Summer in California doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Some of the most memorable things to do across the state are completely free — from world-class art and stargazing to baby seals and ocean views. Here are ten of the best free things to do in California this summer, with a link to each so you can plan your visit and check hours and parking before you go.
1. Griffith Observatory — Los Angeles
One of the best free attractions in LA. Admission is free, with public telescopes, exhibits, and unbeatable views of the Hollywood Sign and the city below. Go near sunset for the best experience. Plan your visit.
2. The Broad — Los Angeles
A free contemporary art museum in downtown LA, famous for Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms and works by major modern artists. General admission is free, though timed tickets are recommended. Plan your visit.
3. The Getty Center — Los Angeles
A world-class museum with works by Rembrandt and Van Gogh, beautiful gardens, and sweeping hilltop views. Admission is free — you only pay for parking. Plan your visit.
4. Venice Canals — Los Angeles
A free, postcard-pretty walk through a historic neighborhood of man-made canals and footbridges that has been a unique LA attraction since 1905. Quiet, scenic, and great for photos. Plan your visit.
5. Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery — San Simeon
Free boardwalks let you safely watch thousands of elephant seals on the bluffs along the Central Coast. Summer brings molting season and plenty of activity. A genuinely wild, memorable stop. Plan your visit.
6. Whale Watching from Dana Point — Orange County
You don’t need a boat. Summer brings humpback and blue whales close enough to spot from the bluffs of the Dana Point Headlands, the first Whale Heritage Area in the Americas. Plan your visit.
7. Balboa Park — San Diego
1,200 acres of free gardens, Spanish-style architecture, and the famous Botanical Building and Lily Pond — plus several free museums. You can easily spend a whole day here without spending a dime. Plan your visit.
8. Walk the Golden Gate Bridge — San Francisco
Walking or biking across San Francisco’s iconic orange bridge is completely free, with stunning views of the bay, the city, and the Marin Headlands. A bucket-list experience at no cost. Plan your visit.
9. Stargazing at Anza-Borrego Desert State Park — Southern California
A designated International Dark Sky Park and one of California’s best free places to see the Milky Way with the naked eye. Bring a blanket, drive out after dark, and look up. Plan your visit.
10. Santa Monica Pier & The Strand — Santa Monica
Walking the historic pier is free, with its 1922 carousel building, street performers, and the Route 66 end sign. Right alongside runs The Strand, a 22-mile free oceanfront bike-and-walk path. Plan your visit.
Summer on a Budget
From the Milky Way over the desert to whales off the coast, California proves the best summer memories don’t have to cost anything. Whichever you choose, check each location’s website ahead of time for hours, parking, and any reservation requirements — then go enjoy the Golden State for free.
