The Affordable Los Angeles - Fun, Cheap and Even Free Things to Do!
If you think Los Angeles is out of your vacation price range, think again. Sure Los Angeles hotels can be expensive and its restaurants can be pricey, but there are plenty of fun and cheap, and even free, things to do in L.A. The problem is, most people don't even know about them. Here are a few well-kept secrets to assure that you have your dream Los Angeles vacation and still have money in your wallet.
Los Angeles hotels
Don't go cheap on your Los Angeles hotel. The fact is that there are other ways to save money than to sacrifice your comfort or safety. Your hotel in Lost Angeles will be your haven at the end of each fun filled day and night. That is why you should choose a hotel in Los Angeles that is well known or has received a rating or review of good or above. Most hotels have their own website that will allow you to view their guest rooms, common areas, restaurants and spa facilities.
Have fun like a local
Los Angeles is packed with attractions, many of the best options costing only as much as the parking. The catch is that most visitors don't know about them. There are world-class museums, miles of beaches, seaside attractions, and an up-close view of the entertainment industry, just to name a few. Here are some of the locals' favorites:
Downtown Art Walk - This is for the true art enthusiast. You will enjoy interesting art, free wine (tip jar of course) and a good walk.
Upright Citizens Brigade Theater - $ 8.00 tickets (or free) and BYOB, what is not to love? They host a mixture of stand up and improv. Popular comics often drop by and make guest appearances. You can find it at 5919 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028. Phone: (323) 908-8702
Tokyo Japanese Outlet - If you are looking to kill a little time before or after a meal, this is a great stop. It is one of the most unique stores you will ever go into. Along with intriguing and ingenious Japanese knick-knack, they also have beauty products, serving utensils, back packs, and tons of toys. You'll feel like a kid again! It is located at 2109 Sawtelle Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90025. Phone: (310) 914-5320 Website: http://www.tokyojls.com
Brand Bookshop - One of the best bookstores in Los Angeles! You can even find out of print books in paperback for $ 2.00. Don't miss this L.A. institution. It is located at 231 N Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91203. Phone: (818) 507-5943
Santa Monica Pier - If you want a festive beachside atmosphere, this is the place to head to. You can enjoy its stretches of white sand beach, a Ferris wheel, carousel, and other rides that are family favorites. You will also find restaurants, food stands, and bars. Parking is free and there is no fee for the pier or beaches.
El Pueblo de Los Angeles - The El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument is just across from Union Station downtown. Here you will find museums, historic buildings, a marketplace, and delicious restaurants and food shops. Tours are free at 10:00, 11:00, and noon Tuesdays through Saturdays. If you prefer, a free self-guided tour is also available. Parking is free and there is no entry fee.
Always free - Other Los Angeles attractions that are always free include:
California Science Center
La Brea Tar Pits (5801 Wilshire Blvd.)
Courtyard of Grauman's Chinese Theater
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Griffith Park
Free days - Although not always free, many attractions have free days:
Los Angeles County Natural History Museum - First Tuesday of each month
Museum of Contemporary Art - Every Thursday from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art - Second Tuesday of each month
Pacific Asia Museum - Third Saturday of each month
George C. Page Museum of La Brea Discoveries - First Tuesday of each month
