Ah, it’s finally the weekend! Let’s celebrate this long week with some plans. With so many options and events in Los Angeles, finding something to do can be quite a task. Luckily, you have us. If you need plans or things to do this week and weekend — May 24 through 26, 2024 — we’ve got you covered. (With some bonuses!)
These are the best things to do in Los Angeles this weekend! 👇✨
1. Attend LA Fleet Week in honor of Memorial Day
Official U.S. Navy Page from United States of America Petty Officer 1st Class Christop/Navy Office of Information West.
In honor of Memorial Day, LA Fleet Week is making its grand return — bringing a weekend full of family-friendly excitement to the city. This vibrant event celebrates our service members and offers a wide range of activities for all ages. Most of the festivities take place at the L.A. Waterfront on the Port of Los Angeles, providing a picturesque backdrop for the occasion. From ship tours and military demonstrations to live music and food trucks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Best of all, admission is completely free!
2. Have family fun at the Newport Dunes Waterfront
Spend the 3-Day weekend with some family fun at the Newport Dunes Waterfront resort! This weekend they are kicking off their Tunes in the Dunes – which is a free summer event series featuring live bands, along with food trucks, a full bar and balanced with some family-friendly fun right on the waters of the Newport Back Bay starting at 2 p.m. They’ll also have a special Friday screening of Pixar’s “Luca” at their Movies on the Beach event, and “Captain Marvel” on Saturday starting at dusk – free and open to the public. While you’re in the neighborhood, you should check out their inflatable water park which is $20 admission and is so much fun. More info here!
📅When: May 24 to May 27, 2024
3. Make it a sweet weekend with Garden Grove Strawberry Festival
The 64th Annual Garden Grove Strawberry Festival is a sweet free event happening all weekend long! Kicking off on May 24, the festival begins with the delightful tradition of offering free slices of strawberry shortcake at 6 p.m., then with an incredible community parade on Saturday. This charming festival features adorable contests like the Berry, Berry Beautiful Baby Contest, and thrilling carnival rides for all ages. It’s a wonderful way to usher in the summer season, offering a blend of fun activities and an abundance of delicious strawberries in every form – from desserts to drinks. More info here!
4. Bite into viral bagels at Calic Bagels
Of course, this long weekend is the perfect excuse to try something new. Head over to Calic Bagels in K-Town for some drool-worthy bagels. This AAPI-owned business went viral on TikTok and was featured on The Food Network for its incredibly stuffed bagels, including the iconic garlic butter and garlic cream cheese-filled bagel. You can also grab some of their other homemade goodies to take home or for your holiday trip, like their bacon scallion cream cheese. Be sure to arrive between 8 to 9 AM to secure your bagel—they sell out quickly! Read more about Calic Bagels here.
5. Join Forest Lawn’s Memorial Day ceremonies
Forest Lawn will honor fallen veterans with complimentary Memorial Day ceremonies at each of its six Southern California locations: Cathedral City, Covina Hills, Cypress, Glendale, Hollywood Hills, and Long Beach. On Monday, May 27, 2024, these family-friendly, park-wide events will unite generations to honor American veterans. The remembrance celebrations will feature music, wreath-laying ceremonies, flag presentations and retirements, keynote speeches, presidential proclamations, giveaways, arts & crafts, coffee, treats, and more. The events at Cathedral City, Covina Hills, Cypress, Hollywood Hills, and Long Beach will start at 10:00 a.m., while the Glendale Field of Honor will commence at 11:00 a.m., and the Forest Lawn commemoration will begin at 1:00 p.m. More info here.
6. Start for the summer fun ahead
We have the ultimate summer bucket list full of epic things to keep you entertained all summer long! Check out all the hottest parties, concerts, exhibits, and experiences in Los Angeles and around SoCal. Start planning now for your best summer yet. Read all about it here.
7. Pretend you’re a pirate at Laguna Beach
Take a nice hour long cruise to Laguna Beach and check out the 100 year old “pirate tower”. Let your imagination run away while you enjoy a nice beach day with a touch of fantasy. You can get more details here.
8. Step into real-life Wes Anderson film scenes
Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition is finally here! Step in to the picturesque world of Wes Anderson at this stunning exhibition, and immerse yourself in the iconic aesthetic brought to life. Accidentally Wes Anderson: The Exhibition invites you to immerse yourself in the distinctive style of the renowned filmmaker. This unique exhibit features over 200 images that capture the symmetry and whimsy characteristic of Anderson’s films. As you explore seven themed rooms, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into scenes from “The Grand Budapest Hotel” or “Moonrise Kingdom.” The exhibition is a celebration of travel photography and Anderson’s artistic vision, offering a chance to connect with fellow fans. Grab your tickets here.
9. Peruse incredible artwork for free at Beyond The Streets & Control Gallery
BEYOND THE STREETS and Control Gallery highlights talented artists monthly, offering the opportunity for individuals to experience their remarkable artwork firsthand for free.
BEYOND THE STREETS — “What Was, What Is, What Could Be”, is the first-ever solo exhibition from Los Angeles-based artist Gustavo Zermeño Jr. All of his artwork is inspired by the city that raised him. You’ll definitely recognize the spots and people he highlights.
Control Gallery — “Don’t Stop”, is a captivating new exhibition by Brooklyn-based artistic powerhouse FAILE, a duo project by Patrick McNeil and Patrick Miller. Their multimedia work is colorful and vibrant – their collages are one of our favorites because the longer you look, the more you’ll find.
📍Location: 434 N. La Brea Ave.
📅Dates: Now through June 15, 2024
10. Explore these other free museums during this 3-day weekend
They say the best things in life are free — and when it comes to art in L.A., those words ring true. Whether you’re a fan of contemporary, modern, postmodern or ancient art exhibits, these galleries and free museums are perfect for finding inspiration in the city. Here are our favorite free museums and galleries around Los Angeles!
11. Celebrate lowrider culture at the Petersen Automotive Museum
It’s no secret that Southern California is renowned as the birthplace of lowrider culture – and now the Petersen Museum is honoring that with their “Best In Low” exhibit. Showcasing classics and contemporary, the exhibit celebrates the remarkable customization work seen in every aspect of a lowrider – from the artistry behind the paintwork to exquisite interiors and even hydraulic systems. Whether you love the lowrider culture, are into cars, or just respect the artwork – this space has something for everyone.
📍Location: 6060 Wilshire Blvd
📅Dates: Now until Spring 2025
12. Grab a drink with your friends at one of these amazing L.A. bars
Summer’s coming, and it’s time to get all dressed up and go out on the town with all your friends. Here are our choices for 15 of the best bars around L.A. From rooftops to underground speakeasies, we’ve got you covered. Read all about it here.
13. Pay a deliciously fun visit to Koreatown
Head over to one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in Los Angeles for the ultimate good time. They’ve got anything and everything you could desire, like night markets, night clubs, shopping centers, bars, and billiard parlors. And of course, Koreatown has some of the very best food in the city. Get all the details and our recommendations here.
14. Unleash your inner artist at Neon Brush
Neon Brush invites you to dive into a world where art and nostalgia meet. This isn’t you’re usual painting workshop though — this is a retro-futuristic haven that lets your creativity soar amidst vibrant neon lights and mesmerizing ambiance. Whether you’re a master or a newbie, you’ll have an artist leading the way. Did we mention this is a paint AND sip experience? Get ready to have a brush in one hand, glass in the other — book your spot at Neon Brush here!
📍Location: The Three Clubs – 1123 Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90038
15. Sip on some of the best cocktails in North America
Head to one of these L.A. spots just listed on the prestigious 2024 list of North America’s 50 Best Bars. This year, Los Angeles has two entries in this prestigious ranking. Find out here which two special L.A. bars ranked high.
16. Feast at one of the best-rated birria trucks in L.A.
Birria San Marcos isn’t just one spot in LA. It’s a trio of locations in North Hollywood, Van Nuys, and North Hills. All three locations boast delicious, family-made birria and have glowing reviews, especially from the Secret L.A. team. Schedule your weekend plans around grabbing a bite or two of birria.
📍Locations: North Hollywood, Hazeltine (Van Nuys), and North Hills
🌐 Learn more: Birria San Marcos
17. Enjoy a cup of coffee filled with “abuelita’s love”
This Boyle Heights gem isn’t your typical coffee shop. Owned by Janet Cerda, Cafe Niña brings “abuelita’s love in a cup” straight from her front yard. Opened Fri-Sun, this Latina-owned business went from a pop-up outside their home to serving Angelenos all over the city with their new pop-up locations.
🌐 Learn more: Cafe Niña
18. Take a moment to smell the flowers at The Flower Fields at Carlsbad
The flowers are blooming at SoCal’s largest flower fields! Located in Carlsbad, this is the perfect family day trip from L.A. since it’s filled with tons of kid-friendly activities! You can ride the wagon around the fields and pick strawberries. There are tons of photo ops, and you can even have your own picnic!
📍Location: 5704 Paseo del Norte, Carlsbad, CA 92008
🌐 Learn more: The Flower Fields at Carlsbad
19. Be amazed at a Magic Show at Black Rabbit Rose
Craving some mystery and fun this weekend? The Black Rabbit Rose is a hidden gem restaurant and bar that offers unique drinks and Thai-Chinese bites. But they also host enchanting evenings with a dazzling magic show by a talented trio and a chance to indulge in a specially crafted magic potion cocktail.
📍Location: 1719 N. Hudson Ave.
⏲️Hours: Every Thursday, Friday & Saturday
🌐 Learn more: The Black Rabbit Rose
20. Transport yourself to classic Hollywood at the new Warner Bros. Studio TCM Tour
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood has just unveiled an exciting collaboration with Turner Classic Movies (TCM) to introduce their all-new TCM Classic Films Tour to celebrate TCM’s 30th anniversary this month. Recently launched this week, this enhanced tour promises guests an unforgettable expedition through the Golden Age of Hollywood, spotlighting iconic films from the TCM collection – and highlighting the vast array of classics housed within the Warner Bros. library – from Casablanca, Rebel Without a Cause to Batman and Harry Potter – there’s something for every film lover out there. Learn more here!
📍Location: 3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505
21. Unwind at IntoMeSea
The weekend is the perfect excuse to step into a world of relaxation and self-discovery with IntoMeSea’s array of rejuvenating spa experiences. Dive into a crystal tub to soak away your worries, bask in the purifying warmth of a salt sauna, or rejuvenate your spirit with revitalizing light therapy sessions. (And more!) Each experience is meticulously designed to help you unwind, destress, and reconnect with yourself, leaving you feeling refreshed, invigorated, and ready to take on the world. Embrace the transformative power of self-care and indulge in the ultimate spa getaway with IntoMeSea. Get more info here!
📍Location: 3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505
22. Take in the sunshine at Abalone Cove
The weather will be nice and sunny this weekend — and it deserves to be enjoyed! Soak up the sunshine with a short yet invigorating hike at Abalone Cove. It offers a gorgeous view of the sparkling ocean waves crashing against the shore below and eventually leads you to the beach where you can take in its beauty.
📍Location: 5970 Palos Verdes Dr S, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
23. Start planning now for this super popular Korean music festival heading to the U.S. for the first time ever
The Waterbomb Festival is heading to the U.S. for the first time ever, and its first stop is in L.A. Start planning now for this incredibly cool Korean festival. It’s been growing in popularity since its introduction in Seoul in 2015, and now it’s our turn to experience the water fight fun. You can read even more details here on the Waterbomb Festival.
24. Get your tickets for Disneyland Pride Nite now before they sell out
Disneyland Pride Nites are coming back! You can celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community at the happiest place on Earth at an exclusive after-park hours party. The two big nights are June 18, 2024 and June 20, 2024. But tickets are limited, so you should grab them now. You can read all about it here.
25. Experience an enchanting Candlelight Concert at an exquisite L.A. venue
Experience an Enchanting Candlelight Concert at an exquisite L.A. venue. This dreamy Candlelight concert series is ever-evolving and never ceases to dazzle audiences. This spring, you’ll find incredible performances happening at stunning locations around the city, bathed in flickering candlelight. From Prince to Hans Zimmer, you’ll get to listen to top talent performing curated pieces across a range of genres. Get your tickets to a Candlelight Concert here!
26. Reconnect with nature on a horseback ride
There is nothing better to celebrate this day than to get away from the noise of the city and find a moment of connection with nature. Horseback riding is an excellent option for this! You can discover Los Angeles as you’ve never seen it before, with 360 views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains.
27. Line dance at Desert 5 Spot
Coachella and Stagecoach may be over, but you can still experience great music in the desert. Hollywood is home to Desert 5 Spot, a rooftop bar with 360 views of Hollywood. They’re offering their Bootloose line dancing lessons – where you can unleash your inner cowboy. On Friday & Saturday nights, there is Two Stepping and Line Dancing and Live Music. If you can’t make it this weekend, they also host line dancing, two-stepping, and karaoke on Wednesdays. You can get more info on their website here!
📍 Location: 6516 Selma Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028
28. Get your tickets now to the X Games Ventura 2024
X Games is back. Go ahead and get your tickets to one of the biggest action sports competitions in the world! Don’t miss out on this iconic event. Grab your tickets to X-Games here!
📅 Date: June 28-30, 2024
📍 Location: Ventura County Fairgrounds and Event Center
29. After making history at Coachella, ATEEZ stars in GRAMMY museum’s first K-Pop exhibit
ATEEZ makes history as the first K-pop group at Coachella 2024, and simultaneously, ATEEZ, along with fellow K-pop group xikers, is also being celebrated at the GRAMMY Museum with the debut of “KQ ENT. (ATEEZ & xikers): A GRAMMY Museum Pop-Up.” This exhibit, which opened on April 10 and will run through June 20, marks the GRAMMY museum’s first-ever K-pop focused pop-up. Read more about ATEEZ starring in the GRAMMY Museum’s first K-Pop exhibit!
30. Check out one of these incredible exhibitions this month
This month Los Angeles has a ton of awe-inspiring exhibitions lined up. From contemporary art installations to interactive showcases, there’s something for everyone to explore. Here are 18 exhibitions to check out this April in Los Angeles!
31. 21 famous movie locations in Los Angeles that you can visit for free
Lights, camera, action! You can step into the reel world with a backstage pass to Los Angeles’ most iconic filming locations for free. From the historic Mullholand Drive to the picturesque Venice Beach, prepare to star in your very own blockbuster adventure — here are 21 movie locations you can visit right now in L.A.!
32. All the incredible Los Angeles concerts to catch this May
Turn up the volume because May in L.A. is about to be lit! From Justin Timberlake to Avril Lavigne to James Taylor, there’s truly something for everyone during this unforgettable concert season. Get our Los Angeles May concert calendar here!
33. Go chasing waterfalls with these mesmerizing hikes around Los Angeles
Finding the hidden gems of Los Angeles has never been more rejuvenating! Once all that rain passes this weekend and it’s safe to do so, you can explore breathtaking waterfalls that await you on these scenic hikes. Get ready for an adventure like no other! Find the full list of mesmerizing waterfalls near Los Angeles here.
34. 15 outstanding restaurants in Los Angeles to try right now
The weekend is always the perfect excuse to indulge in a culinary expedition through Los Angeles! From Michelin-starred gems to quirky casual eateries, our city is bursting with delightful flavors waiting to be savored. Here are 15 outstanding restaurants that you need to try!
📍Location: 12833 Ventura Boulevard, Suite 145, Studio City, CA 91604
35. Go camping at some of the best campgrounds in the country
California’s natural landscapes offer some of the most memorable camping experiences in the U.S., so it’s no surprise that three of our state’s campgrounds have just been named among the best camp spots in North America for 2024 by Campspot! Head out this weekend for some good old fashioned camping fun. Get the full list of top campgrounds here!
36. Go to your local L.A. Public Library and snag your very own library card
From online courses to museum passes, explore 20 complimentary benefits that extend beyond books, enriching your experience with the L.A. Library Card. Dive into a world of knowledge, culture, and entertainment, all at your fingertips, as we delve into the hidden gems awaiting discovery with your library membership. Grab your library card and then read more here about all the benefits it affords you!
37. These non-alcoholic bars & restaurants are redefining the bar scene in Los Angeles
Thirsty for some sober fun in Los Angeles? Quench your thirst with our list of the best alcohol-free bars that truly know how to have a good time. From mocktails to lively vibes — cheers to a night out without the hangover. Get the full list of the best alcohol-free bars in L.A. here!
38. 10 tremendous Italian restaurants in Los Angeles to try right now
Craving the taste of Italy in the heart of Los Angeles? We’ve scoured the city to bring you the crème de la crème of Italian dining experiences. From cozy restaurants to fine dining, these are the best Italian restaurants in LA that will transport you straight to the streets of Rome. Grab your appetite — here are the best Italian restaurants in Los Angeles right now!
39. Walk among fluttering butterflies at these L.A. pavillions
Witnessing the transformation of nature in front of our very eyes is one of the most delightful aspects of this season. The skies clear, flowers bloom, the leaves turn green — and caterpillars transform into vibrant butterflies. You can visit one of these butterfly pavilions below to see this lovely metamorphosis up close!
- SOAR at South Coast Botanic Garden
- Butterfly Pavillion at Natural History Museum
- Get the full list of L.A. butterfly pavilions here!
40. Catch the hottest DJs around town at Academy LA
Get ready to dance the night away at Academy Los Angeles — the ultimate destination for top-notch electronic dance music DJs and cutting-edge emerging talent. Check out their schedule here!
41. Hike with a purpose with TreePeople
If you’re looking for some fresh air, TreePeople makes hiking accessible for anyone wanting to enjoy nature and take a break from the bustle of the city. Plus, it’s a hike with a purpose. TreePeople is a local organization that emphasizes education and equity when making nature accessible in the L.A. area. They preserve nature with their numerous hiking trails and parks and volunteer every week to help with other environmental justice issues around the SoCal area. They have scenic easy to moderate hiking trails, or you can have a picnic at one of their viewing areas. Either way, you’ll feel good in more ways than just one after visiting their trails with a purpose.
42. Unleash your inner gamer at these arcades in Los Angeles
Whether you’re a total gamer or just a novice — from your favorite retro classics to high-tech VR adventures, we’ve rounded up the ultimate list of the best arcades in L.A.
43. Enter a music lover’s paradise at Maritime Records
Calling all music lovers in Los Angeles! Maritime Records is the ultimate record shop in Highland Park, California. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just looking to listen to something new – the owner, Daniel Franco, will guide you to the perfect tunes that you can test out and listen to yourself. Find them here!
📍Location: 5506 Monte Vista St, Los Angeles, CA 90042
44. Cruise in luxury with California Adventure’s E-Boat Cruise
All aboard the Duffy — a fully electrical boat that will take you around Marina del Rey! Guests along this journey can indulge in a charcuterie board and your choice of red or sparkling wine as you sail along the marina’s main channel. Observe the local West Coast wildlife while savoring the sips and bites. Get your tickets now for this Luxury E-Boat Cruise with Wine, Charcuterie & Sea lion spotting in L.A. here.
📍Location: Marina del Rey
45. Have a unique picnic adventure in and around Los Angeles for a memorable day out
Embark on a Mystery Picnic in Los Angeles with AmazingCo! On this self-guided foodie adventure, you will solve clues to collect gourmet picnic treats and discover a hidden, picturesque picnic spot away from the crowds. Book your Mystery Picnic here!
📍Location: Various locations, Santa Monica, Venice, Long Beach, Santa Barbara, South Bay, Malibu, and even Big Bear
46. Get your read on at one of the best libraries around Los Angeles
Escape the chaos and dive into a world of tranquility at one of L.A.’s best libraries! This 3-day weekend is the perfect excuse to unwind, explore, and let your imagination run wild this weekend with a good book. Get the full list of the best libraries around Los Angeles here.
47. Sip on a unique Doritos cocktail at one of these bars around Los Angeles
Doritos isn’t the first thing that comes to mind when you think of spirits or cocktails. Although no one is a stranger to chowing down on a bag of Doritos after a few drinks, we digress. It’s not your conventional combination. However, the classic chip brand is challenging our tastebuds and the way we think about alcohol. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this unique concoction that combines the legendary flavor of Doritos with a boozy twist! Read more about it here, plus where to find the Doritos spirit.
48. Check out these free things to do around Los Angeles
The best things in life are free — and Los Angeles is home to many of them. Whether you’re a frugal wanderer or just like to save a few bucks each week, here’s our list of the best free things to do in Los Angeles.
49. Discover the best places for a weekend getaway
Tired of the noise and stress of the city? Take advantage of the weekend for a dreamy getaway to one of the many incredible places within a 3-hour drive from Los Angeles. From beaches to enchanted lakes, embark on a weekend of relaxation and fun.
50. Explore L.A.’s Arts District
The Arts District of Los Angeles is a wonderfully walkable neighborhood packed with bucket-list restaurants and activities. Here are some of our favorites — the ultimate guide to L.A.’s Arts District.