Discover Downtown: Best Things Near the GRAMMY Museum

Step out of the GRAMMY Museum and into the heart of LA fun with these local favorites!

Published: May 22, 2026
The GRAMMY Museum

The GRAMMY Museum already puts you in the heart of Downtown LA’s energy, culture, and creativity. But there’s so much more to this neighborhood than just musical milestones. Wander just a few steps and you’ll bump into world-class theaters, incredible eats, quirky museums, and leafy parks—all perfect for rounding out your LA adventure. Whether you’re a pop culture buff, movie lover, foodie, or someone who just wants to soak up the sun, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s hit all the high notes together and plan your perfect playlist of local experiences! 

Our go-to things to do near the GRAMMY Museum: 

  • The GRAMMY Museum 
  • Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour 
  • The Broad 
  • California Science Center IMAX Movie 
  • LA Live 
  • Natural History Museum 
  • Grand Central Market 
  • Broken Spanish 

The GRAMMY Museum: Musical Inspiration in Every Room  

Start with the reason you’re here! The GRAMMY Museum celebrates the world’s biggest musical legends, but also spotlights the creative process and culture that shapes music today. Interactive exhibits let you remix classic tracks, belt it out in voice booths, or explore rare memorabilia from every genre. It’s hands-on, modern, and pretty inspiring, whether you're a pop fanatic or a music history newbie. 

Don’t miss the rotating special exhibits—past highlights have included everything from Taylor Swift’s glittering costumes to the storied guitars of the blues greats. The sleek, sun-filled space feels fresh and inviting, with plenty of spots to stop, listen, and soak up the sounds of LA. If you visit during an in-house event or live interview, you're in for a treat; you never know which star might show up! 

The Broad: Dazzling Contemporary Art  

You don’t need to be an art scholar to be wowed by The Broad’s incredible collection, just a 15-minute stroll from the GRAMMY Museum. Inside its striking honeycomb-like exterior, you’ll find everything from bold, oversized pop art to fascinating installations you can walk right into. It’s home to work by legends like Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. 

The ambience is fresh, fun, and energetic—perfect for everyone from selfie-seekers to culture lovers. The Infinity Mirror Rooms are a must, offering one of the city’s most unforgettable photo ops and immersive art experiences. Just make sure to reserve your (free!) admission in advance—the crowds can line up here, and with good reason. You’ll leave buzzing with creativity. 

Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour: LA Your Way

Big Bus Tour Bus

Want to see the very best of LA without breaking a sweat? The Big Bus Hop-on Hop-Off Discover Tour lets you create your own day around Downtown (and beyond). Hop on right near the GRAMMY Museum, throw on your headphones for the onboard commentary, and get ready to cruise past legends like the Hollywood Sign, Sunset Strip, and more. 

This flexible sightseeing bus is a great way to scope out LA’s sprawling neighborhoods without getting lost in the traffic. Explore Chinatown, marvel at the theaters of Hollywood, and discover hidden gems—all at your own pace. With frequent departures and stops all over the city, you can jump off for tacos, art, shopping, or sunshine whenever you like. It’s perfect for first-timers and seasoned visitors looking to cover a lot of ground with zero hassle. 

California Science Center IMAX Movie: Science Meets Spectacle  

Craving a dose of imagination and discovery? Head to the California Science Center and settle into their jaw-dropping IMAX theater. It’s not just a movie—those floor-to-ceiling screens and powerful sound systems drop you straight into the world of deep-sea exploration, space travel, or wild nature documentaries. 

The energy in the theater is contagious, with excited kids, awestruck adults, and the occasional “whoa!” at the dazzling visuals. And when you’re done, why not wander through the rest of the Science Center’s hands-on exhibits (think space shuttles, robots, and interactive experiments)? It’s the perfect family-friendly brain boost just a quick drive from downtown. 

LA Live: Downtown’s Entertainment Playground  

You can’t miss LA Live, the entertainment hub just steps from the GRAMMY Museum. This sprawling complex pulses with energy—giant LED screens, splashy event spaces, and crowds bustling between concerts, movie premieres, and esports tournaments. The atmosphere is always buzzy, whether you’re in town for a blockbuster or just stopping for lunch with a side of people-watching. 

Discover restaurants aplenty (we love the tacos al pastor at El Cholo), a bowling alley, and even a Regal Cinemas complex for catching the latest releases. LA Live is the spot to soak up contemporary LA life; it’s perfect for a pre-show drink, celeb-spotting, or simply basking in the city’s electric vibe. 

Natural History Museum: Dinos, Gems, and LA’s Story

Dinosaur Skeletons at the Natural History Museum

Step back in time at the Natural History Museum, just a short Metro ride away in Exposition Park. Inside, you’ll come face-to-face with towering dinosaur skeletons, sparkling gemstones, and billions of years of Earth’s crazy history. The dinosaur hall is a jaw-dropper, with a T. rex trio that always grabs the spotlight.  

But the Natural History Museum isn’t just about ancient wonders—the hall dedicated to Los Angeles’ own nature and wildlife is a fantastic way to see how city and environment connect. The bright, airy gardens outside make for a relaxing stroll, and regular special exhibits (sharks! butterflies! mummies!) keep things fresh and fun for all ages. 

Grand Central Market: Foodie Heaven  

Downtown’s legendary Grand Central Market is paradise for every foodie and snack-seeker. This buzzing marketplace blends old-school LA with next-gen culinary creativity. Walk through and you’ll catch the aroma of roasting coffee, grilled carne asada, fried chicken, and spices from every continent. There’s something for every craving, from breakfast sandwiches at Eggslut to filling Thai street food and vegan ramen. 

Pull up a stool at your favorite counter and soak in the vibrant scene: regulars jostle for tacos, families share pasta, and artists chat over iced cold brew. The market always feels alive, and the people-watching is excellent. We recommend picking up a few treats, then heading out to nearby Grand Park to enjoy your treasure in the LA sun. 

Broken Spanish: Modern Mexican Fare  

Broken Spanish brings bold flavors and vibrant energy to downtown LA with its modern take on traditional Mexican cuisine. The rustic-chic space is warm and lively, filled with colorful details, buzzing conversation, and the irresistible aroma of handmade tortillas, slow-cooked meats, and rich tamales coming from the kitchen. Every dish feels rooted in tradition while still carrying a fresh, distinctly Los Angeles twist. 

Standout menu favorites include the melt-in-your-mouth lamb neck tamal and the mezcal-forward Oaxaca Old Fashioned, alongside shareable bites like crispy chicharrón with creamy guacamole. Whether you’re meeting friends, planning a date night, or simply looking for a memorable meal in the city, Broken Spanish delivers a relaxed atmosphere and flavors that easily steal the spotlight. 

 

 

There’s no shortage of excitement around the GRAMMY Museum. Think dazzling art, landmark theaters, sensational eats, and all the energy of downtown LA wrapped up within easy reach. Mix and match a few (or all) of these picks, and you’ll have a trip that hits every note—from the high-energy songs of the city to the laid-back charm of its food and art. Downtown LA is your stage—make the most of it! 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Universal Studios Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes 

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®   

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started!   

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LA Adventures for Little Ones: Top Spots with Pre-Schoolers

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