The 52 best things to do in Los Angeles

What is it? A Getty-funded series, titled “Art & Science Collide,” that will stage themed exhibits at more than 50 SoCal museums.

Why go? Formerly known as Pacific Standard Time, the every-few-years initiative has debuted a dizzying number of exhibitions, including one on climate and social justice at the Hammer, a look at indigenous futurism at the Autry, a George Washington Carver spotlight at CAAM, a new diorama hall at NHM and dozens of others.

Don’t miss: PST ART properly kicked off in mid-September, but more exhibitions will still arrive in the coming months.

What is it? A historic library, museum and sprawling gardens that was the bequest of entrepreneur Henry E. Huntington.

Why go? The Huntington’s distinctly themed gardens are easily the most stunning manicured outdoor spaces in SoCal, especially its recently expanded Chinese garden. The library and museum are equally impressive; all require reservations on weekends. In the past year or so, the Huntington has also renovated its historic tea room (and just added a new walk-in wine service from 3 to 5 pm) and rebuilt a 320-year-old house from Japan.

Don’t miss: For PST Art, the Huntington is staging three exhibitions, including one on the 19th-century origins of environmental awareness.

What is it? A 4,000-plus–acre rugged park in the center of the city.

Why go? The trails, the flora, the views, the howls of coyotes down the canyons at night, the twinkly lights of Downtown in the distance—L.A. may not have a grassy, centralized park, but Griffith’s massive, hilly wilderness makes for a stellar alternative.

Don’t miss: Even when the Griffith Observatory is closed (on Mondays), you can still drive or hike up to the grounds of the landmark Art Deco dome to take in the unparalleled views. Wherever you end up hiking, we highly suggest listening downloading Ellen Reid’s Soundwalk, a location-based musical composition that transforms as you move about the park.

What is it? A cluster of U-pick farms in Oak Glen and Julian.

Why go? Apple pie, apple cider, apple turnovers, apple fritters: If any of those have you smacking your lips in anticipation, you’ll want to head east to feast on freshly-baked apple treats, or to pick them yourself at a trio of farms. Oak Glen is only about two hours away; Julian is about twice that but a bit more charming.

Don’t miss: Apple picking season typically runs from Labor Day through Thanksgiving.

What is it? An exhibition from the Icelandic–Danish artist Olafur Eliasson that brings a new series of optical installations to MOCA’s Little Tokyo location.

Why go? Don’t let the reflective, colorful pieces fool you into thinking this is some run-of-the-mill “immersive” exhibit: Olafur Eliasson’s works invite you to admire the everyday miracles of physics that shape how we see the world. The towering, mirror-lined stacks near the entrance and the two kaleidoscopes are our favorite of the bunch.

Don’t miss: You’ll need a timed ticket, but look for reservations on the first Friday of the month (5–8pm) to visit for free.

What is it? A permanent home for the history of moviemaking that’s finally open.

Why go? The collection includes the sorts of cinematic treasures you’d expect from the people who put on the Oscars, like C-3PO and the sole surviving shark from Jaws. The museum’s gallery rotations currently celebrate The Godfather, Casablanca and Boyz N the Hood, plus French New Wave pioneer Agnès Varda and documentarian Lourdes Portillo. Oh, and the gift shop is pretty fantastic, too.

Don’t miss: During our most recent visit we spotted new props on display from Star Wars, The Matrix and the MCU, and also visited the brand-new exhibitions on Cyberpunk and color technology.

What is it? A European-style food hall that’s been operating in Downtown L.A. since 1917.

Why go? Even if you’re not there for the food, it’s worth a trip; people from all corners of L.A. mix and mingle among rows of spices, produce and vintage neon signage. Of course, if you’re hungry it’s a great place to get cheap pupusas, carnitas tacos and aguas frescas, as well as food from handsome, trendy eateries like Shiku, Fat + Flour, Sticky Rice, Broad Street Oyster Co., Eggslut, McConnell’s and G&B Coffee.

Don’t miss: Tacos Tumbras a Tomas serves the hall’s go-to taco, particularly the carnitas and al pastor.

Take a food tour of Downtown L.A.

What is it? A celestial-themed, hour-long light-up trail at South Coast Botanic Garden with the same array of celestial-inspired displays.

Why go? Though the holidays are still weeks away, there’s nothing Christmassy about this Palos Verdes trail, which returned toward the beginning of November. Its nine stellar installations are cosmically mesmerizing, and basically the only after-dark event of its kind this early in the season.

Don’t miss: There’s basically zero street parking within a reasonable walk of the gardens, so you’ll need to pay up for the on-site parking (or a shuttle on weekends).

What is it? Chris Burden’s Urban Light, a piece made up of 202 cast-iron street lamps gathered from around L.A. and restored to working order, that stands outside of the massive museum.

Why go? Yes, snag your streetlight selfies. But you’d be selling yourself short if you don’t venture beyond the photo-friendly installation; LACMA’s collections boast modernist masterpieces, large-scale contemporary works, traditional Japanese screens and by far L.A.’s most consistently terrific special exhibitions. 

Don’t miss: The color-focused showcase of Mesoamerian art, as well as an exhibition on cosmology. Also, if you live in L.A. County, book a reservation for a weekday after 3pm to get in without paying a cent.

What is it? A 22-mile bike path, officially known as the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, that traces nearly the entire extent of L.A.’s westward-facing coastline.

Why go? It’s the best way to tour the coastline. The path starts at Will Rogers State Beach and winds its way all the way down to Torrance Beach.

Don’t miss: If you’d rather take the path at a walking pace, you’ll find pedestrian-friendly forks in Santa Monica, Venice and Manhattan Beach.

Take a guided bike ride along the coast.

What is it? A free, contemporary art museum in Downtown L.A.

Why go? Three little words: Infinity Mirror Rooms. The persistently popular museum has two mirror-laden Yayoi Kusama installations (the more immersive of which you can reserve in advance). Of course, there’s plenty more to see, from Robert Therrien’s oversized Under the Table to a half-dozen Jean-Michel Basquiat paintings.

Don’t miss: The museum will debut a mid-month, environmentally-minded exhibition on Joseph Beuys.

What is it? Colorful displays that are staying illuminated through the end of the year.

Why go? All of L.A.’s botanical garden shows will be up and running in November, including the celestial-inspired Astra Lumina at South Coast Botanic Garden, the charming L.A. Zoo Lights and the magical Enchanted at Descanso Gardens. You’ll have to wait until December, though, to see lights all over town for free, from a floating parade in Marina Del Rey to a mile of illuminated cedars in Altadena.

Don’t miss: Ticket prices can be pretty steep, so consider a mid-week visit for a few dollars off.

What is it? A surprisingly still-busy stretch of outdoor movie season.

Why go? Between Rooftop Cinema Club—which is flipping on the space heaters for its “Fireside Films” series—and the return of Melrose Rooftop Theatre, you can still catch an outdoor screening just about every night in November.

Don’t miss: New screenings and series are announced all the time, so make sure to check our calendar each week.

What is it? A former reservoir turned public recreation area at the center of one of L.A.’s most buzzing neighborhoods.

Why go? The historic Echo Park Lake in recent years finally became a family-friendly destination worthy of its bold backdrop: the Downtown skyline amid the lotus flower blooms, fountains and the Lady of the Lake statue.

Don’t miss: You can push your way through the lake in a swan boat ($12 per hour) or stroll around the path that hugs its borders. We also just checked out Piknik, the first restaurant to return to the reservoir’s charming boathouse in quite a few years.

What is it? A handful of ice skating rinks that open for skating sessions in November.

Why go? The sheer novelty and absurdity of being able to bask in beachfront sun by day and glide around an icy rink by night. Both Santa Monica and DTLA have rinks opening this month, plus a few others in slightly more far-flung locations.

Don’t miss: Despite the fact that the beginning of the year in L.A. is absolutely colder than the end of the year, most of these rinks are a holiday time kind of thing—so you’ll have to squeeze any visits in by the beginning of January.

What is it? An 18,000-capacity arena in Inglewood that’s the new home for the L.A. Clippers as of last month.

Why go? Basketball season is here, but this slick-looking billion-dollar-plus venue across from SoFi Stadium will continue to host major concerts, as well. For better or worse, you won’t have to worry about running down your phone battery from all of those mid-show TikToks because there are USB-C power outlets at every seat.

Don’t miss: The team drafted some local all-star artists to create installations across the grounds, including a ship with sails made of backboards by Glenn Kaino and a massive, mesmerizing video piece from Refik Anadol.

What is it? A Sunday market with dozens of food vendors in the Arts District.

Why go? The weekly food fest is like an incubator for L.A.’s next big food spot, with more than 80 food and retail stalls at ROW DTLA. You’ll also find the I Love Micheladas beer garden for local brews and micheladas.

Don’t miss: This year’s new vendors include Basket Taco Co., Battambong Barbecue and Taste of the Pacific.

What is it? An outdoor oasis of pools, mineral baths and hot and cold plunges tucked into a tropical plant-filled valley in Corona.

Why go? Like a wellness-focused playground for adults, Glen Ivy sits in the sweet spot where it’s close enough (about an hour or two drive) to go for the day, but far enough to feel like an escape from L.A. Though it’s largely more of a resort-like spa than its name implies, there is indeed a 104-degree naturally-fed hot spring at Glen Ivy (you’ll certainly smell the sulfur).

Don’t miss: Fall and winter offer a break from the sometimes overbearing summertime heat and crowds. Visit on a weekday in the off season and you can expect the swimming pools to be basically empty and the hot tubs sometimes busy but never overcrowded.

What is it? A collision of holidays at the 69-year-old iconic theme park.

Why go? In the late summer, Disneyland Park’s Haunted Mansion debuted its annual Nightmare Before Christmas makeover, which will continue to run into the New Year. The rest of the park’s Christmassy decor will quickly follow by November 15—which is also the same day that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will debut in the former Splash Mountain space.

Don’t miss: If you haven’t been to the pair of parks in a while, there’s a lot that’s changed—and we’re not just talking about the additions of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Avengers Campus—so we suggest brushing up on some of our essential Disneyland tips first.

What is it? A gorgeous and instantly recognizable outdoor amphitheatre that’s been hosting concerts since the LA Philharmonic first played there in 1922.

Why go? Nestled in an aesthetically blessed fold in the Hollywood Hills, the 18,000-seat venue can bring out the romantic in the terminally cynical. It’s the summer home of the LA Phil (and boozy picnics).

Don’t miss: As long as there’s no performance going on (which is most days in the winter and spring), it also doubles as a public park. During the busier summer season, you’re welcome to bring your own food to ticketed shows (and even booze to LA Phil-produced ones). Oh, and don’t try driving to a show: There are fewer parking spots now, so you’ll want to opt for a shuttle instead.

What is it? A free hilltop art museum with a rolling lawn overlooking the ocean.

Why go? From the ocean to the mountains northeast of Downtown L.A., the panoramic views from this artopolis more than compensate for its relative inaccessibility (you need to ride a tram to the museum). So too do the masterpieces on display, particularly its Impressionist paintings and baroque and French decorative arts.

Don’t miss: An excellent exhibition on how astronomy and optics impacted religion in the Middle Ages, as well as an eye-popping display of holographic art. Pacific Palisades sister institution the Getty Villa is absolutely worth a visit, too, and brimming with Greek and Roman antiquities. Both museums require a free reservation.

What is it? A free urban hike held every year on the Saturday before Thanksgiving.

Why go? It’s a chance to pick up on so many details of this city that you miss when you’re busy driving your car. This year’s route starts in Exposition Park—in front of the oldest palm tree in L.A.—and heads toward the Bruin statue in Westwood for a USC-meets-UCLA edition.

Don’t miss: You can hop on or off the walk whenever you’d like, and though no reservations are required, RSVPs are appreciated. 

What is it? A 1921, Mayan-inflected Frank Lloyd Wright house atop a hill in East Hollywood.

Why go? Though the home’s privileged hilltop perch is admirable from the outside, it’s best experienced from within: The exquisite wood detailing, long concrete hallways and geometric furniture are well worth the $7 tour.

Don’t miss: Saturday tours tend to sell out, so make sure to book in advance or try a weekday if you can (Thu–Sat 11am–4pm).

What is it? Super Nintendo World, a new Mario-themed land at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

Why go? The colorful, kinetic land lets you throw shells on an augmented reality-enhanced Mario Kart ride, punch ? and POW blocks for coins, and dine inside an adorable Toad-themed café. We’ve had a chance to visit a couple of times now, and it’s by far the most significant—and greatest—addition to the park since the still-pretty-magical Wizarding World of Harry Potter. (You can enter an hour early if you shell out an extra $20 to $25.)

Don’t miss: Just outside the theme park gates, CityWalk now boasts L.A.’s first-ever Hello Citty cafe, which is offering 50th anniversary treats through the end of the year.

What is it? The high-flying troupe’s first show in Santa Monica since 2014—and after a few theater productions, its first tented show in L.A. in about five years.

Why go? If you’re only used to arena or theater productions, there’s a palpable shift in the vibe at these big top performances thanks to more preshow interaction with the performers and across-the-board closer seating. KOOZA itself is a remarkably enjoyable program of gravity-defying balancing acts that fuses a bit of Parisian flair with a mix of Indian music and ’70s funk.

Don’t miss: The start of the show. There’s no parking directly at the show, which means you’ll need to pad in some extra time to walk over from one of the many downtown garages or the Metro station.

What is it? A series of small canals that run through the beachfront neighborhood—hence the name, Venice.

Why go? Tucked between the grimy Venice Boardwalk and the posh Abbot Kinney, the Venice Canals offer a completely different side of the famed beachfront neighborhood. Take a stroll through these three canal-lined blocks and you’ll discover an idyllic scene with arching pedestrian bridges, charming (and astronomically priced) beach houses and bunches of ducklings.

Don’t miss: Though you won’t find boat rentals anywhere along the canals, you can bring your own non-motorized vessel to tour the neighborhood at water level (enter via the launch ramp at Venice Boulevard).

What is it? A 101-year-old theater built by the same architect as the Chinese Theatre and home to the first Hollywood premiere.

Why go: The Egyptian Theatre is back after a three-year restoration project. Now under the ownership of Netflix, the streamer will hold special events and premieres there on weekdays. But the American Cinematheque, the not-for-profit that first revived the venue in the ’90s, will continue to program it on weekends with excellent cinematic picks and Q&As.

Don’t miss: It’s not the only old theater to make its return recently: The Vista, now under the ownership of Quentin Tarantino, is once again regularly screening films (and serving coffee in an adjacent shop).

What is it? A pooch-friendly paradise in Paradise (that doubled for Venice in L.A.’s Olympic handoff).

Why go? The four-acre waterfront spot is the only legal off-leash dog beach in L.A. County. The park is named after the area’s late local canine celebrity, Rosie the English bulldog.

Don’t miss: The entrance. There are no fences marking the dog-friendly area—though you’ll know you’re in the right spot if you see the signs and colorful “Dogs at Play” sculpture—so you’ll want to stay between Granada Avenue and Roycroft Avenue between 6am and 8pm daily.

What is it? A collection of 21 soundstage-sized installations that’s floated its way into Boyle Heights.

Why go? The “museum” part of the name might be a little bit of a stretch, but this touring show is way more fun than your run-of-the-mill made-for-Instagram attraction, whether you’re pushing a charcoal-tipped sphere or getting swept up in a staticky whirlwind of balloons.

Don’t miss: Stick to weekdays for more reasonably priced tickets ($39 for locals) to this others quite pricey experience.

What is it? A mountaintop observatory, and a winding, scenic drive to get there.

Why go? High up in the San Gabriel Mountains, the Mount Wilson Observatory affords terrific views of the surrounding region. Admission to the area is free, but you’ll need to buy a Forest Service Adventure Pass in order to park at the site and its adjoining picnic area as it’s located within the Angeles National Forest.

Don’t miss: First off, make sure the road up there is open as it often closes for large stretches of the winter. Take a self-guided tour of the grounds, or a seasonal docent-led tour ($15) of the observatory on weekend afternoons (same-day tickets are available at the Cosmic Cafe). For late-night stargazing, you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled for the pricey but totally worth it ticketed events (the monthly lectures are a much cheaper alternative). And consider securing tickets for a concert inside the dome on select Sunday afternoons during the summer.

What is it? A hillside botanical garden in La Cañada Flintridge that harbors a year-round collection of native flora.

Why go? This delightful tribute to the horticultural magic of Southern California includes more than 600 varieties of camellia (best seen between the middle of February and early May), as well as groves and hillsides of native plants.

Don’t miss: There’s always a seasonal bloom to scope out, including—as mentioned—camellias in the winter, and tulips and the Japanese garden’s cherry blossoms in the spring (usually in March or April). And speaking of seasonal, Enchanted, Descanso’s whimsical holiday trail, runs from mid-November through the beginning of January.

What is it? A 50-foot waterfall located in an easy-to-access canyon in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Why go? Eaton Canyon is one of the most accessible and relatively easygoing waterfall trails around. That means when it’s not crowded, you’ll truly feel like you’ve slipped into the wilderness. But when it’s crowded? Not as much—so we strongly suggest a weekday visit if you can. Just note that the creek along the hike can swell after winter rains, while the waterfall itself is reduced to a trickle in the middle of the summer.

Don’t miss: Most easily accessible on weekdays, the Pinecrest Gate is just barely over a mile from the waterfall and cuts out what’s otherwise the most boring part of the hike. It’s our go-to point of entry just about every time we’ve tackled the trail.

What is it? A postcard-worthy seafood shack on the Pacific Coast Highway toward the western edge of Malibu.

Why go? The fried ocean bites and weekend biker crew make Neptune’s Net a unique destination. (Alternatively, dine up the coast with locals at Malibu Seafood, where the long line is worth the wait for fresh fish and seafood, or grab a superlative lobster roll at Broad Street Oyster Co.).

Don’t miss: Take your food across the street and park in the dirt patch by the water, with views of surfers and kite boarders.

What is it? A concert hall and home of the LA Philharmonic designed by famed local architect Frank Gehry.

Why go? Cruise along Grand Avenue and you can’t miss the Walt Disney Concert Hall, a twisted metallic explosion of Frank Gehry’s imagination. You can look inside the stunning auditorium on a self-guided tour, but the exterior is also just as exquisite.

Don’t miss: Climb up the staircase on Grand Avenue, near 2nd Street, and you’ll find a garden hidden behind the hall. Bring a bagged lunch or a climb along the building’s lustrous exterior. Also, in honor of the hall’s 20th anniversary, you can scope out a half-dozen architectural models (look for them inside in BP Hall).

What is it? Ten miles of streets, mostly along Palos Verdes Drive, hugging the coast from the Torrance border to San Pedro.

Why go? The first third of the drive sticks mostly to spectacular real estate a few blocks inland, but after you round Point Vicente, the drive changes dramatically. For a few miles past Terranea, there’s nothing but undeveloped oceanfront hillsides, winding roads and golden-hued bluffs.

Don’t miss: Take a stroll by the Point Vicente Interpretive Center for views of the nearby lighthouse. Also, part of the peninsula is literally in the midst of a slow-moving landslide, which has already closed the iconic Wayfarers Chapel—so, you know, explore the area while you still can. 

What is it? Dozens of public, outdoor stairways scattered around Silver Lake’s verdant hillsides.

Why go? These WPA era staircases are well-suited for a workout or a fitness-included tour of the area. Though some homeowners have tried to prevent open access, make no mistake: These sets of stairs are for public use. You can find an exhaustive list in author Charles Fleming’s Secret Stairs.

Don’t miss: Highlights include the heart-painted Micheltorena Stairs (Sunset Blvd and Micheltorena St) and the Music Box Steps (Vendome St and Del Monte Dr), of Laurel and Hardy fame.

What is it? A mighty metallic bell and pavilion in San Pedro donated by South Korea in 1976.

Why go? Perched over the Pacific, this grassy spot overlooking the ocean is known for its namesake bell, with an ornately painted hipped roof. The exposed hillside is an ideal spot to fly a kite thanks to persistent winds coming off the ocean.

Don’t miss: The bell rings only four times each year: Fourth of July, National Liberation Day of Korea (Aug 15), New Year’s Eve and during Constitution Week in September.

What is it? An 8,000-acre mountainous park that looks unlike anything else in L.A.

Why go? With dramatic gorges, open pastures, lush forests, hidden pools and jagged peaks, Malibu Creek is simply one of the most stunning spots in Southern California.

Don’t miss: A bit of silver screen history; you can spot remnants of the M*A*S*H set and splash in the rock pool that was featured in Planet of the Apes. Consider using your library card to secure a free parking pass.

What is it? A Pacific Palisades hillside park with multiple viewponts of the ocean.

Why go? With a variety of terrain, flora and views of the Pacific and city, Temescal Canyon Park is great for trail runners, hikers and dog walkers. You’ll experience vast, breathtaking views that span from Catalina to Downtown and enough varied terrain to keep you and your furry friend going—all the way to the Valley, should you dare.

Don’t miss: The stop signs. Seriously. They’re photo enforced, and you’ll be sent a $100 fine if you roll through.

What is it? A small but beautiful state beach in Malibu dominated by rocky coves.

Why go? Because it’s easily the most scenic stretch of coastline in the region. It’s only accessible via a steep gravelly path from a paid parking lot. But the effort is worth it, whether it’s to watch the waves lap against the rocks or see the sunset.

Don’t miss: The tide. The beach here is pretty narrow and sand comes at a particular premium when high tide rolls in.

What is it? About a half-dozen drive-in movie theaters in SoCal that are still going strong.

Why go? For nearly a year, it was one of the only ways to see a first-run movie that wasn’t on your couch. But even with regular theaters open again, we still think it’s tons of fun and cost effective.

Don’t miss: Some theaters are only open seasonally while others only screen on weekends, so you’ll want to check the schedule before you drive over.

What is it? A Westside lookout best known for its 282 steep, concrete stairs to the top.

Why go? The views from the top offer some of the best views of the region, with the ocean on one side and the Downtown L.A. skyline on the other (set against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains in the winter). Once you reach the summit, sit at the long park bench and take in the 360-degree views.

Don’t miss: If you’d rather not beat up your knees but still want the view, we’ve driven up to the top of the hill and parked in—on a weekday, at least—one of the many empty spaces ($6).

What is it? Take a fuel-efficient walking tour and cherish Los Angeles’ urban architectural heritage.

Why go? The Los Angeles Conservancy walking tours take in the city’s top sights and most beautiful buildings, including Downtown’s historic theaters and Art Deco buildings (on a weekly basis) as well as the modern skyline (monthly). Be sure to reserve a place well ahead, because the tours are incredibly popular.

Don’t miss: The tour of Victorian homes in Angelino Heights (first Saturday of the month) is perfect for Halloween-time.

What is it? A once-a-month block of dog-friendly hours at the Palos Verdes botanical garden.

Why go? To spend some quality outdoor time with your four-legged best friend, of course. One Sunday a month, you can roam the gardens’ 87 acres with your fur baby. We were able to bring our dog to nearly every corner of the grounds, with the exception of the rose garden and a few other small paths that are closed off to pups.

Don’t miss: You—the human—will need a reservation, while your best friend—the pup—will need to remain on their leash at all times, including in the parking lot.

What is it? An Arts District arcade bar.

Why go? If ever there was a bar to geek out in, this one is it. L.A.’s first arcade bar boasts more than 40 classic arcade cabinets and pristinely preserved pinball machines—all fixed with cup holders for endless booze-fueled sessions. An homage to the golden age of arcade games, cocktails here have names like Kill Screen, Zangief and Dr. Mario.

Don’t miss: Swing by the last Sunday of the month for an open pinball tournament (or join the L.A. Pinball League, which plays on Tuesday nights).

What is it? A staggeringly colossal flea market held outside of the Rose Bowl the second Sunday of each month.

Why go? The sheer size and scale of this flea market means that it encompasses multitudes: new and old, hand-crafted and salvaged, the cheap and the costly. There are plenty of duds, to be sure, but come out early enough and you may go home with that perfect purchase.

Don’t miss: Stray from the main loop around the stadium; there are rows and rows of old furniture, albums and vintage clothes and accessories that fill the adjacent parking lot.

What is it? A series of farmers’ markets held every week year-round in Santa Monica.

Why go? The next time you’re at a restaurant and tempted to ask the waiter where your astoundingly fresh beets came from—don’t. We’ll save you the trouble and answer for you: the Santa Monica Farmers’ Market.

Don’t miss: While the market occurs on a couple of days in various parts of Santa Monica, the best day to go is on Wednesday along Arizona Avenue.

What is it? One of Southern California’s most beautiful beaches and a frequent Hollywood filming location due to its iconic rock face.

Why go? If you can’t find a free space along Westward Beach Road or you’re willing to pay for parking, you’ll be rewarded with this wide and rarely crowded patch of sand and surf. As all the parking spots are only steps from the sand, Point Dume is the perfect place to pack a picnic for a beachfront meal as seals and dolphins frolic during sunset—just watch out for those hungry seagulls.

Don’t miss: An easygoing dirth path climbs from the sand to the top of the point, with tons of yellow wildflowers in the winter and spring.

What is it? A grand, white concrete tower that’s served as L.A.’s city hall since 1928.

Why go? It’s the cheapest way to take in an elevated view of Downtown and beyond. If you’re ever passing through the Civic Center during weekday public hours, enter on Main Street—then you owe yourself a visit to the 27th floor observation deck.

Don’t miss: Look for the 1984 Olympic torch near the Spring Street exit.

What is it? A warehouse-sized record store in the middle of Hollywood.

Why go? Sure, Spotify is great, but anyone in search of that arcane track off of that mid-’80s Tom Robinson album knows it isn’t perfect. Neither is Amoeba, but it is the largest independent record store in the United States, and the variety of music on offer is amazing, the prices are fair and the staff really know their music.

Don’t miss: Its new address. The shop recently moved from its longtime home on Sunset Boulevard to a spot at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Argyle Avenue.

What is it? A model train workshop housed inside of a red barn that used to reside in Walt Disney’s Holmby Hills backyard.

Why go? Walt Disney used to ride his own 1/8th scale live-steam railroad—the “Carolwood Pacific Railroad”—around his backyard until he shifted his focus to a much bigger project: Disneyland. In 1999, the red barn that he used as his workshop was moved to Griffith Park’s Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum. Every third Sunday of the month, you can visit the barn to find a collection of train models and memorabilia.

Don’t miss: Legendary Disney artists and engineers are known to pop in during open hours.

What is it? A meditation garden in the Pacific Palisades.

Why go? Get lost in your thoughts at one of L.A.’s best kept secrets: the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine. Set on a 10-acre site that was used as a film set during the silent era, its lovely gardens offer some increasingly rare assets today: peace and tranquility.

Don’t miss: A reservation. You’ll need one right now to visit the meditation gardens, which are open for free from Wednesday through Sunday.