12 Things To Do in LA at Night (Not Found on TikTok!)

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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.

12 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. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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?

5. 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.

6. 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

7. 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.

8. 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

9. 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.

10. 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.

11. 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.

12. 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.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Los Angeles Evening Activities

For those with queries about the best things to do in Washington DC at night, our FAQ section provides quick insights and answers.

How can I spend my night in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles offers a plethora of nighttime activities to cater to diverse interests. Los Angeles offers a variety of nighttime activities for everyone to enjoy. You can start by exploring the historic venues along the Sunset Strip. Then, make your way to the Museum of Neon Art to marvel at its captivating neon art displays. Another fantastic option is taking a leisurely stroll through the Venice Canals, where the moonlight’s shimmering reflections create a truly magical ambiance. These are just a few of the wonderful things you can do in LA at night. For those seeking a more vibrant scene, Universal CityWalk and L.A. Live offer a mix of entertainment, dining, and shopping.

What part of LA has the best nightlife?

West Hollywood, particularly the Sunset Strip, is renowned for its electrifying nightlife. Home to iconic venues like the Whisky a Go Go and the Comedy Store, this area promises a night filled with music, laughter, and entertainment. Downtown LA, with its trendy bars and clubs, is another hotspot for those looking to experience the city’s dynamic nightlife.

What to do with 24hrs in Los Angeles?

With just 24 hours in Los Angeles, it’s essential to prioritize. Start your day with a visit to the Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city. Head to The Original Farmers Market for a culinary treat, and then explore the arts and culture scene at L.A. Live. As evening approaches, dive into the rich history of the El Capitan Theatre or embark on a ghost-hunting tour for a thrilling experience. Conclude your day with a visit to one of the city’s rooftop bars, soaking in the views and the vibrant energy of LA.

Is it safe to explore LA at night?

While Los Angeles is generally safe for tourists, it’s always advisable to stay vigilant, especially when exploring unfamiliar areas. Stick to well-lit streets, avoid isolated areas, and always be aware of your surroundings.

Are there family-friendly activities in LA at night?

Absolutely! Los Angeles offers numerous family-friendly nighttime activities. Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, with its solar-powered Ferris wheel, is a hit among kids and adults alike. The Griffith Observatory hosts regular public star parties, making it a perfect spot for families interested in astronomy.

Where can I experience LA’s cultural scene at night?

The Museum of Neon Art and the Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo are great places to immerse yourself in LA’s rich cultural tapestry. For live performances, the Hollywood Bowl and the Microsoft Theater at L.A. Live are among the best things to do in Los Angeles at night.

Can I take guided tours of LA at night?

Yes, Los Angeles offers a range of guided nighttime tours. From ghost hunting tours that delve into the city’s haunted past to neon cruises highlighting iconic neon signs, there’s a tour to suit every interest.

Are there any unique nighttime experiences in LA?

Los Angeles is full of unique nighttime experiences. The Venice Canals offer a tranquil escape from the city’s hustle, while the Queen Mary in Long Beach promises a blend of history and mystery with its ghostly tales.