23 Best & Fun Things to Do in LA at Night

LA is the second most populous city in the US and is also home to a lot of night-driven activities.

As the center of American television and film, you most likely will run into some famous people there.

As a trendy tourist destination, there are a lot of things to do in LA during the day. However, the city is an amazing place to experience at night as well.

In the evenings, there are a ton of exciting events, attractions, and cultural landmarks that are uniquely American.

Nightclubs, night tours, ghost hunting walks, and even some museums that are open in the evenings keep the city bustling all night long.

You frequently see a totally different group of people out at night because the nighttime activities differ so greatly from the daylight ones.

Don’t forget to capture the Museum in your photos. It is one of the most well-known Instagram destinations in the city (LACMA).

LA is guaranteed to have it, from lively dance floors to live music that drowns out the outside world. And how do you discover all these amazing things quickest and better?

Here is a guide to help you explore LA better at night.

Things to do in LA at Night

1. The Grove Shopping & Entertainment Complex

The Grove is a shopper’s haven. You do not even need to be a shopping freak or shopaholic to enjoy all this place has to offer.

Here, stores like Anthropologie, Barnes & Noble, Apple, Coach, and Nordstrom should definitely be visited. You’ll undoubtedly discover something to bring home.

But you can also discover more reasonably priced brands like GAP, Sandro, and J.Crew.

Furthermore, there are several shops for non-fashion shoppers as well, including American Girl Place for children and the Apple Store for gadget fans.

Stay for the light show at the fountain exhibit for a fun photo opportunity.

Drop into one of The Grove’s many restaurants after making a purchase.

There is food here to suit practically every taste, from traditional American fare at The Cheesecake Factory to excellent Italian dining at La Piazza.

You can also ride in a cheerful carriage from one end of the mall to the other. It is a trolly that was fashioned after a real Boston streetcar from the 1950s.

With fake snow falling in the evenings and Santa standing by to fulfill the wishes of kids of all ages, Christmas time is a big favorite here

The Grove frequently hosts events including concerts, fashion displays, and even drive-in movie screenings.

So make sure to check the schedule of events before you go.

The Grove is open from 10 am to 9 pm from Monday through Thursday, while it is opened 10 am to 10 pm Friday through Saturday. Finally, it opens from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.

Address: 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036, United States

2. LA at night Helicopter Tour

Want to have one of the most magnificent views of your life? Then this tour is ideal for you, even if you live in Los Angeles.

Take a 30-minute helicopter night flight over LA to view the city lit up in lights.

As you travel over the city’s skyline, notice how it shines in the twilight gloom.

Look down at landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and the Griffith Observatory, among others.

Start your journey at Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, which is located just north of the Santa Monica Mountains.

Then you will be taking off with a bird’s-eye view of LA’s multipurpose sports complex, Staples Center.

Fly over Hollywood and take in the Hollywood Hills’ panoramic views of the Kodak Theatre and Hollywood Sign.

The tour is ideal for couples, families, or groups of friends, as it is simply breathtaking to witness the city’s sparkling lights at sunset.

Address: 10 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, United States

3. Dolby Theatre Tour, LA

Host to numerous notable performers, concerts, and events, Dolby Theatre is one of the world’s top entertainment venues.

Similarly, the daytime Emmy Awards, American Idol Finals, and many other occasions are held at the Dolby Theatre.

Since it hosts the Academy Awards and other well-known award ceremonies, the Dolby Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard is frequently crowded with tourists.

Step back from the stage and look around the backstage areas to learn more about this legendary theater.

By scheduling this Dolby Theatre tour in advance, you can ensure that you’ll be there and get a ticket for entry.

Your tour guide brings you inside the theater to hidden celebrity hotspots, and if there isn’t a show on that particular day, you can also go on stage.

In short, the tour is incredible. It is so much fun to walk up on stage and experience what it’s like to accept an Oscar!

There is a tiny red carpet as you approach the theater.

You pass through the foyer, which features a staircase with a Busby Berkeley-inspired design.

You are then led into the VIP bar area, where an Oscar is even on exhibit.

Address: 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028, United States

4. Academy LA

There are several DJs spinning a diverse range of music throughout Hollywood and academy LA is one of the places to enjoy such a range of music, especially at night.

Academy LA is a seasoned Los Angeles nightclub featuring a large warehouse-sized main room, a loft, a front room, and an outdoor patio.

Since its inception, the venue has undergone substantial production upgrades, including the installation of its now-signature overhead curved LED screens.

Through Insomniac brands like Bassrush (bass music), Dreamstate (trance), and Bassoon, parties here frequently include specialist genres of dance music.

DJs, the likes of Paul Oakenfold, Morgan Page, and DJ Snoopadelic have recently been here.

The screens and lights are really amazing. When paired with the high-quality colored lights shining down, the screens that span the sides and ceiling create an immersive visual experience.

Academy also throws a party every Sunday in the summer.

Additionally, the theater has rather strong air conditioning in the rear, which you can easily stand under to cool off if the heat gets much.

Check the dress code before you arrive at the entrance because the place does have one.

Address: 6021 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

5. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Located in Hancock Park on more than 20 acres in the city of LA, the Los Angeles County Museum of art has been collecting works of art for more than five decades.

Furthermore, LACMA covers art history from antiquity to the present and is the biggest art museum in the western portion of the country.

The LACMA has more than 120,000 collections, stretching from antiquity to the present.

Asides from the fact that it’s a great place to view gorgeous works of art, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is one of the best spots in LA to take great pictures at night.

In fact, you will come across a lot of individuals, including tourists, who come here to shoot pictures.

So you can come here at night to enjoy the stunning view of the lamps at night as seen in the No Strings Attached movie.

With its golden, white pillars that light against the background of the palm palms and LA cityscape, the entryway is a stunning nighttime attraction in LA.

It’s also a great place for nighttime photos with friends.

Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, United States

Perhaps you also want to do something during the day. Check out our things to do in Downtown LA!

6. Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds is a renowned tourist destination featuring wax replicas of well-known people from history and popular film and television personalities.

In fact, this is the only location you can pose with over 125 celebrities from the worlds of cinema, music, and so on. Even though they are not real, but, hey, who’s checking?

Join all of your favorite celebrities, including Ariana Grande, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and the Marvel Superheroes.

Marie Tussaud, a French wax sculptor, established Madame Tussauds in London in 1835.

The replicas are so authentic you may almost think you were standing next to celebrities.

Tiger Woods and other athletes can be seen posing on the golf course, while Spider-Man can also be seen scurrying over the ceiling.

The wax museum has three floors of wax figurines, so plan to spend around 1 1/2 to 2 hours there.

It’s definitely unbelievable, but it’s amazing to see how many photo props are available.

After the amazing exhibit, there is a gift shop where you may purchase a variety of unusual mementos.

Walk the red carpet and pose for pictures with famous people.

You’ll be sure to impress your pals with the more than 100 recreations, which include Brad Pitt, Jennifer Lopez, Will Smith, and Britney Spears.

You should visit on Friday or Saturday nights

7. Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk

If you are in LA on the second Thursday of any month, then one of the best things you can do at night is to take an art walk.

Every month in Downtown Los Angeles, there is an excellent cultural and social event called Art Walk downtown LA.

Crowds of spectators congregate with vendors and art collectives to watch and purchase original works of art created by regional artists.

The art walk provides a window into the city’s many cultures and a chance to interact with its artists.

Similarly, more than 40 galleries and museums are included in the self-guided Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk.

So, peruse regional galleries and take in live street performances as one of your night activities in LA.

The art walk happens from 12 pm to 10 pm, so you might want to include it in your schedule.

Address: 411 S Main St # M102, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States

8. Little Tokyo, LA

Here is a Japanese American district in downtown LA that anyone with a love for culture will appreciate

Little Tokyo has a rich history that has shaped it since the late 1800s, hidden behind the bustling throng and orderly rows of restaurants, stores, businesses, and homes.

This resilient neighborhood has been there for more than 130 years.

Similarly, the neighborhood has been through everything from two world wars to a volatile economy to become one of Southern California’s most well-liked cultural neighborhoods.

There is a lot you can do here, in one of just three historically Japanese areas in the United States.

The location is also a great place to grab some meals at night, as most eateries here close at night.

Little Tokyo has warmly invited everyone to come here to shop, eat, worship, conduct business, and will continue to do so. So make sure to visit here.

9. Hollywood Ghost Tours

Of all the things to do at night in LA, you can’t rule out ghost tours.

Whether you’re a believer in ghost stories, a skeptic, or somewhere in the middle, you are in for a treat.

Take a tour with ghost City Tours and have a wonderful nighttime tour.

Join Ghost City Tours as you go back in time to explore the shadowy side of Hollywood glitz.

The Ghosts of Hollywood Tour investigates the spectral inhabitants of the city.

History is front and center on the Ghosts of Hollywood Tour but in a fun and interesting way.

Ghost City tours is open from 7 am to 11:30 pm, seven days a week.

10. Griffith Observatory

Just as Stephen Hawkins said, “Remember to look up at the stars and not down at your feet. Try to make sense of what you see and wonder about what makes the universe exist.”

It’s time to get a little curious while enjoying the beautiful night sky you will beget at the Griffith observatory.

Griffith Observatory is a fantastic location to check out if you’ve ever been curious about the solar system, our planet, earthquakes, ocean tides, or how much you would weigh on each planet in the solar system.

The experience of visiting the Griffith Observatory, like any observatory, is extraordinary and well worth the time.

The magnificent images and interactive displays teach you about eclipses and the stars.

One of the top nighttime attractions in LA, the planetarium brings the universe to life before your eyes with over 60 exhibits, a planetarium, and daily programming.

This is also a fantastic location to observe the Hollywood sign from a distance and get a broad overview of Los Angeles.

However, if you go early in the day, it will be gloomy and harder to see everything. To get the finest experience and pictures, wait till the afternoon or better stop at night.

Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States

11. Griffith Park

Well, if you are on the planetary for night activities in LA, perhaps you should visit the whole park.

Griffith Park has something for everyone with its 4,210 acres of groomed parkland and picnic spots as well as naturally occurring chaparral-covered terrain.

The Park is home to a number of attractions in addition to Griffith Observatory, including the Greek Theatre, three City golf courses, and the Los Angeles Zoo.

Perhaps one of the most well-liked recreational activities in Griffith Park is hiking among the rocky hills and sparsely populated sections.

Additionally, the full 53-mile system of trails, fire roads, and bridle paths is open to hikers.

In fact, one of the most well-liked recreational activities in Griffith Park is hiking among the rocky hills and sparsely populated sections.

Breathtaking views of the whole Los Angeles Basin is one of the most rewarding treks in the area.

Address: 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States

There is a lot to do around California; Pasadena and Sausalito are great cities to visit!

12. Santa Monica Beach & Pier

Whether you’re planning a romantic stroll, or just want to hang out with some friends, then Santa Monica is one of the best places to do that.

Take a stroll down the Pier to take in the breathtaking sights while listening to the sound the waters make and enjoying feeling the breeze from the ocean.

In fact, the experience you get strolling down the pier at night is just on another level.

Make sure to pause, take a breath, smell the salty air, and soak in the ambiance.

According to information, Santa Monica Pier has been around since 1909.

However, since it was initially established, the pier has seen a remarkable transformation.

Attractions and rides aren’t the only things to do at the Santa Monica Pier.

To satiate one’s appetite, there are numerous fantastic restaurants, candy stores, and food carts.

So, make sure to visit and sample some of the food there.

The pier is open daily between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m., and the beach is free to visit at any time.

Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States

13. Rooftop Cinema Club, LA

Would you love to watch the newest feature films while enjoying a beautiful rooftop view of downtown Los Angeles?

Rooftop Cinema Club is a cozy and less stressful alternative to other outdoor movie screenings.

It is well known for its excellent film selections and a steady supply of snacks and alcohol.

Furthermore, you will be welcomed with a comfortable lawn chair to add to the cozy experience at the rooftop Cinema Club; however, if you want the whole camping experience, you’ll need to bring your own blanket.

Additionally, you will receive a pair of wireless headphones so you won’t have to worry about missing a word while watching the movie via loudspeakers.

With excellent meal options, cozy recliners, popcorn, amazing mixed beverages, beer, soft drinks, blankets, and stereo blue tooth over-the-ear headphones, you are in for a treat.

In fact, you’re truly going to have a great time at night if you’ve never seen The Rooftop Cinema Club, LA.

Address: 888 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States

14. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Legendary figures in the entertainment sector are honored on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

It covers 3 blocks of Vine Street and 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard.

Every year, millions of people traverse the pathway to see the names of famous actors, musicians, directors, and other figures.

It has about 2,690 stars in total, each one honoring the recipients’ achievements.

However, about 20 new stars are added each year.

At star ceremonies, it’s not unusual to see tens of thousands of devoted fans clapping for the celebrities.

Furthermore, Walk of Fame star ceremonies has a public viewing area that is open to attend and does not have reserved seating.

Of course, at any moment during the night, you are welcome to stroll around the blocks.

Visit historic bars along the road to learning about speakeasies and old Hollywood star gatherings.

Enjoy some vintage glitz and local chitchat.

Address: Los Angeles, CA, United States

15. Sunset Strip

Located in West Hollywood in LA, the Sunset Strip in LA is one of the city’s most recognizable locations, whether day or night.

Similarly, the strip is well-known throughout the world for its tourist attractions and establishments.

When numerous eateries and nightclubs sprouted up on this street in the 1920s, it started to gain notoriety as the center of Los Angeles’ nightlife.

For several decades now, sunset strip has grown significantly in the music and entertainment industries.

Furthermore, this LA destination offers access to the renowned lounge, clubs and performances, shopping, drinking, dining, and lodging options.

Different clubs on Sunset Strip provide a long night of drinking, dancing, and having a good time.

You can also stroll along the road of sunset strip or if it’s a Friday or Saturday, you can use Sunset Trip, a convenient shuttle service.

16. Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills

Are you a sucker for luxury items? Then you will definitely fall in love with Rodeo Drive.

In fact, one of the most well-known streets in the world is Rodeo Drive.

The Boulevard is well-known for its assortment of opulent boutiques and designer stores.

When the posh store Giorgio Beverly Hills first opened its doors on Rodeo Drive in 1961, the area quickly gained a reputation for being a destination for upper-class shopping.

It was founded by Fred Hayman, who went on to earn the title “the godfather of Rodeo Drive.”

Following, Gucci and other upscale retailers opened, all of which contributed to Rodeo Drive’s current upscale status.

Even if you are unable to purchase anything from the Rodeo Drive boutiques, it is still beneficial to window shop and perhaps take some photos.

During the day, it can get busy as tourists fill the streets and stores.

However, you can spend a night walking down Rodeo Drive. Display your sense of fashion, and snap some amazing pictures.

Additionally, this is where the allegedly most expensive store in the world, House of Bijan, is located.

17. Ripley Believe It or Not!, LA

Ripley Believe It or Not! is a place that will interest the kids and even the whole family, whether be it day or night.

This Hollywood museum is a temple to unusual finds, kitsch, and record-breaking discovery, including shrunken heads and the tiniest drivable car in the world.

The Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum, sometimes known as the “Odditorium,” truly lives up to its moniker, beginning with the enormous Tyrannosaurus Rex that protrudes from the red-tiled ceiling.

Furthermore, 300 exhibits are dispersed throughout the museum’s two floors and 15 galleries.

Other highlights include a vampire-killing kit, melodic stairs that you can interact with, and Marilyn Monroe artifacts.

Out of over 150,000 artifacts, you can see roughly 300 of Ripley’s collections inside.

There are interesting and weird items to see on two levels, and on weekends they are open until midnight.

Take some time to stroll a few blocks of Hollywood Boulevard if you go at night. The Walk of Stars is illuminated with neon lights after dark.

Address: 6780 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028, United States

Want the best view of LA? Check out our list of some of the best Rooftop Restaurants in Los Angeles to enjoy the best view!

18. Queen Mary in Long Beach

How about a visit and tour of a cruise ship that never moves?

Queen Mary was one of the biggest and most beautiful ships of the early 20th century.

Although it may not be as large as today’s mega-cruise liners, the Queen Mary is a beautiful relic from a previous time.

The ship had its final voyage to Long Beach, on Dec. 9, 1967, and since then, the Queen Mary has been moored in the Long Beach harbor, converted into a hotel.

The self-guided tour, which takes guests from the engine room to the wheelhouse aboard the 1,020-foot-long Queen Mary, is the most affordable way to see the vessel.

Additionally, they provide a number of themed tours, which are updated periodically.

Ghosts & Legends of the Queen Mary, which dramatizes historic and paranormal occurrences aboard the ship, is one of the most well-liked.

Evening excursions are also available, including LA ghost hunts and tours at midnight led by paranormal investigators.

The ship also hosts Scottish festivals, mystery murder dinner plays, seasonal and holiday celebrations, and other activities.

Address: 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802, United States

19. Museum of Neon Art

One of the largest collections of neon art in the world is housed in the Museum of Neon Art.

Furthermore, the museum provides a glimpse into the lost art of neon signs, mostly from around Los Angeles, with a couple from outside of the area, such as Bakersfield.

You can take one of their night excursions of Koreatown, the Sunset Strip, Hollywood Boulevard, and Echo Park in addition to seeing the museum.

The tour guides who lead the late-night trips point out the most significant neon lights in the city and explain their histories.

Although this is a small museum; however, you will enjoy every bit of your activity.

A guest art exhibit and a portion of the permanent collection are typically on view.

Moreso, if you are lucky, you might even be in town when interpretative dancing is performed among the neon art in the museum.

In conclusion, MONA is a great option for a quick, enjoyable activity in LA at night, but if you do some planning, you may also enjoy one of their special events.

Address: 216 S Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91204, United States

Want a mix of modern attractions and history? Then you should check out Bakersfield!

20. TCL Chinese Theatre

Located right in the middle of the Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre is Hollywood’s only IMAX theater and the ideal location to watch blockbusters.

TCL Chinese Theatre has hosted red-carpet movie premieres ever since 1927.

So come step back in time to the beautiful days of Hollywood.

Admire exquisite attire, sets, and artwork related to its past.

In fact, the only tour in Hollywood that teaches you about the history of cinema both inside and out is the TCL Chinese Theatre Tour.

The tour includes anecdotes and interesting information about the history of theaters, including Hollywood premieres.

So take an exclusive 30-minute walking tour inside the gilded doors of this movie palace.

Without taking this tour of Hollywood’s film history, a trip to Hollywood would be incomplete.

Daily tours last for 30 minutes and run from 10:15 am to 7:45 pm.

Address: 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028, United States

21. iFLY Indoor Skydiving

Ever wanted to fly? Well, here’s a great opportunity. iFLY Indoor Skydiving offers skydiving opportunities without you even really leaping out of a plane.

You don’t even need to have prior expertise to have this beautiful experience.

Enter the enclosed flight chamber and settle in while the operator raises the wind speed.

As the airspeed reaches 130 to 175 mph, you will take in the sensation of weightlessness as you both soon become airborne.

Similarly, you will have two opportunities to fly with your teacher during the activity, each for one minute.

iFLY is a suitable place to have family fun, groups, or birthday celebrations.

Address: 100 Universal City Plaza Universal CityWalk Hollywood, Los Angeles, CA 91608-1002

22. L.A LIVE

L.A. Live is an entertainment hub located in Downtown LA.

This is the neighborhood where you will find the Microsoft Theater and Crypto.com Arena.

The hub has nightclubs, restaurants, a bowling alley, a museum, and movie theaters in addition to sports and music venues.

In addition to more than 20 restaurants, Lucky Strike bowling lanes, Regal Cinemas, and the Grammy Museum, L.A Live also has The Conga Room and more.

Additionally, ESPN’s west coast broadcast center is located at L.A. LIVE.

Only on weekdays from 11 am to 2 pm, you can dine at specific L.A. LIVE restaurants and park for free!

Asides from having a lot to do during the day, LA Live is home to a lot of night activities.

You can even head to the conga room to experience amazing nightlife dancing or attend Live Concerts.

Address: Lucky Strike Bowling – Los Angeles, 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

23. El Capitan Theatre

After visiting TCL Chinese, if you’re on Hollywood Boulevard, you should definitely check out the nearby El Capitan Theatre for some glitz and glamour with a charming 1920s or 1930s vibe.

It’s like traveling through time to a more favorable period for cinemas. It is simply one of the best representations of magnificent cinema theaters from the past.

Additionally, it has a gorgeous facade with lots of ornamental elements from the inside to the outside.

When it first opened in 1926, it had a turbulent past, including taking the chance to host the 1941 world premiere of Citizen Kane by Orson Welles.

It now belongs to Disney and screens its big-budget movies.

Make sure to put this on your bucket list if you enjoy Disney.

In fact, the theater itself is now only used for movie premieres and limited screenings.

There’s also a revolving exhibit featuring artwork, costumes, and details on the newest Disney films.

Don’t pass up the opportunity to see a play at the theater.

Final Remarks

Whatever it may be that draws people to LA, be it night or day, there is no denying that the city has some of the top clubs and lounges in the nation.

LA is guaranteed to have it, from lively dance floors to live music that drowns out the outside world.