Historic South Gate Masonic Temple and grocery storefront

On a budget

Free things to do in South Gate

4 kinds of free outings in and around South Gate.

Good days out in South Gate don’t have to cost anything. These ideas come from the city’s parks, libraries, historic landmarks and nearby public lands. For free concerts, markets and festivals this week, see the free events calendar.

Parks

11 parks, playgrounds and dog parks in the city.

  • Southern Park1.6 mi from downtown
  • Circle Park1.6 mi from downtown
  • Gardendale Tot Lot1.8 mi from downtown
See all 11 →

Libraries

Borrow books, movies and museum passes, and join free programs.

  • Leland R. Weaver Library4035 Tweedy Blvd.
  • Hollydale Library12000 South Garfield Ave.
See all 2 →

Hiking

Trails on public land; some areas charge a parking or day-use fee.

  • Brea Dam16 mi east
  • Angeles National Forest17 mi northeast
  • Carbon Canyon Dam20 mi east
See all 27 →

Wildlife viewing

Birding and nature watching on public land.

  • Whittier Narrows Dam10 mi northeast
  • Angeles National Forest17 mi northeast
  • Santa Fe Dam17 mi northeast
See all 19 →

Around town

City of South Gate Centennial
City of South Gate CentennialSouthGateCommunity · CC BY-SA 4.0
El Grande Motel, Los Angeles, California LCCN2017710003, South Gate
El Grande Motel, Los Angeles, California LCCN2017710003John Margolies · Public domain
View southwest along the Los Angeles River and Interstate 710 towards the Port of Long Beach in southern Los Angeles County
2021-10-05 14 20 34 View southwest along the Los Angeles River and Interstate 710 towards the Port of Long Beach in southern Los Angeles County, California from an airplane heading toward Los Angeles International AirportFamartin · CC BY-SA 4.0

Get a feel for the city

8 must-visit spots in Southern California🌀✨⤵️ video thumbnail

THINGS TO DO · YOUTUBE SHORT

8 must-visit spots in Southern California🌀✨⤵️

A local activity Short shared by Rocknroamgirl.

Watch on YouTube ↗

Questions

What are free things to do in South Gate?

Parks, Libraries, Hiking, Wildlife viewing. City parks and libraries are free; some outdoor areas on federal land charge a parking or day-use fee, noted on each listing.

Are there free events in South Gate this weekend?

Check the free events calendar, updated daily from local organizations, libraries and the city.

Do I need a library card to use the library?

No card is needed to visit or attend most programs; a free card from the local library lets you borrow books, movies and often museum passes.

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