This list highlights some of my favorite outings around Los Angeles, from relaxing days at the beach to indulgent meals and cultural experiences. Whether you're into the arts, good food, or sun-soaked fun, there's something here for everyone!
Sections
8
Outdoor Activities
Restaurants
Museums & Cultural Institutions
Theaters & Performing Arts
Sports & Concert Venues
Theme Parks & Family Fun
Outdoor Activities
The pier’s classic, the sand is soft, and you can’t beat the ocean breeze. Definitely a must-visit if you’re in LA!
Santa Monica Beach
Venice is where the action’s at. Street performers, Muscle Beach, and tons of cool people-watching. Don’t skip it!
Venice Beach
Restaurants
Seriously the BEST burgers here. Perfect place for a chill hangout.
Islands Restaurants | American Restaurant in AZ & CA
This place is my go-to for tasty Mexican food in Westchester.
Paco's Tacos Cantina
Classic Italian comfort food, and the family-style serving makes it feel like a real cozy meal with loved ones.
Maggiano's Little Italy | Italian-American Restaurant ...
If you're in the mood for slow-cooked BBQ and Southern comfort food, this place is solid.
Lucille's Smokehouse BBQ
Amazing coastal Mexican food. Love the vibe here.
SOL Mexican Cocina - Playa Vista
It’s like New York meets New Orleans in every bite. Get the po' boys (you won’t regret it)!
Orleans & York Deli
Healthy comfort food? Yes, please! The sandwiches are delicious, and they have a cool market to pick up goodies.
Simply Wholesome
The garlic rolls here are LEGENDARY. Come hungry! The portions are huge, and the vibe is so fun!
C&O Restaurants - Restaurant in Marina del Rey, CA
Nothing beats the combo of fried chicken and waffles. If you haven’t tried it, you NEED to. Classic LA spot.
Roscoe's Chicken & Waffles | Soul Food Restaurant in California
Museums & Cultural Institutions
Hands-on and free! If you’re into science or just looking for a fun, educational stop, this is a great pick.
California Science Center
Learn about California’s African American history in this small but impactful museum. Totally worth a visit.
California African American Museum: CAAM
This place is huge! From dinosaurs to gems, there’s something amazing around every corner. A great day out.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles
Easily my favorite museum that I've been to. If you love TV and radio, this is heaven. So many iconic shows and behind-the-scenes moments to explore.
The Paley Center for Media
Theaters & Performing Arts
Broadway in Hollywood! This place is where you get to see amazing shows in a historic, beautiful setting.
Pantages Theatre - Broadway in Hollywood
FKA Nokia Theater. Super fun venue in L.A. Live. If you're into live performances, this place always has something interesting going on.
Peacock Theater
If you're in LA, you HAVE to see the Disney Concert Hall. The architecture is unreal, and the music is even better.
Walt Disney Concert Hall
Improv comedy that's fast-paced and fun! It’s like watching a comedy show but with an interactive twist.
CSz LA – Home of ComedySportz Los Angeles
Sports & Concert Venues
FKA Staples Center. Big events, great vibe. Whether it’s a concert or a game, this arena always brings the excitement.
Crypto.com Arena
Such a cool venue dedicated to music. Perfect for catching a concert in a space that’s all about entertainment.
Kia Forum
One of the best spots for outdoor concerts in LA. Pack a picnic and enjoy the music under the stars.
Hollywood Bowl
You can’t visit LA without seeing a Dodgers game here! The vibe is unmatched, and the stadium has so much history.
Dodger Stadium: Home of the Dodgers - Los Angeles - MLB.com
Theme Parks & Family Fun
It’s Disney, so of course it’s magical. Just make sure to plan ahead because you’ll want to make the most of it.
Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California
The newer coasters here are insane (and better for your body). If you’re a thrill-seeker, this place is a must!
Six Flags Magic Mountain in California - The Thrill Capital of the World
The OG SoCal theme park. So many classic rides, and the vibe is much more relaxed than the big parks.
Knott's Berry Farm: California's Best Theme Park
Part theme park, part working studio. You’ll love the rides, and it’s fun to see how movies are made.
Universal Studios Hollywood - Los Angeles, California ...
Movie Theaters
Disney’s iconic theater. If you love movies and Disney magic, this place is a must-see.
El Capitan Theatre
Had my first Screen X movie here, and it was AMAZING. The staff is super friendly too. Definitely a hidden gem.
CinemaWest Beach Cities
Music Venues
Great food, even better live music. Come for the tunes, stay for the atmosphere.