Looking for fun stuff to do in LA for the weekend?
Los Angeles is filled with several great neighborhoods, attractions, beaches, and restaurants. It’s hard to fit everything in during a single weekend, but we’ve put together a list of the top things to do on a weekend trip to LA.
Explore Griffith Park
Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States. Take a hike or a leisurely walk through the park’s trails to enjoy beautiful views of the city and the iconic Griffith Observatory. You can also visit the Griffith Observatory for free stargazing events and enjoy the exhibits. Since it is accessible by bus, this is a great option for people who have time to kill on a layover at Union Station. It is open until 10 pm.
Getty Center
The Getty Center is a world-class art museum located in the Brentwood neighborhood. While admission to the museum is free, parking has a small fee. Explore the impressive art collections, stroll through the beautiful gardens, and take in the stunning views of the city. If you’re taking the bus, look for the Metro line 761, which stops at the intersection of Getty Center Drive and Sepulveda Boulevard. For more information on how to access the museum, check out this page.
Original Farmers Market
A longtime open-air market located in the Fairfax District. Browse through the various stalls offering fresh produce, delicious food, local goods, and artisanal crafts. You can also enjoy live music and entertainment. The Fairfax District is a popular hub for vintage shops, cafes, and cool restaurants. We recommend spending an afternoon cruising the neighborhood and doing some shopping.
Check out the schedules for events like the Levitt Pavilion Summer Concert Series or the Grand Performances at California Plaza.
Exposition Park Rose Garden
Enjoy a peaceful stroll through the Exposition Park Rose Garden, located near the University of Southern California (USC). The garden features over 20,000 rose bushes and is a perfect spot for a picnic or a quiet moment. Over the years, it has become known as one of the ‘best-kept secrets’ in Los Angeles. Getting to the Exposition Park Rose Garden is easy from Union Station, just take the Metro E Line toward Santa Monica and get off at the Expo Park/USC stop.
Attend Outdoor Film Screenings
During the summer, various venues in Los Angeles offer free or low-cost outdoor film screenings. Check out events like the Cinespia screenings at Hollywood Forever Cemetery or Street Food Cinema events in different locations across the city. Because this is all I’d want to do, I’m attaching a full calendar with every screening in the city this summer.
Bike the Venice Beach Boardwalk
Rent a bike or roller skates and cruise along the Venice Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy the quirky sights, street performers, and beachfront shops. Stop by the Venice Skate Park (above) to watch local skaters showcase their skills.
Relax at the Beaches
Enjoy a day at one of the many beautiful beaches in Los Angeles. Los Angeles is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and summertime is the perfect time to explore them. Just keep in mind, the other travelers will have the same in mind. You can visit Santa Monica Beach, Venice Beach, or Malibu Beach, among others. You can soak up the sun, go for a swim, play beach volleyball, or have a picnic.
Want even more recommendations for your weekend trip to Los Angeles? Watch this video!
Once you’ve spent the day cruising through Los Angeles and exploring the city’s many attractions, stop over at our ITH Los Angeles Beach Hostel. Located in Hermosa Beach, our hostel is the perfect getaway spot and is just steps from the ocean.
Make sure to sign up for our Traveler’s Club. This free program will save you money on all future bookings at ITH properties!
