Los Angeles is famous for their sunny, welcoming weather, giving us an average of 263 days of sunshine each year! But what about the rest of the days? Sometimes unexpected rain or storms, a blanket of fog, or even high pollen levels in spring can make spending the day outside less ideal. That’s why we’ve put together this list of the best indoor activities to enjoy in L.A.!
1. Paint the town neon
On rainy days in Los Angeles, escape into creativity at our multi-sensory art workshop. With a refreshing drink in hand, you’ll paint to your own rhythm while vibing to feel-good tunes in a retro-futuristic setting. Let your imagination run wild and see where the bright colors and groovy sounds of this experience take you. It’s the perfect way to brighten up your day indoors!
📍 Location: The Three Clubs – 1123 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90038
2. Experience Lite Brite: World of Wonder
Rain or shine, Lite Brite: Worlds of Wonder offers the ideal indoor escape in L.A.! Spend an hour exploring 11 interactive rooms filled with colorful, hands-on installations, and embark on a cinematic journey through underwater, prehistoric, and space themes in a 360° LED theater. It’s a cozy yet thrilling way to brighten a rainy day!
📍 Location: 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, 90401
3. Go wild at a burlesque show
Perfect for rainy nights or rainy noses on high pollen days, burlesque performances offer a delightful escape indoors. Experience the allure of dazzling costumes, mesmerizing choreography, and a playful atmosphere while staying cozy and dry. Whether you’re flying solo or with friends, a night at a burlesque show guarantees laughter, glamour, and a touch of seduction—all without worrying about the weather outside. So, why not add a bit of excitement to your indoor activities list in Los Angeles and make memories that’ll last long after the curtains close?
4. Explore museums and art galleries
Museums are the quintessential indoor activity in Los Angeles, not only because you’ll be sheltered but also because local exhibits are simply amazing! Try stopping by one of the many pop-ups in town or stick with something more traditional like checking out the Natural History Museum or The Broad! Oh, and make sure to bring your LA Library Card so you can access it for free (and also get a few more costless perks!)
5. Unleash your inner child at an arcade
This is the ultimate indoor activity and a direct trip to the past to relive the most effervescent memories of your childhood. Enjoy a game of pinball, air hockey, whack-a-mole, or simply defeat your opponent in a Mortal Kombat match at one of the best arcades that Los Angeles has to offer.
6. Curl up in a cozy bookstore
Take advantage of the not-so-super-cold weather in Los Angeles by picking up a book and diving into a world other than your own. Places like The Last Bookstore, which is also an iconic movie location, and Vroman’s Bookstore are classics, but local favorites also include smaller shops like Skylight books or Children’s Book World, if you have little ones tagging along.
7. Dive into an aquarium
Not literally, of course… This is one of the best indoor activities in LA if you want to be protected from the elements but still close to nature. Here you can see wild animals in all its splendor, safe behind glass and indoors to protect you from potential rains.
Sharks, stingrays, sea urchins, colorful fish, and kelp forests. All that and much more are offered by the aquariums of Los Angeles, which also serve to raise awareness about the importance of our ecosystems and to research the species that inhabit our coasts.
8. Relax and unwind at a spa
When it comes to rainy day activities in Los Angeles, nothing beats enjoying a relaxing and rejuvenating massage, whether with your special someone or solo. Spas epitomize self-care and are the go-to activity for anyone looking to make the most of their day, rain or shine.
9. Step back to the prohibition era at a Speakeasy
When it comes to indoor activities in Los Angeles, things even go underground! The 1920s weren’t just about glamour and bold lipstick—they were a time when a sip of alcohol could lead to serious consequences. Today, there’s no risk involved, but the charm and intrigue of that era live on in speakeasies around the city.
10. Visit one of the city’s iconic movie theaters
As the entertainment capital of the world, it’s impossible to think of Los Angeles without also thinking of movies and popcorn. If the sky has rebelled against you and dampened your plans, seeking refuge in some of the city’s most iconic movie theaters is one of the best indoor activities in LA.
11. Take a scenic drive around L.A.
Do you want to be in touch with nature but protected from the elements? You don’t have to be The Boy in the Plastic Bubble for that to happen. Just take your car and go for a drive along some of the many scenic routes in and around the city to see incredible sunsets over the city skyline, the beach, or the mountains, you choose. That way, you’ll have a mix of indoor activities in LA with a spark of outdoor views.
12. Enjoy delicious tacos
Every season justifies a juicy, flavorful, and crispy taco. Rain or shine, pollen or wind, this is one of the best indoor activities in LA, as our city is considered the mecca of tacos thanks to its extensive network of Mexican restaurants and their quality. Were you looking for an excuse to self-indulge? Here it is.
13. Swing to some jazz
Looking for a cool indoor hangout spot that’s great year-round? Look no further than LA’s jazz clubs! Whether it’s winter chill or summer heat, these places offer cozy vibes and killer tunes. Grab a drink, soak in the smooth sounds, and let the good times roll. With classic jams and new grooves, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, why not jazz up your nights with some live music? You won’t regret it!
14. Enjoy a One-of-a-Kind Night at a Tiki Bar
Not only do these bars offer shelter from the elements, but they also transport you straight to Polynesia. With vibrant décor, hypnotic music, and intriguing masks, these quirky spots are perfect for a magical indoor night out.
15. Go on a unique shopping tour
Forget about the usual clothes and decor, there’s an entire world of quirky shops to discover around the city. In these unconventional stores, you’ll find a wide range of souvenirs, collectibles, and design pieces that you won’t come across anywhere else…