Experience It All: 12 Free Attractions to Check out in Los Angeles
See a Concert at Amoeba Records
The largest of Amoeba Records’ locations takes up an entire square block in Hollywood. There you’ll find thousands of new and used CDs, records, cassettes, DVDs, Blu-Rays, books, toys and other music-related merchandise. While it does cost money for all these things, you can bring in your old stuff and trade it in for store credit or cash.
However one of the best things about Amoeba Hollywood is its free shows. The store hosts free concerts and signings every week for those lucky enough to see the likes of both indie bands and big-time musicians.
Original Farmers’ Market
Just like its name suggests, the Original Farmers’ Market was the first one in LA and is still going strong 80 years later. Now it’s become part of a huge outdoor mall complex called The Grove, which is full of upscale retail stores, cafes and restaurants.
While you can certainly still find fresh meat and produce at the farmers’ market, now there are a variety of artisan foods, clothing and gifts to peruse. It’s free to wander, but some food merchants also offer samples as you browse. Pair that with all the free events offered throughout the year and you could easily spend an entire day here for next to nothing.
If you're willing to look beyond big cities, you may find yourself in some of the coolest small towns that are perfect for budget travel.
Artwalk
As a haven for creatives, it’s only natural that LA would seek to celebrate its artistic community. Nearly every major city within Los Angeles has some form of artwalk once a month. While each has their own spin on the idea, in general, an entire area of galleries all open at the same time for visitors.
Music and free libations are often the norm as are food trucks, street performers and live art demos. Don’t miss the Downtown LA artwalk (one of the largest in the county), Santa Monica artwalk (which takes place in a converted airplane hangar,) or Long Beach artwalk.
