Los Angeles is home to multi-million-dollar mansions, and custom-made cars worth more than small islands. But the city is way more than luxury attractions and, luckily, there are many ways to enjoy this bustling coastal paradise that won’t bankrupt you. The activities listed here require little to no planning and are very budget-friendly (or shall we say no budget at all?)… Whether you’re a frugal wanderer or just like to save a few bucks each week, here’s our list of the best free things to do in Los Angeles.
1. Visit these museums and galleries
Explore the world’s top cultural institutions with this guide to free museums and galleries in L.A., and find out how to visit the rest without spending a dime. With a bit of planning, you can catch some of the best exhibits in the city.
Be sure to check out the free museum days some venues offer, or use your L.A. Library card to enjoy free entry all year long!”
2. Explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Is there anything more iconic in L.A. than Hollywood? Exploring the Hollywood Walk of Fame is an absolute must and one of the best things to do in Los Angeles for free. Take a straddle down this iconic boulevard and marvel at the stars beneath your feet, from Marilyn Monroe to Michael Jackson, it’s a stroll through cultural history. Don’t miss the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Dolby Theatre, home to the Oscars.
3. Visit the Santa Monica Pier and beach
Take a leisurely straddle along the iconic Santa Monica pier, where fun-filled attractions like the Pacific Park amusement park and the historic carousel await. And once you had enough adrenaline, sink your toes into the sandy shores of Santa Monica Beach, perfect for sunbathing and beach volleyball. Plus, explore many other free things to do, such as watching street performers or simply admiring the sunset over the horizon.
4. Have a picnic at the Hollywood Bowl
Indulge in a delightful picnic experience at the iconic Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, one of the coolest places to visit in Los Angeles for free. Spread out your blanket under the stars and immerse yourself in the magic of live music at one of the world’s most renowned outdoor amphitheaters. As you savor your meal, enjoy breathtaking views of the Hollywood Hills and the iconic Hollywood Sign.
5. Surf, swim, or just chill at the beach
Spend your day under the California sun, swimming, surfing, or simply soaking in the Pacific coast’s beauty. With miles of coastline to explore, a beach day in LA is a must for locals and visitors alike. Enjoy free activities like strolling along boardwalks, watching skateboarders at Venice’s famous skate park, or immersing yourself in the vibrant beach culture. If you’re looking for free things to do in Los Angeles, that are also in the outdoors, you can’t miss the beach!
6. Check out the street art in the city
Discover the vibrant street art scene in Los Angeles, where every corner holds a masterpiece waiting to be admired. Don’t miss the iconic “Angel Wings” by Colette Miller or the captivating murals in the DTLA Arts District. As you wander through the city streets, you’ll encounter an eclectic mix of styles and themes that showcase the creativity of LA’s artists. Experiencing street art is one of the many free things to do in Los Angeles, offering a budget-friendly way to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture.
7. Take a hike at Runyon Canyon
Nestled just blocks from Hollywood Boulevard, Runyon Canyon Park offers stunning urban vistas. It features multiple trails, attracting celebrities for workouts. Expect palm-lined paths and sweeping valley panoramas. Hikers are advised to bring water and opting for cooler times. Some wish for more facilities, but many praise the views.
8. Explore Griffith Park
Trek to the Griffith Observatory for sweeping views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign. Explore the park’s trails for an invigorating outdoor experience. Visit the charming Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round or explore the historic remnants of the Griffith Park Zoo. Enjoy complimentary activities like picnicking and birdwatching. Griffith Park promises boundless opportunities for relaxation and discovery. So pack a picnic, lace up your hiking boots, and immerse yourself in nature’s wonders.
9. Hike to one of these hidden swimming holes around L.A.
Just like traffic, hiking in L.A. is an unavoidable part of life, and the best way to motivate yourself is with a refreshing reward at the end of it. From icy mountain pools to inviting hot springs, here are all the swimming spots you can cool off in for free.
10. Catch an unbeatable L.A. Sunset
There’s nothing better than L.A.’s array of arresting natural landscapes and mesmerizing lines of architectural landmarks, except seeing them bathed in the golden haze of a sunset. Witnessing “magic hour” is an essential ritual in this city and is also absolutely free. Pick a spot from our list of 10 best places to catch a sunset here.
11. Take a romantic stroll along The Venice Canals
Photo by Stephen Leonardi on Unsplash
Wander through the canals lined with million-dollar homes, dotted with swaying palms and decorated with picturesque bridges. It’s a slice of Italy with a modern California twist and won’t cost you a dime to explore. If you feel inclined to splash out, you can always hire a SUP or canoe and glide over the water while taking in a sunset.
12. Take in free jazz at LACMA
What better way to appreciate the iconic Urban Light installation outside LACMA than with soothing jazz music in the background? Every Friday from April through November, talented local musicians will be honoring the finest jazz musicians in front of this glowing outdoor piece by artist Chris Burden. It’s the ultimate free musical and cultural fix.
13. Unwind in the serene setting of the Japanese Garden
Explore over 6 acres of verdant peacefulness at the stunning Japanese Garden. Doctor Koichi Kawana managed to create this sprawling haven of paths, ponds, trees, and blooms, which is the best medicine for fatigued city souls. The gardens are also known as SuihoEn, which means “garden of water and fragrance” in Japanese. And although this heavenly place was solely created with reclaimed wastewater from the sewer system, there’d be no way of knowing unless you were told. You can visit for free, but you’ll need to make a reservation online around ten days in advance. Find out more here.
14. Do a walking tour at The Original Farmers Market
Step into the bustling ambiance of The Original Farmers Market, a beloved landmark in Los Angeles. Indulge in a culinary adventure as you sample gourmet treats and fresh produce from local vendors. Explore the diverse array of shops offering everything from artisanal cheeses to international cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch live music performances or seasonal events, providing entertainment for all ages. The Original Farmers Market offers a vibrant and budget-friendly experience and is a great free thing to do in Los Angeles if you’re up for a stroll.
15. Dare to visit the home of Mike Myers
Los Angeles is the mecca of world cinema and, for that reason, you can find hundreds if not thousands of famous movie locations, out in the open. One of them is the iconic home where Mike Myers, the Halloween killer, lived. To see this home sweet home, just head down to South Pasadena, at 1000 Mission St., in the heart of the city.
16. See where celebrities rest at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Explore this historical gem in Los Angeles brimming with cinematic heritage. Wander among the serene grounds, adorned with ornate mausoleums and famous tombstones, where Hollywood legends find their eternal rest. Take a self-guided tour to discover notable grave sites, including those of Judy Garland and Douglas Fairbanks. Don’t miss the free movie screenings under the stars, a cherished tradition celebrating film and culture. With its rich history and complimentary events, the cemetery offers a unique experience for those seeking free things to do in Los Angeles.
17. Explore the oldest house in L.A.
Built in 1818 by Francisco José Ávila, this house embodies early Spanish-Mexican cultural heritage, and it’s, in fact, the first house ever built in the city. Located at Olvera Street, you can visit this iconic place every day for free, from 9 am to 4 pm, and check out its furnished interior with authentic decorations and furniture from the XIX century.
18. Go catch some waves
The beaches of Los Angeles are iconic not only for their beauty but also for their amazing waves! Whether you’re an expert surfer or just an amateur, heading out to surf in the city and its surroundings is an ideal plan that won’t require you to spend your precious savings since access to the beaches is free.
19. See the most beautiful sunsets
If you’re looking for stuff to do in L.A. for free, nothing beats watching a magnificent fiery sunset over the city. Surrounded by mountains and perched on the edge of the Pacific, Los Angeles offers epic sunsets that paint the sky in a vibrant array of reds, oranges, and more colors than you can imagine.
20. Indulge in street food at a nigh market
Looking for free activities in L.A.? Then it’s a good idea to venture out to one of the many night markets in the city. Most of them offer free admission and allow you to browse and enjoy the foods and goods offered by the vendors here. Now, when it comes to indulging in any of their delights, you’ll have to pay, of course!
21. Go roller skating around the city
If you already have a pair of roller skates (in-line or quads) or can borrow a pair, one of the best free activities in Los Angeles is exploring the city while roller skating. Despite being car-focused, L.A. offers plenty of spaces perfect for skating. From beachside boardwalks to quiet streets away from downtown, roller skating is a great way to get some exercise and discover the city.
22. Visit Hollywood’s Celebrity Graves
If you don’t have the budget to hang out at trendy spots for celebrity spotting, why not try your luck with a more guaranteed option by visiting famous stars who’ve passed away? Los Angeles is the city where stars are born and where many make their final exit, leaving behind gravestones admired by thousands of fans each year. It’s an unconventional outing that will definitely leave an impression.
23. Explore Chinatown’s charm and uniqueness
If you’re looking for a laid-back afternoon walking around and discovering hidden gems of Chinese architecture and culture, you’ve got to check out this neighborhood. Well-connected, central, and compact, it’s perfect for a budget-friendly outing, snapping some photos, or simply exploring a corner of the city you might not have had on your radar.
24. Break a sweat and catch some views at these hidden stairs
In addition to the ocean, one of the best things about Los Angeles is its mountains, and the elevated spots they offer, which give you unique sunset views and stunning city skylines. To experience this, try climbing the many secret stairs scattered around the city, it’s a great workout, too!
25. Stroll through a huge rose garden at Exposition Park
What better way to enjoy the sunshine we have year-round, especially in spring and summer, than with a dose of nature and fragrant flowers? At Exposition Park, you can visit seven acres filled with all kinds of roses in every color—and the best part? It’s free to enter.
26. Relax while reading one of the over 300,000 free eBooks from the California State Library
Whether you’re lounging on your couch, chilling under the shade of a tree in a park, or basking in the sun on the sand, you can enjoy hundreds of thousands of digitalized literary titles from the California Library. With just your email, you can sign up for the California Bookshelf service and access books in genres ranging from thrillers to science fiction. Discover more here.
See more: Check out all the exciting things to do in Los Angeles