Free Things to Do in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has plenty of options for budget travelers! Visit museums, listen to music, glimpse into outer space, and visit cultural attractions without even opening your wallet! Whatever you’re looking for, the Entertainment Capital of the World has something for you!

1. Fowler Museum at UCLA

The Fowler Museum holds 150,000 artistic and 600,000 archaeological pieces from Asia, Africa, Oceania, and Latin and pre-Columbian America. Explore the arts, clothing, and lifestyles of diverse groups from around the world!

2. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Over 2,000 artists from film, theatre, television and music have been immortalized with a brass, terrazzo star on Hollywood Boulevard. Walk along the Walk of Fame and pay homage to the many stars who’ve defined the culture of LA and America.

3. Griffith Observatory

Los Angeles’ famous Griffith observatory is one of the country’s foremost public observatories. Check out the astronomy museum and look through the Zeiss telescope to see deep into outer space, all for free! Sitting 1,134 feet above sea level, Griffith is visible from most of the city.

4. La Brea Tar Pits

Explore one of the country’s most famous fossil sites at the La Brea Tar Pits. This site saw the discovery of thousands of fossilized bones from 400 species of animals, including giant sloths and wooly mammoths.

5. California Science Center

Los Angeles’ science museum immerses visitors in scientific subjects such as space travel, ecosystems, and basic life processes. The whole family will find something to suit their interest at this diverse collection of science exhibits! The Center also houses a seven-story IMAX theatre, though there is an admission cost for screenings.

6. Farmer’s Market

Not only is LA’s original farmers market a great place to shop for local foods, but through the summer it doubles as a music venue! Come Thursdays and Fridays to enjoy some the city’s best jazz, swing, and Latin music.

7. Hollywood Sign

This immortal sign is the most recognizable symbol of Los Angeles. Though the site itself is closed to the public, there are several great viewing areas, including Beachwood Canyon and Gower Boulevard. No trip to LA is complete without a good look at this national landmark.

8. Banning Museum

This museum, a beautiful Greek revival building, is former home of Phineas Banning, father of the Los Angeles harbor. It currently houses a wide range of American art and artifacts, from dolls and fans to furniture and carriages.

9. Griffith Park

With over 4,000 acres, LA’s Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Go hiking, biking or running through wooded trails, or check out the park’s golf courses, horse rides, and train rides.