Night owls, listen up! There are plenty of things to do in Los Angeles at night. Move over NYC — this is the city that never sleeps. From late-night street food to theme parks, boardwalk strolls and an observatory where you can gaze at the stars, you’ll never be short of activities!
1. Believe it… or not
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Hollywood is a late-night museum of the bizarre, packed with over 300 interactive exhibits and oddities across 15 themed galleries. It features everything from shrunken heads and vampire-killing kits to celebrity memorabilia like Marilyn Monroe’s personal items and Star Wars sculptures made from scrap. Open until midnight on weekends, its neon-lit exterior and central location near other major attractions make it a must-see part of any Hollywood night out.
2. Stargaze at Griffith Observatory
It’s a magical nighttime experience where visitors can gaze through historic telescopes, enjoy sweeping views of the LA skyline, and explore space-themed exhibits—all for free. Open Tuesday through Sunday until 10 p.m., the Observatory features public telescope viewing (weather permitting), immersive planetarium shows, and interactive displays about astronomy.
3. Check out El Capitan Theatre
Known for its lavish interior, live stage shows, and the iconic “Mighty Wurlitzer” organ, it offers a unique blend of old-Hollywood glamour and modern Disney magic. The theater hosts world premieres, themed events, and late-night screenings, making it a standout destination on Hollywood Boulevard. Its glowing marquee and location near major landmarks like the Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre add to its appeal as a vibrant, must-see nighttime attraction.
4. Stroll down City Walk
Universal CityWalk Hollywood is a vibrant, neon-lit outdoor entertainment district next to Universal Studios, offering a dynamic mix of themed restaurants, bars, live music, shopping, and a state-of-the-art movie theater. Perfect for a night out, it features everything from Italian and Mexican cuisine to over-the-top desserts, plus street performers, seasonal events, and photo-worthy décor like a spinning globe and dancing fountains. Open late and free to enter (with paid parking).
5. Laugh it up
The Comedy Store and Laugh Factory are two of Los Angeles’ most iconic comedy clubs, known for their late-night shows, electric atmospheres, and surprise appearances by top-tier comedians and celebrities. Located on the Sunset Strip, The Comedy Store has a rich history dating back to 1972 and features multiple performance spaces showcasing a mix of experimental acts and headliners. The Laugh Factory, also on Sunset Boulevard, is celebrated for its diverse lineups and inclusive vibe.
6. Enjoy a Candlelight concert
There’s nothing more magical than a Candlelight concert in L.A. Surrounded by thousands of candles, you can enjoy classical interpretations of every genre, from Pop to Rock, Jazz and Reggaeton. As talented musicians play, you can also take in the gorgeous venues. They’re often outdoors and take place in the evening so you can enjoy the sunset or the night sky.
7. Explore the lively Venice Beach
Venice Beach Boardwalk comes alive after dark with a unique blend of energy, artistry, and coastal charm. From the iconic Muscle Beach gym and the ever-busy skatepark to peaceful strolls along the Venice Pier, the area offers a vibrant mix of sights and sounds. Street performers, live music, and rotating graffiti at the Venice Art Walls add to the eclectic atmosphere, while quirky shops and food trucks stay open late, serving up everything from tacos to vegan bites.
8. Turn up the volume with We call it Jazz
We Call It Jazz is a toe-tapping tribute to the soul of New Orleans, where smoky brass, syncopated beats, and smooth improvisation light up the Historic Glendale Theatre. This vibrant, one-hour experience channels the golden age of jazz in a speakeasy-style setting, complete with cocktails available to purchase, mood lighting, and seriously talented musicians.
9. Sip in style
This one might be a bit obvious but Los Angeles has some of the best bars in the world. Whether you’re looking for a tiki bar for a good Mai Tai, a rooftop bar to enjoy the evening air or a cocktail bar to feel fancy, it’s all here!
10. Delve into drone art
Step into a dreamlike night of music and wonder at the DroneArt Show in L.A., where over 500 glowing drones dance above you in perfect harmony with sweeping classical scores like The Four Seasons and Swan Lake. Held under the stars at a candlelit open-air venue, this magical experience blends the beauty of live orchestral performance with sky-high artistry, creating an unforgettable evening of light, sound, and starlit enchantment.
11. Have classic California fun on Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier transforms into a vibrant nighttime playground with its glowing Pacific Wheel, late-night rides at Pacific Park, street performers, arcade games, romantic beach strolls, and panoramic ocean views. Enjoy live music, win prizes at carnival games, savor boardwalk treats, or relax at nearby bars and rooftop lounges.
12. Relax with an outdoor movie screening
Los Angeles is full of magical outdoor movie experiences, from park screenings with food trucks and live music to rooftop cinemas with skyline views. Highlights include Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Rooftop Cinema Club, and beachside films in Long Beach. Whether you’re watching from a blanket, rooftop, or even a boat, there’s a unique open-air movie night for everyone.