Welcome To Los Angeles
Los Angeles gets a bad rap as a travel city.
As long as you don't mind spending some time behind the wheel of a rental car, the City of Angels has enough amazing experiences to keep you entertained for a weekend, a week, or a month. Hollywood, Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Downtown, LA's different neighborhoods each have their own unique flavor to offer.
If you manage to run out of things to do, then you're not trying hard enough, but here are some ideas to get you started.
Downtown
LA is like no other city in North America, but if you like that big city feel, then head downtown.
Check out the iconic Bradbury Building's ironwork, grab a bite to eat at Grand Central Market (Ramen Hood is a personal favorite of mine), then head up the rickety old Angel's Flight and walk over to the Broad art museum, one of the best free attractions in the city.
You can also visit the world-renowned Walt Disney Concert Hall or visit the rooftop bars in the trendy Arts District.
Santa Monica/Venice Beach
Don't forget, Los Angeles is in beautiful, sunny, Southern California, so make sure you take time for a day at the beach! Walking the Venice Boardwalk is an iconic LA experience and essential for any avid people-watchers—but don't forget about Santa Monica's Muscle Beach in that regard either.
Whether you want to find a delicious restaurant, take in the surf, or just bake in the sun for a few hours, Venice and Santa Monica are the place to be.
Griffith Park
LA might not have a lot of parks, but Griffith Park more than makes up for it. Centered around the legendary Griffith Observatory, Griffith Park has amazing trails and stunning views. And the best part? Admission is free.
The observatory has lots of interactive exhibits for you to explore and high-tech telescopes that offer an unparalleled view of the stars and planets above. From the observatory, you can also take hike up to the iconic Hollywood Sign and take in the Los Angeles skyline.
From the Los Angeles Zoo to the Greek Theatre to the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Los Angeles.
Silver Lake
If you're one of those people who likes to rent an AirBNB and pretend you live in a city for a few days, look no further than Silver Lake. Probably best-known as LA's biggest "hipster" neighborhood, you'll never have to travel far to find a delivious cup of coffee, a vegan cafe, or a cozy dive bar.
Plus, its location means adventures into Downtown, Hollywood, and Griffith Park will be a snap.
Los Angeles County Museum Of Art (LACMA)
If art is your thing, then you need to head over to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States, and it features a diverse collection of art that spans across multiple cultures and eras.
From ancient artifacts to modern installations, LACMA is guaranteed to have something that inspires and enchants you.
Rodeo Drive
For a more luxurious experience in LA, head over to Rodeo Drive. This famous street is where you’ll find some of the world’s best high-end fashion. Even if shopping isn’t on your travel agenda, all the designer boutiques and upscale stores are a great way to get a feel for the finer things in life.
Rodeo Drive is also a great place to catch sightings of your favorite celebrities, so its always well-worth the visit.
The Getty Center
Nestled at the top of the Hollywood Hills is where you’ll find the Getty Center. This site is a breathtaking combination of art and architecture. Before taking in the impressive art collection, which features famous works by Rembrandt and Van Gogh, you can take a stroll through the center’s magnificent gardens.
While the museum itself is amazing, the views of the city from the gardens make the Getty Center a must-see destination for art and nature lovers alike.
Hollywood Boulevard
Is a trip to Los Angeles really complete without a visit to the world-famous Hollywood Boulevard?
Home to the iconic Walk of Fame, Hollywood Boulevard is also where you’ll see countless street performers, dressed up as some of our favorite movie characters. You can also visit the TCL Chinese Theatre, which has hosted movie premieres for some of the world’s best films.
Elliott Cowand Jr, Shutterstock
Malibu
For those who want to escape all the hustle and bustle of the city, a trip to Malibu is a must. Known for its pristine beaches and beautiful celebrity homes, Malibu is a paradise unlike any other.
During your visit, you can drive along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway, relax on Zuma Beach, or take a hike through Malibu Creek State Park. You can also check out the Malibu Pier, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean and a chance to indulge in fresh seafood at one of the area’s many waterfront restaurants.
Visit LA!
Of course, as with any great city, this only scratches the surface. Spend a day at Disneyland! Catch a game at Dodger Stadium! Venture up to the Getty Museum! Wind your way along Mulholland Drive! Los Angeles has more things to offer than one brief list can cover.
And if you do visit, above all else, I recommend one thing: Ask the locals what you should do! There's no better way to find the hidden gems of a great city than asking someone who lives there.
