As the second-most populous city in the United States, Los Angeles is a major entertainment, business, and international trade center. The city is known for its Mediterranean climate, ethnic and cultural diversity, and sprawling metropolis. LA is home to world-famous tourist destinations such as Hollywood, Santa Monica, Disneyland Resort, etc. With so many things to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start your exploration. For this reason, I’ve put together a list of the 20 Best and Fun Things to Do in Los Angeles that are sure to make your trip memorable.
Things to Do in Los Angeles
1. The Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is one of the most iconic landmarks in Los Angeles and a must-see for any first-time visitor. The iconic sign, which reads “HOLLYWOOD” in big white letters, is located on Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills.
There are a number of ways to get up to the Hollywood Sign. One option is to take a hike up to the sign. There are a number of trails that lead up to it, and the hike takes about two hours. If you’re not up for a hike or a tour, you can also see the Hollywood Sign from below. There are a number of viewpoints in the Hollywood Hills that offer great views of the sign.
The Hollywood Sign is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. It has been featured in countless movies and TV shows making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
2. The Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a world-famous sidewalk that runs for almost 1.5 miles through the heart of Hollywood. The walkway is lined with more than 2,700 stars, each one bearing the name of a celebrity who has made a significant contribution to the entertainment industry.
The walk is a great way to see some of the biggest movie stars in Hollywood, and it’s also a great place to people watch. There are usually a lot of people taking pictures and posing for selfies, so it’s a good place to people watch. The Hollywood Museum is also located nearby, and it’s the perfect place to learn more about Hollywood’s history.
The walk here can be a bit crowded, especially on weekends, but it’s definitely worth a visit. This is a great option if you’re looking for a unique Los Angeles experience that can’t be found anywhere else. With its famous stars and rich history, the Walk of Fame is definitely one of the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles.
3. Warner Bros. Studio Tour
If you’re a movie lover, then Warner Bros. Studio Tour is a must-visit Los Angeles attraction. The studio tour takes visitors behind the scenes of some of Warner Bros.’ most famous movies and TV shows. You’ll get to see where they filmed and learn about the production process.
The two-hour studio tour includes a visit to the backlot, where you’ll see sets from some of Warner Bros.’ most famous movies, including “The Dark Knight” and “Gone with the Wind.” You’ll also get to see the soundstages where they filmed TV shows like “Friends” and “The Big Bang Theory.”
The tour also includes a visit to the Warner Bros. Museum, where you can see props and costumes from your favorite movies and TV shows. I found the tour to this studio to be a great way to learn about the movie-making process and see some of the most famous sets and costumes up close.
4. Griffith Park and Observatory
Griffith Park is one of the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles, covering over 4,000 acres of land. The park is home to a number of attractions, including the Griffith Observatory, the Los Angeles Zoo, and the Greek Theatre. The park is also a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, golfing, and horseback riding.
The Griffith Observatory is one of the highlights of the park. The observatory is open to the public and offers a number of exhibits, telescopes, and programs. It’s a great place to learn about astronomy, and there’s always something going on.
The Los Angeles Zoo is also another attraction in the park not to miss. The zoo is home to over 1,400 animals from around the world. It’s a great place for the whole family and offers a variety of exhibits and activities.
So if you’re looking for a great place to spend the day, Griffith Park is definitely the place to go. You can explore the park on your own or take a guided tour. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to have a great time.
5. Sunset Strip
The Sunset Strip is a world-famous stretch of road in West Hollywood that’s home to some of the most famous clubs, bars, and restaurants in Los Angeles. The roadway is located on the hills above Hollywood, and its name comes from the stunning sunsets that can be seen from its vantage point.
The Sunset Strip is home to some of the most exclusive clubs in Los Angeles, including the famed Chateau Marmont and the Viper Room. The street is also lined with trendy bars and restaurants, making it a popular spot for nightlife.
During the day, the Sunset Strip is a popular spot for shopping and people-watching. There are plenty of high-end boutiques and designer stores, as well as popular chain stores. The street is also home to the Wax Museum, the Guinness World Record Museum, and several other tourist attractions.
The Sunset Strip is definitely one of the most famous spots in Los Angeles. If you’re looking for a night out on the town, this is the place to be. But even if you’re not looking for a night out, the Strip is still worth checking out during the day. Just be sure to dress your best, as this is one of the most glamorous places in Los Angeles.
6. Disneyland Resort
No list of Los Angeles attractions would be complete without Disneyland Resort. The resort is made up of two theme parks, Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, as well as the Downtown Disney shopping district.
Disneyland Park is the original Disneyland park, and it’s full of classic rides like It’s a Small World, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Space Mountain. The park is also home to Sleeping Beauty Castle, the iconic centerpiece of Disneyland. Newer additions to the park include Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, a land-based on the popular movie franchise.
California Adventure Park is adjacent to Disneyland Park and is themed around the state of California. Highlights of the park include the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Soarin’ Over California, and Grizzly River Run.
Downtown Disney is a shopping, dining, and entertainment district located between Disneyland Park and California Adventure Park. It’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including the AMC Theatres, ESPN Zone, and the Rainforest Cafe.
The Disneyland Resort is a must-visit for any fan of Disney or anyone looking for a fun-filled day or two. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a great time at the resort. However, it can get quite crowded, especially during peak times like summer and holidays. So be sure to plan your visit accordingly.
7. Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is a theme park located in the Hollywood Hills area of Los Angeles. The park is themed around the film and television industry, and features rides, shows, and attractions based on popular movies and television shows.
Some of the park’s most popular rides and attractions include the 3-D simulator ride “The Simpsons Ride,” the roller coaster “Revenge of the Mummy,” and the water ride “Jurassic Park – The Ride.” The park also has a number of live shows, including “WaterWorld: A Live Sea War Spectacular” and “The Special Effects Show.”
In addition to rides and attractions, Universal Studios Hollywood also has a number of shops, restaurants, and other amenities. The park is also home to the Universal CityWalk, a three-block pedestrian promenade that features a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
In general, this is one of the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles and is a great place for families and film and television fans alike. The park is open 365 days a year, and there are a number of special events and shows that take place throughout the year. So no matter when you visit, you’re sure to find something to do at Universal Studios Hollywood.
8. The Getty Center
If you’re looking for a cultural experience while in Los Angeles, The Getty Center is a must-visit. The center is home to the J. Paul Getty Museum, as well as the Getty Research Institute and the Getty Conservation Institute.
The museum is home to a large collection of art, with works from artists such as Rembrandt, Rubens, and van Gogh. The center also has a large collection of photographs and manuscripts.
The Getty Research Institute is home to a library and archive that is open to the public. The institute also offers a number of exhibitions and programs. The Getty Conservation Institute is dedicated to the conservation of art and architecture.
The Getty Center is a beautiful complex with gardens and terraces that offer stunning views of Los Angeles. It’s definitely worth a visit for art lovers or anyone interested in Los Angeles history and culture.
9. California Science Center
The California Science Center is a world-renowned museum located in downtown Los Angeles. It’s dedicated to exploring the natural world and promoting science literacy. The museum has a number of interactive exhibits, as well as a planetarium and IMAX theater.
One of the most popular attractions at the California Science Center is the Space Shuttle Endeavour. The shuttle is on permanent display inside the Samuel Oschin Pavilion. Visitors can also see a replica of the Hubble Space Telescope and a moon rock. Other exhibits at the museum include the Living World, the Ecosystems gallery, and the Technology Room.
The California Science Center is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles for both adults and kids. It’s a great place to learn about science, as well as to see some of the most popular exhibits in the city. So be sure to add it to your list of things to do in Los Angeles.
10. La Brea Tar Pits
Another one of the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles is the La Brea Tar Pits. The tar pits were formed by the natural seepage of heavy crude oil from underground 40,000 years ago. Over time, the oil accumulated in pools and formed asphalt-coated sediments.
Unfortunately, the tar pits claimed the lives of many animals over the years who became stuck. The most notable victims are the saber-toothed cats, mammoths, and dire wolves, who were preserved in the tar due to the low levels of oxygen.
Today, the La Brea Tar Pits are a popular tourist attraction for two reasons. First, because they are home to a large number of fossils. And second, because they are one of the only tar pits in the world that you can actually see.
The La Brea Tar Pits are open to the public, and there is a museum located on site. The museum is home to a large number of exhibits, which provide visitors with information about the tar pits and the fossils that have been excavated from them. There is also a gift shop, which sells a variety of souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, and postcards.
11. Venice Beach
Venice Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Los Angeles, and for a good reason. The beach is situated in the beautiful Venice neighborhood and is flanked by a lively boardwalk with plenty of shops and restaurants. The golden sand and clear water make it a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
The beach is also known for its boardwalk, a popular tourist attraction and one of the most famous boardwalks globally. The boardwalk is home to a variety of vendors, performers, street artists, and some of the best people-watching spots in Los Angeles. There is also The Skate-park, which is a favorite spot for skateboarders and BMX riders, and the beach is a great place to take a swim or go for a walk.
The Muscle Beach is a public weightlifting area that is located next to the boardwalk. It is one of the top attractions in the area and has been featured in many movies and television shows.
This was one of my favorite places in Los Angeles. I loved the vibrant atmosphere and the fact that there was always something going on. It can get a bit crowded on weekends, but it’s usually pretty quiet if you go during the week.
12. Santa Monica
Santa Monica is one of the most popular beach towns in Los Angeles. It’s known for its beautiful beaches, world-famous pier, and Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian-friendly shopping district.
The Santa Monica Pier is the town’s most famous attraction. It’s a historic pier that is home to a number of restaurants, shops, and attractions, including the Pacific Park amusement park. The pier is also a great place to catch the Santa Monica Mountains and the Pacific Ocean views.
Third Street Promenade is a three-block shopping district that is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. This pedestrian-friendly area is perfect for a day of shopping or people watching.
Santa Monica State Beach is the town’s main beach. It’s a wide, sandy beach that is popular with swimmers, sunbathers, and surfers alike. The beach is also a great place to take a walk or ride a bike.
Overall, Santa Monica is a great town to visit for anyone who wants to enjoy the beach atmosphere and the Southern California sun. With plenty of things to do, it’s no wonder that it’s one of the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles.
13. Los Angeles County Museum of Art
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is a world-renowned art museum that is home to a variety of art collections from around the world. The museum has a collection of over 130,000 works of art, making it one of the largest art museums in the Western United States.
Some of the museum’s collection highlights include European paintings, American art, photography, and textiles. The museum also has a large collection of Asian art, which is one of the largest in the country. In addition to its impressive art collection, LACMA also has a number of rotating exhibitions that showcase the work of both contemporary and classic artists.
Overall, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is a must-see for any art lover. Even if you’re not particularly interested in art, the museum offers a number of interesting and unique exhibits that are well worth a visit. And being one of the top Los Angeles attractions, you’re sure to find something that interests you.
14. Petersen Automotive Museum
If you’re a car lover, then the Petersen Automotive Museum is a must-see Los Angeles attraction. The Petersen Automotive Museum is located in the Miracle Mile district of Los Angeles, just a few blocks west of La Brea Avenue.
The museum is home to one of the largest collections of automobiles in the world, with over 300 vehicles on display. This includes classic cars, race cars, and Hollywood cars. It also has a number of exhibits on different aspects of the automobile, such as design, engineering, and racing. The museum is also home to a number of interactive exhibits, making it a great place for both adults and children.
Overall, the Petersen Automotive Museum is a great place to take the kids. There’s a lot of information presented in an easy-to-understand way, and there are plenty of interactive exhibits that will keep the kids entertained for hours.
15. Long Beach
Long Beach is a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike. The city is home to a number of the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles, including the Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific, the Long Beach Museum of Art, and the Long Beach Convention Center.
The Queen Mary is a historic ocean liner that is now permanently docked in Long Beach. Visitors can take tours of the ship, visit the onboard museum, and even stay overnight in one of the Queen Mary’s staterooms.
The Aquarium of the Pacific is one of the largest aquariums in the world and is home to over 12,000 animals. The aquarium has a number of exhibits, including a tropical reef, the Shark Lagoon, and the Lorikeet Forest.
The Long Beach Museum of Art is home to a collection of over 4,000 pieces of art, including paintings, sculptures, and prints. The museum also hosts a number of exhibitions each year.
The Long Beach Convention Center is one of the largest convention centers in the country and hosts several events each year, including concerts, trade shows, and conventions.
With its wide variety of attractions, Long Beach is sure to please everyone. So whether you’re looking to explore the city’s history, enjoy its art and museums, or just soak up the California sun, Long Beach is the perfect destination.
16. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
If you’re looking for something a little more educational, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a great option. It’s one of the largest museums of its kind in the world, and it features a wide variety of exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to Native American culture.
The museum is divided into three main sections: the Discovery Center, Becoming Los Angeles, and the Insect Zoo. The Discovery Center is a hands-on area where kids can learn about science and nature. Becoming Los Angeles is a section of the museum that tells the history of Los Angeles, from its pre-history to the present day. The Insect Zoo is a live exhibit where you can see and learn about a variety of different insects.
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a great option for those who want to learn about the history and science of Los Angeles. It’s also a great choice for families, as there are plenty of activities and exhibits that kids will enjoy.
17. The Original Farmers Market
The Original Farmers Market is a historic market located on 3rd Street and Fairfax Avenue in the Fairfax District of Los Angeles. The market was founded in 1934 and is one of the oldest continuously operating markets in the United States.
The market began as a way for farmers to sell their produce directly to consumers. And today, it features over 100 vendors selling a variety of goods, including produce, meat, seafood, baked goods, and more. This makes it a great place to shop for fresh produce and to get a taste of Los Angeles’ famous food culture. The market is also home to a number of events and activities throughout the year, such as live music, cooking demonstrations, and more.
So if you’re looking for a unique shopping experience, The Original Farmers Market is a great option. With its wide variety of vendors and its central location, it’s easy to spend an hour or two touring the stalls.
18. Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) is a contemporary art museum located in downtown Los Angeles. It was founded in 1979 by artists, collectors, and philanthropists. MOCA’s mission is to promote the work of contemporary artists through exhibitions, education, and research.
The museum has three locations: the MOCA Grand, MOCA Geffen, and the Double Negative Museum. The MOCA Grand is the largest of the three and is home to a number of permanent collections, as well as temporary exhibitions. The MOCA Geffen is located in Little Tokyo and is home to a smaller collection of artwork. The Double Negative Museum is located in Moapa Valley, which is dedicated to collecting and exhibiting contemporary art.
And being one of the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles, MOCA offers a variety of educational programs, including tours, lectures, and workshops. So be sure to give it a visit during your stay.
19. Battleship Iowa Museum
Located in the Port of Los Angeles, the Battleship Iowa Museum is a must-see for any history buff. The museum is located on the USS Iowa, a retired United States Navy ship that served in World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War.
The museum features a number of exhibits that chronicle the history of the USS Iowa and the role it played in various wars. There are also interactive displays that allow visitors to experience what life was like on board the ship. You can take a self-guided tour of the ship and learn about its many features.
If you’re looking for a unique museum experience, you can take the Full Steam Ahead Guided Tour at an additional cost. This tour takes you behind the scenes of the museum and gives you a firsthand look at how the ship operates. You’ll also get to see some of the ship’s most important areas, such as the engine room and the bridge.
The Battleship Iowa Museum is a great place to learn about the role the United States played in various wars and to see firsthand how a ship operated during that time.
20. The Nethercutt Collection
The Nethercutt Collection is a world-renowned collection of vintage cars and motorcycles, located in the Sylmar neighborhood of Los Angeles. It was founded by J.B. Nethercutt, who started collecting cars and motorcycles in the 1950s. His collection eventually grew to over 200 vehicles, which he displayed in his home. In 1971, Nethercutt decided to open his collection to the public, and the museum has been open ever since.
Today, the Nethercutt Collection is one of the most popular Los Angeles attractions for car and motorcycle enthusiasts. It features a wide variety of vehicles, ranging from classic cars to rare motorcycles.
I suggest starting your visit to the Nethercutt Collection by taking a tour of the museum. The tours are led by knowledgeable guides who will tell you all about the history of the collection and the individual vehicles. After the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to see the cars and motorcycles up close and even sit in some of them.
In summary
The above top tourist attractions in Los Angeles are varied, ranging from world-famous beaches to iconic theme parks. Whatever your interests, there’s an attraction to suit you. I hope this article has given you a good overview of what the city offers and will help you plan your vacation accordingly.