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
Los Angeles Skyline at Sunset

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

Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour

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

Unlimited Biking Rental Bikes

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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The iconic Hollywood sign in the hills above LA
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4 days in Los Angeles

The sun setting over the beach, golden stars shimmering in the pavement, the iconic Hollywood sign in the hills above – there’s so much about Los Angeles that’s instantly recognizable. And whether you’re staying for a day, a week or a year, there are some things that you simply can’t miss – but how do you know where to start? That’s why we’ve put together this 4-day itinerary that takes in all the essential sights of the City of Angels, while still giving you time to rest and have some fun. And let’s face it – if a visit to Los Angeles isn’t on your bucket list, it should be. Hollywood Walk of Fame TCL Theater Dolby Theater Rodeo Drive Hollywood Sign Theme parks Downtown LA and El Pueblo De Los Angeles Famous LA beaches Day 1 – Hollywood Heights Stop #1 – Hollywood Walk of Fame It’s day one in the big city and we’re starting with the big guns! Start at the Visitor Center on Hollywood Boulevard, then head outside to find the iconic walk of fame, a 1.3-mile stretch of pavement embedded with more than 2,500 stars. It’s free to stroll along and take pictures, and you might even stumble on a Star Ceremony – but if you’re looking for a particular star, you’ll save yourself some time by looking it up here first. Stop #2 - TCL (formerly Grauman’s) Chinese Theater An essential part of the Hollywood experience, the TCL Chinese Theater is where all the premieres happen. Compare your hands and feet to those of your idols in the Forecourt of the Stars, then use your pass to take a 30-minute walking tour of the theater, hearing all the gossip and behind-the-scenes stories of the movie industry. Or use your pass to get into the Hollywood Museum, where you’ll find four floors of movie history and memorabilia – everything from Indiana Jones’ whip to Rocky’s boxing gloves and Marilyn Monroe’s iconic dresses. Stop #3 - Dolby (formerly Kodak) Theater You might not recognize the outside of the Dolby Theater, but if you’ve ever watched the Academy Awards you’ll know where you are the instant you step inside. Now it’s your chance to feel like a VIP with a half-hour guided tour that takes in the elegant grandeur of the 3,400-seat auditorium, the Dolby VIP Lounge and other behind-the-scenes production areas. You’ll also get up close to a real Oscar statuette! Stop #4 – Rodeo Drive Grab some lunch from one of the many diners or street stands around Hollywood Boulevard then jump on the Big Bus Tour to stop 6, Rodeo Drive. Soak up the vibes of Beverly Hills, go shopping – or window shopping – and maybe spot a celebrity. When you’re done jump back on the Big Bus and rest your legs for a while, stopping if you like at the Farmer’s Market (stop 9) to take in a bit more shopping at the Grove. Stop #5 – Hollywood Sign Tour Be at the starting point at 4.15 for an early evening hike up to LA’s most iconic monument, the Hollywood sign. This 90-minute tour will get you as close to the sign as you can get, with unmatchable views over the whole city. Take a few snaps, then it’s downhill all the way home – the perfect way to finish your Hollywood experience. Stop #6 – A romantic evening After all that sightseeing, you’re bound to have worked up an appetite – so how about dinner with a view at Yamashiro in the Hollywood Hills? This famous restaurant has appeared as Japan in several films including Kill Bill and Gone in 60 Seconds. Finish off the evening with a stroll along Wilshire Boulevard, past the Light Installation at the entrance of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, or perhaps go see a movie! Day 2: Theme park No LA visit is complete without a day at a theme park, but there are so many to choose from, it’s hard to pick just one! Here are our suggestions for your first choice – for the others, you’ll just have to come back another time! Universal Studios Univeral Studios is an essential experience for movie buffs! Tour an active studio and see where all your favorite films were made – you might even spot some celebrities on their way to work! There’s also the Hollywood Special Effects show, Simpsons, Transformers and Minion Mayhem rides, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Six Flags Magic Mountain It’s all about the thrills and spills at Six Flags Magic Mountain – here you’ll find over 100 rides, games and attractions, including the world’s tallest and fastest roller coasters. There’s plenty of family-friendly options as well, plus restaurants and water rides. Knott’s Berry Farm Knott’s Berry Farm is a good family-friendly park, with rides to suit every adrenalin level. They love a good theme month here too, as in October you’ll find it transformed into the spooky Knott’s Scary Farm, and in December it becomes the delightfully festive Knott’s Merry Farm. There’s also Knott’s Soak City just up the road, which is the perfect place to cool off in the summer months! Disneyland The young – and young at heart – will always enjoy the magic of Disney. There are two options in LA: Disneyland Park is the original and has more recognizable rides and attractions, while Disney California Adventure is the more modern incarnation, without the iconic castles but with bars that sell alcohol. Warner Brothers Studios Warner Brothers Studios is another fun-filled option if you’re fascinated with film-making! Take a look at back-lot sets, watch green screen technology in action and explore sets from popular television shows including Friends and The Big Bang Theory. Step onto recreated sets from the DC universe, then be sorted into your Hogwarts house at the Wizarding World and Fantastic Beasts exhibitions. Day 3 – Downtown LA Stop #1 – Downtown LA Walking Tour Time to get into the nitty gritty of the city today, exploring LA’s downtown precinct. Get your bearings and learn about LA’s culture, arts and history on a Downtown LA Walking Tour. You’re bound to recognize several spots along the way, including City Hall, The Music Center, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the dazzling exterior of the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Stop #2 – Grand Central Market If you’re a foodie, you’ll be pleased to learn that your walking tour takes in the 1920s Spring Arcade Building, which has a food market, and the Grand Central Market, where you can stay for lunch and sample some world-famous Oysters. Stop #3 – Angel’s Flight and El Pueblo While you digest, ride the world’s shortest railway up to Bunker Hill and back down again. Then take a walk to the Mexican Marketplace via Grand Park and El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument. You can also take the chance to go into any of the buildings you passed this morning. Stop #4 – Iconic LA Eateries Stay in El Pueblo District to visit the colorful Mexican marketplace and then choose from French, Asian, Peruvian, Italian and even British themed restaurants when you get peckish. Finish off the evening with a cocktail at Clifton’s Republic, a former cafeteria that now houses four floors of trendy bars, each with a different theme. Day 4 – West Side Story Stop #1 – UCLA Campus After all that sightseeing, you’ve earned a day at the beach! On the way there’s time for a quick stop at the UCLA campus and a look at another Hollywood backdrop – the building that’s played Harvard in several movies, including Legally Blonde. It’s a great spot for a stroll, offering a glimpse into American student life as well as the room at Boelter Hall where the internet was born. Stop 2# - Santa Monica Pier & Third Street Promenade Once you’re done with UCLA, head down to Santa Monica and the Pier. Here you’ll find the official endpoint of the legendary Route 66, with a sign that you just have to take a photo of. Pass the rest of the morning lounging on the beach or head to the small amusement park on the pier, where you’ll find rides, games and an aquarium. Stop #3 – Venice Beach and Canals After lunch, spend a little time wandering around the canals of the Venice district, then head down to Venice Beach to soak up a bit more sun. Go for a swim, slurp on an ice cream or even try renting a bike or roller skates for the afternoon to truly feel like a local. Stop #4 – Sunset over the beach For your final night in LA it’s time to sit back and soak up the atmosphere. Find a cozy restaurant for a romantic dinner or keep things casual with a burger from In N’Out and a treat from Sidecar Doughnuts. Then go for a stroll along the boardwalk, or just sit and watch as the sun sets over the pacific. See more with Go City There’s so much to see in Los Angeles, from Hollywood icons to pristine beaches, that you’re bound to want to come back again and again. Ensure you don’t miss a thing with the Go City All-Inclusive Pass, which will save you money on dozens of LA’s most famous attractions.
Karleen Stevens
Los Angeles Skyline
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Up, Up, and LA: The Best Viewpoints for Epic City Scapes

See LA like never before—these city viewpoints put you on top of the world!
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Things to do in Venice Los Angeles

Headed to Los Angeles and looking for interesting things to do in Venice? You’ve come to the right place! A world-famous neighborhood set right along the Pacific Ocean, Venice is well-recognized for its unique history and laidback bohemian atmosphere. Offering the perfect combination of artsy and natural attractions, Venice is a fantastic hidden gem well worth exploring. Most people will have heard Venice Beach, but scratch just beneath the surface and you’ll find that the area has so much more to offer its visitors. From grabbing a bite to eat at the Venice Farmers’ Market to visiting the unique Mosaic Tile House, there’s a lot to choose from here. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the best stops in the area to add to the travel bucket list. Note them down, check off your favorites and you’re sure to have a blast! Hit the Classics Venice Beach is not only one of the most famous beaches in Los Angeles, but also one of the most well-recognized attractions of its kind in the world. A popular visitor hotspot and emblematic symbol of SoCal, this place is perfect for soaking up the sun and people-watching. Stretching for 3 miles along the Western coastline, this spot has practically everything going for it: an impressive sweep of sand, turquoise soft surf, and a vibrant atmosphere to match. This place is a flurry of activity every day of the week, with countless fun things to choose from. Take a dip in the sea, try your hand at surfing, or get active on one of the site’s many sports courts. And of course, since this is one of L.A.’s more popular draws, the beach is bordered by great eateries, funky boutiques, and outdoor bars. With so much to see and do here, it’s impossible to be bored. Another one of our favorite things to do in neighborhood is of course heading over to the Venice Farmers’ Market. For those looking to grab a bite and take in the atmosphere of the area at the same time, this spot is perfect. Nestled between Centennial Park and the Venice Mall, this spot operates all year round, slinging delicious eats of all kinds. Seasonal fruit and vegetables are sold alongside freshly-popped kettle corn, locally roasted coffee, and empanadas hot straight from the oven. You’ll also find original artworks, jewellery and souvenirs being punted. True to the nature of the area, this spot harnesses a fun yet laidback-cool atmosphere - walking through the market, you’ll often catch cooking demos, live music, and painters as you go. We especially love this place because every trip is an experience in itself. Try Something Different For those looking to incorporate a little bit of education into their travel experience, Venice Oceanarium is the place to be. Billed as ‘’The Museum Without Walls’’, this unique outdoor classroom situated right along the seashore on Venice Pier works to provide a better understanding of underwater life. Offering an impressive array of educational and engaging exhibits, this spot is perfect for those of all ages. Discover more about the natural world through this museum’s unique collection of stunning shells, dried crabs, and preserved shark jaws. Though this stop is small, its collection is constantly rotating, meaning that there’s always something new to learn here. Whether you’re a hardcore animal lover or an impassioned nature geek, we couldn’t think of a better way to get to know more about the briny deep. Where Barcelona has Gaudi’s Sagrada Família, Venice has the Mosaic Tile House. Okay, okay - this funky spot isn’t as grand as any of Gaudi’s masterpieces. Still, we’d argue that this large-scale artwork-in-progress echos the vibrant energy and artistry of his works. Once a bland, beige home with few distinguishing features, this project took off after owners Cheri Pann and Gonzalo Duran began a weekend project to install bathroom tiles. Not long after, Pann and Duran were shattering tiles and covering every inch of their home with them. Today, visitors can take guided tours to see this unique project in all its over-the-top glory. Relax! Little known fact: Venice was built on a system of channels way back in 1905 by the young entrepreneur Abbot Kinney. Today, the neighborhood is known for its beautiful Venice Canals, which run between the Venice Boardwalk and of course, the Abbot Kinney. Undoubtedly peaceful and scenic, this spot offers a little spot of Italy right in the center of Los Angeles. Strolling through this charming area, visitors can enjoy quaint bridges, landscaped yards, and an extremely wide variety of architecture. Keep your eyes peeled as you’re walking, since the area is home to a lot of wonderful wildlife - visitors can expect to see ducks, herons, egrets and even the occasional seal. Amongst the picturesque beach houses, you’ll also find eclectic markets, sidewalk cafes, fun bars and more. Offering a quiet respite from the city, this spot is perfect for taking some time to yourself and soaking up the sun. Unarguably, there are countless interesting things to see and do in Venice. For just a small fraction of the city, the area is characterized by beautiful sands, quirky hidden gems, and only-in-L.A. attractions. Really, there’s no better place to experience the free-spirited nature of the West Coast. 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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