Introduction
Los Angeles (LA) is the largest city in California and the second-largest in the United States. Known for its sunny weather, diverse culture, and sprawling metropolis, LA is a global hub for entertainment, especially the film and television industry — it’s home to Hollywood, the heart of American cinema. The city offers a mix of iconic attractions like the Hollywood Sign, Santa Monica Pier, Griffith Observatory, and Rodeo Drive, as well as vibrant neighborhoods such as Downtown LA, Venice Beach, and Beverly Hills. LA also boasts excellent museums, beaches, shopping, and a dynamic food scene.
- Explore Hollywood and the Entertainment Scene
No trip to LA is complete without stepping into the heart of the global entertainment industry. Visit the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, where over 2,700 celebrities are honored with stars. Stop by TCL Chinese Theatre and take a photo of your favorite star’s handprints. For a behind-the-scenes experience, take a studio tour at Warner Bros., Paramount, or Universal Studios.
Don’t miss Hollywood Bowl for live music under the stars or catch a film at the historic El Capitan Theatre.
- Relax on Iconic Beaches
Los Angeles is famous for its sun-soaked coastline. Head to Santa Monica Beach for a classic Southern California experience. The Santa Monica Pier has an amusement park, arcade games, and a stunning view of the Pacific.
Just south is Venice Beach, known for its bohemian vibe, Muscle Beach gym, and colorful boardwalk performers. For a more relaxed atmosphere, check out Malibu’s Zuma Beach or El Matador State Beach for breathtaking coastal views.
- Visit World-Class Museums and Cultural Centers
LA’s cultural scene is thriving. The Getty Center, perched in the hills, offers stunning architecture, gardens, and an impressive art collection — and it’s free to visit. For contemporary art lovers, the Broad Museum in Downtown LA houses works by Andy Warhol, Basquiat, and Yayoi Kusama.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the largest art museum in the western U.S., while the California Science Center and Natural History Museum are great for families.
- Discover Trendy Neighborhoods
Los Angeles is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own personality. Silver Lake is a hip, artsy area filled with cafes, street art, and vintage shops. Downtown LA (DTLA) has transformed in recent years into a vibrant hub with rooftop bars, art galleries, and the iconic Grand Central Market.
West Hollywood (WeHo) is known for its nightlife and LGBTQ+ scene, while Beverly Hills offers upscale shopping and luxury living.
- Enjoy Diverse Cuisine and Food Markets
LA is a culinary melting pot. From authentic street tacos to five-star restaurants, there’s something for every taste and budget. Try Korean BBQ in Koreatown, dumplings in Monterey Park, or vegan fare in Echo Park.
Visit Smorgasburg LA on Sundays for a huge outdoor food market, or explore the stalls at Grand Central Market, which features everything from gourmet egg sandwiches to pupusas and Thai noodles.
- Hike and Take in the Natural Beauty
Despite its urban sprawl, LA offers incredible outdoor activities. Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., home to the Griffith Observatory and several hiking trails leading to views of the Hollywood Sign.
Runyon Canyon is another popular hike, known for its celebrity sightings and panoramic views of the city. For a different vibe, explore the Santa Monica Mountains, Topanga State Park, or even take a whale-watching tour off the coast.
- Shop Until You Drop
Los Angeles is a shopper’s paradise. Fashionistas should head to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills for luxury brands. Melrose Avenue offers a mix of trendy boutiques and vintage stores, while The Grove and Century City provide an upscale outdoor mall experience.
For unique finds, check out the Melrose Trading Post, a popular Sunday flea market with handmade goods, vintage clothing, and live music.
- Experience LA Nightlife
LA’s nightlife is as diverse as its population. Sip craft cocktails in a rooftop bar in Downtown LA, dance the night away in Hollywood clubs, or enjoy live jazz in Leimert Park.
For something different, visit a speakeasy-style bar like Good Times at Davey Wayne’s or No Vacancy, both of which offer a unique, immersive experience. Don’t forget the comedy scene — The Comedy Store and Largo regularly host famous comedians and surprise acts.
- Discover Film Locations and Pop Culture Hotspots
Film and TV fans will love spotting real-life locations from their favorite shows and movies. Walk through Griffith Observatory from La La Land, or take a photo at the Bradbury Building, featured in Blade Runner.
You can book a guided filming location tour or do a DIY tour using apps and websites. Don’t forget to swing by Urban Light at LACMA — one of the most Instagrammed spots in LA.
- Take a Scenic Drive
Driving is part of the LA experience. Cruise along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) for incredible ocean views, especially between Santa Monica and Malibu. Take Mulholland Drive through the Hollywood Hills for scenic overlooks and stunning homes.
For a different landscape, consider a day trip to Palm Springs, Joshua Tree National Park, or Disneyland in Anaheim — all just a couple of hours from the city.
Where to stay in Los Angeles
- Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)
Best for: Arts, culture, nightlife, business travelers
- Close to: The Broad Museum, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Staples Center, Grand Central Market
- Pros: Great public transit, walkable, trendy hotels and restaurants
- Cons: Can feel busy or gritty at night in certain areas
Top hotels: The Conrad Los Angeles, Ace Hotel, Freehand LA
- Santa Monica
Best for: Beach access, families, first-time visitors
- Close to: Santa Monica Pier, beach, 3rd Street Promenade
- Pros: Walkable, beautiful beachside atmosphere, shopping & dining
- Cons: More expensive, far from central LA attractions like Hollywood
Top hotels: Shutters on the Beach, Fairmont Miramar, Shore Hotel
- Venice Beach
Best for: Bohemian vibe, creative travelers
- Close to: Venice Boardwalk, Muscle Beach, Abbot Kinney Boulevard
- Pros: Artsy, unique shops, close to beach
- Cons: Can be loud or feel less safe after dark in some parts
Top hotels: Hotel Erwin, The Kinney Venice Beach
Things to do in Los Angeles
- Visit Hollywood Landmarks
- Hollywood Walk of Fame – See over 2,700 celebrity stars on the sidewalk.
- TCL Chinese Theatre – Famous handprints and footprints of film legends.
- Hollywood Sign – Hike or view from Griffith Park for a classic LA photo op.
- Relax at LA’s Beaches
- Santa Monica Beach & Pier – Rides, games, and great ocean views.
- Venice Beach Boardwalk – Street performers, Muscle Beach, and skate culture.
- Malibu – Pristine beaches like Zuma and El Matador for a quieter escape.
- Hike and Explore Nature
- Griffith Park & Observatory – Trails, city views, and a free science museum.
- Runyon Canyon – Popular hike with scenic city and Hollywood views.
- Topanga State Park – A peaceful escape with coastal mountain trails.
Day trip from Los Angeles
- Santa Barbara
Distance: ~1.5–2 hours north
Why go: Beautiful coastal city with Spanish-style architecture, beaches, wine tasting, and upscale dining.
Top things to do:
- Stroll down State Street
- Visit the Santa Barbara Mission
- Explore the Funk Zone wine and art district
- Relax on East Beach
- Joshua Tree National Park
Distance: ~2–2.5 hours east
Why go: A stunning desert landscape with unique rock formations, cactus gardens, and starry skies.
Top things to do:
- Hike Hidden Valley or Barker Dam
- Explore Cholla Cactus Garden
- Visit Pioneertown (a nearby Old West-style town)
- Stargaze after sunset
- Malibu
Distance: ~45 minutes to 1 hour west
Why go: Scenic beaches, surfing, hiking, and cliffside restaurants.
Top things to do:
- Relax at Zuma Beach or El Matador State Beach
- Hike Solstice Canyon
- Dine with ocean views at Malibu Farm or Geoffrey’s
