50 Things To Do In Los Angeles California
Los Angeles, California, is a sprawling city known for its diversity, vibrant culture, and endless entertainment options. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to explore more of what the city has to offer, there’s something for everyone in L.A. From iconic landmarks and scenic spots to hidden gems and cultural experiences, here’s a list of 50 must-do activities in Los Angeles.
1. Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Walk along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street to see the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This iconic stretch honors celebrities from the entertainment industry, and it’s a must-see for any visitor to Los Angeles.
2. Explore Griffith Observatory
Perched on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory offers stunning views of the Los Angeles skyline and the Hollywood Sign. The observatory itself is free to visit and features fascinating exhibits about space and astronomy.
3. Hike to the Hollywood Sign
For a closer look at the Hollywood Sign, hike one of the many trails in Griffith Park. The trails vary in difficulty, but all offer breathtaking views of the city and the famous landmark.
4. Stroll Along Venice Beach Boardwalk
Venice Beach is a hub of activity, where you can stroll along the boardwalk, watch street performers, and soak in the unique atmosphere. The beach itself is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or just people-watching.
5. Tour the Getty Center
The Getty Center is renowned for its impressive art collection, beautiful gardens, and stunning architecture. Admission is free, and the museum offers panoramic views of Los Angeles from its hilltop location.
6. Shop on Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills is the epitome of luxury shopping. Whether you’re in the market for high-end fashion or simply want to window shop, this iconic street is a must-visit.
7. Visit Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is both a theme park and a working film studio. Enjoy thrilling rides based on popular movies, take a behind-the-scenes studio tour, and explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
8. Walk Through the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States, featuring a diverse collection that spans from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. Don’t miss the famous Urban Light installation at the museum’s entrance.
9. Explore the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Located in Griffith Park, the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is home to more than 1,400 animals and a wide variety of plants. It’s a great destination for families and nature lovers.
10. Discover the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum
The La Brea Tar Pits is one of the world’s most famous fossil sites, where you can learn about the prehistoric animals that once roamed Los Angeles. The adjacent museum showcases fossils and provides insight into the area’s ancient history.
11. Enjoy the Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is a classic California experience, featuring an amusement park, aquarium, and plenty of dining options. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel for spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.
12. Wander Through the Original Farmers Market
The Original Farmers Market, located near The Grove, is a Los Angeles institution. Opened in 1934, it offers a wide variety of fresh produce, gourmet foods, and international cuisine.
13. Visit the Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round
Located within Griffith Park, this vintage carousel has been delighting visitors since 1937. It’s a charming attraction for families and those who appreciate a bit of nostalgia.
14. Explore the Broad Museum
The Broad is a contemporary art museum in downtown Los Angeles that offers free admission. It houses an impressive collection of postwar and contemporary art, including works by artists like Jeff Koons and Yayoi Kusama.
15. Attend a Concert at the Hollywood Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl is an iconic outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts and performances under the stars. Whether you’re into classical music, pop, or jazz, there’s always something magical about watching a show here.
16. Take a Studio Tour at Warner Bros.
Get a behind-the-scenes look at a working film and television studio with a tour of Warner Bros. Studios. You’ll see famous sets, learn about the filmmaking process, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a live production.
17. Discover the Beauty of the Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Located in nearby San Marino, the Huntington is a cultural, research, and educational center that houses rare books, a world-class art collection, and expansive botanical gardens.
18. Explore Olvera Street
Olvera Street is the heart of the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, the oldest part of Downtown L.A. This vibrant Mexican marketplace is filled with shops, food stalls, and historic buildings, offering a taste of the city’s rich cultural heritage.
19. Visit the California Science Center
The California Science Center in Exposition Park is a hands-on science museum with exhibits on space exploration, ecosystems, and more. The highlight is the Space Shuttle Endeavour, which is displayed in a massive pavilion.
20. Tour the Walt Disney Concert Hall
Designed by Frank Gehry, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is an architectural masterpiece and the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Guided tours are available, or you can attend a concert to experience the hall’s acclaimed acoustics.
21. Relax at the Getty Villa
The Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades is dedicated to the arts and cultures of ancient Greece and Rome. The museum, modeled after a Roman country house, features beautiful gardens and impressive antiquities.
22. Explore Little Tokyo
Little Tokyo is a historic neighborhood in downtown Los Angeles that offers a rich cultural experience. Visit the Japanese American National Museum, enjoy authentic Japanese cuisine, and explore the shops and markets.
23. Take in the Views from Runyon Canyon
Runyon Canyon is a popular hiking spot that offers some of the best views of Los Angeles. The trails are suitable for various fitness levels, and on a clear day, you can see from downtown L.A. to the Pacific Ocean.
24. Visit the Petersen Automotive Museum
Car enthusiasts will love the Petersen Automotive Museum, which features an extensive collection of vehicles from classic cars to futuristic designs. The museum also hosts rotating exhibits and special events.
25. Walk the Venice Canals
The Venice Canals, inspired by the canals of Venice, Italy, are a hidden gem in Los Angeles. Stroll along the picturesque waterways, cross charming footbridges, and admire the beautiful homes that line the canals.
26. Discover the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
MOCA, located in downtown Los Angeles, is dedicated to contemporary art. The museum’s collection includes works by artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, and Mark Rothko, and it regularly hosts innovative exhibitions.
27. Spend a Day at Disneyland
Although technically in Anaheim, Disneyland Resort is a short drive from Los Angeles and is a must-visit for fans of all ages. Enjoy classic attractions, meet your favorite Disney characters, and experience the magic of the Happiest Place on Earth.
28. Explore the Arts District
The Arts District in downtown Los Angeles is a vibrant neighborhood filled with galleries, murals, trendy restaurants, and breweries. It’s a great place to experience the city’s creative energy.
29. Visit the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
Located in Exposition Park, the Natural History Museum is home to over 35 million specimens, including dinosaur fossils, gemstones, and artifacts from ancient civilizations. The museum’s Dinosaur Hall is particularly popular with visitors of all ages.
30. Enjoy a Show at the Pantages Theatre
The Pantages Theatre in Hollywood is a historic venue that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and special events. The theater’s Art Deco design and rich history make it a stunning place to see a live performance.
31. Visit the Watts Towers
The Watts Towers are a collection of 17 interconnected sculptural structures in South Los Angeles, built by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia over 33 years. The towers are a testament to creativity and perseverance and are recognized as a National Historic Landmark.
32. Take a Ride on the Angels Flight Railway
Angels Flight, the “world’s shortest railway,” is a historic funicular located in downtown Los Angeles. It originally opened in 1901 and has since been restored, offering a quick and charming ride between Hill Street and Olive Street.
33. Explore the Japanese Garden in Van Nuys
The Japanese Garden in Van Nuys is a tranquil oasis in the middle of the San Fernando Valley. The garden features traditional Japanese landscaping, including koi ponds, stone lanterns, and carefully pruned trees, making it a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
34. Discover the Museum of Jurassic Technology
The Museum of Jurassic Technology in Culver City is one of the most unique museums in Los Angeles. It’s a surreal mix of art, science, and mythology, offering a collection of oddities and curiosities that challenge conventional museum norms.
35. Enjoy a Dodgers Game at Dodger Stadium
Dodger Stadium, one of the oldest and most iconic baseball stadiums in the country, is the perfect place to catch a game. Enjoy a Dodger Dog, soak in the atmosphere, and cheer on the Los Angeles Dodgers.
36. Tour the Annenberg Space for Photography
The Annenberg Space for Photography is a cultural destination dedicated to both digital and print photography. It hosts rotating exhibitions that explore a wide range of subjects and techniques, showcasing the work of both emerging and established photographers.
37. Visit the Los Angeles Arboretum and Botanic Garden
Located in Arcadia, the Los Angeles Arboretum and Botanic Garden is a 127-acre botanical garden featuring plants from around the world. The garden is also home to the historic Queen Anne Cottage and Peacock Café, offering a peaceful escape from the city.
38. Explore the NoHo Arts District
The NoHo Arts District in North Hollywood is a creative community filled with theaters, galleries, cafes, and shops. It’s the perfect place to experience L.A.’s thriving arts scene and discover emerging talent.
39. Walk Through the Exposition Park Rose Garden
The Exposition Park Rose Garden is a hidden gem in the heart of Los Angeles. The seven-acre garden is home to thousands of rose bushes, fountains, and statues, making it a picturesque spot for a stroll or a picnic.
40. Discover the Bradbury Building
The Bradbury Building, located in downtown Los Angeles, is an architectural landmark famous for its stunning atrium, open cage elevators, and ornate ironwork. The building has been featured in numerous films, including Blade Runner.
41. Visit the Skirball Cultural Center
The Skirball Cultural Center is a museum and cultural institution that explores Jewish heritage and American democratic ideals. The center offers exhibitions, music performances, films, and family-friendly events.
42. Take a Day Trip to Catalina Island
Catalina Island, located off the coast of Los Angeles, is a popular destination for a day trip or weekend getaway. The island offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, water activities, and charming shops and restaurants.
43. Tour the Los Angeles Public Library
The Los Angeles Public Library’s Central Library, located in downtown L.A., is an architectural marvel. The library’s beautiful interior features murals, chandeliers, and a magnificent rotunda, and it offers free tours to visitors.
44. Explore the Little Ethiopia Neighborhood
Little Ethiopia, located along Fairfax Avenue, is a small neighborhood known for its authentic Ethiopian restaurants, markets, and shops. It’s a great place to try traditional Ethiopian cuisine, such as injera and doro wat.
45. Enjoy the Views from the OUE Skyspace
OUE Skyspace, located in the U.S. Bank Tower, is the tallest open-air observation deck in California. It offers panoramic views of Los Angeles, and for the adventurous, there’s a glass slide that lets you glide down the side of the building.
46. Visit the Hammer Museum
The Hammer Museum, located in Westwood, is an art museum and cultural center that offers free admission. The museum’s collection includes contemporary art, historical works, and rotating exhibitions, as well as public programs and performances.
47. Discover the Venice Beach Canals
Modeled after the canals of Venice, Italy, the Venice Beach Canals offer a unique and picturesque setting. Take a leisurely stroll along the canals, cross charming bridges, and admire the beautiful homes that line the water.
48. Attend a Performance at the Greek Theatre
The Greek Theatre, located in Griffith Park, is an outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts, plays, and other live performances. The theater’s setting in the park’s natural surroundings creates a magical atmosphere for any event.
49. Visit the Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust
The Los Angeles Museum of the Holocaust is the oldest Holocaust museum in the United States. Located in Pan Pacific Park, the museum offers powerful exhibitions and educational programs that honor the memory of the Holocaust’s victims.
50. Experience the Nightlife in West Hollywood
West Hollywood, known for its vibrant nightlife, is home to some of the best bars, clubs, and music venues in Los Angeles. Whether you’re looking for a laid-back lounge or a high-energy dance club, West Hollywood has something for everyone.
