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16 Best Rainy Day Activities in Los Angeles

Looking for rainy day activities in Los Angeles? Whether you're a local looking to escape the rain or a visitor trying to make the most of your trip, there are plenty of indoor options to choose from in the City of Angels.

From museums and galleries to shopping and dining, there's something for everyone to enjoy while staying dry. So if you're wondering what to do on a rainy day in Los Angeles, look no further! Check out our list of the 16 Best Rainy Day Activities in Los Angeles below to find the perfect way to spend a gloomy day in the city.

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Chosen for expertise, reputation, complete information and location within Los Angeles.

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#1
The Getty
4.830,663 reviews
#2
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
4.811,732 reviews
#3
California Science Center
4.717,769 reviews

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The Getty, Los Angeles#1
What stands out

  • Lovely atmosphere with stunning gardens and well-lit art.

  • Beautiful outdoor areas with colorful flowers and pleasant weather.

  • Free entry with friendly staff and wheelchair-accessible features.

  • Amazing views, architecture, and curated art collections.

The Getty

4.830,663 reviews
1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049, United States

The Getty is a renowned art museum located in Los Angeles, CA. It offers a variety of services and features including live performances, assistive hearing loop, wheelchair-accessible facilities, and a restaurant. The business recommends getting tickets in advance to enhance visitors' experience.

Customers rave about their visits to The Getty, highlighting key points such as:

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County#2
What stands out

  • Visitors appreciate the well-curated and extensive fossil collection.

  • The layout of the museum allows for a flexible exploration experience.

  • The museum offers engaging exhibits and interactive areas for children.

  • Free admission for LA county residents and students during specified hours is a bonus.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

4.811,732 reviews
900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007, United States

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers a wide range of captivating exhibits and experiences for visitors of all ages. With a diverse collection that includes fossils, gems, minerals, mammals, birds, and more, this museum provides an informative journey through natural history. From the interactive Dinosaur Hall to the fascinating gem and mineral displays, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you are a local resident or a tourist exploring California, a trip to this museum is sure to be a memorable and educational experience. Venture into the past and discover the wonders of the natural world at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County.

California Science Center, Los Angeles#3
What stands out

  • A great museum for the whole family, with free entrance and lots of interactive games.

  • Surprisingly big space with interesting exhibits, including a space shuttle simulator and a children's play area.

  • An incredible place for science enthusiasts, with exhibits that coincide with educational standards.

  • Well-made IMAX movies and a kelp forest exhibit with a tunnel beneath it.

California Science Center

4.717,769 reviews
700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037, United States

The California Science Center is a renowned science museum located in Los Angeles, California. The center offers a wide range of exhibits and interactive activities for visitors of all ages. One of the highlights of the center is the space area, which features a space shuttle simulator that provides an immersive experience for space enthusiasts. Additionally, there is a children's area with puzzles and activities, making it a great destination for families.

Customers have raved about their experiences at the California Science Center, praising the variety of exhibits and the thoughtful organization of the museum. Some key points from customer reviews include:

Visitors also appreciate the amenities available at the center, such as a food court, accessible elevators, and gender-neutral toilets. With its dedication to providing high-quality educational experiences, the California Science Center continues to delight and inspire its guests.

The Broad, Los Angeles#4
What stands out

  • Beautifully curated museum with interactive and Instagram-friendly pieces.

  • Great modern art museum with unique architecture and an excellent collection.

  • Free admission with advanced booking recommended for popular attractions.

  • Fun and engaging for both art enthusiasts and beginners.

The Broad

4.714,675 reviews
221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

The Broad is a captivating modern art museum located in Los Angeles. With a high rating of 4.7, it is clear that visitors are impressed by the museum's offerings. There are various amenities available, such as a restaurant and toilets, making it a convenient and pleasant experience for guests. The museum also offers live performances as one of its highlights, adding an extra layer of entertainment.

Visitors have left glowing reviews about The Broad, summarizing their experiences into key points:

Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles#5
What stands out

  • Visitors praise the incredible views of the LA skyline, Hollywood sign, and surrounding mountains.

  • The architecture of the observatory is described as beautiful, with unique domes that add to its charm.

  • Many customers appreciate the informative displays and exhibits both inside and outside the building.

  • Some visitors recommend taking advantage of the free Dash bus services to avoid parking hassles, as parking is limited.

Griffith Observatory

4.713,276 reviews
2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States

Griffith Observatory is a renowned Observatory located in Los Angeles, offering a variety of services and features for visitors to enjoy. With a fantastic ranking of 4.7 stars, it is clear that customers have had exceptional experiences here.

Whether you are a space enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply looking for a unique experience in Los Angeles, Griffith Observatory offers something special for everyone. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore this iconic landmark!

Los Angeles County Museum of Art#6
What stands out

  • A visitor highlighted the museum's unique experience and historical insight, though noted a preference for quantity at another location.

  • Another customer was deeply moved by the art on display, expressing emotional responses to the collection and praising the curation.

  • A reviewer found the installations to be interactive and enjoyable, appreciating the free admission for Los Angeles residents after 3:00 PM.

  • One guest mentioned the incredible experience of seeing works by Picasso in person and emphasized the importance of taking time to connect with the stories behind the art.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

4.618,607 reviews
5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, United States

Los Angeles County Museum of Art is a renowned Art museum located in Los Angeles. The museum offers a variety of amenities including a Restaurant and Toilets, making it a convenient and enjoyable place to visit. Accessibility is a priority, as the museum provides facilities such as a Wheelchair-accessible car park and a Wheelchair-accessible entrance. One of the highlights of the museum is live performances, adding a touch of creativity and entertainment to the visitor's experience.

With a ranking of 4.6, the museum has garnered numerous positive reviews from visitors. Some key points from the reviews include:

Overall, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art provides a rich cultural experience, engaging visitors with thought-provoking exhibits and interactive installations. It is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and offers a dynamic environment for all visitors to appreciate and enjoy.

Autry Museum of the American West, Los Angeles#7
What stands out

  • Informative history lessons and great artwork

  • Strong focus on indigenous cultures and Euro-American history

  • Large museum with interactive exhibits for kids

  • Free admission on certain days and special events throughout the year

Autry Museum of the American West

4.61,867 reviews
Griffith Park, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States

Autry Museum of the American West is a cultural gem located in Los Angeles, California. This museum offers a deep dive into the history and artistry of the American West, showcasing indigenous cultures and Euro-American history. Visitors can enjoy live performances, and the museum is family-friendly with special amenities like a restaurant and children's activities.

Customers have raved about their experiences at the Autry Museum, highlighting key points such as:

If you're looking to explore and appreciate the rich history of the American West, be sure to visit the Autry Museum of the American West.

Hollywood Wax Museum, Los Angeles#8
What stands out

  • Visitors love the opportunity to visit two attractions when purchasing tickets, making it a great value.

  • The detailed wax figures and backdrops provide excellent photo opportunities for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

  • The option to buy a multi-pass to visit both the wax museum and Ripley's Believe It or Not enhances the overall experience.

  • Guests appreciate the affordability and the availability of props for taking pictures with the wax celebrities.

Hollywood Wax Museum

4.44,324 reviews
6767 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

Hollywood Wax Museum is a must-visit attraction in Los Angeles for both locals and tourists alike. With a diverse collection of detailed wax figures of celebrities, visitors can get up close and personal with their favorite stars. The museum offers fun and interactive experiences, with some figures even having props for visitors to use in photos.

Customers rave about their experiences at the Hollywood Wax Museum, with key points highlighted in reviews:

So, whether you're a movie buff, a music fan, or just looking for a fun time in Hollywood, the Hollywood Wax Museum is a fantastic destination to explore.

GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live, Los Angeles#9

GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live

4.42,103 reviews
800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live · Museum · 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States

Travel Town Gift Shop, Los Angeles#10
What stands out

  • A wonderful historic place for the whole family. Visitors loved riding the train and exploring the museum.

  • Perfect for little kids! The museum offers the opportunity to see and climb on old trains, and the miniature train ride is great for the whole family.

  • Travel Town is a fun and leisurely experience. Visitors enjoyed walking through the train engines and cars, as well as participating in tours and activities offered at the museum.

  • Great place for kids' birthdays and get-togethers. The affordability of renting cars and the overall experience provided were highly appreciated by families.

Travel Town Gift Shop

4.6672 reviews
Travel Town Museum 5200 Zoo Drive next to the 134 Freeway at the Forest Lawn Drive exit, 5200 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States

Travel Town Gift Shop is a charming gift shop located at Travel Town Museum in Los Angeles. The shop offers a variety of unique gifts and souvenirs for visitors to remember their train-themed experience. In addition to shopping, customers can enjoy exploring the museum and taking a ride on the miniature train.

Customer reviews highlight the following key points:

If you're looking for a unique and enjoyable experience in Los Angeles, don't miss out on visiting Travel Town Gift Shop at Travel Town Museum.

Discovery Cube Los Angeles#11
What stands out

  • This was a fun visit with great educational content about the environment.

  • Perfect place for babies with stroller-friendly areas and engaging displays.

  • Fantastic field trip destination with a variety of hands-on activities for kids.

Discovery Cube Los Angeles

4.41,915 reviews
11800 Foothill Blvd, Sylmar, CA 91342, United States

Discovery Cube Los Angeles is a fascinating Museum located in Sylmar, CA. The museum offers a range of educational and interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. One of the main highlights of this museum is the Live performances available for all guests.

Accessibility is a top priority at Discovery Cube Los Angeles, with features such as a Wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet. Moreover, the amenities include a restaurant and toilets for visitors' convenience. The venue is known for being Family friendly, making it an ideal destination for families with children.

Customer reviews rave about the engaging activities available at the museum. Summarizing the feedback, visitors appreciate the hands-on activities, educational content, and the overall atmosphere of the museum. Some key points from the reviews include:

Chinese American Museum, Los Angeles#12

Chinese American Museum

4.6215 reviews
425 N Los Angeles St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

Chinese American Museum · Museum · 425 N Los Angeles St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States

World of Illusions Los Angeles#13
What stands out

  • Visitors appreciate the helpful and friendly staff, like Riel, Tim, and David, who go above and beyond to make the experience enjoyable.

  • The museum is ideal for solo visitors, families, and groups looking for a fun and unique activity in LA.

  • Guests love the interactive nature of the exhibits and the opportunity to capture stunning photos with the guidance of the knowledgeable staff.

World of Illusions Los Angeles

4.12,624 reviews
6751 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

World of Illusions Los Angeles is a mesmerizing spot in the heart of Los Angeles where visitors can dive into a world of creativity and optical illusions. The museum offers a wide array of illusions that are perfect for creating mind-bending photos and memories that will last a lifetime.

Whether you're a photography enthusiast, a family looking for a day of fun, or a group of friends seeking a memorable adventure, World of Illusions Los Angeles is sure to amaze and delight. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore this captivating museum in the City of Angels.

iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Hollywood, Los Angeles#14
What stands out

  • Thrilling experience for the whole family, with extra care for children

  • Professional and kind instructors make the adventure enjoyable

  • Great fun and highly recommended by satisfied customers

  • An amazing, safe, and unforgettable adventure for all thrill-seekers

iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Hollywood

4.5259 reviews
1000 Universal Studios Blvd #1, Universal City, CA 91608, United States

iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Hollywood offers an exhilarating experience for all ages. With professional skydivers using the facility for training, you can trust the expertise of the staff. The little ones are well taken care of, receiving pre-flight education and breaks between flights. Customers can adjust the height of their flight and are closely monitored by pros throughout for a safe and controlled experience. The reviews speak for themselves:

SLocal option
#15
What stands out

  • Aaron was an excellent tour guide, providing a fun and informative After Dark tour with great jokes and insights into Hollywood's hot spots.

  • Drivers like DJ make the tours hilarious and entertaining, offering close-up views of celebrity homes and stunning city sunsets.

  • While some customers praised the well-designed tours and knowledgeable guides, others faced issues with audio quality on the bus.

  • Customers appreciate the tours as a great introduction to LA, showcasing celebrity homes and areas like Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive.

Star Track Tours

4.3268 reviews
6735 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

Star Track Tours is a premier Sightseeing tour agency located in Los Angeles, CA. With a Ranking of 4.3 out of 5 stars, it's evident that customers have had exceptional experiences.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Whether you're a first-time visitor or a repeat guest, Star Track Tours promises an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, knowledge, and stunning sights.

Guinness World Records Museum, Los Angeles#16
What stands out

  • Short Museum with lots of Hands-On interaction

  • Great for kids, included in combo packages for a better deal

  • Interactive exhibits and clean facilities

  • Quick walkthrough, some outdated facts, but enjoyable for kids

Guinness World Records Museum

3.8507 reviews
6764 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States

Guinness World Records Museum is a popular tourist attraction located in Los Angeles, CA. Visitors can expect a short museum experience filled with hands-on interactions and fun facts about world records. The museum is known for its clean facilities and inclusion in combo packages with other nearby attractions.

Summary

The comparison at a glance

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1The Getty 4.830,663
#2Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County 4.811,732
#3California Science Center 4.717,769
#4The Broad 4.714,675
#5Griffith Observatory 4.713,276
#6Los Angeles County Museum of Art 4.618,607
#7Autry Museum of the American West 4.61,867
#8Hollywood Wax Museum 4.44,324
#9GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live 4.42,103
#10Travel Town Gift Shop 4.6672
#11Discovery Cube Los Angeles 4.41,915
#12Chinese American Museum 4.6215
#13World of Illusions Los Angeles 4.12,624
#14iFLY Indoor Skydiving - Hollywood 4.5259
#15Star Track Tours 4.3268
#16Guinness World Records Museum 3.8507

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Map of Rainy Day Activities in Los Angeles

Don't let the rain put a damper on your day in Los Angeles! While sunny skies are typically the norm in LA, occasional rainy days can still happen. However, there are plenty of indoor activities to enjoy around the city that will keep you entertained and dry. Check out the map below for a list of fun things to do on a rainy day in Los Angeles.

How to choose rainy day activities in Los Angeles

  1. Indoor shopping malls.
  2. Museums and galleries.
  3. Libraries and bookstores.
  4. Movie theaters.
  5. Indoor amusement parks.
  6. Art and craft classes.
  7. Spa days.
  8. Indoor sports facilities.
  9. Aquariums and zoos.
  10. Escape rooms.
  11. Concert venues.
  12. Wine tasting rooms.
  13. Cooking classes.
  14. Indoor trampoline parks.
  15. Bowling alleys.
  16. Comedy clubs.

Frequently asked questions

What are some indoor activities to do on a rainy day?

On a rainy day, you can visit the many museums in the city such as the Getty Center, the Broad, or the Natural History Museum. You can also check out indoor shopping centers like the Grove or the Beverly Center for some retail therapy. If you prefer a more relaxing day, consider booking a spa day or catching a movie at a local cinema. Additionally, exploring indoor markets like Grand Central Market or the Original Farmers Market can provide a fun foodie experience. For those interested in history, consider visiting the USS Iowa or the Grammy Museum for an educational and entertaining rainy day outing. Another option is to attend a live performance at a local theater or concert hall, as Los Angeles has a vibrant arts scene with many options for entertainment. Lastly, consider taking a cooking class or trying out a new restaurant to make the most of your rainy day.

Where are some family-friendly indoor activities in the city?

For families looking for indoor activities on a rainy day, consider visiting the California Science Center or the Petersen Automotive Museum for interactive exhibits that cater to all ages. The LA Zoo is also a great option, as many of its exhibits are sheltered from the rain. Indoor play spaces like Kidspace Museum or the Zimmer Children's Museum are perfect for younger children to stay active and engaged. Additionally, bowling alleys, trampoline parks, and arcade centers are popular choices for families looking for some indoor fun. You can also check out family-friendly restaurants with play areas, or consider hosting a movie marathon at home with popcorn and snacks for a cozy day in. Lastly, don't forget about local libraries that often host storytime sessions and arts and crafts activities for children.

Is there anything unique to do on a rainy day in the city?

For a unique rainy day experience in the city, consider visiting the Griffith Observatory and planetarium to learn more about astronomy and space exploration. You can also explore the historic Bradbury Building, known for its stunning architecture featured in movies like Blade Runner. If you enjoy art, consider visiting The Last Bookstore, a massive bookstore with a unique art installation made of books. The Museum of Illusions is another quirky option, offering interactive exhibits that play with perception and optical illusions. Another unique activity is to visit the Annenberg Space for Photography, a museum dedicated to showcasing photography as an art form. Lastly, consider spending a rainy day exploring the diverse neighborhoods of the city, from Little Tokyo to Olvera Street, to discover hidden gems and cultural experiences.

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