Slip into Old California at Ojai’s Restored Hotel El Roblar
The historic Hotel El Roblar in Ojai, which opened again in June 2025, first began receiving guests in 1919. As the oldest surviving hotel in town, it embodies an Old California atmosphere with its Mission Revival details. Spanning 2 acres on Ojai Avenue, the hotel boasts 39 guest rooms, 11 bungalows, a pool, event space, gym, and dining options including the Condor Bar and La Cocina. Among its more unique features are resident tortoises, Abra and Cadabra. The Condor Bar offers “California Mexican” cuisine with a Santa Maria-style grill. Room rates start at about $525 per night.
Kayak to Sea Caves from La Jolla Shores
New to kayaking? The La Jolla Shores to sandstone cliffs journey is ideal. The tour spans about a mile with seals and sea lions often nearby. You can explore a sea cave, tide permitting. This popular La Jolla kayak experience takes 90 minutes to 2 hours. Adult rates start at $96 for singles and $108 for doubles.
Discover the David Geffen Galleries at LACMA
Explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s collection at the new David Geffen Galleries, which offers a fresh perspective on artworks. Despite debates on its $724-million design by architect Peter Zumthor, the art captivates visitors. LACMA is open Monday to Sunday, with varying hours, closed Wednesdays. Admission is $25 to $30, but free for L.A. County residents after 3 p.m. on weekdays.
Visit Alpacas on a Carpinteria Farm Tour
At Canzelle Alpaca Farm, visitors can enjoy an hour-long tour of alpacas. Interact with these gentle creatures that only have bottom teeth, making biting unlikely. Tours are available Fridays through Sundays. Adult fees are $37.10 for tours and $65 for sound baths.
Enjoy a Night at the Hollywood Bowl
Since the 1920s, the Hollywood Bowl has offered diverse performances, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic. The 2026 lineup includes Paul Simon and Andrea Bocelli. Arrive 90 minutes early and pack a picnic. Parking is challenging, but rideshare and shuttle services are available.
Visit the Getty Center Before its Closure
The Getty Center in Brentwood will close in March 2027 for modernization. Its holdings include Van Gogh’s “Irises” and Cézanne’s “Still Life with Apples.” Admission is free, but parking is $20. Check out the West Pavilion and gardens. Don’t miss the Getty Villa’s antiquities if you enjoy Greek and Roman art.
Stay at Coronado’s Baby Grand Hotel
The Baby Grand Hotel in Coronado, open since May, features a maximalist design with a rock wall and waterfall. Its 31 rooms start at $350 per night. Each room includes unique decor like Moroccan sinks and mirrored cabinets. Coronado tends toward traditionalism, but the Baby Grand adds its own lavish flair.
Watch a Movie at Paramount Drive-In Theater
At the Paramount Drive-In, enjoy films from your car with two 75-foot screens. Tickets are $14, with a well-stocked concession stand. The drive-in, originally opened in 1947, was revived in 2014, continuing to offer both classic and new attractions.
Visit Torrey Pines Gliderport
Watch or join paragliders at Torrey Pines Gliderport, a site active since the 1920s. Breakfast and lunch are available at the Cliffhanger Cafe. Tandem glider flights cost $190-$200. The Salk Institute nearby offers intriguing architectural tours.
Explore Malibu’s Adamson House
The Adamson House is a Spanish Revival architecture gem with stunning tile work. Guided tours offer insight into the family history. Photography inside is not allowed. Tours run Wednesday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., with adult tickets at $7.
Taste At El Moro Near Dodger Stadium
El Moro, famed for churros, coffee, and hot chocolate, has opened near Dodger Stadium. The $3 churros are a delight, especially those dyed Dodger blue. Its blue and white decor matches other El Moro locations, drawing fans of sweet treats.
Ride with Venice’s Electric Light Parade
Ride with the Venice Electric Light Parade every Sunday at sunset. It begins at Windward Plaza, lasts around three hours, and includes Main Street and Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Rentals are available from Jay’s Rentals for $40-$85.
Paddle Swan Boats at Echo Park Lake
Swan boats at Echo Park Lake offer a leisurely pedal around the lake. Summer rentals are $13 per hour for adults. Parking is limited but street parking options exist. Reservations are necessary.
Catch a Movie or Event at Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Hollywood Forever Cemetery hosts film screenings and events alongside famous graves. Yoga classes are available daily by donation. The cemetery is a unique mix of entertainment and history.
Visit the Griffith Observatory
Offering stunning city views, the Griffith Observatory is a Los Angeles must-see. Inside, discover exhibits and shows in the planetarium. Admission to exhibits is free; parking can be expensive at $10 per hour, so consider hiking up to the observatory.
Explore L.A. State Historic Park
This 32-acre park in Chinatown is a vibrant urban green space offering a glimpse into the city’s history. Dog-walkers and bikers frequent the park, which hosts concerts and farmers markets. Historic sites include the Zanja Madre aqueduct remains.
Enter Santa Monica Pier’s Funhouse
Pacific Park features the recently opened Funhouse, a quirky attraction. This Funhouse, influenced by the park’s history, delivers fun with its mirror rooms and playful antics. Entry costs $15 per person.
Experience Art, Culture, and Nature at Balboa Park
Balboa Park in San Diego encompasses a variety of attractions from the San Diego Zoo to the Mingei International Museum. Revised entry policies mean fees for non-residents, but the park remains a cultural hub with its many museums and performances.
Take a Ferry to Santa Cruz Island
Visit Santa Cruz Island in Channel Islands National Park for a rugged adventure. Reachable via ferry from Ventura Harbor, day trips or camping options abound. Enjoy hiking or kayaking among the island’s distinct natural beauty.
Explore Sawdust Art Festival in Laguna Beach
Sawdust Art Festival, thriving since the 1960s, provides a venue for diverse artistic expressions. From glassblowing to plein air painting, the festival is a celebration of creativity. Public events keep visitors engaged year-round.
Stroll Ventura Pier and Promenade
Ventura’s historic pier offers a relaxing stroll with scenic ocean views. Post-dinner, enjoy fishing or walk along the promenade to Surfer’s Point. Numerous nearby dining options add to the experience.
Escape to Catalina Island for the Day
Catalina Island, an hour by ferry, offers a perfect escape with activities like snorkeling and zip-lining. Avalon and Two Harbors provide unique experiences, from relaxing at beach clubs to hiking scenic trails.
Visit Irvine Great Park
Irvine Great Park, set on 450 acres, includes sports fields and a massive hot air balloon ride. The ever-evolving park continues enhancing its offerings with new additions like an amphitheater set to open in 2027.
Explore Hollywood Hills on Horseback
Sunset Ranch Hollywood offers a horseback experience through the Hollywood Hills. The picturesque Mulholland Trail and Mt. Hollywood Trail tours provide riders with stunning views of the city.
Visit Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach
The Balboa Fun Zone features nostalgic carnival rides, arcade games, and nearby boat rentals. The adjoining island ferry service provides historic charm with its transition to an all-electric fleet.
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