Los Angeles 2026｜10 Must-Do Experiences for Visiting Parents

The day I watched the sunset with my parents at Griffith Observatory, I realized LA shouldn’t just be about “checking boxes.” 🌇 The best way to enjoy this city is to dive into its daily rhythms—hiking, stargazing, drum circles, exploring markets—switching effortlessly between different modes of living in a single day. Here are 10 experiences I think are absolutely worth sharing when bringing your parents to LA for the first time: 🌌 Stargazing at Griffith Observatory Hike up in the late afternoon and watch the city light up beneath you. The 1935 Zeiss telescope here has been used by over 7 million people. Come early to explore the park trails and avoid the sunset rush. 🧘‍♀️ Hiking + Free Yoga at Runyon Canyon Enjoy panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign and the city. Free yoga sessions are held Mon/Wed/Fri at 10:30 AM (North Fuller Ave entrance)—a $5–15 donation is suggested. The vibe feels like a true locals’ social scene. 🎭 Venice Beach Boardwalk A lively mix of skateboarders, magicians, street performers, and all kinds of quirky characters. On weekend evenings, don’t miss the drum circle at sunset—it’s infectious! For a quieter vibe, explore the canals around 25th Street. 🚣‍♀️ 🎨 Mural Tour in the Arts District Over two miles of incredible street art—it’s easy to miss the stories without a guide. LA Art Tours are led by artists who share fascinating behind-the-scenes insights. A leisurely two-hour walk here is truly captivating. 🎬 Outdoor Movies at Hollywood Forever Cemetery Summer nights here mean watching films projected onto a mausoleum wall while lounging on the grass. By day, you can also visit the gravesite of Judy Garland. 🍸 No Vacancy – Hidden Speakeasy Bar The entrance alone is an experience (no spoilers!). Twelve master mixologists recreate Prohibition-era cocktails in a 1920s-style atmosphere. 🌮 Grand Central Market – A World of Flavors Open since 1917, this food hall is a cultural mosaic. Don’t miss The Donut Man—their strawberry-stuffed donut is an LA icon. 🍩 🌳 Hike to the Wisdom Tree The lone tree that survived a wildfire, now a spot for notes and mementos left by hikers. On clear days, you can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean. 🌊 El Matador Beach – Caves & Cliffs A photography paradise with sea caves, cliffs, and epic sunsets. ⚠️ Steep path down and limited parking—arrive early! 🛍 Fashion District – Hidden Gems & Sample Sales Over 100 blocks of wholesale fashion. Monthly sample sales are held on the last Friday (9 AM–3 PM) at spots like California Market Center, Cooper Design Space, and The New Mart. If you want to experience LA beyond just snapping photos at landmarks, try planning your visit this way. You’ll discover: Los Angeles is way more fun than you imagined. ✨ #TravelWithParents #FamilyTravel #LAWithElders #LosAngelesGuide #BeyondTourism #LocalExperiences #ParentFriendlyLA #MeaningfulTravel