Tricks, Treats, and California Sun: LA’s Best October Activities

Ready for a fall trip with California sun, haunted houses, and outdoor adventures? LA’s got you covered.

Published: June 16, 2026

Ready to experience Los Angeles in October? You’re in for a treat—maybe even a few tricks! LA pulls out all the stops this month, with spooky happenings, sunny beach days, outdoor adventures, and a dash of Hollywood glam. Whether you’re chasing Halloween thrills, craving fresh sea breezes, or just want that classic palm-trees-and-pumpkins selfie, there’s never been a better time to explore. Let’s dive into the best things to do in LA this October—expect scares, sunshine, and more than one secret spot locals adore.

You’ll find our top October picks in LA including:

Universal Studios
The Haunt Ghost Tour
Natural History Museum
Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales
Griffith Observatory Tour
Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour
Knott’s Berry Farm
Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking
Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes
Explore Dia de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever

Universal Studios: Halloween Horror Nights and Movie Magic

Universal Studios becomes a playground for both film buffs and thrill-seekers each October. The park shifts into full spooky mode with Halloween Horror Nights, bringing blockbuster movies to life as haunted mazes wind through the sets. You’ll encounter everything from chainsaw-wielding ghouls to infamous movie monsters—yes, your popcorn will probably go flying at least once. The movie-themed rides and special effects keep the adrenaline pumping all day long, while Scare Zones turn the walkways into fright-filled fun after dark.

But it’s not all jump scares! Daytime visits offer a different sort of excitement, with behind-the-scenes studio tours, immersive rides, and the kind of people-watching you’ll be recounting for weeks. Grab a butterbeer, wander through the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and watch street performers channel true Tinseltown energy. The crowds are electric—October might bring chills, but that California sun keeps the Halloween spirit feeling fresh, never frigid.

The Haunt Ghost Tour: Paranormal in the City of Angels

Craving something unusual—maybe a little spine-tingling? The Haunt Ghost Tour infuses Hollywood’s glamorous streets with just the right amount of supernatural intrigue. Expert guides lead you through real-life haunted hotspots, sharing eerie tales and Hollywood history that might make you look over your shoulder more frequently than usual. Think haunted theatres, notorious old hotels, and stories of A-list specters that have never quite left center stage.

It’s equal parts history lesson and ghost story, with guides who blend fun, facts and flair. The tour’s nighttime ambience gives LA a completely different vibe: palm trees sway, neon glows, and every old building suddenly feels charged with possibility (and perhaps a poltergeist or two). Whether you encounter a spook or just a very enthusiastic Halloween fan in costume, you’ll finish your evening with fodder for campfire tales and ghostly selfies alike.

Natural History Museum: Spooky Science and Ancient Giants

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County ramps up its already-fascinating exhibits each October with themed events, pumpkin-decorating, and family-friendly workshops. You can roam from towering dinosaur skeletons to dazzling gems and ancient artifacts, all while learning how LA’s creatures—great and small—handle the changing seasons. It’s a fantastic spot to mix a bit of education into your autumn adventure.

Don’t miss the Spider Pavilion! Every fall, the museum sets up a lush garden where orb-weavers and their eight-legged friends spin intricate webs overhead. It’s a magical, not-at-all-terrifying way to get up close with local wildlife just in time for Halloween. The museum’s Victorian architecture and leafy gardens add to the atmosphere, making you feel worlds away from city buzz, even in the heart of Downtown LA.

Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales: October’s Ocean Adventure

October is whale migration season along Southern California’s coast, and there’s nothing quite like heading out on a Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour from Newport Beach. Board a comfortable catamaran and prepare to be wowed as dolphins leap beside the boat and gray whales pass by on their lengthy journeys. The crisp autumn air, gentle roll of the waves, and possibility of surprise sightings make for an unforgettable afternoon.

It’s both thrilling and surprisingly peaceful—few city experiences compare to spotting pods of dolphins or the spout of a whale with LA’s coastline sparkling in the distance. Naturalists onboard provide fascinating tidbits about marine life and conservation, so you’ll walk away with new skills for spotting critters from shore, too. Bring a camera and a jacket—it gets breezy, but the sunset views over the open Pacific? Absolutely worth it.

Griffith Observatory Tour: Stars Above and Stories Below

Ask any local where to watch an LA sunset, and chances are they’ll point you toward Griffith Observatory. October skies are especially clear, so come for the golden-hour views and stay for a guided tour of the Observatory’s space-age exhibits. From the historic Zeiss telescope to hands-on science displays, you’ll find yourself pondering black holes and Hollywood dreams in equal measure.

The magic happens when dusk falls and the city below lights up. Head outside and you can spot major constellations, planets, and even the distant twinkle of stars on the Walk of Fame down on Hollywood Boulevard. Walking the Observatory grounds at twilight is romantic and cinematic—just the right amount of drama for October in LA.

Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour: Glitz, Glam, and Fall Foliage

October is the sweet spot to cruise LA with the Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour. The weather’s pleasant, the air is crisp (for LA, at least), and the city’s palm-lined boulevards look extra dreamy beneath those autumn skies. Hop aboard an open-top bus and get a peek at legendary neighborhoods—Beverly Hills, Bel-Air, Hollywood—and the million-dollar mansions where movie history was made.

It’s endlessly entertaining, and the commentary serves up just the right mix of juicy stories and fun facts. You might even spot a star walking their poodle, or at least catch some perfectly manicured lawns dressed up for Halloween. There’s no better way to get your fill of LA’s celebrity-soaked scene, all without the stress of navigating traffic or lining up perfect Instagrams (the guides help handle that for you).

Knott’s Berry Farm: Halloween’s Spook-Tacular Playground

Knott’s Berry Farm transforms every October into Knott’s Scary Farm—a wonderland of haunted mazes, costumed creatures, and themed rides sure to make your heart race. The nighttime scare zones are legendary, but by day the park embraces all-ages fun, with pumpkin patches, festive treats, and endless berry-topped desserts.

Get your adrenaline fix on rollercoasters, then recharge at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant—the fried chicken here is as much a California legend as the park itself. Themed decorations, live shows, and unusual character encounters mean you can visit with a group, a date, or the whole family and find something unique for each crew. If you’re looking for the ultimate Halloween theme park buzz, this is the place to be.

Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking: Cruise the Coast California-Style

October in Santa Monica still feels like summer, minus the crowds. Rent a set of wheels from Unlimited Biking and set off on the classic stretch from Venice to Santa Monica Pier. The ocean breeze cools you off, while the palm trees and sandy scenes offer postcard views at every turn.

Want to linger? Grab an ice cream at the pier, watch beach volleyball players showing off their moves, and maybe even dip your toes in the Pacific. There’s no better way to soak up SoCal’s outdoor lifestyle, and the mellow fall weather means you can take things at your own pace—no need to rush through this slice of sunny paradise.

Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes: Leaves, Luxury, and LA Style

Beverly Hills in autumn? It doesn’t get leaf-peeper-level color, but the golden LA sunlight and perfectly pruned boulevards make for a scenic ride. On the Bikes and Hikes Tour, you’ll pedal through elegant streets lined with stately mansions, pop by the Beverly Hills Hotel, and cruise under rows of impossibly tall palm trees.

There’s just something about rolling through this neighborhood on two wheels that makes the movie-star magic feel tangible. Knowledgeable guides add fun stories about the city’s legends, architecture, and pop culture moments as you go. Expect frequent stops for photo ops at famous landmarks—Rodeo Drive, anyone?—and chances to spot fall decorations in the gardens of some seriously stunning estates. This tour feels leisurely, friendly, and leaves you with a new appreciation for LA’s unique blend of laid-back charm and Hollywood glitz.

Explore Día de los Muertos at Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Each October, Hollywood Forever Cemetery becomes one of LA’s most colorful and captivating cultural gatherings for Día de los Muertos. Walk through vibrant displays of marigolds, artful altars, and costumed performers honoring ancestry and tradition. Live music, folklórico dances, and delicious Mexican street food create a joyful, communal atmosphere, drawing locals and visitors of all backgrounds for an unforgettable celebration.

Not only does this festival blend artistry and remembrance, but the setting—amidst palm trees and the city’s oldest gravestones—offers a unique perspective on LA’s multicultural roots. The event typically extends into the evening, when hundreds of candles illuminate the grounds, transforming the cemetery with a warm, welcoming glow. Whether you go for the cultural immersion or the photo-worthy face-paint, it’s a Los Angeles fall tradition unlike any other.

So, What Are You Waiting For?

Whether you’re seeking chills with Hollywood ghouls, catching whales along the coast, or bike-cruising your way through palm-lined streets, Los Angeles in October offers a festival of autumn flavors, excitement, and endless sunlight. Pack your sunscreen, bring your sense of adventure, and discover how this city does fall differently—one pumpkin, ghost story, and rollercoaster at a time.

Enjoyed this? Check out the Best Ways to Celebrate Halloween in Los Angeles or Things to Do with Kids in Los Angeles

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2 Days in Los Angeles

Vibrant and buzzing with life, Los Angeles is a total hive of excitement just waiting to be explored. No really - we mean it! With a great mix of cosmopolitan culture and nature attractions, the City of Angels has everything for everyone. From world-class museums and entertainment to delicious eats, you’re sure to be spoiled for choice. And whilst a two-day getaway might not seem like a lot of time to explore, with the right planning you’ll end up having more fun than you can even imagine! Still having trouble deciding between the city’s top attractions? Don’t fear! Glide through our list of the best things to do in Los Angeles, so that you don’t miss out on anything on your trip! We promise that you won’t be disappointed. Day 1 - Check out Museum Row Kick off your adventure in Los Angeles by heading over to the Museum Row, where you can check out many of the city’s top visitor attractions. If you’d like to grab breakfast first, we suggest stopping off at some of the area’s fantastic eateries. Some of our favorite places include Muffin Can Stop Us, Sycamore Kitchen, and Groundwork Coffee. This busy thoroughfare is home to a great number of L.A.’s best attractions, so you’ll have a lot to choose from here. Still, one of our favorite spots has got to be the Petersen Automotive Museum for its unique and impressive collection. Occupying an entire city block, this spot is well-recognized as one of the largest institutions of its kind in the world. The museum is split into three themed floors; history, artistry and technology, so there’s a little something for everybody here. Inside, visitors can view over 25 galleries with over 350 vehicles of all kinds. Amongst its permanent repository, you’ll find everything from classic cars to sleek high-tech automobiles and flashy Ferraris. A thoroughly remarkable cultural experience, this one is not to be skipped! There are a lot of great places to eat in Miracle Mile, but to make the most out of your experience, we recommend heading over to the Original Farmers’ Market. Since its establishment in 1934, this spot has grown to become a bonafide city landmark - and with good reason! This place boasts over 100 grocers and gourmet vendors to choose from - all you have to do is pick your favorite! Authentic braised chicken rice, hot empanadas fresh from the oven, and decadent ice cream to cool off....the long list of treats is endless! Another one of our favorite cultural institutions located on the Museum Row has got to be the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum. A fantastic stop for those of a curious mind, the institute works to educate its visitors about the development of the natural world. The site is a registered National Natural Landmark and is home to the wonderful La Brea Tar Pits right outside. Get up close to see this active fossil excavation site still bubbling away! Upon entrance, visitors can enjoy a terrific showcase of the best fossils, animals, plants and that have been discovered here. Expect to see everything from chipmunks and doves to saber-toothed cats and mammoths. In addition, the site serves as an active palentological research center where visitors can get a behind-the-scenes look and see scientists working on recently discovered fossils. Whether you’re a total history geek or just wanting to learn more about the prehistoric world, this spot is the place to be. Day 2 - Explore the City Of course, a trip to L.A. just wouldn’t be the same without heading out to see the Hollywood Sign. Standing as an iconic symbol of glitz and glam for around a century now, this stop is a total must-see. We suggest getting up early to watch the sun rise over this emblematic landmark. Though the sign sits on restricted property, you can still catch some great views by making your way over to the Griffith Observatory. Here, you’ll find multiple hiking trails where you can see the evocative landmark and take some great snaps from a distance. We especially love this spot for its wonderful natural attributes. You might even catch a deer or a hawk on your way! Next, head out to Royal Palms/White Point Beach to soak up the true natural beauty of the West Coast. With its palm-fringed sands and crystalline waters, there’s no better place to hit the beach in Los Angeles. Whilst this spot presents a whole myriad of cool things to do, one of our favorite activities has got to be exploring the tide pools dotted along the shoreline. Great for nature lovers, this activity provides a sure-fire way to see fascinating sea creatures like hermit crabs, coral clusters, and sea cucumbers way up close. We suggest planning your visit for low tide - this way you won’t get wet! In addition, visitors can enjoy swimming, scuba diving, surfing and more here. And for those who are travelling with kids, there’s a children’s play area right near the bluff. We recommend staying until dusk, so that you can enjoy the spectacular views of the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean. Los Angeles is the home of the world entertainment industry - and in turn, a fantastic roster of comedy clubs. If you’re looking to end your trip in style, we suggest checking out some of the best that the city has to offer. For those who want to catch big-name comedians trying out their new material, the Sunset Strip would be the perfect choice. Some of the top clubs in the area include The Comedy Store, Laugh Factory, and Hollywood Improv. Or, if you want to check out some of the city’s newest emerging talent, head over to the trendy bars in Silver Lake. Some of our favorites include The Virgil and The Elysian Theater. A short 2-day getaway offers the perfect chance to see the City of Angels in all its glory. Plan it just right, and you’ll be able to understand what makes this one of the most popular visitor destinations in the world - we know we do! 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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Riders at the top of the drop on the HangTime rollercoaster at Knott's Berry Farm, LA.

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Knott's Berry Farm Vs Disneyland Comparison LA

You’re never far from a thrill ride in California, where adrenalin junkies, rollercoaster riders and log flume aficionados are spoiled for choice thanks to the abundance of great theme parks. Knott’s Berry Farm and Disneyland are two of the oldest in the state. Indeed, Knott’s dates all the way back to the 1920s when a solitary stand hawking berry pies, jams and preserves planted the seed for the multi-million-dollar amusement park that stands on the exact same spot today. We took a deep dive into these two magical worlds in our comparison of Knott’s Berry Farm and Disneyland in LA. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Disneyland: A Short History California's Disneyland needs no introduction. The original and (many would say) still the best, it’s the only Disney park to have been designed and constructed under the watchful eye of Walt himself. Since opening in 1955, this Anaheim stalwart has been the dream ticket for wide-eyed kids around the world, so it’s little wonder that even after all these years it remains one of the planet’s most-visited theme parks, regularly topping 18m visitors in the pre-Covid era and outgunned only by its younger Disney sibling, Florida’s Magic Kingdom, in the world rankings. The souped-up 21st Century Disneyland contains no less than nine themed zones across 100+ acres, with over 50 attractions to explore, and a whole host of characters to meet: Mickey, Minnie, Goofy and Donald, to name just a few. The charming old Disney Railroad ferries enchanted visitors around the park, covering around 1.2 miles and saving you a small fortune in shoe leather. Quirky fact: Walt Disney secretly kept a private apartment inside Disneyworld, and it’s still there today. Look out for a light in the window above the fire department on main street to see if the maestro’s spirit is in residence. Knott’s Berry Farm operates on a slightly smaller scale, but still packs a punch with nearly 50 rides across its 57 acres. And, oh boy, that boysenberry pie. From its humble beginnings as a roadside berry stand a century ago, Knott’s has expanded organically over the years, adding Mrs. Knott's Chicken Dinner Restaurant as well as several shops and other attractions by the 1940s, including a ghost town, which is still there (though somewhat modernized) today. By the 70s, Knott’s Berry Farm boasted a log ride, bumper cars and a steeplechase rollercoaster. And the rest, as they say, is history. Today, it’s a fully fledged theme park, chock full of thrill rides and other fun attractions. And yes, you can still tuck into a classic fried chicken dinner or sweet, sweet slice of boysenberry pie – though perhaps not immediately prior to boarding the frankly terrifying HangTime rollercoaster. Quirky fact: when the Knott family sought to sell the park in the late 1990s, they ruled Disney out as a potential buyer because of concerns the park would become unrecognizable from their parents’ original vision. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Disneyland Comparison: Thrill Rides The cash injection that followed the sale of Knott’s Berry Farm to Cedar Fair in 1997 saw a rapid increase in the number of thrill rides in the park. And, nearly three decades later, there are stacks of great options for the adrenalin fiends among you. Chief among these is the Xcelerator (pictured above), the name of which alone will have most shrinking violets running for the bumper cars and spinning teacups. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be catapulted 20 stories high, reaching speeds up up to 82mph in a little over two seconds, now’s your chance. Definitely not for the faint of heart, it’s joined by the likes of the HangTime coaster with its stomach-churning 96-degree drop, and the epic GhostRider: the tallest and longest wooden rollercoaster in the West. Disneyland’s slightly more child-friendly focus means fewer adrenalin-fueled rides, but there are still a good few here that will get your pulse racing. Case in point: golden oldie Space Mountain has really stood the test of time. Debuted way back in 1977, this pimped-up sci-fi coaster tears through dark tunnels with flashing lights and a booming soundtrack that will make your hair stand on end. The Indiana Jones Adventure is another hair-raising dark ride that allows you to step into the shoes of the famous hat-wearing octogenarian archaeologist before hurtling through terrifying tunnels at a velocity no OAP should ever have to endure. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Disneyland Comparison: Water Rides If you don’t come away from your theme park adventure with a drenched shirt and the souvenir photo to prove it, can you really say you’ve been to a theme park? Calico River Rapids forms part of the Ghost Town zone at Knott’s Berry Farm and sees riders spin and splash down the river in family-friendly six-seater dinghies. The Timber Mountain Log Ride is an altogether wetter affair, and the park’s most popular attraction. Ride through a 330-foot long mountain before enjoying (or should that be enduring?) a 42-foot free fall and early bath. Knott’s also has a separately ticketed water park (Knott’s Soak City) that’s open between May and September. Disneyland has a number of sedate boat rides, including the Jungle Cruise and cute Storybook Land Canal Boats, but it’s Splash Mountain you came for, right? Don’t be fooled by the relatively gentle start, with its kid-friendly Br’er Rabbit, Br’er Fox and Br’er Bear storyline: there’s an inevitable drop towards the end that comes with a near-cast-iron guarantee of a soaking. Exit to the sounds of animatronic characters gleefully singing ‘Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah’ at you as you wring out your shirt. Knott's Berry Farm Vs Disneyland Comparison: Family Rides Both of these titans of the theme park world are ostensibly geared towards kids, though Disneyland definitely has the upper hand here, both in terms of pester-power, instantly recognizable characters and child-friendly attractions. In fact, the vast majority of rides and attractions here have no height restrictions, and many are even suitable for babies and toddlers. You’ll find these in every single zone, but particularly Fantasyland, which you’ll recognize straight away from the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle at its entrance. Inside, expect more nostalgic adventures based around your childhood favorites, including a cute flying Dumbo carousel, the Mad Hatter’s spinning teacups, and a meet and greet with Tinker Bell and her fairy friends in Pixie Hollow. Camp Snoopy is Knott’s Berry Farm’s main children’s zone, with kid-friendly coasters, miniature trains and carousels, primarily designed for children 36” and over. There’s also a chance to meet Snoopy and the rest of the Peanuts gang. Some other attractions around the park, including the Calico Mine Ride, the Merry-Go-Round and Knott’s Bear-y Tales have no height restrictions and are great for families. Fast facts: Knott’s Berry Farm Tickets An All-Inclusive attraction pass from Go City includes general admission and saves you money when visiting multiple attractions in LA. Buy a 1, 2, 3 or 5-day pass to access as many attractions as you like in that time period, including the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, LA Zoo and Natural History Museum. You can also book tickets direct via the Knott’s Berry Farm website. Opening Hours The park generally opens daily at 10AM. Closing times vary by season. Check the calendar on the Knott’s Berry Farm website for the most up-to-date information. Getting There Knott’s Berry Farm is at 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 9062. There’s paid parking on site, or you can take a train to nearby Buena Park Metrolink station. More info on transport options here. Fast facts: Disneyland Tickets Browse ticket options and book direct on the Disneyland website. Opening Hours Hours vary throughout the year but Disneyland usually opens between 8AM and 10AM and closes between 10PM and midnight. View the calendar here. Getting There Disneyland is at 1400 South DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Get info on Disney-themed paid parking here. The park is also served by the Metro Express Line 460 bus from downtown LA and elsewhere, and there’s a Greyhound station about half a mile from the park, which connects to thousands of bus stations across the US. Save on attractions in Los Angeles Save on admission to Chicago attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.

Stuart Bak

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