Los Angeles County offers fun free things to do throughout the year. Famous for its sunny skies, mild weather and miles of public beaches, the Southern California county features free admission to concerts, festivals, museums and parks. On your next visit, explore the attractions, activities and natural wilderness of Los Angeles without breaking the bank.
Farmers' Markets
With more than 50 certified farmers' markets held every week across Los Angeles County, an array of healthy foods are readily available. From the Westside markets in Santa Monica and Venice to the suburban markets in Sherman Oaks and Alhambra, farmers' markets often include free concerts. Many vendors offer free samples, and you can purchase a variety of seasonal organic produce and fresh baked goods, incorporating healthy ingredients into your lifestyle. One of the most popular markets, the Farmers Market in Los Angeles, has been offering fresh produce along with gourmet meats and cheese at the corner of Third and Fairfax since 1934. Visitors may also enjoy strolling through the shops, riding the free trolley and watching the dancing water shows available at The Grove, the outdoor shopping plaza next door to the Farmers Market.
Public Parks
Walk, hike or bike through parks, such as Topanga State Park, Griffith Park and the Angeles National Forest for free. The largest city park in the United States, Griffith Park, offers more than 4,100 acres and several free activities, including picnicking on the lawns, hiking along trails and walking through Fern Dell with its scenic waterfalls and ferns. The Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area features dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, deep canyons, lush meadows and sandy beaches. A wide selection of trails wander through the 65,000 acre park, providing paths suitable for every fitness level.
Beaches
One of the best features of coastal area of the county is the mild year-round weather and access to miles of free beaches. Although you might want to wear a wetsuit for winter surfing, anyone may enjoy walking, jogging or just soaking in the sun anywhere along Los Angeles County's 75 miles of coastline throughout the year. Whether you would like to discover the tidepools at Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, join in the weight lifting at Muscle Beach in Venice, explore the historic attractions at the Santa Monica Pier or try surfing at Zuma Beach in Malibu, a day at the beach continues to be one of the most popular things to do in Los Angeles County.
Public Libraries
More than 50 public libraries are situated across Los Angeles County, including Culver City, Santa Monica and North Hollywood. The downtown library, between Fifth Street and Flower Street, features distinctive Egyptian architectural details that were popularized after the discovery of King Tut's tomb during the 1920s. One of the largest libraries in the United States, the downtown library offers free, docent-led walking tours with descriptions of murals that depict the history of California. Whether you are looking for a vegan cookbook, a children's storytime or the latest best seller, everyone is welcome to enjoy the free special events. Visitors to the libraries may read any of the books or periodicals on site, but you must have a current library card to check out any materials.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame
Get in some exercise while you search for your favorite celebrity's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Since the 1960s, more than 2,300 stars have been placed along almost 3 1/2 miles of sidewalk on both sides of Hollywood Boulevard between Gower Street and La Brea Avenue. The Walk also runs north and south along both sides of Vine Street between Yucca Street and Sunset Boulevard. Among the most popular celebrity star locations, Marilyn Monroe's is at 1644 Hollywood Blvd., Steven Spielberg's is at 7046 Hollywood Blvd., Elvis Presley's is at 6777 Hollywood Blvd. and Johnny Depp's is at 7018 Hollywood Blvd. Additional attractions along the Walk include Grauman's Chinese Theatre, Kodak Theater, Hollywood History Museum and the Egyptian Theatre.
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