14 free things to do in Southern California instead of watching the Super Bowl
Now, I’m aware that some people are looking forward to watching the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks play in the Super Bowl on Feb. 8 In fact, some of you even have parties to celebrate this semi-momentous event, (not that you ever invite me.)
But, for those of us who aren’t into televised mayhem, Super Bowl Sunday can be a great opportunity to get out there and do stuff. And, if you’re lucky, that stuff won’t be crowded, because everyone else will be clustered around the tube with chips in their hands.
We did an extensive scientific survey (OK, not really) of the best things to do on Sunday, Feb. 8 in Southern California, and here’s what we came up with. No guacamole required. Hope you enjoy!
Agua Dulce — 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.: This is a great time of year to visit Vasquez Rocks Natural Area, a unique county park in the Antelope Valley, because it’s not scorching hot. The oddly weathered red rocks here have been the backdrop for many movie and TV shoots, such as “Blazing Saddles,” the “Star Trek” series and “Flintstone” movies. Pleasant walks and easy hikes abound among its 945 acres, although wear sensible shoes and bring plenty of water. Kids will want to climb on all the rocks. There’s a small visitor center. 10700 Escondido Canyon Road, Agua Dulce. parks.lacounty.gov/vasquez-rocks-natural-area-and-nature-center/
Costa Mesa — 2 p.m.: The game of mahjong seems to be having a moment right now, and you can join in. No experience or knowledge is required to attend the mahjong social at the Costa Mesa library from 2-4 p.m. You can learn Hong Kong-style rules, meet other people and practice your game. This is primarily for adults, but kids 9 and up can attend. The Mesa Verde branch library, 2969 Mesa Verde Drive, Costa Mesa ocpl.libcal.com/calendars?cid=-1&t=d&d=2026-02-08&cal=-1&inc=0
Laguna Beach — 9 a.m.: Enjoy a guided nature meditation walk in the Laguna Coast Wilderness Park. This walk is less than a mile on reasonably flat ground (wear sensible shoes anyway). The idea is to connect with nature and experience mindfulness. The hike ends a ceremony featuring tea made from native plants. Ages 10 and older. Under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The hike is free but it costs $3 to park. Carpooling is encouraged. Starting point: Nix Nature Center, Laguna Coast Wilderness Park, 18751 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. Rain or mud cancels. Bring water, a sunhat and a blanket, chair or yoga mat is recommended. Advance registration is required at lagunacanyon.org/event/nature-meditation-walk-2
Long Beach — 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.: Head to the Museum of Latin American Art (MoLAA) which is admission free every Sunday, although it’s not a bad idea to make a reservation. There’s always something interesting going on. Check to see if there’s a free guided tour. Parking is free, too. It’ll be less crowded when you go early. 628 Alamitos Ave., Long Beach. molaa.org
Los Angeles — 2 p.m. and 3 p.m.: Take one of two hour-long architectural tours through the beautiful Los Angeles Downtown Central Library. A docent guide will share stories about the history, art, and architecture of L.A.’s landmark downtown library, originally built in 1926 and expanded in 1993. It is on the National Register of Historic Places. Meet the guide in the main lobby in front of the library store. Discounted parking with validation. 630 W. 5th St. Los Angeles lapl.org/whats-on/events/docent-led-la-central-library-art-architecture-tour
Newhall — 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Experience the “Art Soup” group exhibit at the SCAA gallery, created by 15 local artists from the Santa Clarita Artists Association. It features all 26 letters of the alphabet. At least one of the artists will be present. SCAA Gallery, 22508 6th Street, Newhall. santaclaritaartists.org
Newport Beach — 8 a.m. to 10 a.m.: Put on your walking shoes to explore the Buck Gully Reserve — a natural coastal canyon that was inaccessible to the public until four bridges were installed. This hike is moderately difficult over four miles. It offers some shade, a stream and picturesque views. Meeting details will be provided after registration. Sign up online at letsgooutside.org/activities/2026/02/08/bridges-of-buck-gully-hike-77/
Rancho Palos Verdes —10 a.m. to 5 p.m.: The Point Vicente Interpretive Center is located on a rocky point with a spectacular ocean view. People are always camped out this time of year with telescopes, looking for whales heading to or from their breeding grounds in Baja California. The small but interesting museum explores the history of the area, and there’s an exhibit on the former Marineland. Double check the driving route due to road subsidence. 31501 Palos Verdes Drive West, Rancho Palos Verdes. rpvca.gov/1204/Visit-Point-Vicente-Interpretive-Center
Riverside — 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.: Head to the Orange Terrace branch library for a Valentine fun craft. You’ll create your own valentine-inspired bag charms. This is for teens and adults. Materials provided. 20010-B Orange Terrace Pkwy, Riverside. riversideca.gov/library
San Pedro — 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.: People who love lighthouses should definitely visit the historic 1874 Victorian lighthouse overlooking the coast at Point Fermin Park. It’s open from 1 to 4 p.m., but you must take a free tour at 1, 2 or 3 p.m. to see inside. The park itself is open every day and has beautiful coastal views, especially at sunset. It’s a great place to spot whales on their way to or from Baja California. There’s also a playground and picnic area. 807 W. Paseo Del Mar, San Pedro. 310-241-0684. discoversanpedro.org/visit/explore#http://www.pointferminlighthouse.org/
Santa Monica — 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.: Enjoy a Snowy Plover Beach Walk, strolling along the shore with a guide, seeing the restored dune habitat and life cycle of the small, white snowy plovers that make this stretch of Santa Monica beach their winter home. Binoculars will be available or bring your own. Recommended for adults, though all are welcome. Meet at Guest Services at the Annenberg Community Beach House, 415 Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica. (At Santa Monica State Beach.) Parking is $4 per hour or $10 per day. Disabled placards are half price. Pay at the machine. Reservations are requested at eventbrite.com/e/snowy-plover-beach-walk-2026-tickets-1980288200315
Silverado — 8 a.m.: Bring your mountain bike for a beautiful 10-mile ride through Blackstar Canyon Wilderness Park, which boasts views of Irvine Lake, the Santa Ana Mountains and Silverado and Santiago canyons. This is for riders who are physically fit and advanced beginner or higher, who would enjoy moderate climbs and single-track trails. This activity originates and ends at the Baker Canyon Staging Area and takes place in OC Parks’ Black Star Canyon Wilderness Park. Minimum age is 16. Bring water, a snack and a hat. Registration opened on Jan. 24 and is mandatory. Learn more: letsgooutside.org/activities/2026/02/08/single-tracks-of-baker-canyon-7/
Venice — 4:45 p.m.: If the sun’s going down, that means it’s almost time for the Venice Electric Light Parade. This is a family-friendly community bike fest that celebrates the artistic history of Venice. It runs every Sunday evening shortly before sunset, starting at Windward Plaza. Just come to watch or bring your own glowing, lighted bike, great tunes and happy attitude. No smoking or drinking allowed. The parade ends at the Santa Monica Pier. Windward Plaza, 1501 Ocean Front Walk, Venice business.venicechamber.net/events/details/venice-electric-light-parade-sundays-at-sunset-02-08-2026-57008
Westwood — 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.: Get out and enjoy nature at the UCLA Mathias Botanical Garden, a living museum which includes an herbarium, waterfall, desert collection, meditation, cycads, conifer, ancient forest, Hawaiian gardens and more. Leashed dogs are allowed. It’s on the southeastern corner of the UCLA campus. Restrooms are at La Kretz Garden Pavilion. Park in UCLA Parking Structure 2 (payment required) near the Westholme Avenue entrance to campus, or at metered parking. 707 Tiverton Dr. Los Angeles. botgard.ucla.edu/
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