There is no shortage of things to do in L.A., but if you’ve found that you and your friends are wandering into the same cafes and bars each weekend, or taking the same hike so often that your Flyknits have left a permanent imprint, it may be time to make new plans.
We’ve gathered together a solid list of iconic experiences you should put on your calendar this summer. They’re nothing new. In fact, these activities will let you enjoy some of the city’s most enduring attractions, sans the tourist vibe. Get a little adventurous, embrace the unique personality of the city, and share this post with your tribe for summer memories you won’t soon forget.
Rooftop Cinema in DTLA | Unlike any other film screening series, the Rooftop Film Club takes place on the stunning rooftop of the historic Montalban Theater in the heart of Hollywood, taking full advantage of its beautiful city views. Guests will enjoy sunset film screenings under the stars with state of the art wireless headphones, an epic screening calendar that includes Clueless and Back To the Future, plus a full bar and local food vendors.
Concert Series on the Santa Monica Pier | Every Thursday from July through September, the Santa Monica Pier turns into a live concert venue like no other. Sure, the pier is a constant tourist attraction, but brave the crowds for all the summer feelings that’ll make it worth your while. The season’s lineup always covers a massive spectrum of music tastes. You can even take the new Expo line to get there (because we’re eco-friendly like that).
Cinespia at the Hollywood Cemetery | Cinespia is the ultimate Hollywood experience for hard-core movie buffs. Every weekend, the iconic Hollywood Forever Cemetray opens it’s gates to a packed crowd of picnickers for a well-curated season of films. We highly encourage the VIP tickets which include golf cart services, no lines and a bohemian seating area that’ll make your summer! Hint: There is often a pre-show DJ set as well. Come early, bring rosé.
The Main Street Farmer’s Market | California’s farmer’s markets go toe-to-toe with Disneyland as our favorite local activity. Pick through a bounty of stone fruits and heirloom veggies, fill up on street food and people watching. The Main Street market in Venice is the perfect size and even has a bicycle valet.
Rose Bowl Flea Market | Vintage buffs beware, all self-respecting hoarders-slash-vintage lovers know that the Rose Bowl Flea is one of the top in the world. Taking place on the second Sunday of every month, this massive treasure hunt is a shopping experience worth dedicating your day to.
Drive PCH + Lunch on the Pier at Malibu Farm | The epic drive between Santa Monica and Malibu never gets old – even for a local. Cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway, roll down your windows and soak in the summer sun and sea air en route to the Malibu pier and it’s surf-side local farm fare.
