The 15 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles This Weekend (That Are Better With People)

Los Angeles is a city of endless possibilities, and every weekend brings a new wave of concerts, pop-ups, markets, and events. But let's be honest: the paradox of LA is that having a million options can feel just as overwhelming as having none, especially when you're trying to coordinate with friends (or find them in the first place).

This isn't just another list of things to do. This is a curated guide to the best of LA this weekend, with a focus on experiences that are genuinely better when you share them with other people.

1. Hike Runyon Canyon at Golden Hour

Why it's great for groups: The trails are wide, the views are epic, and the social energy is palpable. It's the perfect low-stakes activity for a new group of friends.

2. Catch a Movie at Rooftop Cinema Club

Why it's great for groups: Watching a classic movie with the LA skyline as your backdrop is a magical experience. The individual headphones make it easy to tune in, and the pre-movie DJ sets are a great time to chat.

3. Explore the Smorgasburg Food Market

Why it's great for groups: With over 100 food vendors, Smorgasburg is a choose-your-own-adventure for your taste buds. Everyone can get what they want, and you can share and sample a little bit of everything.

4. Walk the Venice Beach Boardwalk

Why it's great for groups: The people-watching is second to none, and there's a constant stream of entertainment, from the skaters at the skate park to the street performers on the boardwalk.

5. Take a Ceramics or Pottery Class

Why it's great for groups: Doing something creative with your hands is a great way to bond. You'll all be beginners together, and you'll have a physical object to remember the day by.

6. Visit the Getty Center

Why it's great for groups: The Getty is more than just a museum; it's a stunning architectural campus with beautiful gardens and incredible views.

7. Do a Taco Crawl Through East LA or Highland Park

Why it's great for groups: LA has the best tacos in the country, and a taco crawl is a delicious way to explore a new neighborhood.

8. Catch Live Music at The Hollywood Bowl

Why it's great for groups: Picnicking at the Bowl before a show is a quintessential LA experience. You can bring your own food and wine, and enjoy a meal together before the music starts.

9. Spend a Day at the Beach in Malibu

Why it's great for groups: Malibu's beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world. Pack a cooler, bring a frisbee, and spend the day soaking up the sun.

10. Go to a Dodgers Game

Why it's great for groups: There's nothing like the energy of a baseball game on a warm summer night. Grab a Dodger Dog, a beer, and cheer on the home team.

11. Explore a Farmers Market

Why it's great for groups: The Santa Monica and Hollywood farmers markets are two of the best in the city. You can wander the stalls, sample fresh produce, and pick up ingredients for a group dinner.

12. See a Comedy Show

Why it's great for groups: LA is the comedy capital of the world, and you can see some of the biggest names in the business for a fraction of the price of a concert ticket.

13. Go Bowling at Highland Park Bowl

Why it's great for groups: This beautifully restored 1920s bowling alley is a great place for a low-key, fun night out. They have great cocktails and a surprisingly good food menu.

14. Visit the Huntington Library and Gardens

Why it's great for groups: The Huntington is a massive complex with a world-class art collection and over a dozen themed gardens. You can spend a whole day exploring.

15. Take a Tour of the Warner Bros. Studio

Why it's great for groups: Get a behind-the-scenes look at how movies and TV shows are made. It's a fun and fascinating experience for any movie lover.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is there to do in Los Angeles this weekend? Every weekend in LA brings a new wave of events, markets, concerts, and pop-ups. Check local event listings and this guide for curated picks that are better with a group.

What are the best free things to do in LA? Some of the best free things include hiking Runyon Canyon, visiting the Getty Center (free admission), walking the Venice Beach Boardwalk, and exploring farmers markets.

What is the most popular thing to do in Los Angeles? The most popular activities include visiting iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory, hitting the beach, exploring food markets, and catching live music at venues like the Hollywood Bowl.