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 

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Best Aquariums in Los Angeles
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Best Aquariums in Los Angeles

If you're looking for the best aquariums to visit in Los Angeles, check out our picks and make it an underwater adventure to remember! Including: Which U.S. city has the largest aquarium? What is the biggest Aquarium in L.A.? How many aquariums are in L.A.? Best Aquariums in Los Angeles Which U.S. city has the largest aquarium? You may be surprised to find out that the biggest aquarium in the U.S. is found in Atlanta. It's called the Georgia Aquarium, and it features a mind-boggling 10 million gallons of water! What is the biggest Aquarium in L.A.? The Aquarium of the Pacific is L.A.'s largest aquarium - more on that down below! How many aquariums are in L.A.? Los Angeles features four aquariums around the city, and we cover each and every one here! We've also added a few non-aquarium choices, just to spice things up, because we're kind. Best Aquariums in Los Angeles: Aquarium of the Pacific If you fancy spending the day in L.A.'s largest aquarium, hanging out with more than 11,000 animals, then Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the best aquariums in Los Angeles! The aquarium's centerpiece is its comprehensive portrayal of the Pacific Ocean, the Earth's largest body of water, stretching from the vibrant coral reefs of the tropics to the icy waters of the north. It's the only place to see so much coral and so many coral-residing creatures up close, so prepare for an explosion of colorful, exotic fish! There's also the Shark Lagoon, where you can pet - yes, pet - some of the many sharks that call it home, the Blue Cavern kelp forest tank, an aviary featuring hundreds of birds, and an entire penguin colony to marvel at. Brilliant stuff. Best Aquariums in Los Angeles: Heal The Bay Heal The Bay's aquarium is a hidden gem, often overlooked because it's nestled beneath the Santa Monica Pier, but underwater lovers shouldn't miss it! This family-friendly aquarium is part underwater showcase, part learning experience, featuring more than 100 different species of fish that call Santa Monica Bay home. Every Tuesday and Friday at 2.30PM, you can check out feeding events where you and your little ones will learn all about the fish and what they eat. And then on Sundays at 3.30PM, they have a shark feeding showcase, which is a little more on the gruesome side, but still fascinating nonetheless. Best Aquariums in Los Angeles: Cabrillo Marine Aquarium Situated a short stroll from the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a smaller facility that offers the most comprehensive insight into local marine life. The main exhibit hall alone boasts nearly 40 individual tanks featuring local marvels. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is more hands-on than some of the others on this list, with a touch pool that lets you get up close with the safer side of L.A.'s underwater life. The Exploration Center and Aquatic Nursery explore the aquarium's research into local life, as well as its breeding initiatives for certain dwindling species. After you're done exploring, you'll find Cabrillo Coastal Park right outside, featuring pristine beaches, the Point Fermin tidepools, and an excellent birdwatching location within the Salinas de San Pedro salt marsh. For a nature-filled day out, you know where to go. Best Aquariums in Los Angeles: Roundhouse Aquarium Only slightly bigger than many people's flats, the Roundhouse Aquarium is bite-sized fun that can be seen in no time at all. That doesn't mean it's not worth a visit, though! See sanddabs and juvenile rays as they gracefully glide in circular patterns within the sandy-bottom tank. Look, but don't touch - they don't do that here. Still, you'll get plenty of snaps of these wonderful creatures up close, so why not? For an extra dose of excitement, make sure to visit on Saturdays at 12.30PM, when you'll see leopard and horn sharks feeding. Best Aquariums in Los Angeles: California Science Center So yes, technically, the California Science Center isn't an aquarium, but on the other hand, it does have a fully-functioning kelp tank, includes a walkthrough tunnel where you can see plenty of underwater wonders up close, and even has dive shows where the audience can ask the divers questions pre-dive. You'll also find a Deep Sea exhibit, where you can control mock-ups of underwater robots, all while learning about deep sea exploration and how it has progressed in the last 200 years. And while you can come for the underwater goodness, you can stay for all the other sciency stuff! See the Space Shuttle Endeavor up close, learn all about the progression of space travel, and even explore creepy crawlies in the Rot Room. Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour Yes, this is another non-aquarium option, but it's the only way you'll get up close and personal with some of the ocean's most revered creatures! If the weather's good, take a whale and dolphin watching tour and see them up close. Board a 65-foot double-decker ship, which includes seating on both decks, sunbeds, and even a snack bar if you need to refuel. Then, sit back, and enjoy the experience. With any luck, you'll see humpback whales, orcas (also known as "killer whales"), and, if you really luck out, a blue whale. Seals and dolphins are also often sighted in L.A.'s waters, so keep an eye out and your camera on standby. The ship itself is luxurious and comfortable, certainly taking the sting out of any missed sightings. And, with your captain narrating the trip, you'll learn more about all of the above, as well as local conservation efforts and migration patterns. An all-round good time if the sun stays put! And that's everything you need to know about the best aquariums in Los Angeles, as well as all the other underwater highlights you'll find in the city! Of course, there's much more to Los Angeles than what you find beneath the surface, so go with Go City to make sure you see it all! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you'll see all the city's best bits for one low price.
Dom Bewley
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Visiting Los Angeles on a Budget - A Simple Way to Save on Your Vacation

It’s no secret that family vacations can get expensive in a hurry - airfares, hotels, attractions, dining... the list goes on and on. There are tons of fun family things to do, whether you want to get closer to nature in the Los Angeles sun or hop on a roller coaster. You can take in some history or visit a few of the most iconic studios in television and movies. Los Angeles truly has some of the most unique attractions in the world. Best yet, L.A. can be a great choice for budget-minded travelers, especially when you use a Go Los Angeles Card, which makes visiting Los Angeles on a budget a breeze. Save on Admission to Tourist Attractions Admission to many of these Los Angeles tourist attractions and are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Go Los Angeles Cards give you the flexibility to choose as you go from dozens of top attractions to create a vacation tailored to your family's interests. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. A few of the attractions include: Universal Studios Hollywood Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Madame Tussauds Hollywood Aquarium of the Pacific and more! Top Attractions to Visit for a Budget Friendly Trip Universal Studios Hollywood If you love the movies, Universal Studios in Hollywood is likely at the top of your “must see” list in Los Angeles—and it should be! Each attraction takes you up close and personal with some of Universal Studios’ biggest movies. Get ready for the ultimate Hollywood movie experience! Getting In: Universal Studios Hollywood tickets are included on 3, 5, and 7-Day Go Los Angeles Cards. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Image Credit: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Go behind the scenes of some of your favorite movies and shows with the Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Hollywood. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour is a tour inside a real, working Hollywood Studio You’ll see props, costumes, and sets that are actually used currently and in prior shows and movies. Tour guests also get to see the Harry Potter Exhibit and a DC Comic Exhibit as well. Getting In: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Madame Tussauds Hollywood Madame Tussauds Hollywood’s famous wax museum lets you unbelievably close to wax versions of some of the most famous celebrities of all time. You will be in shock and awe when you see how life-like these figures can be. One of the guests’ favorite activities is taking photos with their most adored celebs, from crushes to idols. Even President Obama makes an appearance. Getting In: Madame Tussauds Hollywood tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Aquarium of the Pacific Image credit: Andrew Reitsma/Aquarium of the Pacific Explore the ocean depths at the Aquarium of the Pacific. See the beautiful creatures of the deep blue without ever leaving land. The Aquarium is a great way to see and observe many of the area’s natural wildlife, from sharks to birds. Children and adults alike will enjoy this educational and interesting stop. Some of the awe-inspiring exhibits cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. Getting In: Aquarium of the Pacific tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Whale Watch or Harbor Cruise in Long Beach Get out on the water and see whales, dolphins, and other marine life up close, right off the coast of California. Experienced and knowledgeable marine mammal educators from the Aquarium of the Pacific narrate each tour providing valuable insight and interesting facts about the sea animals, their environment, and more. It’s a great way to spend some time during a gorgeous Los Angeles afternoon. Getting In: Long Beach Cruise tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Fun Options to Visit During Your Trip: Are you looking for some more exciting ideas to include during your trip? There is something for everyone in Los Angeles, but that doesn’t mean it has to be expensive! There are plenty of other fun options to choose from, including these activities included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Knott's Berry Farm - Adventure seekers head to Knott’s Berry Farm for roller coasters and gravity-defying thrill rides. Children’s rides and family rides are also a plenty. Pacific Park- Santa Monica Pier - Take a ride on the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel or ride one of the exciting roller coasters at Pacific Park. You can also play games and get all of the traditional mouth-watering fair food available on the Santa Monica Pier. Sony Pictures Studio Tour - If you are looking for an adults-only option, the Sony Pictures Studio Tour provides behind the scenes looks at sets of many of your favorite shows and movies. Only children ages 12 and up are permitted. Perry's Beach Cafe and Rentals - If you want to get outdoors and work up a sweat, you can rent bikes, rollers skates, and much more from Perry’s Beach Café and Rentals! They also have beach gear for rent as well. Hollywood Museum - See some of the most iconic items from your favorite movies and shows—from famous props to jaw-dropping costumes. Get close to “old Hollywood” in a completely new way. Free Activities for a Budget Friendly Vacation The Beaches - Los Angeles is known for its beaches, and many are free and open to the public. Los Angeles is home to eight amazing beaches. Every visit to Los Angeles on a budget should include at least one beach visit! Griffith Observatory - Griffith Observatory offers unique views into the night sky and breathtaking views of the city high above Los Angeles. They also offer exhibits and live shows. Hike to the Hollywood Sign - The iconic Hollywood sign is just a hike away! The hike goes through the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains and offers amazing views of the city below. Although you cannot touch the sign, hiking directly to the sign is the closest you can get! La Brea Tar Pits - This exhibit is home to the most well-known fossil site. See the pit itself and check out their amazing fossil lab. The history and the excavation process will fascinate adults and kids alike. Explore Santa Monica Pier - No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a trip to the Santa Monic Pier for special events, concerts, and more. There is something for everyone on the pier! Let's Recap on Visiting Los Angeles on a Budget Don’t let your vacation budget limit your fun! Visiting Los Angeles on a budget is possible, and the Go Los Angeles Card can help, where you can save up to 55% on combined attraction admission vs paying at the gate. Remember, many of these great budget friendly attraction options and more are included on the Go Los Angeles Card, So when you are planning your trip, consider including some of these options to your Los Angeles vacation itinerary.
Go City Expert
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Los Angeles in October

Fall in Los Angeles is a wonderful time of the year. As the heat winds down, the fun really kicks off during October with a myriad of cool and interesting things to do. Whether you’re an art lover, a thrill-seeker, or a nature enthusiast, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. And of course, since this is October after all, the city comes to life with lots of fun seasonal activities and pop-up events. From spooktastic Halloween events at Disneyland to unique Oktoberfest events, there should be more than enough to keep you busy. This is also an especially good time of the year to visit L.A. since there should be cooler weather, smaller crowds, and a better chance of finding great deals on accommodation and travel. So, if you’re thinking about making the trip, have a read through our list of some of the best things to do in the city during this time of the year. We promise that you won’t be disappointed! Find Fun Activities Los Angeles is home to some of the best theme parks on the planet, but of course, none of them quite stand out like Disneyland! Since opening way back in 1955, this place has become one of the most visited theme parks in the world - and it’s easy to see why! A classic all-American vacation spot, Disneyland is home to some of the most iconic rides, including It’s a Small World, Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean. Within the park there are over 30 rides, so you know that there’s always something to choose from. October is a great time to visit since the weather will be temperate and dry. During this time of the year, the park also hosts some fantastic seasonal events, including the Oogie Boogie Bash and Halloween Screams. Whether you’re a kid or just young at heart, this quintessential L.A. attraction is sure to leave you with a huge smile stretched across your face. Of course, it just wouldn’t be an article about things to do in October without mentioning Oktoberfest. In a sprawling city like Los Angeles, there are a lot of ways to celebrate this traditional Bavarian holiday - all you have to do is pick your favorite! If your ideal Oktoberfest involves kicking back with a beer on the beach (and let’s face it, why wouldn’t it be?), then the Old World Oktoberfest might just be your jam. Billed as ‘’Orange County’s Biggest Party since 1977’’, this event really hits the spot. Or, if you love the idea of bratwurst but have devoted yourself to clean living, why not check out the Vegan Oktoberfest? Complete with vegan breweries and plant-based vendors, this spot is perfect for all cruelty-free visitors. For something a little bit different, check out the San Gabriel Dumpling and Beer Fest. However you choose to enjoy Oktoberfest in L.A., we’re sure you’ll have a blast! Learn Something New Those looking for history and culture in Los Angeles won’t have to search very far. Though there are countless great cultural amenities to choose from whilst visiting L.A., we particularly love the Huntington Library for its world-class repository. Combining art, history and nature all in one, this beloved tourist attraction is well-recognized for its all-encompassing collection. A total dream for all bibliophiles, the institute’s library houses more than 430,000 rare books, original manuscripts and historic documents. Meanwhile, its art gallery houses one of the best collections of British art in the United States. Still, perhaps the institute’s main draw is its botanical garden, which is home to over 150 plant varieties on its 150 acres. There’s a whole to lot see and do here, so we recommend setting aside a good amount of time aside for your visit to ensure that you don’t miss a single thing! As the epicenter of the United States’ entertainment industry, Los Angeles is a fantastic visitor destination for pop culture lovers and creative types alike. There are countless museums and cultural institutions to choose from, though we particularly love the Grammy Museum. Standing out from all the other institutes in Los Angeles, this unique speciality institute provides a fun and fascinating look into the history and significance of American music. Though young, the museum’s collection is impressive, with historical instruments, iconic costumes, awards, and much more. There are interactive instrument stations and recording booths to enhance the experience. The institute’s 200-seat theater also hosts live events including performances, screenings and lectures. Working to honor a long history of innovation and creative thought, this spot is perfect for all music lovers. Get in Touch With Nature Seated along the western coastline, Los Angeles is well-recognized for its beautiful natural attributes. If you’re looking to take in some of the area’s most wonderful greenery, we recommend Descanso Gardens. Just a short trip from downtown, this lush forested area offers a much-needed respite from the bustling city. Over its vast 150 acres, visitors can enjoy an extraordinary living repository. The site is home to a fantastic collection of exotic and native flora - there are magnificent oak woodlands, a wide collection of fruit trees, and the largest concentration of camellia plants in the Western Hemisphere. This spot isn’t too difficult to walk through - overall, it should take about an hour explore the full space. Still, we recommend wearing your comfiest shoes and bringing plenty of water with you to stay comfortable. A treasure trove of natural beauty, this spot is a total must-see. With its soft breezes and cooler temperatures, Los Angeles is a pleasure to explore in autumntime! Whatever Tinseltown lacks for in foliage, the city more than makes up for with exciting events and activities of all kinds. From kicking back with a nice cold one at Oktoberfest to ambling through the beautiful Descanso Gardens, the City of Angels never falls short. 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

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