Los Angeles International Airport, commonly abbreviated as LAX, is a well-liked gateway airport for lengthy layovers en route to other western destinations and cities in Central and South America.
So it comes as no surprise that there are many of things to do close to the city’s primary airport. Most notably, LAX is close to various parks and interesting museums in addition to the most well-liked beach communities in Los Angeles County.
No matter how many times you visit the City of Angels, there will always be plenty of things to do near LAX. However, if you know where to go, you may visit some of LA’s top attractions during a lengthy layover.
15 Best Things to do Near LAX (Los Angeles International Airport)
Westchester Golf Course:
It’s time to play a round of golf at the Westchester golf course if you want to leave LAX Airport. The 18-hole golf course can keep you busy all day long. The golf course is open every day until 10 PM and is open at night as well.
If playing a round of golf is your idea of fun, you should check out this course. You can engage in one of your best things to do in LAX while taking advantage of the warm California weather.
Eat In-N-Out Burger
If you go to California, you must at least once try In-N-Out. This traditional dish from California is a must-try while visiting the state and a favorite among residents as well as those who have made it their permanent home.
The standard American diet of hamburgers, shakes, and fries is offered by this venerable fast-food company. If you want to order full grilled onions and animal style fries with your burger, be sure to Google their hidden menu in advance.
Venice Beach
The famous Venice Beach, a singular and eccentric coastal community renowned for its bohemian atmosphere and artistic ambiance, is only a short drive from the airport. Take a trip down the well-known boardwalk to see street entertainers, shops, and artists showing off their works. Rent a bike or a pair of rollerblades and ride down the bike path while taking in the seaside breeze and the stunning Pacific sunset. Avoid missing the lively and colorful Venice Skatepark, where skilled skaters perform. If you want to experience LA’s carefree beach culture, you must go to Venice Beach.
EL Segundo Beach:
Although EL Segundo Beach is a less popular beach for tourists, it is within a short drive from the airport. On weekdays, it is essentially empty. Additionally, parking is simple to get by. Because only locals are aware of it, it gives you a lot of room and peace. If you enjoy the supernatural, you should pay this beach a visit because it is said to be haunted.
VISIT THE SAWTELLE JAPANTOWN
If you are a foodie at heart, you will be happy to know that there is a place at the airport dedicated to selling Japanese delicacies. Sawtelle Japantown is the name given to this neighborhood. It was once known as Little Osaka. There’s much to eat here, but why not load your face with ramen? I know! It sounds fantastic.
Tatsu Ramen, Menya Musashi, and Daikokuya are all recommended. Tsujita (many consider it to be the best ramen in LA) . Their Tsukemen are fantastic.
There is also excellent sushi, tempura, udon, curry, yakitori, and fried chicken. It might be a good idea to order something to go.
Admire the Architecture at the Theme Building
If you’re short on time but searching for something different things to do near LAX, go to the UFO-inspired Theme Building, which has become a landmark in its own right.
This spider-like edifice, built in 1961, is within a few minutes’ walk from the main station and houses a restaurant. Take a break from airport food by grabbing a bite to eat and walking around the building to see the architecture.
The Theme Building is an excellent introduction to Los Angeles’ modern architectural jewels.
Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
Drive up to Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park for breathtaking views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. The observatory features fascinating exhibits about astronomy and space research, as well as telescopes for viewing celestial wonders. After that, explore Griffith Park, one of North America’s largest urban parks with several hiking trails and outdoor activities.
Shop at the Santa Monica Place:
Santa Monica Place is about 20 minutes from the airport. It was recently rebuilt and now offers a variety of high-end businesses as well as a dining deck.
You can go to the Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park, which is one of the area’s most famous amusement parks. This is the place to go if you want to have fun and shop at the same time.
Rodeo Drive:
If you want to go shopping, another option is to go to Rodeo Drive. It is home to numerous high-end boutiques such as Chanel, Valentino, and Salvatore Ferragamo. Because shopping can be exhausting, try something sweet and tasty at one of the local patisseries.
With that in mind, the Sprinkles Cupcake ATM is a must-try. The cupcakes are delectable, and acquiring one from an ATM is an unusual experience in and of itself. That is why it is yet another spot to visit whether you enjoy shopping or have a sweet tooth.
Museum of Jurassic Technology:
The Museum of Jurassic Technology is widely recognized as one of the oddest museums in the United States. The museum covers a wide range of topics, including history, folk art, science, sculpture, and floral radiography.
While not all of them are legitimate, this museum’s forte is blending distinct niches to create something abstract. This is the museum to visit if you want to get your creative juices flowing.
Watch the Sunset or Sunrise at the Hermosa Pier
If you arrive in Los Angeles early in the morning or right before sunset, consider going to Hermosa Pier for cotton candy skies at sunrise or sunset. Hermosa Beach is gorgeous at any time of day (after all, it translates to “beautiful” in Spanish), but it is most attractive in the beginning or end of the day.
This beach is also less touristic than Manhattan Beach or Venice Beach, thus there are frequently fewer tourists and more locals. After watching the colorful spectacle, wander along the white sandy beach and explore the surrounding seaside neighborhood.
Abbot Kinney Boulevard – Venice:
Some of LA’s most well-known eateries may be found on Abbot Kinney Boulevard. It is nearly a mile long and offers you to experience Los Angeles culture as well as beautiful shopping and dining. It is home to numerous nightclubs, yoga studios, and art galleries.
There would be no shortage of things to do if you visited this location. If you’re searching for a variety of things in one location, this Boulevard is ideal. It will keep you engaged throughout the day, making waiting at the airport less painful.
Automobile Driving Museum
If you enjoy classic vehicles, there are a few things to do near LAX, but the Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum is the closest to LAX. From muscle cars to vintage cars, this museum offers every form of throwback car imaginable.
The museum features 130 cars in all, and docents are ready to take you on a free tour of the museum (though donations are welcome). On Sundays, they occasionally take customers on drives in vintage automobiles (10 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.).
Finally, after viewing the cars on display, stop by the onsite old-fashioned ice cream parlor for a treat.
Westchester Golf Course
You could nearly walk from the airport to Westchester Golf Course–unless you’re carrying your clubs, of course. Westchester, which is only two miles from LAX, is popular with golfers on layovers as well as those staying near the airport. That could explain why the course begins at 5 a.m. and is open until 10 p.m. If you want to work out the kinks in your neck by hitting some range balls or playing nine holes, Westchester is the place to go. Don’t be concerned if you double-checked your golf clubs. Westchester rents out clubs at reasonable rates to visitors.
View at Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
Although Los Angeles isn’t as well renowned for its hills as San Francisco, there are still plenty of mountainous outdoor areas with stunning views of the city.
Head to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook if you’re searching for an urban sanctuary and a good workout near LAX.
The park also has free exhibitions on local conservation and restoration projects, hiking trails, and plenty of breathtaking views of the city.
Kayak at Marina del Rey
If you’re not a big surfer or beachgoer but still want to enjoy the sea, Marina del Rey is the place to go.
This is the LA neighborhood that inspired Lana del Rey’s moniker. It’s less than a 20-minute drive from the airport.
The main attraction of the seaside village is its harbor, which is the biggest man-made small-craft harbor in North America. It can accommodate up to 5,000 boats at any given time.
Rent a kayak or join a guided stand up paddle board trip to see one of the country’s most beautiful harbors from the water.
Conclusion
While Los Angeles International Airport is a major transportation hub, it is also a gateway to a variety of fascinating adventures in Southern California. The area around LAX has something for everyone, from the bohemian charm of Venice Beach to cultural monuments like The Getty Center. Take advantage of these great activities to do near LAX, whether you have a layover or a prolonged stay, to make the most of your time in this exciting and diverse area of the world.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Is there anything family-friendly near LAX?
Yes, there are a number of family-friendly activities close to LAX. The Santa Monica Pier has a theme park featuring rides, games, and live entertainment. Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park both include interactive displays and hiking trails that are suited for people of all ages.
2. What shopping opportunities are there near LAX?
Manhattan Village and Abbot Kinney Boulevard are popular shopping destinations. Manhattan Village is an open-air mall filled with high-end businesses and boutiques, whereas Abbot Kinney Boulevard provides a bohemian-chic shopping experience filled with unique stores and contemporary boutiques.
3. Are there any worthwhile events or concerts near LAX?
Yes, The Forum, which is only three miles from LAX, holds a variety of concerts and events throughout the year. Check the event schedule to discover if any of your favorite musicians will be performing during your visit.
4. Is there public transportation from LAX to neighboring attractions?
Yes, there are public transit choices from LAX to neighboring sites. To get about the area, you can take buses, shuttles, or the Metro Rail system.
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