101 Awesome, FREE, and Fun Things To Do in LA

LOS ANGELES LIFESTYLE | THINGS TO DO IN LA
By Adrien Finkel

One of the best parts about living in or visiting Los Angeles is that you can have an amazing time without breaking the bank. LA is a city where all kinds of attractions, activities, arts, culture, nightlife, music, sports, fashion, and entertainment come free of charge. So, use this list of 101 awesome, free, and fun things to do in LA for your activity planning pleasure.

And don’t forget, if you like this list, sign up for our free weekly e-blast that regularly alerts you to the Top 5 Things To Do in LA every Weekend. And without further ado, here’s the list:

1.  Local Farmers Markets – Wander the isles of LA’s local markets and browse its fresh ingredients while live music plays.  The perfect way to spend an LA morning.
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2.  Abbot Kinney First Fridays – On the first Friday of every month from 6 to 10pm, Abbot Kinney supports local artists, products, and music by bringing all of their favorite local merchants to you.
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3.  Griffith Observatory & Planetarium – Venture up to the tippy-top of LA’s hills and view the city through a giant telescope.
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4. Dante’s Poetry Lounge – There’s nothing like a little slam poetry to bring you back down to earth after a long weekend of LA nightlife.
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5. World Dodgeball Society – Joining this local dodgeball league not just hip, but an awesome way to make LA friends outside of the workplace.
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6. Free Yoga @ Runyon Canyon – Seven days a week at the bottom of Runyon Canyon you will find free hour-long classes available to you and all of your friends.
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7. LA Art Walk – LA’s finest local artists gather together downtown to display and exhibit their latest works.
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8. Topanga Canyon State Park – Located in the Santa Monica Mountains the expansive park is made up of 36 miles of oak trees, grassland, and gorgeous waterfalls. Who knew there was an escape from LA inside of LA?
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9. LA Flower Mart – Before you check out the Art Walk downtown, spend the morning browsing at LA’s biggest flower market where this vast abundance of flowers are at their freshest.
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10. Cinespia @ The Hollywood Forever Cemetery - Lay down your baskets and blankets and hold each other tight for a unforgettable Los Angeles night of movie watching.
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11. Drive up the PCH – From Santa Monica to Malibu you will find breathtaking views along the coast.  Drive up to Zuma Beach in Malibu for a wonderful journey and relaxing destination.
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12.  Rodeo Drive – If a Prada handbag is not in your budget, there is still nothing wrong with doing a little window shopping on LA’s most exclusive shopping strip.
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13. Be in a Live Studio Audience – Experience the ins and outs of what its like to film a television show by being part of a live studio audience. Bring your friends! It’s free and its a blast!
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14. Santa Monica Farmer’s Market – Santa Monica’s Main St. farmers market is bustling with Sunday morning locals.  Take a seat at on of its many tables and enjoy the free live music and cool beach breezes.
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15. Venice Beach Skate Park – Not only does this awesome skate park hug the pacific ocean but is packed with talented skaters throughout the entire day. Whether you join in on the fun or sit back and watch, its a guaranteed good time.
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16. Santa Monica Stairs  – Take a break from your usual hike and work out those gluts on the Santa Monica stairs. Tucked away in a quiet Santa Monica neighborhood, this work-out haven is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a  year.
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17. Runyon Canyon – The workout is great, the view is incredible, and you are guaranteed to make a few friends on the way up.
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18. Cruise Mulholland Drive – Pack a great playlist for the road and make your way through the twists and turns of the legendary Mullholland drive.
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19. Olvera Street – Be a part of LA history when you visit the oldest part of downtown Los Angeles. This eclectic street celebrates Latin culture at its best.
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20. Check Out LA’s Murals – Los Angeles is famous for its creative street art.  Check out this site for a list of the city’s coolest murals to check out.
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21. Artesia – Experience India right inside of Los Angeles by wandering the streets of Artesia for the most authentic Indian food, clothing, and jewelry.
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22. Chinatown – Participate in Chinese culture, architecture, music, and food in this expansive Chinese neighborhood downtown. Also, make sure to take part in their many events scheduled for the public.
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23. LACMA – Nothing like a free romantic date to one of the most popular museums in town. The LA County Museum of Art is free after 5 every sing day.
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24. MOCA– Make sure to check out famous works by Basquiat, Hockney, and Pollock every Thursday evening  from 5-8pm.
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25. Huntington Library & Botanical Gardens – Once a month take advantage of the Huntington Library & Botanical Gardens free day to enter and explore their exquisite property. After you hit up the Rose Garden and the Japanese Garden, be sure to see their art exhibits scattered throughout the area. Their monthly free days are coming up May 3 and June 7.
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26.Upright Citizens Brigade – You can’t go wrong with seeing a little bit of improv at the UCB on Franklin.  For guaranteed laughs check the UCB calendar for its free shows held throughout the week!
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27. Walk of Fame – Be there in person to watch your favorite stars ‘receive their star’ on the walk of fame. Grab some friends and show up May 2nd for Scartlett Johannson’s turn.
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28.  Night Hiking – Hike under the stars through the many trails of Griffith Park with members of LA’s Sierra club.
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29. Free Yoga @ Lululemon – Get centered with free yoga at Lululemon locations all around Los Angeles.  Free classes are held on the weekends, mostly sundays, at most of their locations.
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30. Visit the “Hollywood Sign” – You drive by it every day, might as well go visit it up close. Grab your camera and head up to see the Hollywood Sign face to face.
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31.  Hammer Museum – Come celebrate this amazing city starting June 2nd at the Hammer Museum by checking out the Made in L.A 2012 exhibit, featuring over 60 artists from the LA area.  Luckily, this museum is free for the public every Thursday.
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32. Craft and Folk Art Museum – For over 30 years this museum has been sharing incredible hand made art with Los Angeles.  Be sure to check out Maximo Gonzalez’s current exhibition where he takes devalued currency from Mexico and turns it into art objects.  The first Wedensday of every month Free!
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33.  Larchmont Village – Take a stroll down the quaint street of Larchmont.  Not only is it great window shopping and people watching, but make a point to visit Sunday and wander through the Larchmont Farmers Market.
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34. Visit Venice High School – Walk the halls of the school that you know and love so well from the classic movie GREASE.
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35. The Strand – Its just a short drive to “The Strand” in Hermosa Beach. Once you arrive, be ready for a day gorgeous views, beach volleyball, and public events almost every weekend.
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36. Greystone Mansion and Park – Explore Greystone’s beautiful mansion and property right in the heart of Beverly Hills. The gardens and waterfalls provide a serene and regal getaway from big city life.
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37. The Schindler House – Head to Kings Rd. just off Santa Monica Blvd. and take a step into this beautiful modern masterpiece of a home built in 1922 by R.M Schindler.
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38. 3^rd St. Farmer’s Market – Every summer the 3^rd Street Farmers Market features a free Jazz summer music series. Check out the dates and times to join in on the fun.
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39. The Getty Center – You can spend an entire day soaking in the views, art, and architecture at this stunning establishment on top of the hill.
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40. Manhattan Beach – Walk down the pier to take in the gorgeous views of the ocean and then head over to the donation only Round House Aquarium to see some beautiful sea creatures.
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41. Muscle Beach - If you want to explore Venice, Muscle Beach is vital to your experience.  Take a seat and watch LA’s most muscular dudes pump iron.
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42. Santa Monica Pier – Take a walk down the iconic Santa Monica pier to not only watch street performers and amusement rides, but to take in the beautiful Pacific Ocean from the pier’s edge. A perfect place for a sunset date.
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43. Palisades Hike – There are many different trails when hiking the Palisades, but no matter what, you are guaranteed to stumble upon a serene waterfall or two.  For a change of scenery and an unforgettable day, hiking the Palisades is a must.
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44. Walk of Fame – Head down to the streets of Hollywood, where literally each step is something to see.  Take photos with your favorite star’s ‘star’ as you skip down and around its many star filled streets.
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45. Kodak Theatre – Give your self a tour of the beautiful building that holds the Oscar Ceremonies each year.  As you walk through the halls you will find Academy Award Winning movie names adorned on the walls and quotes about how your favorite actors got their start on the Kodak’s own version of a yellow brick road.
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46. Silverlake Reservoir – If you don’t live in Silverlake you may not know this exists. The reservoir is a scenic place to run, walk, or bike and there is plenty lo look at while you do it.
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47. Sunset Junction  – Wander the funky neighborhood of Silverlake and check out its hip shops, bustling coffee joints, and its eclectic locals.
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48. Words With Friends Project – Be a part of the Words With Friends Project and have your photo taken with your favorite words, quotes, or sayings written on your body.
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49.  Shakespeare in the Park  – Independent Shakespeare Co. Los Angeles holds free Shapesperean theater in Griffith Park. Check their schedule for more details.
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50. Hollywood Improv – Catch an improv show where every big name in comedy has played, including Richard Pryor, Bette Midler, Lily Tomlin, and Jay Leno.  Check their schedule for free shows!
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51. Los Angeles Pride – No matter your sexual preference, the LGBT Pride Parade in West Hollywood is a blast.  Gather in the streets for drinks, entertainment, and a parade, that can only be described as colorful.
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52. Evening Jazz – The LACMA provides evening Jazz performances every Friday night April thru November.  This is a perfect date for great music and a cool atmosphere.
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53. Hollywood Bowl Rehearsals – It’s a little inside secret that the Hollywood Bowl’s morning rehearsals with the LA philharmonic are usually open to the public on Tuesday and Thursday Mornings.
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54. Getty Villa in Malibu – Take in the view at this gorgeous beachside mansion and immerse yourself in ancient Greek and Roman history.
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55. LA Times Festival of Books – Once a year gather with LA booklovers on USC’s campus in for readings, pannels, and art.
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56. The Price Is Right – Grab your friends, pack a lunch, and line up outside CBS to be a studio audience member of The Price Is Right! You may even walk out with some cash!
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57 – Watch ‘Ellen’ Live – Spend the day with the hilarious Ellen DeGeneres and her celebrity guest stars by watching a free taping of her show.
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58.  Autry National Center – Learn about our native history in all of its forms at this cowboy’s interesting etablishment.
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59.  Graumans Chinese Theater – Peruse the entrance floor of the famous Graumans Chinese Theater and stand in movie star footsteps, literally.
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60.  Venice Beach Boardwalk – You will never be board walking down the Venice Boardwalk. Between, the Ocean views, eclectic people, sidewalk performers, and local arts & crafts for sale, you are sure to have a full free day of entertainment.
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61.  La Brea Tar Pits – Stand in a dinosaurs footsteps and learn about the land before time at this historic landmark in mid-city Los Angeles.
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62.  California Science Center – There is nothing like going to a museum where you can get your hands dirty. Head downtown to the CSC to soak in information in a hands-on way.
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63. Norton Simon Museum – Discover Asian, European, and Contemporary Art in the gorgeous neighborhood of Pasadena.
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64. Korean Cultural Center – Get to know more about Korean culture in this beautiful building right off Wilshire. The Korean Cultural Center provides learning recourses, holds exciting events, and offers programs all to enrich your mind on the Korean way of life.
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65. Venice Antiques & Collectibles Flea Market – On the second Saturday of every month Venice high school holds a fabulous flea market. Take the day to find classic gems to add to your collection, then head to beach after to make it a fun filled day.
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66.  LA Fire Department Museum – If you are looking for a great family outing this is it.  Learn all about the Fire Department, how it works, and its history in Los Angeles.
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67. Venice Canals  - The houses are gorgeous, the scenery is unbelievable and it’s the perfect place for a romantic stroll.
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68. LA Architecture Tour –  If you are into architecture, LA is a great city to explore.  Check out dates and times to take a walking tour and feast your eyes on some of the best buildings LA has to offer.
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69. Beverly Hills Police Department – Not only does this establishment hold the people who keep our streets safe, it’s also the famous building where ‘Beverly Hills Cop’ was filmed. Take a walk around the grounds of this famous Police palace.
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70. Santa Monica Public Library – Spend the day reading or checking out music and DVD’s at this massive Library in the heart of Santa Monica.
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71. Adopt A Pet - Save an animal’s life and make a great addition to your family by adopting a pet for free.
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72. Abbot Kinney – Our favorite part of the Venice Area is Abbot Kinney.  Get on your bike and take a ride down this quaint street filled with shops, restaurants, art walks, and scheduled live performances.
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73. La Placita Church – Visit the oldest religious structure in Los Angeles, built in 1822.
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74. Roberston Boulevard – For some fabulous window shopping, interesting art galleries, and star sightings guaranteed, head to Robertson Boulevard to hang out with the A-listers.
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75. Melrose Ave – Its always a party on Melrose avenue. Between the free improv shows, flea markets, and people watching, you are guaranteed to have a full day of excitement.
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76. Forrest Lawn Cemetery – See where Hollywood royalty such as Lucille Ball, Betty Davis, and Ricky Nelson are buried.
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77. UCLA Sculpture Garden – Wander the gorgeous grounds of UCLA in Westwood and check out its collection of over 70 noteworthy sculptures.
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78. Universal City Walk – Although its known for its shops and restaurants, City Walk is also famous for its public entertainment and bright lights.  A walk down this colorful strip will make you feel like you’ve spent the evening at an amusement park.
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79. Angel’s Point at Elysian Park – Take in LA’s stunning Sunset’s from one if its best viewing points.
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80. Angeles National Forrest – Bring your bike or take a hike thru one thousand square miles of open space at Angeles National Forrest. Pack a picnic and you’ve got a full fabulous Sunday getaway.
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81. Genghis Cohen – Yes, you know and love Genghis Cohen for its reasonably priced Chinese eats, but what you don’t know is that this little restaurant has a little stage. Check the website for performance dates and stop in for some great music.
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82. Pan Pacific Park – After your walk through The Grove walk right across the street to Pan Pacific Park for a lovely picnic and some kickball.
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83. Fox Theater – Stand on the sidelines with the paparazzi at the Fox Theater in Westwood and watch your favorite stars walk down the red carpet and into the movie they are staring in.
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84. Bel Air – Drive up and down the windy roads up Bel Air and pick our your dream home from the hundreds of stunning mansions that line the streets.
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85. Old Town Pasadena – Old Town Pasadena is an adorable little neighborhood, packed with history, beautiful little churches, trendy shopping to boot. Check out the website for any free public events they have in store.
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86. Rose Parade – Pack some food and drinks and stake your claim to piece of sidewalk where you can hang out and watch the festive floats and marching bands roll by at the annual Rose Parade.
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87. Beach Volleyball – Head to Will Rogers beach to spike and volley with LA’s hottest beach bums.
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88. Live Concerts at the Grove – The Grove may have great shopping, but they also have an outstanding live concert series. Check the website to see when your favorite music star is playing next.
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89. Watch Extra! Taping – While you are at the Grove by sure to get a glimpse of Saved By The Bell’s Mario Lopez hosting Extra!
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90. Learn Apple – Apple store gives free classes throughout the month on how to use your Mac better.
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91. Free Makeover – Have an expert for you make-up for free at the MAC on Robertson.
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92. The Old Zoo @ Griffith Park – With cages and caverns to explore the Old Zoo at Griffith Park makes you feel like you’ve walked into a movie. This is a great place for people of all ages.
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93. Third St. Promenade – Find the next big thing before they’re big. Where talented musicians apply for licenses to perform on the street in hopes to get discovered.
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94. Red Carpet Premiere – Stand outside Grauman’s Chinese theater to watch your favorite starts swagger down the red carpet and into their newest flick.
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95. Expand Your Mind – Free creative non-fiction workshop every Tuesday at 8pm at the Beyond Baroque Library Arts Centers.
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96. Open Call- Think you have what it takes to be a model?  Head to Ford Models and participate in their open calls Thursdays from 4-5 for women and Wednesdays from 4-5pm for men.
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97. Disney Concert Hall – If you are into architecture, make sure to head downtown and take a walk around the Dinsey Concert Hall.  The beautiful building is unlike anything else and is a great place to take pictures.
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98. LA City Hall – Head down to city hall to walk the grounds and see where Occupy protesters spent their days and nights.
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99. Hollywood Farmers Market – Spend your Sundays on Cahuenga and Sunset for free live entertainment and local products to peruse.
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100.  Angel’s Knoll – Sit on the bench where Zoe Deschanel & Joseph Gorden Levitt once sat to take in the breathtaking view of downtown Los Angeles that they did in 500 Days of Summer.
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101. Jet Rag $1 Yard Sale – Since everything we’ve suggested doesn’t a cost a penny, pull out that buck or two you saved from your back pocket and splurge on Jet Rag’s Sunday Yard Sale.  Dig through piles of hip vintage attire and make your way home with some fabulous affordable finds.
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Like what you see? Subscribe to our FREE Weekend Guide e-blast. It goes out only once a week and keeps you in-the-know about all things awesome in Los Angeles. >>> Get it HERE

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