From Silent Discos to Reality TV Watch Parties, These Activities Guarantee a Good Time Without Breaking the Bank

Let’s be real—Los Angeles has a reputation for being expensive. But what if we told you that some of the best things to do in LA won’t cost you more than a twenty? From jaw-dropping city views to game show tapings and retro arcades, we’ve rounded up the best cheap activities and free things to do in LA that are not only fun but won’t break the bank. Here’s how to have a blast in LA without blowing your budget.

 

Griffith Observatory

Price: free

Start your day at Griffith Observatory, a true LA icon perched high above the city. From here, you’ll get panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles, the Pacific Ocean and the Hollywood Sign—all without spending a dime. Inside, explore fascinating space exhibits, peek through high-powered telescopes and even watch the Foucault pendulum swing as it proves the Earth’s rotation. If you’re up for a little adventure, take a scenic hike on the nearby Griffith Park trails for even more stunning vistas.

Location: Los Feliz

 

The Getty

Price: free

For an afternoon of culture and jaw-dropping architecture, The Getty is one of the best free things to do in LA. Not only does this world-renowned museum house masterpieces from artists like Van Gogh and Rembrandt, but it also boasts lush gardens and unbeatable views of the LA skyline. Admission is free, though you’ll need to reserve a timed-entry ticket online in advance. Wander through the European art galleries, explore the peaceful Central Garden, and don’t forget to check out the photography exhibits for a modern twist. Note: The Getty Villa Museum is temporarily closed, but you can still explore all the art, modern design and unique gardens at The Getty Center.

Location: Brentwood

 

Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Price: free

A cemetery may not be your first thought for a day out, but Hollywood Forever Cemetery is a must-visit and a top pick for free things to do in LA. Home to the final resting places of Hollywood legends like Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille and Johnny Ramone, this historic site is both peaceful and fascinating. Take a self-guided tour of the famous gravestones, admire the Spanish-style architecture or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere. If you visit in the summer, Cinespia hosts outdoor movie screenings here, turning the cemetery into one of LA’s most unique theaters.

Location: Hollywood

 

Greystone Mansion & Gardens

Price: free

For a taste of old Hollywood luxury, head to Greystone Mansion & Gardens in Beverly Hills. This 1928 estate, originally built for the Doheny family, is now a public park where you can roam the manicured gardens, peek at the grand architecture and even spot filming locations from movies like “The Big Lebowski” and “There Will Be Blood.” The best part? Admission is completely free, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a dreamy photoshoot.

Local Insight: Guests can also enjoy experiences like film tours with Greystone in the Movies, intimate chamber concerts at Music in the Mansion, and hands-on gardening classes in the estate’s lush demonstration garden.

Location: Beverly Hills

 

Smorgasburg LA

Price: free entry (just buy the food!)

Foodies, this one’s for you. Every Sunday, Smorgasburg LA takes over ROW DTLA, bringing together some of the best street food vendors in the city. While entry is free, you’ll want to bring a little cash to sample must-try dishes. Start with the legendary birria tacos from Evil Cooks, then indulge in the Cambodian Street Corn from The Golden Skewer. Whether you’re craving bao buns, burgers, Nashville hot chicken or gourmet donuts, this open-air market in LA has something delicious for every taste.

Location: DTLA

 

Los Feliz Flea

Price: free admission (and parking!)

If you love vintage fashion, handmade jewelry and unique home decor, Los Feliz Flea is a goldmine. Held every Saturday at Vintage Land, this Los Angeles flea market is packed with curated vendors selling everything from retro band tees to mid-century furniture. Unlike other LA flea markets, admission and parking are completely free—so all you have to worry about is finding the perfect thrifted gem!

Local insight: Be sure to check out the epic new outdoor pickleball courts at Los Feliz Flea!

Location: Los Feliz

 

Watch “Wheel of Fortune”

Price: free tickets (upon request)

Why just watch game shows when you can be part of one? At “Wheel of Fortune” at Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, you can snag free audience tickets and see Ryan Seacrest and Vanna White in action. Experience the energy of a live studio taping, cheer on contestants as they spin the wheel and maybe even catch a behind-the-scenes moment. The best part? If you’re lucky, you might even walk away with some show swag. Be sure to request tickets in advance, as spots fill up quickly.

Location: Culver City

 

Neon Retro Arcade

Price: $15 for 1 hour, $25 all day

Step back in time at Neon Retro Arcade in Pasadena, where $15 gets you unlimited gameplay for an hour. Forget digging for quarters—here, you’ll have access to over 40 classic arcade games, from Pac-Man and Donkey Kong to Street Fighter II and NBA Jam. The nostalgic vibes are strong, and with an all-day play option for $25, you might just want to stay longer.

Local Insight: Owners Mark and Mia share a love for classic arcade games that began with dropping coins into machines at pizza parlors and arcades, eventually bringing them together over a game of pinball in college!

Location: Pasadena

 

LOOSE Comedy Show

Price: free on Sundays

In need of a good laugh? Every Sunday night, LOOSE Comedy Show at Baby Batista (a space under Nico’s Bottle Shop) brings some of LA’s best comedians to the stage—for free. This intimate Atwater Village venue has a laid-back vibe, great cocktails and a crowd that’s always ready for a good time. Expect everything from up-and-coming talent to surprise performances by well-known comedians testing out new material.

Location: Atwater Village

 

Reality TV Watch Parties

Price: free (no cover!)

Whether you’re obsessed with “The Bachelor,” “Vanderpump Rules” or “Love Island,” Reality Bar in West Hollywood is the ultimate spot for reality TV lovers. This themed bar hosts live watch parties complete with signature cocktails, fun trivia and an audience just as invested in the drama as you are. No cover charge—just good drinks and even better entertainment. To see what’s next on the calendar, click here!

Location: West Hollywood

 

Silent Disco by Sunset Vibes Events

Price: under $13

Dancing on the beach at sunset? Sign us up. Sunset Vibes Events hosts Silent Disco parties in Venice Beach and Santa Monica, where you can groove to a live DJ set with wireless headphones. Choose from different channels of music and dance the night away with the ocean as your backdrop—all for under $13.

Local Insight: Want to get paid for going?! Silent Disco has teamed up with local Venice brand Thumzup, which is an easy-to-use app that allows them to pay you for attending their events. Simply download the free app, come dance the night away, post a photo and get paid in cash!

Location: Venice Beach and Santa Monica

 

Roundhouse Aquarium

Price: free (donation-based)

End your budget-friendly LA adventure with a peaceful visit to the Roundhouse Aquarium, one of the best things to do in Los Angeles for free. This small but charming aquarium sits at the end of the Manhattan Beach Pier and features touch tanks, interactive exhibits and an array of local marine life. While admission is free, donations are encouraged to help keep this hidden gem up and running.

Location: Manhattan Beach