L.A.'s entertainment options are endless. But planning a night out in Los Angeles doesn't require hundreds of dollars in bottle service. Experience some of the most exciting entertainment and nightlife in L.A. for less than $20.
For more budget-friendly ways to experience L.A., visit our guide to the 100 Cheap Things to Do in Los Angeles.
Mayan Theatre
Dance to a mix of salsa, hip-hop and house music at the Mayan on Friday nights with a $12 cover charge all night, or you can add yourself to their guest list on their website and get in for free before 10:30 pm.
Casey's Irish Pub
Get your fill of PBR and pub fries during all-day happy hour on Sundays and Monday nights at Casey's Irish Pub.
TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX
There's no better place to see a movie in L.A. than at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre - and don't be shy about putting your hands and feet in the cement outside.
Bootleg Theatre
Catch a free Monday night residency at the Bootleg Theatre. Make sure to try a beer from their solid selection of bottled options. If you're feeling hungry, grab a hamburger from nearby Tommy's before or after the show.
The Airliner
Still one of L.A.'s best kept secrets, The Airliner was the home of Low End Theory, the legendary weekly electronic music showcase that recently ended its 12-year run and launched the careers of artists like Nosaj Thing and Flying Lotus.
The Groundlings Theatre
Catch an improv or sketch comedy performance at The Groundlings in Hollywood. Famous for launching the careers of Will Ferrell, Kathy Griffin, Jon Lovitz, Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig and many more, The Groundlings improv shows cost less than $20.
The Satellite
When it comes to indie bands on the verge, The Satellite is the place to go. And if you're not feeling the band on stage, play a round of pool in their back room.
The Roxy
There's no place like the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood to hear pure, unadulterated rock-and-roll. Rocking out won't make a dent in your wallet when you visit the Roxy. On the Rox, the small upstairs bar, hosts a variety of intimate performances that typically run less than $10.
The Pub at Golden Road
Cheap beer doesn't have to mean bad beer. Get your fill of craft beer at the Pub at Golden Road Brewing, with 20 revolving taps. After a pint or two, munch on their housemade vegan Bavarian pretzel.
Howl at the Moon - Universal CityWalk
Head to Universal CityWalk for a night out at Howl at the Moon, a dueling piano bar. On Sundays, get three drinks for the price of one.
Tony's Darts Away
Drink your way through the beer list at Tony's Darts Away in Burbank. Bring your vegetarian friends - their sausage menu is geared toward carnivores and vegans alike.
McCabe's Guitar Shop
Listen to live music in a unique venue at McCabe's Guitar Shop in Santa Monica. Most concerts cost $20 or less.
Barney's Beanery - The Original
Barney's Beanery is a West Hollywood icon. Test your knowledge during trivia night on Tuesdays at 9 p.m.
Bigfoot West
You don't have to be the next Mariah Carey to a have a blast at karaoke night at Bigfoot West. The log cabin vibe adds a quirky ambience to this westside favorite.
Hamburger Mary's
If you’re looking for fun things to do in Los Angeles at night, try bingo: it's not just for senior centers anymore. Hamburger Mary's Legendary Bingo has been a West Hollywood mainstay for more than 15 years. Bingo costs $20, which benefits a local charity.
The Ice House
Every Thursday, The Ice House in Pasadena features Stand Up All-Stars, which showcases up and coming talent along with local favorites like Adam Carolla. Tickets are $15 for General Admission or $20 for VIP, which includes front of line access and preferred seating.