Six Flags Magic Mountain: A Guide

Get ready for thrills and spills at Six Flags Magic Mountain, in sunny SoCal. We've picked our favorite rides and collated all the practical information you'll need to make it a day to remember for the whole family. Hold tight!

By Go City Expert
Published: July 18, 2024
Six Flags Magic Mountain

Heading to Southern California for vacation? You've got to add a trip to Six Flags Magic Mountain to your itinerary. With a record 19 roller coasters, there isn't an amusement park in the world that offers more loops, twists, turns, or stomach flips than Six Flags Magic Mountain.

Located in Valencia, this attraction is an excellent way to put some heart-pounding excitement into your vacation. Whether the kids are tots, teens, or well into adulthood, everyone is sure to enjoy.

Check out our helpful guide for visiting Six Flags Magic Mountain. It's packed full of ways to save on admission, the best deals, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more.

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Tips for visiting Six Flags Magic Mountain

exhilarated-young-couple-on-amusement-park
  • Pick up a map at the entrance. Six Flags Magic Mountain is enormous, so you should plan your route so that you can experience as much as possible. It requires some strategy to ride many rollercoasters, and a map is a huge asset.
     
  • Wear your best sneakers. You'll do a lot of walking at Magic Mountain. Whether you're ushering the kids around Bugs Bunny World, or hunting down the craziest thrill rides and roller coasters.
     
  • Visit SUPERMAN: Escape from Krypton early... very early. This ride has just one or two cars operating simultaneously, and can have long line. If you want to drop from a 415-foot tower at 100 mph, put this ride first on your list for the day.
     
  • If it's hot, wait for the bus. The parking lot features a bus that carries visitors to the entrance. It's a good idea to avoid that early walk into the park by riding the bus to the entrance, especially if your parking spot is at the back.
     
  • Buy a bottle in the park, and drink water often. The park won't let you bring in outside food and drink. But you can buy a plastic bottle inside and refill it at drinking fountains around the park. Valencia gets over 100 degrees quite often in the summer, and hydration is essential.
     
  • Keep your head against the headrests. You'll see signs posted around most roller coasters in the park that advise you to keep your head still against the back of your headrest.
     
  • Six Flags Magic Mountain is separately ticketed, so you won't be able to use your Go City® Los Angeles pass at this attraction. Visit the website to buy tickets and get more information.

What is there to do at Six Flags Magic Mountain?

Six Flags Magic Mountain is well-known for its roller coaster thrill rides, but the park also features family rides, including rides for children, shopping, special events and performances. The park often hosts concerts, so you might want to check out the entertainment schedule before your visit.

What are the best thrill rides at Six Flags Magic Mountain?

Thrill rides Six Flags Magic Mountain

There are so many rides at Six Flags Magic Mountain, but we've rounded up a few of our must-dos.

JUSTICE LEAGUE: Battle for Metropolis

Don't miss out on this epic experience that pulls you into a battle between good and evil, as you join forces with the DC Super Heroes to defeat the Super-Villains. Enjoy amazing 4-D effects, high-tech gaming graphics, intense battle scenes, and much more. Prepare to be immersed in the world of DC Super Heroes.

Apocalypse

Unlike many of the other rides in the park, Apocalypse is a wooden roller coaster, and it's one of the roughest and loudest coasters at the park. This sci-fi-inspired ride sends you right into battle, ripping right through the ominous desert. The first hill will send you 100 feet into the air, with four more kamikaze drops to go at 52mph.

BATMAN The Ride

Your feet will dangle on this roller coaster that features several loops and twists. You'll feel a jolt with a 360-degree loop right at the start of the ride and get a taste of what it's like to be BATMAN, flying through the air at the first sign of the BAT Signal.

Full Throttle

rollercoaster-railroad-car-no-people-testing

Described as the "tallest and fastest looping roller coaster," Full Throttle is really, really fast and exciting - it's the fastest ride at Six Flags Magic Mountain. Loop through the air at 160 feet up at speeds of up to 70mph. You'll do this three times! There's also a surprise in the middle of the ride, which makes this towering coaster an adventure you might want to try twice. 

Gold Rusher

Travel back to the time of the California Gold Rush and hop aboard this coaster that'll take you through the mountains looking for golden nuggets. The first lift cranks you 70 feet into the air, then plummeting you down through the greenery and past unexplored territory.

Goliath

goliath-roller-coaster-drop

This coaster is a must-do for anyone who wants to ride what the park calls a "hypercoaster." From your seat, you'll get incredible views of Valencia if you're not otherwise screaming in terror from the 255 foot drop at the start.

Scream

Scream reaches speeds of 65 mph and carries you 15 stories into the air. This ride drops you at such a steep angle that you feel like you're weightless and falling without a parachute. You’ll be completely upside down seven times. Combine that with the incredible amount of airtime you’ll feel on the many steep crests and you’ll really start to get the hang of this flying thing.

SUPERMAN: Escape from Krypton

You can see this giant thrill ride from anywhere in the park. It's a huge L-shaped track where your carriage bolts out of the starting gate and reaches 100 mph in just seven seconds

X2

X2

The park describes this thrill ride as a "5D coaster" because it flips the cars in lightning-fast backward and forward-facing drops. It's one of the most popular coasters at the park, and it'll probably be one of your most memorable experiences at Magic Mountain.

In addition to the coasters listed above, you'll also see Dive Devil, GREEN LANTERN: First Flight, LEX LUTHOR: Drop of Doom, Ninja, SlingShot, THE RIDDLER'S Revenge, Tatsu, and Twisted Colossus... and that's just the thrill rides at the park!

What are the best family rides at Six Flags Magic Mountain?

Here are a few of the family-friendly rides that are perfect if you're traveling with adventurous little ones.

Buccaneer

Climb aboard this giant pirate ship and get ready for a high-flying voyage. Starting slowly, the boat will start to rock back and forth, getting faster and higher into the air as you go. The bravest of the brave will sit in the last rows to experience the most air-time.

Jammin' Bumpers

Bumper cars

Get revved up for a classic game of bumper cars. Step onto the shiny racetrack, pick a bright-colored car to race, and bump into your family and friends. Swiftly avoid collisions and attacks, all while bouncing off the rubber bumpers surrounding the track.

Jet Stream

Make a splash on this flume ride that offers breathtaking views and heart-pumping thrills. You'll start off gliding peacefully down the river and then suddenly you'll be plunging face-first into the water below.

THE FLASH Speed Force

See the world through The Flash's eyes. Take a seat in the red and gold cars and start moving as fast as the fastest man in the world. You'll be nothing but a blur as you fly by.

Canyon Blaster

This is for the thrill-seekers that come in the smallest of sizes. This junior roller coaster will let the little ones race against Wile E. Coyote in an Acme mining car.

Elmer's Weather Balloons

Whirl through the air in a hot air balloon-esque car. As the kids float up and down, they can see all of Looney Toon Village.

Magic Flyer

Another tank-engine-inspired roller coaster for the little ones will take them careening through the wilderness. They'll see all of Whistlestop Park from above.

What attractions are near Six Flags Magic Mountain?

Above Six Flags Magic Mountain

Six Flags Magic Mountain is in Valencia, at the far northern edge of the Los Angeles Metropolitan Area. If you have extra time after being hurled through the air by a 70 mph roller coaster, you might want to check out a few of these nearby spots.

Relax for an afternoon at Castaic Lake

You'll find Castaic Lake about 10 miles north of Magic Mountain, and it's a great place for a relaxing picnic or some water sports.

Walk the trails at Placerita Canyon Nature Center

Placerita Canyon

Visit a new visitor center with its nature activities, and stroll around the canyon's peaceful trails.

Tour the Rancho Camulos Museum

California has an incredibly rich history of ranching, and Rancho Camulos is a wonderfully preserved example of an old Spanish settlement.

Where are the best places to eat near Six Flags Magic Mountain?

When you're ready to eat, get your official park map out. The park provides excellent notes on where to go, even if you or one of your companions has food allergies. Park prices for food are higher than what you might see outside, but there are at least two dozen separate dining establishments around Magic Mountain, as well as a large number of small food carts. You'll find everything from nachos and hot dogs to salad and ice cream.

Several restaurants also sit right outside Magic Mountain. If you want to eat outside the park, the parking attendants will allow you to exit and enter once during the day on the same ticket. Most of the fare you'll see will look familiar; restaurants like Marie Callender's, Red Lobster, and Wendy's.

If you want to try something the locals love, you might want to visit In-N-Out Burger for some animal-style fries and a double-double.

When is the best time to visit Six Flags Magic Mountain?

The daily hours vary quite a bit depending on the season. There's so much to see and do here that you'll want to aim to arrive right at or before the park opens, so you can see and experience as much as possible. Weather-wise, your best bet is to visit in the winter when temperatures vary in the 60s and 70s during the day.

However, there are enough water rides at Magic Mountain that a summer visit in the blistering heat is definitely doable, as long as you remember to keep a bottle of water at your side at all times.

What should I bring to Six Flags Magic Mountain?

Visiting Six Flags Magic Mountain is something of an endurance test, because of its massive size and the hills that populate the park. A modest level of preparation goes a long way. Especially if you're visiting in the summer and you're not used to the scorching Southern California weather.

  • An extra pair of socks and/or shoes is a good idea if you plan on getting on any of the water rides (there are a few in the park). Keeping your feet dry is essential when you're walking several miles during the day.
     
  • Wear something with zippered pockets (if the weather will allow it) that can hold your phone, keys, and money. It's less of a hassle to board several rides if you don't need the temporary lockers for your bags. Otherwise, a fanny pack is a secure alternative.
     
  • Bring some sturdy sunglasses that fit securely to your head, or secure them with a strap that attaches to the arms and holds them to your head. The same applies to your hat, which is a great accessory to bring to keep the sun off your face and keep you cool during the heat of the day.
     
  • Selfie sticks are not allowed at Six Flags Magic Mountain.

Can I take my own food to Six Flags Magic Mountain?

Taking your own food and drinks is not permitted at Six Flags Magic Mountain. However, there are plenty of restaurants and food carts scattered throughout the park.

How do I get to Six Flags Magic Mountain?

Hours

  • Operating days and hours vary seasonally. Please call in advance or visit the website.
  • Closings: Christmas Day. All holiday hours are subject to change without notice.

Address

26101 Magic Mountain Parkway Valencia, CA 91355 

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How to Spend a Perfect Tuesday in Los Angeles

Let’s be honest: every day in Los Angeles feels like a scene from a movie, but there’s something about Tuesdays here that hits differently. Maybe it’s the lighter crowds, the last-minute tables at beloved eateries, or how the city hums with the promise of adventure if you know where to look. Whether you’re a culture buff, foodie, thrill-seeker, or just chasing sunshine, LA serves up endless ways to make your Tuesday memorable. From sunrise vistas to starlit jazz, we’ve packed this guide with our favorite things to do, see, and taste on a Tuesday across the City of Angels. Ready to dive in? Here’s how to build your best-ever Tuesday itinerary in Los Angeles.  Our favorite things to do in Los Angeles on a Tuesday include:  Griffith Observatory Tour  Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes  Aquarium of the Pacific  Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood  Explore the Grand Central Market  Taco Tuesday at El Cholo  Getty Center Guided Tour  Listen to Jazz at Musichead Gallery  Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  If you want your Tuesday to swing between laid-back and lively, nothing beats a spin on two wheels along the Pacific Coast. The Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour with Unlimited Biking turns the city’s beachside icons—from Muscle Beach to the pier—into your very own playground.  The vibe on a Tuesday is unmatched: there’s space to cruise down the oceanfront path, chat with friendly locals, and watch street performers setting up as the day builds. No traffic jams—just breeze in your hair and salty air on your skin.  Why do we love this idea for a Tuesday adventure? The pace is up to you. Your guide keeps things lively with stories about the area’s wild surf history, secret mural spots, and quirky LA personalities. You’ll likely spot skaters carving at Venice’s legendary skate park, artists selling original paintings along the Boardwalk, and sunbathers staking out their slice of sand.  The tour isn’t all go-go-go—you’ll make plenty of stops for photos, people-watching, and snacking. Santa Monica Pier’s amusements and the picture-worthy Venice Canals both make an appearance on the route. And let’s be honest: exploring by bike lets you cover way more ground than by foot.  We suggest ending your tour with something cool from Venice’s Abbot Kinney Boulevard—a neighborhood packed with indie cafes (check out Blue Bottle Coffee or Salt & Straw for wild ice cream flavors). If you’ve got energy left, stay for a sunset that’ll make your Instagram followers envious.  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes  The Hollywood Sign might be one of LA’s most famous sights, but nothing compares to seeing it up close from the rugged trails of Griffith Park. The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour kicks off your Tuesday with a bang—connecting you to film history, wild open spaces, and a city panorama that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear.  Why choose Tuesday? The trail feels like your own kingdom. You can chat leisurely with your guide and have plenty of space to snap that ultimate selfie. As the path winds through chaparral and shady groves, your expert shares tales of the sign’s wild past (let’s just say: sabotage, makeovers, and plenty of movie magic). There are detours for secret viewpoints, stories about the celebrities who call the hills home, and plenty of time to soak in the clean canyon air.  Reaching the closest legal vantage point, the sign looms above, the city sprawls below, and your sense of “is this real?” peaks. Fellow hikers are generally cheerful and up for a chat—everyone’s here for the LA moment. Heading back down, keep an eye out for local wildlife (look up for red-tailed hawks!) and finish with a cold brew at a nearby café in Los Feliz or Hollywood.  Whether you’re a movie lover, hiker, or just love bragging rights, this urban adventure makes for a Tuesday highlight you’ll remember long after your trip.  Aquarium of the Pacific  Trade LA’s famous traffic jams for underwater drama at the Aquarium of the Pacific—a short drive south in Long Beach and perfect for a Tuesday visit thanks to smaller crowds and relaxed vibes. The aquarium feels like a gateway to another world, with over 11,000 animals and dozens of brilliantly designed habitats to explore.  What strikes us the most is how immersive this aquarium feels. You’ll wander through lush forest tunnels, icy penguin exhibits, and coral lagoons glowing with exotic fish. Tuesday means more time chatting with knowledgeable staff—ask them about the resident sea otters, and they’ll probably share a behind-the-scenes fact or two. The animal feeding sessions are less crowded on weekdays, and you’ll have a front-row spot as sharks, rays, and mischievous seals swim by.  Interactive displays set this aquarium apart. Touch moon jellies, feed lorikeets in the outdoor aviary, and press your nose to floor-to-ceiling tanks teeming with colorful jellyfish. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, and anyone who wants a little “wow” in the middle of the week.  The views outside are just as great! Step onto the harbor promenade for a photo with the Queen Mary or a snack at the nearby Shoreline Village—where waterfront restaurants offer everything from clam chowder to gourmet tacos. You’ll leave refreshed, inspired, and probably humming “Under the Sea” all afternoon.  Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County  Dinosaurs, dazzling gems, and hands-on labs: LA’s Natural History Museum brings science and discovery to life. On Tuesdays, you’ll find the airy marble halls pleasantly uncrowded—perfect for taking your time with jaw-dropping exhibits.  What makes this museum a stand-out Tuesday pick? The sense of adventure. You’ll stand face-to-face with a T. rex trio, walk through a glass-encased butterfly pavilion (in season), and be wowed by the stunning Gem and Mineral Hall, where crystals sparkle under dramatic lighting. The history of Southern California unfolds through ancient fossils, towering mammoth skeletons, and interactive displays that encourage even the most reluctant scientist to get involved.  For families, the Discovery Center is a hands-on wonderland. Budding paleontologists can dig for bones and peer through microscopes, while nature lovers compare feathers and leaves in the outdoor Nature Gardens. Special programming on Tuesdays often means pop-up labs and friendly staff on hand to answer your wildest questions.  The museum café serves up fresh salads and sandwiches, and the grounds are lush—a lovely lunch stop before or after your expedition. Best of all, Exposition Park’s rose gardens outside make for a sweet-smelling stroll in the afternoon. This spot works rain or shine, making your Tuesday in LA totally adaptable.  Explore the Grand Central Market  Downtown LA’s Grand Central Market is the go-to for breakfast tacos, green smoothies, and pastries that’ll knock your socks off. On Tuesdays, the market buzzes with local office workers, die-hard foodies, and chefs hunting for inspiration—but the weekend crush is blessedly absent.  There’s no better way to taste the city’s diversity. Wander from Mexican carnitas to Filipino rice bowls, marvel at rainbow piles of fresh fruit, and debate whether Eggslut’s cult-status egg sandwiches live up to the hype. (Spoiler: they absolutely do.) Hit G&B Coffee for a single-origin cold brew, scoop up a slice from McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams, or settle in for ramen at Sticky Rice.  What sets the Grand Central Market apart? It’s the energy—open, casual, and full of stories. Pull up a communal seat under twinkle lights. Strike up a chat with a taco chef or local regular. Soak up the atmosphere with a view of Broadway’s historic neon signs outside. Grand Central feels like LA in miniature: layered, flavorful, and just the right amount of quirky.  If you want a change of pace after eating, Angels Flight Railway—LA’s tiniest funicular—is just across the street for a fun, vintage ride up to Bunker Hill.  Taco Tuesday at El Cholo  If Los Angeles has an official food holiday, it’s Taco Tuesday—and there’s no better place to join the party than at El Cholo. This beloved, vintage Mexican restaurant has been dishing up classics since 1923, and their Tuesday specials are legendary.  Step inside and you’re greeted by Spanish-tiled floors, family photos, and a lively crowd of Angelenos who wouldn’t dream of missing a week. The must-order? El Cholo’s signature carnitas tacos—tender pork with zesty salsa and pillowy handmade tortillas. Pair your tacos with their signature house margarita, served icy-cold in salt-rimmed glasses, or try the seasonal aguas frescas if you’re alcohol-free.  Why make El Cholo your Tuesday stop? The energy is undeniably festive, waiters zip around balancing sizzling platters, and regulars tend to adopt you as their own. Stay for their decadent green corn tamales or finish up with cinnamon-dusted churros for dessert. The patio fills up quickly but offers a cheerful spot for people-watching as the LA sunset works its magic.  Getty Center Guided Tour  Sitting high above West LA in Brentwood, the Getty Center is a feast for both the eyes and soul. Best of all, Tuesdays see gentle crowds and more space for you to soak up the art, architecture, and unreal city-to-ocean views.  The tram ride up the hill sets the tone—white travertine gleaming, gardens tumbling down the slopes, and that laid-back Westside breeze in your hair. The museum’s guided tours add depth to your wanderings, with friendly docents sharing stories about masterpieces from van Gogh to Monet and gleaming decorative arts from centuries past.  Between exhibits, take a moment to stroll through the Central Garden: zigzag paths, gurgling brooks, and flower beds bursting with color. The peaceful, modern terraces invite you to linger with a coffee or pastry from the cafe, or snag a seat with a panoramic view of the city and Santa Monica Mountains.  Tip for romance-seekers or photographers: stay until late afternoon, when the golden light makes the marble glow and the LA skyline feels like it’s floating on air. The Getty isn’t just a museum—it’s an experience that puts everything you love about LA (creativity, sunshine, and space to breathe) in one place.  Listen to Jazz at Musichead Gallery  Top off your Tuesday with a little night music. On Sunset Boulevard, Musichead Gallery pairs world-class art with a jazz series that draws musicians and fans from across the city. The gallery, usually known for its photography exhibitions—think portraits of guitar gods and rock legends—transforms on Tuesday nights with intimate live sets in a cozy, bohemian space.  The mood is laid-back and inviting. You’re as likely to find yourself chatting with a local jazz pianist as with an up-and-coming singer sipping a glass of red wine in the back row. The acoustics here are warm—no booming amps, just crystalline sound and an audience that actually listens.  Arrive a little early to browse the art on the walls: handwritten setlists, iconic album covers, and rare signed prints. Then, as dusk falls, let the music transport you far from LA’s rush. Tuesday’s “Jazz Night” series covers every style, from smooth classics to bold improvisations.  Afterward, stroll down Sunset to swing by The Den on Sunset for a late-night cocktail on their dimly lit patio, capping off a Tuesday that hits every note.    Tuesdays in LA are anything but ordinary. In fact, the city shines brightest on these midweek adventures—when lines are shorter, streets are friendlier, and treasured local experiences await at every turn. Whether you’re high above Hollywood, biking along the beach, time traveling through natural history, or feasting at an old-school taco joint, LA turns your Tuesday into an endless playground. So go ahead, try something unexpected, follow your curiosity, and let Los Angeles surprise you. This city’s always ready to make your Tuesday truly spectacular.    Enjoyed this? Check out the Best Food Markets in Los Angeles or Things to Do in Los Angeles with Family.  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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The Spectator's Guide to the Long Beach Marathon

The hours are ticking down to the 28th annual Long Beach International City Bank Marathon, which will take over the city on Sunday, October 7th. One of the most scenic and flat courses in America, the Long Beach Marathon draws tens of thousands of athletes and spectators each year. The course meanders through quaint seaside communities and urban landmarks, offering ocean views throughout 80% of the route. Although 23,000 athletes are expected to take part in the five events offered, only about 5,000 will be running the full marathon, making it a somewhat intimate event. Moreover, the certified marathon course is the perfect qualifier for other popular races, even the notorious Boston Marathon. As a spectator, you’ll appreciate Long Beach’s moderate Mediterranean climate and the spectacular views of the ocean and the cityscape along the race course. So whether you're a runner yourself, or just someone who loves excitement and good cheer, viewing the Long Beach Marathon is one of the truly unique things to do in Los Angeles. To make the most of your marathon experience, check out the guide below. Events Five separate athletic events will take place over the race weekend: the Marathon, Half-Marathon, 26.2 Mile Bike Tour, Run Forest Run 5k, and the Aquarium of the Pacific Kids Fun Run. The Kids Fun Run will take place on Saturday, October 6th, while all the other events will be held on the official race day (Sunday). The race day events will kick-off with the Bike Tour at 6 AM, followed by the Marathon and Half Marathon at 7AM and finally the Run Forest Run 5k at 8:30 AM. Fore more information on start times and specific waves, visit the Marathon’s official website. The Health & Fitness expo draws nearly 50,000 visitors each year, and is the perfect prelude to the race. A surplus of vendors and exhibitors will be on display, selling official Long Beach Marathon merchandise, including top-of-the-line performance gear, running caps, visors, headbands, and much more. The Finish Line Festival on Marina Green is THE place to be as exhausted runners cross the finish line. Celebrate with the athletes and enjoy a wide variety of vendors as well as a Beer Garden for those of age. Best Viewing Areas  The Long Beach Marathon boasts one of the most beautiful courses in the country. Start/Finish Line – As this is a loop course, you can catch the start and the end of the race without moving a muscle. You’ll also be able to enjoy the food, drinks, and other entertainment as the first runners cross the line. Situate yourself on Shoreline Drive between Linden and Pine. Belmont Plaza Olympic Pool (Mile 9) – Catch the runners here as they get into their groove. There’s a huge grass area to sit on while you wait for the runners. Colorado Lagoon (miles 14 and 22.5) – This is an ideal spot because you can catch the runners in two places, just by taking a quick walk along the grassy Lagoon. Cal State University (Mile 17-20) – If you want to be there for the runners as they “hit the wall,” find yourself a viewing spot by the California State Academy. Ocean Avenue between Livingston and Alamitos (Mile 24-26) – Cheer the runners on as they race to the finish on Ocean Avenue. You’ll also be able to catch the end of the half marathon from this spot. Accommodations Finding inexpensive accommodations on marathon weekend can be tricky. However, these hotels offer reasonable prices and still currently have vacancy. Best Western Golden Sails Hotel 6285 E Pacific Coast Highway Long Beach, California, 90803-4803 Phone: (562) 596-1631 Holiday Inn Downtown 1133 Atlantic Avenue Long Beach, California 90813 Phone: (562) 590-8858 Parking By far the most convenient place to park on race day is in the Convention Center/Arena/Terrace Theater parking lots. Although there is a $10 charge for parking, you will be located adjacent to the Long Beach Arena and will be within walking distance of the official start/finish line. Make Your Way Around LA While in Greater Los Angeles for the race day festivities, why not see what else the area has to offer? Spend the day before the marathon taking advantage of our Go Los Angeles Card including access to over 39 attractions for one low price. Some of the most popular attractions include the Warner Brothers Studio Tour, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, and Knotts Berry Farm—to name a few.
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Los Angeles in May

There are so many great things to see and do in Los Angeles in May! The sun is out, the days are longer, and spring is in full swing. Around this time of the year, the city comes alive with countless seasonal activities and events for all types of travellers. As for the month’s major holidays, don’t forget to check out the awesome things to do for Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. The weather is warm and balmy, so this is also prime time for exploring a lot of L.A.’s best outdoor attractions. Still daunted by the prospect of exploring a new city? Don’t worry - we’ve got you covered! Have a read through our list of the best things to check out in the area. However you choose to explore Los Angeles, we’re sure you’ll have a blast! See the City As one of the most visited tourist destinations in the United States, Los Angeles isn’t exactly short of great attractions to choose from. Still, when the sun comes out, nothing quite beats a day at the Santa Monica Pier. Since first opening to the public way back in 1909, this beloved tourist hotspot now draws in a whopping 8 million visitors annually - and who are we to argue with that many people? Perhaps the pier’s most popular draw is Pacific Park, an admission-free amusement park with a great blend of rides for kids and thrillseekers alike. Or, if you’re looking to just take it slow, the Santa Monica Pier Farmers’ Market is the place to be. Open on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, this spot works to highlight California’s agricultural heritage with a fantastic array of local vendors. And of course, it just wouldn’t be a pier if you couldn’t grab a rod and try a hand at fishing for yourself. The pier is an ideal place for catching everything from small sea creatures like clams to even mackerel and sea bass. A quintessential Los Angeles attraction, this spot is well worth the visit. Los Angeles is a sprawling seaside metropolis made up of countless unique neighborhoods. Still, one of our favorite spots to check out has got to be Venice for its distinctive style and laidback, funky atmosphere. One of the most popular things to do there is hit the beach - that is, Venice Beach, of course. A prime tourist destination, this spot is known for its sun-kissed shorelines and bohemian boardwalk. Still, there’s a lot more to do in Venice than just the beach. Another one of our favorite activities has got to be walking the Venice Canals. Nestled away between the Venice Boardwalk and the Abbot Kinney, the Venice Canals offer a scenic stroll along the charming beach houses and romantic bridges of the area. All in all, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in Los Angeles. Get Cultured It practically goes without saying that Los Angeles is a total treat for art lovers and culture vultures. Whilst there are countless cultural amenities for creative types in the city, one of our favorite spots to visit when the sun comes out has got to he the Hollywood Sculpture Garden. Combining the innovative energy of the city with its most wonderful natural attributes, this place is well worth the visit. Perched up high in the Hollywood Hills, the garden offers 360-degree spectacular views of the area. Here, visitors can enjoy a wholly unique collection of outdoor sculptures from well-established and up-and-coming artists. There are over 100 pieces in the garden, so you know that there’s plenty to see here. Visitations are by appointment only, so make sure to reserve your spot before showing up! A thoroughly enjoyable cultural experience, we love this spot for bringing something a little different to the table. Find Fun Activities Those travelling with family might just enjoy the next item on our list. Since establishing itself way back in 1921, the L.A. County Fair has been drawing in visitors in from near and far ever since. Nowadays, this classic crowdpleaser is recognized as the fourth largest fair in the United States - and with good reason! Guests can expect to experience a heck of a lot all in one place - no, really, we mean it! Whilst this attraction initially began as an agricultural show, it has since spread its wings with everything from wine tastings and exhibitions to modern acrobats and concerts. Still, the fair maintains some of its old-style charm with classic carnival rides like the Ferris wheel. And if you were wondering about food (and let’s face it - why wouldn’t you be?) you’ll find plenty of different vendors serving up traditional fairground favorites like chilli cheese curly fries, deep-fried Oreos and cotton candy. A little bit old-school and a whole lot of fun, this spot is a total must-see. After a long day of touring, you might just want to kick back and relax with a great movie. And of course, there’s no place quite like Los Angeles to catch a movie. During the springtime, you can find all types of twists on the typical movie theater experience around the city, but our favorite is the fantastic rooftop experience. Taking cinema out from the theater to under the starry night’s sky, this experience most certainly ups the ante. The Rooftop Cinema Club are known for their broad programming, showing everything from old favorites and cult classics, to modern box-office hits. There is also a concession stand with traditional movie theater snacks, like hotdogs, popcorn and candy. The perfect way to spend a balmy springtime evening, this place is sure to hit the spot. L.A. is a great city to visit all year round, though we especially love it in the springtime. From taking a stroll down the Venice Canals to checking out the L.A. County fair, you’ll never run out of things to see and do. Explore the city 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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