In Los Angeles, scheduling a solid cry session is basically part of the lifestyle. Whether it’s due to soul-crushing traffic, your rent going up again, or discovering yet another parking ticket on your windshield, emotional meltdowns aren’t just common in L.A. They’re kind of inevitable.
Rather than sobbing alone in your car or drowning your feelings in a tub of ice cream, consider embracing the catharsis in a more intentional way. The city has some surprisingly great spots to ugly cry in peace. Maybe you’ll even feel better afterward.
Here are some of the very best places in the city to let it all out. (And if you’re looking for a great playlist to encourage the tears to fall, check out our Spotify playlist of Angelenos’ favorite songs to cry to.)
1. Top Parking Lot at The Grove
It might sound a little odd, but give it a shot before you judge. No one’s going to bat an eye at your tears here. They’re all too busy battling for a parking spot. And once you make it to the top of the structure, you’re rewarded with one of the best views in the city. It’s perfect for reflecting on that latest rejection (or just catching your breath).
2. Amir’s Garden
You’ll have to trek a bit to reach this tucked-away garden in Griffith Park, but it’s a serious upgrade from yet another tearful escape to the office bathroom. Shaded by towering trees and almost always quiet, it’s the kind of peaceful spot that makes your meltdown feel almost meditative.
3. Will Rogers State Beach
You might spot a few folks lounging nearby, but it’s nothing compared to the packed chaos down at the Santa Monica Pier. The steady crash of the waves makes the perfect background noise for a private sob session. And if you’re lucky, a curious seagull or two might swing by to offer some emotional support.
4. Swan Boats in Echo Park
You’ll see the usual crowd soaking up that classic L.A. sunshine at the park, but once you paddle out to the middle of the lake, it’s just you, the water, and your feelings. There’s something oddly therapeutic about working your quads while simultaneously clearing out your tear ducts.
5. Vista Hermosa Natural Park
Even if you’re not truly sad, but still want to partake in a moderate weeping session, this is the place to do it. If the adorable golden retriever rolling around in the grass, living its best life, doesn’t get you going, then the amazing view of the city you can’t afford to live in surely will.
6. James Irvine Japanese Garden
Tucked away between the smog and skyscrapers, this serene little hideout lets you momentarily forget you’re in the heart of Downtown. The James Irvine Japanese Garden is so peaceful, you might need to keep your sobs on the subtle side, unless dramatic crying in public is your thing. Time it right, and you could catch a live concert in the garden, giving you the perfect excuse to blame your tears on an exceptionally moving cello solo.
7. Secret Stairwells
Timing is everything. If you’re one of those emotionally disciplined folks (teach us your ways), planning your visit to the stairs during off-hours can seriously pay off. There’s just something about stairs. They practically invite a good cry. With built-in seating for dramatic knee-hugging and the added bonus of a glute workout, it’s a win-win. Feeling inspired? Check out our list of secret stairs and pick your ideal sob-spot.