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

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
Website: https://www.laparks.org/reccenter/echo
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 Tuesday–Friday and Sunday 10am–5:30pm, Saturday 10am–8pm
- 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:
  1. Los Angeles Conservancy (https://www.laconservancy.org/): Offers free downloadable walking tour brochures.
  2. DowntownLA.com (https://www.downtownla.com/explore/getting-around/walking-tours): Provides free self-guided tour maps of downtown LA architecture.
  3. American Institute of Architects Los Angeles (https://www.aialosangeles.org): Occasionally offers free downloadable guides.
  4. 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:
  1. Visit the official Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board
  2. Search for "Bradbury Building" in the search bar
  3. Click on the Bradbury Building page
  4. 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
Website: https://www.laparks.org/park/runyon-canyon
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!