30+ Best Things to Do Alone in Los Angeles: Solo Travel Guide 

Yes, Los Angeles can be a great city for solo travel. You can explore famous landmarks, spend time at the beach, hike scenic trails, visit museums, shop, enjoy live music, and eat at your own pace.

The city is huge and spread out, so planning your days by area makes things much easier. For a first solo trip, it also helps to choose a neighborhood that fits the places you want to visit.

Is Los Angeles Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Los Angeles is generally manageable for solo female travelers when you stay aware of your surroundings and use common-sense precautions. Some areas, including West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Griffith Park, and Los Feliz, can feel comfortable for exploring alone. At night, rideshares can be a good option if you do not feel comfortable walking.

As with any large city, it is important to research the areas you plan to visit and be more cautious in unfamiliar parts of downtown. Avoid areas such as Skid Row, especially if you are traveling alone and do not know the area.

Best Iconic Things to Do Alone in Los Angeles

Drive Through the Hollywood Hills

Take a drive through the Hollywood Hills along famous roads such as Mulholland Drive. The winding roads, impressive homes, and city overlooks make this a fun way to see a different side of Los Angeles.

It is also a good solo activity because you can stop at viewpoints whenever you want and enjoy the scenery at your own pace.

Also Read: 15 Solo Travel Tips for Introverts: What I’ve Learned From Traveling Alone  

Hike to the Hollywood Sign

Hiking to the Hollywood Sign is one of the classic things to do alone in Los Angeles. You do not need serious hiking experience for many of the routes, but you should choose a trail that matches your fitness level.

The views become the reward as you climb into the Hollywood Hills, and you can take your time stopping for photos along the way. Remember that visitors cannot climb on the actual Hollywood Sign.

See a Movie at TCL Chinese Theatre

Watching a movie at TCL Chinese Theatre is more memorable than visiting an ordinary cinema. Located on Hollywood Boulevard, the historic theater is closely connected to Hollywood premieres and movie history.

You can also see famous handprints and footprints and explore the theater itself. It is an easy solo activity, especially if you want a break from sightseeing while still experiencing one of Hollywood’s famous landmarks.

Shop or Window-Shop on Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive is one of the most recognizable places to visit in Los Angeles. Exploring it alone gives you plenty of freedom to browse luxury stores, admire window displays, and watch the stylish cars and people passing by.

You do not need to buy anything to enjoy the area. Even window-shopping can be a fun experience, especially if you want to see the glamorous side of Beverly Hills.

Take a Celebrity Homes Tour

A celebrity homes tour is another classic Los Angeles experience. These tours take you through areas known for their impressive homes and celebrity connections.

It is an easy activity to add to a solo itinerary because you can sit back, enjoy the tour, and see parts of Los Angeles that you might otherwise miss.

Outdoorsy Things to Do Alone in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has plenty of outdoor places where you can enjoy nature without leaving the city. From scenic hikes to peaceful canyon trails, these spots are great for solo travelers who want some fresh air and beautiful views.

Griffith Park

Griffith Park is one of the best places to enjoy the outdoors in Los Angeles. The park has numerous hiking trails, scenic viewpoints, and several interesting spots to explore. It is also home to the Hollywood Sign, making it easy to combine a hike with one of the city’s most famous landmarks.

For something a little different, check out the old abandoned zoo. The former zoo site has empty animal enclosures and walls covered in graffiti, giving the area a unique and slightly eerie atmosphere.

Fryman Canyon

Fryman Canyon offers a short hike with nice views and a quieter feel than some of L.A.’s more famous trails. The trail is roughly 2.5 miles and is also dog-friendly.

One unusual sight along the route is the remains of an old Jeep that reportedly went off a cliff. It adds an unexpected bit of history to an otherwise scenic hike.

Runyon Canyon

Runyon Canyon is one of the most popular hiking spots in Los Angeles. The trail runs through the Hollywood Hills and offers great views over the city.

For a more enjoyable solo hike, go early in the morning or around sunset when the temperatures are cooler and the crowds are lighter. The trail is also known for attracting locals and celebrities.

Topanga Canyon

Topanga Canyon is a great choice if you want to escape the busy city atmosphere for a while. The area has many hiking trails surrounded by hills and natural scenery.

Topanga also has a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere and hosts several festivals throughout the year. It is a good place to spend a few hours outdoors and explore a different side of Los Angeles.

Low-Key Things to Do in L.A.

If you want a slower day away from the big tourist attractions, Los Angeles has plenty of relaxed activities to enjoy alone. You can browse books, explore art, shop for unusual finds, or take a class where you can meet people naturally.

Check Out The Last Bookstore

The Last Bookstore in downtown Los Angeles is a great place to spend a few quiet hours alone. The large bookstore has an interesting layout, unique displays, and plenty of books to browse.

You can take your time exploring the shelves without feeling rushed. Even if you are not planning to buy anything, the creative atmosphere makes this a fun stop for a solo traveler.

Solo Date Night at The Getty

The Getty is an excellent choice for a solo afternoon or date night. You can explore the museum, walk through the gardens, and enjoy the views at your own pace.

Admission to the Getty Center is free, although you need to reserve a timed-entry ticket before visiting.

Go Thrifting

Los Angeles is a fun city for thrift shopping, especially if you enjoy finding unusual clothes and memorabilia. You never quite know what you will discover in the city’s thrift stores.

For a place to start, check out Wasteland on Melrose Avenue. Browsing the racks alone gives you plenty of time to look through everything and find something unexpected.

Take a Dance Class

Taking a dance class is a fun way to try something different while traveling alone. Millennium Dance Complex is a well-known option in Los Angeles and offers classes for different styles and skill levels.

The classes can be challenging, but the atmosphere is welcoming. Even if you are not an experienced dancer, it can be a memorable way to spend an evening and meet other people.

Take a Fitness Class

Los Angeles is known for its fitness culture, so a workout class can be an easy activity to add to your solo itinerary. Try something new instead of sticking to your usual workout.

A fitness class also gives you a chance to experience a popular part of L.A. culture while staying active during your trip.

Best Solo Nightlife Spots in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has plenty of nightlife options for solo travelers, especially if you enjoy live music, casual bars, and places with a relaxed atmosphere. These spots are easy to enjoy on your own without needing a group.

Rainbow Bar and Grill

Rainbow Bar and Grill is a legendary stop for rock music fans. Located on Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, the bar has strong ties to the rock scene of the 1970s and 1980s.

You can see a statue of Lemmy from Motörhead outside, while the upstairs area is connected to the Hollywood Vampires. If you enjoy rock history, this is a fun place to spend an evening alone.

Whisky a Go Go

Whisky a Go Go is another iconic piece of Los Angeles music history. The famous Sunset Boulevard venue was once home to The Doors as a house band and continues to host live performances.

Seeing a show here can be a great solo-night activity. You can enjoy the music, meet other concertgoers, and experience one of the city’s most famous live music venues.

The Frolic Room

The Frolic Room is a classic dive bar located near Hollywood and Vine. It has a long connection to Los Angeles nightlife and was also one of Charles Bukowski’s old haunts.

It can be a good choice if you want a casual place where going to a bar alone does not feel unusual.

Koreatown

Koreatown is a great place to continue your night if you enjoy karaoke. The neighborhood has karaoke spots that stay open late, making it easy to find something to do after dinner or drinks.

Going to karaoke alone can also be a fun way to meet people instead of spending the entire evening by yourself.

Best Beaches to Visit Alone in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to some of the most famous beaches in California, and they are easy to enjoy on your own. You can relax on the sand, walk along the coast, watch the sunset, or try a new water activity.

Santa Monica Beach and Pier

Santa Monica Beach and Pier is one of the most iconic places to visit in Los Angeles. The beach has plenty of sandy space, while the famous pier features a Ferris wheel and other attractions.

It is an easy place to spend a few hours alone. Walk along the pier, enjoy the ocean views, or simply relax on the beach and take in the scenery.

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is known for its artsy and bohemian atmosphere. The boardwalk is lined with shops, vendors, street performers, and plenty of people, giving it a lively feel.

It is a fun place to explore alone because you can walk around at your own pace, stop wherever something catches your attention, and enjoy the unusual character of the area.

Take a Surfing Lesson

A surfing lesson is a fun way to experience the Los Angeles coast instead of simply sitting on the beach. Beginners can learn the basics with an instructor and spend some time in the water.

You do not need to be an experienced surfer to try it. A lesson can be a memorable addition to a solo trip and gives you something active and different to do.

Best Places to Eat Alone in Los Angeles

Eating alone is easy in Los Angeles, especially when you choose casual spots where solo dining feels natural. From donuts and sandwiches to open-air food markets, these are good options when you want a simple meal without needing company.

Trejo’s Coffee and Donuts

Trejo’s Coffee and Donuts is a fun stop for anyone with a sweet tooth. The shop is owned by actor Danny Trejo and is known for its fluffy donuts and variety of flavors.

Grab a donut and coffee, then enjoy a quick breakfast or snack while exploring the city.

Smorgasburg

Smorgasburg is an open-air food market and a great choice for solo travelers. With different food vendors in one place, you can browse several options and choose exactly what you want.

It is especially convenient if you feel awkward about eating alone because the casual market setting makes solo dining feel completely normal.

Fat Sal’s Deli

Fat Sal’s Deli is a good choice when you want a filling and casual meal. The sandwiches are known for being both delicious and enormous, so you will not leave hungry.

It is also open late, making it a convenient option after a day of sightseeing or a night out in Los Angeles.

Free Things to Do Alone in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has plenty of free activities for solo travelers, especially if you enjoy being outdoors. You can hike to the Hollywood Sign, explore Griffith Park, visit the Getty Center, walk along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, or watch the sunset at Santa Monica Beach.

These activities let you enjoy the city at your own pace without spending much money.

Best Day and Weekend Trips from Los Angeles for Solo Travelers

Los Angeles is also a great base for exploring other parts of California. You can take a scenic coastal drive, visit a nearby city, explore the desert, or plan a longer weekend surrounded by giant trees.

Drive a Stretch of the Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway, also known as Highway 1, is one of the most scenic road-trip routes in California. The road follows the coast and offers beautiful ocean views along the way.

You can make the trip as short or as long as you like, stopping in coastal towns along the route. Notable stops include Carmel-by-the-Sea, Big Sur, and Monterey.

Take a Weekend Getaway to San Diego

San Diego makes a great weekend getaway from Los Angeles. It takes roughly three hours to drive there, and the city offers beautiful beaches and coastal scenery.

Be sure to explore La Jolla Cove while you are there. It is one of the highlights of the area and a beautiful place to enjoy the California coast.

Check Out Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is a great choice for a solo day trip or overnight adventure. The desert landscape feels completely different from Los Angeles, with unusual Joshua trees, rocky scenery, and wide-open skies.

If you can stay overnight, the park is especially impressive after dark. The clear desert skies make it an excellent place for stargazing, and you may even see the Milky Way at the right time of year.

Go Up North to the Sequoias and Redwoods

For a longer weekend trip, head north to see California’s famous giant trees. Redwoods are the tallest trees in the world, while giant sequoias are the largest by volume.

Give yourself at least a full weekend to explore these forests. If you are visiting the redwood region, consider driving along Avenue of the Giants for an unforgettable experience among the enormous trees.

Where to Stay Alone in Los Angeles

For a solo trip, Hollywood is a convenient choice if you want to stay close to major attractions and nightlife. West Hollywood is another good option, especially if you want a lively area with restaurants, shops, and easy access to other parts of the city.

If you prefer staying near the beach, Santa Monica is a better choice. It gives you easy access to the beach, pier, restaurants, and other attractions without needing to travel far.

Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most famous attractions in Los Angeles. Walk along Hollywood Boulevard and look for the stars honoring actors, musicians, directors, and other entertainment figures.

It is an easy solo activity because you can explore at your own pace, stop for photos, and combine it with other nearby Hollywood attractions.

Explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is a great choice when you want to spend a few hours indoors. You can explore its art collections, walk through the museum grounds, and take your time with the exhibits.

Visiting a museum alone can actually be enjoyable because you do not have to rush or follow anyone else’s schedule.

Watch the Sunset at Santa Monica Beach

End a day in Los Angeles by watching the sunset at Santa Monica Beach. Find a comfortable spot on the sand and enjoy the changing colors over the Pacific Ocean.

It is a simple and relaxing way to spend time alone, especially after a busy day of sightseeing.

Conclusion

Los Angeles is a fun city to explore on your own, whether you want to hike in the hills, relax at the beach, explore museums, enjoy live music, or try something completely new. You can build your days around your own interests and move at your own pace.

From iconic sights like the Hollywood Sign and Santa Monica Pier to quieter spots like The Last Bookstore and Topanga Canyon, there are plenty of ways to enjoy L.A. solo. With a little planning and awareness, a solo trip can be a great way to experience the city.

FAQs About Visiting Los Angeles Alone

Is Los Angeles good for solo travel?

Yes. Los Angeles has many activities that are easy to enjoy alone.

Is Los Angeles safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, with normal precautions and extra care at night.

How do you get around Los Angeles alone?

A car is the easiest option, but rideshares are useful too.

What are the best free things to do alone in Los Angeles?

Griffith Park, the Getty Center, Venice Beach, and Santa Monica Beach are good free options.

What should I pack for a solo trip to Los Angeles?

Bring comfortable clothes, walking shoes, and a light jacket.