Los Angeles, often called the City of Angels, is famous for its sunny skies, stunning beaches, and exciting entertainment scene.
There's so much to love about LA, from its famous landmarks to its delicious food from all around the world. Plus, it's home to amazing museums and galleries where you can soak up art and culture.
But that's not all – LA also has plenty of outdoor adventures, like beaches and hiking trails, perfect for exploring on a weekend getaway or whenever you're in the mood for something new.
Address: 1200 Getty Center Dr
The Getty Center is home to a vast and diverse art collection. The collection spans various periods and includes European paintings, decorative arts, sculpture, and drawings.
The sculpture collection includes works from ancient Greece and Rome, as well as European sculptures from the Renaissance to the 19th century. It houses an impressive collection of European paintings from the 14th to the early 20th century.
Address: Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St
The infamous sidewalk along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, Hollywood Walk of Fame, is embedded with over 2,600 brass stars, each representing a different celebrity from the entertainment industry.
The Walk of Fame has become a symbol of Hollywood and the entertainment industry as a whole. Many celebrities have their handprints and footprints immortalized in cement at the TCL Chinese Theatre, which is located nearby.
Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd
Griffith Observatory sits on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park and offers panoramic views of the city. If looking for things to do do in Los Angeles, this observatory could be the perfect option.
This spot is known for its iconic architecture and has been featured in numerous films and TV shows. One of the most famous features here is the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, which offers immersive shows about the universe and various astronomical phenomena.
Address: 2701 N Sepulveda Blvd
The Skirball Cultural Center is a Jewish cultural institution dedicated to exploring the connections between Jewish heritage and American democratic ideals. The center features a museum, changing exhibitions, performing arts programs, educational initiatives, and a variety of cultural events.
The museum at the Skirball Cultural Center showcases Jewish history, art, and culture through a range of permanent and temporary exhibitions.
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza
Universal Studios Hollywood is a popular theme park and film studio in Universal City, California. The park features various attractions, shows, and rides based on popular movies and TV shows produced by Universal Pictures.
Visitors can experience thrilling rides like the Jurassic World Ride, Transformers: The Ride-3D, and The Simpsons Ride. The park also offers interactive experiences like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where guests can explore Hogwarts Castle and visit Hogsmeade Village.
Address: Beachwood Canyon area, Santa Monica Mountains
The Hollywood Sign is an iconic landmark and a large white sign that spells out the word "Hollywood" in capital letters. It stands at 45 feet tall and is 350 feet long. The letters are made of white-painted metal and are visible from various parts of the city.
Several trails lead to the Hollywood Sign, each offering a different experience. The most popular trail is the Mt. Hollywood Trail, which starts at the Griffith Observatory. Other options include the Brush Canyon Trail and the Canyon Drive Trail.
Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier is a large double-jointed pier that extends into the Pacific Ocean. The pier features a variety of attractions, including an amusement park called Pacific Park with a Ferris wheel and roller coaster, as well as shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
The pier also offers beautiful views of the ocean and is a great spot for fishing and strolling along the beach. It is often featured in movies, TV shows, and music videos, and is a symbol of the beach culture in Southern California.
Los Angeles is a city known for its diversity, and its neighborhoods are a reflection of this multiculturalism. From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the vibrant art scene in Downtown LA, every neighborhood is worth exploring.
Some must-visit neighborhoods include Hollywood, Downtown LA, Koreatown, Venice Beach, and Little Tokyo. Explore the trendy Arts District, visit the historic Grand Central Market, and take a stroll along the bustling streets lined with skyscrapers.
Address: 2301 N Highland Ave
The Hollywood Bowl is a famous outdoor amphitheater with a seating capacity of over 17,000. A live performance at the Hollywood Bowl is a unique experience due to its iconic setting and acoustics.
The stage is set against the backdrop of the Hollywood Hills, creating a stunning visual backdrop for any performance. Many legendary artists have graced the stage at the Hollywood Bowl, including The Beatles, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and John Williams, to name just a few.
Address: 6925 Hollywood Blvd
The TCL Chinese Theatre is one of the most iconic theaters in the world and has been a popular tourist attraction since its opening in 1927. The main attraction is the auditorium, which can seat over 1,100 people.
The theater's exterior is designed in a Chinese architectural style, featuring ornate decorations, red pillars, and a large dragon sculpture. Step inside the theater and you will find a grand lobby adorned with Chinese decorations and motifs.
Address: 900 Exposition Blvd
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is the largest natural and historical museum in the western United States. It houses over 35 million specimens and artifacts.
The museum's collection includes exhibits on dinosaurs, mammals, birds, insects, marine life, minerals, and fossils. One of the highlights of the museum is the Dinosaur Hall, which features a display of dinosaur skeletons, including the world's only Tyrannosaurus rex growth series.
Address: 221 S Grand Ave
The Broad Contemporary Art Museum, also known as BCAM, is part of the larger Los Angeles County Museum of Art complex. It is dedicated to showcasing contemporary art from the mid-20th century to the present.
The BCAM building features a distinctive honeycomb-like exterior made of fiberglass-reinforced concrete panels, which allows natural light to filter into the galleries. The museum spans three floors and covers approximately 60,000 square feet of exhibition space.
Address: Beach pavilion in
Walking along the Venice Beach Boardwalk is a vibrant and exciting experience. As you stroll along, you'll be surrounded by a mix of locals, tourists, street performers, and artists, creating a lively and colorful atmosphere.
The boardwalk stretches for about two miles, providing plenty of space to explore and take in the sights. You'll find an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and street vendors selling everything from clothing and jewelry to artwork and souvenirs.
It's a great place to pick up unique and handmade items.
Address: 5333 Zoo Dr
The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is home to over 1,400 animals from around the world. It also features a wide variety of plant species in its botanical gardens.
The zoo is spread across 133 acres and is divided into different areas and exhibits, each showcasing animals from different regions and habitats. Some of the popular exhibits include the Elephants of Asia, Chimpanzees of the Mahale Mountains, the Rainforest of the Americas, and the Red Ape Rainforest.
Address: 6060 Wilshire Blvd
The Petersen Automotive Museum is dedicated to the exploration and celebration of the automobile. Inside the museum, visitors can explore a vast collection of over 300 vehicles, ranging from classic cars to race cars, motorcycles, and even famous Hollywood vehicles.
The collection includes iconic cars such as the 1939 Bugatti Type 57C, the 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Gullwing, and the 1967 Ford GT40 Mark III. It also features interactive exhibits that delve into the history, design, and technology of automobiles.
Mulholland Drive, one of the most famous scenic drives in LA, stretches for 21 miles through the Santa Monica Mountains, offering breathtaking views of the city, the San Fernando Valley, and the Pacific Ocean.
In addition to its scenic beauty, Mulholland Drive has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and music videos. Visitors can enjoy driving along Mulholland Drive to experience its breathtaking views, or they can explore the various hiking trails and parks that are accessible from the road.
Echo Park Lake is a beautiful urban lake located in the Echo Park neighborhood of LA. One of the most iconic activities at Echo Park Lake is renting a swan boat. These charming paddle boats are designed to look like elegant swans and provide a fun and unique way to explore the lake.
As you glide across the calm waters of the lake, you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding scenery. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery, with palm trees dotting the shoreline. You can also admire the stunning downtown Los Angeles skyline in the distance.
Address: 6000 Santa Monica Blvd
Hollywood Forever Cemetery is a historic cemetery that has been serving as a burial ground since its establishment in 1899. The cemetery spans over 62 acres and is the final resting place for many notable personalities from the entertainment industry.
Some of the notable individuals buried at Hollywood Forever Cemetery include legendary actors such as Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, and Peter Lorre. Other notable personalities include Chris Cornell, Cecil B. DeMille, and John Huston.
Olvera Street is a vibrant and colorful marketplace filled with shops, restaurants, and vendors selling traditional Mexican goods such as pottery, textiles, and folk art. The street is lined with historic buildings, including the Avila Adobe, which is the oldest surviving residence in LA.
If looking for things to do in LA, visitors can also taste authentic Mexican food, including tacos, tamales, and churros. This part of town is also popular for buffet restaurants.
Address: 1727 E 107th St
Watts Towers Arts Center is a cultural institution known for its unique collection of folk art. It is dedicated to promoting and preserving the arts in the community.
The center is home to the Watts Towers, a group of seventeen interconnected structures created by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia between 1921 and 1954. The towers are made of steel rods and concrete and are adorned with various found objects such as glass bottles, seashells, and ceramic tiles.
Address: 84 Foot of 6th St Berthing
The Los Angeles Maritime Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the maritime history of the Los Angeles Harbor and the surrounding area. The building itself is an interesting piece of maritime history and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Inside the museum, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits that highlight the region's rich maritime heritage. These exhibits cover topics such as the history of the Port of Los Angeles, the local fishing industry, shipbuilding, and the role of the United States Navy in the area.
Koreatown in Los Angeles is known for its vibrant food scene, offering a wide range of Korean cuisine as well as other Asian and international flavors. A food tour in Koreatown is a fantastic way to explore the neighborhood and indulge in some delicious eats.
Start your food tour at Sun Nong Dan, and then head over to Kang Hodong Baekjeong, a bustling Korean barbecue restaurant in LA. Next, visit Ham Ji Park for some mouthwatering Dwaeji Galbi and make a stop at Myung In Dumplings.
Address: 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy
El Matador State Beach offers stunning ocean views, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers. The beach is also great for sunbathing, picnicking, and exploring the tide pools.
This spot is known for its picturesque beauty, with towering cliffs, rocky outcrops, and golden sand. The beach is accessible via a steep staircase, which adds to its secluded and hidden feel.
Address: 9786 W Pico Blvd
The Museum of Tolerance is a multimedia museum founded in 1993. The museum's mission is to educate visitors about the Holocaust and other instances of intolerance and discrimination to promote understanding and respect for all people.
One of the main exhibits is the Holocaust exhibit, which provides a comprehensive overview of the Nazi genocide during World War II. Through artifacts, photographs, and personal testimonies, visitors can learn about the history and consequences of the Holocaust.
The Los Angeles Fashion District concentrates on fashion-related businesses, including wholesale showrooms, retail stores, and manufacturing facilities. It is a vibrant and bustling area, with its streets lined with clothing racks and mannequins displaying the latest styles.
It spans about 100 blocks and is home to high-end designer showrooms to budget-friendly clothing stores. In recent years, the district has undergone a revitalization, with new restaurants and art galleries opening up alongside the traditional fashion businesses.
The Arts District is known for its vibrant and ever-evolving art scene. Originally a warehouse district, it has been transformed into a hub for artists, galleries, studios, and creative businesses.
Things to do in the LA area include exploring this neighborhood. It is filled with colorful murals and graffiti art, which can be found on the sides of buildings, alleyways, and even entire warehouses.
Artists from all over the world come to the Arts District to leave their mark and contribute to the ever-growing outdoor gallery.
Address: 40 Presidential Dr, Simi Valley
The Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum is the final resting place of the 40th President of the United States, Ronald Reagan, and his wife, Nancy Reagan. It serves as a tribute to President Reagan's life and legacy.
The library and museum complex spans over 100,000 square feet and contains a variety of exhibits and galleries. Visitors to the museum can explore the interactive exhibits, including replicas of the Oval Office and the White House's Cabinet Room.
The Santa Monica Bike Path is a popular cycling route in Los Angeles, California. It stretches for about 22 miles along the coast, from Will Rogers State Beach in Pacific Palisades to Torrance County Beach.
The bike path offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a great way to enjoy the coastal scenery. The path is well-maintained and mostly flat, making it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels. It is separated from vehicle traffic, providing a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Nature things to do in Los Angeles area include exploring Joshua Tree National Park. It covers an area of approximately 800,000 acres and is known for its stunning desert landscapes, rugged rock formations, and diverse plant and animal life.
The park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a range of recreational activities such as hiking, rock climbing, camping, and stargazing. Visitors may encounter desert bighorn sheep, coyotes, jackrabbits, and a variety of reptiles and birds.
Address: 100 N Central Ave
The Japanese American National Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history, culture, and experiences of Japanese Americans. JANM offers a variety of exhibits and programs that explore the Japanese-American experience.
The permanent collection includes artifacts, photographs, and personal stories that chronicle the history, immigration in the late 19th century, incarceration during World War II, and ongoing contributions to American society.
Address: 5801 Wilshire Blvd
The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum has a unique collection of fossils and artifacts from the Ice Age, specifically those found in the nearby tar pits. The exhibits include life-sized replicas of extinct animals such as saber-toothed cats, mammoths, and dire wolves.
Visitors can also see actual fossils, including skulls, bones, and plant remains that have been excavated from the tar pits. It also offers displays and programs about the processes used to preserve fossils.
Address: 111 S Grand Ave
Walt Disney Concert Hall is the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra and is known for its stunning architecture and acoustics. The acoustics of the concert hall are renowned for their clarity and richness, making it a popular venue for classical music performances.
Inside, the concert hall features a large auditorium with seating for over 2,200 people. It is not only a venue for classical music concerts, but also hosts a wide range of other performances, including jazz, world music, and contemporary music.
Address: 250 S Grand Ave
The Museum of Contemporary Art is renowned for its diverse and dynamic collection. It includes works by renowned artists such as Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, Mark Rothko, and Frida Kahlo, among many others.
The museum's collection comprises over 7,000 artworks, ranging from painting and sculpture to photography, video art, and performance art. MOCA hosts a range of temporary exhibitions, showcasing the work of both established and emerging artists.
Address: 6800 Westward Beach Rd
Point Dume State Beach has dramatic cliffs, sandy shores, and clear blue waters. It offers stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains. Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
One of the main attractions is the Point Dume Headland. This rocky promontory extends into the ocean and provides an ideal vantage point for whale watching during the migration season.
Address: 411 W Colorado Blvd, Pasadena
The Norton Simon Museum houses an extensive collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the Renaissance to the 20th century. Some of the notable artists represented in the collection include Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Monet, Degas, Picasso, and Rodin.
It also has a significant collection of South and Southeast Asian art, including sculptures, paintings, and textiles. The museum's architecture is also noteworthy, with its distinctive pink marble exterior and lush gardens.
Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the largest art museum in the western United States. It holds a vast collection of over 140,000 artworks, spanning from ancient times to the present.
The museum was established in 1965 and has since become a prominent cultural institution in Southern California. Its diverse collection includes art from various cultures and periods, including European, Asian, Latin American, African, and Islamic art.
Address: 1000 Vin Scully Ave
The Los Angeles Dodgers play their home games at Dodger Stadium, one of the oldest and most iconic ballparks in Major League Baseball. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 56,000, allowing for a lively and energetic atmosphere.
Before the game, fans can explore the various food and beverage options available at Dodger Stadium. From traditional ballpark fare like hot dogs and peanuts to gourmet options like sushi and craft beer, there is something for everyone.
The Sunset Strip has a vibrant nightlife scene as it is home to several iconic clubs and music venues. Some popular options include Whisky a Go Go, The Roxy Theatre, Viper Room, and The Troubadour.
There are numerous bars and lounges to enjoy drinks and socialize. Some well-known establishments include The Standard Hotel's rooftop bar, Skybar at Mondrian, The Rainbow Bar and Grill, and The Den on Sunset.
Address: 6067 Wilshire Blvd
The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is a museum dedicated to the art, science, and history of motion pictures. The museum is operated by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, the organization behind the annual Academy Awards.
It features six floors of exhibition space, showcasing a wide range of artifacts, memorabilia, and interactive displays related to the history of cinema. The collection includes costumes, props, film equipment, and photographs, that highlight the development of motion pictures.
Address: 1126 Queens Hwy
Queen Mary is a historic ocean liner that is permanently docked in Long Beach, California, near Los Angeles. It was originally built in the 1930s and served as a luxury passenger liner for the Cunard Line.
Today, visitors can take guided tours of the ship, explore various exhibits, dine in its restaurants, and even stay overnight in its hotel rooms. The ship's rich history, elegant Art Deco design, and rumored paranormal activity make it an intriguing destination.
Address: 16400 Bellflower Blvd, Bellflower
The Los Angeles County Fire Museum is dedicated to preserving the history and heritage of LACoFD. It showcases a collection of antique fire apparatus, equipment, photographs, and other memorabilia.
Some of the highlights of the museum's collection include vintage fire engines, ladder trucks, and other firefighting vehicles that were used by the LACoFD throughout the years.
Address: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is a renowned cultural and educational institution established in 1919. The art museum features an impressive collection of European art, including works by Thomas Gainsborough, Joshua Reynolds, and Thomas Lawrence.
The botanical gardens cover 120 acres and are divided into several themed areas, including the Desert Garden, the Japanese Garden, the Rose Garden, and the Chinese Garden.
Disneyland is divided into two main sections: Disneyland Park, also known as Disneyland Resort and Disney California Adventure Park. Disneyland Park is the original section and is home to iconic attractions such as Sleeping Beauty Castle, Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, and It's a Small World.
Disney California Adventure Park is the newer section and features various themed areas, including Buena Vista Street, Paradise Pier, Hollywood Land, Grizzly Peak, and Cars Land.
Address: 301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia
The Los Angeles Arboretum and Botanic Garden is home to a diverse collection of plants from around the world. The arboretum features several themed gardens, including the African Garden, Australian Garden, Herb Garden, Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, and Water Conservation Garden.
One of the highlights of the arboretum is the historic Queen Anne Cottage, a Victorian-style house that was built in 1885 and served as a filming location for numerous movies and television shows.
Address: 700 Exposition Park Dr
The California Science Center is a state-of-the-art science museum located in Exposition Park. The museum features a wide range of exhibits that cover various scientific disciplines, including biology, physics, chemistry, and space exploration.
Some of the notable exhibits include the Ecosystems exhibit, which showcases different ecosystems found in California, and the World of Life exhibit, which explores the diversity of life on Earth.
A studio tour in Los Angeles refers to a visit to one of the major film or television studios in the city. These tours allow visitors to get a behind-the-scenes look at the production process and see sets, soundstages, props, and other elements of the entertainment industry.
Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood, Paramount Pictures Studio Tour, Sony Pictures Studio Tour, and The Jim Henson Company Studio Tour are some popular ones.
Address: 111 The Grove Dr
Grove and Farmers Market is a unique outdoor shopping center that combines a traditional farmers market with high-end retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. It features a wide variety of vendors selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, and other specialty food items.
Adjacent to the Farmers Market is The Grove, an upscale retail and entertainment complex. It is home to luxury brands, popular clothing stores, and unique boutiques.
Address: 2000 N Fuller Ave
Runyon Canyon Park, a hiking spot in the Hollywood Hills, offers stunning views of the city skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding mountains. The park spans over 160 acres and has various trails for all levels of hikers.
One of the most popular trails in Runyon Canyon Park is the Runyon Canyon Road, which is a wide and paved path that loops around the park. This trail is great for beginners or those who prefer a more leisurely hike.
Address: 4730 Crystal Springs Dr
The Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round is a historic carousel built in 1926. The carousel features 68 hand-carved horses and two chariots, each intricately designed and painted. The horses are made of basswood and are adorned with beautiful detailing and vibrant colors.
The carousel also features a Wurlitzer band organ that plays traditional carousel music. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including the opening credits of the popular sitcom "Parks and Recreation."
Things to do in LA Angeles to truly experience Hollywood is attending a live television show taping. There are several live TV show tapings that you can attend in Los Angeles. Most of the tickets can be requested online through the show's website.
Some popular options include Jimmy Kimmel Live! at the El Capitan Theatre, The Price is Right at CBS Television City, Conan at the Warner Bros. Studios, and America's Got Talent at the Dolby Theatre.
