Pet-Friendly Guide to the Best Free Holiday Photo Spots in Los Angeles

Hey there, dog parents! Your favorite LA pup and holiday photo expert is here to help you capture the magic of the season with your pup while exploring this city. Los Angeles goes all out for the holidays, with festive decor and larger-than-life Christmas trees, and I've found the best free and pet-friendly holiday photo spots for your holiday photo adventures. So, get your cameras ready, grab those holiday accessories, and follow my lead!

Happy Howliday!

Here's my favorite free and pet-friendly holiday photo spots in Los Angeles

1. The Grove

One of LA's most iconic holiday spots, The Grove transforms into a true winter wonderland each year, with a massive Christmas tree and dazzling lights around every corner. You'll find a giant tree decked out in ornaments, twinkling lights surrounding the entire plaza, reindeer in the air, a water fountain dancing to the tune of classic holiday songs, and even faux snow falling during select times, which adds that extra holiday magic! They also have a Santa house where your pup can take photos on select pet days.

Right next door is the Original Farmers Market, where you can enjoy a cup of hot cocoa while your pup devours a cookie from the Dog Bakery.

Santa's Workshop at The Grove

Insider Tip: The trolley is free and pet-friendly, so if you trust your pup not to jump off of a moving trolley, sit on the upper deck for a cool Christmas drive-thru experience.

Address : 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036

2. FIGat7th

This vibrant shopping and dining destination in DTLA lights up the holiday season with bold, colorful decor. The plaza is filled with twinkling lights and holiday installations, creating an unforgettable city-meets-holiday feel. FIGat7th celebrates all aspects of the season, with dedicated Hanukkah and Kwanzaa decorations that bring a welcoming, inclusive touch to their festive displays. It’s a perfect spot for pups who love exploring in an upbeat urban setting.

FIGat7th Plaza

Insider Tip: FIGat7th has a grassy areas where pups often gather to play, giving you a great chance to let your pup stretch and enjoy the scene after photos. For an extra treat, swing by Sprinkles Cupcakes a level below the plaza for a pupcake that your pup will love!

Address: 735 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90017

3. Two Rodeo Drive

Two Rodeo Drive is the perfect destination if you're looking for a blend of elegance and holiday charm. The entire street is lined with glamorous wreaths, holiday lights, and luxury storefronts that go all out with holiday decor. Imagine your pup posing with high-end holiday displays, glittering lights, and decorations that capture the iconic LA luxury holiday feel. It's so luxurious that your pup will look like a Hollywood star.

Tip: Make sure you follow Two Rodeo Drive to scope the best locations for the most Instagrammable spots, from store facades to their iconic stairs, which will transport you to the most magical holiday scene with over-the-top decorations.

Address: 9480 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

4. Citadel Outlets

The Citadel Outlets are famous for going big with holiday decorations. Did you know they have the biggest live tree in California every year? Yes, and it's even bigger in person. You'll find enormous wreaths, ornaments, thousands of twinkling lights, and a Santa House. You can even take photos with Santa for free! With so many large-scale decorations, this location is perfect for grand, festive shots.

Santa's Big Day at Citadel Outlets

Insider Tip: The Citadel Outlets' VIP lounge is a dog-friendly sanctuary, perfect for when you and your pup need a break from the holiday hustle and bustle. Let your pup enjoy their meal in a more relaxed environment while you unwind and enjoy their complimentary snacks and champagne. It's a stress-free zone in the midst of the holiday excitement.  

Address : 100 Citadel Dr, Commerce, CA 90040

5. The Americana at Brand

In Glendale, The Americana at Brand (another Caruso property, just like The Grove) transforms into a holiday village during the Christmas season. With festive lights, a giant Christmas tree, and holiday decor around every corner, it's one of LA's most charming holiday spots. You'll even find a mini "Christmas village" with decorations and holiday music. They also have Pet Nights, where your pup can take photos with Santa, so make sure to keep an eye out for those dates.

Address: 889 Americana Way, Glendale, CA 91210

6. The Bloc

Right in Downtown LA, The Bloc is known for its edgy, modern vibe. During the holidays, it transforms into a festive hotspot with twinkling lights and decor that make the space feel both festive and urban. This open-air shopping plaza is decorated with a minimalistic holiday tree and a giant ornament made of thousands of twinkling lights, creating an ideal backdrop for holiday photos with a city twist. Not to mention, they host a special pet day so your pup can take photos with Santa.

Address : 700 W 7th St, Los Angeles, CA 90017

7. Union Station

Union Station combines the charm of LA's historic architecture with festive holiday decor, creating a truly unique photo spot. You'll find a giant Christmas tree in the patio and holiday decorations that enhance the station's iconic design. It's the perfect spot for capturing LA's nostalgic, timeless side during the holidays. Last year, they had a mini train that I climbed into, and it looked like I was on board the Polar Express.

Union Station's South Patio

Address : 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Content Tips for Pawfect Holiday Photos

1. Arrive Early: Arriving early not only gives you ideal lighting but also helps you avoid crowds, which is key for capturing those calm, distraction-free shots of your pup. Since most of the places I listed are outdoor shopping malls, arriving before 8:00 a.m. at these spots would be ideal.

   
   

2. Accessorize for Festive Flair: Dress your pup in a holiday sweater, scarf, or festive hat to add a fun, seasonal touch to your photos. It's incredible how a little accessory can make your photos extra festive! I also check what theme they have to pick out the outfits that complement their setup the most. For example, last year, Union Station had a red train, so I wore a red and white Santa cape on my "trip" to the North Pole, while FIGat7th had pink and teal ornaments on their tree, so I wore a pink sweater while I sat on a ginormous purple gift box.

   
   

3. Adjust for Scale: When positioning your pup next to a large tree or holiday display, place them closer to the camera. This way, they'll stand out and not get lost next to oversized decorations. This is especially helpful for smaller pups so you can easily spot our cute faces in the photos.

Union Station's South Patio

With these festive, pet-friendly, free holiday photo spots around Los Angeles, you and your pup can capture the magic of the season!

For more dog-friendly holiday activities, photo tips, and inspiration, follow me on Instagram @sweetlifeofcalvin and subscribe to my newsletter.

Let’s make this holiday season truly pawfect! 🎄🐾