This article has been reviewed by Laura and Sumeet, travel enthusiasts who have travelled to 40+ countries. (Follow @Ciao.Namaste on Youtube). Should you have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact at contact@exploremonde.com
Los Angeles is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re a celebrity, a local, or just in town on vacation, there are plenty of fun things to do in LA. From fine dining to scenic hikes, this list is sure to give you some ideas on where to spend your day.
Los Angeles has a number of attractions, including the Hollywood sign, Griffith Park, and the Getty Center. There are also the beaches of Santa Monica and Venice Beach, which are fun places to spend a day or go during a vacation.
There is so much to do in Los Angeles that you’ll never have to worry about where you should go next!
Here’s a list of 47 things to do in Los Angeles, California.
- 1. Santa Monica State Beach
- 2. California Science Center
- 3. Los Angeles Conservancy Walking Tour
- 4. Broad Museum in Downtown LA
- 5. Point Dume State Beach
- 6. Huntington Library LA
- 7. Venice Canals LA
- 8. Zuma Beach
- 9. Academy Museum
- 10. Grand Central Market
- 11. Los Angeles County Museum of Art
- 12. Echo Park Lake Los Angeles
- 13. Geffen Contemporary at The Museum of Contemporary Art
- 14. Smorgasburg LA Sunday Market
- 15. Getty Center Art Museum
- 16. Mount Wilson Observatory
- 17. Seafood at Neptune’s Net
- 18. Walt Disney Concert Hall
- 19. Malibu Creek State Park
- 20. Hollywood Bowl Amphitheater
- 21. Palos Verdes Peninsula
- 22. Angeles Crest Highway
- 23. Korean Bell of Friendship
- 24. Disney California Adventure Park
- 25. Eaton Canyon Falls in the San Gabriel Mountain
- 26. Wayfarers Chapel
- 27. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
- 28. Rose Bowl Flea Market
- 29. Santa Monica Farmers’ Market
- 30. Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood
- 31. Walt Disney’s Carolwood Barn
- 32. South Coast Botanic Garden
- 33. Lake Shrine
- 34. Hollywood Sign
- 35. Los Angeles Zoo
- 36. Griffith Park
- 37. Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Los Angeles
- 38. Page Museum
- 39. Hollywood Walk of Fame
- 40. Rodeo Drive
- 41. Petersen Automotive Museum
- 42. Hollywood
- 43. Santa Monica
- 44. Beverly Hills
- 45. Enjoy a Meal at the Ivy Restaurant
- 46. Enjoy a Scenic Hike at Runyon Canyon
- 47. See Your Favorite Celebrity in Concert at Staples Center or LA Live
Best Things to Do in Los Angeles 1-10
1. Santa Monica State Beach
The Santa Monica State Beach is located within the city of Santa Monica, California. It stretches for 12 miles along a stunning coastline, featuring mile after mile of pristine white-sand beaches with beautiful blue and green water that are alive with marine life.
The Santa Monica State Beach is a public park in the city of Los Angeles, California. It is located on 4 acres at the Pacific Ocean just south of downtown and consists primarily of beachfront sands from active tectonic uplift along the Palos Verdes Peninsula to a natural cove known as China Cove. The Santa Monica Bay Reserve provides access for visitors to tidal pools and rocky shores with tide pools that are home to many different species including sea anemones, crabs, hermit crabs (Coenobita), hard-shelled clams such as Manila clam or Venus Mercenaria, barnacles which attach themselves by means other than their beaks; mussels, limpets; snails such as African land snail or garden snail.
2. California Science Center
The California Science Center is a science museum located in Exposition Park, Los Angeles. The center presents exhibitions with interactive features and hands-on activities for people of all ages to explore the wonders of science through its galleries on geology, paleontology, astronomy, and robotics; planetariums; an IMAX theatre (which has the largest screen in Southern California); live animal exhibits including sharks and sea lions; as well as many other areas such as Planet Earth Theater, Air & Space Hall, Energy East theater.
The mission statement of this museum states that it “explores how we’re made up from molecules” by using state-of-the-art technology while focusing on topics that are related to human health. It was designed by architect Edward Durell Stone who aimed at providing visitors with complete immersion into different aspects of each gallery’s theme – exploring physical sciences or biological sciences – representing not just scientific concepts but also their practical applications.
With access to over 40 interactive exhibits, California Science Center is a great place for science lovers of all ages.
Visitors can explore the workings of various scientific disciplines such as physics and astronomy in our OMNIMAX theater or take part in hands-on activities like building circuits with a soldering iron, making paper airplanes using origami techniques (or just watching them fly!), and setting up an experiment on air pressure.
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The recently renovated STEAM hall hosts exhibits that are designed to teach visitors about technology through play, including virtual reality experiences–from playing games on your own computer screen while wearing 3D glasses to flying around above New York City from space–and more traditional activities like building LEGO robots or exploring how electric current travels throughout batteries.
700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037, United States
3. Los Angeles Conservancy Walking Tour
The Conservancy is a non-profit organization that manages the historic LA Memorial Coliseum and surrounding grounds, including the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. The walking tour will generally start at 9:30 AM from the Highland Ave entrance to the LA Memorial Coliseum parking lot. You’ll take in a breathtaking view of downtown L.A., see beautiful gardens with live oaks under which Oscar de la Renta lived, visit an archival exhibition on the history and architecture of the Arch Grounds before you make your way up to a street level where you can explore our corner shops as well as other buildings within close proximity like hospitals such as Cedars Sinai Medical Center or USC’s Keck Hospital for Children & Women.
523 W 6th St #826, Los Angeles, CA 90014, United States
4. Broad Museum in Downtown LA
The Broad is a museum of contemporary art situated on the former site of the Los Angeles Pacific Railway yards at Grand Avenue and Spring Street in downtown LA. The museum has over 500,000 square feet (46,000 m2) of space with 11 galleries containing exhibits from both permanent collections and special exhibitions. Among them is Henry Moore’s monumental bronze sculpture Reclining Figure that greets visitors to LA’s City Hall plaza as well as its signature spherical building designed by architect Rafael Viñoly.
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The Broad museum is a contemporary art gallery in downtown LA and has many different things to do. Among the most popular activities are the “Surprise Artwork” where visitors can get an up-close view of artwork they’ve never seen before, as well as learn more about that particular piece by talking with staff members on hand. The architecture of this building is also worth checking out because it’s designed like something from a modernist novel or science fiction movie. In addition, there are several free public talks held at 10:30 am each Tuesday morning for people who love learning about new information related to various aspects of arts, history, and philosophy.
221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
5. Point Dume State Beach
Point Dume State Beach is a beach in Malibu, California. It is located next to the Pacific Ocean and is known for its long stretches of sand, views of Santa Monica Bay from cliffs overlooking the ocean’s waves crashing on rocks below, and miles-long paths that can be walked along water or land.
Point Dume State Park extends just beyond this coastline into unincorporated territory near Santa Monica Canyon that borders Topanga Canyon Reserve at Point Dume Ave (Culver Blvd). The park also includes a large parking lot with access to paved roads going inland through undeveloped hillside scrubland to Point Mugu State Marine Reserve which separates it from Sycamore Cove Natural Preserve via 1st Street/Malibu Lagoon Rd at Pt Pinos Road, site of sea caves popular among scuba divers.
Point Dume is the southernmost part of the Santa Monica Mountains. The area was inhabited by the Chumash people, who also settled much of the Santa Monica Mountains and have a cave painting site in Malibu Canyon.
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The name “Dume” comes from the Chumash word “dümü”, which means “hermit” and probably refers to a member of a local Native American group who lived at or near Point Dume. The first European contact with Point Dume was when Juan Rodríguez Cabrillo’s expedition made landfall just north of there; he named it Punta de Los Martires (Point of the Martyrs). It is believed that Point Dume was the site of a Chumash village and that the name “Dume” was derived from the name of a Chumash “hermit” whose cave is located on the point.
The Spanish military briefly occupied Point Dume previously. The area was later part of Rancho Topanga Malibu Sequit—a 13 and a half-square league rancho established in 1802 that stretched between Point Dume and present-day Malibu. After California became a state, the ranchos became Mexican land grants and were largely divided into 37 parcels by court order. The area encompassing present-day Malibu beach became part of Rancho Malibu Sequit.
Lawrence “Bud” Lewis and his wife, actress Dolores del Río, built a large mansion in then-remote Point Dume, which they named “Rancho de los Flores.” The 1920s were boom years for real estate development in Los Angeles County. Dume was soon subdivided, and by the end of the decade, there were several hundred homes along its coast. The area was first known as “Malibu Beach”, and later as “Malibu Colony”.
By the end of World War II, most of the ranchos had been subdivided. The section of the Malibu coast just south of present-day Point Dume, known as Surfridge, was developed in the 1920s and 1930s as a beach-side community for wealthy Los Angelenos. In the late 1940s, a developer built a few small cottages at “Sunset Colony” (present-day Zuma Beach). As a result of the publicity from articles written by Horace Sutton of the “Los Angeles Times”, who predicted that this area would become “the Riviera of California,” more people began to buy lots and build expensive homes. The Sunset Colony’s restrictive covenants prohibited any business development; as a result, it became isolated from other settlements.
In the early 1950s, three events occurred that ended the isolation of the Sunset Colony and brought development to Dume Point. First, the Pacific Coast Highway was finally completed as a four-lane road all the way from Downtown Los Angeles to the coast at Topanga Canyon. Second, a large parcel of land was donated to a park. Third, an area was set aside for industrial use.
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Sunset Beach’s first master plan included provisions for three parks and an industrial area. The plan called for 2,800 houses and 1 million square feet of industrial space on the beachside of Pacific Coast Highway; it also allowed for 447 acres (1.84 km2) of open space on the inland side of the highway.
The first major project to be built in Sunset Beach was the Sunset Beach Shopping Center. The center was developed by Schindler and Young, who were also responsible for the design of the Santa Monica Place shopping center. In the late 1960s, a large tract of land was acquired by a group of investors headed by Al Simon and Sam Schurr. They formed a company called Golden West Properties that developed much of what is now known as downtown Sunset Beach.
6. Huntington Library LA
Huntington is one of the best libraries in LA. It has more than 12 million books and a wide variety of art collections, including European paintings from the 15th to 20th centuries as well as important examples from Asia and Africa.
As America’s preeminent library for rare books concerning intellectual history, it was founded by Henry E Huntington along with his wife Mary Gordon Huntington after their purchase of nearly 100 acres in Pasadena on which to build this institution.
Huntington Library LA has a variety of events that are guaranteed to make your day more interesting. For example, the annual Holiday Concert Series is an eight-part program where you can enjoy holiday classics with live jazz music and dancing in addition to readings from some of Los Angeles’ most esteemed authors and poets. There’s also “Dance Your Way Through History,” which explores how dance connects different cultures from world history through contemporary interpretations by local choreographers as well as modern pieces set against historical backdrops.
1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108, United States
7. Venice Canals LA
Venice in Los Angeles was recently voted the fifth most romantic city by Travel + Leisure readers. Many people visit Venice to take a walk on one of its many bridges, enjoy an evening at sunset or visit some of their favorite landmarks such as St. Mark’s Square and Rialto Bridge. This list is only part of what makes this place so special!
You’ll find boat rentals throughout the city for a leisurely ride through its winding waterways. If you prefer to walk instead of taking in this centuries-old beauty by water, there are plenty of bridges and footpaths leading from each side that will take you on an adventure without getting your feet wet!
8. Zuma Beach
Zuma Beach is a public beach in Playa del Rey, an unincorporated community and census-designated place on the Pacific coast of Santa Monica Bay. It’s one of three beaches that make up Zuma, along with Sandspit Beach to its north and Wrigley Channel to its south.
This location has been used for many purposes over time including as a military base during World War II; recreation until the 1960s when it was closed due to health concerns about pollution; development into condos which turned out not be successful because there were too few buyers at the time when compared with sellers who had priced their units high (the area now consists mostly of commercial businesses)
- Hang out at the beach and enjoy a nice view of the Pacific Ocean or take in some sun without having to worry about being too sweaty
- Go on boat rides or rent bikes with an option for you to ride them around Zuma Beach
- If you have time, go for a walk along Zuma Beach’s scenic trails through what is known as Zumaville.
9. Academy Museum
The Academy Museum LA is a museum that focuses on the visual arts, design, and architecture. It was founded in 1895 as one of the world’s first museums dedicated to modern art by local business magnate Henry Huntly Irwin and his wife Matilda Coxe “Tillie” Irwin. After their deaths, it remained for decades under the stewardship of the Board of Trustees appointed by Mrs. Irwin until it came into its own after World War II with new leadership from William Randolph Hearst Jr., David Oxtoby, and Thomas Biddle Freeman III who established what has become known as The Getty Center for Education through Culture which includes twenty-six galleries housing more than 15000 works including masterpieces like Monet’s Water Lilies or Van Goghs Starry Night.
Visit the museum on a nice day and see all of LA’s famous architectural landmarks by taking an aerial tram ride to view them. The Museum also has several special exhibitions that only come around every so often, like their latest exhibition “La Princesa”. There are many other things to do at AMA L.A., such as getting a tour of how they develop films, going on hikes through Griffith Park, or admiring the different street art collections in Hollywood Boulevard or Echo Park neighborhoods.
6067 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, United States
10. Grand Central Market
One of the most famous markets in LA, Grand Central Market is a unique place to find anything and everything you could ever want. From artisanal foodie cuisine to rare delicacies from around the world, this market offers an endless amount of choices for any budget. Despite its size, it has managed to maintain that old-fashioned feel with all sorts of authentic local businesses where there’s always something exciting happening – whether you’re looking for groceries or just good conversation with folks who share your same passions and interests!
There are countless things to do at Grand Central Market. From shopping for fruits and vegetables, indulging in a coffee or cocktail along the way, exploring our food court, taking in some live music entertainment at one of our bars and lounges – there’s something for everyone!
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If you’re hungry, their collection of restaurants is full of delicious bites perfect for any taste bud.
You can visit Park Hyatt LA across JONES STREET where you can also enjoy your favorite drinks on their rooftop pool deck overlooking downtown LA with stunning views all around Disney Hall/Grand Central Terminal.
Enjoy a night out at The Line. They have over 150 beers on tap that will satisfy even the most discerning palate. They offer daily specials like Golden State IPA drafts every day during happy hours served up until 7 pm as well as party packages which include two hours open bar plus DJ spinning both inside & outside till midnight.
317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013, United States
Best Things to Do in Los Angeles 11-20
11. Los Angeles County Museum of Art
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is a complex of museums in the city of Los Angeles, California that have been collectively designated as an official museum by the state. The largest art museum in Southern California and one of the 10 largest arts institutions in North America, it contains more than 150,000 works spanning all continents and historical periods with special strengths in Asian art; American paintings including works by Norman Rockwell and Winslow Homer; European Old Master painting. It also has significant temporary exhibitions on display at any given time throughout its four buildings (each named for different artists), along with large collections from Asia (including ancient Egyptian artifacts) to Latin America.
One of the best things to do at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is to enjoy a guided tour. A museum guide can answer all questions about their favorite pieces and curators, share interesting stories from past exhibitions, and introduce you to other art museums around town that may not be on your radar yet. They also have an audio tours series for more detailed exploration as well as information on where some exhibits are located in relation to each other by using QR codes or RFID chips embedded into display panels.
The Self-Guided Audio Tour will explore four different galleries inside The Getty Center: Sculpture Garden; Art & Architecture Galleries; The J Paul Getty Villa (the home); Backstage Gallery. You’ll listen along while exploring these spaces without any instructions so you can engage with artwork firsthand.
5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, United States
12. Echo Park Lake Los Angeles
Echo Park Lake is a reservoir in the City of Los Angeles, California. It was created by damming Millard Dry Creek and is operated and maintained by the city’s Department of Water and Power (DWP).
The lake has been described as one of LA’s “hidden jewels.” The park contains hiking trails, picnic areas for visitors to enjoy picnics with their families or friends, ice skating rink during wintertime months only that also serves as an important part of recreational life in Echo Park Tennis Center which includes tennis courts.
While Echo Park Lake is a nice and peaceful place for people to have a picnic, it does have lots of things that you can do. You just need to bring your swimsuit or some water shoes with you. One thing that many people like doing at this lake is fishing because there are so many different types of fish in the area. If you’re not really into fishing then maybe go kayaking instead since the waters here offer great views from up on top.
13. Geffen Contemporary at The Museum of Contemporary Art
Geffen Contemporary at The Museum of Contemporary Art is an art museum on the campus of MOCA. Located in downtown LA, it is dedicated to exhibiting and preserving contemporary artwork from all over the world. It was founded by billionaire David Geffen with a $1 million gift to MOCA that became operational as soon as construction finished.
It opened its doors after six years of planning and two years of construction and they unveiled their first exhibition “Hatching Twitter: A Closer Look.“
The building itself is designed by architect Frank Gehry who also developed plans for how visitors are meant to enter each room through one specific entrance-door or another which results in architecture without walls but instead consists primarily out of different sized openings that allow natural light into every area within the space while creating pathways throughout this non-linear structure similar to those found inside nature’s ecosystems such as coral reefs or rain forests.
Besides exhibitions, on Tuesday and Thursday mornings, the Geffen Contemporary studios are open for public yoga classes. The series of workshops is designed to introduce visitors to different styles of movement so that they can feel inspired in their own practice while also learning new techniques.
152 N Central Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
14. Smorgasburg LA Sunday Market
The Smorgasburg LA Sunday Market is a family-friendly, food and beverage event that offers vendors an opportunity to sell their goods from 10 am to 2 pm. There are different booths with items such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, and wine. You can also find various baked goods like cookies or cakes.
The Sunday Market is the only place to find fresh ingredients and artisans. There are more than 120 vendors on-site, many of which sell their goods with a story behind them or a personal connection to the creator. Some stalls will have food prepared by some of LA’s most well-known chefs while others offer an array of vegan options you won’t be able to resist!
777 S Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021, United States
15. Getty Center Art Museum
One of the most popular and prestigious art museums in the United States, the Getty Center Art Museum features an impressive collection of artwork from all over the world. The museum is open to the public every day except Christmas and offers a wide variety of exhibitions that focus on different periods in history. Admission is free for everyone who visits Getty Center Art Museum.
Getty Center Art Museum LA offers a wide range of exhibitions, programs, and events that are designed to engage the public. The museum features a variety of exhibition spaces including the Getty Research Institute Gallery (formerly the Dick Enz Gallery), which is home to world-renowned art collections; the Oskar Schindler Pavilion with its interactive exhibits on history and industry; and the Grammy Hall of Fame Ballroom with an exhibit floor dedicated to music in motion. In addition, Getty Center hosts traveling shows such as “Invisible Cities,” “A Tale Of Two Cities,” “The Invisible Wall: A Retrospective Of American Drawings Since 1881,” and “Los Angeles County Museum Of Art’s First Exhibit: Japanese Paintings From The Sixties.”.
1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049, United States
16. Mount Wilson Observatory
Mount Wilson Observatory is a research observatory located in Los Angeles, California. It was founded by astronomer George Ellery Hale and his wife Mary Pickford Hale. It has been the home of many telescopes, including the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA).
- Visit the Mount Wilson Observatory and take a tour of its collection of telescopes.
- Take a walk through the observatory’s gardens to see some of its beautiful plants and trees.
- View one or more astronomical exhibitions at the observatory, such as “The Cosmos: A New Frontier” or “A Galaxy in Yoursky: The Hubble Legacy.”.
- View the observatory’s monthly star parties, which are held in the summer and winter months.
- Take a look at the other astronomical sites around you, such as the visitors center with its museum, gift shop, and cafe; or Mt. Wilson Trail with its beautiful views of Los Angeles and surrounding areas.
- Go stargazing from one of two viewing areas: The first is located at the visitors center parking lot (which has a limited number of parking spaces), and the other is located on Highway 2 near Chantry Flats (which has no parking spaces).
- Visit nearby locations such as the George F. Shoreham Planetarium and the Griffith Park Observatory.
- Go to nearby restaurants for dinner, such as the Mt. Wilson Summit Restaurant, which is located next to the visitors center; or El Encanto Hotel and Gardens in Pasadena, which has a beautiful view of Los Angeles from its garden area overlooking it.
17. Seafood at Neptune’s Net
The Neptune’s Net seafood shack in Los Angeles is a great spot to enjoy fresh, delicious seafood. They serve up amazing dishes that will leave you feeling full and satisfied. The prices are affordable, making it a great place to go with your friends or family. Plus, they have an impressive selection of wines and beers on hand so you can enjoy your meal while enjoying some good company.
There are endless things to do at Neptune’s Net seafood shack Los Angeles, from enjoying a delicious meal to spending time with your friends and family. Whether you’re looking for an activity that will keep you entertained or something that will provide some needed peace of mind, they have something for everyone! From the casual gamer who wants to take on a new game while eating their favorite type of seafood, to the more experienced chef who is looking for innovative and unique dish options, there is definitely something here for everyone.
42505 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265, United States
18. Walt Disney Concert Hall
Walt Disney Concert Hall is an iconic concert hall located in downtown LA. It became known as the home of great classical and rock bands, such as The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, Queen Elizabeth II, Bruno Mars, and more. Its stages have been used for shows by Miley Cyrus, Justin Timberlake, Adele, Lady Gaga, and more. In addition to live music performances from artists like Metallica and Def Leppard, there are also a number of Hollywood film screenings that take place throughout the year at Walt Disney Concert Hall.
111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
19. Malibu Creek State Park
Malibu Creek State Park is a state park located in Los Angeles, California. It encompasses 287 acres (129 hectares) of wooded and meadowland along the Malibu Creek between Brentwood Boulevard and Topanga Canyon Drive. The park was established as part of a larger area that included present-day Ventura County, Orange County, and San Bernardino County.
- Take a nature walk in the park.
- Visit one of the interpretive centers and learn more about the history, culture, and natural environment of Malibu Creek State Park.
- Play games or take part in activities at one of the Interpretive Center’s exhibits specific to Floridian wildlife (for example, an exhibit on coral reefs).
- Shop for regional souvenirs at local vendors or purchase products from some of our resident farmers markets while enjoying views from atop Oneonta Cliff overlooking downtown LA;
- admire marine life from shoreline trails adjacent to Malibu Creek State Park;
- or visit any other attraction within Malibu Cove National Marine Sanctuary located nearby.
1925 Las Virgenes Road, Calabasas, CA 91302, United States
20. Hollywood Bowl Amphitheater
The Hollywood Bowl amphitheater, which is located in Los Angeles, California, was built in the early 1920s and has been used as a performance space for various cultural events. It is also home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra and other world-renowned orchestras. The bowl can hold up to 18,000 people and features a variety of theaters that allow audiences to see various plays and concerts.
With a variety of shows and events happening throughout the day, it’s no wonder that Hollywood Bowl amphitheater Los Angeles is an ideal place to spend some time this summer. Whether you’re looking for something to do during your free time or want to attend one of the many concerts happening at the amphitheater each day, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.
2301 N Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068, United States
Best Things to Do in Los Angeles 21-30
21. Palos Verdes Peninsula
The Palos Verdes Peninsula is located in Southern California, about 20 miles south of downtown LA. It straddles the Pacific Ocean and stretches for nearly 100 miles from north to south, making it one of the most remote and unpopulated areas in North America. The peninsula was first inhabited by Native Americans who lived near the present-day city of Ventura County.
A group of Spanish American Missionaries founded two small villages on what is now known as Santa Paula Mountain: La Purísima Concepción (Holyvine) and San José de las Gaviotas (San José Hill). After a few years as an agricultural village, a farm disease made it difficult to grow crops. Then, the mission town began to develop into a residential community with schools and churches that served settlers living closer to LAX airport. When it was annexed into LA county as part of South Pasadena Township; Palos Verdes Peninsula experienced rapid growth due to its location close enough both politically and economically to be influenced by local government but far away enough not to have any real connection with Los Angeles County or other parts of Southern California.
Take a walk on the beach: The sand at Palos Verdes Peninsula is warm and soft, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak up the sun.
Visit one of the museums: A variety of museums are located in or around Los Angeles – from history-rich libraries like UCLA’s Department of Special Collections (UCLA DSS) which houses more than 2 million volumes covering all aspects of American culture to art galleries that feature some of the most renowned names in contemporary painting and sculpture.
Go for a drive: In addition to its beautiful beaches, Palos Verdes Peninsula also has plenty of attractions nearby such as wineries, hiking trails, distilleries, vineyards, and lakes—all perfect places for a day trip or weekend getaway!
22. Angeles Crest Highway
Angeles Crest Highway is a scenic route that runs from downtown Los Angeles to the Angeles National Forest. The highway is used for driving, walking, fishing, bird watching, and more. A number of celebrities have visited the area over the years including Marilyn Monroe and Jackie Kennedy. The road has many hiking trails that lead to beautiful vistas and can be used for mountain biking.
23. Korean Bell of Friendship
The Korean bell of friendship has been a symbol of goodwill and reconciliation between the United States and South Korea. The bell was made in Los Angeles, California, by two Koreans who were friends from when they both worked at Loyola University in Chicago.
3601 S Gaffey St, San Pedro, CA 90731, United States
24. Disney California Adventure Park
The Walt Disney Company’s world-renowned theme park in Southern California, located on the Los Angeles shore. It features a range of attractions that include a 3D theater, two water parks ( Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach), an amusement park with more than 50 rides and games, four restaurants—including one with a Michelin starred menu—a zoo/forest/fields combo called The Jungle Book Land, as well as several stores including The Toy Fair Gallery.
1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802, United States
25. Eaton Canyon Falls in the San Gabriel Mountain
Eaton Canyon Falls is a beautiful waterfall, located in the San Gabriel Mountains of Southern California. There are several activities that can be enjoyed at Eaton Canyon Falls, such as swimming, fishing, and hiking. Eaton Creek flows through the park and provides a great opportunity for bird watching or picnicking during the summer months.
1750 N Altadena Dr, Altadena, CA 91001, United States
26. Wayfarers Chapel
Wayfarers Chapel is a nonprofit, interfaith organization that provides spiritual and emotional support to people who are searching for meaning in their lives. They believe that through their work together they can create a community of Hope where everyone can find the strength to cope with life’s challenges and make an impact on the world around them.
Wayfarers Chapel offers a wide range of spiritual activities and services to its guests. These include prayer, meditation, discussion groups, Bible study, music, and light readings. There is also a library with over two thousand books on religious topics as well as video cassettes and CDs containing religious teachings from around the world.
5755 Palos Verdes Dr S, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275, United States
27. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook
The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is located in the heart of Los Angeles and offers a panoramic view of the cityscape. The overlook has been used for films and TV shows like “The Godfather,” “Ender’s Game,” “The Shawshank Redemption” and more.
There are many things to do in and around Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, including exploring the park, taking a hike, visiting its landmarks and attractions, staying in one of its guesthouses or apartments for a weekend or longer, enjoying the food options available at nearby restaurants or cafes, watching some of the local sports events on television or online, and much more.
6300 Hetzler Rd, Culver City, CA 90232, United States
28. Rose Bowl Flea Market
The Rose Bowl Flea Market is a great place to find unique and interesting items from around the world at an affordable price. You can find everything from art, jewelry, books, clothing, and more. There are many different countries represented in this market, so it’s perfect for people of all ages. The atmosphere here is very festive and full of energy, which makes it a great place to get lost in shopping!
- Take a stroll through the Flea Market to enjoy its unique atmosphere and find some great deals on designer clothes, shoes, accessories, and more!
- Visit any of the vendors selling art ornaments and home decor products. You’ll likely find some amazing options at this market!
- Browse through the different stands selling interesting food items from around the world – including international favorites such as sushi rolls and curry dishes from India or Malaysia, Szechuan pepper chicken legs from China’s Yunnan Province, etc.
1001 Rose Bowl Dr, Pasadena, CA 91103, United States
29. Santa Monica Farmers’ Market
The Santa Monica Farmers’ Market is a weekly market located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. It features local produce and goods from around the area, as well as artisans who sell their crafts and products at reasonable prices. The market also offers a variety of activities for children, such as games, music, and storytime.
Santa Monica Farmers’ Market offers a wide variety of fresh, local produce and meat from the surrounding area. The market is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm, with an extended hour on Sundays during lunchtime. Admission is free for all customers.
2640 Main St, Santa Monica, CA 90404, United States
30. Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Studios Hollywood
Harry Potter is a world of magic and adventure. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood offers visitors an immersive experience that takes them on a journey from the Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry to the Leaky Cauldron, Privet Drive, King’s Cross Station, and more. With attractions including several sets from the movie series as well as two new rides – Diagon Alley Express (a daring coaster) and Quidditch World Cup – this theme park is sure to please fans of J.K. Rowling’s beloved characters!
100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, United States
Best Things to Do in Los Angeles 31-40
31. Walt Disney’s Carolwood Barn
A beautiful, restored barn located on a small wooded lot in the town of Orinda, California. The Barn is open to the public for tours and events throughout the year. It was built as Walt Disney’s personal home from 1928 until his death in 1966. Today it still serves as an important part of Disneyland Resort’s history and culture – hosting many special events, including shows by Hollywood stars like Tom Hanks and Reese Witherspoon, along with performances by local musicians and performers.
5202 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States
32. South Coast Botanic Garden
The South Coast Botanic Garden (SCBG) is one of the leading botanic gardens in the United States and one of its largest areas. The garden has an area of more than 168 acres, including a visitors’ center, research labs, butterfly conservatory, rainforest exhibit greenhouse, gift shop, and restaurant. It also contains nearly 1 million plants from around the world.
26300 Crenshaw Blvd, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274, United States
33. Lake Shrine
To visit the Lake Shrine is a beautiful and unique way to spend your day. The shrine is perched atop a hill overlooking downtown LA, making it an ideal spot for photos or peaceful thoughts. The grounds are filled with flowers and trees, providing a calm oasis in the midst of all the hustle-and-bustle of LA. There’s also an outdoor amphitheater that can be used for music concerts or other events if desired.
17190 Sunset Blvd, Pacific Palisades, CA 90272, United States
34. Hollywood Sign
One of the best things you can do in Los Angeles is take a tour of the Hollywood sign. The Hollywood sign is one of the most famous landmarks in Los Angeles and it’s a must-see if you’re visiting LA. It’s not just an iconic piece of architecture; it’s also really fun to climb up! There are plenty of hiking trails nearby, but if you don’t feel like getting your feet wet, you can drive across the top and see it from above.
The Hollywood Sign is a white sign located in the heart of Los Angeles. It was first erected by movie mogul Harry Cohn as part of his new entertainment district called The West Side. The sign is considered to be one of the most iconic symbols associated with Los Angeles and has been featured in many Hollywood movies over the years.
Hollywood Sign, Hollywood, CA 90028, United States
35. Los Angeles Zoo
The LA Zoo is one of the largest zoos in the country and is home to over 2,000 animals from around the world. There are many different types of animals that can be seen here including elephants, lions, and tigers. There are also many different types of birds that can be seen here including flamingos and penguins.
5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States
36. Griffith Park
Griffith Park is a stunning park with plenty to do. There are many activities and attractions available, such as the FREE Griffith Observatory Tour, which takes you on a guided tour of one of LA’s most popular tourist destinations. You can also take part in free walks or bike rides around the park – perfect for getting lost in nature!
Other great things to do at Griffith Park Los Angeles include visiting its beautiful gardens, playing games like frisbee orchestra in the wide-open spaces near Lake Arrowhead, taking a picnic lunch by the creek at Springs Village – perfect for enjoying fresh vegetables and local fruits all day long (and not having to worry about whether you’ll have enough food for dinner!), going out on horseback throughout Springtime for an amazing view of Hollywood Hills from atop Mount Hope Rancho Santa Anita National Monument – perfect if you’re looking to see some gorgeous countryside from up close and personal; or just spending time chatting with friends while surrounded by lovely landscaping!
4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States
37. Warner Bros. Studio Tour, Los Angeles
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour Los Angeles is a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes tour of the company’s iconic and prestigious production facilities. The tour starts with an overview of the lot where movies are made and goes on to explore all of the studios’ departments: art, sound, postproduction, marketing, animation, and effects. It concludes with a visit to one of our biggest stars—The Dark Knight Rises—where we’ll see how he was created in miniature by some of our artists at our facility using state-of-the-art technology.
3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505, United States
38. Page Museum
The Page Museum is an important museum for the preservation and presentation of art from the early 18th century to the present day. The museum has a collection of over two million pieces, including works by California painters such as David Wilkerson and Richard Wright. It also features a large number of rare objects, including furniture and paintings from Spanish missions in Southern California.
5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, United States
39. Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a star-studded wall in the heart of Los Angeles, California. The monument is dedicated to those who have made an impact on American cinema, and it honors such luminaries as screenwriters (such as William Goldman and Howard Hawks), actors (Hugh Jackman, Tom Hanks, James Franco), directors (Steven Spielberg, Roman Polanski), and producers (George Lucas).
There are numerous things to do at the Hollywood Walk of Fame Los Angeles, including visiting the stars and stripes at The Ambassador Hotel, buying a star on file or getting one engraved, watching a movie at Regal Cinemas, going for an ice cream cone from Dunkin’ Donuts (or any other popular LA food), shopping inTarget.com/hollywoodwalkof fame/, and even staying overnight in one of the many top-rated hotels near Hollywood Boulevard.
Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028, United States
40. Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive is a world-renowned tourist destination known for its 1920s era architecture and fashion. The drive offers stunning views of the cityscape from various locations such as the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Park. Rodeo Drive has been home to many famous entertainers, including Cary Grant, Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, Sammy Davis Jr., Liberace, Rita Hayworth, and Frank Sinatra.
Best Things to Do in Los Angeles 41 and beyond
41. Petersen Automotive Museum
Petersen Automotive Museum is a museum dedicated to the history, culture, and art of American cars. It features more than 20,000 items from across the automotive industry and offers an extensive collection of rare motorsports equipment. The museum also has a variety of educational programs for visitors including track-day events and workshops on different topics related to car culture.
6060 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036, United States
42. Hollywood
Hollywood is the place to be! From top celebrities to exciting new products, Hollywood is rife with entertainment. If you’re looking for a good time, you can’t go wrong with VIP tickets to one of the many celebrity-sponsored parties in town.
If you’ve got an appetite for more than just food, head to one of Hollywood’s many theme parks. Disneyland offers countless rides and attractions that are sure to amaze and delight your entire family. There are also several other theme parks in the area, including Universal Studios and Knott’s Berry Farm.
If you’re in town on vacation, take a ride on the historic Angels Flight funicular railway. This funicular railway was built by engineer George Chaffee and has been dubbed “the world’s shortest railway.” It only travels three stops up the hill from Los Angeles’ street level all the way up to Bunker Hill – a stunning spot where you can get a view of downtown LA from above. The ride takes just seconds, but it will make your heart race as you ascend through this historic, steep neighborhood.
43. Santa Monica
If you’re looking for a hot date in LA, head over to Santa Monica. This laid-back beach town has everything from restaurants to bars and shopping along the boardwalk. There is something for everyone here, including some amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. Head on over to the Santa Monica Pier and take in the fun of the Ferris wheel or take a trip down to Catalina Island with a boat ride from San Pedro Harbor.
44. Beverly Hills
Beverly Hills is the center of the city’s business and social activity. It’s home to many famous movie stars, celebrities, and millionaires. The shopping in Beverly Hills is also famous for its high-end luxury stores.
The historic Rodeo Drive is home to many of these upscale stores. Here you can find some of the best high-end clothing, jewelry, and designer items.
If shopping isn’t your thing, there are always things to do in Beverly Hills such as hiking or visiting the nearby local attractions like Griffith Park or the Getty Villa.
45. Enjoy a Meal at the Ivy Restaurant
The Ivy Restaurant is a great place to enjoy a meal in Los Angeles. The atmosphere is superb and the service is wonderful. Plus, this restaurant has been around for over 20 years now, so you know it will be sure to give you an amazing dining experience.
113 N Robertson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90048
46. Enjoy a Scenic Hike at Runyon Canyon
With a trail that leads to Griffith Park, Runyon Canyon provides hikers with a scenic hike that’s perfect for the whole family. There are plenty of different trails to choose from as well, so you can pick your favorite one depending on how much time you want to spend exploring.
47. See Your Favorite Celebrity in Concert at Staples Center or LA Live
Staples Center is one of the most iconic places in Los Angeles, California. This arena hosts concerts and other events such as trade shows and conventions. Whether you’re looking forward to seeing your favorite band or acrobatics show, there are plenty of options at Staples Center that will make your night out unforgettable! In addition to hosting concerts and events, LA Live has lots of restaurants, bars, and stores where people can shop before or after their event or concert. So if you want to take in some local culture during your visit or just get yourself some souvenirs for the road, LA Live is the place for it!
Out of the list of the Best Things To Do in Los Angeles, you can pick and choose which ones you want to cover depending on your preferences and how much time you have available on hand. We’d recommend doing all of them!
Read more: Orlando: 43 Best Things To Do in “The City Beautiful” of Florida
Note: The hours of operation, ticket prices, and admission criteria of museums, parks, etc. may change from time to time. For the most updated information, we recommend checking the official website of the attraction directly prior to your planned visit.
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