51+ Free or Insanely Cheap Things to Do in Los Angeles (2024)

So, you’re ready for your trip to Los Angeles! LA is a town filled with fun activities, places to eat, and sights to see. After living in Los Angeles for nearly 15 years, I’m a longtime local and I’ve learned the city in and out. There are a ton of free things to do in LA, and if they’re not free, they’re at least pretty cheap.

I hope you’ll enjoy this list of free or insanely cheap things to do in Los Angeles during your stay!

And stick around ’till the end of the post, where you can snag a free map of every place I mention.

In the list below, I include a bunch of free things to do in LA. If they aren’t free, they’re cheap things to do in LA. You won’t need to spend more than about $5-15 on these activities. Pretty great!

By the way, this post has been recently checked and updated for 2024!

Headed to LA? Check out my guide to Los Angeles!

Public Transit in Los Angeles

LA does have a pretty expansive bus and metro system, but it won’t get you everywhere you need to be. Plus, it can take twice as long.

The E Line runs from East Los Angeles to Santa Monica now, which is a big deal, but more often than not, you’ll still have to Uber to your final destination after getting off the metro.

The one-way fare for Metro or bus in LA is $1.75 per ride. There are no longer day or week passes. You now pay per ride and then earn unlimited rides when you hit a maximum spending limit.

In one day, your fare is capped at $5, and in 7 days, the max you will pay is $18. I suggest using your smartphone and adding a digital TAP card to your wallet. But if you prefer a physical card, you can get one at any Metro station.

Download the Metro Transit app to navigate your route and stay up to date on timing. More questions? Check out my YouTube video.

All right, now that those basics are covered, let’s explore all the free or cheap things to do in LA.

Where to Eat in LA for Cheap

First up, we are starting with food. Everyone’s got to eat, right?

I’ll be honest, finding cheap eats in LA these days can be an uphill climb. But you can still find great deals if you know where to go.

Here are some of my tried-and-true, cheap places to eat in Los Angeles.

1. Tito’s Tacos

I’ve been to Tito’s Tacos twice, and I’m still thinking about it. These tacos are just SO GOOD. Crispy, fried, and made to perfection. There’s always a long line here, but so worth it.

And the price for each taco starts at $2.30. Can’t beat it.

Hours: 11am – 8pm

11222 Washington Pl, Culver City, CA 90230

2. Food Trucks

Affordable food options are often found on the street. On the first Friday of each month, a variety of food trucks gather on Abbot Kinney Blvd. in Venice (more details on that below).

You can score some amazing food at wallet-friendly prices.

Abbot Kinney Blvd. Venice, CA

3. Roscoe’s House of Chicken & Waffles

I personally have not been to Roscoe’s, but it’s an LA staple. Since it’s a chain, there are quite a few locations.

Order a chicken leg or a thigh and a waffle for under $9.

Multiple locations

4. Grand Central Market

If you’re a fan of food markets, check out Grand Central Market in downtown LA. You’ll be hard-pressed to choose which food stall to order from!

Popular vendors are Eggslut, Golden Road (for local craft beer), and Ramen Hood.

And if you want to find out the BEST food at the market, check out my YouTube video, where I try out some of the best vendors there:

5. Delia’s Restaurant

This is truly a hidden gem. I recently discovered this Mexican restaurant in Highland Park and quickly saw why it’s a neighborhood favorite.

The cheapest thing on the menu is the bean and cheese burrito, a classic staple. It’s pretty basic, no frills. But for $5? C’mon. You can’t get better than that!

Cash only.

4501 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

6. Cielito Lindo

Cielito Lindo is a renowned LA institution located on historic Olvera Street. Its menu is small but authentic, featuring world-famous taquitos, tamales, and burritos.

The stand has been serving freshly stuffed, rolled, and fried taquitos since 1934, earning the title of “world famous” and the street cred that comes with it.

The must-try item is undoubtedly the taquitos, but there are also burritos and chile relleno, which can be smothered in avocado sauce and optionally topped with beans and cheese. Yum!

There is usually a line here, but you MUST go! Trust me, it’s worth it.

E, 23 Olvera St, Los Angeles, CA

7. In-N-Out Burger

You can’t visit Los Angeles without eating at least once at In-N-Out, right? It also happenes to be one of the cheapest meals you can find in Los Angeles.

Don’t forget to order the animal fries from the secret menu. And if you’re vegetarian, you can order a grilled cheese.

8. Pink’s Hot Dogs

Pink’s Hot Dogs has been a staple of Los Angeles since 1939, serving up delicious and iconic hot dogs to locals and tourists alike.

With its bright pink exterior and timeless menu, Pink’s has become synonymous with the city’s culture and is a must-visit for anyone looking to get a taste of classic LA. Don’t miss all the photos of celebrities on the wall!

You can get Pink’s Famous Chili Dog for just $6.95.

709 N. La Brea Ave., Los Angeles, CA

9. Angel City Brewery

If you’re ready for a beer but not ready to break the bank, head to Angel City Brewery in the Arts District. This hip and eclectic brewery offers a variety of craft beers at fairly reasonable prices, making it the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends or a date.

There’s a wide selection of beers on tap. My favorite is the LA Blonde. They also have an amazing selection of sours, and the seasonal brews are always a hit.

216 Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA

Free or Cheap Things to Do in LA: Attractions

Okay, now let’s move on to free or cheap things to do in LA that you can walk around and explore. This includes some of LA’s most well-known attractions, like the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

10. Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory

My favorite place in the city and by far one of the best free things to do in LA is Griffith Observatory. You can go during the day or night and see Los Angeles from above.

Tour the observatory for free and explore exhibitions about the science of the universe. Catch a star party, which happens once Saturday a month, and observe the cosmos through telescopes.

As for Griffith Park, there are a ton of hiking trails you can take. I like to start with a hike first and then make my way to the museum.

The observatory recently changed the parking situation and now you have to pay to park (bummer, I know). If you’re looking to save money, you can find free parking in a residential neighborhood in Los Feliz and take the bus to Griffith for $1.75.

10. The Hollywood Walk of Fame

Most Angelenos would agree that Hollywood is not all it’s hyped up to be. The streets are pretty dirty and rough crowds can hang around there, but it’s still a must-see and perfectly safe if you’re a visitor.

Also, it’s a great free thing to do in Los Angeles. Take a stroll on Hollywood Blvd. and find the name of your favorite celebrity on the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame!

Don’t miss the handprints and footprints of Judy Garland, Mel Brooks, Shirley Temple, Marilyn Monroe, and more celebrities in front of Grauman’s Chinese Theatre.

11. Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills

Strolling around Rodeo Drive is free, but the shops on this street are all high-end designer brands. Chanel, Cartier, Fendi, Hermès, Versace, and Louis Vuitton line Rodeo Drive up and down.

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If you can resist the temptation to shop, go for the ambiance! Check out the luxury cars parked along the street, admire the pretty palm trees, and take some photos. It’s a great time, and it’s a totally free thing to do in LA!

12. Beverly Hills Hotel

After you’re done browsing Rodeo Drive, head over to The Beverly Hills Hotel. You can experience this legendary hideaway and explore its timeless allure entirely for free.

Take a photo with this iconic sign and then roam around the lobby, all without spending a dime.

9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA

13. Catch a Live Taping

Yes, you can watch TV shows recorded live! There aren’t many activities more “LA” than seeing a show taped live as you sit in the audience.

I’ve seen recordings of The Tonight Show when Jay Leno was the host and Jeopardy with Alex Trebek. I’ll never forget these experiences! Make sure to reserve far in advance.

14. The Last Bookstore

The Last Bookstore, nestled in the heart of the city, is an iconic and cherished destination for avid book enthusiasts, artists seeking inspiration, and anyone in search of a truly unique shopping experience.

With a vast collection of both new and used books, meticulously curated to cater to diverse interests, this literary haven invites visitors to immerse themselves in a world of words and imagination. I love coming here and just wandering the shelves. It’s so inspiring!

If you’re a total bookworm like me, you absolutely must see this place.

453 S Spring St Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA

15. Angels Flight

Angels Flight, an iconic and historic funicular railway, is situated in the charming Bunker Hill district of downtown. It’s so fun to ride up and down. You can have your own movie moment from La-La-Land dancing in front of the entrance here!

This beloved attraction features two distinct funicular cars, aptly named Olivet and Sinai, which gracefully go up Bunker Hill in opposite directions on a shared cable, offering a delightful and memorable experience for its passengers.

I’ve been on Angels Flight countless times and I get a thrill every time! It costs $1 each way.

351 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA

16. Union Station

The magnificent Union Station! I’m always in awe of the architecture and design inside this building. It’s like stepping into a time capsule, with a blend of Art Deco, Mission Revival, and Streamline Moderne styles that’ll make your jaw drop.

If you’re taking public transit, it’s inevitable to end up here. Take a few minutes and walk around the main waiting area. There’s intricate tile work and towering windows that flood the space with gorgeous light.

You will definitely want to take a few photos here, so bring your camera!

800 N. Alameda St., Los Angeles, CA

17. Exposition Park & Rose Garden

Such a lovely, often forgotten part of LA. Exposition Park and Rose Garden is such a lovely place to take a stroll and enjoy the outdoors.

Here you’ll find a lush rose garden next door to USC and the Natural History Museum. You can stop and smell the roses when the bloom from March through November.

701 State Drive, Los Angeles, CA

18. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

I’ve been to Huntington Gardens once and I’ve never forgetton how lovely it was. It’s a huge property filled with tons of art, green landscape, gardens, and flowers, and a research library.

Admission is $25, but on the first Thursday of every month, you can go for free. You still have to reserve in advance, so be sure to plan ahead of time.

1151 Oxford Road, San Marino, CA

19. Take a Stroll through USC

Before you leave Exposition Park, head over to the University of Southern California’s campus. It’s beautiful — there are so many gorgeous buildings spread across campus.

Be sure to stop and say hi to the Tommy Trojan statue!

20. Wander around UCLA

Similarily, you can also explore UCLA’s campus across town in Westwood. It’s free to walk around campus. Take in the beautiful architecture and greenery, then bring a blanket and meditate on one of the many lawns on campus.

While you’re there, be sure to stop by the Fowler Museum for some cultural exhibits.

Free (or Cheap) Museums & Art in Los Angeles

21. The Getty Center

The Getty is just plain gorgeous! You will go gaga over the architecture, the views, the gardens, and the art.

This stunning museum is not only home to some incredible art collections, but it’s also a work of art itself. Designed by Richard Meier, the architecture will take your breath away as soon as you lay eyes on it.

It’s a trek getting up the 405 freeway (try to avoid rush hour), but it’s worth it.

Parking costs $15, but the museum entrance is free. You could also go into the residential neighborhood for free (be sure to read signs to avoid a ticket) and then walk 20 minutes up to the entrance if you have time to spare.

It’s my favorite place in LA aside from Griffith Observatory.

1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA

22. The Broad

Reserve your free ticket in advance for LA’s newest museum. Come see super-cool contemporary art collections that will inspire you.

As you arrive, immediately put your name down to see Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room—The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away (located in the lobby). You must see it. It’s seriously breathtaking.

I’ve been twice and the feeling of wonderment still hasn’t faded. One of the top, totally free things to do in LA.

221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA

23. California Science Center

Great for kids, but also great for adults. Seeing the Endeavour Space Shuttle is seriously so cool. The shuttle is even more massive than you can imagine!

Make a reservation online if you’re visiting on a weekend or holiday.

700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA

24. Watts Towers

I actually haven’t been to Watts Towers, but I’ve heard they’re pretty cool. Watts is good for a visit in the afternoon, especially around the towers.

The towers were constructed by Sabato (“Simon”) Rodia, an Italian immigrant construction worker and tile mason, from 1921-1954. The tallest structure is over 99 feet high!

1727 E 107th St, Los Angeles, CA

25. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

I used to live within walking distance of LACMA, which is why it holds a special place in my heart. Urban Light, the collection of 202 street lamps at the front of the museum, created by Chris Burden, is one of the most romantic places in LA.

Catch it at night for the full effect.

Tour the museum’s current exhibitions and permanent art collection, ranging from impressionist, photography, pop art, sculpture, and more.

Free entrance on the second Tuesday of each month; all other days $25 for non-resident adults.

5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

27. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles

Imagine standing under a T-Rex, feeling both terrified and awestruck. At the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, you can!

The Butterfly Pavilion here is one of my favorite places in LA. It’s also super romantic and great for a fun date.

Adult admission is $18. If you are an LA County resident, you can get free admission Monday through Friday from 3-5pm.

900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA

28. La Brea Tar Pits

For a peek into the Ice Age right in the heart of LA, head over to the La Brea Tar Pits. This natural wonder, a treasure trove of ancient fossils, offers a unique glimpse into prehistoric life.

While they don’t have guided tours, you can still see the tar pits and watch scientists at work at the excavation sites. Don’t miss the Pleistocene Garden, a recreation of the landscape that once surrounded the tar pits, located on the grounds.

Admission to the La Brea Tar Pits is $15 for adults.

5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

29. Peterson Automotive Museum

So, the Peterson Automotive Museum isn’t free, but the exterior of the building is so cool, I wanted to include it here. You can see the outside of the building for free, of course.

If you’re a car enthusiasts, the Peterson is a must-visit. There are over 300 cars you can check out here.

Admission to the musem is $21 for adults.

6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

Beaches in Los Angeles

Below are some of the most popular beaches in Los Angeles that visitors often love to check out. If you’re looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path beach, check out my post on LA’s best hidden beaches.

30. Santa Monica Pier and Beach

You can’t visit Los Angeles without hitting the beach! Santa Monica Beach is one of the most iconic because of the ferris wheel and roller coaster on the pier. I would avoid actually paying for the rides, since they’re ridiculously overpriced.

Go early (8-11am) or on a weekday to avoid crowds. Park in the structures a few blocks up where you can get 2 hours free, and then walk down to avoid hefty beach parking fees.

31. Malibu

UGH. SO GORGEOUS. It’s a trek getting out to Malibu and you’re going to be stuck in traffic no matter what, but it’s so worth it. If you love the beach, you have to come here.

Go at 6 or 7 AM before and leave at 12 or 1 PM to beat traffic, which usually shows up around 3:30 or 4pm.

Malibu can be a bit pricey because it’s where celebs, directors, show biz people live, but you can still find some cheap beach eats. Go to Malibu Seafood for a fried fish sandwich, only $8.95.

32. Venice Beach Boardwalk + Abbot Kinney

If you’re going to Venice, you’ll have time to stroll around the boardwalk and the trendy Abbot Kinney Blvd. The two areas are shockingly different but still within walking distance.

On the boardwalk, go to Muscle Beach where Arnold Schwarzenegger used to pump iron. Then head to Abbot Kinney for charming boutiques, ice cream and concept shops.

A totally free thing to do in LA, if you’re able to resist shopping along Abbot Kinney.

33. Manhattan Beach & Hermosa Beach

Ok, these are two different beaches, but I’m putting them together here because you can easily visit both in one day. I have been to each countless times.

They’re within a 20-minute drive of each other. Manhattan has better surfing, but Hermosa has more bars and nightlife. Both have piers. You choose!

Insider tip: Manhattan Beach is closer to LAX, so if you’re trying to visit the beach on a layover in Los Angeles, head to Manhattan Beach over Hermosa Beach.

34. Redondo Beach

You can come here for a more local feel, but for tourists, I actually think you can skip Redondo. It’s very cute and charming, but a bit too far and out of the way from other free things to do in LA.

35. Enjoy free outdoor summer concerts or movies

Visiting in the summer? Catch dozens of outdoor concerts or movies happening all over the city. My favorites are KCRW’s Summer Nights (music) and Cinespia (movies) in Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Pack up your picnic basket of munchies and BYOB!

36. Have a bonfire at Dockweiler State Beach

The only beach you can have a bonfire at in LA, legally. But please, please DO NOT swim in the water here.

It’s notoriously one of LA’s dirtiest beaches, sadly, because it is located right under directly under the flight path of airplanes flying out of LAX.

But the bonfires are fun, especially for big groups. Bring your s’mores kit and guitar for a good time.

Get Active

37. Take a yoga class

While some yoga classes around town will stray on the pricier side, you can still find studios offering yoga for $12 or less per class. It’s one of my favorite things to do in LA for cheap, and I can get a workout in.

If you’re a student, try Yoga Bliss in Westchester for $30 for 3 classes, or Modo Yoga‘s Friday night Karma class, which is donation-based.

38. Try a walking tour of downtown LA

Although it’s impossible to walk across all of Los Angeles on foot, you can do it in downtown. DTLA is the most historic part of the city, and seeing the sights on foot is a great way to experience it.

This Free Walking Tour will take you through Pershing Square, the Bradbury Building, and The Last Bookstore.

39. Dance the night away

Dancing is always free, right? Unless there’s a cover, which many LA establishments unfortunately have.

Go to my favorite bar ever, Break Room 86, to dance your heart out to 80s music. I used to not even like 80s music, but then I started coming here on a regular basis and fell head-over-heels.

630 S Ardmore Ave, Los Angeles, CA

40. Hike Runyon Canyon

Get a real taste of LA life by hiking Runyon Canyon. Locals will complain that the trail is now overpopulated, but it’s something you’ve got to do if you’re visiting — just for the people watching.

All of LA’s actors, actresses, dancers and models come here to get their sweat on. AKA, be sure to pack your most stylish athleisure. A friend told me once she saw someone show up in high heels!

Parking is tough, so you may have to park on Hollywood Blvd. and walk up.

41. Hike to the Hollywood Sign

For an iconic LA adventure, hiking to the Hollywood Sign is a must-do. The journey offers breathtaking views and a chance to get up close with this legendary landmark.

Choose from various trails, with the Mt. Hollywood Trail being a popular choice. Remember, there’s no access directly to the sign, but the viewpoints along the way offer perfect photo ops. Early morning hikes beat the crowds and the heat!

42. Olvera Street

I love Olvera Street. It feels like a little piece of Mexico was lifted up and transplanted to LA. It’s a little touristy, but you have to come here because it’s the birthplace of the city.

Some of the oldest Los Angeles monuments are on Olvera Street, including the Avila Adobe, Pelanconi House, and the Sepulveda House.

You might even catch some mariachi bands playing while you’re there!

43. Wander around the Venice Canals

A great way to spend a lazy afternoon. You’d never know these were here — they’re easy to miss. Quiet and off the beaten path, you can find the entrance to the canals off 25th Street (included in the Google Map freebie below).

Discover picturesque bridges, cute little boats, and million-dollar homes that are fun to look at. Isn’t it fun to dream about what it would be like living here?

44. Get Golfing at the Arroyo Seco Mini Golf Course

A round of mini golf at the Arroyo Seco Mini Golf Course only costs $13. Mini golf, in general, is a pretty good thing to do in LA for cheap, if you ask me.

That’s 9 holes of mini golf for a great price! What a deal.

1055 Lohman Lane, South Pasadena, CA

Shopping Malls in LA

45. Westfield Century City Mall

Walking around Westfield Century City is always a lot of fun, provided you can avoid the temptation to shop! The mall is all open-air. I like coming here and browsing all the imported Italian goods and pasta noodles at Eataly.

The beautifully landscaped plazas and outdoor seating areas are perfect for relaxing and people-watching.

10250 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

46. The Grove + Original Farmers Market

I think the Grove is a pretty cute place, but to be honest, it’s not my absolute favorite free thing to do in Los Angeles. Despite that, a lot of people seem to really love it!

It’s basically like any other fancy outdoor shopping mall in my opinion. However, I will say that strolling through the Original Farmer’s Market can be a lot of fun!

Just be prepared for the food to be a bit overpriced and for there to be a ton of options to choose from – it can definitely be overwhelming, but it’s still a great experience!

189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA

47. ROW DTLA

Discover the vibrant essence of urban LA at ROW DTLA. This dynamic, mixed-use space in the heart of Downtown blends shopping, dining, and culture in a unique way.

Stroll through boutique shops, savor culinary delights at trendy eateries, and enjoy the creative atmosphere. ROW DTLA is also home to a variety of events, from pop-up art galleries to farmer’s markets.

It’s a buzzing hub where each visit offers something new and exciting!

More Free Things to Do in Los Angeles: Walkable Neighborhoods

Another perfectly free thing to do in Los Angeles is walk through some of the amazing neighborhoods this city has to offer.

48. Little Tokyo

Little Tokyo is such a hidden gem in the city. There are amazing restaurants and boutique stores that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Japan.

It’s one of my favorite neighborhoods in LA, and it’s entirely free to just walk around and explore it. If you love sushi, definitely be sure to eat in Little Tokyo! My favorite place for sushi is Kura because of its rotating sushi bar.

49. Chinatown

Chinatown is one of LA’s most historic neighborhoods. It offers a rich blend of cultural heritage with modern vibes.

You can explore Central Plaza, which has an epic statue of Bruce Located northwest of its original spot, Los Angeles’ Chinatown is home to the original Chinese families, as well as first-generation Southeast Asian immigrants and refugees.

50. Arts District

Delve into the creative heart of Los Angeles with a visit to the Arts District. This trendy neighborhood, once an industrial area, is now a canvas for vibrant street art, cutting-edge galleries, and trendy lofts.

If you’re a foodie, you’ll love this neighborhood because it’s known for its eclectic dining scene, featuring everything from gourmet restaurants to cozy eateries. Try The Girl and the Goat, Verve Coffee, Manuela, La Cha Cha Cha, and more.

51. Koreatown

Dive into the lively atmosphere of Los Angeles’ Koreatown, a bustling neighborhood known for its rich Korean culture and endless entertainment options.

Walking around Koreatown, also known as K-Town, is one of my favorite free things to do in Los Angeles.

I always enjoy exploring here because the neighborhood features beautiful architecture. Bring your camera and take some photos of the most urban part of LA.

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