17+ Unique and Fun Winter Activities in Southern California
As winter arrives, you might not think Southern California provides a traditional winter experience. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Sunny Southern California offers many fun winter activities to make your season memorable.
From iconic destinations to outdoor adventures, festivals, events, indoor activities, and even city escapes, Southern California has something for everyone to enjoy during the cooler months of the winter season.
In this article, we share our local experiences and explore some of Southern California’s most exciting and fun winter activities! Our list includes winter fun for families, seasonal activities for couples, plus wintertime things to do with friends or as solo adventurers.
Let’s get ready to assemble your Southern California winter bucket list.
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Iconic Destinations in Southern California
Disneyland in Winter
Disneyland offers a unique experience during the winter months, making it an ideal destination for families and Disney lovers alike. With shorter lines and smaller crowds, winter is considered off-season for Disneyland, making it a perfect time to enjoy all the park offers.
From festive decorations, holiday-themed parades and shows, special winter treats, and more, Disneyland transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the holiday season. The highlight is Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade featuring Disney characters in their best Christmas attire!
Griffith Observatory
During the winter months in Los Angeles, consider visiting the Griffith Observatory. This iconic landmark offers breathtaking views of the city and is an excellent spot for stargazing.
The observatory hosts various events and exhibitions throughout the year, so check their website for the latest updates. Additionally, you can join the |Griffith Observatory Star Parties held once a month and enjoy an enchanting date under the stars. Local telescope groups generously share their telescopes and knowledge with the public. It’s an excellent opportunity for families to marvel at the Sun, Moon, visible planets, and other celestial objects while getting hands-on experience with different telescopes. It’s also a chance to engage with passionate amateur astronomers who can offer insights into the night sky and their equipment.
After your celestial adventure, you can head into the city for a cozy meal and beverage. Griffith Observatory in winter promises a memorable experience blending nature, astronomy, and romance.
Enjoy a Staycation Aboard The Queen Mary Hotel
The Queen Mary in Long Beach offers many options for visitors in one place. This historic (and haunted) retired ocean liner, which sailed from 1936 to 1967, provides a mix of historical tours, paranormal-themed dinners, and the popular Ghosts and Legends tour.
Staying aboard the Queen Mary in Long Beach offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Choose from a range of unique historic staterooms and suites that will transport you back in time to the golden age of ocean travel. These comfortable and authentic sleeping rooms will make you feel like you’re crossing the Atlantic on a period-true ship’s cabin. Lose yourself in the enchantment of this historic vessel while enjoying Long Beach’s vibrant atmosphere.
Enjoy monthly comedy shows and local band nights at the Observation Bar & Art Deco Lounge. For a luxurious experience, consider booking one of the stylish staterooms. Check their calendar for special seasonal events and make your visit to the Queen Mary memorable.
Check Rates & Availability at the Queen Mary Hotel
Winter Sports in Southern California
Skiing and Snowboarding
Southern California offers a diverse range of exciting snow activities just a few hours away from Los Angeles.
One of the most popular winter pastimes is skiing or snowboarding in the nearby mountains. Big Bear Mountain Resort is a favorite destination with its vast, skiable acres and numerous trails. Its Snow Valley area is an excellent choice for families and beginners, providing easy runs and a terrain park. Bear Mountain boasts an impressive terrain park with over 200 features and runs suitable for all levels, while Snow Summit offers superb skiing conditions thanks to its advanced snowmaking technology.
Mountain High is another notable resort, offering three distinct areas catering to different preferences, including night skiing and snowboarding.
Whether you choose to ski, snowboard, tube, or sled, always remember to check the weather and snow conditions and dress appropriately for a fun-filled time in the SoCal snow.
Ice Skating Rinks in Los Angeles
If you’re looking for a fun and unique winter activity in Los Angeles, look no further than ice skating. Los Angeles is home to nearly a dozen rinks throughout the county, offering festive skating fun for all ages.
From the iconic LA Kings Holiday Ice at L.A. LIVE next to the STAPLES Center to Pasadena Ice Skating Center, you can take advantage of outdoor and indoor skating in Los Angeles.
Outdoor Experiences for Winter in Southern California
Whale Watching
Winter is the best time for whale watching in Southern California. Majestic gray whales migrate from Alaska to Mexico, making the coastal waters a perfect spot to see these incredible creatures up close.
Take a whale-watching tour from various locations along the Southern California coast, such as Newport Beach or Dana Point, and enjoy the sight of the whales and the breathtaking scenery of the Pacific Ocean.
If you prefer to stay on land, head to Point Loma and use binoculars to spot the whales from sunset cliffs.
Hiking Adventures
Winter in Southern California offers fantastic hiking opportunities. With cooler temperatures, it becomes easier to conquer challenging trails while still enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Some must-visit spots include Griffith Park and Runyon Canyon. For a more challenging hike, consider walking sections of the Backbone Trail in the Santa Monica National Recreation Area. We’ve completed all 67 miles of this trail and highly recommend hiking sections or all of the trail.
For a Hollywood experience in the hills, make your way up to the iconic Hollywood Sign. This walk attracts visitors during the winter months. Although you can’t get close to the sign, numerous hiking trails provide stunning views. You can traverse the hills and relish the panoramic vistas of the city.
Explore the Desert Landscape
Winter is the perfect time to explore Southern California’s desert landscape. From the stunning rock formations of Joshua Tree National Park to the expansive trails of Anza-Borrego Desert State Park, there is much to discover.
Avoiding the extreme heat, you can enjoy pleasant weather while hiking, rock climbing, and taking in breathtaking views.
If you have the opportunity, drive to Death Valley National Park to experience the majestic landscape and immerse yourself in the area’s history. We’ve visited several times, with winter being our favorite season for enjoying the magnificence of Death Valley.
Festivals & Events
Winter in Southern California is a time for vibrant festivals and exciting celebrations. The area constantly buzzes about fun and festive activities during the holiday season and beyond.
Here are a few to consider for your calendar:
- Rose Parade (Pasadena): Held on New Year’s Day, the Rose Parade features stunning floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units.
- Palm Springs International Film Festival: This festival typically occurs in early January and showcases many international films.
- Chinese New Year Festival (Los Angeles): Celebrated in February, this festival includes a grand parade, cultural performances, and delicious food in LA’s Chinatown.
- Disneyland Resort Holiday Celebrations (Anaheim): Enjoy the holiday decorations, parades, and special events at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park during winter.
- Winter Fest OC (Costa Mesa): This winter wonderland event offers ice skating, holiday lights, entertainment, and more during the holiday season.
- Newport Beach Christmas Boat Parade: Usually held in mid-December, this event features elaborately decorated boats cruising through Newport Harbor.
- Festival of Lights (Riverside): The Mission Inn Hotel in Riverside is beautifully illuminated during the holiday season, creating a magical atmosphere.
- Los Angeles Auto Show: Typically occurring in late November or early December, this event showcases the newest car models and automotive technology.
Indoor Activities During Winter in Southern California
Art Museums
Southern California is home to some of the most prestigious art museums in the world, making it a perfect destination for culture enthusiasts during the winter season. Here are three famous art museums to check out:
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): With over 100,000 works from ancient times to the present, LACMA is one of the largest art museums in the Western United States.
- The Getty Center (Los Angeles): This impressive museum features an extensive European and American art collection, beautiful gardens, and stunning architecture.
- San Diego Museum of Art: Located in Balboa Park, this museum is home to a diverse collection of over 20,000 works from around the world, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
Participate in an art class at LACMA
Discover your creative side at LACMA in Southern California this winter by taking an art class.
LACMA offers a variety of adult classes, including drawing, painting, and mixed-media printmaking. These classes allow you to explore composition, color, and technique while creating your unique works of art.
A great indoor activity for couples, you can gift each other your masterpieces and enjoy the enriching experience. The classes typically have five once-a-week sessions, making them ideal for more advanced dates.
If you prefer a more relaxed option with a touch of fun, consider joining a Paint Nite where you can sip on drinks while getting creative.
Sweep the ice at Hollywood Curling
Experience the unique sport of curling at Hollywood Curling, the only club in LA. While the rest of the country braces against frostbite, you can enjoy the season with curling fun.
This Winter Olympic sport beloved by our neighbors to the north involves sliding “rocks” across the ice and furiously sweeping their path towards a target. With teamwork, strategy, and a healthy dose of competition, it’s the perfect recipe for a memorable date night.
Make a date at Hollywood Curling for frequent curling classes. Get ready to laugh and create fantastic memories on the ice.
Enjoy Vintage Bowling at Highland Park Bowl
The historic Highland Park Bowl has been around since the Prohibition era. Exuding a unique charm, it combines vintage elements with modern touches. This revamped alley is a true masterpiece, from a recovered 1930s mural to chandeliers made from vintage pin-setters.
But it’s not just the aesthetics and vintage bowling vibe that make Highland Park Bowl a must-visit. They also serve up some seriously delicious wood-fired pizzas and craft cocktails that will impress. And if you’re on a budget, remember to take advantage of their happy hour specials from Monday through Friday.
Winter Time Culinary Delights in Southern California
Cooking classes for couples
One fantastic way to embrace the winter season is by taking cooking classes, which offer a chance to stay warm indoors while learning new culinary skills and indulging in delicious dishes. Here are three popular options for couples looking to embark on a flavorful winter date:
Hipcooks (San Diego): Hipcooks provides a fun and interactive cooking class experience perfect for couples. Their classes are designed to be social and offer a “Date Night” class ideal for a romantic evening out. In this class, couples can bond over preparing a multi-course meal with exotic flavors and dishes inspired by global cuisines. Hipcooks’ emphasis on creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere ensures that you and your partner will have a fantastic time while honing your culinary skills.
Sur La Table – Multiple Locations: Sur La Table is a renowned kitchenware and cooking store with multiple locations across Southern California, making it accessible to couples throughout the region. They offer a variety of cooking classes throughout the year, including some tailored specifically for the winter season. From mastering the art of making homemade pasta to crafting the perfect soufflé or learning to create a cozy, winter-inspired dinner, Sur La Table’s classes cater to all skill levels. This is an excellent choice for couples who want to bond over a shared love for food and cooking.
Gourmandise School of Sweets & Savories – Santa Monica: Located in the heart of Santa Monica, the Gourmandise School of Sweets & Savories is a culinary haven that offers a wide range of cooking and baking classes. During winter, they often feature classes focusing on comfort foods and seasonal delights. Couples can learn to prepare hearty stews delectable pies, or even explore the art of baking festive holiday treats. The hands-on experience and expert guidance make it a memorable date idea where you can create mouthwatering dishes together.
Go Retro at the Pan Am Experience
Experience a unique journey back in time with the Pan Am Experience in Pacoima. You can enter the nostalgic world of retro-themed flights and enjoy first-class indulgence.
A replica of Pan Am’s 1970s-era Boeing 747 is meticulously detailed to transport you to a bygone era. Savor a delightful five-course dinner while sipping martinis from the open bar. Immerse yourself in the iconic Pan Am experience as flight attendants in their legendary uniforms serve your meal.
Additionally, tour Air Hollywood Studios, which are the backdrop for countless airplane-themed films and TV shows. Embark on this unforgettable, one-of-a-kind adventure guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
City Escapes
Visit Palm Springs
Escape the beach vibes and embark on a thrilling winter adventure in Palm Springs! This desert oasis offers many exciting activities to enjoy during the colder season.
Immerse yourself in the soothing hot springs, pamper yourself at luxurious spas, and indulge in exhilarating outdoor pursuits. Take a picturesque hike amidst the majestic mountains, soar high above in a hot air balloon, or bask in relaxation by the pool at one of the many upscale resorts.
Don’t miss the iconic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, where you can marvel at breathtaking views of Chino Canyon and the surrounding wilderness, experiencing a captivating blend of desert heat and mountain chill.
Discover the area’s natural wonders through scenic hiking trails, take in panoramic views from observation decks, and explore the fascinating natural history museum.
For cycling enthusiasts, Palm Springs offers an array of biking routes, catering to all levels of difficulty, distance, and scenery. Traverse the stunning San Jacinto mountain range, soak in the vast desert landscapes, and revel in the historical significance of the mid-century mansions previously inhabited by Hollywood stars.
Palm Springs is the perfect winter getaway for unforgettable memories and endless outdoor fun!
Find lodging for your overnight stay in Palm Springs
Experience the Danish Capital of the United States
Solvang is a charming community in the Santa Ynez Valley, located just two hours north of Los Angeles. This idyllic Danish-inspired town offers a unique winter experience with quaint streets adorned with twinkling lights and festive holiday decorations.
During the winter season, Solvang hosts various events and activities perfect for visitors of all ages. Experience traditional Danish holiday customs, indulge in delicious pastries and cuisine, or browse local shops for unique gifts.
One of the most enchanting experiences in Solvang during winter is the annual Julefest winter event. Ride in a horse-drawn trolley ride through town, and visit the charming Danish-style Christmas market. Take a step back in time as you wander through Solvang’s rich history and learn about its Christmas traditions.
Enjoy the charm of San Diego
Winter in San Diego offers a unique experience with its mild weather and many activities. Despite the lack of snow, numerous options exist to get into the holiday spirit.
One must-visit destination is Balboa Park, which transforms into a winter wonderland during December Nights, featuring festive decorations, twinkling lights, and live performances.
Another highlight is the San Diego Zoo, which turns into a magical wonderland with light displays and holiday-themed animal exhibits.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, the city’s beaches provide the perfect setting for a winter stroll, with smaller crowds and beachside cafes for warming up with a cup of hot cocoa or coffee.
Winter weather in Southern California
Winter weather in Southern California may not get as cold as other parts of the country, but it can still bring significant temperature drops, especially at night. Therefore, bundling up and staying warm during the cooler months is important.
The weather in this region can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to come prepared with warm clothing and plenty of layers.
Also, if you plan to visit parks or campgrounds, you should make early reservations to ensure campsites are available.
With its abundance of options, Southern California is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts all year round.
Frequently Asked Questions – FAQ
Southern California is worth visiting during the winter months. The region offers diverse attractions, from snow-capped mountains and pine tree forests to white sand beaches. From hiking in the outdoors to art museums, culinary classes indoors, and day trip adventures, you’ll find plenty to do during winter in Southern California. And you can avoid the crowds that are more common during summer.
Some fun things to do in winter in Southern California include:
Celebrate Julefest in Solvang, California
Southern California Ultimate Christmas Events Guide
Visit Death Valley – One day itinerary
Conclusion
In conclusion, Southern California offers an abundance of incredible bucket list destinations that cater to all interests. Whether you crave outdoor adventures, culinary delights, or indoor experiences, this region has it all.
There is something for everyone to enjoy during the winter months. So make the most of this beautiful part of the country and create unforgettable memories this winter season in sunny Southern California.
Thanks for reading. We hope this post inspires your winter adventures in Southern California. And we’ll see you at the places where we go.
Julie & Art
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