We use cookies to improve your experience, personalize content, and analyze site traffic. By clicking "Accept All," you agree to the use of all cookies. You can choose which cookies to allow or change your preferences at any time.
arts & culture, +3
Published DEC 31, 2024
20+ Fun Activities in LA That Don’t Involve Alcohol or Food
Let’s go out—minus the calories and hangovers.
By Los Angeles Bucket List
Ever feel like city to-do lists are a revolving door of brunch spots and bars? Even an “LA Water” is made with vodka, tequila, and gin. While we love a good cocktail or California burrito as much as the next guy, we’re equally happy to provide sober and food-free adventures to shake up your routine.
The City of Angels is a treasure trove of sights to explore—from beaches, hikes, and jet ski tours to vintage shopping and museums. Let’s get into it!
20+ Fun Non-Drinking Things to Do in LA
Explore the Balloon Museum
The Balloon Museum, a first-of-its-kind traveling experience, has landed in LA with the "Let's Fly" exhibition! Hosted at the iconic Ace Mission Studios, this immersive inflatable art experience is full of colorful installations, imaginative exhibits, and other-worldly spaces. There's truly nothing like it. Check it out soon, though—it's only in LA through March 16, 2025.
Where: 1601 E 6th Street, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Jetski To Catalina Island
An all-day Pacific Ocean adventure like no other. You’ll jet ski from Long Beach to Catalina Island, stopping to snorkel in crystal clear waters and swim with dolphins through beautiful caves. Photos and videos of the entire excursion are included!
Where: Jetski2catalina: 700 Queensway Dr, Long Beach, CA
More information
Watch Planes Take Off at Dockweiler Beach
The local favorite, Dockweiler Beach, is always popping with crowds, a hang gliding training park, bonfires, and—most uniquely—views of departing airplanes to enjoy. Spend an afternoon lounging on the beach, watching the planes overhead, and daydreaming about your next jet-setting adventure.
Where: 12000 Vista Del Mar, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Check Out Bingo Loco
When you hear "Bingo Night" you might not think of dance-offs, rave rounds, lip sync battles and confetti showers, but that's exactly what you'll get at Bingo Loco. If you're looking for a wild night out sans drinks, this is it. You'll play the classic game, but it will be accompanied by stage performances, live DJs, and more. If you win, your prize can include anything from cars to international trips!
Where: Exchange LA: 618 S Spring St | Academy: 6021 Hollywood Blvd
More information
Kayak the LA River
While there are plenty of beach days to be had, don’t forget the freshwater options in LA. Try something adventurous and kayak down the LA River! You’ll find rentals and guided tours at L.A. River Kayak Safari (Elysian Valley), L.A. River Kayaks (Elysian Valley), and L.A. River Expeditions (Sepulveda Basin, Elysian Valley).
Where: Various locations
Visit Walt Disney Concert Hall
Home of the LA Philharmonic, presenting the best in classical music, contemporary music, and jazz, the WDCH is a must-see. Designed by architect Frank Gehry, it’s internationally recognized as an architectural landmark and one of the most acoustically sophisticated concert halls in the world.
Where: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Go on a Street Art Tour
Discover LA's amazing murals, street art, and graffiti on an unforgettable street art tour in Boyle Heights. From Chicano handstyles to modern-day murals, Downtown LA is an amazing canvas. You'll see artists like Shepard Fairey, JR, and Risk while learning the stories behind the art and insights on how the works are created.
Where: 3631 Union Pacific Ave. Los Angeles CA
More information
Hike LA’s Most Scenic Trails
LA is different from your typical urban metropolis—we have plenty of green trails with amazing ocean and mountain views. Get outside and try some of the most iconic hikes in Los Angeles.
Where: Various locations.
More information
Go Off-Roading
One thing we love about LA? You can be off the beaten path and back in the city all within the span of an afternoon (405 traffic permitting, of course). If you're craving an adventure, check out CaliRide, which lets you explore the rugged beauty of California's Johnson Valley, a 100,000-acre off-road park. From GPS self-guided tours to free ride rentals and even overnight experiences, there's something for everyone.
Where: 11175 Lakeview Ave Lucerne Valley, CA
More information
Shop the Outdoor Flea Markets
You can’t separate fashion from LA—the city is known for high-end shopping and glitzy storefronts. But if you’re looking for vintage treasure, try exploring some of the flea markets! From the curated Melrose Trading Post and Silverlake Flea Market to the world-famous sprawling Rose Bowl Flea Market in Pasadena, you have options.
Where: Various locations.
More information
Ride a Railbike through Southern California
Explore Southern California's scenic beauty in a whole new way with Sunburst Railbikes! These cool two-person Railbikes, powered by pedals (and electric assistance), glide smoothly along the tracks, so you can kick back and take in stunning views. You'll roll through Ventura County's citrus and avocado groves, then make a pit stop at Prancer’s Farm to grab some fresh produce and mingle with adorable animals.
Where: Santa Paula Train Depot: 200 North 10th Street, Santa Paula, CA
More information
Stargaze at Griffith Park Observatory
Griffith Observatory is SoCal’s “gateway to the cosmos.” Visitors can look through telescopes, explore exhibits, and see live shows in the Planetarium. And don’t forget to check out spectacular views of LA and the Hollywood Sign at the top. Thanks to its stunning 360 views, Griffith Observatory has also been the shooting location for several epic films, from The Terminator to La, La, so you know it's a stunner.
Where: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Spend a Day at Manhattan Beach
Manhattan Beach is a stunning South Bay spot popular for its white sand, volleyball courts, and strand bike path that winds along the oceanfront. The low-key Manhattan Beach Pier also features a quaint aquarium and views of surfers.
Where: 45th Street to 1st Street/Neptune Avenue, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Take a Graffiti Art Lesson
Want to try your hand at graffiti without, you know, getting charged with vandalism? We got you. This creative hands-on workshop lets you create your own graffiti art project with the help of an authentic local graffiti artist. Learn the tips and techniques of aerosol art, from fill-ins to masterpieces right on the walls of a studio. All supplies are included, plus you get to take home your own canvas masterpiece.
Where: 3631 Union Pacific Ave. Los Angeles CA
More information
Explore the Broad Museum
For a more modern art museum twist, head to the Broad Museum. Generously providing free general admission and an active program of rotating temporary exhibitions, the Broad is home to nearly 2,000 works of art, making it one of the world’s leading collections of postwar and contemporary art.
Where: 221 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Take A Sunset Flight
Experience the city from the sky! Get unbeatable views of Downtown Los Angeles, Dodger Stadium, Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Sign, and more!
Where: Sunset Flights 4015 Santa Anita Ave, El Monte, CA
More information
.jpg)
Stroll Along the Venice Canals
Walking along the Venice Canals (in LA) is one of the most unique things you can do during a day at the beach. Stroll the sidewalks and bridges and take in the scenery along these picturesque canals.
Where: Carroll Canal & Carroll Avenue, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Visit Barnsdall Art Park
Did you know that there is a world-class gallery in East Hollywood? The grassy Barnsdall Art Park sits on Olive Hill and has hosted local and international art exhibits for decades within its main facility, the LA Municipal Art Gallery. It’s also home to the Barnsdall Gallery Theatre, Junior Arts Center, with art classes for adults and children alike, and the famous Hollyhock House that was designed in the 1920s by the acclaimed architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
Where: 4800 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Customize Your Sneakers
Want a custom pair of kicks? Whether you’re looking to flex your creative muscles, turn a passion into a business, or just want a unique date idea, this is the class. Majorwavez Lab sneaker customization class will help you create something one-of-a-kind.
Where: Nesquik: 1457 Colorado Blvd. unit 102, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Peruse the Last Bookstore
Luckily, this isn’t actually the world’s last bookstore—the name is an homage to its status as the largest new and used bookstore in California. The iconic building is 22,000 sqft, with a record store, comic book store, five art studios, an epic yarn shop, a famous book tunnel, a mammoth head, and unexpected nooks of funkiness throughout. Plus, it's a filming and celebrity hotspot.
Where: 453 S Spring St – Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Go on a Guided Horse Trail Ride
 (67).png)
When was the last time you went horseback riding? Saddle up and take a guided horseback ride through the Hollywood Hills and see some of LA's most iconic landmarks, like the Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign, plus catch incredible views of DTLA.
Where: Sunset Ranch Hollywood: 3400 N Beachwood Dr, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Visit Greystone Mansion
Bring your Bridgerton dreams to life with a stroll through The Greystone Mansion, also known as the Doheny Mansion. This Tudor Revival mansion is on a gorgeously landscaped estate with distinctive formal English gardens, all right inside the modern metropolitan Beverly Hills.
Where: 905 Loma Vista Dr, Los Angeles, CA
More information
Take a Surf or SUP Lesson
One of the (many) perks of living in LA is, of course, its proximity to the ocean. Sign up for a kayak tour, surf lesson, or stand-up paddleboarding session to take in the scenery, soak up the sun, and even spot some wildlife. All lead instructors are certified and have years of experience teaching worldwide, and the lessons are held in the remote part of Venice Beach, so you get to try it out in an iconic location without all the crowds.
Where: 10 Washington Blvd., Venice, CA
More information
Wander through the Getty Museum
As one of the top art museums on the West Coast, the Getty Museum is always worth a visit. A museum with something for everyone: art (from the Middle Ages to today), modern design, unique gardens, and spectacular city views. You can go a dozen times and still discover something new each time.
Where: 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, CA
More information
EXPLORE MORE:
The Best Unexpected Date Ideas in LA
The Best Museums to Visit in Los Angeles Right Now
The Best Family-Friendly Things to Do with Kids in LA
Like what you're reading?
Sign in and subscribe to your city to get more updates!
More ideas for you
11 Must-Visit Pools in Los Angeles
George Lucas Unveils Plans for New Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in LA
Recommended Experiences
LIKE WHAT YOU'VE READ?
Never miss out on a new experience!
Create a Bucket Listers account to access exclusive offers and the latest news in your city