Los Angeles is a city full of adventure and excitement, and there are plenty of things to do for free. From exploring the natural tar pits to visiting the iconic Hollywood sign, there are plenty of activities that won't break the bank. Whether you're looking for outdoor activities or cultural experiences, this list of 25 free things to do in Los Angeles has something for everyone. Take a walk through history at the Griffith Park Ruins.
This iconic spot is located right in the middle of Griffith Park and offers visitors a glimpse into the past. You can also take advantage of the free stargazing events held here. Explore the Venice Canals, which are hidden between the Venice waterfront and Abbot Kinney. These three canal-lined blocks offer beautiful pedestrian bridges and beach houses, and you can even bring a non-motorized boat or paddle board to explore the area from the water.
Visit the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where many of Hollywood's first directors, writers, and performers are buried. The cemetery also hosts free outdoor summer movie screenings throughout the year. Experience Downtown Art Walk, which takes place every second Thursday of the month. This event brings art, culture, and food to downtown Los Angeles and is a great way to explore the city.
Head up to the Town Hall Observation Deck, located on the 27th floor of Town Hall. Here you can get a great view of downtown Los Angeles for free. Take a walk to the Hollywood Sign. There are several viewpoints around Los Angeles to see this iconic landmark, but you can also take a hike up to it for an even better view.
Visit the Bradbury Building, which is the oldest remaining commercial building in downtown Los Angeles. As a visitor, you can only go up to the second floor, but it's still worth a visit. Learn how to shoot an arrow at Woodley Park Archers. This organization offers free beginner classes every Saturday at 9am and Wednesday at 6pm, and they even provide equipment so you can unleash your inner Katniss.
Take a trip down memory lane at In-N-Out Burger. Although the original store no longer serves customers, you can still see a replica with original potato peeler, cash register, and cigarette vending machines. Go for a bike ride along the Los Angeles River. Starting in Atwater and ending in Glendale Narrows, this 7.4 mile course offers beautiful greenery and great views of the city.
Spend an afternoon at Santa Monica Beach Pier. This pier is home to an iconic Ferris wheel, aquarium, fairground games, and food stalls, making it a great spot for people watching and enjoying the sunny weather of Los Angeles. Check out some live music at Amoeba Records. This iconic music store hosts free shows from both big artists and emerging artists throughout the year.
Go for a hike or run at Runyon Canyon. This popular spot offers great views of Los Angeles and you might even spot a celebrity or two while you're there.
The Broad Museum
, located in DTLA, is one of Los Angeles's newest contemporary art museums and general admission is free.Murphy Ranch
, located in Rustic Canyon, was once a secret complex of Nazi sympathizers but has since become a popular spot for hiking.Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry, offers visitors free self-guided or guided tours so you can admire its amazing architecture. No matter what your interests are, there's something for everyone on this list of 25 best free things to do in Los Angeles. From exploring historic sites to taking in stunning views of the city, these activities will help you make the most out of your time in LA without breaking your budget.
