15 Best Things To Do At Night In Los Angeles, The City Of Angels

Los Angeles unfurls under a canopy of stars and city lights—nowhere more striking than from Griffith Observatory. Poised atop Mount Hollywood since its opening in 1935, this beacon of public astronomy draws more than 1.6 million visitors annually. Its domed silhouette, an Art Deco marvel funded by Griffith J. Griffith’s 1919 bequest, bridges the cosmos and the city, offering sweeping vistas of downtown shimmering below and Hollywood’s iconic sign beyond. A symbol of LA’s blend of innovation and accessibility, the observatory remains free to explore, upholding its founder’s belief that science should belong to everyone.

But LA’s nocturnal pulse extends far beyond the hills. The Sunset Strip dazzles with neon-lit clubs and live music venues, while downtown rooftop bars offer craft cocktails with panoramic city views. The renowned Original Farmers Market hums through the evening, and Hollywood Boulevard stretches out in cinematic spectacle beneath the Walk of Fame’s famous stars. Whether you wander amid Venice’s eclectic boardwalk or glide along Mulholland Drive on a night-time cruise, the city’s after-dark attractions reveal LA as a metropolis that, once the sun dips, sparkles with endless possibility.

In this guide, you’ll find 15 handpicked ways to experience the city after sunset—moments that blend iconic glamor with local soul. Because LA doesn’t just stay up late—it comes alive.

1. Griffith Observatory & Stargazing

Griffith Observatory is Los Angeles’ most iconic night-viewing destination, perched 1,134 feet above sea level with an uninterrupted view of the city and sky. Opened in 1935, this Art Deco masterpiece was built through a donation by Griffith J. Griffith, who believed astronomy should be accessible to all. Today, millions come not just for science, but for the breathtaking nightscape—LA’s skyline glowing to the south, the Pacific shimmering beyond, and constellations dancing above.

As night falls, the observatory grounds turn electric with quiet awe. Telescopes are set up on the lawn, guided by volunteers who share views of the moon, Saturn’s rings, or star clusters. Inside, interactive exhibits remain open, and the planetarium continues to offer shows that make space both thrilling and understandable.

Even if you don’t step inside, the view from the terraces alone is worth the visit. Whether you're on a romantic date, solo with a camera, or showing out-of-town friends what LA really looks like, this is the place to be.

2. Sunset Strip

Few places capture the spirit of Los Angeles nightlife like the Sunset Strip. Just over a mile long, this stretch of Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood comes alive after dark with music, color, and history. From the neon glow of The Roxy to the gritty charm of Whisky a Go Go and the moody legacy of The Viper Room, the Strip has been a proving ground for musical legends for decades. Bands like The Doors, Guns N’ Roses, and Red Hot Chili Peppers all had early gigs here—and the tradition continues.

But the Strip isn’t just about rock. You’ll find rooftop cocktail lounges, late-night taco spots, and comedy clubs like The Comedy Store, where big names and fresh faces share the same mic. Even on a quiet Tuesday, something’s always happening—an open mic, a surprise DJ set, or a celebrity sighting outside the Rainbow Bar.

It’s a place where stories start and nights stretch longer than expected. Whether you're dressed to impress or keeping it casual, the Strip welcomes everyone with a blend of glamour and edge that only LA can offer.

3. Rooftop Bars in Downtown LA

Downtown Los Angeles takes nightlife to another level—literally. Rooftop bars here offer more than cocktails; they deliver cinematic views of the city’s skyline, framed by palm trees, neon glow, and warm California air. Each rooftop has its own personality. Some pulse with DJs and dance floors, others lean into velvet lounges, fire pits, and ambient conversation under the stars.

The Standard (when open) is a downtown legend, known for its poolside parties and iconic views. Perch LA, perched 15 stories above the Historic Core, channels a French bistro vibe with live jazz and moody lighting. Upstairs at the Ace Hotel draws creatives and artists with its eclectic crowd, while Broken Shaker adds a tropical flair, complete with tiki drinks and lush greenery.

What ties them all together is that unmistakable LA energy—laid-back yet dressed up, familiar yet fresh. Rooftops here don’t just serve drinks; they elevate every night into something memorable.

4. The Original Farmers Market

Since 1934, The Original Farmers Market at 3rd and Fairfax has been a beloved LA staple—offering flavors from around the world in one inviting space. And while it buzzes during the day with shoppers and families, it transforms in the evening into a more relaxed, twilight market experience filled with warm lighting, comfort food, and live music.

Under string lights and the glow of retro neon, locals gather for casual dinners at long communal tables. You’ll find everything from Brazilian barbecue and authentic Middle Eastern shawarma to handmade ice cream, crepes, and oysters on the half shell. It’s not a loud nightlife scene—it’s a conversation-friendly, palate-pleasing way to spend an LA evening.

Live music is often on the schedule, especially during summer nights, when the market hosts jazz trios, bluegrass bands, or Latin ensembles. The combination of music, food, and open air creates an atmosphere that’s both social and laid-back.

5. Hollywood Walk of Fame & Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard doesn’t sleep. By day, it’s a tourist haven—but by night, it becomes something else entirely: theatrical, neon-lit, and unmistakably Los Angeles. The Hollywood Walk of Fame stretches across 15 blocks, its iconic pink stars glowing under the streetlights. At night, the area hums with performers, music, and a steady stream of visitors capturing the magic.

Stand before the TCL Chinese Theatre, where premieres still roll out red carpets and where handprints of legends fill the cement. The Dolby Theatre, home to the Oscars, sits just a few steps away. Street artists perform as Spiderman, Elvis, or Beyoncé, posing for photos under the electric glow of LED billboards.

Restaurants and bars nearby offer rooftop views, strong drinks, and celebrity sightings if you’re lucky. For something low-key but rich in atmosphere, late-night diners serve coffee and comfort food just like the old Hollywood days.

6. Santa Monica Pier

When the sun goes down, the Santa Monica Pier lights up—literally and emotionally. The Ferris wheel glows in vivid colors, reflections dancing across the Pacific. Street performers gather crowds along the wooden planks, music drifts through the ocean breeze, and families, couples, and late-night wanderers all share the same sense of joy.

Though it’s often associated with daytime fun, the pier at night offers a totally different experience. Pacific Park stays open into the evening, letting you ride the coaster or Ferris wheel with the city skyline behind you and the dark sea stretching out ahead. Arcade games beep in retro rhythm, and food stands serve fresh churros, cotton candy, and funnel cakes until late.

There’s something nostalgic and cinematic about it—like stepping into a scene from a movie where the night is young and the possibilities endless. Whether you’re taking a moonlit stroll, riding the carousel, or just listening to the waves beneath your feet, the pier delivers a kind of nighttime magic unique to Southern California.

7. Koreatown’s Night Markets and Karaoke Bars

Koreatown, known simply as K-Town to locals, is LA’s heartbeat after dark. It’s one of the few neighborhoods in the city that seems to get busier as the night goes on. Food stalls, 24-hour restaurants, neon-lit lounges, and karaoke bars all spill over with energy well into the early morning.

The night markets here are sensory adventures—grilled meats sizzling over open flames, spicy tteokbokki steaming in bowls, and crowds gathering around tables lined with soju and beer. Restaurants like Quarters Korean BBQ or BCD Tofu House are open until 2 AM or later, serving savory meals that hit differently in the middle of the night.

K-Town’s karaoke scene is legendary. Private-room karaoke bars like Pharaoh or Karaoke Bleu let you sing your heart out in comfort, often paired with full menus and bottle service. It’s not about singing perfectly—it’s about the vibe, the laughter, and the freedom to be loud and joyful with friends.

8. Mulholland Drive Scenic Night Drive

Driving Mulholland Drive at night is a classic LA experience—a quiet, winding escape through the hills with sweeping views of the city below. Stretching from the Hollywood Hills to the edge of the San Fernando Valley, this legendary road offers one of the most cinematic night drives in the world. It’s where locals go to clear their heads and where visitors come to see Los Angeles sparkle in all directions.

The city lights stretch endlessly to the horizon, and from certain viewpoints, you can see the downtown skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and even planes landing at LAX. Turnouts like the Hollywood Bowl Overlook or Universal City Overlook offer safe spots to pull over, take in the silence, and snap incredible nighttime photos.

There’s a romantic stillness to it—a reminder that beyond LA’s chaos, there’s always space to breathe and look out over the world.

9. Night Tour of the Hollywood Hills

There’s something unforgettable about exploring the Hollywood Hills at night—when the city below glows like a galaxy and the streets wind quietly through some of the most exclusive real estate in the world. Night tours through this iconic neighborhood offer a thrilling mix of mystery, glamour, and skyline views that feel both intimate and cinematic.

Many guided tours focus on celebrity homes and Hollywood history, cruising past gates and estates that have belonged to stars past and present. Others lean into the haunted legends of the hills, sharing tales of ghost sightings and strange happenings tied to LA’s golden age. Whether you're on a bus, in an open-air Jeep, or using a private guide, it’s a unique way to explore the layers of Los Angeles from a higher perspective.

For those who prefer a more active approach, hiking groups also offer moonlit treks through Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park, revealing the Hollywood Sign in soft moonlight and the city glittering beneath your feet.

10. Venice Beach Boardwalk

By night, Venice Beach takes on a mood all its own—less crowded, more mysterious, and just as magnetic. While most of the vendors and performers pack up after sundown, the boardwalk still buzzes with energy. Locals skate down the palm-lined paths, couples walk hand in hand under the glow of string lights, and the ocean tide rolls in with a rhythmic hush.

The air smells like salt and street food. Lights from nearby restaurants and beach bars cast long shadows on the sand, and conversations drift from patios where live music or DJ sets echo just loud enough to catch your ear. Some shops stay open late, selling everything from handmade jewelry to California streetwear.

The scene is eclectic and raw—creative types gather for impromptu drum circles or poetry readings, while surfers dry off beside bonfires. It’s not a tourist trap at night; it’s a hangout for those who really know LA.

11. Downtown Art Walk (Monthly)

Once a month, Downtown LA transforms into a giant open-air gallery during the Downtown Art Walk, a cultural event that blends creativity, community, and nightlife into one energetic evening. Usually held on the second Thursday of the month, it draws thousands to the Historic Core, where galleries, pop-ups, and artists open their doors well into the night.

The streets fill with art lovers, street performers, food trucks, and live music. Buildings that are usually quiet after hours pulse with activity. You might stumble into a warehouse-turned-gallery filled with immersive light installations, or find an alley hosting a spoken-word session by candlelight. The variety is endless—photography, street art, sculpture, and digital pieces share space in a neighborhood that thrives on reinvention.

Bars and restaurants join the celebration with specials, DJs, and art-inspired menus. Some shops stay open late, turning the whole night into a creative crawl through one of LA’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

12. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) & Urban Light

By day, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, LACMA is the largest art museum in the western U.S., but by night, it becomes one of LA’s most photographed and quietly romantic spaces. Even if you’re not stepping inside the galleries, its exterior installation—Chris Burden’s Urban Light—draws visitors from across the city. Made of 202 restored vintage streetlamps, it’s both art and atmosphere, glowing softly against the night sky and inviting everything from selfies to marriage proposals.

The museum campus stays lively after dark. Special evening events often include jazz performances, film screenings, or after-hours exhibit access. The courtyard buzzes with conversation, and the soft lighting from Urban Light spills over Wilshire Boulevard, creating a peaceful nighttime landmark that feels distinctly LA.

There’s something cinematic about it—the lamplight, the minimalist architecture, the mix of tourists and locals all drawn to this quiet moment in the middle of the city.

13. Catch the LA Philharmonic at Walt Disney Concert Hall

A night at Walt Disney Concert Hall is more than just a performance—it’s an architectural and sensory experience. Designed by Frank Gehry and opened in 2003, this stainless-steel marvel is home to the LA Philharmonic and a centerpiece of Downtown’s cultural scene. Its acoustics are legendary, often described as among the best in the world, making even a single cello note sound intimate and alive.

The LA Phil, led by visionary conductors like Gustavo Dudamel, performs everything from classical masterworks to bold, genre-crossing collaborations. Jazz nights, film score concerts, and contemporary premieres add to the dynamic programming. Even if you’re not a classical music aficionado, the sheer artistry on stage and the hall’s warm, organic interior draw you into something powerful.

Outside, the building glows softly under downtown lights. Pre-show dinners at nearby restaurants and rooftop bars make for a perfect evening out. It’s the kind of LA night that surprises—elegant, artistic, and soul-stirring.

14. Join a Midnight Movie Screening at New Beverly Cinema

If there’s a rite of passage for LA film lovers, it’s spending a midnight in the dark at New Beverly Cinema. Owned and personally curated by Quentin Tarantino, this historic theater celebrates the gritty, pulpy, and unforgettable corners of cinema history. Screenings span genres—from cult horror and ‘70s crime flicks to classic double features and Tarantino’s own private 35mm collection.

The theater itself is a time capsule: red velvet seats, analog projection booths, and a no-digital rule that prioritizes the feel of real film. Midnight showings here aren’t casual—they’re events. Fans show up in costume, quote lines, and cheer as the projector flickers to life. You’re not watching a movie; you’re joining a community.

Past midnight, the vibe shifts from laid-back to electric. Popcorn crackles, laughter erupts, and strangers bond over shared cinematic obsession. It’s a corner of LA that holds tight to its film roots while welcoming new fans every night.

15. Dance All Night at The Echo or Echoplex

For music lovers and night owls, The Echo and its downstairs sibling, Echoplex, are essential stops on LA’s live music and dance circuit. Tucked into the heart of Echo Park, these venues have built a reputation for raw energy, underground edge, and an unmatched ability to turn an ordinary night into something electric.

The Echo hosts indie rock, punk, and emerging hip-hop acts, often before they break big. The space is intimate—low ceilings, close quarters, and sound that fills every corner. Downstairs, Echoplex offers a larger space and a heavier bassline. The programming here leans into late-night DJ sets, Latin dance nights, 2000s throwback parties, and events like Funkmosphere or Emo Nite that have become LA traditions.

The vibe is always authentic and diverse. You’ll see vintage denim next to glitter heels, solo dancers beside big groups, all there to move, shout lyrics, or simply feel the rhythm. No bottle service, no velvet rope—just good music and a packed floor.

Conclusion

Los Angeles is a city that never sleeps, with countless ways to enjoy the night once the sun goes down. From gazing out at city lights from Griffith Observatory to exploring the electrifying atmosphere of the Sunset Strip and experiencing the famous Urban Light installation at LACMA, the best of Los Angeles at night captures the city’s beauty, energy, and charm. Each of LA’s neighborhoods brings a unique twist to nightlife, making the city an endless landscape of adventures waiting to be discovered after dark.

This list of the best things to do at night in LA offers something for everyone—stargazers, music lovers, art enthusiasts, and foodies alike. For those craving quieter moments, scenic drives along Mulholland Drive or a moonlit stroll at Santa Monica Pier provide perfect getaways. Meanwhile, the lively night markets and rooftop bars offer a taste of LA’s famous entertainment scene. As you explore the city’s unique blend of glamor and laid-back vibes, you’ll find that Los Angeles nightlife truly defines the spirit of this incredible city.

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FAQ

1. What are the best things to do at night in Los Angeles for first-time visitors?

First-time visitors will love LA’s iconic spots at night, like stargazing at Griffith Observatory, exploring the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and enjoying city views from a Downtown LA rooftop bar. The Santa Monica Pier also offers a festive night experience with rides, games, and ocean views.

2. Is Los Angeles safe to explore at night?

Many popular areas, such as Griffith Park, Santa Monica, and Downtown LA have active nightlife and are generally safe, especially in well-lit and crowded spots. As with any city, it’s best to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to busy areas.

3. Where can I go for family-friendly activities in Los Angeles at night?

Family-friendly nighttime activities include visiting Santa Monica Pier for games and rides, strolling through the Original Farmers Market for food and entertainment, and exploring Urban Light at LACMA for photos and art.

4. What are the top romantic spots in LA at night?

Romantic spots include the Griffith Observatory for stargazing, scenic views along Mulholland Drive, and rooftop bars in Downtown LA with cityscape views. The illuminated Urban Light installation at LACMA also creates a beautiful backdrop for a memorable evening.

5. Where can I find the best views of Los Angeles at night?

For the best nighttime views, visit Griffith Observatory or take a scenic drive along Mulholland Drive. Rooftop bars like Perch LA and The Standard in Downtown LA also provide excellent vantage points of the LA skyline.

6. Are there any good night markets in Los Angeles?

Koreatown is known for its lively night markets and late-night food options, offering a variety of Korean BBQ, street food, and unique local bites. The Original Farmers Market also stays open into the evening with food vendors and live music.

7. What time do LA’s rooftop bars close?

Most rooftop bars in Los Angeles close between midnight and 2 a.m. Closing times may vary by day and location, so checking specific bar hours before heading out is a good idea.

8. Can I visit the Hollywood Sign at night?

While you can’t hike directly to the Hollywood Sign at night, you can get fantastic views from Griffith Observatory or by driving through the Hollywood Hills. Many night tours also provide safe and scenic ways to view the Hollywood Sign after dark.