Los Angeles has a reputation for being expensive, but it’s actually one of the best cities in the U.S. for free things to do. From world-class museums and iconic beaches to scenic hikes, historic neighborhoods, and famous landmarks, there are countless free things to do in Los Angeles for families, couples, and first-time visitors.

Below is a complete list of the best FREE things to do in Los Angeles, organized by museums, outdoor attractions, neighborhoods, beaches, and iconic landmarks—so you can plan an unforgettable LA trip without paying for attractions.

FREE Museums & Cultural Attractions in Los Angeles

The city is home to several world-class museums and galleries, many offering free admission on certain days or certain times. Please check the museums’ websites to make sure that you are going during a free day.

The Broad (FREE Contemporary Art Museum)

The Broad is a contemporary art museum in downtown LA that offers free general admission daily. The museum features works by some of our time’s most prominent contemporary artists, including Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, and Takashi Murakami.

MOCA – Museum of Contemporary Art (FREE Museum)

Another must-see museum is the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA), which has downtown LA and West Hollywood locations. MOCA features a diverse collection of contemporary art, with a particular focus on works from the 1940s to the present.

Getty Center (FREE Museum, Paid Parking)

For those interested in more traditional art, the Getty Center is a must-visit. Although admission to the museum itself is always free, there is a parking fee. The Getty features an impressive collection of European paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, photography, and contemporary art. The garden at the Getty Center is worth visiting even if you don’t like art.

Space Shuttle Endeavour (Free Admission)

The Space Shuttle Endeavour is housed at the California Science Center in Los Angeles. This is a unique experience where visitors can see a real space shuttle up close and learn about the history of space exploration. The exhibit includes interactive displays and artifacts from other space missions.

If you have a space-crazy kid, this is a must-do!

Walt Disney Concert Hall (FREE Architecture & Daily Self-Guided Tour)

The Walt Disney Concert Hall is a stunning architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry. In addition to paid concerts, the hall hosts free events throughout the year. These events include organ recitals, chamber music performances, and even jazz concerts.

They offer a one-hour Free Self-guided tour of the concert hall every day.

Watts Tower (FREE Grounds & Cultural Landmark)

FREE Outdoor Things to Do in Los Angeles

Griffith Park (FREE Hiking, Views & Hollywood Sign Trails)

Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, covering over 4,200 acres of land. The park is home to lot of well known attractions, including the Griffith Observatory, the Los Angeles Zoo, and the Autry Museum of the American West. Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and sports fields.

If you want to get outdoors and stretch your legs, you will love the maze of hiking trails, including one that leads to the Hollywood Sign!

Griffith Observatory (FREE Exhibits & City Views)

Griffith Observatory is a popular tourist attraction in Griffith Park in Los Angeles, California. The observatory is known for its stunning views of the city and its exhibits on astronomy, space exploration, and the universe’s history.

Visitors to Griffith Observatory can explore the exhibits, including the Foucault pendulum, which demonstrates the rotation of the Earth, and the Tesla coil, which produces electrical arcs and sparks. The observatory also has a planetarium that offers shows on astronomy and space exploration.

In addition to the exhibits, Griffith Observatory is known for its stunning views of the city. Visitors can hike in the nearby hills or enjoy the view from the observatory’s terrace.

Admission to Griffith Observatory is free, but there is a fee for parking. The observatory is open daily, but hours vary depending on the day of the week. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone interested in astronomy or the history of the universe and anyone looking for stunning views of Los Angeles.

 

Runyon Canyon ParkFREE Hollywood Hike)

Runyon Canyon Park is a 160-acre park located in the heart of Hollywood. The park offers stunning views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, picnic areas, and dog parks.

One of the most popular activities in Runyon Canyon Park is hiking. The park has several hiking trails, ranging from easy to complex. The trails offer stunning views of the city and the surrounding hills. Visitors should bring plenty of water and wear appropriate footwear.

 

FREE Beaches & Coastal Attractions in Los Angeles

Santa Monica Pier and Beach (FREE Boardwalk & Ocean Views)

The Santa Monica Pier is a must-visit destination for anyone in LA. This historic landmark offers a variety of free activities, including live music, street performers, and a relatively inexpensive aquarium. Stroll down the boardwalk and enjoy the views of the Pacific Ocean, or take your bike and ride along the beach.

 

Venice Beach and Canals (FREE Walking & People-Watching)

Venice Beach is another popular spot for beachgoers. The beach itself offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. But the natural attraction is the Venice Canals, a series of picturesque waterways that wind through the neighborhood. Stroll along the canals and admire the beautiful homes and gardens that line the water.

 

Zuma Beach(FREE Beach & Surf Spot)

Located in Malibu, Zuma Beach is one of the best places to surf in LA. The beach is known for its excellent waves and wide, sandy shoreline. Even if you’re not a surfer, Zuma Beach is a great place to relax and soak up the sun.

 

FREE Neighborhoods to Explore in Los Angeles

Downtown LA (FREE Walking & Historic Sights)

Downtown LA is the city’s central business district and home to many historic landmarks, including the Bradbury Building and the iconic City Hall building. It’s also a cultural hub with numerous museums, theaters, and galleries. Visitors can walk through the bustling Grand Central Market, catch a concert at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, or take in the stunning views from the observation deck of the US Bank Tower.

Chinatown (FREE Cultural Neighborhood Walk)

Located just north of downtown, Chinatown is a vibrant neighborhood with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the colorful streets and alleys, sample authentic Chinese cuisine, and browse the many shops and markets. The neighborhood is also home to the Chinese American Museum, which showcases the history and contributions of Chinese Americans in Los Angeles.

 

Little Tokyo (FREE cultural district and plaza)

Just east of downtown, Little Tokyo is another historic neighborhood with a strong cultural identity. Visitors can explore the Japanese American National Museum, which tells the story of Japanese Americans in the US, or visit the many shops and restaurants that line the streets. The neighborhood is also home to the beautiful Japanese Village Plaza, a shopping center with a traditional Japanese garden and pagoda.

 

West Hollywood (FREE Sunset Strip and Street Life)

West Hollywood is a trendy and vibrant neighborhood known for its nightlife, shopping, and dining. Visitors can explore Melrose Avenue’s many boutiques and galleries, catch a show at the famous Comedy Store, or take a stroll through the picturesque Sunset Strip. The neighborhood is also home to the iconic Chateau Marmont Hotel, a favorite haunt of Hollywood celebrities.

Beverly Hills (FREE Window Shopping and Sight seeing)

Located just west of West Hollywood, Beverly Hills is one of the most famous neighborhoods in the world. Visitors can stroll down Rodeo Drive, home to some of the world’s most luxurious boutiques and shops, or explore the many restaurants and cafes that line the streets. The neighborhood also has many historic landmarks, including the Greystone Mansion and the Beverly Hills Hotel.

Rodeo Drive (FREE Window Shopping)

Rodeo Drive is one of the most famous shopping destinations in the world, but you don’t need to be a millionaire to enjoy the sights. Take a leisurely stroll down the street and admire the high-end designer storefronts. From Gucci to Prada to Louis Vuitton, the window displays are always a sight to see. Keep an eye out for celebrity sightings, as this is a popular spot for the rich and famous to shop and be seen.

3rd Street Promenade (FREE Window Shopping and Street Performers)

Located in the heart of Santa Monica, the 3rd Street Promenade is a pedestrian-only street filled with shops, restaurants, and street performers. While there are plenty of opportunities to spend money, it’s also an excellent spot for window shopping and people-watching.Or play giant chess with the crowds looking on.

You never know what you might see, from talented musicians to unique street performers. (If you go in the evening you are more likely to find street performers.)

Whether you’re in the mood to window shop or want to soak up the Los Angeles atmosphere, Rodeo Drive and the 3rd Street Promenade are must-visit destinations for any visitor to the city.

FREE Iconic LA Landmarks & Film Locations

FREE Hollywood Walk of Fame(FREE Celebrity Stars)

One of the most iconic attractions in Hollywood is the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Walk of Fame is a sidewalk that features stars dedicated to famous actors, musicians, directors, and other celebrities. Visitors can stroll along the Walk of Fame and take photos with their favorite stars. Some of the most popular stars include Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille, and Rudolph Valentino.

The TCL Chinese Theater (FREE Handprints & Photos)

The TCL Chinese Theatre, formerly known as Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, located near the Walk of fame, is a historic movie theater located on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, California. It is known for the front of the theater, which features handprints, footprints, and signatures of many famous movie stars, all encased in cement.

Visitors to the TCL Chinese Theatre can take a guided tour of the theater and learn about its history and significance. The tour includes a visit to the forecourt, where visitors can see the handprints and footprints of stars like Marilyn Monroe, John Wayne, and Tom Hanks.

In addition to the tours, the TCL Chinese Theatre also shows movies on its large IMAX screen. Visitors can see the latest Hollywood blockbusters or classic films in the theater’s historic setting.

The TCL Chinese Theatre is open daily, and admission fees vary depending on the tour or movie you choose to see. But you can view the handprints and signatures for free.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery (FREE Historic Cemetery)

For a more macabre celebrity experience, visitors can head to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. This cemetery is the final resting place of many famous actors and musicians, including Rudolph Valentino and Judy Garland. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the cemetery and pay their respects to these Hollywood legends.

In addition to being the resting place of old Hollywood, there are outdoor movies that take place here.

 

Walk Down Olvera Street (FREE Historic District & Culture)

Check Out Locations from Your Favorite Movies FREE

Los Angeles is home to many iconic movie locations that are worth visiting. Here are some of the best:

1. Griffith Observatory: This iconic observatory has been featured in many movies, including “Rebel Without a Cause” and “La La Land.” Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the city and explore the exhibits inside.
2. The Bradbury Building: This historic building in downtown LA has been featured in many movies, including “Blade Runner” and “500 Days of Summer.” Visitors can explore the building’s beautiful architecture and unique interior.
3. The Beverly Hills Hotel: This iconic hotel has been featured in many movies, including “The Graduate” and “Beverly Hills Cop.” Visitors can drink at the hotel’s famous Polo Lounge or stroll around the lush grounds.
4. The Santa Monica Pier: This historic pier has been featured in many movies, including “Forrest Gump” and “Iron Man.” Visitors can enjoy the amusement park rides, games, and restaurants, as well as the beautiful ocean views.
5. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): This museum has been featured in many movies, including “No Strings Attached” and “Transformers.” Visitors can explore the museum’s vast art collection and exhibitions, including the iconic Urban Light installation.

Visiting these movie locations can be a fun and unique way to experience the city of Los Angeles and its rich film history.

FREE Seasonal Events & Entertainment in Los Angeles

Conclusion

Los Angeles is an expensive city, but if you pepper in tons of free things, you can make a trip to Los Angeles be a budget friendly vacation. Make sure plan ahead for a number of the free attractions, and then have a wonderful time exploring one of the largest cities in the United States.

So whether you’re looking to explore the city’s rich history, soak up the sun on its beautiful beaches, or simply take in the sights and sounds of this vibrant metropolis, Los Angeles is the perfect destination for anyone looking for a fun and affordable adventure.