Unlock the Fun: Best Free Things to Do in Los Angeles!

Los Angeles, a sprawling metropolis with iconic landmarks, is famed for its high-end shopping and celebrity sightings. However, what many visitors don’t know is that there’s a trove of fantastic free attractions to explore. Whether you’re a local looking to rediscover downtown or a traveler eager to see the best of LA without breaking the bank, this guide will lead you to the most memorable spots. Ready to dive into cool adventures? Let’s explore!

1. World of Illusions

While the World of Illusions isn’t a free attraction in downtown Los Angeles, it offers such exceptional value that it’s hard to pass up. For an experience that’s worth every penny, this venue tops our list of fun things to do in LA. The small price of admission unlocks a plethora of wonders, making it one of the best things to do in the city for a day packed with amazement.

Starting with the Museum of Illusions, visitors are transported into a realm of captivating 3D illusions painted on the walls, beckoning for that perfect photo moment. Venture next to the Upside Down House, a delightful space showcasing seven rooms where everything, quite literally, turns on its head! The Giant’s House brings childhood fantasies to life, immersing you in a world filled with enormous everyday objects. Lastly, the Smash It section offers a cool opportunity to let loose and shatter plates against walls in a safe environment.

Located in the heart of Hollywood, the World of Illusions guarantees hours of entertainment. And though it comes with a small price tag, the memories and experiences you’ll gather are priceless. It’s truly an LA gem not to be missed!

2. Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

Offering the best views of Los Angeles, the Griffith Observatory is not only free to enter but provides visitors with unforgettable views of the city and the stars. Located atop Mount Hollywood, this iconic LA landmark is ideal for astronomy enthusiasts. Moreover, Griffith Park, which houses the observatory, is one of the largest urban parks in North America. It’s a cool spot for hiking, picnicking, or just soaking in the sights of downtown Los Angeles.

3. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Experience the iconic LA beach culture at Venice Beach Boardwalk! This bustling strip boasts street performers, vendors, and artists that truly encapsulate the city’s diverse and vibrant spirit. It’s a fun place to stroll, people-watch, or simply bask in the sun. Given its proximity to downtown, it remains a popular free thing to do for both tourists and locals alike.

4. Downtown LA Art Walk

Art lovers, rejoice! On the second Thursday of every month, downtown Los Angeles transforms into a giant art gallery. The Downtown LA Art Walk is a free self-guided tour that features numerous art exhibitions, installations, and street performances. As you explore, you’ll discover the cool and eclectic side of LA’s art scene.

5. Olvera Street

Dive deep into LA’s roots at Olvera Street, the oldest part of downtown. This historic area showcases Los Angeles’ rich Mexican heritage with its traditional marketplace vibe. It’s the best place to enjoy free cultural things to do, live performances, and parades, especially during festive seasons.

6. Runyon Canyon Park

For those looking to combine fitness with sightseeing, Runyon Canyon Park is the place to be. It offers various hiking trails with varying difficulty levels. And the reward for your effort? Breath-taking panoramic views of Los Angeles! The trails are free to access and provide a fun escape from the bustling downtown streets.

7. Hollywood Walk of Fame

No trip to LA is complete without visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This free attraction allows you to walk amongst the stars – or at least their names engraved on sidewalks. Located close to downtown, it’s a fun way to connect with the history of entertainment and spot your favorite celebrities’ stars.

8. Santa Monica Pier

An emblem of Los Angeles, the Santa Monica Pier offers a unique blend of entertainment, dining, and history. While there are things to do that charge fees, simply walking along the pier, enjoying the ocean breeze, and watching the sunset are entirely free. It’s a cool spot to capture beautiful photographs, with the Pacific Ocean on one side and the bustling city on the other. Located not far from downtown LA, this is a must-visit thing to do to experience the fun of the beach combined with urban energy.

9. Echo Park Lake

A hidden gem in the heart of Los Angeles, Echo Park Lake offers a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle. You can take a leisurely walk, enjoy a picnic, or simply admire the downtown skyline reflecting on the water. The beautiful lotus blossoms, especially during their bloom season, make it one of the best spots in LA to relax.

10. Walt Disney Concert Hall

While attending a concert might come with a fee, touring the exteriors of this architectural marvel is free! The Walt Disney Concert Hall, with its striking stainless steel curves, is an iconic piece of Los Angeles’ skyline. You can stroll around, enjoy its garden, or participate in one of the self-guided audio tours to learn about its history and design. It’s a fun way to engage with LA’s architectural prowess, right in downtown.

11. Bradbury Building

One of the most significant architectural landmarks in Los Angeles, the Bradbury Building exudes a blend of art, history, and architecture. Featured in many films and TV shows, its stunning interiors with wrought ironwork and open cage elevators are accessible for free. Located in downtown LA, it’s a must-visit for history and architecture buffs.

12. The Last Bookstore

Bookworms will find their haven at The Last Bookstore, located in downtown Los Angeles. This cool bookstore, apart from housing a vast collection of books, also features unique art installations made entirely of books! Wandering through its archways and tunnels of books is a fun thing to do, and it’s completely free.

13. Topanga State Park

For nature lovers, Topanga State Park is a paradise. Spread across 11,000 acres, it’s the world’s largest wildland within a city’s boundaries. Offering numerous trails, it’s the best spot for hiking, bird watching, and soaking in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. While located slightly away from downtown, the drive is scenic and absolutely worth it.

14. Korean Bell of Friendship

Gifted by South Korea to commemorate the US Bicentennial, the Korean Bell of Friendship stands as a symbol of friendship and peace. The intricately designed bell and its pavilion offer a peaceful space to relax and admire views of the Los Angeles Harbor. It’s a unique spot to learn a bit about international friendships and enjoy free cultural things to do.

15. LA Farmers Market

A blend of history and gastronomy awaits at the LA Farmers Market. Established in 1934, this market boasts a diverse range of food stalls, boutiques, and artisanal stores. While buying might cost you, the experience of wandering through its historic aisles, sampling, and people-watching is absolutely free and fun!

16. Chinatown Central Plaza

Experience a slice of Asian culture right in downtown Los Angeles. The Chinatown Central Plaza, with its vibrant colors, traditional architecture, and numerous things to do, is a free haven for cultural exploration. From Chinese New Year celebrations to moon festivals, it’s a hub of energy and culture.

17. Angels Flight Railway

While riding the railway comes with a nominal fee, watching these historic funiculars in action and enjoying the surrounding area is free. Located in downtown, this railway offers a nostalgic trip back in time and is a favorite among both locals and tourists.

18. Malibu Lagoon State Beach

Known for its pristine beauty, Malibu Lagoon State Beach offers picturesque views of the Pacific. This coastal gem is not only a top spot for sunbathing and surfing, but also a sanctuary for birdwatchers, given its rich birdlife. The iconic Malibu Pier nearby is another free attraction, perfect for a leisurely stroll.

19. OUE Skyspace Observation Deck

While the slide itself has an admission fee, the observation deck offers panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles for free. The cityscape from this vantage point, especially during sunset, is a sight to behold, making it a cool place to snap some memorable photos.

20. Getty Center

Perched on a hilltop, the Getty Center boasts stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and an impressive collection of art. The tram ride to the center offers a fun glimpse of the city below. Although parking has a fee, entrance to the Getty Center is free, making it one of the best cultural things to do in LA.

21. Silver Lake Reservoir

A haven for joggers, dog walkers, and nature lovers, the Silver Lake Reservoir is a peaceful spot away from the hustle of downtown LA. Its 2.2-mile path is perfect for a relaxed walk while taking in views of the water and surrounding homes.

22. Watts Towers

An iconic set of 17 interconnected structures, Watts Towers represents the spirit of LA’s artistic community. Built over 33 years by Simon Rodia, this architectural masterpiece is adorned with a mosaic of glass, tile, and shells. It’s a testament to individual creativity and a unique free attraction in Los Angeles.

23. Grand Park

Located in the heart of downtown, Grand Park is a vibrant space that spans 12 acres. With its pink benches, majestic fountains, and frequent community events, it’s a fun spot to relax, picnic, or participate in group things to do. The view of City Hall, especially at night, is particularly enchanting.

24. Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery

During summer months, Cinespia hosts free movie screenings at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. It’s a unique LA thing to do where you can watch classic films under the stars surrounded by the tombstones of Hollywood legends. Just remember to arrive early for the best spots!

25. Point Fermin Lighthouse

This historic lighthouse, located on the southernmost point of Los Angeles, offers the best breathtaking views of the coastline. The surrounding park is an ideal place for picnicking, while the lighthouse itself, built in 1874, provides a glimpse into the maritime history of the area.

FAQs