Often over each winter break, I find myself bored after the first week, and I frequently look for
“cheap” things to do. To save you some time, I have compiled a list of inexpensive activities
around Los Angeles that can entertain just about anyone.
There are a couple of ice skating rinks located in and around Los Angeles. My favorite is the
Toyota Sports Center in El Segundo. This rink is less expensive than the pop-up outdoor skating
rinks that appear during the holidays. Check out their website for public skate hours. Prices are
$12 for adults (over 12 years old), and skate rentals are $6.
Website: https://www.toyotasportsperformancecenter.com/
The Petersen Automotive Museum, located on Wilshire Blvd. It is perfect for any car-lover out
there. With over 150 cars on display at any time, The Petersen shows us the past, present, and
the future of cars. General Admission is $11 for students with an ID and $17 for everyone else.
Website: https://www.petersen.org/
Mini Golf is definitely a fun way to spend the day in the cooler weather over winter break. A
personal favorite is Sherman Oaks Castle Park, in Sherman Oaks, with three 18 hole golf
courses and an arcade. One round of golf costs $6.50 per person ages 13-64.
Website: https://www.laparks.org/castlepark/
The Museum of Contemporary Art, located in downtown Los Angeles, has a very large
collection of modern art pieces. While donations are encouraged, general admission is free.
Definitely a nice way to spend the day.
Website: https://www.moca.org/
Descanso Gardens is another way to spend your time, marvel at all of the many flowers and
gardens. Take a leisurely walk through the many flower gardens. While it is a bit of a drive,
located in La Canada Flintridge, the picturesque scenery is completely worth it. Admission for
students with an ID is $11 and General Admission is $15.
Website: https://www.descansogardens.org/
The Hollywood Museum, located on Highland Ave. It is full of both old and new Hollywood
memorabilia. Anything ranging from props in famous movies, to outfits worn by stars. General
admission is $15.
Website: http://thehollywoodmuseum.com/
Runyon Canyon Park is located at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains. Enjoy the
outdoors and take a beautiful hike in and around the park. After a small hike up to the entrance,
there are free yoga classes daily (donations are encouraged). To park, you need to find street
parking near the entrance. Street parking is free, but may be difficult to find.
Website: https://www.laparks.org/runyon/
The Museum of Tolerance, located in Los Angeles, is full of the history of The Holocaust, and
tells the stories of many survivors. It is a great way to learn about Jewish history. General
admission is $15.50.
Website: https://www.museumoftolerance.com/
Another personal favorite is the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium located in San Pedro. It is a much
smaller and less crowded aquarium than others in our vicinity, and is a lot less expensive. There
are plenty of aquariums with different species, and a touch tank with starfish and urchins.
Please note that it is only open Wednesday through Sunday. Admission is free with a suggested
donation of $7.
Website: https://www.cabrillomarineaquarium.org/
Take a stroll along the Venice Canals (in California of course). Located in Venice, the canals
are multiple blocks of residential housing connected by waterways and walking bridges. Find
free street parking near the entrance of the canals.
Historic Olvera Street is located in downtown LA and is known as the “Birthplace of Los
Angeles”.It’s currently a Mexican market with many authentic shops and restaurants for you to
explore. There are parking lots surrounding Olvera Street.
Website: https://www.olvera-street.com/
There are many neighborhoods in LA that have houses that go all out with Christmas lights and
decorations. I have been to “Candy Cane Lane” in Woodland Hills, but there are others all over
Los Angeles. You can either drive through the streets or walk along them. It is completely free,
so bring a cup of hot chocolate to enjoy while you look at the stunning holiday lights!
Because we do live in Los Angeles, it only makes sense to take advantage of the beautiful
beaches. You can walk along Venice Boardwalk, stroll Santa Monica Pier, or ride a bike along
the beach path between the two for a day of coastal fun!
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