You really don’t need a celebrity-sized bank account to soak up some of the best activities in Los Angeles. There’s a surprising number of free things that let you see the city’s true spirit.
When I visited, I mapped out an itinerary jammed with memorable spots that didn’t cost me a dime. From gawking at famous landmarks to just chilling by the ocean, LA kept surprising me with its generosity.
Each adventure revealed a new face of the city. I wandered through museums, strolled in lush parks, and stumbled on hidden corners downtown.
Honestly, the moments that stuck with me the most didn’t cost anything at all. If you want to squeeze the most out of your LA trip, these seven activities are a solid place to start.
Exploring Arts and Culture Without Spending a Dime
I quickly realized that Los Angeles’s art scene is world-class—and you don’t have to spend much (or anything) to dive in. With free entry to several top museums and public art spaces, I found myself face to face with incredible exhibitions, wild installations, and colorful street murals all over town.
Discovering the Getty Center
The Getty Center turned out to be one of my absolute favorite free experiences. Admission costs nothing, and if you skip driving, you won’t even pay for parking.
I lost track of time wandering through galleries packed with European paintings, photographs, sculptures, and ornate decorative arts.
The building itself is a work of art—perched up high with sweeping views over LA. I loved the peaceful gardens, especially the Central Garden with its winding maze of azaleas.
I’d suggest arriving early if you want to enjoy the quiet before the crowds. They offer interactive exhibitions and activities for families, so everyone feels welcome.
Tip: Pack a snack or a picnic and hang out in the courtyards. On a clear day, the city views are unreal, and the architecture basically begs for a photo or two.
Immersing Yourself at The Broad
The Broad in downtown LA has free general admission. I grabbed tickets online ahead of time, which meant I skipped the standby line and walked right in.
Inside, I drifted through galleries filled with iconic works by Yayoi Kusama, Jeff Koons, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. The Infinity Mirror Rooms are super popular, so check for time slots if you want to see them.
The museum feels open and bright, making it easy to lose yourself in contemporary art for hours. I really appreciated how the collection focuses on recent decades and includes such a variety of styles.
Even the building’s “veil and vault” design caught my eye.
Key Highlights:
- Free general admission
- Central spot near MOCA and Walt Disney Concert Hall
- Easy to reach by public transit or on foot
Art Walks and Street Murals in Downtown LA
Downtown LA and the Arts District are basically an open-air gallery. I joined the monthly Downtown Art Walk on the second Thursday, where local galleries open late and artists fill the sidewalks with their work.
I spotted massive murals on warehouse walls and tucked behind office buildings. The Angel Wings by Colette Miller are a must-see, and new murals from up-and-coming artists pop up all the time.
These neighborhoods never really close, so you can explore murals whenever you want. Evening events buzz with music, food trucks, and a friendly crowd.
Pro-Tip: Wear comfy shoes, bring your camera, and check out mural maps online before heading out. There’s always something new to discover.
Outdoor Adventures and Iconic Views
Los Angeles delivers when it comes to outdoor adventures. I found plenty of free ways to get moving and soak up the city’s legendary scenery.
Hiking Up to the Hollywood Sign
Hiking to the Hollywood Sign totally lived up to the hype. I started in Griffith Park, where you’ll find trails for every skill level.
I picked the Mt. Hollywood Trail for a good mix of challenge and views. The city stretched out below me, and reaching the sign felt like a real achievement.
Along the way, signs kept me on track and shaded spots offered a break. I set out early to beat the heat and crowds.
Bring water, sunblock, and a camera. Dogs can come too, as long as they’re on a leash. Parking’s usually free if you arrive early or on a weekday, but it fills up fast.
Stargazing at Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory is a must, especially around sunset. Entry to the grounds and main building is free, and from the terrace, I got killer views of the city and the Hollywood sign.
Once the sun goes down, staff set up public telescopes. I checked out the moon and a few planets with my own eyes.
Inside, the observatory has fascinating exhibits about space and science. Parking on the hill is sometimes free, but be ready for a bit of a walk.
I joined a free public telescope viewing, which made the experience extra memorable. If you go, bring a jacket—it cools off fast after dark.
Runyon Canyon Nature Experience
Runyon Canyon Park is right in Hollywood and offers hiking trails with unbeatable views.
Locals jog here, dog walkers chat, and visitors snap photos at the top. The main paths are wide, with easy and moderate options.
The peak gives you a sweeping look at downtown LA and the Griffith Observatory. In the mornings, the vibe is social but not too crowded.
There are water fountains at the entrance, and dogs can roam off-leash in certain zones. Parking’s mostly street-only, so I aimed to arrive early. The whole place feels relaxed—ideal for a walk, a hike, or just soaking up the sun.
Free Beach Escapades
LA’s coastline is long, lively, and lined with public beaches and scenic walks. Each spot has its own personality, from Venice’s wild side to Santa Monica’s laid-back energy.
Venice Beach Boardwalk Highlights
The Venice Beach Boardwalk never lets up. Street performers, artists, and vendors fill the walkway, and there’s always a crowd of skaters and cyclists passing by.
I stopped to watch skateboarders at the iconic Venice Skatepark right by the sand. Muscle Beach is open to anyone, and you’ll often spot folks lifting weights in the salty air.
Free public basketball and handball courts let you join a game or just watch the action. The boardwalk leads to the Venice Canals a few blocks inland—a peaceful spot with water, tiny bridges, and quirky homes.
It’s all free to explore, and the canals offer a quiet break from the boardwalk’s buzz.
Santa Monica Pier Vibes
The Santa Monica Pier is classic LA. I wandered the boardwalk for free, just soaking up the ocean views and listening to musicians at the entrance.
At the far end, benches let you watch the sunset or see people fishing. The Santa Monica Beach is wide and sandy—perfect for a stroll or a sunbathing break.
I noticed families and travelers snapping photos at the Route 66 sign, which marks the end of the iconic highway.
Just north, the Palisades Park cliffs offer a panoramic view of the coast, stretching out toward Malibu when the weather’s clear. The palm-lined walking path is open to everyone and worth the detour.
Biking the Marvin Braude Bike Trail
During a weekend community event, I got to rent a bike for free, but you can also walk or skate along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail—locals just call it “The Strand.” This paved path runs 22 miles along the beach, from Pacific Palisades down to Torrance.
The route passes through beach towns like Venice, Santa Monica, and Manhattan Beach. I loved stopping at different piers, refilling my water at public fountains, and watching surfers catch waves.
Bike lanes and clear signs make it feel safe for everyone. You don’t have to do the whole trail—just pick a stretch and enjoy the ocean breeze.
On sunny afternoons, the path fills up with bikers, skaters, and joggers, all sharing the open space by the water.
Cultural Landmarks and Local History
Digging into LA’s historical and cultural sites gave me a whole new appreciation for the city. These places are easy to visit for free and show that LA’s got way more depth than just beaches and movie stars.
Strolling Historic Olvera Street
Olvera Street is one of LA’s oldest corners. The walkway is lined with colorful shops, street vendors, and Mexican restaurants that smell amazing.
I browsed traditional artisan crafts—think handmade jewelry and painted ceramics. The Avila Adobe, LA’s oldest standing home (built in 1818), sits right on the street.
I took a quick tour and got a peek at early California life. Live mariachi music and folk dancers brought the place to life while I wandered.
Historic plaques dot the street, so you can learn as you go. I spent about an hour people-watching, sampling free tortilla chips, and checking out the stalls. It’s lively and historic all at once.
Exploring El Pueblo de Los Angeles
El Pueblo de Los Angeles sits right next to Olvera Street and marks where the city began. The plaza has open-air exhibits and several historic buildings.
Families, school groups, and travelers all drift through to see the old plaza and learn about LA’s early settlers. There are a handful of museums with free admission, like the Italian American Museum and the Chinese American Museum.
The whole district is pedestrian-friendly and packed with displays about LA’s multicultural history. Cultural events or reenactments sometimes pop up in the square.
Occasionally, local volunteers offer free walking tours, sharing stories about LA’s growth. I’d suggest visiting in the morning if you want a quieter experience.
Visiting Los Angeles City Hall
Los Angeles City Hall rises above the historic heart of downtown. The art deco design is gorgeous, and it’s a big deal in the city’s civic life.
Security staff welcomed me and pointed me to the Observation Deck on the 27th floor, which is open to the public for free.
I rode the elevator up and took in 360-degree views—from the mountains to the Pacific and all across LA’s neighborhoods. Displays tell the story of City Hall and local government.
The entrance hall has tall ceilings and vintage details that are worth a look. Since City Hall sits near other historic sites, I planned a little walking tour to see a few in one go.
Famous Film and Entertainment Hotspots
LA has plenty of places where you can soak up Hollywood history and snap photos of legendary sights without spending a penny.
I found some iconic spots where anyone can get closer to the magic of the movies, no ticket required.
Star Spotting on Hollywood Walk of Fame
As I wandered down Hollywood Boulevard, I finally saw the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame. Over 2,700 stars glitter along the sidewalk, each one showing off the name of a movie star, musician, or entertainer.
I grinned when I spotted a few of my favorite actors—plus some fun surprises like Mickey Mouse. That was a little surreal.
You can grab maps of the most popular stars online or at local shops. It’s a handy way to plan out which names you want to find first.
The sidewalk is open 24/7, so I snapped photos both during the day and at night. It felt safe and lively at any hour.
People from all over the world flock here. I loved soaking in the energy, watching street performers, and just people-watching.
The Walk of Fame stretches for fifteen blocks along Hollywood Boulevard and covers three blocks of Vine Street. Honestly, I lost track of time wandering, reading names, and taking in the scene.
Marveling at TCL Chinese Theatre
Just past the Walk of Fame, I spotted the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre. The building’s grand Chinese-inspired design and those bright red columns really stand out.
Built in 1927, it’s one of the oldest and most recognizable theaters in LA. Even if you’re not a movie buff, the place feels packed with history.
Outside, I noticed the concrete slabs covered with handprints and footprints. Dozens of famous actors have left their marks here—everyone from Marilyn Monroe to Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.
I couldn’t resist comparing my hands and feet to the stars’. It’s a little silly but actually pretty fun.
I didn’t catch a movie, but just hanging out in front of the theater felt exciting. Fans gather here all the time, hoping to spot a celebrity or catch a red carpet premiere.
You never know who you’ll see.
Experiencing Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Hollywood Forever Cemetery surprised me with its mix of history and creativity. Some of Hollywood’s biggest legends rest here, like Judy Garland and Cecil B. DeMille.
I visited during the day, and admission didn’t cost a thing. The grounds are peaceful, filled with beautiful headstones and impressive mausoleums.
I followed a self-guided walking tour and picked up bits of Hollywood history along the way. It’s a strange feeling, being surrounded by so many stories.
In the summer, the cemetery hosts outdoor movie nights and concerts. I joined a public event under the palm trees, with city views all around.
It’s one of those places that captures LA’s creative spirit in a totally unexpected way.
Surprising Finds and Hidden Gems
Downtown Los Angeles has a few spots that really caught my eye for their vibe and local flavor. These places won’t break the bank, but they’re full of character and surprises.
Browsing the Last Bookstore
I wandered into The Last Bookstore on Spring Street and was instantly hooked by the atmosphere. The space is huge, with tall shelves and quirky displays everywhere.
The building used to be a bank, so you get marble columns and high ceilings—definitely not your average bookstore.
Books spill across every surface. Some shelves are sculpted into arches and tunnels, so you can literally walk through walls of books.
I lost track of time flipping through local authors, comics, records, and art from LA artists. There’s a quiet corner for reading and an upstairs area that’s like a maze, including the famous “book tunnel” that’s perfect for photos.
It’s free to enter, and nobody pressures you to buy anything. The staff are friendly and seem to know where everything is, even if you don’t.
Book lover or not, it’s easy to spend an hour or two just exploring. I always find something new.
What I liked most:
- Huge selection of new and used books
- Local art displays
- Unique architecture
- Free entry
Grand Central Market Explorations
Grand Central Market has anchored Broadway since 1917. Locals and visitors wander through this lively spot, discovering everything from street tacos to spicy noodles, fresh fruit, and decadent desserts.
Walking in, I caught a swirl of roasting coffee and sizzling spices. I couldn’t resist stopping at a few stalls—most folks here love to hand out free samples.
People gather at long, shared tables under bright lights, chatting over their finds. The energy’s infectious, honestly. Sometimes I just sit back, people-watch, and soak in the buzz.
Colorful murals and glowing neon signs line the walls, adding to the market’s old-school charm. If you’re into tasting your way through a city or just want to experience a slice of downtown history, this place delivers.
Nobody’s in a hurry here. It’s easy to lose track of time, drifting from one vendor to the next, always stumbling on something unexpected.
What makes it special:
- Wide variety of food vendors
- Colorful, bustling atmosphere
- Free samples and open seating
- Located in the heart of downtown near Grand Avenue
