A staycation in Los Angeles can be a wonderful way to enjoy our local city and discover new experiences if you are too busy to get out of town for the summer. Here are some of the best things to do in L.A. for a fun staycation.
Visit Museums and Art Galleries:
- The Getty Center: Explore world-class art collections and enjoy stunning views of the city and ocean. Don’t miss the concert series offered during the summer.
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): Discover a diverse range of artworks from around the world.
- The Broad: Experience contemporary art and the famous “Infinity Mirrored Room” by Yayoi Kusama and other famous works by Haring, Koons, Lichtenstein, and Warhol.
Enjoy the Beaches:
- Santa Monica Beach: Walk along the famous pier, enjoy the beach, and dine with a view at many waterfront restaurants.
- Venice Beach: Experience the eclectic atmosphere, street performers, and the Venice Canals. And don’t forget to get some exercise by taking a surf lesson or biking along the majestic coastline.
- Zuma Beach: One of L.A.’s finest beaches, known for its clean water conditions and excellent surf, an excellent spot to see dolphins and sea lions frolicking in the waters during the warm summer months.
Take a Hike:
- Runyon Canyon: One of the more popular trails in L.A. to get some exercise and take in breathtaking city views.
- Griffith Park: Hiking for all levels and too many paths to count, but the most popular are the hikes to the Griffith Observatory for stunning panoramic views and the planetarium.
- Westridge Trailhead: Dog-friendly hiking trail in Mandeville Canyon. Bring your pup while you hike which features panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
Explore Unique Neighborhoods:
- Hollywood: Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, visit the TCL Chinese Theatre, see a play or musical at Pantages Theatre, explore the famous Amoeba Music record store, and visit the historic Hollywood Bowl for an outdoor concert.
- Downtown L.A.: Discover historic buildings, museums, and the bustling Grand Central Market, indulge your senses at the L.A. Flower Market, and cheer on the home teams at Crypto Arena.
The Broad “Infinity Mirrored Room” (Courtesy of Discoverlosangeles.com) - Griffith Park: A cherished recreation mecca for Angelenos and tourists, offering something for everyone. The park offers many miles of trail, tennis courts, golf courses, a zoo, a merry-go-round, museums, trains, and landmarks like the Hollywood Sign, the Griffith Observatory and Planetarium, and the outdoor Greek Theater.
- Koreatown: Casual dining makes for a buzzing night scene. There are Korean BBQ restaurants with tabletop grills, plus karaoke joints, and the famous landmark Wiltern Theatre, an art deco music venue.
Stroll Through Gardens:
- The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens: Explore beautifully landscaped gardens and impressive art collections in Pasadena.
- Descanso Gardens: Enjoy a peaceful walk through themed gardens, including a rose and Japanese garden.
A Los Angeles staycation can be just as exciting and memorable as traveling to a different city. By exploring new places, trying different activities, and immersing yourself in the local culture, you can have a truly enjoyable experience in your own hometown.