Los Angeles is often seen as the playground of the rich and famous—but you don’t need an A-lister’s budget to enjoy everything the City of Angels has to offer. Whether you’re soaking up Pacific views, wandering iconic neighborhoods, or catching an outdoor concert, there are plenty of free and affordable ways to explore LA. Here's your go-to guide for making the most of Los Angeles—without maxing out your credit card.

🌴 Explore the Outdoors for Free

LA’s weather is your budget’s best friend. With sunshine nearly year-round, some of the best attractions are outdoors—and totally free.

• Griffith Park & Observatory – Hike to the Hollywood Sign or explore the scenic trails. Admission to the Observatory itself is free.

• Santa Monica Pier & Beach – Walk the boardwalk, watch street performers, and enjoy the ocean breeze.

• Runyon Canyon – A favorite among locals for its views and people-watching.

• Venice Beach Boardwalk – Eclectic, artsy, and full of free entertainment.

🖼️ Visit Free Museums and Cultural Gems

Many LA museums offer free admission days—or are always free!

• The Getty Center – Free admission, stunning art, and breathtaking views. Just pay for parking.

• The Broad – Free contemporary art museum downtown. (Reserve free tickets online.)

• California Science Center – Features the Space Shuttle Endeavour; always free.

• Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) – Free after 3pm weekdays for LA County residents.

👉 For more paid attractions at a discount, browse Groupon museum deals in Los Angeles.

🎶 Catch Free Events and Festivals

Los Angeles knows how to throw a (free) party.

• Grand Performances – Free concerts downtown all summer long.

• CicLAvia – Streets are closed off to cars so pedestrians and cyclists can explore different neighborhoods.

• Levitt Pavilion Concert Series – Free outdoor shows in MacArthur Park.

• Getty Garden Concerts – Family-friendly music performances at The Getty.

Check city calendars for open-air movie nights, art walks, and cultural festivals year-round.

🌮 Eat Well for Less

While celebrity-chef restaurants get the spotlight, LA is packed with affordable food gems.

• Taco trucks in Boyle Heights and Highland Park

• Korean BBQ lunch specials in Koreatown

• Pho and banh mi in the San Gabriel Valley

• Iconic burger stands like In-N-Out or Original Tommy’s

👉 Explore Groupon dining deals in Los Angeles for discounts on sushi, pizza, brunch, and more.

💸 Take Advantage of Local Discounts & Deals

Save Big with Groupon

Stretch your dollars on everything from Hollywood tours to spa days with Groupon LA deals, including:

• Tours & attractions (Hollywood bus tours, Warner Bros. Studio)

• Museums & exhibits

• Spa & beauty

• Cinema & entertainment

More Local Budget Hacks:

• Free museum days – LACMA, Skirball Cultural Center, and more offer monthly free days.

• LA Public Library Culture Pass – Reserve free tickets to participating museums with your library card.

• Student, senior, and SoCal resident discounts – Available at many theme parks and attractions.

• Target Free Family Saturdays – Hosted at Japanese American National Museum.

🚌 Walk, Bike, or Ride for Less

• Metro Rail & Bus – Only $1.75 per ride, and connects most tourist hubs.

• LA Metro Bike Share – Starts at $1.75 for a 30-minute ride.

• Free walking tours – Check out Free Tours by Foot or Free Tours Los Angeles for tip-based downtown walks.

Want a guide? Book a discounted guided city or celebrity home tour via Groupon.

🌟 Final Thoughts

You don’t need a blockbuster budget to experience the magic of Los Angeles. From stargazing at Griffith to taco tasting in East LA, the city’s best experiences are often free—or surprisingly affordable. Want to do even more for less? Check out the latest Groupon Los Angeles deals here.