53 Best Things to Do in LA

Stroll along this iconic sidewalk and find the stars of your favorite celebrities. It's a classic LA experience that's free to enjoy and perfect for a memorable photo op.

Tip: Visit TCL Chinese Theatre and Dolby Theatre nearby for more Hollywood history.

Discover contemporary art in this stunning museum, known for its impressive collection and unique architecture. Entry is free, but booking reservations in advance is highly recommended.

Tip: Don't miss the Infinity Mirrored Room for a truly unique experience.

Experience panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin and the Hollywood Sign from this iconic hilltop observatory. It's a magical spot, especially at sunset.

Tip: Entry to the grounds and building is free; planetarium shows have a fee.

This lively pier offers amusement park rides, street performers, and stunning ocean views. It's a quintessential LA experience with plenty to see and do.

Tip: Consider renting a bike and riding the beach path south towards Venice Beach.

Indulge in a culinary adventure at this historic food hall, featuring a diverse array of vendors offering everything from local favorites to international cuisine.

Tip: Take the funicular Angel's Flight Railway nearby for a quick ride up Bunker Hill.

Admire the striking architectural design of this world-renowned concert hall. You can explore the exterior and the Blue Ribbon Garden for free.

Tip: Free tours of the building are sometimes available; check their schedule.

This massive independent bookstore is a labyrinth of new and used books, featuring unique art installations and a truly magical atmosphere.

Tip: Explore the upstairs mezzanine for hidden gems and creative displays.

Dive into the art and history of filmmaking at this impressive museum dedicated to cinema. It's a must-visit for movie buffs.

Tip: Allow ample time to explore the extensive exhibits.

Explore this beautiful historic mansion and its meticulously maintained gardens, offering a glimpse into LA's glamorous past. It's a public park and free to visit.

Tip: Parking is usually plentiful and free.

Home to the iconic 'Urban Light' installation, LACMA offers a vast collection of art spanning various cultures and time periods.

Tip: The 'Urban Light' installation is particularly stunning at night.

Take a charming ride on the world's shortest railway, a historic funicular that connects Hill Street and Bunker Hill in Downtown LA.

Tip: It's a quick and fun way to access attractions on Bunker Hill.

Step back in time at this historic street, considered the birthplace of Los Angeles. It's a vibrant marketplace with Mexican culture, food, and shops.

Tip: Great spot to experience traditional Mexican food and crafts.

Perched on a hilltop, this museum boasts stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and an impressive art collection. The views of the city are also spectacular.

Tip: Admission is free, but parking has a fee.

Immerse yourself in a world of color and light at this interactive art exhibition. It's a playful and joyful experience for all ages.

Tip: Perfect for unique photo opportunities.

Stroll along the picturesque canals of Venice, a charming neighborhood with unique architecture and a tranquil atmosphere, a stark contrast to the nearby beach.

Tip: A peaceful escape from the bustling Venice Beach boardwalk.

Enjoy a popular hike with stunning city views and a chance to spot local wildlife. It's a great spot for exercise and soaking in the LA landscape.

Tip: Can get crowded, especially on weekends.

Step inside this architectural gem, famous for its stunning Victorian-era interior with ornate ironwork and a breathtaking skylight.

Tip: The interior is accessible to the public during business hours.

Explore a vast collection of classic, custom, and futuristic vehicles in this architecturally striking museum. It's a dream for car enthusiasts.

Tip: Check for special exhibits that might be on display.

Experience a diverse range of contemporary art at one of LA's premier art institutions. It's a great complement to The Broad.

Tip: Often has thought-provoking and cutting-edge exhibitions.

Admire the beautiful architecture of this historic transportation hub, a blend of Spanish Colonial Revival and Art Deco styles.

Tip: A great place to start or end a journey via public transit.

Wander through stunning themed gardens, explore world-class art collections, and delve into rare books at this expansive estate.

Tip: Consider dedicating a full day to explore its many offerings.

Get a glimpse of the iconic Hollywood Sign. While you can't hike directly to it, various viewpoints offer fantastic photo opportunities.

Tip: Griffith Observatory offers great views of the sign.

Discover the stunning architecture of this historic library, featuring a beautiful rotunda and impressive art deco design.

Tip: Free tours are often available, showcasing its history and design.

Enjoy serene ocean views and a peaceful atmosphere at this impressive bell monument located in San Pedro.

Tip: A great spot for quiet reflection and scenic photos.

Experience the eclectic energy of Venice Beach, with its street performers, artists, and vibrant atmosphere. It's a sensory overload in the best way.

Tip: Be prepared for crowds and a lively, sometimes chaotic, scene.

Wander through the vibrant streets of Chinatown, experiencing its unique culture, shops, and diverse culinary offerings.

Tip: Consider exploring the San Gabriel Valley for a more extensive Chinese food scene.

Explore fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, mammals, and the natural world. It's an educational and engaging experience for all ages.

Tip: Free admission for LA County residents on certain days after 3 PM.

Journey back in time at this stunning museum dedicated to the art and culture of ancient Greece and Rome, set in a beautiful villa.

Tip: Timed-entry tickets are required and are free, but parking has a fee.

This large urban park is home to several museums, including the Natural History Museum and the California Science Center, all accessible via public transit.

Tip: A great area to spend a day exploring multiple attractions.

Engage with interactive exhibits that explore science and technology, including the Space Shuttle Endeavour. It's an inspiring place for curious minds.

Tip: General admission is free, with fees for special exhibits.

Enjoy scenic drives and hiking trails with incredible views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign. It's a beautiful area to explore.

Tip: Be aware of winding roads and potential traffic.

Catch a movie or a live performance at this beautifully restored historic theatre, known for its opulent decor and special events.

Tip: Check their schedule for unique screenings and shows.

Admire the striking architectural design of this world-renowned concert hall and explore its serene Blue Ribbon Garden.

Tip: The garden offers a peaceful escape with city views.

Step back in time at this historic street, considered the birthplace of Los Angeles. It's a vibrant marketplace with Mexican culture, food, and shops.

Tip: Great spot to experience traditional Mexican food and crafts.

Experience a diverse range of contemporary art and exhibitions at this renowned museum, known for its engaging programming.

Tip: Admission is free.

Explore the fascinating world of Ice Age fossils discovered at these active tar pits. It's a unique glimpse into prehistoric Los Angeles.

Tip: See active excavation sites and learn about paleontological discoveries.

Visit one of California's oldest missions, offering a glimpse into the region's colonial past with its historic architecture and museum.

Tip: Learn about the early history of California.

Escape to this beautiful botanical garden, featuring themed collections like the rose garden and camellia forest. It's a tranquil oasis.

Tip: Especially beautiful during bloom seasons.

Explore this historic cemetery, the final resting place of many Hollywood legends. It's also known for its outdoor movie screenings.

Tip: Check their schedule for Cinespia film screenings during warmer months.

Savor a classic French dip sandwich at this historic diner, a Los Angeles institution since 1908.

Tip: Try the roast beef or ham and cheese.

Immerse yourself in the history and artistry of music at this interactive museum dedicated to the Grammy Awards.

Tip: Great for music lovers of all genres.

Step into one of the oldest homes in Los Angeles, offering a glimpse into life in the pueblo era. It's part of the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument.

Tip: Learn about early LA history.

Discover the rich history and culture of Japanese Americans through compelling exhibits and artifacts.

Tip: Located in Little Tokyo, making it easy to combine with other nearby attractions.

Admire the striking Art Deco architecture of this historic building in Downtown LA, a landmark from the city's past.

Tip: A notable example of the city's architectural heritage.

Experience a diverse range of contemporary art at one of LA's premier art institutions. It's a great complement to The Broad.

Tip: Often has thought-provoking and cutting-edge exhibitions.

See the grandeur of this historic hotel, once the tallest building in Los Angeles, showcasing late 19th-century architecture.

Tip: A significant landmark in Downtown LA's history.

Enjoy a large urban green space with walking paths and views of the city skyline. It's a great spot for relaxation and recreation.

Tip: Accessible via public transit.

Step inside this architectural gem, famous for its stunning Victorian-era interior with ornate ironwork and a breathtaking skylight.

Tip: The interior is accessible to the public during business hours.

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture with unique shops, restaurants, and a charming atmosphere in the heart of Little Tokyo.

Tip: A great place to find authentic Japanese goods and cuisine.

Admire the ornate Spanish Baroque architecture of this historic movie palace in Downtown LA, a testament to a bygone era.

Tip: A beautiful example of early 20th-century cinema design.

Admire the striking architectural design of this world-renowned concert hall. You can explore the exterior and the Blue Ribbon Garden for free.

Tip: Free tours of the building are sometimes available; check their schedule.

Discover the birthplace of Los Angeles, a historic district featuring original adobes, museums, and cultural sites.

Tip: Includes Olvera Street and other significant historical landmarks.

Ascend to the observation deck of City Hall for panoramic views of Downtown Los Angeles and beyond.

Tip: Free to visit during business hours.