Looking to enjoy a beautiful city without breaking the bank? That’s easy to do in Torrance with so many FREE offerings available. From gardens to walking tours, you can discover Torrance without spending a dime. That’s time well spent.
Leave your wallet at home and spend the day exploring this uncrowded dream of a beach. Picture 1.5 miles of clean, uncluttered coastline with plenty of parking and showers. Sit on the surf and watch the waves roll in. Catch up on a great book. Or bring a bike because Torrance Beach offers easy access to The Strand, a 220-mile Southern California paved bike path that starts in Torrance. Awe-inspiring, all free.
Madrona Marsh Preserve & Nature Center
Come discover one of the last freshwater marshes in Los Angeles County. Located in the middle of the city, this 43-acre natural preserve is a peaceful sanctuary for wildlife of all kinds. With its well-maintained trails and rich biodiversity, you can connect with nature in the best way possible. They offer free tours each month, check the schedule here.
A fun way to experience the rich, fascinating history of Old Torrance is a FREE walking tour. These happen throughout the year so check the Torrance Historical Society events calendar for the next one. Explore our quaint streets while you learn about famous landmarks and our town’s unique architecture. Break out those walking shoes but keep your wallet at home.
What do Scarface, Gone in 60 Seconds and Buffy The Vampire Slayer have in common? Select scenes of these American classics were all filmed in Torrance. Our picturesque town has provided the backdrop for more than 200 films, commercials and television episodes. Take a FREE walking tour and go behind the scenes in one of the most scenic towns in Southern California. Lights, camera, action!
Experience a gem that’s full of historical gems. The Chen Art Museum contains one of the most comprehensive collections of Chinese art in the country. Located inside the headquarters of Sunrider International, this world-class museum showcases a diverse array of artifacts spanning over 5,000 years of Chinese history. And it’s absolutely FREE but you may need to schedule your visit. Get you culture on!
Designed by National Landscape Award winner Takeo Uesugi, this tranquil oasis is the perfect place to find your Zen. Stroll along winding paths and cross charming bridges as you take in koi ponds, stone lanterns and meticulously maintained bonsai trees. This is where form and function come together seamlessly to help you escape the bustle of everyday life. The garden is reservation only so plan accordingly.
Wilson Park Annenberg Tree House
No visit to Torrance is complete without experiencing the first universally accessible treehouse in a public space in California. This 2,500-square-foot wooden house was designed in 2005 for children and adults of all physical abilities. It’s in beautiful Wilson Park, you can also check out the user-operated splash pad And here’s the best part, it’s one of 33 FREE parks in Torrance. From an island of wilderness to a four-level rocket ship, you’re sure to discover something amazing.
Whether you’re a long-time local or a first-time visitor, this list should inspire you to discover Torrance in the most affordable way possible. There’s so much to see and do here you might need to stay a couple of days so book your room now. And don’t forget Torrance Farmers’ Market and the Torrance Antique Street Faire, they both showcase the best of the local community. Check out the California Welcome Center Torrance and come experience everything FREE in Torrance.