Free and Accessible Activities I Recommend for Your Downtime
By: Nancy Aguilar Sanchez ‘22
Once you finally have the time between classes, exams, and homework to go explore LA, it’s often hard to find activities that are free or affordable. Here’s some inspiration for the next time you want to go out without blowing your budget!
Go to the Beach!
The most accessible beaches to campus are Santa Monica and Long Beach because they’re both on Metro lines. The trip takes about 40 min-1 hour, so plan accordingly. In Santa Monica there’s tons of cool spots to window shop on the promenade, and walking along the beach is always fun. You can also venture over to the pier. Long Beach also has a shopping center and a small harbor to walk around.
Culver City
Downtown Culver City is one of my favorite places to visit because it’s so pretty, especially at night when the lights are twinkling. You can hang around the Culver City Steps and the grab something to eat at Philz, Monty’s Good Burger, or Salt & Straw ice cream.
Hiking
Also in Culver City, there’s a small hiking trail called the Culver City Stairs that’s a nice escape. It’s beginner friendly and walkable from the Metro station. The view is very beautiful. Other more well known trails include the Hollyridge Trail to the Hollywood Sign and the Firebreak trail to the Griffith Park Observatory. Both of these trails are in Griffith Park and are also a walkable distance from the Metro. Hiking is a great, free activity that offers some exercise and a chance to get outside.
Swimming pool/Tanning
Many apartment complexes around campus (like The Lorenzo, Century apartments, and Tuscany apartments) have pool areas. If you have friends or acquaintances that live there, I highly suggest reaching out to them and suggesting a pool day! It’s a great and affordable way to enjoy yourself and make sure that they are taking advantage of the amenities available to them. Don’t be afraid to reach out!
Local parks and flea markets
Echo park and Hermosa Vista park are perfect for lounging in the sun and getting a glimpse of nature, and they are both public transportation accessible. Echo Park offers cute swan boats, and Hermosa Vista has an iconic view of DTLA. They’re both nice date spots. Flea markets are also a great way to get affordable pieces of clothing or go window shopping. I’ve visited the Loz Feliz Flea Market, which is free and very fun. Some flea markets charge a small admission fee (often cash only!), so make sure you do your research!.
Night Life
USC student parties are tons of fun and easily accessible with the free Lyft program! If you have a group of friends to take the Expo Line with you, there are many free entry dance clubs and speakeasies in downtown to change it up if you get bored of the USC party scene. Stay with your friends and try to be vigilant while having fun!
USC Campus Activities
Of course, the number one thing is going to events on campus! If you follow any university account, there are sure to be events announced with free food, activities, and music. Even just walking around campus, you’re likely to see an event happening that is open to the public. USC often hosts events to celebrate students, holidays, and other campus orgs. USC also has many free film screenings at SCA, so make sure to check the newsletter to RSVP! All sports games besides football are also free to students. I personally love basketball season in the Spring.
These are some of my personal go-to activities, but there are countless hidden gems in the city. You just need the patience and time to find them. Always remember to be safe and alert whenever you go out, no matter the circumstances or time of day. Have fun and be safe Trojans!
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