Hey there, fellow solo adventurer! If you’re anything like me, you love the freedom and adventure of exploring a new city or a country on your own. Now, let me tell you, Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is one of the best places for a solo travel experience – to roam around and just enjoy your own company. One of the best things about LA is that with the endless activities, experiences, restaurants, shops, cafes and cool spots it has to offer, you’re guaranteed to have the best time of your life by yourself. Whether you’re chasing sunsets, seeking out the best brunch spots, relaxing in your best downward dog in a yoga class on the beach or looking for your next favourite green juice cafe, LA has plenty of things to offer for all types of solo travelers.
So, if you’re planning to do LA alone as a first-timer or as a seasoned traveller, looking for inspiration, here are the 57 best solo things to do alone in Los Angeles.
1. Stroll along Venice Beach
If you ever played GTA as a kid, a walk along Venice Beach will feel super nostalgic and like you’re back somewhere familiar where you’ve been before. The boardwalk of Venice Beach is very vibrant and has a lot going on at each step with street performers, artists, and vendors, giving you a taste of the eclectic vibe of Southern California. Don’t miss the iconic Muscle Beach gym, where you’ll find bodybuilders flexing in the sun and where the young Arnold Schwarzenegger also used to train.
2. Explore the Venice Canals
While we’re in the area, just a stone’s throw away from the beach, the Venice Canals offer a quick escape from the bustle. Wander through the charming neighbourhood with its picturesque bridges and waterfront homes. It’s a perfect spot for peaceful reflection and some Instagram-worthy shots.
3. Hike to the Griffith Observatory
For breathtaking views of the city and the Hollywood Sign, you can hike up to the Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park. There are trails to pick from for all fitness levels, and once you reach the top, you’re rewarded with panoramic views that stretch from Downtown LA to the Pacific Ocean. It’s also pretty cool to go there when it’s dark, to really feel and see the grandiosity of LA.
4. Discover The Last Bookstore
The Last Bookstore in Downtown LA is a labyrinth of new and used books. Inside, you’ll find whimsical book tunnels leading you into mazes filled with books, secret and themed rooms, and art installations. The bookstore is located inside of a 100-year-old bank building, so you’ll see books lining the vaults of an old bank which is pretty awesome. It’s a mythical experience that feeds the soul of a bookworm.
5. Go for a trendy brunch at Republique
Treat yourself to brunch at Republique, one of LA’s most iconic eateries. Fun fact: Jay-Z once celebrated his birthday here! I highly, highly, recommend the French toast—it’s hands down the best French toast I’ve ever had (and I have had QUITE a few). The stunning trendy interior, with high ceilings and rustic vibes, makes it a perfect spot for a quick photo op.
6. Shop at The Grove
If retail therapy is on your agenda, The Grove is your go-to destination. It’s a busy open-air shopping complex that offers a mix of high-end boutiques and popular retailers. Plus, you might even spot a celebrity or two! Side note for fellow Alo girlies—yes, there’s an Alo store at The Grove in all its glory.
7. Visit the Getty Center
If you’re into art and beautiful European-style architecture, you will love the Getty Center. The complex was founded by J. Paul Getty, an oil tycoon who was once dubbed the richest man in America, who had a passion for collecting art. Today, the Getty Center houses an impressive collection of his personal art pieces including European paintings, sculptures, and decorative pieces. The architecture, design, and gardens are equally stunning. Oh, and best of all, it’s free admission!
8. Bike along Venice Beach to Santa Monica Pier
One of the most iconic things you can do in LA is rent a bike and cruise along the famous Santa Monica Pier. Feel the ocean breeze as you pass by beachgoers and street performers. The pier itself is home to Pacific Park, where you can hop on the Ferris wheel for stunning coastal views. If you’re in for an adventure, you can even make the bike ride longer by taking the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also known as “The Strand.” This 22-mile path stretches along the LA coastline with the starting point in Will Rogers State Beach and taking out all the way to Torrance County Beach.
9. Take a photo at the pink wall
Instagram lovers, this one’s for you! The Paul Smith Pink Wall on Melrose Avenue is an iconic backdrop for that perfect LA shot. It’s simple yet undeniably eye-catching. This photo will scream “I’ve been to LA”!
10. Sip a smoothie from Erewhon
You should definitely visit Erewhon when you’re in LA, as you can ONLY visit it in LA. It’s the epitome of the city’s health-conscious and trendy food scene—a haven for organic, locally-sourced, and artisanal products that you won’t find anywhere else. Plus, their superfood smoothies are legendary (and a little bit overpriced at $20 a pop), and you might just spot a celebrity sipping one next to you! I tried a few of them and would hands down recommend the Strawberry Glaze and Coconut Cloud smoothies—DE-LI-CIOUS!
11. Stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame
No trip to LA is complete without a visit to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Taking a stroll down Hollywood Boulevard and searching for the stars of your favourite celebrities on the sidewalk is a quintessential LA thing to do. It’s a fun way to immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of Hollywood’s entertainment industry. The iconic street performers and costume characters add to the vibrant atmosphere.
12. Stop by the Legendary TCL Chinese Theatre
The TCL Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard is an iconic landmark known for its distinctive architecture resembling a giant, red Chinese pagoda. In front of it is the famous Forecourt of the Stars which features handprints, footprints, and signatures of Hollywood legends, such as Marilyn Monroe, Shirley Temple, Tom Hanks, Meryl Streep, Audrey Hepburn, Johnny Depp, Sandra Bullock, Ryan Gosling, Will Smith, and many more, embedded in concrete slabs. There’s something so surreal about placing your hands where Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn once did!
13. Enjoy a drink at E.P. & L.P. rooftop
For a chic cocktail and snacks, head to the rooftop bar at E.P. & L.P. in West Hollywood. The vibe is very trendy and lively, the cocktails are delicious, and the panoramic views of the city are spectacular, especially as the sun sets.
14. Go vintage shopping at American Rag CIE
If you’re into fashion, don’t miss American Rag CIE. This massive boutique offers a curated selection of vintage and contemporary clothing. It’s the perfect place to find a unique LA-inspired piece to add to your wardrobe.
15. Explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
Arguably one of the most Instagramable places in LA, LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States. From contemporary works to ancient artefacts, there’s lots of cool stuff to explore. Don’t miss the “Urban Light” installation, composed of 202 urban street lights from around Southern California dating from the 1920s and 1930s—it’s an LA icon! Oh, it’s free to visit for residents every weekday after 3 pm and they also hold regular free (for non-residents as well) Jazz nights on Fridays.
16. Hike the Runyon Canyon
For those who love the outdoors, a hike in Runyon Canyon is a must-do LA experience. The trails offer some of the best views of the Hollywood Hills and are a favourite among locals and celebrities alike. This hike will take you just over an hour to complete. PS, you can also spot the Hollywood Sign from here.
17. Visit the Hollywood Sign
Can you really say you’ve been to LA if you haven’t visited the iconic Hollywood Sign? Technically you can, but it will sound suspicious. Visiting the Hollywood Sign is like a rite of passage when you’re in LA.
The hike takes about 2 hours round trip. While the area is generally safe during the day, I recommend visiting with daylight to spare, especially if you’re hiking solo. Also, remember that getting right up to the sign is prohibited—it’s fenced off and monitored by security cameras.
There are several hiking trails in Griffith Park that offer stunning views of the sign and city below. But some of them are not that easy to find and if you’re not planning on booking a guided tour, I suggest you search TikTok for those hidden gem hiking trails that take you up close (as close as legally possible) to the sign.
18. Sip tea at The Beverly Hills Hotel
The Beverly Hills Hotel – the epitome of glamour and elegance that will make you feel like a Hollywood royalty, even if just for a couple of hours. The hotel is affectionately called the Pink Palace for its iconic pink exterior and lush tropical gardens. Let me tell you, it’s an experience on its own to walk through the grand lobby with its signature banana leaf wallpaper.
Inside, you’ll find the legendary celebrity hot spot Polo Lounge, where you can get tea, coffee or champagne if you’re in for a little luxury treat. The ambience is intimate and sophisticated, with live piano music adding to the atmosphere. The Polo Lounge has a dress code, so it’s the perfect excuse to don that chic outfit you’ve been saving. Plus, you never know who you might see—it’s a popular spot for Hollywood’s elite.
19. Admire the villas in Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is where the city’s glamour truly shines. Now, I know what you might be thinking—is it okay to just walk through these residential areas? As long as you’re respectful, absolutely! Just remember to keep your distance from private properties, don’t be too loud, and maybe leave that giant camera lens at home to avoid looking too paparazzi-like.
Taking a stroll down the tree-lined avenues, you’ll get inspired by some of the most stunning homes you’ve ever seen. It’s is a mix of old Hollywood charm and contemporary elegance. One of the things I love most about exploring Beverly Hills is the peace and tranquillity.
There are also guided tours available if you prefer a more structured experience with insights into the history and residents of the area.
20. Celebrity spotting on Rodeo Drive
Lined with high-end boutiques like Gucci, Prada, Louis Vuitton, and Chanel, Rodeo Drive is where the rich and famous come to shop, dine, and be seen. The street has been featured in countless films and TV shows, most famously in Pretty Woman, with Julia Roberts.
While there’s never a guarantee you’ll see a celebrity, to maximize your chances, you’ll want to go during the late mornings and early afternoons as these are the prime times when shops are open and the street is bustling.
21. Experience live comedy
LA is renowned for its comedy scene. There are loads of venues in LA, that have been the launching pad for some of the world’s greatest comedic talent.
First, I’d recommend you check out the legendary Comedy Store on the Sunset Strip. This place is an institution in the world of stand-up comedy. With three different rooms—the Original Room, the Main Room, and the Belly Room—you have a variety of shows to choose from every night of the week. The lineups are always stellar, featuring a mix of established comedians and fresh talent. Don’t be surprised if a big-name comic like Dave Chappelle or Ali Wong drops in for an unannounced set!
Secondly, just down the road is another iconic venue, The Laugh Factory. The atmosphere here is more electric, and the comedians are top-notch. They also host themed nights every now and then.
Check out a show at the Comedy Store or the Laugh Factory. It’s a great way to spend an evening, and you might catch a performance by a famous comedian testing out new material.
22. Explore Echo Park Lake
For one of the most fun and quirky experiences in LA head down to Echo Park Lake. Here, you can rent an adorable swan-shaped pedal boat and glide across the lake while getting a light workout in and taking in the scenery.
If boating isn’t your thing, the walking path that circles the lake is just under a mile and is perfect for a quick walk. The park offers beautiful views of the downtown skyline and is also a lovely spot for a picnic.
23. Try the most amazing vegan burgers at Mr. Charlie’s
Craving fast food but want to keep it plant-based? Mr Charlie’s is your place! This trendy spot has been making waves in the city’s food scene for its incredible vegan burgers that taste just like McDonald’s classics, if not better. They don’t compromise on taste or ethics! Not to mention, the design and branding look so super cool!!!
24. Explore the Venice Beach Boardwalk
The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a melting pot of artists, musicians, and free spirits. You can bet there’s always something interesting happening.
Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant street art on the buildings and walls. The famous Venice Art Walls are an open canvas where graffiti artists showcase their talents legally.
Also, make sure you go there hungry enough, as there are so many amazing food trucks and stalls lining the street.
25. Get an “animal style” burger from In-N-Out
You saw this one coming, didn’t you? No trip to California is complete without trying an In-N-Out Burger. It’s a fast-food staple beloved by locals and visitors alike. Pro tip: Order your burger and fries “animal style” for the full experience.
26. Have sundowner drinks at Elephante
Located in Santa Monica, Elephante is the perfect spot for cocktails (and vodka pasta) with a view. The rooftop bar offers a chic atmosphere and overlooks the ocean—ideal for watching the sun dip below the horizon. From my personal experience, considering the vibe and food alone, it’s one of the best restaurants in LA!
27. Enjoy the best vodka pasta at Jon & Vinny’s
Foodies, make a beeline for Jon & Vinny’s. This celebrity hotspot is famous for its mouthwatering vodka pasta. Trust me; it’s sooo worth the hype.
28. Brunch at Urth Caffé
Urth Caffé is a popular diner known for its organic coffee, juices, smothies and delicious brunch options – their menu is very varied. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place to relax, listen to podcasts, people-watch, and just enjoy your own company.
29. Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice is lined with trendy boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and cafes. It’s also known as the coolest block in America and is the perfect place to shop for unique items and soak up the bohemian vibe. If you happen to be there on the first Friday of the month, you’re in luck, as there will be food trucks lining the street and businesses stay open late.
30. Try the unique gelato flavours at Salt & Straw
Don’t miss this gelateria while you’re at Abbot Kinney Boulevard! Salt & Straw serves up some of the most inventive gelato flavours like bone marrow & smoked cherries, strawberry & avocado, honey lavender, and strawberry cilantro lime cheesecake, to name a few. The flavours are definitely unique and absolutely delicious.
31. Enjoy a delicious vegetarian breakfast burrito at The Butcher’s Daughter
For a healthy plant-based meal, head to The Butcher’s Daughter on Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Their vegetarian breakfast burrito is the best I’ve ever had. They use fresh local ingredients, and everything that I tried there just burst with flavour.
32. Get a laid-back California-style clothing piece from Aviator Nation
Founded in Venice Beach, LA, Aviator Nation embodies the retro, surf-inspired vibes that are so emblematic of the local culture. With their signature stripes, their pieces are a statement! From ultra-comfortable hoodies to vibrant, vintage-style tees, you’ll surely find the perfect piece to remind you of your LA adventure. The store itself is pretty cool as well—colourful murals all around and playing tunes that make you want to hit the beach.
33. Have a drink by the pool at the infamous Roosevelt Hotel
Step back in time to the golden era of Hollywood in the iconic, and supposedly haunted by Marilyn Monroe, Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. This iconic hotel has been a hot spot for the rich and famous since 1927 and is known as the place where Marilyn Monroe lived during her early career. But here’s a hack, you can head to the hotel’s chic poolside bar for a refreshing cocktail without having to stay in the hotel.
Oh and not to mention that the pool itself is almost as famous as the hotel, decorated with a mural painted by David Hockney. Sipping a drink here, you’ll feel like a bit of a star yourself.
34. Visit the (outside of) Google LA HQ
If you’re a tech enthusiast like me, you might enjoy swinging by the Google LA Headquarters in Venice. The building features a super cool massive binocular sculpture by Claes Oldenburg and Coosje van Bruggen—it’s quite the sight!
35. Treat yourself to the best pastries at Gjusta
Treat yourself to some of the best pastries in LA at the cult bakery Gjusta. I highly recommend the babka and almond croissant. It’s a lovely spot to enjoy breakfast or an afternoon snack. Ironically, it’s located close to the famous Gold’s Gym—perhaps it’s a strategic hint.
36. Snap a photo with the Greetings from Santa Monica mural
Add to your collection of travel photos with the vibrant Greetings from the Santa Monica mural. It’s a fun and colorful backdrop that captures the spirit of Santa Monica.
37. Devour an egg sandwich at Eggslut
Don’t let the cheeky name fool you—Eggslut make some seriously delicious egg sandwiches. It’s the perfect quick bite as you explore the city.
38. Try the famous Birria tacos from Teddy’s Red Tacos
Whether you’re a taco lover or not, you can’t miss Teddy’s Red Tacos. Their famous Tijuana-style birria tacos are packed with flavour and have a cult following for a reason.
39. Indulge in the most delicious doughnuts from Sidecar
For doughnuts that are a cut above the rest, visit the California-native Sidecar Doughnuts. The flavours are creative, and each one is made fresh throughout the day.
40. Watch the skaters at Venice Beach skatepark
Sit back and watch talented skateboarders perform tricks at the Venice Beach Skatepark. It’s a quintessential LA experience that’s both entertaining and inspiring.
41. Visit the Walt Disney Concert Hall
Architecturally stunning, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is worth visiting. You can either just walk through the outside area admiring the architecture or catch a performance by the LA Philharmonic for a more memorable experience. There’s also a hidden garden above the building that you can access for free.
42. Explore the La Brea Tar Pits
Step back in time at the La Brea Tar Pits, where you can see Ice Age fossils being excavated. The tar in this area has seeped up to the surface for tens of thousands of years and trapped many animals over the time. The bones found in the tar pits were restored and turned into life-size skeletons of these animals. You can see pre-historic animals like woolly mammoths, giant sloths and skulls of dire wolves on display here.
43. Enjoy live music on the Sunset Strip
The Sunset Strip is legendary for its live music scene. Venues like The Roxy and Whisky a Go Go have hosted countless famous acts. Check the schedules and catch a live show.
44. Experience Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms
Art lovers shouldn’t miss the Infinity Mirrored Rooms at The Broad museum. It’s a mesmerizing, immersive experience that’s both surreal and beautiful. You have to pre-book your timed ticket in advance on their website.
45. Take a studio tour
Experience the heartbeat of Los Angeles—the entertainment industry. You’ll get to see the movie magic and the behind-the-scenes of the most famous films and TV shows in the world. You’ll most likely be doing a fair amount of walking (or standing), so keep those feet comfy and happy.
While there’s a lot of film studios in LA, the top three choices are Warner Bros, Universal and Paramount. No matter which studio you choose, I’m sure it will be a memorable experience.
Each studio has its own legacy and has played a part in the evolution of film and television. Here’s a brief description of each, to help you pick:
Warner Bros. Studio: If you’re a fan of television classics and blockbuster films, this one is for you. You can explore the sets, soundstages, backlots and artefacts from TV shows and movies like Harry Potter, Friends, The Big Bang Theory, Crazy Rich Asians, Gilmore Girls, Spiderman, and more. One of my personal highlights was the Central Perk set from Friends – can you tell I’m a true millennial?
Paramount: This is something for the classics’ admirers. The Paramount lot feels like travelling back in time to Hollywood’s golden era. It’s the only major studio still located in Hollywood! You’ll be taken around by a guided tram tour through parts of the studio, where you’ll see some of the most legendary filming locations. Plus, the tour guides are walking encyclopedias of fun facts and behind-the-scenes stories.
Universal Studios: Thrill-seekers, this one is for you! This studio doubles as an amusement park. You’ll board a tram that takes you through sets like the creepy Bates Motel from Psycho, the wreckage of a plane crash from War of the Worlds, and Wisteria Lane from Desperate Housewives. And after the tour, you can enjoy the rest of the park’s attractions.
46. Visit the Farmers Market at The Grove
Attached to The Grove Mall is the Original Farmers Market which offers a variety of food stalls and artisan goods. With over a hundred vendors, it’s a great place to sample different cuisines and pick up some unique souvenirs. PS, make sure to get the most delicious spicy vodka pasta at Pasta Corner.
47. Watch the sunset at El Matador Beach
Last but certainly not least, watch the sunset at El Matador Beach in Malibu. The dramatic rock formations and secluded coves make it one of the most beautiful beaches in LA.
48. Go whale watching
Head to the coast for a whale-watching excursion. Depending on the season, you might see grey whales, blue whales, or dolphins.
49. Hop on a Celebrity Homes Tour
One of my guilty pleasures when in LA — a Celebrity Homes Tour! It might sound a tad touristy, but trust me, these tours are an absolute hoot, especially when you’re exploring the city solo. The bus tour will usually take you through the swanky neighbourhoods of Beverly Hills, Bel-Air, and Hollywood Hills, where the tour guides share the juiciest stories and little-known facts about the stars. You’ll get to see the stunning mansions of icons like Madonna, Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, Justin Bieber, Adele and so much more. And if you’re lucky, you might even spot a celebrity or two on the way.
Plus, the tours usually make stops at iconic spots like the Hollywood Sign and Rodeo Drive, so you get multiple experiences wrapped into one.
50. Walk through the Bradbury Building
Architecture buffs should not miss the Bradbury Building in Downtown LA. Its stunning interior, featuring an atrium that spans five stories and elegant cage elevators, has been featured in over 50 films and TV shows, such as Blade Runner, and Lethal Weapon 4.
51. Taste local wines at the vineyards in Malibu
Just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of LA, the hills of Malibu offer a surprising and delightful wine-country experience. Set against the backdrop of the Santa Monica Mountains, with the Pacific Ocean in the distance, it’s like stepping into a postcard.
One spot you absolutely have to check out is Rosenthal – The Malibu Estate. Their tasting room is conveniently located right off PCH, just across from the beach. Also, on weekends, they often have live music here.
If you’re up for venturing a bit deeper into the hills, Cielo Farms is your destination. Now this place really feels like Tuscany in California. Bear min mind, they offer wine tastings by reservation.
52. Take a day trip to Joshua Tree National Park
If you have time, venture out to Joshua Tree National Park. The unique desert landscapes and hiking trails offer plenty of activities for nature lovers.
53. Visit Olvera Street
Olvera Street is widely regarded as the birthplace of Los Angeles. The area is rich in Mexican culture, with traditional crafts, food, and music.
54. Check out the cool cars at the Petersen Automotive Museum
Car enthusiasts will love the Petersen Automotive Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of classic and rare vehicles.
55. Explore the Natural History Museum
Discover the wonders of the natural world at the Natural History Museum. From dinosaur exhibits to gemstone collections, it’s both educational and fascinating.
56. Take a food tour
Embark on a culinary journey with a food tour. Explore neighborhoods like Koreatown, Thai Town, or Little Ethiopia and savor authentic dishes.
57. Visit the Watts Towers
Marvel at the Watts Towers, a collection of 17 interconnected sculptural structures made from steel and mosaic tiles built over 30+ years by a construction worker, Simon Rodia. It’s a testament to one man’s dedication and creativity.
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