Attractions
Los Angeles, the world’s entertainment capital, is a city full of epic attractions. This city has something for everyone, from beachside boardwalks and theme parks to world-class museums and theaters. From cultural attractions to outdoor activities, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Los Angeles.
Let’s explore the top attractions this city has to offer:
Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most popular attractions in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California. Since its dedication on February 9th, 1960, over 2,560 stars have been permanently installed along this famous sidewalk. Various individuals can receive this prestigious honor within many industries, including motion pictures and television, live theater/performance, radio, and recording artistry. Some well-known Walk of Fame star recipients includes artists such as Michael Jackson, Lucille Ball, and Kourtney Kardashian.
Visitors are invited to explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame for a unique experience celebrating celebrities who have influenced our entertainment industry for decades. Various online resources help visitors find specific stars based on their field or name. Bestrooftopbarsla also offers an interactive map to help visitors explore local restaurants and other attractions around Hollywood Boulevard. In addition, the HD Walk Of Fame app provides detailed information on every star’s historic location on the sidewalk.
The Hollywood Chamber Of Commerce hosts several appearances throughout the year where new honorees are officially recognized with their star installation ceremony and a unique press conference event downtown at TCL Chinese Theater IMAX courtyard area adjacent to the famous handprints and footprints section. Travelers can learn more about upcoming events via social media platforms or their website, hollywoodchamberofcommerceonline.com.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is a movie-based theme park located in Universal City, beloved by visitors, both young and old. This popular attraction combines the best of movie-making magic with theme park adventures and rides. It’s the only place in Los Angeles where you can experience first-hand the behind-the-scenes action of how movies are made, as well as experience state-of-the-art attractions such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and The Simpsons Rides™.
Visitors can explore massive backlot studio areas featuring famous sets from mega-hit movies like Jurassic Park™, Revenge of the Mummy™, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem™, and The Walking Dead™. With “A Day at the Theme Park” tickets that include one-day admission plus one Studio Tour available for purchase, guests have access to a fully immersive experience spanning over 200 acres where they can become part of TV & film production tricks and be taken on exclusive tours through real working sets like War Of The Worlds or King Kong 360 3-D. In addition, you can tour special exhibits dedicated to Hollywood’s greatest stars or ride Hollywood’s thrilling roller coasters, such as Transformers: The Ride 3-D, or get front-row seats for spectacular live shows like WaterWorld™. There truly is something for everyone at Universal Studios Hollywood, so come out and make some lasting memories!
Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory is located in the mountainous region of Los Angeles. It is dedicated to providing the public with a unique and entertaining way to experience astronomy through on-site programs and events or its extensive collection of educational materials. This iconic building regally overlooks the Hollywood grid, offering visitors stunning views and an academic perspective of the universe.
Visitors can enjoy interactive displays about space exploration, demonstrations about celestial bodies, a cafe for refreshments, and a library full of books about the stars. Guests can also take part in night hikes with professional astronomers or descend into a dark planetarium dome for immersive laser shows highlighting various aspects of our solar system. The observatory also features special talks by scientists about notable topics such as cosmology and gravitational waves. In addition, visitors can visit world-class traveling exhibitions held at the observatory throughout the year that cover both scientific discoveries from past centuries to future space exploration projects.
The Griffith Observatory has had millions of visitors since it opened its doors in 1935. It offers visitors a new way to appreciate and explore astronomy in an enjoyable manner, leaving even amateur stars gazers feeling inspired by its magical wonders. Whether your interest lies in physics, stargazing, or history, no visitor leaves without feeling humbled by what they discover within its four walls!
The Getty Center
Situated atop a hill in the Santa Monica Mountains of Brentwood, the magnificent Getty Center offers spectacular views of Los Angeles. The J. Paul Getty Museum is one of the top attractions in Los Angeles and is considered one of the world’s finest art galleries. Here you can find works from European masters such as Monet, Renoir, and van Gogh, ancient sculptures from Greece and Rome, and some artwork from modern artists.
The center also showcases stunning architecture, gardens, fountains, and courtyards designed by renowned architect Richard Meier. The 185-acre campus at the museum provides plenty for visitors to explore, with extensive galleries, a conservation institute, and a research institute devoted to making art and its history accessible to all kinds of people.
You can join free daily tours at both centers or wander around the attractive gardens alone. Take an audioguide or pick up a brochure at the information desk before enjoying your self-guided tour through over 5000 years of human creativity at the permanent collection galleries in both centers. Other features worth visiting include:
- photography exhibition centers and sculpture gardens on site
- a pair of theaters featuring lectures, film series, concerts, and yearly performances.
Shopping and Dining
When shopping in Los Angeles, there is no limit to the range of options available. You will find something to fit your style, from iconic malls like the Grove and the Beverly Center to smaller boutique shops.
When you’ve finished shopping, why not check out some of LA’s great restaurants? You’ll find something to satisfy your palette from local eateries to high-end establishments.
The Grove
The Grove is a bustling shopping destination in the heart of Los Angeles, United States. With more than 75 upscale and popular retailers, you’ll find everything you need for an enjoyable day out, with unique shops like Apple Store and Nordstrom, as well as international fashion brands such as Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci, and Ferragamo – the Grove offers a diverse retail selection.
In addition to great shopping opportunities, The Grove has numerous restaurants to satisfy all kinds of cravings. Visit one of The Grove’s well-known diners, like Farmstand or Pizzana, for vegan or traditional Italian dishes, or place an order from one of their other popular locations, including a pizza spot and several cafes. After meals, visitors can take advantage of their lush outdoor park for some relaxation and picturesque views every season of the year. Visitors also enjoy watching staff members direct traffic with vintage-inspired hand signals on our charming pedestrian path near the fountain show.
Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive is perhaps the most famous and well-known shopping destination in Los Angeles, synonymous with luxury and glitz. Located in the city’s exclusive Beverly Hills neighborhood, Rodeo Drive is a collection of chic designer boutiques, high-end fashion brands, upscale restaurants, and bars. Many of the world’s most iconic brand names call Rodeo Drive home, such as Gucci, Prada, Jimmy Choo, Saint Laurent, and Louis Vuitton.
Some of Los Angeles’ finest jewelry stores can also be found here – Tiffany & Co., Cartier, and Van Cleef & Arpels are among them. So whether preparing for a special occasion or looking to indulge in retail therapy, you’ll be spoiled for choice on Rodeo Drive.
For those looking for exquisite dining options to accompany their shopping experience, numerous renowned establishments provide an exclusive setting ideal for fine dining. Some of the top-rated restaurants located at Rodeo Drive include:
- Wolfgang Puck at The Hotel Bel-Air
- The Cage Restaurant
- Via Alloro
- Spumoni
- Wally’s Wine Bar & Bistro
- Luxe Grill
- Andiamo Ristorante Italian Restaurant
- Toscana Italian Restaurant
No matter your food preference or budget range, a wealth of delicious cuisine is available along this prestigious strip!
Grand Central Market
Grand Central Market is located in Downtown Los Angeles and is the perfect spot to experience a variety of LA’s different cuisines. Open since 1917, this open-air market features over one hundred vendors featuring everything from Mexican tacos, Thai noodles and Bengali curry.
Grand Central Market hosts various events and a great food scene throughout the year. Grand Central Market has something new every month from cooking and baking classes to live music and art shows. So whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an evening out on the town, Grand Central Market will surely have something for everyone to enjoy.
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier is one of the most iconic locations in Los Angeles, and the popular destination is an excellent spot for both shopping and dining. With its amusement park, shops, galleries, restaurants, and endless entertainment options, few other places provide such plentiful shopping and dining opportunities.
The pier is home to many retail outlets and eateries that offer all kinds of merchandise, from pop culture novelty items to souvenirs specific to the area. In addition, many downtown Santa Monica galleries offer unique artworks created by local artists which perfectly capture the vibrancy and culture of Los Angeles. Some outlets around the pier include camera stores, gift shops, and various boutiques catering to different fashion beliefs.
The Santa Monica Pier is also home to numerous restaurants where one can enjoy charming ocean views within an eclectic atmosphere. Whether one desires a casual bite or an elaborate dining experience during their visit, there are plenty of options whether they are looking for sweet treats or seafood fare with outdoor seating available at some choices year-round. Other hot spots include Mexican cuisines and coffee houses offering freshly brewed teas and beverages.
Entertainment
Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is full of entertainment for everyone. There are many options, from museums and themed attractions to outdoor activities. No matter what type of entertainment you want, you will find plenty of exciting things to do in Los Angeles.
In this section, we will discuss the best type of entertainment you can experience in Los Angeles:
Hollywood Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl is an outdoor amphitheater in the Hollywood Hills district of Los Angeles, California. Boasting a seating capacity of nearly 18,000, the Hollywood Bowl is one of the largest open-air theaters in the United States. It hosts some of the biggest and most popular concerts, performances, festivals, and other events. Rolling Stone magazine recently named it one of America’s best live music venues.
The bowl was established in 1922 and opened two years later. The original shell was made from plaster painted to look like terracotta tile. Over the years, major renovation projects have taken place with additions such as reserved seating for up to 12,000 people, an iconic stage roof made from stainless steel mesh materials, and natural landscaping with hillsides partially covering surrounding views for a more theatrical experience for viewers.
Today it holds multiple events within its season from May through September every year, including:
- Classical music concerts (Los Angeles Philharmonic)
- Movie screenings (LA County Holiday Celebration)
- Performances (Jimmy Kimmel Live!)
Alongside this, they offer outdoor activities such as picnicking on their lawn that make it an enjoyable space for all ages – a fun-filled day out waiting to be enjoyed!
Dolby Theatre
The Dolby Theatre, formerly known as the Kodak Theatre, is located in the heart of Hollywood and is the official home of the Academy Awards. With its impressive state-of-the-art design and innovative acoustic technology, the theatre delivers a truly unforgettable experience to audiences. It also offers spectacular views of Los Angeles and its iconic landmarks, such as the Hollywood Sign.
The Dolby Theatre is also one of the premier locations for world-class entertainment, featuring top music concerts and award shows year-round. In addition to serving as host to some of Hollywood’s most significant events, including The American Idol Finals or Disney’s High School Musical: The Concert Tour, it also hosts many other notable events such as Cirque du Soleil’s ‘Iris’ or John Nettles’ popular Broadway musical series ‘Tapestry.’
Visitors can enjoy various pre-show amenities at Dolby Theatre, including concession stands offering classic movie theater snacks. In addition, the hip and stylish Grand Lobby provides an excellent space for networking opportunities. At the same time, guests can relax in high-quality seating and enjoy exclusive access to private bars or lounges before their favorite show or movie starts. So whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular guest, Dolby Theatre is the ultimate entertainment destination for those living in Los Angeles and looking for things to do.
LA Live
LA Live is a must-see destination in Los Angeles, United States. It’s the city’s premier entertainment hub at Olympic and Figueroa Boulevards in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles. The area offers spectacular experiences for all ages and interests, from concerts to movies to sports events.
At LA Live, you’ll find over 20 restaurants and bars offering global cuisine, shopping, and nightlife in an outdoor plaza with live entertainment seven days a week. Catch some tunes at The Novo or check out a basketball game at Staples Center – there’s always something happening here! Hollywood icons have also graced this public square during pre-eminent awards shows like the MTV Movie & TV Awards or film premiers at Microsoft Theater (formerly Nokia Theater). Plus, you can book private events at select venues such as Club Nokia or Conga Room while visiting LA Live’s exclusive JW Marriott Los Angeles Hotel, which borders the complex with 270 luxe guest rooms and suites commissioned by LA Clippers superstar Blake Griffin and designed by acclaimed interior designer Nate Berkus.
Lying on four city blocks teeming with lush lawns, beautiful fountains, art installations, and LED video walls that broadcast live events worldwide – L. A Live is the ultimate weekend destination for those looking for fun in town!
Hollywood Improv
Located in the heart of Hollywood, the Improv serves up the best in comedic talent from across the country. Some of the biggest names, such as Jay Leno, Jon Stewart, Steven Wright, and Adam Sandler, graced the stage on any slow night. It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced action or a first-time guest at a comedy club – everyone has a great time at The Improv!
The Improv also offers special events to make your night out even better. From themed nights to full-length stage shows, every performance features improvisational comedy that will make you laugh out loud. The venue regularly hosts special events, including:
- Just for laughs
- Drink’n Think group discussions.
Whether you’re looking for an offbeat evening in LA with friends or family or an edgy standup gig featuring Headliners, The Improv will surely be your spot!
Outdoor Activities
There are many outdoor activities in Los Angeles, United States! You will never run out of things to do, from hiking, kayaking, and biking to skateboarding, surfing, and beach volleyball. In addition, many parks, gardens, and beaches are scattered across the city, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities.
Let’s explore some of the outdoor activities you can do in Los Angeles:
Runyon Canyon Park
Runyon Canyon Park is a 160-acre public park located at the eastern end of the Hollywood Hills. It features trails from 1 to 4 miles long, boasting excellent views of Los Angeles. The grandeur of Runyon Canyon allows visitors to explore and experience nature in an urban environment.
The trails offer panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles, the Hollywood sign, the Griffith Observatory, and San Gabriel Mountains. At an elevation range between 400 ft to 1,320 ft, this park offers some great exercise routes suitable for all levels. Wide paved pathways promote a tranquil and lively atmosphere and plenty of seating areas to enjoy a breathtaking view while you soak up some Vitamin D!
You can also bring along your four-legged friends as long as they’re kept on a leash – however, be mindful that there is no shade or water available for them, so make sure you bring along enough water for everyone and maybe even a few snacks too! It’s also essential to follow park rules such as safety guidelines and help keep the area clean by disposing of your trash correctly when done with your hike.
Located north of Franklin Avenue, Runyon Canyon Park serves as an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, providing visitors with experiences like no other in Los Angeles! So lace up those shoes and make Runyon Canyon Park one of your favorite places for outdoor exploration!
Venice Beach
Venice Beach is a Los Angeles staple and one of the most popular places to go for outdoor activities. From surfing and swimming in the Pacific Ocean to biking, rollerblading, or jogging along the coastline – Venice Beach offers something for everyone.
The southern end of Venice beach boasts Muscle Beach – a man-made fitness area between two iconic piers that provide visitors with exercise stations and weights. In addition, visitors can enjoy Santa Monica Pier – home to Pacific Park amusement park rides and arcades – as well as Marina del Rey Harbor – an area offering boat rentals, sailing and kayak classes, fishing charters, yoga, and other on-the-water activities.
If you’re looking for more casual activities on Venice Beach, such as sunbathing, be sure also to explore Abbot Kinney Blvd., where you’ll find top-notch restaurants, bars, shops, and art galleries while still being connected to the beachside atmosphere. There’s something for everyone! So get out there to experience all that Venice Beach offers today!
Malibu Beach
Malibu Beach is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Los Angeles. Malibu Beach is on the Pacific coast and features 13 miles of unspoiled sand and spectacular views. From sunset to sunrise, adventure seekers come here for excellent waves, breathtaking scenery, and a vibrant beach lifestyle.
The sun can be intense at Malibu Beach, so remember to wear sunscreen and be vigilant about drinking plenty of fluids during your visit. Swimming is a popular pastime there, but never attempt it outside the designated swimming areas marked with buoys unless you are an experienced swimmer.
During your visit to Malibu beach, you can explore the picturesque hiking trails or rent a surfboard to hit the waves. After a day of adventure, grab lunch at one of the many beachside cafes before heading home with unforgettable memories to last a lifetime!
Griffith Park
Griffith Park is a 4,300-acre public park in the Hollywood Hills of Los Angeles. It is one of the most visited parks in the United States, with over 10 million visitors yearly. With its wide range of recreational activities and scenic beauty, Griffith Park provides something for people of all ages and interests.
At Griffith Park, you can explore the great outdoors by participating in various outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, and golfing. Visitors will also find plenty to discover and explore in the park’s many gardens and natural attractions, such as The Autry National Center, which houses artifacts from the early days of Los Angeles history; Griffith Observatory; Greek Theater; Travel Town Museum; and Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens. There are also numerous campgrounds where visitors can enjoy stargazing under the night sky or go on nighttime hikes through some of California’s stunning landscapes.
Several picnic areas throughout Griffith Park provide lovely views of surrounding cityscapes or beautiful open vistas alongside mountains and trails wrapped around lush valleys full of wildflowers for visitors looking to relax while still getting out into nature. Furthermore, restaurants are available for those looking for a convenient dining destination after enjoying their day’s adventure outdoors. However you choose to spend your time at Griffth Park, it provides an enjoyable experience for all its guests no matter what season or day it is!