Free Things to Do in LA

The Getty Center — stunning hilltop museum with incredible art and architecture, free admission (parking $20). The Broad — contemporary art in iconic building (timed tickets required). California Science Center — Space Shuttle Endeavour is here, totally free. LACMA is free for LA County residents.

All California beaches are free and public. Santa Monica, Venice, Malibu, Manhattan Beach — no entrance fees ever. Parking costs money but street parking is available if you arrive early. Sunset watching is the best free entertainment in LA. Dockweiler Beach has free fire pits (first come, first served).

The observatory is free — walk up for stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and city. Telescopes are free to use at night. Hiking in Griffith Park is free; it's the largest urban park in North America. The Greek Theatre area is beautiful for picnics. Parking is free in most of the park.

Explore Venice Beach Boardwalk — street performers, murals, people-watching. Walk Rodeo Drive — window shopping in Beverly Hills. Stroll the Venice Canals — charming waterways. Explore Grand Central Market — DTLA food hall (looking is free, eating optional). Abbot Kinney is perfect for a walk.

Outdoor movies in summer — various parks, check calendars. Concert series — Grand Park, Griffith Park summer concerts. Hollywood Forever Cemetery — movie screenings (ticketed), free to explore by day. Farmers markets — Hollywood on Sundays, Santa Monica on Wednesdays. Gallery openings — free wine and art.

LACMA — free for LA residents. The Getty Villa — always free (reservation required). MOCA — free for all, always. Hammer Museum — always free. Natural History Museum — free first Tuesdays for LA residents. Check individual museum websites for current policies.