We always think of L.A. as the epicenter of Hollywood royalty. Yet, beyond Sunset Strip, La-la-land brims with music history. For decades now, it has been the playground of rockers and West Coast rappers and the epitome of making it in music. For those of you in need of music-inspired plans, we’ve rounded up a list of things to do for music lovers in L.A., from hitting up the historic music venues, exploring its buzzing party scene or discovering the city’s diverse record stores.
1. Catch a gig at a live music venue
The Entertainment Capital of the World has countless live music venues and arenas, but here are some of the biggest spaces welcoming celebrated names in music:
🎵 The Hollywood Bowl has a stellar lineup this year with performances by Hugh Jackman, SiR, Herbie Hancock, Diana Ross, Cynthia Erivo, Cyndi Lauper and John Legend.
🎵 The Walt Disney Concert Hall has a range of classical concerts by the L.A. Philharmonic with Dudamel and Emmanuelle Haïm taking the baton. Additionally, global artists like Yo-Yo Ma, Gregory Alan Isakov, Gregory Alan Isakov and Sofia Jernberg join forces with the philharmonic for one-off events.
🎵 Sofi Stadium is welcoming some of the best acts of the moment, from the most Grammy awarded artist in the world—Beyoncé to Kendrick Lamar and SZA who are embarking on their Grand National Tour. Other artists to look forward to include The Weeknd, Playboi Carti, and Blackpink for electrifying evenings of live music.
🎵 The Orpheum Theatre has hosted the likes of Judy Garland and Duke Ellington. This season, the tradition continues as it brings Elvis Costello & The Impostors, HWASA, and Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals.
🎵 Rose Bowl Stadium will light up with the rock-infused melodies of AC/DC and Oasis, whereas the Australian group RÜFÜS DU SOL will bring their alternative dance beats to Pasadena this August. The iconic venue is also welcoming New Order, Nick Cave, Garbage and The Go-Go’s during the Cruel World festival.
🎵 Kia Forum in Inglewood is accompanying a number of stars that have embarked on international tours, such as Dua Lipa, Deftones, Katy Perry, as well as Trey Songz, Omarion, Bow Wow, among others, for their The Millennium Tour.
2. Explore music history
From the GRAMMY Museum and the REDCAT art center to the Hollywood Bowl Museum that offers year-long free admission, exploring the city’s museums is without a doubt one of our favorite things to do for music lovers. Discover collections of historical media, artifacts and personal objects from the archives, gain insights on your favorite artists.
3. Browse through vinyls at a record store
The Mecca of vinyl in L.A. has got to be Amoeba, the world’s largest independent record store. When in doubt, the dog-friendly establishment offers everything, from limited edition and new releases to movies and posters. They have their own podcast and often organize live music performances at their shop. But what really stands out is their YouTube series What’s in my Bag?, where they invite popular artists to showcase their favorite picks or music that has inspired them.
Other spots include As the Record Turns in West Hollywood sells new and used jazz and R&B records, with special photos of its famous clientele. Additionally, at Nivessa Vinyl, you can buy and sell vinyl records, CDs, cassettes, DVDs, rare memorabilia and collectibles. At Sick City on the other hand, you can get unique goodies by 20th-century alternative and 21st-century indie artists.
4. Visit an iconic record label
Speaking of records, why not explore one of L.A.’s iconic record labels that take fans behind the scenes? Think of the iconic Capitol Records building, or The Sunset Sound and Henson Recording Studios which occasionally open their doors for special events and tours. These are emblematic spots that experienced a huge boom during the ’90s, but most importantly saw legends like Nat King Cole, Sam Smith, The Beach Boys, The Doors and Prince record some of their best work. You can put yourself in the shoes of these artists and their producers and tap into your inner rockstar.
5. Swing and jive at a cool jazz joint
For those that prefer finger-snapping jazz, seeing talented local bands work their magic in a jazz bar is definitely one of the best things to do for music lovers. Think of The Baked Potato, The Lighthouse Café,1642 or Sam First—just to name a few. Thanks to their stylish decor and dark lighting, they’re reminiscent of the smokey bars of New Orleans.
6. Go on a music-inspired walking tour
Where to go in L.A. for music lovers if you don’t have a lot of time to spare? A music walking tour is always a great option because it packs plenty of information, iconic spots and hidden gems. For instance, a popular choice is the four-hour Rock ‘n Walk Sunset Strip Tour or the three-hour Rock n’ Roll Superstars: Legends of the Sunset Strip Tour that focus on famous rock and roll locations on the strip.
7. Let loose at a music festival
Rolling Loud, BeachLife, HARD Summer, Just Like Heaven, The Blue Note Jazz Festival, Camp Flog Gnaw Carnival—frankly, the list is endless. From March onwards, the city and its surroundings start the preparations for these huge events that attract both locals and visitors from all over the world alike. There’s something for every taste and they showcase top-tier artists and emerging talent.
8. Enjoy some cool tunes while grabbing a bite
A dinner and a show? Why, yes! Although this is a classic date idea, going to a restaurant with live music is also a fun-filled plan for music aficionados. Whether it’s a jazzy spot like Vibrato Grill Jazz and The Velvet Martini Lounge or El Cid that hosts weekly flamenco nights while you enjoy a four-course meal, L.A. has it all.
9. Experience a musical in the Broadway Theater District
Besides loving musicals, the Broadway Theater District is the first and largest historic theater district listed on the National Register of Historic Places so watching a show in one of its theaters firsthand is an experience that can’t be missed for both musical theater kids and history buffs alike.
Guided by talented vocalists and live orchestral music, audiences are immersed into their favorite music, characters and plots in real time. Luckily, 2025 is looking bright as Broadway in Los Angeles has a wide range of iconic musicals in store for Angelinos to catch, from Annie to Some Like It Hot and The Addams Family.
10. Stop by a music store
Opened in 1958, McCabe’s Guitar Shop in Santa Monica specialized in rock and fold string instruments but you can also take music classes and songwriting courses for all ages. Another historic spot that focuses on guitars and has served music icons like Ella Fitzgerald and Eric Clapton is Westwood Music.
The family-owned Professional Drum Shop on the other hand, is a slice of heaven for both drummers and drum enthusiasts alike. Furthermore, if you’re in West Los Angeles, Adam’s Music has it all—rentals, sales, repairs, and private lessons for just about every instrument. So really, adding this spot to our list of things to do for music lovers is a no brainer.
11. Party at one of L.A.’s many nightclubs
Beyond the underground raves, L.A. is packed with vibrant EDM clubs like Avalon and Academy. For old-school house, the iconic Sound Nightclub and Cicada Club offer house music nights with a vintage twist. In addition, techno lovers should try INCOGNITO Events and Acid Vortex by Technoids for high-bpm acid or Exchange for more commercial events led by big-name DJs.
12. Go to a Candlelight concert
Thanks to their trademark sea of candles and talented musicians, these concerts have charmed Angelinos for quite some time now. Still, the popular series continues to introduce new programs, offering something fresh each season. From tributes to pop divas, rock legends and jazz icons to famous film scores and seasonal songs, they have something for every music fan.
🏛️ Take a look at all Candlelight venues in L.A. to find one near you.
13. Be dazzled by a We call it Experience
Lastly, fans of international music can experience captivating shows that blend dance and music at the We call it Experiences in Los Angeles. From tango to flamenco, they feature talented musicians and passionate dancers that transport you to the birthplace of these art forms. If you love melodies that transcend the American borders, these performances are definitely one of the best things to do for music lovers in Los Angeles.