Los Angeles is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. However, with so much to see and do, it can be hard to know what to prioritize during a visit. This blog post will give you an overview of the best things to do while in Los Angeles. From sightseeing and shopping to eating and drinking, it’s all here! So whether you’re a first-time visitor or have been to LA before, read on for some ideas on how to make the most of your time in this amazing city.
#1 Visit the Hollywood Sign
One of the most iconic landmarks in Los Angeles, the Hollywood Sign is a must-see for any visitor. You can get up close to it by hiking up one of the nearby trails or taking a drive through Griffith Park for some great views. There are also a few tour companies that offer bus or walking tours of the area, which is a great way to learn more about the history of the sign and Hollywood itself.
If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can even try to sneak onto the actual property where the sign is located. Just be careful not to get caught! Either way, seeing the Hollywood Sign is definitely one of the best things to do while in Los Angeles. Built in 1923, the Hollywood Sign is a Los Angeles landmark.
The Hollyridge Trailhead provides hikers with three routes to choose from in order to reach the summit of Mount Lee and get up close to the Hollywood Sign. The most popular route (and also the shortest) is via Stairway To Heaven, which takes around two hours to hike.
Driving through Griffith Park is the easiest way to see the Hollywood Sign up close. The park is located in the hills just north of Hollywood and offers excellent views of the sign from various points along its roads. There are also a few parking lots where you can stop and take photos.
#2 See a Show at the Hollywood Bowl
The Hollywood Bowl is an outdoor amphitheatre that hosts a variety of musical events throughout the year. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Los Angeles, especially during the summer months when the weather is perfect for an evening concert. There are typically three or four shows per week at the Hollywood Bowl, and you can buy tickets in advance or on the day of the show (if they’re still available).
The venue itself is really unique and definitely worth seeing, even if you don’t end up catching a performance. If you do go to see a show, make sure to arrive early so you can explore the grounds and find your seat before it gets dark. Also, bring a jacket or blanket because it can get a bit chilly at night.
#3 Watch a Movie at the TCL Chinese Theater
The TCL Chinese Theater is one of the most famous movie theatres in the world. It’s located on Hollywood Boulevard and has been home to many Hollywood premieres over the years.
You can go to the TCL Chinese Theater to see a movie like any other theatre, but it’s also worth taking a tour or just visiting to see the iconic architecture. The theatre originally opened in 1927 and is known for its elaborate exterior and grandiose interior.
There are typically several tours available each day, or you can buy a ticket to watch a movie if there’s something playing that interests you. Either way, it’s definitely one of the coolest places to visit while in Los Angeles.
#4 Shop til you drop on Rodeo Drive
If you’re a fan of shopping, then Rodeo Drive is definitely worth a visit. This famous street in Beverly Hills is home to some of the most luxurious stores in the world. You’ll find brands like Cartier, Gucci, Prada, and Tiffany & Co., just to name a few.
Rodeo Drive is definitely expensive, but it’s still fun to window shop and see all the amazing clothes and accessories that are on offer. Of course, the best time to go is during the day when there are fewer people around, and you can actually browse through the stores without having to fight your way through crowds of tourists. Be prepared to spend a lot of money if you do end up buying anything, though.
#5 Take a stroll down Venice Beach
Venice Beach is a must-see for anyone visiting Los Angeles. It’s located in the city of Venice and is world-famous for its boardwalk, beach, and eclectic mix of people. The boardwalk is definitely the highlight of Venice Beach. You’ll find all sorts of vendors selling food, souvenirs, and other items, as well as street performers doing everything from juggling to sword-swallowing. You can even rent a motorcycle in Los Angeles if you’re feeling extra adventurous!
But, of course, the beach itself is also worth a visit, especially if you’re looking for someplace to sunbathe or take a swim. As for the people watching, it’s hard to beat Venice Beach. You’ll see everything from hipsters to bodybuilders to elderly couples taking a walk together. It’s definitely one of the most unique places in Los Angeles.
#6 Visit the Getty Center
The Getty Center is an art museum that’s located in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles. It’s part of the larger Getty complex, which includes two other museums (the Getty Villa and the Getty Foundation) as well as a research institute. The Getty Center houses a collection of artwork that spans from ancient times to the present day.
There are also several gardens on the property, as well as a cafe and a bookstore. Admission to the museum is free, but there is a charge for parking. If you’re interested in seeing some of Los Angeles’ best art, then the Getty Center is definitely worth a visit.
#7 Go to the Santa Monica Pier and Beach
The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Los Angeles. It is also home to a number of shops, restaurants, and attractions. The Santa Monica Pier is probably most famous for the Ferris wheel that sits at its end. You can ride the Ferris wheel for a small fee or just enjoy the view from below. The pier also has an arcade, a carousel, and a number of other games and rides.
If you’re looking to spend some time on the beach, then Santa Monica Beach is definitely worth checking out. It’s one of the busiest beaches in Los Angeles and is always full of people playing volleyball, sunbathing, and swimming. There’s also a bike path that runs along the beach, which is perfect for biking or rollerblading.
#8 Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a popular tourist attraction in Los Angeles that honours some of the biggest names in entertainment. The walk is made up of more than two thousand stars, each one with the name of a famous actor, actress, director, or other entertainers.
The best way to experience the Walk of Fame is by walking along with it and reading the plaques for each star. You’ll find the Walk of Fame between Gower Street and La Brea Avenue, right in the heart of Hollywood. Admission is free, and there’s no need to reserve tickets ahead of time. If you’re interested in movies or music, then a visit to the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must-do while in Los Angeles. Just be prepared for it to be crowded, especially on weekends.
So there you have it, eight of the best things to do while visiting Los Angeles. Whether you’re interested in art, shopping, beaches, or just people watching, Los Angeles has something for everyone. Just be prepared for large crowds and expensive prices. With that said, though, Los Angeles is definitely a city that’s worth visiting at least once in your lifetime.
