Rain in Los Angeles changes everything. The bright city takes on a softer tone, lights reflect in puddles, and the usual rush slows to an easy rhythm. Locals trade the outdoors for warm cafés, museums, and theaters, discovering a calmer side of the city that’s just as inviting as its sunshine. Los Angeles may be known for blue skies, but when the rain falls, it reveals a creative, cozy atmosphere all its own.
TL;DR
- Rainy days are perfect for LA’s museums, libraries, historic theaters, and food halls.
- Cluster by area (DTLA, Exposition Park, Westwood) to minimize wet transfers.
- Use Metro/ride-hail; garages and covered entries beat street parking in rain.
- Dress in light layers, water-resistant shoes; carry a compact umbrella.
- Weekday showers = thinner crowds and easier timed entries.
- When clouds break, head to a viewpoint (Griffith/Getty) for crystal-clear city views.
Related Reads:
- The Traveler’s Ultimate Guide to Los Angeles
- Best Day Trips from Los Angeles
- Family-Friendly Things to Do in Los Angeles
Overview
With most days filled with sunshine, a gray sky brings a slower rhythm to the city. Locals welcome the change, joking about how much the rain is needed, while visitors quickly discover that LA has just as much to offer indoors as it does outside. When showers arrive, the city reveals a quieter charm filled with art, music, and cozy corners worth exploring.
On rainy days, Los Angeles invites you to slow down and enjoy its indoor highlights. You can spend the morning wandering through a world-class museum, catch a matinee in a historic theater, explore an indoor market, or settle into a café with a good cup of coffee. The sound of rain against the windows adds to the atmosphere, making every stop feel more relaxed and personal.
A wet day in LA isn’t a setback, it’s a new way to experience the city. This guide will help you find the best things to do when it rains in Los Angeles, from cultural spaces to warm hideaways that make even a stormy afternoon feel special.
The Broad
The Broad is a contemporary art museum that feels like LA’s creativity under a roof. From the moment you see its distinctive white honeycomb façade, you know you’re in for something special. Inside, the rain fades away and you’re surrounded by vibrant modern artworks – think Jeff Koons’ gleaming balloon sculptures and Yayoi Kusama’s whimsical installations.
The museum’s architecture alone makes it a must-visit, with its honeycomb-like exterior and dramatic interior spaces creating an immersive art experience. On a rainy weekday, The Broad is especially tranquil; the usual crowds thin out, giving you space to stand in awe before a giant Basquiat or to lose track of time in an Infinity Mirror Room.
Natural light filters softly through the patterned skylights, and you might even hear the gentle patter of rain on the roof as you wander. It’s an inspiring refuge where LA’s famous creative energy hums warmly indoors, inviting you to explore and stay dry at the same time.
The Getty Center
High on a hilltop above West LA, The Getty Center offers a serene retreat on a drizzly day. Getting there is half the fun: you’ll take a tram that glides up the misty hillside, delivering you to Richard Meier’s architectural masterpiece.
The Getty’s travertine stone buildings and panoramic windows mean that even with rain outside, you’re treated to breathtaking views of the city veiled in clouds. In the galleries, European paintings and photography glow under soft lighting, and the sound of rain is replaced by a hush of appreciation. Stroll through exhibits of Monet and Rembrandt, linger by a centuries-old sculpture – there’s no rush.
If the rain eases, step out into the covered sections of the gardens or onto a terrace; the fresh post-rain air and moody skyline make for a rare, beautiful scene. Indoor things to do in LA rarely come with such a stunning backdrop. The Getty Center marries art, nature, and architecture, so you can savor a cultural journey while the city below gets its much-needed rinse.
Natural History Museum
On a rainy day, the Natural History Museum (NHM) is a playground of discovery where you can literally spend hours without noticing the weather. Housed in an elegant Beaux-Arts building in Exposition Park, the museum shelters you among dinosaurs and gemstones while raindrops streak the windows outside.
Step into the Dinosaur Hall to stand beneath the towering T. rex and triceratops skeletons, their prehistoric grandeur undimmed by the gray sky above. In the Gem and Mineral Hall, glimmering crystals and gold nuggets shine brightly, a striking contrast to the dull clouds outdoors.
The museum’s dioramas – from African savannahs to underwater scenes – feel especially cozy on a chilly day; kids press close to the glass, noses nearly touching the scenes, as thunder softly rumbles beyond the walls. With interactive exhibits and “please touch” displays, NHM engages all ages and turns a dreary day into a voyage through time.
By the time you wander into the Nature Gardens (which you can view from indoors if it’s pouring), you might just forget about the weather entirely, caught up in the wonders of natural history.
The Petersen Automotive Museum
Car enthusiasts rejoice – a little rain won’t stop the Petersen Automotive Museum from revving up your day. In fact, this striking museum’s façade (waves of red steel ribbons) looks even more dramatic against a wet, gray sky. Inside, you’ll find one of the largest collections of automobiles in the world , all gleaming under the showroom lights while raindrops slide off the windows outside.
Stroll through exhibits spanning the history of the automobile: from early vintage models that conjure Hollywood’s golden age, to futuristic concept cars and famous movie vehicles. Kids and adults alike press close to see classics like Steve McQueen’s motorcycles or the Batmobile, all safe from the elements. The Petersen is three floors of polished chrome and storytelling – race cars that tell of past glories, lowriders that embody LA’s subcultures, and cutting-edge electric cars pointing to the future.
On a rainy afternoon, the galleries are comfortably uncrowded and you can snap photos without glare from harsh sunlight. For an extra treat, join the Petersen’s famed “Vault” tour (an underground trove of 250+ rare cars spanning 120 years) to dive even deeper into auto lore. It’s a perfect plan to stay dry and let your imagination hit the open road.
Los Angeles Central Library
Step out of the rain and into the Los Angeles Central Library, and you might feel like you’ve entered a grand old movie set. This downtown landmark is an architectural gem – its cavernous atrium lined with Art Deco chandeliers and murals – and on wet days it becomes the city’s living room.
Grab a seat by the towering windows and watch droplets stream down the glass as you flip through a magazine or a newly borrowed book. The building itself is a work of art, featuring stunning murals, intricate tile work, and peaceful reading rooms that invite you to relax and stay awhile.
In the hushed Literature section, rain tapping on the roof, you can practically hear the collective sigh of relief as Angelenos settle in for a quiet afternoon. The library often hosts free events – author talks, film screenings, workshops – and on rainy weekdays these are delightfully uncrowded, feeling almost like intimate gatherings.
Even if you’re just sheltering for an hour, wander up the marble staircases to see the beautiful rotunda with its painted ceiling, depicting California’s history. There’s something soothing about being surrounded by books while a storm murmurs outside – as if the city itself decided to curl up with a good story for the day.
The Last Bookstore
In the heart of downtown, The Last Bookstore is a whimsical haven that practically begs you to come in from the rain and get lost among its shelves. Housed in a former bank building, this two-story shop is filled corner-to-corner with towering bookshelves, vinyl records, and local art installations.
The atmosphere on a rainy day is pure magic: the smell of old paper and fresh coffee mingles with the sound of rain tapping on the high windows. Wander through narrow aisles lined with novels and you’ll find hidden reading nooks where you can curl up while the weather drizzles outside.
Don’t miss the famous book tunnel – an archway made entirely of novels – which looks like something out of a dream (and makes for a great photo). Up on the mezzanine, books are organized by color and quirky themes, and you might catch an impromptu poetry reading or acoustic performance if you’re lucky. Indoor things to do in LA rarely get more charmingly offbeat than this.
It’s the kind of place where time slows down; you could spend an entire afternoon flipping through art books or chatting with the knowledgeable staff about a rare find. Meanwhile, outside, the city’s “soft, silver day” continues. Here inside The Last Bookstore, you’re warm, dry, and surrounded by stories – which is exactly where you want to be when LA rains.
Grand Central Market
A rainy day in Los Angeles practically demands comfort food, and Grand Central Market is the ultimate destination to satisfy those cravings. This historic indoor market (a downtown landmark since 1917) bursts with color and flavor under its big neon signs and vintage lamps.
Push through the doors on Broadway and you’re greeted by the sizzle of international cuisine: tacos grilling on one side, ramen noodles bubbling on the other, the sweet scent of coffee and baked goods weaving through it all. Locals and visitors huddle at communal tables, shoulders cozy in damp jackets, sharing comfort foods from around the world.
The market is a food lover’s paradise, offering everything from spicy pad Thai and pupusas to classic deli sandwiches and fresh-ground gourmet burgers. On a rainy midday, you’ll find it pleasantly lively but less crowded than a sunny weekend – perfect for browsing each stall without hurry. Overhead, the metal roof amplifies the patter of rain, adding a soothing soundtrack to your culinary adventure.
Grab a hot bowl of pho or a gooey grilled cheese, and watch the rain streak the windows as you indulge. The cheerful bustle inside Grand Central Market makes you forget the dreary weather outside, proving that even when it pours, LA’s food scene shines bright and warm.
The Aquarium of the Pacific
Just down the coast in Long Beach, the Aquarium of the Pacific offers a chance to “go to the ocean” without getting wet – ideal for a rainy day. The moment you step inside, you’re greeted by the gentle blue glow of massive aquarium tanks and the playful dance of sea creatures.
Storm clouds might be rolling over the Pacific outside, but in here, jellyfish float serenely and tropical fish dart through coral reefs under bright lights. You can wander through a tunnel with sharks cruising overhead, feeling as if you’ve dove under the waves while staying completely dry.
It’s a family-friendly destination where kids squeal at clownfish and pet baby rays in the touch pools , and grown-ups find themselves mesmerized by the delicate pulse of moon jellies. The aquarium’s indoor exhibits take you through various marine habitats – from the chilly waters of the North Pacific (complete with adorable puffins and otters) to the vibrant reefs of Baja. On rainy weekdays, the aquarium is quieter, giving you front-row views at every tank.
The outdoor penguin habitat even has viewing windows you can enjoy from inside if showers persist. Few rainy day activities in Los Angeles are as immersive as watching colorful fish and playful sea otters while thunder softly rumbles in the distance. It’s educational, calming, and a little bit wondrous – the perfect antidote to a dreary afternoon.
El Capitan Theatre
When raindrops slick Hollywood Boulevard’s starry sidewalks, duck into El Capitan Theatre for a show and a dose of Old Hollywood charm. This beautifully restored 1920s movie palace, now operated by Disney, is an ideal rainy-day escape that feels like stepping back in time.
Outside, neon marquee lights reflect in puddles; inside, you’re welcomed by a grand staircase and a gorgeously ornate auditorium with twinkling stars painted on the ceiling. Settle into plush red seats as the rain beats gently on the roof far above. Often, an usher in vintage attire or even a live organ performance on the mighty Wurlitzer will entertain the crowd before the film, filling the hall with cheerful music.
It’s not just a movie, it’s an experience – from classic Disney animated re-releases to the latest Marvel or Pixar premiere. The sound of rain in Los Angeles all but disappears as the velvet curtains part and the screen flickers to life. During special engagements, El Capitan might display props or costumes from the film in the lobby, adding a mini-museum to your visit.
Surrounded by ornate decor and the collective cozy feeling of an audience escaping the damp weather, you’ll understand why historic theaters like this are beloved in LA. By the time the credits roll, you might even forget it’s raining at all – until you step outside to find Hollywood glistening. A show at El Capitan turns a wet evening into pure movie magic.
The Hammer Museum
For art lovers on a budget (or anyone seeking a mellow cultural afternoon), The Hammer Museum in Westwood is a rainy-day gift. This modern art museum, affiliated with UCLA, offers free admission year-round , welcoming you to wander its galleries without worry.
When it’s wet outside, the Hammer’s sleek and airy indoors provide a calm, contemplative space. Check out cutting-edge exhibitions – the kind of contemporary art that sparks conversation – or explore the permanent collection, which ranges from classic to quirky. The ambiance is intimate and local; you might encounter students sketching in notebooks or quietly discussing a painting, their umbrellas resting at their feet.
Natural light filters in from the sky-lit courtyard (which you can view from inside lounges if you don’t want to brave a drizzle), and the sound of rain in the open atrium becomes a gentle backdrop to your visit. The Hammer often hosts free talks, film screenings, and readings, so on a gray afternoon you could find yourself sipping complimentary coffee at an author’s panel or watching an indie film in their cozy theater.
It’s the kind of place that makes you feel plugged into LA’s creative pulse even as the weather nudges everyone indoors. In between gallery rooms, take a break on a comfy bench by a large window – you’ll see raindrops on modern architecture, a lovely contrast. The Hammer Museum turns a dull day into an inspiring outing, proving that in Los Angeles, art doesn’t stop for a little rain.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
No list of indoor things to do in LA would be complete without LACMA. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art sprawls across several buildings, and on a rainy day it becomes your multi-stop journey through eras and cultures – all without leaving the museum grounds.
Start in the Broad Contemporary Art Museum building, where huge modern pieces and installations fill light-filled galleries. Across a covered walkway, explore European classics and Asian art in the adjacent pavilion. With a world-class collection featuring everything from ancient artifacts to works by Rembrandt, Monet, and Warhol , LACMA offers endless intrigue as the rain pitter-patters on the rooftops above.
One moment you’re gazing at Egyptian mummies, the next you’re marveling at a giant abstract sculpture – the variety keeps the day dynamic. The museum’s indoor café is a cozy haven to recharge with a hot drink; take a seat by the floor-to-ceiling windows and watch the rain nurture the sculpture garden outside. And speaking of outside, if there’s a break in the showers, do dash over to Urban Light, the iconic forest of vintage lampposts at the museum’s entrance.
The wet pavement makes their reflections dance, and the scene of those 202 lamps glowing under a cloudy dusk sky is pure Los Angeles romance. Don’t worry if you get a few droplets on you – it’s worth it for the photo op. Whether you’re an art aficionado or just looking to hide from the rain, LACMA gives you a full day’s worth of culture, color, and inspiration, all under one (well, a few) roofs.
Cozy Café Route
Sometimes the simplest pleasures are the best on a rainy day – like a great cup of coffee in a snug café, watching the world go by. Los Angeles has a thriving coffee scene, and a little rain only amplifies its charm. Picture this: you duck into Blue Bottle Coffee in the Arts District, shaking off your umbrella. The space is modern and bright, with the smell of freshly ground single-origin beans wrapping around you like a blanket.
You sip a perfectly crafted espresso as raindrops trace patterns on the floor-to-ceiling windows. Next, you venture to Intelligentsia Coffee in Silver Lake, arguably LA’s original hipster café. Under the striped awning, you join locals in line for a pour-over. Inside, it’s all boho chic – tiled floors, eclectic music, latte art that looks like little paintings.
You find a seat near the door where you can feel a slight cool breeze every time someone comes in, bringing a whiff of petrichor (that lovely rain-on-dry-ground scent) with them. By the time you reach Civil Coffee (with locations in Highland Park and downtown), the afternoon showers might have lightened. No matter – you’re here for the creamy cappuccino and the warm community vibe. Civil’s interior is all rustic wood and mellow lighting, an inviting spot to pull out a notebook or simply people-watch.
Outside, the sky is silver, but inside, there’s laughter, the hiss of the espresso machine, and maybe an old jazz tune playing softly. This DIY “café crawl” shows off LA’s neighborhood gems. Each stop offers a unique flavor of the city, proving that when it comes to what to do when it rains in Los Angeles, a cozy coffee tour is as rewarding as any museum. Take it slow, savor each sip, and enjoy the simple fact that you have nowhere else to be but exactly where you are.
Local Tips for Rainy Days
Even in a city as prepared for sunshine as Los Angeles, there are a few tricks to making the most of a rainy day. First, plan for LA’s traffic to slow down when it rains – it absolutely will. Give yourself extra travel time and consider planning a shorter itinerary focused on one area of the city, so you’re not crisscrossing town in a downpour.
Better yet, take advantage of Metro rail lines or rideshare services on wet days; not only do you avoid the stress of driving slick roads, but you won’t have to hunt for parking (which fills up fast at indoor attractions when everyone has the same rainy-day idea). Many museums have convenient Metro stops or covered parking garages – use them and bring a compact umbrella for the few steps in between.
Dressing for LA rain is all about layers. A light waterproof jacket or a hoodie will usually suffice, as temperatures tend to stay in the 50s-60s°F (10-20°C) even on cool days. Since the ocean breeze can make a damp day feel chilly, you’ll be glad for that extra layer in overly air-conditioned shops or theaters. And don’t forget comfortable waterproof (or at least water-resistant) shoes – nobody enjoys squishing around in soaked sneakers.
One delightful surprise: when the clouds break, Los Angeles reveals stunning clarity. The day after a rain, the mountains stand sharp on the horizon and you can sometimes see snow on their peaks in winter, all the way from the city. If you time it right, head to a viewpoint (like the Griffith Observatory or Getty terraces) when the rain stops – you might catch a rainbow or simply a crystal-clear cityscape normally blurred by haze.
Angelenos often use rainy days as an excuse to pause the usual hustle and cozy up with indoor pursuits. Follow their lead and enjoy the temporary calm. You’re not missing a beach day; you’re gaining a new perspective on LA.
Sample Cozy Day Plan
Not sure how to string it all together? Here are a few one-day rainy-day itineraries to keep you inspired, depending on your mood. Each is designed with a gentle morning–afternoon–evening flow, so you can experience the city at a relaxed pace.
Culture and Comfort
Morning: Start your day downtown at The Broad. Reserve a morning entry so you can immerse yourself in contemporary art while the city is just waking up. After about two hours of art gazing, you’ll be ready for…
Lunch: Walk a few blocks (umbrellas up!) to Grand Central Market. Grab a comforting lunch – perhaps a hot bowl of ramen or tasty carnitas tacos – and enjoy the market’s lively yet laid-back vibe as rain taps on the roof.
Afternoon: When you’re pleasantly full, stroll a short way to the Los Angeles Central Library. Spend the afternoon in plush reading chairs under the library’s ornate ceiling. Browse the stacks, admire the architecture, or join a free event if one’s on. It’s a restful way to let your food settle and your mind wander.
Evening: For dinner, keep it cozy. Maybe duck into a nearby historic hotel bar or café (the Ace Hotel lobby, perhaps) for a warm drink. By now, the rain might have stopped – if so, enjoy a calm nighttime walk in the cool air, downtown streets shimmering from the earlier rain. Culture and comfort, achieved.
Family Rainy Day
Morning: Head to Exposition Park. Start at the Natural History Museum when it opens – the kids will love meeting the dinosaur fossils and splashing in the interactive displays (inside water play on a water-filled day!).
Midday: Take a breather at the museum café or have a picnic lunch in the covered colonnade if it’s only drizzling.
Afternoon: Next, just steps away is the California Science Center (free general admission). Spend the afternoon exploring space capsules, hands-on science exhibits, and even the Space Shuttle Endeavour if it’s on display – plenty of “oohs” and “aahs” to be had, and all indoors.
Late Afternoon: Little ones getting antsy? Treat them to a fun break at an indoor play café. There are a few around LA (for example, indoor playgrounds in Pasadena or the South Bay) where parents can grab a coffee while kids climb and play safely out of the rain. It’s the perfect wind-down.
Evening: Top off the day with a casual family dinner at a kid-friendly restaurant (perhaps in nearby Koreatown for some warm soup or cheesy Korean BBQ, which kids often love to help cook). Everyone will be happily tired from a day of learning and laughing out of the rain.
Creative Escape
Morning: Begin in downtown’s historic core at The Last Bookstore. Arrive when it opens to enjoy the literature labyrinth with almost no one around. Grab a cup of coffee inside and settle into a quiet nook as the rain drums softly outside – maybe even write a few lines in your journal or sketchbook, inspired by the artsy ambiance.
Afternoon: When you tear yourself away from the books, catch a rideshare (or hop on the Metro) to the Arts District. There, pop into a creative café – perhaps Blue Bottle Coffee or a local art-focused spot – for lunch and caffeine. The industrial-chic neighborhood is full of murals glistening in the rain and galleries you can duck into between showers. Spend the afternoon wandering an exhibition at Hauser & Wirth (if open) or snapping photos of rain-slick street art. Feel free to get a little wet – it’s all part of the adventure. Use this time to let your own creativity flow, whether it’s writing, photography, or just daydreaming as you sip your latte.
Evening: Cap off your creative day with an indie film or a live performance. Check what’s playing at the New Beverly Cinema (Tarantino’s revival theater) or Los Feliz 3, where you can catch a classic or arthouse film in a cozy setting. Alternatively, see if any small theaters or comedy clubs in the area have shows – a rainy night is perfect for intimate entertainment. As you step back outside after the show, you’ll find the rain might have stopped. The city will feel refreshed and a bit more yours after a day spent connecting with its creative corners.
The Takeaway
When rain falls in Los Angeles, the city reveals a side that’s calm, creative, and reflective. The sound of raindrops on rooftops replaces the usual city buzz, turning familiar places into something new. A rainy day here isn’t an inconvenience, it’s an invitation to slow down and see LA differently, to linger in a quiet museum, sip coffee in a warm café, or watch neon lights shimmer on wet streets.
These simple moments often become the most memorable: the hush of an art gallery, the smell of fresh pastries, or the glow of the city under a soft gray sky. Rain changes the pace and lets you experience Los Angeles in a more personal way, away from the usual rush and noise.
So when the forecast calls for rain, don’t hide from it. Take a walk, explore, and enjoy how the city transforms. You’ll find that even without the sunshine, Los Angeles still shines, just in a quieter, more peaceful light.
FAQ
Q1: What’s the best neighborhood to base a rainy day in LA?
A: Downtown (DTLA) clusters The Broad, Grand Central Market, Central Library, and The Last Bookstore within short, mostly covered walks.
Q2: Are museum tickets needed on rainy weekdays?
A: Many offer free or timed entry. Reserve in advance for popular exhibits to skip lines when crowds shift indoors.
Q3: Is parking tougher when it rains?
A: Yes. More drivers seek garages. Use Metro where possible, or pick venues with on-site/covered parking.
Q4: Which museums feel especially atmospheric in rain?
A: The Getty (cloud-wrapped views), The Broad (soft skylight), LACMA (Urban Light reflections), and the Natural History Museum.
Q5: Family-friendly rainy options?
A: Exposition Park’s pair: California Science Center + NHM + plus Aquarium of the Pacific. All have cafés, rest areas, and stroller access.
Q6: Any unique “only in LA” rainy experiences?
A: A movie at El Capitan with pre-show Wurlitzer organ, browsing The Last Bookstore’s book tunnel, or DTLA neon reflected on wet streets.
Q7: Where to eat indoors near museums?
A: Grand Central Market (DTLA), on-site cafés at LACMA/The Getty, and food courts around Westwood/West LA.
Q8: What to wear for LA rain?
A: Light waterproof layer, comfy water-resistant shoes; interiors can be cool due to AC.
Q9: How to photograph LA in rain?
A: Look for puddle reflections (lamps, marquees), shoot at blue hour, and shelter under awnings; bring a lens cloth.
Q10: Are outdoor installations worth it in drizzle?
A: Briefly, yes. Urban Light and The Getty terraces look great on wet pavement. Dash between showers.
Q11: Can I rely on public transit in bad weather?
A: Generally yes. Expect minor delays; build buffer time and use stations with covered access.
Q12: Low-cost rainy-day picks?
A: The Broad (free GA), The Hammer (free), Central Library events, The Last Bookstore browsing, Grand Central Market grazing.