As the largest city on the West Coast and home to Hollywood, the City of Angels can seem like a playground for the wealthy. Appearances, however, can be deceiving. As many tourists and visitors to the city discover, Los Angeles has plenty of activities lined up for you that won’t put a dent in your wallet. In the following curated list, you will discover the top 12 free things to do in Los Angeles.
1.Rodeo Drive
This is an exclusive shopping district featuring exotic brands and exclusive privately run boutiques. Rodeo Drive was made memorable by the venerable Julia Roberts in the movie Pretty Woman. Since then, hordes of visitors have flocked to check out their favorite celebrities and explore the shops. There is no obligation to buy, and most store owners are used to tourists.
2. Griffith Observatory
Located high on the south side of Mount Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory offers a breathtaking view of the city and surrounding areas. While the planetarium shows cost money, visitors can enjoy the spectacular walking and biking trails and take advantage of some of the best photography in this sprawling urban park. Other attractions include the Zoo and Botanical Gardens, the iconic Hollywood Sign, and an impressive museum of curated exhibits.
3. Venice Beach
When it comes to free activities in Los Angeles, a trip to iconic Venice Beach is among the top draws. While Venice the city is inspired by Venice Italy, the beach has now taken on a distinct Californian identity. Dozens of tourists come to the beach to enjoy the sun, the famous boardwalk, and the chance to see all the fun and eclectic characters around.
4.Santa Monica
It’s no exaggeration to say that Santa Monica’s beach is among the most iconic in the US Visitors to Santa Monica are rarely short of activities and things to do with some of the most eye-catching street performers, a nightlife Spectacular and soft sandy beaches on offer. Also worth mentioning is the famous pier and the Ferris wheel.
5. Getty Center
Top 12 Free Things to Do in Los Angeles-5 Designed by the legendary Richard Meier, the Getty Center is without a doubt one of America’s most famous architectural landmarks. The center houses some of the most sublime works of art from around the world. Whether it’s Baroque sculpture or Renaissance artwork, visitors can expect some of the most enchanting and intriguing masterpieces at the Getty Center. The great views of the city are an added bonus.
6. Hollywood Walk of Fame
Visitors to Los Angeles will be missing out if they don’t take the opportunity to soak up the atmosphere of the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Consistently rated one of the most fun things to do for free in Los Angeles, Walk is the who’s who of Hollywood. As a bonus, you can also visit the TCL Chinese Theater where some of the most iconic signatures and handprints of Hollywood movie stars can be found.
7. Walt Disney Concert Hall
This is another architectural masterpiece right in the middle of Los Angeles. This Frank Gehry masterpiece is credited with transforming the cultural landscape of boring downtown Los Angeles. Visitors can choose to listen to the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra or simply take a free guided tour of this venue.
8. Sunset Blvd.
This magnificent location has been immortalized in several Hollywood movies. Clearly one of the most recognizable streets in the US, Sunset Boulevard offers visitors a glimpse into the dazzling lifestyle of who’s who in Hollywood. This charming palm-fringed strip has now been transformed into a lively nightlife hub with several restaurants and live entertainment venues.
9. Hollywood Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl is a beautiful outdoor amphitheater that has been graced by some of the biggest names in the world of music, including the Beatles and Madonna. Visitors can expect an exceptional musical experience in this surreal setting. Plus, the on-site museum has impressive artwork and memorabilia that showcases its history.
10. Runyon Canyon Park
For those who can’t get enough trails and views to die for, there’s no better place than Runyon Park. Located minutes from Hollywood Boulevard, park visitors can seek sweeping, panoramic views of the Pacific and the San Fernando Valley.
11. Grand Central Market
This is a foodie’s paradise in downtown Los Angeles with more than 30 vendors serving food from tacos to ramen noodles. Plus, it’s open every night until 10pm, so there are plenty of places to grab a late dinner or grab a craft beer.
12. Bradbury Building
It is the oldest remaining commercial building in Los Angeles, but that is not why this building is a tourist attraction. With its beautiful light-filled central atrium rising nearly 50 feet high, marble staircases and ornate iron railings, the Bradbury Building has been featured in many films, most notably Bladerunner and (500) Days of Summer.