best tourist places in la

Los Angeles   Travel Guide

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33 Best Things to Do in LA

Los Angeles has an exhaustive array of fun things to do, from the family-friendly La Brea Tar Pits and the must-visit Natural History Museum to a behind-the-scenes studio tour at Universal Studios or Warner Bros. Out-of-towners love the palm-lined

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Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park free

Griffith Observatory sits on the south face of Mount Hollywood and overlooks the Los Angeles basin. Its location gives visitors impressive views of the surrounding area, which many rave about. But there's more than just a pretty photo-op here. The observatory hosts fascinating exhibitions and features a top-notch planetarium.

Most recent visitors cited the beautiful setting as Griffith Observatory's main draw, though the free entry was certainly a bonus. However, you will have to pay between $6 and $10 to see the planetarium shows. Griffith Observatory is open Tuesdays to Fridays from noon to 10 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. A gift shop and cafe can be found on-site as well. For information about parking, public transportation and other information to plan your visit, check out Griffith Observatory's  website .

The Getty Center The Getty Center free

The Getty Center is one of the most impressive architectural achievements in the United States – and it also contains some of the finest works of art in the world. The circular concrete-and-steel structure was designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, and it houses an abundance of art from various ages and nations. Here you'll find Renaissance paintings, 20th-century American photography, Baroque sculptures, historic manuscripts and more, all housed inside a sprawling, modern campus amid the Santa Monica Mountains. The museum also offers spectacular views of Los Angeles on clear days.

Recent travelers loved the museum for its vast collection and beautiful grounds and views, with some stating that they enjoyed the tram ride to get to the museum. Many visitors suggest taking a guided tour, noting that the volunteer guides were very knowledgeable. Tours of the Getty Center's architecture and gardens are available, as well as a Collection Highlights tour and tours of art in specific eras. Tour times and days vary depending on tour type. Check the Getty Center's website for a complete calendar . Visitors can also download the GettyGuide app for self-guided tours.

Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre free

U.S. News Insider Tip: In this area, you'll find people dressed as celebrities and Hollywood characters, such as Spiderman, Shrek, Marilyn Monroe and Darth Vader. Have some cash on hand as a tip if you want to take photos with any of them. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

One of Hollywood's most iconic and memorable sites, the TCL Chinese Theatre (originally Grauman's Chinese Theatre) opened in 1927 and represents the excess of Hollywood's Golden Age. You can take a 30-minute walking tour of the theater for $16; tours are offered daily at multiple times. Because of this attraction's popularity, it's best to reserve your spot online in advance. This working theater also shows various newly released films throughout the year.

Popular Tours

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Santa Monica Pier and Beach Santa Monica Pier and Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss trying the classic (and yummy!) funnel cake, a kind of fried waffle topped with powdered sugar and your choice of toppings, such as strawberries, chocolate syrup, caramel syrup, whipped cream and ice cream. They are big enough to share. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

West of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica contains one of the most legendary beach scenes in the United States. It also boasts an abundance of great restaurants and excellent nightlife spots. Its more than 3 miles of shoreline are renowned as some of the best in the area thanks to the soft sands, ideal weather and bevy of attractions. "State Beach," as it's known, has more than 300 days of sunshine a year and acted as the backdrop for the popular TV series "Baywatch."

Zuma Beach Zuma Beach free

Malibu has a reputation for excessive wealth and exclusivity, yet all of the town's beaches are public – everyone's welcome. If you're seeking an LA beach spot for sunbathing and swimming, look no further than Zuma. This 1.8-mile beach is far cleaner than those at Santa Monica or Venice Beach .

Malibu's Zuma Beach is considered one of the finest beaches in the Los Angeles area. Locals and tourists laud Zuma for its awesome waves, ample parking and easy access to beachside snacks. Plus, there are a plethora of lifeguard stations and bathroom facilities. Beach wheelchairs and a beach mat (from April to October) are also available.

Sunset Boulevard Sunset Boulevard free

One of the most iconic thoroughfares in the United States, Sunset Boulevard continues to live up to its legend. In the old days, it represented the classic and glamorous Hollywood lifestyle and became the setting of several famous films, including the obvious classic "Sunset Boulevard." Today, the palm-lined street (which connects downtown LA to Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the Pacific Coast Highway) retains its cinematic appeal, and the Sunset Strip portion has become a popular nightlife spot. The strip is also home to many classic music venues, including the Rainbow Bar & Grill and The Roxy Theatre .

Recent visitors loved driving along this famous boulevard, adding that gorgeous sunsets can be enjoyed during late afternoon drives. But like other parts of LA, this thoroughfare gets congested with traffic.

The Original Farmers Market and The Grove The Original Farmers Market and The Grove free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Kids will love riding the free, open-air, double-decker trolley that runs through The Grove and connects to The Original Farmers Market. It runs daily from 1 to 8:45 p.m. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Sitting south of West Hollywood is one of LA's most beloved landmarks: The Original Farmers Market. Founded in 1934, this cream-colored facility reels in both residents and tourists with the promise of fresh produce and the aroma of ready-to-eat snacks. You can visit throughout the week, although hours vary depending on the day. Entry is free, but you'll want to have some cash on hand should any of the treats whet your appetite. You can park for free for up to 90 minutes at the market's two lots, provided that your ticket is validated at the market. (Fees apply for parking after the allotted 90 minutes and for non-validated tickets.) For a little help navigating the market, you can also take a guided foodie tour  (one of the best California tours ).

Los Angeles County Museum of Art Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Next door to the La Brea Tar Pits sits the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the linchpin of the Los Angeles museum district. Since its 1965 opening, LACMA has showcased thousands of pieces, from Islamic artifacts to European impressionist paintings to modern art. With constantly shifting exhibitions and unique architecture, LACMA offers a rewarding experience for both serious art buffs and casual travelers.

Currently, the museum is constructing a new building for its permanent collection, called the David Geffen Galleries, which is scheduled to open in 2024. For now, pieces will be on display in the BCAM and the Resnick Pavilion. The Urban Light and Levitated Mass exhibits remain open to visitors. There is a restaurant and grab-and-go eatery on-site. Many visitors appreciated both the indoor and outdoor art exhibits and were impressed with the size of the collection of modern and contemporary art.

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The Broad The Broad free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Two of the most popular exhibits that have blown up on social media are Yayoi Kusama's "Infinity Mirror Rooms." You have to book tickets online for timed entry to these exhibits, but they are free and include general museum admission. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad founded The Broad museum in 2015 and the structure made for a stunning addition to downtown Los Angeles. The eye-catching, honeycomb building, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Gensler, is home to an expansive collection of contemporary art dating from the 1950s to the present. The collection includes works by Jean Michel Basquiat, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, Kara Walker and Andy Warhol. In addition to the permanent collection, temporary exhibits showcase new and emerging artists. The museum gets high marks from recent visitors who loved both the artwork and the architecture.

Runyon Canyon Park Runyon Canyon Park free

Just two blocks from Hollywood Boulevard, Runyon Canyon Park is an often-overlooked urban park that offers some great views. The park boasts several hiking trails and is a popular spot for celebrities to exercise. During your hike, you'll see plenty of palm trees. Atop the canyon, you'll be treated to sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley.

Hikers recommend bring plenty of water and going later in the day since it can get hot on the trails. Some recent visitors lamented the lack of facilities, while others raved about the views.

Paramount Pictures Studios Paramount Pictures Studios

Since 1912, Paramount Pictures Studios has showcased the talents of film's all-time heavyweights, including Mae West, Alfred Hitchcock, Eddie Murphy and Meryl Streep. The notable site has been home to everything from classic television shows like "I Love Lucy" to modern favorites like "Glee" to box-office hits like "Mission: Impossible" and "Titanic." Today, Paramount Pictures is the only remaining film studio in the Hollywood area.

For an authentic Hollywood experience, set aside some time to tour the grounds . On the 2-hour studio tour, a guide will take you around the site's 65 acres in a golf cart, and you'll also be able to hop off and explore sound stages and recognizable studio sets from many current TV shows and movies. Previous visitors praised the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, although some felt the tours offered at Warner Bros. Studio were better. Also, keep in mind the tours' age restrictions. Studio and VIP tours permit visitors ages 10 and older.

Hollywood Bowl Hollywood Bowl free

If you can catch a gig at the Hollywood Bowl , LA's beautiful amphitheater, don't pass it up. Since its inaugural season in 1922, this unique stage, set in the Hollywood Hills, has entertained thousands of fans and hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Stevie Wonder, Igor Stravinsky, Madonna, Elton John and Tina Turner.

Many travelers praise the Hollywood Bowl, touting everything from the sound quality to the scenic overlook. Several also add that all of the seats offer great views and suggest arriving early with a bottle of wine and a picnic basket.

Walt Disney Concert Hall Walt Disney Concert Hall free

This Frank Gehry-designed concert hall's curvaceous, stainless-steel façade is an imposing structure in downtown LA. The hall helped revive this particular section of downtown, which was once dominated by mundane office buildings and lackluster entertainment options. Now, nightlife and culture burgeon in the area and the concert hall is at the forefront. Music-loving travelers will want to catch one of the Los Angeles Philharmonic's performances here. (For ticket and price information, visit the Los Angeles Philharmonic's website .)

You don't have to invest in concert tickets to experience this performance venue: You can follow  a self-guided audio tour of the exterior and interior (though the actual concert auditorium is off-limits). Past visitors recommend the free hourlong audio tours; self-guided tours are also offered daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For a full tour schedule, visit The Music Center's website .

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Hollywood Homes Tours Hollywood Homes Tours

Once you've seen where the stars shop, where they eat, where they surf and where they party, you'll want to see where they live. A variety of Hollywood homes tours provide ample opportunities to spot homes owned by the rich and famous. You probably won't see the celebs themselves, but you can snap pics of the homes affiliated with A-listers like Sandra Bullock, Tom Cruise, Bruno Mars and Halle Berry. Also, expect to see facades that once housed the likes of Lucille Ball, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. Along with the stars' abodes, buses usually make stops at the Hollywood Walk of Fame , the Sunset Strip and Rodeo Drive .

Some recent travelers were disappointed because many homes are at the end of long driveways or behind hedges. Be sure to check the weather for the day: Extreme heat or a sudden shower can put a damper on an open-top bus ride.

Rodeo Drive Rodeo Drive free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop for lunch at the hidden Mexican steakhouse, The Hideaway, on the subterranean level of the Rodeo Collection. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Immortalized by Julia Roberts' "Pretty Woman" shopping spree, Rodeo Drive is an upscale shopping street in Beverly Hills that features world-class designer stores and small private boutiques. The area is popular with wealthy shoppers, sunglass-wearing celebrities and tourists hoping to see fashion icons.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery Hollywood Forever Cemetery free

As morbid as it may seem, your best chance of spotting a celebrity in LA is at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Here, you'll find the final resting places of Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille and other stars who once worked at the adjacent Paramount Pictures Studios . Maps detailing the celebrities' gravesites are available at the cemetery's flower shop or on its website . A 2 ½-hour walking tour is also available starting at $25.

Recent visitors described the cemetery's quiet grounds as "peaceful," adding that the grounds are well-maintained. Some recommend doing a walking tour to learn the stories of famous people buried there. The venue also offers cultural events, such as outdoor classic film screenings, concerts and author evenings. Visit their events calendar to find out more.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

You could spend an entire day at this property that includes a research library with 11 million items, an art museum with more than 42,000 pieces and a 130-acre botanical gardens with more than 12 themed gardens. The Huntington opened in 1928 and is a nonprofit that provides humanities scholarships, fellowships, special exhibitions and hosts more than 800,000 visitors a year. Ongoing exhibitions feature items such as Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" manuscript, replicas of Pacific Electric Railway Company's "red cars," rock slab art in the Japanese Garden, contemporary art and so much more. There are also temporary exhibits that rotate regularly. The Botanical Gardens include themed gardens – such as the California garden, jungle garden, rose garden and Japanese garden – botanical living collections and is the site for botanical conservation and research. Most visitors enjoyed touring the gardens the most and said that the gardens alone can be a full-day excursion.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is open from Wednesdays to Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations are recommended from Monday to Thursday and required for weekend visits. Weekday admission is $25 for adults, $21 for students, $13 for youth (ages 4 to 11) and children younger than 4 explore free. Weekend rates are slightly higher. Admission is free the first Thursday of every month; you can snag tickets on the final Thursday of the month prior at 9 a.m. PST. Free parking is available. A variety of guided tours and events are offered; dates and prices vary.  View the online calendar for more information. There are restrooms, a gift shop and dining facilities on the property, as well as a limited number of picnic tables. Picnics in the garden are not permitted. For more information, visit the website .

Angeles National Forest Angeles National Forest

In about a half-hour, travelers can trade busy downtown LA for the serenity of nature at the Angeles National Forest. The almost 700,000-acre forest is an easily accessible place for locals and visitors to hike, bike, ski, ride horses, swim, fish and even camp. Encompassing the San Gabriel Mountains, terrain ranges from desert to dense forest. Perhaps one of the most visited sites is Mount San Antonio (nicknamed Mount Baldy), which is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains at 10,064 feet. There you will find a variety of hikes, from moderate to challenging. Recent visitors loved the views and found the range of trail options perfect for different types of hikers.

Visitors to the Angeles National Forest must purchase a National Forest Adventure Pass. It’s $5 for a daily pass or $30 for an annual pass; the pass is good at other national forests in the area. There are visitor and information centers in different areas of the forest, which offer general information, activities and educational events. Visit the forest's website for specific hours and details.

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La Brea Tar Pits La Brea Tar Pits free

If your kids go crazy for dinosaurs – and really, what kid doesn't? – then a visit to La Brea Tar Pits is sure to be the highlight of their trip. Although the pits look like the set of a cheesy PG movie, hot tar has been bubbling from the earth at this spot along Museum Row in the Miracle Mile for about 50,000 years. And from the gooiest part of LA, more than 3.5 million fossils have been discovered. The adjoining museum houses many of the artifacts found at the tar pits; consequently, it is home to one of the largest collections of Ice Age fossils in the world. Recent visitors said the site was very educational and the amount of fossils was impressive.

You can check out the tar pits completely free of charge, but museum tickets start at $15 for adults and $7 for children 3 to 12; reduced entry fees are available for students and seniors. LA County residents get in free Mondays through Fridays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. All tickets include tours of property facilities like the fossil lab, lake pit and observation pit; some special exhibits will cost extra. Ticket lines can be long, so consider purchasing your ticket online before you arrive. Even if you have to pay to visit, most visitors agree that the exhibits are well worth perusing.

California Science Center California Science Center free

A world of fun and exploration await kids, as well as curious adults, at the California Science Center. In the permanent "Ecosystems" exhibit, museumgoers will learn about everything from islands to rivers to forests across ten different zones via interactive displays. In "Life! Beginning," visitors learn about reproduction, mating and genes. Many recent visitors were impressed with the museum's "Air & Space" section that includes the Space Shuttle Endeavour and the Gemini 11 Capsule. An IMAX theater is also on-site. Recent visitors say the center is wonderful, lots of fun and especially great for kids.

The center is free to visit (including the Endeavour) though special exhibits and IMAX screenings incur a fee. Timed tickets for IMAX and special exhibits are required and can be purchased online . The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking costs $15. You can also take the Metro Expo Line to Expo Park/USC Station and walk five minutes to the center. Visit the center's website for more information.

Dodger Stadium Dodger Stadium

Baseball fans should enjoy a visit to Dodger Stadium, which is home to the LA Dodgers and is Major League Baseball's third oldest continually used park. The stadium is carved into Chavez Ravine and overlooks downtown LA to the south and the San Gabriel Mountains to the north, making this ballpark quite unique. If the Dodgers aren't playing when you're in town, you can still see the stadium on a guided tour. Tours of the 56,000-seat stadium last approximately 90 minutes. During the tour, visitors will learn about the stadium's history and may get to go on the field, look at the Dodger Dugout or peek into the Yaamava' Dugout Club (the VIP restaurant and lounge located behind home plate), which houses the team's World Series trophies and various other awards. Additional specialty tours, such as a Jackie Robinson tour, are also offered. Recent tour-goers say the guides are knowledgeable and engaging.

The Dodger Stadium Tour is offered on the hour from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (on game days ) or 3 p.m. (on nongame days). Tickets cost $30 for adults and $25 for kids 14 and younger. Specialty tours are also available for varying fees. Parking is $25 in advance and $30 to $50 at the gate, with no in-and-out privileges and no refunds. Tickets to baseball games are seasonal and prices vary.

Greystone Mansion and Park Greystone Mansion and Park free

Greystone Mansion is one of the largest mansions in Beverly Hills and an important landmark for American cinema. The nearly 13-acre parcel of land was a wedding gift from oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny to his son, Ned, in 1926. Construction on the mansion began in 1927 and took almost three years to complete. Greystone now represents a golden age in American cinema. Many films, including "The Big Lebowski" and "Ghostbusters," and television shows like "General Hospital" and "Gilmore Girls" have been shot on these gothic-inspired grounds.

Visitors can walk around the property and self-guided tours of the inside of the mansion are offered monthly. Many visitors say Greystone Mansion has stunning grounds with picturesque views. Travelers describe the park grounds as spectacular and enjoy learning which of their favorite movies and shows used Greystone as a backdrop.

Venice Beach Venice Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Rent an e-bike at the boardwalk and spend the day riding along "The Strand" (aka the Marvin Braude Bike Trail) to the Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy delicious Mexican dishes at MariaSol, which sits at the end of the pier. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Developed in the early 20th century, Venice Beach is modeled – canals and all – after its  namesake city in Italy . Admittedly, the experiment didn't live up to its Italian inspiration, but the neighborhood has become distinctly Californian, embodying the spirit of the wealthy, the alternative and the just plain bizarre. Rather than towering churches and intimate pizzerias, you'll find canal-side mansions near funky boutiques and restaurants.

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Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. free

If you're looking for a trendy hot spot, heed the advice of recent visitors and head to the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles. Formerly an urban artists' colony in the 1970s, the area is now filled with restaurants, cafes and bars serving creative cuisine and craft cocktails. Popular favorites include Angel City Brewery, Bestia, Girl & the Goat and EightyTwo, a bar that features vintage pinball and arcade machines. The neighborhood is also home to art galleries featuring a variety of genres showcasing inspiring art, art shops and art classes. One example is Art Share L.A., a 28,000-square-foot creative art space featuring community art classes, art exhibits and live performances.

According to past visitors, parking in this area can be challenging. Though there is street parking, it's limited. Travelers advise leaving your car in a public parking garage.

Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios Hollywood

One of the most popular attractions in the Los Angeles area, Universal Studios Hollywood features rides and amusements based on some of the most popular scenes and characters from film and television. You can take the tram Studio Tour past the creepy Bates Motel from "Psycho" and get caught up in a high-speed chase with the "Fast & Furious" cast. Kids can shake hands with cartoon favorites like The Minions and Scooby-Doo. Of course, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is another huge hit, as is Jurassic World – The Ride. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, a new attraction opened in 2023, features a Super Mario-themed ride, interactive games, a restaurant and shop.

If thrills are your thing, there are plenty of hair-raising coasters and rides. On Transformers: The Ride-3D, riders join Optimus Prime in his battle against the Decepticons; meanwhile, youngsters will love the 3D ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (complete with a Minion dance party).

Abbot Kinney Boulevard Abbot Kinney Boulevard free

Shoppers will love this retail mecca that stretches for a mile from Washington Boulevard to Main Street. Located a half-mile inland from Venice Beach , the boulevard features popular chain stores, such as Lululemon, Birkenstock and Warby Parker, as well as local boutique shops, including Ananda Venice, Satine and The Stronghold. In between shopping, stop for a bite to eat at The Butcher's Daughter, Plant Food + Wine or Gjelina. Or, plan your visit for the first Friday of every month, when starting at 5 p.m. dozens of food trucks serve up casual craft meals along the street.

Recent visitors suggested you stroll along Abbot Kinney Boulevard if you're in the Venice Beach area, praising its hip collection of boutiques and restaurants. In addition to the shops and eateries, reviewers also admired the colorful murals and street art. 

Grand Central Market Grand Central Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For something fun and unique near the market, check out the Angels Flight Railway. Built in 1901, the funicular takes passengers between Hill Street and Grand Avenue on Bunker Hill. One-way tickets cost $1. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Grand Central Market, or foodie heaven according to visitors, is located in downtown Los Angeles by the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad . The venue features high ceilings and an open layout, with food vendor stalls offering different cuisines that represent cultures from the Los Angeles area and beyond. The market has been in operation since 1917 and serves everything from coffee and pressed juices to deli fare, egg sandwiches, falafel, tacos and chow mein.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Whether you're interested in the deep sea, dinosaurs, insects or gems and minerals, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers hours of exploration of all things related to natural history. Ongoing exhibitions include the impressive Dinosaur Hall (where you can view more than 300 fossils and see 20 life-sized dinosaur skeletons), Nature Lab, Hall of Birds and Visible Vault, which houses artifacts from Aztec, Maya and Inca civilizations. Visitors said that the museum is great for all ages, with the Dinosaur Hall being the most popular attraction. There are also special exhibitions that are on display for a limited time. Kids will love the Dinosaurs Encounters Show that features juvenile dinosaur puppets. The shows are offered Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $6 per person.

Guests can also explore the nature gardens with more than 600 varieties of plants and a plethora of garden wildlife. Free guided tours are available daily. If you want to dive deeper into natural history, special programs are available for children, adults and families. Check the events calendar online for more info.

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Battleship USS Iowa Museum Battleship USS Iowa Museum

A visit to the iconic Battleship USS Iowa Museum includes access to both interior and exterior areas on seven decks. The self-guided tour lets visitors see what life was like on the ship. You'll also view the officer's wardroom, senior officer's cabins, admirals bridge, navigation bridge and crew's quarters. Recent visitors enjoyed the multiple exhibits along the route that tell the story of the Battleship USS Iowa, as well as the U.S. Navy, through artifacts, photographs, artwork and equipment. Kids can participate in the "Vicky the Dog" scavenger hunt to get a more in-depth look at the ship through the eyes of its canine mascot.

The General Access pass is valid for two hours and costs $29.95 for adults, $21.95 for kids 3 to 11 and are free for kids 2 and younger. For an additional fee, visitors can upgrade to a themed guided tour, such as the Gun Tour or Engineering Tour. Past visitors said it is worth paying extra for a guided tour. They also enjoyed their visits overall. While visiting the ship, check out the waterfront views, grab a snack at Vicky's Doghouse Café and pick up a souvenir at the Ship's Store. The ship is open daily at 10 a.m. and closes around 4 p.m. (or whenever the final guided tour ends). Parking is available, with the first hour free and $2 each hour after that, with a maximum of $20 a day.

Shop along Olvera Street Shop along Olvera Street free

Stroll this historic street in Downtown Los Angeles for authentic Mexican culture, music and cuisine. Along the block-long, brick-lined street, you'll find strolling mariachi bands, taco shops, Aztec and Mexican folkloric dancers and vendors selling handcrafted souvenirs, such as pottery, leather goods and traditional clothing. The street also hosts various traditional events throughout the year, including the Blessing of the Animals (Saturday before Easter), Cinco de Mayo, Fiestas Patrias (Mexican Independence Day), Dia de los Muertos and Las Posadas.

This Mexican marketplace is part of the El Pueblo Historic Park, the "birthplace of LA," which also includes historic sites, such as Avila Adobe (LA's oldest house), Pico House and the America Tropical Interpretive Center. 

L.A. Live L.A. Live

L.A. Live is the hub of entertainment in Downtown Los Angeles. It's features the Crypto.com Arena, home of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers basketball teams, the Los Angeles Kings hockey team, as well as the Los Angeles Sparks women's basketball team. It's also where music fans attend world-class concerts by some of the biggest names in the industry. Other entertainment includes the interactive GRAMMY Museum, a Lucky Strike bowling alley and a Regal movie theater, as well as smaller event venues like the Microsoft Theater, The Novo and The Conga Room.

There are more than a dozen eateries to choose from, including Yard House and Katsuya. After a night of entertainment, stay over at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE or The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles.

Petersen Automotive Museum Petersen Automotive Museum

Car enthusiasts will be thrilled with a visit to the Petersen Automotive Museum as it houses a range of impressive cars, from high performance to historic. In the permanent galleries, travelers can try an exhilarating racing simulator, see the “Commutercycle” from the HBO documentary "The Lady and the Dale" and participate in hands-on activities with a Disney "Cars" theme. Featured exhibitions rotate frequently. There are an additional 250 cars that are stored in The Vault. The museum also hosts a variety of events, from exhibition openings to hands-on workshops. Visit its online calendar for more info.

Admission is $21 for adults, $13 for youth ages 12 to 17 and $11 for kids 4 to 11. There is an additional $27 fee for people 12 and older to tour The Vault (children 4 to 11 will pay an extra $10); many visitors say it's worth the fee, but warn that it could take you a half-day to explore. Keep in mind children younger than 4 cannot enter the museum nor the vault. If you're a true car fanatic, consider taking the guided Vault and Workshop tour to see both the Vault and the museum's restoration area. Tickets for this tour are limited and run on Saturdays only. Fees are $150 for individuals 4 and older.

Warner Bros. Studio Warner Bros. Studio

Located in Burbank, California – a city that sits just 5 miles north of Hollywood – Warner Bros. Studio gives visitors a close-up look at iconic movie and TV sets and props, such as the original Batmobiles, costumes from the "Harry Potter" movies and a replica of the cafe featured in "Friends." Travelers will also drive around the studio's 110-acre backlot, where 30 soundstages are used for producing shows like "Young Sheldon," "Bob Hearts Abishola," and "The Ellen DeGeneres Show."

Previous visitors loved exploring this property and appreciated their "fun and knowledgeable" tour guides. Additionally, many enjoyed getting out of their golf carts to go inside a working set and other buildings used for filming, citing this as the main reason to tour this studio instead of others like Paramount Pictures Studios . But keep in mind, children 7 and younger are not permitted on any tour.

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24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

Written by Brad Lane , Joni Sweet , and Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The sprawling city of Los Angeles, in Southern California, is filled with year-round attractions and things to do. It has long been known internationally in the film and entertainment industry, particularly for Hollywood , a place that has drawn aspiring actors and actresses from across the country for over a century.

Today, LA is a culturally diverse city with a reputation for being the creative center of America. The thriving culinary scene, incredible shopping, outstanding museums, and fun family attractions are some of the top things to do in California . And with abundant sunshine and moderate to hot weather throughout the year, a suitcase typically includes shorts and T-shirts for almost any visit.

Sunseekers coming to enjoy the warm climate and beaches will find plenty of things to do and interesting neighborhoods to explore. Upgrades to the public transportation network in recent years and the addition of a Metro Bike Share in downtown LA have made getting around and sightseeing easier than ever.

For families, nearby Disneyland and Universal Studios are key places to visit that often warrant repeat visits.

To help plan your sightseeing itinerary, see our list of the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles.

1. Universal Studios Hollywood

2. griffith park and griffith observatory, 3. disneyland resort, 4. hollywood, 5. the getty center, 6. petersen automotive museum, 7. santa monica, 8. natural history museum of los angeles county, 9. california science center, 10. the broad, 11. the original farmers market, 12. los angeles county museum of art (lacma), 13. venice beach, 14. beverly hills, 15. la brea tar pits, 16. battleship iowa museum, 17. runyon canyon park, 18. little tokyo, 19. melrose avenue, 21. long beach, 22. the nethercutt collection, 23. the getty villa, 24. museum of contemporary art (moca), where to stay in los angeles for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to los angeles, map of tourist attractions in los angeles, los angeles, ca - climate chart.

Highlights: Massive amusement park with movie-themed rides and entertainment

Universal Studios Theme Park is known for its mind-blowing rides based on blockbuster movies, but it is also a working movie studio and an attraction everyone can enjoy. The highlight for most is the ever-changing selection of rides, ranging from simulators to roller coasters. Favorite movie and TV-themed rides and sets include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , The Simpsons , Transformers , Jurassic World - The Ride , and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.

To save time standing in long lines consider purchasing a Skip the Line: Front of Line Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood . This handy ticket gives you a one-time fast entry to each of the park's rides, attractions, and shows, as well as behind-the-scenes access to select attractions.

When you are tired of the rides, you can check out CityWalk , a three-block entertainment area, with shopping, dining, and theaters. Another option is a guided tour of the studios to explore behind-the-scenes of some of Universal's most popular movie sets. The VIP Experience allows you opportunities to see the sets and areas not open to the general public.

Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, California

Highlights: Sprawling public park with observatory and many other tourist attractions

Griffith Park , in the eastern part of the Santa Monica Mountains, and covering an area of 4,210 acres, is the largest city park in Los Angeles. It's home to the Los Angeles Zoo , the Griffith Observatory, a planetarium, and a Greek theater. It's also home to golf courses, tennis courts, hiking trails, and a riding center created for the 1984 Olympic Games. And walking trails and scenic drives through the mountains offer views over the city and beyond.

The Griffith Observatory is one of the city's most interesting experience-based attractions, and it's all free to the public. On the grounds are exhibits and telescopes. The main highlight is a look through the Zeiss telescope , used for viewing the moon and planets. You can use the telescopes free each evening the facility is open. Also on-site are solar telescopes used for viewing the sun.

The park and observatory are named for Griffith J. Griffith, who donated the greater part of the parkland to the city in 1896 and willed funds to the city for the creation of the observatory.

Highlights: Massive theme park in Anaheim with Star Wars rides and other attractions

Just outside Los Angeles, Disneyland is California's premier family vacation destination, attracting visitors since the 1950s. Disneyland Park , with rides and experiences in elaborately created theme sets, is what most people picture when they imagine Disneyland. The Disneyland California Adventure Park , created during one of the expansions, holds even more action and adventure, with seven lands based on movie themes.

Relatively new to the scene are several Star Wars-themed rides. They include Star Wars Rise of the Resistance and The Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run. The rides are in the new Star Wars Galaxy Edge area, which is full of shops and restaurants made out to look like the Black Spire Outpost on the planet of Batuu.

Beyond the rides and Disney characters wandering the streets, the resort also offers a full complement of features and services for a complete vacation. Hotels, restaurants, shopping, and all kinds of entertainment options are available at Disneyland Resort.

Anaheim, home to Disneyland Resort, is also worth exploring on a weekend trip. Several outdoor dining and shopping areas extend from the park throughout the city, including the historic downtown core of Anaheim, known as Central City .

Read More: Things to Do in Anaheim, California

Highlights: Hollywood sign, Walk of Fame, shopping, dining

Hollywood is a suburb of Los Angeles and a destination with its own unique history and iconic sites. Hollywood attractions are closely associated with the film industry and the glamour of the silver screen.

The hillside Hollywood sign , Hollywood Boulevard , and the Chinese Theatre are some of the top places to visit. If you're lucky, you might even spot a celebrity or two out for a shopping trip on Rodeo Drive. A fun family activity in Hollywood is finding all your favorite actors' stars among the 2,500 plus on the Walk of Fame .

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hollywood

Highlights: Esteemed cultural center and museum with beautiful landscaping

The Getty Center is a huge complex measuring 0.75 square miles and set on 110 acres on a hilltop in the Santa Monica Mountains. The unique building and the beautiful grounds provide the perfect setting for this impressive museum. Collections include European paintings, drawings, sculpture, and decorative arts, as well as 19th- and 20th-century photography.

The views from the museum grounds out over Los Angeles are incredible. Book a table at The Restaurant and enjoy a casual lunch while soaking up the scenery.

The Getty Center is one of two locations of the J. Paul Getty Museum, created by the late oil magnate, J. Paul Getty. The Getty Villa , set in a recreated Roman country house, deals with art from the Stone Age to the end of the Roman Empire.

Address: 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, California

Highlights : Extensive car collection housed in an eye-catching museum building

Car lovers will not want to miss the incredible assortment of vehicles at the Petersen Automotive Museum . Spread over four floors are a mix of permanent and temporary exhibits featuring more than 300 cars and motorcycles, ranging from perfectly preserved items from 1886 right through to concepts for the 21st century.

The museum underwent major renovations and is now one of the most modern institutions of its kind. The exterior façade is an eye-catching architectural masterpiece. For an additional fee, you can sign up for either a 90- or 120-minute guided Vault tour, which provides additional insight into rare and unusual cars.

The museum is also host to a regular series of special exhibits featuring new, old, and unusual cars from the past, along with ones you might see in the future.

Address: 6060 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, California

Highlights : Popular beach with pier, promenade, and miles of sand connected by bike path

Santa Monica is a unique destination that is both chic and laid-back, with a population that ranges from surfers, skateboarders, and yoga devotees to techies and business people.

The beautiful stretch of golden sand along the coast and the famous Santa Monica Pier , with its iconic Ferris wheel, are what most tourists come to enjoy, but you can find a variety of experiences in this beachfront city next to LA.

The downtown district of Santa Monica is lively throughout the day and night. Shoppers will find a range of options, from quirky vintage stores to high-end boutiques. Check out the Third Street Promenade for shopping and people-watching, including catching the various street performers.

For a little activity, check out the 26-mile bike path along the waterfront. This lengthy paved path spans nearly the entire Santa Monica Bay coastline, connecting all the best beaches near Santa Monica . A few visitor favorites include Venice Beach to the south and Will Rogers State Beach to the north.

Getting to Santa Monica is now much easier since the opening of the new Expo Metro line, connecting downtown LA to Santa Monica.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Santa Monica, CA

Highlights: Expansive museum with dinosaur skeletons, SoCal history, and seasonal exhibits

While the Natural History Museum has numerous galleries and an extensive permanent collection that covers a range of topics, it is best known for its collection of dinosaurs. The 14,000-square-foot Dinosaur Hall has an awesome display of dinosaur skeletons, including a series of Tyrannosaurus rex fossils, known as the growth series, featuring three full skeletons that range from baby to adult. Also on display are a Triceratops and a Stegosaurus.

The museum deals with the natural history of California and areas throughout the world. Becoming Los Angeles , which explores the past 500 years of history in Southern California, is another must-see exhibit. The Discovery Center and Insect Zoo offers hands-on experiences and is particularly interesting for younger visitors.

Address: 900 Exposition Boulevard, Los Angeles

Highlights: Science exhibits on space travel and underwater ecosystems, Imax theater

The California Science Center , open to the public free of charge, is home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour , as well as other major exhibits. Mission 26: The Big Endeavour is currently on display at the Samuel Oschin Pavilion, while the new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is being built.

You can see the space shuttle, as well as artifacts from the space mission, and learn all about it and the people involved in the program.

Other exhibits at the Science Center cover such topics as the living world, technology, and ecosystems. The Ecosystems exhibit features an impressive 188,000-gallon kelp tank, as well as live plants, animals, and fish. In addition to the permanent exhibits, the California Science Center also features special exhibits, for an ever-changing selection of things to see.

Address: 700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles, California

Highlights : Free contemporary art museum with a massive collection and always-rotating displays

The Broad opened in late 2015 and was immediately an overwhelming success and has remained popular. The museum focuses on contemporary and postwar art , with some large and dramatic installations. More than 2,000 works of art are on display in this unique building, with a "veil-and-vault" concept.

Tickets are free of charge for general admission, but these are often booked out in advance. Standby tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of admission, but this will usually require some wait time in a line, particularly on weekends. Admissions to some special exhibitions do carry a fee.

The museum was founded by Eli and Edythe Broad, who have been long-time collectors of postwar and contemporary art.

Address: 221 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, California

Highlights: Open-air market offering fresh produce and local goods every day of the week

The Los Angeles Farmers Market first started in 1934 as a very modest affair that sprung from the hardships created by the Great Depression. At the height of the economic depression, eighteen farmers came together and set up stalls on a piece of open land near Wilshire Boulevard in order to sell their produce direct to the consumer.

This experiment was so successful that the market continued to expand. At that time, it truly was a fruit and vegetable market, but over the years the market has grown to accommodate more and more vendors. Today, the market hosts vegetable and other food stands, as well as restaurants and specialty shops. You can find everything from jewelry and candles to kitchenware and toys.

If you are looking for things to do at night in Los Angeles, the market hosts a variety of entertainment, including free evening concerts on Friday nights in summer.

Address: 6333 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles, California

Highlights: Iconic art museum spread across several buildings and exhibits

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art lays claim to being the largest art museum in the western United States , with almost 130,000 pieces spanning from antiquity through to modern times. Of particular note are the outstanding collections of Asian, Latin American, and Islamic Art.

The huge complex consists of a number of separate buildings that have been acquired and renovated over the years. The most recent expansion, known as the Transformation, saw the opening of several new buildings on the western half of the campus, designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop. The LACMA is next to the La Brea Tar Pits on museum row.

Address: 5905 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, California

Highlights: Sunny beach with snaking bike path and bohemian shopping corridor

Venice Beach deserves its reputation as a place to see and be seen, making it perfect for people-watching, although the area definitely has its own unique vibe. This stretch of golden sand and the Venice Beach Boardwalk are always thronged with people walking, cycling, rollerblading, and jogging.

Eclectic shops and street performers of all kinds line the walkway. The Skatepark , also just off the beach, is frequented by some of the area's best skateboarders, and nearby are a number of creative art installations. At the appropriately named Muscle Beach , gym members pump iron in the hot California sun.

Food stalls selling everything from shaved ice to kettle corn and funnel cakes make you feel like you're walking through fairgrounds. You can also find some good restaurants here. This is not a typical family beach, but it's well worth a visit.

Highlights: Chic Golden Triangle of fashion, several public parks, nearby mansions

Beverly Hills borders Los Angeles to the west, encompassing 5.7 square miles tucked beneath the Santa Monica Mountains. And within this small footprint are some of the poshest streets in America, including the world-famous Rodeo Drive .

Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica Boulevard, and Wilshire Boulevard converge in Beverly Hills to create the city's " Golden Triangle " of upscale retail and dining. This luxe thoroughfare is worth the visit even without shopping, as the glamour spills out onto the sidewalks with celebrity sightings and luxury cars.

And there are a lot more things to do in Beverly Hills besides shopping and dining. The city is very walkable with several gardens, historic buildings, and public art throughout. Spend some time at Beverly Gardens Park for a sample of these first-class public spaces.

Highlights: Indoor and outdoor exhibits detailing the incredible natural history of the area

In Hancock Park, La Brea Tar Pits offers a unique opportunity to see live excavations of fossils and learn about the process. The Tar Pits were formed 40,000 years ago, when oil seeped through the rock, entrapping passing animals, which would get stuck in the substance. The tar then preserved the fossils throughout the ages, leaving behind an incredible glimpse into another age.

The museum at la Brea Tar Pits (formerly the George C. Page Museum) shows reconstructed fossils of prehistoric animals found at the site, as well as the process of fossil recovery. You can see bones being worked on and learn what takes place behind the scenes, before skeletons are able to be displayed.

The museum displays fully reconstructed fossils of a variety of mammals including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and others, all dating from between 40,000 and 10,000 years ago. An outdoor area displays replicas of extinct animals.

Plans are in the works for a renovation and new design. The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is reviewing plans from architecture teams in the hopes of reinventing this unique attraction.

Address: 5801 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles

Highlights: Guided tours of a retired battleship

The Battleship Iowa Museum is an imposing sight on the waterfront close to the Port of Los Angeles and is a great family activity. You can wander throughout this massive battleship and see what life at sea would have been like for the sailors on board.

Included with admission is a self-guided tour showcasing the history of the ship. One of the highlights is a look at the massive 16-inch guns. Kids enjoy a free scavenger hunt, searching the ship to find the 10 secret locations of Vicky, the ship's dog (displayed on posters or in augmented reality).

For those wanting to really get behind the scenes, for an additional fee you can take the Full Steam Ahead Guided Tour , which allows you access to the inner workings of the ship, including the engine room, boiler room, and the Combat Engagement Center, among other restricted areas. Note that dates and numbers are limited for this tour, and it should be booked well in advance.

Address: 250 S Harbor Blvd., Low Angeles, California

Highlights: Beloved hiking area with great views and celebrity sightings

Runyon Canyon Park is a 160-acre park known for its hiking trails and magnificent views of Downtown Los Angeles . Its convenient location near Hollywood and the Hollywood Hills makes it a popular place with celebrities —if you've seen paparazzi photos of celebs hiking in Los Angeles, they were probably taken at Runyon.

Trails run from 1 to just over 3 miles and range from easy to strenuous. For some of the best views, hit the East Trail from the Fuller Avenue entrance. It passes through two beautiful lookouts: Inspiration Point and Cloud's Rest.

Parking can be particularly tricky on the streets near Runyon Canyon Park, so be sure you leave ample time to look for a spot, or consider using a ride-share service.

Highlights: Japanese restaurants, historic fire tower, wishing tree, gardens

Los Angeles is home to one of just three remaining Japantowns in the United States: Little Tokyo. The petite neighborhood packs tons of culture, cuisine, and color into about five city blocks.

The Japanese Village Plaza is considered the central gathering place. Lit by red and white paper lanterns, this pedestrian-only plaza feels like it was plucked from Tokyo and dropped into Downtown Los Angeles. Check out the Yagura Tower at the First Street entrance—this replica of a rural Japanese fire tower has been greeting visitors for nearly 50 years.

In addition to popular shops, like Nijiya grocery store and the Sanrio Hello Kitty boutique , another major attraction is the wishing tree . People from around the world jot down their hopes and dreams on colorful paper strips, then hang them from the tree's branches in hopes that they'll come to fruition. Reading the notes is deeply touching.

Come hungry—Little Tokyo has some of the best Japanese restaurants in Los Angeles. Slurp ramen noodles at Hachioji , fill up on okonomiyaki (a Hiroshima speciality!) at Chinchikurin , and satisfy your sweet tooth with fresh mochi from the 120-year-old Fugetsu-Do Bakery Shop .

Interested in learning more? Enjoy a more detailed read with our article on Visiting Little Tokyo: Come for the Ramen, Stay for the Culture.

Highlights: Vintage shopping, murals, comedy clubs

Melrose Avenue is one of the city's most famous streets due to its large number of vintage shops with funky storefronts. On the two-mile span from La Cienega Boulevard to La Brea Avenue, you can shop at more than 15 vintage stores , some of which have been adding vibrancy to this street for decades.

The west side of Melrose tends to have higher-end shops, like Decades , which is beloved for its dazzling designer gowns from as far back as the 1930s . Head east and you'll get a lot more bang for your buck at mega vintage shops like Wasteland , American Rebel, and American Vintage. Browsing the racks at these stores feels like digging for wearable treasure, and no matter what your style or budget, you'll likely find a unique piece to upgrade your wardrobe.

Once you find something you love, wear it right out of the store for an impromptu photoshoot at one of the many murals on Melrose. The famous pink wall on the Paul Smith flagship store is popular among the influencer crowd.

Comedy clubs are another highlight on Melrose. Get your laughs with stand-up a t Hollywood Improv or sketch comedy at The Groundlings.

Read More: Vintage Shopping on Melrose: Retro Treasures on Los Angeles' Trendiest Street

Highlights: Beautiful oceanfront city with several public beaches and posh places to visit

The Santa Monica Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, on the far western coastline of LA County. This dramatic backdrop sets the scene for many Malibu attractions and things to do , while beachside mansions and the occasional celebrity sighting help set the tone for Malibu culture.

Exploring some of Malibu's best beaches is one of the best ways to enjoy the city. All are within an hour's drive of Los Angeles, depending on traffic, and each offers a different beachscape to enjoy. From the broad shores of Zuma Beach to the wild landscape surrounding El Matador State Beach, the coastline appeals to both relaxing and adventurous outings alike.

Malibu is also home to several seafood restaurants worth the drive alone. The famous Neptune's Net perhaps has the most notoriety, partly thanks to its roles in movies like Point Break and The Fast and the Furious . Other spots with menus worth perusing include Dukes Malibu and Paradise Cove Beach Cafe.

Highlights: Vibrant city with a long beachfront, several city parks, and family attractions

Long Beach is another community in the Los Angeles area that's easy to spend a day exploring. It borders LA to the south, about 20 miles from downtown, and extends along San Pedro Bay. The miles of beach in Long Beach are common motives for a visit, capped off by a tourist-friendly and attraction-filled waterfront downtown district.

Things to do in Long Beach's waterfront district include a visit to the historic Queen Mary ocean liner , due to reopen in late 2022; the Aquarium of the Pacific ; and exploring the unique shops at Shoreline Village . You can also catch the Catalina Express for a trip to Santa Catalina Island .

And it's not just the ocean to explore in Long Beach. Several of the city's best parks also offer inland attractions, like the historic Bixby Park or sprawling El Dorado East Regional Park. El Dorado East is also home to the lovely Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden , filled with tranquil appeal.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Long Beach, CA

Highlights: Classic antiques with an emphasis on vintage vehicles spanning the last century

If you're a fan of antique, vintage, and classic cars, this is the place to visit. The Nethercutt Collection displays an outstanding array of American and European automobiles from the 1890s to the 1990s. The pristine condition of these vehicles and the variety of models is beyond impressive. The history of the cars and descriptions of their previous owners are displayed with the vehicles.

The museum also showcases a collection of antique furniture and mechanical musical instruments. Outside, you can see a restored steam locomotive and railcar.

Address: 15151 Bledsoe Street, Sylmar, California

Highlights: Stunning courtyard, gardens, and rare art and sculpture collections

The Getty Villa is the other site operated by the Getty cultural institution, located near the ocean in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, just east of Malibu. It's set within a photogenic recreation of a Roman country house with decorative gardens and courtyards.

On display throughout the Getty Villa are ancient artworks and relics, ranging from marble statues to rare coins and jewelry. Different exhibits are found around every corner on the first and second floors of the museum, and in combination with the landscaped settings, expect to spend at least two to three hours exploring the grounds.

Highlights: Downtown museum with satellite locations and ever-changing art on display

The Museum of Contemporary Art ( MOCA ) consists of two separate facilities and is dedicated to works from the 1940s onwards. Pieces from the permanent collection are on display, and regularly changing exhibits feature new works and emerging media.

The MOCA Grand , on Grand Avenue, is the museum's primary facility, with the main galleries, as well as the largest museum store. The MOCA Geffen is in Little Tokyo, in what was formerly a police car warehouse.

Double Negative is another art location associated with MOCA, located in the desert in Moapa Valley on Mormon Mesa near Overton, in Nevada. This land art by Michael Heizer was acquired by the museum and can be visited free of charge.

Santa Monica Hotels

• Shops, fabulous restaurants, blonde beaches, and the famous Santa Monica Pier make this a natural magnet for tourists and locals alike. Easy access to Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive are also a bonus for sightseers. The Viceroy Santa Monica and the eco-conscious boutique Shore Hotel are popular high-end accommodation options, and the stylish Shutters on the Beach exudes all the casual elegance of a family beach house.
• For those seeking a fantastic salt-laced location without breaking the bank, try the Ocean View Hotel .

Beverly Hills Hotels

• Famous for the designer shops along Rodeo Drive, this exclusive celebrity enclave offers some plush hotels in a quieter setting than Hollywood, but still with easy access to all the movie-themed attractions. Top high-end hotels include the famous Beverly Hills Hotel on Sunset Boulevard , The Peninsula Beverly Hills , the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel , and the Maybourne Beverly Hills .
• For those seeking the glamour without the price tag to match, the Sonder Beverly Terrace is a great option.
• Farther north, the Hotel Bel-Air pampers guests amid 12 acres of flower-flecked gardens.

Hollywood Hotels

• Star struck travelers headed for the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Bowl , and Universal Studios should stay here in the heart of movie land. Close to Beverly Hills, Hollywood oozes with celebrity glitz and glamor without gauging the wallet. The Hollywood Roosevelt and the Hollywood Celebrity Hotel are both highly rated options in the area.

Anaheim Hotels

• Families headed to the theme parks with the kids in tow usually base themselves here in a whimsical Disney-themed hotel. Popular options include the Disneyland Hotel and Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa , an easy stroll from the Disney theme parks.
• Sonesta ES Suites Anaheim Resort Area is a more affordable option with convenient apartment-style accommodation.

Downtown Los Angeles Hotels

• Bristling with new restaurants and art galleries amid the skyscrapers, Downtown LA is finally finding its soul. Sports fans catching a game at the Staples Center, hipsters, foodies, and business travelers often base themselves here and score cheaper hotel rates than at the typical tourist hot spots. Popular quality hotel choices include the luxury Omni Los Angeles at California Plaza near the Walt Disney Concert Hall , and the more modestly priced Doubletree by Hilton .

See the Sights:

• One of the best ways to see Los Angeles is on a Los Angeles City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Tour , which offers a fun overview of the city with maximum flexibility. Enjoy 360-degree views from the open-air bus and hop on or off at more than 50 locations, including Beverly Hills, Hollywood, downtown LA, and Santa Monica. Choose between a 24- or 48-hour ticket.

Save Money:

• If you plan on visiting multiple attractions while you're in the City of Angels, the Go City: Los Angeles Explorer Pass is a great way to save money. This versatile card gives you discounts at top Los Angeles attractions. You can choose between two and seven attractions from a list of 30.

Los Angeles notoriously enjoys warm weather throughout the year. However, the best seasons to visit are the "shoulder seasons," including spring (March, April, May) and fall (September, October, and November). The air is easier to breathe this time of year, and the streets are less crowded with tourists.

June, July, and August are still some of the most popular times to visit Lost Angeles. And for good reason. The hot weather beckons for the beach and the late evenings extend a day of exploring. Expect to pay the highest rates for things like lodging and transportation this time of year.

The winter months, including December, January, and February, are suitable months to visit. Expect slightly colder temperatures that keep most people away from the beach. But, with average daytime temperatures still in the 60s Fahrenheit, it's often a welcomed warm escape from other parts of the country.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Around Los Angeles: If you are spending time in the area and considering exploring outside the city, start your planning with a read through our articles on the Top Day Trips From Los Angeles and the Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles . From LA, choices range from hopping a ferry to Santa Catalina Island or heading to the desert for a visit to Palm Springs or Joshua Tree National Park .

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The 26 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

By Maxwell Williams

Los Angeles: Of course, the weather is nice, the beaches iconic. But it’s a city that's much more culturally inclined than many non-Angelenos give it credit: It’s solidified itself as an international playground for artists, the museums are top-notch, and L.A.'s vastness checks so many boxes. There's spectacular natural scenery, a cemetery that becomes a nightclub, and sports stadiums galore (including many new ones that will play host to the 2028 Summer Olympics.) Of course, there's ample shopping and celebrity spotting, too. Here are our picks for the best things to do in Los Angeles, no matter how many trips they may take to complete.

Read our full Los Angeles travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Angeles National Forest Arrow

With over 1,000 square miles of wilderness and 53 trailheads, it's no wonder Angeles National Forest is one of the most popular day trips for locals and visitors alike. Whether you're hiking, biking, running, boating, or even skiing, there's something for every outdoors-y type here. The drive up Mt. Baldy is pleasant and results in spectacular views from nearly 10,000 feet. The hikes to the Devil's Punchbowl and the Bridge to Nowhere are some of the best full day options in the region.

Bradbury Building Arrow

The Victorian-style atrium of the Bradbury Building, built for gold baron Lewis Bradbury, is filled with architectural flourishes like open-cage hydraulic elevators, marble staircases, and wrought-iron balconies. The massive skylight and  open balconies create a mood that is like no other building; it's both haunting and magical. Culture buffs will know it from appearances in movies like Chinatown (1974), Blade Runner (1982), 500 Days of Summer (2009), and a smattering of music videos and commercials.

The Broad Arrow

Housed in a building with a dimpled façade that many say looks like a cheese grater, the Broad houses the collection of Edythe Broad, who accumulated a formidable cache of contemporary art with her late husband Eli. The collection is more pop than academic, earning it a reputation as a stop on tourists' lists, if only to take selfies in front of Jeff Koons' balloon dog or Robert Therrien's enlarged table and chairs. There are also works from the likes of Ruscha, Warhol, Basquiat, Murakami, and Sherman. A reservation is required and hard to come by due to the museum's popularity, so plan in advance. It's free, and if you hustle, you can see the museum's hits in no time.

The Getty Center Arrow

The Getty has established itself as the nexus of Los Angeles art , and its palatial grounds reflect that. Perched atop a hill in the Brentwood neighborhood of West Los Angeles (with 360-degree views), the Richard Meier architected space is a perfect union of medieval castle and rigorous academia. Floating bridges connect marble buildings, and you're never too far from a burbling fountain. And of course, the garden, built by legendary Southern Californian artist Robert Irwin, is a magical place to reset once you've had art overload. The museum's collection is vaunted. In fact, few collections in the world match up to the mix of ancient and modern. Seeking 2500-year-old Etruscan statues? Van Gogh's Irises? Delicate and rare illuminated manuscripts? 20th century photography from the likes of Robert Mapplethorpe and Walker Evans? The Getty has it all.

Caitlin Morton

CNT Editors

Jessica Puckett

Santa Monica Farmers Market Arrow

The Los Angeles area is famous for having a farmers market every day of the week, and the Santa Monica Farmers Market, held on Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, is the mother of them all. Taking up several city blocks, the market is lined with seasonal fruits, vegetables, and other products and provisions. There are some remarkable splurge items that you won't find other farmers markets; for instance, black truffles, bergamot, emu eggs, and sea urchin. This farmers market has a huge following within L.A.'s restaurant industry.   Some of the city's most famous chefs, including Niki Nakayama of n/naka and Michael Cimarusti of Providence , shop here. You'll also be among locals, many of them regulars, shopping for their home kitchens.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) Arrow

LACMA describes itself an "encyclopedic museum." There are different buildings for different collections, separated by culture (i.e. the Korean Art Galleries, Pavilion for Japanese Art). Though right now, the museum is going through a massive, controversial construction project, which is set to complete in 2024. When it's complete, there will be one large building—the Geffen Galleries, by Peter Zumthor—that will house LACMA's vast collections. The collections, when they come back on view, are world-class. There's a mix of Islamic, Korean, Japanese, Greek, and Mexican art, as well as collections of contemporary art, jewelry, fashion, and design. Chris Burden's Urban Light (rows of street lamps) and Michael Heizer's Levitated Mass (a giant boulder suspended above a walkway), are two of the most popular selfie spots in town.

Venice Canals Arrow

Hidden in plain sight, the canals flow behind adorable bungalows just blocks from Venice Beach . Built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney, it’s not unusual to see herons, egrets, pelicans, and parrots, making it one of the best off-the-beaten-path landmarks in all of L.A. There are a number of bridges perfect for romantic photo ops, and there are enough quiet corners to find your own little patch of bliss. It’s a perfect place to stroll and catch your breath amid the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Arrow

Three museums in one, really, MOCA is a cutting-edge museum with temporary exhibitions by established and emerging artists. Also, it's home to one of the greatest contemporary art collections in the world. The 6,000-piece collection contains prime works by Agnes Martin , Nam June Paik, Jackson Pollock, and Mike Kelley. MOCA has two main buildings: the Grand Avenue building in Museum Row, the Geffen Contemporary in nearby Little Tokyo—start at the Grand Avenue building and then grab lunch in Little Tokyo before taking in the works at the Geffen. The exhibits are what make MOCA crackle; under the watchful eye of director Johanna Burton and a crack team of curators, MOCA has seen blockbuster shows by the likes of Pipilotti Rist, Tala Madani, and Simone Forti.

Rose Bowl Flea Market Arrow

Rose Bowl Flea Market is held on the second Sunday of every month in the parking lot of the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, a historic athletic stadium built in 1922. The flea market is a behemoth, the biggest on the West Coast, with approximately 2,500 vendors serving 20,000 visitors each month. It has a little bit of everything, but it's best known for its selection of mid-century modern furniture and vintage clothing. It's best to go with a few things in mind (a coffee table, or a few t-shirts) and a budget. Wear comfortable shoes, bring snacks, and make sure to get cash before going. 

Hollywood Bowl Arrow

The Hollywood Bowl is an icon of the past, and one of the most unique concert-going experiences you can find anywhere. Since its opening day in 1921, the Bowl has seen the L.A. Philharmonic play hundreds of concerts, as well as ballets, jazz concerts, and operas. More recently, it's become a hub for pop stars to perform in front of a regal backdrop with state-of-the-art acoustics. As an amphitheater, the sight lines at the Bowl are almost always unobstructed no matter where you're seated. The sound at the Bowl is always crystal clear, and top notch. Depending on the night, the Bowl is truly a mixed crowd. From those looking for some highbrow entertainment to pop star super fans, the Bowl is for everyone.

Kapowui Surf Lessons Arrow

For anyone who has ever admired the majestic surfers carving up waves, Kapowui is the best crash course out there. Kapowui has one goal: giving nascent surfers the shaka spirit and leaving them stoked to surf a wave. With a list of clientele that includes 5-star hotels like Shutters on the Beach , Kapowui has a reputation for turning even the most knock-kneed landlubber into a verifiable porpoise. The lessons are two hours, and start on the beach in Santa Monica or Venice. Instructors will run you through surfer safety, a physiognomy of the board, and the dynamics of popping up. After the preamble, you hop in the water, and stay out there for the rest of the lesson. Everything you need—the board and a high-end a wetsuit—is included. Kids are more than welcome and you're practically guaranteed to leave ready to go it alone next time

Melrose Place Arrow

Just off Melrose Avenue, Melrose Place is a surprisingly quiet little street that deserves a closer look. Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills might be iconic, but let's not forget Melrose Place also had a TV show named after it in the 90s. From Balmain's classic men's looks to Rachel Comey's "cool mom" mules, the Row's edgy elegance, and Zimmerman's Aussie-style festival garb, Melrose Place is a shopping destination that can take care of all of your needs, plus offer a relaxed stroll down a quiet street. Full of stylists, fashionistas, and the occasional celebrity, keep your eyes peeled and grab a bite at Fig & Olive's Melrose Place location, a favorite of Kim Kardashian, Kristin Cavallari, and Halle Berry. The best tip is to show up to Alfred Coffee early to try and sample their seasonal menu to keep you warm while you shop—in winter, it's an Oatnog Latte or a Mint Mocha. Grab a cup before letting that credit card loose.

Wi Spa Arrow

Koreans spend nearly 1.5 billion US dollars on the spa life in South Korea, so when we say this jimjilbang (a traditional K spa) is an iconic Koreatown staple, just know that this spa is probably going to surpass your expectations of what a spa can be. Separated into men's and women's sides, guests strip down, shower, and then hop into one of the treated medicinal tubs (see how long you can stay in the cold one). Then head up to choose a treatment, which costs extra, from the vast menu of body buffs, seaweed massages, and facials. After your treatment, you'll head up to the next floor to the common area, where you can grab a bite at the cafe, which offers healthy Korean soups and noodles, before heading into the multitude of cavernous saunas. There's even a sleep room, a room full of soft leather recliners, and a full gym. Oh and you'll be doing all of this in your comfy Wi Spa shorts and t-shirt, which are provided.

Grand Central Market Arrow

Not much has changed structurally in the 103 years since Grand Central Market opened, though of course none of the original vendors are around. Today, it is the epicenter of the high-low culture that Los Angeles pulls off so well. The cheaper takeaway spots—the tacos and sandwiches—are just as good as the more ballyhooed counters. It just depends on what you're in the mood for. Villa Morelianas carnitas tacos are as good a Michoacan offering as you can find, while For the Win serve up a classy grass-fed beef burger with onions, cheese, and Thousand Island dressing on a potato bun. Then of course, there is Egg Slut and it's sometimes hour-long line for one of America's most famous breakfast sandwiches. It may seem like the line itself is the point, those sandwiches deliver.

The Magic Castle Arrow

There are few places in the world quite like the Magic Castle. This mansion in Hollywood serves as a clubhouse for magicians (it's quite hard to become a member), with illusionists, mentalists, and more performing nightly to a crowd required to dress in vintage formal attire. At a small magic club's show, you may see few magicians in the course of an evening, but at the Magic Castle you could see a dozen shows in a single night. You have to be invited by a magician to get in but there’s a secret tip: Find out which magicians are performing the night you’d like to see, and email them a few weeks in advance to see if they’ll get you an invite.

Watts Towers Arrow

Somehow both space-age and D.I.Y., the Watts Towers are an awe-inspiring series of 17 interwoven sculptural pillars built from scrap metal and concrete and decorated with found objects like glass bottles, volcanic rock, and ceramic tile. Coming here is nothing like any other museum experience in Los Angeles . Italian immigrant construction worker and artist Sabato "Simon" Rodia built the towers over a 33-year period, from the 1920s through the 1950s. They're considered a prime example of "outsider art," and can be visited for free in the Simon Rodia Historic State Park in the Watts neighborhood in south Los Angeles.

Griffith Observatory Arrow

Griffith Observatory is an Art Deco stargazing spot atop Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park and one of the most visited observatories. It got it's reputation for a reason: It's rich with exhibit halls (one of which houses a rare, electricity-pulsing Tesla coil), photogenic views of the Hollywood sign, a planetarium that hosts brainy but fun shows about the universe, and, of course, the 12-inch Zeiss telescope. More than 600 guests look through that telescope each night, which the observatory claims makes it the highest trafficked telescope in the world. Emotions range at Griffith Observatory, from the romantic (see: La La Land , when Ryan Gosling waltzes Emma Stone into the stars in the planetarium) to the gleeful (try not to smile in wonder at that Tesla coil) to the odd feeling of insignificance looking up at the universe can give you.

Marvin Braude Bike Trail (The Strand) Arrow

A mostly flat, leg-friendly ride along the coastline, the Strand is 22 miles each way, and easily doable in a day. With the Pacific breeze against your face, it's one of the most pleasant rides with some beautiful views along the way. You'll pass by Dockweiler Beach in Vista del Mar, famous for its hang gliders, and Manhattan Beach, where you can post up and watch the surfers as they ride the waves. You can start and end your ride at Santa Monica Pier , which is worth a visit in and of itself, and afterward have a bite to eat at one of Santa Monica's many seafood restaurants.

Barnsdall Art Park Arrow

Quiet, big, secluded, and full of art galleries, historic buildings, and a theater, the Barnsdall Art Park is one of L.A.'s best-kept secrets. Start with a tour of the Hollyhock House , the first Frank Lloyd Wright project in Los Angeles; the building has a fascinating history. The Los Angeles Municipal Art Gallery (LAMAG) and the Barnsdall Gallery Theatre, built in the mid-century, play host to excellent exhibitions of contemporary art, plays, and panel discussions. You can also just swing by for a picnic; the park is an ideal setting.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery Arrow

Home to the graves of silent film stars like Douglas Fairbanks and Rudolph Valentino, you'll also find the tombs of modern celebrities like Johnny Ramone and Kim Fowley. Try and find the memorial to Toto, Dorothy's dog in The Wizard of Oz ; there's also a section of the cemetery where peacocks roam. Nighttime events like movies projected on a mausoleum for an ongoing film series and nightclubby DJ sets are perfect for an al fresco night out on the town.

The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens Arrow

Millions of manuscripts, hundreds of thousands of books, tens of thousands of plant species, and thousands of art objects add up to a lot to see here. The Huntington is more than your run of the mill institution—in fact, there are few places in the world quite like it. The area tends draw a crowd of older couples (think: symphony attendees) , but the Huntington has an area that that can be calibrated to suit every group and mood. The Desert Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Japanese Garden are all spectacular enough that if a visitor wanted to just go to one of them it would be enough. The Library or Gallery could be zoomed through, adding on a quick pop over to the Conservatory, where the Carnivorous Plant Bog and the Rain Forest offer educational opportunities for the whole family.

Bob Baker Marionette Theater Arrow

Marionette puppetry is an ancient form of entertainment—they've even found wire-controlled puppets in Ancient Egyptian tombs—so it makes sense that stepping into Bob Baker Marionette Theater would be like stepping into a time warp. Set in a 1920's-era silent movie theater in the Highland Park neighborhood of Northeast L.A., the children's theater playhouse is adorned with red curtains and carpet; when the curtains come up, and the puppets come out, you might be mesmerized that this art form remains practiced by top-notch artists. Many of the marionettes were actually made by Baker himself, who passed away in 2014. Around Christmastime, the puppeteers put on a rendition of the Nutcracker, and there's currently a run of shows featuring Baker's most beloved puppets doing some of the theater's greatest hits in a show called Magic Strings.

Philosophical Research Society Arrow

What's L.A. without a little occult? Founded in 1934 by Canadian astrologer and all-around mystical man of mystery, Manly P. Hall, Philosophical Research Society is something of a tribute to the man himself. The library is chock full of Hall's esoterica accumulated over the years traveling as a mystic, containing some 50,000 books—a treasure trove of knowledge on obscure and rare religions and philosophies (impressive even if you're not about to hold a seance). When Elvis was going through his divine knowledge era, he sent Priscilla to Philosophical Research Society to do some recon; Charles Bukowski was married by Hall himself on the Society's campus; it's a historically protected building and definitely a major hub of mystical activity. Be ready to stare into the abyss of knowledge.

The La Brea Tar Pits & Museum Arrow

The La Brea Tar Pits are pits of, well, tar that has been bubbling up from beneath the earth for tens of thousands of years. They're viewable for free, and the compact La Brea Tar Pits Museum (which does charge admission) exhibits fossils and bones that were preserved when animals became trapped in said tar. It's a major landmark, and one of the most visited tourist spots in all of Los Angeles. The collection of bones is extraordinary. There are spectacular composite skeletons of many extinct species, including Columbian mammoths, ground sloths, dire wolves, North American camels, and, of course, the famous saber-toothed cat. Beyond the skeletons, there are over a million Ice Age fossils to peruse.

Runyon Canyon Yoga Arrow

Runyon Canyon itself is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in Los Angeles —an undeveloped public park smack in the middle of Hollywood. It's not the prettiest place on Earth—it's mostly a dirt trail surrounded by scrub brush—though the top offers a nice view of Downtown. A bit further down the hill, near the South entrance to the park, is a small fenced-off area where you'll find donation-based Runyon Canyon Yoga every morning at 10:30 a.m. It's a relaxing counterpoint to the oh-so-crowded trails. The yoga area is in a nook away from the path, so no hiker hordes will disturb your peace. Consensus is that Daniel, who teaches the Saturday class at the park, is one of the best yoga teachers in L.A. 

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The 20 best places to visit in L.A.: Where to go when you arrive

From spotting stars on Rodeo Drive to stargazing at the Griffith Observatory, plan ahead with these places to visit in L.A.

With so many world-famous sites and attractions to visit, deciding on the best things to do in Los Angeles can be a bewildering task. If it’s your first visit, you may be inclined to beeline it to Hollywood —but then you’d be missing out on all of L.A.’s  essential museums . Or you might have your heart set on getting star-struck in Beverly Hills —but then you’d be overlooking all of the remarkable restaurants farther to the east.

Our point is: L.A. is big , and stuffed with so many worthwhile experiences that you’ll never be asking yourself what to do but instead when you’ll find time to relax on the beach in  Santa Monica , dine along the vibrant streets of the Arts District and grab a drink in super-hip  Silver Lake .

There are so many great places to visit and things to see, it can be hard knowing where to start and what to fit in. This list should help you decide and get the most from your L.A. getaway.

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20 great places to visit in L.A.

1.  Relax on postcard-perfect beaches in Malibu

Put in the extra miles to venture north and west from Venice and Santa Monica and you’ll be rewarded with the most picturesque beaches in L.A. County. We couldn’t pick just one stretch of sand to visit in Malibu , so we’ll instead offer three: Point Dume  for picnicking and sunbathing by an as-seen-on-TV scalable cliff,  El Matador  for sunsets among photogenic coves and outcrops and Leo Carrillo  for secluded sand and an on-leash dog beach . If you’re hungry, we’ll recommend a trio of seafood spots, from east to west: superlative lobster rolls at  Broad Street Oyster Co. , excellent fish and chips at Malibu Seafood  and fried goodness at Neptune’s Net .

Want to make a night of it? Book a stay at the best beachfront rentals in L.A.

2.  Grab a bite at Grand Central Market

Downtown L.A. has seen waves of change since this food hall first opened in 1917, and so too has the lineup of vendors here. But one thing stays consistent: People flock to GCM from all corners of L.A. to mix and mingle among rows of spices, produce and vintage neon signage. Tacos Tumbras a Tomas serves the hall’s go-to taco, particularly the carnitas and al pastor. But you’ll find worthwhile bites from the recent influx of trendy eateries, too, like   Sticky Rice ,   Shiku ,   Eggslut ,   McConnell’s , the Donut Man   and   G&B Coffee .

Have a little bit of this and that at the rest of SoCal’s best food halls .

3.  Museum hop along Miracle Mile

The collections of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art , or LACMA, are housed in a vast complex of buildings, with a modern and contemporary art-filled west campus that opened 2008 and a single-building redesign on the way . The focal point is its grand entrance, which includes Chris Burden’s photogenic installation  Urban Light . LACMA shares a park with the La Brea Tar Pits and sits just across the street from the Petersen Automotive Museum and Craft Contemporary , and next to the  Academy Museum of Motion Pictures  (an excellent celebration of cinema from the folks who hand out the Oscars). Make sure to check out all of the free museum days before you visit.

4.  Gaze into the cosmos (and out onto the cityscape) at the Griffith Observatory

Sure, you can’t see all that much through its enormous telescope, but you can still spend a few hours browsing around the Griffith Observatory  quite happily (closed Mon; grounds open daily). There’s the popular Hall of the Sky and Hall of the Eye, a pair of complementary displays that examines the interplay between people and space. The Art Deco building itself is the star attraction though—and the stunning view of the city from Griffith Park  makes it worthy of a visit whether you’re a space buff or not.

Don’t miss out on these other essential Los Angeles attractions .

5.  Bow down to the masters at the Getty

The Getty Center  is packed full of artistic masterpieces and enjoys an awe-inspiring hilltop location with incredible views of L.A. and a stunning central garden. Among the highlights hanging here are works by Rubens and Impressionists such as Renoir, Monet, Van Gogh and Cézanne—though the lovely French decorative arts galleries are our personal favorites. If you want to rewind the clock a few millennia, head west to the museum’s predecessor, the Getty Villa . The Italian-style estate is stuffed with largely Greek and Roman antiquities, and its palatial courtyard is worth the trip alone.

Make sure to see these must-see works at the Getty .

6.  Stroll (briefly) along the stars in Hollywood

For a glimpse of the stardust on which the city’s built, stroll along the  Hollywood Walk of Fame , where more than 2,700 of the entertainment world’s most illustrious names are immortalized in pink terrazzo and gold lettering. As iconic as it may all be, this stretch of Hollywood can be a pretty disappointing, overly touristy area. The same goes for the famous hand and footprints at the  Chinese Theatre —though for film fantatics, we wholly recommend watching a movie inside its glorious auditorium. Nonetheless, countless galas, premieres and award ceremonies have passed through over the decades; though the area isn’t nearly as glitzy as you imagined, Hollywood, unpleasant as it may sometimes be, still has its (brief) place in a visit to L.A. Thinking of making a day of it? Find our favorite things to do in Hollywood .

7.  Stare into infinity at the Broad

A decade in now and the arrival of  the Broad  still feels like a gamechanger thanks to the museum’s distinctive design, free admission and post-war art collection. Yayoi Kusama’s pair of Infinity Mirror Rooms in particular continue to pull in the crowds—one which transports viewers into a twinkling, pulsating starfield of LEDs ( you can reserve a time slot ), the other via smaller reflective chamber that you can pop your head into.

Have time to kill before your reservation at the Broad? Explore the best things to do by the Broad .

8.  Gawk at the sights along Venice Beach

Venice Beach has long been known as the bohemian epicenter of California, and while the area gets plenty of mainstream tourists, it still boldly embraces its eccentric spirit—for better or worse. Abbot Kinney has transformed into a high-end ’hood over recent years, but the boardwalk is still a, let’s say, unique place for people watching, with street “performers,” skateboarders and body builders all making their presence known (if you’re simply after a picturesque stretch of beach, we suggest venturing to Santa Monica or Malibu instead). Grab lunch at  the Fig Tree before browsing the shelves at Small World Books . Make sure to stray from the boardwalk and stroll along the Venice Canals , too. Looking to relax by the ocean? Check out the best beaches in L.A. .

9.  Shop (or window-shop) in style on Rodeo Drive

We’ve all dreamed of being Julia Roberts shopping on Rodeo Drive , but very few of us could actually afford to shop in the designer boutiques and flagship stores seen in the film  Pretty Woman . Which means window-shopping is the order of the day. Along the $200-million ersatz European cobbled walkway Two Rodeo, browsing tourists mingle with serious spenders. A short journey away is Anderson Court, which is the only shopping mall designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Fulfill your fashion dreams at the best shops in L.A .

10.  Get animated with Mickey and Minnie at Disneyland

Reservations are required.

You’re never too old for Disneyland . This legendary theme park overflows with brilliant things to do, spread over numerous themed lands (including Star Wars : Galaxy’s Edge ) and the adjacent Disney California Adventure Park (home to  Avengers Campus) . After making sure you’re up to speed  best food , stroll down Main Street USA for a romanticized taste of early-19th-century America, trek Westwards at Frontierland and soak up the music of New Orleans Square. Of course, there are dozens of rides too, including the epic Indiana Jones Adventure and, across the way in California Adventure, the uplifting Soarin’. Make sure to get on the 25 best Disneyland rides while you’re there.

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Home » North America » Los Angeles

37 BEST Places to Visit in Los Angeles (2024)

What can you say about Los Angeles? It’s the city of angels, known just as much for its tourist vibe as it is for its entertainment and its close connections with the television and media industry. For anyone who’s interested in relaxing in the sun while they watch for celebrities or taking photos at famous movie sites, this is the place to come.

But Los Angeles doesn’t usually appeal to every type of traveler. If you’re not interested in seeing celebrities’ gates or immersing yourself in a culture that seems devoted to appearances and little more, this destination can seem like one to avoid. However, despite the advertisements, there is more to this city than meets the eye. And it’s definitely a place worth visiting if you’re interested in some fun nights out, more entertainment options then you could ever see, and some amazing food.

To help you find the places in Los Angeles that appeal to you, we’ve created this easy guide to this flashy city.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Los Angeles:

These are the best places to visit in los angeles, faq on the best places to visit in los angeles, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in los angeles.

Hollywood, California is a top destination for tourists and our recommendation for where to stay in Los Angeles for the first time.

• Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Tickle your taste buds with a famous In-N-Out burger
• Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships, a quirky and interesting museum

And if you need more inspiration on where to stay in Los Angeles, consider checking out one of the best vacation rentals in the city.

Los Angeles is home not only to many famous tourist attractions (and the hopes and dreams of aspiring young performers hoping to catch their big break), but also an immense metropolis of distinct neighbourhoods that appear to be mini-cities within themselves. Get the low down on where to stay in Los Angeles before delving into the magic below.

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#1 – Venice Beach – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

• A place to see a side of Los Angeles that has nothing to do with the movies.
• Soak up the rays and relax.
• Lots of great food options in the area.

Why it’s so awesome : If you get sick of the polished perfection of Hollywood then Venice Beach is another gem of visiting Los Angeles . This is an area that, despite the rush of tourists, holds onto its bohemian vibe and remains stubbornly eccentric. Some would even call it a little crazy. No matter who you are or what you like, this place will welcome you and offer people and attractions that suit your preferences.

What to do there : One of the best things to do in this area is people-watch, and you’ll find no shortage of fascinating and unusual people on the boardwalk. You’ll see everything from bodybuilders to skaters and everything in between. When or if you get sick of that, grab lunch at one of the many great restaurants or cafes in the area. Also, if you like to read then make sure you check out Small World Books for a kooky selection.

#2 – Rodeo Drive – A great place in Los Angeles if you love to shop!

• Made famous in some of the most popular movies and TV shows of all time.
• A great place for designer labels.
• The people watching in this area is amazing.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve seen the movie Pretty Woman , then you’ve seen Rodeo Drive. This is the shopping center of Los Angeles for people who enjoy designer everything and high-class, expensive boutiques. Just walking along this street can make you feel as if you’re on the set of a movie. It’s also located in Beverly Hills, which is one of the safest places in LA !

What to do there : Obviously you could drop a lot of cash in this area if you have it spare. You’ll find every prominent label in existence in this street, and none of them are cheap. But if you don’t have the money or any interest in buying designer clothes then it’s great to just window shop in this area. Also, if you enjoy architecture, make sure you check out the nearby Anderson Court, a shopping mall that was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

With a Los Angeles City Pass , you can experience the best of Los Angeles at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Universal Studios Hollywood

• A place where movie lovers can indulge their hobby.
• Great for photographers who want that iconic shot of Los Angeles!
• Kids will love the rides and other attractions.

Why it’s so awesome : Universal Studios in Hollywood isn’t technically a studio for actors anymore, instead, it’s a theme park that celebrates everything to do with the movies. This is the place to come if you love Harry Potter , the Fast and the Furious or any other Universal Studio movie and want to walk in the footsteps of the stars. And it isn’t just for kids either. Apart from rides and shows, they also have bars and restaurants as well as rides that are based on shows that are too scary for kids!

What to do there : There’s no shortage of things to do at Universal . This is a place to take the kids, or a handful of your friends, and just be a child again. Check out the Walking Dead Attraction, watch a movie at the cinema, drink butterbeer at the Harry Potter-themed pub and go on all the rides. And if you’re looking for a little more of a thrill, watch the Water World Show, or try the Revenge of the Mummy ride for some real scares.

#4 – The Broad – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Los Angeles

• A new museum that’s generating a lot of buzz.
• Some truly spectacular displays of light and technology.
• Free admission!

Why it’s so awesome: This is a contemporary art museum with a difference. Not only is it free to get into, which makes it a great place to offset your spending in other places in Los Angeles, the displays are also groundbreaking. Particularly popular are the Infinity Mirrored Rooms, designed by Yayoi Kusama. These are mirrored rooms that reflect LED lights that go on forever, just as they do in space. The display is so popular that there’s usually a wait of hours to get in!

What to do there : Make sure you see the Infinity Mirrored Rooms but don’t miss the other displays either. The museum has several permanent displays as well as rotating ones. So check out what’s on before you go so you know what the must-sees are.

#5 – The Museum of Jurassic Technology – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

• A fun and educational place.
• A pseudo-scientific nook in the center of the city.
• If you enjoy things that are quirky, you’ll enjoy a trip to this museum.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum mixes fact with fiction in a way that leaves you wondering which is which. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with the movie, instead, it focuses on scientific wonders both real and imagined. It’s a kooky little place and one that’s a nice break from the movie-obsessed city, so make sure you add it to your Los Angeles itinerary!

What to do there : This is a place to enjoy the oddities and try to work out what’s real and what’s not. There are a lot of weird things in this museum, from minuscule sculptures to bats that can fly through walls, and spending some time here is an exercise in getting your mind bent into a new shape!

#6 – Griffith Observatory

• Get in touch with some real stars while you’re in the city!
• A slightly strange observatory, because the light of the city means you can’t actually see much through the telescope.
• It has several fascinating and educational displays.

Why it’s so awesome : Los Angeles’ light pollution means that you can’t see any stars from the city, which might make an observatory seem a little redundant. However, there’s more than just a telescope at this place. You could easily spend a few hours here exploring the relationship between man and the rest of the universe through the exhibitions, so it’s well worth taking that time to just look around.

What to do there : While you’re there, make sure that you check out the Hall of the Eye and the Hall of the Sky displays. These two displays are connected and are fascinating enough that you probably won’t realize you’re actually learning more about man’s connection to the universe as you watch!

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#7- The Getty

• Great for lovers of fine art.
• One of the best collections of artwork in the world.
• There is art from almost every period in history, so you’ll definitely find something you like.

Why it’s so awesome : You wouldn’t think that Los Angeles would be home to one of the finest art collections in the world and yet the Getty contains just that. You’ll find art by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh as well as a very impressive collection of amazing photographs taken by some of the biggest names in this field.

What to do there : This is the type of collection that you need to take your time with. Make sure you look for your favorite artists but be open to new names as well. That’s the great things about places like this, they open your mind to all kinds of new possibilities.

#8 – The Hollywood Walk of Fame

• Find handprints left by today’s celebrities and old favorites too.
• A great place to take photos.
• One of the most iconic places in Los Angeles.

Why it’s so awesome : Everyone has heard about the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where more than 2,500 celebrities have their names and handprints immortalized in concrete. If you’re a film fanatic, or just want to take a photo next to your favorite star’s handprint, this is a great place to spend a little time.

What to do there: Browse the names. The Walk of Fame is larger than you might think and when you walk along with it, you’ll probably find a few names you hadn’t expected. This iconic spot isn’t as glitzy as it looks in the movies or on awards nights, but it’s well worth a look anyway.

#9 – Walt Disney Concert Hall

• Home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
• A spiky, metal covered building that’s impressive in its own right.
• There are over 250 concerts here a year.

Why it’s so awesome : If you enjoy music and architecture then this venue combines the two interests. The building itself was designed by Frank Gehry and is a spiky, strangely attractive building that juts into the air at seemingly random angles. But even if architecture isn’t your thing, the music here will make up for it. The acoustics are amazing, and the concerts are absolutely first-rate too.

What to do there : Make sure you take a photograph with this building in the background because it would make a quirky and interesting shot. Also, check the local programs to see what concerts are on while you’re in the city. The best of the best play here, and there’s nothing like seeing a great concert in a place that’s designed to get the most from the music.

#10 – TCL Chinese Theater – Cool place to see in Los Angeles with friends!

• A great place to get some photos.
• The building has welcomed some of the world’s biggest stars and it will welcome you too!
• You can see a movie and see where the stars have sat.

Why it’s so awesome : This is the prime spot for movie premiers in Los Angeles, which means that the biggest stars in the world have spent time in this theater. But if this second-hand celebrity encounter isn’t enough, the theater itself is still worth seeing. Its Chinese-style pagodas and temples are both iconic and striking and it’s an important symbol of America’s celebrity culture.

What to do there : You have to buy a ticket to see the inside of the theater but it’s free to just explore the courtyard. This building has become a symbol of celebrity culture and glamor because of its proximity to the Walk of Fame so you can get some great photos while you’re there, so make sure that you bring your camera with you . It’s worth buying a ticket to see a movie though if only so you can say that you’ve watched a movie in the same theater that’s held the world’s biggest stars.

#11 – Try To Escape From The Escape Game

Why it’s so awesome :If you are after something challenging, immersive but totally then then the LA Escape Game may be just what you are looking for. The Escape Game LA features a variety of different rooms which participants (that’s you and your crew) must try to escape from by working as a team, solving clues and completing puzzles.

What to do there : All of their games are designed to be suitable for everybody, from first-time players to experienced escapologists. No matter which one you decide to play, you’re sure to have an absolute blast!

#12 – Santa Monica Pier

• A great place to spend a sunny day eating junk food and riding a Ferris Wheel next to the ocean.
• If you like to people watch, this is a prime location for it.
• In the afternoon, the sunsets are spectacular from this location.

Why it’s so awesome : Sometimes it’s nice to remember that even in Los Angeles, there are places that offer ordinary fun. It isn’t all celebrities and high-end boutiques; the Santa Monica Pier offers the kind of fun that’s best enjoyed with friends or family. There’s a Ferris wheel, cotton candy, and amazing sunsets to enjoy at this location. So, take an afternoon and get reacquainted with things that were probably part of your childhood. It is one of the best day trips to take from LA .

What to do there : This is the place for old school fair activities. Ride the Ferris wheel and the roller coaster before you tuck in to typical fair food such as cotton candy and hot dogs. And stay late in the day because the sight of the sun setting over the Pacific is something that everyone should see at least once.

#12 – Farmers Market

• There’s a real sense of community and connection here that you’ll really enjoy.
• Great food and drink options.
• A prime spot for people watching.

Why it’s so awesome: The Farmers Market was founded in 1934 by a collective of farmers and nothing much has changed since that time. The market is held at 3rd and Fairfax, and it’s where all the locals go to enjoy good food, buy fresh goods, and enjoy a bit of community. There are now more than 85 shops at the market, and you’ll find everything from a barbeque place to a kebab stand there.

What to do there : All you need to do while you’re in this area is eat, drink and watch the people. This area has a laidback vibe that seems to conflict with the rest of the city. But this vibe has also contributed to the strong sense of community that the market has created. So just take your time and relax in the open-air bazaar, explore the many stores, and if you want to do some celebrity spotting afterwards then head down to The Grove shopping area nearby, where stars go to pick up the milk.

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#13 – Disneyland Park – Awesome place to visit in Los Angeles with kids!

• It’s Disneyland!
• Great for kids and adults who remember their childhood.
• You’ll get some amazing photos here and perhaps even see some favorite characters!

Why it’s so awesome : What isn’t awesome about Disneyland? It’s a place that’s dedicated to stories, to dreams, and to letting your imagination run wild. Of course, it’s also dedicated to outrageous prices, crowds, and heat, but you can ignore that for one day to see some of your favorite Disney characters walking around.

What to do there: There’s no end of things to do here with seven lands that are all dedicated to different themes and Disney cartoons. Make sure you try out rides like the epic Indiana Jones Adventure and the Grizzly River Run if you like a bit of a thrill. And if you’re not one for rides, then just stroll down Main Street USA. This is one of the main streets in Disneyland and there’s always something going on there from parades to fireworks and visiting Disney characters. Make sure you keep your camera at the ready!

#14 – Hollywood Bowl

• Made famous in movies and so much bigger in reality!
• Showcases everything from rock bands to the Philharmonic.
• Best of all, it’s completely casual, so take some food and a bottle of wine and enjoy!

Why it’s so awesome : This is a place where you can listen to music while you’re outside under the night sky. The venue plays host to a range of musical styles which are great on their own, but the real draw is the relaxed vibe. Chances are that cramming together in the bleachers and sharing your food with the people next to you will net you some new friends! And that’s what places like this are all about.

What to do there : While you’re in the city you absolutely must see a show at the Hollywood Bowl. And it doesn’t really matter which one either. The whole point of this place is to listen to music while you’re under the night sky. And this goal makes for a really relaxed atmosphere, so take your food and drink and share it with the people sitting next to you to make some new friends.

#15 – Griffith Park – One of the nicer places in Los Angeles to sightsee!

• A nice natural area where you can walk outside of the busyness of the city.
• There are a lot of different routes which will take you to various iconic spots in the city.
• If you don’t feel like walking, you can always go on horseback!

Why it’s so awesome : Chances are you’ll be getting around by car and by public transport while you’re in Los Angeles and sometimes there’s nothing better than taking a break from that and stretching your legs. And when you can do that in a place with panoramic and iconic views of the city, all the better!

What to do there : This park is extremely accessible and popular amongst locals and tourists alike. If you enjoy walking you can make it all the way up Mount Hollywood and be treated to views of the Los Angeles basin and the Hollywood sign. And if you’re a little more adventurous, you can hire a horse at the nearby private stables and take the specially marked trails to the same spots.

#16 – Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

• Has exhibits ranging from the start of art history to the present day.
• A great place for art lovers to spend some time.
• Educational and interesting.

Why it’s so awesome : This art museum has been modernizing of late, with more contemporary displays than ever before. You can see artwork from the ancient past as well as these more modern pieces and it will give you an education on art that you will never forget.

What to do there: This is a peaceful, enlightening place to spend an afternoon. Wander the halls and see through the eyes of some of the greatest artists who have ever lived. With that kind of inspiration, maybe you’ll get inspired to create something yourself!

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#17 – The Museum of Death – Quite the quirky place in Los Angeles!

• A spooky look at the past.
• It’s ideal for people who like to walk a little more on the macabre side.
• Good for anyone who’s interested in true crime.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum doesn’t shy away from the spookiest parts of humanity. It’s devoted entirely to the memorabilia left behind by some of the most infamous serial killers in history and other exhibits to do with murder and death. This is the place where you can look at some of history’s most famous and sadistic instruments of death and be reminded of just how precious life is.

What to do there : If you’ve ever been morbidly curious about crime scene photos or the most famous serial killers in history, you’ll learn about them here. Dahmer, the Manson Murders and original photos from the Dahlia Murders all have a place here. Basically, it’s a museum that will make you thoroughly creeped out about the people all around you.

#18 – The Underground Tunnels of Los Angeles – One of the most underrated places to see in Los Angeles

• Left behind from the days of Prohibition.
• A slightly creepy and sobering look at the past.
• A chance to get a look at a side of Los Angeles that most people never see.

Why it’s so awesome : These tunnels were once service tunnels, but during the days of Prohibition they became a way to transport liquor to speakeasies all around the city. During these long-ago days, the Major’s office ran the show, and people from all walks of life wandered around drinking below the law-abiding portion of the city.

What to do there : It’s an adventure in itself to find these tunnels. You need to go behind the Hall of Records on Temple Street where there’s an almost hidden elevator. The passages below are filled with strange street art, and gated where some areas have become unstable over the years. So remember to stay safe , take some friends with you, avoid the blocked-off areas, and just explore.

#19 – The Old Zoo Picnic Area

• A depressing look at how society treats animals.
• Educational and even important, but not an enjoyable lesson.

Why it’s so awesome : Modern zoos can sometimes be good places where the focus is on education and protecting endangered animals. But this isn’t always the case, and, in the past, it was hardly ever the case. The Old Zoo Picnic Area is a stark reminder of that reality. This zoo was closed in 1966 but some of the cages still remain, a reminder of a past that shouldn’t be forgotten.

What to do there : This is now a picnic area with benches and grills where you can hang out with your friends and have a nice meal. But don’t forget to at least acknowledge the other side of this place. There’s a trail that will take you up from the caves and around to more of the abandoned cages so you can experience just what it was like to be on the other side of the bars.

#20 – Necromance

• The best place to find souvenirs that are a little different than normal.
• Best for people who have a strong stomach.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’re tired of the usual souvenirs then check out this shop. Here you’ll find a wide range of antiques and oddities from medical instruments to stuffed animals. All of the goods in this shop are antiques and you could easily spend an hour or so looking at all the strangeness people have made through the ages!

What to do there : Make sure you buy something to take home. You obviously don’t have to choose something macabre like a Victorian bone saw, but there’s a wide range of goods available, so there will be something that will appeal to you or to someone you know!

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#21 – Hollywood Forever Cemetery

• Surrounded by lush, natural surroundings that are really beautiful considering what they contain.
• In the summer, they have film screenings in the park.
• Lots of olden day stars such as Estelle Getty and Johnny Ramone were laid to rest here.

Why it’s so awesome : This place is a slightly macabre look at celebrity culture and a reminder that nothing lasts forever. Even if you don’t like this lesson, the parks are truly beautiful and are listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, so they’re really worth seeing.

What to do there : If you like classic Hollywood films then make sure you attend one of the summer movie screenings and watch the action projected on the wall of a mausoleum! Just bring a blanket and some food and you can lie out under the stars and enjoy some classic cinema very close to where the stars of it could be buried. Apart from that, the cemetery is home to lots of stunning statues and mausoleums. So, if you’re interested in that kind of artwork then you’ll find lots of interesting examples when you walk around this site.

#22 – Phantasma Gloria – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

• If you enjoy unusual art, then you’ll love this!
• By appointment only.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a sculpture that’s designed to capture the light in all its glory. Over 24 feet tall and 50 feet long, the artist has created this web on his property and eventually it will wrap all the way around his yard. It’s made of colored glass, wire, and colored water and will only get bigger over time!

What to do there : This sculpture is a marvel of engineering and inventiveness. It’s open by appointment only on Saturdays and Sundays between 10 and 4, when the sun hits it just right. While you’re there, look closely at the twists of wire and glass, you’ll see dolphins and other shapes within the carefully crafted sculpture and start to understand the intricacy of the artist’s vision.

#23 – Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels – One of the most religious places to see in Los Angeles

• An architecturally unique postmodern building.
• The building is extremely elaborate, with the doors alone priced at over 3 million dollars.
• The lower level contains the relics of an early Roman saint

Why it’s so awesome : This church is spectacular, and for the amount of money spent on its construction it really should be. The archbishop at the time wanted to make a statement with the Cathedral and spared absolutely no expense on its construction. He spent 5 million dollars on a table, 3 million on a single set of doors, and 2 million for the wooden ambo and it shows. The result is an opulent display that really draws attention.

What to do there : If you’re Catholic then this Cathedral would hold great significance. The lower level houses a crypt with more than 6000 church officials, Gregory Peck, and the relics left behind by the early Roman martyr Saint Vibiana. But even if you aren’t Catholic, it’s worth visiting the site just to take in the opulence and rich furnishings of this fortress-like construction.

#24 – Ennis House

• Made famous in movies and TV shows like  Haunted House ,  Blade Runner,  and  Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
• An architectural gem.
• A weird and quirky piece of construction that has to be seen to be believed.

Why it’s so awesome: The Ennis House was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the early 1920s and is a marvel of engineering and architecture. It was restored in the 1970s after rain and earthquake damage and was designated a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument in 1976.

What to do there : Visitors are only allowed into the building on rare occasions so make sure you keep your eyes open during your trip to see if there’s a chance you’ll be able to go inside. But even if you can’t, the exterior of the house is stunning on its own, and if you’re a fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer , you’ll probably recognize the building as it was used during the iconic TV show!

#25 – Garden of Oz

• A fantastic place to get a quirky and unique photo op!
• A private garden that’s been turned into a showcase of color and magic.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a private garden in the Hollywood Hills that the owner has turned into a fantastical and whimsical space! Instead of concrete and dirt flower beds, you’ll find mosaics, thrones and fantastical creatures all over this area. It features hundreds of plants, a yellow brick road, and whimsical displays that bring to mind Munchkin land from the iconic movie.

There are also numerous thrones throughout the area, each of them dedicated to someone who’s important to the artist’s life. To that end, there’s a throne for Rosa Parks, the Dalai Lama, Elvis Presley and a friend of the artist who survived the Hiroshima bombing.

What to do there : This garden is on private property and the owner doesn’t give tours, though the neighborhood children apparently all have keys so they can play in the space. But if you’re interested, you can easily see most of the garden from the street and take in the whimsical beauty of the eclectic space.

#26 – Velaslavasay Panorama

• A stunning reminder of the past.
• This is 3D art with a difference!

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to see something truly unique then this is where to come. In the 1700s and 1800s, a new form of media was invented known as panoramic paintings. This was a form of 3D media that fell out of flavor when film and photos came along. Enormous paintings were displayed in circular rooms or on moving rollers to creating a moving landscape for the audience. And this venue is bringing back this old art form, with 360-degree displays that include light and sound.

What to do there : The display at this venue changes frequently so find out what’s on and go to see it. The shows include soundtracks as well as lights to create a truly 3-dimensional experience that has to be seen to be believed. A beautiful reminder of an old art form that deserves a place in today’s art world!

#27 – The Hollywood Sign

• Quite possibly the most famous site in Los Angeles.
• A great opportunity for a photo op.
• Built as a temporary advertisement that has stood the test of time!

Why it’s so awesome : Built-in 1923, the Hollywood sign was meant to last eight months but has become one of the most iconic sights in the city! You can see the sign in countless movies, TV shows, and celebrity photos and you really should own your picture of the sign too!

What to do there : It’s a fair hike up to the sign, around 45 minutes depending on how fast you go, and once you’re up there don’t try to climb or touch the fence that protects the site. Just take photos up there and take in the views. From this high-up landmark, you can see all of downtown Los Angeles, the Santa Ana Mountains and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. And you don’t have to stop at the sign either. If you want even better views, there are steps that go higher that will let you see even further and take in even more of the city.

#28 – Downtown – An awesome place to visit in Los Angeles for half a day!

• A perfect place to take a walking tour of Los Angeles’ architecture.
• You can do a walking tour on your own or there are a number of organized tours available.
• Lots of chances for pictures.

Why it’s so awesome : Los Angeles is a busy, exciting city and the best way to see it is on foot. By taking a walking tour on your own or with a group through the Downtown area you’ll be able to see some cool architecture and buildings that you recognize from the sets of movies and TV shows!

What to do there : Take lots of pictures while you’re wandering around. Los Angeles’s buildings range from Art Deco style to historic theaters and the mix is both interesting and indicative of the city’s history. If you do take an organized tour, make sure you book early as they’re popular, but you’ll also be fine walking around on your own. If you’re a fan of nightlife, then Downtown LA is also your best bet to find a hostel where you can stay close to all the fun.

#29 – Runyon Canyon Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Los Angeles

• An often-overlooked slice of nature in the city.
• A great place to get away from the city and breathe in the cleaner air.
• If you enjoy walking, hiking or running then there’s plenty of room here to really stretch out.

Why it’s so awesome : Green spaces in the middle of concrete and stone jungles are like gems in cities like Los Angles and this park is perfectly positioned to give you a break from the rush if you need it. It’s seldom visited by tourists which makes it the perfect place to have a rest before you dive back into the high-tech busyness of the city.

What to do there: There are some great views throughout the canyon. You can see the San Fernando Valley and the Pacific Ocean from selected spots as well as the Hollywood sign. This is a popular spot for the locals to exercise, so while you’re doing some hiking you might just see a celebrity keeping their world-famous body in shape too!

#30 – Peterson Automotive Museum

• A quirky, interesting building that looks great in photos.
• For car lovers of all kinds.
• Includes historical information as well as displays of famous movie cars!

Why it’s so awesome : This strange-looking building is located on the Miracle Mile, which was the first commercial development in the city that was designed for the benefit of drivers. And this museum celebrates that history in fine style. Apart from the historical information you’ll learn here, you’ll also get to see displays of some of the world’s most amazing cars, including the Batmobile!

What to do there : What else? Look at cars! You’ll be able to learn about the industrial process as it is today and as it was in the past and see an entire showroom dedicated to luxury vintage vehicles. If you’re a car buff, this will probably be your version of heaven. And even if you don’t like cars you can explore the driving simulation stations and augmented reality scavenger hunt experience.

#31 – La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

• A slightly quirky but still fascinating place.
• Another iconic location in Los Angeles.
• You’ll get some great photos here.
• Great for kids.

Why it’s so awesome : If your kids love dinosaurs, and what kids don’t, then they’ll love this museum. These tar pits have been bubbling for hundreds of thousands of years and more than a million animal bones have been found in their depths. And a lot of them are on display in the museum for your kids to marvel at.

What to do there : The tar pits are free, so check them out and take photos with your group or kids to mark the occasion. Then, if you’re interested in learning more, make sure you check out the attached museum to explore the creatures whose bones were preserved in the bubbling mess.

#32 – Zuma Beach

• Improve your tan and soak in the vibe of exclusivity.
• The activities here are first-rate so if you enjoy surfing or swimming, make sure you do it here.
• Great for kids and adults, with lots of facilities and lifeguards to make the day comfortable and safe.

Why it’s so awesome : This is Malibu, where everyone is beautiful and movie sets are everywhere and you can explore the same beaches you’ve probably seen in countless movies and on TV shows. Zuma Beach is a great place to explore that natural beauty and exclusive vibe, and it’s considered one of the best beaches in Los Angeles too.

What to do there: This is a beach where you should spend some time just people watching. But when you get sick of that, it’s a great place for activities too. The water is very clean, the waves are great for surfing and there are a lot of shops around where you can get a snack when you get tired of the sun. All in all, this beach makes for a great day in the sun!

#33 – Sunset Boulevard – A great place to visit in Los Angeles at night

• Don’t you want to get a photo on this iconic street?
• Made famous in some of history’s greatest movies.
• A beautiful, palm-lined street that still has great aesthetic appeal.

Why it’s so awesome : If you haven’t seen this street in movies then you probably never go to the theater. This street actually had a movie named after it, which is why people line up to take their picture under the street sign. And even if you’re not interested in that, the street is known for its nightlife and is lined with classic music venues where you can listen to some great tunes while you have a drink.

What to do there: Go there during the day to take your pictures in the sunlit streets and under the sign but also make sure you go there at night. Some of the bars and clubs here are legendary for their musical talent, including the Roxy Theater and the Rainbow Bar and Grill, so make sure you check them out.

#34 – Third Street Promenade

• Get some eclectic souvenirs and other goods here.
• An opening air shopping area with all the popular shops as well as some stranger options.
• Great restaurants in this area.

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to do some shopping in a slightly less touristy place then this shopping center is a good choice. You’ll find all your favorite shops here as well as some more unusual choices such as a toy shop obsessed with puzzles and a rare books shop.

What to do there: Visit your favorite shops while they’re there and available and see if you can get some bargains. Make sure that you have lunch while you’re in the area too, as the restaurants here are the best in the city. But it’s the promenade’s atmosphere that’s the most interesting, with street performers and a noisy, busy atmosphere that’s set up for anyone who wants to people watch.

#35 – Warner Brothers Studios

• A must see when you’re in Los Angeles.
• Home to hit shows and some of the biggest movies.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to see iconic movie and TV sets and props then you’ll experience all that and more at this landmark venue. The Batmobile, Harry Potter props and shows like The Big Bang Theory and Ellen DeGeneres all have a home here and you’ll get to experience them all!

What to do there : This studio is located 5 miles north of Hollywood and is an easy trip from the city when you have a free afternoon. You can wander the grounds and get a tour guide to show you around. And unlike some other studio tours, when you visit this location you can even walk around working sets!

#36 – Greystone Mansion and Park – A nice quiet place to see in Los Angeles

• A relic from the golden age of Hollywood.
• One of the largest mansions in Los Angeles.
• Shows like  Gilmore Girls ,  Ghostbusters  and  General Hospital  were all shot on these grounds.
• Lots of photo ops.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve watched TV in the last ten years then you’ve probably seen shots of this mansion even if you didn’t know where it was at the time. Despite its popularity in the cinema and on TV, this is actually a neglected landmark that’s a quiet respite from the city. So if you’re looking for a little break in a beautiful garden with a koi pond, flowers, and fountains, then this is the place you’re looking for.

What to do there : You can’t go into the mansion, but the grounds are open to visitors. Make sure you have a good walk around and see if you recognize any areas from your favorite shows and take a photo to remember the moment. Apart from that, just enjoy the serenity and beauty of the gardens.

#37 – Paramount Pictures Studios

• The last movie studio still in Los Angeles.
• This studio has showcased some of the world’s best starts.
• Lots of photo ops here!

Why it’s so awesome : If you like movies then taking a tour around a place that makes them is an incredible treat. Some of the set designs from this studio’s most popular shows are still in place so you can walk into the scene and actually experience a part of the movie from the inside. As an added bonus, there are several different types of tours. So, if you like to walk, take the walking tour. And if you’re a little more restricted in what you can do or want to do, the golf cart tours are probably right for you.

What to do there : You can take a two-hour tour around the studio during which you’ll actually get to look at some incredibly famous sets all from the comfort of a golf cart. You can see the set of I Love Lucy , Titanic , or even Mission: Impossible . There’s also an After Dark tour for adults only where you’ll get to see some of the sets that aren’t really suitable for children.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Los Angeles

What are the best places to visit in LA at night?

For some epic nightlife and great parties, check out these places in Los Angeles: – Sunset Boulevard – Venice Beach – Hollywood Bowl

What places are free to visit in Los Angeles?

Check out these free places to visit in Los Angeles: – The Broad – Venice Beach – Santa Monica Pier

What places in Los Angeles can you visit today?

Find out about the best tours, attractions and places to visit in Los Angeles on Klook . Everything that’s on today will be listed there. And if you want a more local experience, check out Airbnb experiences .

What are the coolest places to visit in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is cool in itself, but a couple of places really stand out. Check them out: – Walt Disney Concert Hall – TCL Chinese Theater – Farmers Market

Los Angeles is often seen as a place that’s all surface and flash with nothing underneath and this reputation isn’t entirely undeserved. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t entertainment and food options for almost every taste in this sprawling city. After all, Los Angeles is a city that’s set up to enthrall and amuse, and it does both of these extremely well as you’ll see when working through this list.

Art Patterson

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Thanks Ashley Ryan for sharing this great information! It does not matter if its the first visit of Los Angeles (LA) or living in the city, as one of the most populated places globally has plenty of attractions to engage anyone like Los Angeles. The Broad, Hollywood Sign, Venice Beach Boardwalk, etc are one of the great examples of most attracted places in LA and having a charter bus rental ensures to have the best time on the trip.

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Ultimate Los Angeles Bucket List (101 Things to Do in LA)

• California / In the City / Los Angeles / North America / USA

Visiting Los Angeles? Use this bucket list to plan your trip.

We lived in LA last year, and while we didn’t think it was a place we wanted to settle down, we still loved that there’s always something to do in LA (and eat). We’ve still been staying in LA one week out of every month since we moved to Las Vegas. The funny thing is (and I’m sure most people who live in LA agree) when we lived in LA, we didn’t want to drive anywhere. Now that we moved away, we’re exploring much more of the city. Now that we’re coming in from out of town, our friends are also more likely to meet us too.

Just like our  Las Vegas bucket list  that we’re quickly checking off, we created one for LA with a mix of both touristy and off the beaten path activities.

This post may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. All opinions are always our own. Read our full disclosure  for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: April 17, 2024

− − Content Menu

• 101 Things to Do in Los Angeles

Tourist Attractions

• Entertainment + Shows
• Outdoors + Beaches

Shopping + Food

• 101 Things to Do in LA Map
• Where to Stay in LA

Planning Checklist

101 things to do in los angeles – your ultimate la bucket list.

We’ve broken up the bucket list into a few different categories: tourist attractions , museums , entertainment , outdoors , and shopping + food .

Union Station

(DTLA) The largest railroad passenger terminal in the Western United States.

Griffith Observatory →

(Griffith Park) Our favorite view in the city.

Disneyland →

(Anaheim) The O.G. of Disney theme parks.

Studio Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood

(North Hollywood) Tour the iconic studio.

Angel’s Flight Railway

(DTLA) The world’s shortest railway!

Hollywood Sign →

(San Pedro) Allow yourself at least 2-3 hours for the round-trip hike. Lake Hollywood Park gives you the best view without hiking)

Hollywood Walk of Fame

(Hollywood) Take a pic with your favorite celebrity’s sidewalk star.

MULHOLLAND Drive

This is the road that was made famous by several movies.

LA County Fair →

(Pomona) Various competitions (culinary, DIY, etc) and classic fair rides.

Six Flag Magic Mountains

(Valencia) Pulse-pounding thrill rides. We’ve heard the X2 rollercoaster is crazy scary.

See More: 39 of the Best Food at Disneyland You Need to Try

The Queen Mary

(Long Beach) 1930’s ocean liner turned hotel and tourist attraction.

LA City Hall Observation Deck

(DTLA) Beautiful 27th-floor observation deck.

Paramount Studio Tour

(Hollywood) Go on a studio tour!

Hollywood Bowl Overlook aka Jerome C. Daniel Overlook

(Hollywood Hills) Great view of the iconic venue.

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

(Culver City) Breathtaking views.

Warner Bros Studio Tour

(Burbank) Get a behind-the-scenes look at one of the oldest film studios.

Chateau Marmont Hotel

(Hollywood Hills) Popular amongst celebrities. Modeled loosely after the Château d’Amboise in France’s Loire Valley

Universal Studios Hollywood / Universal City

Allow at least 30 minutes for parking and security.

The Getty Center

(Westside) Admission is always free, but parking isn’t. Be sure to check out the view from the gardens.

Getty Villa

(Pacific Palisades) Over 44,000 Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities to check out.

HUNTINGTON Library Art Collections and BOTANICAL Gardens →

(Pasadena) Art Collections and Botanical Gardens. If you can, get afternoon tea at the Rose Garden Tea Room .

Los Angeles County Museum of Art / LACMA

(Mid-Wilshire) This is where you’ll find the Instagram-popular “Urban Light.”

DTLA Art Walk

(DTLA) Take a guided walking art tour of galleries and exhibits.

Santa Monica Camera Obscura

( Santa Monica ) Take a guided walking art tour of galleries and exhibits.

Bergamot Station Arts Center

( Santa Monica ) Served as a railroad station for the Los Angeles and Independence Railroad. Free parking and free admission.

GIbbon Conservation Center →

(Santa Clarita) Home to more than 40 highly endangered gibbon apes.

Wildlife Learning Center

(Sylmar) Small animal center, great for young kids and families.

Museum of Jurassic Technology

(Culver City) We loved the micro mosaics and 3D x-rays.

Watts Towers Arts Center

(Watts) Public art sculpture that is a California Historical Landmark and a National Historic Landmark.

Aquarium of the Pacific

(Long Beach) Check out one of their VIP animal encounters.

Grammy Museum of LA Live

( Santa Monica ) Full of music history, hands-on and interactive exhibits. You can even record your own tracks.

See More: 7 Fun Things to Do in Santa Monica If You’re a First Timer

Madame Tussauds Hollywood

(Hollywood) Meet some famous celebrities in wax form.

La Brea Tar Pits aka Page Museum

(Mid-Wilshire) Faux mammoths trapped in tar pits.

Korean Friendship Bell

(San Pedro) Huge bronze bell housed in a stone pavilion.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles

(Exposition Park) Largest historical museum in the western US.

Carolwood Barn

(Griffith Park) Model train museum with memorabilia from Walt Disney’s life.

Night Gallery

(DTLA) We love their unique art expos and events.

(DTLA) Contemporary art museum.

California Science Center

(Exposition Park) The West Coast’s largest hands-on science center.

Museum of Neon Art

(Glendale) Dedicated tot he preservation, collection, and interpretation of neon art.

Petersen Automotive Museum

(Mid-Wilshire) One of the world’s largest automotive museums.

Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

(Miracle Mile) Learn more about the history, science, and culutral impact of the film industry.

MOCA Museum of Contemporary Art

(DTLA) Only artist-founded museum in LA.

Bates Motel by Vincent Lamouroux Projection at Sunset Pacific Motel

(Silver Lake) Quick stop to check out the exterior.

See More: 25 Free Things to Do in LA

Entertainment and Shows

Show taping.

Check out any of the talk show’s live tapings.

Magic Castle

(Hollywood Hills) You need a magician friend to invite you.

TLC Chinese Theatre →

(Hollywood) World heritage site.

El Capitan Theater →

(Hollywood) The venue for a majority of the Walt Disney Studios’ film premieres.

Hollywood Bowl →

(Hollywood) Also a public park when there are no performance (usually Winter and Spring).

Upright CItizens Brigade Theatre →

Alternative comedy troupe founded by Amy Poehler and other comedians.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery

(Hollywood) Lots of community events, live music and summer movie screenings.

Crypto Arena (Formerly Staples Center) →

(DTLA) For a Lakers Game.

Dodger Stadium →

(Elysian Park) Also home to baseball competition of the 1984 Summer Olympic Games.

The Room at the Landmark Westwood

(Westwood) Tommy Wiseau shows up in person from time to time. Don’t forget your plastic spoons.

Vineland Drive-In Theater

(City of Industry) Old school drive-in with concessions. Perfect for a date night!

Whisky a Go Go

(West Hollywood) Vibrant nightspot with live rock bands and other musical performances.

Bob Baker’s Marionette Theater

(Highland Park) The oldest children’s theater company in LA.

Walt Disney Concert Hall

(DTLA) Even the exterior is amazing!

Lucha Vavoom Burlesque Show

(DTLA) Lucha libre meets burlesque.

See More: Best Filming Locations in Burbank California

Outdoors and Beaches

Leo carrillo state beach →.

(Malibu) Dog friendly, tons of tide pools that kids really enjoy.

Redondo Beach

(Redondo Beach) Grab seafood and take a seaside walk.

Zuma Beach →

(Malibu) Beautiful white sand and very few rocks.

Eaton Canyon Trail, Eaton Canyon Natural Area Park

(Pasadena) 40 ft. waterfall and views of the San Gabriel mountains and Santa Monica mountains.

Point Mugu State Park →

(Malibu) Overwhelmingly beautiful ocean views.

Betty B Dearing Trail to “the Rainforest” →

Moderate hike to see hidden green plants against a small creek and a walkable makeshift bridge.

Sunken City

(San Pedro) Aka the “Atlantis of California”

Venice Beach

(Venice) Outdoor skate park, BoHo boutiques, and trendy restaurants.

Venice Canal Historic District

(Venice) Man-made canals built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney.

Runyon Canyon Park →

(Hollywood Hills) Avoid going in the afternoon, as there is no shade to shield you from the sun.

Old LA Zoo →

(Griffith Park) Free to visit, you can even picnic up there.

Cave of Munits and Castle Peak Hike →

(West Hills) Short hike to the caves, be cautious of some steeper parts and prickly plants.

See More: 37 Most Instagrammable Places in Los Angeles

Silver Lake Meadow

(Silver Lake) Come for a peaceful stroll or a picnic in the meadow.

Hermosa Beach

(Hermosa Beach) Clean pier, limited fishing allowed. Great neighborhood bars.

Descanso Gardens

(Pasadena) Admission is free every third Tuesday of the month.

El Matador State Beach

(Malibu) Beautiful beach with stunning formations.

Point Vincente Lighthouse

(Rancho Palos Verdes) Historic lighthouse, not open to the public, but can be seen from shore.

Exposition Park Rose Garden

(Exposition Park) 7-acre sunken garden that is known as one of the city’s best-kept secrets.

Echo Park Lake

(Echo Park) Rent a paddle boat.

Pacific Park, Santa Monica Pier

( Santa Monica ) Oceanfront amusement park!

South Coast Botanic Garden

(Palos Verdes) Every third Sunday of the month you can bring your pets.

Bike the Strand

22-mile bike bath that follows the coastline. Pedestiran-friendly spots can be found in Santa Monica, Venice, and Manhattan Beach.

Wisdom Tree

(Hollywood Hilles) Find the trail map here .

Farmers Market DTLA

(DTLA) Fresh fruits and vegetable and healthy prepared foods in a historic marketplace.

Grand Central Market

(DTLA) Been in operation since 1917. Tons of food stalls and delis.

Last Bookstore →

(DTLA) Check out their amazing tunnel of books.

(West Hollywood) Featuring over 60,000 books, author and celebrity events in a small storefront on Sunset Strip.

Tons of stores, dinings, and pop up shops.

Rodeo Drive

(Beverly Hills) Did you know that a lot of designer stores have personal VIP rooms in the back where they bring you all the clothes? The Dior one is amazing! They wouldn’t tell me the minimum you need to spend to shop back there, but we’re guessing it’s 100k+.

Millennium Biltmore REndezvous Court

(DTLA) Afternoon tea is offered Saturdays and Sundays. Call ahead for reservations.

Langham Huntington Pasadena

(Pasadena) Stunning building with great restaurants. The Royce was delicious!

Amoeba Music

(Hollywood) Largest Independent Record Store

Melrose Trading Post →

(Fairfax) Sunday open-air market where you’ll find antiques, vintage goods, and collectibles.

Rose Bowl Flea Market

(Pasadena) Second Sunday of every month.

Wacko Soap Plant

(Los Feliz) Art space, gift shop, and other interesting goods.

Brennan’s

(Marina Del Ray) Turtle races on Thursdays.

Original In-n-Out Replica

(Baldwin Park) Check out a replica of what started In-n-out.

(Hollywood) Popular filming site where you can dine.

Citizen Public Market

(Culver City) Food hall with great bites.

Third Street Promenade

( Santa Monica ) Shopping and restaurant district.

Smorgasburg

(DTLA) Huge open-air food market.

Randy’s Donuts

(Inglewood) The big donut is iconic.

Map for the Ultimate Los Angeles Bucket List

Best Places to Stay in Los Angeles

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on Los Angeles hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Southwest travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
• Save money on attractions with Go City .

What’s the first thing you would do if you visited LA? Anything I’m missing on this list?

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Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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This Post Has 2 Comments

Thanks for sharing. I’m travelling to LA this summer. Is the sea warm enough to swim around June or July? Cheers, Tom

Hey, Tom! The water is generally pretty cold, but since it’s so hot out during the summer, it’s definitely bearable. :) Hope you enjoy it!

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Discover the World

24 Top Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on April 3, 2024

Los Angeles is known as the entertainment capital of the world, and for good reason. The movies, television shows and music produced in the City of Angels are enjoyed all over the globe. While the city’s show-business history and the chance to rub elbows with a celebrity draws many visitors to L.A., the area’s beaches, theme parks and year-round sunny weather are also big attractions.

A world-class collection of museums, arenas and theaters means that art lovers, history buffs and sports fans will find plenty to love about the tourist attractions in Los Angeles as well.

Outdoor enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either. This something-for-everyone destination boasts a wealth of natural attractions and outdoor activities. From impromptu volleyball games on the beach and camping getaways in the nearby mountains to whale watching and sailing on the blue Pacific, there’s always something fun and exciting to do in sunny Southern California.

Map of Los Angeles

24. California Science Center

Located in Exposition Park, the state-of-the-art California Science Center is packed with interesting and educational exhibits. While some sections focus on animals from various ecosystems, others instead look at energy, transportation and even outer space.

Since being founded in 1951, the massive museum has expanded enormously and now contains amazing aircraft and space shuttles. While the Endeavour is undoubtedly the standout sight, its World of Life and Creative World galleries are equally impressive to peruse. It also regularly hosts temporary exhibits and has an IMAX theater where you can watch educational films.

23. Paramount Pictures Studio Tour

The last remaining film studio of the ‘Big Five’ still left in Hollywood, Paramount Pictures is a treat to tour around with its recognizable stages, costumes and memorabilia. After having entered through its famous double-arched gate, you’ll get to visit and explore iconic sets from TV shows and blockbuster movies.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll whizz around the sprawling studio on golf carts, stopping off here and there to see sets from Sabrina and Breakfast at Tiffany’s or even watch a shot being filmed. Offering a fascinating look into the world of Hollywood and how TV shows and movies are made, the Paramount Pictures Studio Tour is definitely well worth going on when in town.

22. Hollywood Bowl

One of the most renowned and revered live music venues in the States, the Hollywood Bowl is nestled amidst the rolling Hollywood Hills. Carved into the hillside with the world-famous Hollywood Sign appearing far off in the distance, it hosts countless concerts each year with operas, orchestras and musicals also taking place on its hallowed stage.

Built in 1922, the huge outdoor amphitheater is certainly a special place to enjoy a show with big names like Cher, Queen and The Beatles all having played beneath its distinctive set of concentric arches. Thanks to its superb sound quality, sight lines and spellbinding setting, the Hollywood Bowl is one of the most memorable places you could ever catch a performance.

21. Zuma Beach

If it’s sun, sea and sand you’re after then you’ll definitely want to head to picture-perfect Zuma Beach. Located in Malibu about an hour’s drive west of L.A., its sun-kissed sands curve gently along the ocean, overlooked by the majestic Santa Monica Mountains.

Very popular with locals and tourists alike, it offers all kinds of fun outdoor activities with excellent fishing and beach volleyball, as well as sunbathing, swimming and surfing. Aside from enjoying its clean waters, visitors can stroll peacefully along its broad sands with the beautiful beach having appeared in numerous films, TV shows and adverts over the years.

20. Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Madame Tussauds Hollywood is home to a huge collection of wax figures of famous celebrities from all different eras. One of the city’s top tourist attractions, it lies along Hollywood Boulevard and has rooms full of movie stars and pop icons, plus exciting VR experiences.

Only opened in 2009, it now contains over a hundred remarkably life-like wax models with replicas of Barack Obama and Leonardo DiCaprio appearing next to Taylor Swift, Snoop Dogg and Spider-Man, among others. After having snapped photos with all of your favorite celebs, you can head to its theater and watch a thrilling 4D Marvel Universe film.

19. Runyon Canyon Park

While its stunning scenery offers a welcome respite from the hum of downtown, Runyon Canyon Park actually lies just a couple of blocks off bustling Hollywood Boulevard. Due to its setting amidst the Hollywood Hills, celebrity sightings are common with epic old mansions and estates also dotted about its scenic confines.

Besides hiking about its hills, visitors can stop by Rock Mandala – an arresting public art piece – or head to Inspiration Point or Clouds Rest for phenomenal panoramas over Los Angeles. Although its hot, dry climate can make hiking tough, the park is well worth visiting for its wild look and feel. Snakes, lizards, deer and coyotes can sometimes be spotted, too.

18. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Another of the city’s unique and impressive music venues is the striking Walt Disney Concert Hall, home to both the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Los Angeles Master Chorale. Due to its incredible architecture, acoustics and acts, do check out its packed schedule of events when in town.

Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, its shiny stainless steel structure and flowing facade stand out delightfully against the drab buildings of downtown. Just as appealing is the concert hall’s elegant auditorium that features a lovely layout with its ‘vineyard-style’ seating guaranteeing guests great views of the stage and even better acoustics.

17. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

As it boasts an astonishing collection of artworks, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art really is a must-visit for art aficionados. The largest museum in the western United States, its sprawling site covers a huge part of LA’s Miracle Mile neighborhood, with photos and paintings, carvings, ceramics and sculptures on show.

Since being founded in 1961, its captivating collection has swelled to over 150,000 items with some sections focusing on ancient Greek and Egyptian artifacts, and others on Islamic art, Renaissance paintings and contemporary Latin American pieces. While perusing its endless galleries, visitors can expect to see masterpieces by Degas, Magritte and Rembrandt, among countless others.

16. The Broad

While the Los Angeles County Museum of Art covers millennia of art history, The Broad instead focuses on contemporary and postwar artworks. Another recent addition to Downtown Los Angeles, it opened in 2015 with its eye-catching ‘honeycomb-like’ exterior making for a striking sight.

Aside from taking in its attractive architecture, there are thousands of interesting artworks and installations to enjoy. Amongst its fabulous photos, paintings and sculptures, you’ll spy brilliant works by Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman and Jeff Koons and others. Temporary exhibits showcasing new and upcoming artists are regularly displayed on its lobby floor.

15. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Offering a close-up look at the glitzy world of Hollywood, the renowned Warner Bros. Studio can be found just to the north of LA in neighboring Burbank. On tours around the humongous site, you can see iconic sets from TV shows and films with incredible props, costumes and memorabilia also on show.

One of the oldest film studios in the world, it contains enormous outdoor sets that depict locations, like New York and a mid-western town, with soundstages for The Big Bang Theory and Pretty Little Liars too. Besides stopping off at recognizable places, such as the ‘Central Perk’ from Friends, guests can see Batmobiles, ride broomsticks from Harry Potter and tour interactive exhibits on the DC Universe.

14. Battleship USS Iowa Museum

Now protected as part of a museum, the hulking great Battleship USS Iowa Museum is permanently moored in San Pedro Bay. While wandering about its decks, bridges and cabins, visitors can learn all there is to know about life at sea and also delve into the massive ship’s fascinating past.

Built in 1943, the Iowa served during the Second World War, Korean War and Cold War and was impressively awarded eleven battle stars over the course of her career. Finally decommissioned in 1990, it has an interesting Combat Engagement Center to explore, as well as engine rooms, boiler rooms and officers’ wards.

Besides being known as the ‘Mighty I’ and ‘Big Stick’, it also earned the nickname the ‘Battleship of Presidents’ as over the course of the decades it not only hosted Roosevelt and Reagan but George H.W. Bush, too.

13. Petersen Automotive Museum

Also located in LA’s Miracle Mile neighborhood you can find the fantastic Petersen Automotive Museum which contains an amazing and extensive collection of cars and motorcycles. Its sparkling showrooms and countless classic cars take you on a whirlwind journey through the history and evolution of the automobile industry.

One of the largest museums of its kind in the world, it now occupies a magnificent modern building that sports a stainless steel exterior that glints in the sun. In total, the museum now has over 300 cars and motorcycles in its collection. Lavish limos and Rolls-Royces appear alongside fast Porsches, Ferraris and sleek, shiny cars that appeared in famous films or were owned by well-known celebrities.

12. The Grove & Original Farmers Market

The Grove & Original Farmers Market is one of LA’s most loved landmarks. It lies in West Hollywood and has hundreds of superb shops, stands and stalls to peruse that sell everything under the sun.

Since 1934, the Original Farmers Market has been very popular with locals and tourists alike due to its endless array of coffee stands, ethnic eateries and stalls selling fresh food, artisanal products and souvenirs. Right next to it is The Grove; a huge retail and entertainment complex that has chain stores, restaurants and a massive movie theatre for guests to enjoy.

With so many eateries and establishments to stop by, it really is one of the best places to shop, dine and go out in the city.

11. Sunset Strip

The undoubted star of LA’s nightlife scene, however, is the Sunset Strip renowned for its restaurants, music venues and nightclubs. The most famous stretch of Sunset Boulevard – one of the city’s main thoroughfares – is bordered by boutiques and blingy billboards with pretty palm trees towering overhead.

Over the decades, the happening area has been the favorite hangout of mob bosses and Marilyn Monroe to massive rock stars and glam metal bands. Due to its iconic look and fabled venues, Sunset Strip has also featured in numerous films, TV shows and even video games over the years.

In addition to simply taking in its lively yet laid back ambience and seeing all the sights, you can also check out famous venues, such as the Comedy Store and Whisky a Go Go.

10. Hollywood Sign

Originally erected to advertise real estate in the Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood sign has come to represent the glamour and excitement of the movie industry. Virtually every visitor to Los Angeles wants to snap a picture of the iconic Hollywood sign, but getting a close-up shot isn’t easy.

Nowadays, the 45-foot (14-meter) high letters perched on Mount Lee are blocked off by barriers and protected by a security system. While the sign is visible from all over Tinseltown, the best places to park and take pictures are at the Griffith Observatory, Lake Hollywood Park and the Hollywood and Highland Center shopping mall.

9. La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

A pool of black tar in the middle of a green city park is an unexpected sight in Los Angeles, but the famous La Brea Tar Pits have provided a treasure trove of archeological finds for the nearby George C. Page Museum. Excavations of the prehistoric site have resulted in one of the largest collections of Ice Age fossils in the world.

The oldest of the approximately 100 tons of bones hauled out of the pits date back 38,000 years. Complete skeletons of animals like saber-toothed cats, dire wolves and mastodons are on display in the museum. In the Paleontology Laboratory, visitors can watch scientists working on the latest finds.

8. Rodeo Drive

Tucked away in a 16-square-bloock area known as the Golden Triangle in the exclusive neighborhood of Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive is L.A.’s most famous shopping street. While few come to buy the high-priced designer clothing and accessories sold in the luxury shops, Rodeo Drive is nevertheless a tourist hot spot.

Window-shopping is irresistible on this avenue of haute couture, and there’s always the chance of spotting a celebrity shopping for the latest styles. The mini-mall at Two Rodeo Drive always attracts attention. With its “faux-European” architecture and cobblestone street, it looks more like a theme park than a mall.

7. Santa Monica Pier

The world-famous Santa Monica Pier is actually two piers in one. With its bait shop and pier-end restaurant, the longer section built in 1909 is characteristic of most Southern California piers. It’s the shorter adjacent pier constructed in 1916 that most attracts visitors.

The elevated plaza linking the two piers is home to an old-fashioned amusement park with a vintage roller coaster, a wooden carousel and one of L.A.’s most recognizable landmarks, a solar-powered Ferris Wheel that sparkles with an ever-changing LED light show every night. There’s a small aquarium, a trapeze school and an array of tasty eateries at the pier too.

6. Hollywood Walk of Fame

The idea of memorializing celebrities with stars embedded into sidewalks was conceived in the 1950s as a way to keep the glamour of Hollywood alive. More than 2,500 stars have been added since the first permanent installation at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Gower Street in 1960. Operated by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, the program has been a huge success.

Each year, around ten million visitors stroll along the mile-long stretch of sidewalk in search of their favorite actor, singer, musician, director or television personality. Closely associated and right in front of part of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, is the famous Chinese Theatre, which has seen some of Hollywood’s most glamorous movies stars and premieres.

5. Universal Studios Hollywood

Home to one of the oldest still-operating film studios, Universal Studios Hollywood is a sprawling complex in the San Fernando Valley best known for its family-friendly theme park. Many of the park’s rides and attractions are centered on blockbuster movies, offering an immersive experience for fans of films ranging from “King Kong” to “Waterworld.”

Behind-the-scenes studio tours are available as well. The complex also includes Universal CityWalk, an outdoor shopping center where visitors can catch live performances, see a movie or watch celebrities.

4. Disneyland

Located around an hour’s drive from Downtown Los Angeles in Orange County, Disneyland was the first of Walt Disney’s chain of theme parks. It’s been the star tourist attraction in the city of Anaheim since 1955. Adjacent to the original park is the relatively new California Adventure, which features rides and attractions inspired by the Golden State.

“Park hopper” tickets give visitors access to both parks. The meticulously maintained amusement parks are laid out in themed areas ranging from Tomorrowland and Fantasyland to Hollywood Land and Cars Land. Costumed performers wander the parks, offering children once-in-a-lifetime encounters with their favorite Disney characters.

3. Getty Center

The oil magnate Jean Paul Getty was considered one of the richest men in the world when he established the J. Paul Getty Trust in 1953. Today, the world’s wealthiest art institution funds several institutions, including the stunning billion-dollar Getty Center perched high atop L.A.’s Brentwood Hills.

A sleek hover-train funicular whisks visitors up to the museum where an extraordinary collection of artwork from the Middle Ages to the present awaits, including masterpieces like van Gogh’s “Irises,” Monet’s “Wheatstack” and “The Abduction of Europa” by Rembrandt. Outside, sculpture-ornamented gardens offer panoramic views of the Los Angeles Basin.

2. Griffith Park & Observatory

One of the largest municipal parks in the United States, Griffith Park offers a welcome escape from L.A. traffic. In addition to acres of hilly trails and green spaces, the park is home to a broad array of fun-filled attractions, from the Los Angeles Zoo to the outdoor Greek Theatre.

It’s also the location of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Griffith Observatory. Built in 1935, the beautiful Art Deco complex boasts dozens of engaging exhibits, an out-of-this-world planetarium and multiple telescopes available for public use. A visit to the observatory at dusk offers views of stars emerging in the sky above and the twinkling lights of the city below.

1. Venice Beach

Tobacco magnate Abbot Kinney gets the credit for transforming a marshy stretch of shoreline south of Santa Monica into the “Venice of America.” In 1904, Kinney turned a series of drainage channels into scenic canals and constructed a Venetian-inspired arcade on the beach.

While the canals remain one of the community’s top tourist attractions in Los Angeles, most visitors head for the beach’s world-famous boardwalk where eccentric street performers compete with shops, stalls and food stands for attention. The beach’s volleyball courts, skating plaza and body-building Muscle Beach area are crowd-pleasers as well.

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Best Places to Visit in Los Angeles – 20 Unmissable Attractions

Last Modified: November 13, 2023 //  by  Anda //   5 Comments

It’s hard to know where to begin when visiting a city like Los Angeles. Home to Hollywood – a name synonymous with the American film industry, exclusive neighborhoods, famous theme parks, and world-renowned landmarks, L.A. is a great place to visit at any time of year. But unlike other metropolises around the world, Los Angeles’s attractions and best places to visit are spread all over. If you are coming  from a smaller town, you’ll probably find this sprawl a bit intimidating.

There are countless things to do in L.A., but unless you live here, like I do, you won’t be able to cover them all. Nonetheless, if this is your first time in Los Angeles, I’m sure you are looking for a guide that will give you some perspective on the top attractions and best places to visit during your trip. So let’s get started!

About this Guide

This guide will take you through a few of L.A.’s most famous neighborhoods, like Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, or Malibu. It will also show you some of the city’s famous landmarks, like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Chinese Theater, or Griffith Observatory. It will also give you an overview of the best theme parks in Los Angeles, in case you are traveling with children (or are still a child at heart!)

These are just a few of the popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles that I’ll be covering in this guide. I hope that by the time you finish reading this post, you’ll have an idea about what you’d like to include in your L.A itinerary . But before you go, here is a list of the best accommodation options in L.A.:

Best Things to Do in Los Angeles with Children

Los Angele is home to a ton of amusement parks which account for some of the city’s biggest attractions. And you don’t need to be a child to enjoy them. These parks are fun to visit at any age. Some of them are really unique and representative for the city.

Universal Studios

Universal Studios used to be one of my family’s favorite places to visit in Los Angeles, when our son was growing up. It has plenty of fun filled rides, which can be enjoyed by adults and children alike. But don’t expect tall rollercoasters here. There are rollercoasters, of course, but they are rides filled with fun filled and adventures. Universal Studios is more about rides with stories, stunts and special effects, which is very entertaining.

The Mummy Ride is probably the best rollercoaster you would experience here. A few years ago, they opened the new Jurassic Park ride. I also recommend the Harry Potter ride and the Transformers. Yes, the wait might be an hour long… but its totally worth it!

The park is located in Studio City, 11 miles away from downtown Los Angeles. Admission price is $114/day if you buy your ticket online , vs. $134/day if you buy it at the gate.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

And speaking of rollercoasters, if you are an adrenaline junkie you’ll get plenty of excitement at Six Flags Magic Mountain. The rides are super fun and they accommodate all ages, so everybody will enjoy them. They also have the best stage shows. Our son’s favorite ride was the Hall of Justice, but there are many fun rides to try.

The 262-acre amusement park is located in Valencia, California, 35 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. Admission price is $65/day.

Buy a Ski-the-Line ticket to Six Flags Magic Mountain and safe time at the Park.

Disneyland Park

Without a doubt the most popular attraction in Los Angeles for families with children is Disneyland theme park. This is a place that everybody visiting Los Angeles should see at least once. Disneyland represents more than just rides and entertainment; it’s a place that will remind you of your childhood characters.

Mickey Mouse and his cronies, the Lion King, Alice in Wonderland, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and The Little Mermaid they are all present, waiting to entertain the park visitors with the wonderful world of Disney.

Built in 1955, the Disneyland Resort in California is in fact the original Disneyland. It is also one of the oldest and largest theme parks in the world.

The park is located in Anaheim, 27 miles south of downtown Los Angeles. Admission price is $104/day. You can purchase a multiple day pass and save.

Santa Monica Pier & Beach

Just a short 20-minute drive from Downtown area is one of L.A.’s most beloved landmarks: Santa Monica Pier. The famous Santa Monica beach which stretches along either side of the historic Pier is a magnet for beach lovers from all over the world.

But the bustling wooden wharf is where all the action  is. With its shops, small restaurants, arcade, roller coaster and giant Ferris wheel, the historic Santa Monica Pier continues to be the main attraction in Los Angeles for families with kids. Admission is free .

Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory is one of the best places to visit if you want to takes panoramic photos of Los Angeles. On a clear day, you can also see Santa Monica from up here. The Observatory features space-related exhibits, star shows in the planetarium, and a telescope.

The best time to visit is the late afternoon towards the evening when you can stick around to see the sun setting and the city lights.

Admission to the Observatory building, grounds, and telescopes is free. However, you will have to buy tickets if you want to watch the planetarium show.  Click here to get a ticket with the planetarium show included .

The grounds of the Observatory are very beautiful and fun to visit. And while up here, don’t miss the famous Hollywood Sign. You can catch an unobstructed view of the Sign on the opposite hill, to the right of the Observatory.

Since hiking to the Hollywood Sign is illegal, this is the best spot to observe this iconic landmark. One interesting fact to know is that the Hollywood Sign was’t part of a movie set, as many people believe. It was actually an outdoor billboard for a real-estate development.

Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific sits on a 5-acre site in Rainbow Harbor, Long Beach. The aquarium is a one of the most educational attractions in Los Angeles, home to more than 500 marine species. This is a great place to visit for people of all ages, but especially for the little ones who in contact with touch pools and sensory exhibits.

Here you can see delicate sea horses, playful penguins, otters, and predatory reef sharks. Real marine biologists are at hand to answer questions.

The nearby Shoreline Village and the Queen Mary Hotel and Attraction are both worth visiting. The Aquarium is only 25 miles away from Los Angeles Downtown. Admission prices are: $35.95/adult, $26.95/child, $33.95/senior.

Los Angeles County Arboretum

Peacocks, waterfalls, a haunted mansion, and so much more! If you like parks and gardens, don’t miss the beautiful Los Angeles County Arboretum . This mesmerizing botanical garden has plants from all regions of the globe, grouped by geography. You’ll find Australian, Mediterranean, South American, African, and Asiatic-North American plants.

But in addition to the great variety of gardens, the L.A. Country Arboretum features a Historical Landmark: the Queen Anne Cottage, a significant example of  Queen Anne style architecture.

Los Angeles Arboretum is located in Arcadia, about 20 miles away from the Downtown. Admission prices are: $15/adults and $11/seniors & children.

La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

It’s hard to imagine that thousands of years ago mammoths and sloths roamed freely throughout what is now urban Los Angeles. And yet, the La Brea Tar Pits in Hancock Park are living proof of that.

Back in the 1900s, scientists discovered fossils of large animals, plants and insects trapped in the sticky mud of this area.

The museum has fantastic displays of skeletons found here and does a great job explaining how the tar pits were formed. You will also find out why or how the animals died, as well as the procedures for excavating the sites. There is also a path that takes you through the active excavation sites, where you can actually see the gas bubbling up from the tar.

Admission is $15/adults and $12/seniors and students. Click here to get tickets in advance .

Angels Flight Railway

Located in Downtown area is one of Los Angeles’ oldest landmarks: Angels Flight Railway. This 120 years old cable car that takes passengers up to the top of Bunker Hill from the Pershing Square Metro station, is the world’s shortest ride. It takes only 50 seconds!

If you ever wanted to ride the funicular from the movie  La-La Land , here is your chance. The funicular appeared in movies ever since 1918, but more recently it was used to film Ryan Gosling’s and Emma Stone’s characters riding it in the 2016 film  La La Land .

Angels Flight has two funicular cars –  Olivet  and  Sinai  – running in opposite directions on a shared cable. Admission is only $1 each way and the experience is really fun!

TOURS WE RECOMMEND:

Best attractions in los angeles for couples.

Whether you travel with a big family, a group of friends, or just your spouse, Los Angeles has plenty of attractions for everyone. So here are some of the places that you may enjoy as a couple.

Malibu is a must, even if you only have one day in Los Angeles . This is where  the famous Pacific Coast Highway drive  starts. Here is where you’ll see some of the most picturesque stretches of beach in Southern California.

The beaches in Malibu are however very different from the ones in Santa Monica or Venice. They offer a truly laidback experience where you can just lay in the sand and dip in the ocean.

In Malibu you will find surf beaches and stretches of shore with tide pools, caves and strange rock formations (Leo Carillo). Some of them are private, so they allow alcohol on the beach (Paradise Cove), but they are notorious for the huge parking fees.

Getty Center

Getty Center is more than just an art museum. It’s one of the most unique places to visit in Los Angeles composed of numerous galleries that spread out in multiple buildings. The Center holds European paintings, drawings, illuminated manuscripts, sculpture, and decorative arts.

Getty Center sits high up on a hill overlooking the city of Los Angeles and is connected to the parking lot at the bottom by a funicular.

Originally, the Getty Museum started in  J. Paul Getty ‘s house located in Pacific Palisades in 1954. After Getty’s death in 1976, the entire property was turned into a museum – the Getty Villa.

However, the collection outgrew the site and management sought a location more accessible to Los Angeles. And this is how the Getty Center was created. Today the Getty Villa displays only the antiquities collection. The rest of the Getty art collections have been moved to the Getty Center.

Admission is free, though temporarily requires a timed-entry reservation. I recommend getting a self-guided audio tour .

LACMA vs the Getty Center

I sometimes get asked whether I would recommend the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) or the Getty Center. This is a difficult decision to make since they both are outstanding art museums. If you are strictly interested in art, then you should go to LACMA as it has a more comprehensive art collection. However, I would choose Getty over LACMA simply because it also has an outstanding location, beautiful gardens, and more varied art collections.

If you are into art, you should also consider visiting the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena , which has one of the world’s most remarkable private art collections ever assembled. The museum displays European masterworks from the Renaissance to the 20th century, and a collection of South and Southeast Asian art spanning 2,000 years. 

Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Walk of Fame is an internationally recognized Hollywood icon. It encompasses over 2,600 five-pointed stars made of terrazzo and brass and embedded in the sidewalks along Hollywood Boulevard. 

The stars – which are given in recognition for achievements in the entertainment industry – bear the names of famous musicians, actors, directors and producers.

What began as a Chamber of Commerce marketing tactic, is today one of Los Angeles’s biggest magnets. It attracts an estimated 10 million visitors each year.

Chinese Theater

Located on Hollywood Boulevard, in Hollywood, the Chinese Theater became famous for being the venue of the  Academy Awards  ceremony from 1944-1946. But most visitors are lured here by the celebrity handprints and footprints in the concrete of the theater’s forecourt. 

The tradition began during the theater construction, when one of the Hollywood legends at the time accidentally stepped into the wet cement outside the building.

Instead of covering the imprint, theater owner Sid Grauman encouraged other celebrities to repeat the “mistake.” And so it all began. The courtyard is usually cluttered with tourists trying to snap a shot of the famous imprints. 

Enjoy a 30-minute walking tour of TCL Chinese Theater with a ticket to see a movie inside it. Click here to get a Chinese Theater guided tour .

Dolby Theater

Right next to the Chinese Theater, also on Hollywood Boulevard, is the Dolby Theater – the current and permanent home of the Academy Awards. Dolby Theatre opened its doors in 2001 as the  Kodak Theatre .

Its façade is at the front of the Hollywood & Highland Center, a nice shopping area with boutiques and souvenir shops.

The Sunset Strip

The famous Sunset Strip is located in West Hollywood, one of the oldest and most fashionable neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Back in the 60s and 70s, West Hollywood became a major gathering place for the unconventional culture, with hippies, musicians and artists flooding the streets. 

Today, West Hollywood is the hottest destination for the entertainment industry with its boutique hotels, celebrity-owned restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. From elite and trendy clubs to low-key casual bars, gay clubs and old school rock’n roll hangouts, you can find something for everyone. Young actors tend to live out here, so this is the most likely place to see celebrities out on the street.

Huntington Library & Gardens

Hidden in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, just a few miles away from  Downtown Los Angeles , lies one of  the best kept secrets in L.A. : the Huntington Library & Gardens. Spread over 130 acres, this marvelous arboretum features 16 stunning theme gardens, a library, an art museum, a tea house and two cafés. 

The Library, which was founded by the railroad and real estate magnate Henry E. Huntington, contains a fine selection of books and manuscripts. There is also a great art collection in one of the buildings.

But the gardens are the most delighting part of this complex. Extending on 207 acres, the Huntington Gardens display more than 14,000 varieties of plants. Many of them are rare and exotic plants. The area is organized in over a dozen smaller gardens, each one with a very unique atmosphere and color. You have a Rose Garden, a Desert Garden, a Herb Garden, a Japanese Garden, a Jungle Garden, and many more. This is a great place to visit if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.

Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive is a high end shopping area that stretches between Wilshire Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard and encompasses 3 blocks. The street itself –  Rodeo Drive  – is approximately 2 miles long.

Many people expect to see celebrities roaming around with hefty shopping bags on Rodeo Drive. But you’ll probably meet more tourists than locals here. So is Rodeo Drive worth visiting ? Even though chances of spotting celebrities are slim, Rodeo Drive is a very fancy area, full of luxury stores, fancy boutiques and high-end restaurants, that will surely make you feel like a celebrity.

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Located on South Grand Avenue in downtown Los Angeles, Walt Disney Concert Hall is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Its distinctive appearance, with stunning stainless steel curves, makes it easily recognizable.

Since 2003, when it opened its doors to the public, Walt Disney Hall has received worldwide praises for its stunning architecture and extraordinary sound. 

Attending a concert here is a dream-come-true. But if that doesn’t fit into you schedule, you should at least take a guided tour of the hall and the gardens.

Los Angeles Public Library

Also in Downtown Los Angeles you’ll find the L.A. Public Library, which has been designated a Historic Cultural Monument. The building itself is an architectural gem, featuring a tiled pyramid roof and a beautiful garden. Inside the library you’ll find many beautiful spaces, like the Atrium of the Tom Bradley wing, or the stairway outside the Getty Gallery.

But the focal point of the library is the Rotunda, a huge hall covered with elaborate paintings and a gigantic dome ceiling.

Admission is free.

Broadway Historic Theater District

The historic Broadway Theater District stretches along South Broadway, between 3rd Street and 9th Street, in Downtown Los Angeles.

The best way to visit these historic buildings is to take a tour of the Theater District. Walking into these theaters feels like looking through a window into the entertainment industry’s heyday.

What will surprise you is that some of these theaters seem much bigger on the inside than on the outside.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit to Los Angeles

• As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, Los Angeles’s attractions are spread all over the place. That is why, when making your itinerary, it’s important to group them according to their location, in order to save time on the road. Alternatively, you can make the trip more convenient by renting a car .

• One of the best ways to see Los Angeles on your own is the  Los Angeles Hop-on Hop-off Double Decker Bus Tour . Hop on or off at over 45 popular stops spread across 3 different routes and enjoy panoramic view of the city. You can explore Hollywood, Downtown Los Angeles, and Santa Monica Pier and beaches with a 24- or 48-hour bus pass.

• If you are interested in a guided tour, the 7-hour LA Grand Tour is your best bet. The open bus tour will take you through Hollywood, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica Beach on an open bus, to show you what Los Angeles has to offer. Stop at 4 different locations to experience the highlights of the city.

A Final Thought

Los Angeles is one the world’s most fascinating cities, so no matter what you choose to visit you’ll have an amazing time. Because there is so much to see and do here, you should plan on spending at least  3-4 days in L.A.  And if you have more time, you can add some day trips or easy  getaways from Los Angeles . There are so many beautiful places around!

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• Where to Stay in Los Angeles: Insider Guide to the Best Areas

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

Neet and Angel apk

January 30, 2024 at 10:10 pm

Wow, I had no idea there were so many amazing places to visit in Los Angeles! As a local, I’m excited to check out some of these attractions I’ve never been to before. Thanks for sharing! 😍

Leslie Smith

August 23, 2022 at 9:16 am

We will be there in a week. I have rented a car. Should I cancel and hop on the bus? This blog is amazing.

August 23, 2022 at 9:42 am

You probably should. If you have a car you can go anywhere you choose to and stay for as long as you want, you won’t need the hop-on-hop-off buss.

July 21, 2022 at 4:38 am

Great blog Anda! With the mindboggling massive volume of land that the city holds, it is no surprise the city has so many attractions Hollywood Bowl, Venice Beach Boardwalk, The Broad, The Hollywood Sign and more. Having a charter bus rental when considering of LA’s tour will be great idea as the professionals are there to plan a perfect vacation for you.

July 21, 2022 at 7:47 am

Yes, that can help too, but most people like to visit L.A. independently, Alvin.

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37 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles in 2024 – By A Local

Written By: Jeremy Scott Foster

United States

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Planning a trip to Los Angeles but don’t know where to start? Discover LA’s best hotspots with this list of the best things to do in Los Angeles. Our friend Jeremy of Travel Freak lives in Los Angeles and has rounded up the best things to do in LA from a local’s point of view. We mixed in a few of the top attractions and tourist destinations and you have yourself a complete Los Angeles guide.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Los Angeles

Like with other big cities in the US, planning a trip to Los Angeles is challenging precisely because there is just so much to see and experience. In this list, you’ll find a range of places to go and things to do in Los Angeles, from the usual tourist jaunts to some of LA’s best-kept secrets. Updated by The Planet D team.

Whatever you’re into, and no matter where you’re staying , at least one of these options should pique your interest.

Brimming with culture, history, and creative energy, you can’t visit the West Coast of the United States without stopping in Los Angeles. And it’s not just for culture vultures—Los Angeles County’s sprawling 4,000 square miles is teeming with hikes, beaches, and all sorts of outdoor adventures!

Hollywood, Sunset Boulevard, and the sandy shores of Southern California – these are the spots every first-timer should see. Let’s start with the most iconic places in Los Angeles and continue to some lesser-known destinations. Are you ready?

1. Snap A Photo with The Famous Hollywood Sign

No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a sighting of LA’s most iconic landmark: the Hollywood sign. Sitting atop Mount Lee in the Santa Monica mountains, this famous attraction has a ton of viewing options with varying levels of difficulty. 

If you don’t want to break a sweat, you can always just view it from afar driving down Beverly Drive. For a closer look, you can head up the Hollywood Hills to the family-friendly Lake Hollywood Park. And if you’re raring to do some hiking, you can take a ride-hailing service to the end of Deronda Drive. From the cul-de-sac, look for the white archway with the green gate and hike up the trail to the top of Mt. Lee. 

Insider Tip: Consider hiking up to the Griffith Observatory for sunset instead. The Observatory boasts a number of fascinating artifacts and exhibits, from the 12-inch Zeiss telescope to the Rebel Without a Cause monument. However, its biggest draw is the astonishing view – here, you get a clear photo of the sign, as well as front-row seats to the city skyline. 

2. Go Window Shopping on Rodeo Drive

No Los Angeles trip would be complete without at least driving through Rodeo Drive. A two-mile stretch lined with high-end designer brands like Saint Laurent, Gucci, Prada, Versace, and Chanel, Rodeo Drive is the epitome of style and luxury.

While it’s no longer the celebrity hang-out spot it used to be, it will forever be etched into pop culture thanks to that infamous shopping scene in “Pretty Women”. And while you’re in Beverly Hills, don’t forget to check out other glitzy places like the Greystone Mansion Gardens and the Beverly Hills Hotel. 

If you want to spot celebrities, book a guided tour to see the Beverly Hills mansions where you’ll also hit Rodeo Drive and Hollywood film studios.

3. Drive Down Sunset Strip

There is nothing more quintessentially LA than driving through Sunset Boulevard as the sun goes down. And when the day bleeds into night, Sunset Strip – or the 1.5-mile-long stretch in West Hollywood from Doheny to North Crescent Heights – becomes abuzz with music and nightlife. 

When the sun goes down, the city lights go up at The Roxy Theatre, Whisky A Go Go, and the Viper Room have housed some of the biggest names in music. Meanwhile, the Comedy Store and the Laugh Factory boast stand-up alumni like Eddie Murphy, George Carlin, and Chris Rock. 

Book this full-day tour that includes Hollywood, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica. You’ll see iconic destinations like the Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Farmers Market, and the Griffith Observatory.

4. Hit the Beach

From Baywatch to The OC, the beaches of Southern California have served as a backdrop for countless famous movies and television shows. And if you’re a surfer, Los Angeles is paradise . From the city, you’ve got easy access to some of SoCal’s major surf spots like El Porto, Zuma, Topanga, and Huntington Beach – the world’s surfing capital ! 

5. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Venice Beach is one of Los Angeles’ most iconic and lively destinations and for good reason. It’s a place where the city’s diverse culture, scenic beauty, and eccentricity converge, making it an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Venice Beach is known for its boardwalk that runs to Santa Monica Beach just as much as its sick waves. The Venice Boardwalk, or Ocean Front Walk is like a microcosm of all things LA, from surfers to street performers, vendors, buskers, skaters, and brawny dudes working out at Muscle Beach. 

For fitness enthusiasts or those who just want to witness the spectacle, Muscle Beach is a historic outdoor gym where bodybuilders showcase their talents. You’ll also find one of the most famous skateparks in the world, the Venice Skate Park.

Inspired by Venice, Italy, the Venice Canals offer a more tranquil experience. The picturesque walkways along the canals are perfect for a leisurely stroll amidst charming houses and arched bridges, transporting you to a European-esque setting.

From shopping and dining to the beach and surfing, there’s something for everyone. Venice Beach is not just a beach, but a destination with a soul, where every visit feels like a new adventure.

6. Santa Monica Pier

For family-friendly fun, Santa Monica Pier is the place to be. It’s got a seaside amusement park, live music, an arcade, and plenty of restaurants and shops for all ages.

Start your visit by exploring Pacific Park, the amusement park located on the pier. Ride the famous Santa Monica Pier Ferris wheel, known as the Pacific Wheel, which offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and coastline. Don’t miss other thrilling rides like the West Coaster roller coaster.

7. Other Los Angeles Beaches

Understandably, if you’re wary of crowds, you can head for Will Rogers State Beach instead. Situated between Topanga and Santa Monica in the Pacific Palisades, this three-mile stretch of beach doesn’t see as many visitors as the others on this list. 

And if you’re looking for a bit of adventure, there’s Point Dume State Beach, which sits at the end of Malibu on a bluff that juts out into the Pacific. Here, you can either take a dip in the clear blue waters, scuba dive next to sea lions, or even try your hand at rock climbing.

Insider Tip: Los Angeles’ Mediterranean climate doesn’t change very much, so any day is a beach day, really. But if you want to avoid summertime crowds, consider visiting from September to November. 

8. Stroll Down Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Blvd is somewhat Los Angeles’ equivalent to New York’s Times Square. Getting tens of thousands of visitors every day, it’s the ultimate tourist trap. But it’s iconic enough to merit a visit!

This is where you’ll find the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a 1.3-mile walkway bearing the names of hundreds of film and TV stars, directors, and producers. If you have kids in tow, make a game of who can spot their favorite celebrities first.

Apart from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Boulevard’s got other popular tourist attractions – from the TCL Chinese Theatre (originally Grauman’s Chinese Theatre) and the Dolby Theatre to historic movie theaters like the Vista Theatre and the American Cinematheque.

9. Grand Avenue

Grand Avenue is often considered the city’s cultural heartbeat. With its amalgamation of arts, architecture, and entertainment, the avenue is an essential destination for anyone visiting Los Angeles. Don’t miss the Walt Disney Concert Hall designed by Frank Gehry where you can attend a concert performed by the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

The Broad Museum is a Contemporary Art Museum that houses one of the more popular exhibits in the city, the Infinity Mirror Rooms by Yayoi Kusama. Or you can go across the street to the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) . Be sure to book reservations in advance.

And make sure to stop at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion which hosted many events including the Acadamy Awards and is now home to the LA Opera.

10. Go Celeb Spotting at The Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Less than 10 minutes away from Hollywood Boulevard is the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, the final resting place for some of the biggest names of the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Think of it as a more peaceful – albeit macabre – alternative to the busy Walk of Fame. Here, you’ll find the graves of Mel Blanc, Jayne Mansfield, Cecille B. DeMille, Dee Dee, and Johnny Ramone. 

Planning Your Trip To Los Angeles Right Now?

Below are some of the top tours in Los Angeles. Don’t forget to plan ahead when  visiting LA!

Top Activities and Tours in Los Angeles:

• Hollywood Sign Walking Tour (best outdoor activities)
• Celebrity Homes Tour (Most Popular in Los Angeles
• Full-Day Iconic LA Tou r – Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches, and More

11. Get Some Grub at The Original Farmers Market

Once you’re all tuckered out hunting for celebs, make your way to Fairfax and 3rd Street for the OG Los Angeles dining experience.

This historic marketplace has been around since 1934 and has developed into a multicultural hub for foodies. This spot is beloved by both travelers and locals alike and has been visited by countless celebrities, from The Beatles to James Dean. 

12. Visit the Sound Stages of Your Favorite Films and TV Shows

Film and TV buffs will enjoy a tour of some of Hollywood’s biggest studios. At the Warner Bros studio, “Friends” fans can live out their ultimate fantasy with a visit to the Stage 48: Script to Screen soundstage, where a replica of the Central Perk Cafe permanently resides. 

Meanwhile, at Paramount Studios, you can learn about its legacy as the longest operating studio in Hollywood and marvel at its massive New York Street backlot. And for a real blast from the past, you can head to Sony Pictures, which still houses the old Art Deco buildings of the former MGM studio that once stood on the lot. 

If you are a film buff, you can also take a self-guided tour of your favorite filming locations around Los Angeles. Download this app for a GPS-guided app from Downtown LA to Griffith Park as you learn of Hollywood history and see famous shooting locations.

13. Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

LACMA is the largest art museum on the West Coast. Their art galleries include works by the likes of Henri Matisse, Diego Rivera, Pablo Picasso, and Rene Magritte. 

Outside, you can snap a photo next to two epic installations: “Urban Light”, which consists of 202 restored streetlamps from the 1920s and 1930s; and “Levitated Mass” a 340-ton environmental sculpture. 

14. Take an Architectural Tour 

Los Angeles has some of the most unique and acclaimed houses, buildings, and museums in the world. Book a tour and learn about the history behind some of the most celebrated architectural attractions in the city, like:

• Richard Neutra’s Lovell Health House
• Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House
• The Walt Disney Concert Hall
• The Broad Museum
• The Richard Meier-designed Getty Center (home of the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Getty Villa, and, the Getty Research Institute)

15. Visit the Getty Center

The Getty Center is one of Los Angeles’ most iconic cultural destinations, renowned for its extensive art collection, beautifully landscaped gardens, and breathtaking views of the city.

Located in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles, on a hilltop in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Getty Center features the works of Vincent Van Gogh and Rembrandt.

Admission to the Getty Center is free, but parking is $20 ($15 after 3 p.m.). It’s recommended to check the official website for the latest visiting hours and any special exhibitions or events that might be taking place. The Getty Center is well-regarded for being family-friendly and offering a variety of programming for all ages.

16. Explore LA’s Secret Stairs

During the mid-1900s, Los Angeles had a pretty extensive trolley system, covering over 1,100 miles of track. Though the trolleys are now long gone, you’ll find remnants of them in the network of steep stairs that run through places like Silver Lake, Echo Park Lake, Pacific Palisades, and Beachwood Canyon. 

The latter is a quaint residential community that a range of A-listers and former stars call home. So if you’re one of those travelers who likes hunting for gorgeous houses, this one’s for you. Plus, you get in a good cardio workout too!

17. Echo Park

While in the area, spend some time at Echo Park Lake, the neighborhood’s crown jewel. You can rent paddle boats or just take a leisurely walk around the lake. Rent a swan boat in advance to enjoy a quieter side of Los Angeles

This area is known for its vibrant street art and murals. Take a walk through the neighborhood and discover the colorful and often thought-provoking contemporary art adorning the walls and buildings.

18. Griffith Park

Angelenos know the best part of LA is its abundance of hiking trails, parks, and a ton of other outdoor adventure options.

For a quick urban hike, there’s Griffith Park. Griffith Park is about six times the size of New York’s Central Park and is home to the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, the Bronson Canyon Caves, the Los Angeles Zoo, the Greek Theatre, and a 53-mile network of trails and paths.

Then there’s the Runyon Canyon hike, which is a 3.5-mile hiking trail up in the Santa Monica Mountains. Runyon Canyon is the only park that allows dogs to run off-leash, so if you’re traveling with your pup, don’t miss out on this trail. 

If you’re looking to plan out more intense day trips , there is no shortage of options either – California has 300 state parks! And while camping is still currently off the table, there are still plenty of fun things to do, like.

19. Dodgers Stadium

If you’re a sports fan, head to the nearby Dodger Stadium, home of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Try to catch a baseball game or take a tour of the stadium.

20. Silver Lake

Silver Lake is another vibrant neighborhood located in the central region of Los Angeles that is known for its eclectic atmosphere, trendy shops, restaurants, and artistic community.

The neighborhood is named after the Silver Lake Reservoir, a large body of water that serves as a picturesque centerpiece. The reservoir is surrounded by a walking path popular among residents for jogging, walking dogs, and enjoying scenic views.

21. Cycle the Strand

The Strand, also known as the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, is a 22-mile bike path that starts at Will Rogers State Beach and passes through the Pacific Palisades and down to Santa Monica, Redondo, Manhattan, Venice Beach, and Torrance County Beach. 

Take a bike ride along this beautiful path. Bear in mind that it’s a laid-back path that sees travelers of all ages and levels. So, if you’re looking to do some sprints, this may not be the trail for you. 

22. Immerse in Japanese Culture in Little Tokyo

Home to the US entertainment industry, Los Angeles is a melting pot of art, talent, and culture.

Little Tokyo is a 135-year-old neighborhood located in Downtown Los Angeles. As the second oldest neighborhood in the city of LA and one of only three official Japantowns in the US, Little Tokyo is a historical, cultural landmark. 

You can learn about the experiences of Japanese Americans throughout history at the Japanese American National Museum, find unique gifts for friends at home at the Bunkado shop, or have homestyle Japanese food on 1st Street. Read more about Tokyo The Best Things to do in Tokyo, Japan

23. Feast at The Grand Central Market

Another must-see in Downtown LA, Grand Central Market is a foodie’s heaven. Come on an empty stomach because Grand Central is brimming with good grub. 

Must-tries include Villa Moreliana’s tacos, Belcampo Meat Co.’s dry-aged beef burger, and Eggslut’s infamous egg sandwiches. For dessert, McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream is the way to go. 

To check out more of the Los Angeles food scene, book this downtown food tour that starts at Pershing Square. Sample foods from the emerging LA food scene as you hear about Hollywood history.

24. Catch A Concert at The Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl is the premier venue for live music in Los Angeles. The massive amphitheater has hosted all kinds of musicians – from Hall and Oates to Lady Gaga – but it’s the Los Angeles Philharmonic orchestra that gets to call it home. 

The park area used to be open to the public during the day, and visitors could watch rehearsals for free.

25. Explore Exposition Park

When traveling with your kids, it’s important to find destinations that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Here are our top 5 family-friendly things to do in Los Angeles.

If you and your kids are up for a field trip, head over to Exposition Park. The sprawling urban park houses attractions like the Banc of California soccer stadium, the Rose Garden, the California African American Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the California Science Center. 

The Science Center is particularly interesting because it serves as the final resting place for the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the last operational shuttle built for NASA. 

26. Enjoy the Petersen Automotive Museum

If you and your kids share a passion for cars, drive up Wilshire Boulevard and make a pit stop at Petersen Museum. As one of the largest automotive museums in the world, this museum showcases over a hundred vehicles in 25 galleries. 

If you’re a big gearhead, you can pay an extra $20 to get into “The Vault”, an underground parking space where the museum keeps vehicles that have been rotated out of the exhibitions, as well as cars that have never been displayed to the public yet.

Here, you’ll find gems like Steve McQueen’s 1957 Jaguar and a 1998 open-top Cadillac Popemobile. Kids under 10 are not allowed in this area. 

27. Learn About the Ice Age at The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

What makes pits of tar one of LA’s most popular attractions? The La Brea Tar Pits is the only active Ice Age fossil site that is located in an urban setting. Scientists have been digging up fossils from this area for over a hundred years, and all the artifacts from these excavations are displayed at the La Brea Museum. 

Here, kids can learn about prehistory, archaeology, biology, and climate change. Overall, it’s a great place to engage your kids in a fun, interactive, and educational activity!

28. Experience the Thrills of Movie Magic at Universal Studios Hollywood

There is definitely no shortage of theme parks in California. You’ve got Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Six Flags, and Legoland, just to name a few. 

But if you and your kids are pop culture nerds, Universal Studios Hollywood might be one of the only theme parks that really brings the magic of movies to life. Some of the park’s main attractions include the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Jurassic World ride, and the World-Famous Studio tour. Book your Skip the line Tickets f or Universal Studios in advance to maximize your enjoyment.

29. Mulholland Drive

Another epic drive would be Mulholland Drive , which Jay Leno once described as the “spine of Los Angeles”. With the San Fernando Valley on one side and Beverly Hills on the other, the drive offers spectacular views of the Los Angeles Basin.

“The Snake”, a twisty segment filled with sharp turns, is also a favorite among bikers and car enthusiasts. Unfortunately, much of Mulholland Drive has been closed since the Woolsey fire ravaged the area. 

Best Day Trips from Los Angeles

The greater Los Angeles area is huge and if you have a car and a few extra days, you should make your way to a few of these locations that are within driving distance from downtown. Some require a few days, and others can be done in an easy day trip.

30. Historic Battleship USS Iowa Museum

One of the most notable attractions is the historic Battleship USS Iowa Museum. Moored at the LA Waterfront in San Pedro, this iconic World War II battleship invites visitors to immerse themselves in American naval history through its intricate exhibits and guided tours.

A stone’s throw away is the Los Angeles Maritime Museum, which further chronicles the rich maritime heritage of the region.

31. Long Beach

Long Beach is another Southern California, coastal city located within the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. One of Long Beach’s most famous attractions is the Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner that has been permanently docked in the harbor since 1967. It now serves as a hotel, museum, and events venue. The ship is also known for its alleged hauntings and offers ghost tours.

The waterfront area of Long Beach is a bustling spot with a variety of restaurants, shops, and attractions. The Rainbow Harbor and Shoreline Village are particularly popular areas to walk around, dine, and enjoy views of the water.

It also naturally has several miles of beaches, which are great for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Belmont Shore is a popular beach neighborhood known for its laid-back vibe, and Alamitos Beach is known for being LGBTQ2s+ friendly

32. Summit Mt. Baldy

Standing at 10,066 feet or 3,068 meters above sea level, Mount Baldy (also known as Mt. San Antonio) is considered the highest peak in Los Angeles County.

There are numerous trails all over the mountain, from the short and sweet Mt. Baldy Notch trail, which is about 3.5 miles one way, to the Mt. Baldy trail, the longest (6.5 miles one way) and the oldest trail that takes you all the way to the summit. From the top, you get gorgeous views of LA. On a good day, you can even see Catalina Island.

In the winter, Mt. Baldy becomes a popular skiing destination as well.

33. Bungee Jump Off the Bridge to Nowhere

The Angeles National Forest covers over 700,000 acres of land, including the San Gabriel and Sierra Pelona Mountains. One of the most exciting things to do here is the Bridge to Nowhere hike in the San Gabriel Mountains. It’s a 10-mile hike featuring river crossings, tunnels, and an awe-inspiring 120-foot-high concrete bridge that leads, well, nowhere, as it’s wedged into the canyon. 

If the hike isn’t exciting enough, you can also bungee jump off the bridge. And if you’re really craving for some adrenaline, you can even arrange for a night jump, where you fall into a pitch-black abyss and look up to a starry night. 

A word of caution, however: always check the weather before embarking on this hike. In the wet season, the area is prone to flash floods. In the summer months, it can be an exhausting trip, as there is virtually no shade out there. 

34. Go Bouldering in Joshua Tree National Park

If you only have time for one or two day trips, make sure one of them is a visit to Joshua Tree National Park. It’s about a 2-hour-and-45-minute drive from Los Angeles, but it’s well worth the visit.

Known as the place where two deserts meet – the Colorado and the Mojave deserts – the park is home to some of the most interesting landscapes this side of the US. Some famous sights include the eerie Skull Rock formation and the 30-foot arch of Arch Rock.

Joshua Tree’s massive rock formations make it a great site for bouldering and rock climbing too. Trashcan Rock, Lizard’s Hangout, and the Blob are some of the best spots for beginners. Read More: 11 Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park

35. Go Off-Roading in The Mojave Desert

Mojave Road is a 150-mile historic dirt road that starts at Beale’s Crossing by the Colorado River and ends at Drum Barracks in Wilmington, LA.

You can traverse the entire trail in three days, but make sure you have plenty of food, water, and gasoline with you, as there are virtually no establishments out in the desert. Be sure to bring tools, a spare tire, and emergency supplies as well.

As it is a rough and unmaintained desert road, you will need to bring a 4×4 vehicle with you. 

36. Sail Off to Catalina Island

If you’re up for something a little more laid back, you can book a private charter to Catalina Island . On the trip, you can expect to sail next to dolphins, go kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkeling in Catalina’s coral reefs. 

Catalina Island is an hour-long boat ride from Newport Beach, Long Beach, or San Pedro Beach.

37. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

The city of LA is as much the city of cars as it is the city of stars, with a car culture so enduring that it has shaped the way the city – and its surrounding area – has been designed. As such, LA is one of the best places for travelers to embark on a road trip.

One of the best routes you can take is the drive from Santa Monica to Zuma Beach in Malibu via the Pacific Coast Highway. The highway runs along the Pacific coastline of California , offering one of the most breathtaking views in the world. And while you’re in Malibu, make sure to check out biker’s hangout Neptune’s Net, a world-famous seafood and beer restaurant that sits right by the highway. Read more: The Ultimate Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary and The Best Viewpoints

About Los Angeles

Los Angeles is actually part of Los Angeles County, made up of 88 incorporated cities all in all. LA—also known as the City of Angels—is California’s most populous city, comprising some 80+ neighborhoods. The delineation of these neighborhoods can get pretty contentious, so don’t worry if you can’t find what you’re looking for on a typical map. If you’re lost, it’s best to ask a local!

Your main gateway into Los Angeles is through the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), which is situated in the beachside neighborhood of Westchester. Head up northwest, and you’ll hit other famed beach towns like Venice, Santa Monica, the Pacific Palisades, and Malibu. 

While LA has adequate public transportation, the best way to get around is by car. There’s a saying that “nobody walks in LA”—with the sheer size of the county and Los Angeles’ thriving car culture, it is pretty much true. No, I take it back—it’s 100% true. Compare car rental prices here.

Whether you’re looking for quick urban hikes, lazy beach days, sick surf sessions, or epic day trips out in the desert, Los Angeles is a dream for most adventure travelers. You’ll never run out of things to do in LA!

• W here to Stay in Los Angeles
• The Best Things to Do in San Diego – A Local’s Guide to the City
• Where To Stay In San Diego – The Best Neighborhoods & Areas
• 28 Things to Do in Sacramento
• 20 Great Things to Do in Monterey, California
• Things to do in Carmel by the Sea, California
• 15 Best Hikes in California – Inspiration to Get Outdoors
• 7 Epic Places to Visit in Northern California
• Top 10 Best Places to Camp in California
• 24 Of The Best Beaches in California

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Jeremy Scott Foster

Jeremy has been traveling the world for 10 years. Recognizing that travel is a powerful platform for personal growth, he made it his personal mission to help others recognize just how accessible travel really is. That’s why I started this adventure travel blog. Follow Jeremy on his website TravelFreak / Instagram / Twitter / Pinterest

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The 25 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

The almost perpetual promise of palm trees and 80 degrees, sometimes even in the dead of winter, is enough to lure most visitors to Los Angeles. But the Southern California city has far more to offer than fun in the sun between Hollywood history, world-class museums, international cuisine and festivals, stars of the celestial and celebrity varieties, amusement parks, and miles of picturesque hiking. Start planning your next well-rounded adventure with this guide to the top 25 things to do in La La Land.

Play at the Beach

TripSavvy / Makito Umekita

A trip to Southern California, blessed as it is by near-constant good weather, isn't complete without spending some time at the beach, any beach . There are plenty to choose from along the 75 miles of coastline, and they come in all shapes and sizes from wide and bustling with humans to secluded and surfable. There are also endless ways to enjoy them whether you stunt at the skate park in the sand, join a volleyball team in the South Bay, bike the 22-mile Marvin Braude Bike Path from Pacific Palisades to Redondo Beach, stroll along a pier, surf, standup paddleboard, eat at an oceanfront restaurant like Malibu Farm, The Strand House, or Coast, or ride the world’s only solar-powered Ferris Wheel and go to free concerts in Santa Monica. Or simply throw down a towel, open a book, and chill.

See Stars at Griffith Observatory

Perched 1,134 feet above sea level on Mount Hollywood in Griffth Park, Griffith Observatory is a free observatory, planetarium (the third one in the nation when it opened in 1935), and science exhibition space. More than 8 million visitors have gazed through its Zeiss 12-inch refracting telescope and watched the Foucault Pendulum sway to mark the Earth's rotation. The architectural delight has starred in numerous TV shows and films including "La La Land," "Rebel Without A Cause," and "The Terminator." It's also a great vantage point to look down on the city and out to the Hollywood Sign and the ocean.

It's also a good place to start an exploration of the park. Included within its 4,511 acres are a zoo, the Autry Museum of the American West, the Greek Theatre, train rides, an antique carousel, a golf course, a swimming pool, equestrian/running trails, bike rentals, and a transportation museum with functioning trains.

Deep Dive Into Hollywood History

Frazer Harrison/Getty Images

Most major cities have museums, parks, restaurants, and cultural offerings. You can find beaches and mountains around the world. But the birth of the movie industry and the old Hollywood glamour associated with it and the rise of celebrity culture are distinctly L.A. For most, hitting a few of the major Tinseltown-related attractions—things like the Walk Of Fame, the hand and footprints at the TCL Chinese Theatre, or the iconic sign—will be plenty. But hardcore movie buffs can and should go deeper by seeing a movie in a historic theater like El Capitan or the Cinerama Dome, going on a studio lot tour, paying respects at famous graves at Hollywood Forever, Forest Lawn, or Westwood Village Memorial Park, hunting down filming locations and celebrity scandal scenes, hopping aboard a bus tour of stars' homes and hotspots, booking the haunted Hollywood Roosevelt, and sipping martinis at Musso & Frank Grill . By fall 2021, the long-awaited Academy Museum of Motion Pictures will make its long-awaited debut.

Find Your Favorites on the Walk of Fame

AaronP/Bauer-Griffin/Getty Images

It's not often that you have to look down to see a landmark or stars, but this is the case when the attraction in question is the world's most famous sidewalk. The Hollywood Walk Of Fame , located along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine, contains more than 2,600 Terrazzo and brass plaques honoring entertainment's best and brightest in five categories (motion pictures, television, recording, radio, and live theater). The first eight stars were unveiled in 1958 and included Joanne Woodward and Burt Lancaster. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce typically adds two stars a month. Dedication ceremonies are free to attend from the public viewing area. The Chamber's website has a map and directory to help locate personal favorites. Take a picture between Bob Hope and Fred Astaire as this is the location where Richard Gere first solicits Julia Roberts in "Pretty Woman."

Go Behind the Scenes of a Movie Studio

Charley Gallay / Getty Images

When in the Entertainment Capital of the World, one should stop by a movie studio and learn how the sausage is made. (It's often the best way to ensure a star sighting as even the backlot trams at Universal Studios pass real-life movie and TV shoots.) Paramount Pictures in Hollywood and Sony Studios in Culver City are both historic lots offering tours. All are great but it's hard to beat Warner Bros as it's the most curated for guests. Not only do you get to see stages and outdoor sets, but the deluxe tour also stops in the costume and props departments, a garage full of movie cars, a DC Universe exhibit, a "Harry Potter" exhibit, and the Script to Screen museum where you can sit on the "Friends" Central Perk couch. The tour also includes lunch in the Commissary's Fine Dining Room where studio execs woo actors and directors.

Step Back in Time on Olvera Street

In 1781, 11 Mexican families settled El Pueblo de Los Angeles on what was Gabrieleno/Tongva land. Originally called Wine or Vine Street because of nearby vineyards and renamed Olvera in 1877 to honor the county's first judge, it was the city's cultural and financial center until the turn of the century. In 1926, socialite Christine Sterling started successfully campaigning to save historic buildings (including the 1818 Avila Adobe, L.A.'s oldest still-standing house), close the street to cars, and reimagine it as a tree-shaded, brick-lined Mexican marketplace with painted stalls full of traditional crafts, cafes, and restaurants. Some merchants are descendants of original vendors like the sisters whipping up addictive avocado sauce and crispy taquitos at Cielito Lindo just like their grandmother did in the 1940s. Watch Folklorico dancers and mariachi bands and jump on the walking tour to learn more about the city's first church, firehouse, theater, and hotel. The latter was also the home of Pio Pico, the last Mexican governor of California.

Spend an Afternoon Exploring Venice and its Canals

Courtesy of Los Angeles Tourism

Venice, salty marshlands turned into an Italian-inspired coastal playground by Abbot Kinney in 1905, is now one of L.A.'s most eclectic, hip neighborhoods. There's the beach with its skate park, sunglass vendors, tattoo parlors, dispensaries, both fine and fast dining, and Muscle Beach outdoor gym made famous by Arnold Schwarzenegger. There's the Kinney-era canal section —six waterways that create three residential islands connected by nine footbridges—that is a wonderful place to walk or kayak. (There's a free launch but you must supply your own non-motorized watercraft.) Abbot Kinney Boulevard presents a mile of wall-to-wall shopping, street art, food, and people-watching. Many of the boutiques are L.A.-born and independently owned, and some of the restaurants are among the best in the county including Gjelina, Felix, and Plant Food + Wine. First Fridays is a monthly food truck festival.

Travel the World Without Leaving Town

Barry Winiker/Getty Images

One of L.A.’s greatest strengths is its diverse population, and the intermixing of cultures has left a mark on almost every aspect of the city including architecture, cuisine, activities, and the development of neighborhoods. Mass migrations resulted in the creation of ethnic enclaves where visitors can immerse themselves by eating, shopping, and attending annual events and festivals like Chinese New Year or Dia De Los Muertos. Many big cities have a Chinatown, but L.A. also has a Filipinotown, Little Persia , historically Mexican and Jewish districts, and neighborhoods that embody Tokyo, Ethiopia, Bangladesh, and Armenia. L.A. is also home to the largest Korean and Thai populations outside the respective countries.

Catch a Concert at the Hollywood Bowl

Adam Latham/Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Hills have been alive with the sound of music since 1922 when the Bowl, an iconic art deco amphitheater noted for its circular bandshell, opened in Bolton Canyon. The biggest names have graced its stage over the decades including The Beatles, Ella Fitzgerald, Stevie Wonder, Coldplay, and Lizzo. It's also known for hosting jazz and world music festivals and being the L.A. Phil’s summer home. Some performances end with fireworks; most are best started with a picnic. Tables dot the surrounding hills, and you're allowed to take outside food to your seats. If you can afford it, splurge on a box with a pop-up table and gourmet bites curated by James Beard winners Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne. If live music is your jam, there are several other great concert venues across the city including the Sunset Strip's rock clubs and the Frank Gehry-designed Walt Disney Concert Hall downtown.

Amuse Yourself at a Theme Park

Courtesy of Walt Disney World News

People with kids or kids at heart should put one or more of Southern California's many amusement parks on the itinerary. Closest to L.A. proper is Universal Studios, where the magic of movies like "The Fast & The Furious," "Jurassic Park," and "The Minions" come to life. It's also home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. The Santa Monica Pier contains Pacific Park , an oceanfront collection of classic carnival rides and games including the aforementioned Ferris Wheel, one of the best places in town for sunset viewing. Adrenaline junkies should go North an hour to Six Flags Magic Mountain , which boasts the region's fastest, steepest, and scariest coasters. An hour in the other direction will deposit you at Knott's Berry Farm , which started as actual fields and roadside fruit stand a century ago in Buena Park, and at the Happiest Place On Earth in Anaheim. To experience everything the Disneyland and California Adventure complex offer including the new "Star Wars"-themed land, budget a couple of days.

Feast at a Food Hall

The Grand Central Market has been feeding Angelenos since 1917. A few farm stands and greengrocers like Chiles Secos, whose moles and dried peppers make great souvenirs, remain but most stalls currently hold quick-service options like Belcampo, Eggslut, Lucky Bird, and Donut Man. Other food halls include  Corporation Food Hall and  Spring Arcade Building  (don’t skip Gelateria Uli). In 2020, Citizen Public Market brought the trend to the Westside when it set up shop in a 1920s Beaux-Arts building.

Take a Hike

4kodiak/Getty Images

Yes, we have a lot of freeways, parking lots, and shopping malls. But L.A. is also chock full of green space. In fact, the San Fernando Valley and the L.A. Basin are divided by a mountain range, and there are large hilly pockets in Highland Park, Echo Park, and Silver Lake. Hundreds of miles of trails of all intensity levels will land you above the smog, with a bird's eye view of the downtown skyline or the sunset, and at wondrous locations like the original Batcave in Griffith Park, waterfalls, the ruins of the old zoo, a former Nazi compound, eucalyptus groves, the Hollywood Sign, or a secret swing in Elysian Park. Check out our guide to 12 awesome L.A. hikes . Double-check the parking signs and your water supply.

Celebrate Taco Tuesday all Week

Courtesy of Madre

The cardinal rule of California vacations is to eat as much Mexican food as you can. We guarantee there is no place serving up better plates of south-of-the-border specialties (outside of Mexico, of course). It's in the DNA; this used to be Mexico after all and a good portion of the population can trace their lineage to the country only a couple of hours away. But it's also due to the sheer diversity on offer. Choose between fancy sit-down establishments run by celebrated chefs, mom-and-pop operations, food trucks, or stalls set up at closed carwashes. Stick to the classics or try new-fangled creations like Guerrilla's unique vegetarian tacos. More importantly, there are kitchens representing most regions in Mexico. A one-day taco crawl will net you Veracruz-style tamales (wrapped in banana leaves instead of corn husks), Oaxacan goat barbacoa and mole (Madre, Guelguetza), Sonoran carne asada in flour tortillas (Sonoratown), Jalisco-style shrimp (Mariscos Jaliscos), Baja fish tacos (Ricky's), and ceviche and sikil-pac pumpkin dip from the Yucatan (Chichen Itza, Holbox).

See Double the Art at Two Getty Museums

Courtesy of The Getty Center

L.A. has more museums  and performing arts venues than any other U.S city . You can peruse collections of luxury cars, dinosaur bones, neon signs, cowboy art, Native American crafts, bunnies, space race artifacts including an actual shuttle, and serial killers' stuff. Two of the best museum experiences come courtesy of the same fortune, that of oil tycoon J. Paul Getty. The Getty Center sits high above Brentwood, a gleaming white beacon designed by Richard Meier. A tram delivers you up the mountain to the 24-acre campus of manicured gardens, panoramic views, and several buildings full of pre-20th century European works, 19th and 20th-century global art of all mediums, and fine photography. Before this singular show space was completed in 1997, Getty’s treasures lived at the Getty Villa in Malibu, a near replica of a first-century Herculaneum luxury home buried by Vesuvius’ eruption. Replete with stone columns, an amphitheater, frescos, and reflecting pools, the villa is equal in wow factor to the more than 1,300 Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities on display. 

Window Shop on Rodeo Drive

Filipe Frazao/Getty Images

Few street names are more recognizable than Beverly Hills' Rodeo Drive . It's the epicenter of elegance, the corner of couture and culture, the concrete manifestation of money and marketing. Fred Hayman opened Giorgio Beverly Hills in 1961 and it lured other luxury retailers like Gucci, Tiffany & Co., and Van Cleef & Arpels as well as hairstylist-to-the-stars Vidal Sassoon to the gleaming palm-dotted blocks. Now, some 100 of the world's finest brands are there dressing celebrities, catering to needs of shoppers, and providing aspirational window browsing for many. BH is also known for its public art installations, the flagship Spago, shows at the newish Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, and its visually stunning City Hall.

Chase Down Dinner From a Food Truck

Trucks specialize in every type of meal from breakfast to dessert and every type of cuisine you crave. Sometimes they even make something totally new as was the case with Roy Choi's Kogi Korean BBQ tacos or the Jogasaki Sushi Burrito. Part of the fun is tracking them down before they sell out of their specials. Some of the finest: Steamy Bun, Cool Haus (ice cream sammies), The Rooster (heavenly breakfast burritos), Compton Vegan, and The Lobos Truck (waffle fry nachos).

Root, Root, Root for The Home Team

Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Getty Images

L.A. has recently blossomed into a sports lover's paradise as it now has two NFL teams (Rams and Chargers), two NBA teams (Lakers and Clippers), an MLB team (Dodgers), an NHL team (Kings), two pro soccer teams (Galaxy and L.A. Football Club), and two college powerhouses (UCLA and USC). With new franchises came two gorgeous new complexes, SoFi Stadium and the Banc of California Stadium in Exposition Park. L.A. fans love their teams, but the followers of LAFC might be the most expressive. Their bilingual devotion, complete with chants, dances, and costumes, is magical to witness. A similar obsession occurs between fans and Dodger Dogs.

Stop to Smell the Roses at a Botanical Garden

Courtesy of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board

Greater L.A. has no shortage of horticultural displays and public gardens. Reasons to visit most of them extend far beyond super blooms, fish ponds, and tree groves as they also host lectures and fitness classes, house museums and sculpture parks, and stage food festivals and holiday lighting extravaganzas. You can see a Gutenberg Bible, Edward Hopper painting, and 16 themed gardens at the 120-acre Huntington Library . Nearby the Arboretum offers forest bathing, evening yoga, roaming peacocks, and a tropical greenhouse. South Coast Botanic Garden designates hours for dog walking and has integrated an impressive outdoor art collection into the landscaping. Amid Descanso Gardens ' 150 acres are top-notch options for cocktails and dining. They also put on spectacular Halloween and Christmas light shows. Bliss out on a walk through the tranquil Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine. Even the Valley has a formal Japanese Garden with a traditional teahouse.

Watch a Flick al Fresco

Courtesy of Cinespia

The Mediterranean climate means that outdoor screenings and drive-ins can be held comfortably all year-round and in this industry town it's one of the most popular going-out activity options. Angelenos cannot get enough of the artisanal snacks, the themed photo booths, the pre-film DJs, the food trucks, or the classic comedies, family favorites, or scary stories (despite seeing them a million times). They're held on rooftops, at the Santa Monica Airport and schools, at The Rose Bowl, or in parks and parking lots by companies like Rooftop Cinema Club, WE Drive-ins, and Street Food Cinema. But the hottest ticket is always Cinespia, which holds its events at Hollywood Forever Cemetery mere feet from the final resting place of numerous celebrities.

Finish an Instagram Scavenger Hunt

A picture is worth a thousand words, probably more now that we're living during the reign of social media. And if you make the pilgrimage to Paul Smith's pink wall on Melrose and don't post a picture how will your friends know to be jealous of your trip? Shallow, sure but it's also a harmless challenge and a fresh way to see the city. Modern-day totems to check off the list include (but aren't limited to) the LAX building that looks like a UFO, Randy's giant donut in Inglewood, a colorful cocktail at a rooftop bar, the book portal at The Last Bookstore, Chris Burden's Urban Light sculpture at LACMA, a bacon-wrapped hot dog made on a makeshift grill, the Bradbury Building downtown, Angels Flight (you should for sure ride the world's shortest railway while there), and the end of Route 66 sign in Santa Monica, the 70th-floor Skyslide at OUE Skyspace, the L.A. Public Library rotunda, Johnny Ramone's tombstone at Hollywood Forever Cemetary, the David Hockney Pool at the Hollywood Roosevelt, the Sprinkles Cupcake ATM, and the signature palm frond wallpaper inside The Beverly Hills Hotel.

Sip Made-In-L.A. Spirits

Courtesy of Golden Road Brewing

All this touring is bound to work up a thirst and L.A.'s got plenty of homegrown, or should we say homebrewed, ways to quench it. If beer is your go-to drink, check out downtown's Angel City Brewery and Modern Times' Dankness Dojo (100 percent vegan company), Common Space in Torrance, and Glendale's Golden Road Brewing, all of which are expansive hangs with food and music. That barely scratches the sudsy surface. L.A. Beer Hop has a pretty extensive list.

There are actually quite a few craft distilleries in town now as well. Greenbar Distillery offers tours, tastings, and cocktail classes using its 18 spirits and 5 bitters. The Spirit Guild makes its vodka and gin entirely from local clementines and are therefore grain- and gluten-free. Lost Spirits has award-winning navy-style rum and whiskies, a hip gothic vibe, and a restaurant inspired by the Island of Dr. Moreau . Tour and taste at Los Angeles Distillery in Culver City.

There are far fewer options for wine, which is ironic given that the birthplace of LA was next door to vineyards and a winery. Angeleno Wine Co. pays tribute to the former fermented glory and hopes to bring back a little of the luster with its natural wines in unique varietals like Tannat and Alicante. If you want to make a day of it, Malibu, which has an official AVA, is your best bet. Plus, one winery also has an animal safari.

Make it Animal Style at In-N-Out Burger

Courtesy of In-N-Out Burger

In 1948, Harry Snyder opened California’s first drive-thru hamburger stand (now a replica you can visit) in Baldwin Park. Flash forward seven decades and his delicious dream is now an empire with hundreds of locations in six states and a cult-like following. In-N-Out Burger isn’t interested in eastward expansion, so if you want to chow down on Double Doubles you have to head West, and Southern California still has the most locations. The chain is notorious for its (not so) secret menu, which includes items like grilled cheese, the Flying Dutchman, and most famously Animal Style. The first time a burger was prepared this way—mustard-cooked patty with lettuce, tomato, pickle, grilled onion, and extra spread—was in 1961 and now it's a must-try for fast-food fanatics.

See the Watts Towers

Ann Johansson/Getty Images

Italian immigrant and construction worker by day Sabato “Simon” Rodia bought a triangular plot of land in 1921 and immediately got started on what are now known as the Watts Towers and several other lesser mentioned works including a bench and birdbaths. All were made by Rodia alone without the aid of machinery or scaffolding using steel covered in mortar and embellished in found objects like tiles, shells, and rocks. The tallest spire is almost 100 feet. They were in danger of being demolished in the late ‘50s after Rodia had moved away and left them to his neighbor, but the community rallied around them and proved they were structurally sound despite having no welded inner armature. The Towers are now listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Exercise Like a Local

Courtesy of Beach Cycle

Of all the cliches and stereotypes perpetuated about Southern Californians, the one that probably rings the truest for the largest portion of the population is an obsession with fitness and health. Athleisure is a uniform. Cold-pressed juice and avocado toast a food group. A business meeting or a Tinder date while climbing Runyon Canyon totally acceptable. But even the most disciplined and devoted get bored so there's an astronomical amount of ways to sweat in this city. There are gyms and classes dedicated to pilates, parkour, cardio drumming, '80s-themed aerobics, rowing, SurfSet, hula-hooping, Versaclimbers, boxing, HIIT, and indoor rock climbing. There's a trapeze school, spin sessions in the Santa Monica sand, and Sky Zone trampoline parks.

Hunt for Street Art

TripSavvy / Amanda Blackard

As one of the birthplaces of modern American graffiti, the streets of L.A. have long been a showcase for outsider art and boastful tags. Happy to report that buildings, billboards, freeway signs, and even sidewalks still function as impromptu exhibitions, though these days much more of it is sanctioned by the city or commissioned by property owners. Shepard Fairey, the artist behind the Barack Obama "Hope" portrait, founded a gallery (Subliminal Projects in Echo Park). It's fun to wander around contemplating them illegal or otherwise. The Downtown Arts District, Venice, Hollywood, Silver Lake, and Culver City are hot spots for artists like Morley, Nychos, WRDSMTH, David Flores, D*Face, Collete Miller (Angel Wings), Retna, antigirl (Los Angeles hearts), and Tristan Eaton.

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10 Unmissable Things To Do In Los Angeles For First Time Visitors

by Mark and Kristen Morgan

Published: October 21, 2020

Los Angeles is the iconic home of blockbuster movie production, sandy beaches, never-ending sunshine and 50 million annual tourists. But in the entertainment capital of the world, it can feel almost impossible to narrow down exactly what you should do when visiting LA for the very first time. This essential list of the 10 best things to do in Los Angeles on your first visit is the perfect place to start planning your trip.

Do you have to tick off all 10 to feel as though you’ve seen Los Angeles? Absolutely not!

Even if you manage 5 out of the 10 on this list, you will get a taste for the world famous City of Angels.

And that way, you have the perfect excuse for a second visit .

Los Angeles Factfile

City : Los Angeles State : California Nicknames : L.A., City of Angels, La-La Land, Tinseltown

Population : 3.9 million (13 million metropolitan) Locals Known As: Los Angelino, Angelino

Famous For : Hollywood, beaches, sunshine, movie stars, sports, museums Body of Water : Pacific Ocean

Annual visitors : 50 million tourists (2019)

How To Get To Los Angeles

Flights to los angeles international airport (lax).

LAX has the second highest throughput of passengers in the United States after Atlanta, Georgia, which makes finding cheap and flexible flight options a walk in the park.

Multiple flights will be available daily domestically in the US, as well as Internationally from many major cities around the world.

We always use Skyscanner flight search engine to find the best value for money flights. Flexibility is the key to saving money on flights, search by month on Skyscanner to find the top deals.

Driving To Los Angeles

• San Diego to Los Angeles – Take I-5 North for 120 miles all the way up to Los Angeles. It doesn’t get much easier! Without incident or worse than usual traffic, the drive should take around 2 hours. However, be prepared for a much longer journey because traffic is well known to be a problem!
• San Francisco to Los Angeles – Take I-5 South for 5 hours 30 minutes. However, the incredible road trip California highway 1 runs along the coast and should not be missed if you have a few extra days.
• LAX to Hollywood – If you hire a car at LAX and drive to Hollywood (the most popular neighborhood for first time visitors) you can expect a drive time between 30 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.
• Other Notable Driving Times – Las Vegas: 4 hours, Joshua Tree National Park: 2 hours, Death Valley National Park: 4 hours and Phoenix, AZ: 5 hours 30 minutes.

Getting Around in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is huge, its sprawling metropolis can not be walked like in San Diego or San Francisco. You will need to use other means of getting around LA.

Driving through the city is stressful and time consuming but necessary at times. Consider using the Metro when possible, for example to downtown, Hollywood or Santa Monica.

10 Epic Things To Do In Los Angeles, California For First Time Visitors

Los Angeles is overloaded with amazing things to do for first time visitors, but there are some you simply can’t miss. This is one of the top bucket list US vacation spots and we want you to help you make the most of your trip.

We compiled this list based upon our own experiences when visiting LA and selected only the best.

1. Hike a Dusty Trail to the Hollywood Sign

What is it?

The HOLLYWOOD Sign, the iconic landmark Los Angeles is most known for , is more than just 9 enormous white letters on the dusty hillside of Mt Lee. Hollywood’s ‘biggest star’ is a symbol of what can be achieved by dreamers and believers. There are a number of viewpoints around Griffith Park and Sunset Boulevard but hiking to the summit of Mt Lee is the ultimate way to appreciate the reason this location for the sign was chosen.

Magnificent views over Los Angeles and even the Pacific Ocean on a clear day await you at the summit of Mt Lee. You will get the classic scene: the back of DOOWYLLOH, Griffith Observatory, LA city, mountains and ocean. Clear days are hard to come by but arrive before sunrise for the most amazing blue hues in the sky.

How to visit?

Many traditional hiking trails lead you to the Hollywood Sign, including Hollyridge trail, Brush Canyon trail, Innsdale Drive trail and the one we took – Wonder View trail. Wonder view was regarded as the shortest and most challenging but it is now closed permanently.

You can park on certain residential streets to begin the hikes but many are restricted. You will know where you can park when you see dozens of cars lining the streets. Here’s  more information .

LA’s heat can be relentless. The day we hiked in November was well into the 90’s – as you can see, we were a sweaty and dusty mess!

Take sunscreen and as much water as you can carry.

2. Shop ’til You Drop on Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills

Rodeo Drive is the world famous 2 mile stretch of road featuring some of the most expensive designer brand boutiques on the planet. It is synonymous with the rich and famous, luxury sports cars and ‘the culturally elite’.

 Beverly Hills is fabulously manicured and a short drive around the neighborhood will reveal countless properties valued at eye watering sums!

It is impossible not to be intrigued by Beverly Hills thanks to popular culture throughout the last 30-40 years. A walk down Rodeo Drive should be on every Los Angeles itinerary simply because of its notoriety but don’t expect to see celebrities en mass.

A great place to visit is the eccentric Louis Vuitton exhibit on the corner of Rodeo / Santa Monica blvd. There were more security guards and employees than visitors inside the day we looked around.

There are a surprising amount of multi story parking lots in Beverly Hills, so if you’re driving around the city you can park up easily. The closest metro is in Hollywood but that is 3.7 miles away, which means taking a bus is the better public transport method.

Alternatively, you can take a guided ‘celebrity tour’ of Beverly Hills.

If you’re not wearing Gucci shoes with a Dolce & Gabbana shirt, expect to be followed around any store you go inside!

3. Watch a Stunning California Sunset at Santa Monica Pier

Another of Los Angeles’ world famous attractions, Santa Monica Pier has featured in too many movies and tv shows to mention. The pier contains the world’s only solar powered Ferris wheel, arcades, amusement park, aquarium and is popular for sport fishing.

Santa Monica neighborhood is a lovely part of Los Angeles for a slow meander once the sun has set and sand is no longer warm underfoot.

Santa Monica is the most popular beach for tourists on a first time visit to Los Angeles but the neighborhood is more than worth the visit alone. Santa Monica Pier is gimmicky but perfect if you’re traveling with younger kids.

California is blessed with a mediterranean climate and year round epic sunsets. Santa Monica is one of the best places in Los Angeles to watch a beautiful orange sun setting over the Pacific Ocean.

You will find a number of parking lots close to Santa Monica Pier. On weekends and holidays expect these to fill early. A flat fee or hourly rate will apply for parking nearby.

A better option is to take the metro expo line from downtown to Santa Monica. You can begin in Hollywood and change downtown but expect total travel time to be around 1 hour each way.

Walk underneath Santa Monica Pier as the sun is setting to see some awesome sun bursts through dozens of wooden support joists, perfect for photographers.

Planning to drive the Pacific Coast Highway ? Read our guide on the 23 best stops from San Francisco to San Diego on Highway 1 to see the top highlights.

4. Walk to Venice

Venice is a cultural hub known for eccentric arts, its bohemian vibe and Venice beach. The famous beach is complimented by a 2.5 mile promenade, along which you can find street art, basketball courts, coffee shops and muscle beach outdoor gym.

Walking from Santa Monica to Venice in late afternoon is perfect for getting a feel for the real LA, seeing the positive effects of gentrification in a sprawling city and to get out of your comfort zone before heading back to Santa Monica for sunset.

Venice Beach won’t be suited to all travelers visiting Los Angeles for the first time. Personally, we enjoyed walking along the promenade to see the local artwork and didn’t feel unsafe. That being said, the area can be slightly intimidating.

You can take your car to a number of small parking lots or take a bus directly from Union square downtown LA. However, walking from Santa Monica is by far the best way to visit Venice. We saw a tv show being filmed as we walked between the two beaches.

Tip 1 : Hidden behind Venice Beach are a series of picturesque canals with modern houses reflecting in perfectly still water. Don’t miss Venice canals if you walk from Santa Monica to Venice Beach.

Tip 2 : Walk along the promenade to Venice, then return along the beach as the sun gets lower in the sky.

5. Watch a Live Gameshow or Talk Show

Many of America’s most popular gameshows and talk shows are recorded in studios around Los Angeles. These shows need audience members to create the excitable clapping and whooping, which is where you come in! Tickets are usually free and offered to anyone visiting or living in LA.

Take your pick between Jeopardy, Price is Right, Late Late Show with James Corden, Jimmy Kimmel and more.

It’s not everyday you get the chance to sit in the audience of Jeopardy if you enjoy a quiz show, or see your favorite celebrities chatting to talk show hosts. Trust us, this is the only way to guarantee seeing a celeb in LA!

Choose a show like Price is Right and you might end up on stage winning $25,000 worth of prizes. We got last minute tickets to Price is Right but didn’t do enough dancing or make enough noise to get the ‘come on down’ – and we’re fine with that!

Simply search for tickets on any of the game shows or talk shows you prefer. Total time required for game shows is much longer than we anticipated. Expect to spend a good 4-5 hours for one episode of Price is Right. In hindsight, we might have preferred Jeopardy, especially if Ken or James were on!

Loosen your hips, vocal cords and inhibitions to stand more chance of getting down to one of the 4 podiums on Price is Right .

6. Tour a Movie Studio

Who isn’t a fan of TV shows and movies?! When you’re in Los Angeles, one of the things you must do is tour a movie studio. Take your pick between Warner Bros, Universal, Paramount and Sony for the 4 big industry players.

Spend 2-3 hours walking around exterior sets, huge interior lots, exhibits of previous movies and tv shows plus props used in your favorite movies.

Movie studio tours are not the place to go celeb spotting and don’t expect to watch the latest blockbuster being made!

What you will get is an insight into how movies and tv shows are made, from sound and production to sets and costumes. Unless you’re a mega film fan and have vip subscription to IMDb, one tour is enough to get a taste for movie making. Choose wisely!

Choose which studio you would prefer to tour and buy tickets online. Purchasing in advance is a good idea to avoid disappointment on the day. Each tour has parking options but Paramount is the only studio walkable in Hollywood neighborhood.

Here are the websites for each of the 4 tours: Sony | Paramount | Universal | Warner Bros

We chose Warner Bros movie studio tour after reading it was the purest tour for movie and tv show lovers. Friends, Big Bang, DC, Batman and Harry Potter are the main exhibits.

Read our complete guide to Warner Bros studio tour before deciding which Hollywood movie tour to take.

7. Explore Hollywood

Hollywood is tinseltown, it is the glitz and glamour entertainment capital of the world and the heartbeat of Los Angeles.

The Neighborhood of Hollywood is a melting pot of eateries, bars, souvenir shops and gimmicky tourist attractions. At night, Hollywood blvd comes to life in an array of loud noises and bright colors, definitely the best time to explore.

For a first time visit to Los Angeles, Hollywood is one of our top choices for booking a hotel because it is at the heart of things to do in LA.

It’s Hollywood, who is going to LA and not exploring the worlds showbiz capital?!

Most tourists set up base in or around Hollywood, which means bars fill up with people from all continents and makes for great nights out.

During the day, you can’t miss the walk of fame which runs along 15 blocks of Hollywood blvd and contains over 2,500 stars. TCL Chinese theater is where you will find hand and foot prints of the biggest names in movies and next door is the Dolby theater where the Oscars ceremony is held each year.

If you decide to book a hotel in Beverly Hills, Santa Monica or any other part of LA, you can take public transport to Hollywood. Metro (red line) from downtown or Santa Monica and bus from Beverly Hills. Visit in the late afternoon, evening or night to see the action.

Go inside Dolby theater and as you walk through the hall you will see all Oscar best picture winners since the ceremony began on lighted arches.

8. Cruise Around Mulholland Drive

Mulholland Drive is a 21 mile long winding road meandering through the Santa Monica Mountains just North of Hollywood. The name was made famous by David Lynch’s 2001 psychological thriller ‘Mulholland Drive’ and many of Hollywood’s finest call the Hollywood Hills home.

There are mansions around every corner to admire as you pass through Laurel Canyon and Nichols Canyon, some of the most expensive houses in the world.

But the main reason to drive your car around Mulholland’s twisting roads is because you have fantastic vantage points to see LA, the Hollywood Sign and the Pacific on clear days.

You will need your own vehicle for this one. Start by entering Mulholland Drive to the East from Cahuenga Blvd after visiting Universal or Warner Bros. Drive the winding roads and stop to admire the views as you pass over the hills.

Tip 1 : Don’t miss Jerome C Daniel Overlook on the Eastern side of Mulholland Drive. From this viewpoint you can see the Hollywood Sign and with binoculars or a telephoto lens you’ll get great views over the sign and Hollywood bowl.

Tip 2 : Drop back down into Beverly Hills through Benedict Canyon for an efficient day ticking off the best things to do in Los Angeles.

9. Don’t Miss Griffith Observatory

The Griffith Observatory has one of the best locations in Los Angeles on the South facing slope of Mount Hollywood. It offers primetime views over LA city, the Hollywood Sign and the Pacific Ocean.

Inside the Greek style building are science and space exhibits, including a fantastic planetarium show. This is the perfect place to occupy teenage kids!

Many visit simply for the excellent views but we implore you not to miss the awesome exhibits inside. You will find a pendulum demonstrating the rotation of Earth, a Tesla coil and Zeiss Telescope at night.

Entry to the Griffith Observatory is free but you will pay US$ 8-10 to park. This is one hugely popular attraction and it will be busy, but it is absolutely worth it for the planetarium display (costs just a few dollars).

Drive to Griffith Observatory which has limited parking at the designated parking lot or park along Observatory / Western Canyon roads.

Alternatively, take a DASH observatory bus from Vermont/Sunset Metro (red line).

Tip 1 : If you visit on a busy day and cars are parked all the way up the road, try the top first because there may be spaces free. Yep, that’s exactly what we did and we got a spot straight away.

Tip 2 : Early evening is a great time to visit, do the planetarium before watching the sun setting and then look through the Zeiss Telescope at the night sky.

10. We’re Going Downtown Los Angeles

When you’ve had enough of Hollywood and need a bit of history, art or culture head downtown to one of many excellent Los Angeles museums, music venues or eateries.

Downtown LA (DTLA) is diverse, exciting and overflowing with cool hangouts. You can visit Little Tokyo, Chinatown or the Fashion District and eat every type of street food at Grand Central Market.

Have you really been to LA if you haven’t been downtown?!

The Broad is a highly rated modern art museum and next door is Walt Disney concert hall with its mind-bending stainless steel deconstructivism architectural style.

A few minutes walk away is OUE Skyspace, a 1,000 ft tall 360 degree observation platform featuring transparent slide on the outside of the building!

Driving isn’t recommended to get into downtown LA. Instead take a metro to either 7th Street / Metro center, civic center / grand park or union station depending on what you want to do in DTLA.

Plenty of bus routes will run into downtown but the metro will be much quicker without traffic!

If you’re staying in Hollywood – group Santa Monica, Venice and downtown into one day of your LA itinerary. That way you can bunch together the remaining best things to do in Los Angeles North of downtown.

Where To Eat In Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the second largest US city after New York and with over 4 million residents (not including metro area) you can be sure there are restaurants galore!

We’ll break LA down into its most popular neighborhoods and give you our top foodie recommendations for first time visitors:

• Musso & Frank Grill  – Classic American lunch and dinner | Menu
• Salt’s Cure – Healthy comfort food local ingredients | Menu
• Pizzeria  Mozza – Awesome pizza at great value | Menu
• LONO – Tiki bar tropical theme cocktails and food | Menu

Beverley Hills

• Spago – Wolfgang Puck’s flagship restaurant | Menu
• Maude – High end new American seasonal tasting menu | Menu
• The Grill on the Alley  – Steakhouse for everyone | Menu
• The Cheesecake Factory – Perfect alternative for those on a budget | Menu

Santa Monica

• Dialogue  – Very highly rated seasonal food | Menu
• Tar & Roses – Wood, fire, smoke. American small & large plates | Menu
• UOVO  – Pasta made fresh daily in Italy | Menu

Downtown LA

• Nickel  Diner  – Famous tasty comfort food & big desserts  | Menu
• Cole’s French Dip – Epic French dip sandwiches, cocktails, top rated bar | Menu
• Sonoratown – Popular low key, cheap and tasty Mexican food | Menu
• Wurstkuche – German sausages and brewery \  Menu
• Otium  – Contemporary, New American & cocktails  |  Menu

Where To Stay In Los Angeles

With over 50 million tourists visiting each year, you can rest assured there will be no problems finding a hotel in Los Angeles!

Our advice is always to shop around and hunt for the best prices and be as flexible as possible to snag the top deals.

Want to find the perfect hotel for your trip to LA? Read our comprehensive guide to the best hotels in Los Angeles on our hotels site Best Hotels Anywhere .

Personally, we think Hollywood , West Hollywood and Santa Monica are the three best places to book a hotel when visiting LA for the first time.

In the guide we break down hotels in the 5 most popular LA neighborhoods for first time tourists into highly rated cheap, mid range and expensive options.

But if you’re in a hurry, here are our top 3 picks from Hollywood, West Hollywood and Santa Monica.

• Budget – Hollywood Celebrity
• Mid Range – Loews Hollywood
• Luxury – Hollywood Roosevelt

West Hollywood

• Budget – Best Western Plus
• Mid Range – The Charlie
• Luxury – Pendry West Hollywood
• Budget – Santa Monica Motel
• Mid Range – Ambrose
• Luxury – Shutters On The Beach

Want to know our top tips for booking hotels? Here are 15 tips you can use today to help find and book cheap hotels when you travel.

Best Things To Do In Los Angeles Map

Click into this interactive map, zoom in / out and move around to find all the best things to do in Los Angeles, plus where to stay and eat:

Maroon markers – The best things to do on your visit to Los Angeles as listed above

Dark Green markers – All restaurants referenced in the where to eat section

Purple markers – Budget, Mid Range and Top End hotel options in Hollywood

Our Popular Guides From The Southwest

San Francisco – 40 free, cheap and fun things to do in SF and how to plan the perfect 3 day San Francisco itinerary .

San Diego – The 9 best things to do in San Diego with 3 day itinerary.

Death Valley – How to spend the best one day in Death Valley from Las Vegas .

Yosemite – Exactly how to spend a 1, 2 and 3 Day Itinerary in Yosemite National Park .

Joshua Tree – How to plan the perfect Joshua Tree day trip itinerary from Los Angeles .

Las Vegas – The 40 best things to do in Las Vegas , including 20 on the strip and 20 off the strip.

We hope this list of best things to do in Los Angeles for first time visitors helped you plan your LA itinerary!

Please let us know if you have any questions or need any help with planning your visit!

Happy Travels ,

Mark and Kristen

Was This Post Helpful? Pin It For Your Visit To LA!

Note : This article contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase using one of these affiliate links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

All Rights Reserved © Where Are Those Morgans, LLC. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, maps, graphics, etc.) in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

Mark and Kristen Morgan are travel, hiking and photography experts. Over the last 6 years traveling full time, they have explored more than 40 countries and 30 US states.

Where Are Those Morgans has been featured in USA Today, Gestalten, Get Your Guide, CityPASS and Condé Nast Traveler along with various other publications. Read more about us .

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Attractions

15 top attractions in los angeles.

Los Angeles is a city full of things to do, from museums , to shopping, to hikes. There’s never a dull moment, if you just know what you’re looking for. A day out is super easy to plan with these top rated tourist attractions in Los Angeles.

If you have just a couple of days to spend or you’re in town for a week or more, you can sink right into these activities, with very little effort. The only issue you’ll face, if any, is getting around, as the traffic can be a bit of a nightmare.

» You might be interested in these 7 National Parks Near Los Angeles and 30 Fun Things To Do In Los Angeles.

» Looking for more help with your Los Angeles trip planning? Check out our full Los Angeles travel guide as well as this useful 2-day LA itinerary . Here’s where to find the best views !

Table of Contents

Must-See Attractions in LA

1. hollywood sign.

The most iconic Los Angeles landmark, the Hollywood Sign is a must-see for any visitor to the city. It sits atop Mount Lee as a representation of the California film industry and it beckons visitors with multiple hiking trails leading up to it, ranging from 3 to 8 miles round trip, leaving from Griffith Park.

The monument was built in 1923 as an advertising gimmick for a housing complex called Hollywoodland. Each letter is made of white-painted sheet metal and stands 50 feet tall. Over the years, it’s been near destruction, but the city just keeps on finding a way to preserve it.

While you’re trekking around the area looking for views of the sign to take a good photo, you can also drive up into the Hollywood hills to see all the luxury houses.

» Try this tour: The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles

2. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Immortalizing the biggest names in entertainment, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Los Angeles. Walk the same streets as your favorite movie stars at this historic Los Angeles thoroughfare and get a picture of their star on the sidewalk.

If there’s one thing I can say about this attraction it’s that you should set your expectation properly. The old part of Hollywood isn’t what it once was and can be a bit disappointing on first sight.

Near the Walk of Fame, this area is frequented by street performers dressed as various movie characters, musicians, and other entertainers. It’s a unique experience that adds to the Hollywood atmosphere.

3. Griffith Park

Griffith Park is one of Los Angeles’ most popular outdoor destinations, with dozens of things to do. Visitors can enjoy a hike in the hills (this is where the hike to the Hollywood sign begins), a spin on the merry-go-round, a game of golf, and much more.

The park is also home to the Los Angeles Zoo, the Autry Museum of the American West, and Griffith Observatory, which offers stunning views of Los Angeles and its surrounding mountains.

» Try this tour: The Best of LA Tour: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Griffith Park +More

4. Griffith Observatory

This L.A. institution offers stunning views of the city, as well as a variety of educational exhibits on astronomy and science, and a planetarium. The Griffith Observatory is a great place to visit to learn more about the universe. It’s a unique and magical place that you shouldn’t miss. From the observatory, you can get a great view of the Hollywood Sign and the Los Angeles skyline.

The observatory is open to the public every day of the week, and offers free admission. Plan to spend around 2-3 hours looking around.

5. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, this Frank Gehry-designed building is a work of art in itself. It’s considered to be one of the most acoustically sophisticated concert halls in the world.

If you can get a ticket to a show, definitely make this your evening plan. You can also just visit the building, which is architecturally stunning. It’s located at 111 South Grand Avenue in downtown Los Angeles and occupies an entire city block. The building took 15 years to build.

» See  upcoming events and get tickets  here.

6. Santa Monica Pier & Beach

A classic California beachfront destination, the Santa Monica Pier is a fun place to spend some time. Constructed in 1909, the historic Santa Monica Pier was the first concrete pier on the West Coast and it’s been a focal point of the area ever since. There are tons of things to do in Santa Monica along with some great hiking that will keep you busy for a long weekend for starters.

On the pier, there are rides and games to shops and restaurants. The beach surrounding the pier is lively, with playgrounds, parks, and picnic areas. This is also where you’ll find the original Muscle Beach .

Although Santa Monica Pier and the beach can be quite busy in high season, it’s still worth a visit to see the flashing neon lights on the boardwalk, and to walk along the waterfront. It’s just one of those iconic activities you must do in Los Angeles.

» Try this tour: Private Electric Bike Tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beaches

7. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Another classic Los Angeles beach experience, Venice Beach is known for its unique character and eclectic atmosphere. The Venice Beach boardwalk stretches over two miles, along which you’ll find dozens of street vendors and performers, restaurants and bars.

While Venice Beach doesn’t have the same glitzy appeal as Santa Monica, it’s none the less a great place to hangout. If you’re looking for beach activities, swimming, beach volleyball, fishing, and surfing are popular here. The Venice Breakwater is actually an acclaimed local surf spot .

8. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

One of the largest art museums in the country, LACMA houses a diverse collection spanning centuries and cultures.

The museum is housed in a large, modern building, and its galleries are arranged into chronological order to give visitors a sense of the history of art. LACMA’s collection includes works by Vincent van Gogh, Rembrandt, Pablo Picasso, and many other famous artists.

9. Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive is one of Los Angeles’ most famous shopping destinations. This luxury shopping street is home to designer stores, high-end boutiques, and exclusive retailers, like Louis Vuitton, Prada, Tiffany, and Gucci.

Rodeo Drive is also a popular tourist destination, and visitors can often see celebrities shopping or dining in the area. The name generally refers to a three-block long stretch of boutiques and shops but the street stretches further north and south.

10. Crypto.com Arena (Formerly Staples Center)

The former Staples Center, now called Crypto.com Arena , is a Los Angeles landmark and the home of four professional sports teams: the Los Angeles Lakers (NBA), the Los Angeles Clippers (NBA), the Los Angeles Kings (NHL), and the Los Angeles Sparks (WNBA). The arena also hosts concerts and other special events.

With so many events going on at the arena, you’ll likely find something to grab tickets to while you’re in town. The arena is located amongst many of Los Angeles’ best restaurants, so you can make a night of it by going out for dinner before your game or concert.

11. Chinatown

A vibrant and historic Los Angeles neighborhood, Chinatown offers a wealth of shops, restaurants, and cultural experiences. It’s one of my favorite places to visit in Los Angeles because it feels like you’ve found something unique.

Traditional Chinese restaurants, dim sum restaurants, bakeries, specialty grocery stores, and gift shops are all housed in pagoda-style buildings with red lanterns out front, making it feel like a little slice of China in the midst of the concrete jungle. Additionally, there are dimly lit bars, little art galleries, and the Taoist Thien Hau Temple.

If you’re looking for great food beyond the Chinese offerings, check out the iconic Philippe the Original , known for its French dip sandwich.

12. Universal Studios Hollywood

One of the world’s oldest continuously operating movie studios, Universal® Studios Hollywood presents an entertaining mix of thrill rides and live action shows, plus a tram ride. The large California theme park cleverly integrates the shows and rides with behind-the-scenes presentations on movie-making.

A must-do for movie and TV fans, Universal Studios Hollywood is both a working studio and a theme park with rides based on popular films and TV shows. Enter The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World, along with The Simpsons, Jurassic Park, and The Secret Life of Pets.

13. The Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl is one of the world’s most famous concert venues. The bowl is an amphitheater that seats over 18,000 people, and it has been host to some of the biggest names in music, including the Beatles, Barbra Streisand, and Bruno Mars. The Hollywood Bowl is also a popular Los Angeles landmark, and its iconic design is recognized around the world.

» See  upcoming events and get tickets  here.

14. The Getty Center

The Getty Center is a Los Angeles landmark that is home to the J. Paul Getty Museum and the Getty Research Institute. This world-renowned art museum features two decorated courtyards and expansive gardens.

The museum is one of the world’s largest art museums, with a collection that spans centuries and cultures, from the Middle Ages to today. The Getty Center is also home to a large garden and an observation deck that offers stunning views of Los Angeles and its surrounding mountains.

Admission to The Getty Center and the Getty Villa Museum are free, but you do need a timed entry ticket, which you can get on their homepage .

15. The Grove

The Grove is a Los Angeles landmark that is home to some of the city’s best shopping and dining. The Grove is a popular destination for Los Angeles residents and tourists alike, and visitors can find stores like Apple, Tiffany & Co., and Burberry here.

The Grove also has a large movie theater, as well as plenty of restaurants to choose from. Grab a quick Umami Burger or sit down for a more sophisticated Italian meal at La Piazza . It’s just shopping, but elevated, and it’s a chill activity for a day out in Los Angeles.

16. Peterson Automotive Museum

The Petersen Automotive Museum stands as a mecca for car enthusiasts, showcasing an extensive collection of automobiles that chronicle the evolution of automotive influence over the years.

Located on Wilshire Boulevard, this museum is not just about cars; it’s about the stories behind them, the people who built them, and the culture they’ve created.

The striking exterior, with its unique stainless-steel ribbon design, is a work of art in itself. Inside, visitors can explore multiple floors of exhibits featuring more than 100 vehicles – from classic models to futuristic concept cars.

The museum also offers interactive exhibits, making it a dynamic destination for families and car aficionados alike. Whether you’re a motorhead or just curious about the impact of cars on society and popular culture, the Petersen Automotive Museum is a must-visit destination in LA.

More Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

If this list wasn’t enough for you, don’t worry there’s more! I mean, there are literally dozens of things to do in Los Angeles, but we’re trying to give you only the very best so you don’t have to make decisions. Just go and have fun.

• Universal Studios Hollywood : A film studio and theme park with attractions and rides based on famous movies, offering a behind-the-scenes look at movie-making.
• Disneyland Resort : Located in nearby Anaheim, this iconic theme park is a world of its own, with rides, attractions, and entertainment based on Disney characters and stories.
• The Getty Center : Home to a vast collection of artworks, sculptures, and decorative arts from various periods, set within a modern architectural masterpiece with stunning gardens.
• The Broad : A contemporary art museum in downtown LA, housing a significant collection of post-war and modern art.
• TCL Chinese Theatre : An iconic Hollywood movie palace known for its celebrity handprints and footprints in the forecourt.
• Dodger Stadium : A must-visit for baseball fans, offering games in a classic setting with views of the San Gabriel Mountains.
• LA Live : An entertainment complex in downtown LA, featuring music venues, nightclubs, restaurants, a bowling alley, and a movie theater.

Best Hotels for Tourists in Los Angeles

When visiting Los Angeles, choosing the right hotel can enhance your experience in this dynamic city. Here are two of the best Los Angeles hotels that I recommend for tourists. They’re in the best places near top sights.

• A member of Design Hotels is in the city center.
• On the Travel + Leisure best new hotels list.
• Walk to a number of the top attractions downtown.
• Luxury spa hotel, walk to The Broad and Walt Disney Concert Hall
• The hotel has a stylish design, a terrace, and several dining options.
• The hotel has great reviews.

Los Angeles is a city with plenty to offer visitors. From world-famous tourist destinations like Hollywood and Rodeo Drive, to lesser known but equally fascinating attractions like The Grove, there is something for everyone in Los Angeles. If you’re looking for a fun and interesting vacation destination, Los Angeles should be at the top of your list.

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Laura is a travel fanatic who loves seeing and doing new things. She lives in Ventura, CA, and spends a lot of time exploring California’s cities, beaches, and national parks.

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17 Things To Do In Los Angeles: Complete Guide To Exploring LA & Southern California

T he vast, sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles is the largest city in California. If that wasn't big enough, the "City of Angels" even ranks as the second-largest city in the US, painting a clear picture of just how seriously big this place is. What LA looked like before Hollywood shot this part of the country to global fame is an entirely different realm; the city and its surrounding regions have undergone a complete transformation into a substantial urban hub filled with a diversity of attractions, neighborhoods, activities, and people.

More notably, the city is famed for being favored by movie stars, hopeful actors, musicians, budding artists (and plenty of surfers), and is thus a hive of the arts and comes with a booming social scene (and a ton of traffic, too) to match its electric, trendy vibe.

While Los Angeles is a place where dreams come true for many, it's not everybody's cup of tea. Some can't get enough of the place; others can't stand it. A lot of people — visitors and residents alike — claim it's far too big and expensive, which does put many off from ever visiting. However, those who know how to plan a trip to LA, where to go, what to do and see, and where to stay will find it's a top destination in California for tourists — not just residents.

When wondering what part of California to visit , Los Angeles always comes top. However, the key to the ultimate LA vacation is to take it at one's own pace and remove the pressure of trying to tick every tourist track off the list. As a place designed for enjoying life's pleasures, from eating and drinking to lounging on the beach and dancing the night away, a getaway to LA will show tourists that life is for living — but only if they go to the right places.

To help aspiring visitors have the time of their lives and experience the unique magic oozing from this city's every nook and cranny, this ultimate guide to Los Angeles, California, goes through everything they'd ever need to know: top LA attractions, where to stay, eat, and how much a vacation to LA costs.

UPDATE: 2023/07/04 09:21 EST BY BARRY JUMA

The Ultimate Travel Guide To Los Angeles & Southern California & Things To Do There

One article can't cover everything Los Angeles has to offer, but this piece certainly tries to cover a huge portion of this destination's wonders. This update places the things to do at center stage, and it's an attempt to do justice to the city of stars. Still, those planning to visit one of the most glamorous cities in the US will be spoiled for choice both within the city and nearby.

Things To Do In Los Angeles

The top attractions in LA range from budget-friendly to high-end purse string pullers. From shopping, partying, hiking, and checking out famous LA landmarks to beach lounging, surfing, and wining and dining, there are so many things to do in LA that visitors could easily spend several weeks exploring and still run out of time.

Still, whether one has a weekend in LA or a few months, these are some of the best things to do in Los Angeles.

Related: 12 Unique Stops To Make On A Road Trip From LA To San Diego

Spend The Day At Venice Beach

Venice Beach is one of the best beaches in California ranked by surf . It's just as popular among swimmers, sports lovers, and beach loungers as surfers, too, which is no surprise, given that it's an all-around eventful stretch of shoreline with a lot going on.

In between all the surgery, skaters, and street performers, visitors can watch entertaining street basketball games, gaze at street art, and eat and drink to their hearts' content at the diverse restaurants lining the beach.

Although Venice Beach is an amazing spot to spend the day, it does get crowded in peak season and on weekends, so it's not recommended for those looking for privacy, peace, and quiet.

Huntington Beach, Playa del Rey, and Redondo Beach are also some of the best beaches in LA. Also, Abbot Kinney Blvd is close to Venice Beach, which offers even more restaurants, bars, shops, galleries, and interesting (and often quirky) businesses to check out.

Plus, Abbot Kinney Boulevard's First Friday event is the best time to go; as its name suggests, it takes place on the first Friday of every month, when food trucks and live music performances move in and create a fun, flamboyant and flavorful atmosphere.

• Tour: Los Angeles Venice Beach walking tasting tour with Secret Food Tours
• Duration: 3 hours
• Cost: From $84.53 USD per adult

Book this tour

Check Out The Getty Museum

The Getty Museum houses an expansive art collection — its works predominately consist of pre-twentieth-century European pieces along with nineteenth and twentieth-century European and American photography.

Among its many masterpieces by renowned creatives, the establishment even features work by Van Gogh, Gauguin, and many other legendary artists.

First opened in 1997, the museum's exteriors are just as impressive, with its gardens, gorgeous architecture, and stunning city views

• Getty Museum Price : Free to enter (but parking costs $20)
• Closed on Mondays
• Tour : Los Angeles City and Getty Museum Tour
• Duration: 5 hours
• Cost: From $288 USD per adult

Stroll Down Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard is an iconic LA landmark, where street performers put on a constant show and tourists from all over the world stroll along the sidewalks.

This spot is also home to one of the most famous attractions in LA: the Walk of Fame, where over 2,700 celebrities’ handprints and footprints are on show for all to marvel at and take photos.

• Tour: Hollywood Walk of Fame and Hollywood Boulevard Tour
• Duration: 2 hours
• Cost: From $24 USD per adult

Explore Downtown LA

Downtown Los Angeles has always been a popular area, but in recent years, it's received new additions that have made this part of the city an even busier place with lots to experience.

One such addition is a pedestrian center, which boasts concert halls, theaters, museums, and plenty of new restaurants.

Of course, no visit downtown would be complete without checking out LA's Grand Central Market . Boasting dozens upon dozens of the best food vendors in LA, there are so many options for grub comprising cuisines from all over the world.

• Tour: Downtown Los Angeles Architecture Walking Tour
• Cost: From $35 USD per adult

Visit Griffith Park

Griffith Park offers excellent picnicking and hiking; its lovely trails head to Mulholland Drive and provide beautiful views of the city. However, hikes aren't the only activity popular in this park.

Visitors can enjoy the Autry Western Museum, the LA Zoo, the Griffith Observatory , a golf course, a driving range, and even pony rides.

Spanning 4,310 acres, the park also houses abundant wildlife, including coyotes, mountain lions, rattlesnakes, and more to look out for.

• Tour: Griffith Observatory Hike: An LA Tour through the Hollywood Hills
• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Take A Tour Of Universal Studios Hollywood

• Universal Studios Hollywood one-day ticket price is $109. The two-day pass starts at $149

Universal Studios Hollywood is the world's only combined movie studio and theme park. The famed Studio Tour is a popular pastime, which only lasts an hour but grants an exclusive, behind-the-scenes glimpse at the Hollywood.

This tour even lets participants see real movie sets from well-known flicks, such as Peter Jackson's King Kong , the plane crash scene from War of the Worlds , cars from Fast and Furious , and the Bates Hotel from Psycho .

As for the amusement park side of the complex, there's Jurassic World, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, numerous special effects shows, and so much more.

• Tour: Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket
• Duration: From $109 USD per adult
• Cost: 8 hours

Related: 10 Beaches To Visit In Los Angeles Before Summer Is Over

Go Wild At Disneyland

Located in Anaheim, Orange County, just outside of Los Angeles, Disneyland is the place to be if travelers wish to enjoy being a kid again. Rivaling Florida's theme parks, such as Disney and Universal Studios , this is the West Coast's answer to the biggest amusement parks in the Sunshine State.

The complex packs in so many rides and attractions, with popular rides including Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and its Rise of the Resistance ride, Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, and Indiana Jones Adventure.

While it's around an hour and a half from LA, Disneyland in Anaheim is worth the venture if visitors are searching for some serious family-friendly fun and to let their inner child go wild.

Additionally, if traveling to the park from LAX, a Disneyland LAX shuttle operates the route (costing $85 for the first passenger and $10 for every extra person), affording park-goers the utmost convenience logistics-wise.

• Disneyland Anaheim tickets start at $104

Party On Sunset Boulevard

Sunset Boulevard first started life as a commuter route between the star-stuffed neighborhoods and all the film studios in and around Hollywood. Now, it's more than that; it's one of the most famous streets in the world, stretching from downtown to the ocean.

Sunset Blvd passes through the world-famous Sunset Strip, with no lack of movie studios and trendy beaches along the way. This place is a top spot for celebrity spotting, too; simply driving through and keeping an eye out for famous faces is a fun activity in itself.

Visit Santa Monica Pier

Constructed in 1909, The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most famous spots in LA and promises a fun few hours for all the family.

Located right on the beach, this spot boasts a vibrant, energized carnival vibe and is chock-full of rides, food stalls, an arcade, and carnival games, and plenty of shops.

Explore Santa Monica Pier to see precisely why this long-loved spot in Los Angeles has remained a local and tourist favorite for years.

• Address : 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States

Explore The Historic Old Town Pasadena

The old downtown Pasadena is only around ten minutes from Los Angeles. Extending 22 blocks, the pedestrian area is a National Register Historic District (under the National Register of Historic Places) and offers myriads of restaurants and boutique stores.

It's also fantastic for nightlife and is pretty popular among LA's young people who come for a night out on the town.

Though fashionable youngsters enjoy this area, it's enjoyed by all ages and remains a great hang-out spot, dining destination, and shopping hub.

Related: This Is The Best Beach Route To Skate In Los Angeles

Visit Huntington Library

Situated nearby Pasadena, this library looks elaborately beautiful from the outside and in, with its ornate architecture, sublime interiors, as well as its magnificent gardens — which include Chinese and Japanese gardens (the latter worthy of being one of the most tranquil Japanese gardens in the US to visit in spring ).

Of course, this isn't merely a breathtaking building with exquisite grounds; it's an enriching establishment overflowing with knowledge. In fact, the library houses some super rare, valuable books, one being a copy of The Canterbury Tales from the fifteenth century, as well as a fourteenth-century Gutenberg Bible in the main exhibition hall.

• Huntington Library ticket price: $20 (note that Huntington Library tickets cost $29 on weekends)
• Huntington Library hours: 10 am - 5 pm (closed on Tuesdays)

Running and hiking trails in LA are abundant; however, one of the most famous among residents and tourists is Runyon Canyon.

This area offers plenty of marked trails, with some of the easiest for beginners, including Fryman Canyon Park (2.5 miles), Los Liones Trail (3.5 miles), and Caballero Canyon (3.4 miles).

View The World-Famous Hollywood Sign

Visitors can hike to the iconic Hollywood sign via Griffith Park trails, which are open during daylight hours from sunrise to sunset.

Three trails (which take around a couple of hours or so) lead hikers to the sign, with the easiest being the Mt Hollywood Trail, followed by the Brush Canyon Trail and the Cahuenga Peak Trail, which are a little more strenuous.

The effort is worth it, though; panoramic views of Hollywood can be enjoyed from the sign — and, for that reason, the best time to visit the Hollywood sign is said to be sunset.

• Tour: The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles--FREE WATERS and PHOTOS
• Cost: From $25 USD per adult

Feed The Mind At The California Science Center

The family-friendly California Science Center is a treasure trove of educational exhibits covering a wealth of different niches. From space and aviation to biology, nature, and ecosystems (with river, forest, and island habitat exhibitions), guests can enjoy feeding their brains and eyes at this fascinating center of knowledge and research.

Although entry is free of charge, special exhibits and IMAX movies do require payment — usually anywhere from $10 to $20.

• California Science Center ticket price: Free (but parking costs between $15 and $20)
• Tour: Hollywood, California Science Center, and the Griffith Observatory from Anaheim
• Duration: 9 to 10 hours
• Cost: From $119 USD per adult

Related: A Flight To The Stars: Take This Celebrity-Themed Helicopter Ride Over Hollywood

Party In Echo Park And Silver Lake

Echo Park, Silver Lake, and the adjacent neighborhood of Los Feliz offer a constant party. These parts of Los Angeles are known for their hipster culture, trendy dive bars, and cool dining outlets that make for an awesome night on the town.

If partying sounds a little too much, though, visitors might enjoy a relaxing paddle boat ride on the lake instead.

Visit The Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The LACMA is the largest museum in the western United States and contains a humongous collection of artworks, including modern art and older masterpieces by coveted artists, such as Rembrandt, Ansel Adams, Magritte, and Cézanne.

In addition, the museum houses ancient works from all across the globe, including Roman, Greek, and Egyptian sculptures.

• LACMA ticket price: $25

Visit The Grammy Museum

Exhibitions, interactive experiences, costumes, movie artifacts, and a roster of films awaits at the famous Grammy Museum, which takes visitors through the entire timeline of the music industry and its history, along with previous Grammy winners' career stories.

• Grammy Museum ticket price: $18

How Much Does A Trip To Los Angeles Cost?

According to ChampionTraveler , the average price for a week spent in Los Angeles is just under $2,000 for a solo traveler, while that total sits at a little over $3,500 for a couple, and $6,700 for a family of four.

On average, hotels in Los Angeles range from $70 to $300 a night, and most vacation rentals are priced at anything from $250 to just over $1000 per night for a full home.

Up next, the following sections offer a deeper insight into the costs of visiting Los Angeles, from hostel and budget hotel prices to food and drink and backpacking estimates.

LA Hostel Prices

The prices of hostels in LA vary, depending on which part of the city visitors stay in. Fortunately, prices don't fluctuate too much throughout the year, but they aren't on the cheap side — yes , even for a hostel.

Dorm rooms in LA range from $30 to $50 as a starting point and can even be as high as $80 to $100 for those on the more upmarket side. A basic private hostel room with an ensuite bathroom is typically priced at around $80 to $120 a night, with most offering free Wi-Fi and a shared kitchen area for self-catering.

LA Budget Hotel Prices

The average budget two-star hotel room in LA costs roughly $100 a night. These rooms are very basic but comfortable, usually including free Wi-Fi, a TV, and air-conditioning.

Airbnb Prices in LA

Travelers who prefer Airbnbs are in luck; there are plenty of Airbnbs in Los Angeles to suit all budgets.

A basic private Airbnb room on the lower end starts at about $85 to $95 a night, while vacation rental homes and apartments can be booked for around $150 to $180 per night at a starting point.

However, these prices can double if booked last minute; therefore, reserving Airbnbs well in advance is a must in order to save big bucks.

Related: Adrenaline Junkies Only: 10 Bold Things To Do In Los Angeles

Food Prices in LA

Los Angeles is a foodie's heaven! Luckily, even for travelers on a budget, it doesn't cost an arm and a leg to get affordable and good street food in LA. This city is where food trucks, street vendors, and unique eateries proliferate, so options are seemingly endless.

Plenty of street grub and fast food options can be found for under $10; for example, hungry visitors can bag a hearty sandwich or a McDonald's for around $10 or tacos for $3 to $6.

As for restaurants, laid-back, casual dining outlets charge around $15 to $20 for a main course, while a three-course sit-down meal will range from $55 to $80, depending on the establishment.

When it comes to drinks, beer costs approximately $8 to $10, bottled water costs around $2 to $3, and coffee will be around $5.

Travelers who don't eat out and prefer to cook instead will find they'll spend between $50 to $90 a week on groceries, which will be enough for essential items like rice, pasta, bread, vegetables, and affordable meats.

Los Angeles Backpacker Budget

Backpacking in Los Angeles is a popular option among travelers exploring the West Coast.

On a low-end budget, travelers can expect to spend between $70 to $80 a day, which should cover a basic hostel dorm room, cooking for oneself (no dining out or drinking), public transportation, and free LA attractions and activities, such as exploring hiking trails and visiting beaches.

Related: Follow These Tips To Have A Non-Touristy Los Angeles Vacation

A mid-tier budget for LA is around $200 a day, which includes more comfortable accommodation in a private hostel room or an Airbnb.

This budget level also enables travelers to dine out for most meals, have a few drinks, utilize a taxi or two, and enjoy some of the pay-for activities in LA, such as attending Disneyland for the day, visiting LA museums, or catching a theater show or a concert.

A high-end budget for LA will be at least $400 a day. For this amount daily, travelers can stay in a hotel, eat and drink out anywhere they please, take taxis or rent a vehicle, and sample all the activities, attractions, and tours in LA they so desire.

Still, this budget is only the low end of the high end; a heftier daily budget will get travelers even greater luxury and experiences.

Where To Stay In Los Angeles

Ultimately, the top LA neighborhoods to stay in truly depends on travelers' preferences, style, what they intend to do and see, their budget, and also each area itself in terms of what it offers.

With those factors in mind, here's an in-depth rundown of some of the most famous neighborhoods and best places to stay in LA, along with accommodation suggestions for each based on three budget levels: budget, mid-range, and luxury.

What Are The Best Hostels In LA?

Before getting into the best places to stay in LA in each neighborhood, knowing some of the top hostels in LA is ideal for backpackers since most are on a tight budget.

For folks looking to stretch their funds without skimping on a good time, checking out the best hostels for backpackers in SoCal (top-rated SoCal hostels, at that) is a wise idea.

Related: The Ultimate List Of Dos & Don'ts When Staying In A Hostel

On the other hand, the following list of top-rated hostels in LA is based on traveler needs and preferences — which one sounds ideal for that dream trip in the City of Angeles?

• LA's best hostel for budget travelers: Samesun Hollywood Hostel
• Best family-friendly hostel: Freehand Los Angeles
• Best hostel in Los Angeles for solo female travelers: HI Los Angeles Santa Monica
• Best hostel in LA for partying on a budget: Banana Bungalow Hollywood
• Best LA hostel overall Samesun Venice Beach

For travelers free from financial constraints, luxury Los Angeles hotels might be more fitting!

What Are The Best LA Neighborhoods To Stay In?

Best place to stay in la for the celebrity experience: beverly hills.

Beverly Hills translates to rich and famous; it's the home of many of the world's A-listers, so it's no surprise some of the USA's most luxurious hotels, mansions, and restaurants bustle in this globally famed neighborhood.

Even if travelers don't stay in Beverly Hills, visiting Rodeo Drive lets everyone feel like a celeb for the day and walk among the one percent; this spot is lined with some of the world's most expensive luxury stores and boutiques, which command a pretty penny but, of course, don't cost anything to look around.

If visitors dream of staying in Beverly Hills — no matter their budget — there are a few options:

• $ Budget : Hotel del Flores (from $109 a night!)
• $$ Mid-range : Sixty Beverly Hills and Avalon Hotel
• $$$ Luxury : Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills

Related: 10 Super Unique Los Angeles Hotels To Book

Best Place To Stay In LA For Budget Travelers: Venice Beach

Venice Beach is the beach destination in LA, where miles of wide-open sandy shores beckon sun-chasers and surfers. The area's iconic promenade also makes the place an incredible day out, flanked by shops and stalls selling all kinds of goodies, from food and souvenirs to clothing, trinkets, and gifts.

As one of the top spots in LA for tourists (and residents, too), Venice Beach and its promenade are also stocked with hotels and hostels to suit all budgets and preferences.

With that in mind, the following options offer some of the best accommodations in Venice Beach:

• $ Budget: Samesun Venice Beach
• $$ Mid-range: The Kinney
• $$$ Luxury : Venice V Hotel

Best Place For First-Time Visitors In LA (For The Quintessential Hollywood Experience): West Hollywood

West Hollywood is the epitome of Los Angeles as it's portrayed in the movies.

Most visitors whose experience of LA comes from the big screen will resonate with this part of California, with its famous Sunset and Hollywood Boulevards, the Walk of Fame, movie studios, and streets decorated with palm trees all under the LA sun.

This part of the city isn't the most affordable; however, it's perfect for first-time visitors seeking the signature Los Angeles experience, as it's central to almost anything and everything tourists want to do and see during their vacation. Here are some of the best places to stay in West Hollywood:

• $ Budget : Banana Bungalow West Hollywood
• $$ Mid-range : Ramada
• $$$ Luxury : Andaz West Hollywood

Best Place To Stay In LA For Families: Santa Monica

Nestled by the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica is the perfect family-friendly destination in Los Angeles and is often considered one of the safest areas.

The gorgeous beach makes for the ideal day out, enjoying water activities and sunbathing, while the nearby pier offers even more entertainment, such as stalls and amusement park rides.

Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade is also a fun place to check out; it comprises numerous blocks of pedestrian streets full of restaurants, coffee shops, and all kinds of shops and stalls. The following picks are some of the best places to stay in Santa Monica:

• $ Budget : HI Los Angeles
• $$ Mid-range : Hotel Carmel
• $$$ Luxury : Hotel Casa del Mar and Shutters on the Beach

Best Place To Stay In LA For The Arts And Culture: Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles (sometimes referred to as DTLA) used to be off the tourist map; synonymous with crime and the home of the infamous skid row, it was a troubled part of the city and remained a no-go for the most part. There wasn't much to do or see in this part of LA, either, which didn't help its appeal.

However, over the last couple of decades, LA's downtown has undergone an overhaul and transformed its reputation. Now, it offers an array of fancy hotels, trendy cafés and restaurants, epic cocktail bars, and popular artistic establishments — such as The Museum of Contemporary Art, the Broad Museum, and the Disney Hall concert venue.

If nightlife, the arts, and culture are of focus, then downtown LA deserves a chance to impress. For those interested, here are some of the best places to stay in downtown LA:

• $ Budget : Little Tokyo Hotel
• $$ Mid-range: Freehand Los Angeles
• $$$ Luxury : The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles and Level Furnished Apartments – Downtown South Olive

Related: 8 Things You Shouldn't Miss When Visiting Los Angeles

• United States
• Los Angeles

55 Best Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

• 6 Pinterest

Boasting year-round sunshine, a booming entertainment industry and glamorous celebrity hangouts , Los Angeles is an exciting destination to explore at any time of year.

Home to Hollywood — the movie capital of the world , the city offers lots of ways to experience the celebrity thrills of the silver screen for yourself. Tour some of the famous movie studios , including Paramount, Universal, Warner Bros and Walt Disney, and see historic movie houses such as The TCL Chinese Theatre, El Capitan and the Egyptian Theatre.

Take a guided tour through the exclusive neighborhoods of Beverly Hills and Malibu to spot celebrity homes , and visit the famous Hollywood Sign to snap a selfie! These are just a few of the popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles .

Tons of exciting family-friendly theme parks are waiting to be experienced, such as the ever-popular Disneyland Resort, Knott’s Berry Farm and Six Flags Magic Mountain. Explore the city’s natural treasures, including the Los Angeles Zoo, La Brea Tar Pits and the Aquarium of the Pacific. Cool off with a visit to the Raging Waters Water Park or check out LEGOLAND California for rides and attractions for younger children .

With so much to discover, here are some of the must-see tourist attractions in the City of Angels .

1 – Universal Studios Hollywood

By far one of the most popular tourist attractions in the City of Angels, Universal Studios Hollywood lets everyone experience the action and glamour of the movies .

For all of you aspiring magic-makers, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter offers tons of thrills and enchanting encounters .

Join Harry on The Forbidden Journey and ride through the dusty corridors of Hogwarts and beyond, or climb aboard the Hippogriff for a high-flying adventure like no other.

Check out some of the biggest rides and shows based on Universal Studios ‘ top blockbuster movies. Experience the prehistoric exhilaration of Jurassic World – The Ride, and witness all the explosions and stunts of the park’s hit show, Waterworld.

Take the Studio Tour to travel inside scenes from some of your favorite movies and explore sights and locations from popular films and TV series .

Come face to face with the notorious shark, Jaws and visit Hitchcock’s infamous “Psycho” Bates Motel. Travel through the aftermath of the War of the Worlds and see the largest immersive ride on earth at the King Kong 360 3D.

Universal Studios is a must-visit on a trip to Los Angeles . This is a place where dreams are made, every day!

• Universal Studios Hollywood tickets

See also: Cheap Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets – How to Save up to 30%

2 – Los Angeles Zoo

For a chance to glimpse a whole host of exotic and native animals and plants , Los Angeles Zoo is a great option while visiting the city.

It has a wide variety of creatures from all over the world including the tropics of Asia , the African Savannahs , Australia and the South American rainforests .

The zoo is home to over 2,000 creatures and 270 different species so there is a lot to see. Witness curious chimpanzees and elegant elephants, jaguars, ocelots and much more.

As well as mammals the park is also home to fascinating amphibians and reptiles , including a host of snakes, Komodo Dragons and ancient species like Indian Gharial crocodiles and Gila Monsters.

You can also see invertebrates such as Hissing Cockroaches and Desert Hairy Scorpions, colorful tropical fish and magnificent birds such as flamingos, kookaburra and toucans.

The zoo also includes some stunning botanical gardens with plants from all over the world — creating a wide range of environments. See the wild bird gardens, which attract native wildlife to the zoo as well as its Cycad, Gingko and Mexican Fan Palm collections.

3 – TCL Chinese Theatre

For nearly 100 years , TCL Chinese Theatre has been the go-to place in the city for glitzy movie premieres and events .

The theatre hosts around 50 movie premiere each year so is a great place to spot celebrities. It is one of a few remaining classic movie houses from the golden age of the silver screen — so a night out at the Chinese Theatre is bound to be memorable.

Outside of the theatre are the famous Hollywood handprints — featuring over 200 signatures and prints in the concrete. Here you’ll find prints from some of the world’s biggest stars , including Marilyn Monroe but also some of the more unusual stars of yesteryear, such as R2-D2 from Star Wars and Champion the Wonder Horse.

Take the opportunity to catch a movie here and experience this decadent “Old Hollywood” theatre. This is one of the best tourist attractions in Los Angeles for film fans and movie lovers should definitely check out this iconic piece of Hollywood History.

• TCL Chinese Theatre tours

Hot tip: The best Hollywood tours provide an insider’s view of the movie industry, from historic theaters to the latest filming locations.

4 – NBA game

Formerly known as the Staples Center , Crypto.com Arena is the place to go in Los Angeles to see some of the best professional sports action.

The arena is home to the biggest names in Los Angeles basketball , including the LA Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers NBA teams and the Los Angeles Sparks women’s basketball team. Ice hockey fans can catch games by the LA Kings NHL hockey team at Crypto.com arena.

The venue has hosted diverse sports competitions , including U.S and World figure skating championships, the Summer X Games, as well as championship tennis, boxing and UFC matches.

It is also home to some of the city’s biggest concerts with artists such as Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen have performed there.

Check out the website to see what events are on during your time in the city.

5 – Hop on hop off bus tour

One of the best value and most thorough ways to tour the city is on a Hop-on-hop-off bus tour.

See all the must-see locations of Tinsel Town on these specially devised sightseeing bus rides . Climb on board the open-air double-decker buses and explore locations across the city, including Hollywood , Beverly Hills and the Santa Monica Pier .

Start your journey at one of 45 different stops across Los Angeles and hop off wherever you like. Discover the glitz and glamor of the Hollywood Hills or take a stroll down the canals of Venice Beach.

These great value tours allow you to ride as many times as you like for the duration of the ticket so that you don’t need a car to explore LA . Just sit back and take in the sights and sounds of the City of Angels.

Enjoy the onboard commentary to hear a host of fun anecdotes, history and useful information about the sights you pass. Now that’s traveling!

• bus tours in Los Angeles

Hot tip: The best bus tours in Los Angeles offer an insider’s perspective on the city’s rich history, culture, and entertainment industry.

6 – Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Garden

One of the best cultural destinations to explore in the city, Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens has a lot to discover.

Founded in 1919, the library is one of the world’s greatest research institution s and holds over 11 million volumes in its expansive collection, dating from the 11th-Century to the present day.

It contains diverse materials such as medieval manuscripts , American , British and Hispanic history , English literature and a collection of maps and atlases to name but a few.

Its art collection is also notable and houses around 42,000 works focusing mainly on European Art between the years 1600-1900 and American Art from the Colonial era to the present day.

It has a thorough selection of British artworks , including decorative arts from the likes of William Morris & Co as well as paintings by Constable and Turner.

Nature lovers will really enjoy exploring the Botanical Gardens which house unique collections of Bonsai, cycads, camellia and orchid s. The full gardens cover 120 acres and include 16 themed gardens to discover .

This place is fun for the whole family and is one of the best tourist attractions in Los Angeles for those seeking a little culture.

7 – Beverly Hills

Without a doubt, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles is a celebrity homes tour of Beverly Hills .

These popular bus tours give visitors the chance to see the glamorous abodes of Hollywood’s super-rich and famous . Nestled in among some of the most expensive houses on Earth you can see the homes of major celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Cruise .

If you’re traveling on a budget why not explore the twists and turns of Mulholland Drive to grab amazing views of Beverly Hills from above . Alternatively, check out Greystone Mansion and Park or hire a bike and cycle around.

If you’re feeling particularly decadent why not try out one of the city’s fantastic restaurants or do some shopping at the upmarket stores and boutiques of Rodeo Drive .

You can have a lot of fun here just strolling the palm-lined streets and taking in the utter luxury that most of us can only dream of. It’s the one-and-only Beverly Hills!

• Beverly Hills tours

See also: Hollywood & Celebrity Homes Tours- All you Need to Know

8 – Six Flags Magic Mountain

With over 100 rides and attractions — including 19 fast and furious roller coasters to choose from, Six Flags Magic Mountain is a thrill-seekers paradise .

Adventure junkies will love the X2 which takes roller coasters to a whole new level with a combination of music, sound effects and fireballs.

Coaster-connoisseurs will enjoy taking on the Goliath, which has one of the longest and fastest drops in the world reaching speeds of up to 85mph on a 281 ft descent.

Only just getting warmed up? You can Hop onboard Lex Luthor: Drop of Doom to experience the tallest and fastest drop tower ride on Eart h, or hit up the Twisted Colossus to try out the world’s longest hybrid roller coaster.

There are also plenty of great family-friendly rides that are sure to put a smile on the face of everyone and little ones can grab a photo with their favorite Looney Tunes and Justice League characters .

With a host of great shows on offer and dozens of restaurants and snack bars to choose from, a trip to Six Flags Magic Mountain is a day to remember forever.

9 – Aquarium of the Pacific

One of the most popular aquariums in the United States , the Aquarium of the Pacific is home to over 12,000 creatures , all of which are native to the Pacific Ocean regions.

With more than 100 exhibits to check out , there’s plenty to see here. As well as the magnificent creatures from the deep you can also see adorable penguins, otters, seals,  frogs and colorful lorikeets .

Explore the Coral Lagoon to see tropical flashlight fish and clownfish as well as green sea turtles and many more. See colorful living coral that glow-in-the-dark and discover more about this fascinating underwater creature.

Explore the murky depths of the Shark Lagoon and come face-to-face with these magnificent hunters. See ferocious-looking sand tiger sharks , and elegant leopard sharks and get the chance to feed and stroke a ray .

This is a great place for kids and adults alike to discover the natural wonders of the Pacific , the world’s most diverse ocean.

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10 – California Science Center

One of the best free tourist attractions in Los Angeles , California Science Center makes learning super fun.

See one of only three surviving Endeavour Space shuttles — and the only one on the West Coast.

Glimpse amazing fighter jets and spy planes such as the A-12 Blackbird and F-20 Tigershark as well as early aircraft, including a Velie Monocoupe and a replica of the famous Wright Glider from 1902 .

Catch a movie in the IMAX theatre or discover underwater worlds and Earth’s most hostile environments in the Ecosystems exhibit. There are lots to see and do at the California Science Center and many opportunities to learn and explore more about the world around us.

General admission to the permanent exhibits is without charge but does not include the temporary exhibits and IMAX theater.

11 – Whale Watching in Long Beach

People have been enjoying whale watching tours off the Los Angeles coast for nearly seventy years.

Some of the most common species spotted include grey Pacific whales and blue whales , the largest creature on Earth . You can also spot a number of other beautiful marine mammals including dolphins, humpback whales and occasionally killer whales .

Because whales are migratory the likelihood of spotting certain species increases at different times of the year. The winter months are better for spotting grey Pacific whales and in summer , visitors are more likely to see blue whales as they pass through the warm Pacific waters.

Any chance to see whales and dolphins in their natural environment is sure to be an unforgettable experience for all involved. Try one of these Long Beach boat trips while you’re in the city for the voyage of a lifetime.

• whale watching in Los Angeles

Hot tip: Discover our list of fun things to do in Long Beach .

12 – Raging Waters Water Park

The largest waterpark in California , Raging Waters is the perfect place to cool off on those hot Southern California days.

With over 50 acres of slides, pools and rides there’s something for everyone here. Face your fears on the vertical drop slides or take it easy in the Little Dipper Lagoon — this is fun for the whole family .

Bombs Away is the park’s newest water slide and it combines huge drops at speeds of 28 feet per second , this one is not for the faint of heart.

Check out the Aqua Rocket and Dr. Von Dark’s Tunnel of Terror for further thrills or take a lazy ride on the Amazon Adventure . Increase the action on the Thunder Rapids raft ride or head into the twists and turns of the triple-flume Bermuda Triangle .

There’s plenty for smaller children too such as the Kids Cove, Splash Island Adventure park and Volcano Fantasea which will keep them amused for hours. Don’t miss a trip to Raging Waters Water Park during your time in Los Angeles.

13 – Hollywood Sign

If this is your first trip to Los Angeles you have to grab a picture in front of the famous Hollywood Sign .

Though you can see it from almost anywhere in Beverly Hills , there are a number of ways you can get closer to snap that perfect shot.

One of the most dramatic has to be on a helicopter tour and flyby of the sign . See the magnificent views of the Hollywood Hills and the gleaming white letters high up on Mount Lee.

A great low-budget way to see the sign is on a hike up to Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park . You can hike the 3 miles to the sign from here or just enjoy the views.

Of course, there are many other ways to see what is probably the world’s most iconic sign . You can join one of many tours and jump aboard a tour bus, take a guided hike or even a private tour in a Ferrari!

• Hollywood tours

See also: Helicopter Tours in Los Angeles – Which One Is the Best?

14 – Walt Disney Concert Hall

Internationally renowned as one of the world’s most acoustically advanced music venues , The Walt Disney Concert Hall is a must-visit for classical music lovers .

Home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra , this Frank Gehry-designed building is an architectural highlight of the city . Its vibrant exterior is a complex mixture of stainless steel waves and curves.

The inside is as striking as the outside and the hall’s auditorium is clad almost entirely in hardwoods — creating a warm and resonant space with fantastic acoustics . The sound inside the hall is so excellent, it is sometimes considered an instrument in itself .

It also has an innovative design that puts the orchestra in the center of the seating area rather than being detached from it, creating a more intimate experience for the performers and audience .

Sitting in the center of all this is the bespoke 6,134 pipe organ with its dramatic square pipes, often referred to as “French fries”.

Visitors with an interest in classical music shouldn’t miss a trip to the Walt Disney Concert Hall. There probably isn’t a better venue in the whole world to hear your favorite music in.

15 – Petersen Automotive Museum

With one of the largest private car collections in the world , Petersen Automotive Museum houses some of the finest and rarest cars in history .

Join a guided tour of The Vault which houses over 250 iconic vehicles such as a Round Door Rolls Royce, the first V12 Ferrari ever — a Ferrari 125 S, and famous movie cars, including the original Back to the Future DeLorean and Michael Keaton’s 1989 Batmobile.

The museum also hosts some of the best temporary automotive exhibits around such as “Bond in Motion” — a selection of iconic vehicles from the James Bond movies , as well as Hypercars and Formula One vehicles all under one roof.

You can also catch awesome exhibits exploring the history and future of electric vehicles from major manufacturers such as Volkswagen.

This is one of the best tourist attractions in Los Angeles for car and movie buffs but also makes a fun day for the whole family . Check it out while you’re in the city.

• Petersen Automotive Museum tickets

16 – LEGOLAND® California

A seriously fun place to visit with kids , LEGOLAND Resort California has lots to see and experience, including the LEGOLAND park itself, SEA LIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND Water Park .

With over 60 rides and attractions to experience, LEGOLAND California is sure to be a big hit with younger children. There’s a host of kid-friendly roller coasters , adventure playgrounds and activities that will kindle their imagination and curiosity.

SEA LIFE Aquarium is home to more than 6,000 creatures and over 250 species . Grab the chance to see some of the most incredible creatures of the deep, including species of sharks, rays, starfish and seahorses or explore the Touch Pools and stroke a spiny sea urchin.

If you can’t stand the heat any longer, take a refreshing dip at LEGOLAND Water Park . With seven slides as well as wave pools , beaches and a build-your-own raft river , there’s enough to keep everyone entertained.

For the ultimate experience, why not stay at one of the LEGOLAND Hotels and sleep in style in one of the pirate, Ninjago and adventure-themed rooms.

17 – MLB game

The Los Angeles’ Dodger Stadium has been home to the Major League Baseball team since it moved to the city from New York in 1958.

The famous Dodger Stadium in its hilltop setting surrounded by towering palm trees is one of the fan favorites among all the MLB venues in the country.

It can seat 56,000 fans and has been the setting for some record-breaking sporting moments , including one of the longest home winning streaks in modern baseball.

Why not catch a game at Dodger Stadium or take a tour of the grounds? Step onto the field and see the team’s 2020 World Series trophy . Visit the Bullpen and take a look inside the team’s weight room and batting cages .

Sports fans will have a blast visiting this iconic Major League Baseball stadium — right in the heart of the city.

18 – Knott’s Berry Farm

One of the most popular theme parks and tourist attractions in Los Angeles , Knotts Berry Farm has been the go-to place for fun-seekers for nearly a century.

What started as a small berry farm and restaurant — renowned for its chicken dinners, has grown to be one of the largest and oldest theme parks in California , covering up to 160 acres with rides , shows and attractions .

Take a trip back in time to the Old West Ghost Town and experience the thrills of cowboy country. Ride the exhilarating Calico Mine Train in the pitch black or discover one of the world’s longest and tallest wooden rollercoasters — GhostRider.

If roller coasters aren’t your thing why not take a trip on the Grand Sierra Railroad or visit the blacksmith’s shop for a unique demonstration.

As well as hair-raising white-knuckle rides, there’s plenty for younger kids too. Check out Camp Snoopy and explore the Peanuts-themed rides and attractions or visit the splash-tastic waterparks to cool off from the Southern California sun.

Round off the day with dinner and one of the famous boysenberry cream sodas at the old west-style Calico Saloon. A trip to Knotts Berry Farm is fun for the whole family .

• Knott’s Berry Farm tours

19 – Hollywood Pantages Theatre

One of the best, and most beautiful, places to see a theatrical production in the city has to be the Pantages Theatre .

Located on the corner of Hollywood and Vine , Pantages Theatre has been a center of entertainment in the city since it first opened in 1930. Its grand opening was a major red carpet event in the city that attracted all the biggest stars of the era.

The stunning architecture and interior decoration were restored to its 1930s art deco splendor in the year 2000.

In its near 100 year history, it has hosted movie premieres, including the 1963 premiere of Cleopatra, The Academy Awards from 1950-59 and many of Hollywood’s biggest live shows .

It now mainly hosts major Broadway plays and musicals , including The Lion King, Hamilton and Moulin Rouge.

20 – Hollywood Wax Museum®

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles is the Hollywood Wax Museum .

Since it first opened in 1965 it has been thrilling visitors with face-to-face encounters with the silver screen’s most recognizable characters. Visitors are invited to join in too!

There are tons of fun props and scenarios to enjoy here. Why not hit up an A-list party, sing along with your favorite pop star or get hitched to a Hollywood icon.

Though there are many waxworks of Hollywood’s most beautiful faces , there are also plenty of frightful creatures from the big screen in the museum’s Chamber of Horrors.

This classic wax museum is one of the most visited attractions on Hollywood Boulevard and has become an iconic landmark in its own right. Check it out for thrills and frights galore!

21 – Griffith Observatory

Known as a popular hiking destination and a place to see the famous Hollywood sign , there’s a lot more to Griffith Observatory than just that.

The observatory is home to one of the only live narrated planetarium shows on Earth . It houses a number of high-quality telescopes that are free for the public to use.

Its historic Zeiss telescope has allowed more than seven million people to gaze up into the night sky since it was opened in 1935. This is more than any other public telescope in the world.

The Griffith Observatory also houses three solar telescopes that give visitors a chance to observe the surface of the sun at any given moment.

Looking for a one-of-a-kind show? Try the Samuel Oschin Planetarium to catch a live narrated show that really brings the stars to life.

There are also a host of other engaging exhibits to explore which allows us to discover more about the universe around us. The Griffith Observatory is a great free attraction that is fun for the whole family .

• Griffith Park tours

22 – Skirball Cultural Center

There’s always lots to see and do for the whole family at the Skirball Cultural Center .

The organization hosts a wide range of fun exhibits covering everything from art, photography, television and movies and much more.

Some of its recent exhibitions have focused on the work of the legendary puppeteer Jim Henson, the cultural significance of Star Trek and the photographs of Stanley Kubrick.

Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring the Discovery Center which allows them to experiment with archeology and learn about the similarities we share with our distant ancestors.

One of the center’s most-popular exhibits is Noah’s Ark , a wooden recreation of the biblical ship that has many fun things to see, play with and experience. This is great for parents with younger kids who can build and experiment to their heart’s content while making friends and having fun.

You can also take a variety of classes at the Skirball Center or join in art and music events, discussion groups and much more.

23 – Hollywood Walk of Fame

With  over 2,700 stars represented  there, your trip to Los Angeles is not completed without visiting the  world’s most famous sidewalk .

Yes, we are talking about the  Walk of Fame , right in the heart of Hollywood, spanning more than 1 mile  along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street .

Receiving around  10 million visitors per year , here you’ll find some of the  most prominent names in various fields , such as film, TV, radio, live performance and music – and if you can’t find your idol there, did you know you can submit a nomination? (Even though it has a $250 fee and requires an agreement letter from their manager.)

To make sure you don’t miss any of the stars you want to visit, use the “ search for the star ” feature and quickly locate them and take a lot of pictures !

24 – Dolby Theatre

One of the world’s most state-of-the-art entertainment venues , Dolby Theatre offers visitors the next generation of sound and vision .

This Holywood Boulevard landmark is one of the best places in the city to see television and movie stars in person .

It is the venue for the yearly Academy Awards Ceremony — or The Oscars as it is commonly known, as well as regular screenings of hit TV shows and Q&As with cast and crew members.

It also hosts huge performances including Broadway productions, shows from Cirque du Soleil and even America’s Got Talent .

Its world-leading sound system is probably the most sophisticated ever produced and artists including Alicia Keys, Celine Dion and The Dixie Chicks have all performed here.

For one of the best quality audio visual experiences you’ll ever get, Dolby Theatre is the place to be.

• Dolby Theatre tours

25 – El Capitan Theatre

El Capitan is one of three famous theatres built by Charles Toberman and Sid Grauman in the 1920s — the other two being the Egyptian Theatre and Chinese Theatre which are both major Hollywood landmarks .

It was originally designed as a playhouse but was converted into a movie theatre in the early 1940s. It features elaborate Indian-style decorations throughout its interior.

It has seen its fair share of Hollywood parties also. The premiere of Orson Well’s movie-masterpiece Citizen Kane was held at El Capitan on May 8, 1941.

It has been the location for a number of Walt Disney Movie premieres since the Rocketeer debuted there in 1991 and is one of the best theatres in the city to catch some of your Disney favorites .

Definitely check out the theatre’s original Wurlitzer organ from the 1920s which is one of only five ever built.

26 – Cabrillo Marine Aquarium

One of the best tourist attractions in Los Angeles for those traveling on a budget , Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is located in a beautiful spot on the San Pedro waterfront .

The aquarium has free admission every day — although a donation is kindly requested , and allows visitors to learn a lot about the city’s coastal habitats .

There are over 200 species of animals that call the center home and multiple exhibits to explore covering everything from the tidal shores and kelp forests to the open ocean.

Channel your inner scientist in the Exploration Center, where you’ll use your senses and scientific tools to analyze the coastal habitats . Immerse yourself in the Crawl In Aquarium, where you are surrounded by colorful fish and sea creatures.

Check out the Discovery Center for fun activities and Naturalist’s Corner where you can view minuscule creatures under a microscope .

There’s also an extensive museum and friendly staff on hand to guide your visit and offer information. Cabrillo Marine Aquarium is a must-see for nature lovers in Los Angeles .

27 – Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

In the mood for some more fascinating discoveries? The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles has lots to see and uncover.

Take a trip back in time some 65 million years in the Museum’s Dinosaur Hall. See the bones of some of the most ferocious hunters that ever lived, including rare skeletons of baby and young Tyrannosaurus Rex .

See dozens of the largest skeletons in the museum’s collection and over 300 fossils , including the fossilized remains of a triceratops .

The museum itself is housed in a beautiful beaux-arts building that dates from 1913 and visitors shouldn’t miss the magnificent “Three Graces” statue that stands in its Eastern Entrance.

You can also glimpse the remains of extinct creatures such as the American Mastodon, watch scientists examine fossils in the Dino Lab and see a stunning collection of gems and stones , including the largest gold nugget in California.

Take time to stroll around the Nature Gardens too which are home to over 600 kinds of plants.

• Natural History Museum tickets

28 – GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live

Music fans will really enjoy a trip to the Grammy Museum , which features loads of fun exhibits about American music — from Blues and Jazz to Rock, Pop and Hip hop, this museum covers it all.

Take a trip to The Red Carpet to see some of the most iconic and outlandish outfits to grace the Grammy Awards Ceremonies. See a collection of Michael Jackson clothing and memorabilia from the King of Pop’s “Thriller” era.

Music and audio nerds will enjoy the Mono to Immersive Experience Room which follows the history of recorded sound from the early gramophones to digital surround sound systems of today.

Discover key performances in the history of the Grammy Awards and uncover the deep cultural significance of music in the Culture Shock exhibit. Learn about the roots of popular music and how it is sometimes influenced by the most unlikely sources.

The Grammy Museum is great fun for all ages and there are tons to see and do here.

29 – Autry Museum of the American West

Telling a thorough and inclusive history of the American West , The Autry Museum is packed with interesting artifacts and exhibits.

Founded by Gene Autry — the famous “Singing Cowboy” the museum tells the rich stories of the region via interesting exhibits and original artifacts .

See decorative handguns and Native American art alongside paintings and sculptures of the West and the original Imagination Gallery — featuring Gene Autry’s guitar , an Annie Oakley belt buckle from the TV series and an outfit from the movie The Three Amigos.

There are also many exhibits focusing on the stories of Native American tribes and their cultures and an Ethnobotanical Garden to explore.

30 – La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

For over a century the La Brea Tar Pits has been one of the most fascinating paleontological sites in the world .

Located right in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles , the thick and gooey Tar Pits have preserved the fossilized remains of millions of different organisms, plants and animals.

Many have already been unearthed since excavations began in the early 1900s , including over 4,000 Ice Age Dire Wolves and 2,000 Saber-toothed cats . You can also see the remains of prehistoric pumas, mammoths and giant sloths in the Tar Pits Museum.

See teams of paleontologists working in the Fossil Lab to prepare and study the fossils and visit the active excavation sites where new finds are discovered regularly.

Explore the Pleistocene Garden to see how the Los Angeles Basin would have looked 40,000 years ago and discover the native plants that once thrived here .

• La Brea Tar Pits tickets

31 – Paramount Studio Tour

Paramount Studios has been a top name in the movie business since the 1920s when one of its earliest movies — Wings, won the very first academy award.

Some of the most popular movies of all time have been produced by the studio, including The Godfather, Indiana Jones, Titanic, Forrest Gump and many more.

Why not tour the studios to see the place where these legendary movies were made?

Explore the backlots and soundstages with a knowledgeable guide. See the famous prop warehouse, New York and Bronson Gate sets and see the people that get to work in the movie business every day.

Learn a little about the work that goes into creating movies and see how the sets are assembled for shooting .

This is a fascinating tour to take and is sure to be a big hit with movie lovers of all ages .

32 – Catalina Island day trip

Fancy an island escape just off the coast of Los Angeles? Catalina Island has been enchanting visitors for over 100 years .

The island was first developed in the 1920s by William Wrigley Jr. — of Wrigley’s chewing gum fame and became the place to visit for Angelenos trying to escape the city .

Check out Avalon , the island’s main town and the idyllic Two Harbors — a great place to hike and take a swim. Join one of many fun activities, such as a zip-line eco-tour , glass-bottom boat journey or a submarine voyage around the coastline.

Outdoors people will enjoy catching a glimpse of the island’s wild bison and traveling the outback on the ridges and valleys of the islands East Peak .

There are plenty of glamorous locations to visit too such as Catalina’s famous Casino and the beautiful art deco-style Avalon Theatre — one of the world’s first movie theatres designed for talking pictures in the late 1920s.

You’ll find plenty to discover on Catalina Island, just a stone’s throw from Los Angeles.

• Catalina Island tours from Los Angeles

See also: Best Day Trips from Los Angeles

33 – Chateau Marmont

The clientele of the Chateau Marmont includes many movie stars and executives and is often a home-from-home for East Coast stars staying in the city.

The hotel was built in the 1920s and the design is inspired by a famous French chateau in the Loire Valley . Originally designed as an exclusive apartment building it was remodeled in the 1930s for use as a hotel.

The now-iconic residence on Sunset Strip has inspired many songs, books and has been used as a filming location on a number of occasions.

If you can’t afford the hefty price tag to stay at Chateau Marmont you can always call in for a drink at Bar Marmont or grab dinner in one of its restaurants .

Who knows who you might see?

34 – Battleship USS Iowa Museum

One of the best surviving examples of a World War II Battleship — and the only one on the West Coast, the USS Iowa is one of the most awe-inspiring museums in Los Angeles .

Constructed in New York in the 1940s, the ship is known as “the battleship of presidents” for its accommodation of three United States leaders , Franklin D. Roosevelt, Ronald Reagan and George H.W Bush throughout its lifetime.

This huge battleship has lots to explore , including the crew’s quarters, weapons decks and torpedo levels and lots of exhibits related to the ship’s history and that of the U.S Navy.

Don’t forget to look for the scavenger trail of Vicky the Dog , the ship’s famous wartime mascot, as you explore the ship.

• Battleship USS Iowa Museum tickets

35 – Medieval Torture Museum

Are you intrigued by the mysteries of the Middle Ages and its chilling practices of torture?

Los Angeles has just become home to the most extensive interactive exhibition dedicated to Medieval torture methods.

Situated close to the historic Chinese Theatre, the Medieval Torture Museum is a fascinating detour as you explore Hollywood Blvd’s iconic Walk of Fame.

Witness more than a hundred ghastly apparatus and implements hailing from humanity’s darkest epoch. Educate yourself about the horrifying methods used to inflict pain, elucidated through authentic torture mechanisms from history!

Please note, the exhibition advises attendance only for individuals aged 18 and above. Minors and adolescents may visit but only when accompanied by a responsible adult!

36 – Walt Disney Studios

Although Walt Disney Studios doesn’t offer public tours like some of the other major studios there are still ways you can visit this legendary movie producer .

Adventures by Disney holiday packages include a six-night stay at Disneyland Park which also includes private behind-the-scenes trips to Walt Disney Studio and the Jim Henson Company Lot.

Learn the history of the studios and visit the Walt Disney Archives — a treasure trove of Disney memorabilia, photographs, props and artwork .

Take the Walt Disney Imagineering Tour which explains how the magic of the Disney parks and resorts is brought to life by a dedicated team of architects, engineers and technicians.

These tours are a dream come true for Disney fans young and old. Get a first-hand look at the method behind the magic!

37 – Warner Bros Studio Hollywood

One of the best tourist attractions in Los Angeles for film fans — Warner Bros Studio is where the magic happens.

Visitors can take a guided tour to discover what a working studio looks like. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities as you tour one of the most famous working studios in the world.

The studio backlots cover up to 110 acres and visitors get the chance to see some of the most famous and popular sets . Visit streets that have appeared in hundreds of movies and TV shows such as Blade Runner, Pretty Little Liars and The Gilmore Girls .

Discover what happens behind the scenes on a Hollywood shoot and get the chance to vi sit the famous Central Perk Café from the hit series Friends.

There’s all this and more to witness on a tour of Warner Bros Studios Hollywood . This is a great chance to walk in the steps of some of the screen’s biggest stars.

• Warner Bros Studio Hollywood tickets

38 – Hollyhock House

The first modern American building to make it onto UNESCO’s World Heritage list , Hollyhock House is a must-visit for lovers of great architecture.

Designed by the highly-influential architect, Frank Lloyd Wright , the construction of the house was completed in 1921 — so it just celebrated its 100th birthday!

It features a central courtyard and the brickwork and design are reminiscent of a Mayan temple. It has a bunch of beautiful bas reliefs including a large decorative fireplace that acts as a centerpiece for the building.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the house to see the features in detail and also check out the archive of plans and drawings created by Frank Lloyd Wright .

39 – Santa Monica Pier

The first Santa Monica Pier was built in 1909 and the iconic landmark is still welcoming guests to this day.

For family entertainment , you can’t beat Pacific Park — the pier’s up-to-date amusement park is brimming with old-fashioned charm!

Ride roller coasters with amazing views , check out the historic carousel constructed in 1939 or hop on board the region’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel .

There is also an arcade, souvenir shops and a bunch of great restaurants to sample right there on the pier. Why not hang around to catch the sunset and maybe some live music during the Twilight on the Pier Festival .

Since it first opened way back in the early 1900s, Santa Monica Pier has been a favorite local spot for fishing . Fishing here is open to everyone, it’s absolutely free and you can hire gear from the nearby bait shops.

You have to visit the Santa Monica Pier on a trip to Los Angeles. Take a stroll and breathe in the sea air at this much-loved beachside attraction.

• Santa Monica tours

40 – The Museum of Jurassic Technology

It is quite possible that you will never have seen anything like The Museum of Jurassic Technology before.

The museum has a fascinating collection of novelties and artifacts of questionable authenticity — in the best possible way.

Akin to the sideshows and curiosity exhibitions of yesteryear you will be amazed and astounded or at least intrigued by the many fascinating exhibitions — which may raise as many questions as they answer.

Read letters to the Mount Wilson Observatory and see decaying dice that may combust at any moment. See pre-scientific medicines , horns grown from human heads , dogs who went to space and much more at this fun and bewildering museum.

41 – The Hollywood Museum

With a claim to holding the largest collection of Hollywood memorabilia in the world , The Hollywood Museum has to be worth a visit while you’re exploring Tinsel Town.

With more than 10,000 treasures spread over its four floors , this is one of the most fun tourist attractions in Los Angeles for movie lovers .

The museum is located in the historic building, where Max Factor — the Hollywood makeup artist, created iconic looks for the likes of Katherine Hepburn, Joan Crawford and Bette Davis.

See clothing worn by screen legends such as Marilyn Monroe and Elvis Presley and costumes from Superman , I Love Lucy , Harry Potter , Star Trek and many more. See movie posters and props and the fantastic cars of the stars.

Visit the famous jail cell from The Silence of the Lambs and see horror legends such as Boris Karloff’s The Mummy, Frankenstein and Elvira.

Hollywood history is at the very foundations of this fun and family-friendly museum .

42 – Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

If you just can’t get enough Hollywood glitz and glamour , check out the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures .

The Academy Awards — also known as The Oscars , is the movie business’ biggest yearly event . The Academy Museum lets visitors discover the history of the prestigious award ceremony from its inception in 1927 to the present day.

Discover the timeline of the awards a nd the major movies from each year and see exclusive items from the collection of movie-related objects and equipment.

See famous props , including Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz , as well as props from Spartacus , Alien , Citizen Kane and the typewriter used to write Hitchcock’s groundbreaking movie, Psycho .

Feel the rush of an award winner in The Oscars Experience and discover the often overlooked artistry of movie backdrops .

This is the ultimate for movie lovers who dream of stepping onto the red carpet themselves.

43 – Travel Town Museum

Discover the history of the Los Angeles railroad at the historic Travel Town Museum , which has been enthralling visitors since 1952 .

The museum has over 40 historic locomotives and cars that are waiting to be explored. Some of the trains date back to the late 1800s and represent some of the greatest locomotives from the height of the steam-powered era .

See some of the most luxurious carriages of the time such as the Pennsylvania Railroad Dining car and a Union Pacific dormitory car from the 1930s.

Discover the legacy of Fred Harvey who in the late 1800s created a network of restaurants, hotels and gift shops along the length of the Santa Fe Railway and is credited with bringing tourism to the area .

You can also take the opportunity to ride a miniature train around the Travel Town grounds. Check out these amazing machines which helped build the foundations of the city of Los Angeles.

44 – Disneyland Resort

On a trip to Los Angeles, you have to make time to visit the original and very first Disneyland in Anaheim .

The Disneyland Resort is home to two of the world-famous Disney theme parks , Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure.

Disneyland Park first opened in 1955 and is the only Disney theme park that was constructed under the direct supervision of Walt Disney himself.

Millions have since visited the park known as “the happiest place on Earth” and enjoyed now-famous rides such as The Pirates of the Caribbean — which spawned a movie franchise, Space Mountain , Jungle Cruise and The Haunted Mansion .

One of its most recent additions Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge includes a whole world built around the hit movie series. Ride the Millenium Falcon on the Smuggler’s Run ride or visit Oga’s Cantina for a snack and some live music.

If thrilling rides are your thing, you might want to check out Disney California Adventure . The eight themed areas represent California from different time periods and also include a healthy dose of everyone’s favorite Disney characters .

Check out Pixar Pier for a classic amusement experience or visit Hollywood Land to explore the golden era of movie-making.

Disneyland is still one of the best family-friendly tourist attractions in Los Angeles . There’s a little bit of magic here for everyone to find.

• Disneyland tickets

45 – Museum of Latin American Art

The only museum in the United States dedicated entirely to Latin American and Latino art , MOLAA offers a broad mix of engaging and relevant exhibitions.

The museum’s permanent collection was started in 2014 and already includes over 1,300 works of art .

It features exhibitions by artists such as Judy Baca, Crack Rodriguez and many more . Visit on a weekend to join a guided tour of the galleries and check out some of the museum’s regular workshops and events.

Don’t forget to explore MOLAA’s 15,000 square foot sculpture garden or visit one of its educational art classes and festivals throughout the year.

46 – Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

With 15 galleries and over 300 weird and wonderful exhibits to explore, Ripley’s Believe It or Not is sure to be a highlight of your trip to LA.

If you’re interested in the bizarre and unusual — and who isn’t? This place will really blow your mind!

See original artifacts and curiosities collected by Robert Ripley , the museum’s founder spread over two floors of this self-proclaimed “odditorium”.

Come face-to-face with a genuine shrunken head or peek inside an actual vampire hunting kit from the 1800s. Measure yourself against the world’s tallest man or grab a selfie with a prehistoric cave bear.

All this and more in Hollywood’s Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

47 – Guinness World Records Museum

Discover a fascinating world of near-superhuman feats at the Guinness World Records Museum .

Discover crazy record-breaking attempts and some of the weirdest things people have tried in order to get into the famous Guinness Book of World Records .

The museum’s interactive and fun exhibits provide plenty of entertainment for the whole family . There are challenges for children and adults so you can try to score a world record of your own.

Can you rise to the occasion and beat the Pac-Man high-score or shoot a record-breaking number of baskets in a row ? Can you beat a bongo faster than everyone else or assemble a word puzzle in record time?

Try your luck and who knows, you may just make it into the Guinness Book of Records yourself!

48 – Museum of Contemporary Art

Founded in 1979, the Museum of Contemporary Art is the only museum in the city created by artists .

Its collection includes around 7,000 objects from all over the world and covers the changing tastes in contemporary art.

The museum runs two venues in the city — MOCA Grand Avenue and The Geffen Contemporary at MOCA , the latter of which is housed in a Frank Gehry modeled building.

Here you can see installation art, photography, paintings, prints and sculptures dating from the 1940s to the present day.

As well as its permanent collection, MOCA also displays temporary exhibitions of work by some of the most exciting artists of our time and a program of exhibits of recent acquisitions.

Definitely check this out if you are on the hunt for some culture during your stay in Los Angeles.

49 – Angels Flight Railway

One of the quintessential landmarks to visit in Los Angeles is the Angels Flight Railway.

This funicular, which still uses its two original cars named Olivet and Sinai , is one of the city’s recognized historic and cultural monuments .

It has been ferrying passengers up and down the Bunker Hill area since it first opened in 1901 — though the area has changed drastically since then and the neighborhoods it once served have long since been demolished.

It is still a popular tourist attraction and its vintage cars and stations are an attractive reminder of the turn of the century architecture that was once everywhere in the city.

This is one attraction that is great for those on a budget. A return fare costs just two dollars and you even get a souvenir ticket for your scrapbook!

• Angels Flight Railway tickets

50 – Japanese American National Museum

Opened in the early 1990s as a way to preserve the history of Japanese Americans and document their experiences, the Japanese American National Museum is a treasure trove of information.

Covering the history of Japanese immigrants to the United States which first began in the 1800s , there’s lots of history here to uncover.

Learn about the exile and deportation they faced in the US during World War II. Visit one of the actual barracks from the Heart Mountain Internment Camp where many Japanese American citizens were forced to live during the war.

There are also hundreds of hours of film as well as art, textiles, photographs and objects that tell the tale of the thousands of Japanese Americans that call the country home.

51 – Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Still searching for more of your favorite stars and celebrities ? Madame Tussauds Hollywood gives you the chance to come face to face with your big screen idols — in wax!

Snap some selfies with some of the most famous faces in the world . See lifelike waxworks of your favorite Marvel characters , including Spider-Man, Thor, The Hulk and Captain America.

Meet pop stars and music icons such as Arianna Grande, Tupac and Lady Gaga and veteran screen legends such as Angela Bassett and Danny Trejo at this seriously fun waxwork museum.

• Madame Tussauds Hollywood tickets

52 – Malibu

The beautiful oceanside homes of Malibu are some of Los Angeles’ most sought-after residences .

The exclusive beach city has been home to many celebrities throughout the decades including Brad Pitt, Ellen DeGeneres and Charlie Sheen.

A popular activity in Malibu for travelers is to take a celebrity home tour to glimpse the houses of the rich and famous. On the tours, you may see idyllic homes belonging to the likes of Lady Gaga, Will Smith, Julia Roberts and Steven Spielberg .

For those who prefer the great outdoors, why not take a surfing trip on the Malibu coast . With fantastic waves at Surfrider Beach — the world’s first protected “surfing reserve” , as well as Zuma Beach and Point Dume, this is a great alternative to sightseeing.

Visitors can also explore the nearby hills on foot or horseback and grab awesome views of the Santa Monica Mountains in the distance.

53 – LA Galaxy game

Formed in 1994, LA Galaxy has gone on to be one of the most popular and successful soccer teams in the United States .

The team competes in the Major League Soccer Western Conference from its home grounds the Dignity Health Sports Park, formerly Home Depot Center.

The team has featured some of the brightest names in soccer among its ranks including David Beckham , who played for the team between 2007-2012.

Why not check out a game when you’re in Los Angeles and see why the team has become one of the country’s best-loved !

54 – Venice Beach

One of the most fun beach towns in all of LA , Venice Beach is a hotspot of independent bars, shops and cafes and a great low-key place to hang out.

There’s a lot to see and do here for travelers and taking time to explore the city is a must on a trip to Los Angeles.

In the 1970s, Venice Beach was the birthplace of skateboarding culture which has now spread all over the world. Its independent spirit and counterculture attitude still survives today and the city is a vibrant and creative place .

Start your day with a surf lesson at one of the world’s iconic surf beaches or hire a bike and cycle along the coast . Take a Segway tour or just explore the seafront stores at your own pace.

Don’t forget to pass by the famous Muscle Beach where bodybuilding legends, including Arnold Schwarzenegger and Lou Ferrigno have trained.

Wander the routes of the old canals — which gained Venice Beach its name, or be entertained by the city’s fantastic street performers and musicians . Venice is still one of the most fun places in the city to laze away the day.

• Venice Beach tours

55 – Pirate’s Dinner Adventure

Ahoy mateys! Try dinner and a show at Pirate’s Dinner Adventure in Orange County — near the Disneyland Resort and Knott’s Berry Farm.

This swashbuckling live show is a feast of acrobatics, theatre and inclusive fun . Join the crew aboard a Spanish Galleon for sword fights, high flying action and a riotous tale of good vs evil.

This is great for both children and adults and includes a fair amount of audience participation . Enjoy a feast fit for a pirate king and a host of aerial stunts in this fun and interactive dinner show.

If you’re in Los Angeles around Halloween or Christmas check out the Vampirates and Pirates Take Christmas shows for some holiday hijinks on the high seas.

Save money with attractions passes

For the best deals on tickets and fast access to attractions, it’s worth picking up one of the GO City Los Angeles pass .

We hope you enjoyed this list of the best tourist attractions in Los Angeles to help you plan your next vacation. If you are looking for more fun ideas of activities, make sure to check our our selection of fun things to do in Los Angeles .

Let us know in the comments below which place is your favorite one.

As always, happy travels!

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Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A Guide to 5 Amazing Areas

Despite living in San Francisco for nearly a decade between us, we had never really spent any significant time in Los Angeles until recently. On our last visit we spent over a week living in LA and exploring the city’s many distinct neighborhoods. The sprawling city – which is truly GIGANTIC – has so much to offer, and there’s a nearly unlimited number of areas to consider staying. 

Picking where you stay will almost certainly play a huge role in shaping your LA experience – are you spending time doing, seeing, and eating, or are you spending time in the car full of road rage at LA’s crazy drivers? We put together this guide to help you decide where to stay in Los Angeles by narrowing down the options and giving you our take on what each area below has to offer. 

Our best advice? Figure out what you want to do while you are staying in LA, and then pick a location near the majority of those attractions. This will save you hours of wasted time stuck in traffic. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles: The 4 Best Places to Stay

If you are staying in LA for more than three or four days, our advice would be to stay in two or three different areas. You could spend a few days by the beach relaxing, a few days getting your adrenaline rush at the theme parks, and the rest of the time in Downtown LA or West Hollywood so you can explore the city. 

In this guide to the best places to stay in Los Angeles – based on our time exploring the sprawling California metropolis – you’ll get the information you need to choose a place to stay in LA and find a perfect home base for your visit. 

Here are the four neighborhoods we think you should focus on in your search. Each has distinct pros and cons, which we’ll cover below, and it kind of depends on what you’re looking for.

In most cities, we usually have a “best for first-timers” recommendation, but we don’t have that here. It totally depends on the experience you’re looking for in Los Angeles.  

Don’t have time to read the whole post? Here’s a quick summary (though we’d definitely recommend reading the section for the neighborhood you choose!).

• If you want to stay near the beach , stay in Santa Monica . 
• For a quick weekend trip (and those on a budget) , stay in Downtown LA .  
• If you want to stay in one of the coolest neighborhoods in LA , stay in Silver Lake .  
• If you want to stay in an area with amazing nightlife , stay in West Hollywood (also super LGBTQ+ friendly). 

Santa Monica: Best Place to Stay Near the Beach

If you want to be close to the beach, the answer is Santa Monica. Plus, it’s on the west side of the city, which means getting around the city will be just a tad easier thanks to the reverse commute (ish).

This beachside neighborhood is a destination in its own right, boasting a mix of celebrities, surfers, and hippies who call this place home. While most people come here solely for the beach, and it is an amazing beach, there are plenty of other things to do in the area. 

The famous Santa Monica Pier is a bustling attraction with arcades, shops, outdoor cinemas, and live music. Just underneath it is an aquarium which hosts educational talks and hands-on activities that are perfect for families. 

Santa Monica can be an expensive area to stay; if you are on a budget, nearby Venice Beach is more cost-effective (more on that in a second).

Alternatively, if you want to just spend a day here, you can actually catch a train from Downtown LA ! 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Santa Monica

Pros : The beach! You’ll be within walking distance of the best beach in LA. The Farmers Market in Santa Monica is AWESOME too. The stretch along Montana Avenue is one of our favorite stretches in LA, with all sorts of bars, restaurants, and shopping that is worth a visit. 

Cons : It’s going to take a while to get to Downtown LA, Silver Lake, and the rest of the east side. Plan on grouping those areas together if you’re going to make the trip over there. Parking is a nightmare here, and you’ll probably need to pay for parking – either at a hotel, or at a garage – if you stay here with a car. It’s also expensive – the closer you get to the ocean, the more expensive it’ll be. 

Santa Monica Highlights

• Spend the day at Santa Monica State Beach and Santa Monica Pier. Santa Monica State Beach is a 3.5-mile long expanse of sand that is perfect for relaxing or partaking in water sports. Make sure to check out Santa Monica Pier, a long boardwalk packed with arcades, shops, and restaurants. While you’re here, stop by Pacific Park, the amusement park on Santa Monica Pier. The ocean views from the roller coaster and Ferris wheel are unreal.
• Stroll through Palisades Park. Palisades Park is 25 acres of greenery by Santa Monica Beach. It has fantastic views of the ocean and trails for walking, running, or biking.
• Head to Venice Beach. Venice Beach is an iconic part of Santa Monica with its t-shirt shops and street performers. Head to Muscle Beach to watch the bodybuilders work out in front of crowds of curious people. While you’re in the area, explore the Venice Canals where ducks and paddle boarders float on the streams.
• Grab some fresh food at the Santa Monica Farmers Market . This is one of the best farmers markets in LA, with tables full of fresh produce from the area’s quality farmers. You will be buying your food alongside celebrities and famous chefs. It is open Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 8 am to 1 pm.
• Browse the stores at Third Street Promenade. Third Street Promenade is three pedestrianized blocks packed with 80 retailers. You will find everything from indie boutiques to designer stores. Once you’re finished shopping, there are some great restaurants and bars to try.

Where to Stay in Santa Monica

In our opinion, the best place to stay in Santa Monica is the north end of the neighborhood, between the beach and near Montana Avenue, a strip full of restaurants, bars, and shops that was our favorite “cutesy” street in LA.

However, there are a couple of beachfront hotels that are worth looking at. But you’ll be paying for it. Hotels in Santa Monica are expensive since it’s such an in-demand place to stay. 

Like I mentioned above, if budget is an issue, many of the hotels in Santa Monica are going to knock your socks off, at least in terms of how pricey they are. If you’re looking to splurge though – maybe you’re celebrating a special occasion – this is the place to do it. It doesn’t get any better than beachfront luxury in Santa Monica. 

The Georgian Hotel

The Georgian is by far the most affordable hotel in this neck of the woods, which is surprising since it’s steps away from the Santa Monica Pier and Beach. They have 84 rooms, some of which have ocean views, and a rooftop restaurant where you can watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. It’s pet friendly too – with a surcharge, of course. 

Palihouse Hotel Santa Monica

The Palihouse Hotel has been an iconic part of LA since the early 1900s. It has designer furnishings and is only five minutes away from the beach. All of the rooms except the classic rooms have kitchenettes. While It is too small for an onsite gym, they partner with local gyms that offer a range of different equipment and workout classes. 

Proper Hotel

The Proper Hotel is a beautifully decorated delight to the senses. It has won awards for its stunning interiors, decorated in natural colors and materials. The highlights of this hotel are its rooftop pool and proximity to local restaurants and bars. It also has a focus on wellness with a yoga terrace with regular classes and an Ayurvedic Spa. 

Casa Del Mar

Casa Del Mar is one of a few beachfront hotels in LA. It is a luxury hotel with a pool overlooking the beach and live music every evening. Each of the rooms is lavishly decorated and has four-poster beds, curated bookcases, and a little sitting area. The spa offers popular treatments like oxygen facials and hot stone massages. 

Shutters on the Beach

Shutters on the Beach is the other beachfront hotel in LA. It is frequented by celebrities because of its high-end amenities. The hotel offers private yoga classes or surfing lessons. Even if you don’t stay here, make reservations at the onsite restaurant 1 Pico, where they host a weekend lobster brunch. 

Downtown LA: Best for Short Trips + City Lovers

Downtown Los Angeles is a popular area to stay because it’s packed full of interesting attractions – from Grand Central Market to Staples Center – and bars, restaurants, and clubs. For that reason, it is one of the best places to stay in LA if you do not have a car. 

While it is the historic heart of the city, the grand bank buildings have been turned into quirky shops and world-class restaurants. The number of skyscrapers in this neighborhood means that Downtown LA is the commercial hub of Los Angeles. This is the best place to visit if you want cool nightlife and some of the best eateries in town. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Downtown Los Angeles

Pros : If you’re here for a short trip, then Downtown LA is a great home base because there’s a ton to do and see in the area, and you can hop over to Hollywood, the Arts District, Chinatown, and Silver Lake pretty easily. It’s also relatively cheap, with a huge selection of great hotels. If you’re into art and culture, this is the place to be – the Broad, Staples Center, and a lot of the music venues like the Philharmonic are here.

Cons : It’s very much a concrete jungle, though there are a few green spaces. It’s also adjacent to Skid Row, which is infamous and not the best place to be. Parking is hard, so if you have a car you’ll have to pay for parking. 

Downtown LA Highlights

• Try the best food in LA at Grand Central Market . Started in 1917, this LA staple collects some of the best LA food under one roof. No matter what you’re craving, you’ll find it here.
• Shop and eat at ROW DTLA . This downtown shopping hub offers 32 acres of unique shops, restaurants and cafes. It packs globally recognized brands and indie labels in one area. Don’t miss Smorgasburg on Sundays – it’s a HUGE open air collection of food trucks and stalls serving all different kinds of food.
• Check out what’s going on at LA Live . LA Live is a massive entertainment center which includes the Staples Center, a movie theatre, bowling alley, nightclubs, restaurants, and even a museum. If you are ever at a loss for what to do, there is always something fun happening at LA Live.
• Drink great coffee! There are some great coffee places in Downtown. Some great brands like Verve Coffee Roasters, Blue Bottle Coffee, and Stumptown Coffee have cafes here. But the pinnacle is Cognoscenti Coffee , which has two locations near downtown and is one of the best coffee shops in LA.
• Devour delicious tacos at Guisados . This is one of my favorite places to eat when I’m in Downtown LA. Aside from a couple of fillings, the whole menu is gluten-free, and all of the tacos are flavorful with a little bit of a kick.
• Browse the bookshelves at the Last Bookstore . This bookstore is housed in a former bank building, and the shelves of vintage books have found their home among the marble columns and high ceilings. Support your independent bookstores and stop by to find your next great read. 

Where to Stay in Downtown LA

This part of the city is full of incredibly hip hotels, and the best part is that they are more affordable than other parts of the city. 

If you have a car, be prepared to pay a little extra for parking every day.

The Freehand Hotel

The Freehand Hotel is decorated to look like you’ve walked into the 60s, with colorful print tiles, wood paneling, and shabby chic furniture. It’s one of the best combinations of style and affordability in the city. We have stayed at their location in New York City , and we liked it.

The traditional hotel rooms (they also have suites, which are plenty spacious) are on the small side, which the prices reflect, but you won’t be spending time in your room anyway – you’ll be exploring LA! The hotel’s restaurants and bars are regular hangouts for the cool crowd of LA. 

The Broken Shaker cocktail bar is on many lists of the best bars in LA. There is a rooftop pool and a small gym in the basement. 

The Hoxton , which is one of my favorite hotel chains in the world, has a classic feel to it, with vintage touches and a clean, neutral color scheme. It’s at the south end of Downtown LA, near Staples Center , the Fashion District , and Santee Alley , a fun flea market (ish) place to wander and shop for trinkets, some of which you didn’t know you needed. The building it’s in was once the home of the LA Railway HQ, but has since been restored with touches that give a nod to their London roots. 

The hotel draws a trendy crowd of locals and tourists to its restaurants. There is a hotel pool that is open from sunrise to sunset and has great views of Downtown LA. The pool bar serves a range of classic and new cocktails. 

Ace Hotel LA

The Ace Hotel , which is a hipster hotel chain that I have stayed at in both Seattle and New York City , resides in a theater building which was modelled after Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. The grandeur of the Gothic building has informed the vintage style of the hotel interior, and they have even restored the cinema in the basement. 

Alongside classic rooms, the hotel offers spacious industrial loft-style rooms with huge windows overlooking the city. For a special treat, get one of the rooms with a view. 

NoMad Hotel

The NoMad Hotel oozes sophistication with its luxe interior and a gorgeous rooftop pool overlooking the city. Rooms range from cozy hotel rooms to spacious suites, all with comfortable beds, hardwood floors, and – this is the first time I’ve come across this one – complimentary newspaper delivery (I’m in). There’s also a gym with Peloton bikes if you want to get a workout in before a day of exploring. 

The rooftop pool area also includes a popular cafe and a cocktail bar. Most of the suites at the Nomad come with a freestanding bathtub offering beautiful views of the city. 

Hotel Figueroa

Hotel Figueroa is an oasis of calm in the middle of a very busy city. It’s one of the oldest hotels in LA, and it was remodeled over the course of two years to restore it to its “1926 Spanish Colonial splendor” (I liked the phrasing there). It was originally a destination exclusively for professional women travelers, and has kept some of that ethos as it has grown into one of the best boutique hotels in Los Angeles over the years since. 

It is decorated with clean lines and plump, glamorous furniture with subtle pops of color. The décor celebrates women’s art, with female artists featuring heavily. However, the best amenity is the coffin-shaped outdoor pool with plenty of sun loungers. 

Hotel Indigo

Hotel Indigo is a great midrange hotel option in just about any city in the world, including Los Angeles. The rooms are stylish and simple, but they’re actually pretty spacious compared to a lot of other hotels. The Metropole Bar and Kitchen are the onsite bar and restaurant, and they also have a penthouse bar called 18 Social. Oh, and they have a pool, because of course they do it’s LA. 

The Wayfarer

The Wayfarer Downtown LA sets itself apart from other hotels. Standard rooms are small, but thoughtfully laid out and designed so that you won’t even notice. Customize your experience by choosing from what kind of view you want – skyline or urban, which I think means “no view” – and what kind of bed situation you’re looking for – one king, two queens. 

The rooftop pool includes a tiki bar with tropical cocktails. They also have a DIY restaurant on site where you select their meal and are given portioned ingredients to cook their own meal. This restaurant regularly hosts cooking classes and offers wine pairings too. 

Silver Lake: Best For Feeling Like a Local

Silver Lake and Echo Park are adjacent neighborhoods that are close to Chinatown and Downtown LA. Since these areas cater mostly to locals, there are amazing cafes, quirky boutiques, and hidden gems to explore. There’s really only one place to stay here that’s not a vacation rental, and we think you should avoid vacation rentals in Los Angeles. 

You should know before you choose to stay here that this is the epicenter of gentrification in Los Angeles . It’s a desirable neighborhood, which has brought more demand and caused rising rent prices that have forced out communities that have lived here for decades in order to renovate their apartments and turn them into vacation rentals, or open a new hip clothing boutique. 

We’re not going to fix gentrification here, but you should go into staying in these two areas knowing the impact that your visit (and others like you) have had on this community. We definitely recommend staying in a hotel (there’s basically only one) rather than a vacation rental, which takes much-needed long term housing units off the market in service of making landlords more money. 

With all that being said, we really liked this area of the city, and it’s nicely located for visiting the adjacent neighborhoods like Downtown LA and Los Feliz (and Hollywood). 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Silver Lake

Pros : There’s a ton of great restaurants, bars, and more in the neighborhood. Plus, it’s surrounded by other cool areas to explore, and close to Dodger Stadium, Elysian Park, and Griffith Park. 

Cons : This is a hotspot for gentrification in Los Angeles. If you’re not comfortable with that, look elsewhere. Sunset Boulevard isn’t the most pleasant street to walk on, since there’s multiple lanes of traffic zooming by (we thought it would be much more quiet), but the area near the reservoir is more charming and quiet. There’s not too many options outside of vacation rentals – in fact, there’s basically one good hotel – so your options will be limited (it’s a great hotel, though!). 

Silver Lake Highlights

• Explore the best coffee scene in LA. Silver Lake and Echo Park are residential neighborhoods that are a little bit hipster; therefore, they take their coffee very seriously. If you have been reading this blog for a while, you know that I love my coffee and will seek out the best coffee in every place I visit. Go to Intelligentsia and Dinosaur Coffee in Silver Lake, and Woodcat Coffee Bar in Echo Park.
• Eat amazing Thai food at Night + Market Song . This unpretentious restaurant serves a mix of popular and rare Thai street food. While it is a relaxed atmosphere with loud communal tables and a small counter serving as a bar, the delicious and authentic food draws the LA elite crowd.
• Browse the shelves at Stories Bookstore . This bookstore’s shelves are full of preloved books from classics to rare finds. On the outdoor patio is a small cafe where you can sit and enjoy the book you just purchased.
• Hike to the best views in LA in Elysian Park. There is a place in Elysian Park dubbed “the Secret Swing” which has the best views over LA and is one of the most popular spots for Instagram pictures. While it is a little bit of a hike, the views at the top are completely worth it. The swing tends to disappear from time to time, so be mindful it might not be there when you visit.
• Grab locally-grown produce at the Silver Lake Farmers Market . This farmers market is open Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings. Here you will find the freshest produce, grown right in LA.

Where to Stay in Silver Lake

Like we mentioned above, there’s basically one hotel option in this neck of the woods. 

Silver Lake Pool and Inn

The Silver Lake Pool and Inn is a hipster’s dream, located right in the heart of Silver Lake. It’s right at the junction of Sunset and Santa Monica Boulevards, which puts you within walking distance of places like Intelligentsia Coffee and the farmers market. 

The rooms are both spacious (the smallest are a whopping 250 sq. ft.) and beautiful, with local furniture and fixtures and tons of natural light. They also have double rooms with two beds, which are perfect for groups visiting the city. 

The highlight, though, is the stunning rooftop terrace with a pool and beautiful views of the Hollywood sign. This truly is the best seat in the house for sunset cocktails. Each of the rooms has a Nespresso machine and a tablet with a guide on what to do and see in the neighborhood. Wifi is free (wooo!), and the hotel is pet-friendly, so you can bring the furry friends! Plus, parking here is only $20 a night in an underground garage, which is a steal in LA. 

West Hollywood: Best Central Location

Hollywood itself – the main drag –  is a bit of a tourist trap, if we’re being honest. The Walk of Fame really isn’t that cool, and it’s crowded and dirty. Plus, prices can be inflated, and you don’t really get a feel for the city. 

Instead of staying in Hollywood, we recommend staying in West Hollywood, which is a short walk away from all of the sights but has more of a residential feel to the neighborhood and is closer to some of the food, drinks, and other parts of LA that we love.  

West Hollywood is also the best place to stay in LA for nightlife. Sunset Boulevard is home to some of the best clubs in the world, and Santa Monica Boulevard is home to a huge concentration of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in West Hollywood

Pros : West Hollywood is THE place to be after dark. Plus, it’s super central, particularly to the areas on the east side, but not too far away from places like Santa Monica. 

Cons : It’s loud and boisterous, so if you’re looking for a quiet retreat, this ain’t it. 

West Hollywood Highlights

• Run into celebrities at Book Soup . Book Soup on Sunset Boulevard is an iconic LA attraction. Celebrities such as Elton John, Bette Midler, and Stephen King have been sighted browsing the shelves. They don’t only sell books here; they also sell record players and a great selection of LPs.
• Stroll down the famous Sunset Strip. During the day, the Sunset Strip is full of popular stores. At night, the strip transforms into one of LA’s biggest nightlife hubs. If you are looking for a sophisticated night out, head to one of the hotel bars, such as the Tower Bar at Sunset Tower Hotel. For a trendy night out, head to one of the rock clubs like the Viper Room.
• Laugh until your sides hurt at iconic comedy clubs such as the Laugh Factory or Comedy Store . These venues attract big comedy names like Tiffany Haddish and Dave Chapelle. Make sure to check out who is playing during your stay. 

Where to Stay in West Hollywood

West Hollywood has a nice balance of hotels that offer a great value, and hotels that are splurge-worthy and great for special occasions (or just a treat-yourself weekend). 

Andaz West Hollywood

The Andaz is a super stylish hotel right on the Sunset strip. It has amazing views of the LA skyline from some of its 240 rooms, and some even have balconies with that unforgettable view. If you’re not one of the lucky ones, you can always head up to the rooftop pool or bar to soak up the views (and the booze). It’s also pretty affordable, which makes it a great combination of value, style, and location in West Hollywood. 

Kimpton La Peer Hotel

The Kimpton La Peer is popular because of the extra amenities you’ll have if you stay there. The hotel has bikes that you can borrow to explore the area, and you can even get short rides (under a mile) in the hotel Tesla if you need a ride somewhere nearby (bougie AF). The hotel also provides coffee, kombucha, and juice by the reception desk. 

Sunset Tower Hotel

Sunset Tower is right from the golden era of Hollywood, today it is still a popular celebrity hangout and a monument to opulence. The service here is unparalleled, with staff regularly going the extra mile. The spa is by Joanna Vegas, and if you are in town around the Emmys, celebrities are often here for treatments before the event. 

The West Hollywood Edition

The Edition is right on Sunset Boulevard. When you walk in, you’ll completely forget you’re in the middle of one of the biggest cities in North America thanks to a veritable jungle of greenery and tropical indoor plants. The clientele here are trendy and edgy, and you will feel a little bit cooler after just five minutes in the lobby. Check out the spa while you are there, which has a focus on natural and plant-based remedies (including those using CBD). 

Hotels vs. Vacation Rentals in Los Angeles: Which to Choose?

One thing I do want to touch on is vacation rentals in LA. 

If you didn’t already know, Los Angeles (like most West Coast cities) is in the midst of a full-fledged housing crisis, and while I wouldn’t point to vacation rentals as the primary cause, they’re certainly a contributing factor. 

I have mixed feelings about staying in vacation rentals in cities. 

On one hand, as a traveler who has Celiac Disease and usually needs access to a kitchen, they are a godsend that has allowed me to travel to places that just would not have been easy to visit if I had to stay in a hotel, where I MIGHT get a mini-fridge. 

On the other hand, in cities where there’s a housing crisis driven by a lack of supply and surging demand (which basically describes every major city on the West Coast, at this point), vacation rentals contributes to the problem by taking long term rental units off the market, since the landlord can usually make more money by renting it out for a weekend at a time. 

There are certainly pros and cons to staying in vacation rentals. To be a responsible traveler in LA, our recommendation would be to choose hotels in Los Angeles . There are tons of great hotels, so you’ll have no problem finding an amazing place to stay. 

Los Angeles Geography: A Rough Overview

The city is enormous, which gives you literally hundreds of choices of where to stay, with all sorts of different pockets that all have their own unique characteristics and cultures. 

At a super high level, we’d divide the city into east and west. And we’re going to speak in generalities here, so keep in mind that there are exceptions to the statements below. LA is massive, so we’re going to focus on the part of the city that you’re most likely going to want to consider when you’re searching for the right place to stay. 

On the east side of LA , you’ll find neighborhoods like Hollywood, Los Feliz, Silver Lake, and Downtown LA (among many others, like Koreatown and Chinatown). This side of the city feels more concrete jungle-y, particularly Hollywood and Downtown, and is less expensive than its western counterparts (with the exception of places like Los Feliz and Silver Lake). 

On the west side of the city , you’ll find the Pacific Ocean and neighborhoods like Santa Monica, Venice, and Culver City. The feel here is MUCH different, with beachy vibes all around and a more laid-back atmosphere. It’s also more residential, and significantly more expensive as you get closer to the beach. 

Should you Rent a Car in L.A.?

LA is the second most populous city in the USA, and the third most populous in North America ( Mexico City is the biggest). 

It is sprawling, covering over 500 square miles, and has no real public transportation system (WTF LA?) which means you’re probably going to be tempted to rent a car to get the most out of your stay. 

We’d recommend not renting a car and spending that money on rideshares instead. Parking can be a nightmare – plan on budgeting an extra ~$30 a night if you’re staying at a hotel with a car.

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Our main takeaway from our time in LA is that it is an ENORMOUS city. Even though we spent a full week exploring this last time, we didn’t make it to every place on our list. Or even close, really. That’s why it’s super important to carefully choose where you stay in LA – it can have a huge impact on your experience. And you’ll have to plan a return trip to hit all the stuff you missed on your first one!

More to Explore in California

Heading to the great state of California?  Here are some other posts you might like.

• One Day in San Francisco: How to See the Best of San Francisco in a Day
• 4 Days in San Francisco: How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Francisco: A Local’s Guide to the Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free San Francisco: A Complete Travel Guide for Celiacs
• The Best Day Trips from San Francisco: 10 Amazing San Francisco Day Trips
• 5 Days in Los Angeles: How to Plan a Perfect Los Angeles Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A Complete Guide to L.A.’s Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free Los Angeles: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
• 3 Days in San Diego: How to Plan a Perfect San Diego Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Diego: A Complete Guide to the Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free San Diego: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
• How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Northern California Road Trip: The Best of the Northern California Coast

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

What a fabulous page! We are going on a California family road trip next summer. SF to San Diego (14 days) and I loved to read your page! I changed my hotel reservations in SF and LA after reading your suggestions! Thank you

Love the website and the great advice and tips it offers for novice travellers.

My wife and I are coming to spend 3 nights in LA then head up to SF for 4 nights before flying up to Vancouver for an Alaska cruise.

Got loads of great tips for both LA and SF.

We are picking up a car from LA early and planning to drive up to SF in a day, so wandering if you have any tips for must stops along the way but also taking into account our limited time. We don’t mind if the trip up takes us 12 hours with the planned stops along the way, so any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

We love, sightseeing, beaches, eating so gives you a broad remit to play with.

Steve and Michelle

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The Best Exhibitions and Art Hot Spots in Los Angeles to Visit This Summer

By Lisa Wong Macabasco

Perhaps no other city in the world has witnessed a growth in its arts scene over the past decade or so like Los Angeles. If you’re interested in art in Los Angeles, you likely already know about The Broad and Hauser & Wirth. But there’s a vast array of smaller galleries and places to engage with art across the city—here’s a look at just a few of our favorites off the beaten track.

Institute of Contemporary Art, LA

Amanda Ross-Ho, Untitled Waste Image (HEAVY DUTY) , 2023. Duratextransparency print in custom lightbox, 74 x 60 x 5 in. Image courtesy the artist and Mitchell-Innes & Nash, New York.

Billed as the first survey of Asian American artists at a major Los Angeles contemporary art museum, “Scratching at the Moon” gathers the work of 13 artists in Los Angeles over the last five decades. The show (on view through July 28) began, in part, as a response to the increase in attacks on Asian Americans in 2020, amid false rhetoric about the pandemic. Across many mediums, the works confront identity formation, immigration, cultural assimilation, gentrification, family dynamics, and much more. Don’t miss the voyeuristic yet melancholy photographs of solitary audience members in Berlin adult-movie theaters by Dean Sameshima , who’s found many new fans with works from the same series at this year’s Venice Biennale.

Commonwealth and Council

Lotus L. Kang, Mother (Spore, 2022-2023) (detail view), 2022-23. Stainless steel mixing bowls, pigmented silicone, rubber, cast aluminum anchovies, cast aluminum Asian pears, cast aluminum chestnuts, cast aluminum lotus root, cast aluminum kelp knots, cast aluminum dried pear, cast aluminum cabbage, dried lotus tubers, nylon, hat. Photo: Paul Salveson.

By Kui Mwai

By Hannah Coates

The gallery has been hot on the art world’s lips of late, thanks to a thrilling roster of artists generating buzz at major fairs and shows from New York to Venice. Founders Young Chung and Kibum Kim gravitate toward experimental and conceptual artists from marginalized backgrounds who reflect the diversity of Los Angeles and the West Coast more broadly; many are people of color, queer, and/or raised working-class. A recent show about wisdom inherited from one’s family included artist Lotus L. Kang’s series of stainless-steel bowls (often used in Korean households for making kimchi) spread across the floor, containing aluminum casts of foods like cabbage, anchovies, and lotus roots marinating in silicone.

Jeffrey Deitch

rafa esparza, Trucha, 2024. Acrylic on adobe and steel. 123 x 145 x 156 in. (overall), 60 x 48 x 3 in. (each). Photo: Charles White.

Alfonso Gonzalez Jr., Duck Keg, 2024. Oil, enamel on canvas. 72 x 60 in. Photo: Charles White.

Former MOCA director Jeffrey Deitch’s two outposts in West Hollywood are sprawling affairs that can accommodate extensive, immersive shows as well as museum-quality programs and events. And he remains committed to local artists, as evidenced by the excellent show “At the Edge of the Sun,” organized by the 12 LA-based Latinx artists whose work is featured themselves. The exhibition, on view through May 4, is a snapshot of a place and time that conveys clear, compelling perspectives, with many works exploring the iconography of LA and the US and referencing Latino culture, history, and daily experiences.

Regen Projects

Installation view of “Alberta Whittle: Learning a new punctuation for hope in times of disaster” at Regen Projects, Los Angeles, March 16 – May 18, 2024. Photo: Evan Bedford, Courtesy Regen Projects

A welcome sense of peace permeates Alberta Whittle’s first show at Regen Projects, “Learning a new punctuation for hope in times of disaster.” Through a set of tender new paintings and sculptural works, the Glasgow-based artist demonstrates her approach to cultivating community, compassion, and care in response to catastrophe. The exhibition, on view through May 18, also includes “Lagareh — The Last Born,” a film foregrounding the strength of Black women through individual acts of resistance; Whittle debuted the work when she represented Scotland at the 2022 Venice Biennale, and this marks its first appearance in North America.

A Bunch of Savages

This up-and-coming creative collective of Filipino Americans is one to watch. It boasts an eclectic lineup of programming, from lumpia-making workshops to panels about music-content production, handing out grants to short films, and screening undersung indie gems like 2000’s The Debut (pronounced the Filipino way: “day-boo”). Its name comes from Theodore Roosevelt’s description of Filipinos in 1899.

Pendry West Hollywood

Located in the heart of the Sunset Strip, the Pendry West Hollywood oozes Hollywood Hills glamour. Should you ever tire of gazing at the stunning view stretching to Downtown LA, the hotel’s art collection also has plenty to offer, featuring local artists alongside the internationally acclaimed, with a focus on evoking laid-back California glamour. That tinkling sound when you step out of your car? That’s Cao Perrot’s fanciful golden tree sculpture with shimmering mother-of-pearl leaves, each adorned with a Swarovski crystal. Anthony James’s luminous installation 70’ Icosahedron , meanwhile, exerts its own force field in the lobby.

Soho Warehouse

Soho Warehouse’s stairwell installation by Genevieve Gaignard.

The main entrance of the Soho Warehouse may seem modest by luxury hotel standards, but the Shephard Fairey mural standing sentry hints at the impressive art collection tucked inside. It’s one of six site-specific commissions in the members’ club and hotel exploring language and the body and part of 150 artworks spread across seven floors in the century-old former industrial building. The property’s opening in 2019 coincided with the flourishing of Downtown LA’s art scene, and the collection’s emphasis is on local contemporary artists, some of whom have studios mere steps away; look out for works by Mark Bradford, Juliana Huxtable, Christina Quarles, Christine Sun Kim, Tschabalala Self, Martine Syms, and Amalia Ulman.

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• 7 Breathtaking Towns to Visit in Louisiana

Louisiana is a booming state characterized by Mardi Gras events, jazz festivals, and delicious Cajun and Creole food. But there is far more to the Pelican State than one might think. Travelers will find a wide array of breathtaking small towns outside the big, famous cities in Louisiana. These small towns offer a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, lined with bayous, old plantations, and immaculately landscaped gardens. From hiking through the Lake Fausse Pointe State Park in St. Martinville to devouring delicious seafood in Breaux Bridge, there are an abundance of reasons to fall in love with the following seven towns.

St. Martinville

Appropriately nicknamed “Little Paris,” St. Martinville, Louisiana, a predominantly French-speaking community, is one of the oldest surviving towns in the state. Situated on the shores of the Bayou Teche waterway, St. Martinville is home to several historical buildings and landmarks where travelers can get a taste of Creole heritage. Those looking to dive straight into the history and culture of St. Martinville can start their trip at the Longfellow-Evangeline State Historic Site. Here, guests can tour the old plantation house and enjoy nearby hiking trails. The African American Museum and the Acadian Memorial are also ideal attractions for anyone looking to expand their knowledge of Louisiana history. For the outdoor lovers, St. Martinville has plenty to offer. Take a relaxing stroll through Evangeline Oak Park or break out the binoculars and boots for an afternoon of hiking and wildlife viewing at Lake Fausse Pointe State Park.

Breaux Bridge

Roughly 13 miles away from St. Martinville, also on the shores of the Bayou Teche waterway, travelers will discover Breaux Bridge , Louisiana. Here, visitors rejoice at a hearty selection of tour companies offering memorable trips along the Bayou Teche. Country Swamp Tours, for example, has a 4.9-star rating on Yelp, with many customers raving about the guides and their passion for wildlife. After touring the bayou, head to Parc Hardy, a local park with baseball diamonds, tennis courts, pickleball courts, and a small water fountain. Parc Hardy is also an ideal spot to enjoy a picnic or rest after hours of exploration. Anyone looking to do some local shopping can visit Pink Alligator Gallery, where they will find a wide range of unique jewelry and artwork. Of course, a trip to Breaux Bridge isn’t complete without tasting some local crawfish. Known as the “Crawfish Capital of the World,” foodies should plan to visit in May when the annual Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival is on.

Natchitoches

Natchitoches , Louisiana, is a stunning small town offering visitors a taste of everything from live sports to family-oriented outdoor activities. Sports enthusiasts will want to visit the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame to learn about Louisiana athletes, coaches, and notable stars. If the museum doesn’t quite scratch that sports itch, don’t forget to watch a live game at Northwestern State University, home of the Demons. Those traveling with kids should visit the popular ​​Dark Woods Adventure Park. Here, people of all ages can participate in gem and fossil mining, teddy bear creation, and various events, including a haunted adventure. The park also has tasty food on site and, at the time of writing, is building a mini golf course.

For the history buffs in the group, Natchitoches is rich with historical sites, including the famous Fort St. Jean Baptiste State Historic Site and the Roque House and Gardens. Those looking to enjoy some time on the water should book a trip on the Cane River Queen Paddle Wheeler, a 49-passenger boat that offers beautiful views and history lessons.

Madisonville

Madisonville, Louisiana, is a beautiful town bordered by the Tchefuncte River. It is ideal for boat trips and outdoor exploration. One of the best places to experience Madisonville's beauty up close is Fairview-Riverside State Park. The park features a canopy of giant oak trees, picnic areas, a quarter-mile hiking trail, and picturesque views of the surrounding river. Filled with bass, bluegill, white perch, and bream, the park is also a hotspot for recreational fishing.

Another highlight of the Tchefuncte River is the Tchefuncte River Lighthouse. Located a short walk from the state park, the historic lighthouse is a sight to admire by boat but is also visible at a distance from the shore. An easy way to see both the lighthouse and the wildlife that calls Tchefuncte River home is to book a tour with Louisiana Tours & Adventures, a touring company offering a variety of relaxing cruises.

Grand Isle, Louisiana, is a barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico , not far from the mouth of Barataria Bay. The island is an outdoor-lovers paradise, surrounded by sparkling water, sandy beaches, and abundant wildlife. Start a visit here by exploring the Grand Isle Birding Trail. The roughly two-mile round-trip trail features five distinct bird-watching locations, most of which are owned and protected by the local Nature Conservancy. Along the trail, explorers will likely see gulls, terns, skimmers, and brown pelicans. Next, head to Grand Isle State Park, where visitors are free to enjoy more birdwatching, hiking, swimming, and crabbing. Campsites are also available for those who wish to stay overnight. Those more interested in suntanning and swimming can head to Grand Isle Beach, a seven-mile stretch of warm sand and sky-blue water that looks postcard-perfect in the sun.

Roughly 20 miles outside of the bustling city of Lafayette , travelers will find New Iberia, Louisiana. Known as a hotspot for mouth-watering food, music, and popular community events, it is safe to say there is never a dull moment in New Iberia. That said, there is plenty of quiet beauty to be enjoyed here as well. For a relaxing afternoon, head to Jungle Gardens, where visitors can admire a wide range of wildlife and local flora. After a trip around the gardens, interested travelers can quickly tour the nearby Tabasco Brand Factory & Museum. Then, indulge in even more natural beauty at Rip Van Winkle Gardens. Here, guests will see immaculate gardens, various birds, and the old Joseph Jefferson Mansion.

St. Francisville

Lush foliage around the historic Rosedown Plantation in St Francisville, Louisiana.

Last but certainly not least, St. Francisville, Louisiana, is a lively little town known for its many historical landmarks and old plantations. History lovers will want to visit the Audubon State Historic Site. Here, one can tour the old Oakley Plantation House and two cabins previously used by enslaved people. The site also offers opportunities for hiking and birdwatching.

Those visiting St. Francesville in the spring or summer months would be remiss not to visit Afton Villa Gardens. Filled with vibrant azaleas, camellias, and towering oak trees, the historic gardens are sure to take anyone's breath away. Next, take a break and relax by the Historic West Feliciana Railroad Caboose. Here, visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch while they learn about the history of this little orange caboose. To wrap up the trip, plan a visit to Cat Island National Wildlife Refuge, where hiking, fishing, and boating are all available.

In Conclusion

From cruising on the Bayou Teche looking for alligators to mining for gems at Dark Woods Adventure Park, there is a little something for everyone here in Louisiana. Whether travelers are looking for delicious food, outdoor exploration, or interactive history lessons, Bayou State will not disappoint. Moreover, these towns are astray from urban crowds, offering a tranquil environment to take in the sights. So the next time that adventure comes knocking, consider taking a trip to Louisiana.

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A first-timer's guide to Saskatoon, Canada

Apr 26, 2024 • 6 min read

From timing your visit right to planning your activities, here's our first-timer's guide to Saskatoon © K. D. Kirchmeier / Getty Images

Surrounded by gentle wheat fields beneath a dome of great prairie skies, Saskatoon is the largest city in the Canadian province of Saskatchewan .

Straddling the South Saskatchewan River, it has been the province’s cultural and economic hub since its settlement in the late 19th century (but not its capital – that falls to Regina).

The Northern Plains Indigenous Peoples had been guardians of this land for over 6000 years when, in 1883, white Methodists founded the town as a temperance colony, naming it after the purple berry growing in the region. While the railroad eventually reached the fledgling town in 1890, Saskatoon still only had 113 inhabitants at the turn of the century. A boom period of new settlers and entrepreneurs soon followed, and Saskatoon grew into a thriving city, albeit isolated from big cities like Vancouver , Toronto and Montréal .

Today, the sometimes stark prairie landscapes around the city look like nowhere else in the country. Downtown, you’ll find street art tours, compelling museums, craft beer breweries, a variety of architecture and some fine riverside trails. And Saskatoon now proudly explains and celebrates the Indigenous Peoples who have been here for thousands of years, with the Wanuskewen complex a majestic and poignant monument to that past and present.

These top tips can help you plan a trip to Saskatoon.

When should I go to Saskatoon?

Though Saskatoon – one of the sunniest cities in Canada  – receives plenty of sunlight (2350.4 hours annually), winters are long and cold so plan to visit during the glorious summer months between June and August. This is the busiest time of year, but since Saskatoon is a little more under-the-radar than other Canadian cities, it’s not overwhelmed by tourists and offers much better value for money regarding accommodation and eating out. 

The city comes alive with music on those effulgent summer days with magnificent festivals across multiple genres including the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival , Rock the River and the Ness Creek Music Festival . And for those who do want to embrace Saskatchewan winter scenes, the Nutrien Wintershines Festival hosts ice sculptures, cook-offs, stargazing and more. 

How long should I spend in Saskatoon?

Allow two to three days to explore Saskatoon, but also leave time for attractions on the city’s outskirts that make use of the abundant prairie space. You’ll spend the majority of your time in downtown Saskatoon, on the river trails and the Broadway neighborhood, which is ideal for a weekend. More planning is needed for the excursions out of the city, so map out an extra day or two for those depending on time and budget. 

Is it easy to get in and around Saskatoon?

Saskatoon John G. Diefenbaker International Airport is 7km (4 miles) northwest of downtown Saskatoon, which is about 18 minutes by taxi, the most convenient form of travel to any downtown hotel. The number 11 bus also runs from the airport, and takes around 30 minutes to make the same journey (without factoring in walking to the hotel).

Though its streets are wide, Saskatoon’s downtown core is highly walkable and there are several bridges spanning the South Saskatchewan River that link to Broadway Ave’s bars, cafes and stores. Consider hiring a bike too, as the relatively flat landscape and serpentine river trails are ideal for cycling. Visitors to Wanuskewen will need to hire a car or take a taxi.

Traveling elsewhere in Canada? Here are our top tips on transportation

6 of the best things to do in Saskatoon

1. explore the meewasin valley trail.

Saskatoon’s huge prairie skies are evocative and entice you outside, so the best way to experience the great outdoors here is by following some of the Meewasin Valley Trail . Flanking the serpentine river, the 25km (15 mile) trails are a fine introduction to Saskatoon’s cityscape, and are best experienced on two wheels (look out for the motivational chalk murals and messages along the way).

2. See artworks in the Remai Modern

The river winds south to River Landing in downtown’s southern tip, and it’s here that the Tetris-like Remai Modern  museum rises up on a small bluff. Alongside a permanent collection featuring over 8000 works from Canadian and international artists, there’s also a quirky permanent exhibition of ceramics and linocuts by Pablo Picasso in this spacious museum bursting with natural light. 

3. Enjoy the buss of Broadway Avenue

A short walk across the Broadway Bridge brings cinematic city views followed by a stroll into arguably the most vibrant corner of Saskatoon. Airy breweries , buzzing bistros, kitsch vinyl stores and the iconic Broadway Theatre fringe Broadway Ave, which is a fine spot to spend a morning, afternoon or evening (perhaps even all three?). 

4. Take yourself on a tour of downtown's murals and architecture

Back in downtown, discover an art-splashed city on a self-guided street art tour passing by huge murals and multicolored installations spanning 20th and 23rd Street East. Even if you’re not staying there, the Delta Bessborough Hotel is something of a work of art itself. Completed in 1935, the Bessborough is a soaring Châteauesque turreted and gabled affair reminiscent of Bavarian castles that looks startlingly out of place.

5. See how Saskatoon was

Towards the edge of the city, the Western Development Museum’s compelling Boomtown exhibit is an indoor reconstruction of a typical Saskatchewan small-town main street from 1910, complete with a blacksmith, church and train station.

6. Taste local produce at the farmers market

And for a true experience of this land, it’s worth a visit to the Saskatoon Farmers Market  – an institution running since 1975 and stuffed with vendors selling everything from wild berries to handmade moccasins.

My favorite thing to do in Saskatoon

There’s a magical quality to watching the sun sink behind the widescreen horizon at Wanuskewin Heritage Park . Not like the picture-postcard sunsets you see on Caribbean beaches, it’s more of a calming, spiritual feeling as the sun’s soft glow fades across the marshy creeks and wooded ridges of the Opamihaw Valley. Shortly after, I watched the moon rise against a blue evening canvas. Known as nēhiyawēwin in Plains Cree, Wanuskewin roughly translates to "seeking peace of mind" and that name couldn’t be more apt. 

Around 20 minutes north of downtown Saskatoon, Wanuskewin tells the story of the Northern Plains Indigenous People’s spiritual relationship to this land and the living creatures they share it with, most notably the repopulated bison. You can explore panels, artwork, interactive classes, traditional food and much more, but most importantly that story – which is never sugarcoated – is told by Indigenous People themselves. Few experiences I’ve had in North America have felt deeper and more enlightening than this one.

How much money do I need for Saskatoon?

• Hostel room: $79
• Hotel room for two: $94
• Public transport ticket: $3
• Coffee: $3.60
• Sandwich: $3
• Dinner for two: $73
• Beer/pint at a bar: $5.80

Budget for your time in Canada with out money-saving tips

Should I visit in winter?

With an average temperature of -13°C (8°F) in January, winter in Saskatoon is only for the hardiest of souls. However, one bonus of a visit in this season – along with budget-friendly prices – is the chance of seeing the northern lights, with the aurora's stunning swirls sometimes visible if the stars align (no pun intended). Just remember to pack plenty of layers.

What language is spoken in Saskatoon?

Though English and French are official languages in Saskatchewan, English is by far the most spoken language in Saskatoon and you’ll need it for all of your interactions. 

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Lifestyle | Travel

The best places to stay in Marrakech 2024: From riads to royal palaces

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Marrakech, or ‘the red city’ as it is known, is defined by its earth-tone clay exteriors.

A short 3.5-hour plane ride from London, the jewel in Morocco’s crown is an enticing destination for sun-deprived travellers seeking a vitamin D fix without straying too far from home.

A weekend jaunt offers an intoxicating glimpse into all the energetic city has to offer, from the world-famous Jardin Majorelle (once owned by Yves Saint Laurent) to the bustling souks. Marrakech may be edging the Sahara, but it is in no way a sparse desert landscape.

Founded in 1070, the city is a hive of creativity. Stroll through the ancient medina, taking in the architectural richness and scents of street food, spices and fragrances as you go. You’ll spot snake charmers, the 12th-century Koutoubia mosque as the tallest building in town and the juxtaposition of old meets new. Don’t forget to book a rejuvenating head-to-toe scrub in a hammam.

Given the frenetic chaos of the city, a calming retreat in which to escape is vital. Marrakech is home to some of the finest hotels and most spectacular riads with lush gardens, cinematic views of the snow-tipped Atlas mountains and ornate zellige mosaics providing a wealth of interior inspiration. But which to choose?

Browse through our selection of the best sanctuaries for the ultimate Moroccan experience.

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La Mamounia

The palatial La Mamounia is one of those jaw-dropping hotels you think can't be real — until you get there.

The forged metal doorway opens to a mosaiced paradise, decorating the Andalusian architecture with enamelled tiles in geometric patterns. Marrakech may be famed for its earth tones, but La Mamounia is an expanse of colour, from the rich red tones of the lobby to the horticulture. The 20-acre gardens are punctuated by bright Bougainvillea, orange trees and cacti, giving the nearby Jardin Majorelle a run for its money.

Its location is a huge draw. If you can pull yourself away, it's a mere 10-minute walk to the Koutoubia Mosque. A short distance but the serenity of the space feels worlds away.

There are four restaurants, aptly named for the cuisine that they serve. Le Morroccain is illuminated by lanterns and candles, giving a soft, warm glow to the proceedings. The three-course menu of signature local dishes and herbs from the hotel’s gardens is enjoyed in cosy private booths. L’Asiatique and L’Italien draw in crowds, while breakfast is dished out buffet-style or a la carte at Le Pavillon de La Piscine. Here you’ll find some of the best pastries outside of France enjoyed against the backdrop of the Murano glass outdoor pool.

Inside the spa, you'll find another aesthetically pleasing pool, its painted wood ceiling only rivalled by the lattice and tilework below. If you have time — and you should make time — the Hamman ritual is transformational. It may not be the most relaxing treatment, but the ancient practice leaves you restored from head to toe.

La Mamounia brings in serious star power. The hotel has welcomed Bill Clinton, Kate Winslet, Tom Cruise, Priyanka Chopra, Gwyneth Paltrow, Robert Pattinson and Jennifer Aniston, so you’ll be in good company. It has also seen a surge in popularity since Netflix's Inventing Anna . Yes, this is the very same hotel where notorious con artist Anna Delvey racked up quite the bill in the viral TV series. Signed pictures of the A-list clientele (including Julia Garner who played Delvey) are dotted around the lobby, each praising the establishment for its impeccable service and intricate decor. You will even spot King Charles (then Prince) and Nelson Mandela in the mix.

Winston Churchill, however, is the hotel’s most prized guest, with a petite but opulent bar dedicated to the legendary former PM who spent his last days painting in the garden. After a long weekend at La Mamounia, we can’t say we blame him.

Designed by the Aman group’s beloved architect Ed Tuttle, Amanjena is a Moorish pink palace. With marble columns, countless smooth reflection pools and washed clay walls, the scent of orange blossom and jasmine fills the air. Perched serenely just outside of the dusty chaos of Marrakech, the hotel is an orange blossom-scented mirage. You could hear a pin drop at the main pool which is at the centre of the ‘action’, sandwiched serenely between the spa, gym and the Japanese restaurant (also the scene of breakfast, which is excellent).

Rooms? Pah! Aman calls them Pavilions and once you’ve stayed at an Aman you’re pretty much ruined for life. Book a Pavilions Piscine for an extra-large terrace, majestic gazebo, sun loungers (with handy sun hats) and a private pool. The spa is small but perfectly formed with expert therapists and a hamman. The more active could make use of the resort’s free bikes, play golf at the neighbouring 27-hole or take on a game of clay court tennis. The resort also has a range of activities to book, from dining excursions to the Afagay desert to hot air balloon rides — always a magical experience.

It’s hard to not fall in love with El Fenn. It’s charming in every sense. Awash with Moroccan tiles, tadelakt walls and vibrant upholstery, even the corridors will have you cooing. The palatial rooms are individually designed and colour-themed, so expect a brave wash of all-pink, soft peach or dark navy.

The design is bold and daring but in the most enticing way possible. Behind the curated 41 rooms is Vanessa Branson (sister of Richard Branson) and Howell James, who began restoration back in 2002. The roof terrace is the place to be to watch the sun disappear as you gaze out at the Koutoubia Mosque and is worth a visit whether you choose to stay here or not. It is perhaps one of the best views in the city to enjoy with a cocktail in hand and one of the few places that has a party spirit. Don’t sleep on the food that puts a modern twist on local dishes. Sure you’ll find tagine but the chefs get creative using locally-sourced fruits and vegetables with each dish more colourful than the last.

La Sultana Marrakech

La Sultana is situated just a ten-minute walk to the main square, Jemaa El Fna, which you have to visit at least once. It really is a site and an experience to behold. Note: you can expect to see both snakes and monkeys (chained), plus a plethora of instruments all passionately being played come dusk. From the sprawling rooftop at La Sultana you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, where, despite the bustle below, you'll hear no more than the call to prayer.

The hotel consists of five riads in total; all unique in design, making for quite the place to explore. Decadent and ostentatious in parts, this is a feast for the eyes. Indoor garden courtyards, a swimming pool and a spa will all keep you well occupied. Rooms are large but I’d recommend requesting one on a top floor for optimum privacy and maximum daylight. Cookery classes are also a must here.

Royal Mansour Marrakech

Commissioned by King Mohammed VI as a showpiece of Moroccan craftsmanship, the Royal Mansour is magnificent. Super discreet, staff are rarely seen and instead, move about the four hectares via 1 kilometre worth of secret tunnels. Guests stay in three-floor riads rather than rooms and all come with rooftop terraces and private pools (some just plunge).

Acclaimed chef Hélène Darroze (she has six Michelin stars, making her one of the most decorated chefs in the world) has taken the helm of the hotel's four restaurants and the Royal Mansour is a place for fine dining and, we'd argue that La Grande Table is the top table in all of Marrakech. Le Jardin is a poolside area with a bar, Asian-inspired restaurant and chic private cabanas. Day passes are available for non-guests. Special mention should go to the spa. Featuring 13 treatment rooms (with three private spa suites), two hammams, a watsu pool, sauna, gym and hair salon, the spa is one of the best hotels we've ever been to.

Riad L'Hôtel Marrakech

A design project from Jasper Conran means you can expect an on-point yet understated design with flashes of colour. With only six suites, this place fills up quickly. The 19th-century riad is hidden within a maze of pink-wash pathways in the heart of the ‘red city’s’ Medina. Our Google Maps failed us and we had to be escorted by one of the charming staff. Each suite is luxuriously large, with a draped four-poster bed, and brings together both modern design and traditional Moroccan antiques. The restaurant and food offering (which is open for non-guests to book, too) is an experience worth treating yourself to. Both our vegetarian and fish tagines were among the favourites we tried. If the weather fails you, and you're not able to sit on the relaxed roof terrace, book the spot by the fireplace.

Dar Zitouna – Private villa

For those with a family, or friends, wanting a more private and peaceful time, then one of the serviced villas on the private eight-villa estate of Bab Adrar ticks the box. Remotely situated a thirty-minute drive from the country’s capital. With all vistas directed towards the horizon of the Atlas mountains, this luxury villa has five double bedrooms, several terraces all laced with olive trees and an enormous spread of grounds that play host to your private pool and numerous outdoor seating and dining spots. Luxuriously decorated, with tasteful nods to both Morrocan and French design, with interesting pieces of art and photography. Staff are on hand to cook, clean and assist with any requests.

It took more than 200 local craftsmen over 10 years to construct some of the intricate detailing carved into the walls and ceilings of The Oberoi’s magnificent main building which was constructed on the site of a former 11-hectare farm and designed to look like an ancient Moroccan palace. The owners hired the same designer as Marrakech’s famous Yves Saint Laurent or Majorelle garden for parts of the landscaping, and the craftsmanship shows. The courtyard of the main building is a replica of Morocco’s iconic 14th-century monument, the Medersa Ben Youssef, and the whole hotel is centred around a 787-foot-long grand canal, which runs through the grounds and offers an opulent and satisfyingly symmetrical backdrop to any stay, whether it’s dining on the terrace at Tamint at sunset or taking a  golf  buggy back to your room after a day in the desert. With fine dining, an award-winning spa and more than 80 private villas dotted charmingly around the landscaped grounds, it’s no wonder the hotel was ranked the number one resort in North Africa and the Middle East in 2022’s Travel + Leisure World’s Best awards.

We may earn some commission if you click on a link in this article and buy a product or service, but we never allow this to influence our coverage.

Lazzat Halal Foods

Updated by business owner over 3 months ago

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7257 W Sunset Blvd

East Los Angeles, CA 90046

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Central Asian cuisine is diverse and reflects the cultural and historical influences of the region, which includes countries like Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. Here are some key aspects: Ingredients: Central Asian cuisine often features staples like wheat, rice, barley, millet, and a variety of meats including lamb, beef, and horse meat. Fruits, vegetables, and dairy products also play main role in the unique taste of the food. Plov (Pilaf): This is a signature dish in many Central Asian countries. It's a rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and various spices. Each country has its own variation, like Uzbekistan's "plov" and Tajikistan's "qabili plov." Lagman: A popular noodle dish that typically includes hand-pulled noodles, various meats, and a flavorful sauce with vegetables. It's commonly found in Uzbek and Uighur cuisine. Manti: These are dumplings, often filled with minced meat (like lamb or beef) and sometimes vegetables. They can be steamed or boiled, and are served with sauces like tomato or yogurt. Shashlik: Central Asian kebabs are called shashlik. They're skewered and grilled pieces of marinated meat, often served with bread and vegetables. Samsa: These are savory pastries filled with meat, onions, and sometimes vegetables. They're typically baked and have variations throughout the region. …

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Delicious food truck. Lamb was delicious. Tomato salad came with meal and was fresh and tasted incredible. There was also a vegan meal option in addition to the tomato salad, plus some great looking pastry-adjacent items. The man working there was really nice. Good food truck vibe all around.

I live right up the street from this food truck, but never got the chance to try it before today. It's right next to the Rock 'n Roll Ralph's parking lot on Fuller. I always see folks sitting and sharing food outside of the truck, so I figured it must be good. Upon a closer look, you'll notice that people sharing food are dining out of huge ceramic bowls with silverware provided by the business, something hard to notice as you drive by but pretty neat for street food. Most spoon hot entrees out of the bowls onto pieces of bread for little wraps. I'd never had Uzbek food before, but I love the cuisines nearby (Mediterranean/Levant, Eastern European/Russian) so I was very interested to try. I got my order to-go, preferring to eat at my house close-by instead of near busy Sunset. I wanted the mastava, but they were out for the day! No judgment on that, keeping things in supply for a food truck must be tough. So instead I got the Pilaf, which is one of the most popular Uzbek dishes, and it did not disappoint. They also gave me a free salad which had tomatoes, red onions, cilantro, and vinegar - a palate cleanser. The pilaf: long-grain rice, shaved carrots, sliced beef, and spices I can't identify entirely but I did notice what might be barberries. So good! It reminded me of slow-cooked pot roast, the beef was super tender and so were the carrots. I am really impressed by the flavor and quality of the ingredients. The prices are quite reasonable, ranging from $2 for breads (which I would love to try when I'm prepared to gluten myself), to $19.99 for kurutob with meat - the national dish of Uzbekistan which I'm certain comes in a portion for 2-3 like the other entrees. I think many of the dishes are friendly to a gluten-free diet, but check the ingredients of dishes on Google before ordering to be sure - ex. kurutob includes bread pieces, lagman includes wheat noodles, the breads and dumplings are off-limits... but the pilaf, soups, and kebabs should be alright if you are okay with possible cross-contamination. They have a selection of bottled drinks in a cooler, as well as spigots for coffee and hot water on the side of the truck. Many who were "dining in" had teas and coffees. I want to try that next, the food is very cozy and a hot drink would amplify that! Lazzat is definitely one of the most impressive food trucks I've been to, and I will not be surprised if they are able to open a brick-and-mortar place soon. It's always poppin' over there, and I think they'd be the only Uzbek-specific place in the area. I'm excited to try more!

| Rating: 4.7/5 | * Parking: Well, it's a food truck. So you will have to find parking within the shopping mall. It's right next to the Ralphs, so there is plenty parking, depending on the time you go. * Restaurant: It's a food truck, that is put up by the street. The staff and service were great! They were really nice and tried their best to help us with choosing the food. The ambiance and seating was almost like the street food shops in Middle East. It's a Uzbekistan-influenced food truck. They didn't speak perfect English, but used Google Translate to talk to us, not about the food, but just as a friend, which is so respectful and nice. I hope they can succeed and eventually open a restaurant themselves. Very nice people! It can take time to break them since foreigners usually are afraid of being judged, but once you converse, they are friendly. * Food: Well, food was unique and amazing! It was my first Halal Uzbek experience. We had pilaf, some kabob with bread that was dosed in Yogury, some Laghman (noodle with beef broth, and beef slices, cooked to perfection) and some savory pastry with lamb meat. You have to understand the root of their food to kind of understand what they are going for. It was as authentic as I had seen it on the Youtube videos. Taste was simple, not overly spiced, or underspiced. My favourite was the beef pastry with their spiced ketchup, and the kebab with yogurt was quite interesting. It was a nice experience, and I would go back to try their other items. You have to be open minded to try things you haven't really heard of, and it's worth it. * Price: It's quite reasonable being that the portions were for 2-3 people. Well priced for food that tasted good. If it were expensive, I'd still support them for their efforts to make authentic soulful food. | For more Halal restaurant reviews check out my account, hope it helps your adventure for your taste buds :) |

I'd passed this food truck a few times while walking around the neighborhood--it's right by the Ralph's on Sunset--and then when Eater gave them a mention, I thought, "Why not try something new?" (I also saw the good, though few, Yelp reviews.) And so I marched on over, intent on having my first experience with Uzbek food. There's a bit of a language barrier--not sure if the owners speak much English--but there are pictures of the menu items on the truck, and admittedly there are many commonalities with cuisines in adjacent regions (dumplings, kebabs, etc.). Still, it took the help of a nice young man who happened to be there picking up food to guide me through my first time. I opted for the pilaf, which was rice (of course) with beef, carrots and other goodies. It was absolutely (and addictively) delicious, and it came with a side salad of tomatoes and onions (also yummy). Portions and prices are fair, and now that I feel better situated with ordering, even with the language barrier, I'll definitely be back.

Pilaf with rice, beef, carrots and other instruments of deliciousness.

I got bone with cartilage in the dough for 7 $ I don't recommend it jhhhhhhhhhhhhhhdhebshsbsbsbssbs

it was very tasty, there was a lot of variety in the menu, I like oriental food, but here it was very tasty. As for the people working here, they are very friendly and responsive. The whole restaurant is very cozy, so I recommend everyone to visit this restaurant

The food is very tasty, I suggest you all the Uzbek ones I'm going to try here The most delicious Kazanka bab pilaf shurpa Mostova Samsa

My first experience is terrible with this food truck! First of all they warmed up food in the microwave. Disgusting! Then I found a piece of beef that looks like a left over. Check out the pictures. I saw something fishy was happening. Also the package got deformed because of the microwave. Don't trust this food place! It's terrible!

Food was amazing. We went to their location on wilshire just opened. Will definitely be back soon! Lamb kabob 100%

Best Uzbek food I've had in a while. It was like being back home in Tashkent. We will definitely be back. Really authentic. Highly recommend ordering samsa and manti especially .

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