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There are a lot of things to do in Los Angeles, the heart of California and of the film industry worldwide. When I moved to the United States, LA was one of the cities I wanted to visit the most, so I quickly flew to the West Coast to discover this amazing city.
In LA, you’ll find beaches that have been backgrounds in your favorite TV series and movies, interesting museums, stylish restaurants, shops that have the latest in fashion, and a lot of fun. That’s what Los Angeles is like.
In addition, many celebrities live in LA, such as Jennifer Aniston, David Beckham, Jim Carrey, and Cameron Diaz, so you could run into them at any time. In fact, one of the most popular things to do in Los Angeles is to book a tour to see the luxury villas and mansions of some of Hollywood’s biggest stars. This tour and other LA attractions are included in the Go Los Angeles Card, a tourist card that will save you a lot of money if you want to visit different paid attractions. It’s very much worth it!
But it’s not all about the celebrities. In this article, you’ll find the best 60 places to visit in Los Angeles so you can get to know this city in a short time.
1. Universal Studios Hollywood, the best theme park to visit in LA
Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the largest and oldest film studios and the best amusement park in Los Angeles. It is also this company’s oldest theme park.
1. Universal Studios Hollywood, the best theme park to visit in LA
The park has movie-themed areas devoted to Harry Potter and Jurassic World, among others, as well as TV-themed areas for shows like The Walking Dead. In addition to attractions, there are exhibitions and shows throughout the day. I recommend spending at least one full day in the park if you want to get to know it well.
Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Los Angeles with kids. To avoid long lines and get your ticket at the best price, get it here. Entrance is also included in the Go Los Angeles Card.
2. Hollywood Walk of Fame, one of the best things to do in Los Angeles
The Walk of Fame is one of the most important places to visit in Los Angeles. This sidewalk along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street is where Hollywood pays tribute to more than 2,000 celebrities from around the world who belong or have belonged to the film, television, music, theater, or radio industry. Each of these celebrities has been honored with their very own star on the ground.
2. Hollywood Walk of Fame, one of the best things to do in Los Angeles
Fun fact: Mickey Mouse got his star on the Walk of Fame during the 50th anniversary celebration of his character; he was the first fictional character to get one. Subsequently, Bugs Bunny, Snow White, and other characters also got theirs.
Between 20 and 30 new stars are added every year to the Walk of Fame, which was named a Historical and Cultural Monument in 1978.
Strolling the Walk of Fame to photograph your feet on the star of someone you admire or your favorite character is something that’s very popular to do in Los Angeles.
3. Hollywood Sign, the most popular attraction in LA
In Griffith Park, specifically on Mount Lee, you will find one of the most important icons to see in Los Angeles: the Hollywood Sign, the most famous sign in LA.
3. Hollywood Sign, the most popular attraction in LA
The first sign, which said “Hollywoodland,” was provisionally installed in 1923 to promote a condo that was under construction. However, the rise of the film industry made the place famous, and they decided to modify the sign and leave it up permanently.
To get to Griffith Park, I recommend taking a taxi to Beachwood Drive, where the pedestrian entrance to the park is. From there, you can walk to the Hollywood sign lookout as well as go behind it. Everything is well marked, so there is no way to get lost.
4. Griffith Observatory, one of the best places to visit in Los Angeles
If you’re looking for something to do in Los Angeles at night, I recommend visiting the Griffith Observatory, which is in Griffith Park.
4. Griffith Observatory, the best place for stargazing in Los Angeles
The construction of this park and its observatory was made possible by Colonel Griffith J. Griffith’s desire to make astronomy accessible to everyone. To do this, in 1896, he donated 1,200 hectares of land and the funds to build an observatory, a planetarium, and exhibition spaces. Visiting Griffith Observatory is one of the best free things to do in LA. You can check it schedules here.
Griffith Park also has very interesting trails that offer beautiful views of the city. There are many hiking tours around but I recommend you take the tour we did. It was worthy!
5. Disneyland, the best thing to do in Los Angeles with kids
There are two Disney-themed parks in California: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park, both located in Anaheim, a short distance from Los Angeles. (If you don’t have a car, I recommend booking transport here). Although the two parks belong to Disney and are next to each other, a pass will only be valid for one of the two parks, except for special tickets. Disneyland is the most popular one, and it has recently opened a Star Wars-themed area.
5. Disneyland, the best thing to do in Los Angeles with children
This park follows the aesthetics of other Disney parks and has several themed areas around the Sleeping Beauty castle. In Adventureland, for example, attractions allude to the adventures of Indiana Jones, or you can visit the Enchanted Tiki Room, which has shows with animatronic figures. Other themed areas are Frontierland, Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, New Orleans Square, Critter Country, and Mickey’s Toontown.
If you travel with your family, the amusement parks of Los Angeles are the best option for you. Because of its large size and especially because there are two parks, I recommend spending two days at Disneyland if you like amusement parks and the Disney universe.
6. Hollywood, the place with the most stars in Los Angeles
Hollywood, the mecca of the movies, is the part of the city of Los Angeles that attracts the most visitors. This is where the Walk of Fame and Grauman’s Chinese Theater are, two places to visit in Los Angeles that you cannot miss.
In addition, I’d like to highlight the Hollywood & Highland, a large complex full of shops and entertainment.
6. Hollywood, the place with the most stars in Los Angeles
Two other places to visit in Los Angeles that I consider interesting are the Hollywood History Museum, which has a very large sample of objects used in movies, and the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, where hundreds of legends from world cinema and numerous celebrities have been laid to rest.
7. Downtown LA, a place to visit in Los Angeles
Downtown LA is another of the tourist spots of Los Angeles that you should visit. It stands out for its contemporary buildings and for being an important business area.
The City Hall, one of the most famous buildings in Los Angeles, is here, as well as the Disney Center Hall, one of the best concert halls in the world thanks to its excellent acoustics.
7. Downtown LA, a place to visit in Los Angeles
You can also take a walk along the pedestrian Grand Avenue and visit the Cathedral of Our Lady of Los Angeles, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Memorial Coliseum.
Finally, you can end the day in the Fashion District, a few streets where you’ll find the best stores.
8. MOCA, the best thing to do in LA when it rains
The Museum of Contemporary Art of Los Angeles, better known as MOCA, is the only museum founded by artists. It has one of the largest art collections in the world, with around 7,000 pieces, and an innovative style in its exhibits.
8. MOCA, the best thing to do in LA when it rains
If you don’t know what to do in Los Angeles if it rains, visiting MOCA can be an excellent option. Although if you like art, I assure you it is worth it regardless of the weather.
This museum has two locations in the city: MOCA Grand Avenue and The Geffen Contemporary. In addition, it includes Michael Heizer’s seminal artwork Double Negative (1969-70) in the Nevada desert.
9. Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, one of the most important theaters in LA
Grauman’s Chinese Theater, located in Hollywood, can’t be left off our list of things to see in Los Angeles. It’s a very important site for world cinema. In fact, it was declared a Historical and Cultural Building in 1968 and has premiered numerous films. It also hosted the Academy Awards Ceremony on three occasions.
9. Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, one of the most important theaters in LA
On the outside of the building, which is reminiscent of a Chinese pagoda, there are more than 200 famous footprints, such as Samuel L. Jackson’s, Sophia Loren’s, and Marilyn Monroe’s. Also, the three main actors of the Harry Potter saga left traces of their feet, hands, and wands here. And even R2D2 did too!
These footprints are a different type of honor than the stars on the Walk of Fame.
10. Santa Monica, the most famous beach in Los Angeles
Santa Monica is a very popular neighborhood and the place where you can enjoy some of the best beaches in Los Angeles. Among the many attractions of Santa Monica, the most popular ones are Pacific Park and the pier, ideal for sunset strolls. In addition, this area is one of the best places to visit in Los Angeles with kids.
10. Santa Monica, the most famous beach in Los Angeles
I recommend touring Ocean Drive, which borders the coast, on foot, with skates, or by bicycle. Taking a dip at Santa Monica Beach, where Baywatch and Pacific Blue were filmed, is another great thing to do in Los Angeles.
11. Pacific Park, a theme park you can’t miss in Los Angeles
Pacific Park is an amusement park on the Santa Monica pier and one of the best places to visit in Los Angeles with children.
11. Pacific Park, a theme park you can’t miss in Los Angeles
It has appeared in many movies and series, so it’s very popular. Additionally, I recommend it especially for its views of the Pacific Ocean. It’s an ideal place to spend hours of fun with the little ones.
If you decide to visit Pacific Park, I suggest you go up on the Ferris wheel to enjoy beautiful views of the city. Of course, I recommend doing it at sunset.
12. Beverly Hills, the most glamorous place to visit in Los Angeles
Most celebrities have their mansions in Beverly Hills, making it one of the most luxurious places to visit in Los Angeles. One of its most famous spots is Rodeo Drive, with its bars and luxury shops.
12. Beverly Hills, the most glamorous place to visit in Los Angeles
Although I prefer walking around Beverly Gardens Park. I also recommend visiting the Pierce Bros Westwood Memorial Park, where the remains of Marilyn Monroe and Truman Capote rest.
Beverly Hills is also one of the most exclusive places to stay in Los Angeles.
13. Rodeo Drive, the most luxurious place to go shopping in LA
If you’re a fashion lover, you have to visit Rodeo Drive; if you aren’t, it’s something to do in Los Angeles if it rains or if you want to surround yourself with luxury and glamor for a day. It is a street frequented by rich and famous people because the most exclusive clothing stores in LA are here.
13. Rodeo Drive, the most luxurious place to go shopping in LA
The best brands in the world show the latest fashion on this street. Although these stores are not affordable for everyone, since everything is excessively expensive, I recognize how curious it can be to walk along a street that is so overloaded with elegance, glamor, and luxury.
In any case, Rodeo Drive is another interesting place to visit in Los Angeles to get to know the true essence of the City of Stars.
14. Warner Bros Studios, an interesting tour to take in Los Angeles
Visiting Warner Bros studios is great stuff to do in Los Angeles, especially for those who consider themselves true movie and television lovers. This is where countless series have been filmed, such as Friends and The Big Bang Theory, as well as movies, such as some of those in the DC Universe.
14. Warner Bros Studios, an interesting tour to take in Los Angeles
To get to know this famous studio, I recommend you book this tour that will let you in on all the filming secrets and show you sets and objects. In addition, you can walk through Stage 48, where all the stages of the television and film production process are shown.
15. Chinatown, a place to go in LA
Chinatown of Los Angeles is in the downtown area and is one of the greatest tourist attractions in LA.
15. Chinatown, a place to go in LA
Take a walk along Chung King Street, which was once an important commercial area where you can now find numerous art galleries. In addition, I recommend visiting Central Square, where there’s always a lot of activity and where summer festivals are celebrated.
Thien Hau temple, dedicated to Mazu, goddess of the sea in Chinese mythology, is another place that you have to visit in Los Angeles.
16. Little Tokyo, the Japanese neighborhood in Los Angeles
Little Tokyo was born at the beginning of the 20th century when the first Japanese arrived in the city. The largest Japanese-American population is concentrated here, and it is a place that is highly appreciated by tourists.
16. Little Tokyo, the Japanese neighborhood in Los Angeles
Japan is very well represented in this neighborhood and visiting it is one of my favorite things to do in Los Angeles.
There are many things to visit in Little Tokyo, but I recommend the Koyasan Buddhist temple, the Go for Broke monument in honor of Japanese-American soldiers who fought during World War II, and the Japanese American Museum.
17. The Grove, one of the best things to do at Christmas time in LA
The Grove is an outdoor mall that was built in what was once an agricultural area. Although it is something you can visit in Los Angeles at any time of the year, at Christmas, it becomes a real must. The Grove changes its decorations especially for the holiday, since Angelenos welcome Christmas here.
17. The Grove, one of the best things to do at Christmas time in LA
In addition to shopping at the numerous stores with a wide variety of items, I recommend eating at the Farmer’s Market, where you can find dishes from around the world.
18. Hollywood Celebrity Homes Tour, one of the best fun things to do in LA
If there is a must-do in Los Angeles, it is this celebrity homes tour. On this tour, you’ll visit the most emblematic streets of Beverly Hills and West Hollywood, which are the places where celebrities usually have their mansions, and visit the Hollywood Bowl.
18. Hollywood Celebrity Homes Tour, one of the best fun things to do LA
I consider this to be a mandatory tour for anyone who goes sightseeing in Los Angeles.
19. Malibu, the best beach in Los Angeles
The beaches of Malibu are considered the best beaches in Los Angeles, and they also have the best weather. These two factors have made many celebrities choose Malibu as their residency.
19. Malibu, the best beach in Los Angeles
If you feel like enjoying the beach, which is one of the best cool things to do in Los Angeles, you can choose among Zuma Beach, Surfrider Beach, Topanga State Beach, and Malibu State Beach. Near Malibu, you can visit the Malibu Creek State Park, the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area, and Paradise Cove, where several films have been shot.
20. Zuma Beach, a popular beach in Malibu
Zuma Beach is famous for appearing in the final scene of Planet of the Apes and some scenes of Baywatch. It is considered one of the best beaches in Los Angeles for its fine sand and crystal clear waters.
20. Zuma Beach, a popular beach in Malibu
I recommend this beach to travelers who want to surf, although it is also perfect for relaxing and disconnecting from the city.
21. Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Los Angeles County Museum of Art, or LACMA, is the largest museum in the western United States. It exhibits up to more than 142,000 works representing 6,000 years of art from around the world.
21. Los Angeles County Museum of Art, one of the best museums in Los Angeles
The Islamic art, colonial art, and Japanese art collections are the standouts of the impressive collection offered by the museum.
This museum receives more than one million visitors every year, so I recommend you include it on your list of places to visit in Los Angeles.
22. Urban Light, a place to visit in Los Angeles at night
Outside of LACMA, you can enjoy Urban Light, a work by artist Chris Burden that consists of a set of street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s, which once illuminated the city streets.
22. Urban Light, a peculiar place to visit in Los Angeles at night
In total, there are 202 cast-iron lampposts that have turned on at dusk every day since the installation’s inauguration, in 2008, and then turn off at dawn thanks to an astronomical timer.
A walk to enjoy this unique work is one of the best things to do in Los Angeles at night.
23. Runyon Canyon Park, the best hikes in Los Angeles
If, like me, you are a hiker, I recommend you go to Runyon Canyon Park. You can find trails of different difficulty levels there.
23. Runyon Canyon Park, the best hikes in Los Angeles
The Hero Trail is the most complicated one, the Star Trail is medium level, and the Fuller Gate-Runyon Canyon Road is considered an easy one.
If you want to enjoy nature and beautiful views in the City of Stars, Runyon Canyon Park is where to go in Los Angeles.
24. Carroll Avenue, the favorite street of movie lovers in LA
Carroll Avenue is in Angelino Heights, one of the oldest neighborhoods in Los Angeles and one of the places I liked the most.
24. Carroll Avenue, the favorite street of movie lovers in LA
1329 Carroll Avenue is a beautiful house built in 1887 that served as the set of the Charmed series. At 1345 on the same street, you can find the Sanders house, which served as the background for the Michael Jackson music video Thriller.
25. Surf at Manhattan Beach, the best activity to do in Los Angeles
LA has several beaches where you can surf, one of the best activities in Los Angeles. Of all the places you can do this sport, Manhattan Beach is probably the place to go in Los Angeles if you’re looking for the biggest waves.
25. Surf at Manhattan Beach, the best activity to do in Los Angeles
Of course, Manhattan Beach is not the best option for beginners. If you don’t know how to surf or don’t have enough experience, you should go to Lagoon State Beach, Topanga Beach, or Venice Beach.
26. Venice Beach, the most creative and artistic place in Los Angeles
During the 50s and 60s, Venice Beach was fashionable because it was home to many artists and poets. Today it is still a special place for culture and also a very creative and artistic place to see in LA.
26. Venice Beach, the most creative and artistic place in Los Angeles
You can take long walks on the Ocean Front Walk, go to the Venice Beach Recreation Center, where there are volleyball and beach tennis courts, and visit Abbot Kinney Boulevard, where you can go shopping.
In addition to the beach, in this area, you can enjoy street art and the beautiful canals that give this area of the city its name.
27. Sunset Strip, an avenue with a lot of stuff to do in LA
The Sunset Strip is one of the most popular tourist sights in Los Angeles. On this avenue, you’ll find a lot of fun things to do during the day and at night.
During the day, you can visit their shopping centers or have lunch at any of the restaurants. At night, you can go to events and concerts or enjoy the nightclubs and bars.
27. Sunset Strip, an avenue with a lot of stuff to do in Los Angeles
In addition to all of the above, on the Sunset Strip, you can visit the Charles Chaplin Studios, eat at The Viper Room, which belonged to Johnny Depp, or eat at the Rainbow Bar & Grill, where Lemmy Kilmister used to play poker.
28. Santee Alley, the best place for cheap shopping in Los Angeles
Although the city of Los Angeles has mostly luxury stores, if you’re looking for bargains, you can go to Santee Alley. Here, you can buy clothes, accessories, and shoes at a lower price.
28. Santee Alley, the best place for cheap shopping in Los Angeles
Santee Alley is in the Fashion District, where Los Angeles clothing factories are located, and this is one of the best things to do in Los Angeles during the day if you like shopping.
29. Mulholland Drive, one of the best scenic drives in Los Angeles
Mulholland Drive is one of the most beautiful scenic drives in the United States. It was built in the 20s to be one of the busiest roads. With 20 miles of meandering asphalt, it is a two-way road adorned with huge mansions.
29. Driving Tour: Mulholland Drive, one of the best experience in Los Angeles
I recommend you stop at any of the lookout points along the way to enjoy unique scenery, one of the best things to do around Los Angeles.
30. La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
If you’re wondering what California was like in prehistoric times, I recommend visiting Rancho La Brea. Several tar pits in which animals and plants were trapped during the Ice Age were found there.
The tar preserved the remains of these animals and plants very well, so scientists could study them. They also served as conclusive evidence of the species that inhabited the place.
30. The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, for back to the Ice Age in Los Angeles
In the George C. Page Museum, which is next to the pits, you can see the fossils of these already-extinct animal and plant species.
If you have time, I recommend visiting this place, since it’s something that’s very curious to see in Los Angeles.
31. Getty Center, the best place for art lovers in Los Angeles
Visiting the Getty Center, home of the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Getty Foundation, the Getty Research Institute, and the Getty Conservation Institute, is one of the top things to do in Los Angeles. Works by Leonardo da Vinci, Goya and Rembrandt, among others, are exhibited here. I recommend this place if you’re into art, although visiting it is also something interesting to do in Los Angeles if it rains.
31. Getty Center, the best place for art lovers in Los Angeles
If the weather is good, you can also visit the gardens surrounding the Getty Center, which are spectacular and have a huge variety of plants as well as numerous fountains and streams. You can find art, architecture, and nature all in one here.
32. Dolby Theatre, the most famous theatre in Los Angeles
Formerly known as the Kodak Theater, the Dolby Theater is in front of the Walk of Fame and is mainly famous because this is where the Oscar Awards gala is held.
32. Dolby Theatre, the most famous theatre in Los Angeles
Concerts and shows are also held here throughout the year, since it has a capacity of 3,400 people. If you aren’t interested in the events they have scheduled, you can visit it by taking this tour. Actually, it is an extraordinary place to visit in Los Angeles. The theater itself is quite impressive.
33. Route 66: End of the Trail sign, a place to visit in LA
The sign that indicates the end of Route 66, something you have to visit in Los Angeles if you’re finishing the most famous road trip in the United States, is in Santa Monica, next to the monument to Will Rogers. On the poster, it says: “Santa Monica – 66 – End of the Trail”. Truthfully, however, the end of this famous route is between Lincoln Street and Olympic Street.. Of course, everyone, especially tourists, takes a picture next to the sign, thinking that the real ending is there.
33. Route 66: End of the Trail sign, a place to visit in LA
For many travelers, the city of Los Angeles is not a final destination, but is instead part of a tour and a mandatory stop for a road trip around the USA.
34. NBA game at the Staples Center, one thing to do in Los Angeles
The Staples Center is home to the Los Angeles Clippers and Los Angeles Lakers, as well as being one of the most luxurious and modern multipurpose centers in the world.
The Grammy Awards, hockey games, boxing matches, and NBA games are held here.
34. NBA game at the Staples Center, one thing to do in Los Angeles
If you like sports, visiting the Staples Center is something you have to do in Los Angeles.
35. Huntington Library, one of the most beautiful places to visit in LA
The Huntington Library is in San Marino, just outside Pasadena. The building was the home of tycoon Henry E. Huntington, who built it in 1911. It was his second wife who decorated the mansion with an impressive collection of French and British art.
35. Huntington Library, one of the most beautiful places to visit in LA
For their huge collection of books, they had to build a new building, which became a library of great importance. It has a large number of historical documents, first editions, and works of the American West. This is a real wonder to visit in Los Angeles, although what struck me the most were its Japanese-style botanical gardens.
36. California Science Center, an interactive museum you must visit in LA
The city of Los Angeles has many museums, but one I always recommend is the California Science Center because it offers interactive exhibits that bring you closer to science. In addition, the garden is full of interesting things and has several permanent exhibitions.
36. California Science Center, an interactive museum you must visit in LA
Ecosystems explains how life is interconnected on the planet, while Creative World is a journey through all the innovations that aim to meet human needs. World of Life, on the other hand, explores the life processes of living beings. The Art and Space exhibits are very interesting too.
This museum is one of those places to visit in Los Angeles that I’m sure you’re going to like.
37. The Broad, a contemporary art museum in Los Angeles (California)
The Broad, a contemporary art museum specializing in temporary exhibitions, is next to the Walt Disney City Hall.
37. The Broad, a contemporary art museum in Los Angeles (California)
It is one of the things to see in Los Angeles that I recommend to people who are very into art. I also have to say that not only are the collections interesting, but also the architectural design of the building is spectacular.
38. Hollywood Bowl, the most famous amphitheater of Los Angeles
The famous Hollywood Bowl is one of the places you should visit in Los Angeles. It has a capacity of 17,400 people and is used for concerts and sporting events.
38. Hollywood Bowl, the most famous amphitheater of Los Angeles
It is a symbol of California and its fame has become worldwide after appearing in films, such as A Star is Born and Xanadu; television series, such as Mozart in the Jungle and The New Adventures of Old Christine; and in video games, like Grand Theft Auto V.
39. Live Comedy, something fun to do in Los Angeles
There are many comedy clubs in Los Angeles where you can enjoy improv, monologues, musical comedies, and other comedic performances. In fact, attending a live comedy show is something fun to do in Los Angeles.
39. Live Comedy, something fun to do in Los Angeles
If you’re interested, the most popular clubs are The Comedy Store, The Comedy Union, The Groundlings, The Improv, iO West, Laugh Factory, Nerdist Showroom, Second City Hollywood, Upright Citizens Brigade, and Westside Comedy Theater.
40. Madame Tussauds Hollywood, an amusing museum to visit in LA
If you’re looking for something to see in Los Angeles with kids, I recommend the Madame Tussauds wax museum. In it, you can see very realistic and carefully detailed wax figures of celebrities, historical figures, Marvel superheroes, and fictional characters of all kinds.
40. Madame Tussauds Hollywood, an amusing museum to visit in LA
If you haven’t been to a Madame Tussauds wax museum, you should know that they are the best in the world. I haven’t been to the one in Los Angeles, but I went to the one in London and it’s definitely worth it. However, it can be a bit difficult to take good pictures, since there are so many people. Due to its popularity, I recommend you book your ticket in advance.
41. Los Angeles City Hall, another place you must see in Los Angeles
41. Los Angeles City Hall, another place you must see in Los Angeles
When you first see the facade of the City Hall of Los Angeles it might seem familiar. That’s because this building, which opened in 1928, was used as the headquarters of the Daily Planet in the Superman movies. This fact alone makes it a place to visit in Los Angeles.
In fact, visiting the City Hall is one of the best free things to do in Los Angeles.
42. Autry Museum of the American West, Los Angeles
The Autry Museum of the American West, in Griffith Park, is one of the most significant places to visit in Los Angeles. It covers the culture and history of the American West.
42. Autry Museum of the American West, Los Angeles
The museum has seven galleries with permanent exhibitions; the most important is the photographic archive of the newspaper La Raza, which focuses on the Chicano movement of the 60s and 70s.
43. Grand Central Market, the oldest outdoor market in Los Angeles
The Grand Central Market, in the Homer Laughlin building, is one of the places of interest to visit in Los Angeles to learn more about LA culture.
43. Grand Central Market, the oldest market in Los Angeles
In this market, which opened in 1917, you can find a wide variety of food products. In addition, it is the oldest and largest market in the city.
44. Universal CityWalk, an entertainment place to visit in LA
There is a commercial promenade that connects the different theme parks in Los Angeles, the Universal CityWalk. Here you’ll find just about everything: shops, cinemas, nightclubs, and restaurants.
44. Universal CityWalk, an entertainment place to visit in LA
This area gives you access to Los Angeles Universal Studios and offers many entertainment options.
45. OUE Skyspace and SkySlide, the most spectacular attraction in LA
In the US Bank Tower building, you can visit the OUE Skyspace, an observation terrace that is 1,000 feet high and from which you can enjoy 360-degree panoramic views. Seeing the sunset from its observation deck is something I really recommend because it’s one of the top things to do in Los Angeles.
45. OUE Skyspace and SkySlide, the most spectacular attraction in LA
The SkySlide, a 45-foot, fully enclosed, all-glass slide is here as well. Do you have the guts to slide down it? It’s not an experience for everyone, but, of course, the views are incredible.
46. Farmers Market, a popular market in Los Angeles
The Farmers Market was inaugurated in 1934, and it used to be the place where farmers sold their products.
46. Farmers Market, a popular market in Los Angeles
Currently, the place has a lot of grocery stores and about 100 restaurants. Nowadays, the Farmers Market is a hub of activity and has become one of the most quintessential places to visit in Los Angeles.
47. Paramount Pictures Studio, the oldest studios in Los Angeles
There are a lot of things to see and to do in Los Angeles, and we can’t skip the famous studios of Paramount Pictures.
47. Paramount Pictures Studio, the oldest studios in Los Angeles
Artists such as Marlene Dietrich and Gary Cooper have passed through these studios and recorded series as famous as NCIS Los Angeles, The Blacklist, and Scream Queens.
If you want to visit Paramount Pictures Studio, you will have to take this tour offered by the studio. The Studio Tour lasts two hours, tells the history of Paramount, and shows you the most famous sets. If you choose to take the VIP Tour, you can visit private areas and get lunch included.
48. Tour Palm Springs from Los Angeles
I recommend Palm Springs out of the places to visit in Los Angeles and its surroundings. This place is known for its golf courses and hot springs. In addition, it has been home to stars such as Barbra Streisand, Marilyn Monroe, and Elvis Presley.
48. Palm Springs from Los Angeles, the most interesting tour
If you take this tour to Palm Springs from Los Angeles, you’ll travel by cable car more than 6,800 feet high to reach the cliffs of the Chino Canyon. You’ll also learn more about the desert ecosystem, pass by houses of rich and famous celebrities, and, finally, enjoy shopping at the Desert Hills Premium Outlets, which has more than 130 stores.
49. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, California
If you’re looking for more things to do in Los Angeles, I recommend the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, which is the largest in the western United States.
49. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, California
It covers 4,500 years of history with its collections, which have up to 35 million artifacts and specimens. The exhibition I found most striking is the Dinosaur Hall, where there are 20 complete subjects and more than 300 fossils. In this museum, you can also enjoy interactive exhibitions and presentations on giant screens.
50. Pacific Coast Highway, one of the most beautiful highways of California
The Pacific Coast Highway is also known as Highway 1 and is one of the most beautiful roads in California. Driving the section of this road called Big Sur is one of the most awesome things to do in Los Angeles.
50. Pacific Coast Highway, one of the most beautiful highways of California
During your road trip, you can visit Santa Barbara and its vineyards. I also recommend making a stop in Monterrey to learn about the Mexican and Spanish heritage of the area.
This road also takes you to some gorgeous state parks, such as Point Lobos, where there are beautiful trails. You’ll also get to see the famous Bixby Creek Bridge, which is 260 feet high. Additionally, another remarkable stop on this route is SF, so if you decide to visit this city, check the 60 best things to do in San Francisco.
51. Arts District, The place in Los Angeles with the most art and style
Another place to visit in Los Angeles is the Arts District, the favorite place for art lovers. Here, there are numerous art galleries, theaters, bookstores, craft breweries, and restaurants.
51. Arts District, The place in Los Angeles with the most art and style
In addition, urban art is exhibited on the walls of the old factories, now converted into lofts, art galleries, or shop windows of important fashion designers.
The Arts District is the place where new trends are exhibited and everything about fashion is dictated.
52. Petersen Automotive Museum, another museum you must visit in LA
The Petersen Automobile Museum is another museum to visit in Los Angeles. With a total of 22 galleries spread over three floors, you can see old vehicles, learn about the latest in interactive technology, and enjoy high speed simulators.
52. Petersen Automotive Museum, another museum you must visit in LA
I recommend you book the visit to the Vault, an underground warehouse where 100 years of automobile history is explained, in advance.
This is a museum you’ll love, both for its architecture and its fabulous exhibits. If you all things car-related, you can book a guided tour here.
53. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, the best views of Los Angeles
To access the Baldwin Hills panoramic overlook, you’ll have to climb one of the hidden staircases of Los Angeles, which will take you through a path to the top. The most peculiar feature of these stairs is that they’re quite irregular, so tread carefully to make sure you don’t suffer an unfortunate fall.
53. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, the best views of Los Angeles
Once you’ve ascended, you can enjoy a spectacular panorama with the mountains of Santa Monica, the skyscrapers of the city center, and the Pacific Ocean.
Although this is one of the main things to do in Los Angeles at night, it’s also beautiful during the day.
54. Descanso Garden, one of the most beautiful gardens to go to in Los Angeles
Among all the gardens in Los Angeles, the Descanso Gardens, in La Cañada Flintridge, are some of the most beautiful. In this place, you can get lost in a forest of camellias, in a lilac garden, in a garden of wild plants, in a rose garden, and in a Japanese garden.
54. Descanso Garden, one of the most beautiful gardens to go to in Los Angeles
In the park, you’ll find Boddy House, the original 22-room house of E. Manchester Boddy, the Descanso Gardens Enchanted Railroad, a diesel train that runs through the park, and the Carriage House Art Gallery.
55. Japanese American National Museum
The Japanese American National Museum, one of the tourist sights in Los Angeles where you can learn all about the history of the Japanese who came to the United States, is in the Little Tokyo neighborhood. The museum has a permanent collection of more than 60,000 documents, photographs, and objects.
55. Japanese American National Museum, the history of Japanese Americans
One of the most interesting exhibits is Common Ground: The Heart of Community, which explores 130 years of Japanese-American history.
56. San Diego from Los Angeles, an excursion to do in LA
If you’re looking for unique things to do in LA and surroundings, I recommend taking a trip to San Diego, the city that best conveys the essence of California.
56. San Diego from Los Angeles, an excursion to do in LA
My favorite area is La Jolla Cove, a beach where, with a little luck, you can even see sea lions. Also, you can’t miss Old Town, where you can still see some of the original buildings of the first town that stood here. Other places I recommend visiting are Balboa Park and Coronado Island, where the hotel of the same name is located and which served as the setting for several historical films.
To get to San Diego from Los Angeles, renting a car is easiest, although if you want to avoid driving, I suggest taking this tour.
57. Lake Hollywood Park, a quiet place to visit in Los Angeles
Lake Hollywood Park, which is adjacent to Griffith Park, is another park of Los Angeles that is worth visiting. This park is very quiet, so it’s perfect for walking and relaxing.
57. Lake Hollywood Park, a quiet place to visit Los Angeles
Most of the visitors that frequent this park are Angelenos. From here, you can see the Hollywood sign, a must-see in Los Angeles.
58. Queen Mary Tour, a haunted and mysterious place in Los Angeles
Rated one of the 10 most haunted places in the world by Time magazine, the luxury transatlantic cruise ship Queen Mary, the subject of many stories and legends, is something you have to visit in Los Angeles.
58. Queen Mary Tour, a haunted and mysterious place in Los Angeles
To visit it, I recommend taking this tour that will allow you to see both the inside and outside of the boat. You’ll also learn about all of the stories that center around this cruise ship, better known as the “Grey Ghost.” Legend has it that the ghosts on the ship include a sailor who died in the engine room, a “lady in white,” and children who drowned in the ship’s pool.
59. Watts Tower, something curious to visit in Los Angeles
In Watts, you can see one of the most peculiar monuments of Los Angeles, the Watts Tower, also known as the Simon Rodia Towers or Nuestro Pueblo.
59. Watts Tower, something curious to visit in Los Angeles
The towers were built by Sabato Rodia, an Italian immigrant manufacturer of tiles who took 33 years to complete his towers. The monument consists of 17 interconnected towers that were designated a Los Angeles Cultural Historical Monument and National Historic Landmark.
60. Helicopter Tour in Los Angeles
I think that you can get to know a city in many different ways, and one of them is from the sky. If you’re not afraid to fly, one of the most popular things to do in Los Angeles is to take this helicopter tour.
60. Helicopter Tour, the best way to see Los Angeles
The flight lasts one hour and the price of a ticket includes two people. You’ll fly over Downtown LA, Griffith Observatory, Sunset Boulevard, and Beverly Hills. Plus, you’ll enjoy aerial views of the beaches of southern California.
These are the 60 top-rated attractions in Los Angeles I recommend visiting. On the following map, you ‘ll find all the aforementioned sights so you can start planning your trip. In addition, you can download the tourist map of Los Angeles and use it even when you’re offline.
I hope this article helps you plan your trip. Now you know what to do in Los Angeles!
Enjoy the City of Stars!
