2025 Bucket List
Last Updated on Jan 07, 2025
Kick off 2025 with an incredible variety of things to do in Los Angeles this January! Explore iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Observatory, and Santa Monica Pier. Immerse yourself in art at The Getty Center, the Broad Museum, and LACMA. Catch live performances like Wicked at the Pantages Theatre, Mean Girls at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center, or Kimberly Akimbo at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Take a stroll through the historic Venice Canals or shop at The Grove and Rodeo Drive. Savor culinary delights at Grand Central Market or Little Tokyo. Enjoy outdoor adventures with a hike at Runyon Canyon or a bike ride along the Marvin Braude Trail. For family-friendly fun, visit Universal Studios Hollywood or the Los Angeles Zoo. Sports fans can catch an LA Lakers or Clippers game at Crypto.com Arena. Don’t miss cultural events like the Lunar New Year celebrations in Chinatown. Whether exploring the vibrant neighborhoods or enjoying the winter sunshine, January in Los Angeles offers endless possibilities!
Perched atop Mount Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory in Los Angeles, California, stands as a beacon of scientific curiosity and celestial exploration. With its commanding view of the sprawling Los Angeles Basin and the glittering Pacific Ocean, coupled with a close proximity to the iconic Hollywood Sign, the observatory beckons over 7 million visitors since its opening in 1935. Named in honor of its benefactor, Griffith J. Griffith, the observatory offers free admission, in accordance with Griffith's will, inviting all to marvel at its 12-inch Zeiss refractor telescope, which has facilitated more views of the cosmos than any other. Within its walls, a captivating array of space and science-related displays ignites the imagination, making Griffith Observatory a cherished destination for both tourists and local enthusiasts.
January 24 - February 7, 2025
Dine LA Restaurant Week in Beverly Hills is a culinary celebration that invites food enthusiasts to explore the city’s vibrant dining scene from January 24 to February 7, 2025. During this 15-day event, you can catch up with friends or tick off a bucket-list dining spot at participating Beverly Hills establishments, with no tickets or passes required—simply ask for the Dine LA menu. Experience Michelin-starred dining at Kazan (Japanese) or Matū (Steakhouse), or explore diverse cuisines through Dine LA Experiences, including Crustacean Beverly Hills (Asian), Il Cielo (Italian), Lawry’s The Prime Rib (Steakhouse), and The Belvedere Restaurant (European Brasserie). Whether savoring sushi at Seabutter, indulging in Moroccan flavors at Tagine, or enjoying Californian cuisine at Spago Beverly Hills, Dine LA Restaurant Week showcases the best of Beverly Hills’ exceptional gastronomy.
For a fun and unique way to kick off 2025 in Los Angeles, head over to Manhattan Beach from January 24-26 to catch the 2025 Junior Pan American Games Beach Volleyball Trials. Watch some of the nation's top young athletes compete for a chance to represent the U.S. in Paraguay later this year. It’s an exciting opportunity to see future volleyball stars in action while enjoying the stunning beach views. Whether you’re a beach volleyball fan or just looking for something different to do in the city, this event promises thrilling competition and a great atmosphere!
Watching the Los Angeles Lakers in action is more than just a basketball game; it's an immersive experience that combines the thrill of NBA action with the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. The Lakers, one of the most storied franchises in basketball history, have won an impressive 17 NBA championships, a testament to their legacy of greatness. But what sets Lakers games apart is the influence of Hollywood celebrities who grace the courtside seats. A-list stars like Jack Nicholson, Leonardo DiCaprio, Jay-Z, and Beyoncé are just a few of the famous faces you might spot, adding an extra layer of excitement to the game. Their unwavering support for the team creates a unique atmosphere of passion and unity, making attending an LA Lakers game a must-do experience for sports and entertainment enthusiasts alike.
Visiting Universal Studios is one of the best things to do in Los Angeles in January. With fewer crowds and mild winter weather, it's the perfect time to experience the excitement of this iconic theme park. You can immerse yourself in thrilling rides, like the Jurassic World ride and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, without the long wait times typical of peak seasons. Plus, with many of the park’s attractions under cover or indoors, January's cooler temperatures make for a comfortable visit. Don’t forget to explore Universal CityWalk, just outside the park. This vibrant outdoor shopping and dining destination is the ideal spot to unwind after a day of adventure. You’ll find everything from trendy shops and unique boutiques to a variety of restaurants and entertainment options. Whether you're grabbing a bite at Hard Rock Café or catching a movie at the Universal Cinema, CityWalk offers a fun way to extend your visit and enjoy the lively atmosphere year-round.
The Santa Monica Pier is an iconic landmark located at the western terminus of Route 66, serving as a symbol of California's coastal charm and vibrant culture. Opened in 1909, the pier features a charming blend of amusement park attractions, restaurants, and shops, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. At its heart is Pacific Park, an amusement park boasting a thrilling Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and various carnival games that offer fun for visitors of all ages. The pier also hosts a picturesque carousel, an aquarium, and often features street performers and live music, adding to its lively atmosphere. With stunning ocean views, beautiful sunsets, and a lively boardwalk, the Santa Monica Pier is not just a fun amusement destination but also a beloved cultural and recreational hub that embodies the spirit of Southern California.
Prepare to be enthralled by the harmonious blend of art, architecture, and natural beauty at the Getty Center. Designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, this cultural gem offers a truly unique experience. The J. Paul Getty Museum within the Getty Center showcases an awe-inspiring collection spanning from the eighth century to the present day, all set against the backdrop of breathtaking modern architecture, serene gardens, and panoramic views of Los Angeles. You'll immerse yourself in European paintings, drawings, sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and a diverse array of photographs from Europe, Asia, and America. What's more, the Getty Villa in Malibu transports you to ancient times, with Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities displayed in a setting inspired by a first-century Roman country house. The best part? Admission is free, making it an essential stop on your bucket list for art, culture, and natural beauty enthusiasts alike.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most iconic attractions in Los Angeles, drawing visitors from around the world to see the stars in LA. With over 2,700 stars embedded in the sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the Walk of Fame celebrates the achievements of entertainers across film, television, music, radio, and live performance. Ever wondered how you get a Hollywood star? It's a prestigious honor that involves a rigorous nomination process, typically overseen by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce. In fact, each year, new names are added to this legendary sidewalk, and fans are eager to see who the newest Hollywood star will be.
Embark on a captivating journey through the ages and across continents at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, often referred to as LACMA. Situated on the vibrant Pacific Rim, LACMA stands as the largest art museum in the western United States, boasting a staggering collection of nearly 152,000 artistic treasures that span 6,000 years of human expression. As you explore its hallowed halls, you'll be immersed in a rich tapestry of art histories, offering fresh and unexpected perspectives on global creativity. LACMA's commitment to innovation shines through its collaborations with artists, technologists, and thought leaders, resulting in unique exhibitions and programs that bridge the gap between tradition and modernity. Be prepared to be transported through time, cultures, and artistic brilliance as you wander the halls of this cultural gem, where every corner holds the promise of a new and enlightening discovery.
January 1, 2025 at 8:00 AM PST
Start your year with a burst of color, creativity, and timeless tradition by attending the Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena. Since its inception in 1890, this magnificent event has been a cherished part of American culture, and witnessing it in person is an experience like no other. As the nation gathers around their television screens, you can secure your spot in the grandstand, getting up close to the meticulously crafted floats adorned with vibrant flowers and natural materials. Floatfest offers an exclusive opportunity to appreciate the intricate details that make each float a masterpiece. From colorful displays to incredible craftsmanship, the Tournament of Roses Parade is a quintessentially Los Angeles celebration that's worth adding to your bucket list. Join the festivities, welcome the new year, and become part of this cherished tradition.
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 at 2:00 PM PST
Prepare to immerse yourself in the grandeur of the 111th Rose Bowl Game, a pivotal College Football Playoff Semifinal scheduled for January 1, 2025, in the picturesque setting of Pasadena, California. This eagerly anticipated clash features the nation's top-ranked teams, promising an electrifying showdown that will undoubtedly etch its place in football history. The pre-game festivities add an extra layer of excitement, with vibrant tailgates, the regal presence of the Rose Queen and Royal Court, and more, setting the stage for a spectacle that transcends the boundaries of sports. Known as "The Granddaddy of Them All," the Rose Bowl Game stands as the inaugural postseason football game, woven into the fabric of the Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association's "America's New Year Celebration." Beyond the gridiron, this event encapsulates tradition, competition, and celebration, culminating in the presentation of the esteemed Leishman Trophy. As you witness the clash of collegiate titans amid the historic Rose Bowl Stadium, you'll find yourself partaking in a timeless tradition that epitomizes the passion, rivalry, and unbridled thrill of victory ingrained in American sports lore.