Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis with a plethora of attractions and activities to offer. From iconic landmarks to cultural hotspots, here are the top 10 things you must do when visiting Los Angeles, California, USA.
 |
| sunset at the Downtown LA, California |
1. DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES
Downtown L.A. is a bustling business and residential district, home to unique neighborhoods like Little Tokyo, Chinatown, and the Arts District. Key attractions include the historic Olvera Street, Grand Central Market, Angels Flight railway, Pershing Square, and architectural marvels like The Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad.
- Key Attractions: Little Tokyo, Chinatown, Arts District, Olvera Street, Grand Central Market, Angels Flight.
- Address: Downtown Los Angeles, CA.
- Getting There: Easily accessible by Metro Rail; the Red and Purple lines stop at several downtown locations.
- Tips: Explore the area on foot to truly experience the diverse neighborhoods. Visit the Grand Central Market for a variety of food options.
- Hours: Varies by location; Grand Central Market is open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM.
- Fee: Mostly free; specific attractions may have admission fees.
 |
| It's "Walt Disney" at the Hollywood Walk of Fame; better to go here during nighttime around 11pm-ish because 1) no crowd, you can take all the photos you want; and 2) Free street parking. |
2. HOLLYWOOD WALK OF FAME
A major attraction in Hollywood Boulevard, the Walk of Fame features over 2,600 stars honoring achievements in the entertainment industry. Don’t miss the Chinese Theatres and the Ovation Hollywood shopping center for a view of the Hollywood sign.
- Address: Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028.
- Getting There: The Metro Red Line’s Hollywood/Highland Station is right under the Hollywood & Highland Center.
- Tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds. Don't forget to check out the TCL Chinese Theatre.
- Hours: Open 24/7.
- Fee: Free.
3. GRIFFITH OBSERVATORY
Offering stunning views of Downtown and the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory is a must-visit for its space and science-related displays, including a Tesla coil. Admission is free, and the evening city views are spectacular.
- Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027.
- Getting There: Drive or use public transport; the DASH Observatory bus runs every 20 minutes from the Vermont/Sunset Metro Red Line station.
- Tips: Visit at sunset for stunning views of L.A. and the Hollywood Sign.
- Hours: Tuesday to Friday, 12 PM to 10 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 10 AM to 10 PM; Closed Mondays.
- Fee: Free entry; parking fee applicable.
4. THE GROVE & THE ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET
The Original Farmers Market, dating back to 1934, offers over 100 gourmet groceries, shops, and restaurants. Adjacent to it is The Grove, a retail and dining complex perfect for shopping and entertainment.
- Address: 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036.
- Getting There: Accessible by car or public transport; multiple bus lines stop nearby.
- Tips: Enjoy a variety of dining options at the Farmers Market. The Grove has a free trolley.
- Hours: The Grove: 10 AM to 9 PM (Mon-Thurs), 10 AM to 10 PM (Fri-Sat), 10 AM to 8 PM (Sun); Farmers Market: 9 AM to 9 PM (Mon-Fri), 9 AM to 8 PM (Sat), 10 AM to 7 PM (Sun).
- Fee: Free to visit; shopping and dining costs vary.
5. HOLLYWOOD SIGN
An iconic landmark, the Hollywood Sign is a cultural symbol overlooking Hollywood. Originally an advertisement for a real estate agency, the sign has become a must-see for visitors.
- Address: Los Angeles, CA 90068.
- Getting There: Hiking trails accessible from Griffith Park; the closest view is from the Griffith Observatory.
- Tips: Hike early in the morning to avoid heat and crowds. The Hollyridge Trail offers a great view.
- Hours: Accessible 24/7.
- Fee: Free.
 |
| themed-park always be my happy place; so better schedule a full-day at Universal Studios Hollywood |
6. UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD
A combination of a film studio and theme park, Universal Studios offers tours of movie sets and thrilling rides based on popular movies like Harry Potter and Jurassic Park.
- Getting There: Take the Metro Red Line to Universal City/Studio City station, then use the free shuttle.
- Tips: Purchase tickets online in advance to save time. Consider a Universal Express Pass to skip lines.
- Hours: Generally 9 AM to 6 PM; varies by season.
- Fee: Starting from $109 for a day pass; varies by date and package.
7. BEVERLY HILLS
Known for its luxury and glamour, Beverly Hills is home to Rodeo Drive, a famous shopping street with high-end stores and boutiques. The area is a hotspot for celebrities and fashion icons.
- Key Attractions: Rodeo Drive, Beverly Gardens Park.
- Address: Beverly Hills, CA 90210.
- Getting There: Accessible by car or bus; several bus lines run through the area.
- Tips: Window shop on Rodeo Drive and enjoy the public art displays in Beverly Gardens Park.
- Hours: Open 24/7.
- Fee: Free to explore; shopping costs vary.
 |
| these lamp posts tell a million stories; these lamp post are located outside LACMA and it's free to have some IG-worthy photos here. |
8. MUSEUMS
Los Angeles boasts over 800 museums and art galleries. Notable ones include the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), The Broad, J. Paul Getty Museum, and Getty Villa, showcasing a wide range of art and historical artifacts.
- Key Museums: LACMA, The Broad, Getty Center, Getty Villa.
- Addresses: Vary by museum.
- Getting There: Public transport options available for each; check individual museum websites.
- Tips: Check for free admission days. The Getty Center offers stunning views of L.A.
- Hours & Fees: Vary by museum; some offer free admission.
9. VENICE BEACH
A quirky beachfront neighborhood, Venice Beach is known for its boardwalk, street performers, and public art. Enjoy biking, sports activities, or simply relax on the beach. Nearby, explore the Venice Canals and Abbot Kinney Boulevard shops.
- Address: Venice, Los Angeles, CA 90291.
- Getting There: Accessible by car or bus; parking available but can be limited.
- Tips: Rent a bike or rollerblades to explore the boardwalk. Visit the Venice Canals for a quieter experience.
- Hours: Open 24/7.
- Fee: Free; rentals and purchases cost extra.
10. SANTA MONICA PIER
A historic pier in Santa Monica, it features an amusement park, Pacific Park, and marks the end of the American highway Route 66. Nearby attractions include 3rd Street Promenade and Tongva Park.
- Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401.
- Getting There: Accessible by car, bus, or Metro Expo Line to Santa Monica.
- Tips: Visit Pacific Park in the evening for a lit-up Ferris wheel experience. Check out the nearby 3rd Street Promenade.
- Hours: Pier is always open; Pacific Park hours vary.
- Fee: Free to visit; rides and games in Pacific Park are ticketed.
Los Angeles, California is a city that caters to all tastes, whether you're interested in the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, the rich cultural tapestry of its diverse neighborhoods, or the natural beauty of its parks and beaches. Each of these top 10 attractions offers a unique glimpse into the heart of this dynamic city.
Post a Comment