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The 26 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

By Maxwell Williams

Aerial view of Griffith Observatory towards the Hollywood sign on the slope of Mt. Hollywood

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

Read our full Los Angeles travel guide here .

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

Angeles National Forest Hike hiking Los Angeles Woods

Angeles National Forest Arrow

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

Interior of ornate Bradbury Building. architecture. iron

Bradbury Building Arrow

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

people walking in building. architecture. escalator

The Broad Arrow

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

aerial view of The Getty Center

The Getty Center Arrow

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

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Santa Monica Farmers Market

Santa Monica Farmers Market Arrow

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

LACMA Los Angeles Museum Exterior

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) Arrow

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

Venice Canal park Los Angeles

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

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The Museum of Contemporary Art Arrow

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

Items for sale on display during the monthly flea market held at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena

Rose Bowl Flea Market Arrow

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

Hollywood bowl music venue amphitheater Los Angeles

Hollywood Bowl Arrow

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

Kapowui Surf Lessons Malibu

Kapowui Surf Lessons Arrow

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

Melrose Place

Melrose Place Arrow

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

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Wi Spa Arrow

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

Grand Central Market. Shopping

Grand Central Market Arrow

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

Magic Castle Los Angeles

The Magic Castle Arrow

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

WAtts Tower Arts Center Los Angeles

Watts Towers Arrow

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

Griffith Observatory Exterior Los Angeles

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

Los Angeles Hiking The Strand

Marvin Braude Bike Trail (The Strand) Arrow

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

Barnsdall Hikes Los Angeles

Barnsdall Art Park Arrow

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

Hollywood Forever Cemetery outdoor Los Angeles

Hollywood Forever Cemetery Arrow

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

Los Angeles Hiking Huntington Park

The Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens Arrow

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

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Bob Baker Marionette Theater Arrow

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

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Philosophical Research Society Arrow

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

La Brea Tar Pits Los Angeles

The La Brea Tar Pits & Museum Arrow

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

Runyon Canyon Yoga Los Angeles

Runyon Canyon Yoga Arrow

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

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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.

Santa Monica

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.

Universal Studios Hollywood

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

Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory

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.

Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory

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.

Carousel

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

Hollywood

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

The Getty Center

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

Exterior of the Petersen Automotive Museum

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

Bike riding along the beach in Santa Monica

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

Natural History Museum

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

Main engine of the Space Shuttle Endeavour in the California Science Center

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

The Broad

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

Berries for sale at the Original Farmers Market

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

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

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

Venice Beach

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.

Beverly Hills

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.

Page Museum and La Brea Tar Pits

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

Battleship Iowa

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

A trail in Runyon Canyon Park

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.

Lanterns in Little Tokyo

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.

Author Joni Sweet on Melrose Avenue

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

Malibu

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.

Long Beach

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

Grill of a Vintage Automobile

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

The Getty Villa

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.

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

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

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

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

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

Santa Monica Hotels

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

Beverly Hills Hotels

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

Hollywood Hotels

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

Anaheim Hotels

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

Downtown Los Angeles Hotels

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

See the Sights:

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

Save Money:

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

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

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

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

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

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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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Cherry blossoms at Descanso Gardens

The 49 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

Michael Juliano

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?

March 2024: This month , we’ve added a day with free museum entry across SoCal, a food fest celebrating women-owned restaurants, some of the first music fests of the season and the return of First Fridays at the Natural History Museum. It’s also time to keep your eyes peeled for wildflowers and cherry blossoms; expect some more updates on both of those fronts mid-month. If you hurry, you might still catch a glimpse of  Space Shuttle Endeavour in its  ready-to-launch position  from 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  Rosie’s Dog Beach  due to the canine respiratory illness currently circulating in the area, as well as 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 . 

An email you’ll actually love

Best things to do in L.A.

Stroll through the stunning gardens at the Huntington Library

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

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

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. And with the Oscars this month, look out for a conversation series  and watch party .

Have tacos and egg sandwiches from Grand Central Market

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

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:  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.

Bike the Strand

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.

Visit more than 30 SoCal institutions for free during Museums Free-For-All

Visit more than 30 SoCal institutions for free during Museums Free-For-All

  • Mar 23, 2024

What is it? A single day, Saturday, March 23, when over 30 museums in the region will drop their admission fees.

Why go?  It’s the perfect opportunity to knock a couple of cultural to-dos off your list, like the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures , LACMA ,  Japanese American National Museum , GRAMMY Museum , the La Brea Tar Pits , the Skirball and more.

Don’t miss: It’s not the only major museum day in March, as ArtNight Pasadena  will keep the Gamble House , Pacific Asia Museum and more than a dozen others open after hours (and for free).

Pedal around Echo Park Lake

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.

Support women-owned restaurants during Re:HER

Support women-owned restaurants during Re:HER

  • Until Mar 31, 2024

What is it?  A monthlong celebration of women-owned restaurants in L.A.

Why go?  Regarding HER’s annual  RE:Her festival  offers themed menu specials, convos and collabs from women restaurateurs all month long.

Don’t miss:  Highlights from this year include a paella night featuring Casa Vega and Gasolina Cafe (March 22), a chaat party at Benny Boy Brewing (March 10) and a “chefs of the Arts District” dinner (March 20).

Set out in search of wildflowers (soon)

Set out in search of wildflowers (soon)

What is it?  Patches of poppies and all sorts of other colorful flowers that will hopefully start to blanket the region.

Why go?  After L.A.’s wildly wet February , we’re officially on superbloom alert. We’re not  quite there yet—a few patches of color in the desert aside—but if we continue to get a bit of rain and some warm weather, brace yourself for a beautiful sight.

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 .

Gaze into infinity at the Broad

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 with works from John Baldessari, Mike Kelley, Barbara Kruger and more.

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

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

  • Installation
  • Boyle Heights Until May 31, 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 is currently slated through the spring. 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.

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

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 Animal Love (March), the Nature of Gender (April), the Plant Clones are Coming (May) and How We Multiply (June).

Watch a movie outdoors

Watch a movie outdoors

What is it?  An early start outdoor movie season.

Why go?  Because unlike most of the country, we can still sort-of-comfortably watch a movie outdoors in the winter. Rooftop Cinema Club  is operating its DTLA venue with plenty of heaters in tow. Otherwise, look out for a few other series to return starting in April.

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

See some snow in our own backyard up Angeles Crest Highway

See some snow in our own backyard up Angeles Crest Highway

What is it?  A stretch of scenic highway that starts in La Cañada-Flintridge and quickly climbs a couple thousand feet into the San Gabriel Mountains.

Why go?  Where else can you go from palm trees and temperatures in the 70s to freshly dumped powder in about 30 minutes? Depending on the winter weather, snow is a quick (but not too quick: take your time on those blind curves) drive up the 2 freeway.

Don’t miss:  In the days following a winter storm, the Georges Gap Trailhead tends to be one of the closest spots to see some legit snowfall on the mountaintops. If you want to actually step in some of the white stuff, expect to see it on the ground within a couple of miles of the turnoff for Mount Wilson—though, again, that’s depending on how recently a storm has blown through. Otherwise, you may have to venture farther east toward the former Newcomb’s Ranch (make sure to have snow tires or chains).

Spend the weekend at a music fest

Spend the weekend at a music fest

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

Why go?  Though Coachella is still a month away, a couple of major events are going down in March, including hip-hop fest Rolling Loud  in Inglewood and carnival-live trance fest Beyond Wonderland  in San Bernardino.

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 .

Meet Bing Bong and hop aboard the newest attractions at Disneyland

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.

Have a street food feast at Smorgasburg L.A.

Have a street food feast at Smorgasburg L.A.

  • Markets and fairs
  • 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.

Step inside Frank Lloyd Wright’s handsome Hollyhock House

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

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

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

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

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.

Soak in some mineral waters off-season at Glen Ivy Hot Springs

Soak in some mineral waters off-season at Glen Ivy Hot Springs

  • Health and beauty
  • Inland Empire

What is it? An outdoor oasis of pools, mineral baths and hot and cold plunges tucked into a tropical plant-filled valley in Corona.

Why go? Like a wellness-focused playground for adults, Glen Ivy sits in the sweet spot where it’s close enough (about an hour or two drive) to go for the day, but far enough to feel like an escape from L.A. Though it’s largely more of a resort-like spa than its name implies, there is indeed a 104-degree naturally-fed  hot spring at Glen Ivy (you’ll certainly smell the sulfur).

Don’t miss:  Fall and winter offer a break from the sometimes overbearing summertime heat and crowds. Visit on a weekday in the off season and you can expect the swimming pools to be basically empty and the hot tubs sometimes busy but never overcrowded.

Walk along the Venice Canals

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

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).

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Spend time with your dog at the South Coast Botanic Garden

  • Mar 24, 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

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

Hunt for antiques at the Rose Bowl Flea Market

  • Mar 10, 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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

More great things to do across the globe

The best things to do in the world right now

The best things to do in the world right now

Music, art, food, nature and the year’s biggest parties—these are very best things to do and see right now, anywhere in the world.

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  5. TOP THREE MUST VISIT TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN LOS ANGELES

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