Los Angeles is best known for what happens indoors—film sets, recording studios, private estates—but some of its most vivid moments play out in the open air. From hillside trails and hidden gardens to landmark streets and historic boardwalks, this city’s outdoor spaces offer a mix of nature, culture, and character you won’t find anywhere else.
This guide covers some of the best ways to experience L.A. outside—whether you’re hiking above the skyline, wandering the Walk of Fame, or catching sunset from a quiet bluff in Malibu. No dramatic detours required—just fresh air, smart stops, and a better sense of the city.
To round out your ultimate guide to the best things to do in L.A. and Hollywood—indoors and out—don’t miss our list of 40 Things to Do in Hollywood, packed with landmarks, local picks, and easy add-ons to any outdoor plan.
1. Hike to Discover the Hollywood Sign
One of LA’s most iconic views
The Hollywood Sign has stood above the city since 1923, originally spelling “HOLLYWOODLAND” as a temporary ad for a real estate development. The last four letters were removed in the 1940s, but the sign’s presence only grew. Today, it draws hikers more than homebuyers—but the view is still the payoff.
Several trails in Griffith Park lead toward the sign, but the Mt. Hollywood Trail offers one of the most accessible and scenic routes. The path is well-marked and winds through sagebrush and scrub oaks, with occasional sightings of coyotes, roadrunners, and red-tailed hawks overhead. At the top, the payoff is panoramic—Downtown LA to the east, the Pacific shimmer to the west.
What To Know
- Route: Mt. Hollywood Trail
- Distance: ~3 miles round trip
- Start: Griffith Observatory parking area
- Views: Downtown skyline, the San Fernando Valley, and coastal visibility on clear days
Expect a steady incline, open terrain, and minimal shade. The trail doesn’t take you directly behind the letters, but it gets close enough for a wide-angle view above them.
Local Tips
- Arrive early: In summer, hitting the trail by 6 AM means cooler temps, open paths, and amber light on the sign.
- Watch the sky: Red-tailed hawks sometimes circle near the Observatory ridge.
- Parking: Observatory lots fill fast—check for shuttles or start from Fern Dell for fewer crowds.
Prefer to skip the hike and still get a great photo of the sign? The Perfect Day in LA Combo Tour includes a scenic stop near Griffith Park with clear views of the Hollywood Sign—no uphill climb required. It’s an easy way to capture the moment, enjoy the sunny outdoors LA is known for, and see more of the city in one seamless day.
The tour combines our A Taste of LA Tour with the Celebrity Homes Tour, with flexible departures from Hollywood or Santa Monica, either back-to-back or spread out over two days.
2. Hollywood Walk of Fame for Walking Outdoors
An open-air walk through entertainment history
Since 1960, more than 2,800 stars have been set into the sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard, turning a stretch of city pavement into one of LA’s most visited public landmarks. The Walk of Fame isn’t subtle—it’s crowded, a bit chaotic, and full of pop-culture trivia—but that’s exactly the draw.
It’s also fully outdoors, making it an easy addition to a morning walk, a midday break, or a stop between canyon hikes and coastal drives. Start at the TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre) at Hollywood and Highland, and work your way east toward Vine Street. The densest section of stars runs between La Brea Avenue and Vine Street, ideal for people-watching, quick photo stops, and spotting names you didn’t know you’d forgotten.
What to Know
- Best time to visit: Weekday mornings before 10 AM—fewer crowds, less noise
- Free to access: No tickets, no gates, just open sidewalk
- Look for Chaplin’s Star: It’s the only one mounted on a wall, just off the main path
Local Tips
- Street performers set up by mid-morning—early hours offer a more relaxed walk
- Grauman’s courtyard features celebrity handprints and oddities like Harry Potter wand imprints
- History Buffs: Uncover the Walk of Fame’s origins in our Brief History of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
- The Walk covers five entertainment categories: film, TV, music, radio, and live theater
Want context with your stroll? Our Celebrity Homes Tour starts right on Hollywood Boulevard and passes directly along the Walk of Fame. It’s a low-effort way to take in the history, enjoy the sun, and move seamlessly from city streets to hillside views—with local commentary along the way.
3. Descanso Gardens Guide
A quiet, curated retreat just outside the city
About 20 minutes northeast of Hollywood, Descanso Gardens offers a different kind of Los Angeles experience—one rooted in calm, shade, and seasonal color. Originally a private estate and camellia farm, the 150-acre space was transformed into a public garden after 1953, showcasing Southern California’s diverse plant life.
It’s not a tourist stop in the traditional sense, and that’s part of the appeal. Winding trails, koi ponds, native oaks, and a tucked-away redwood grove make it easy to slow down—without leaving the city far behind.
What to Know
- Spring bloom: Over 5,000 tulips bloom in March, followed by cherry blossoms in April
- Year-round escapes: Camellia Collection and redwood grove offer quiet shade even on weekends
- Admission: Free entry on the third Tuesday of each month (except July and August)
Local Tips
- Hidden redwoods: Just beyond the Camellia Collection sign, a small grove of coastal redwoods offers filtered light and fewer visitors
- Birdwatching: The observation station near the lake draws herons, ducks, and songbirds
- Avoiding crowds: Weekday mornings are best for quiet walks or photography
Exploring LA with a mix of gardens, neighborhoods, and outdoor stops? Descanso is just one option you can include on a Private LA Tour—built entirely around what you want to see. Whether you’re after quiet green space, architectural icons, or open-air markets, you tell us the kind of day you’re looking for, and we’ll take it from there.
And for even more lush escapes, check out our guide to 7 Hidden Garden Parks in Hollywood You Never Knew Existed
4. Runyon Canyon: A Perfect Destination for LA Outdoor Activities
A local favorite for views, exercise, and people-watching
Just above Hollywood, Runyon Canyon offers one of LA’s most accessible outdoor escapes—roughly 160 acres of hillside trails, skyline views, and a steady rhythm of locals hiking, jogging, or walking dogs. The elevation builds quickly, but the payoff is panoramic: the Hollywood Sign, downtown, and on exceptionally clear days, even Catalina Island in the distance.
It’s a popular loop for a reason: no long drive, no permits, and no all-day time commitment.
What to Know
- Trail options: Routes range from 1.9 to 3.3 miles round trip with moderate incline
- Access: Enter from Fuller Avenue for a more direct climb—street parking is limited, so come early
- Expect company: Early mornings are busiest, especially with dog walkers and neighborhood regulars
Local Tips
- Golden hour: Head for the benches at Inspiration Point or Clouds Rest for sweeping sunset views
- Off-leash culture: The park is dog-friendly and sees more off-leash pups than tourists before 9 AM
- Plan ahead: There’s no water, shade, or restrooms—come prepared
Want a wider view of the city without planning every stop? Our Perfect Day in LA Tour includes scenic overlooks near Griffith Park, plus a curated route through neighborhoods like Beverly Hills and the Sunset Strip—led by a local guide and designed to fit a half day.
5. Sunset Strip: Unexpected Outdoor Trip Ideas
Not a hike—but it still belongs on your outdoor list
At first glance, the Sunset Strip doesn’t read as an outdoor destination. It’s a busy stretch of road lined with billboards, venues, and old hotel façades—not trailheads and green space. But explore it the right way—windows down, rooftop stop at golden hour, or a short walk between music landmarks—and it fits. The Strip offers a uniquely urban version of the open-air LA experience: part sightseeing drive, part historic corridor, part people-watching playground.
Since the 1920s, this 1.5-mile stretch of Sunset Boulevard has been a magnet for nightlife, counterculture, and celebrity stories—from jazz-age clubs to the heyday of rock and roll. It’s a scene that plays out in the open. Dive into its gritty-meets-glam past with our deep dive on How 1920s Nightclubs Shaped the Sunset Strip’s Legendary Music Scene—it’s a must-read before you cruise past the Viper Room and Whisky a Go Go.
What to Know
- Landmarks: The Roxy, Whisky a Go Go, and Rainbow Bar & Grill are all still active and tied to decades of music history
- Best time to go: Late afternoon into evening—rooftop views at sunset, followed by the Strip lighting up
- Parking: Limited and expensive—walk short segments, or drive it as a loop
Local Tips
- Hidden rooftop: Harriet’s Rooftop offers skyline views and weekday happy hour. Or visit one of these 10 Must-Visit Rooftop Bars!
- Photo spot: The vintage-style Hollywood Sign neon at Sunset & Franklin is best shot from across the street after dark
- Quick lookout: A short detour up Crescent Heights leads to a quiet hillside view over the city
Want to see the Strip without juggling maps or traffic? Our Celebrity Homes Tour runs right along this stretch of Sunset, with live commentary as you pass music venues, historic hotels, and filming locations—before continuing into Beverly Hills and beyond. No planning, no parking—just the stories behind the signs.
6. El Matador Beach for Off-The-Beaten-Track LA Travelers
A raw stretch of coastline and the great outdoors just north of Malibu
If you’re looking for scenery and diverse landscapes over amenities, this is it. El Matador Beach sits off a steep pullout from the Pacific Coast Highway, down a wooden staircase carved into the bluff. The shore is rocky, dramatic, and often nearly empty on weekdays—no lifeguards, no facilities, just sea caves, natural arches, and crashing surf.
It’s not a quick stop. You’ll want solid shoes, a full water bottle, and a little time to explore. But if you’re willing to go slightly off-grid, El Matador delivers one of Southern California’s most cinematic coastlines.
What to Know
- Getting there: ~1 hour from central LA (without traffic)
- Access: Small lot off PCH—can fill quickly on weekends
- No facilities: Bring everything you’ll need—there are no restrooms, rentals, or food
Local Tips
- Golden hour: The cliffs light up right before sunset—arrive at least an hour early for the best light and space
- Snack stop: Head 10 minutes down the coast to Neptune’s Net for classic seafood and oceanfront parking
- Low tide: Plan your visit around tide charts if you want to access sea caves and tide pools
7. Original Farmers Market
An open-air food hub with LA roots
Since 1934, the Original Farmers Market has been a place to eat, wander, and people-watch. What started as a row of pickup trucks selling produce is now a permanent market of food stalls, artisan shops, and international street eats—all under open rafters and twinkling lights.
It’s not a farmers market in the weekend-pop-up sense. This is a year-round institution where locals grab lunch, tourists browse, and everything from churros to dry-aged cheeses is within arm’s reach. Soak up the California sunshine and enjoy the market with the whole family.
What to Know
- Hours: Open daily, typically 9 AM–9 PM (hours vary slightly by vendor)
- Best time: Weekdays before noon for fewer crowds
- Location: 3rd & Fairfax, adjacent to The Grove shopping center
Local Tips
- Free tastings: Cheese and olive oil vendors are usually happy to sample—just ask
- Hidden courtyard: Behind Monsieur Marcel, a picturesque string-lit patio offers a rare break from the crowds
- Save room: Discover the best fresh strawberry donuts at Bob’s Coffee & Doughnuts live up to the hype. For more market mastery check out our Farmers Market Foodie Guide.
Want to sample it with local guidance? Our A Taste of LA Tour includes a 75-minute stop at the Farmers Market. It’s part of a half-day city experience; activities include the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Park, and either the Walk of Fame or Santa Monica—designed to help you see (and taste) more, without managing the details yourself.
8. Venice Beach Boardwalk
Skateparks, canals, and classic LA eccentricity
Walkable Venice Beach is where LA lets its eccentric side breathe. Beachfront street performers, roller skaters, and mural artists all converge here under swaying palms and an ever-changing sky. Founded in 1905 as a seaside resort, Venice has since evolved into one of the city’s most recognizable open-air scenes—equal parts energy and edge—and a perfect day at the beach in Southern California.
The boardwalk itself is the main draw, but just inland you’ll find a quieter, more local side of the neighborhood: man-made canals, pastel cottages, and footbridges built for wandering.
What to Know
- Muscle Beach & skatepark: Two iconic outdoor arenas side by side—no ticket required
- Best time: Early morning for space, late afternoon for color and character. No matter what, this is one of the best Los Angeles outdoor activities!
Local Tips
- Hidden murals: Check Windward Avenue for large-scale work, then head north on Rose for rotating street art
- Sunset drum circle: Saturday and Sunday evenings near the boardwalk—casual, local, and worth sticking around for
- Low-tide secret: At the south end of the pier, tide pools reveal miniature sea gardens during low tide
Whether you’re snapping action shots or drifting along the canals, Venice is pure open-air LA: a little chaotic, a little creative, and entirely outside.
9. Malibu Creek State Park
A wild escape with stunning views and a side of Hollywood history
Just 30 miles from Hollywood, Malibu Creek State Park offers one of LA’s most surprising shifts in scenery—8,000 acres of oak woodlands, volcanic rock pools, and film history layered into the landscape. It’s been used as a backdrop for everything from MASH* to Planet of the Apes, but what draws locals back are the quiet trails and canyon views.
What to Know
- Main hike: The Rock Pool Trail (~3 miles round trip) is scenic, moderate, and ends at a natural swimming hole (though swimming is not officially recommended.)
- Access: Main parking lot off Malibu Canyon Road ($12/day); free street parking on Mulholland if you arrive early
- Facilities: Basic restrooms and picnic areas at the main entrance
Local Tips
- Teeming with wildlife: Early morning is best for wilderness like bird watching spotting herons, deer, and if you’re lucky, the occasional bobcat
- Picnic spot: Bring lunch and eat near the old MASH* filming site—the “Tank Ramp” is still there
- Swim smart: The rock pools are swimmable but not necessarily recommended—no lifeguards, and access depends on water levels.
For a half-day hike that feels like a full reset, this is one of the best outdoor activities in Los Angeles.
10. Private LA Tours
Tailored outdoor adventures, built around you
Want to mix a morning canyon hike with an afternoon at the beach? Or combine a paradise garden walk with iconic city views and hidden eats? Our Private LA Tours are designed entirely around what you want to see, do, and skip.
Whether you’re after quiet trails, cultural landmarks, or just a smart route that avoids backtracking, we’ll build a custom itinerary that fits your style—no preset routes, no rushed timelines.
What to Know
- Fully customizable: Choose the mix—hikes, gardens, food stops, coastal views, filming locations
- Led by locals: Your guide isn’t just a driver—they know shortcuts, stories, and what’s worth your time
- Good for groups: Families, friends, or solo travelers who want a more personal way to see the best activities in Los Angeles.
Local Tips
- Parking adds up: Griffith Park charges $10/hour; Runyon has free street parking, but it fills fast
- Start early: Mornings mean better light, fewer crowds, and cooler temps
We offer fully customizable and luxurious private L.A. tours in Los Angeles and Hollywood. If you are just in town for the weekend, a local, or planning a corporate get-together, we’ll promise an unforgettable experience. Get the full lowdown with our Complete Guide to Hollywood Bus Tours.
Final Note on Los Angeles Outdoor Recreation Ideas
Whether you’re climbing trails, walking the boardwalk, or cruising Sunset with the windows down, Los Angeles has more outdoor experiences than most travelers expect. You don’t need to go far—or plan every detail—to see a different side of the city. Start with a few of these spots, build in the ones that match your pace, and let the rest unfold along the way.
