
Thinking of getting out of town this Christmas? Los Angeles makes a terrific holiday destination. From the studios of Hollywood to the beaches of Venice, everything is decked out with holiday cheer making it the best time of year to enjoy all the sights and sounds. And the weather ain’t too bad either!
If you are thinking of making Los Angeles your holiday destination this year, here are a few attractions you won’t want to miss.
What’s the Weather Like in Los Angeles in Winter?
If you’re headed to L.A. in the winter, you’ll want to know what to pack. Here’s a rundown on what you can expect weather wise.
True to its reputation, Los Angeles has pleasant weather year round. However, temperatures dip during the winter months.
In December, it usually hovers somewhere between the upper 50’s and low 70’s. So a jacket will be in order.
And although it doesn’t rain that often, winter is the rainy season and storms can get pretty intense when they happen. Make sure to bring the appropriate rain attire.
What is There to Do in Los Angeles at Christmas Time?
Here is a rundown on some things you will want to check out when you’re in Los Angeles during the holidays.
Disneyland
You really can’t visit Los Angeles without taking a trip to the happiest place on earth. And Christmastime is a great time to visit.
The park is located in Anaheim, just about 45 minute from Los Angeles. The staff goes all out for the holidays with Christmas decorations that include 300 Christmas trees including a 60 foot tall Christmas tree in Town Square at the end of Main. St. Sleeping Beauty’s Castle gets decked out with snow-topped turrets and over 80,000 lights.
Be sure to check out the Haunted Mansion Holiday, the Christmas version of the It’s A Small World ride, the World of Color Holiday Water Show, the Christmas Parade and the holiday fireworks display.
Knott’s Berry Farm
If you love amusement parks, you might also want to check out Knott’s Berry Farm located just about 20 minutes outside of Los Angeles. During the holidays, it transforms into Knott’s Merry Farm offering holiday shows like the Holiday Ice Show featuring Snoopy and the Peanuts gang and a Christmas Carol.
Knott’s also has a tree lighting ceremony, Santa’s Christmas Cabin, Mrs. Claus’ Kitchen, a Snow and Glow Show and a Christmas Crafts Village.
Universal Studios
Universal Studios combines the fun of an amusement park with the glamor of Hollywood. Visit to enjoy Universal movie themed rides or take a tour of the studios where so many famous television shows and movies are filmed.
Christmas is a great time to visit because the park is infused with the spirit of Grinchmas. During the holiday season, you can find the park decked out with lights, bows and ornaments. There might even be a dusting of snow.
There are themed Christmas trees throughout the park including Seuss themed trees, minion themed trees, ugly Christmas sweater themed trees, Santa hat themed trees and more.
Although the park is mostly closed this year due to COVID, it promises to return next year with even more decorations and fun and a brand new ride called “The Secret Life of Pets: Off the Leash”.
Rodeo Drive Shopping
You really can’t go to Los Angeles without taking a drive to Beverly Hills. One of the most famous neighborhoods in the world, it’s an experience just to drive through and look at the houses, many of which will be decked out with unbelievable holiday decorations.
While in Beverly Hills, be sure to take a whirl through the shops on Rodeo Drive. Yes, they are quite pricey, but they are something to experience. And if you’re looking to treat yourself, that’s the place to do it.
Hollywood Blvd.
To get a true Los Angeles experience, a stroll down Hollywood Blvd. is a must. There is so much to see in just a few short blocks.
The main drag spans from La Brea to Highland. It’s pretty crowded but be sure to look down to see the many brass stars embedded into the sidewalk, each paying tribute to a different Hollywood star.
The Blvd. will also be lined with people dressed as different superheroes and movie stars and during Christmastime, you will also find a few Christmas characters as well. You can stop and take your picture with these characters but they will want a few dollars in return so get ready to tip.
Along the strip, you will also find the legendary Grauman’ s Chinese Theater and the Hollywood Highland mall.
If you continue up Hollywood to the east, you will find more stars, and some cool shops and restaurants. There are also fun museums like the Hollywood Wax Museum, the Guinness World Records Museum and more.
Hollywood Homes Tour
When you’re in Los Angeles, keep your eyes peeled for star sightings. They are not that unusual in this part of town.
Of course, if you’re not lucky enough to see any celebrities, you can always take a tour of their houses. There are buses that run through ritzy sections of the Hollywood Hills and Beverly Hills with guides that will point out the legendary mansions located along the route.
The Beaches
If you’re visiting Los Angeles during the winter, it may not be ideal weather for lazing on the beach, but it’s still worth it to take a drive to the Venice and Santa Monica beaches.
The Santa Monica pier has an amusement park, great food and an awesome view. A stroll down the Venice boardwalk promises a delightful combination of street vendors, performers and artists.
There is so much to see and do in L.A. and Christmastime is a great time to take it all in. What will you be making a first priority during your holiday visit?
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According to a survey conducted by American Express Travel, 57% of Americans plan to travel for the holidays this year.
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