24 Must-See Attractions in Los Angeles, California
Whether it’s Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica or Malibu, Los Angeles is packed with things to see and do. So, if you’re planning your next trip, this is your go-to list for the things to do in Los Angeles.
Los Angeles is known for many things: the entertainment industry, expansive beaches, a great culinary scene and a renowned nightlife. But if you want to boil LA down to its most essential bits, it’s important to experience the attractions that make it the spectacular city that it is. On any given day, you can swim in the sea, hike up a mountain, see someone famous and shop until you drop. So, as you think about packing for the ultimate LA adventure, make sure your suitcase is filled with swimming suits, hiking boots and plenty of space for souvenirs.
1. Warner Bros Studio Tour
Amusement Park
The Warner Bros. Studio complex is one of the most bustling and exciting odes to old and new Hollywood. Get access to famous sound stages, interactive exhibits and the locations of some of your favorite films and TV shows. The two-hour tour includes a stop at Central Perk from Friends, the DC Universe: The Exhibit and an in-depth look at Batmobiles throughout the years.
2. La Brea Tar Pits
Museum, Natural Feature
3. Natural History Museum
Museum
For dinosaur lovers, this classic Downtown LA museum is an absolute must-visit. Located in Exposition Park, the Natural History Museum opened in 1913. Today, it houses more than 35 million artefacts, including the Dinosaur Hall with a T-Rex trio and Triceratops fossil, the Age of Mammals with giant fossilized mammoths and Nature Gardens with more than 600 plant species.
4. Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Museum, Park
5. Peterson Automotive
Museum
Speaking of cars, the Petersen Automotive Museum is ground zero for motor enthusiasts of all ages. There are rotating exhibits that ensure no two trips will be the same, and there are a bevy of events to keep your interests peeked behind the wheel. One of the less-touristy but probably most interesting parts of the museum is The Vault where an extra 250 rare and unique cars are waiting to be gawked at.
6. Point Dume
Hiking Trail, Natural Feature
Any trip to LA should include a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway that carves through the mountains of Malibu on one side and hugs the bright blue ocean on the other. Heading deep into this urban oasis, you’ll find Point Dume, a promontory point with soaring cliffs, pristine beaches, and wildlife that includes sun-bathing sea lions and whale spouts off in the distance. The Point is also next Zuma Beach, which is the ideal tanning and chilling spot that makes the busy streets of LA feel thousands of miles away.
7. Hollywood Walk of Fame
Memorial
You can find the Walk of Fame along Hollywood Boulevard between Gower Street and La Brea Avenue; Vine Street between Yucca Street and Sunset Boulevard; and Marshfield Way between Hollywood Boulevard and La Brea Avenue. Along the route, guests will also encounter the historic Hollywood Roosevelt hotel, as well as the legendary TLC Chinese Theater, host of numerous notable film premieres and, at least for three years, the Academy Awards. Pause at Sunset Boulevard and Bronson Avenue to get a clear view of the distant Hollywood Sign. Expect these streets to be packed with tourists, as well as street performers vying for attention and tips.
8. Disneyland
Park
9. The Getty
Museum
10. Griffith Observatory
Building, Museum, Park
11. Rodeo Drive
Park
12. Santa Monica Pier
Amusement Park
13. Venice Boardwalk
Natural Feature, Park
14. Sunset Strip
Music Venue, Architectural Landmark, Historical Landmark
Home to legendary music venues the Viper Room, Whisky a Go Go, and the Roxy Theatre, the Sunset Strip has seen major performances from rock royalty since the 1960s. The Strip is more than just music though, as it’s also home to famous hotels like Chateau Marmont, and Sunset Tower, as well as big-time comedy clubs like the Comedy Store and the Laugh Factory. On any given night, you could run into A-list celebs, music gods, and comic legends while dining, drinking, and just cruising this famous boulevard.
15. Huntington Library
Botanical Garden, Bridge, Library, Museum, Natural Feature
16. Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Cemetery, Park
17. Mulholland Drive
Hiking Trail
18. California Science Center
Museum, Park, Theater
19. Universal Studios
Amusement Park, Park
20. Echo Park
Park
21. Aquarium of the Pacific
Aquarium, Park
22. Hollywood Sign Hike
Building
23. The city's most iconic movie locations
Theater
24. Grand Central Market
Market, American, Dim Sum, Seafood, Street Food, Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free
This article is an updated version of a story created by Juliette Bennett Rylah.
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