Most visitors chase LA’s sunlight, but I’ll let you in on a secret: this city hits different after dark. When the sun dips behind the Hollywood Hills, Los Angeles transforms from a sun-soaked tourist playground into a maze of hidden speakeasies, midnight food runs, and rooftop views that’ll make your Instagram followers think you’re living in a movie.
I’ve spent countless hours exploring the best things to do in Los Angeles at night, from slurping up late-night ramen in Little Tokyo to catching secret jazz shows in century-old basements. Forget what you’ve seen in the travel guides – this is the real LA after dark!
- 👉 Pro Tip: I HIGHLY recommend this private helicopter tour over Los Angeles. They take you soaring over iconic sights like the Hollywood Sign, Getty Museum, and Beverly Hills mansions while you get stunning aerial views of Venice Beach canals and downtown skyscrapers. This tour is absolutely a must-do on a Los Angeles itinerary in my opinion.
20 Things to Do at Night in LA
Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with family, LA promises a memorable nighttime experience. Here are the best things to do in Los Angeles at night.
1. Stargaze at Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory is hands down one of the coolest free things you can do in LA after dark. I’ve been here dozens of times, and it never gets old. The observatory is open Tuesday through Friday from noon to 10 PM, and weekends from 10 AM to 10 PM. Best part? Admission is completely free, though parking costs $10 per hour.
Get there early if you’re going on weekends because parking fills up fast, and they’ll actually close the road if it gets too crowded. The telescope viewing happens every night they’re open (weather permitting), and you can see planets, stars, and galaxies through their massive telescopes. Inside, the exhibits are way more interesting than you’d expect – there’s interactive stuff about black holes, the solar system, and space missions.
The real magic happens at sunset when you get those epic views of downtown LA and the Hollywood Sign. I always tell people to stay for the planetarium show too – tickets are $10 for adults and $6 for kids, and you can buy them when you arrive. The shows are actually pretty mind-blowing with live narration and crazy good visuals. Pro tip: bring a jacket because it gets chilly up there at night, even in summer.
- For more nighttime experiences nearby, explore: 12 Epic Things to Do in Pasadena After Dark
2. Sip cocktails 73 floors above the city at Spire 73
Spire 73 is literally on another level – the 73rd floor to be exact, making it the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere. I’ve been to a lot of rooftop bars, but nothing quite hits like watching the entire LA sprawl light up from this height. The views stretch from the Hollywood Hills all the way to the beaches, and honestly, you’ll spend half your time just trying to pick out landmarks.
The cocktails here aren’t cheap (expect $18-22 each), but they’re crafted well and the fire pits make it cozy even when it gets chilly. Pro tip: arrive before sunset to watch the city transform from golden hour to glittering lights. There’s a $10 entry fee for non-hotel guests ($20 on Friday and Saturday after 8pm), but it’s worth every penny for the Instagram shots alone. Just don’t wear flip-flops – they have a smart casual dress code that they actually enforce.
3. Walk the neon-lit Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier hits different at night when all the neon lights reflect off the Pacific Ocean. The pier itself is free to walk and stays open until 10 PM daily, though the rides at Pacific Park have varying hours depending on the season. Individual rides cost $8 each, but honestly, the unlimited wristbands are the way to go – $40 for adults and $20 for kids 7 and under.
I love coming here around sunset to catch the Pacific Wheel (that’s the solar-powered Ferris wheel) all lit up. The views from the top are insane – you get the whole coastline and LA skyline. Street performers are everywhere doing everything from magic tricks to playing music, and the energy is just infectious. The arcade games are ridiculously overpriced but weirdly addictive.
Parking can be brutal and expensive during peak hours. Your best bet is the lot right under the pier for about $2 for two hours, or if you’re feeling cheap, park a few blocks away and walk. The Santa Monica Carousel from 1939 still runs and has this nostalgic charm that makes you feel like a kid again. Food options range from basic carnival fare to some actually decent seafood spots, though expect tourist prices for everything.
4. Hunt for secret speakeasies like a prohibition-era detective
LA’s speakeasy scene is way more elaborate than I expected, and honestly, finding these hidden bars has become one of my favorite weekend activities. Good Times at Davey Wayne’s in Hollywood is the perfect starter speakeasy – you literally enter through a refrigerator in what looks like a garage sale. Inside, it’s pure ’70s nostalgia with a backyard patio that feels like the best house party you’ve ever been to.
For something more challenging, try Lock & Key in Koreatown where you have to solve a puzzle just to get in. The hostesses will give you hints if you’re stumped, but part of the fun is figuring out which key opens the actual bar door. Once inside, the cocktails are inventive and use ingredients sourced from local farmers markets. I particularly love Death & Co in the Arts District – there’s usually a line outside, but their creative cocktails with combinations like bourbon and pineapple chamomile shochu are worth the wait.
5. Shop and dine at Universal CityWalk
Universal CityWalk Hollywood is basically an outdoor mall on steroids with way better vibes. It’s free to enter and walk around, but parking will hit your wallet – $35 during the day, though it drops to just $10 after 5 PM. I always time my visits for the evening discount because honestly, CityWalk is better at night anyway.
The shopping here is pretty solid with the massive Universal Studios Store being the main draw. You can find everything from Harry Potter gear to Jurassic Park stuff, plus they rotate merchandise regularly. The movie theater is legit – 18 screens including IMAX, and if you see a movie, parking only costs $5. I’ve definitely used that trick to save money.
Food-wise, you’ve got options ranging from Voodoo Doughnut (their bacon maple bar is ridiculous) to sit-down places like Antojitos for Mexican food. The 5 Towers Stage hosts live music pretty regularly, and there’s even a bowling alley upstairs that most people don’t know about. I’ve spent entire evenings here just wandering around, people-watching, and trying different restaurants. It’s touristy for sure, but in a fun way that doesn’t feel totally cheesy.
6. Catch stand-up comedy at legendary clubs
The Comedy Store on the Sunset Strip is where comedy legends are made, and honestly, any night here feels like you’re witnessing history. This is where Robin Williams used to drop in unannounced and where Dave Chappelle still tests new material. The Original Room has this intimate vibe where you’re close enough to see the comedian’s facial expressions, while the Main Room hosts bigger acts.
I always recommend checking out The Laugh Factory too – it’s been paying comedians since 1979 (revolutionary at the time) and still maintains that grassroots feel. Tuesday nights are open mic, where you might catch the next big thing before they blow up. The Hollywood Improv is another solid choice, especially if you want that classic comedy club experience. Just grab dinner beforehand since the food at these places is usually just okay, but the two-drink minimum is standard.
7. Bar hop along the Sunset Strip
The Sunset Strip is where LA’s music history lives and breathes, and the nightlife scene is still going strong. Whisky a Go Go remains the crown jewel – tickets usually run $20-60 depending on who’s playing, and yes, the drinks are expensive (think $15-20 for cocktails), but you’re paying for rock and roll history.
I’ve seen everything from tribute bands to legitimate rock legends at the Whisky, and the intimate setting means there’s really no bad spot in the house. The Comedy Store next door requires a two-drink minimum but hosts some of the best stand-up in the city. The Roxy Theatre and Rainbow Bar & Grill round out the classic venues, each with their own personality and regular crowd.
Parking on the Strip is a nightmare, so I always Uber or Lyft. The energy here is different from anywhere else in LA – you’ve got tourists mixing with industry people, musicians, and locals who’ve been coming here for decades. Cover charges vary wildly depending on the venue and night, but expect to spend $20-40 just to get in most places. The strip really comes alive after 9 PM, and things stay lively until 2 AM. It’s definitely not cheap, but where else can you drink where The Doors got their start?
8. Experience LA’s incredible late-night food scene
When the bars close, LA’s late-night food scene comes alive, and it’s way more diverse than just hitting up a taco truck (though those are great too). Sanamluang Cafe in Thai Town is open until 3am and serves some of the best tom kha kai soup you’ll find anywhere. I’ve stumbled in here at 2am after too many drinks and their khana moo grob (crispy pork with Chinese broccoli) has basically saved my life multiple times.
Sun Nong Dan in Koreatown is a 24-hour Korean BBQ spot where you can grill bulgogi at 4am while sobering up. The atmosphere gets pretty wild late at night with a mix of industry folks, night shift workers, and people like us who just don’t want the night to end. Bob’s Big Boy in Burbank stays open until 3am on weekends and serves classic American diner food in a retro setting. Yeah, it’s touristy, but sometimes you just need a chocolate milkshake and a burger at 2am.
9. Join a ghost hunting tour
LA’s ghost tours are way better than I expected them to be. LA Ghost Tour runs nightly tours that cost around $35-45 per person, and they take you to some genuinely creepy spots around the city. The Queen Mary in Long Beach is the big draw – this massive old ship is supposedly haunted by over 150 ghosts, and the atmosphere alone is worth the trip.
I went on one of these tours completely skeptical and ended up having a blast. They give you actual ghost hunting equipment like EMF detectors, and whether you believe in ghosts or not, it’s entertaining as hell. The guides know all the local legends and historical stories, so you’re learning about LA’s darker history while hopefully not getting scared out of your mind.
Tours usually run from 7 PM to around 10 PM, and they hit spots like old theaters in downtown LA, historic hotels in Hollywood, and some random haunted locations you’d never find on your own. The Queen Mary tours are separate and cost about $30-40, but that ship is genuinely eerie at night with all the creaking sounds and dark corridors. Even if you don’t see any ghosts, you’ll definitely get some good stories and a unique perspective on LA’s spooky side.
10. Capture Instagram-worthy night shots from epic viewpoints
LA’s nighttime photography spots are insane, and Mulholland Drive between the 405 and 101 offers multiple scenic overlooks where you can capture the city’s twinkling lights. I love the spot around Jerome C. Daniel Overlook above the Hollywood Bowl – you get both the Bowl and the 101 freeway in your shot, creating these amazing light trails.
Angel’s Point in Elysian Park is my secret weapon for night photography. It’s tricky to find (you’ll need to park and walk past an unlit playground), but you’re literally above Dodger Stadium with downtown LA spread out below. The views are especially magical during night games when you can hear the crowd cheering. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook gives you a different perspective looking west toward the coast, and the 6th Street Bridge has become a major Insta spot since its 2022 reopening. Just be careful parking and don’t wander around alone late at night.
11. Catch a movie at El Capitan Theatre
El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood is Disney’s flagship movie theater, and it’s honestly a gorgeous place to catch a film. This 1926 theater still has all its original Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, plus they’ve got a massive Wurlitzer organ that they actually play before some showings. Ticket prices are standard LA movie prices ($15-20), but the experience is way above your average multiplex.
I love coming here for Disney movie premieres and special events – they often have character meet-and-greets and themed decorations that make it feel like an event rather than just a movie. The sound system is incredible, and the vintage charm gives you that old Hollywood feeling that’s hard to find anywhere else.
They show a mix of new Disney releases, classic films, and special screenings throughout the week. The theater is right on Hollywood Boulevard, so you can easily walk around and check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame before or after your movie. Parking in Hollywood is always a pain, so I usually park in one of the nearby garages for about $10-15. The staff here actually seems to care about the experience, which is refreshing compared to most chain theaters. It’s definitely touristy, but it’s the kind of touristy that’s actually worth doing.
- Continue your theater journey: 12 INCREDIBLE Things to Do in Pasadena at Night
12. Discover intimate live music venues beyond the Bowl
While everyone knows the Hollywood Bowl, LA’s smaller music venues offer way more intimate experiences. The Troubadour in West Hollywood is legendary – Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, and countless others got their start here. The venue only holds about 400 people, so every show feels personal. I’ve seen breakthrough artists here who were selling out stadiums within a year.
The Echo in Echo Park books incredible indie and alternative acts, and the sound quality is surprisingly good for such a small space. Whisky a Go Go on the Sunset Strip might be touristy, but it’s genuinely historic – The Doors were the house band here in the ’60s. For something completely different, The Greek Theatre in Griffith Park is an outdoor amphitheater that feels like a more intimate version of the Bowl. Shows here run from May through October, and the natural acoustics are phenomenal.
13. Experience live entertainment at L.A. Live
L.A. Live in downtown LA is basically an entertainment complex that has everything – concerts, sports, dining, and nightlife all in one massive space. The Microsoft Theater hosts major concerts and comedy shows with tickets ranging from $50-200+ depending on the act. Crypto.com Arena next door is where the Lakers and Kings play, plus major touring acts.
I’ve been to shows at both venues, and the production quality is always top-notch. The Grammy Museum is actually pretty cool if you’re into music history – $15 admission gets you interactive exhibits about everything from Motown to modern pop. The museum stays open until 6 PM most days, so you can hit it before dinner.
The restaurant scene here is solid with everything from upscale steakhouses to casual spots like Yard House. Prices are what you’d expect for a tourist area – $15-25 for entrees, $12-15 for cocktails. The rooftop bars offer great views of the downtown skyline, especially Perch if you want to get fancy. Parking is available in the complex for $20-30 depending on events, or you can try street parking a few blocks away if you’re feeling lucky. The whole area really comes alive during Lakers games and big concerts, with crowds spilling out onto the streets. It’s definitely got that big city energy that makes you feel like you’re in the center of everything.
14. Explore vibrant night markets and food halls
Grand Central Market downtown stays open until 10pm and transforms into this buzzing social scene after dark. The mix of food vendors, from Eggslut to Sarita’s Pupuseria, creates this amazing multicultural food court vibe. I love grabbing a beer from one of the bars and sampling different vendors – it’s like a progressive dinner but way more fun.The Original Farmers Market at Fairfax gets lively in the evenings too, especially on weekends when live music kicks in. It’s been around since 1934, so there’s this old-school LA charm mixed with modern food options. Smorgasburg LA happens on Sundays at ROW DTLA and while it’s technically a day market, the late afternoon/early evening vibe is perfect for a casual food crawl before hitting the bars.
15. Eat ramen and explore Little Tokyo
Little Tokyo is one of only three official Japantowns in the US, and it’s absolutely worth exploring at night. The Japanese American National Museum closes at 5 PM, but the real action happens in the restaurants and bars that stay open late. You can get incredible ramen at spots like Daikokuya (been around since 1951) or Shin-Sen-Gumi until midnight or later.
I always end up spending way more time here than planned because there’s just so much good food. Izakayas (Japanese pubs) like Kagaya serve small plates and sake in this cozy, authentic atmosphere that feels like you’re actually in Japan. Prices are reasonable – you can get a solid ramen bowl for $12-18, and izakaya dishes run $8-15 each.
The karaoke scene here is legit too. Places like Bigfoot West have private rooms where you can belt out songs until 2 AM. It costs about $30-40 per hour for a room, but split between friends it’s totally worth it. James Irvine Japanese Garden is beautiful during the day, but at night the surrounding neighborhood has this cool urban vibe with neon signs and late-night eateries. There are also some tiny bars hidden in shopping centers that locals frequent – just look for the red lanterns and follow the sake.
- Read next: Breathtaking Places to Visit in Los Angeles
16. Take a midnight stroll through illuminated gardens
Descanso Gardens in La Cañada Flintridge does seasonal “Enchanted: Forest of Light” experiences that are absolutely magical. Walking through these illuminated botanical gardens at night feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The light installations change seasonally, so even if you’ve been before, each visit offers something new.
The Getty Center stays open until 9pm on Saturdays and the gardens are beautifully lit. Plus, you get those incredible city views as a bonus. I particularly love the Central Garden after dark – the way they light the azalea maze is stunning. Griffith Observatory grounds are accessible 24/7, and walking around the exterior at night when the building is lit up is pretty spectacular. You can combine this with some stargazing if the skies are clear.
17. See vintage neon signs at the Museum of Neon Art
The Museum of Neon Art in Glendale is probably the most unique museum you’ll find in LA. Admission is $15 for adults, and they’re open Tuesday through Saturday until 8 PM, Sunday until 6 PM. The collection of vintage neon signs from old LA businesses is seriously impressive – you’re looking at pieces of the city’s visual history.
I went expecting it to be kitschy, but the exhibits are actually really well curated. You learn about the craftsmanship behind neon signs and how they shaped LA’s visual identity from the 1920s through today. The restored signs from classic movie theaters, motels, and diners tell the story of how LA looked when neon ruled the night.
The real treat is their neon cruises – guided bus tours through the city highlighting iconic neon landmarks. These run on weekends for about $25-30 per person and last about 2 hours. They point out signs you’d never notice on your own and share stories about the businesses and neighborhoods. Even during regular museum hours, the darkened galleries with glowing neon create this almost otherworldly atmosphere. It’s not huge, so you can see everything in about an hour, but it’s definitely Instagram-worthy and gives you a new appreciation for LA’s neon heritage.
18. Attend a concert at Hollywood Bowl
Hollywood Bowl is hands down one of the best concert venues in the world. The amphitheater built into the Hollywood Hills has been hosting legendary performances since 1922, and the acoustics are incredible even in the cheap seats. Ticket prices vary wildly – you can get lawn seats for $15-30, while box seats can run $200+.
I love bringing a picnic and some wine (yes, you can bring alcohol) and making it a whole evening. The Hollywood Bowl website even has partnered restaurants that’ll deliver pre-made picnic baskets right to your seat. The atmosphere is magical with the Hollywood Sign visible in the distance and the city lights twinkling below.
Shows range from the LA Philharmonic to rock concerts to movie screenings with live orchestras. The venue is open seasonally from about April through October, with most shows starting at 8 PM. Parking is $30-50 depending on how close you want to be, but there’s also a shuttle from the Hollywood/Highland Metro station for $6 round trip. I always recommend getting there early to soak in the atmosphere and grab dinner at one of the on-site restaurants. Whether you’re seeing classical music or a pop star, there’s something about this place that makes every performance feel special.
19. Browse food stalls at the Original Farmers Market
The Original Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax has been feeding LA since 1934, and it stays lively well into the evening. Most vendors close around 8-9 PM, but some of the restaurant stalls stay open later. This isn’t your typical farmers market – it’s more like a permanent food hall with over 100 vendors selling everything from fresh produce to international cuisine.
I come here all the time because you can eat your way around the world without leaving one building. Gumbo Pot serves legit Cajun food, Marchand’s has incredible deli sandwiches, and Bob’s Coffee & Doughnuts has been making fresh donuts since the 1950s. Most meals run $8-15, which is reasonable for LA.
The atmosphere is old-school LA charm mixed with locals and tourists. You’ll see entertainment industry folks grabbing lunch next to families with kids and elderly regulars who’ve been coming here for decades. The adjacent Grove shopping center adds to the evening energy with its trolley, fountains, and outdoor dining. Parking is validated for 2 hours with purchase, which is clutch. I always tell people to come hungry and just wander – you’ll find something amazing whether you’re craving Thai food, BBQ, or just a really good cup of coffee. It’s touristy but in an authentic way that feels uniquely LA.
20. Walk through Venice Canals at night
The Venice Canals are one of LA’s most unexpected gems, especially at night when the crowds thin out and the area takes on this romantic, almost European vibe. These canals were built in 1905 to mimic Venice, Italy, and while they’re just a small network of waterways now, they’re absolutely beautiful after dark.
I love walking the footbridges and paths when the moon reflects off the water and the house lights create this dreamy atmosphere. It’s completely free and open 24/7, though I wouldn’t recommend going alone too late at night. The surrounding neighborhood has some gorgeous million-dollar homes, and the ducks and occasional frog sounds make you forget you’re in the middle of a major city.
The best approach is to park on Dell Avenue or Washington Boulevard and walk in – street parking is free but can be limited. The whole canal system is only about 4 blocks, so you can see everything in 30-45 minutes. It’s perfect for a romantic date or just when you need a peaceful break from LA’s craziness. The nearby Venice Beach Boardwalk is just a few blocks away if you want to combine both experiences, though the boardwalk has a completely different energy. These canals are more about quiet contemplation and getting those perfect Instagram shots with the reflections.
