Finally, summer break! No more worrying about assignments, projects, and exams. The only thing you need to think about is what you’ll be doing during the break. Will you spend it traveling? Picking up a new hobby? Maybe you plan on just staying in for most of it, which is completely valid!
However, if you’ll be staying in or visiting Los Angeles County with nothing in particular planned, we have you covered! We have cultivated a list of places and attractions that will make your visit to L.A. memorable, whether you’re looking for a daytime activity or a night out. From busy downtown L.A. to the serene view of Santa Monica, from educational to entertaining attractions there is something for everyone on this list.
Daytime Activities
These activities are perfect to enjoy during the day! Start off your adventure by taking photos at the museums, doing some vintage shopping, or exploring the boardwalk!
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
6067 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Image Via People Magazine
The museum, located next to LACMA in the Wilshire May Company building, has four floors of gallery space, two theaters, a cafe, and a gift shop. The collection contains, among other things, the flowery May Queen dress from “Midsommar” Dorothy’s red ruby slippers, everyone’s favorite droids R2-D2 and C-3PO, and even Bruce Lee‘s nunchucks. There is also a rotating series of exhibitions dedicated to certain creators and industry crafts, such as the Hayao Miyazaki exhibit, that you may find.
221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Image Via The Broad
The Broad is so much more than just a place to take Instagrammable photos in. From the 1950s to the present, the museum exhibits work by some of the most prominent painters. Cindy Sherman, Kara Walker, Andy Warhol, and Jean-Michel Basquiat are among the artists whose inspiring work is on display. The best part is that admission is completely free!
5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Image Via La Brea Tar Pits
Your definition of old may be 100 years old, but after spending some time visiting the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, that will surely change. You’ll learn that wildlife roamed freely throughout what is now Los Angeles until 11,000 years ago. Saber-toothed cats and dire wolves prowled where office buildings, food trucks, and shopping centers now stand during the Pleistocene Era.
Visit website for updates on locations and event dates!
Image Via The Daily Titan
Looking to support small local businesses while in Los Angeles? Visit the Whittier 562 Flea Market! There you find over 30 different sellers ranging from vintage stores, jewelry makers, plant shops and even food vendors. The businesses and styles on display are diverse, with items that appeal to people of all ages.
200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Image Via The Santa Monica Mirror
The Santa Monica Pier, located near the city’s westernmost tip, is a popular tourist attraction. The public pier is jam-packed with family friendly activities, lively street performers, restaurants, and stores as well as breathtaking vistas. How do you know when you’ve arrived at the pier? Keep an eye out for the iconic Ferris wheel towering over the Pacific Ocean waves.
Nighttime Activities
After the jam-packed afternoon you had, it’s time to wind down. Whether that be browsing through endless bookshelves or enjoying tasty dishes!
319 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Image Via Tanama Tales
Located in the center of Los Angeles is Little Tokyo! If you’re in downtown Los Angeles, you should definitely pay a visit to one of the country’s largest official Japantowns. You can enjoy freshly baked goods and delicious cuisine, explore the United States’ biggest Japanese American Museum, and take home a variety of Japanese trinkets.
317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Image Via Grand Central Market
The Grand Central Market has been hosting merchants since 1917 and is considered one of, if not the greatest, culinary locations in Los Angeles. The best way to get a taste of Los Angeles culture and food is to visit the Grand Central Market. From delicious al pastor tacos from crispy Korean fried chicken to freshly-baked doughnuts, you will surely find something to enjoy!
7770 Rosecrans Ave, Paramount, CA 90723
Image Via The Los Angeles Times
The drive-in movie theater has made a comeback! With two 75-foot screens, an upgraded food menu, and a safe and clean venue, the Paramount Drive-in takes the cake on its reopening. Guests may experience a double feature of new movie releases for only $11.
453 South Spring Street Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Image Via Culture Trip
Holding hundreds of thousands of books, magazines, and graphic novels, The Last Bookstore is perfect for all book lovers. One of the many things that distinguishes The Last Bookstore is its numerous intriguing and creative displays featuring its books. You’ll come across various tiny shops that highlight and sell local art, crafts, and gifts as you make your way through the upper labyrinth. The Last Bookstore also hosts a variety of events, including monthly book groups, signings, and talks. There should be something for everyone in there, but finding it can be an adventure!
We hope you enjoyed this list and plan to pay a visit to one or more of these great attractions! Let us know where you went and how it went by tagging @asicpp on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram!
