West Los Angeles, an inviting tapestry of beaches, chic neighborhoods, and hidden gems, comes alive with possibilities during the summer months. From attending the L.A. Pride and WeHo Pride festivals to spending a night exploring Sawtelle Japantown, plan ahead with these things to do in the summer in West L.A. 

Attend the L.A. Pride and WeHo Pride Festivals 

The two largest pride festivals in West Los Angeles are the L.A. Pride and WeHo Pride festivals. WeHo Pride takes place May 31 through June 2, 2024, in and around West Hollywood Park (647 N San Vicente Blvd). On Sunday, June 2, WeHo Pride will host a parade (which this year honors Cyndi Lauper as a Lifetime Ally Icon) that begins at Santa Monica Boulevard and North Crescent Heights Boulevard at noon and heads west on Santa Monica to North La Peer Drive (just past the park). In addition, L.A. Pride returns on Saturday, June 8, 2024, with a concert, L.A. Pride in the Park, which boasts a headlining set from Ricky Martin at L.A. State Historic Park. The following day, Sunday, June 9, the L.A. Pride Parade will begin in Hollywood, where visitors can also attend a vibrant block party. 

Admission: The L.A. Pride and WeHo Pride parades are free.

Take a Stroll in the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden

The picturesque Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden is located on the Westwood campus of UCLA. This expansive, well-manicured garden, which features over 70 modern sculptures, is managed by the Hammer Museum. The arresting sculptures are showcased throughout five beautifully landscaped, tree-shaded acres. Exhibiting figurines and abstract works that complement and contrast with the surrounding landscape, the garden is a well-loved spot for visitors to unwind, enjoy art, and take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. 

Admission: Advance reservations are required, but admission is free.

Go on a Walking Tour of ​​Sawtelle Japantown

Sawtelle Japantown (formerly known as Little Osaka), situated on Sawtelle Boulevard between Olympic and Santa Monica Boulevards, is one of the finest destinations for Japanese food and distinctive retail stores, not only on the Westside but anywhere in L.A. While it has a rich Japanese American heritage, the neighborhood is also home to a mix of other Asian populations. Take a walking tour and immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and tastes of Sawtelle Japantown. Highlights in Sawtelle Japantown include the Korean-Japanese-inspired cafe – Coffee Tomo, Tsujita LA Artisan Noodle, Nong Lá Vietnamese Cafe, ​​BlackMarketLA, Killer Noodle, and Sushi Tsujita. Additionally, don’t miss gallerist Eric Nakamura’s Japanese pop culture and art at the Giant Robot boutique and the nearby art gallery – GR2. 

Check out the Original Muscle Beach 

The Original Muscle Beach is a historical landmark and tourist attraction nestled on the south side of the Santa Monica Pier. Founded in the 1930s, it focused on gymnastics activities and is considered one of the birthplaces of the American physical fitness boom. By the 1950s, the Original Muscle Beach was a workout haven for gymnasts, stunt people, wrestlers, and acrobats. When maintenance became difficult, the gymnastics platform and weightlifting area were removed, and the area finally closed in 1958. However, in 1989, the City of Santa Monica reopened the Original Muscle Beach. Presently, it’s an open beach workout area with bars, rings, and ropes over the sand. The Original Muscle Beach is an excellent place for visitors of all ages and fitness levels to exercise, surrounded by the beach and overlooking the Pacific Ocean. 

Admission: Free.

Explore the Museum of Flying

The Museum of Flying is a private non-profit aerospace museum in Santa Monica. It was established in 1974 as the Douglas Museum and Library by Donald Wills Douglas Jr., the son of Donald Douglas, founder of the Douglas Aircraft Company. The museum’s collection comprises artifacts, exhibits, aviation art, and a range of aircraft. The museum boasts an exhibit area of approximately 22,000 square feet, showcasing the history of flight from its beginning with a replica Wright Flyer to the jet age. The Museum of Flying also houses a Douglas DC-3 monument, a vast collection of aviation art, rare artifacts, and relics from renowned aviators.

Admission: $10 for adults.

Photo courtesy of the Museum of Flying.