LA Winter Wonderland Activities and Events

Although the temperature rarely dips below 50° F, Los Angeles offers a variety of cold-weather-themed activities and winter events. From a festival of lights to multiple outdoor ice-skating rinks, the City of Angels transforms into a veritable winter wonderland each season.

Pershing Square in Downtown Los Angeles transforms into an outdoor ice-skating rink from November to January. Admission is $9 per person and skate rentals are $3. The ice rink is conveniently located near public transportation and many downtown restaurants.

Similarly, Santa Monica’s outdoor ice rink, ICE, offers an artic experience within walking distance of the beach. The $15 admission includes skate rentals. Although the ice tends to get crowded, ICE provides a unique wintertime excursion.

For the less athletically inclined, the Los Angeles Zoo provides a festive, family-friendly experience. The Lights event runs from November until January. Visitors experience a rare, nocturnal look at the L.A Zoo including interactive displays and 3D projections.

Other locations, such as The Grove and Old Town Pasadena, also feature extravagant holiday displays.

Los Angeles provides the ideal winter experience — enjoy the warm glow of the season and the novelty of outdoor ice skating — without having to button up a parka.