Egyptian Theatre
Photograph: Michael Juliano for Time Out
Photograph: Michael Juliano for Time Out

10 L.A. memberships that are totally worth joining right now

Make the most of what L.A. has to offer with memberships that grant you unlimited access, major discounts and more

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Among the many perks of living in Los Angeles? The list of things to do is as vast and varied as the L.A. food scene (and perhaps the number of med spas). From world-renowned museums and serene outdoor retreats to trendy wellness spots and movie theaters, there’s truly something for everyone. And if you’re already frequenting these local haunts, you might as well reap the benefits of a membership for regular indulgence. Sure, L.A. memberships probably conjure images of Alo-fitted gym junkies, cult spin classes and schmoozing over cocktails at Soho House, but this isn’t that kind of roundup. Instead, these memberships are a mix of iconic L.A. institutions and local hubs that offer major perks for you, your friends or even the whole family to enjoy. Maximize your urban experience, support the city’s cultural landscape, and hang with like-minded people through the best memberships in Los Angeles. Heck, you could even give these as unique gifts.

The best memberships in Los Angeles right now

  • Things to do
  • Event spaces
  • San Marino
  • price 2 of 4

Starting at $175/year

Easily one of L.A.’s most breathtaking destinations, the Huntington has drawn locals and tourists alike for its 130-acre gardens, art exhibitions and outdoor events. A membership grants you free admission for up to two adults in the same household, free admission for kids or grandkids under 18, and invites to members events like exhibition previews, the annual Plant Sale preview and Twilight Garden Strolls. Plus, get a discount on those floral coasters you’ve been eyeing at the gift shop, or one of the venue’s many art-and-garden focused lectures and classes.

  • Museums
  • Natural history
  • USC/Exposition Park
  • price 1 of 4

Starting at $109/year

Whether you’re a certified dino lover or looking for things to do with kids that’ll wow your youngins, this iconic museum is a treat for everyone. (PSA, parents: The interactive kids Discovery Center alone makes it worth it.) Frequent the Exposition Park institution with a guest—or guests, depending on your membership level—for free as many times as you like; get access to the Butterfly Pavilion, Spider Pavilion and more; and receive discounts on museum grub, gifts and cool educational programs. As an added bonus, you’ll also get unlimited free admission to the landmark La Brea Tar Pits on the other side of town.

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  • Movie theaters
  • Independent
  • Hollywood
  • price 1 of 4

Starting at $85/year

Cinephiles who spend their weekends catching classic films and indie flicks at the Aero Theatre, Los Feliz 3 or Egyptian Theatre will want to scoop up this membership faster than a fresh bag of popcorn. You’ll get $5 off regular priced tickets at each of the American Cinematheque’s three theaters, priority line entry and access to more than 1,000 films per year in 35mm, 70mm and rare nitrate. Geek out on exclusive live Q&As, members-only advance screenings, special events and more.

  • Things to do
  • Griffith Park
  • price 1 of 4

Starting at $60/year

Lions and tigers and free-roaming peacocks, oh my! Support the wildlife and gain serious perks while you’re at it with a membership to the L.A. Zoo. All levels receive front-of-line entry (a benefit you’ll appreciate in the hot summer months), early member mornings bimonthly and discounts on food, gift shops and nighttime events (Think lively annual festivities like L.A. Zoo Lights, Zoo Friday Nights and Brew at the L.A. Zoo). Plus, you’ll get free or discounted admission to more than 170 zoos and aquariums across the nation, including 15 in California.

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  • Things to do
  • Long Beach
  • price 2 of 4

Starting at $99/year

Sure, dipping your toes in the Pacific is nice, but observing these ocean creatures up close is just as fun (without the sand cleanup). The South Bay’s aquarium membership grants you unlimited free visits and special member preview nights and events, along with major discounts on parking, food, guest tickets, gift stores, day camps and more. Observe more than 12,000 ocean animals and nearly 500 marine species—an experience bound to elicit “oohs” and “aahs” from your little ones. Located along the Long Beach Marina, it’s also the perfect spot to grab dinner and cocktails after a day of aquatic exploration.

  • Health and beauty
  • Saunas and baths
  • West Hollywood

Starting at $300/month

If ever there were a place to indulge in luxurious self-care, this is it. The high-end wellness club, a hot commodity in both WeHo and New York’s Flatiron District, is a dimly lit sanctuary of cryotherapy, vitamin IVs, infrared saunas and holistic treatments to recharge and reset. At a cool price of $300 per month (on par with that of luxury gyms), you can access two ice baths, two tech remedies, unlimited cryo, all classes (breathwork, sound baths) and more. Take advantage of 15 percent discounts on rejuvenating treatments which include acupuncture, cupping, chiropractic movement and the like.

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  • Shopping
  • Cheesemongers
  • Beverly Hills
  • price 3 of 4

$40/month; minimum 3 months

Angelenos might love charcuterie even more than their green juice—and this membership indulges your cheese cravings in every way possible. The Cheese Store of Beverly Hills, a culinary haven of Italian imports and decadent formage, has all the makings of a truly stellar charcuterie board and midday sandwich. True connoisseurs will appreciate the monthly membership in which curated, themed cheese selections from various countries are delivered straight to your door.

Los Angeles Running Club

$65/year

Gearing up for the L.A. Marathon? Or maybe you’re in need of some motivation to lace up your running shoes bright and early? The Los Angeles Running Club has you covered on both fronts. For just $65 per year, members enjoy access to a year-round calendar of activities, including weekly meetups and social gatherings. You’ll receive a comprehensive gait analysis to refine your running technique, attend clinics led by experienced coaches, benefit from discounts on races and gain entry to the annual 5K event in August. It’s a membership and a lifestyle.

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  • Sports and fitness
  • Climbing
  • Lincoln Heights

Starting at $99/month or $1,089/year

There’s something about plunging your hands into a bag of chalk and scaling a 46-foot vertical wall that just feels therapeutic. Whether you’re a newcomer to the climbing world or a bonafide vet, this membership is well worth the investment. You’ll gain access to unlimited climbs per month, free intro classes (bouldering, rope climbing, technique), yoga and fitness classes, half-off private training and monthly clinics, and more covetable perks. Nestled in both Lincoln Heights and Echo Park, these gyms are vibrant community hubs where climbers unite to push their limits and connect over their mutual love for conquering heights (and blowing off steam after navigating the 101).

  • Things to do
  • Pasadena Playhouse District
  • price 2 of 4

Starting at $360/year

Did you know the official State Theatre of California is located in good ol’ Pasadena? With roots dating back to 1917, the Pasadena Playhouse has been a cornerstone in the arts scene for over a century, nurturing big-name talent like Robert Preston of The Music Man fame. The Tony Award-winning venue has a membership that’ll make your theater-loving heart sing: The Classic Package grants you tickets to five shows with premium seats, including a concert event at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium. You’ll also get free access to behind-the-scenes events, discounted guest tickets and advanced booking. 

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