11 Free Things to Do in LA

From exciting new restaurants to world-class shopping, Los Angeles is overflowing with enticing places to splurge. But if you’re looking to explore the city without blowing your budget, there are plenty of fun and action-packed options that are totally free (or at least refreshingly inexpensive). Here are our favorite free things to do in LA, from exploring secret gardens and zoos and seeing the stars up-close to enjoying art and live music without spending a cent.

Explore the secret staircases of LA’s historic neighborhoods

Before LA become a car-centric city, winding staircases offered Angelenos an easy way to navigate some of the city’s steeper hillsides and access the now-extinct streetcar system. Thanks to the Secret Stairs guides, you can explore these forgotten pathways and get a unique look at historic neighborhoods across the city, including Echo Park, Hollywood, Pasadena and Pacific Palisades.

Visit a spooky, abandoned zoo and watch Shakespeare for free

While LA has a fun, modern zoo that’s worth checking out, those looking for a free (and spine-tingling) adventure can wander through the ruins of empty cages and cave-like animal enclosures of the Old Zoo inside Griffith Park. You can also catch a free Shakespeare festival during the summer on the lawn in front of the Old Zoo.

Find peace and quiet in a beautiful garden

The hustle and bustle of LA can be a thrill, but sometimes you need a moment of calm and quiet reflection. Thankfully, there are several stunning gardens that are free and open to the public, including a hidden Japanese garden in Little Tokyo, the expansive Rose Garden of Exposition Park, the meditative Peace Awareness Labyrinth and Gardens and a sculpture garden at UCLA.

Join the star party at the Griffith Park Observatory

Although it can be fun to try and spot celebrities around LA or look for their stars on the Walk of Fame, if you’re hoping to see some real stars up close, head up to the historic Griffith Observatory for its monthly star parties. Peer through telescopes, learn from astronomers and enjoy a spectacular view of the city at night.

Get inspired by free art walks

LA offers plenty of opportunities to see the works of local artists during the many free art walks hosted around town. Visit dozens of galleries during the Downtown Art Walk on the second Thursday of each month, interact with artists and hear live music at Mar Vista’s Art Walk or enjoy a free guided tour of the Metro’s underground art installations.

Play games and trivia at Grand Central Market

The historic marketplace hosts game nights, trivia events, live music and even drag queen bingo on different nights throughout the month, and it’s all totally free. It’s a great chance to check out all the amazing food and drink vendors, while also testing your Jenga skills and trivia knowledge.

Rock out year-round with free concerts

Throughout the spring, summer and fall, LA plays host to tons of free outdoor concerts featuring big name and local artists at series such as Grand Performances, Twilight Concerts at the Santa Monica Pier and KCRW’s Summer Nights. You can catch free shows at Amoeba Records and during Monday night residencies at venues like the Echo, the Satellite and the Bootleg.

Soak up some culture during free museum days

Several of LA’s biggest museums offer free admission year-round, including the recently opened Broad, the Getty Center and Villa, and the Hammer Museum. Plus on select days throughout each month, you can check out plenty of other institutions without spending a dime, including LACMA, MOCA and the Natural History Museum.

Learn the origin story of Los Angeles

Get a close-up look at some of LA’s most historically significant locations, including Pico House, Olvera Street and the Avila Adobe, on free walking tours led by the knowledgeable Las Angelitas del Pueblo guides. Learn how the city grew from a small Spanish farming community to a booming metropolis.

Learn how beer is brewed and taste the final product

Angel City Brewery in the Arts District offers free behind-the-scenes tours that conclude with complimentary tastings of several of their beers. You can also catch free comedy, bingo and trivia nights at the brewery throughout the month.

Witness impressive skateboarding tricks and wander the canals in Venice

Scope out the gravity-defying feats of some talented pros and up-and-coming skateboarders at the famous Venice Skate Park, right on the beach. You can also catch plenty of free entertainment from the performers along the boardwalk or escape from the bustle to explore the bridges and charming homes along the historic Venice Canals. Danny Jensen is a LA-based freelance writer and photographer covering food, lifestyle and travel.