Los Angeles has many scenic walking and hiking trails. Getting in shape can be free. Skip the gym on Sunday, and head toward Hollywood. Runyon Canyon is a 130 acre park with a variety of trails to choose from. Make it to the top of the trail, and you can enjoy a view of the entire city. At the beginning of the trail, visitors get a view of the Hollywood sign. The trail provides many ideal photo opportunities. There is no cost to enter Runyon Canyon, and pets are welcome. Griffith Park offers great hiking and walking trails as well. Take the trail up to the Griffith Observatory, and take advantage of their free attractions. Admission to the Observatory is free on certain days throughout the year, but you can always enjoy the exhibits and displays for free.
If you or your young ones have a love for dinosaurs, visit the La Brea Tar Pits. Located in Hancock Park, the La Brea Tar Pits is home to many Ice Age fossils. There are 400 species whose fossils can be discovered at the Pits. Take a tour of the Walt Disney Concert Hall, and learn about the architecture and historical facts about this iconic venue. There are plenty of museums with free admission. The Getty Villa is located across from the Pacific Ocean in Malibu. The museum is dedicated to the study of ancient Greece, Rome and Etruria cultures. The gardens and fountains face the ocean, offering clear views and picture opportunities. The California Science Center and Los Angeles Maritime Museum are also free to explore.
You can always count on free admission to the beach. Go for a swim, surf or body surf. Pack a lunch and picnic by the water. Save money on a tanning bed, and get some color by lying out on the sand. At Zuma Beach you can play volleyball, run along the beach, or hit the waves for free. You can park in the beach lot for a fee or park on the street for free. Visit Hermosa Beach and you can visit shops, bars and restaurants after a day on the sand. Hermosa Beach hosts free concerts and special events throughout the year. There are plenty of parking lots around the beach, but you can park for free if you're willing to walk a few blocks. In Marina del Rey you can bike, roller blade, jog, and kayak in the scenic water routes.
