Things to Do in LA: 20 Fun and Inexpensive Activities for Couple
Discover 20 budget-friendly date places in LA. Many free activities in Los Angeles! From scenic hikes to free museums, explore the city's charm without breaking the bank. Perfect for couples seeking affordable adventures.
Michele Sturgis
7/3/202410 min read
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Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is known for its glitz and glamour. But you don't need a Hollywood budget to have a fantastic date in this vibrant city. Here's a comprehensive guide to 20 budget-friendly date ideas that will help you explore LA's charm without breaking the bank.
1. Stroll Through the Venice Canals
Cost Range: Free
Best Season: Year-round
Location: Dell Ave, Venice, CA 90291
Website: https://venicecanalsassociation.org
What to Know:
The canals are open to the public from 6am to 9pm
Parking can be challenging, so consider arriving early
Bring a camera to capture the picturesque views
Consider packing a small picnic to enjoy by the water
2. Explore the Griffith Observatory
Cost Range: Free admission, planetarium shows $3-$7 per person
Best Season: Year-round, but summer evenings are particularly pleasant
Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Website: https://griffithobservatory.org
What to Know:
Open Tuesday-Friday 12pm-10pm, Saturday-Sunday 10am-10pm
Closed on Mondays
Free public star parties are held monthly
Parking can be limited, consider taking a rideshare or hiking up
Gaze at the stars together at the iconic Griffith Observatory. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city, explore space exhibits, and catch a planetarium show. Don't forget to snap a photo with the Hollywood Sign in the background!
3. Picnic at Echo Park Lake
Cost Range: Cost of picnic supplies (can be as low as $10-$20)
Best Season: Spring through Fall
Location: 751 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026
What to Know:
The park is open from 5am to 10:30pm
Pedal boats are available for rent ($11-$25 per hour)
Bring a blanket and some snacks
Consider visiting the nearby Echo Park Time Travel Mart for quirky souvenirs
Pack a picnic and head to Echo Park Lake for a laid-back date. Enjoy the view of downtown LA, watch the fountain, and relax on the grass. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a swan pedal boat for a playful ride on the lake.
4. Visit the Getty Center
Cost Range: Free admission, $20 for parking
Best Season: Year-round
Location: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Website: https://www.getty.edu/visit/center/
What to Know:
Open TuesdayโFriday and Sunday 10amโ5:30pm, Saturday 10amโ8pm
Closed Mondays
Reservations are required
Take the tram up to the center for great views
Explore world-class art collections, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens at the Getty Center. Pack a picnic to enjoy in the Central Garden, or time your visit for sunset to witness breathtaking views of LA.
5. Hike to the Hollywood Sign
Cost Range: Free
Best Season: Year-round, but avoid hot summer days
Location: 3200 Canyon Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068 (for Brush Canyon Trail)
Website: https://hollywoodsign.org
What to Know:
Multiple trails available, ranging from easy to moderate difficulty
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen
Wear comfortable hiking shoes
The hike can take 2-3 hours round trip
Get some exercise together while enjoying spectacular views of LA. Choose from several trails, like the popular Brush Canyon Trail, for a memorable outdoor adventure.
6. Attend a Free Concert at the Levitt Pavilion
Cost Range: Free
Best Season: Summer (June-September)
Location: 2230 W 6th St, Los Angeles, CA 90057
Website: https://levittlosangeles.org
What to Know:
Concerts typically start at 7pm
Bring your own blankets or low-back chairs
Outside food and drinks are allowed
Check their website https://levittlosangeles.org for the concert schedule
Enjoy live music under the stars at this outdoor venue in MacArthur Park. With a diverse lineup of performers, it's a perfect way to spend a summer evening.
7. Visit the Last Bookstore
Cost Range: Free to browse, book prices vary
Best Season: Year-round
Location: 453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Website: https://www.lastbookstorela.com
What to Know:
Open daily from 11am to 8pm
Features a cool book tunnel and coin-operated art machines
Check their website for events like author readings and live music
Explore this unique bookstore together, featuring stunning book art installations and a vast collection of new and used books. It's a book lover's paradise and a great place for conversation starters.
8. Walk the Santa Monica Pier
Cost Range: Free to walk, rides and games cost extra
Best Season: Year-round
Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Website: https://www.santamonicapier.org
What to Know:
Open 24/7, but individual businesses have varying hours
Free historical walking tours available on weekends
Consider visiting during sunset for stunning views
Parking can be expensive, consider public transportation
Enjoy the classic beach town atmosphere, play some carnival games, or simply watch the sunset together. Don't miss the iconic Ferris wheel for a romantic view of the coastline.
9. Explore The Broad
Cost Range: Free general admission, some special exhibitions may have a fee
Best Season: Year-round
Location: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Website: https://www.thebroad.org
What to Know:
Open Tuesday-Sunday, hours vary
Advance reservations recommended
Don't miss Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirrored Room (requires separate reservation)
Check their website for free events and talks
Immerse yourselves in contemporary art at this free museum. With its striking architecture and impressive collection, The Broad offers plenty to discuss and admire together.
10. Attend a TV Show Taping
Cost Range: Mostly free, but some shows may charge a small fee
Best Season: Year-round (check show schedules)
Location: Various studios around LA
Website: https://on-camera-audiences.com or https://1iota.com
What to Know:
Tickets are free but required for entry
Tickets must be reserved in advance
Ticket reservation doesn't guarantee entry; arrive early as it's often first-come, first-served
Minimum age is usually 18
Tapings can last several hours, so plan accordingly
Check websites like 1iota.com, or on-camera-audiences.com for available shows
Some popular shows may have a standby line if reserved tickets are full
Bring a government-issued ID; it's often required for entry
Experience the excitement of a live TV taping together. It's a unique, behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood that doesn't cost a dime.
11. Visit the California Science Center
Cost Range: Free general admission, IMAX films and special exhibits have fees
Best Season: Year-round
Location: 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037
Website: https://californiasciencecenter.org
What to Know:
Open daily 10am-5pm
See the Space Shuttle Endeavour (requires timed ticket, $3 fee)
Interactive exhibits make for fun, engaging date activities
Parking is $12
Explore interactive science exhibits together and marvel at the Space Shuttle Endeavour. It's a great place for curious couples to learn and have fun.
12. Attend a Free Outdoor Movie Screening
Cost Range: Free (some venues may charge for parking)
Best Season: Summer
Location: Various locations around LA
Website: https://streetfoodcinema.com (for one popular organizer)
What to Know:
Bring blankets and low chairs
Pack snacks and drinks
Arrive early for good spots
Check websites like streetfoodcinema.com for schedules
Cuddle up under the stars and enjoy a movie together. Many parks and venues around LA offer free screenings during summer months.
13. Visit the La Brea Tar Pits
Cost Range: Museum admission $15 per adult, grounds are free to explore
Best Season: Year-round
Location: 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Website: https://tarpits.org
What to Know:
Open Wednesday-Monday, 9:30am-5pm
Free admission on the first Tuesday of each month (except July and August)
Watch ongoing excavations
Pack a picnic to enjoy in the surrounding park
Step back in time together at this unique geological site. Explore the grounds for free, or visit the museum to learn more about LA's prehistoric past.
14. Take a Self-Guided Architecture Tour
Cost Range: Free
Best Season: Year-round
Location: Various locations around LA
Website: https://www.laconservancy.org
What to Know:
Download free architecture guides online from these sources:
Los Angeles Conservancy (https://www.laconservancy.org/): Offers free downloadable walking tour brochures.
DowntownLA.com (https://www.downtownla.com/explore/getting-around/walking-tours): Provides free self-guided tour maps of downtown LA architecture.
American Institute of Architects Los Angeles (https://www.aialosangeles.org): Occasionally offers free downloadable guides.
ExperienceLA.com: Has a section on architecture with downloadable guides.
Notable areas include Downtown LA, Silver Lake, and Hollywood
Some buildings may have restricted access
Wear comfortable walking shoes
Consider downloading a mobile app like "LA Arch Guide" for on-the-go information
Discover LA's diverse architectural styles together. From Art Deco to Modern, there's plenty to see and discuss as you explore the city's streets.
15. Visit the Original Farmers Market
Cost Range: Free to browse, food costs vary
Best Season: Year-round
Location: 6333 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Website: https://www.farmersmarketla.com
What to Know:
Open daily, hours vary by vendor . Check info on website.
Over 100 vendors offering a variety of cuisines
Free events and live music on weekends
Adjacent to The Grove shopping center
Sample various cuisines together at this historic market. It's a great place to grab a casual bite and enjoy some people-watching.
16. Explore the Bradbury Building
Cost Range: Free
Best Season: Year-round
Location: 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Website: https://www.discoverlosangeles.com
What to Know:
To check current open hours:
Visit the official Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board
Search for "Bradbury Building" in the search bar
Click on the Bradbury Building page
Scroll down to find the most up-to-date visiting hours
General visiting hours: Monday-Friday 9am-6pm, Saturday-Sunday 9am-5pm
Featured in many films, including Blade Runner
Only the ground floor and up to the first landing are open to the public
Combine with a visit to nearby Grand Central Market
Step into this architectural marvel and admire its stunning ironwork and skylit atrium. It's a quick but impressive stop that's perfect for architecture enthusiasts.
17. Visit the Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Cost Range: Free to visit, events like outdoor movies have separate fees
Best Season: Year-round
Location: 6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Website: https://hollywoodforever.com
What to Know:
Open daily 8:30am-5pm
Final resting place of many Hollywood icons
Hosts events like outdoor movie screenings and concerts
Respectful behavior is expected
Explore this historic cemetery together, visiting the graves of Hollywood legends. It's a unique blend of history and pop culture.
18. Hike in Runyon Canyon
Cost Range: Free
Best Season: Year-round, but early morning or late afternoon is best in summer
Location: 2000 N Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
What to Know:
Multiple trails available for different skill levels
Offers great views of LA and the Hollywood Sign
Bring plenty of water and sunscreen
Popular spot, so it can get crowded
Get some exercise together while enjoying panoramic views of LA. It's a great way to start the day or catch a beautiful sunset.
19. Visit the Annenberg Space for Photography
Cost Range: Free
Best Season: Year-round
Location: 2000 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 90067
Website: https://annenbergphotospace.org
What to Know:
Open Wednesday-Sunday, 11am-6pm
Exhibitions change regularly
Check their website for free events and lectures
Located in Century City, near shopping and dining options
Explore thought-provoking photography exhibitions together. The regularly changing exhibits ensure there's always something new to see and discuss.
20. Visit the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Cost Range: $25-$29 per adult; free on the first Thursday of each month (with advance tickets)
Best Season: Year-round, but spring for blooming gardens
Location: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108
Website: https://www.huntington.org
What to Know:
Open Wednesday-Monday, 10am-5pm (closed Tuesdays)
Free days require advance reservations and sell out quickly
Features 16 themed gardens spread over 120 acres
Includes art galleries and a library with rare books and manuscripts
Pack comfortable walking shoes and sunscreen
Allow at least 3-4 hours for your visit
Cafe and tea room available on-site, or bring a picnic
If you are a student, bring your student id card to get discount
Explore the stunning botanical gardens, world-class art collections, and rare book exhibits at the Huntington. With 16 themed gardens, including the famous Japanese Garden and Desert Garden, you'll find plenty of romantic spots for a stroll. The art galleries feature European and American art, while the library showcases rare books and manuscripts. It's a perfect date for couples who enjoy nature, art, and history. While the regular admission price is a bit higher than other options on this list, the free days make it an excellent budget-friendly choice if you plan ahead.
Remember, the best dates are about spending quality time together, not how much money you spend. These budget-friendly options allow you to explore the diverse experiences LA has to offer while focusing on what really matters - getting to know each other better. Enjoy your dating adventures in the City of Angels!
How to Get Free Nights in LA with the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card (US)
Looking to explore Los Angeles without breaking the bank on accommodations? The IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card offers a fantastic opportunity to earn free nights at various IHG properties across the city. Here's how you can make the most of this card:
1. Free Nights in LA with Sign-up Bonus
Offer: Earn 80,000 - 120,000 bonus points after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Value: This bonus alone can typically cover 2-3 nights at many IHG hotels in LA.
Notes: This product is not available to either (i) current cardmembers of any personal IHG One Rewards Credit Card, or (ii) previous cardmembers of any personal IHG One Rewards Credit Card who received a new cardmember bonus for any personal IHG One Rewards Credit Card within the last 24 months.
Sign up here: IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card
2. Point Redemptions
Use your points to book free nights at IHG properties in LA.
Point requirements vary by hotel and date, typically ranging from 10,000 to 70,000 points per night.
3. Fourth Night Free
When you redeem points for a stay of 4 or more nights, you get the 4th night free.
4. No Annual Fee
Unlike many travel rewards cards, this card has no annual fee, making it easier to maximize your rewards.
5. Earning Points
Earn up to 17X total points for every $1 spent at IHG hotels and resorts.
Earn 3X points on purchases in select categories, including dining and gas stations.
Earn 2X points on all other purchases.
6. Free Night Certificate
Earn a Free Night certificate after spending $10,000 on purchases and on your account anniversary each year.
This certificate can be used at IHG hotels with a redemption value up to 40,000 points.
Tips for Maximizing Your Rewards
Use the card for all IHG stays to earn maximum points.
Take advantage of IHG promotions to earn bonus points.
Consider the off-season for better point redemption rates.
Combine points with the 4th-night free benefit for longer stays.
Popular IHG Properties in LA
InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown
Kimpton La Peer Hotel
Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown
Holiday Inn Express Hollywood Walk of Fame
Remember to check the current terms and conditions of the IHG One Rewards Traveler Credit Card, as offers may change over time. Happy traveling in the City of Angels!
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