Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the most well traveled places in the world. The airport handled over 88 million passenger in 2019 alone. While LAX has many excellent amenities, people don’t fly to Los Angeles to hang out at the airport. There are a ton of smart, fun things to do near LAX that will keep you busy for your entire stay. Grab a car rental near LAX and check these destinations out for yourself!
Fun: In-N-Out Burger
For anyone from the East Coast, In-N-Out burger might seem like just another local burger fast food chain. They’ll later be delighted to find that it’s so much more. Classic burgers and real french fries, wrapped up in Americana at a great price. Stop by their location near LAX to enjoy a mouth-watering burger and watch the jets fly low overhead.
Smart: The Flight Path Learning Center
If you only have a short layover and can’t leave the airport, don’t worry. The Flight Path Learning Center and Museum is located right inside LAX and is fun for the whole family. Current exhibitions include retro flight crew uniforms, a Douglas DC-3 aircraft, and a space exploration exhibit. Along with the museum, the Flight Path Learning Center wants to encourage and educate you
Fun: Manhattan Beach Pier
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kL_mdk2Eg5Y
Located just 10 minutes away from the airport, the Manhattan Beach Pier is an excellent place to watch the waves and the sunset your first time in town. Although the pier is only 928 feet long, its historical charm and excellent scenery makes visiting a must. If the views don’t tickle your fancy, check out the Roadhouse Aquarium at the end of the pier.
Smart: Automobile Driving Museum
Los Angeles has had a rich and storied car culture since automobiles first hit the streets after the turn of the 20th century. The Automobile Driving Museum has over 130 antique, vintage, and muscle cars on display. The museum also hosts a ton of special events for enthusiasts and admirers alike. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even drive some of the vintage cars for a small fee.
Fun: Westchester Golf Course
Calling all golfers! The 18 hole, 4,364 yard Westchester Golf Course is open to the public and located a short distance north of LAX. With affordable rates, nighttime play, and a newly renovated driving range, it’s a whole lot of fun for players of all skill levels. You can even book your tee time online through their website.
Smart: Whale Watching
It’s not every day that you get to see a whale. Depending on the season, you might not have to travel far to get a closeup view of some of the largest mammals on Earth. Redondo Whale Watch offers indoor and outdoor seating on their 65ft excursion vessel. The whole trip lasts 2.5 hours and guests can purchase refreshments and snacks.
Fun: Santa Monica Pier
This historic pier has been a fun destination for tourists and families for a long time. There’s an amusement park, carousel, and arcade located right on the pier. If that’s not your speed, check out some of the restaurants and other vendors. If all else fails you can always fish off the side. Just make sure you don’t hook anyone behind you.
Smart: Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory has been featured in many movies and television shows and is an iconic part of Los Angeles history. The observatory is open and free to the public as it’s currently operated by the LA Department of Recreation and Parks. Once you’re done taking in the view, check out the Cafe at the End of the Universe for some space-themed refreshments.
Fun: Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area
Not many people know about the many trails and recreation areas in greater Los Angeles. Located just a few miles from LAX, the Kenneth Hahn State Recreation area has many trails, footpaths, and amenities for the outdoorsy. There are also over 100 picnic tables peppered throughout the park, which makes it the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle for a little lunch.
Smart: Get Car Rental Near LAX
Rental kiosks at the airport have many additional fees that an independent agency doesn’t. These fees don’t make the service any better or faster either. Many visitors report long wait times on top of high costs. Value Rental Car offers clean and affordable rental cars for local driving in Los Angeles and Pasadena. They also offer flexible rentals for cash and debit card customers. Value Rental Car also rents to interns, college students, and other drivers that corporate chains would decline.