By Megan Mattingly-Arthur
Cheap Things to Do in Los Angeles
can be an expensive place to vacation, but economy-minded visitors know that Los Angeles has tons of low- or no-cost activities available for the whole family. If you're planning a visit to Los Angeles on a tight budget, these cheap activities will keep your family occupied and having a blast.
Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory, operated by the Los Angeles Department of Recreation and Parks, is a place to spend an afternoon without having to spend a lot of money. The observatory features a variety of educational exhibits and also has a planetarium. Admission to the Griffith Museum and grounds is free. While you're there, don't miss the opportunity to get a photo of the famed Hollywood sign, which is clearly visible from Griffith Observatory.
2800 E Observatory Ave
Los Angeles, California 90027
(323) 660-7827
www.griffithobs.org
Venice Beach
For an authentic case of culture shock, spend a day at Venice beach. Besides the obvious beach, Venice Beach offers a wide variety of activities including handball, paddle tennis, beach volleyball and basketball. The Venice Beach promenade features numerous local artists selling their wares as well as quite a few talented street performers. It's a place to people watch while you work on your tan.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of Los Angeles' most visited attractions, and not surprisingly, since many of Hollywood's brightest stars are commemorated there. Stars on the Walk of Fame are awarded to motion picture, television, recording and theater artists who have made an impact in their field of entertainment. Maps are available to help you find your favorite celebrity's star.
Getty Museum and Getty Villa
The Getty Museum in Los Angeles houses fine European paintings, sculpture, drawing and decorative arts. Opened in 2006, the Getty Villa in Malibu houses a collection of artwork from ancient Greece, Rome and Etruria. Admission to both of the Getty centers is free, but advanced reservations are required if visiting the Getty Villa in Malibu.
Getty Museum
1200 Getty Center Drive
Los Angeles, California 90049
(310) 440-7300
www.getty.edu
Getty Villa
17985 Pacific Coast Highway
Pacific Palisades, California 90272
(310) 440-7300
www.getty.edu
California Science Center
Located in Exposition Park, the California Science Center is the West Coast's largest hands-on, interactive science center. Permanent exhibits include Creative World, where kids can learn about inventions, World of Life, where kids can learn about cells, and Science Court where kids can watch science demonstrations. Admission to the California Science Center is free.
39th Street & Figueroa Street
Los Angeles, California 90037
(323) 724-3623
www.californiasciencecenter.org
Resources
About the Author:
Megan Mattingly-Arthur has been writing professionally since 1998. She has contributed to various publications, including "Teen Voices" and "Positive Teens" magazines, as well as a book, "The Young Writer's Guide to Getting Published." Mattingly-Arthur is studying travel and tourism through Penn Foster Career School.
Photo Credits:
Italian Cultural Institute of Los Angeles
