Discover the Best of Los Angeles with Our Top To-Do List
Los Angeles is a city full of surprises, and we want to make sure you get the most out of it. Check out our curated list of unique city tours, tantalizing food tastings, and breathtaking nature trips. There's so much more to LA than just Hollywood! Whether you're a local or a tourist, these are the must-see places you won't want to miss. Join us on an unforgettable journey through the City of Angels. Let's go!
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Travel Tips
- For flights, Skyscanner is excellent for comparing the best airline deals.
- For accommodations, our family trusts Booking.com for reasonable prices.
- Organize your trips easily with a Travel Planner.
- For tried-and-true travel and hiking gear, check out our Amazon Storefront.
The Hot Spots: Tourist Attractions
1. Palm Trees of Beverly Hills
- Check out Bedford Drive
If you're looking for that street in Los Angeles that's famously lined with Palm trees and want to avoid the crowd, this is a hidden gem of the city. We usually bring our family and friends here when they visit as it's less crowded and more opportunities for great photos.
2. The Hollywood Sign
Three options:
Lake Hollywood Park
- Address: 3160 Canyon Lake Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068
- This is the easiest way to see the sign just park and walk to the park. Parking is limited here.
There are two hiking routes: Charlie Turner Trail or Brush Canyon Trailhead
- The easiest hiking route to see the Hollywood Sign.
- Address: Griffith Observatory Distance
- Pay Parking
- A closer look at the Hollywood sign. A short and well-maintained trail and getting lost will not be an option.
- Address: Canyon Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068
- Free Admission
- Free Parking
3. Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Address: Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Experience the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame where you can stroll along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, admiring the stars in the sidewalks featuring famous celebrities and TV personalities. This is just a few minutes away from the Lake Hollywood Park.
4. Rodeo Drive
- Address: Beverly Hills, California; Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is a shopper's paradise, and Rodeo Drive is the place to be for luxury brands. Take a stroll down the famous street to indulge in some retail therapy while taking in the sights.
5. LACMA
- LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art)
- Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
- Pay Parking
See the "Urban Light" Los Angeles Iconic Light Installation. The famous iconic installation in Los Angeles. It can get really crowded here so be patient.
6. Grand Central Market
- Food adventure in Grand Central
- Address: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
- Free Admission
- On-site Parking Structure with fee
A European-inspired food market in Downtown L.A. that has been in business since 1917, talks about good food and chill ambience. I treated myself to an avocado fish taco and a beer at lunchtime. I'm a big girl and my husband is the one driving - never drink and drive everyone.. no-no-no.
7. Santa Monica Pier
- Walk at the beach in Santa Monica Pier
- Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Free Admission
- Pay Parking
There are a lot of restaurants at Sta Monica Pier however it gets crowded at the weekends. The kind of crowd that I want to get away with. I prefer to come here on weekdays or early mornings. Dine in and afterwards walk at the beach to break down all those calories.
8. Themed Parks
Address: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802
Disneyland, located in Anaheim, offers an enchanting experience with its classic attractions, beloved characters, and magical parades. It's a place where dreams come true and both kids and adults can immerse themselves in the magic.
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
- Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood, on the other hand, provides a thrilling adventure with its behind-the-scenes looks at movie-making, exciting rides, and the famous Wizarding World of Harry Potter. These two iconic parks are just the beginning of what Los Angeles has to offer.
Address: 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy, Valencia, CA 91355
- Six Flags Magic Mountain
Six Flags Magic Mountain for adrenaline junkies.
- Knott’s Berry Farm
Knott’s Berry Farm for a blend of old-school charm and modern thrills.
9. The Games
Address: 1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
We got our discounted tickets from GROUPON a reliable platform to find cheap deals for NBA games, restaurants and more.
- Angels Flight Railway
- Address: 351 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
- The fare is 1 USD each way.
Angels Flight connects Hill Street and Olive Street, offering a short yet charming ride up and down Bunker Hill. Whether you're a local resident or a curious tourist, a ride on Angels Flight is a delightful experience that offers unique views and a sense of connection to the vibrant history of Los Angeles.
11. Chinatown
- Stroll around Chinatown Central Plaza
- Address: 943 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Free Admission
- Pay Parking
Chinatowns are all over the world check out the Los Angeles version of it. Shop for cheap and fresh fruits around here.
12. Koreatown
- Address: S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005
- Free Admission
- Pay Parking
Feed your cravings for Pork Barbecue, Kimchi, and Milk Tea at Koreatown. We love Eight Korean BBQ as they have a unique 8 flavored pork selection on their menu.
Check out: Eight Korean BBQ
Address: 863 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005
13. Little Tokyo
- Visit Little Tokyo Japanese Village Plaza
- Address: 335 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Free Admission
- Pay Parking
Favorite Parking Spot:
Brunswig Square Parking
Address: 352 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
It's safe, clean, cheaper and most importantly within walking distance from Little Tokyo Village.
14. Little Ethiopian
Dine in at Little Ethiopian
Address: 1037 South Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles
Pay parking and Street parking
If you're craving something vegan or always want to try vegan dishes, then find this Little Ethiopian place in Los Angeles.
Check out: Rahel Ethiopian Vegan Cuisine
Address: 1047 S Fairfax Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019
15. Little Mexico
Two known locations are Olvera Street and Plaza del Valle. If you prefer a less crowded environment with more space to move around, Plaza del Valle is an excellent choice. This is the place if you're looking for Authentic Mexican dishes and you'll find most businesses are run by family-owned Mexican families.
Olvera Street in Downtown
- Address: Olvera St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Plaza Del Valle
- Address: 8610 Van Nuys Blvd, Panorama City, CA 91402
- Street Parking
Check out: Restaurant La Huarecita
Address: 8610 Van Nuys Blvd, Panorama City, CA 91402
Discover the Beaches: Enjoy the California Sun
16. Venice Beach
- Address: Venice Beach, 90291
- Free Admission
- Street Parking @ Residential Area
- Pay Parking
17. Newport Beach
- Address: Newport Beach, California
- Pay Parking
18. Will Rogers State Beach
- Address: 17000 CA-1, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
- Free Admission
- Parking: 6 USD
This is a good option if you're trying to get away from the crowd in the nearby Sta Monica Beach. Just a few minutes drive away and you get to experience the same waters and a lovely view of the sunset.
19. El Matador Beach
- Address: 32350 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
- Free Admission
- Pay Parking
I love this secluded beach. It's clean, people come here to relax and just enjoy the view of the waters.
- Address: Hermosa Beach, CA 90254
- Entrance fee: Free
- Parking: 3 USD - 30 USD or Street parking for free
Nearby Redondo Beach
- Address: Fisherman's Wharf, Fishermans Wharf, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
A less crowded beach with a long stretch of white sand. Kids were sandboarding here. There's a plaza nearby for drinks and meals. Afterwards, just a few minutes away we went to a Brazilian Steakhouse near Redondo Beach for our 30th-month celebration in this area while overlooking a beautiful sunset.
Check out: Samba By The Sea
Address: 207 N Harbor Dr, Redondo Beach, CA 90277
We purchased our Brazilian Buffet voucher with Groupon.
22. Point Dume Beach
- Address: 6800 Westward Beach Rd, Malibu, CA 90265
- Free Admission
- Pay Parking
The best overlooking hike on my list. We went here in Springtime and the flowers were amazing, we saw whales too!
23. Manhattan Beach
- Manhattan Beach Pier
- Address: 2 Manhattan Beach Blvd, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
For Parking:
Lot 2
Address: 222 12th St, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Address: 222 12th St, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266
Pay Parking
24. Zuma Beach
- Address: 30000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265
- Parking: 8 USD, depending on the season usually ranges from 3 USD - 10 USD
- Pay by cash to avoid the hassle
- There's also street parking for free if you luckily find a spot.
25. Long Beach
- Shoreline Village
- Address: 429 Shoreline Village Drive, Long Beach, CA 90802
Another great spot is Shoreline Village, which offers a leisurely walk through a collection of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
No matter which beach you choose to visit in California, you can expect to be surrounded by natural beauty, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere, just try to avoid the weekend. So, pack your sunscreen and get ready to enjoy the sunny California beaches! Remember to use Coral Reef Sunscreen to protect yourself and the ocean.
Hidden Gems of Los Angeles
.jpg "What To Do In SkyPark At Santa's Village, California")
26. SkyPark At Santa's Village
- Address: 28950 CA-18, Skyforest, CA 92385
- Ticket price: 59 USD per person
- We got our discounted tickets from Groupon, a reliable platform to find cheap deals for tickets, restaurants and more.
- Parking: Free Parking
A Theme Park in the Mountains of California. In Santa's village, the magic of Christmas is everlasting.
27. Japanese Garden
- Address: 6100 Woodley Ave, Van Nuys, CA 91406
- $5 Admission
- Free Parking
A huge zen garden in the city. The flowers and trees are organized to perfection. They have a tea house inside where you can enjoy the garden view with bits of pastry on the side of your small teacup.
- Gondola Paradiso
- Address: 1299 S Victoria Ave, Oxnard, CA 93035
Experience the Channel Islands Harbor on a gondola for a charming weekend escape that's conveniently close to Los Angeles. Enjoy a picturesque gondola ride that feels like a little piece of Italy right in Oxnard, California.
29. The Last Bookstore
- Address: 453 S Spring St Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013
At The Last Bookstore, visitors can browse creatively displayed books, including a floating book sculpture and small wooden staircases that lead to unique reading spaces. This destination attracts many visitors seeking its Instagram-worthy ambience.
30. The Getty Center
- Address: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Offers a unique blend of art, architecture, and a stunning garden, the Getty Center stands as a cultural gem in the heart of Los Angeles.
31. Griffith Observatory
- Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Griffith Observatory stands as an iconic landmark that has been captivating visitors for decades. Offering breathtaking views of the cityscape below, the observatory is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
- Visit the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden
- Address: 301 North Baldwin AvenueArcadia, CA, 91007
- Free Parking
Entrance fee: Adults: USD 15, Students and Seniors: USD 11, Ages 5-12: USD 5 and 4 and under is free
33. Descanso Gardens
- Descanso Gardens
- Address: 1418 Descanso Dr, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
Descanso Gardens is my absolute favorite garden and a hidden gem in LA. It's a serene and beautiful botanical garden that provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.
34. Water Cruise
- LA Waterfront Cruises
- Address: 1150 Nagoya Way, San Pedro, CA 90731
- Free Parking
We purchased our LA Waterfront Cruise Ticket with Groupon. It was a Mother's Day Groupon deal for the whole family for a lovely Saturday cruise in the waters of San Pedro.
.jpg "Hang gliding in Los Angeles California")
35. Hang Gliding
- Sylmar Flight Park
- Location: 12580 Gridley Street, Sylmar, CA 91342
- Parking: Free
Experience an adrenaline rush while hang gliding in Los Angeles.
Foods To Try: Unique and One-of-a-kind
36. Yamashiro
- Dine in at Yamashiro Hollywood
- Address: 1999 N Sycamore Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
An iconic landmark is called the Japanese Mountain Palace in the hills of Hollywood. What's interesting about this place is the Yamshiro's Pagoda which was flown in from Japan and is still presently considered the oldest structure in California. It has been converted into a restaurant, making it a unique dining experience with all its history.
37. Castaway
- Overlooking Dining Experience at Castaway
- Address: 1250 E Harvard Rd, Burbank, CA 91501
- Restaurant Parking
My first birthday celebration in Los Angeles was up in this overlooking view of the city. We went here in January, the fireplace and the glass of wine made the experience magical.
38. Oldest McDonald's
- Visit the oldest McDonald's hamburger drive-up in Los Angeles
- Address: 10207 Lakewood Blvd, Downey, CA 90240
- Street Parking
This McDonald's chain has been open since August 1953 till this very day, and they have kept everything classic even the huge sign.
39. In-N-Out
40. Pink's Hot Dog
41. Cafe on 27
- Cafe on 27
- Address: 1861 N Topanga Canyon Blvd, Topanga, CA 90290
When in LA, enjoy dining at a cafe on 27 for a unique treehouse dining experience.
42. Tacos Trucks
- Stop by for Mexican Street Tacos, they're everywhere!
Craving for Authentic Mexican food? Check out Taco trucks and you'll find the best tacos in Los Angeles. There are lots of food trucks in the Valley Area. These Mexican street tacos are cheap and delicious.
43. Tea-tasting in Los Angeles
- Chado Tea Room
- Address: 79 N Raymond Ave, Pasadena, CA 91103
- Two more locations: Downtown LA, and Hollywood
- Street Parking
- Address: 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA
- Free Parking
The event usually starts on March 5th till May 2nd and if you happen to be available, go for it.
Regular tasting cards (ages 12+):45 USD (plus tax) and will include five food tastings
Junior tasting cards (ages 3-11): 20 USD (plus tax)
45. Porto’s
They’re known for their delicious and diverse selection of baked goods, Portos offers a unique culinary experience that captures the essence of Cuban and Armenian flavors. From their famous potato balls to their mouthwatering cheese rolls, every item on Portos' menu is crafted with care and attention to detail.
Discover Your Paradise In California: If you like long drives...
Exciting Getaways near Los Angeles
For a quick escape from the city, consider Solvang and Big Bear – a great option not too far from LA. If you're up for a longer drive, venture out to South Lake Tahoe and Mammoth Lake for an unforgettable experience.
- Also, check out: List of favorite hiking places in Southern California
If you're passionate about nature, you've struck gold! California is home to some of the most awe-inspiring national parks in the United States. Whether you're an avid hiker, camper, or rock climber, there's an adventure waiting for you. With a grand total of nine parks, California has the highest number of national parks in the country, each with its own unique charm and character. Here's a list of all the parks you can explore:
- Channel Islands National Park is renowned for its stunning coastal scenery, diverse marine life, and abundant hiking trails.
- Death Valley National Park is the largest national park in the contiguous United States, boasting dramatic desert landscapes, soaring peaks, and colorful canyons.
- Joshua Tree National Park is famous for its otherworldly rock formations and the Joshua trees.
- Kings Canyon National Park is a hiker's paradise, featuring towering granite cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and pristine forests.
- Lassen Volcanic National Park is one of the few places in the world where visitors can witness all four types of volcanoes.
- Pinnacles National Park is known for its unique rock formations, challenging hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, including the endangered California condor.
- Redwood National and State Parks are home to some of the tallest trees on earth, including the iconic coast redwoods.
- Sequoia National Park is best known for its giant sequoia trees, including the General Sherman Tree, the largest tree on the planet by volume.
- Yosemite National Park is famous for its stunning waterfalls and granite cliffs.
I hope this guide serves as your ultimate bucket list for things to do in Los Angeles. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Angeleno, our curated selection promises an unforgettable experience, capturing the magic and diversity that make Los Angeles truly special.
Have fun and be safe ^__^
Are you considering a move to California? Check out our guide on how to Navigate Life in California: A Helpful Guide for Future Residents.
Do you want more adventure?
If you still have one more day to spare why not stay one night at Embassy Suites in Oxnard for a relaxing weekend getaway.
Where am I going next?
My next adventure is to Hike the Hollywood Sign via Brush Canyon Trailhead.
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