Free Things to Do in LA
Visiting Los Angeles can be an amazing adventure for people of all ages, but the city can also be a very pricey destination to go to. This is the main reason why a large number of travelers tend to avoid the beautiful city of angels. However, fortunately for all budget travelers who don’t want to miss seeing LA, there are plenty of free attractions in the city that can really get them closer to its spirit.
Many of the main attractions are free of charge and there are also other interesting spots tourists don’t even know about but if you are an adventurous traveler you can easily discover and enjoy them. There are actually hundreds of free things in LA and here is a list that can introduce you to traveling on a budget in this charming city.
Exploring LA by Foot
LA is a big city and walking tours can be tiring but they are also an amazing way to get to know the best areas. Whether you want to see the Union Station, Chinatown, or the old parts of the city wandering around is a great option that will give you an unforgettable experience. You can adventure yourself into walking without a destination, use a map or join a free tour ( you should leave a tip, though). Whatever you choose, this urban beauty promises you a walk to remember. Just avoid using the maps on your mobile device unless you want to risk missing amazing landmarks and views, as well as very interesting people because many locals of LA are unique.
Don’t Miss Hollywood Boulevard
No visitor can go to LA and miss seeing the famous Hollywood Boulevard, especially since most of the sights on the boulevard are free of charge. You will see the well-known Walk of Fame, all the handprints and footprints at the Chinese Theatre while having some fun with the great street performers impersonating the Hollywood famous actors or musicians.
Spend a Day on a Relaxing Beach
There are more than 70miles of beach around LA so relaxing on the soft, warm sand, is one of the most popular activities for both locals and travelers. If sitting on the sand is not your cup of tea, you can always go to the rocky beaches and in case you want to run away from the crowds, relax because there are many remote beaches you can go to. Grab your bathing suit, some cold beers, a book and prepare for a beautiful day in LA.
Visit the Downtown LA Central Library
Some might say there is nothing to see at a library but the LA Central Library is a must-see not only because it has an amazing architecture, but it is also waiting for you with interesting gallery shows and public programs. And if art is a great passion of yours, also check out the West Hollywood Library where you can see many murals created by famous artists. In addition, make sure you check their calendar online because you might be lucky and be there in time to see one of their interesting events.
A Perfect Place for Science Aficionados: California Science Center
Located in front of the Rose Garden in Exposition Park, California Science Center is a must-see for people who are interested in science, but also for those who just want to learn something new. What to expect? Great exhibitions, interesting programs and an amalgam of useful information. This is also a great place for people who are traveling with kids, especially if the little ones are passionate about science and the universe.
Explore Chinatown and the Colorful Mexican Marketplace
Chinatown is an explosion of colors and tastes and so is the charming Mexican Marketplace. Both of these interesting places can be visited free of charge and all you have to do is put on some comfy shoes and start walking. Begin with the interesting Chinatown where you can get closer to the Chinese culture and then go to El Pueblo, the Mexican Marketplace, which is located just a couple blocks away. Admire the historic buildings, the lovely people and don’t leave without eating in both places.
Visit a Great Museum: The Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory is a fantastic place for both adults and children where you can learn all about the phases of the moon, the causes of an eclipse or how tides form. This museum offers a fantastic experience and you can get all the info you want without having to pay a dime. This is a must see especially if you want to admire a genuine moon rock, as well as stare at the fabulous views of the City of Los Angeles.
A Special Place for Art Enthusiast: The Broad
Located in Downtown LA next to the Disney Concert Hall and across from the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Broad is an excellent choice if you want to get in touch with contemporary art. In addition to offering visitors the chance to admire great art collections and exhibits, this is completely free of charge.
Adventure Yourself into Hiking: Runyon Canyon
If the city becomes overwhelming, you can always escape with your friends and family in the 160-acre park located at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains. Grab your hiking shoes, some water, and snacks and spend a great day in the middle of nature. After the hike, your great reward will be the amazing views of the city.
Join a Free Metro Art Tour
If you want to admire the hard work and talent of the artists that created art installations for the Metro transit stations you can take a free Metro Art Tour from Hollywood to Downtown LA, as well as join the historic Union Station tour. This is a great experience for people who love art and who want to see what the Metropolitan Transit Authority created, with the help and talent od the artists, of course.
Don’t Miss the Free Entertainment in Los Angeles
The city of LA is filled with talented and aspiring artists of all kinds, There are many Comedy Clubs around the city that have free comedy shows, as well as music venues where you can listen to great people singing without paying a dime. During the summer the music events are outside but if you travel during the winter you can have some fun while listening to music and dancing in bars, coffee shops, and even shopping centers. As you probably imagine not all the concerts in LA are free of charge but there are plenty you can attend without paying a fee and all you have to do is look for opportunities before your trip or while you are wandering around and exploring the city by foot.
As you can see, even if LA is one of the most expensive cities in the USA, there are plenty of free things to do so, no matter if you have lots of money to spend or you are traveling on a budget LA welcomes you and promises you the time of your life.
