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Southern California is known for its pricey and rich reputation. It is home to some of the most famous attractions in the world and arguably has the nicest weather, beaches, and scenery in the country. But behind all its glitz and glamor, Southern California has a lot of entertaining things to do for cheap. Whether you’re looking for family fun, date ideas for couples, an adventure with friends, or even a solo day out, there are amazing things to do in SoCal for $15 or less.
6 Affordable Things To Do in SoCal
1. OC Zoo
Orange, California
Price: $2
Parking: $3 Mon-Fri, $5 Sat-Sun
The OC Zoo is located in Irvine Regional Park. There are tons of interesting animals to see, including mountain lions, bears, black panthers, birds, and reptiles to name a few. There’s even a petting zoo where you can feed and pet goats! And the best part is – the animals at the zoo are rescues that wouldn’t survive in the wild alone, so living at the zoo is the best option for them.
After visiting the zoo, go explore the rest of the 477-acre wildlife park. Check out the bike rentals, pedal boats, nature center, and train ride. Or bring a snack and blanket for a beautiful picnic by the pond.
2. Griffith Observatory and Park
Los Angeles, California
Price: Free
Parking: $10 or hike
Griffith Park is the largest urban-wilderness municipal park in the United States, so you know there’s plenty to do here! Inside Griffith Observatory, visit the planetarium and explore the universe. There are attractions, shows, exhibits, programs, and events. Outside, get a stunning view of the Los Angeles Skyline from one of the best views in town. Use the free public telescopes to observe the sky and look into the city.
There is also the Hollywood sign, the LA Zoo, a museum, picnic areas, horseback riding, hiking trails, and more just a short distance from the observatory.
3. Great Park Air Balloon Ride
Irvine, California
Price: Free
Parking: Free
Located in Great Park, this balloon is the first helium-powered balloon in the US, which makes it better for the environment, safe, basically silent, and still performs the same task as a normal hot air balloon. The balloon takes passengers 400 ft up into the air, where they can get a 360-degree view that looks out over 40 miles of the surrounding area. Balloon rides are open Thur-Sun and are available on a first come first serve and weather permitting basis, so make sure to plan accordingly.
And of course there are plenty of other activities to enjoy in the park, like sports, a carousel, ice skating, and an art gallery.
4. Descanso Gardens
La Canada Flintridge, California
Price: $5-$15
Parking: Free
Not only is this a beautiful nature experience, but it’s also a cultural journey that takes us through the nature of different countries and time periods. It is filled with hundreds of different plants and the landscape surrounding it is so scenic and colorful. There are over 8 different gardens, including the rose garden, Japanese garden, Camelia forest, and California garden to name a few favorites. Take a brisk stroll, go on a hike, visit the art exhibit, or have a meal at the cafe. It’s also a great place for plenty of photo opportunities!
General admission is $15, seniors and students with ID cost $11, and kids are only $5.
5. Catch The Metro
Multiple Locations in California
Price: $0-$10
Parking: Free
The metro is a great way to enjoy an affordable weekend adventure. The all-day weekend pass can be used on Saturday or Sunday and only costs $10. Use it to catch unlimited connections into the city. Take a trip to the beach, downtown LA, the zoo, museums, and just about anything else you can think of. The pass expires at 3 A.M that night, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your day and make it back to your car to get home.
And I can’t forget to mention that children 17 and under ride free on weekends as long as they’re accompanied by a paying adult.
6. Cherry Picking at Villa Del Sol
Leona Valley, CA
Price: $6.50/pound
Parking: Free
Did you know you can go cherry-picking for less than $10? That’s right! There are many cherry orchards to choose from in SoCal, but one of the highest-rated among locals is Villa Del Sol Sweet Cherry Farms. Not only is it my favorite cherry farm, but it’s also the largest in Southern California with over 3,600 trees! Lots of people have never heard of this fun, delicious, and relaxing experience, so consider this an inside tip from a California local. 😉
Have you ever tried a fresh cherry straight off the tree? Everyone should experience that flavor at least one time! Cherry picking is a great activity to do when looking for something simple, affordable, and fun. Just keep in mind that cherry blooms are seasonal and usually happen from mid-June to early July, so make sure cherries are ripe before going.
