Los Angeles Spring & Summer Bucket List

As the days grow longer, I find myself daydreaming about all the adventures I want to have this spring and summer. With so many amazing things to do in Los Angeles and Southern California, I decided to create a bucket list filled with experiences I’m excited to check off in the coming months. All of the activities on this list are either in Los Angeles County or just a short day trip away. I kept it intentionally manageable, so I can truly enjoy each experience rather than feel overwhelmed by an endless to-do list. My goal is to check off everything on the list!

This is the perfect bucket list is for all the girls who want to spend their spring and summer filled with joy, relaxation, and a touch of whimsy. And to make it even more fun, I’ve created a free downloadable checklist so you can follow along and check off your own dreamy adventures! 

Los Angeles Spring & Summer Bucket List

1. Visit a Lavender Festival

California is home to some stunning lavender festivals, and I’d love to visit one this year! The Highland Springs Ranch & Inn Lavender Festival in Cherry Valley is a popular option, it has acres of fragrant lavender fields, artisan lavender products, and even lavender ice cream.

2. Go to a Renaissance Faire

A Ren Faire is the perfect excuse to dress up in a dreamy outfit and take a step back in time. The Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire in Irwindale is the biggest in Southern California, it offers everything from jousting tournaments and live music to medieval-style food and unique handcrafted goods. This will be a first for me so I’m very excited.

3. Take an Amtrak Trip to San Diego

There’s something so relaxing about taking the train along the coast. The Pacific Surfliner is one of the most scenic train routes in California, running along the coast with stunning ocean views. San Diego is a perfect day trip or weekend getaway from Los Angeles. I’d love to visit Balboa Park, explore the cute cafés and boutiques in Little Italy, and spend some time at La Jolla Cove watching the sea lions.

4. Have a Beach Day in Malibu

Malibu has some of the most beautiful beaches in California, and I want to spend a full day soaking up the sun! Some options I’m considering:

  • Zuma Beach – Perfect sandy shores, great for sunbathing and swimming.
  • El Matador Beach – Perfect for photos of its dramatic cliffs and sea caves.
  • Point Dume – A scenic spot with a short hike leading to breathtaking ocean views.

5. Have a Picnic in the Park

There’s nothing better than a relaxed afternoon picnic with fresh fruit, pastries, and a cozy blanket. Some top picnic spots I’m considering:

  • Griffith Park – Iconic park with plenty of grassy shaded spots.
  • Echo Park Lake – Perfect for watching the swan boats glide by.
  • Palisades Park – A gorgeous bluff-top spot overlooking the ocean in Santa Monica.

6. Ride the Swan Boats in Echo Park

I’ve always wanted to paddle around Echo Park Lake in one of the adorable swan boats! The experience is especially magical at sunset when the city skyline reflects on the water. This will be another first for me.

7. Cocktail Night at Hello Kitty Café

The Hello Kitty Café in Irvine Spectrum Center or Studio City is high on my list for a fun and girly night out. Their super aesthetic cocktails and themed desserts make it a must-visit for Sanrio fans.

8. Go on a Guided Forage Walk

I love the idea of learning to identify edible plants and mushrooms in nature! I’ve been solo foraging before with a photo identifying app and plant books but going with a pro would make it so much more interesting.Here are some options for guided foraging tours that I’ve been wanting to try:

  • Los Angeles Mycological Society – They host seasonal mushroom foraging walks.
  • Wild Food Walks in Malibu – Led by foraging experts, these walks teach about local edible plants and sustainability.
  • Joshua Tree Foraging Tours – A unique desert-based experience focusing on native plants.

9. Look Through the Telescope at Griffith Observatory

I’ve visited Griffith Observatory before, but I’ve never actually looked through the massive public telescope. This year, I want to take the time to stargaze and maybe even catch a special celestial event!

10. See the Antelope Valley Poppies in Full Bloom

The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve is famous for its rolling hills covered in vibrant orange poppies during peak bloom (usually late March to mid-April). I’m hoping for a superbloom this year!

11. Bike Ride from Santa Monica to Venice

A classic LA experience, I want to rent a bike and ride along The Strand, the scenic oceanfront path that connects Santa Monica and Venice Beach. If you try this, be sure to stop for a lunch at Fig Tree or The Butcher’s Daughter, there are some of my favorite spots to eat in Venice.

12. Spend the Day at a Rooftop Pool

Lounging by a rooftop pool with a cold drink in hand sounds like the ultimate summer luxury. Some of the best rooftop pools in LA include:

  • Rooftop at Andaz West Hollywood – A stylish spot with amazing city views.
  • The Highlight Room – A trendy rooftop pool with cabanas and cocktails.
  • Broken Shaker at Freehand LA – A laid-back rooftop with tropical vibes.

13. Go to an Outdoor Movie Screening

Watching a classic movie under the stars is such a dreamy summer night activity! Some great outdoor movie screenings to check out:

  • Cinespia at Hollywood Forever Cemetery 
  • Street Food Cinema 
  • Rooftop Cinema Club 

14. Experience a Nighttime Sound Bath

A sound bath under the stars sounds like the ultimate way to relax and reset. Bonus points if it’s outdoors.

springsummer bucket listDownload

Spring and summer are the perfect seasons to slow down, soak up the sunshine, and make unforgettable memories. Whether it’s a dreamy beach day, a whimsical festival, or a cozy outdoor movie night, this bucket list is all about embracing joy, relaxation, and adventure.

I hope this list inspires you to plan your own magical experiences this season! Don’t forget to download your free checklist to track your adventures and make sure you don’t miss a thing.

What’s on your spring and summer bucket list? Let me know in the comments, I’d love to hear your ideas!