5 Rainy Day Activities in Los Angeles
Southern California is known for its sunshine and mild weather. But sometimes, every so often it DOES rain and, let’s face it, we need it. While we have seen our share of rain the last few days, it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy your experience in LA. We are not (always) about the beaches. You can have just as much fun exploring the city in the rain as you can when the sun is shining. Here are just 5 ways how!
California Science Center
Did you ever want to be an astronaut or do you love everything to do with space? Then the California Science Center is the place to go. Admission is free, which great on the pocket book. While there you can view The Space Shuttle Endeavour up close and see the images and artifacts associated with this incredible space shuttle. You can also check out The World of Life and examine how people, plants, animals and the tiniest living cells all perform the same life processes to survive. Then of course there are the jets. You will have a tough time keeping the “Top Gun” theme song from running through their heads while viewing one of the military jets on display including the SR-71 Blackbird and F-4’s. But that’s not all, parents won’t mind reaching into their wallet to pay for an experience in the 3D IMAX theater, which plays movies with a scientific or nature bent. While admission to the center is free, you need to make a reservation to see the Endeavor with a small fee (usually $2). From January 11th to the 15th, the Endeavor is FREE though. Talk about sunny skies on a rainy day!
The Last Bookstore
No better way to spend a rainy day than hanging out inside in a bookstore. And no better bookstore to hang out in than The Last Bookstore. This 20,000 square foot bookstore in downtown LA not only sells new books, but also sells used books and vinyl records. You might have to pinch yourself, but it is true (so maybe just believe us and don’t pinch yourself… because it might hurt). The Last Bookstore was first opened in 2005 when owner Josh Spencer decided to take all of his sales experience and focus on books. From its first loft space to its current location, The Last Bookstore has taken off and is one of the largest independent booksellers in the world. You can get lost in the store while perusing thousands of books, vinyl records, graphic novels and just enjoying the really cool atmosphere. If you have a few hours, check it out… it will make you want to put down your e-reader and pick up an actual book to read. “Novel” idea. And the best part is… you will stay nice and dry!
Peterson Automotive Museum
If you like to go like “Greased Lightning” or glide through the night like “Batman” or just want to see these famous movie cars in person, then The Petersen Automotive Museum is the place to go get out of the rain. Focusing on the automobile and its impact on American life, this 300,000 square foot facility has over 150 rare and classic cars, trucks and motorcycles. Founded in 1994 by magazine publisher Robert E. Petersen, and his wife Margie, the $40-million Petersen Automotive Museum is owned and operated by the Petersen Automotive Museum Foundation and is housed in a historic department store that was designed by Welton Becket. The vehicles are on display in 25 galleries. And, if you are really lucky (and meet the age requirements), then you can visit the “Vault” on the basement level. Currently the Vault houses the spectacular one-of-one 1925/34 “Round Door” Rolls-Royce Phantom I Aerodynamic Coupe, a Ferrari given to Henry Ford II by Enzo Ferrari, a rare Jaguar XKSS formerly owned by actor Steve McQueen, a Mercedes used by Sadam Hussein and a 1939 Bugatti given to the Shah of Iran as a wedding present. Tours last over an hour and photography is not permitted. Temperatures in the vault can be low, so its good if you keep your warm clothes on – which in this weather is not a problem!
FIDM Merchandising Museum
If you love fashion, then a great way to stay out of the rain is to spend some time in the FIDM Merchandising Museum. Home to a large collection of fashion and costume pieces from the 1800’s to today, the museum features permanent and temporary exhibits. There are many designs from early Hollywood as well as current shows and movies. The museum is located on the campus of the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) which offers courses in fashion, entertainment, beauty, interior design and graphic design. There are both permanent and revolving collections. Currently, they are showing dresses from the 1860’s.
Tour with us
Navigating a new city is hard enough without it raining. It can be aggravating when you get lost and you don’t want to have to get out of the car and trek a long way from your parking space to check out LA in the rain. This is where LA Insider Tours comes in. All of our vehicles are extremely comfortable. Our guides are experts on LA and can show you the best places to go and things to see. We know where to park and the best way to get to all of your desired destinations. Our goal is to keep you comfortable while exploring this great city.