2025 Bucket List
Last Updated on Jan 07, 2025
May 2025 in Los Angeles offers a vibrant mix of events and activities to suit every interest. Kick off the month by attending the Hollywood Bowl’s Opening Night, featuring world-class performances under the stars. Art lovers can explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) for its newest exhibit or visit the Venice Art Walk for local talent. Sports fans can catch a Dodgers game at the iconic Dodger Stadium or watch the LA Galaxy in action at Dignity Health Sports Park. For a cultural experience, enjoy the Griffith Park Shakespeare Festival, where classic plays come to life in an enchanting outdoor setting. If you're a foodie, indulge in culinary delights at the Los Angeles Times Food Bowl, a month-long celebration of the city's diverse dining scene. May also marks the start of summer movie nights at historic landmarks like the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. With its perfect weather and an array of activities, Los Angeles in May is an unforgettable experience.
If your bucket list craves a touch of natural beauty and tranquility, then make sure to include a trip to Paradise Falls in Thousand Oaks. Also affectionately known as Wildwood Falls, this picturesque 40-foot waterfall is nestled within the serene canyons of Wildwood Park. Cascading gracefully into a serene pool along the Arroyo Conejo, Paradise Falls embodies the essence of a hidden gem waiting to be explored. The journey to this natural wonder is as enchanting as the destination itself, thanks to an extensive network of trails that offer various routes to reach the falls. As you embark on this adventure, you'll be surrounded by the beauty of nature, with lush landscapes and the soothing sounds of flowing water as your companions. Paradise Falls promises a harmonious blend of nature's wonders and hiking exploration, making it an essential addition to your bucket list for those seeking peace and tranquility amidst the great outdoors.
Prepare for a journey into the heart of Hollywood's cinematic history with the Paramount Studio Tour. As the longest-operating major studio in Tinseltown, Paramount Pictures has played an integral role in shaping the world of entertainment. This immersive 2-hour tour takes you behind the scenes, led by a knowledgeable Studio Page, through iconic locations like the legendary Bronson Gate, the bustling New York Street Backlot, and the enigmatic Prop Warehouse. Discover the magic that unfolds within the 65-acre studio lot, where countless award-winning films and television shows have come to life. Whether you're a film buff or just curious about the inner workings of the industry, the Paramount Studio Tour will transport you into a world where Hollywood's past and present seamlessly merge. Don't miss the chance to become an industry insider and explore over a century of movie-making history. Paramount is Hollywood, and this tour is your ticket to the heart of it all.
Escape to a world of charm and elegance as you embark on a sea kayaking adventure through the picturesque canals of Naples Island, nestled within the vibrant city of Long Beach. These whimsical canals, reminiscent of the iconic waterways of Venice, Italy, offer a truly unique outdoor experience in Los Angeles. Dating back to 1905, when they were created as part of an elaborate entertainment district, these canals now wind through one of the city's most coveted neighborhoods. Paddle your way through this enchanting water wonderland, where you'll be transported to a place of tranquility and beauty. Sunset tours are particularly popular among photographers, as they capture the magic of the canals bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun. Kayaking through the Venice Canals of Naples Island is an adventure that promises not only stunning natural beauty but also a glimpse into the rich history and allure of this captivating locale.
Prepare for an enchanting rendezvous with nature as you check off a must-have experience on your bucket list: witnessing the sun setting over the Pacific at Point Dume in Malibu. There's an indescribable beauty in watching the sun bid farewell to the day, and at Point Dume, you'll find the perfect stage to savor this celestial spectacle. Whether you're perched on a bluff or nestled on the sandy shore, every vantage point here offers a front-row seat to this daily wonder. For those seeking a touch of adventure, take a short hike from the trailhead lot to the pinnacle of Point Dume, where you'll be rewarded with sweeping vistas of the ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains. As the golden hues of twilight embrace you, explore the rugged beauty of Point Dume State Beach, a nature preserve on a rocky bluff that extends into the ocean. Here, you'll encounter sea lions, harbor seals, and playful dolphins in Santa Monica Bay below. Keep your eyes peeled from November through April, as this area is also a prime spot for spotting majestic gray whales on their annual migration. Chasing the horizon at Point Dume promises an evening of awe, wonder, and unforgettable moments in the heart of Malibu's natural paradise.
Immerse yourself in the soulful rhythms of jazz and savor exceptional cuisine at Herb Alpert's Vibrato Grill, the ultimate live jazz and dining experience in Los Angeles. This Grammy-winning music icon's brainchild, managed with grace by his daughter, Eden Alpert, combines the allure of live music with exquisite contemporary American dishes. Here, you'll find the perfect harmony of world-class music, expertly crafted cuisine, and exquisite cocktails, all served in an ambiance that effortlessly blends sophistication with warmth. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or simply seeking a night of culinary indulgence in a refined yet inviting setting, Vibrato Grill promises an unforgettable evening where your senses will dance to the rhythm of jazz and culinary delight. This is not just a restaurant; it's a symphony for the soul, and it belongs at the top of your bucket list for music and food enthusiasts alike.
May, 2025 - September, 2025
Since 2002, Cinespia and Hollywood Forever Cemetery have partnered to host a unique series of outdoor classic film screenings on Fairbanks Lawn, offering movie lovers a magical summer experience under the stars. From May to September, thousands gather to watch iconic Hollywood films projected onto the side of a mausoleum, surrounded by the cemetery’s historic beauty. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own picnic baskets, blankets, and low chairs to enjoy the evening, with food and drinks available for purchase on-site. The event also features pre-show music by a DJ, themed photo booths, and occasionally appearances by the film’s stars or filmmakers. With a relaxed, picnic-style atmosphere and a stunning backdrop, Cinespia at Hollywood Forever offers a memorable way to enjoy classic cinema in a truly one-of-a-kind setting.
Biking The Strand in Los Angeles is a must-do activity in May 2025, offering a scenic and invigorating way to experience the city's iconic coastline. Stretching over 22 miles from Pacific Palisades to Torrance, this beachside bike path takes you through picturesque views of sandy shores, vibrant beach towns, and lively piers. With the May weather typically mild and sunny, it's the perfect time to hop on a bike and pedal through the ocean breeze, enjoying the sights of Venice Beach, Manhattan Beach, and Santa Monica. Whether you're an experienced cyclist or just out for a leisurely ride, Biking The Strand provides a unique blend of outdoor fitness and coastal beauty, making it one of the best ways to embrace LA's laid-back vibe and stunning shoreline.