12 Affordable Things to Do in Los Angeles (A Local’s Guide After 15 Years in LA)
After living in Los Angeles for more than 15 years, I’ve had the chance to experience the city from many angles. I first started exploring LA as a Nomloon Travel tour guide in the Downtown LA Arts District, where I led walking tours highlighting the neighborhood’s colorful murals, local restaurants, and the cultural stories that reflect the diversity of Los Angeles. Sharing those places with visitors sparked my passion for helping people discover the creativity and character that make this city so unique.
Today, I serve as a Discover LA ambassador, continuing to connect travelers and locals with experiences that capture the spirit of the city. One thing I’ve learned over the years is that you don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy Los Angeles. Some of the most memorable places are free, historic, or simply great spots to take in the views, art, food, and culture around you.
Here are some of my favorite affordable places and experiences across Los Angeles.
Griffith Observatory
One of the best viewpoints in Los Angeles and completely free to visit. Griffith Observatory offers fascinating space exhibits, public telescopes, and sweeping views of the city. It’s especially magical at sunset when the skyline begins to glow and the Hollywood Sign comes into view.
Hours: Tue–Fri 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Sat–Sun 10:00 am – 10:00 pm; Closed Monday
Price: Free admission; planetarium shows about $10
The Getty Center
Admission is free, and the experience feels anything but budget. The Getty Center combines world-class art, beautiful gardens, and striking architecture. Visitors take a scenic tram ride up the hill, where the museum opens up to incredible panoramic views of Los Angeles.
Hours: Tue–Fri & Sun 10:00 am – 6:30 pm; Sat 10:00 am – 9:00 pm; Closed Monday
Price: Free admission; parking about $20
The Broad Museum
Located in Downtown LA, The Broad is one of the city’s most exciting contemporary art museums and general admission is free. The museum showcases bold modern works and immersive installations that make art feel interactive and approachable.
Hours: Generally open late morning through evening; closed Tuesday
Price: Free general admission; special exhibitions may cost $10–$25
Grand Central Market
A longtime Downtown LA institution, Grand Central Market is the perfect place to sample some of the city’s diverse food scene without spending much. The historic food hall brings together vendors serving everything from tacos to ramen, reflecting the global flavors that define Los Angeles.
Hours: Approximately 8:00 am – 9:00 pm daily (varies by vendor)
Price: Free entry; meals typically $8–$15
Vista Theatre
The Vista Theatre in Los Feliz is one of LA’s most beautiful historic movie palaces. Originally opened in 1923, the theater has been recently restored and offers a classic Hollywood moviegoing experience.
Hours: Showtimes vary depending on films
Price: Movie tickets generally $12–$18
Culver City Stairs
For one of the best free workouts in Los Angeles, head to the Culver City Stairs near Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. The climb is challenging but rewarding, with sweeping views of the city waiting at the top.
Hours: Typically 8:00 am – sunset
Price: Free; parking about $6–$8
Hollywood Sign Hike
Seeing the Hollywood Sign up close is one of the most iconic LA experiences—and it’s completely free. Several hiking trails in Griffith Park lead to incredible viewpoints overlooking the sign and the surrounding hills.
Hours: Trails open sunrise – sunset
Price: Free
Hollyhock House (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1919, Hollyhock House sits inside Barnsdall Art Park and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing honoring Wright’s architectural work. The house offers a fascinating glimpse into early modern architecture.
Hours: Typically Thu–Sun 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Price: About $7–$12
Eat Korean BBQ in Koreatown
Koreatown is one of the most vibrant food neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Korean BBQ is a classic group dining experience where meats are grilled right at your table, accompanied by an array of flavorful side dishes known as banchan.
Hours: Many restaurants open late, often 11:00 am – midnight or later
Price: Around $25–$40 per person depending on restaurant
Watts Towers
The Watts Towers are one of the city’s most unique landmarks. Built over decades by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia, the towering structures are covered in colorful mosaics made from glass, tiles, and found objects.
Hours: Generally Thu–Fri 11:00 am – 3:00 pm; Sat 10:30 am – 3:00 pm; Sun 12:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Price: About $7 adults; children often free
Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Hollywood Forever Cemetery is both a historic resting place and an unexpected cultural gathering spot. Visitors can walk the peaceful grounds during the day, and throughout the year the cemetery hosts outdoor movie nights and concerts.
Hours: Approximately 8:30 am – 5:00 pm daily
Price: Free daytime entry; events typically $20–$40
Book a Concert at the Hollywood Bowl or Walt Disney Concert Hall
Few experiences feel more “Los Angeles” than attending a concert at the Hollywood Bowl, where summer shows are paired with picnics under the stars. For a different experience, Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown LA, designed by Frank Gehry, offers incredible acoustics and performances by the LA Philharmonic. You can purchase “cheaper” tickets for prehearsals on week day shows.
Hours: Event-based depending on concert schedule
Price: Tickets typically range from $10–$150+
Los Angeles is often seen as a big, expensive city, but many of its most meaningful experiences are surprisingly accessible. From scenic viewpoints and historic architecture to vibrant neighborhoods and unforgettable food, there are so many ways to explore the city without spending much. I hope you enjoy exploring some of my favorite LA spots as much as I do.
