40 Incredible Things To Do In Los Angeles, California This February

February unlocks one of the best-kept secrets in Los Angeles. Crowds thin out, sunshine lingers, and the city opens up in ways peak season rarely allows.

Gardens burst with early blooms, adding color across the landscape, while migrating whales surface just offshore along the Pacific coastline.

Museums welcome visitors into world-class collections without long lines, and studio tours pull back the curtain on Hollywood magic. Scenic hikes unfold under clear winter skies, offering sweeping views without summer heat.

Cultural festivals fill the calendar, celebrating global traditions through music, food, and art.

Beach communities feel refreshingly relaxed, and outdoor markets continue buzzing under bright skies. Concert halls and historic venues host performances that draw music lovers from around the world.

California’s L.A. in February blends outdoor adventure with indoor discovery, all wrapped in comfortable weather that makes exploring effortless from morning to night.

1. See Camellias And Winter Blooms At Descanso Gardens

Camellias reach peak bloom during February at this peaceful garden space. Thousands of plants display pink, red, and white flowers along shaded pathways.

The collection spans more than 30 acres and includes rare varieties from around the world. Visitors walk through groves where blooms appear in layers of color against dark green leaves.

Docent-led tours explain the history of each variety and how gardeners maintain the collection year-round. The Japanese tea house offers a quiet spot to rest between walking sections of the garden.

2. Wander Orchid Displays At Huntington Library, Art Museum, And Botanical Gardens

Orchid collections fill the conservatory with blooms in every shade imaginable. February brings special displays that showcase varieties from tropical regions and high-altitude environments.

The glass structure maintains controlled humidity while allowing natural light to filter through. Pathways wind past mounted orchids and potted specimens arranged by color and growth habit.

Labels identify each species and explain where it grows in nature. The surrounding botanical gardens offer additional walking areas with desert plants and rose collections that remain interesting even in winter months.

3. Spot Migrating Gray Whales On A Cruise From Long Beach

Gray whales pass close to shore during their migration from Alaska to Baja California. February offers some of the best viewing opportunities as pods travel south with calves.

Cruises depart from Long Beach Harbor and head into open water where whales surface to breathe. Naturalists on board point out behaviors like breaching and tail slapping while explaining migration patterns.

Dolphins and sea lions often appear near the boat as well. Tours last several hours and provide blankets since ocean breezes stay cool even on sunny days.

4. Visit Early Spring Blooms At Los Angeles County Arboretum And Botanic Garden

Peacocks roam freely across lawns where early spring flowers begin to open. The arboretum contains themed gardens representing different world regions and climate zones.

February brings blooms in the Australian section and new growth in the tropical greenhouse. Walking paths connect water features and historical buildings that appear in classic films and television shows.

The meadowbrook area offers open space where families spread blankets for picnics. Plant sales happen on weekends when staff propagate specimens from the collection for visitors to take home.

5. Tour Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Soundstages and backlot streets reveal how television shows and movies come together. The tour takes visitors through active production areas where crews build sets and film scenes.

Guides explain technical aspects of filmmaking while showing props and costumes from famous productions. The backlot contains outdoor sets designed to look like different cities and time periods.

Tours last about three hours and include stops at museums displaying memorabilia from Warner Bros. history. Reservations help secure preferred time slots since group sizes stay limited for better access to filming locations.

6. Go Behind The Scenes At Paramount Pictures Studio Tour

Walking tours cover the oldest continuously operating studio in Hollywood. Paramount’s lot contains streets where countless classic films were shot and soundstages still in daily use.

Guides share stories about productions past and present while leading groups past the prop warehouse and costume department. The New York Street backlot replicates Manhattan architecture at a smaller scale for camera angles.

Tours provide glimpses of active filming when productions allow public presence nearby. The studio commissary serves lunch to visitors wanting to eat where celebrities and crew members take their breaks.

7. Spend A Day At Universal Studios Hollywood

Theme park rides blend with working studio spaces across this hillside property. The studio tour takes visitors through backlot sets on trams that navigate narrow streets between soundstages.

Attractions based on popular films offer experiences ranging from simulated motion to water rides. The Wizarding World section recreates locations from Harry Potter stories with detailed shops and dining spaces.

February typically brings shorter wait times compared to summer months. CityWalk provides dining and shopping options just outside the park entrance for visitors extending their stay into evening hours.

8. Walk The Hollywood Walk Of Fame

Bronze stars embedded in sidewalk terrazzo honor entertainment industry figures along Hollywood Boulevard. More than 2,700 stars stretch for blocks with names from film, television, music, radio, and live performance.

Visitors search for favorite celebrities while street performers and costume characters add to the atmosphere. The stars continue around corners onto Vine Street where additional honorees appear.

Nearby theaters include historic venues that host premieres and award shows. Shops sell maps showing star locations for those tracking down specific names among the lengthy collection.

9. Snap Photos Near The Hollywood Sign

The iconic white letters sit on Mount Lee above the city where hiking trails offer various viewing angles. Lake Hollywood Park provides one of the closest accessible viewpoints without requiring a steep climb.

Griffith Observatory also frames the sign in photos with city views spreading below. Trails leading higher up the mountain require more effort but reward hikers with less crowded photo opportunities.

February weather makes hiking comfortable with cooler temperatures and clear air improving visibility. Early morning light creates the best conditions for photography before haze develops later in the day.

10. Explore Film History At Academy Museum Of Motion Pictures

Film history comes alive through interactive exhibits and rare artifacts from cinema’s evolution. The museum occupies a renovated department store building connected to a spherical addition containing a theater.

Galleries display costumes, props, and behind-the-scenes materials from influential films across different eras. The top floor offers a terrace with views across the Miracle Mile district.

Special exhibitions rotate throughout the year alongside permanent collections. The museum sits at 6067 Wilshire Boulevard where parking structures serve visitors arriving by car.

11. See Classic Cars At Petersen Automotive Museum

Three floors showcase automotive design from horseless carriages to modern supercars. The collection rotates vehicles in and out of displays so return visits reveal different machines.

The vault level contains rare and historically significant vehicles arranged in tight rows that maximize storage while allowing viewing. Exhibits explore how cars influenced culture and how design evolved across decades.

The building stands at 6060 Wilshire Boulevard with distinctive red exterior panels. Special events sometimes bring car clubs together in the plaza outside where owners display personal collections.

12. Visit Los Angeles County Museum Of Art

The largest art museum in the western United States contains collections spanning thousands of years. Galleries hold works from ancient civilizations alongside contemporary pieces from living artists.

The Urban Light installation outside the entrance has become one of the most photographed art pieces in the city. Inside spaces include European paintings, Asian art, and rotating special exhibitions.

The campus spreads across several buildings connected by outdoor walkways. LACMA is located at 5905 Wilshire Boulevard where visitors find both garage parking and metered street spaces nearby.

13. Discover Contemporary Art At The Broad

Contemporary art fills this striking building in downtown Los Angeles. The collection focuses on postwar and current works with pieces by recognized names and emerging artists.

The Infinity Mirror Rooms require timed entry but offer unique immersive experiences. Other galleries display paintings, sculptures, and installations that challenge traditional art forms.

Admission stays free though advance reservations help avoid long waits. The museum sits at 221 South Grand Avenue where nearby parking structures serve multiple downtown attractions.

14. Explore Space At California Science Center

Free main galleries define the California Science Center experience, where visitors explore interactive exhibits covering ecosystems, technology, and human biology. The center is located at 700 Exposition Park Drive near the University of Southern California campus.

Hands-on displays encourage experimentation, allowing guests to engage directly with scientific concepts. The IMAX theater screens educational films on a massive screen, adding a cinematic element to the visit.

Outdoor areas include the towering Space Shuttle external tank standing vertically and a rose garden featuring labeled plant varieties. Admission to permanent exhibits remains free, though some special exhibitions and theater screenings require tickets.

15. Visit Natural History Museum Of Los Angeles County

Dinosaur skeletons tower over visitors in the main hall. The museum contains specimens representing millions of years of natural history from rocks to mammals.

The Gem and Mineral Hall displays crystals and precious stones in cases that highlight their natural beauty. The Discovery Center allows hands-on exploration of specimens under supervision.

Special exhibitions rotate through temporary gallery spaces. The building stands at 900 Exposition Boulevard across from the California Science Center where combination visits make sense for families spending a full day learning.

16. Hike To Griffith Observatory

Trails wind uphill through chaparral and oak trees to reach the observatory building. The hike takes about an hour from various trailheads with steady elevation gain.

Views expand as the path climbs higher until the city spreads out below. The observatory itself contains planetarium shows and exhibits about astronomy and space exploration.

Telescopes outside allow public viewing on clear evenings. February weather provides comfortable hiking temperatures and the building stays open late several nights each week for those timing their arrival with sunset.

17. Walk The Trails At Runyon Canyon Park

Dogs run off-leash on many trails making this park popular with pet owners. The main loop climbs to a ridge where views stretch from downtown to the ocean on clear days.

Multiple trail options allow shorter or longer hikes depending on available time and fitness level. The park sits right against residential neighborhoods where street parking fills quickly on weekends.

Early morning hikes avoid both crowds and heat. The trails stay mostly exposed with little shade so sun protection matters even in February.

18. Explore Topanga State Park

Miles of trails wind through mountains between the city and the coast. Topanga offers more remote hiking than parks closer to urban areas with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs.

Wildflowers begin appearing in February after winter rains. The park contains oak woodlands and grasslands where wildlife sightings include deer and various bird species.

Several trailheads provide access from different directions. The main entrance requires a short drive up winding canyon roads where pullouts offer parking when lots fill during popular times.

19. Stroll Around Echo Park Lake

A paved path circles the lake where lotus flowers bloom in summer and ducks swim year-round. Paddle boats rent by the hour for those wanting to get out on the water.

The park contains a small island and fountain that create focal points for photos. Surrounding neighborhoods offer cafes and shops within walking distance.

Food vendors sometimes set up near the boathouse. The lake sits in a residential area where street parking requires patience but usually yields spaces within a few blocks.

20. Catch Sunset At El Matador State Beach

Rock formations rise from the sand creating dramatic scenery along this Malibu beach. Caves and arches eroded by waves provide interesting foreground elements for sunset photography.

The beach requires descending a stairway from the parking area above. Tide levels affect how much sand remains accessible so checking tide charts helps plan visits.

February sunsets happen earlier than summer months making evening beach trips easier to fit into a day. The small parking lot fills quickly on weekends so arriving early secures a space.

21. Ride The Ferris Wheel At Santa Monica Pier

The solar-powered Ferris wheel lights up at night with changing colors. Rides carry passengers high above the pier where views extend along the coastline.

The pier contains an amusement park with additional rides and an arcade. Street performers and vendors line the entrance area where the pier meets the beach.

Restaurants and snack stands offer dining options ranging from casual to sit-down meals. February brings fewer crowds than summer though weekends still attract significant visitor numbers.

22. Spend The Day In Griffith Park

One of the largest urban parks in North America offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and cultural attractions. The park contains the zoo, the observatory, and several museums.

Miles of trails connect different sections where visitors encounter varying terrain and vegetation. The park includes the Greek Theatre outdoor concert venue and the Autry Museum of the American West.

Multiple entrances serve different areas so planning helps target specific destinations within the vast space. February weather makes outdoor exploration comfortable with mild temperatures and longer days than winter months further north.

23. Visit La Brea Tar Pits

Active tar pits bubble in the middle of the city where Ice Age fossils continue emerging. The museum displays skeletons of mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and other extinct animals pulled from the asphalt.

Large windows allow views of paleontologists cleaning and studying new finds. Outside areas contain several tar seeps where methane gas causes the surface to bubble.

The museum is located at 5801 Wilshire Boulevard in the Miracle Mile district. Hancock Park surrounds the tar pits with walking paths and green space where families gather between museum visits.

24. Explore Los Angeles Zoo

More than 1,400 animals representing 270 species live in habitats designed to mimic natural environments. The zoo emphasizes conservation and education through interpretive signs and keeper talks.

Walking paths wind through sections organized by geographic region and animal type. The botanical collection includes plants from around the world chosen to support the animals and create realistic settings.

The zoo sits at 5333 Zoo Drive in Griffith Park. February brings comfortable temperatures for walking the entire property without excessive heat affecting either visitors or animals.

25. Walk Venice Beach Boardwalk

Street performers, artists, and vendors line the paved path running parallel to the beach. Muscle Beach outdoor gym sits along the boardwalk where bodybuilders work out in public view.

Skateboarders use the concrete skate park built into the beach landscape. The boardwalk atmosphere combines bohemian culture with tourist activity creating a unique environment.

Shops and restaurants face the boardwalk offering everything from souvenirs to full meals. The area stays active most of the day with peak crowds during afternoon and early evening hours.

26. Visit Malibu Pier

The historic pier extends into the Pacific where anglers cast lines and visitors walk to the end for ocean views. A restaurant occupies the building at the pier entrance.

Surfers ride waves near the pilings where the structure creates favorable conditions. The beach on both sides of the pier offers sand for sunbathing and playing.

Parking lots serve the pier and beach area. February brings cooler water temperatures but the pier remains accessible for walking and the restaurant stays open for dining with ocean views.

27. Relax At Zuma Beach

Wide sandy beaches stretch for nearly two miles along this popular Malibu destination. The beach remains relatively uncrowded during February compared to summer months.

Volleyball courts dot the sand and lifeguard towers provide safety supervision during staffed hours. The beach has facilities including restrooms and outdoor showers.

Large parking lots accommodate many vehicles though fees apply during peak season. Waves can be strong so swimming ability matters when entering the water.

28. Stroll Manhattan Beach Pier

The concrete pier stretches 928 feet into the ocean with the Roundhouse Marine Lab at the end. The small aquarium contains local marine life and educational displays about the coastal ecosystem.

Volleyball courts line the beach below where professional and amateur players compete. The Strand paved path runs along the beach connecting to neighboring communities.

Restaurants and shops cluster near the pier entrance. February brings fewer crowds making parking easier to find in the structures and lots serving the beach area.

29. Eat Your Way Through Grand Central Market

Dozens of food vendors fill this historic downtown market operating since 1917. Cuisines from around the world appear in stalls offering everything from tacos to Thai food.

The market building contains both counter service vendors and a few sit-down options. High ceilings and an open layout allow crowds to move between stalls while choosing meals.

The market is located at 317 South Broadway in the heart of downtown. Hours extend from breakfast through dinner making it suitable for any meal of the day.

30. Browse The Original Farmers Market

Vendors have sold produce, prepared foods, and specialty items at this location since 1934. The market contains a mix of grocery stalls and restaurants serving cuisines from multiple cultures.

Outdoor seating areas with umbrellas provide space to eat purchased food. The attached Grove shopping center offers additional retail options connected by a trolley.

The market stands at 6333 West Third Street at Fairfax Avenue. Free parking validation comes with purchases making it easy to spend time browsing without concern about meter time.

31. Shop Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Boutiques, galleries, and restaurants line this mile-long street named after the Venice founder. The mix leans toward independent shops rather than chain stores.

Clothing, home goods, and art fill storefronts alongside cafes and dining spots. The street has a walkable scale where visitors park once and explore on foot.

First Fridays bring special events and extended hours. February weather makes outdoor shopping comfortable with mild temperatures suitable for spending several hours moving between shops.

32. Hunt Vintage Finds At Melrose Trading Post

More than 100 vendors set up each Sunday in the parking lot of Fairfax High School. The market specializes in vintage clothing, furniture, records, and collectibles.

Shoppers hunt through racks and tables looking for unique items and good deals. Food trucks provide snacks and meals for those spending several hours browsing.

The market runs from 10am to 5pm every Sunday. Arriving early offers first pick of merchandise before crowds grow larger later in the morning.

33. See Live Music At The Troubadour

This legendary music venue has hosted performers since 1957 when it helped launch the careers of countless artists. The intimate space holds around 400 people creating an up-close concert experience.

The club books a mix of established acts and emerging artists across various genres. The bar upstairs provides a space to gather before shows or between sets.

The Troubadour is located at 9081 Santa Monica Boulevard in West Hollywood. Shows happen most nights with tickets available through the venue website or box office.

34. Attend A Concert At Walt Disney Concert Hall

The Los Angeles Philharmonic performs in this striking building designed by Frank Gehry. The curved stainless steel exterior has become an architectural landmark in downtown.

The concert hall interior features wood panels and seating that wraps around the stage. Acoustics designed for orchestral music create clear sound throughout the space.

The hall stands at 111 South Grand Avenue. February programming includes classical concerts and contemporary performances with tickets available through the Los Angeles Philharmonic website.

35. Dine At Musso & Frank Grill

Red leather booths and wood paneling create the atmosphere in this restaurant operating since 1919. The menu features classic American dishes and the bar serves traditional mocktails.

Waiters in red jackets maintain formal service standards from an earlier era. The restaurant has hosted writers, actors, and industry figures throughout its history.

Musso & Frank Grill is located at 6667 Hollywood Boulevard. Reservations help secure seating during busy dinner hours when both tourists and locals fill the dining room.

36. Visit Grandmaster Recorders

A historic recording studio transformed into a restaurant and bar while preserving its musical heritage. The space contains original equipment and maintains the aesthetic of a working studio.

The menu offers New American cuisine in a setting where famous albums were recorded. Original recording booths remain visible as part of the dining room design.

Grandmaster Recorders is located at 1518 North Cahuenga Boulevard. The venue sometimes hosts live performances and special events that blend dining with entertainment.

37. Grab A Bite At In-N-Out Burger

The California burger chain serves a simple menu focused on burgers, fries, and shakes made to order. Locations throughout Los Angeles provide quick meals with consistent quality.

The secret menu offers variations on standard items for those familiar with ordering options. Drive-through lines often extend long but move steadily as workers take and prepare orders efficiently.

Multiple locations make finding an In-N-Out convenient from most parts of the city. The restaurants maintain the same menu and preparation methods across all locations ensuring familiar results.

38. Drive Mulholland Drive Scenic Overlook

The winding road along the Santa Monica Mountains ridgeline offers multiple pullouts with city views. Overlooks face both toward the San Fernando Valley and south toward the Los Angeles basin.

The drive takes about an hour end to end though stopping at viewpoints extends the journey. Some sections pass through residential areas while others remain undeveloped hillside.

Clear February days provide excellent visibility for seeing across the sprawling metropolitan area. Evening drives allow viewing city lights as they begin illuminating the landscape below.

39. Explore The Venice Canals Historic District

Residential canals lined with homes recreate a miniature version of Italian waterways. Bridges connect the paths running alongside the water where ducks swim and residents maintain gardens.

The canals date to the early 1900s when developer Abbot Kinney created Venice of America. Walking the public paths takes about 30 minutes to cover the main canal system.

The neighborhood sits just blocks from the beach where the canal streets intersect with the busier Venice Beach area. Street parking allows visitors to explore the quiet residential waterways.

40. Visit The Getty Center For Art + City Views

A tram carries visitors from the parking area up the hillside to the museum complex. The buildings contain European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts in naturally lit galleries.

The central courtyard garden features changing plantings and water features. Views from the terraces extend across Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean on clear days.

The Getty Center is located at 1200 Getty Center Drive off the 405 freeway. Admission costs nothing though parking requires a fee and timed-entry reservations.