Things to do in Los Angeles: The Best highlights and points of Interest

You’re planning to visit Los Angeles during your next trip?

Great idea!

With its iconic landmarks and the numerous activities you can do in Los Angeles, you will for sure enjoy your trip to one of the trendiest destination in the world.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 45 best things to do in Los Angeles, with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Los Angeles in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even 1 week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Los Angeles? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

Visit Los Angeles: All Must See attractions

1. Hollywood Walk of Fame

An iconic emblem of Hollywood’s rich legacy, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is probably the most popular place to visit in Los Angeles. You’ll walk on stars – literally!

This famous sidewalk boasts more than 2,600 brass stars embedded in the pavement, each dedicated to notable figures in the entertainment industry (movie, Tv, sport, music…).

There, you can see the stars of Michael Jackson, Bruce Willis, Céline Dion and Dwayne Johnson, for example.

Simply walk around searching for your favorite celebrities and take photos next to their stars. You can find the map of their locations on the official website.

Even better: you can have a star created with your name on it while you pose for a few photos!

It makes a great unique souvenir 😄

You need to book the “Get your own Star” activity in advance by clicking here.

2. Universal Studios Hollywood

During your trip to Los Angeles, you will for sure want to step into the captivating world of movies at Universal Studios Hollywood 

You will see, it’s not just a theme park: it’s an immersive experience where your favorite movies and TV shows come to life!

I really loved it, there are so many attractions, rides, and shows. You really need to plan a full day there.

Here are some of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss:

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Dive deep into the magic with the thrilling Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey ride, and stroll through the iconic Hogsmeade Village.
• Jurassic World – The Ride: Experience the power, thrills, and excitement of gigantic dinosaurs in a newly designed adventure.
• Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: Join Gru, his daughters, and the Minions on a great 3D ride.
• Studio Tour: Discover the secrets of Hollywood filmmaking on this iconic behind-the-scenes tour.
• Super Nintendo World: the latest open universe. The scenery is just incredible!

I recommend that you download the Universal Studios app to check waiting times at attractions and the schedule for live shows and performances.

3. The Hollywood Sign and Hiking Trails

The Hollywood Sign is of course one of Los Angeles main tourist attractions!

For an iconic shot with the Hollywood Sign, head to Griffith Observatory (I’ll tell you more about it later in the article) or to the viewpoint at Lake Hollywood Park.

Several trails also lead up to the sign, each offering varying difficulty levels.

The Hollyridge Trail is one of the most popular hiking path that meanders through the Hollywood Hills, providing hikers with stunning panoramic views of Los Angeles and a perfect vantage point for capturing photos of the Hollywood Sign.

Starting from the Beachwood Drive area, this moderate trek is about 5.6 kilometers round trip.

You can also opt for a walk with a guide, who will also take some superb photos. Click here for information and to book!

A 90-minute tour to the Hollywood sign is also included in the Los Angeles Explorer Pass.

4. Santa Monica Pier

When you think of LA’s iconic beach, the Santa Monica Pier probably comes to mind.

As you stroll down the pier, you can go to Pacific Park, its famous amusement park, or try various activities such as fishing or visiting the small “Heal the Bay Aquarium” located under the pier.

With its large choice of eateries, amusement rides, and live entertainment, it’s a perfect spot for both daytime adventures and evening relaxation during your stay in Los Angeles.

And don’t forget, you can catch some of the most beautiful sunsets here!

5. Pacific Park

Pacific Park is the oceanfront amusement park located on the Santa Monica Pier I briefly mentioned above.

There, can enjoy a range of classic rides, roller coasters, games, but the highlight is undoubtedly the solar-powered Ferris wheel that offers panoramic views of the coastline.

Pacific Park is a place you should definitely visit in Los Angeles if you’re traveling with kids.

6. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Let’s continue this Los Angeles travel guide with the Venice Beach Boardwalk.

This place offers everything from street performers to workout zones, a skate park, and a lot of shops and restaurants.

As you walk, you’ll witness the diverse culture that makes LA so unique. You can even rent rollerblades or a bicycle (click here to book it) and explore the entire length of the boardwalk.

And of course, the beach itself is a great place to relax and take in the sun.

7. Warner Bros Studios Tour

The Warner Bros. Studios Tour in Hollywood offers visitors an immersive experience into the world of film and television production.

As you navigate the legendary studio lots, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of iconic sets, soundstages, and a vast prop department.

The tour often includes stops at sets of current TV shows and movies, the chance to see the Central Perk café set from “Friends”, and an interactive soundstage dedicated to the DC Universe and Harry Potter franchise.

With skilled tour guides sharing insider stories and fun facts, it’s a must-visit during your trip to Los Angeles.

The Warner Bros Studio Tour is included in the Los Angeles Explorer Pass.

Without the pass, you have to book your tour in advance by clicking on the button below:

8. Sunset Strip / Sunset Boulevard

For a taste of LA’s nightlife and rock ‘n’ roll history, you should visit the Sunset Strip, a section of the popular Sunset Boulevard.

Famous for its clubs, bars, and live-music venues, this stretch has hosted many iconic artists over the years.

From historic venues like The Roxy and Whisky a Go Go (where John Lennon and Bob Marley performed!) to modern hangouts, there’s something for every music enthusiast.

You can spend all the night drinking and dancing away!

The Strip is also home to luxury hotels, beautiful rooftops, restaurants and boutiques.

It’s really a must-see in Los Angeles at night.

9. Rodeo Drive / Beverly Hills

Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is synonymous with luxury.

If you’re a fan of designer brands or just love window shopping, this is the place to be!

As you stroll through this opulent street, you can spot some of the world’s most exclusive boutiques.

But Beverly Hills isn’t just about shopping. You can also take a leisurely drive or walk around the neighborhood, admiring the palatial homes and manicured gardens. Who knows, you might even spot a celebrity!

10. The Getty Center

Art enthusiasts and history buffs, this one’s for you! At the Getty Center, you can immerse yourself in an extensive collection of art, from medieval times to contemporary pieces.

Set atop a hill, the Getty offers more than just art. You’ll also be treated to panoramic views of Los Angeles, making it a dual experience of cultural immersion and scenic beauty.

After exploring the museum, you should take a moment to wander through the stunning central garden.

Admission is free but you need to book a time slot by clicking here.

11. Griffith Observatory

Nestled atop the hills of Los Angeles, the Griffith Observatory is one of the best places in LA to get closer to the stars, quite literally.

Inside, you can explore exhibits about our solar system and beyond.

The real treat, however, is the view of the Hollywood Sign. With the sprawling city below and the iconic sign in the distance, you’ll have one of the most memorable views of your Los Angeles visit.

From the Griffith Observatory, you will also have a great view over downtwon LA.

And do you know what? Entrance to this famous Los Angeles tourist attractions is free!

12. Helicopter tour above Los Angeles

Are you looking for the best activity to do in Los Angeles?

For those seeking an unparalleled view of the city, a helicopter tour above Los Angeles is the way to go. From the skies, you can grasp the vast expanse of this iconic city and spot all its major landmarks in one swoop.

From the famous Hollywood sign to the vast Pacific coastline, the view from the top is nothing short of breathtaking.

You should definitely consider this adventure if you’re looking for a unique perspective of LA!

Book your helicopter flight over Los Angeles by clicking on the button below:

You can alternatively opt for a night helicopter flight by clicking here!

13. Grand Central Market

Feeling hungry?

Let’s thus head over to the Grand Central Market, another place to visit in Los Angeles.

Operating since 1917, this market offers a tantalizing array of food stalls. From gourmet coffee to international cuisines, there’s something for every palate.

Plus, it’s a perfect snapshot of the diverse culinary scene in Los Angeles.

If you’re a foodie, you should try the egg sandwiches at Eggslut or the Korean food at Shiku. 

14. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

The LACMA is another museum you should visit during your stay in Los Angeles.

As the largest art museum in the western United States, it features artists from around the globe. You can walk through time, exploring artworks from ancient civilizations to modern masterpieces.

Three of the most famous attractions at LACMA include:

• Urban Light: a large-scale assemblage sculpture by Chris Burden. The installation consists of 202 restored street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s, most of which once lit the streets of Southern California.
• Levitated Mass: Created by Michael Heizer, this is a 340-ton boulder positioned above a concrete trench, creating an artwork that visitors can walk underneath.
• Pavilion for Japanese Art: Designed by architect Bruce Goff, this distinctive building houses LACMA’s impressive collection of Japanese art, including scrolls, screens, and woodblock prints.

15. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles

When visiting Los Angeles, you should set aside some time for the Natural History Museum.

With extensive exhibits covering everything from dinosaurs to gemstones, there’s so much to explore and learn. You can immerse yourself in the past and gaze upon the giant skeletons of T-Rex and other ancient creatures.

If you are traveling to Los Angeles with kids, this museum is a definitive hit. While there, you should also check out the Butterfly Pavilion, especially during springtime.

To avoid queuing, you need to buy your ticket directly online:

Note that the entrance is already  included with the Los Angeles Explorer Pass.

16. Petersen Automotive Museum

The car enthusiasts who are going to visit Los Angeles, should definitely pass by the Petersen Automotive Museum.

With its sleek design and a collection of over 300 cars, you can walk through the evolution of automotive design and technology.

You should keep an eye out for their special exhibitions which often feature iconic movie cars and rare automotive gems.

Tickets to visit the Los Angeles Automobile Museum can be purchased directly here:

17. Battleship Iowa Museum

Let’s continue this list of the best things to do in Los Angeles with the Battleship Iowa Museum.

Docked at the LA Waterfront, the museum offers a look into naval history. You can embark on a self-guided tour, experiencing life at sea and getting a glimpse of the ship’s storied past.

And make sure to climb up to the ship’s bridge for a panoramic view of the harbor.

To visit, you need book your ticket in advance by clicking here.

Note that the entrance is already included with the Los Angeles Explorer Pass.

18. La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

While in Los Angeles, you should definitely visit the renowned La Brea Tar Pits and Museum.

Dive deep into prehistoric LA, where saber-toothed cats and mammoths roamed. You can observe active excavations and watch as scientists uncover ice age fossils right before your eyes.

During your visit to the museum, you will be able to see the thousands of fossils and learn about Los Angeles during the ice age. An excellent idea if you are visiting Los Angeles with your children!

To book your tickets to the museum, simply click here.

Note that the entrance is already  included with the Los Angeles Explorer Pass.

19. The Grove Shopping Center

If you’re in the mood for a bit of shopping in Los Angeles, The Grove shopping centre is the place to be.

Shops include Banana Republic, Asos, Gap, Nike, Lululemon, Maje, Sandro, Sephora and many more.

20. The Original Farmers Market

Adjacent to The Grove, The Original Farmers Market is a famous spot.

Established in 1934, this market is brimming with history, charm, and a plethora of gourmet grocers, eateries, and unique shops.

There, you can find fresh produce, meats, seafood, and an array of international cuisines.

21. Olvera Street

Known as “the birthplace of Los Angeles”, Olvera Street is a historic district and one of the iconic places of Los Angeles.

You should stroll along this lively marketplace to get a taste of old Los Angeles, with its traditional Mexican culture, handcrafted goods, and festive vibe.

For a complete experience, you should dine at one of the Mexican restaurants and enjoy live mariachi performances.

22. Los Angeles City Hall Observation Deck

Next head to the Los Angeles City Hall Observation Deck, another one of Los Angeles main attractions. And for a good reason!

Free of charge and often less crowded than other view points, this deck offers panoramic sights of the city and beyond.

You can also appreciate the architecture of the City Hall building itself, an emblem of LA’s rich history.

23. The Bradbury Building

You should add the historic Bradbury Building to your LA itinerary.

Recognized for its ornate ironwork, marble stairs, and skylit atrium, it’s an architectural marvel. Movie buffs might recognize it from films such as ‘Blade Runner’.

Admission is free, but you should respect the office building’s working environment while exploring.

24. Dodger Stadium

During your holidays in Los Angeles, you can visit the iconic Dodger Stadium.

You can feel the electric atmosphere during a game or take a behind-the-scenes stadium tour on non-game days.

To see a baseball game at the Dodger Stadium, click here:

25. Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is renown for its extensive collections of art (paintings, sculpture, photography), literature, as well as its mesmerizing gardens.

The 16 themed gardens (Chinese, Desert, Japanese, Jungle) are very beautiful and well maintained.

You need to book your entrance in advance on the official website.

26. The Grammy Museum

The Grammy Museum is the perfect place to visit for music lovers.

What I personally loved about it is how it offers a uniquely interactive experience, letting you mix your own tracks and even step into the shoes of a music producer.

Plus, their revolving exhibits mean there’s always something fresh and exciting to see – from iconic outfits to unheard recordings.

To buy your ticket to the Grammy Museum, you need to click on the button below:

Entrance to the Grammy Museum is included with the Los Angeles Explorer Pass.

27. The Broad Contemporary Art Museum

The Broad is a contemporary art museum in downtown Los Angeles.

Featuring over 2,000 works of art, it’s a must-visit for art aficionados, but also if you enjoy unconventinal architecture!

As you walk through the museum, you’ll encounter pieces from some of the most prominent artists of the last five decades like Andy Warhol and Keith Haring.

Also, don’t forget to check out Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms, a popular attraction within the museum.

Entrance is free but all visitors must book a time slot in advance.

28. The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Located just a short distance from The Broad, you should also explore The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA).

MOCA provides insights into the art world’s current trends and directions.

Just like for the Broad Contemporary Art Museum, you need to get your free tickets online too book a timeslot.

29. Runyon Canyon Park

For those looking to combine sightseeing with a bit of physical activity, Runyon Canyon Park is the place to be.

You can hike the various trails, each offering a unique perspective of Los Angeles, from downtown skylines to the iconic Hollywood sign.

30. Echo Park Lake

Echo Park Lake offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

You can rent a swan-shaped pedalo (click here!), marvel at the downtown skyline reflections on the water, or simply enjoy a leisurely walk around the lake.

If you’re going to Los Angeles in the spring, you’ll be treated to the sight of blooming lotus flowers covering the lake.

31. Watts Towers

Constructed over 33 years by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia, the Watts Towers are an impressive example of non-traditional urban architecture.

Comprising 17 interconnected sculptures, you should explore this National Historic Landmark to appreciate its intricate designs and mosaics.

You can take guided tours offered on specific days to gain insights into the history and significance of these towers. All the information can be found on the official website.

32. Paramount Pictures Studios Tour

For movie buffs and those curious about the magic of filmmaking, you should not miss out on the Paramount Pictures Studios Tour.

As the longest-running and only major film studio in Hollywood, Paramount offers a journey through cinematic history. You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at where some of the most iconic movies and TV shows were produced.

You can choose between different tour options, from a general studio tour to a VIP experience. Book it in advance here!

Best things to do in Los Angeles at night

33. The Comedy Store

Going to The Comedy Store, on Sunset Boulevard, is the perfect way to spend a fun evening in LA.

Many comedy legends performed on this stage!

On any given night, you can be treated to a lineup of both seasoned pros and up-and-coming stars.

Tickets sell out quickly, especially for big-name comedians. Make sure to book in advance!

34. LA Live and Staples Center (Now called Crypto.com Arena)

LA Live is an entertainment district. With restaurants, concert venues, movie theaters and nightclubs, there’s always something happening.

Next to it, there is also the Staples Center (now renamed Crypto.com Arena), home to concerts and sporting events. Whether you’re planning to watch a Lakers game or attending a concert, it will take place here!

35. Walt Disney Concert Hall

An architectural marvel and a paradise for music lovers, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is a jewel of Los Angeles’ cultural scene.

It’s one of the most acoustically sophisticated concert hall in the world. If you have time during your trip to LA, you should definitely attend a performance here, be it classical music, jazz, or any other genre.

For a unique experience, you can also take the self-guided audio tour of the building during the day to appreciate its design fully. More info here.

36. The Hollywood Bowl

The iconic Hollywood Bowl is not just a venue but an experience.

Nestled amidst the Hollywood Hills, it’s been the city’s premier destination for outdoor concerts for nearly a century.

You can see upcoming events and book tickets on the official website

Bonus – More activities in Los Angeles

You are looking for even more activities in Los Angeles?

Here are a few other activities to enjoy during your visit to LA (simply click on the links for more information and to book):

• Bus Hop-On Hop-Off
• Half-day guided bus tour + photo stops
• Full-day guided bus tour of LA
• Gastronomic guided tour with food tasting
• Guided tour of the Dolby Theatre
• Ticket for Madame Tussauds Hollywood
• Ticket for the Richard Nixon Presidential Library
• One-hour or 2-hour horse ride in Griffith Park 
• Surf lesson at Venice Beach or Santa Monica
• Guided kayak or paddle tour of Marina del Rey
• Cruise in LA marina with aperitif

Best things to do around Los Angeles

Now that you know everything about the best things to do in the city, it’s time to discover the best places to visit around Los Angeles.

To get to most of these places, you’ll need to rent a car.

You should thus check all car rental agencies rates on Booking.com Cars (click here). It’s the best way to get the best price!

37. Newport Beach

A quick drive from downtown LA, Newport Beach offers a delightful blend of upscale living and laid-back beach vibes.

From sunbathing on the golden sands to exploring boutique shops, it’s a slice of Californian paradise.

38. Malibu

Synonymous with oceanfront luxury, Malibu is where the waves meet the opulence.

Its beaches and hiking trails offer a refreshing escape from the city hustle. Don’t miss out on the El Matador Beach – it’s one of Malibu’s hidden gems!

While here, you can indulge in seafood dining and visit renowned wineries.

If you’re a wine lover, you can book a nice walk around Malibu vineyards by clicking here.

39. Disneyland Park Los Angeles

No list about the best things to do around Los Angeles is complete without mentioning “the happiest place on Earth!”

Disneyland Park offers a magical experience for kids and adults alike. So whether you’re going there to meet beloved characters or enjoy exhilarating rides, you will have a lot of fun!

Here are my favorite attractions at Disneyland park:

• I particularly loved “Indiana Jones Adventure” – a thrilling ride that keeps you at the edge of your seat.
• On the opposite side, “Pirates of the Caribbean” is a great immersive experience.
• Of course, “Space Mountain” is an absolute must. This interstellar rollercoaster will take you on a journey through the cosmos that you won’t forget.

Have fun!

40. Long Beach

Long Beach, a harmonious blend of urban sophistication and beach town, offers several attractions.

There, you can for example visit the historic Queen Mary ship. You can also sleep there, as part of it has been turned into a hotel!

To check the rates and book your night on the Queen Mary, you just need to click here:

The Aquarium of the Pacific (included in the Los Angeles Explorer Pass or get the skip-the-line ticket available here) is also worth a visit.

And for a unique experience, don’t hesitate to rent a kayak or a pedalo (by clicking here) and explore the Naples canals.

41. Topanga State Park

Topanga State Park is a sprawling natural paradise situated in the Santa Monica mountains.

A visit here guarantees scenic panoramas, hiking trails, and a feeling of serenity that’s hard to find elsewhere in the city.

If  you’re up for a challenge, tackle the Eagle Rock trail. The views at the top are worth every step.

42. Santa Barbara

Near Los Angeles, you should also visit the city of Santa Barbara.

With its Spanish-style architecture, pristine beaches, and a captivating arts scene, it’s no wonder it’s dubbed the “American Riviera.”

When in Santa Barbara, you can stroll around State Street for some shopping and dining. Don’t forget to visit the historic Santa Barbara Mission while you’re there!

43. Joshua Tree National Park

Another incredible destination just outside Los Angeles is Joshua Tree National Park.

The park is famed for its otherworldly landscapes, unique Joshua Trees, and starlit nights.

44. Palm Springs

Known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, and midcentury-modern architecture, Palm Springs is a desert oasis.

There, you can take the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to enjoy panoramic desert views.

45. San Diego

Last but certainly not least on our list of the best places around Los Angeles is San Diego.

With its idyllic climate, sandy beaches, and vibrant neighborhoods, San Diego perfectly encapsulates the Californian spirit.

From Balboa Park to the famous San Diego Zoo, there’s something here for everyone.

While in San Diego, you should also spend a day in La Jolla Cove, where you can snorkel, dive, or simply enjoy the sun. It’s also a prime spot to observe sea lions in their natural habitat.

Click here for all the best things to do in San Diego!

How many days in Los Angeles?

As you have certainly noticed when reading this travel guide, there are many places to visit in Los Angeles.

You should thus plan at least 3 days to discover the city.

In order to help you plan your stay, I will now give you optimized itineraries to visit Los Angeles in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 days or even a week.

One day in Los Angeles

If you are stopping over in Los Angeles and only have one day to visit the city, I have prepared the perfect itinerary for you.

This itinerary is the best for those who are visiting Los Angeles for the first time and want to see as much as possible in 1 day.

Here is my detailed itinerary for visiting Los Angeles in a day:

• Hollywood sign
• Griffith Observatory
• Walk of Fame
• Sunset Boulevard
• Rodeo Drive /Beverly Hills
• Santa Monica Pier / Pacific Park
• Venice Beach

If you’d rather watch the sun set over the Hollywood sign than end up relaxing on the beach, you can of course reverse the itinerary, starting your day in Venice Beach.

2 days in Los Angeles

Here is my itinerary to visit Los Angeles in 48 hours:

• For the 1st day, do the Los Angeles 1-day itinerary I mentioned above
• For the second day, spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood.

To easily plan your 2 days in Los Angeles, you should read my detailled itinerary: The Perfect 2-Day Itinerary in Los Angeles.

3 days in Los Angeles

You’re planning 3 days in LA?

In that case, here is my itinerary, allowing you to discover the best things to do in Los Angeles in 3 days:

Day 1

• Beverly Hills
• Rodeo Drive
• Sunset Boulevard / Sunset Strip
• Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Hollywood Sign
• Griffith Observatory

Day 2

• Universal Studios Hollywood or the alternative suggestion mentioned above, with the whale watching cruise.

Day 3

• Helicopter tour (optional)
• The Getty Center
• Santa Monica Pier
• Venice Beach / Venice Canals

To help you plan your 3 days in L.A, I have prepared an optimized itinerary. You can read it here: How to visit Los Angeles in 3 days?

4 days in Los Angeles

If you have planned to go to L.A for 4 days, you can follow the 3-day itinerary for the 3 first days.

On the 4th day, you can visit:

• Warner Bros Studios or Paramount Pictures Studio
• The Original Farmers Market
• The Grove
• One or 2 of the following museums (they are next to each other)
  • Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
  • Petersen Automotive Museum
  • La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
• For the evening, you can check out events at The Comedy Store or The Hollywood Bowl.

For the perfect 4-day stay in Los Angeles, you should read my detailde guide: An Epic Itinerary for 4 days in Los Angeles.

5 days in Los Angeles

Follow my 4 days itinerary and then, for the fifth day:

• Natural history museum of Los Angeles or Grammy Museum
• Bradbury Building
• Grand Central Market
• Optional visit: The Museum of Contemporary of Art or The Broad
• Walt Disney Concert Hall
• Los Angeles City Hall
• Olvera Street
• Dodger Stadium

The easiest way to plan your 5-day trip to los Angeles is to read my dedicated article: How to visit Los Angeles in 5 days?

6 days in Los Angeles

For 6 days in Los Angeles, take my 5-day itinerary and on the sixth day:

Option 1

• Battleship Uss Iowa Museum
• Long Beach – Aquarium of the Pacific
• Newport Beach – Whale watching cruise

Option 2

If you prefer, you can also spend the whole day at Disneyland Park.

One week in Los Angeles

Planning to spend a week in Los Angeles?

To visit Los Angeles in 7 days, just follow my 6-day itinerary.

On the seventh day, you have several options:

• A bit of hiking at Topanga State Park and then head up to Malibu to relax at the beach.
• A day trip to Santa Barbara, which is about an hour and a half’s drive from the center of Los Angeles.
• Visit Joshua Tree National Park and Palm Springs
• Go to San Diego.

If you’re planning to spend 7 days in Los Angeles, you should read my detailed itinerary: The perfect one week itinerary in Los Angeles.

Where to stay in Los Angeles

As you probably know, hotels are quite expensive in Los Angeles, and the hotels offering the best value for money are fully booked very quickly.

To get the best rate, you should really book your accommodation in L.A as soon as you have your travel dates!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay in Los Angeles:

• HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel: Located 200 meters from Santa Monica beach. Dormitory beds from €50. Strong points: cleanliness, location next to the ocean. The perfect hostel if you’re looking for a cheap accommodation in Los Angeles.
• El Royale Hotel – Near Universal Studios Hollywood: Located close to Universal Studios, comfortable and spacious double room from €190, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, free parking, comfortable beds.
• Park Plaza Lodge: Located close to LACMA and Farmers market. Modern and comfortable double room from €190. Benefits: swimming pool, parking, convenient location for sightseeing.
• citizenM Los Angeles Downtown: Located in Downtown Los Angeles, 400 metres from City Hall. Brightly decorated contemporary double room with large window overlooking the city, from €260, breakfast €19. Strong points: design, friendly staff, panoramic view of LA.
• Loews Hollywood Hotel: Located next to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Beautiful double rooms, some with views of the Hollywood sign, from €255, breakfast €33. Strong points: heated swimming pool, geographical location, direct access to the shopping centre with lots of restaurants and a casino. My favorite hotel in LA for its excellent value for money!
• Pendry West Hollywood: This 5-star hotel on Sunset Boulevard offers sublime, elegantly decorated rooms with large picture windows. From €620 per night, breakfast €56. Strong points: the rooftop pool, the view over Los Angeles, the design of the hotel.
• Shutters On The Beach: Magnificent 5-star hotel located directly on Santa Monica beach. Rooms with balcony and some with ocean views from €880, breakfast €46. Strong points: the view, the good restaurant, the style of the hotel, the swimming pool, the attentive staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Los Angeles!

Where to eat in Los Angeles

When considering the best things to do in Los Angeles, indulging in its diverse culinary landscape is a must.

With its melting pot of cultures, LA boasts a plethora of dining options that cater to every palate, ranging from gourmet food trucks to upscale restaurants.

You should try a meal at one of the local farmers’ markets, like The Original Farmers Market.  For those keen on trying local seafood, you can head to San Pedro Fish Market.

For authentic Mexican, consider hitting up Guelaguetza in Koreatown.

There are also plenty of food trucks where you can eat burgers, grilled meat, tacos, pizzas, pad thai, etc.

If you’re looking for a more upscale dining experience, you should book a table at the Providence, a Michelin 2 star restaurant.

Visiting LA with your family

If you are planning to visit LA with your family, here is the list of the best things to with your children:

• Universal Studios Hollywood: The ultimate entertainment experience with rides, shows, and a sneak peek behind the scenes of some of your favorite movies.
• Pacific Park: Located on the Santa Monica Pier, this amusement park offers rides and games against a picturesque backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.
• Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park: Not only can you explore the wonders of the universe at the observatory, but Griffith Park also offers activities like hiking, pony rides, and the Los Angeles Zoo.
• Aquarium of the Pacific: Located in Long Beach, this expansive aquarium showcases marine habitats from the Pacific with interactive exhibits and touch tanks making it engaging for the little ones.
• Natural History Museum: Dinosaurs, gems, and the Butterfly Pavilion are highlights at this renowned museum.
• El Matador Beach: A picturesque beach with unique rock formations and tide pools that children love to explore.
• LA Zoo and Botanical Gardens: Home to over 1,400 animals, this expansive zoo allows kids to get close to creatures from around the world.
• Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): Often hosting family-friendly events and interactive installations, LACMA introduces kids to the world of art in a fun manner.
• Kidspace Children’s Museum: In Pasadena, this museum offers numerous hands-on activities and exhibits tailored for children.

Things to do in Los Angeles when it rains

While Los Angeles is known for its sunshine, it has its occasional rainy days. But don’t wory! Rain or shine, there’s always something to do in this bustling city.

So when it’s raining in LA, you can:

• Visit Los Angeles museums
• Visit the Aquarium
• Do some shopping in a mall
• Visit the Warnes Bros or Paramount Studio
• Consider catching a show at one of the city’s historic theaters
• Indulge in a spa day, turning the gloomy weather into a relaxing retreat.

Now, you know all the best things to do in LA! If you need help to plan your stay, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section below. 

Tourist map of Los Angeles

To help you plan your visits, I have made a tourist map of Los Angeles, with all the best places to visit, must see attractions and activities I talk about in this guide.

You can display the map legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a small arrow.

You’re traveling in the US? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about USA: All my articles to help you plan your trip to USA are listed there.

• Itinerary: 10 days USA West coast – How to visit Western USA in 9, 10 or 11 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks USA West coast – The perfect 14-15 days road trip!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks USA West coast – An epic 20-21 days road trip!

• Las Vegas: Top 30 Best things to do and must-see attractions
• Los Angeles: The 45 best places to visit
• New York: The 57 best things to do
• San Francisco: The 27 epic must-see attractions

• 2 Days in Los Angeles – How to visit L.A in 48h
• 3 Days in Los Angeles – The perfect itinerary to discover the city
• One Week in Los Angeles – The perfect 7-day itinerary

• 2 Days in New York – The best itinerary to visit the Big Apple in 48h
• 3 Days in New York – All the best places to visit + Detailed itinerary
• 4 Days in New York – The perfect itinerary for your visit
• 5 Days in New York – Itinerary + Best things to do + My Tips
• One Week in New York – The perfect 7-day itinerary

• Where to stay in New York ? My guide of the best hotels for an EPIC stay!

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!