87 Instagrammable Spots in LA

Wander through the charming Venice Canals for a picturesque escape, offering unique architectural backdrops and tranquil waters perfect for capturing stunning photos.

Tip: Visit during golden hour for the most magical light.

Get that iconic shot with the Hollywood Sign! Lake Hollywood Park offers a fantastic, unobstructed view and plenty of space for a memorable photo op.

Tip: Arrive early to avoid crowds and secure the best spots.

This stunning architectural gem boasts a grand facade and beautiful courtyards, making it a top-tier spot for elegant and impressive photos.

Tip: Explore the interior for even more photogenic spaces.

Step into a fairytale at this historic mansion and its meticulously maintained gardens, offering a touch of old Hollywood glamour and breathtaking scenery.

Tip: Entry to the grounds is free, making it a great budget-friendly option.

Dive into a literary wonderland at The Last Bookstore, famous for its unique book tunnels and artistic displays that create an unforgettable visual experience.

Tip: Don't miss the second floor for more quirky photo opportunities.

Explore the vibrant street art scene on Melrose Avenue, featuring colorful murals and iconic backdrops like the famous 'Pink Wall' for trendy photos.

Tip: Wear bright colors to complement the dynamic street art.

Offering panoramic views of the city skyline and the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory is a classic LA spot for stunning daytime and sunset photos.

Tip: Visit during sunset for a truly magical and colorful backdrop.

Experience the epitome of luxury and high fashion on Rodeo Drive, with its designer boutiques and elegant streetscapes providing a glamorous photo setting.

Tip: Capture the architecture of iconic buildings like the Gucci store.

Marvel at the stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and impressive art collection at The Getty Center, offering diverse and sophisticated photo opportunities.

Tip: The central garden is a particularly serene and photogenic spot.

Snap a photo with the iconic Venice Sign, a quintessential symbol of this eclectic beachside neighborhood, perfect for capturing the LA vibe.

Tip: Combine this with a visit to the Venice Canals for a full experience.

Admire the striking, sail-like architecture of the Walt Disney Concert Hall, a modern masterpiece that provides a unique and visually dynamic backdrop.

Tip: The exterior curves and reflective surfaces offer endless photo angles.

Step back in time inside the Bradbury Building, renowned for its stunning Victorian-era interior featuring ornate ironwork, skylights, and open cage elevators.

Tip: Be respectful of the building's working offices and tenants.

Enjoy the serene beauty of Echo Park Lake, especially with its iconic lotus flowers and the downtown LA skyline in the distance, perfect for a tranquil shot.

Tip: Rent a swan pedal boat for a unique perspective and fun photos.

Capture the timeless glamour of the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel, with its famous pink facade and lush surroundings, a symbol of Hollywood's golden age.

Tip: The porte-cochère offers a classic and recognizable photo spot.

The newly renovated Sixth Street Viaduct offers dramatic architectural lines and sweeping views of the downtown LA skyline, ideal for urban photography.

Tip: Visit at night when the bridge is illuminated for a spectacular effect.

Perched high above Hollywood, Yamashiro offers stunning Japanese-inspired architecture, lantern-lit gardens, and breathtaking city views for a magical photo setting.

Tip: Arrive at sunset to capture the golden hour light over the city.

Explore the grandeur of Union Station, a beautifully preserved historic train station with stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and a grand waiting room.

Tip: The main hall with its ornate ceiling and tile work is particularly photogenic.

This bustling historic food hall offers a vibrant atmosphere and diverse culinary stalls, providing a colorful and lively backdrop for photos.

Tip: Capture the energy and variety of food vendors.

Ride the historic Angels Flight funicular, the shortest railway in the world, for a unique and charming photo opportunity with a classic LA feel.

Tip: It's located right next to Grand Central Market, making it easy to combine.

Beyond its impressive contemporary art collection, The Broad's unique architecture and the famous Infinity Mirrored Rooms offer striking visual experiences.

Tip: Book tickets for the Infinity Mirrored Rooms well in advance.

Stroll down this iconic palm tree-lined street for a quintessential Southern California photo, reminiscent of classic Hollywood movie scenes.

Tip: Best captured with a longer lens to emphasize the perspective.

This expansive park offers stunning panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin, including the downtown skyline and, on clear days, snow-capped mountains.

Tip: Visit during winter for a chance to capture snow-capped mountains.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant street art scene of the Arts District, where large-scale murals transform buildings into an outdoor gallery.

Tip: Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking to discover hidden gems.

Find the famous overlook on Mulholland Drive for an iconic, sweeping vista of the LA basin and downtown skyline, a classic spot used in many films.

Tip: Go early in the morning for a chance to catch the sunrise over the city.

Capture the classic California beach vibe at the Santa Monica Pier, with its amusement park, ocean views, and bustling boardwalk.

Tip: The pier offers great sunset photo opportunities.

Discover a tranquil oasis at this beautiful and free Japanese garden, featuring koi ponds, lush greenery, and peaceful walkways perfect for serene photos.

Tip: Parking fees apply, but entry to the garden is free.

This intersection offers a unique perspective of the downtown Los Angeles skyline, framed by the city's urban landscape.

Tip: This spot is great for capturing the city from a slightly elevated angle.

Find your favorite star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame for a classic LA photo op, surrounded by the glitz and glamour of Hollywood Boulevard.

Tip: Be mindful of the crowds and street performers.

This park provides excellent elevated views of the downtown Los Angeles skyline, offering a less crowded alternative for city vistas.

Tip: Great for capturing the city during daylight or at dusk.

This beautifully designed outdoor shopping and dining destination offers charming architecture, a central fountain, and a lively atmosphere perfect for photos.

Tip: The trolley that runs through the center adds a fun element to photos.

A popular outdoor shopping and entertainment complex with a vintage trolley, a dancing fountain, and a lively atmosphere that's great for candid shots.

Tip: The trolley is a fun prop for photos.

Step into a pop culture paradise at the Funko store, featuring larger-than-life figures and a vibrant, colorful environment ideal for fun and quirky photos.

Tip: Look for the life-sized figures outside for an immediate photo op.

Ascend to the observation deck of City Hall for a unique 360-degree view of Los Angeles, offering a different perspective of the sprawling city.

Tip: Free to visit, but check operating hours in advance.

Explore the historic grounds of Mission San Juan Capistrano, with its beautiful courtyards, adobe structures, and serene gardens offering a glimpse into California's past.

Tip: The ruins and gardens provide a very atmospheric setting.

Witness the stunning natural beauty of La Jolla Cove, known for its dramatic cliffs, clear waters, and abundant marine life, including sea lions.

Tip: Be prepared for the scent of sea lions!

Hike through the rugged coastal trails of Torrey Pines for breathtaking ocean views, unique rock formations, and dramatic cliffside scenery.

Tip: Wear sturdy shoes for hiking and bring water.

Known for its powerful waves and picturesque rock formations, Windansea Beach offers a dramatic and photogenic coastal landscape.

Tip: Great for capturing dynamic seascape photography.

Discover the industrial and maritime character of the Los Angeles Harbor, offering unique perspectives with large ships, cranes, and waterfront activity.

Tip: Look for areas with interesting reflections and textures.

Venture north of LA to Frazier Park for darker skies, offering a prime location for astrophotography and capturing the Milky Way.

Tip: Check the weather and moon phase for the best stargazing conditions.

Experience the surreal and desolate beauty of the Salton Sea, with its unique landscapes and abandoned structures providing an otherworldly photographic subject.

Tip: Be prepared for the unique smell and potentially harsh conditions.

Explore the iconic Joshua Trees, unique rock formations, and vast desert landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park, especially stunning for night photography.

Tip: The park is renowned for its stargazing opportunities.

Visit this iconic independent cinema, owned by Quentin Tarantino, for a retro vibe and a unique backdrop that appeals to film buffs.

Tip: Check their schedule for unique film screenings.

Strike a pose against the world-famous Paul Smith 'Pink Wall' for a vibrant and instantly recognizable Instagram photo.

Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds.

A quick and unique photo opportunity of the downtown LA skyline from a specific spot on the 110 express lanes, offering a dynamic urban perspective.

Tip: Requires being quick and aware of traffic; best for experienced drivers.

Drive through the scenic Rocky Peak area for dramatic rock formations and winding roads that offer stunning backdrops for photography.

Tip: Great for capturing cars or motorcycles against a rugged landscape.

Drive up to Mount Wilson for incredible views and a chance to photograph the historic observatory, offering a blend of science and scenic beauty.

Tip: The drive itself offers many pull-offs with great views.

Capture a striking view of the Saint Thomas Bridge, the harbor, and the ocean, especially beautiful during sunset from the hill overlooking the area.

Tip: The sunset light hitting the bridge and water is particularly stunning.

Explore sections of the LA River for raw, unfiltered street art and large-scale graffiti, offering a gritty urban photography experience.

Tip: Be aware of your surroundings and access points.

Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride around Silver Lake Reservoir, offering scenic views of the water and the surrounding hills, a popular local spot.

Tip: Great for capturing golden hour light reflecting on the water.

Discover the eclectic and artistic vibe of Frogtown, known for its unique street art, quirky shops, and riverside charm.

Tip: Keep an eye out for hidden murals and creative installations.

This bridge offers a unique vantage point for capturing the downtown Los Angeles skyline, providing an interesting urban perspective.

Tip: A good spot for capturing the city from a slightly elevated angle.

Located in the Arts District, this intersection provides a great view of the downtown LA skyline, framed by the urban environment.

Tip: Combine with exploring the nearby murals.

Get a unique perspective of the Hollywood Bowl amphitheater and the surrounding city from this scenic overlook.

Tip: Great for capturing the scale of the venue and the city.

Step into the opulent grandeur of the historic Biltmore Hotel, featuring stunning ballrooms, intricate tile work, and a classic Hollywood ambiance.

Tip: The lobby and ballrooms are particularly photogenic.

Explore the picturesque coastline of Laguna Beach, known for its beautiful coves, tide pools, and dramatic sea stacks, offering stunning seascape photography.

Tip: Check tide charts for the best opportunities to explore tide pools.

Drive along the scenic Malibu coastline, with its famous beaches, dramatic cliffs, and ocean vistas, providing endless opportunities for stunning coastal shots.

Tip: Many pull-offs offer incredible views of the Pacific.

Enjoy the relaxed beach town vibe of San Clemente, with its charming pier and beautiful coastline offering classic California beach photo opportunities.

Tip: Great for sunset photos over the ocean.

Discover the dramatic ocean views and rugged cliffs of the Palos Verdes Peninsula, offering breathtaking vistas of the Pacific and Catalina Island.

Tip: Look for spots like the Wayfarers Chapel for unique architectural shots.

Drive the scenic Angeles Crest Highway for stunning mountain vistas, winding roads, and opportunities to capture the rugged beauty of the San Gabriel Mountains.

Tip: Many pull-offs offer incredible panoramic views.

This scenic mountain road offers challenging curves and beautiful natural scenery, making it a popular spot for car and motorcycle photography.

Tip: Best for capturing vehicles against a backdrop of nature.

A winding canyon road popular with drivers and motorcyclists, offering scenic views and a sense of adventure for photography.

Tip: Known for its curves and beautiful surrounding landscape.

This scenic road winds through canyons and offers glimpses of the ocean, providing a beautiful backdrop for photography.

Tip: Offers a more remote and natural feel than coastal highways.

A historic market in Downtown LA that offers a unique, retro aesthetic and a glimpse into the city's past, perfect for urban exploration photography.

Tip: Explore the surrounding area for more vintage finds.

This historic tunnel in Downtown LA provides a dramatic, architectural backdrop with its tiled walls and unique lighting.

Tip: Great for creating moody and dramatic shots.

The exterior of the Walt Disney Concert Hall, with its shimmering stainless steel curves, offers a constantly changing and visually stunning photographic subject.

Tip: The way light plays off the building makes it dynamic throughout the day.

Beyond the lake, Echo Park offers a vibrant neighborhood with colorful houses, street art, and a lively local scene, perfect for capturing authentic LA life.

Tip: Explore the side streets for unique architectural details.

Discover a wide array of murals scattered throughout Downtown LA, offering a diverse and colorful urban canvas for photography.

Tip: Keep an eye out for smaller, lesser-known pieces.

Wander through the stunning themed gardens, including the Japanese Garden and Chinese Garden, offering incredibly diverse and beautiful backdrops.

Tip: Allow ample time to explore the various garden sections.

Known for its dramatic sea stacks, caves, and rock formations, El Matador offers a rugged and breathtaking coastal landscape perfect for photography.

Tip: Best visited at low tide to explore the caves and rock formations.

Explore the diverse botanical collections and themed gardens, including the enchanting rose garden and camellia forest, offering beautiful natural settings.

Tip: The rose garden is particularly stunning when in bloom.

Step aboard the historic Queen Mary ocean liner for a unique glimpse into maritime history, with its grand ballrooms and art deco interiors offering a vintage feel.

Tip: Consider a historical tour for more insights and photo opportunities.

For car enthusiasts, the Petersen Museum's striking modern architecture and extensive collection of iconic vehicles provide a dynamic and stylish backdrop.

Tip: The exterior design itself is a major photographic draw.

This historic women's club features stunning Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, lush courtyards, and elegant interiors, offering a timelessly beautiful setting.

Tip: Check for public events or tours that allow access.

Beyond the observatory, Griffith Park offers vast natural landscapes, hiking trails, and numerous viewpoints for diverse outdoor photography.

Tip: Explore the trails for more secluded and scenic spots.

Experience the birthplace of Los Angeles at Olvera Street, a vibrant Mexican marketplace with colorful stalls, historic buildings, and lively cultural displays.

Tip: Great for capturing vibrant colors and cultural details.

This iconic hotel boasts a rich Hollywood history, a stunning mid-century pool, and elegant Spanish Colonial architecture, offering a glamorous backdrop.

Tip: The poolside area is particularly photogenic.

Located atop the historic Oviatt Building, this stunning Art Deco penthouse offers incredible city views and luxurious interiors for sophisticated photos.

Tip: Access may be limited; check for event rentals or specific viewing opportunities.

While the interior is famous, the exterior of the Bradbury Building also offers interesting architectural details and a classic downtown LA feel.

Tip: Look for unique angles and the interplay of light and shadow.

This revitalized industrial complex features a mix of modern design, open spaces, and unique architectural elements, offering a trendy urban backdrop.

Tip: Explore the various courtyards and unique storefronts.

The rooftop gardens of the Walt Disney Concert Hall offer a serene escape with beautiful landscaping and unique architectural views.

Tip: A peaceful spot with interesting perspectives of the building.

Immerse yourself in Japanese culture at this vibrant plaza in Little Tokyo, featuring traditional architecture, lanterns, and unique shops.

Tip: Great for capturing colorful cultural details.

This opulent historic theater boasts stunning Spanish Baroque architecture, ornate details, and a grand interior perfect for dramatic photos.

Tip: Check for tours or events that allow access to the interior.

Admire the iconic Art Deco architecture of The Wiltern, with its distinctive green terracotta facade and glamorous marquee, a landmark in itself.

Tip: The exterior is highly photogenic, especially at night.

Explore Frank Lloyd Wright's architectural masterpiece, the Hollyhock House, featuring unique Mayan-inspired design elements and beautiful park surroundings.

Tip: The house is set within Barnsdall Art Park, offering additional scenic views.

Known for its striking blue, green, and red towers, the PDC offers a bold and modern architectural backdrop in the heart of West Hollywood.

Tip: The contrasting colors make for vibrant and graphic photos.

The expansive plaza surrounding the Music Center offers modern architectural lines, fountains, and open spaces, providing a sleek urban setting.

Tip: Great for capturing wide-angle shots of the urban landscape.

The iconic 'Urban Light' installation, featuring hundreds of restored vintage street lamps, is a must-visit for its whimsical and photogenic display.

Tip: It's particularly magical when lit up at night.