Looking for free things to do in LA? LA parents in the know figured out a long time ago that having fun in Los Angeles doesn’t have to be expensive. But maybe you’ve exhausted your list of tried-and-true destinations and are looking for some new, I-never-thought-of-that ideas.
Because don’t we all love Free? Here is our list of the Best Free Things To Do In Los Angeles with Kids.
1. Watts Towers of Simon Rodia State Historic Park
1765 E. 107th St., Los Angeles, CA
The Watts Towers are truly a sight to see. It is a visual representation that dreams can become a reality. The Watts Towers are “constructed of a structural steel core, wrapped in wire mesh which has been covered with mortar, and inlaid with tiles, glass, shells, pottery, and rocks.”
The tallest of the towers stands at 99.5 feet. The Watts Towers stand “as a symbol of freedom, creativity, and initiative.” It’s interesting to note that the artist, Simon Rodia, originally called his creation “Nuestro Pueblo,” or, “our town.”
2800 E. Observatory Rd., Los Angeles, CA 90027
Griffith Park is big, and admission prices (the Zoo, the Autry Museum) can add up. Thankfully, the Griffith Observatory celebrates the wonder of outer space in a family-friendly, inexpensive way. There are telescopes and a multitude of exhibits that will keep the kids (and parents) engaged, curious, and in awe. And on clear days, you’ll enjoy great views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood sign! Note – the Observatory is open three days a week, Friday – Sunday. (There are fees for parking and shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium.
3. Venice Canals in Los Angeles
Carroll Ct. and Eastern Canal Ct., Venice, CA 90293
Maybe your family can’t afford a trip to Venice, Italy, but that doesn’t mean you can’t explore Venice, California. The Venice Canals were originally constructed in 1905 and were inspired by the canals in Venice, Italy. Mr. Abbot Kinney is credited as being the founder of this “Venice in America” attraction. You can explore the canals on foot, as you leisurely stroll across the many pedestrian bridges. While exploring, you’ll be treated to an eclectic view of homes, gardens, and ducks!
Hollywood Blvd and Vine Street
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is considered to be the world’s most famous stretch of sidewalk, and it’s free to visit! Located on Hollywood Boulevard as well as Vine Street, the famous stars honor those who have made contributions in the categories of Motion Pictures, Television, Recording, Radio, and Live Theatre/Live Performance.
The first star honored Stanley Kramer in 1960. Ceremonies are free to attend and a list of upcoming ceremonies can be found online.
And while you’re exploring the Walk of Fame, you’ll come across many other Hollywood landmarks including the El Capitan Theatre, the TCL Chinese Theatre, and the Hollywood Wax Museum, to name a few.
6333 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles, CA 90036
A trip to the Farmers Market allows families to simultaneously experience the past and the present. The Farmer’s Market has been owned by the Gilmore Family since the late 1800’s. In 1934, farmers began selling their fresh produce from the corner of 3rd and Fairfax. Since then, the Farmers Market has continued to grow and evolve, although many of the merchants have been a part of the Farmer’s Market for a very long time, including Bennett’s Ice Cream and Magee’s Kitchen. Also, be sure to stop by Kip’s Toyland, which has been family-owned and operated for over 70 years (and doesn’t sell any electronic games!).
189 The Grove Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90036
Adjacent to the Farmers Market is The Grove, a shopping and dining destination. And while many go to The Grove to shop, it’s just as much fun to wander around browsing, without spending any money. Read and play in the children’s section of Barnes and Noble, check out American Girl Place, or take a free ride on the Trolley, which travels between The Grove and the Farmers Market.
Another fun activity includes watching the Dancing Fountain. The fountain “dances” to different songs every hour and was designed by the same company that designed the famous fountains at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. And if you visit The Grove on a Thursday (at 10 am and 11 am), young children can participate in the free, weekly Kids Club.
Santa Monica Pier and Beach
Ocean Ave. and Colorado Blvd., Santa Monica, CA
The Santa Monica Pier is equally popular with tourists and locals. This historic pier is designated as the official western end of Route 66. It doesn’t cost anything to walk around the pier, marveling at Pacific Park, the amusement park located on the pier which includes the world’s only solar-powered Ferris Wheel.
And located on the beach, right under the Carousel on the Pier, you’ll find the Heal the Bay Aquarium. On exhibit are more than 100 species of marine animals, all of which are found in the Santa Monica Bay. In addition, different events are held each day the aquarium is open (the aquarium is closed on Mondays and offers longer hours in the summer). Admission is free for children 12 and younger; ages 13+ are $10 each.
Walk down to the beach and make a day of it! Bring a cooler and some sandwiches; a Frisbee and a ball; books; a pail and a shovel; and of course, sunscreen, and you’ve got the makings of a great family beach day.
8. El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument
125 Paseo de la Plaza, Los Angeles, CA
El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument is known as the “birthplace of Los Angeles.” This living museum offers several attractions, open year-round and many of them are free! Olvera Street Mexican Marketplace is a lively outdoor marketplace and enjoy a variety of vendors, dancers and musicians, handcrafted items, and delicious food and Avila Adobe is known as the oldest home in Los Angeles.
Between Wilshire and S. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA
Rodeo Drive is known as the “intersection of luxury, fashion, and entertainment.” While the boutiques on Rodeo Drive may be offering expensive wares, it’s always free to stroll down the streets and just window-shop. Take your family on your own self-guided walking tour of this famous street.
Be sure to look for the “Rodeo Drive Walk of Style,” which displays plaques honoring “fashion legends for their contributions to the fashion and entertainment industries.” Each plaque features the recipient’s name, a personal quote, and their signature.
Anderton Court, a three-story building along Rodeo Drive, was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and is famous for “its unusual design which is completely devoid of steps and instead relies on a series of ramps to move between floors.”
5801 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036
If you’re not sure if your kids would like to be inside a museum, there is no need to miss out on exploring the La Brea Tar Pits. Thankfully, no admission is required for the outside portion, and there’s so much to see and explore! In case you didn’t already know, the La Brea Tar Pits is considered to be “one of the richest depositories of Ice Age fossils.”
Marvel at the statues throughout the grounds and the Lake Pit, featuring a still-bubbling asphalt seep with life-size fiberglass statues of mammoths and an American mastodon. Learn about the excavation process and check out the Pleistocene Garden which includes Ice Age-era plants that would have been found in Los Angeles. Stop by the Observation Pit, to see what “a real La Brea fossil deposit looks like.” And take your time walking through (and smelling) the Tar Pits stopping by Project 23 and Pit 91.
2903 Cornell Rd., Agoura Hills, CA 91301
In the 1920s, Paramount Pictures purchased 2700 acres of the Rancho Las Virgenes to be used as a “movie ranch.” In 1980, the National Park Service revitalized a portion of the movie ranch. Today families can go exploring and hiking on the same land that has been used as the setting in many films and television shows. Unfortunately, the Woolsey Fire in 2018 swept through the area and destroyed much of what was known as “Western Town.” However, families can enjoy hiking throughout the area and keeping an eye out for wildlife.
1200 Getty Center Dr. , Los Angeles, CA 90049
When you visit the Getty, you have the opportunity to view amazing art pieces as well as the opportunity to get a view of Los Angeles you don’t often see. Children will most likely be intrigued before you even reach the Museum; riding the computer-operated trams from the parking lot is sure to garner a lot of excitement among young visitors.
The permanent collection includes European and American art, from Medieval Times to the present. In addition to what you’ll see inside, is what you’ll see outside — the Getty’s famous Central Garden and architecture. The Getty Center also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year including live musical performances, lectures, film screenings, and more. Admission is free; however, a timed entry reservation is required. (The Getty is closed on Mondays).
3919 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91604
You may have driven by the Campo de Cahuenga without realizing its historical significance. It was actually the site of the signing of the Treaty of Cahuenga in 1847. The Treaty ended the conflict that existed over southwest territory between the United States and Mexico. At this site, you’ll find a replica of the adobe that stood on the site during the time of the Treaty’s signing as well as a number of monuments and plaques dedicated to historic figures of the time. You’ll find a collection of artifacts here as well as “historical records from five crucial phases of California history” (Spanish Mission period, Mexican Rancho period, American Acquisition period, Butterfield-Overland Stage Coach stop, and Civil War encampment site for Union troops). Families can visit the site for an Open House on the first and third Saturday of each month from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm. Admission is free.
14. Korean Bell of Friendship and Bell Pavilion
3601 S. Gaffey St., San Pedro, CA 90731
The Korean Bell of Friendship was donated by the Republic of Korea in 1976, in honor of our country’s bicentennial. It honors Korean War veterans as well as serving as a symbol of friendship between our two countries. The Korean Bell weighs 17 tons and stands 12 feet tall. The bell is inside a pagoda-like structure which was constructed in San Pedro by 30 craftsmen who were flown in from Korea. In addition, the Korean Bell of Friendship is located in a picturesque setting which also tends to get fairly breezy – perfect kite-flying conditions!
15. Lake Balboa/Anthony C. Beilenson Park
6300 Balboa Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91406
Take a walk around Lake Balboa and enjoy the scenery at this large, grassy park. Take advantage of the jogging/walking path here. Kids will love seeing ducks and have lots of fun at the maritime-themed play area. And make sure to bring your kite, your Frisbee, and some balls. You’re most likely going to spend quite a bit of time at this large park.
Chandler Blvd. (Mariposa St. to Clybourn Ave.), Burbank, CA
It used to be a railroad track. Now, the Chandler Bikeway is a well-known bike path with separate lanes for bicyclists and pedestrians. Families will find “extensive landscaping and public art dotted along its length.”
Santa Monica Blvd. between Wilshire and Doheny Dr., Beverly Hills, CA 90210
This impressive linear park runs for 1.9 miles. Stroll block after block, and your family will discover a variety of specialty gardens (such as the Cactus Garden and the Rose Garden), the Wilshire Electric Fountain, walking paths, and sculptures. You’ll also find the famous Beverly Hills sign and lily pond (a favorite photo-op spot).
18. UCLA Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden
southeastern corner of the UCLA Campus
707 Tiverton Dr., Los Angeles, CA 90095
The Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden is a serene escape within the hustle and bustle of Westwood. This 7.5-acre “garden, outdoor classroom, and research facility” consists of a “diverse collection of plants from around the world.” While you meander through the Garden you’ll view a Desert Garden section, Southern California native section, Subtropical Woodlands, Western Australia natives, and more. The Garden is free to visit, though the Garden is closed on University Holidays so plan accordingly. Hours February-October: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (weekdays) and 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (weekends). Hours November-January: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm and 9:00 am to 4:00 pm (weekends).
19. Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park
Families can hike and explore in the Santa Susana Pass State Historic Park. You’ll find a variety of plant life here as well as panoramic views. According to the California State Parks brochure, “The story of Santa Susana Pass includes an ancient Indian hunting trail, rocks used as shelter by native people, and hair-raising stagecoach trips down Devil’s Slide.” In days past, this area was part of a transportation corridor between Mission San Buenaventura and Mission San Fernando. This historic area was once home to three native groups — the Chumash, the Tongva, and the Tataviam.
3601 S. Gaffey St. #8, San Pedro, CA 90731
The Marine Mammal Care Center (MMCC) was established in 1992 and serves to rescue and rehabilitate injured and ill sea animals found along Los Angeles County’s coast. Their goal is to treat and release sea animals including sea lions, harbor seals, and elephant seals. Additionally, the center seeks to inform the public about conservation and environmental issues. Visitors are welcome on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 4 pm. Admission to the MMCC is free (though donations are always gratefully accepted).
2 Manhattan Beach Blvd., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
(at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier)
The Roundhouse Aquarium is located at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier. You’ll find more than “100 different species of marine life, most of which can be found in the Santa Monica Bay.” Families also have the chance to interact with marine life through touch tanks. Hours are seasonal: September through March, Monday – Friday 2 pm to 5 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. April through August, Monday – Friday 2 pm to 7 pm, Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 7 pm. This facility offers free admission (although donations are greatly appreciated).
751 Echo Park Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90026
Pack a picnic and get ready for a picturesque day at Echo Park Lake. Take advantage of the picnic tables and walking paths. While it’s free to enjoy the park, you and your family may be tempted to rent a pedal boat. A pedal boat is a great way to leisurely explore Echo Park Lake’s fountains and lotus beds. Rentals are available for a fee.
Visit a Free Museum in Los Angeles
Several locations throughout Los Angeles
Many museums offer free daily admission. The California Science Center, The Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust, the Hammer Museum, the California African American Museum, and the Fowler Museum at UCLA are just some of the museums offering free admission each day they are open.
Additionally, some museums offer free admission on certain days.
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