Los Angeles, the City of Angels, welcomes you with its endless sunshine, star-studded charm, and vibrant culture. From the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame to hiking scenic trails in Griffith Park, LA offers a thrilling mix of urban adventures and natural escapes. Dive into world-class museums, savor diverse cuisines in trendy neighborhoods like Koreatown, or catch a sunset at Venice Beach. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, foodie, or culture lover, there are a lot of things to do in LA that make it a must-visit destination.
Iconic LA Attractions Must-See Sights in the City of Angels
Start your sightseeing in Los Angeles with these Hollywood landmarks that define the city’s star-studded allure. If you’re looking for cool things to do in Los Angeles, California, exploring the iconic attractions in Hollywood is an absolute must.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Location: Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
- Entry Fee: Free (public access, no ticket required)
This iconic path stretches over 15 blocks along Hollywood Boulevard, paying tribute to thousands of celebs with more than 2,700 brass stars stuck right in the sidewalk. The cool thing? It’s free and open whenever you feel like going, even late at night. If you want to dodge the hordes of people, try showing up first thing in the morning or on a weekday. Don’t forget your phone to snap shots of your top stars, and keep an eye out for those goofy costumed characters; they add a fun twist to the whole thing.
TCL Chinese Theatre
- Location: 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
- Entry / Ticket Price: Guided tours cost around $18–$25.
Just a short walk from the Walk of Fame, the TCL Chinese Theatre stands out big time with its fancy Chinese design and the famous front area packed with handprints and footprints from stars. You could sign up for a tour to see inside this classic place, or hang around outside without paying a dime. Those tours you pay for let you in on some neat stories from Hollywood’s movie days, and sometimes they toss in a 3D flick for extra kicks.
Hollywood Sign Hike in Griffith Park
- Location: Griffith Park, Los Angeles, CA
- Entry Fee: Free (parking fees may apply depending on the lot)
Looking for something that’ll stick with you in LA? Grab your hiking shoes and head up to the Hollywood Sign. It’s one of the best things to do in LA that stays in your memory. Griffith Park’s full of trails at all levels that get you close to this monumental landmark. Folks really dig the Brush Canyon Trail since it gives you these incredible views of the city down below. Head out early in the morning or later in the day to beat the crowds, and the hot sun, and yeah, good shoes and water are essentials.
Universal Studios Hollywood
- Location: Universal City, Los Angeles, CA
- Ticket Price: General admission ranges from $109 to $139, depending on the day and type of ticket purchased.
Man, Universal Studios Hollywood is straight-up bucket list stuff. It mixes a real film studio with a super fun theme park that’s all about the thrills. You get to roam around actual movie sets, jump on rides from blockbuster films, and watch shows that spill the beans on how they make the magic happen. Tickets cost different amounts depending on what you pick, so hop online early to grab your date.
Paramount Pictures Studio Tour
- Location: Paramount Studios, 5555 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA
- Ticket Price: Studio tour tickets typically cost around $60 per person, with occasional VIP or special access tours priced higher.
| Attraction | Best Time of Day | Best Season | Quick Tip for a Great Experience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hollywood Walk of Fame | Before 10 AM or after 7 PM | March–May, Sept–Nov | Beat the crowds and heat; enjoy the stars in cooler, quieter hours. |
| TCL Chinese Theatre | Early morning or late afternoon | March–May, Sept–Nov | Perfect for photos of the famous handprints without massive crowds. |
| Hollywood Sign Hike | Afternoon (post-fog) | March–May, Sept–Nov | Clearer views once morning marine layer burns off — bring water! |
| Universal Studios Hollywood | Opening time (9 AM) | March–May, Sept–Nov | Arrive early to hit popular rides before lines build up. |
| Paramount Pictures Studio Tour | Morning slots | Year-round (production-dependent) | Book ahead; mornings often have the best behind-the-scenes energy. |
Want that true peek behind the curtain? The Paramount Pictures Studio Tour is at one of Hollywood’s oldest spots, still running strong. They take you on a guided spin through historic stages, old backlots, and a bunch of film trivia. It’s a blast and really opens your eyes to why LA rules entertainment. Gotta get tickets, and they usually throw in special access to places most people can’t go.
Beaches & Coastal Fun: Outdoor Adventures Along LA’s Stunning Coastline
Talking about California beach life, LA’s coast nails it with this nice balance of laid-back vibes and exciting stuff to do. Love crowded boardwalks with all the action, or prefer those quiet little hideaways? The beaches around here cover all the fun things to do in Los Angeles, plus those timeless outdoor hangs.
Santa Monica Pier & Third Street Promenade
- Location: Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA
- Admission Fee: Free entry
Santa Monica Pier isn’t just about the sand and surf; it’s this lively hangout with food spots, stores, amusement rides, and street acts everywhere. Right beside it, Third Street Promenade’s a no-cars zone crammed with shops and eateries, super friendly for wandering around after beach time. The actual beach rocks for swimming, chilling out, or just people-watching. And hey, getting in is free for both, so families and casual visitors love it.
Venice Beach Boardwalk & Muscle Beach
- Location: Venice Beach Boardwalk and Muscle Beach, Venice, Los Angeles, CA
- Admission Fee: Free
Venice Beach Boardwalk’s got this crazy, artistic energy going on with performers, creators, vendors, and workout types all thrown together. Muscle Beach kicked off the whole outdoor gym thing, pulling in fitness folks and watchers. Strolling the boardwalk means catching colorful wall art and that upbeat feel. Plus, there’s volleyball, skating areas, and bike rentals to get you moving with the sea breeze.
Malibu Beaches: Zuma Beach & El Matador State Beach
- Location: Zuma Beach and El Matador State Beach, Malibu, CA
- Admission Fee: Free entry
Craving something more chill? Malibu beaches are gorgeous and way less packed. Zuma’s got these big stretches of gold sand and super clear water, great for picnics or jumping in for a swim. El Matador, close by, feels like your own secret spot with incredible caves and rocks, fantastic for pics or a sweet walk. Don’t forget about parking fees, though. Add that to your plans.
Manhattan Beach Pier
- Location: Manhattan Beach Pier, Manhattan Beach, CA
- Admission Fee: Free entry
Over in Manhattan Beach, you’ve got this nice pier, a small-town downtown feel, and wide-open sands perfect for games or lounging around. The pier’s popular for fishing or those killer sunsets, with easygoing cafes and shops nearby that give you a break from the city’s rush.
Arts, Culture & Museums: Discover Los Angeles’ Rich Indoor Cultural Scene
Lose yourself in LA’s museums and galleries for that real cultural kick. If you’re into indoor stuff in Los Angeles, the city’s loaded with amazing places full of art and ideas that get your mind going. From fresh modern stuff to classic pieces, these unique things to do in Los Angeles add some real substance and spark to your time here.
The Getty Center & Getty Villa
- Location: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
- Admission: Free entry; parking fee $20 per vehicle
Up on those Brentwood hills, the Getty Center blows you away with its clean lines, pretty gardens, and top-notch European art like paintings and statues. No charge to enter, but parking costs a bit. Out in Malibu, the Getty Villa is set up like an old Roman house by the ocean, focusing on Greek and Roman history. Both have great exhibits and views that can fill your whole day.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
- Location: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
- Admission: $25 for adults
LACMA is the largest art spot west of the Rockies, covering everything from ancient items to current works. That Urban Light thing with the old lamps is a total magnet for photos. Ticket prices shift around, but snag free days like the second Tuesday each month or holidays to make it simple.
The Broad Museum
- Location: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Admission: Free
Downtown at The Broad, it’s all about contemporary art with big shots like Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, and Andy Warhol. The building’s cool, and the changing shows make it a go-to for art fans in Los Angeles, California. Free to get in, but book ahead so you don’t stand in line.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
- Location: 250 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Admission: $15 for adults; free on Thursdays and select holidays
MOCA highlights art from the 1940s on, featuring pros like Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock. It’s right by The Broad, so hit both in a day. Free Thursdays and some holidays mean you can check out those mind-bending exhibits without worry.
| Museum | Theme/Focus | Admission Fee | Why Visitors Love It |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Getty Center | European art, architecture & gardens | Free (parking fee applies) | Stunning hilltop views, world-class collections, and beautiful grounds — perfect for a full day of culture. |
| Getty Villa | Ancient Greek & Roman art | Free (parking fee applies) | Feels like stepping into antiquity with its villa-style architecture and rare antiquities. |
| LACMA | Diverse art collections | $25 adults | Iconic Urban Light installation and broad range of exhibits make it a must-see for all ages. |
| The Broad | Contemporary art | Free | Free entry to incredible modern works (reservations recommended) in a striking honeycomb building. |
| MOCA | Contemporary art | $15 adults | Cutting-edge exhibitions in the heart of downtown LA — great for fans of bold, modern creativity. |
Architectural Gems: Walt Disney Concert Hall
- Location: 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Entry Fee: Typically $20–$150+, depending on the show and seating
You can’t miss the Walt Disney Concert Hall downtown. Frank Gehry made it with those curvy metal sides that just wow you. It’s the LA Philharmonic’s home base, and they do daily tours diving into the design and how it sounds. Catching a show is one of those standout things to do in LA, mixing killer looks with top music.
Neighborhoods to Explore: Discover LA’s Diverse Districts for Every Group
Take a wander through LA’s neighborhoods to uncover places to explore in Los Angeles, great for group fun or cozy dates. With all sorts of areas from artsy vibes to upscale shops and lively nights, these spots cover groups, couples, and family things to do in Los Angeles, no problem.
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA): Arts District & Little Tokyo
- Location: Central Downtown Los Angeles
- Entry: Free to explore; guided walking tours available from $20–$40 per person
DTLA’s really stepped up, becoming a favorite for creative types and foodies. The Arts District’s alive with murals, galleries, and trendy cafes, perfect for group strolls or easy family days. Little Tokyo pulls you into Japanese vibes with authentic eats, unique shops, and spots like the Japanese American National Museum. Local guided walks let you tweak things to do in LA for your group’s size and get the inside scoop.
Silver Lake & Echo Park
- Location: Northeast of Downtown LA
- Entry: Free public areas; boat rentals and some events may have fees
These hip areas have that indie charm, spot-on for couples wanting a chill date or families after something low-key. Silver Lake’s full of odd shops, cute cafes, and paths around the nice reservoir. Echo Park throws in lake boats, kid stuff, street art, markets, and random food options to keep it fun for all.
Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive
- Location: Beverly Hills, CA 90210
- Entry: Free to stroll; luxury shopping and dining at various price points
Jump into LA’s fancy world at Beverly Hills, where Rodeo Drive’s got high-end stores, nice dining, and maybe a celeb or two. Couples love browsing windows, and groups can celebrate walking those stylish streets. Kick it up with a tour or limo for that fun luxury boost.
Koreatown Nightlife
- Location: Koreatown, Central Los Angeles
- Entry: Free
Koreatown’s buzzing day and night with BBQ joints, karaoke, and spas. Friends or couples digging evening vibes fit right in for fun things to do in LA. Get a big table for groups or private singing rooms with lots of space that stay open late, turning meals into full parties.
Chinatown & Olvera Street
- Location: Downtown Los Angeles
- Entry: Free to explore
Mix up history and good times at Chinatown and Olvera Street, awesome for families or groups. Chinatown’s got markets, dim sum, and colorful galleries. Olvera Street honors LA’s Mexican side with old buildings, vendors, mariachi, and events great for diving into the city’s cultural mix.
Suggested Itineraries for Different Group Sizes
- Couples: Kick off with a Silver Lake shop hop in the morning, grab lunch at a quaint spot, then head to the Getty or Venice for a sunset stroll.
- Families: Morning in Little Tokyo, checking out sights, a picnic at Echo Park, and wrapping up with hands-on fun at the nearby California Science Center.
- Groups of Friends: Arts District for art and brews, Koreatown dinner and singing, then a downtown rooftop for drinks.
Food & Nightlife: Savor and Celebrate the Best of LA After Dark
Jump into LA’s food scene and best spots as night falls. If you’re big on eats or looking for fun things to do in Los Angeles at night, the city mixes tastes and moods like a pro. From cheap curbside snacks to ritzy rooftops, it’s set up for adults chasing excellent evenings.
Street Tacos & Food Trucks
- Locations: East Los Angeles & Boyle Heights
- Entry: Food trucks offer affordable eats; festival samples are often free
LA’s street eats are top-notch for grown-up vibes with those vibrant trucks and stands that dish real Mexican goodies like carne asada or al pastor tacos with fresh cilantro, onions, and lime. Festivals give free samples so you can try loads without spending much. East LA and Boyle Heights are the spots for genuine feels.
Koreatown BBQ
- Location: Koreatown, Central Los Angeles
- Entry: No cover charge; meals typically $15–$40 per person, depending on place
Hit Koreatown’s hands-on BBQ where you grill marinated meats table-side with endless sides and soju. Super social and fun for buddies or dates. Places stay open late, easing from dinner to more night stuff.
Grand Central Market
- Location: 317 S Broadway, Downtown Los Angeles, CA 90013
- Entry: Free to enter; food prices vary ($5–$15 per item)
Downtown’s Grand Central Market is a dream for food fans, with vendors serving up gourmet sandwiches to world flavors in one spot. Mix tastes easy, plus music events pump up the energy, ideal for hangs or quick bites before heading out.
Rooftop Bars in Downtown LA
- Locations: Perch LA, The Standard Downtown LA, and others
- Entry: No cover usually; drinks $12–$20; events may have cover charges
Sun down, downtown rooftops like Perch or The Standard pop with views, fun cocktails, and incredible crowds. Great for dates or groups, often with DJs or bands against the city light classic LA.
Sunset Strip Clubs & Live Music
- Location: Sunset Strip, West Hollywood, CA
- Entry: Cover charges vary ($10–$40); ticket prices for shows vary by event
Sunset Strip’s got that legendary night scene with clubs like The Roxy or Whisky a Go Go cranking rock to hip-hop. For chill, nearby lounges or comedy for drinks and snacks prime for music fans after LA’s iconic buzz.
Outdoor & Nature Activities: Explore LA’s Scenic Trails and Family Adventures
Head outside to LA’s nature spots, like close hikes suitable for families or alone time. Want outdoor things to do in Los Angeles? Trails, parks, and drives offer fresh air and pretty views.
- Griffith Observatory and Surrounding Trails
- Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
- Entry: Free entry to the observatory and trails; parking fees may apply
Griffith Observatory shines with city and sign views. Trails vary from easy kid paths to tougher ones like Mount Hollywood. Free inside entry with cool exhibits that get everyone curious.
Runyon Canyon Hiking
- Location: 2000 N Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046
- Entry: Free access; street parking or paid lots nearby
Locals hit Runyon Canyon for lively paths and vistas and social spots, maybe celebs too. Main loop’s a decent workout for teens, dog-friendly for families. Early or weekdays for quiet.
Topanga State Park
- Location: 20828 Entrada Rd, Topanga, CA 90290
- Entry: $12 per vehicle day-use fee
In the Santa Monica Mountains, Topanga has 36+ miles of trails through bushes and trees. Family picks like Eagle Rock loops for views, picnics, lovely for hiking, animals, and nature time.
Malibu Creek State Park
- Location: 1925 Las Virgenes Rd, Calabasas, CA 91302
- Entry: $12 per vehicle day-use fee
From shows like M*A*S*H, Malibu Creek has easy creek trails, rocks, and meadows. Families dig walks, butterfly hunts, picnic areas, peaceful city escape, and relax waterside.
Entertainment & Sports: Experience LA’s Thrilling Events and Group Fun
LA’s entertainment and sports amp up the excitement. For fun things to do in Los Angeles at night or group feels, grab shows or games that pull folks together.
Live TV Show Tapings
- Locations: Various studios around Hollywood (e.g., El Capitan Theatre for Jimmy Kimmel)
- Tickets: Free, must reserve online well in advance
Sitting in for tapings like Jimmy Kimmel Live! or The Late Late Show screams Hollywood. Free tickets if you book early online, plan it. See backstage action, laugh, maybe catch a star close for LA thrill.
Concerts at The Hollywood Bowl
- Location: 2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
- Tickets: Vary by event, typically $20–$150+
Hollywood Bowl’s magic for starlit outdoor concerts, symphonies, jazz, and pop stars. Pack picnic, wine, chill with friends or date, air, and setting make unforgettable hangs or romance.
Comedy Shows at The Laugh Factory
- Location: 8001 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90046
- Tickets: $15–$40 depending on the show and seating
At Laugh Factory on Sunset, nights fill with laughs from pros and newbies. Daily shows in cozy spaces, surprise guests possible. Groups or dates love the funny uplift.
Lakers, Dodgers, and Clippers Games
- Locations: Crypto.com Arena (Lakers, Clippers), Dodger Stadium (Dodgers)
- Tickets: Vary widely by game and seating, $30–$300+
Catch Lakers or Clippers hoops at Crypto.com Arena, or Dodgers baseball at historic stadiums in season. Events hum with pride, energy perfect for friends, families in LA sports.
Movie Premieres & Screenings
- Locations: Hollywood and Westwood theaters
- Tickets: Vary; premieres often require an invitation or a premium purchase
Hollywood glamour at premieres in Hollywood or Westwood red carpets, stars. Tickets for screenings or watch buzz fun ways to hit the LA film scene night with pals.
Ticket Booking Tips & Event Calendar
- Book Early: Hot tickets for shows or games go quickly. Grab them soon.
- Use Official Sources: Stick to real sites to dodge fakes.
- Group Discounts: Look for deals on bigger parties to cut costs.
- Plan Around Events: Keep an eye on calendars for festivals and specials.
How to Travel in Los Angeles Without the Stress
Exploring Los Angeles is exciting, but everything is spread across different neighborhoods, from beaches to museums, studios, and nightlife districts, making transportation a fundamental factor in how much you enjoy the city. Instead of dealing with traffic, parking, or rideshare delays, a private chauffeur keeps the day smooth and stress-free. For easy sightseeing, family outings, or night plans, Golden State Limousine offers luxury vehicles and professional drivers to take you wherever you need to go.