56 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

👉Jump to: Best Things | Movie Studios, Sites, & Attractions | Museums | Cultural Neighborhoods | Outdoors | Sports & Entertainment | Beaches

Los Angeles is one of the biggest entertainment industry cities in the world. Concerts, comedy shows, feature films, and theme parks abound, with major events happening year-round.

I had never lived somewhere with so much going on at all times until I moved here in 2022. But after several years of exploring and experiencing what the city has to offer, I’ve come up with this list of the best things to do in LA. 

Your home base goes hand in hand with what you’ll want to do in this sprawling city, so check out my guide on where to stay in Los Angeles, too!

56 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

Griffith Observatory

Scan the stars, planets, Downtown LA, and the Hollywood Sign from this famous observatory situated in the gorgeous Hollywood Hills.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213) 473-0800 | Website | Hours: 12 pm – 10 pm, Closed on Mondays | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book Griffith Observatory tours on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

This world-famous observatory has been the setting for almost 200 movies and shows since its opening in 1935. You’ll get sweeping views of the LA skyline and a direct view of the Hollywood Sign from here.

I take all of my first-time visitors to Griffith Observatory, and its beauty never fails to amaze me. Wander the upstairs deck, where you can look through the massive Zeiss refracting telescope after sunset. Then peruse astronomical exhibits throughout the facility.

The best part? Free entry! You will have to pay for parking on the street in Griffith Park or in the parking lot, though. But the drive past beautiful Hollywood mansions is worth it.

Hollywood Sign

Snap a photo with one of the most iconic landmarks on the West Coast.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Hollywood Sign Tour on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

The Hollywood Sign is the most iconic landmark in LA, and possibly on the West Coast. Located in the Santa Monica Mountains overlooking Hollywood, you can admire this enormous sign from afar or hike up close and personal to it. 

Finding your own hiking path to the Hollywood Sign can be tricky and overwhelmingly crowded. I recommend taking a tour if you want to get the perfect photo-op. Plus, your guide will share fun stories about the history and celebrity of this cultural icon. 

Getty Center

Admire some of the most famous artwork in LA at this free museum overlooking the city.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (310) 440-7300 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6:30 pm, Closed on Mondays | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book Getty Center Guided Tours on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

The Getty Center boasts one of the greatest art collections in Los Angeles. From famous masterpieces by Van Gogh and Rembrandt to impressive, ancient sculptures, the Getty is an art lover’s dream come true.

Admission is free, but you do have to pay to park ($25 per car). Visit around sunset to watch the lights come on over the entirety of Los Angeles. 

Dodgers Stadium

Catch a baseball game with the back-to-back world champions at this historic MLB ballpark in Elysian Park.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (866) 363-4377 | Website | Hours & Ticket Prices Vary

The back-to-back World Series champions live and play in LA. See a baseball game at Dodger Stadium to witness the one-and-only Shohei Ohtani hit home run after home run. Nothing beats a ball game with a craft beer and a giant pretzel in hand. 

Hollywood Bowl

See your favorite artists perform at one of the most famous outdoor venues in the world.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 850-2000 | Website | Hours & Ticket Prices Vary

You’ve never experienced live music like this before. See the biggest names in music perform at this 100-year-old amphitheater with sweeping views of the Hollywood Hills. 

If you can’t swing a show during your stay in LA, check out the newly renovated Hollywood Bowl Museum. It’s free to enter, and you might even be able to catch a band rehearsal on show days if you’re lucky.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

Tap into your creative side at the largest art museum in the West.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 857-6000 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 6/7 pm, Closed on Wednesdays | Entrance: $30 adults, $15 ages 3-17 | 👉 Book LACMA tours on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

LACMA was the first art museum I remember feeling truly inspired by. This impressive museum boasts ever-changing exhibits with 150,000+ pieces, rotating both world-renowned artists and up-and-coming talents. You may recognize the famous “Urban Light” street lanterns on display out front.

Every visit warrants a new wave of awe. Plus, it’s next door to the La Brea Tar Pits and up the street from the Grove and Petersen Automotive Museum, so you can hit multiple incredible sites in one go. Art lover or not, I guarantee you’ll enjoy your time at LACMA.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Take a thrilling adventure with some of your family’s favorite characters at this top-rated theme park and famous film studio.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (800) 864-8377 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 7 pm daily | Entrance: Starts at $134 | 👉 Book Universal Studios Hollywood Tickets on Viator

Experience movie magic at one of the most famous film studios and theme parks in the world. Take your little ones on an adventure with Harry Potter, Mario and Luigi, the Mummy, and more beloved characters from Universal Studios. 

There are plenty of rides, attractions, experiences, and events for all ages here, so make sure to study the website before going. I recommend planning out a full day or two to make the most of your experience at this family-fun park.

🛎️ Need a Hotel? The Garland in Universal City is my top hotel recommendation if you want to stay next to Universal Studios.

West Hollywood

Dance the night away at some of the best bars and clubs in LA, many of which are frequently featured on reality TV shows.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a West Hollywood food tour on Viator

West Hollywood is my favorite place to go dancing and clubbing in LA. The section of bars on Santa Monica Boulevard between Doheny and Fairfax is hopping every day of the week, and the energy here is unmatched. 

This is the iconic LGBTQ-friendly neighborhood in LA (though all of LA is pretty inclusive and inviting). The rainbow lights add an element of warmth to the lively streets, and people are beyond welcoming here. Whether you’re going for a bite to eat or a wild night out on the town, you’ll thrive here. 

West Hollywood is our number one pick for first-timers in LA. Book a stay at one of the finest hotels in the area for a memorable trip of a lifetime!

🛎️ Need a Hotel? Read my review of the Montrose Hotel up the street.

Los Angeles Movie Studios, Sites, & Attractions

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Find your favorite celebrity’s star on the boulevard and enjoy the true LA tourist experience.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Hollywood Celebrity Bus Tour from Hollywood Boulevard on Viator

This might be the most touristy activity on this list, but the Hollywood Walk of Fame is the quintessential LA experience. Snap a photo with your favorite celebrity’s star along the boulevard, and enjoy the eccentric crowds that come to admire the capital of the entertainment industry. Catch a movie at the TCL Chinese Theater while you’re there.

Book the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel to stay steps from all the action on Hollywood Boulevard. This famous hotel has hosted the biggest names in the industry, like Marilyn Monroe and Ernest Hemingway. It’s a dream stay for anyone fascinated by Hollywood history.

There are lots of fun attractions along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, like Madame Tussauds wax museum and Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Be cautious of pickpockets and hecklers here – they’re more concentrated in this area than anywhere else in LA. 

Warner Bros Studios

Cineophiles will have a field day exploring this iconic film studio in Burbank.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (818) 977-8687 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am – 3:30 pm daily | Entrance: Tours Start at $79 | 👉 Book Warner Bros Studios Tickets on Viator

Celebrate Hollywood filmmaking history at this world-renowned film studio. Explore famous film sets, a warehouse of recognizable movie props, and working sound stages during your visit.

Choose from a variety of different tours, from the basic studio tour to the TCM Classic Films tour, which takes you on a journey back to Warner Bros’ beginning in the 1920s. Check out the newly opened Superman experience if someone in your family is a big fan of Clark Kent.

Paramount Pictures

Experience 100+ years of Hollywood history at yet another famous film and TV studio.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 956-1777 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am – 4 pm daily | Entrance: Tours Start at $71

Paramount Pictures is the oldest film studio in LA, and the last one located in Hollywood proper. Some of the biggest movies in history were filmed and produced here, like Indiana Jones, Forrest Gump, and The Godfather. This prolific studio offers behind-the-scenes cart tours with varying access to 30 stages, backlots, and studio archives.

Santa Monica Pier

Spend a day riding roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and playing carnival games on this beloved family-friendly pier.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (310) 458-8900 | Website | Hours: 6 am – 10 pm daily | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book a Santa Monica tour on Viator

The whole family will delight in the revelry that makes the Santa Monica Pier so special. This National Historic Landmark has been around for over 115 years and has become one of the liveliest facets of the Los Angeles area. 

Ride the West Coaster and the Ferris Wheel at Pacific Park at the end of the pier, then play for a prize at one of the carnival game stalls. Enjoy typical carnival fare, or splurge on a nicer meal at one of the pier restaurants. This spot guarantees hours of family fun and excitement.

Rodeo Drive

Shop the biggest luxury and fashion brands in the world on this famous high-end shopping street.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Rodeo Drive bus tour on Viator

Shopaholics – meet your match. Rodeo Drive is the destination for everything luxury… not just in LA, but in the world! Find every designer brand and rare collectible on this glitzy 2-mile strip of Beverly Hills. This spot is especially enrapturing to those who crave the finer things.

I personally hate shopping, but I’ll never turn down a trip to Rodeo Drive. The street is so iconic and offers some of the best people-watching in the city. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities. They like to spend their money here!

The Original Farmers Market at The Grove

Shop and dine at this European-style, open-air shopping mall and farmers market in the Fairfax District.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 900-8080 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 9 pm daily | Entrance: Free

More shopping! But this time, there’s something for everyone, no matter what’s in your bank account. Okay, fine, the Grove can still be pricey, but the variety of shops here is much more accessible and inviting than Rodeo Drive.

This outdoor mall is one of the best places to shop in LA. And the adjacent Original Farmers Market offers every kind of cuisine known to man. Wander the food stalls before taking to the cobblestone walkways of the Grove’s 40+ stores.

Check out weekly events on the website calendar. There’s always something new and exciting happening at The Original Farmers Market at The Grove. 

Grand Central Market

Try any and every kind of cuisine at this historic food stall market in Downtown LA.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213) 359-6007 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 9 pm daily | 👉 Book Downtown LA Food Tour on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

This historic Downtown LA market is the perfect spot for foodies to get their fix. Try a little of everything from the 40+ food stalls featuring every kind of cuisine imaginable, from fresh seafood to head-sized donuts. You can research all of the vendors on their website before you go.

Take a ride on the Angels Flight Railway funicular across the street while you’re there! It’s a fun way to experience a bit of historic LA transportation with the family.

Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Shop, dine, and bar-hop in the trendiest neighborhood in Venice.

📍 Google Maps | Website

Abbot Kinney is the ultimate shopping and dining hub for those who desire an upscale environment with an artsy, beachy vibe. Peruse local boutiques set in 1920s bungalows alongside brand-name storefronts and trendy diners and coffee shops on this mile-long stretch of stores in the Venice neighborhood.

First Fridays happen on, you guessed it, the first Friday of each month. Hundreds of vendors, food trucks, and pop-up shops take over Abbot Kinney for a day full of local fare and live music. There’s something to enjoy for the whole family at this bustling neighborhood event.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Pay your respects to your favorite late celebrities, or attend a unique show among the headstones.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 469-1181 | Website | Hours & Event Prices Vary | 👉 Book Hollywood Forever Cemetery tours on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

I never expected to have a cemetery on any of my best-of lists. But the Hollywood Forever Cemetery is the exception.

This fully operating crematorium and cemetery hosts unique events throughout the year, from live concerts to a Día de los Muertos celebration. Here you have a chance to pay your respects to the late celebrities you’ve admired your whole life, like Judy Garland and Mickey Rooney. Even Toto from The Wizard of Oz is buried here!

Visiting LA in October? I highly recommend attending one of the Día de los Muertos celebrations at the cemetery. I watched Coco on the lawn with a group of friends last year, and it was one of the most memorable events I’ve been to in LA.

Hollyhock House

Visit one of the most famous architectural masterpieces in LA, designed by the greatest American architect in history.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 913-4030 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 4 pm, Closed Sunday-Wednesday | Entrance: $12 | 👉 Book a Hollyhock House tour on Viator

This National Historic Landmark was designed by renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright. He was best known for incorporating “organic” architecture, like trees and boulders, into his modern designs. 

Hollyhock House serves as the centerpiece of Barnsdall Art Park in East Hollywood. Wright completed the building for oil heiress Aline Barnsdall in 1921. Today, it serves as a shining example of his work on the West Coast, just a state away from his famous Taliesin West in Phoenix, Arizona.

Los Angeles Museums

The Getty Villa

Admire a fantastic collection of Roman and Greek antiquities in a recreated Roman villa in the Pacific Palisades.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (310) 440-7300 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily, closed on Tuesdays | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book a Getty Villa tour on Viator

If you teleported onto the grounds of the Getty Villa, you’d be convinced you were in the Mediterranean. This recreation of a Roman villa buried by the Mount Vesuvius eruption houses over 44,000 Roman and Greek antiquities. 

Mr. Getty started his collection in 1974. The Getty Villa has since provided a European escape back in time for LA locals and visitors from around the world.

The gardens and sparkling pools are pristine, and the artwork is unmatched. Whether you’re an artist, a history buff, or someone who simply enjoys beautiful things, the Getty Villa is a must. 

La Brea Tar Pits

Marvel at the millions of fossils discovered right in the center of Los Angeles at this world-renowned excavation site. New prehistoric discoveries happen daily!

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213) 763-3499 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $18 adults, $7 ages 3-12 | 👉 Book La Brea Tar Pits Tickets on Viator

⚠️ Closure Notice: The La Brea Tar Pits will close for two years of renovations in July 2026. Come back in 2028 if you’re too late!

Don’t skip the La Brea Tar Pits if you want to see what LA was like during prehistoric times 10,000-50,000 years ago. This is my personal favorite attraction in all of LA. The impressive collection of skeletons and real-time excavation viewing at the Fossil Lab makes me feel as awe-inspired as a little kid.

All ages will delight in the interactive exhibits, from pulling on tar-addled poles to watching the 3D Titans of the Ice Age film (an additional $8 per person). This is truly one of the coolest museums I’ve ever been to, and I recommend it to all of my visiting friends and family. 

Natural History Museum

Uncover thousands of years of natural and cultural history in this shared collection of over 35 million specimens.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213) 763-3466 | Website | Hours: 9:30 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: $18 adults, $7 ages 3-12 | 👉 Book Natural History Museum Tickets on Viator

You’ve likely seen this place featured in a movie or music video (Spider-Man’s fateful spider bite was filmed here!). The aesthetic of Dino Hall, L.A. Underwater, and the nature gardens is absolutely captivating. Many exhibitions are permanent, but check the website for seasonal events and rotating displays.

The Natural History Museum is a great place to take the kids to get in a full day of history and hands-on discovery. I could spend a lifetime in this beautiful museum and never get bored. 

California Science Center

Unlock your left-brained self at one of the largest science centers in the U.S.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 724-3623 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 5 pm daily | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book Museum Row Tickets on Viator

Located in Exposition Park right next to the Natural History Museum, the California Science Center is another fantastic collection of scientific exhibits and rotating galleries. Discover over 100 hands-on exhibits featuring everything from space travel to prehistoric life in LA.

The newly opened Mummies of the World exhibition has received glowing reviews, and the whole museum is praised as one of the best in Los Angeles. Special exhibitions require an admission fee, but the core exhibitions are always free.

The Broad

Peruse a world-renowned display of contemporary artwork in the heart of Downtown LA.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213) 232-6200 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 5/6 pm daily, Closed on Mondays | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book a Downtown LA Art tour on Viator

Welcome to the most popular contemporary art museum in Downtown Los Angeles, founded by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad. This massive collection of celebrated artwork makes world-class art accessible with free admission to permanent and rotating displays.

Check out The Broad’s event calendar to see what fascinating exhibitions are on show during your visit. You might just catch your new favorite artist’s work!

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Explore a diverse collection of modern artwork in the only artist-founded museum in LA.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213) 621-2766 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 5/6 pm daily, Closed on Mondays | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book a Downtown LA Art tour on Viator

This artist-founded museum is one of my favorite places to visit in Downtown LA. Though not as expansive as The Broad, MOCA is just as impressive, in my opinion. Admission is free to a wide display of rotating collections and even interactive exhibits.

MOCA is one of the best free things to do in LA and an excellent, accessible option for art lovers to enjoy the creativity of local artists without breaking the bank.

Petersen Automotive Museum

See some of the rarest automobiles in the world, including one-of-a-kind prototypes.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 930-2277 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm daily | Entrance: $22 | 👉 Book a Museum Row tour on Viator

Calling all motorheads! If you thought you saw some cool cars driving around Beverly Hills, just wait until you see what’s inside the Petersen Automotive Museum. Experience 100+ years of rare and cutting-edge vehicles across 17 impressive exhibits. 

From Italian classics to American motorcycles and everything in between, Petersen delivers incredible automotive history for every type of car fanatic. And of course, they even have a Hollywood-famous display where you can get up close and personal with your favorite car-chase stars.

GRAMMY Museum

Celebrate the greatest artists in history and the stories behind their fame.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213) 725-5700 | Website | Hours: 11 am – 5 pm daily, closed on Tuesdays | Entrance: $23

Don’t skip the GRAMMY Museum in Downtown Los Angeles if you’re a music lover like me. This unique museum is dedicated to the history and discography of Grammy Award winners. 

Wander four floors of interactive exhibits highlighting the evolution of sound and the greats who paved the way for so many famous artists and bands. This is a highly immersive experience that the whole family will love.

Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

Learn about all of the moving parts that make a film come to life, and even experience winning an Oscar!

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 930-3000 | Website | Hours: 10 am – 6 pm daily, Closed on Tuesdays | Entrance: $25 | 👉 Book Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Tickets on Viator

The Academy Museum of Motion Pictures is one of the newest museums in Los Angeles, having just opened in 2021 in the Fairfax District. General admission grants access to four levels of cinematic galleries and rotating exhibitions covering the history of film and the industry that dominates Los Angeles. 

Attend movie screenings for an additional fee. You can even experience winning your very own Oscar in the Oscars Experience simulator. Now that’s the Hollywood dream!

Cultural Neighborhoods in Los Angeles

Little Tokyo

Experience authentic Japanese culture and cuisine in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Little Tokyo tour on Viator

Japan is one of my favorite countries in the world, and Little Tokyo in Downtown LA genuinely feels like a slice of Japanese heaven. 

Peruse anime shops, comic book stores, Japanese bakeries, and authentic markets beneath red and white paper lanterns. Check out Go Little Tokyo for the latest news on community events and unique experiences before visiting.

As the second-oldest neighborhood in LA, Little Tokyo is packed with 140+ years of history and is a cultural celebration of the vibrant Japanese-American population in LA. 

👉 Local Tip: Little Tokyo is very close to Skid Row, a sketchy part of town, so be cautious about where you park. Opt for a well-lit street or secure parking garage to ensure your vehicle is not tampered with.

Chinatown

A vibrant hub for authentic Chinese cuisine, shopping, art galleries, and festive cultural celebrations.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Chinatown food tour on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

Shop and dine among red lantern-lined streets and pagoda-style buildings in the most famous cultural neighborhood in LA: Chinatown. Foodies will thrive at the dim sum and dumpling eateries, many of which make our list of the best restaurants in LA. Phoenix Bakery, the oldest family-owned Chinese bakery in the city, is a must for its famous almond cookies.

Chinatown is across the street from Union Station near Downtown LA, so you can get there easily via public transportation, no matter where you stay in LA. 

Olvera Street

Known as the birthplace of Los Angeles, this outdoor Mexican marketplace boasts delicious eateries and colorful shops in the historic center of Downtown LA.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book an Olvera Street food tour on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

Olvera Street is a historic pedestrian street packed with colorful Mexican shops, authentic food stalls, and often live music at the gazebo. You’ll be immersed in the Mexican culture that makes LA so vibrant in this beloved area of Downtown LA.

Don’t miss the famous hand-rolled taquitos at Cielito Lindo, one of the best and most famous Mexican restaurants in LA. 

Koreatown

Late-night food and entertainment abound in K-Town, with many restaurants and bars open 24/7.

📍 Google Maps | Website

If Korean barbecue is up your alley, you cannot skip a meal in K-Town. This diverse neighborhood features authentic Korean cuisine, energetic clubs, and a myriad of Korean cultural gems like karaoke bars, bubble tea spots, and traditional spas.

K-Town is centrally located between Hollywood and DTLA, so you’ll likely be able to get there easily no matter where you stay.  

Los Angeles Outdoor Attractions

Topanga State Park

Hike to some of the best views of the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Monica Mountains.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (310) 455-2465 | Website | Hours: 8 am – 6:30 pm daily | Entrance: $2 | 👉 Book a Horseback Ride near Topanga via Airbnb Experiences

Topanga State Park is my favorite place to go hiking in LA. While there are plenty of options around the mountainous city, this area feels like a true escape from the chaos of the metropolis. 

The trails are quiet and teeming with vibrant plants, flowers, grass, and wildlife. Trek to jaw-dropping views of the ocean, Pacific Palisades, and the Santa Monica Mountains. Check out AllTrails to find a hike best suited to your abilities. 

Runyon Canyon Park

Hike to sweeping city views just above the action in Hollywood.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (818) 243-1145 | Website | Entrance: Free | 👉 Book A Runyon Canyon Hike on Viator or Hike with Rescue Dogs via Airbnb Experiences

Runyon Canyon Park is located directly north of Hollywood, making it a popular spot to stretch your legs close to the big city. You might spot some celebrities getting their fill of nature here!

This is a lovely hiking area with lush trails to sweeping lookouts over the city. There’s also a dog park where you can let your furry friend run around off-leash! Since it’s more accessible than Topanga State Park, expect bigger crowds here.

Venice Canals

Stroll over pedestrian footbridges in this scenic neighborhood built right on the canals.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Venice Beach tour on Viator or a photography tour via Airbnb Experiences

The serenity of the Venice Canals couldn’t be more opposite to the chaos of Venice Beach. Wander with the ducks through the striking waterways of this residential neighborhood just inland of the beach.

This is my favorite place to enjoy a sunset stroll over arched footbridges and past charming bungalows and stunning mansions. Visit the Venice Canals if you want a calm and beautiful spot to unwind after a busy day in LA. 

Wine Tasting in Malibu

Sip local wine at a vineyard in the Santa Monica Mountains overlooking the oceanside city of Malibu.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Book a Malibu Vineyard Tour on Viator or Hike and Sip via Airbnb Experiences

Wine is the number one reason to travel if you’re anything like my dad. No vineyards, no reason to go on. Good thing wine country is just a drop-dead gorgeous seaside drive away from LA.

Take in the stunning Santa Monica Mountains and sparkling ocean views with a glass of local vino in hand. I recommend taking a tour so you don’t have to worry about who has to be DD for the day. Let the experts take the wheel with this fabulous 1-day wine trekking tour in Malibu. 

Ballona Wetlands Ecological Reserve

Take a leisurely walk in this unique marshland, one of the most fragile natural habitats in LA.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (888) 773-8450 | Website 

If you need a break from city life, the Ballona Wetlands are the perfect natural escape. What used to be over 8,000 acres of LA estuaries is now just this small but proudly protected 600-acre stretch of wetlands between Marina del Rey and Playa del Rey.

Wander trails of vivid wildflowers filled with chirping birds, slender herons, skittering lizards, and more wildlife. The canal next to the reserve leads directly into Marina del Rey, where you can watch sailboats enter the bay and sea lions bark at passersby. Nowhere else in LA feels as peaceful to me as the Ballona Wetlands. 

Echo Park

Drift among the geese on a romantic swan boat, or have a picnic with views of DTLA.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213) 250-3578 | Website | 👉 Rent an Echo Park Swan Boat on Viator

Paddle a swan boat around the famous Echo Park Lake with views of downtown Los Angeles in the background. This is a romantic place to take a date, or a lovely spot to bring the whole family to enjoy a picnic in the park in the perfect LA weather.

Grab some authentic Mexican food in the area – I’ve had some of the best tacos in LA here. Silver Lake, bordering Echo Park, is also one of the best places to stay in Los Angeles if you want to be close to Hollywood, Downtown LA, and Dodger Stadium. 

Mulholland Drive

Drive this legendary stretch of winding LA roads through the scenic Santa Monica Mountains and Hollywood Hills.

📍 Google Maps | 👉 Book a Mulholland Trail Horseback Ride on Viator

Drive the winding curves of this iconic 55-mile parkway that meanders past celebrity mansions and stellar views in the Hollywood Hills. It’s been featured in dozens of movies and shows, most obviously in the 2001 mystery Mulholland Drive. 

Take a horseback ride on the Mulholland Trail for a more intimate, up-close experience with the natural landscape surrounding LA. This is a fun and easygoing way to see a beautiful section of LA’s most scenic and affluent neighborhoods.

Take a Day Cruise

Spend half a day on the water on a brunch cruise departing from Marina del Rey.

📍Google Maps | Phone: (310) 301-6000 | Website | Hours: 8:30 am – 5 pm daily, closed on Sundays | Entrance: Rates vary | 👉 Book LA Cruise tour on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

Book a brunch cruise to enjoy bottomless mimosas and a gourmet buffet with views of the California coast on a swanky yacht. Or take a 1-hour sightseeing cruise around Marina del Rey during the summer for a more budget-friendly option. You can even take a karaoke cruise for the ultimate party boat experience.

Go Surfing

Catch a wave at some of the best surfing beaches on the West Coast.

👉 Book a Surfing Lesson on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

I may be the world’s worst surfer, but that doesn’t stop me from trying to catch a wave in LA. From my sources, Malibu and Manhattan Beach are the best spots to do so in town. Rental shops are easy to find in any beach city, and hourly/daily rates are usually really reasonable.

If you want to better get to know the swells, check out the best times of day/year to surf in LA on this Surf Forecast site. Make sure to wear a wetsuit. The Pacific stays icy all year long. 

Bike the Strand

Enjoy the sunshine and the wind in your hair along this 22-mile oceanside stretch of South Bay.

👉 Book an E-Bike LA Beach Tour on Viator

Rent a bike from one of the many bike shops in any of the beach cities and spend a few hours biking oceanside through the South Bay via the Strand, LA’s 22-mile-long bike path. If accessibility is a concern, you can rent an e-bike for easy, assisted pedaling. 

There are few activities more enjoyable than a beachside bike ride on a sunny day. Plus, LA’s weather is too perfect to stay inside. Get pedaling!

Sports & Entertainment in Los Angeles

Intuit Dome

See the LA Clippers play or watch your favorite performers onstage at this futuristic arena in Inglewood.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (888) 311-0231 | Website | Hours & Ticket prices vary | 👉 Book an Intuit Dome Tour on Viator

Welcome to Intuit Dome, the most technologically advanced sports venue in the USA and home to the LA Clippers in Inglewood. Expect ticketless entry, card-free purchases, and dazzling light shows at this futuristic arena where you can see your favorite artists perform and NBA players hoop. 

Visibility is great, even from the nosebleeds, thanks to the massive LED scoreboard hanging over the court. I saw a college basketball game here last year from way up high, and it was still worth seeing in-person. 

👉 Local Tip: Purchase parking in advance to secure a spot near the stadium. 

SoFi Stadium

Few sports stadiums compare to the recent host of the FIFA World Cup in Inglewood.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (424) 541-9100 | Website | Hours & Ticket prices vary | 👉 Book a SoFi Stadium Tour on Viator

Witness everything from the FIFA World Cup and LA Rams to the most famous current artists like Sabrina Carpenter and Justin Bieber at SoFi Stadium.

This sports and entertainment stadium is the best-known in LA. Located in Inglewood, it’s easily accessible from LAX and Downtown LA. Tickets are affordable depending on the event, but try to purchase early for the best deals. 

Crypto.com Arena

See the Los Angeles Lakers, Sparks, and Kings play at this massive downtown arena.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213) 742-7100 | Website | Hours & Ticket prices vary

Welcome to the home of the LA Lakers, Sparks, and Kings! If you’re a basketball or hockey fan, get tickets for the game of a lifetime at Crypto.com Arena. This Downtown sports complex stays busy all year long with games, concerts, and other major events. Check out the calendar on the website to see what’s happening during your stay.

 🛎️ Need a Hotel? Check out my budget stay at Freehand just around the corner.

The Comedy Store

See your favorite comics perform at one of the most famous comedy clubs in the country.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 656-6225 | Website | Hours & Ticket prices vary

The original Comedy Store opened on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood in 1972. It has since hosted every major name in comedy, from OG superstars to internet sensations. 

If you’re up for a laugh, don’t miss a comedy show at this iconic venue. Huge stars perform here nearly every day of the week. I saw Jay Leno and Iliza Shlesinger here on a random Tuesday for only $40! So don’t worry about your timing; you’re guaranteed a star-studded lineup no matter when you visit.

 🛎️ Need a Hotel? Check out my 10/10 stay at the Sun Rose directly across the street.

Laugh Factory

Laugh until you cry at this boisterous comedy club on the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 656-1336 | Website | Hours & Ticket prices vary

Prepare to laugh your head off at yet another fantastic comedy club in West Hollywood. Just down the road from the aforementioned Comedy Store on Sunset Boulevard, the Laugh Factory is just as wonderful as its rival, just not quite as well-known. I honestly prefer the more laid-back atmosphere of the Laugh Factory.

Check out the website to see if any of your favorite stars are performing. Or chance a line-up of up-and-coming comics. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite comedian.

Dolby Theatre

The biggest night in Hollywood demands the biggest stage in the west for the annual Oscars awards ceremony.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 308-6300 | Website | Hours & Ticket prices vary | 👉 Book Dolby Theater Tickets on Viator

Dolby Theatre isn’t just the home of the Academy Awards. You can see live comedy, dance, concerts, and plays all year long at this renowned theater on Hollywood Boulevard.

Take a tour to learn about the history of the Dolby Theatre and the famous faces that have passed through here. Nearly every major celebrity you know has set foot on this famous stage. You’ll even catch a glimpse of how the Oscars show operates every spring! P.S. Conan, I love you.

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Experience an orchestra the way it was meant to be heard in this state-of-the-art concert hall in DTLA.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (323) 850-2000 | Website | Hours & Ticket prices vary | 👉 Book a Self-Guided DTLA Tour on Viator

When it comes to acoustics, few venues in the world rival the Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown LA. Architect Frank Gehry designed the space so as to create ideal sight and sound from every seat. The building is gorgeous both inside and out, with over 2,000 comfortable seats filled on a weekly basis. 

Don’t miss an orchestral masterpiece in this fabulous concert hall fit for royalty. Some events are even free with a timely RSVP!

Peacock Theater

The largest theater in LA hosts some of the biggest names in entertainment.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (213) 763-6030 | Website | Hours & Ticket prices vary

The Peacock Theater (formerly Nokia Theater) is the largest in Los Angeles, with over 7,000 seats and an enormous indoor stage. Half a million guests pass through these doors each year to enjoy live music, dance, comedy, and award shows. Check out the website to see who’s performing during your visit.

Peacock Theater is located adjacent to Crypto.com Arena and the GRAMMY Museum, so you can stay close to all the action on one corner of Downtown LA.

Los Angeles Beaches

Manhattan Beach

Visit the aquarium on the pier, play volleyball, and surf at the swankiest beach in LA.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Manhattan Beach tour on Viator

Manhattan Beach is the best beach in LA, in my humble opinion. Spend the day playing volleyball at one of the free courts, admire sea life at the free Roundhouse Aquarium at the end of the pier, and ogle the massive mansions that line the Strand, the bike path that stretches along the ocean in South Bay.

I highly recommend grabbing a drink at Shellback’s, everyone’s favorite local tavern, right above the pier. The restaurants, shops, and bars are pricey in Manhattan Beach, so expect a high price tag if you go out here. 

Hermosa Beach

Dine and drink oceanside at the lively pier plaza nestled between two other beach cities in South Bay.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Hermosa Beach e-bike tour on Viator

Nestled between the other two beach cities in South Bay, Hermosa Beach is a fan favorite for locals and visitors alike. The lively Pier Plaza offers great restaurants, shops, and bars, and there’s always a fun event to attend nearby. 

The area frequently hosts major outdoor farmers/artisan markets and beach festivals like Fiesta Hermosa, the International Surf Festival, and the Fine Arts Festival. Walk or bike along the Strand to other beach cities and enjoy classic California vibes at Hermosa Beach.

Redondo Beach

The southernmost beach in South Bay boasts mountain and ocean views.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Redondo Beach glass-bottom boat tour or a sea lion kayak tour on Viator

Redondo Beach is the least crowded of the South Bay beaches, in part for its location farthest south, and also for its more residential environment. This is a great option for visitors who want to enjoy a peaceful day of sunshine with a view of hilly Palos Verdes to the south. 

Redondo Beach Pier is a less hectic version of Santa Monica Pier, with lots of fun games and food stalls to explore. Take the kiddos for a glass-bottom boat ride or kayak with sea lions to discover the ocean life above and below the surface of the Pacific.

Santa Monica Beach

Sunbathe with views of the Santa Monica Pier and the mountains of Malibu on this long sandy beach.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book Santa Monica tours on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

Santa Monica Beach offers a wider stretch of sand than the others mentioned on this list. That means you’ll have more room to spread out from the crowds. However, Santa Monica Beach is a super popular beach, so you’ll likely share the space with a bunch of other visitors year-round. Check out the pier rides and games while you’re there!

Dockweiler State Beach

Roast marshmallows by the moonlit ocean at the only bonfire beach in LA County.

📍 Google Maps | Phone: (310) 322-4951 | Website | Hours: 9 am – 5 pm

Grab some firewood, a bag of marshmallows, and a few chocolate bars, and head to Dockweiler State Beach just west of LAX. Dockweiler is the only beach in the county that allows public fires. 

Start a blazing bonfire in one of the designated concrete pits with a group of your favorite people. All you have to do is bring your own supplies, pay no more than a $10 entrance fee, and you’re good to roast the night away beside the ocean!

Malibu Beach

Surf, wine, and dine at the most famously scenic beach in Southern California.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Malibu tour on Viator or Go Horseback Riding in Malibu via Airbnb Experiences

Though Malibu is technically its own city, it’s close enough to Los Angeles to include on this list. Plus, Malibu is one of the most popular outdoor destinations in the LA area for good reason. Visit local vineyards, dine on the water, hike in the canyon, or surf the day away at one of the prettiest beaches in SoCal.

Even after the devastating LA fires in early 2025, Malibu is a gorgeous place to visit. I recommend taking the PCH from Santa Monica to get that classic vision of the California Coast.

Venice Beach

Fish off the pier, watch muscle men lift, and shop for cheap at this eccentric LA beach.

📍 Google Maps | Website | 👉 Book a Venice Beach bike tour on Viator or Airbnb Experiences

The people watching at Venice Beach is simply unmatched. Observe the ultra-buff muscle men lift at the outdoor gym on Muscle Beach, then admire the pros doing kickflips and tricks at the Venice Beach Skatepark.

Characters from all over the world make their way to this bizarre beach for eclectic shopping and waterfront dining. Though I don’t recommend visiting at night (it gets dicey after sunset), this is a great spot to experience the weirdest of the weird in LA. You certainly won’t be bored at Venice Beach!

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I hope you fill your time in LA with a mix of easygoing plans and once-in-a-lifetime activities. Read Jericha’s guide to the best day trips from LA to expand your adventures around the City of Angels.