  • Aquarium of the Pacific 
  • Outdoor Movie Nights in LA 

Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales 

Set sail from Newport Beach and witness one of California’s grandest natural spectacles. The Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour offers up-close encounters with migrating gray whales or playful dolphins—no binoculars required! November marks the start of the gray whale migration, so look out for the telltale spouts and powerful flukes. The crew’s narration is packed with fascinating tidbits about marine life and local conservation efforts, so you’ll walk away with stories and knowledge to spare. 

The salt breeze, sparkling Pacific, and suspense of spotting a 30-ton visitor make this tour wildly memorable. Whether you’re snapping photos or simply taking in the sea views, the experience is equal parts zen and pulse-racing excitement. If you’ve never been out on a California boat trip, November’s clear skies and crisp air are the perfect backdrop. Don’t be surprised if you leave vowing to come back for another spin! 

Getty Center Guided Tour 

What better way to enjoy a mild LA November than with art, gardens, and spectacular views? The Getty Center perches above the city, offering a guided tour that covers everything from Renaissance paintings to tranquil sculpture gardens. The museum itself is as striking as its contents, with travertine stone terraces framing panoramic vistas over LA and out to the Pacific. 

You’ll learn quirky backstories behind famous masterpieces and discover how the Getty’s architecture blends effortlessly with natural light. After your tour, stroll through the Central Garden—designed as a living artwork—or relax at one of the outdoor cafés. The fall foliage, bright blue skies, and peaceful ambiance combine for a charming afternoon, perfect for anyone craving culture and a twist of fresh air. 

Knott’s Berry Farm 

Step into a world of thrill rides, wild west adventures, and mouthwatering boysenberry treats—Knott's Berry Farm is the ultimate November playground. With fewer crowds and pleasantly cool weather, you get to zoom from rollercoasters to jam-tasting stands in record time. Don’t miss the park’s “Knott’s Merry Farm” transformation, which kicks off in November with festive décor, cheerful live shows, and sweet holiday snacks that will have you reaching for seconds. 

Whether you’re braving GhostRider’s wooden drops or catching a family-friendly Peanuts gang performance, the ambiance oozes old-school California fun. Foodies gravitate towards Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant, whose classics have comforted generations of locals. For a dash of nostalgia and a big slice of amusement, Knott’s makes November feel like a celebration. 

Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour

Big Bus Tour Bus

Cruise past palm-lined boulevards and movie-star mansions on the Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Discover Tour, one of LA’s most laid-back ways to see the city. Good news for November explorers—the weather’s still perfect for the open top deck, and with fewer tourists, you’ll have primo seats for every stop. The audio guide sprinkles the journey with Hollywood gossip, historical tidbits, and handy tips on when to hop off for the next must-see attraction. 

This tour is a dream for planners and free spirits alike, making it easy to hit the Walk of Fame, snap photos at TCL Chinese Theatre, explore LA’s neighborhoods, or simply enjoy people-watching on Rodeo Drive. It’s sightseeing at your pace, zero parking stress, and full of that relaxed, SoCal energy we all love. 

GRAMMY Museum 

Feel the rhythm and discover music legends at the GRAMMY Museum in Downtown LA. Walk through changing exhibits devoted to the biggest names in music—everyone from Beyoncé to The Beatles gets their moment in the spotlight. While November can mean extra special pop-up installations, you can always count on the museum’s hands-on fun, with sound booths and mixing desks where you can unleash your inner producer. 

The vibe is interactive and immersive: you might compare your vocal chops with superstars or watch rare artifacts sparkle behind glass. The top-floor terrace offers an excellent downtown view, proving once again that LA does culture and scenery in one sweet package. Whether you’re a lifelong music lover or just curious, the museum puts you at the heart of the city’s creative beat. 

Griffith Observatory Tour 

There’s magic in the air at Griffith Observatory come November. The Griffith Observatory Tour lets you explore the cosmos through vintage telescopes and eye-popping space displays. Set high above the city in Griffith Park, the observatory’s Art Deco architecture channels old Hollywood glamour, while its knowledgeable staff make stargazing fun for everyone. 

Hike the nearby Mount Hollywood trail for crisp fall air, then join a guided tour to learn about the planets, constellations, and the observatory’s role in LA lore. The city lights below and sunset-soaked skyline set the perfect scene for Insta-worthy memories. For science buffs and dreamers alike, this landmark is a November essential. 

Madame Tussauds Hollywood 

For a dose of real-life movie magic (and some of the best celebrity selfies in town), swing by Madame Tussauds Hollywood on Hollywood Boulevard. The waxworks feel eerily lifelike—from Marvel superheroes to A-list actors, you’ll be surprised by the details and realism. November means you’ll probably breeze past the velvet ropes without a wait, so you’ll get more face-time with your favorite stars. 

Interactive experiences let you step onto the set, dance with Prince, or try your luck at Oscar-winning poses. With themed rooms, fun costumes, and a location right next to TCL Chinese Theatre, Madame Tussauds is an upbeat, laughter-filled stop between savoring local street food or hopping back on the Big Bus for your next adventure. 

Aquarium of the Pacific

Sea Lions at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Dive into a world of underwater wonder at the Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach. November is an ideal month to visit—school crowds thin out, giving you more time to watch the rays, sea otters, and tropical fish swirl around beautifully designed exhibits. This aquatic playground showcases more than 12,000 creatures, from playful penguins to mesmerizing jellyfish. 

Themed zones whisk you through the Pacific’s diverse ecosystems, with interactive touch tanks for curious kids and adults alike. The outdoor Baja Gallery, with its breezy harbor views, is just as captivating as the indoor exhibits. In the fall, you might catch special animal feedings or seasonal events that bring an extra splash of excitement to your visit. 

Outdoor Movie Nights in LA 

One of LA’s best-kept fall secrets? Outdoor movie nights continue well into November! Pack a blanket, gather your friends, and stretch out under the stars at pop-up screenings across the city—think Hollywood Forever Cemetery, rooftop venues, or Griffith Park. There’s something delightfully cozy about watching cult classics and new hits with the city twinkling around you, especially when local food trucks serve up gourmet snacks and hot drinks. 

The vibe is festive and communal; strangers quickly become friends as the opening credits roll. Some events encourage movie-themed costumes or provide headphone rentals for a more immersive experience. Check local listings for titles and locations, but trust us—there’s nothing quite like catching a flick alfresco in LA’s gentle autumn air. 

 

November brings out LA’s best: sunshine, cool breezes, and a city spark that’s entirely its own. Whether you’re watching whales leap, gazing at priceless art, stargazing above the city, or just soaking up local buzz with a movie outdoors, there’s no shortage of fall fun. Embrace the easygoing pace, take advantage of shorter lines, and mix adventure with a little relaxation. LA in November? We’re calling it the ultimate autumn getaway. 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Knott’s Berry Farm or the GRAMMY Museum vs. Madame Tussauds 

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!   

Powered by AI

This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

Continue reading

Blog

Best Art Galleries in Los Angeles

The City of Angels: of course, the skies are blue and the beaches are picture-perfect. Still, Los Angeles is much more culturally-inclined than non-Angelenos are willing to admit. For those who can manage to tear themselves away from the city’s sun-kissed shorelines, there are countless cultural amenities well worth checking out. Whether you’re into fine art, sculpture, photography or contemporary works, Los Angeles has a gallery to satisfy your cultural cravings. Trust us when we say that L.A. is a total haven for creative types. So, if you’re planning to make the trip and still aren’t sure where would be the best places to visit, have a read through our list of some of the top art galleries in the area. However you choose to explore Los Angeles, we’re sure you’ll have a blast! Get Cultured Whilst New York has The Met, LA has the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Affectionately known as LAMCA by LA locals, this spot is one of the city’s most popular galleries - and with good reason. Spanning around 400, 000 square feet, it is the largest art museum in the western United States. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy an impressive and expansive collection of over 150, 000 works going way back to ancient times. Walking around the museum, you’ll be able to enjoy a wide range of works, from intricate historic carvings and drawings to impressionist paintings and modern installation pieces. There’s a heck of a lot to see here, so we recommend putting aside a good few hours so that you’re able to take everything in. A great stop for history and art geeks alike, this place is a total must-see. If you’re looking for a gallery that has history and art all rolled into one, the Huntington Library would be the perfect choice. There are several sites making up the institute: the Main Library, which houses over 430,000 rare books and millions of manuscripts; the Art Gallery, with a fantastic collection of permanent and rotating exhibitions, and its sprawling Botanical Gardens. We suggest taking time to see it all; in the library, you’ll find everything from early prints to historic maps and medieval manuscripts. The gallery is known for its extensive art collection with a focus on 18th- and 19th-century European art and 17th- to mid-20th-century American art. And perhaps the institute’s most famous feature, the botanical garden, is known to contain over 150,000 plant varieties on 120 acres - so don’t skip it! A triple whammy, this place works to provide a fun and enthralling educational experience for those of all ages. Learn Something New Whilst Los Angeles is chock-a-block with modern and contemporary art galleries, that’s not all there is to see here. For photography enthusiasts and lovers of captured light, the Fahey/Klein Gallery is the place to be. Since opening to the public in 1986, the institute has grown to become one of the most popular institutes of its kind in the city. With an impressive collection of over 10,000 photographs spanning over the 19th and 20th centuries, there’s most certainly a lot to see here. If you’re a true photography buff, you might recognize some of the famous pieces wandering around this bright and sophisticated space. Even if you aren’t so well-versed in the realm of photography, this place is still a great stop, with each work more breathtaking than the last. Another museum that certainly doesn’t disappoint is The Broad, located just downtown. Though the gallery is young, it houses one of the city’s most popular collections of contemporary art. This spot in particular is known for its sleek and commanding facade, as well as its dimpled interior. The institute’s collection is friendly for a wide audience, housing big-name artists like Jeff Koons and Robert Therrien. Whilst the museum leans more pop than academic, there are still a lot of seminal pieces by influential modern artists. In addition, this spot is known for its Yayoi Kusama Infinity Room, a mirror room where visitors gather for selfies. Oh, and the best part? The institute offers free general admission to its permanent collection galleries, making it the perfect attraction for those travelling on a budget. Try Something New If you’re looking for something a little different, don’t worry - we’ve got you covered! Combining the wonderful natural attributes of California with the artistic vibe of the city, the Hollywood Sculpture Garden is a fantastic break away from the typical gallery experience. This spot brings together fantastic artists from all over the globe, with over 100 works all in one space. Walking through the garden, you’ll notice a lot of diversity throughout the collection, since this spot welcomes all types of sculpture and installation art. We love this space because the pieces here are totally one-of-a-kind. Whilst you walk, take time to appreciate the wild flourishing greenery and carefully-cultivated flower beds. Visitations are made by appointment only, so make sure to book before you go. With its beautiful location and breathtaking views, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny afternoon in Los Angeles. As the technological world has flourished, its approach has spilled over into all sectors of life - including but not limited to the art world. Whilst there are a number of digital art spaces in LA now, one of our favorites has got to be the Museum of Dream Space for its one-of-a-kind illusions. The institute is known for being the first museum mainly exhibiting computerized art in the United States. Inspired by the art of Yayoi Kusama (known for her Infinity Mirror Rooms), the space is filled with spectacular large-scale light art installations to blow visitors away. All of the exhibits are immersive, with the intention to blur the boundary between the artwork and the viewer. Whilst this spot is popular with the Instagram crowd, you don’t have to be an influencer to enjoy the splendid pieces on display here. Some of the best days on vacation are those spent inside of the walls of a gallery. Explore Los Angeles 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
Raindrops on a Window in LA
Blog

Rainy Day Fun: The Best Indoor Adventures in LA

Don’t let the drizzle dampen your LA dreams—here’s where to play inside!
Blog

Los Angeles in July

Looking for interesting things to do in July in Los Angeles? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! As the summer begins to heat up, get ready for fantastic activities and pop-up events of all kinds. The city’s cultural calendar has a little something for everybody around this time of the year, no matter where your interests may lie. From walking the charming Venice Canals to sinking your teeth into some of the city’s best dishes at Smorgasburg, there’s always something to keep you busy. July is one also of L.A.’s hottest months, so this is a great time for exploring some of California’s best outdoor attractions - just so long as you pack accordingly! Still aren’t sure how to get started? Have a read through our list of the best things to see and do in Los Angeles in the summertime! However you choose to explore the area, we’re sure you’ll have a blast! Hit the Classics Of course, a visit to Los Angeles just wouldn’t be complete without making a stop at the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Since its establishment way back in 1960, this historic attraction has become one of the city’s most iconic spots as it sees more and more footwork each day. Spanning 15 whole blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and consisting of over 2, 000 brass stars, the Walk of Fame continues to draw in millions of visitors each year. If you’re looking for the star of your favorite celebrity or artist, use the Walk of Fame’s Star Search tool on their website. Whilst you’re in the area, we also recommend checking out some of Hollywood’s great attractions, like the TCL Chinese Theatre, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, and Ovation Hollywood. A quintessential West Coast city, Los Angeles is bursting with great summertime spots to check out. Ranking high up on the itinerary, Santa Monica Pier has been a long-time favorite from way back since its establishment in 1909. This classic L.A. hotspot presents a myriad of cool things to do, though its most popular attraction has got to be Pacific Park - an admission-free theme park with tons of rides, restaurants, shopping destinations as well as a full-blown arcade. Or, if you’re looking to take it slow, why not check out the Santa Monica Pier Farmers’ Market? This laidback stop pays homage to the city’s agricultural heritage with a wide range of vendors to choose from. In addition, there are local crafters and live musical performances to check out. And for those who want to kick back and enjoy those sweeping oceanfront views, we recommend trying your hand at fishing. The Santa Monica Pier is an excellent spot for catching everything from small ocean creatures like clams to mackerel and even sea bass. With so much to see and do here, you’re sure to have a good time! Explore the City Los Angeles is a massive metropolis made up of dozens of notable neighborhoods. Though each spot most certainly has its charm, one of our favorite places has got to be Venice for its eclectic style and laidback atmosphere. There are a lot of great things to do in Venice, though the most popular activity has to be hitting the beach. With its palm-fringed shorelines and soft surf, this spot makes for a fantastic family day trip. In addition, the Venice Boardwalk is a fantastic place for shopping and people watching. Of course, though, Venice has much more to offer away from the beach. One of its best-hidden gems has got to be the Venice Canals, offering a scenic tour of the area’s most gorgeous beach houses. In addition, the neighborhood is known for its quirky attractions, like the Mosaic Tile House and Muscle Beach. With its funky energy and so much to see and do, this place is a total must-see. Find Interesting Activities to Do It goes without saying that one of the best parts of travel is discovering the local food scene. And whilst L.A. undoubtedly has a lot of great food stops to choose from, there’s nothing quite like heading over to the market for some delicious eats. Standing out as one of our favorites, Smorgasburg is a total treat for anybody who considers food their religion. Drawing in around 50, 000 people each weekend, this event is well-recognized as the largest open-air food market in America - and with good reason! Gorge yourself on Hawaiian garlic shrimp served right from a traditional pineapple boat, try fresh top-quality oysters, and then cool down with speciality ice cream from Wanderlust Creamery. There are also a lot of vegan options here, so you know that there’s a little something for everybody to enjoy! Whether you’re a big meat-lover or a self-diagnosed sweet tooth, this stop is well worth the visit. Whilst we love all of the hustle and bustle of the city, sometimes it’s good to take a bit of time to yourself. Thankfully, Los Angeles is filled with wonderful green spaces where you can get in touch with Mother Nature. Located just twenty minutes from downtown Los Angeles, the Descanso Gardens cover over 150 acres of lush forestry to be enjoyed. This spot is accredited by the American Association of Museums as a repository of living collections and welcomes around 250,000 visitors annually. Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy an impressive collection of native and exotic flora, including stunning oak woodlands, a vast collection of fruit trees, and one of the largest concentrations of camellia plants in the Western Hemisphere. An undoubtedly serene experience, this spot is well worth the visit. We love Los Angeles all year round, though there’s no better time to visit than summertime! With a whole host of exciting events and attractions, there should be more than enough to keep you busy. 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

Have a 5% discount, on us!

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