30 Free Things to Do in Los Angeles - Food Included!

The City of Angels is known for its glamorous lifestyle, sunny weather, and iconic landmarks. However, beyond the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, there are plenty of free things to do in Los Angeles that offer a chance to experience the city’s unique culture, rich history, and natural beauty. From stunning hiking trails to world-class art exhibits, LA has a treasure trove of free activities that won’t break the bank.

Whether you're a tourist on a budget or a local looking to explore your hometown, you’ll find an abundance of activities to enjoy in LA without spending a dime. And for those visiting, don’t forget about practical services like luggage storage LA that can make your trip even more enjoyable. With a luggage storage location to store your bags, you can freely explore the city without the hassle of carrying them around.

Traveling through Los Angeles often means hopping from one exciting destination to another. However, dealing with heavy bags can make it difficult to truly enjoy your experience. Fortunately, services like Nannybag luggage travel offer an ideal solution. Nannybag allows travelers to store their luggage at secure and convenient locations around the city, including near major attractions and transport hubs.

Whether you’re visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame or exploring the Getty Center, Nannybag provides peace of mind by allowing you to store your luggage safely while you enjoy everything the city has to offer. This flexibility enhances your experience and makes it easier to explore Los Angeles without the burden of your luggage.

Places to Visit in Los Angeles for Free

Now that you know how to travel light, let’s dive into the 30 free things to do in Los Angeles. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a longtime resident, these destinations will help you discover the best of LA without spending a dime.

1. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Start your journey with the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. This iconic sidewalk stretches for more than 15 blocks along Hollywood Boulevard and features over 2,600 brass stars embedded in the pavement. Celebrating celebrities from various entertainment fields, the Walk of Fame is one of the most popular places to visit in Los Angeles for free. While exploring, you’ll also be near other historic landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Museum, making it easy to soak in the rich history of Hollywood.

2. Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

One of the best views of Los Angeles can be found at Griffith Observatory, located atop Griffith Park. The observatory offers free admission to its public exhibits, making it a must-see for anyone visiting LA. Not only will you get a close-up view of the stars (literally!), but you can also enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city, including the Hollywood Sign. Griffith Park itself is full of hiking trails, so you can spend the day exploring the outdoors without paying a dime.

3. The Getty Center

The Getty Center, a museum that houses impressive art collections and beautiful gardens, is another place where you can visit LA for free. Admission to the museum is free, though parking is not. The Getty is located on a hilltop, offering breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding hills. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful place to spend your day, the Getty is a must-see destination.

4. Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is a classic LA landmark, offering a fun and relaxing spot to enjoy the beach. While the rides and games at Pacific Park have a cost, walking around the pier, taking in the views, and exploring the nearby beach are all completely free. On a clear day, you can even spot the distant Catalina Island on the horizon.

5. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Walking along Hollywood Boulevard, you’ll find the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Los Angeles, where you can take photos with the stars of your favorite actors, musicians, and other celebrities. It’s a fun, free way to experience the excitement of Hollywood and discover the city’s entertainment history.

6. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

LACMA is one of the largest and most visited art museums in the United States. While the museum generally charges for admission, the museum’s outdoor exhibits, such as the famous Urban Light installation, are free to enjoy. It's one of the most photographed spots in LA, so make sure to snap a picture during your visit. Additionally, LACMA offers free admission on certain days, so it's worth checking their schedule to plan your trip accordingly.

7. Venice Beach

Another free and fun place to visit in Los Angeles is Venice Beach. Known for its vibrant boardwalk, eclectic shops, and street performers, Venice Beach is an ideal destination to people-watch, enjoy the ocean breeze, and explore the quirky atmosphere that makes this neighborhood famous. The beach itself is always free to access, so you can relax by the ocean and enjoy the sunset without spending a penny.

8. The Arts District

The Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles is a haven for art lovers. This trendy neighborhood is filled with street art, murals, and galleries that you can explore for free. Whether you're interested in contemporary art or simply want to take in the creative vibe of the area, the Arts District is a great place to wander and explore. Keep an eye out for street performances and pop-up events that often take place in this area.

9. Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard is another must-see for anyone visiting Los Angeles. In addition to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, you’ll find iconic landmarks such as the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel and the Hollywood Museum. Walking along this historic street gives you a glimpse into the past, with its Art Deco architecture and famous theaters.

10. Downtown LA Walking Tour

Downtown Los Angeles is home to many of the city's most historic buildings, including the old train station, City Hall, and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. You can take a self-guided walking tour of the area and explore its rich history and diverse architecture. Don't forget to check out the murals in the Arts District and visit some of the free public spaces like Grand Park.

11. The Hollywood Sign

While hiking to the Hollywood Sign is a bit more of a challenge, it is completely free. There are several trails leading to different viewpoints of the famous sign, offering fantastic photo opportunities. The hike can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the trail you choose. Be sure to bring water and wear comfortable shoes for the best experience.

12. Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive

If you’ve ever dreamed of strolling down Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills is a free destination that’s worth visiting. While the luxury stores may be out of reach for most, window shopping is a fun way to experience the opulence of this famous district. Walk through the beautiful streets of Beverly Hills and enjoy the picturesque palm trees, elegant architecture, and luxurious atmosphere of the area.

13. Runyon Canyon

Located just above Sunset Boulevard, Runyon Canyon offers one of the best urban hikes in Los Angeles. The trails are free to use, and they offer fantastic views of the city, including the Hollywood Sign and downtown LA. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike who want to enjoy the outdoors and get some exercise.

14. Los Angeles State Historic Park

The Los Angeles State Historic Park is an urban park located in the heart of Downtown LA. It provides a large green space where you can picnic, walk, or bike. The park also features beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the city’s skyline.

15. The La Brea Tar Pits

The La Brea Tar Pits is a fascinating site where you can see fossilized remains of prehistoric animals that were trapped in the tar. While the museum charges for admission, you can explore the outdoor exhibits for free, where you can see the tar pits and some of the excavation sites.

16. Walt Disney Concert Hall Gardens

The Walt Disney Concert Hall is an architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry. While the concerts are ticketed, you can freely enjoy the gardens and outdoor areas surrounding the concert hall. Take a moment to appreciate the striking design of the building and the beautiful landscaping around it.

17. Elysian Park

Elysian Park is one of the oldest parks in Los Angeles and offers stunning views of Dodger Stadium and the downtown skyline. It’s a great place to go for a peaceful walk or to have a picnic surrounded by nature. The park is free to access and provides a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

18. El Matador Beach

For a more secluded beach experience, head to El Matador Beach in Malibu. Although it's a bit of a drive from the city, this hidden gem offers dramatic rock formations and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The beach is less crowded than others in LA, so you can enjoy a peaceful day by the water.

19. The Broad Museum

The Broad Museum is a contemporary art museum located in downtown Los Angeles. Admission is free, and the museum features an impressive collection of works from artists such as Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Roy Lichtenstein. Be sure to check out their website for information on special exhibitions and hours of operation.

20. LACMA's La Brea Tar Pits

Another fantastic museum to visit for free is the La Brea Tar Pits, where you can explore outdoor exhibits that showcase fossils and remnants of prehistoric animals. Located right next to LACMA, this free attraction offers an educational and fun experience.

21. Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

While admission to the Huntington Library and Art Museum usually has a fee, their botanical gardens are free to access on certain days. Take a stroll through the beautifully landscaped gardens, featuring everything from desert cacti to lush rose gardens.

22. Silver Lake Reservoir

Located in the Silver Lake neighborhood, this scenic reservoir offers a great place for a walk, jog, or just a peaceful escape from the city. The surrounding area has a lovely park with trails and plenty of green space to enjoy.

23. Hollywood Forever Cemetery

A visit to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery is a unique way to learn about LA's history and pay respects to the stars who have passed. Famous celebrities like Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, and Mel Blanc are buried here, and the cemetery often hosts free events, including movie nights.

24. La Cienega Park

La Cienega Park, located in West Hollywood, offers a peaceful spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors. With a walking track, playground, and open green space, it’s a great place for a picnic or to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

25. The Original Farmers Market

While you might need to buy food at the Original Farmers Market, it’s free to wander around and explore the wide variety of products, from fresh produce to artisanal items. It’s a fun place to soak in the local vibe and sample food from around the world.

26. The California Science Center

Located in Exposition Park, the California Science Center is a free museum that features interactive exhibits on science, technology, and space exploration. The museum’s highlight is the Endeavour Space Shuttle, which you can view up close.

27. Echo Park Lake

Echo Park Lake is a popular spot for both locals and visitors. You can enjoy a stroll around the lake, rent a paddleboat, or simply relax by the water. The park offers great views of the downtown skyline and is a lovely place to spend a few hours.

28. The Hollywood Walk

Taking a stroll along the Hollywood Walk is an excellent way to soak in the neighborhood’s history. From street performers to hidden gems in the area, this walk will allow you to enjoy the history of one of LA's most famous streets.

29. Cabrillo Beach

Located in San Pedro, Cabrillo Beach offers free access to its coastline. Perfect for a relaxing day by the water, the beach offers spectacular views and a peaceful atmosphere compared to the more crowded beaches of LA.

30. Exposition Park Rose Garden

Another tranquil spot in LA, the Exposition Park Rose Garden is free to explore. With over 15,000 rose bushes, it’s an ideal place to enjoy nature and relax in a beautiful setting.