Exploring La: Things To Do Near The Airport

what to do around la airport

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest airports in the world, with at least 200,000 passengers passing through each day. If you're one of them and have some time to spare, there are plenty of things to do near LAX. From the beaches of Manhattan and Santa Monica to the shopping districts of The Grove and Third Street Promenade, there's something for everyone. For those interested in a round of golf, the Westchester Golf Course is just a stone's throw away. If you're looking for a bite to eat, In-N-Out Burger on Sepulveda is a famous fast-food joint located just east of the airport. And if you're a fan of classic cars, the Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum is a must-see. With so much to offer, LAX is more than just a layover destination.

Characteristics Values
Distance from LAX 0.3-10 miles
Transportation Car, bike, Uber, tour van
Activities Shopping, golf, boat rides, hiking, dining, touring, beach
Specific places to visit Marina del Rey, Manhattan Beach, Venice Beach, Muscle Beach, Santa Monica Beach, Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, The Grove, In-N-Out Burger, Westchester Golf Course, Zimmerman Automobile Driving Museum, Westchester Farmers' Market, Westchester Town Center, Otis College of Art and Design Gallery

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Visit the beach

If you're looking for a beach escape near LAX, you're in luck! LAX is right on the shores of Santa Monica Bay and has many excellent beaches nearby. The closest beach is Dockweiler State Beach, a tranquil stretch of coastline with the soothing sounds of the Pacific waves. It's easily accessible, just a short taxi, rideshare, or bike ride away. If you have a little more time, Playa del Rey Beach, about 5 miles from the airport, offers a serene oasis along the Pacific coast.

For those seeking a quintessential Southern California beach town experience, Hermosa Beach is a great choice. It's known for its vibrant atmosphere and expansive coastline. Redondo Beach, about 7 miles from the airport, is also worth a visit. It offers a range of activities, from sunbathing and swimming to exploring the charming pier and waterfront shops.

If you're looking for a more iconic beach experience, Venice Beach is a must-visit. Known for its eclectic boardwalk and vibrant street performers, it's a little further from the airport but easily accessible by taxi, rideshare, or even bike. Santa Monica Pier and Manhattan Beach are also popular destinations, offering a blend of beachfront fun and tourist attractions.

With so many beaches to choose from, you can easily find one that suits your preferences, whether you're looking for a serene escape or a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. So, don't forget to pack your swimsuit and sunscreen, and enjoy some beach time during your layover in LA!

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Go shopping

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) offers a wide variety of shopping outlets across its terminals. From essential items to luxury goods, the shopping landscape is diverse, although prices tend to be higher at the airport than in external stores.

If you're looking for souvenirs, Terminal 5's "I Love LA" store offers a range of options, including T-shirts, magnets, and essential flight items such as snacks and drinks. The Tom Bradley International Terminal also has a broader selection of souvenirs and local goods, including chocolates from shops like See's Candies, which are present in several terminals.

For those seeking world-class brands and personalized services, DFS Duty-Free at the Tom Bradley International Terminal offers tax-free products like perfumes, cosmetics, alcoholic beverages, and chocolates from international brands. DFS Airport, located across various terminals, provides a similar experience with ready-to-go gifts and first-class essentials, along with personal shopping assistance and complimentary beauty services.

If you're interested in fashion, Hugo Boss, located in multiple terminals, offers contemporary, high-end fashion. Hollywood Style, a trendy gallery shop in Terminal 4, features an ever-changing selection of hip, LA-style apparel, accessories, sunglasses, and luggage. For those interested in golf, the PGA TOUR Fan Shop offers clothing, hats, jackets, and collectibles.

For unique shopping experiences near the airport, Abbot Kinney, just minutes from LAX, features local artists and designers showcasing modern chic and vintage items, including top-notch artwork, furniture, jewellery, and boutique clothing. Manhattan Beach Pier, a 10-minute drive from LAX, offers breathtaking ocean views, and nearby Santa Monica Place provides a high-end retail collection, including brands like Louis Vuitton, Ted Baker London, and Tiffany & Co.

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Play golf

If you're looking to play a round of golf near LA Airport, there are a few options to consider. Firstly, the Skylinks at Long Beach Golf Course is a premier golf course located just south of Los Angeles, conveniently situated near the Long Beach Airport. Designed by renowned golf course architect Cal Olson, this 6,909-yard par 72 championship course offers an exceptional setting for golf enthusiasts. It boasts Bermuda grass fairways, wide-open links-style play, and immaculate Bentgrass and Poa annua greens. The course also provides a challenging layout, elegant banquet facilities, and first-rate service, making it ideal for tournaments, weddings, or special events.

Another option is the Lakewood Country Club, also located in Long Beach. This golf course, designed by William Bell, offers over 7,000 yards of golfing experience and is known as one of the best golf courses in South Los Angeles. Their team of golf professionals provides comprehensive instruction and opportunities for social and competitive play, catering to golfers of all skill levels. The country club setting, with its verdant foliage and majestic trees, also makes it a popular choice for weddings and special events.

If you're looking for a quick golf fix or some practice time, you can also check out the Tregnan Golf Academy, which offers youth-focused skill-building programs. Additionally, the L.A. City Golf Courses website provides information on upcoming golf championships and events in the city, as well as the option to purchase gift cards for the golf enthusiast in your life.

When planning your golfing excursion, keep in mind that LA traffic can be unpredictable, so allow for some buffer time to ensure you don't miss your flight. Additionally, if you're looking to explore more of the city, a guided tour of downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, Santa Monica, or Disneyland might be worth considering.

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Explore downtown LA

Downtown LA has undergone a resurgence in recent years, transforming into a vibrant cultural hub with museums, restaurants, and beautiful buildings. Here is a list of things to do and see in the area:

Grand Park

Grand Park, which opened in 2012, is a 12-acre urban park dotted with fountains, picnic lawns, bright pink benches, and nooks from which to sit and people-watch. It is an excellent spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors while taking in the city's romantic atmosphere.

Disney Hall

Disney Hall, designed by Frank Gehry, is a stunning concert venue that has received rave reviews since its opening in 2003. It is the home of the LA Philharmonic and the LA Master Chorale, but the schedule includes a surprising variety of performances throughout the year. Disney Hall also houses REDCAT, a venue for experimental music, theatre, and art. Free tours of the hall are available.

Grand Central Market

A fabulous multi-ethnic food hall, Grand Central Market offers a variety of dining options. Located behind the market is Bunker Hill, which can be reached via Angels Flight, a funicular that claims to be "the world's shortest railway."

The Broad Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

The Broad Museum and the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) are both located in Bunker Hill, near Grand Central Market. MOCA also has a branch in Little Tokyo, across a plaza from the Japanese American National Museum.

Los Angeles Conservancy Walking Tours

The Los Angeles Conservancy offers acclaimed walking tours that showcase the best of Downtown LA's architecture. You can choose between tours of modern skyscrapers, the Historic Core, Art Deco towers, or Broadway's colorful marquees.

Shopping Districts

For those interested in shopping, Downtown LA offers a variety of options, including high-end stores and restaurants at The Grove, an outdoor shopping district. The Farmers Market, located nearby, offers a more casual dining experience with food stands and picnic tables.

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Eat at In-N-Out Burger

If you're looking for a bite to eat near LAX, In-N-Out Burger is a great option. This popular West Coast burger chain is known for its delicious, freshly made burgers, fries, and shakes. There are several locations near the airport where you can enjoy a meal:

600 N. Sepulveda Blvd, El Segundo, CA

Just 2.06 miles from the airport, this In-N-Out location offers both drive-thru and dine-in options. It's open from 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. Sunday through Thursday, and until 1:30 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

3411 W. Century Blvd, Inglewood, CA

Located 3.74 miles away, this In-N-Out also has drive-thru and dine-in seating. The hours are the same as the El Segundo location.

13425 Washington Blvd, Marina Del Rey, CA

Also 3.86 miles away, this In-N-Out Burger offers the same convenient options for dining in or taking your meal to go. The hours of operation are 10:30 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. daily.

In-N-Out Burger is a great choice if you're craving something casual and tasty during your time near LAX. With its close proximity to the airport and flexible dining options, it's an ideal spot to satisfy your hunger before or after your flight.

Frequently asked questions

There are plenty of things to do near LAX during a layover. Manhattan Beach, for example, is only a 20-minute drive or a short cab ride away. You can stroll along the pier, visit the Roundhouse Marine Studies Lab and Aquarium, or rent a bike and cycle to Santa Monica. If you're a golfer, the Westchester Golf Course is just two miles from the airport. Alternatively, you could visit the Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, which is 10 miles from LAX and offers hiking trails, a fishing pond, and various sports facilities.

In-N-Out Burger on Sepulveda is a famous fast-food joint located just east of LAX. It's also a great spot for plane spotting. If you're looking for something more upscale, the Grove—an outdoor shopping district featuring high-end restaurants—is a 60-90 minute trip each way.

Yes, there are several shopping malls and shopping districts within reach of LAX, including the Beverly Center, Del Amo Mall, the Grove, Third Street Promenade, Rodeo Drive, and Robertson Boulevard.

Yes, there are several tour providers that offer layover tours of Los Angeles, departing from LAX. These typically last at least four hours and include transportation to and from the airport.

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