There are two types of people in this world: those that loathe planning for their birthday and those that treat their special day like a national holiday (it is, by the way). Whether you like to keep things low-key and intimate or you revel in the idea of a big birthday bash, there’s no better place to celebrate than in the City of Angels. From captivating concerts to flying trapeze classes to wine tasting, this is your ultimate guide to all the unforgettable birthday ideas in Los Angeles.
1. Go Dining in the Dark with your favorite foodie
When thinking up plans to celebrate your special day, a dinner in a snazzy restaurant has probably sprung to mind. But if you’re on the lookout for something more exciting than the typical b’day meal out, Dining in the Dark is here to make all your birthday wishes come true.
Once you and your fellow gastronome slip on your blindfolds, your taste buds will set out on a culinary adventure as they work overtime to determine the mouthwatering flavors and textures of a delicious three-course meal. Put your palate to the test and find out how good food can really taste inside some of L.A.’s finest eateries such as City Club LA and Verse.
🎟️ Find out more about the one-of-a-kind Dining in the Dark experience in L.A. here.
2. Karaoke your heart out in Koreatown
If you’re still not sure what to do for your birthday this year, here’s a classic Los Angeles birthday idea: channeling your inner Whitney at a karaoke bar in the heart of K-town. Whether you’re ready to serenade strangers or you’d rather book a private room for your friends, karaoke is always a great time.
For a private room, we recommend the local favorite, Gaam Karaoke, while Cafe Brass Monkey is our top choice for belting out in public — the song selection is extensive and the crowd is always ready to sing along.
đź“Ť Locations:
- Brass Monkey: 3440 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90010
- Gaam Karaoke: 3309 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90020
3. Experience the magic of a Candlelight concert
Finish out your birthday celebrations with a magical, romantic evening at an enchanting Candlelight concert. These soulful performances are hosted in awe-inspiring venues across the city, and the combination of soaring sounds and a captivating ambiance will leave you feeling incredibly inspired.
Each concert focuses on different theme — from tributes to jazz legends and timeless composers to rock bonds. Make this birthday one for the books with an otherworldly concert you’ll never forget.
🎟️ Grab your tickets to this series of mesmerizing Candlelight concerts in L.A. here.
4. Blow off some steam with a lively afternoon of axe-throwing
Los Angeles offers an exciting variety of unique axe throwing venues perfect for a raucous birthday celebration. Popular spots include AxeVentures in Hollywood and the horror-themed Slashers in Costa Mesa. We’re especially partial to Hatchet Hound, which operates out of Arts District Brewing Co. and Brewport Taphouse. Prices generally range around $30-40 per person for an hour.
5. Head to Solvang for a day (or two) of wine tasting
We know it’s not technically Los Angeles, but anyone who’s lived here long enough knows that incredible day trips are part and parcel of this city’s unbeatable allure. If you’re feeling like getting out of the city for a day (or two), Solvang couldn’t be more perfect for celebrating your birthday.
Just a short 2 hours and 45 minutes from the city, this charming little town founded by Danish immigrants in 1911 has an amazing line-up of wineries waiting for you to experience. Don’t miss out Rideau Vineyard, a beautiful winery that focuses on small-lot wines from grapes that are hand-harvested from their estate. Clink glasses under the sun as you cheers to another fabulous year around the sun.
đź“Ť Location: Rideau Vineyard: 1562 Alamo Pintado Rd, Solvang, CA 93463
6. Get lost in We Call It Tango’s authentic dance show
All of the passion, romance, and fire embedded in Argentina’s famous art form is being put on display at We Call It Tango in L.A. Find your seat and spend a memorable hour of your birthday watching professional dancers and musicians bring one of the most influential dances and genres of music to life.
đź“Ť Location: Zipper Concert Hall –Â 200 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, 90012
7. Bottomless Mimosas Drag Queen Brunch at Hamburger Mary’s
If you happen to be celebrating your special day on a Sunday, there’s no better way to kick off the festivities than by downing bottomless mimosas at Hamburger Mary’s legendary Drag Queen Brunch. Birthday parties get treated with extra special treatment at Hamburger Mary’s, so you’ll want to come prepared for a little bit of mayhem and a whole lot of magic.
Fair warning: these Sunday bonanzas get booked up fairly quickly, so you’ll want to make a reservation (reach for the VIP reservations to get a table right at the main stage). Get ready to celebrate like a queen with the best queens in town.
đź“Ť Location: 8288 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90046
8. Laugh it up at a comedy club
What’s a birthday without a bit of fun and laughter? L.A. is teeming with top comedy clubs that have hosted famous comedians from around the world including Eric Andre, Bill Burr and Tiffany Haddish. The Comedy Store is one of the city’s most famous comedy joints and tickets cost as little as $25. The Laugh Factory and Jam In The Van are also known to host comedy legends as well as up-and-coming-talent that’ll split your sides from laughter.
9. Blow out your candles at a top L.A. restaurant
L.A. has one of the most diverse dining scenes in the US. The city is a melting pot of cultures and traditions reflected in its delicious food. Mexican eateries like MĂrate serve up authentic enchiladas, ceviches and tacos, while top sushi spots including 715 Sushi take diners all the way to Tokyo with nigiri, sashimi and more.
If you’re planning on celebrating your big day with a group of friends, then head to Bar Chelou. They have a range of tasty bite-sized dishes including boquerones and scallop tartare as well as a spectacular selection of cheeses and meats.
10. Embark on a Mystery Picnic in L.A.
Solve clues, crack codes and decipher riddles on this fun-filled adventure featuring a delicious gourmet picnic as your grand b-day prize. Hidden away in a secret spot in L.A., this fabulous picnic awaits, but first you and your friends will have to work together to find the location.
This series of mystery picnics takes you on a tour of some of the city’s coolest areas, allowing you to see the city as you figure out the next step and indulge in picnic delights with your nearest and dearest.
🎟️ Find out more about Mystery Picnics in L.A. here.
11. Bust out your skates at Moonlight Rollerway
Take a step back in time at the iconic Moonlight Rollerway in Glendale for a good dose of throwback hits, disco lighting and immaculate retro vibes overall. Open since 1956, Moonlight Rollerway has been perfecting the funky, fun ambience of the roller rink for over 60 years.
Grab your skates (even if you’re a tad wobbly), round up your crew, and celebrate your birthday in all its glory as you groove your way around the rink.
đź“Ť Location: 5110 San Fernando Rd, Glendale, CA 91204
12. Take a multi-sensory art workshop
As Doja Cat once said: “I let all that get to my head, I don’t care, I paint the town neon”. Neon Brush is a creative art workshop that encourages attendees to let their creativity shine. With every brush stroke, your masterpiece will come to life with the bright colors and radiant tones from the paints provided.
The fluorescent ambiance combined with funky tunes stimulate creativity and encourage even the most hesitant of hands to paint outside the box, and even more so with a drink in your hand! Additionally, an expert will be on hand to offer guidance, ensuring that every attendee can explore their artistic potential to the fullest.Â
🎟️ Find out more about Neon Brush in LA.
13. Get tickets to this month’s most highly-anticipated concerts
Music lovers are lucky to enjoy a fantastic lineup of big-name concerts every single month in Los Angeles. No matter when your birthday falls this year, you’ll easily find an exciting show that caters to your and your friend group’s taste. From seasonal events at the Hollywood Bowl to a fancy night out at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, there’s always a good one coming up.
14. Watch mesmerizing pole dancing at Jumbo’s Clown Room
Everyone remembers their first Jumbo’s. Reveling in the hypnotic dancing at this cozy, intimate haven is a core memory for every Angeleno. Don’t let the photos fool you — Jumbo’s isn’t your average strip club. In fact, we wouldn’t call it a strip club at all. It’s a one-stage “bikini bar” where you go to experience, enjoy and yes, throw down your dollars, for the mesmerizing art of pole dancing.
Jumbo’s is known for having some of the best dancing in the city, feeling more like a performance art space than a club. There’s no cover, but it’s likely you’ll be met with a long line snaking out the door. Don’t let it dissuade you — it’s worth the wait.
đź“Ť Location: 5153 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
15. Travel back in time at this 1950s-style diner
From the decor to the furniture and even the menu, this diner serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a unique 1950s fashion. CafĂ© 50’s is one of the most iconic themed restaurants you can enjoy in the city, and they also offer the option to customize their menu for special occasions like your birthday!
đź“Ť Location:Â 11623 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025
16. Book a luxurious spa day
Follow up your wild night out with a luxurious day of rest and relaxation. Getting pampered on your birthday is always a good idea, and L.A. has no shortage of spas to treat yourself. You can opt for a more laidback and budget-friendly experience at Wi Spa, where the notorious body scrubs will leave your skin feeling like a newborn baby’s.
17. Celebrate in style on the water at Marina del Rey
If there’s one thing Angelenos take for granted, it’s access to the beaches and marinas along the coast. With so much buzz happening all around the city, we sometimes forget that one of the greatest facets of this city is the big, beautiful ocean.
While you can always opt for a beach day, celebrate your next birthday in style by booking a sailboat cruise, a catamaran or a yacht at Marina del Rey. Choose your adventure at Marina Del Rey’s Tourism Board to take your birthday celebrations to the next level.
đź“ŤLocation: 13524 Bali Way, Marina Del Rey, CA 90292
18. Take a trapeze class at the Santa Monica Pier
Thrill-seekers and adventure junkies, this one’s for you. Try something new (or sharpen your skills) by taking a flying trapeze class at the Santa Monica Pier. Perfect for beginners and experienced acrobats alike, this trapeze school offers classes in flying trapeze, static trapeze, trampoline, lyra and silks and rope.
What better way to celebrate your birthday than by gracefully flying against the backdrop of the ocean? You may just find your new obsession.
đź“ŤLocation: 370 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
19. Toast to another year at one of L.A.’s best bars
Craft cocktails, cask ales and bottles of bubbly – what more could you ask for on your birthday? There’s no shortage of snazzy bars in L.A., and they make for a great meeting spot to kick off b’day celebrations with your nearest and dearest in.
ApothĂ©ke and The Let’s Go! Disco & Cocktail Club are your best bet if you’re looking for off-the-wall cocktails in a vibey setting. For beer lovers, the 83-year-old All Seasons Brewing is a historic brewery that allows you to make your own beer right on-site.
đź“ŤLocations:
- Apothéke: 1746 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
- The Let’s Go! Disco & Cocktail Club: 710 E 4th Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90013
- All Seasons Brewing: 800 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
20. Indulge your sweet tooth at a chocolate shop
Birthdays are nothing without a little chocolate. Whether it’s a decadent chocolate fudge cake or a bountiful box of bonbons, chocolate is the best gift you can treat yourself to on your big day. Dotted around the city, there’s loads of chocolate shops that worship all the yummy goodness of the cocoa bean.
ChocoVivo and Edelweiss are some of the classic chocolate temples overflowing with tasty treats, from award-winning truffles to chocolate-covered candy that looks like something from Willy Wonka’s wildest dreams.
đź“ŤLocations:
- ChocoVivo, 12469 Washington Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066
- Edelweiss: 444 N Canon Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
21. Top up on some knowledge at a museum or art gallery on your b’day
How’d you like your art? Contemporary? Abstract? Ancient? No matter what you’re into, L.A. has a ton of galleries and free museums to explore. So if partying isn’t your thing, why not head to one of the city’s many educational treasure troves that are home to some of the finest art and artifacts in the world.
The Broad houses over 2,000 works of art and admission is completely free, but be sure to book your slot before you go. Consider yourself a science nerd? California Science Center has permanent exhibitions including the iconic Endeavour space shuttle and it’s completely free to enter!
22. Catch a movie on the big screen
Day and night, movie stars and Hollywood elites roam L.A. Ask a local Angeleno, and it’s likely they’ve rubbed shoulders with the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio and Angelina Jolie at some point in their life. To celebrate the last 365 days of your life, why not enjoy a classic L.A. pastime and head to your local movie theater with your friends?
New Beverly Cinema and El Capitan are some of the famous movie theaters in the city that screen Hollywood cult classics as well as new blockbusters from the likes of Pixar and Marvel.
đź“ŤLocations:
- New Beverly Cinema: 7165 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
- El Capitan: 6838 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
23. Take the celebrations to an outdoor b-day brunch
Toast to getting another year older with a bubbly mimosa in hand at one of L.A.’s top outdoor brunch spots. When the weather decides to behave, soaking in the sunshine and indulging in breakfast delights in the outdoors is the perfect way to kick off the b-day celebrations.
Fia in Santa Monica and République in Mid City are some of our fav brunch joints with plenty of food options and cozy outdoor patios. Expect breakfast burritos, pastries, pancakes, waffles, and lots and lots of mimosas.
đź“ŤLocations:
- Fia: 2454 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90403
- RĂ©publique: 624 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036
24. Take one of these scenic day trips from Los Angeles
For those who love a memorable experience rather than material items on their birthday, these day trip ideas from L.A. are a great place to start. Whether you seek a beach day in Malibu, an island hike on Catalina, or some sight-seeing in San Juan Capistrano, we’ve got a good mix for every type of friend group.Â
25. Celebrate with a paintball war
If you’re a fan of action and adrenaline, you won’t want to miss the chance to experience your own real-life version of Call of Duty at one of the many paintball fields around Los Angeles. With different settings and props, these places are ideal for both experienced and amateur shooters.
26. Take a swing at a mini-golf course
This idea is a hole in one (pun intended). If you enjoy doing some sports but not too vigorously, and pizza is one of your favorite foods, then you won’t want to miss the chance to play a round of mini-golf with your friends. Los Angeles has plenty of options to offer, from places with virtual parks to huge, professionally designed, and even themed mini-golf courses, so you can feel like Tiger Woods. Plus, most places offer special packages for birthday celebrations!
27. Challenge your friends in an arcade showdown
Are you a fan of vintage video games (and even the newer ones)? Then the perfect option for you is to dust off your joystick at one of the many arcades Los Angeles has to offer. Plus, some places like Dave & Buster’s even offer a $10 birthday reward, making your visit even more fun and budget-friendly!
Table hockey, fighting games, shooters, and the iconic, legendary pinball machines—whatever you want to try, you’ll find it at these spots. Plus, most places offer delicious snack options for those celebrating another trip around the sun.
28. Feel like a kid again at one of these theme parks
Disney adults, this one is for you! Even though we’re all grown-ups here, we all know the incredible power of nostalgia. And what better way to succumb to its grip than by celebrating your day at a theme park? Whether you’re a Disney or Universal fan or just interested in the Ferris wheel at Santa Monica Pier, you’ll find adrenaline and fun guaranteed here.
29. “Channel your inner cowboy on a horseback ride
If you’re looking to slow down the pace of everyday life, reconnect with nature, and discover Los Angeles and its surroundings from a different perspective than just walking or a scenic drive, then try a dream horseback ride. From the Hollywood sign to the coast and the mountains, there are plenty of options to book a ride on your special day, for you, your friends, and family.
30. Explore the wonders of the sea while snorkeling with friends
Adventurers and ocean enthusiasts, hear me out! Sometimes visiting a hidden beach and swimming in an amazing, huge pool just isn’t enough for outdoor lovers. If this rings any bells for you, then you’ll want to try snorkeling. Near Los Angeles, there are plenty of spots where the water is calm, crystal-clear, and deep enough for you to enjoy seeing wildlife up close with your group of friends.
31. Reconnect with your artistic side in a pottery class
Imagine celebrating your birthday and receiving a handcrafted gift made exclusively for you on the same day… That’s what can happen if you spend your special day with friends taking a pottery class. In addition to learning a new skill and reconnecting with your artistic side, you’ll get the luxury of receiving a mug, a vase, or any creation that comes from your friends’ imagination, all made just for you.
32. Experience the magic of shooting stars
If you prefer the great outdoors and you’re a night owl, seriously consider celebrating your birthday camping or glamping site while stargazing. Throughout the year, the night sky offers incredible shows like the Orionids and the Perseids, which you can easily see, photograph, or check out with your telescope.
33. Drive to Malibu to celebrate your b-day with a sunset
While the city offers amazing sunsets, nothing beats watching the day end on the beach. Just grab your friends, hop in the car, and enjoy a scenic drive along the PCH until you reach Malibu (or Matador Beach if you prefer). It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with nature and snap some incredible photos.
Written by Andrea Alonso and Jamie Ferrell. Edited by SofĂa Delpueche.