151 BEST Things To Do In Los Angeles Memorial Day Weekend

David R Grant May 23, 2023
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Memorial Day

Disclosure: Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. This site is not intended to provide financial advice and is for entertainment only. 

Memorial Day weekend is a great opportunity to explore Los Angeles and all the amazing attractions it has to offer.


Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach getaway or an action-packed adventure, there is something for everyone in this vibrant city.


With our list of the 151 best things to do in Los Angeles Memorial Day Weekend, you will be sure to find activities that fit your interests and budget.


From outdoor recreation such as hiking trails and surfing spots, to cultural events like art galleries and live music performances, we have rounded up the top activities so that you can make the most out of your holiday weekend.


So grab your friends and family, plan ahead –and get ready for an unforgettable experience!


1. Attend the Memorial Day Observance at LA National Cemetery

This is a solemn event where people can pay their respects to fallen soldiers and their families.


2. Take a Sunset Cruise

Enjoy a relaxing evening on the water while watching the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.


3. Visit the Getty Center

The Getty Center is home to an extensive art collection, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.


4. Visit the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

The Natural History Museum is one of the largest museums of its kind in the world, with exhibits about dinosaurs, mammals, and more.


5. Spend a day at Universal Studios Hollywood

This popular theme park has something for everyone, from thrilling rides to live shows.


6. Go to the Beach

Los Angeles has some of the best beaches in the world, such as Malibu, Santa Monica, and Venice Beach.


7. Take a Hike

There are many hiking trails in and around Los Angeles that offer stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains.


8. Visit the Griffith Observatory

This iconic landmark offers breathtaking views of the city and stars, as well as educational exhibits and events.


9. Explore Downtown LA

Visit art galleries, trendy restaurants, and historic landmarks such as the Bradbury Building and Union Station.


10. Visit the Walt Disney Concert Hall

This striking building is home to the LA Philharmonic and hosts concerts and events throughout the year.


11. Take a Food Tour

Los Angeles is known for its diverse cuisine, so take a food tour to sample everything from street tacos to gourmet donuts.


12. See a Movie

Los Angeles is home to many historic movie theaters, such as the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Egyptian Theatre.


13. Visit the La Brea Tar Pits

This unique attraction features fossils of animals that lived in the area during the Ice Age, as well as a museum and gardens.


14. Attend the Long Beach Jazz Festival

This annual event showcases top jazz musicians from around the world, as well as food and drinks.


15. Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States, with over 120,000 objects spanning thousands of years.


16. Go Shopping on Rodeo Drive

This famous street in Beverly Hills is home to high-end stores such as Gucci, Prada, and Louis Vuitton.


17. See a Play

Los Angeles has many theaters that showcase both Broadway and original productions.


18. Visit the Petersen Automotive Museum

Car enthusiasts will love this museum, which features over 100 years of automotive history.


19. Take a Brewery Tour

Los Angeles has a thriving craft beer scene, so take a tour of local breweries to taste some of the best brews in the city.


20. Attend a Dodgers Game

The Los Angeles Dodgers are one of the most iconic baseball teams in the world, so catch a game at Dodger Stadium.


21. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art

MOCA features contemporary art from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, and installations.


22. Go to a Comedy Show

Los Angeles is home to many comedy clubs, such as The Comedy Store and The Laugh Factory.


23. Attend the Pasadena Chalk Festival

This annual event features over 600 artists creating stunning chalk drawings on the streets of Pasadena.


24. Visit the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

This beautiful complex features a library, art museum, and gardens with over 16,000 plant varieties.


25. Take a Day Trip to Catalina Island

This picturesque island off the coast of Los Angeles offers activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and zip-lining.


26. Attend the Los Angeles Times Food Bowl

This annual food festival features over 200 events, such as tastings, cooking demos, and panel discussions.


27. Visit the Japanese American National Museum

This museum tells the story of Japanese Americans in the United States, including their internment during World War II.


28. Go to the Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is an iconic attraction with an amusement park, aquarium, and beautiful views of the ocean.


29. Attend the Pasadena Rose Bowl Flea Market

This monthly flea market is one of the largest in the world, with over 2,500 vendors selling everything from vintage clothing to antiques.


30. Take a Tour of Celebrity Homes

Los Angeles is home to many famous celebrities, so take a tour to see their homes and learn about their lives.


31. Visit the Hollywood Bowl

This iconic outdoor amphitheater hosts concerts and events throughout the year, with stunning views of the Hollywood Hills.


32. Take a Surfing Lesson

Southern California is known for its surf culture, so take a lesson at one of the many surfing schools in the area.


33. Attend the Venice Beach Music Fest

This annual event features live music, food, art, and more, celebrating the vibrant culture of Venice Beach.


34. Explore the Los Angeles Zoo

The LA Zoo is home to over 1,400 animals from around the world, as well as botanical gardens and educational exhibits.


35. Visit the Autry Museum of the American West

This museum showcases the art, history, and culture of the American West, including Native American artifacts and Western art.


36. Take a Sunset Hike

Many hiking trails in Los Angeles offer stunning sunset views, such as the Runyon Canyon Trail and the Griffith Observatory Trail.


37. Attend the LA Pride Festival

This annual event celebrates the LGBTQ+ community with live music, food, and a parade through West Hollywood.


38. Visit the Norton Simon Museum

This museum features a collection of over 12,000 works of art, including European paintings, sculptures, and Asian art.


39. Go Indoor Skydiving

Experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping out of a plane at iFly Hollywood Indoor Skydiving.


40. Attend the Pasadena Heritage Craftsman Weekend

This annual event celebrates the city's historic architecture and design, with tours, lectures, and workshops.


41. Visit the Annenberg Space for Photography

This museum features contemporary photography exhibits, as well as educational programs and events.


42. Take a Yoga Class on the Beach

Many yoga studios in Los Angeles offer beach classes, where you can practice yoga while enjoying the ocean breeze.


43. Attend the LA Film Festival

This annual event features screenings of films from around the world, as well as panel discussions and Q&A sessions with filmmakers.


44. Visit the Museum of Tolerance

This museum educates visitors about the Holocaust and other examples of intolerance throughout history, with exhibits and interactive experiences.


45. Go to The Broad

This contemporary art museum features works by artists such as Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, and Roy Lichtenstein.


46. Attend the LA Times Festival of Books

This annual event brings together book lovers and authors for a weekend of panels, book signings, and more.


47. Visit the Dolby Theatre

The Dolby Theatre is home to the Academy Awards and hosts live events throughout the year, including concerts and comedy shows.


48. Take a Stargazing Tour

Los Angeles has some of the best spots for stargazing, such as the Griffith Observatory and the Santa Monica Mountains.


49. Attend the Los Angeles County Fair

This annual event features rides, games, food, and live entertainment, as well as agricultural exhibits and competitions.


50. Visit the Watts Towers

These unique sculptures were built over 30 years by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia, using found objects such as broken glass and seashells.


51. Take a Chocolate Tour

Los Angeles has many chocolate shops and factories that offer tours and tastings, such as See's Candies and Compartes Chocolatier.


52. Attend the Hollywood Fringe Festival

This annual event showcases independent theater and performance art, with shows in venues throughout Hollywood.


53. Visit the Los Angeles Maritime Museum

This museum tells the story of the port of Los Angeles, including its history of shipping and naval operations.


54. Go on a Street Art Tour

Los Angeles is home to many murals and street art installations, so take a tour to see some of the best.


55. Attend the LA Times Food & Wine Festival

This annual event features tastings from some of the city's top restaurants, as well as cooking demos and panel discussions.


56. Visit the Museum of Neon Art

This museum showcases neon signs and art from around the world, as well as educational programs and events.


57. Take a Horseback Riding Tour

Enjoy the natural beauty of Los Angeles on horseback, with tours through the Santa Monica Mountains and other scenic areas.


58. Attend a Lakers Game

The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most iconic basketball teams in the world, so catch a game at Staples Center.


59. Go to the LA Flea Market

This monthly flea market features vintage and antique goods, as well as food trucks and live music.


60. Visit the Skirball Cultural Center

This cultural center features exhibits and events that promote Jewish heritage and American democracy, as well as art and music programs.


61. Take a Tour of the Griffith Park Observatory

This historic observatory offers breathtaking views of Los Angeles, as well as educational exhibits about astronomy.


62. Attend the LA Beer Fest

This annual event features over 80 breweries from around the world, as well as food trucks and live music.


63. Visit the Los Angeles Farmers Market

This historic market features over 100 vendors selling fresh produce, meat, seafood, and more.


64. Take a Paranormal Tour

Los Angeles has many haunted locations, such as the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel and the Cecil Hotel, so take a tour to learn about their spooky histories.


65. Attend the Hollywood Christmas Parade

This annual parade features celebrity appearances, marching bands, and floats decorated with holiday lights.


66. Visit the Watts Towers Arts Center

This cultural center celebrates the legacy of Simon Rodia and the Watts Towers, with art exhibits, events, and educational programs.


67. Go to the Beverly Hills Art Show

This biannual event features over 200 artists showcasing their work, including paintings, sculptures, and photography.


68. Visit the Museum of Jurassic Technology

This quirky museum features exhibits about science, history, and art, with a focus on the bizarre and unusual.


69. Attend the LA County Holiday Celebration

This free event features music and dance performances from around the world, as well as arts and crafts activities for children.


70. Take a Ghost Tour

Los Angeles has many haunted locations, such as the Queen Mary and the Whaley House, so take a tour to learn about their paranormal activity.


71. Visit the California Science Center

This interactive museum features exhibits about science, technology, and space exploration, including the Space Shuttle Endeavour.


72. Attend the LA Auto Show

This annual event showcases new cars and concept vehicles from major automotive brands, as well as industry announcements and presentations.


73. Take a Helicopter Tour

See Los Angeles from above with a helicopter tour, which offers stunning views of the city's landmarks and coastline.


74. Visit the Museum of Death

This museum features exhibits about death and dying, including artifacts from famous crime scenes and serial killers.


75. Attend the Los Angeles Times Festival of Food & Wine

This annual event celebrates the city's food and wine culture, with tastings, cooking demos, and panel discussions.


76. Go to the Hollywood Walk of Fame

This iconic attraction features stars on the sidewalk honoring famous actors, musicians, and other entertainers.


77. Visit the California African American Museum

This museum showcases the history and culture of African Americans in California, with art exhibits, educational programs, and events.


78. Take a Street Food Tour

Los Angeles is known for its diverse street food scene, so take a tour to sample everything from Korean BBQ tacos to Filipino lumpia.


79. Attend the LA Fashion Week

This biannual event showcases the latest fashion trends from around the world, as well as industry presentations and events.


80. Visit the Los Angeles Arboretum and Botanic Garden

This botanical garden features over 120 acres of plant collections, as well as historic landmarks and events.


81. Go to the Echo Park Craft Fair

This annual event features over 100 artists and designers selling handmade goods, as well as workshops and food vendors.


82. Visit the Paley Center for Media

This cultural center features exhibits and events about television, radio, and digital media, including screenings and panel discussions.


83. Attend the LA Art Show

This annual event features contemporary art from around the world, as well as special exhibitions and programming.


84. Take a Stand-Up Paddleboarding Lesson

Explore the waterways of Los Angeles on a stand-up paddleboard, with lessons and rentals available at many locations.


85. Visit the Los Angeles Fire Department Museum

This museum showcases the history of firefighting in Los Angeles, with exhibits and events for all ages.


86. Go to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery

This historic cemetery is the final resting place of many famous actors, musicians, and filmmakers, and offers tours and events throughout the year.


87. Attend the LA Taco Festival

This annual event celebrates the city's love of tacos, with food vendors, live music, and activities for all ages.


88. Visit the Getty Villa

This museum features ancient art and artifacts from Greece and Rome, as well as beautiful gardens and educational programs.


89. Take a Sailing Lesson

Southern California offers some of the best sailing opportunities in the world, with lessons and rentals available at many locations.


90. Attend the LA County Fairplex

This year-round venue hosts events such as the LA County Fair, car shows, and concerts, as well as educational programs and exhibits.


91. Visit the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust

This museum tells the story of the Jewish experience during the Holocaust, with exhibits and events that promote tolerance and understanding.


92. Attend the Abbot Kinney Festival

This annual event celebrates the vibrant culture of Venice Beach, with food vendors, live music, and arts and crafts activities.


93. Take a Scuba Diving Lesson

Southern California is home to some of the most diverse marine life in the world, so take a scuba diving lesson to explore the underwater world.


94. Visit the Autry National Center

This cultural center celebrates the art, history, and culture of the American West, with exhibits, events, and educational programs.


95. Attend the Los Angeles Times Festival of Ideas

This annual event features talks, panel discussions, and workshops on a variety of topics, including politics, science, and the arts.


96. Go to the LA Galaxy Soccer Game

The LA Galaxy is one of the most successful soccer teams in the United States, so catch a game at Dignity Health Sports Park.


97. Visit the Huntington Beach Pier

This iconic pier offers stunning views of the ocean, as well as restaurants, shops, and fishing opportunities.


98. Take a Tour of Historic Homes

Los Angeles has many historic homes that offer tours, such as the Gamble House and the Adamson House.


99. Attend the LA Taco & Beer Festival

This annual event celebrates two of Los Angeles' favorite things, with food vendors, craft beer tastings, and live music.


100. Visit the Descanso Gardens

This 150-acre botanical garden features a variety of plant collections, as well as art exhibits, events, and educational programs.


101. Go to the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) Theme Building

This iconic building features an observation deck with stunning views of the airport and planes taking off and landing.


102. Visit the Los Angeles State Historic Park

This 34-acre park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and educational exhibits about California's history and culture.


103. Attend the LA Greek Fest

This annual event celebrates Greek culture, with food vendors, live music, and dance performances.


104. Take a Cooking Class

Los Angeles has many cooking schools that offer classes on a variety of cuisines and techniques, such as sushi-making or pastry baking.


105. Visit the South Coast Botanic Garden

This botanical garden features over 2,500 plant species, as well as walking trails, events, and educational programs.


106. Go to the Pacific Asia Museum

This museum showcases art and artifacts from Asia and the Pacific Islands, as well as educational programs and events.


107. Attend the Los Angeles Chocolate Salon

This annual event features tastings and demonstrations from some of the city's best chocolatiers and pastry chefs.


108. Take a Tour of Historic Theaters

Los Angeles has many historic theaters that offer tours, such as the Orpheum Theatre and the Pantages Theatre.


109. Visit the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum

This museum tells the story of President Reagan's life and presidency, with exhibits, events, and educational programs.


110. Attend the LA Times Festival of Health

This annual event features talks and workshops on health and wellness topics, as well as fitness activities and healthy food vendors.


111. Visit the Los Angeles County Fire Museum

This museum showcases the history of firefighting in Los Angeles County, with exhibits and events for all ages.


112. Go to the Pasadena ArtWalk

This annual event features over 200 artists showcasing their work, as well as music, food, and drink vendors.


113. Visit the Los Angeles Maritime Institute

This educational organization offers hands-on experiences aboard ships, as well as youth development programs and events.


114. Attend the LA Coffee Festival

This annual event celebrates the city's love of coffee, with tastings, demonstrations, and educational programs.


115. Take a Tour of Craft Distilleries

Los Angeles has a growing craft distillery scene, with tours and tastings available at locations such as Greenbar Distillery and Lost Spirits Distillery.


116. Visit the Zimmer Children's Museum

This museum offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs for children, promoting creativity, empathy, and social responsibility.


117. Attend the LA Urban Barn Dance

This annual event celebrates country and western culture, with live music, dance lessons, and food vendors.


118. Go to the La Habra Children's Museum

This museum offers interactive exhibits and educational programs for children, promoting creativity, learning, and fun.


119. Visit the California African American Freedom Trail

This historic trail tells the story of African American contributions to California's history and culture, with markers and exhibits throughout the state.


120. Take a Tour of Historic Sites

Los Angeles has many historic landmarks and sites that offer tours, such as the Queen Mary and the Hollywood Sign.


121. Take a guided walking tour of downtown LA and learn about its history and architecture from an expert.


122. Visit the Griffith Observatory and gaze at the stars during one of their nighttime telescope viewings.


123. Enjoy a day at Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can experience thrilling rides and see behind-the-scenes of your favorite movies and TV shows.


124. Have a picnic at Echo Park, which features a picturesque lake, walking paths, and plenty of open space for lounging.


125. Explore the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, where you can see fossils of prehistoric animals that once roamed Los Angeles.


126. Catch a game at Dodger Stadium, home to the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team.


127. Take a scenic drive up Mulholland Drive and enjoy sweeping views of the city below.


128. Head to Venice Beach and watch street performers, skateboarders, and artists while soaking up the sun on the sand.


129. Rent a bike and ride along the beach path that stretches from Santa Monica to Redondo Beach.


130. Tour the Getty Center, which houses an impressive collection of art and offers stunning views of the city from its hilltop location.


131. Attend a live taping of a TV show, such as "The Ellen Show," "Jimmy Kimmel Live," or "The Late Late Show with James Corden."


132. Take a day trip to Santa Catalina Island, where you can enjoy hiking, kayaking, and other outdoor activities.


133. Explore the historic Olvera Street, known as the birthplace of Los Angeles, and shop for souvenirs and traditional Mexican crafts.


134. Go on a food tour of LA's diverse neighborhoods, such as Koreatown, Little Tokyo, and Boyle Heights.


135. Spend a day at Universal CityWalk, where you can shop, dine, and see live entertainment.


136. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and see works by some of the world's most innovative artists.


137. Go on a whale watching tour and see humpback whales, gray whales, and other marine life up close.


138. Take a stroll through the Venice Canals, a serene neighborhood with charming footbridges and colorful homes.


139. Visit the Autry Museum of the American West and learn about the art, history, and culture of the American West.


140. Go on a sunset hike in Griffith Park and enjoy breathtaking views of the city as the sun sets.


141. Take a tour of the historic Watts Towers, a collection of 17 interconnected sculptures made from found objects.


142. Explore the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, which features exhibits on dinosaurs, gems, and more.


143. Watch a movie under the stars at Cinespia, an outdoor screening series held at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery.


144. Go shopping on Rodeo Drive, where you'll find high-end designer boutiques and luxury brands.


145. Take a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway and stop at scenic overlooks and beaches.


146. Visit the Japanese Garden in Van Nuys, a serene oasis that features waterfalls, koi ponds, and a teahouse.


147. See a show at the Hollywood Bowl, an iconic outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts and events throughout the year.


148. Head to the Getty Villa, which houses a collection of ancient Greek and Roman art and artifacts.


149. Take a guided tour of the Walt Disney Concert Hall, a stunning architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry.


150. Explore the hip and trendy neighborhood of Silver Lake, known for its independent boutiques, coffee shops, and restaurants.


151. Visit the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena, which features an impressive collection of European art from the Renaissance to the 20th century, as well as Asian and contemporary art.


 

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Disclosure:  Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, which can provide compensation to me at no cost to you if you decide to purchase. This site is not intended to provide financial advice and is for entertainment only.