Best places to visit in Los Angeles CA
Los Angeles, California, is a vibrant and diverse city known for its entertainment industry, stunning beaches, and iconic landmarks. As the heart of Hollywood, it’s home to major studios, theaters, and celebrities. Visitors flock to attractions like the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and Universal Studios Hollywood.
The city’s rich cultural scene includes world-class museums such as the Getty Center and LACMA. L.A. is also famous for its diverse culinary scene, outdoor activities, and year-round sunny weather. With a mix of culture, history, and innovation, Los Angeles offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in the U.S.
Here are some best places to visit in Los Angeles, California as a tourist:
Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame, located on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, is one of the city’s most iconic attractions. Stretching over 15 blocks, it features more than 2,700 brass stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring celebrities from film, television, music, radio, and theater. A walk along the star-studded path offers a glimpse into entertainment history, attracting millions of visitors annually.
Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is one of Los Angeles’ most famous landmarks, perched high on the hills of the Santa Monica Mountains. The sign’s bold white letters, each 45 feet tall, can be seen from various points across the city. For closer views, visitors can hike trails in Griffith Park, such as the Mt. Hollywood Trail or Brush Canyon Trail. The Hollywood Sign remains an enduring emblem of dreams, fame, and the allure of showbiz.
Griffith Observatory & Griffith Park
Opened in 1935, it features engaging exhibits, a planetarium, and telescopes available for public use. The observatory is part of Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in North America, spanning over 4,300 acres. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, scenic lookouts, and attractions like the Los Angeles Zoo and the Autry Museum. Griffith Observatory is not only a hub for astronomy enthusiasts but also a popular filming location, making it a must-visit destination for both tourists and locals.
Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is a classic Southern California attraction, offering a perfect mix of fun, history, and ocean views. Opened in 1909, the pier features the iconic Pacific Park amusement park, complete with a solar-powered Ferris wheel, arcade games, and rides. Visitors can also enjoy the Santa Monica Aquarium, street performers, and fresh seafood at nearby restaurants. The pier marks the end of historic Route 66, making it a popular photo spot. Whether you’re watching a sunset, fishing, or strolling along the boardwalk, the Santa Monica Pier captures the laid-back spirit of Los Angeles’ beach culture.
Venice Beach
Venice Beach is one of Los Angeles’ most vibrant and eclectic destinations, known for its bohemian spirit and lively boardwalk. Stretching along the Pacific Ocean, the area features street performers, artists, vendors, and the famous Muscle Beach outdoor gym. The Venice Canals, inspired by Italy’s Venice, offer a peaceful contrast with scenic walkways and charming bridges. From people-watching to soaking in colorful street art, Venice Beach offers a unique blend of culture, creativity, and classic California beach vibes.
The Getty Center
The Getty Center in Los Angeles is a world-renowned cultural destination known for its stunning architecture, impressive art collection, and breathtaking hilltop views. Admission is free, and visitors can take a scenic tram ride up to the museum. The Getty Center combines art, nature, and architecture in a serene setting, making it a must-visit spot for culture lovers, art enthusiasts, and anyone seeking inspiration in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the largest art museum in the western United States, located on Wilshire Boulevard’s famed Miracle Mile. LACMA is known for its iconic outdoor installation, Urban Light, featuring restored vintage street lamps. The museum offers rotating exhibitions, educational programs, and film screenings. With its blend of global culture, creativity, and innovation, LACMA is a vital part of LA’s art scene and a must-visit destination for both casual visitors and serious art enthusiasts.
TCL Chinese Theatre
Opened in 1927, it’s famous for its grand architecture and the Forecourt of the Stars, where over 200 celebrities have left their handprints and footprints in cement. The theatre has hosted numerous Hollywood premieres and is still an active cinema showcasing blockbuster films. Inside, it features the world’s largest IMAX auditorium, offering an unforgettable movie-watching experience. Whether you’re catching a film or exploring the forecourt, TCL Chinese Theatre is a must-see landmark that captures the glitz and glamour of classic Hollywood.
Malibu
Malibu, a coastal gem in Los Angeles, is renowned for its stunning beaches, upscale homes, and laid-back luxury. Stretching along the Pacific Coast Highway, it offers scenic drives and access to iconic spots like Zuma Beach, El Matador Beach, and Surfrider Beach—perfect for surfing, sunbathing, and sunset views. Nature lovers can explore the nearby hiking trails in the Santa Monica Mountains. Malibu is also home to the Getty Villa, a museum dedicated to ancient art. With its celebrity allure, oceanfront dining, and breathtaking landscapes, Malibu is a peaceful escape and a must-visit destination on any Los Angeles itinerary.
Runyon Canyon
Runyon Canyon, located in the heart of Los Angeles, is a popular hiking spot offering stunning views of the city, including downtown LA and the Hollywood Sign. This 160-acre park provides a variety of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, making it ideal for hikers, joggers, and dog walkers. Its proximity to Hollywood makes it a favorite for locals and tourists alike.
El Matador State Beach
El Matador State Beach, located in Malibu’s Robert H. Accessible via a steep staircase from Pacific Coast Highway, the beach features rugged cliffs, towering rock formations, and sea caves that rise from the Pacific Ocean. It’s a favorite spot for photographers and nature lovers, offering breathtaking views and peaceful solitude. While small, the beach’s unique geological features make it a must-visit destination. For the best experience, visit during low tide to explore the sea caves and tide pools safely.
Echo Park Lake
Visitors can stroll along a 1-mile walking path, rent pedal boats, or admire the vibrant lotus flowers in bloom. The park hosts annual events like the Lotus Festival, and recent renovations have enhanced its appeal, making it a perfect urban escape.
The Broad Museum
The Broad Museum, located in downtown Los Angeles, is a premier contemporary art museum showcasing over 2,000 works from the 1950s to the present. Founded by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, it features iconic pieces by artists like Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Jean-Michel Basquiat. Designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro, the museum’s striking honeycomb-like “veil” allows natural light to filter into the galleries, creating a unique viewing experience.
Rodeo Drive (Beverly Hills)
The street is lined with iconic stores like Gucci, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Tiffany & Co., offering everything from couture fashion to exclusive jewelry. Beyond shopping, Rodeo Drive is a symbol of glamour and wealth, featured in films and TV shows.
The Grove & Original Farmers Market
The Grove and the Original Farmers Market, located at 3rd and Fairfax in Los Angeles, offer a unique blend of modern shopping and historic charm. The Grove is an upscale outdoor mall with high-end retailers, a central fountain, and a nostalgic trolley ride. Adjacent to it is the Original Farmers Market, established in 1934, featuring over 100 vendors offering fresh produce, international cuisine, and specialty foods. This vibrant destination combines the best of both worlds—luxury shopping and diverse dining options—creating a memorable experience for locals and tourists alike who seek a mix of contemporary style and old-fashioned charm.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood, located in Universal City, California, is a dynamic film studio and theme park that opened in 1964. It offers a unique experience with behind-the-scenes studio tours, allowing visitors to explore real movie sets and soundstages. The park features thrilling attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, and Jurassic World—The Ride. Special events, including Halloween Horror Nights and Fan Fest Nights, add seasonal excitement. Easily accessible via the Metro B Line, Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit destination for movie lovers and thrill-seekers, providing a perfect blend of entertainment and immersive experiences.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood, located in Burbank, offers an immersive behind-the-scenes experience of film and TV production. Visitors can explore iconic sets like Midwest Street, featured in numerous films and shows, and Stage 48, where they learn about the journey from script to screen. The tour also includes visits to the Central Perk Café, where fans can dine in the Friends set, and exhibits from the Harry Potter and DC Universe franchises. The tour concludes at the Studio Store, offering exclusive merchandise. With daily tours, it’s a must-see for movie lovers and entertainment enthusiasts.
Walt Disney Concert Hall
Walt Disney Concert Hall, located in downtown Los Angeles, is a stunning architectural and acoustical masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry.
Natural History Museum of LA County
Established in 1913, it houses over 35 million specimens, spanning 4.5 billion years of history. Key exhibits include Dinosaur Hall, showcasing fossilized dinosaurs, and the Age of Mammals, which explores prehistoric life. The museum also features specimens from the La Brea Tar Pits, offering insights into Ice Age ecosystems. NHMLAC hosts seasonal events like the Butterfly and Spider Pavilions, providing educational and immersive experiences for visitors of all ages.
La Brea Tar Pits & Museum
The La Brea Tar Pits & Museum, located in Los Angeles’ Hancock Park, is a fascinating paleontological site where asphalt seeps have preserved fossils for over 50,000 years. Since 1913, scientists have uncovered remains of Ice Age mammals, including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and dire wolves. The museum showcases these discoveries through interactive exhibits, while live excavation sites provide a glimpse into ongoing research. Notably, the “La Brea Woman,” a human skeleton dating back approximately 10,000 years, was found here, making it a unique site for both prehistoric life and human history. It’s an essential stop for science enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
