Getting out to try a new neighborhood or event is a great change of routine. And doing it for free is even better. Once again art comes to the rescue.

The Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk is held every second Thursday in and around the Historic Core’s Gallery Row neighborhood for one night each month. Downtown LA returns to its historic pedestrian-based culture, a vibrant scene that is itself a draw for locals and tourists seeking an authentic urban experience.  Enjoy art, performances,  food trucks, and socialize.

Venture to Long Beach for their Art Walk  every Second Saturday of the month. Their Art Walk takes place around the streets of Ocean Blvd, Linden Ave, 1st Street, Broadway and Elm.  Local art galleries and retail business such as gift shops, boutiques, restaurants and coffe shops stay open until late evening. Linden Ave is closed to traffic and transformed into a street fair by local artist. Two stages are dedicated to street performance and live music.

June 5th is Art Walk Culver City  and on July 24th, Glendale has a self guided open studio tour of artists in the area.

In Santa Monica, you can tour Bergamot Station during regular gallery hours weekdays and Saturdays. Parking is free and there is a very nice cafe where you order great sandwiches and soups at the counter. Check out the individual galleries for their opening receptions and specific exhibits.

And First Fridays on Abbott Kinney are fun with all the food trucks and open galleries. Main Street in Santa Monica is joining the list by staying open late on Last Fridays.

It’s so much fun to mix and mingle while discussing art in a casual and friendly atmosphere. More art walks and events coming soon.