Top 10 Free Things to do in LA

1. Forecourt of the Stars at Grauman's Chinese Theatre

Visit the Forecourt of the Stars at Graumans’s Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard to measure your hands and feet against the footprints and handprints of Hollywood legends.

2. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Meander along the Hollywood Walk of Fame to find the stars of your favorite celebrities.

3. Hollywood Sign

Take a look at the Hollywood Sign from the viewing area at the Hollywood & Highland shopping and entertainment complex next to Grauman’s Chinese Theatre or drive up Beachwood Canyon for a closer look. Another good viewing point is looking up Gower Boulevard. The sign itself is fenced off from the public, so there is no legal access to it.

4. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Take a stroll down Venice Beach Boardwalk to check out the street performers, the hard bodies at muscle beach and the interesting characters wandering the strand during the summer and on weekends. Parking in the area ranges from $3 to $15 depending on the lot and the time of year. Limited free street parking is available in the neighborhood if you have the patience to look for it.

5. TV Show Taping

Attend a TV Show Taping of your favorite sitcom, game show, talk show, or reality show, or even one you've never heard of. Tickets are always free. Read my Guide to Attending a TV Show Taping.

6. La Brea Tar Pits

The La Brea Tar Pits in Hancock Park next to the LA County Museum of Art is the greatest source of prehistoric fossils excavated. These fossils have made their way into museums around the world, but the largest collection is here at the Page Museum. It’s free to wander the park and look at the tar pits. Excavation of Pit 91 is open during the summer. Hancock Park is on Wilshire Blvd. Between Curson and Fairfax. Metered street parking or paid lots.

7. Getty Museum

Getty Museum – this modern hilltop fortress houses one of the finest art collections in the world. The building and view are worth a visit even if you’re not interested in the art. The Museum is free, but parking is $7 per car. Bike and motorcycle parking is free. Groups of 15 or more motorcycles must reserve parking. Metro Bus 761 stops at the main gate.

8. Getty Villa

NEW the Getty Villa is re-opening January 28, 2006 as the permanent home of Getty’s Greek and Roman art collection. Located on Pacific Coast Highway north of Sunset Blvd. The Museum is free, but advance, timed tickets are required. Parking is $7. Bikes park free. Motorcycles pay full rate. Metro Bus 434 stops near the Getty Villa Gate on PCH. Get tickets through the web site, or call (310) 440-7300.

9. Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument - Olvera Street

Explore the Mexican marketplace at the Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument at Olvera Street. Explore on your own or join a free walking tour Wednesdays through Saturdays 10 a.m. to noon. A self-guided tour brochure describing the historic buildings is available at the Information Desk in the Plaza or at the El Pueblo Visitors Center. Parking Lot at Main Street and Cesar Chavez. Metro Red Line stop: Union Station.

10. California Science Center

The California Science Center is fun for adults and kids. General Admission is free. Parking is $6. There is a fee for the IMAX Theatre and special attractions. The Science Center is open 10 to 5 except holidays. Weekday mornings are crowded with school groups, so afternoons and weekends are better to visit. Metro Bus 445.