Best Things to Do in Los Angeles This September

What makes Los Angeles such an exciting city is that there is no shortage of things to do, from popular attractions to pop-up events to tucked away gems that cater to a wide range of interests.

Whether you’re a local or just visiting, going solo or in a group, hanging out with friends and family or planning some corporate team building activities, you will have no problem finding experiences that excite you, especially if you’re looking for things to do after work that make every evening in LA feel like a mini adventure.

The best part is that September happens to be one of the best times to explore Los Angeles as the end of summer brings cooler temperatures and smaller crowds.

You can catch a concert under the stars, stroll through a cultural festival, discover an unassuming art gallery, or simply enjoy the outdoors without the summer rush.

Below, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in LA this September to help you plan your next adventure.

Catch a Live Show at the Hollywood Bowl

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind way to enjoy the arts under the stars, you can’t go wrong with a show at The Hollywood Bowl. This legendary venue is a fantastic choice for outdoor shows in LA, combining a breathtaking setting with world-class entertainment.

Even if you’re not there for a performance, its iconic architecture and hillside backdrop make it a destination in itself.

But if you’re in the mood for some of the best live performances in LA, this is the place to be. Whether you’re into classic film scores, modern jazz, or indie acts, the Bowl’s diverse programming offers something for every taste.

September is an especially exciting month, with a full lineup of Hollywood Bowl concerts ranging from jazz and symphonies to movie nights featuring live orchestras. 

The Hollywood Bowl is also a great venue for group outings. Whether you’re planning a casual night out with friends or organizing team building activities, attending a show here is a memorable way to connect while experiencing one of the city’s most iconic cultural landmarks.

Watch a Movie – But Make It an LA Experience

When you’re in the birthplace of cinema, there’s more to watching a film than just entertainment—it’s a cultural event. There are endless venues from historic theaters to modern cineplexes.

The TCL Chinese Theatre offers a classic Hollywood vibe and is one of the most iconic cinema experiences in Los Angeles. Or take in the LA skyline while enjoying a cinema favorite with rooftop movies at the Rooftop Cinema Club.

One of the most iconic movie traditions is the annual Hollywood Forever Cemetery screenings, where film, history, and local culture come together at one of the most unique venues you will ever find! 

If you’re into something more modern or offbeat, head to Echo Park for indie showcases, or explore a host of outdoor movie screenings in LA in parks and plazas across the city.

Griffith Observatory: Sunset, Stargazing, and Skyline Views

The Griffith Observatory has so much to offer. It’s one of LA’s most recognizable landmarks and has been featured in countless Hollywood films like Rebel Without a Cause, The Terminator and La La Land.

It also provides some of the most panoramic LA viewpoints that include the downtown skyline, the Hollywood Sign, and breathtaking sunsets. It also costs nothing to visit making it one of the top free activities in Los Angeles for locals and visitors.

Visiting at night can also be an astronomical treat with Griffith Observatory stargazing available to the through public telescopes. The observatory also offers guided programs that dive into the wonders of the cosmos.

With so much going for it, Griffith Observatory is a must stop for anyone, whether you’re with friends or hosting a team-building outing. You can even make a day of it – explore the observatory, its grounds and take in the sunset, then settle in for some stargazing at night.

The Last Bookstore: A Labyrinth of LA Culture

Even if you’re not a bookworm, The Last Bookstore LA is a cultural cornerstone of the city that is well worth a visit. It’s also one of the most unique bookstores in LA.

It has endless books spanning 2 floors, tunnels made of books and little art shops featuring local artists, making it one of the most photographed locations in LA.

With everything from novels, graphic novels, or vintage art books, it’s an avid reader’s paradise. But there’s lots to take in even for casual visitors.

Music lovers might enjoy their vinyl selection. There’s a cute little coffee shop upstairs. And there’s even a rare book collection if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind gift for the book lover in your life. 

Beyond the books, the space itself feels like walking through an art installation, offering one of the most memorable cultural experiences in LA. It’s also an excellent place to check out while on a team outing, giving colleagues a chance to explore, chat, and discover hidden gems together.

Farmer’s Market LA: Fresh Finds and Local Flavor

For an intersection of fresh food, culture and community, there’s nothing like a farmer’s market LA experience and The Grove Farmer’s Market is arguably one of LA’s most popular.

It offers a wide range of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and even live entertainment and is a great spot to shop, eat, and soak in some lively atmosphere.

With so much to sample, buy—from tacos and baked goods to cold-pressed juices—you can easily spend a few hours here, whether you’re alone or with a group of friends or colleagues. It’s a great low-key destination for a casual day out or a team offsite.

And of course, you can’t talk about the farmer’s market without mentioning its vast array of local food in LA. Across its selections of street food and organic offerings, you’ll find a wide representation of LA’s cultural and culinary diversity all in one place.

Hollywood Blvd – Beyond the Stars

You can’t take in LA’s rich entertainment history without a visit to Hollywood Boulevard. It may have a reputation as a tourist hotspot, but it also features some of the most iconic LA landmarks, from the Hollywood Walk of Fame to the TCL Chinese Theatre.

But those are just the main attractions. Look more closely and you’ll see that there’s so much more to the boulevard than its most popular landmarks.

At Musso & Frank Grill, you’ll get more than just a culinary experience—it’s a classic location that is rich with Hollywood history and has been featured in countless films over the decades.

And for an ever deeper dive into film history, there’s the Hollywood Museum. An authentic LA experience would be incomplete without a visit to these quintessential Hollywood attractions.

But visiting Hollywood Boulevard doesn’t mean having to brave the throngs of tourists that flock to it everyday.

Off the beaten path, there is a bevy of hidden gems like historic theaters, tucked-away restaurants, and quirky museums that provide local flair away from all the crowds while showcasing the true character of LA.

The Getty Center: Art, Gardens, and Epic Views

With its rich art collection, striking architecture and free admission, is it any wonder The Getty Center is one of LA’s premier attractions? While you do have to pay $20 for parking, it’s still a very cost-effective place to visit—and its world class exhibits make it one of the most impressive free museums in LA.

If you’re not an art lover, there are still ample reasons to put the Getty on your must-visit list. With panoramic views of the city and some of the most lush outdoor gardens in LA, it’s an oasis amidst all the hustle and bustle and one of the most idyllic places to relax in LA.

It’s also a great place for a team-building event or a day of discovery. The scenic surroundings provide the perfect backdrop to spark creativity, expression and connection.

More Local Picks if You’ve Got Time

If you need more ideas for casual hangouts, team get-togethers or fun activities with friends in LA, here are a few more spots that are worth a visit, if you have the time:

• The colorful pedal boats on Echo Park Lake make for a fun and scenic outing
• The monthly DTLA Art Walk offers more local creativity with galleries, food trucks, and street performers.
• Jazz Nights at LACMA is one of the city’s best free music traditions
• Check out street tacos at Leo’s or Avenue 26 for some local late-night culinary flair
• Perch or Élephante are a couple of rooftop favorites that provide sunset views and delicious drinks

Wrapping Up Your September in LA

With the right itinerary, you can make September in Los Angeles truly unforgettable.

Whether you’re into art, food, music, film, or breathtaking views, LA offers endless ways to take advantage of the cooler weather and smaller crowds.

And if you’re planning a team outing or looking to strengthen connections at work, LA offers countless opportunities for memorable  team building activities at its most popular attractions.

For more inspiration and professionally designed experiences, check out BreakoutIQ—your partner in creating fun, engaging, and impactful team events.