Free things to do in Los Angeles: A transit-smart weekend guide
Plan your LA adventure with car-optional routes, Metro fare tips, and trips to Griffith Observatory, The Broad, and Santa Monica Pier.
Edited by Karen Johanson | December 5, 2025
Los Angeles is a city where iconic experiences are often just steps from a Metro stop and a $5 transit card tap. From panoramic views at Griffith Observatory to sunset strolls on Santa Monica Pier, LA’s best moments can be enjoyed for free or just a few dollars. This guide maps out a car-optional itinerary, showing how to maximize your time and budget with Metro transit’s fare capping, free must-see destinations, and practical tips for every stop. Whether you’re planning a weekend escape or exploring on a whim, you’ll find that LA’s signature sights and local flavor are always within reach, even if you’re on a budget.
Four ways to explore LA on a budget
Griffith Observatory and Hollywood Hills
Griffith Observatory is a free-admission icon perched above Los Angeles, offering sweeping city views, interactive exhibits, and hiking trailheads just minutes from Hollywood. Admission to the observatory and its grounds is always free, though planetarium shows require a paid ticket. For a crowd-free experience, visit on weekday mornings, afternoons, or late evenings. The Metro B Line drops you at Vermont/Sunset, where DASH Observatory shuttles run every 15–20 minutes. Parking is limited, so taking transit can make your visit smoother. After your visit, explore nearby hiking trails featured in the best hiking trails in LA. For easy access to Griffith Park and Hollywood’s highlights, Hilton Garden Inn Los Angeles/Hollywood is a welcoming base with contemporary guest rooms, a heated outdoor pool, and on-site dining that make it easy to recharge after a day of exploring.
The Broad
The Broad is a contemporary art museum in downtown Los Angeles, known for its free general admission and striking architecture. Timed tickets are required and released monthly on the last Wednesday at 10 am with some same-day tickets available. Reserve online to secure your spot and enjoy works by artists like Yayoi Kusama and Jean-Michel Basquiat. The museum sits on Grand Avenue, surrounded by the Walt Disney Concert Hall and MOCA, with Grand Central Market just a short walk away for budget-friendly eats. The Metro A and E Lines stop nearby at Grand Avenue Arts/Bunker Hill Station. The Broad is wheelchair accessible, with accessible entrances and restrooms. For a seamless arts weekend, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Los Angeles Downtown offers spacious rooms, a rooftop Kyoto Garden, and a warm DoubleTree Cookie upon arrival.
Getty Center and westside views
The Getty Center welcomes guests with free admission to world-class art, architecture, and gardens overlooking Los Angeles. For families, the Getty offers hands-on exhibits and family restrooms. Time your visit for weekday mornings or late afternoons to avoid crowds. As your Westside base, Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites is a short drive from the Getty, featuring spacious suites, a lively lobby bar, and a heated pool for unwinding after a day exploring.
Santa Monica Pier and beachside fun
Santa Monica Pier is the quintessential LA sunset spot, open daily from 6 am to 10 pm with free entry and regular community events. Take the Metro E Line to Downtown Santa Monica Station for a car-free arrival, then stroll the pier’s boardwalk, catch street performers, or dip your toes in the Pacific. Budget add-ons include the aquarium and classic arcade games, all under $20. The beach is steps away for sunbathing or volleyball, and the pier is wheelchair accessible with ramps and accessible restrooms. Recharge at Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica, offering spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, hot tub, and fire pit for cozy evenings.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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