Even in the midst of a pandemic, Los Angeles is full of things to do. If you are looking for safe activities for a date night, family outing, or solo adventure, there are plenty of fun options to explore. Whether you’re interested in checking out LA’s extensive dining scene, getting out into nature, or discovering new art, there’s something in LA for everyone. Many of Los Angeles’ best landmarks are still accessible to locals and visitors. Here is a list of 4 fun, affordable activities you can do in Los Angeles in 2021.
- Take a drive around the coast .
One of Los Angeles’ defining features is it’s close proximity to great beaches and coastal scenery, but many locals don’t take advantage. If you’re looking to get out of the house, head over to the coast and take a cruise up the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu or Ventura. Steven Taylor Los Angeles native, recommends LA residents and tourists alike check out the Palos Verdes peninsula, where you can see beautiful oceanfront views, winding coastal roads, and dramatic bluffs. Soak up the scenery, and check out some impressive real estate along the drive!
- Experience the Los Angeles dining scene from home.
Los Angeles is known for its diversity, culture, and creativity, all which contribute to the city’s top-notch dining scene. While restaurants are still closed for indoor dining as of January 2021, plenty of LA’s best restaurants are open for to-go orders. Chefs are getting more and more creative, and many spots have multiple course tasting menus available for those who want to step up their dining-at-home game. The LA Times is even hosting virtual dinner parties that are a collaboration with local chefs and celebrities. Just because you can’t dine out doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the best food experiences LA has to offer.
- Take a bike ride.
If you’re feeling cooped up inside, getting out to take a bike ride can be a great way to reset. If you don’t own a bike, there are many places to rent along the boardwalk in Venice. If you’re looking for a city ride, you can venture into downtown Santa Monica to ride along their well-developed bike lanes. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can bike the Strand, a twenty-two mile bike path along the Marvin Braude Trail, which traces the coastline. Start at Will Rogers state beach, and make your way all the way down to Torrance if you’re ready for a workout! Los Angeles native, Steven Taylor, likes to explore the tail with his kids, making it an event for the whole family.
- Experience a drive-in movie.
Due to the pandemic, many people are missing the experience of going to the movie theatre, and tired of watching movies on the couch. The good news is that the Southern California area has several options for drive-in movie theaters that make for a great family outing or date night. Drive in movies are affordable, fun, and can be a nostalgic throwback to simpler times. Lucky for you, LA Magazine put together this comprehensive list of current drive-in and outdoor movie options.