los angeles top tourist attractions

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.

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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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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

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

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.

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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 .

The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles

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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 Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

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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The 48 best things to do in Los Angeles

Your essential guide to the best things to do in Los Angeles, from stair hikes to scenic drives and more

Looking for the best things to do in Los Angeles? We have you covered with the very best that L.A. has to offer. Whether you’re a culture vulture, outdoorsy type or simply a lover of our fine city, there’s more than enough here to keep you busy. Even lifelong Angelenos will find something new to add to their to-do list, between the city’s landmark attractions  that are still accessible, an ever-changing inventory of the  best restaurants in Los Angeles , essential L.A. museums and even some off-the-beaten path secrets. How many of the best things to do in Los Angeles will you try?

April 2024: This month , we’ve added a week of celeb-filled TV show panels and the return of the ren faire. We’ve also refreshed our wildflower info and added in some more outdoor screening series.  If you hurry, you might still catch a glimpse of  Space Shuttle Endeavour in its  ready-to-launch position  from just outside of the California Science Center and elsewhere in Exposition Park—but since it’s due to be covered in scaffolding soon, we’ve otherwise removed that from our list. We’ve also temporarily  removed   Wayfarer’s Chapel , which has shuttered for now due to land movement in the area.

You can also find out more about  how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world , or take a look at our list of the best things to do in the world right now . 

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Best things to do in L.A.

Stroll through the stunning gardens at the Huntington Library

• Things to do
• Event spaces
• price 2 of 4

What is it? A historic library, museum and sprawling gardens that was the bequest of entrepreneur Henry E. Huntington.

Why go? The Huntington’s distinctly themed gardens are easily the most stunning manicured outdoor spaces in SoCal, especially its recently expanded Chinese garden. The library and museum are equally impressive; all require reservations on weekends.

Don’t miss:  An excellent exhibition on under-recognized sculptor Sargent Claude Johnson . In the past year, the Huntington has also renovated its historic tea room  and  rebuilt a 320-year-old house from Japan .

See L.A. from above at Griffith Park

• Griffith Park

What is it?  A 4,000-plus–acre rugged park in the center of the city.

Why go?  The trails, the flora, the views, the howls of coyotes down the canyons at night, the twinkly lights of Downtown in the distance—L.A. may not have a grassy, centralized park, but Griffith’s massive, hilly wilderness makes for a stellar alternative.

Don’t miss:  Even when the Griffith Observatory  is closed (on Mondays), you can still drive or hike up to the grounds of the landmark Art Deco dome to take in the unparalleled views .  Wherever you end up hiking, we highly suggest listening downloading Ellen Reid’s  Soundwalk , a location-based musical composition that transforms as you move about the park.

Practice your acceptance speech at the Academy Museum

• Movies and TV
• Miracle Mile

What is it? A permanent home for the history of moviemaking  that’s finally open .

Why go?  The collection includes the sorts of cinematic treasures you’d expect from the people who put on the Oscars, like C-3PO and the sole surviving shark from Jaws . Oh, and the gift shop  is pretty fantastic, too.

Don’t miss:  The museum’s gallery rotations currently celebrate  The Godfather , Casablanca  and Boyz N the Hood , plus French New Wave pioneer Agnès Varda and documentarian Lourdes Portillo. Plus  a John Waters exhibit  outlines the gleefully filthy films and legacy of the iconic director.

Have tacos and egg sandwiches from Grand Central Market

• Restaurants
• Downtown Historic Core

What is it? A European-style food hall that’s been operating in Downtown L.A. since 1917.

Why go? Even if you’re not there for the food, it’s worth a trip; people from all corners of L.A. mix and mingle among rows of spices, produce and vintage neon signage. Of course, if you’re hungry it’s a great place to get cheap pupusas, carnitas tacos and aguas frescas, as well as food from handsome, trendy eateries like Shiku , Fat + Flour ,  Sticky Rice , Broad Street Oyster Co. ,  Eggslut , McConnell’s and G&B Coffee .

Don’t miss: Tacos Tumbras a Tomas serves the hall’s go-to taco, particularly the carnitas and al pastor.

Take a food tour of Downtown L.A.

Pose in front of streetlights at LACMA

• Art and design
• price 1 of 4

What is it?  Chris Burden’s Urban Light , a piece made up of 202 cast-iron street lamps gathered from around L.A. and restored to working order, that stands outside of the massive museum.

Why go? Yes, snag your streetlight selfies. But you’d be selling yourself short if you don’t venture beyond the photo-friendly installation; LACMA’s collections boast modernist masterpieces, large-scale contemporary works, traditional Japanese screens and by far L.A.’s most consistently terrific special exhibitions. 

Don’t miss:  The museum rolls out an Ed Ruscha retrospective this month, and a few days a week, you can watch Judy Baca paint an extension of  The Great Wall of Los Angeles  from within LACMA’s galleries. Also, if you live in L.A. County, book a reservation for a weekday after 3pm to get in without paying a cent.

Set out in search of wildflowers

What is it?  Patches of poppies and all sorts of other colorful flowers that have already started to—and will hopefully continue—to blanket the region.

Why go?  After L.A.’s wildly wet February , March saw the arrival of colorful carpets of flowers in Anza-Borrego. We haven’t exactly seen a “super bloom” outside of that, but there are a few smaller-but-still-colorful local displays as we patiently wait for poppies to bloom.

Don’t miss:  We’ll be updating our wildflower guide, linked below, regularly throughout the month, so stay tuned for updates—including the status of the much-loved  Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve .

Bike the Strand

• Sports and fitness

What is it? A 22-mile bike path, officially known as the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, that traces nearly the entire extent of L.A.’s westward-facing coastline.

Why go? It’s the best way to tour the coastline. The path starts at Will Rogers State Beach and winds its way all the way down to Torrance County Beach.

Don’t miss: If you’d rather take the path at a walking pace, you’ll find pedestrian-friendly forks in Santa Monica, Venice and Manhattan Beach.

Take a guided bike ride along the coast.

Pedal around Echo Park Lake

What is it?  A former reservoir turned public recreation area at the center of one of L.A.’s most buzzing neighborhoods.

Why go?  The historic Echo Park Lake in recent years finally became a family-friendly destination worthy of its bold backdrop: the Downtown skyline amid the lotus flower blooms, fountains and the Lady of the Lake statue.

Don’t miss:  You can push your way through the lake in a swan boat ($12 per hour) or stroll around the path that hugs its borders.

Step inside of a long lost art carnival at Luna Luna: Forgotten Fantasy

• Installation
• Boyle Heights Until May 12, 2024

What is it?  A carnival that popped up in Germany in 1987, went into storage for decades and has now been reborn in a soundstage near the L.A. River.

Why go?  Though you can’t climb aboard the rides here, the atmosphere is magical. The same can be said for the astounding lineup of artists whose works you’ll see inside: a Ferris wheel with drawings by Jean-Michel Basquiat, a carousel crafted by Keith Haring, a mirrored dome devised by Salvador Dalí, swings painted by Kenny Scharf and many, many more.

Don’t miss:  You’ll need a timed ticket throughout the show’s run, which wraps up its run on May 12. You can read more here about our experience at Luna Luna —including why we think you don’t necessarily need to spring for VIP access.

Watch a movie outdoors

What is it?  An early start outdoor movie season.

Why go?  It’s still not as packed as the summer schedule, but alfresco films definitely pick up this month thanks to the return of  Rooftop Movies at the Montalbán , plus nightly screenings from  Rooftop Cinema Club  in DTLA. Look out for Street Food Cinema’s season opener at the very end of the month.

Don’t miss:  New screenings and series are announced all the time, so make sure to check our calendar each week.

Gaze into infinity at the Broad

What is it? A free, contemporary art museum in Downtown L.A.

Why go?  Three little words: Infinity Mirror Rooms. The persistently popular museum has  two  mirror-laden Yayoi Kusama installations (the more immersive of which you can now reserve in advance ). Of course, there’s plenty more to see, from Robert Therrien’s oversized Under the Table  to a half-dozen Jean-Michel Basquiat paintings.

Don’t miss: A collection show of L.A. artists  that was set to debut in the spring of 2020 is finally on display—but only through the first week of April—with works from John Baldessari, Mike Kelley, Barbara Kruger and more.

Dance among the dinosaurs during First Fridays at the Natural History Museum

• Classes and workshops
• USC/Exposition Park Until Jun 7, 2024

What is it?  A monthly after-dark party and lecture series at the Natural History Museum.

Why go?  The first Friday of every month from March through June plays host to a KCRW-presented evening of music, plus guided museum tours, and scientist-led talks.

Don’t miss:  Each month has a different theme, including the Nature of Gender (April), the Plant Clones are Coming (May) and How We Multiply (June).

Geek out with the casts of your favorite TV shows at PaleyFest

• TV, radio and podcast recordings
• Hollywood Until Apr 20, 2024

What is it?  The Paley Center’s weeklong festival of screenings and panel discussions with the cast and creators of the biggest TV shows.

Why go?  The 2024 lineup, which runs from April 12 to 21 at the Dolby Theatre, includes  Curb Your Enthusiasm , Loki , The Morning Show , Young Sheldon , Avatar: The Last Airbender , Late Night with Seth Meyers , The Late Show with Stephen Colbert and a 25th anniversary celebration of Family Guy .

Don’t miss: The celebs, including Jennifer Aniston, Reese Witherspoon, Tom Hiddleston, Iain Armitage, Albert Kim, Seth Meyers, Larry David, Cheryl Hines, Seth MacFarlane, Alex Borstein, Mila Kunis and Stephen Colbert. 

Spend the weekend at a music fest

What is it? The beginning of a packed few months of music festivals.

Why go?  As Memorial Day is to the summer,  Coachella is to music festival season. It and weekend-after country sibling Stagecoach  mark the start of full-blown music fest season. The sheer size of these two means they don’t have much competition in April, but look out for a staggering 10 nearby fests in May.

Don’t miss:  There’s at least one major local music fest nearly every month from now until the end of the year, so make sure to scope out our full list .

Partake in Elizabethan era shenanigans at the Renaissance Pleasure Faire

• Markets and fairs
• San Gabriel Valley Until May 19, 2024

What is it?   The renaissance fair, which returns to Irwindale in April and May.

Why go?  Even if you’re not a ren fair person, this Sante Fe Dam Recreation Area tradition is astoundingly fun. You’ll find  fully armored joust tournaments and tea parties with the Queen along with beguiling stage acts and delicious edibles and ales.

Don’t miss:  Each weekend has its own theme, including pirates (April 13, 14), cottagecore (Apr 20, 21) and cosplay (Apr 27, 28).

Have a street food feast at Smorgasburg L.A.

• Downtown Arts District Until Dec 15, 2024

What is it?  A Sunday market with dozens of food vendors in the Arts District.

Why go?  The weekly food fest is like an incubator for L.A.’s next big food spot, with more than 80 food and retail stalls at ROW DTLA. You’ll also find the I Love Micheladas beer garden for local brews and micheladas.

Don’t miss: This year’s new vendors include Basket Taco Co., Battambong Barbecue and Taste of the Pacific.

Meet Bing Bong and hop aboard the newest attractions at Disneyland

• price 3 of 4

What is it?  A new hotel, ride and restaurant at Disneyland, the nearly 69-year-old iconic  theme park .

Why go? If you haven’t been recently, there are a handful of new things to check out at the happiest place on earth, including Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, a colorful and clever   ride in Toontown;  Tiana’s Palace , a charming New Orleans-inspired restaurant themed to The Princess and the Frog ; and a  Big Hero 6 -ified makeover of the former Pacific Wharf dining area into the colorful Sanfransokyo. You can also meet Bing Bong and watch Joe play piano at the just-debuted Pixar Place Hotel, which has transformed the former Paradise Pier Hotel into a celebration of the art of Pixar animation. In the spring, look out for the limited-time return of “Wondrous Journeys,” an absolutely dazzling animation-filled fireworks show, as well as the much-loved “Fantasmic!”

Don’t miss: If you haven’t been to the pair of parks in a while, there’s a lot that’s changed—and we’re not just talking about the additions of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge  and Avengers Campus —so we suggest brushing up on some of our essential Disneyland tips first.

Step inside Frank Lloyd Wright’s handsome Hollyhock House

• Walks and tours

What is it?  A 1921, Mayan-inflected Frank Lloyd Wright house atop a hill in East Hollywood.

Why go?  Though the home’s privileged hilltop perch is admirable from the outside, it’s best experienced from within: The exquisite wood detailing, long concrete hallways and geometric furniture are well worth the $7 tour.

Don’t miss: Saturday tours tend to sell out, so make sure to book in advance or try a weekday if you can (Thu–Sat 11am–4pm).

Picnic at the Hollywood Bowl

What is it? A gorgeous and instantly recognizable outdoor amphitheatre that’s been hosting concerts since the LA Philharmonic first played there in 1922.

Why go? Nestled in an aesthetically blessed fold in the Hollywood Hills, the 18,000-seat venue can bring out the romantic in the terminally cynical. It’s the summer home of the LA Phil (and boozy picnics).

Don’t miss: As long as there’s no performance going on (which is most days in the winter and spring), it also doubles as a public park . During the busier summer season, you’re welcome to bring your own food to ticketed shows (and even booze to LA Phil-produced ones).

Ride the tram up to the Getty Center

What is it?  A free hilltop art museum with a rolling lawn overlooking the ocean.

Why go?  From the ocean to the mountains northeast of Downtown L.A., the panoramic views from this artopolis more than compensate for its relative inaccessibility (you need to ride a tram to the museum). So too do the masterpieces on display, particularly its Impressionist paintings and baroque and French decorative arts.

Don’t miss:  Pacific Palisades sister institution the Getty Villa  is absolutely worth a visit, too, and brimming with Greek and Roman antiquities. Both museums require a free reservation.

Hit the slopes at a ski resort

What is it?  Just under a dozen destinations within a day’s drive of L.A. where you can ski or snowboard.

Why go? You can drive for about an hour into the mountains and meet snow in the winter. But burn through a bit of extra gas and you’ll be rewarded with a proper high-altitude wonderland .

Don’t miss: Snow Valley , Mountain High  and the twin slopes of Bear Mountain  and Snow Summit  are all within a three-hour drive from most parts of L.A.

Warp into the the Mushroom Kingdom at Universal Studios

• Theme parks
• Universal City

What is it?   Super Nintendo World , a new Mario-themed land at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

Why go?  The colorful, kinetic land lets you throw shells on an augmented reality-enhanced Mario Kart ride, punch ? and POW blocks for coins, and dine inside an adorable Toad-themed café. It’s the most significant—and greatest—addition to the park since the still-pretty-magical  Wizarding World of Harry Potter .

Don’t miss:  For an extra $20 to $25, you can add on an early access ticket that gets you into Super Nintendo World an hour before the rest of the park opens.

Walk along the Venice Canals

What is it? A series of small canals that run through the beachfront neighborhood—hence the name, Venice.

Why go?  Tucked between the grimy Venice Boardwalk and the posh Abbot Kinney, the Venice Canals offer a completely different side of the famed beachfront neighborhood. Take a stroll through these three canal-lined blocks and you’ll discover an idyllic scene with arching pedestrian bridges, charming (and astronomically priced) beach houses and bunches of ducklings.

Don’t miss:  Though you won’t find boat rentals anywhere along the canals, you can bring your own non-motorized vessel to tour the neighborhood at water level (enter via the launch ramp at Venice Boulevard).

Watch a film in Hollywood’s oldest operating movie palace

• Movie theaters
• Independent

What is it?  A 101-year-old theater built by the same architect as the Chinese Theatre and home to the first Hollywood premiere.

Why go: The Egyptian Theatre is back after a three-year restoration project . Now under the ownership of Netflix, the streamer will hold special events and premieres there on weekdays. But the American Cinematheque, the not-for-profit that first revived the venue in the ’90s, will continue to program it on weekends with excellent cinematic picks and Q&As.

Don’t miss:  It’s not the only old theater to make its return recently: The Vista, now under the ownership of Quentin Tarantino , is once again regularly screening films (and serving coffee in an adjacent shop).

Take your pup to the only off-leash beach, Rosie’s Dog Beach

What is it?  A pooch-friendly paradise in Paradise.

Why go?  The four-acre waterfront spot is the only legal off-leash dog beach in L.A. County. The park is named after the area’s late local canine celebrity, Rosie the English bulldog.

Don’t miss:  The entrance. There are no fences marking the dog-friendly area—though you’ll know you’re in the right spot if you see the signs and colorful “Dogs at Play” sculpture—so you’ll want to stay between Granada Avenue and Roycroft Avenue between 6am and 8pm daily.

See L.A. from 6,000 feet up at the Mount Wilson Observatory

• Angeles National Forest

What is it?  A mountaintop observatory, and a winding, scenic drive to get there.

Why go?  High up in the San Gabriel Mountains, the Mount Wilson Observatory affords terrific views of the surrounding region. Admission to the area is free, but you’ll need to buy a Forest Service Adventure Pass in order to park at the site and its adjoining picnic area as it’s located within the Angeles National Forest.

Don’t miss: First off, make sure the road up there is open as it often closes for large stretches of the winter. Take a self-guided tour of the grounds, or a seasonal docent-led tour ($15) of the observatory on weekend afternoons (same-day tickets are available at the Cosmic Cafe). For late-night stargazing , you’ll have to keep your eyes peeled for the pricey but totally worth it ticketed events. And consider securing tickets for a concert inside the dome on select Sunday afternoons during the summer.

Stroll through SoCal flora at Descanso Gardens

• Parks and gardens

What is it?  A hillside botanical garden in La Cañada Flintridge that harbors a year-round collection of native flora.

Why go?  This delightful tribute to the horticultural magic of Southern California includes more than 600 varieties of camellia (best seen between the middle of February and early May), as well as groves and hillsides of native plants.

Don’t miss:  There’s always a seasonal bloom to scope out, including—as mentioned—camellias in the winter, and tulips and the Japanese garden’s cherry blossoms in the spring (usually in March or April).

Hike to Eaton Canyon Falls and back in less than an hour

What is it? A 50-foot waterfall located in an easy-to-access canyon in the San Gabriel Mountains.

Why go? Los Angeles is a beautiful place, and it’s not afraid to flaunt it. Case in point: Eaton Canyon. The Pasadena-area park is one of the most accessible and easygoing trails where you’ll truly feel like you’ve slipped into the wilderness.

Don’t miss:   Most easily accessible on weekdays , the Pinecrest Gate is just barely over a mile from the waterfall and cuts out what’s otherwise the most boring part of the hike.

Have an oceanfront, roadside meal at Neptune’s Net

• Ventura County

What is it? A postcard-worthy seafood shack on the Pacific Coast Highway toward the western edge of Malibu.

Why go?  The fried ocean bites and weekend biker crew make Neptune’s Net a unique destination. (Alternatively, dine up the coast with locals at Malibu Seafood , where the long line is worth the wait for fresh fish and seafood, or grab a superlative lobster roll at Broad Street Oyster Co. ).

Don’t miss: Take your food across the street and park in the dirt patch by the water, with views of surfers and kite boarders.

Explore the twisted exterior of the Walt Disney Concert Hall

• Music venues

What is it? A concert hall and home of the LA Philharmonic designed by famed local architect Frank Gehry.

Why go? Cruise along Grand Avenue and you can’t miss the Walt Disney Concert Hall, a twisted metallic explosion of Frank Gehry’s imagination. You can look inside the stunning auditorium on a self-guided tour, but the exterior is also just as exquisite.

Don’t miss:  Climb up the staircase on Grand Avenue, near 2nd Street, and you’ll find  a garden hidden behind the hall . Bring a bagged lunch or a climb along the building’s lustrous exterior. Also, in honor of the hall’s 20th anniversary, you can scope out a half-dozen architectural models (look for them inside in BP Hall).

Take a scenic drive around the Palos Verdes Peninsula

What is it? Ten miles of streets, mostly along Palos Verdes Drive, hugging the coast from the Torrance border to San Pedro.

Why go? The first third of the drive sticks mostly to spectacular real estate a few blocks inland, but after you round Point Vicente, the drive changes dramatically. For a few miles past Terranea, there’s nothing but undeveloped oceanfront hillsides, winding roads and golden-hued bluffs.

Don’t miss:  Take a stroll by the Point Vicente Interpretive Center  for views of the nearby lighthouse.

Hike the Silver Lake Stairs

• Silver Lake

What is it?  Dozens of public, outdoor stairways scattered around Silver Lake’s verdant hillsides.

Why go?  These WPA era staircases are well-suited for a workout or a fitness-included tour of the area. Though some homeowners have tried to prevent open access, make no mistake: These sets of stairs are for public use. You can find an exhaustive list in author Charles Fleming’s Secret Stairs .

Don’t miss: Highlights include the heart-painted Micheltorena Stairs (Sunset Blvd and Micheltorena St) and the Music Box Steps (Vendome St and Del Monte Dr), of Laurel and Hardy fame.

Fly a kite by the Korean Bell of Friendship

What is it?  A mighty metallic bell and pavilion in San Pedro donated by South Korea in 1976.

Why go?  Perched over the Pacific, this grassy spot overlooking the ocean is known for its namesake bell, with an ornately painted hipped roof. The exposed hillside is an ideal spot to fly a kite thanks to persistent winds coming off the ocean.

Don’t miss:  The bell rings only four times each year: Fourth of July, National Liberation Day of Korea (Aug 15), New Year’s Eve and during Constitution Week in September.

Get some fresh air at Malibu Creek State Park

• Santa Monica Mountains

What is it? An 8,000-acre mountainous park that looks unlike anything else in L.A.

Why go?  With dramatic gorges, open pastures, lush forests, hidden pools and jagged peaks, Malibu Creek is simply one of the most stunning spots in Southern California.

Don’t miss: A bit of silver screen history; you can spot remnants of the  M*A*S*H set and splash in the rock pool that was featured in  Planet of the Apes . Consider using your library card to secure a free parking pass .

Admire the coastline atop Temescal Gateway Park

• Pacific Palisades

What is it?  A Pacific Palisades hillside park with multiple viewponts of the ocean.

Why go?  With a variety of terrain, flora and views of the Pacific and city, Temescal Canyon Park is great for trail runners, hikers and dog walkers. You’ll experience vast, breathtaking views that span from Catalina to Downtown and enough varied terrain to keep you and your furry friend going—all the way to the Valley, should you dare.

Don’t miss:  The stop signs. Seriously. They’re photo enforced, and you’ll be sent a $100 fine if you roll through.

Watch the sunset from El Matador

What is it? A small but beautiful state beach in Malibu dominated by rocky coves.

Why go?  Because it’s easily the most scenic stretch of coastline in the region. It’s only accessible via a steep gravelly path from a paid parking lot . But the effort is worth it, whether it’s to watch the waves lap against the rocks or see the sunset.

Don’t miss:  The tide. The beach here is pretty narrow and sand comes at a particular premium when high tide rolls in.

Travel back in time at the drive-in

What is it? About a half-dozen drive-in movie theaters in SoCal that are still going strong.

Why go?  For nearly a year, it was one of the only ways to see a first-run movie that wasn’t on your couch. But even with regular theaters open again, we still think it’s tons of fun and cost effective.

Don’t miss:  Some theaters are only open seasonally while others only screen on weekends, so you’ll want to check the schedule before you drive over.

Tackle 282 steps at the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

• Culver City

What is it?  A Westside lookout best known for its 282 steep, concrete stairs to the top.

Why go?  The views from the top offer some of the best views of the region, with the ocean on one side and the Downtown L.A. skyline on the other (set against a backdrop of snowcapped mountains in the winter). Once you reach the summit, sit at the long park bench and take in the 360-degree views.

Don’t miss:  If you’d rather not beat up your knees, take a shortcut and drive up to the top of the hill and park in one of the many empty spaces ($6).

Survey DTLA architecture on a Los Angeles Conservancy Walking Tour

• Downtown Financial District

What is it?  Take a fuel-efficient walking tour and cherish Los Angeles’ urban architectural heritage.

Why go?  The Los Angeles Conservancy walking tours take in the city’s top sights and most beautiful buildings , including Downtown’s historic theaters and Art Deco buildings (on a weekly basis) as well as the modern skyline (monthly). Be sure to reserve a place well ahead, because the tours are incredibly popular.

Don’t miss:  The tour of Victorian homes in Angelino Heights (first Saturday of the month) is perfect for Halloween-time.

Spend time with your dog at the South Coast Botanic Garden

• Rancho Palos Verdes/Rolling Hills Estates Until Apr 28, 2024

What is it? A once-a-month block of dog-friendly hours at the Palos Verdes botanical garden.

Why go?  To spend some quality outdoor time with your four-legged best friend, of course. One Sunday a month, you can roam the gardens’ 87 acres with your fur baby.

Don’t miss: Nabbing a reservation. You (the human) will need a reservation, while your best friend (the pup) will need to remain on their leash at all times, including in the parking lot.  

Become a pinball wizard at EightyTwo

• Downtown Arts District

What is it?  An Arts District arcade bar.

Why go? If ever there was a bar to geek out in, this one is it. L.A.’s first arcade bar boasts more than 40 classic arcade cabinets and pristinely preserved pinball machines—all fixed with cup holders for endless booze-fueled sessions. An homage to the golden age of arcade games, cocktails here have names like Kill Screen, Zangief and Dr. Mario.

Don’t miss:  Swing by the last Sunday of the month for an open pinball tournament (or join the L.A. Pinball League , which plays on Tuesday nights).

Hunt for antiques at the Rose Bowl Flea Market

• Apr 14, 2024

What is it?  A staggeringly colossal flea market held outside of the Rose Bowl the second Sunday of each month.

Why go?  The sheer size and scale of this flea market means that it encompasses multitudes: new and old, hand-crafted and salvaged, the cheap and the costly. There are plenty of duds, to be sure, but come out early enough and you may go home with that perfect purchase.

Don’t miss:  Stray from the main loop around the stadium; there are rows and rows of old furniture, albums and vintage clothes and accessories that fill the adjacent parking lot.

Achieve your farm-to-table dreams at the Santa Monica Farmers’ Market

• Santa Monica

What is it?  A series of farmers’ markets held every week year-round in Santa Monica.

Why go?  The next time you’re at a restaurant and tempted to ask the waiter where your astoundingly fresh beets came from—don’t. We’ll save you the trouble and answer for you: the Santa Monica Farmers’ Market.

Don’t miss: While the market occurs on a couple of days in various parts of Santa Monica, the best day to go is on Wednesday along Arizona Avenue.

Relax on the sand at Point Dume State Beach

What is it?  One of Southern California’s most beautiful beaches and a frequent Hollywood filming location due to its iconic rock face.

Why go?  If you can’t find a free space along Westward Beach Road or you’re willing to pay for parking, you’ll be rewarded with this wide and rarely crowded patch of sand and surf. As all the parking spots are only steps from the sand, Point Dume is the perfect place to pack a picnic for a beachfront meal as seals and dolphins frolic during sunset—just watch out for those hungry seagulls.

Don’t miss:  An easygoing dirth path climbs from the sand to the top of the point, with tons of yellow wildflowers in the winter and spring.

Look out on L.A. from Los Angeles City Hall

What is it?  A grand, white concrete tower that’s served as L.A.’s city hall since 1928.

Why go?  It’s the cheapest way to take in an elevated view of Downtown and beyond. If you’re ever passing through the Civic Center during weekday public hours, enter on Main Street—then you owe yourself a visit to the 27th floor observation deck .

Don’t miss:  Look for the 1984 Olympic torch near the Spring Street exit.

Load up on records at Amoeba Music

What is it?  A warehouse-sized record store in the middle of Hollywood.

Why go?  Sure, Spotify is great, but anyone in search of that arcane track off of that mid-’80s Tom Robinson album knows it isn’t perfect. Neither is Amoeba, but it is the largest independent record store in the United States, and the variety of music on offer is amazing, the prices are fair and the staff really know their music.

Don’t miss:  Its new address. The shop recently moved from its longtime home on Sunset Boulevard to a spot at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Argyle Avenue.

Step inside the precursor to Disneyland at Walt Disney’s Carolwood Barn

What is it?  A model train workshop housed inside of a red barn that used to reside in Walt Disney’s Holmby Hills backyard.

Why go?  Walt Disney used to ride his own 1/8th scale live-steam railroad—the “Carolwood Pacific Railroad”—around his backyard until he shifted his focus to a much bigger project: Disneyland . In 1999, the red barn that he used as his workshop was moved to Griffith Park’s Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum. Every third Sunday of the month, you can visit the barn to find a collection of train models and memorabilia.

Don’t miss:  Legendary Disney artists and engineers are known to pop in during open hours.

Find your zen at the Lake Shrine

What is it?  A meditation garden in the Pacific Palisades.

Why go?  Get lost in your thoughts at one of L.A.’s best kept secrets: the Self-Realization Fellowship Lake Shrine. Set on a 10-acre site that was used as a film set during the silent era, its lovely gardens offer some increasingly rare assets today: peace and tranquility.

Don’t miss:  A reservation . You’ll need one right now to visit the meditation gardens, which are open for free from Wednesday through Sunday.

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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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2 thoughts on “37 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles in 2024 – By A Local”

This so awesome one I like it so much

That was a really great. Helpful and insightful, as always! Thanks for the data and the supporting information.

21 Best Things To Do In Los Angeles, California (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Wondering what activities and attractions you can’t miss in the City of Angeles? Our guide to the best things to do in Los Angeles is just what you need!

A world-famous city, Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world and home to dozens of the best things to do in California . This metropolis is understandably popular given its many Hollywood stars, gorgeous beaches, and well-known TV and movie industries. 

As the world’s entertainment capital, it’s no question that Los Angeles is a fantastic destination to visit particularly if you plan to spend any amount of time in Southern California .

With its famous tourist attractions like Venice Beach, Beverly Hills, and its many museums, theme parks, and historic landmarks, who wouldn’t be tempted to visit?

We’ve got you covered if you’re looking for what to do in Los Angeles. This article features the 21 best things to do here, including outdoor and indoor activities. 

From historic sites and museums with fun exhibits to art galleries, farmers’ markets, national parks, and impressive views, there is no shortage of things to do here. 

So get ready to read more on the top things to do in Los Angeles!

READ NEXT: Check out our post on the best things to do in Southern California !

Table of Contents

1) Bask In The Art Of Los Angeles County Museum

2) cruise the waters of marina del rey , 3) visit universal studios hollywood, 4) tour the walt disney concert hall, 5) take a day trip to a nearby state park or forest, 6) go on a walking tour of los angeles, 7) enjoy the nightlife on the sunset strip, 8) explore echo park lake on a swan pedal boat, 9) peer through a telescope at the griffith observatory, 10) tour the california science center, 11) explore santa monica beach & venice beach, 12) check out the la brea tar pits & museum, 13) explore the los angeles zoo & botanical gardens, 14) view featured street art at the lume, 15) bike in style to hit historic hotspots in downtown los angeles, 16) lay back & relax at manhattan beach, 17) hike at runyon canyon park , 18) catch a show at the hollywood bowl, 19) grab tickets to the tcl chinese theatre, 20) join a bus tour of hollywood & celebrity homes, 21) eat your heart out at grand central market , best hostel in los angeles, best mid-range hotel in los angeles, best luxury hotel in los angeles, the best things to do in los angeles.

If you’re looking for the best Los Angeles things to do during your visit, you’ve come to the right place. Keep reading for the city’s top activities and hot spots for the most unforgettable experience during your stay! 

Also, consider getting a  GO Los Angeles City Pass  to save money during your trip. It includes discounted entry to some of the city’s top attractions, so you’ll save money while exploring!

The largest art museum in the whole of the western United States, the  Los Angeles County Museum  boasts a hefty art collection. 

Hosting tens of thousands of objects, the museum adorns over 6,000 years of art history and cultural expression worldwide. 

The museum is dedicated to showcasing an array of art history through exhibits and artistic interpretations. You can find modern art, contemporary art, historical art, and art from up-and-coming artists. 

Its broad range of art from different cultures and historical periods is encompassed by the museum’s goal to serve the public through conserving and interpreting these impressive works. 

• Address:  5905 Wilshire Boulevard
• Hours:  11am – 6pm Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, 11am – 8pm Friday, 10am – 7pm Saturday and Sunday (closed Wednesdays)
• Cost:  $25

READ NEXT: Be sure to add all these great activities to your perfect Los Angeles itinerary !

Marina del Rey is the largest man-made small-craft harbor in North America. A popular tourist spot, on land and sea, many come to the port to paddleboard, kayak, or cruise on a yacht or dining cruise. 

A fun way to see the sights of LA is on a  boat cruise of Marina Del Rey .

This particular boat cruise includes a buffet brunch made from fresh seasonal ingredients – don’t forget to pair it with unlimited champagne or sparkling cider with your brunch! 

This stunning morning cruise offers a magical escape to bask in salty breezes and warm sunshine. So prepare yourself – and your stomach – for a fantastic start to your day with the freshest food and the best waterside views.

This amusement park is one of the most famous attractions in California and in the whole USA.

Universal Studios Hollywood is an absolute must for the whole family, especially if you’re a fan of theme parks and film or media. This family-friendly amusement park is home to so many rides and events that will entertain visitors of all ages. 

Spend the day enjoying the rides – from kid-friendly rides to rides that will have you screaming with joy (and a little dosage of fear). 

During your thrilling adventure, don’t forget to stop by CityWalk for some of LA’s most-loved shops, cinemas, and restaurants. 

• Address:  100 Universal City Plaza, San Fernando Valley
• Hours:  9am – 10pm daily
• Cost:  Passes range from $100-$379.  Check the website  for a detailed list of the pass options.

Read Next: Be sure to check out the best Los Angeles day trips !

An iconic Los Angeles spot, the  Walt Disney Concert Hall  occupies an entire city block in downtown. 

The architectural landmark took more than 15 years to build, designed by Canadian-American architect Frank Gehry. This famous building is one of Gehry’s best-known projects. 

Lillian Disney, Walt Disney’s widow, selected Gehry from a list of 80 potential architects to design the music center. After its completion in 2003, the Walt Disney Concert Hall became the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic, an American orchestra. 

For any feeling curious, desiring to walk the halls of this enigmatic building, the hall offers complimentary tours without any requirements for a reservation. 

Read next: If you’re heading north along the California coast, be sure plan the Perfect 3 Days in San Francisco Itinerary

Though Los Angeles is a massive, sprawling city, it is surrounded by lots of nature. There are forests, mountains, valleys, canyons, rivers, and more just waiting to be explored outside the city. 

If you’re a real nature lover, take a day trip to a state park or national forest near LA. The best way to do this is to rent a car for the day so you can explore the wilderness at your own pace. 

One stunning place to visit is Angeles National Forest, the first official national forest in California. Located in the San Gabriel Mountains and the Sierra Pelona Mountains, there are lots of great hikes to do here. 

San Bernardino National Forest is also fun for hiking and camping, and it’s just a one-hour drive from LA. Embark on the challenging hike up Mount San Antonio, the highest peak in LA county. 

Even if you don’t feel like hiking, another fun way to escape the city is to just drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway and admire the rugged coastal views.

Downtown LA is full of unique sights and neighborhoods, so definitely make time for some good old fashioned sightseeing. View architectural jewels, treasured downtown LA hot spots, and many other intriguing sights. 

A  guided walking tour  is a great way to learn even more about the history and culture of the city. On this tour, guests can hop on the world-famous Angels Flight, a historic landmark that functions as a funicular railway in the Bunker Hill district. 

Listen to stories about local legends like retired police chief William Parker and former Mayor Tom Bradley while exploring the sprawling city. 

Learn about how Los Angeles got its name and how the Spanish Empire guided the eventual shape of the famous city of Los Angeles before ending the guided tour at Union Station, the largest railroad passenger terminal in all of the Western United States. 

One of the most famous places in LA is Sunset Boulevard, also known as the Sunset Strip. 

This is the heart and soul of LA’s nightlife, where you can party to your heart’s content. The Strip is full of cocktail bars, restaurants, burlesque lounges, rock bars, dance clubs, comedy clubs, and anything else you could imagine. 

Shop, drink, dance, eat, see live music or a show, and just enjoy the beating heart of LA’s entertainment and nightlife scene. Even if partying isn’t your thing, it’s cool to see the city come alive at night. 

Right next to the Sunset Strip is Beverly Hills, the famous upscale Los Angeles neighborhood that is home to many celebrities. 

Take yourself on a little walking tour of Beverly Hills and admire all the mansions and palm trees before you head into the Sunset Strip at night. 

Read Next: Be sure to check out these great things to do in San Diego !

Echo Park has been a staple landmark of East Los Angeles since 1895, with its expansive lotus flower beds, an array of fluttering wild geese and swans, and dense greenery. 

Major local events like the annual Dragon Boat Race and Lotus Festival are held at this popular hub spot.

Rated as one of the best activities in the Los Angeles area, rent a swan paddle boat and cruise around the waters of  Echo Park Lake .

You can rent a paddle boat  online here . Or you can rent one at the lake, but on busy weekends and holidays, it’s better to book in advance so you don’t have to wait.  

Located on Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory holds the best vantage point to observe the world-famous Hollywood Sign. 

Welcoming over 85 million visitors since its opening in 1935, the Griffith Observatory is the gateway to the cosmos! 

Visitors can walk around a spectacular scale model of the solar system or explore the moon landing and space debris in the Edge of Space exhibition. 

During your visit to the observatory, bask in stunning views of Mount Wilson, Los Angeles Griffith Park, the Pacific Ocean, and the world-famous Hollywood Sign. 

• Address:  2800 E Observatory Road
• Hours:  12pm – 10pm Thursday and Friday, 10am – 10pm Saturday and Sunday
• Cost:  Free

A state agency and museum, the California Science Center is situated next to the Natural History Museum, Both are amazing places to learn about the world during your visit to LA.

Aspiring to stimulate curiosity for science learning, the  California Science Center  uses world-class educational resources to provide a family-friendly destination for learning. 

In addition, the center promotes free general admission to its significant four exhibit areas by implementing hands-on exhibits and inquiry-based education programs.

The science center is home to one of the last three space shuttles, a national treasure, the space shuttle  Endeavour . 

• Address : 700 Exposition Park Drive
• Hours:  10am – 5pm daily
• Cost:  Free (extra cost for special exhibits)

Read Next: Consider catching an affordable flight to explore the best things to do in Maui , Hawaii!

This beachfront area of downtown LA is one of the best areas to visit in the city. 

Santa Monica is famous for its sunny tourist attractions such as the iconic Santa Monica Pier, the gorgeous golden sand beach, and the local farmer’s markets. 

The main Santa Monica Farmers Market is held on Saturdays from 8am – 1pm, but there are numerous  other local markets to check out. Enjoy the beach and then head over here to buy fresh produce and snacks.

Next, head south to Venice Beach. This bohemian area is known for its boardwalk, skate park, and the infamous Muscle Beach which has been the city’s “home of bodybuilding” since 1963

Spy the eye-catching Venice Canals, notorious for its man-made wetland canals. The quaint private neighborhood makes for a romantic and awe-inspiring experience as you stroll through the area. 

This entire coastal area of LA is easy to explore on foot, especially with that warm, sunny California weather.

This incredible Ice Age excavation site for paleontological research is one of the more unique activities in LA. 

Settled in the heart of Los Angeles, the  La Brea Tar Pits  are a step into the Ice Age. At this precise location, asphalt seeps, presenting the only active urban fossil dig site in the world. Plant plants and animals from over 50,000 years ago are discovered daily at this site. 

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable historical experience during your tour of these active sits at the La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.

• Address:  5801 Wilshire Blvd
• Hours : 9:30am – 5pm
• Cost:  $15

Heading north? Check out this list of the best things to do in San Francisco .

Founded in 1966, the  Los Angeles Zoo  hosts more than 2,200 types of animals, including 270 species of animals including 60 endangered species. 

The zoo features an array of specific biomes that exhibit a variety of habitats, including New World tropics and African grasslands.

The zoo’s 133 acres come into magnificent usage to care for the animals while educating the public on conservation efforts. These efforts extend past animals to include plants as well.

At the Botanical Gardens, visitors can check out the stunning assortment of plant species, like the Hong Kong orchid trees and Mexican fan palms. 

The certified botanical garden highlights 15 impressive collections of plants, as well as a Japanese Garden and lots of beautiful walking trails. 

• Address:  5333 Zoo Drive
• Hours : 10am – 5pm daily
• Cost:  $22

The Lume of Los Angeles presents enigmatic works of Street Art by bringing them to life in an unforgettable way. 

Joining the ranks of Los Angeles’ most prestigious art and cultural attractions, The Lume creates an interactive experience of the senses through sound, taste, and aroma inspired by the world of artists. 

Breathe art that has come to life through a liberating and exhilarating experience at The Lume. A collaboration with over 200 street artists from around the globe, including Lady Pink, Blek le Rat, and eight sections of the Berlin Wall.  

• Address : 1933 S Broadway
• Hours : 12pm – 8pm Fridays, 10am – 8pm Saturdays and Sundays
• Cost:  $39-$49 for 30-minute timed tickets, prices depend on the day and time

On this  guided bike tour , guests can bike in style as they hit all the historical hotspots of downtown LA. 

Hop onto your Dutch-style bike before heading through downtown LA to see the area’s top sights and historic buildings. Explore downtown Los Angeles’s magnanimous sights on a round trip starting at Grand Central Market, in front of Angel’s Flight, an iconic 1901 funicular. 

Experience downtown LA like a true local as you ride through the Historic Core’s vintage Vaudeville theater district, past LA’s tallest skyscraper, before stopping at the eerie Cecil Hotel of horrors. 

Then cruise through the city’s oldest neighborhood, Olvera Street, before ending the ride by bypassing cultural spots like the Broad Museum or the Bradbury Building.

It’s time to sit back and soak up the sun at the famous Manhattan Beach.

This laid-back South Bay community is popular with outdoor enthusiasts and families due to its striking scenery and relaxing vibe. 

Extensive stretches of sand host volleyball courts. Modern mansions bask in the oceanfront views of the beach. A bike path also winds along the sand to offer panoramic views of these mansions and scenic oceanfront views. 

On the Manhattan Beach Pier is the Roundhouse Aquarium. The aquarium’s immersive exhibits display a diverse collection of marine life. 

You can also head to the small downtown area near the beach to explore the upscale eateries, boutiques, pubs, and cafes. 

Read Next: Considering a trip to Hawaii from LA? Be sure to read our guide on all of the best things to do in Honolulu , Oahu!

A 160-acre park,  Runyon Canyon Park  is at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains. Rated relatively easy in difficulty level, many hikers come here for a short hike to embrace the outdoors of Los Angeles.

Many celebrities come to hike these famous trails as well, so don’t be surprised if you run into your favorite celebrity! Though Runyon Canyon is relatively small, it is a popular hiking trail due to its easy paved path, dog-friendly rules, and outstanding city views.

We recommend not going on the weekends. The trails at Runyon Canyon Park are already pretty popular, but that is even more apparent on the weekends. Time it right, and you’ll be able to experience the glory of this popular hiking trail! 

YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED IN… our post about the best things to do in Santa Monica !

One of the best live music venues in Southern California , the Hollywood Bowl is an iconic open-air amphitheater on North Highland Ave in Hollywood Hills.

The venue hosts everything from dance performances, to live music concerts, to festivals, and more. Catch classical music, international song and dance, popular mainstream bands, and everything in between.

Every summer there is an annual Jazz Festival as well, which is a huge draw for locals and tourists. 

Check the schedule online  to see what’s playing when you’re in town!

For more entertainment and excitement in the USA, check out our list of the best things to do in Las Vegas !

TCL Chinese Theatre  is a movie palace cemented on the historic Hollywood Walk of Fame. The theatre opened in 1927 and is known to be one of the most renowned Hollywood cinematic icons, especially since it has the biggest IMAX auditorium worldwide.

Located in the Forecourt of the Stars at the Chinese Theatre are a collection of around 200 handprints, autographs, and footprints of famous stars that have visited the Chinese Theatre – one of them being Marily Monroe herself. The renowned theatre even hosted the Academy Awards once upon a time in the years 1944-1946.

If you’re interested in learning more about the history of this famous theatre, there are 30-minute walking tours available for interested guests. 

Curious about where some of Hollywood’s celebrities live? You need to check out this  Open-Air Bus Tour ! 

Take a ride to discover all of the hotspots of West Hollywood and Beverly Hills while admiring views of downtown Los Angeles – don’t forget to bring your camera! On this open-air bus tour, riders can stop for a picture at the iconic Hollywood Sign. 

Other popular spots to note on this invigorating bus tour are the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Capitol Records Building, the Chinese Theatre, and the Art Deco entertainment complex of the Dolby Theater.

On this trip, guests can see the homes of Elvis Presley, Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, and many more celebrities!

The Grand Central Market opened in 1917 and since then has been a downtown Los Angeles landmark emporium featuring florists, game nights, food vendors, movies, and other impeccable events. 

Termed initially “Wonder Market,” the market was immediately known as the “largest and finest public market on the Pacific Coast” with its grand opening. 

Now hosting over 50 privately owned and operated vending stalls, the  Grand Central Market empowers Los Angeles’ cuisines and cultures through its vendors and events. The market showcases California’s best ingredients, entrepreneurs, and chefs, all at the convenience of its daily visitors. 

The national-caliber eating experience of a 30,000 square foot joins a retail marketplace and food emporium for the ultimate downtown gathering place. 

• Address:  317 S Broadway
• Hours:  8am – 9pm

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Now that you know the best Los Angeles activities to experience let’s go over the best places to stay in the city. 

The  Banana Bungalow  is a hot spot hostel in near Sunset, Hollywood Boulevard, and the Melrose strip. 

The hostel offers free BBQ on the terrace, free Wi-Fi, large $5 dinners, and shuttles to the big-time Los Angeles attractions.

Located in Venice Beach,  STAY OPEN  is only a minute walk from the beach.

With featured accommodations like free bikes, concierge service, and free WiFi, STAY OPEN boasts seaside views in its optimal location near the best beaches in LA. 

In addition, the Los Angeles International Airport is only six miles away from your stay. 

At the  Peninsula Beverly Hills , guests are only a 12-minute walk from Rodeo Drive, a popular shopping spot. 

Featuring world-class dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this luxury hotel in Los Angeles offers enigmatic accommodations like its large rooftop outdoor pool, modern gym with available personal coaches, full-service spa, and gourmet on-site dining options.

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Alesha and Jarryd

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Really informative guidance for travelers!! But the only thing missing is the Floating Spa at Quantum Clinic. It allows us to heal relax and really reach deep meditative states. I have done it a few times before. There is nothing else like it. I think you all must try it once.

Hi Rebecca, we will have to check it out next time. Sounds great 🙂

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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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30+ Top Los Angeles Attractions To Experience: A Must-See Guide

Planning a travel to Los Angeles, California? What are the top Los Angeles attractions to visit? Get ready to explore LA as a tourist with this Los Angeles travel guide and check things off your Los Angeles Bucket List!

Twenty years ago, we went from New York to Los Angeles for a 2-week vacation. This was way before we ever considered moving here. It wasn’t even a thought during or shortly after.

We do remember we were so excited to visit Los Angeles. We hit the most common tourist attractions: Hollywood Walk of Fame, The Hollywood Sign, the Chinese Theatre, Rodeo Drive, Venice Beach … Disneyland.

We even took one of those Hollywood tours in an open-air bus and stalked celebrity homes. It was thrilling even though we never saw one celebrity at the time. Nowadays, as locals, you would never catch us on one of those tours unless someone was visiting from out of town. But at the time, as tourists, we remember it being fun. We highly recommend you add it to your Los Angeles Bucket List.

We also recall thinking that Hollywood was nothing like the movies. And it isn’t. It’s gritty and touristy. For first-time visitors in Los Angeles, it’s a fun attraction; they get to see what Hollywood is like.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

To our surprise, we moved to Los Angeles a few years later. As new residents, we were essentially tourists. We explored and enjoyed seeing the LA landmarks and experiencing the attractions more than ever in New York City . We have experienced every attraction on this list, besides all the day trips we take from LA .

Now when people come into town, and it’s their first visit, we know exactly what places to visit in LA to take them to. These are the best things to do in Los Angeles, California as a tourist off your Los Angeles Bucket List.

In this article, we share the top Los Angeles attractions to experience, whether you’re visiting or living here and want to cross things off the bucket list. It’s nice to know what’s around us, including the touristy stuff and not just the local hidden gems.

Table of Contents

Top Los Angeles Attractions

Top Things to Do in Los Angeles Map List – Don’t forget to add them to your Los Angeles Bucket List!

1. Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is a historic Los Angeles landmark but also a top Los Angeles attraction for first-time visitors. You will want to visit the coastal town of Santa Monica and its iconic pier that appears on our screens when watching tv shows or films based in LA.

The pier features Pacific Park, an amusement park with a Ferris wheel, a roller coaster, and other fun rides and games. It’s a fun day or night out to experience.

The best time to visit Pacific Park is at sunset, so you can experience the sun setting across Santa Monica Beach and then experience the Ferris Wheel lit up.

At the pier, you can also ride the historic Santa Monica Carousel .

If you want more to do in Santa Monica, check out 3rd Street Promenade.

Top Foodie Pick: Stop by local favorite Bay Cities Italian Deli for Godmother sandwiches and have them on a beach picnic.

Santa Monica Pier | 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica | Google Map It

2. Venice Beach and Canals

Venice Beach is one of the most popular places to visit in Los Angeles. Tourists flock to the Venice Beach boardwalk to see what it’s all about, as it is a destination that embodies Southern California’s laid-back, free-spirited vibe.

The boardwalk is a hub of activity that captures the unique spirit of Venice. The best thing to do is walk up and down to take in the sights and sounds of this iconic location. The boardwalk is also a great place to people-watch, with a diverse mix of locals and tourists from all walks of life.

You’ll want to check out the original muscle beach, the skateboard park, and all the quirky shops along the boardwalk. You can even rent bikes and cruise the bike path. Don’t forget to stop and take photos at the infamous Venice sign at Pacific Ave and Windward Ave.

We are not huge fans of the boardwalk, but we love to escape and explore the Venice Canals , one of the unique places to visit in LA. A picturesque historic neighborhood in Venice Beach that is made up of man-made canals with charming pedestrian bridges, colorful houses, and lush landscaping. 

Abbot Kinney Blvd is also part of the Venice Beach experience. This trendy street is located in the heart of Venice, named after the founder of Venice Beach, Abbot Kinney. Locals and tourists love to come here to shop at the boutiques and eat at many wonderful farm-to-table restaurants.

Top Foodie Pick: Grab a coffee and a bite at Bluestone Lane Cafe or stop by Gjusta Bakery .

Read more: Exciting Things to Do in Venice Beach, CA

Tour Ideas: The Ultimate Venice Beach Experience [ book here ]

3. Pacific Coast Highway | Route 1

If you’re in Los Angeles for over a few days, we highly recommend driving the Pacific Coast Highway. Of all the things to do in Los Angeles, this is one of our favorites. It is a beautiful and memorable drive by the coast. We used to drive our old Jeep Wrangler with the top down on a sunny day and cruise PCH.

You can start the drive from Santa Monica and go north towards Malibu or Santa Barbara . You can also go south, towards the Southern Coast of California. Either way, you’ll have fun and see some of the most amazing coastlines in the United States.

The Pacific Coast Highway is one adventure you can plan a vacation around, making many stops along the coast. But if you only have a day in LA , you can fit it in, taking up a good portion of it. It is worth it, though.

Pacific Coast Highway from Santa Monica | Google Map It

Read more: Los Angeles Day Trips To Take

4. Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a world-famous top Los Angeles attraction. It features more than 2,600 stars embedded in the sidewalk, each bearing the name of a celebrity from the entertainment industry.  It’s a must-see for first-timers and anyone looking to check this off their Los Angeles bucket list.

These famous stars stretch over 3 blocks of Vine Street and 15 blocks of Hollywood Blvd. You’re going to want to wear your walking shoes.

• This is a FREE attraction.

While in Hollywood, you may want to visit Madame Tussauds Hollywood for a fun and interactive experience where you can take pictures with lifelike wax figures of your favorite celebrities. 

Hollywood Walk of Fame | Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St, Los Angeles

5. TCL Chinese Theatre

Once named Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, this iconic spot is a historic-cultural landmark of Hollywood and Los Angeles. It was opened in 1927 and has since become an iconic symbol of Hollywood’s Golden Age. You probably are familiar with its famous red-carpet movie premieres and ceremonies here.

In front of the theatre, you’ll find the signature forecourt, which features handprints, footprints, and signatures of famous actors and actresses. It’s fun to see which of your hands and feet match with some of these celebrities.

For an even cooler experience, you can plan to see a movie at the TLC Chinese Theatre. The tickets allow you to enter the theater and take a self-guided tour of the establishment. We suggest buying your tickets in advance, especially if it’s the weekend, as locals also love to see movies here.

You may want to book a VIP tour if you’re a movie buff.

Top Foodie Pick: Joe’s Pizza

TCL Chinese Theatre | 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood | Google Map It

6. See a Broadway Show at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre

In the heart of Hollywood is the Pantages Theatre. It opened in 1930 as a movie palace. It is a popular venue for live theater productions, concerts, and other events today. We have seen many productions here, including Mama Mia.

If you’re staying in Los Angeles for over a few days, see what production is playing at the Pantages. It is a fantastic night out in LA and a perfect opportunity to see a Broadway show. Combine it with dinner and drinks.

What we love the most is the preserved beauty of this theater. Take in all the architectural details of this historical landmark when visiting. The theater was designed by architect B. Marcus Priteca and is known for its opulent Art Deco-style interior, which features intricate murals, chandeliers, and ornate detailing. 

Top Foodie Pick: Make reservations at Katsuya , Wood & Vine for a pre-dinner meal at the legendary Muso and Frank Grill .

Pantages | 6233 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles | Google Map It

7. El Capitan Theatre

Currently owned by Disney, El Capitan Theatre is another Hollywood landmark. This theatre was owned and built by the same developer of Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and the Egyptian Theatre in the 1920s. In 1989, Disney took ownership and restored it.

El Capitan Theatre only plays Disney movies and events.

The unique part of El Capitan is its in-house organ, “Mighty Wurlitzer.” From time to time, Disney will hold special events where you can listen to this organ play along with a film or have sing-alongs. It’s a fun experience for the whole family.

Once, we got tickets to see one of the Star Wars movies, and they did a whole lightsaber show before the movie started. And then we went downstairs to see all the costumes displayed from the movie. It was pretty cool!

• Check to see what their latest movies and events are here .

Top Foodie Pick: Ghirardelli’s right next door for dessert.

El Capitan Theatre | 6838 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles | Google Map It

8. Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl is a favorite Los Angeles attraction amongst the locals. It is a great experience LA experience. Once warmer days start setting in Los Angeles, we locals plan to attend musicals, concerts, sing-alongs, and firework shows… all at the Hollywood Bowl.

This concert hall is an open amphitheater with the most beautiful backdrop of Hollywood Hills. You can even see the Hollywood sign on a clear day and from the right spot.

Bring a picnic, find a spot outside the theater, and eat with your family and friends before the show. Bring a bottle of wine and some snacks for during the show. This is what we love about this theater. It’s festive and casual, and you’re doing it all under the amazing, gorgeous sky of Los Angeles.

You don’t need the best seats in the house to enjoy. You will have a fabulous experience even sitting in the back.

• See the Hollywood Bowl’s upcoming events and book tickets here .

Foodie Pick: Head to the famous Pink Hot Dogs for a late-night snack.

Hollywood Bowl | 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

9. Hollywood Sign

Seeing the Hollywood sign is one of the top Los Angeles attractions.

The Hollywood Sign is an iconic landmark in the Hollywood Hills of Los Angeles. It was originally constructed in 1923 as a promotional advertisement for a real estate development. Still, it has become one of the most recognizable symbols of the entertainment industry and Los Angeles.

Driving around Hollywood and surrounding areas, you will see the Hollywood Sign.

How can you get closer to the Hollywood sign?

One of the best ways to get close to the Hollywood Sign is by hiking the Brush Canyon Trail , a 6-mile hike. Once you get up there, you’ll have a back view of the sign with a beautiful view of Los Angeles.

10. Griffith Observatory

The Griffith Observatory is a must-visit for some of the best views of Los Angeles. It also has a fun planetarium to explore inside with its gorgeous 180-degree views of Los Angeles, including the Hollywood Sign and Downtown LA .

It is FREE to enter the grounds and the building. Parking and the planetarium are an extra charge.

The best time of day to visit is sunset. However, it is also the busiest time of day to visit. You may have to park off-site and take a shuttle to the observatory. You can also take an Uber and have it drop you off closest to the entrance.

Griffith Observatory | 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles

11. Universal Studios Hollywood

Do you love theme parks?

Universal Studios Hollywood theme park is one of my favorites because it’s just the right size for a fun day in Los Angeles. You get to experience a theme park with rides and get a peek at one of the oldest movie studios around.

We have an annual pass, so we make it there almost every month. So here are the top things to do at Universal Studios:

• Get into Super Nintendo World.
• Visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
• Ride the Simpsons Ride and split a Lard Lad Donuts amongst other Universal snacks .
• Take a Back Lot Studio tour with favorite rides like King Kong 3D, Jaws, and Earthquake.
• Don’t miss the new and improved Jurassic World ride.
• Check out City Walk and dine at the new Toothsome Chocolate Emporium .

Top Foodie Pick: There are many great snacks inside the park, but at any time, you can head out to City Walk and eat at one of their many restaurants.

Universal Studios Hollywood | 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City | Google Map It

Read More: Top Rides at Universal Studios Hollywood

12. Griffith Park

New York City has Central Park… Los Angeles has Griffith Park.

Griffith Park encompasses over 4,000 acres of land and has various attractions and recreational activities. It features hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields, including top Los Angeles attractions like the Hollywood Sign, Observatory, Greek Theatre, LA Zoo, and more.

Overall, Griffith Park is a beloved destination for locals and visitors. You can spend a week exploring Griffith Park alone. And there are plenty of family-friendly things to do.

Here are some ideas:

• Spend a day at the LA Zoo .
• Visit Travel Town Museum and take a fun miniature train ride . Our favorite time is during the holidays in LA .
• Attend a concert or event at the Greek Theater.
• Pack a picnic and find a spot to have a quiet lunch.
• Go on one of the many Griffith Park hikes, like Mount Hollywood Trail .
• Explore the Old Abandoned LA Zoo .

Griffith Park | 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles

13. Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive

Beverly Hills is home to some of the most expensive real estate in the world, with sprawling mansions and estates dotting the hillsides. Most of us are probably familiar with the city due to the “90210” era.

Beverly Hills has several cultural landmarks and attractions, like the Beverly Hills Hotel. The hotel’s iconic pink exterior and luxurious amenities have made it a symbol of Hollywood glamour.

Another popular attraction in Beverly Hills is the Greystone Mansion and Park . The park is open to the public daily for FREE.

The city is also known for its high-end shopping, with Rodeo Drive being one of the most famous shopping destinations in the world. It is probably most remembered by Julia Roberts’s character in Pretty Woman and when she went on her shopping spree. Other movies filmed here are Clueless, Beverly Hills Cops , and many more .

Top Foodie Pick: The Original Sprinkles cupcake shop and check out their Cupcake ATM. Make dinner reservations at one of LA’s classic restaurants, Lawry’s Prime Rib.

14. Drive Down Sunset Blvd

Driving down Sunset Boulevard is a quintessential Los Angeles experience that is a must-do for visitors to the city. The iconic street stretches 22 miles from Downtown Los Angeles to the Pacific Ocean, passing through several famous neighborhoods and landmarks.

The street passes through the heart of Hollywood, where visitors can see the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre. The street is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with various bars, clubs, and restaurants lining its route, like Mels Drive-in , The Rainbow Room , and Carneys . And we can’t forget the famous Chateau Marmont Hotel , a popular celebrity destination since its opening in 1929.

Sunset Boulevard has been featured in countless movies and TV shows, and its name has become synonymous with the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

Los Angeles is home to palm trees, but on Sunset Boulevard, you can truly have that iconic experience of gazing up at majestic rows of these towering giants that seem to touch the sky, just like in the movies.

It’s just one of those must-do drives on your Los Angeles bucket list.

15. The Original Farmer’s Market

This historic farmer’s market has been around since 1934. It started when landowners invited farmers to sell fresh produce out of the backs of their trucks, and it has since grown into a permanent fixture in the Fairfax District. It has grown immensely since and remains a historic landmark and a top LA attraction.

The market is a cluster of boutiques, grocers, repair shops, and food stalls open year-round, rain or shine. This is a local gathering spot for lunch and dinner with plenty of variety. We love to stop by Monsieur Marcel’s for their delicious macarons.

If you’re looking to spot a celeb, your chances are higher if you go during an early morning during the week. We always see one or two at the farmer’s market during that time because there are fewer crowds in the morning.

Top Foodie Pick: Many great foods stand at the farmer’s market. Our favorites are Pampas Grill Churrascaria and Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market and Bistro .

The Original Farmer’s Market | 6333 W 3rd St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

16. The Grove

The Grove is a popular outdoor shopping and entertainment complex adjacent to the Original Farmers Market in Los Angeles. It opened in 2002 and is one of the top places to visit in Los Angeles amongst locals.

The Grove is not just an outdoor shopping mall but a favorite local spot to congregate in. It has a unique atmosphere and sense of community. It’s beautifully designed with dancing fountains, garden space with seating, and areas to have a picnic while sometimes enjoying live music and events.

There is something very welcoming and relaxing about The Grove. Especially when it’s not overly crowded. We are not big on shopping malls, but even we enjoy a stroll through The Grove occasionally.

Our absolute favorite time of year at The Grove is Christmas time . It is a magical time for all ages. One of the holiday highlights in Los Angeles.

What to do at the Grove?

• Enjoy the dancing water fountains with music.
• Sometimes there are live entertainment and activities in the courtyard.
• Ride the Grove Trolley.
• Take your little one to American Girl.
• Watch a movie at the Pacific Theater.
• People watch as you never know when you’ll spot a celebrity.
• Shop at one of their many stores, including Apple, as they have one of the most beautiful stores in the complex.

The Grove | 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles | Google Map It

17. LACMA Urban Lights installation

A popular Los Angeles attraction and landmark is the LACMA Urban Lights. It is a permanent art installation outside the museum’s entrance on Wilshire Boulevard. The installation consists of 202 restored street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s, which were once used to light up the streets of Los Angeles.

The installation has become a symbol of LA. It has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and music videos, including “No Strings Attached” and “La La Land.”

This is a fun stop in a Los Angeles Itinerary to take photos. We love to go at night when it is all lit up.

You can also plan to visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the heart of museum row in Miracle Mile. The museum is FREE on the 2nd Tuesday of every month, or you can purchase tickets in advance.

From April to November, locals meet at Smidt Welcome Plaza behind the Urban Lights to listen to top Jazz musicians play for free. When we worked down the street, we’d walk over and enjoy a lovely night with coworkers and music.

Favorite Foodie Picks: Check out the food trucks across the street.

LACMA | 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles | Google Map It

18. La Brea Tar Pits

Also, part of Museum Row in Miracle Mile, the La Great Tar Pits, is a great place to learn about some science and history. For over 10,000 years, tar has seeped up from the grounds in this area. And prehistoric fossils have been excavated from the area.

In front of the museum, there is a lake of tar that bubbles and also smells. We will admit it is a little fascinating to watch. You’ll sometimes find tar oozing through the cracked asphalt while walking the grounds.

• You can visit the grounds and the tar pit for FREE.
• You’ll have to pay for admission to the museum. Advanced tickets must be pre-purchased on their website: here .
• Los Angeles Country residents get FREE admittance from 3-5 pm.

La Brea Tar Pits | 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles | Google Map It

19. Petersen Automotive Museum

There are two reasons to visit the Petersen Museum:

• You love cars.
• You love modern architecture.

The Petersen Museum is one of the largest automotive museums in the world. It has 25 rotating exhibitions with over 150 vehicles on display.

If you love modern architecture, the Petersen Museum is a must-see. It received an amazing facelift in 2015 and is now one of the most beautiful facades on Miracle Mile.

• Closed Monday and Tuesday.
• Advanced tickets must be pre-purchased on their website: here .

Fun Fact: I worked close to the Petersen Museum and Museum Row for many years. It was fun to see the transformation of the Petersen Museum. Literary transformed that entire corner of Wilshire and Fairfax.

Petersen Museum | 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles | Google Map It

Things to Do in Pasadena, CA

Looking to explore a different city just a ride from Downtown Los Angeles. Visit Pasadena, home of the Rose Parade. Check out the top things to do and see. Go shopping in Old Town Pasadena, explore our Botanical gardens, visit a museum, and more.

20. Grand Central Market

Fellow foodies, you’ll want to visit Grand Central Market. This emporium is 30,000 square feet and has been a part of Los Angeles since 1901.

It is full of fantastic food stalls from all different cuisines and other retail shops. You’ll want to walk around first and peruse what’s available before you choose something to eat. If you see a long line at one of the stalls, that’s because it is good and quite possibly worth it. That could be said for most lines you’ll see in Los Angeles.

Experience this bustling market and see where Angelenos like to get a bite to eat.

We have a few favorites here, but I do not think you can go wrong with any stalls. We love Egg Slut, Sarita’s Pupuseria, and Villa Moreliana.

• The market is open Monday thru Sunday from 8 am to 9 pm
• Parking is available at 308 South Hill Street.

Grand Central Market | 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles | Google Map It

21. Bradbury Building

Right across from the Grand Central Market, you will find another of Los Angeles’s most beautiful architectural structures. The Bradbury Building is a National Historic Landmark. It is the oldest commercial building remaining and is still as magical as it was when built-in 1893.

The Bradbury Building is one of our favorite architectural structures in Los Angeles. You should check out this cool spot in Downtown Los Angeles.

The building is unassuming from the outside. It’s the interior that will dazzle you. This historic building was built in 1893 and is known for its stunning interior design. The ornate ironwork, intricate marble staircases, brick walls, caged elevators, and beautiful skylights blow you away. You’ll be amazed and impressed by the details.

The building has been featured in several movies and TV shows, including Blade Runner and 500 Days of Summer.

Note: More than likely, you’ll only be able to see it from the first floor. Sometimes they’ll let you venture up to the 2nd floor.

• This is FREE to see on your own.
• The LA Conservancy gives walking tours of Historic Los Angeles and its landmarks every Saturday. The cost is $15 pp. Register and book a tour here .

Bradbury Building | 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles | Google Map It

22. Angel’s Flight Railway

Angel’s Flight is a landmark piece of Los Angeles history that still exists today.

Before the pandemic, we were in Downtown LA at the Grand Central Market. While in the area, we walked over to see Angel’s Flight for the very first time. Unfortunately, it wasn’t operating that day.

Angel’s Flight is a short ride up and down one of the steepest hills in Downtown Los Angeles, Bunker Hill. It goes between Hill Street and Grand Avenue. It is also known as the world’s shortest railway. Back in 1901, when it was built, it used to go for two whole blocks.

Recently, Angel’s Flight was featured heavily in the very first episode of the HBO MAX series Perry Mason. It was also featured in LaLaLand.

• Cost: $1 each, and souvenir round-trip tickets are sold for $2.

Top Foodie Pick: Grand Central Market

Angel’s Flight | 350 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

23. Don’t Miss the Walt Disney Concert Hall

The Walt Disney Concert Hall is another architectural icon not to be missed in Downtown Los Angeles. It is known for its unique and stunning design, featuring curved stainless steel walls that shimmer in the sunlight.

It’s one of those spots in Los Angeles where you must get out and walk around to enjoy its beauty. It is quite like no other structure in LA.

The concert hall is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic and hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year. 

• Self-guided tours are usually available for FREE (unless you’re a group of 14 or more) from Mon-Sat, 10 am to 2 pm.
• Concert and Event Ticket Info

Walt Disney Concert Hall | 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

24. Visit Malibu

Malibu is a coastal city in Los Angeles County, California, and one of the top places to visit in LA. It’s one of the most beautiful areas in LA, with its sparkling blue waters, rolling hills, and beautiful sunsets. The city has a relaxed, laid-back vibe; however, the weekends in Malibu can be busy, so we recommend exploring it on a weekday.

Some of the popular things to do in Malibu:

• Have brunch on the beach at Paradise Cove .
• Check out popular beach spots like Zuma Beach and Matador Beach.
• Go wine tasting at Malibu Wines .
• Go hiking at Solstice Canyon Loop .

25. The Getty Center

Another fun and educational Los Angeles attraction is the Getty Center. This place is not only a museum with an impressive collection of art by famous artists like Van Gogh and Monet but also a research institution and conservation program.

You can spend the day enjoying the art and then strolling through beautifully manicured gardens and grounds. Plus, admission is always free!

• Closed on Mondays.
• Admission is FREE, but you must reserve your time in advance: here .

The Getty Center | 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles | Google Map It

26. Experience a Dodger Game at Dodger Stadium

Whether you’re a baseball fan or not, a Dodger game is a great way to mingle with the locals and experience a stadium in another city. See if your home team is playing against the Dodgers during your visit.

And if you’re visiting Los Angeles outside of baseball season, check out what other events are being held at Dodger Stadium. In the off-season, there are concerts, festivals, and local events you can plan to attend.

Top Foodie Pick: A dodger dog! Tip, get the grilled one.

Dodger Stadium | 1000 Vin Scully Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

27. Warner Bros Studio Tour Hollywood

This is the #1 studio tour in Los Angeles by far. We’ve done them all, and the one at Warner Bros is the most fun, educational, worth the cost, and long-lasting. So if you are a movie buff, are interested in movie and tv show production, and wondering how ad where it all takes place, book a Warner Bros Studio Tour.

You will tour the studio for about 2-3 hours. What’s fun about touring at Warner Bros is that not every group gets the same tour. Many aspects of the tour may be the same, but a lot of it varies depending on filming schedules and such on the lot.

We’ve toured Warner Bros a few times and enjoyed and experienced different things each time. I’ll never forget seeing the FRIENDS set or the Two and a Half Men sets during its final seasons. A personal favorite was getting to walk around Stars Hallow from Gilmore Girls. Pose at Cafe Perks from FRIENDS – we have a photo of us sitting on the Friends couch with Cafe Perk mugs.

The guides driving you around are phenomenal, friendly, and knowledgeable. Just be sure to follow their guidelines.

• Cost: $69 pp
• Book Tickets and Reserve a Time

Warner Bros Studios Tour | 3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank | Google Map It

28. Paramount Pictures Studio Tour

Paramount Studio is another iconic and classic production studio in Hollywood that gives a great tour. It is the longest operating and the only active backlot in Hollywood.

The Studio Tour is a full 2 hours. Like other studios, they guide you through some of their famous backlots and soundstages. Learn about the history of Paramount and why they are still standing in Hollywood today.

You can also pay extra for the VIP Studio Tour, which is 4 1/2 hours. On this tour, you’ll get all the above but receive an insider experience and a gourmet lunch.

This is a fun Hollywood tour and experience. We did this a couple of times a long time ago. Once, I even attended a Christmas party at a soundstage, and it was cool to walk through the lot.

Paramount Studio | 5515 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

29. Sony Pictures Studio Tours

Sony Pictures is a great little studio to visit in Culver City.

What’s to love about this Sony Pictures Studio Tour? It is a 2-hour walking tour. This means you’re on your feet and not in a golf cart for half the time. You’ll experience what it’s like to explore a backlot on foot. In my opinion, a more intimate experience.

You can also book a VIP tour, a 3-hour guided golf cart tour that includes lunch.

• Tours operate Monday thru Friday. Reservations required.
• The studio tour is 2 hours.

Sony Pictures Studio Tours | 10202 Washington Blvd, Culver City | Google Map It

30. Disneyland Park and California Adventure

The one-day trip from Los Angeles that is a must is Disneyland – the Happiest Place on Earth. It is in Los Angeles’s backyard, and we locals love to visit Sleeping Beauty’s Castle every chance we get.

Disneyland in Anaheim is different from the one in Florida. It’s smaller, with fewer rides and attractions than Disney World. So it is ideal for 1-2 days of fun. Who doesn’t love to visit Mickey and Minnie? Plus, it’s a great surprise for Disney lovers and children.

Want to stay overnight at Disneyland? I recommend the Grand Floridian Hotel as it is connected to California Adventure. Easy to get through security in the morning and into the theme park.

When is the best time to visit Disneyland? Our favorite time of year at Disney is in the fall for Halloween and during the holidays – it’s magical!

Here are a few Disneyland tips:

• Download the Disneyland app.
• Book your tickets and reserve your dates in advance. Opt to pay extra for Genie+.
• Make restaurant reservations in advance: Blue Bayou, Carthay Circle, and Steakhouse 55 are a few of our favorites.

You can check out my Disneyland Instagram highlights here .

Disneyland | 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim | Google Map It

Read more: Fun Amusement Parks and Theme Parks in Los Angeles, CA

This list could run on forever if we let it. Here are some other attractions and places to visit in Los Angeles that you can also add to your list:

• Spend the day at the Natural History Museum
• Have fun at Six Flags Magic Mountain Amusement Park
• Visit the USS Iowa Museum
• Hike with locals in Hollywood at Runyon Canyon Park and get a great view of the Santa Monica Mountains.
• Check out the Broad Museum (free admission).
• Eat at Pink’s Hot Dog Stand

Things to Do in Los Angeles FAQS

Where to stay in los angeles.

It all depends on what you’re plans are. We recommend booking a hotel in the South Bay area, like Marina del Rey, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, or Redondo Beach. Santa Monica is another area great and centralized area to stay in. Pasadena is another great location, a city in San Gabriel Valley that is only a 20-minute drive from DTLA.

If the South Bay and West Side are too far from everything, and you plan on relying on public transportation, consider staying in West Hollywood or Miracle Mile.

Do you need a car if you’re visiting Los Angeles?

Yes, a car rental would be ideal. You can also rely on Uber and Lyft. There is public transportation, but it all depends on where you plan to stay and what Los Angeles sights you plan to see. Ultimately, you can’t rely on public transportation to take you everywhere. Check out Los Angeles Metro System Maps .

What are the two famous attractions in Los Angeles?

The Hollywood Sign and Santa Monica Pier are two of LA’s famous attractions.

What are some highly-rated landmarks and historic buildings in Los Angeles, CA?

The highly-rated landmarks and historic buildings in Los Angeles, CA, include Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Sign, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Los Angeles City Hall, Bradbury Building, Getty Center, Union Station, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, TCL Chinese Theatre, and Capitol Records Building. These landmarks and buildings have a unique history and cultural significance, making them popular tourist destinations.

Redfin selected Tasty Itinerary as a top Los Angeles, CA, local expert. See the Redfin article we were featured in 8 Reasons to Move to Los Angeles From the Locals Who Love Living There | Redfin

We’ve been checking things off our Los Angeles Bucket List for years. Even after living here for over 15 years, there is still much more to discover. However, these Los Angeles attractions are the top spots to see and experience when visiting LA.

If you enjoyed this list, check out some of these related articles:

Los Angeles Day Trips to Take

Fun Theme Parks in Los Angeles, CA

What to See and Do in Downtown LA

Los Angeles in a Day

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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This is a wonderful blog post, Thank you for sharing this with us.

Thanks so much! Hope it helps with any future Los Angeles travel plans.

This took me back to Cali! I’ve been a few times and really enjoyed it. I’ve done a lot of these things but there’s so much to see. So definitely haven’t done it all. I’d like to do that hike to the Hollywood sign and that angel’s flight looks cool. I looove the Hollywood Bowl. I got to see Etta James there. It was a beautiful night. I’ve also enjoyed walking around Venice and Santa Monica. I think a friend and I also must have driven on the pacific coast highway. We drove from San Diego down towards LA. Drove around Laguna Beach. Wherever we were, it was a beautiful drive. We rented a convertible. Fun times!😍

Great post! Really makes me want to go back.

Love hearing that you’ve experienced many of these things to do in Los Angeles. And Etta James at the Hollywood Bowl – WOW! That must have been amazing. It does sound like you drove the PCH. Next time you can plan to go north of LA all the way up to San Francisco. A convertible is definitely the way to go. Appreciate the comment and for reading my latest.

This must be downtown L.A.

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If Los Angeles is a city in flux — a place with an ever-shifting center that’s home to many a transplant and is sometimes too eager to favor the new — then perhaps no neighborhood better embodies our town than downtown. Once the beating heart of the region, downtown has survived multiple eras of ups and downs, and remains a place in constant transformation.

To live in downtown — I have been a resident of the area for nearly 15 years — is not only to confront the fantasy of Los Angeles but also to come face to face with the city at its most dystopian. It’s a neighborhood of clashes, home to the grandeur of Walt Disney Concert Hall , the romance of rooftop eateries, the idealized history of Olvera Street and, of course, the harsh realities of class inequity and unrealized dreams, as downtown and Skid Row remain the epicenter of our homeless crisis.

And yet, downtown is history.

Get to know Los Angeles through the places that bring it to life. From restaurants to shops to outdoor spaces, here’s what to discover now.

The Angels Flight Railway today is a charmer, a short theme-park like journey connecting the heights of Bunker Hill with the Historic Core and Grand Central Market . But the Bunker Hill of today , with its skyscrapers and art museums, is a long way removed from its turn-of-the-century Victorian homes — or the so-called blight that the area was in the 1940s and ’50s when the rich jettisoned downtown. Displacement and leveling occurred.

Downtown is contradictions. Until 1957, downtown buildings were capped to a height of 150 feet. A building boom followed, and downtown won its reputation as a place occupied by 9-to-5 office workers by day, deserted by night. Today, unfinished skyscrapers have become canvases for graffiti artists , and a post-pandemic work-from-home lifestyle has pinned the hopes for downtown’s future on its potential as a residential area.

Downtown is the center of our city — where settlers and indigenous people before them found freshwater — but emblematic of a region where its people refused to agree upon a center for any length of time. Or weren’t always given a choice. Our magnificent Union Station , today a burgeoning public transit hub, was built on ground that was the original Chinatown. To fully embrace downtown is to be forced to reconcile our city’s sometimes messy past.

And yet downtown is home. The ornate movie palaces of Broadway still stand, though are used more often as concert venues today. One is an Apple Store, the arrival of which in 2021 was itself seen as something of a pivotal moment, heralded, much as was the return of Ralphs to the area in 2007, as a sign that downtown was once again a livable destination.

But it always was. To try to capture downtown in a neighborhood guide is nearly impossible: The Historic Core is as different from Bunker Hill as South Park is from the Fashion District. We’ve splintered off the Arts District , which is equally unwieldy, and have defined downtown as a place stretching from around Union Station to the mecca of activity near Crypto.com Arena. Look for the neighborhoods-within-a-neighborhood that are Little Toyko and Chinatown to receive a similar treatment soon.

What you’ll find here is a look at a heavily walkable slice of Los Angeles, a place where gourmet food resides in the 100-plus-year-old food hall of Grand Central Market , where cocktail bars such as the Wolves attempt to whisk us to a yesteryear that never existed, and a bookstore has become a tourist destination that serves as a living art gallery. There’s more to the region than is captured here, of course — the details of our city’s founding, for instance, or the battle over the creation of a French dip sandwich . But what is here is comfortable and communal, be it the gloriousness of a flour tortilla or the coziness of a neighborhood bar.

Downtown, finally, is a mystery. Venture into an alley, for example, to find the Smell , still the best all-ages location for underground and experimental music. Turn into a somewhat abandoned courtyard and stumble into a nearly forgotten slice of Old World kitsch . Nestled near the heart of Skid Row lies Mignon , one of the quietest, most intimate wine bars in the city. And hiding in the Central Library just happens to be one of the city’s niftiest little gift shops .

That it can hold all this and more, that it can be the birthplace of our city yet also one of our most malleable neighborhoods, is key to downtown’s allure. It can be grimy and unvarnished, sure, but it’s also never stopped dreaming. Is it the city core that it was envisioned as more than a couple of centuries ago? For many, it was never anything but.

What's included in this guide

Anyone who’s lived in a major metropolis can tell you that neighborhoods are a tricky thing. They’re eternally malleable and evoke sociological questions around how we place our homes, our neighbors and our communities within a wider tapestry. In the name of neighborly generosity, we included gems that may linger outside of technical parameters. Instead of leaning into stark definitions, we hope to celebrate all of the places that make us love where we live.

Get to know the locals at Kippered

Be transported by Joyce's Southern, seafood-inspired menu

Food is communal at Grand Central Market

Visit one of downtown's best gift shops at the Central Library

Attend a movie party at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Get lost in the labyrinth of the Last Bookstore

Enter a box of contemporary art at the Broad

Have a cocktail surrounded by angels at the Biltmore

Treat downtown like a theme park at Angels Flight Railway

Interact with music history at the Grammy Museum

Sample Sonoratown's glorious handmade flour tortillas

Dine in a former rectory at Redbird

Marvel at the Midwest-influenced comfort food of Moonlark's Dinette

Do some yoga at Gloria Molina Grand Park

Dive into L.A. history at Olvera Street

Explore the transitways — or have a pint — at Union Station

Relax with a coffee at the Bradbury Building

Enjoy the buzz of live theater at the Ahmanson Theatre

Skip the fancy rooftop brunch and see Los Angeles via City Hall

Explore the fantasy of another era at the Wolves

Explore the variety of French wine at Garçons de Cafe

Visit a rooftop garden before the symphony at Walt Disney Concert Hall

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19 Best Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles | 2024 (with Photos)

Katarina P. - Travel Writer

Last Updated: March 26, 2024

Hey there! I'm Katarina, a travel enthusiast with a passion for exploring the best attractions in Los Angeles. Join me as I share my top recommendations for an unforgettable trip to the City of Angels. Let's make the most of your adventure by planning ahead and having an amazing time!

Los Angeles is a city that truly has something for everyone.

From the bustling streets of Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles Zoo, and Walt Disney Concert Hall to the peaceful trails of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Natural History Museum, and the famous Hollywood sign, visitors can experience it all in one of America's most iconic cities.

With its diverse cultural offerings, breathtaking natural beauty, and endless entertainment options, Los Angeles is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

So, let's get started with another Travel-Lingual guide and discover the 19 best Los Angeles attractions together!

Most Recommended Thing to Do

• Hollywood Walk of Fame

Top Choice Hotel

Ritz-Carlton

Our Top Choice Restaurant

Our Top Choice Bar for Nightlife

The Varnish

Best Time to Visit

Mild climate, visit year-round, avoid tourist crowds.

Average Temperature

Mild, moderate climate in Los Angeles, United States.

Transportation Options

Buses, subway, taxis, rideshare, bikes, walking, scooters, car rentals

Average Cost ($, $$, $$$)

My Top Recommendation

Start your day by strolling along the picturesque Venice Beach Boardwalk, feeling the warm sand beneath your toes and immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of street performers, artists, and skateboarders whizzing by - a true California dream.

As the sun sets, head to the iconic Griffith Observatory, nestled in the scenic hills, for breathtaking views of the sprawling cityscape and a chance to observe the night sky like never before - a magical and personal moment you'll remember forever.

What You'll Need to Bring

• Passport or identification documents
• Travel itinerary and accommodation details
• Suitable clothing for the weather

What Not to Miss

• Griffith Observatory
• Santa Monica Pier
• The Getty Center

Universal Studios Hollywood

What to avoid.

• Crowded tourist hotspots
• Rush hour traffic
• Overpriced tourist traps

Table of Contents

1. Warner Bros Studio

Warner Bros Studio in Burbank, California, is a must-visit destination for movie buffs and fans of blockbuster movies.

This iconic Warner Bros Studio has been at the forefront of the entertainment industry for over a century, producing some of the biggest blockbusters in movie history.

The studio's Harry Potter exhibit is a major draw for fans of the beloved book and movie franchise.

Blockbuster movies are just one aspect of what Warner Bros Studio has to offer.

The studio tour also includes a behind-the-scenes look at how movies and TV shows are made, with stops at soundstages, prop rooms, and the iconic backlot.

You'll get to see famous sets from TV shows like " Friends " and " The Big Bang Theory ", as well as movie classics like " Casablanca " and " Batman ".

2. The Petersen Automotive Museum

The Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the history and culture of the automobile.

With over 100 years of automotive history on display, the extensive collection this museum has to offer is a must-see for car enthusiasts and anyone interested in the evolution of transportation.

The Petersen Automotive Museum has a vast collection of cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles from different eras and countries.

The exhibits are organized in themes and chronologically, so visitors can take a journey through the history of the automobile from its early days to modern times.

One of the most impressive exhibits at the Petersen Automotive Museum is the Vault, a basement-level display featuring rare and iconic cars not usually seen in public.

Visitors can see everything from classic muscle cars to one-of-a-kind prototypes and race cars.

3. IMAX, California Science Center

The California Science Center in Los Angeles is an exceptional destination for science enthusiasts of all ages.

The museum's exhibits and interactive displays highlight a wide range of scientific disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, and space science.

The IMAX Theater at the California Science Center is one of the center's most popular attractions.

Visitors to the California Science Center can catch a variety of educational and entertaining films in the IMAX theater.

The California Science Center features a variety of films that cover different scientific topics, from deep space exploration to the world's oceans and everything in between.

Some of the most popular films currently playing at the IMAX theater include " Hubble 3D ," " Great White Shark 3D ," and " Journey to Space 3D ."

4. Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios is a renowned destination in Los Angeles, attracting visitors from all over the world.

This movie studio and theme park is one of the most popular attractions in Southern California, offering a unique and immersive experience.

At Universal Studios Hollywood, visitors can enjoy an array of experiences, including thrilling rides, live shows, and behind-the-scenes tours of movie sets and soundstages.

Universal Studios Hollywood has something for everyone, with family-friendly attractions like Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and The Simpsons Ride, as well as high-speed coasters like The Revenge of the Mummy and Jurassic World: The Ride.

One of the highlights of Universal Studios Hollywood is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and its magical roller coasters.

Universal Studios allows visitors to explore the magical world and experience attractions like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff.

Visitors can also shop for wizarding wares and enjoy a glass of Butterbeer.

5. Zuma Beach & Venice Beach

Zuma Beach and Venice Beach are two of the most popular beaches in Southern California.

Both beaches offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, a variety of activities, and a vibrant atmosphere that attracts locals and tourists alike.

Zuma Beach is located in Malibu and is known for its long, wide shoreline and excellent surf.

The beach is a favorite among surfers and offers some of the best waves in the area. But it's not just surfers who love Zuma Beach.

Venice Beach, on the other hand, is famous for its quirky, bohemian vibe.

Located in the heart of Venice , the beach is a hub of activity and entertainment. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, watch street performers, or rent a bike and explore the area.

Venice Beach is also home to Muscle Beach, where bodybuilders show off their impressive physiques.

With its lively atmosphere and eclectic mix of people, Venice Beach is a must-visit destination.

Also Read : Fun Things to Do in Malibu at Night

6. Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park are two of the most iconic Los Angeles attractions.

Located in the Hollywood Hills, Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory offer visitors stunning views and a range of activities to enjoy.

Griffith Observatory, built in the 1930s, is a beautiful Art Deco-style building that houses a range of exhibits and telescopes.

The observatory is free to visit and offers visitors a chance to explore the universe and learn about astronomy.

From the top of the observatory, visitors can take in panoramic views of the city and even see the famous Hollywood sign.

Griffith Park, which encompasses over 4,000 acres, is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Moreover, Griffith Park is home to hiking trails, picnic areas, and a range of attractions, including the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the Griffith Park & Southern Railroad or take a horseback ride through the park's scenic trails.

Take a guided tour of the Griffith Observatory, view exhibits on space and astronomy, and even look through telescopes to observe the stars.

On clear nights, the observatory also hosts public stargazing events, allowing you to see planets, constellations, and other celestial bodies up close.

7. Santa Monica Pier and Santa Monica Mountains

Santa Monica is a coastal city in Southern California that offers visitors a range of attractions, including the famous Santa Monica Pier, the Santa Monica Mountains, and a vibrant downtown area.

The Santa Monica Pier, located at the end of Colorado Avenue, is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city.

The Santa Monica pier features an amusement park with rides and games, as well as a range of restaurants and souvenir shops.

Visitors can also take a stroll along the pier, enjoy the ocean views, and watch street performers and musicians.

In addition to the beach, Santa Monica is home to the Santa Monica Mountains, a range of hills and mountains that offer hiking trails and scenic views of the city and the ocean.

Here, you can hike through the mountains, explore the local flora and fauna, and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Back in town, the downtown area of Santa Monica offers visitors a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Be ready for the best Solar Powered Ferris Wheel that you see just in movies.

8. Hollywood Boulevard and the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Hollywood Boulevard is one of the most iconic streets in Los Angeles, known for its history, glamor, and entertainment.

From the Hollywood Walk of Fame to the Hollywood Hills, this area of the city offers visitors a range of attractions to explore.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame, located on Hollywood Boulevard, is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city.

The Walk of Fame features over 2,600 stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring some of the biggest names like movie stars in entertainment.

Visitors can take a stroll along the boulevard and see stars dedicated to the biggest celebrities of the past decades.

The area is home to the iconic TCL Chinese Theater, a historic theater that has hosted countless movie premieres over the years.

Visitors can take a tour of the theater, learn about its history, and even see the handprints and footprints of some of Hollywood's biggest stars.

Just north of Hollywood Boulevard is the Hollywood Hills, a range of hills and mountains that offer stunning views of the city and the ocean.

Visitors can hike through the hills and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Back on Hollywood Boulevard, visitors should also check out the Hollywood Museum, which features exhibits on the history of Hollywood and its famous residents.

The museum is located in the historic Max Factor Building, which was once home to the famous makeup artist's studio.

Related Article : 25 Fun Things to Do in Hollywood

9. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art ( LACMA ) is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, culture, and history. It is the largest art museum in the Western United States.

Located in the heart of Los Angeles County, the museum is home to an extensive collection of artwork from around the world.

The museum's permanent collection includes over 150,000 works of art, spanning a wide range of styles and periods.

You can explore art from ancient times to the present day, with collections featuring everything from European art to African masks, from American modernist sculpture to contemporary photography.

One of the highlights of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is its permanent collection of modern and contemporary art.

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art includes works by some of the biggest names in the art world, including Jeff Koons, Ed Ruscha, and Barbara Kruger.

10. Walt Disney Concert Hall and Downtown Los Angeles

Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of the most iconic landmarks of Downtown Los Angeles.

Designed by architect Frank Gehry, it is a marvel of contemporary architecture and a shining example of the city's cultural richness.

Located in the heart of Downtown LA , the concert hall's gleaming steel curves and undulating forms stand out in contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers.

The building's exterior is as impressive as its interior, with its polished steel surfaces reflecting the bright Southern California sun.

The concert hall is the crown jewel of the Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles County and is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra.

This jewel of Downtown Los Angeles hosts a wide range of events, including classical music concerts, jazz performances, and contemporary music shows.

11. La Brea Tar Pits and Los Angeles Area

The La Brea Tar Pits are a unique geological formation located in the heart of Los Angeles.

This area has been one of the major tourist attractions in the Los Angeles area for over a century, drawing visitors from all over the world to witness the fascinating prehistoric discoveries.

The La Brea Tar Pits are a collection of tar pits that have trapped and preserved the remains of millions of prehistoric creatures for thousands of years.

This includes mammoths, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and many other species that once roamed the area.

Today, the La Brea Tar Pits are a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world to see the prehistoric fossils and learn about the region's natural history.

The site includes a museum, where visitors can view the fossils and learn about the geological processes that created the La Brea Tar Pits.

This attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's prehistoric past and a reminder of the diversity of life that once flourished in this region.

The La Brea Tar Pits are not just a unique attraction but also a testament to the rich natural history of the Los Angeles area.

12. Disneyland Resort - The Magical Adventure

Disneyland Park is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Los Angeles.

Located in Anaheim , just a short drive from Hollywood Bowl, Paramount Pictures , and the San Fernando Valley, Disneyland is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the Los Angeles area.

The Disneyland Resort is a massive complex that includes theme parks, Disney California Adventure Park, Hollywood Land, and Downtown Disney.

It's a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the magic of Disney and create unforgettable memories with their loved ones.

Disney California Adventure Park is a newer addition to the Disneyland Resort opened in 2001.

It's a celebration of the California spirit, with attractions, roller coasters, and shows inspired by the Golden State's history, culture, and natural beauty.

13. Iconic Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign is one of the most iconic symbols of Los Angeles and a must-visit tourist attraction for anyone visiting the city.

Located in the Hollywood Hills, the sign is visible from many parts of the city, including West Hollywood and Runyon Canyon.

Originally erected in 1923 to promote real estate development, the Hollywood Sign has become a cultural icon and a symbol of the entertainment industry.

Visitors can hike to the sign via the Runyon Canyon trail, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding hills.

In addition to the Hollywood Sign, West Hollywood is another popular tourist destination in Los Angeles. Known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining, West Hollywood is a hub of entertainment and culture.

Also Read : Fun Things to Do in Hollywood at Night

14. Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive

Beverly Hills is a glamorous neighborhood in Los Angeles that is known for its luxurious lifestyle, high-end shopping, and exquisite dining options.

It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles, with visitors from all over the world coming to experience the rich culture and sophistication of Beverly Hills.

One of the must-visit destinations in Beverly Hills is Rodeo Drive, a high-end shopping district. Rodeo Drive is home to some of the world's most exclusive designer boutiques and luxury brands.

Visitors can stroll down the Rodeo Drive palm-tree-lined streets and admire the beautifully decorated storefronts or indulge in some luxury shopping.

Another popular attraction in Beverly Hills is the Getty Center , a world-renowned art museum that features an impressive art collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

The Getty Center, the museum's stunning architecture, and breathtaking views of the Los Angeles Basin make it a must-visit destination for art lovers and tourists alike.

Tour Beverly Hills to get an insight into how your favorite actors and musicians live.

Related Article : Best Things to Do in Beverly Hills at Night

15. Original Farmers Market

The Original Farmers Market is a historic landmark and culinary destination in Los Angeles, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, and international cuisine.

It has been serving the city for over 80 years, making it one of the oldest and most beloved farmer's markets in the country.

Visitors can browse the stalls of over 100 vendors , who offer everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and handmade crafts.

The Original Farmers Market is a perfect destination for foodies and anyone looking for unique, high-quality products.

The market is located just a short drive from Six Flags Magic Mountain, a popular theme park and attraction in Los Angeles.

After a day of thrilling rides and excitement, the Original Farmers Market is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some fresh flavors.

The Original Farmers Market is a must-visit tourist attraction in Los Angeles for anyone looking to experience unique, high-quality products.

With its variety of vendors, restaurants, and cafes, there is something for everyone at this historic landmark. And, located just a short drive from Six Flags Magic Mountain , it is the perfect place to relax and refuel after a day of adventure.

16. Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is one of the most extensive natural history museums in the United States.

The museum was established in 1913 and is located in Exposition Park in Los Angeles, California and it is a gem of the West Coast.

The museum's collection includes over 35 million specimens and artifacts covering a diverse range of topics, including dinosaurs, mammals, birds, insects, marine life, and minerals.

One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the Dinosaur Hall, which features one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world, including three complete Tyrannosaurus rex specimens.

Just ten minutes from this insightful landmark is the Japanese American National Museum. If you are a culture buff, you should check out these museums in Los Angeles .

17. Sunset Strip in LA

The Sunset Strip is a famous mile-and-a-half-long stretch of Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, California.

It has been a popular destination for tourists and locals alike since the 1920s and is known for its vibrant nightlife, live music venues, and celebrity hotspots .

Throughout the years, the Sunset Strip has been home to several iconic music clubs, including the Whisky a Go Go, the Roxy Theatre, and the Troubadour, which have hosted performances by legendary musicians such as The Doors , Led Zeppelin , and Guns N' Roses .

The area has also been the backdrop for several movies and TV shows, including "La La Land", "Entourage", and "Almost Famous".

18. Getty Center

The Getty Center is a world-renowned art museum located in Los Angeles, California. It was opened in 1997 and is one of two locations of the J. Paul Getty Museum, the other being the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades.

The Getty Center is located on a hilltop in the Santa Monica Mountains and offers stunning views of Los Angeles and the surrounding area.

The Getty Center Museum's collection includes over 130,000 cultural artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day .

19. Runyon Canyon Park

Runyon Canyon Park is a popular hiking and recreation area located in the Hollywood Hills of Los Angeles, California.

It covers 160 acres and offers stunning views of the city, as well as a variety of hiking trails for visitors of all skill levels.

The park is named after a wealthy landowner and developer, Rudolph C. Runyon, who owned the land in the early 20th century.

Today, the park is a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike, who come to hike, jog, and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery .

Runyon Canyon Park features several hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, that wind through the hills and canyons of the park.

The most popular trail is the Runyon Canyon Loop, which is a 3-mile hike that takes visitors up to the highest point in the park, providing panoramic views of the city below.

FAQs Regarding Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

Let's look at the most frequently asked questions relating to tourist attractions in Los Angeles.

What is the number 1 tourist attraction in LA?

For most travelers, the number one tourist attraction in LA is Beverly Hills and the celebrity houses that reside there. You can tour the streets of Beverly Hills to glimpse the lavish lifestyles of A-listers. Downtown LA is also a major tourist hotspot.

What are the best theme parks in LA?

When you visit Los Angeles, you will want to see the best theme parks in the area. Check out Universal Studios, Disneyland Park, and for the little ones, Pacific Park at Santa Monica.

What is the coolest place in LA?

There are many cool tourist attractions in Los Angeles, such as the Arts District, Hollywood Bowl, Paramount Pictures Studio, and Venice Beach. And if you think nature and science are cool, you'll love the Natural History Museum.

Is there anything worth seeing in Los Angeles?

Yes, there are many things worth seeing in Los Angeles. Here are some popular attractions and destinations that visitors often enjoy: Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios Hollywood, the Getty Center, Santa Monica Pier, and the Griffith Observatory.

Summing Up: 19 Best Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is rich with fantastic tourist attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

From contemporary art and the Hollywood Bowl to theme parks and Paramount Pictures Studio, this city has it all.

Downtown LA is where dreams come true, so pack your bags and head out to the City of Lights today. Remember your walking shoes so you can make the most of the Sunset Strip on Sunset Boulevard and all of the other major attractions. And if this is still not enough for you, check out the list of 35 best places to visit in LA .

And remember to book your accommodation, transport, and tickets before you go so you don't miss a thing. Have a great time in Los Angeles.

Warner Bros Studio

Griffith observatory and griffith park.

Santa Monica Pier and Santa Monica Mountains

Hollywood Boulevard and the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Getty center, related articles, featured in.

The 18 Best Things to Do in Downtown Los Angeles

TripSavvy / Amanda Blackard

Unlike other large cities, many people visit Los Angeles without ever setting foot downtown, preferring to spend their time at the beach near Santa Monica or strolling around Hollywood . And while the downtown area may lack the most iconic attractions that people come to see in Los Angeles, those who venture into this underrated neighborhood know that it's rich with historic  architecture , cultural attractions, and some of the best foodie hotspots in the city.

Here are the 18 best things to do downtown, from visiting historic sites, museums, and watching live theater performances, to strolling around the many iconic districts that help shape downtown into what it is.

Eat Sushi in Little Tokyo

There are only three official Japantowns in the United States, and all three of them are in California. The one in Los Angeles, known as Little Tokyo, is the largest of the three and also a National Historic Landmark. Apart from actually going to Japan, it's one of the most authentic Japanese experiences you can have and the perfect place to pick up some typical snacks, flip through some manga comics, or enjoy a cup of matcha tea.

Perhaps the best time of the day to explore Little Tokyo is around lunch, dinner, or anytime you're hungry. Several local eateries offer traditional Japanese and Japanese-American cuisine, from hot bowls of ramen to the fun-to-eat (and say) shabu-shabu . Also, don't miss out on trying a California roll from any one of the sushi restaurants in the area ⎯ it was invented right in the neighborhood.

Take a Ride on the Tram

It may not have the same global recognition as the San Francisco cable car or the Lisbon tram , but the Angels Flight Railway is still one of the most iconic landmarks in downtown L.A. (and even more so since it appeared in the Oscar-winning Best Picture, "La La Land"). The funicular train has been shuttling passengers one block—albeit one very steep block—since 1901, from Hill Street to Olive Street.

The cost is $1 to ride it one-way, or 50 cents if you have an L.A. Metro pass. You can ride the tram in either direction but enter at Hill Street to ride it uphill and avoid making the steep climb on foot.

Check Out Contemporary Art for Free

If you're into contemporary art, two of Southern California's preeminent museums are not just in downtown Los Angeles, but they're across the street from each other and both are free to enter.

The Broad —pronounced like "brode"—is the newer contemporary art museum that opened in 2015 on Grand Avenue, next to the Walt Disney Disney Concert Hall . Built by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, the 120,000-square-foot museum houses their personal and their foundation's art collection of more than 2,000 works by over 200 different artists, including the museum's most Instagrammable exhibit, the Infinity Mirrored Room by Yayoi Kusama.

Walk out of the Broad and cross the street to enter the Museum of Contemporary Art , which locals just call the "MOCA." The MOCA doesn't have any permanent exhibits, so check ahead to see what's on display at the time of your trip.

Visit El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument at Olvera Street

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley 

El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, more commonly known simply as Olvera Street, is the location of the oldest remaining structure in Los Angeles, the Avila Adobe. However, it's the Mexican Marketplace running up and down the pedestrian street that primarily draws visitors. The Marketplace started in 1930 and was originally conceived as a way to rejuvenate the dilapidated neighborhood by bringing in the charm of old-world Mexico with locals selling their crafts and hosting vivacious fiestas. Nearly a century later, Olvera Street is still one of the most popular attractions in downtown Los Angeles.

It is also the home of the LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes , a museum that charts Latino history from the arrival of the first 11 Mexican families who were among the earliest settlers in Los Angeles.

Olvera Street is a one-block pedestrian zone across from Union Station, which is served by the red and gold lines of the  Metro .

See a Show at the Disney Concert Hall

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

The Los Angeles Music Center consists of a group of original theaters that are home to the city's drama, dance, and opera companies, the most famous of which is the architecturally stunning Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry. It's home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, one of the most celebrated orchestras in the country. The "winter season" of the LA Phil at the Disney Concert Hall typically runs from October to June (in the summer, they play at the Hollywood Bowl ).

Even if you can't make it to a concert or tickets are outside of your budget, it's worth visiting the Disney Concert Hall just to appreciate the building itself. Guided tours of the inside are available for free (or you can choose to wander around yourself) but don't forget about the outside of the building. Gehry designed the hall to be explored from all sides and angles, including the exterior staircases that take visitors right up to the roof.

Feast at the Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market is an indoor public market on Broadway between Third and Fourth streets in downtown. The market has been open continuously since 1917 and has always housed a mix of greengrocers, butchers, delis, bakers, and prepared food vendors. The culinary offerings in the market have always been fresh and local, although they have become more "artisanal and gourmet" compared to its early days. The options today also represent the diversity of the local area, including Thai street food, Salvadoran pupusas, and several flavors from Mexico.

The market is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., but individual vendors may set their own hours. If you're arriving by public transportation, take the red or purple line of the metro to Pershing Square.

Explore the Fashion District in Los Angeles

The Fashion District is a great place to shop for bargain clothes, textiles, and accessories. Previously known as the Garment District, this expansive neighborhood sits in the southern part of downtown L.A. and specializes in retail and wholesale for all types of clothing. One of the most popular areas is a street of outdoor shopping called Santee Alley, where you can find great deals and cheap knock-off brands.

Many businesses are closed on Sundays, so it's not as busy if you want to roam but there's not nearly as much selection. Aspiring designers will also love  The Fashion Institute for Design and Merchandising  (FIDM) at Ninth Street and Grand, just outside the Fashion District, which has a gallery that features costume exhibits from movies and television.

Get Lost in the Downtown Los Angeles Arts District

Even though there's an endless option of art museums and galleries to visit around Los Angeles, none of them offer what you can find in the Downtown Los Angeles Arts District . It's nestled between Alameda Street and the L.A. River on the east side of downtown, and this industrial area has been a flourishing artist community since the 1970s. Most notable are the larger-than-life murals that dominate the walls and are constantly changing. In fact, it's one of the best places to see street art in all of California.

Apart from the murals, the neighborhood also has a high density of studios and galleries that are free to enter. For an immersive experience and a comprehensive history of the Arts District, several companies offer guided tours of the area, such as L.A. Art Tours .

Take a Tour of Los Angeles City Hall

Completed in 1928, the 32-story Los Angeles City Hall was the tallest building in the city until modern building methods allowed taller, high-rise buildings to appear in the 1960s. The building is a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument and is still home to the mayor and city council office chambers. It is part of the Civic Center district, which also includes county, state, and federal buildings, and has appeared in dozens of TV shows, movies, and video games. You can walk in and explore on your own with the self-guided tour materials available at the information desk on the third floor, but whatever you do, be sure to take the elevator up to the free observation deck on the 27th floor.

Enjoy the Sun at Grand Park

It isn't easy finding refuge in all of the commotion of downtown L.A., but Grand Park is a 12-acre oasis nuzzled in between the skyscrapers. It stretches for over three blocks of tranquil green space, making it the perfect location to escape from a day of trekking around the concrete jungle. At the west end of the park, the restored Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain includes a spouted wading area that is a favorite place to cool off on hot summer days. At night, a light show draws romantic strolling couples and photo enthusiasts. The park also includes 24 botanic gardens inspired by the six floristic kingdoms of the world and plenty of green lawn for playing and relaxing.

Browse Around at The Last Bookstore

The Last Bookstore, at the corner of Fifth and Spring streets in Downtown Los Angeles, has become an international tourist draw. They don't just sell, buy, and trade second-hand books and records at The Last Bookstore. They've created an intriguing combination of quirky art and wide-ranging literature in a really unique space. The bones of the original architecture are allowed to shine through with a painted beamed ceiling supported by classic columns. The second floor wraps around the open first floor with a balcony walkway, keeping your eyes busy with everything going on above and below. Upstairs houses unique art studios and galleries, a knitting shop, and a labyrinth of more books, including the dollar room with over 100,000 books for $1.

There are some overstuffed sofas and chairs around for reading, but you're just as likely to see people pull up a spot on the floor wherever they've discovered treasure among the stacks. The Last Bookstore hosts a variety of events from book signings, author talks, and art openings to comedy shows, music performances, and open mic nights.

Visit Union Station Los Angeles

Museimage / Getty Images

Union Station is still the hub of long-distance and commuter rail transportation in Los Angeles, serving Amtrak, MetroLink, and MTA Metro trains. It's also worth visiting as an architectural landmark, with a gorgeous waiting hall and public areas. The historic station was built in 1939 and is a mix of Spanish Colonial, Mission Revival, Art Deco, and modern architectural styles.

Enjoy a Meal at Engine Co. No. 28

Courtesy of Engine Co. No. 28

Housed in an old fire station, Engine Co. No. 28 serves delicious American-styled dishes inspired by old recipes from firehouses throughout the nation. The building was originally built in 1912 and operated as a full-fledged fire station until its closure in 1967. A little more than 20 years later, the station was renovated and opened as a restaurant.

Their specialties include New York steak, meatloaf, a firehouse chili, and a few other American and Southern staples. You can make reservations for indoor or heated outdoor seating through their website, where they guarantee they can put out your "appetite fire."

Catch a Fly Ball at Dodger Stadium

John Liu / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

If you're itching to catch a baseball game while you're visiting L.A., why not stop in at Dodger Stadium? The stadium itself is iconic, it's the third-oldest continually used stadium in the MLB, and even if you aren't a baseball fan, you've probably caught a glimpse of it in one of its many movie appearances. ("Benny The Jet" Rodriguez became a Dodger and played here at the end of "The Sandlot.")

If you're interested in seeing more of the iconic stadium itself, they offer 90-minute tours that cost just $25 for adults.

Pick Up a Book at the Los Angeles Central Library

Jim Winstead / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

Considered an architectural landmark, the Los Angeles Central Library (also known as the Richard J. Riordan Central Library) is one of the leading public research libraries located in downtown L.A. Not only is it listed as a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument, but it's also listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The main building was built during the mid-1920s and is a beautiful example of the art deco architecture of that period.

Besides the stunning architecture and the flood of knowledge in the building, visitors can also explore the Maguire Gardens on the library's west side.

Visit the California Science Center

ray_explores / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

If you're looking for hands-on fun for the entire family, what better place to visit than the California Science Center? Open seven days a week with free general admission to four of its main exhibit areas, this is an easy stop on any itinerary.

Become fire safety experts at the "Fire! Science & Safety" exhibit, study where life began and how it changes in the "Life! Beginnings"  exhibit, and live out your astronaut dreams in the "Humans in Space" exhibit.

Their mission is to promote learning and wonder through fun and entertaining experiences, as they believe science is the future.

Explore Music History at the GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live

Mario RM / CC BY-SA 2.0 / Flickr

The GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live is dedicated to its mission—cultivating interest and appreciation for music history. Their exhibits range from appreciating what artists wear on the red carpet with their "On the Red Carpet" exhibit to an immersive experience of their "Mono to Immersive" exhibition, where visitors can experience their favorite artists' sound on the classic gramophone.

Adult tickets are $18, and the museum is open every day except Tuesday.

Admire the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels

Clinton Steeds / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

Some of the most impressive pieces of architecture are buildings of worship, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels is no exception. The building was finished in the spring of 2002 and is said to feature virtually no right angles, as the "geometry contributes to the Cathedral's feeling of mystery and its aura of majesty," they state on their website .

Inside, visitors will find stunning stained glass windows in the mausoleum, tall bronze doors, and beautifully done hanging tapestry, the largest amount in a Catholic church in the United States.

National Park Service. "Little Tokyo Historic District." Retrieved April 2, 2021

Britannica. "California Roll." Retrieved April 2, 2021

County of LA. "History." Retrieved April 2, 2021

Arts District LA. "Arts District History." Retrieved April 2, 2021

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From Griffith Observatory to the Hollywood Bowl, these Los Angeles attractions are essential stops for both tourists and locals.

As one of the most-visited cities in the United States , Los Angeles is a coveted international destination with some of the country’s best sightseeing. The city is a non-negotiable stop for avid cinephiles , foodies , U.S. history buffs, beachgoers , theme park aficionados, music lovers , comedy fans, and basically any subculture you can think of. No matter your interests or hobbies, be sure to take stock of these Los Angeles attractions on your next visit.

We pulled a mix of museums , viewpoints , and neighborhoods that most tourists have on their minds when visiting Los Angeles. If you need more inspiration, consider scrolling through our longer list of things to do in L.A.

1. Griffith Observatory

The grand and imposing Griffith Observatory is perhaps the most famous viewpoint in Los Angeles. Visit for dramatic sweeping views from the Pacific Ocean to Downtown L.A., which are just as impressive day or night. The observatory is completely free to visit , and visitors can stargaze with on-site telescopes, explore rotating exhibits , and see live shows in the Planetarium.

Leave extra time to explore the sprawling Griffith Park , the largest urban-municipal park in the country. It comprises 4,210 acres of both natural and landscaped terrain including three golf courses, the L.A. Zoo, and the Greek Theatre.

📍Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

2. Santa Monica Pier

In 1909, the Santa Monica Pier was built as the first concrete pier in the United States and quickly became a popular fishing spot. Within a decade the pier had welcomed several amusement park rides at the behest of entrepreneur Charles Looff. Today it holds the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel , a historic merry-go-round, and even marks the end of Route 66. Consider biking or walking a few miles down the oceanfront pathway to Venice Beach or going shopping at Santa Monica Place.

📍 Location : 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica

3. Universal Studios

Universal Studios Hollywood is a massive theme park and actively operating Hollywood film studio. Film aficionados jump at the chance to take the world-famous studio tour featuring sets from legendary movies and TV shows, but the entire park is filled with themed lands that cater to the entire family. Plan to spend a full day here, as Universal Studios is one of the most elaborate Los Angeles attractions to visit.

America’s first Super Nintendo World is the most recent addition to Universal Studios, but you’ll want to leave plenty of time to hit the Jurassic World ride, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the “Revenge of the Mummy” roller coaster.

📍 Location : 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City

4. Hollywood Sign

The historic Hollywood Sign is a veritable cultural icon of Los Angeles and California as a whole. It began as a temporary billboard for real estate developer “Hollywoodland,” but with the rise of the Golden Age of Cinema, the sign stayed put and has remained in its position for over a century. The 50-foot-tall letters were replaced with durable steel-enforced alternatives in 1978.

You can see the Hollywood Sign up close via several hiking paths in Griffith Park , including the Mt. Hollywood Trail, Brush Canyon Trail, and Cahuenga Trail.

📍 Location : Griffith Park, Los Angeles

LACMA is one of the most well-known free art museums in L.A. , flanked by the 202 iron lamps that make up Chris Burden’s recognizable Urban Light installation. Head inside to discover a collection of modern and traditional masterpieces.

As the largest art museum in the western United States, LACMA boasts a collection of more than 142,000 objects that illuminate 6,000 years of artistic expression across the globe. The general public can enjoy free admission on second Tuesdays, and LA County residents get free admission on weekdays after 3 pm.

📍 Location : 5905 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles

6. Venice Beach

The eccentric and exciting coastal town known as Venice Beach is a historic Los Angeles attraction visited by up to 30,000 people daily . The two-mile boardwalk stretch is populated by street performers, independent vendors and artists, souvenir shops, and occasional film productions.

Keep your eyes peeled for the world-famous Muscle Beach Gym once frequented by Arnold Schwarzenegger, the charming beach canals and cottages on Dell Avenue, lively pick-up basketball games on the public courts, and some seriously impressive skating in the public skate park. The area taps into California’s surf, skate, and beach culture in a way that’s thrilling for tourists and even locals to witness.

📍 Location : Venice neighborhood, Los Angeles

7. Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl outdoor amphitheater is arguably the most storied and iconic music venue in Los Angeles . The recognizable arched bandshell has backed legendary musicians such as Billie Holliday, The Beatles, and Yo-Yo Ma since 1922.

Listings often include big-name standups and world-renowned musicians, but guests love to attend their popular movie nights where the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra performs live film soundtracks.

📍 Location : 2301 Highland Ave, Los Angeles

8. The Huntington

Visitors who are bent on seeing the fast-paced, glamorous side of the city may undervalue The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. This gorgeous destination is one of the more underrated Los Angeles tourist attractions, but you can’t beat the payoff of a 130-acre garden with 83,000 living plants . Explore 16 bountiful themed gardens , plus fascinating collections of orchids and bonsai trees.

The illustrious Huntington Library is home to over 11 million items dating between the 11th and 21st centuries including the Ellesmere manuscript of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and one of twelve surviving copies of the Gutenberg Bible. Make sure you leave plenty of time to explore the art museum housing over 45,000 pieces of British, European, American, and Asian art.

📍 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino

9. Hollywood Walk of Fame

As one of the busiest Los Angeles attractions , the Hollywood Walk of Fame is practically synonymous with the city itself. Since its inauguration in 1958, the legendary landmark has installed over 2,700 stars honoring the crème de la crème of the entertainment industry. Tourists are known to stroll through Hollywood Boulevard to spot their favorite celebrity stars.

The stars are five-pointed terrazzo inlays sporting brass symbols that indicate each respective honoree’s category. Some of the most sought-after stars include Marilyn Monroe, Harrison Ford, and Michael Jackson. If you want to attend a free installation ceremony, make sure to keep an eye on the Hollywood Walk of Fame website.

📍 Location : Hollywood Blvd from Gower to La Brea, and Vine Street from Sunset to Yucca

10. Getty Center

The Getty Center is a breathtaking cultural institution in Los Angeles boasting exquisite gardens, city views, and a gorgeous white-tiled complex. Here you’ll find the Getty Museum with massive collections of artworks including Greek and Roman pieces from the Neolithic period and European art dating back to the Middle Ages. Prominent featured artists include Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Pontormo.

Leave plenty of time to explore the 134,000-square-foot Central Garden designed by Robert Irwin as an “evolving work of art” that changes with the seasons. It holds over 500 plant varieties and an eye-catching maze of azaleas.

📍 Location : 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles

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19 Top Los Angeles Attractions — Best Tourist Spots!

Los Angeles offers a dizzying array of fascinating attractions.

Known for its entertainment industry, sunny weather and cultural diversity, this metropolis is perfect for chic travelers.

Furthermore, it has stunning patches of nature and world-class museums to appease all types of travelers.

So, start planning your star-studded La-La land trip by checking out our roundup of the top Los Angeles attractions.

19. Universal Studios Hollywood

100 Universal City Plaza Los Angeles, CA 91608 (800) 864-8377

Managed by the Universal Parks and Resorts, this attraction is an exhilarating mash-up of a theme park and a film studio.

Why We Recommend This Tourist Attraction

There’s something for everyone at the Universal Studios Hollywood.

Filled with simulators and roller coasters, this theme park wows visitors with exciting rides based on top blockbuster films.

Highlights include the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, Transformers and The Simpsons.

Consider buying a Universal Express pass if you’re visiting on peak times, like summer, spring break and summer.

With this ticket, you’ll get priority access to all the attractions, shows and rides.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Los Angeles-Universal City

Related: Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

Related: Best Places to Visit in June in the USA

18. Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory

4730 Crystal Springs Dr Los Angeles, CA 90027 (323) 913-4688

Encompassing 4,310 acres, this large urban park sits perfectly at the eastern edge of the Santa Monica Mountains.

No list of the best places to visit in Los Angeles is complete without Griffith Park.

Famous for its Instagram-worthy views, this park offers a pleasant mix of historical, natural, and cultural attractions.

Not only is it home to a world-class planetarium, but it also has scenic trails, tennis courts and golf courses.

The best time to visit the park is late afternoon when visitors are rewarded with dramatic views of the city lights and sunset.

As a bonus, the Griffith Observatory remains open late.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites Los Angeles Glendale

Related: Best Beaches in Los Angeles

17. Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Dr Anaheim, CA 92802 (714) 781-4636

Founded in 1955, this Anaheim entertainment resort overflows with family-fun and attractions.

Disneyland is a legendary kiddie wonderland full of stellar activities, spread over several themed lands, like the Stars War: Galaxy’s Edge.

What’s more, the resort features Disney Characters and a range of facilities to ensure a complete magical vacation.

The Disneyland mobile app is definitely a life saver.

It has restaurant menus, park maps, character locations, show listings and wait times.

Moreover, you need the app to snag a spot for the Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Park Hotel at the Anaheim Resort

Related: Fun Things to Do in Los Angeles with Kids

16. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

5905 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90036 (323) 857-6000

Since 1965, this treasure trove has been showcasing thousands of wondrous items, from modern art to Islamic artifacts.

LACMA is truly one of the best tourist attractions in Los Angeles, California.

With its Insta-worthy architecture and constantly revolving exhibits, the museum provides an utterly rewarding experience.

Want to save some cash on your LA trip?

Guess what?

LACMA is open to the public for free on the 2nd Tuesday of the month.

Also, don’t be tempted to eat at any of the on-site eateries.

Although we love their dishes and snacks, they are a little pricey.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills

Related: Best Hotels in Los Angeles for Families

15. Grand Central Market

317 S Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90013 (213) 359-6007

First opened in 1917, this emporium is one of the famous tourist places in Los Angeles for foodies.

The Grand Central Market is a paradise for foodies.

Featuring a diverse mix of cuisines and vendors, this market will satisfy your taste buds in so many ways.

Our favorites here include chow mein, falafel, edge sandwiches and pressed juices.

Figuring where to eat here can be overwhelming with the numerous choices available.

If you need help narrowing down your options, we suggest that you hit G&B Coffee, Eggslut and Horse Thief BBQ.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The NoMad Los Angeles

Related: Restaurants in Los Angeles, California

14. Walt Disney Concert Hall

111 S Grand Ave Los Angeles, CA 90012 (323) 850-2000

Designed by the renowned Frank Gehry, this concert hall is a must-see in downtown LA.

Don’t let its name fool you!

Even with its cartoonish name, you won’t find any traces of Mickey and his lively pals at this hall.

Famous for its first-rate acoustics and one-of-a-kind architecture, this center is the place to go for world-class performances and concerts.

You don’t have to score a concert ticket to enjoy this performance venue.

There are free 1-hour self-guided or docent-led tours of the interior and exterior available from Monday to Saturday.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles L.A. Live

13. La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

5801 Wilshire Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90036 (213) 763-3499

Set in the heart of metropolitan LA, these tar pits were designated a US National Natural Landmark in 1964.

La Brea is one of our favorite main attractions in LA today.

Sure, these pits look like a cheesy set of a PG flick, but hot tar has been, for around 40,000 years, bubbling at this spot.

Plus, it has an educational museum sheltering one of the world’s largest Ice Age fossil collections.

The pits are open for free for everyone.

There’s a fee for the museum, but it provides discounts for seniors, students and kids.

In addition, you can save a dollar on each ticket if you purchase them online.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: SLS Hotel, a Luxury Collection Hotel, Beverly Hills

12. The Watts Towers

1727 E 107th St Los Angeles, CA 90002 (213) 847-4646

You’ll find these 17 architectural structures within Simon Rodia State Historic Park.

Looking for cool attractions near you?

Do yourself a favor and do some Los Angeles sightseeing at the Watts Towers.

An extraordinary masterpiece of folk art, this attraction is built from concrete and scrap metal.

Also, it’s adorned with items, like ceramic tile and glass bottles.

You can view these wonderfully weird structures outside the fence whenever you want.

To gain some fun tidbits about these towers, take a guided tour, which is available from Thursday to Sunday.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hollywood Inn Suites Hotel

11. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

900 W Exposition Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90007 (213) 763-3466

Home to over 30 million artifacts, this attraction is the largest historical and natural museum in the western US.

The Natural History Museum is packed with exhibits and galleries covering a wide range of topics.

A must-see here is the Dinosaur Hall, a 14,000-square-foot exhibit with an array of T-Rex fossils and dino skeletons.

Traveling with the little ones?

Don’t miss the chance to visit the Discovery Center and Insect Zoo.

With hands-on exhibits and activities, this exhibition is sure to spark your children’s creativity and passion for learning.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: USC Hotel

10. The Broad

221 S Grand Ave Los Angeles, CA 90012 (213) 232-6250

Open since 2015, this contemporary art museum dazzles with around 1,800 majestic items.

The Broad will mesmerize you with the spectacular and immersive Infinity Mirror Rooms.

Of course, this free museum also has scores of wondrous art by premier artists, like Jeff Koons and Andy Warhol.

Make sure to download the museum’s mobile app.

Besides highlighting the museum’s exhibits, it also shares info about other works outside the museum.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Indigo – Los Angeles Downtown, an IHG Hotel

9. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St Los Angeles, CA 90028

Spanning 1.3 miles, this glamorous strip is a designated Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument.

Follow the stars by stolling this famed stretch where over 2,600 of the world’s most illustrious entertainers are immortalized.

Since there are hundreds of stars on the Walk of Fame, finding your favorite celebrity can feel like a scavenger hunt.

Tour the TCL Chinese Theater and enjoy a glimpse of the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Just reserve your ticket in advance online, as this attraction is rather popular and busy.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Hollywood Roosevelt

8. The Nethercutt Collection

15151 Bledsoe St Sylmar Los Angeles, CA 91342 (818) 364-6464

Established in 1971 by J.B. Nethercutt, this museum lures visitors with an awesome automobile collection.

If you’re into classic, vintage and antique cars, then you’ll adore this museum.

As you wander around this museum, you’ll see a collection of pristine European and American cars between the 1890s and 1990s.

Access to the museum is free, but we recommend taking the 2-hour guided tour.

It’s scheduled twice a day, and will give you access to the main building that features the Grand Salon.

You have to sign up for this tour days before your visit to this museum.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Carriage Inn

7. Lake Hollywood Park

3160 Canyon Lake Dr Los Angeles, CA 90068 (818) 243-1145

Nestled below Mount Lee, this dog-friendly park is packed with activities for everyone.

It’s the perfect spot to snap a photo of the Hollywood Sign, a beloved landmark since 1923.

There’s also a picnic area, a playground and a grassy area ideal for picnic and playtime for your furry friends.

To me, it’s one of the best places to go in Los Angeles when you need a break from the glitz and glamor.

Take a hike along the 3.3-mile-long Lake Hollywood Trail.

Besides the nice Hollywood Sign views, the trail also lets you see wildflowers and wildlife, like deer.

Just arrive before 8 AM to find a decent parking spot.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Loews Hollywood Hotel

6. California Science Center

700 Exposition Park Dr Los Angeles, CA 90037 (323) 724-3623

Established in 1951, this science museum in Exposition Park is one of the city’s best admission-free points of interest .

The California Science Center offers a world of exploration and fun for curious adults and kids alike.

Through its interactive exhibits and 8 zones, visitors will learn a lot about the world, from modern-day innovation to the natural wonders.

Although it’s free to visit the museum, you need to pay a small fee for the timed ticket at the Endeavour on weekends.

But, trust me, it’s totally worth every cent.

After all, it’s a rare opportunity to see one of America’s most iconic engineering wonders.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: LEVEL Los Angeles Downtown – South Olive

5. Rodeo Drive

295 Rodeo Dr Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Stretching for 2 miles, this upscale street was made famous by Julia Roberts’ shopping spree in Pretty Woman.

Not everyone can afford to purchase a series of high-end designer items, like Julia Roberts did in Pretty Woman.

Nevertheless, visitors can have a blast doing some window shopping and taking selfies with fabulous cars in the background.

And, best of all, the thoroughfare gives you ample opportunities to spot a celebrity.

Check out the Walk of Style along Rodeo Drive.

It’s the street’s version of the well-known Hollywood Walk of Fame, and honors the fashion world’s game-changers and luminaries.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

4. Hollywood Forever Cemetery

6000 Santa Monica Blvd Los Angeles, CA 90038 (323) 469-1181

In 1999, this 62-acre cemetery earned a spot on the US National Register of Historic Places.

A cemetery isn’t usually something that comes into mind when you think of Los Angeles tourist spots and sites.

But, Hollywood Forever isn’t your ordinary burial ground.

In fact, the cemetery hosts concert events, outdoor movie screenings and games.

Head to the flower shop of the cemetery, and grab a map that details the gravesites of the celebrities.

Afterward, admire the elaborate mausoleums, and visit the final resting places of notable celebrities, like Judy Garland.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Dream Hollywood

3. Runyon Canyon Park

2000 N Fuller Ave Los Angeles, CA 90046 (818) 243-1145

Sitting at the east corner of the Santa Monica Mountains, this 160-park is ideal for outdoorsy travelers.

Runyon Canyon Park is one of the most popular attractions in Los Angeles.

Perched on a canyon, this park offers visitors sweeping vistas of LA and the San Fernando Valley.

Not to mention, it boasts numerous hiking trails and is a terrific place to spot celebrities.

Bring a ton of water on your hike to this park.

Even if you’re in peak physical condition, the hike can be pretty rough, with the region’s dry and hot climate.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: 1 Hotel West Hollywood

2. The Grove

189 The Grove Dr Los Angeles, CA 90036 (323) 900-8080

Situated on the historic Farmers Market, this open-air center boasts 600,000 square feet of retail space.

In the mood for a little shopping spree, but not sure where to go in LA?

Why not include this upscale center to your list of places to see in Los Angeles?

Although it only has 50 retailers, this selection is quite impressive, featuring notable brands like Topshop and Apple.

After getting your shopping fix, head to the Original Farmers Market.

Here, you’ll find tons of mom-and-pop vendors and eateries serving delectable goodies.

Alternatively, you may check out the movie theater at The Grove.

1. The Getty Center

1200 Getty Center Dr Los Angeles, CA 90049 (310) 440-7300

Opened in 1997, this exquisite art haven on Getty Center Drive is packed with artistic masterpieces.

The Getty Center is, no doubt, one of the top Los Angeles attractions.

Famous for its exceptional architecture, this museum houses a multitude of art from various nations and ages.

As you browse through the museum, you’ll see Baroque sculptures, historic manuscripts and Renaissance paintings.

Stop by the Central Garden, which is renowned for its tranquility and beauty.

You can even plan a romantic experience here by enjoying a picnic.

Just don’t forget to bring some snacks, a blanket, and set aside a ton of time to relax.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Angeleno

Related: Things to Do Near Los Angeles

Map of Los Angeles Attractions

Los Angeles Tourist Attractions: The 19 Best Tourism Spots for 2024

• Universal Studios Hollywood
• Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory
• Disneyland Resort
• Los Angeles County Museum of Art
• Grand Central Market
• Walt Disney Concert Hall
• La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
• The Watts Towers
• Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
• Hollywood Walk of Fame
• The Nethercutt Collection
• Lake Hollywood Park
• California Science Center
• Rodeo Drive
• Hollywood Forever Cemetery
• Runyon Canyon Park
• The Getty Center

Love Exploring

Nostalgic Photos Show America's Top Tourist Attractions Of The 20th Century

Posted: April 13, 2024 | Last updated: April 13, 2024

Top tourist spots from the 1900s to the 1990s

Take a trip back in time to see historic images of some of the USA’s most popular tourist attractions from the 1900s until the 1990s. Some are long gone while others are still popular today.

1900s: Coney Island, New York City, New York

1900s: Venice Beach, Los Angeles, California

1900s: Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, Santa Cruz, California

1900s: Times Square, New York City, New York

Formerly known as Longacre Square, Times Square was renamed in 1904 after The New York Times moved its headquarters there. The junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue has since become one of the most famous commercial squares in the world with its theaters, cinemas and electronic billboards. It’s also the site of the city’s annual New Year's Eve ball drop (pictured here in 1939), a tradition which began when the newspaper held a New Year’s Eve event to celebrate its move.

1900s: White City, Denver, Colorado

The 1900s was a decade that saw a surge in the popularity of amusement parks. Lakeside, a small town near Denver, has one of the country’s oldest. Originally called White City, the park opened next to Lake Rhoda in 1908 to a crowd of 50,000 people. It had a swimming beach, casino, theater, racetrack and public pool as well as traditional fairground rides. Lakeside Amusement Park is still in operation today.

1910s: Grand Central Terminal, New York City, New York

1910s: National Parks established

The National Park Service system was established in 1916, more than 40 years after the designation of America's first national park, Yellowstone, whose explosive Old Faithful Geyser is depicted in this retro travel poster. The Californian park was a hugely popular travel attraction, drawing more than 35,000 people to explore it in 1916.

1910s: the Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

1910s: Navy Pier, Chicago, Illinois

1910s: San Diego Zoo, San Diego, California

One of the country’s first metropolitan zoos opened after founder Dr Harry Wegeforth was inspired by the idea at the 1915-16 Panama-California Exposition, which featured wild exotic animals. He founded the San Diego Zoological Society and convinced the city that it needed a zoo. San Diego Zoological Garden officially opened its doors in Balboa Park. One of its first animals was a Kodiak bear called Caesar. It was one of the first zoos to have open grotto enclosures and launched its first research faculty in 1927.

1920s: Hollywood Bowl, Los Angeles, California

This world-renowned amphitheater opened in the Hollywood Hills neighborhood in 1922. The first stage was a simple wooden platform with a canvas top and the audience were seated on wooden benches. An arched stage was built in 1926 with its distinctive shell shape first added in 1929. The 55-ton shell (pictured here in the 1930s) became an architectural icon. The 1930s saw jazz performances here for the first time and it went on to host the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holliday and The Beatles.

1920s: Lincoln Memorial, Washington DC

1920s: Knott's Berry Farm, Buena Park, California

1920s: Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles, California

1920s: The Museum of Modern Art, New York City, New York

1930s: Chrysler Building, New York City, New York

1930s: Empire State Building, New York City, New York

New York’s iconic 103-story Art Deco skyscraper was completed in 1931 and was the world’s tallest building up until the 1970s. Today it is one of the city's most-visited and recognized landmarks, starting its on-screen career in the 1933 movie King Kong . However, despite generating great publicity and fanfare at the time of its construction, the Empire State Building remained relatively empty and unvisited until the 1950s. By 1976, its observatory had welcomed its 50 millionth visitor.

1930s: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, California

When the Golden Gate Bridge opened to pedestrians in 1937, the celebrations lasted for a week. The longest and tallest suspension bridge in the world received more than 200,000 foot passengers on its first day. The architecturally stunning bridge was an instant hit and became a symbol of San Francisco. It was one of America’s top-visited attractions, which it remains today. Here the bridge is pictured in the early 1950s.

1930s: Hoover Dam, Nevada/Arizona

1930s: Radio City Music Hall, New York City, New York

Manhattan’s legendary venue, Radio City Music Hall, first opened on Sixth Avenue in 1932 as a cornerstone of John D. Rockefeller Jr’s subsequent Rockefeller Center. The Art Deco theater was conceived as a “palace for the people”, offering top entertainment at affordable prices. It became a popular spot for film premieres with 700 movies having opened here since 1933, including the original King Kong and Breakfast at Tiffany’s . Its Great Stage has also welcomed legendary artists such as Frank Sinatra.

1930s: Cannon Mountain Tramway, New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s Cannon Mountain was the site of the very first aerial tramway in north America, which ushered in ski and summer tourism to the area. It was constructed in 1938 after champion downhill skier Alexander Bright returned from a trip to Europe's ski resorts and rallied local investors, lawmakers and contractors to construct their own tramways. It quickly became a major tourist attraction, carrying 163,000 passengers in its first year. It ceased operation in 1980 and a new one was built.

1940s: The Strip, Las Vegas, Nevada

After gambling became legal once again in 1931, Las Vegas started its rise to become the country’s gaming capital. The desert metropolis’ population swelled as workers arrived to work on the Hoover Dam and small casinos and showgirl venues opened on Fremont Street. Pictured here in the mid-1950s, it was the first street in the city to be paved in 1925. The first hotel-casino, El Rancho Vegas, opened on Highway 91 in 1941, with others soon following and the section became known as “The Strip.”

1940s: Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

1940s: Weeki Wachee Springs mermaid show, Spring Hill, Florida

One of Florida’s most unique and long-running attractions, the mermaid show at Weeki Wachee Springs State Park opened in 1947. It was the brainchild of former Navy man, Newton Perry, who built an 18-seat theater into the limestone below the water’s surface, allowing viewers to look right into the deep. He trained performers to breathe underwater and execute synchronized dance routines. In the 1950s, it was one of the nation’s most popular tourist stops and received worldwide acclaim. The attraction still remains today.

1940s: Gatorland, Orlando, Florida

Another of Florida’s earliest and long-running tourist spots, Gatorland was founded by Owen Godwin in 1949. Originally called the Florida Wildlife Institute, Godwin changed the name to the snappier Snake Village and Alligator Farm in the 1950s. The fledgling gift shop and wildlife park became increasingly popular when Bone Crusher arrived. Godwin claimed the 15-foot croc was the world’s largest captive crocodile. The now 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve is still owned by the family.

1950s: Disneyland, Anaheim, California

Walt Disney’s Disneyland (renamed Disneyland Park in the 1990s) opened on 17 July 1955. He originally wanted his theme park to be called Mickey Mouse Park. On the opening day, 28,000 people visited the theme park which featured its now-famous parades and 20 different attractions including Frontierland, a recreation of the Old West, pictured here in 1955. There was also the Sleeping Beauty Castle which soon became one of the USA's most recognizable tourist attractions.

1950s: Sun Valley ski resort, Idaho

1950s: The Guggenheim Museum, New York City, New York

1960s: Space Needle, Seattle, Washington

1960s: Gateway Arch, St Louis, Missouri

1960s: SeaWorld, San Diego, California

1960s: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Florida

1960s: The Studio Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, California

1960s: Six Flags over Texas, Arlington, Texas

1960s: Route 66

While the year 1926 marked the birth of Route 66, the "Mother Road" really became synonymous with the great American road trip in the 1950s and 1960s. Post-war, American motorists flocked to Route 66 which was by now peppered with motels, auto camps, diners and gas stations. In 1960, Route 66 , an American TV series that followed the escapades of a pair of young men traveling the route, aired on CBS. As the route continued to crop up in popular culture, America's fascination with it grew.

1970s: Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida

1970s: Pike Place Market, Seattle, Washington

Opening in 1907, Seattle’s marketplace is the oldest continuously operating farmers' market in the country and one of the city's most popular sights. After prospering in the 1920s (pictured) and 1930s, it fell on hard times and was slated for demolition in the 1960s. However, a successful campaign saw it saved and a 17-acre historic district was created in 1971, the same year the very first Starbucks opened at Pike Place. The market was renovated in 1974 and today it usually welcomes around 10 million visitors.

1970s: Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, Washington DC

Construction of the flagship building of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum started on the Mall in Washington DC in the early 1970s and it was inaugurated in 1976. It has the world’s largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft. The five millionth visitor crossed its threshold just six months later. Today, the National Air and Space Museum is one of the most-visited museums in the world with more than 8.6 million guests annually.

1970s: Art Deco Historic District, Miami, Florida

1970s: Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, California

1980s: Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park, Atlanta, Georgia

The Martin Luther King Jr. Historic District in Atlanta was authorized as a national historic site in 1980. It contained a memorial tomb and several buildings key to the civil rights leader’s life, including his childhood home and Ebenezer Baptist Church (pictured) where he was baptized and where both he and his father were pastors. The site became a National Historical Park in 2018. 

1980s: Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida

After Disney’s arrival in Florida proved to be a roaring success, Epcot (then Epcot Center) opened in 1982. The theme park, whose name stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, was initially intended to be a city where people would live and work. However, since Walt Disney died before his vision was realized, the site was turned into a glittering amusement park instead. It was the second of four theme parks to be built at Walt Disney World Resort.

1980s: Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World Resort, Orlando, Florida

1980s: Dollywood, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

1980s: Graceland, Memphis, Tennessee

Elvis Presley’s home and final resting place opened to the public as a museum on 7 June 1982, five years after his death. Near Memphis, Graceland, which the superstar bought in 1957, is now the second most-visited private home in the United States after the White House, with typically more than 650,000 visitors a year.

1990s: Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Orlando, Florida

In the 1990s, Walt Disney World continued its dizzying rise to success with a huge amount of openings including Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Splash Mountain, as well as 10 new resorts. Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the largest of the parks at over 500 acres, opened in 1998 with a grand ceremony that was attended by a crowd of 2,000 people. It marked a departure for the conglomerate as it focused on real-life animals as well as Disney characters.

1990s: Bellagio Fountains, Las Vegas, Nevada

What was to become one of Las Vegas’ most famous landmarks, the Bellagio Fountains were unveiled in 1998 when the $1.6 billion Bellagio Hotel opened to the public on 15 October in suitably lavish style. The famous Bellagio Fountain show, which takes place every 30 minutes when the jets dance to music and lights, lures huge crowds of visitors and is one of the entertainment hub’s rare free shows.

See more of the world's most incredible water displays

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