One of the most visited places in the United States, Los Angeles has it all. Los Angeles has everything from the world famous Hollywood Sign, to world class museums like The Getty, to amusement parks like Universal Studios; there are endless opportunities for entertainment, culture, shopping and outdoor activities. But with sunny weather and a host of attractions, it’s no wonder that Los Angeles attracts over 50 million visitors annually.
The City of Angels — whether you want to imagine yourself among the Hollywood glamour of Rodeo Drive, surf and sand of Santa Monica, or relaxing at Dodger Stadium and LA Live entertainment complex — you can do it all here. LA is the largest city in California spanning over 4700 square miles and loaded with famous neighborhoods like West Hollywood, Malibu and Venice Beach you are yet to explore.
Iconic Landmarks
A visit to Los Angeles is not complete without seeing the world famous Hollywood Sign. This iconic landmark has perched high in the Hollywood Hills, overlooking Tinseltown ever since with its 45 foot high white letters since 1923. Admiring the Sign from below while meandering through Griffith Park is spectacular, but for prime vantage point and panoramic cityscapes head to the Griffith Observatory.
The Hollywood Walk of Fame (=15 blocks on Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street), is another iconic site. Wander past over 2,700 terrazzo and brass stars honoring celebrities in motion pictures, television, audio recording, radio, and live theatre. Look up star ceremony events on the schedule or visit theaters such as the TCL Chinese Theatre and El Capitan Theatre.
Cultural Attractions
Art aficionados flock to Los Angeles for its wealth of museums and galleries, like the premiere Getty Center tucked in the Santa Monica Mountains. From its architecture and gardens to expansive collections ranging from illuminated manuscripts to contemporary photography, the Getty is a must-see. Wander through the Central Garden or dine at The Restaurant while soaking up panoramic vistas of the city below.
Another essential cultural stop is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the largest art museum in the western United States. Check out collections spanning ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces, textiles, and film/media. Don’t miss urban icons like Chris Burden’s Urban Light sculpture and the newly opened Renzo Piano-designed building.
Entertainment/Amusement Parks
When it comes to amusement, look no further than Universal Studios Hollywood. At this legendary film studio and theme park, encounter movie magic with thrill rides, special effects shows, working sets, and behind-the-scenes access on the world-famous Studio Tour. Face dinosaurs on the Jurassic World ride or join The Wizarding World of Harry Potter complete with Butterbeer and interactive wand tricks.
Just down the freeway lies Disneyland Resort, dubbed “The Happiest Place on Earth.” Step into Disney fantasy exploring eight themed lands like Critter Country and Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland park. Or check out favorites like The Little Mermaid–Ariel’s Undersea Adventure and the “World of Color” nighttime show at Disney California Adventure park. Stay late at either park for fireworks spectaculars.
Beaches and Outdoor Activities
Of course, LA is synonymous with sun, sand, and surf. Escape to iconic Santa Monica Pier jutting out over the Pacific Ocean, complete with a solar-powered Ferris wheel, historic carousel, shops, restaurants, and street performers. Stroll down the wooden boardwalk or rent bikes along the oceanfront path towards Venice Beach.
Continuing south is the funky, artsy community of Venice Beach where artists, street vendors and weightlifters convene. Browse through the local shops and street stalls as you take in the scene. Don’t forget to snap a photo of the iconic Muscle Beach outdoor gym and workout area near the shoreline.
Shopping/Dining Districts
When luxury shopping beckons, look no further than iconic Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, spanning three blocks known as the design fashion district. Find haute couture from powerhouse designers like Chanel, Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Or opt for luxury brands like Tiffany & Co. and Harry Winston jewelry. Nearby Two Rodeo boutiques offer more unique fashions too. Don’t leave without people watching over lunch on a terrace café.
For diverse shopping, dining and entertainment, make a beeline for The Grove and abutting Farmers Market. Wander through over 100 shops and eateries ranging from Nordstrom to Apple Store to gourmet grocers. Catch a movie, ride the trolley or relax by the central fountain for an afternoon escape. Next door lies the historic Farmers Market featuring specialty food shops, prepared food stalls and weekend events.
Natural Attractions/Parks
Nature lovers will thrive in Los Angeles, home to over 15,000 acres of parkland and nature preserves throughout the city and mountains. Topping the list is iconic Griffith Park, over 4,500 acres of rolling chaparral-covered hills, popular trails and attractions. Hike up to the Hollywood sign or glimpse mountain lions in the wild lands beyond the Griffith Observatory and Los Angeles Zoo.
For city views, make the 1.3-mile ascent up Runyon Canyon loop passing yoga practitioners and off-leash dogs. This hub of celebrity hikers borders West Hollywood delivering views of the downtown skyline and Hollywood sign from various trailheads. Check upcoming full moon hiking tours or sunrise events.
Historical/Architectural Sites
Downtown LA is steeped in fascinating architecture and history. Case in point is the Bradbury Building, a National Historic Landmark considered one of the oldest remaining commercial buildings in LA. The extraordinary Victorian building dates to 1893 flaunting an elaborate skylit atrium, open-cage elevators, marble staircases and ornate ironwork—iconic settings featured in many Hollywood movies over the decades like Blade Runner.
Likewise, Union Station remains one of LA’s grand architectural gems since its Art Deco style debuted in 1939. This vibrant transportation hub retains its original restaurant, ticket concourse and waiting areas beneath lofty timbered ceilings and signature Mission Moderne architectural details spread over almost 16 acres. Visitors can explore on self-guided tours daily or book Amtrak and Metrolink train tickets to tap the building’s bustling rail service.
Finally, the 1928 Los Angeles City Hall remains one of Downtown LA’s most striking buildings to explore. This 31-story structure towers almost 500 feet over the civic center designed in a nod to classic skyscrapers.
Conclusion
Attractions are endless in Los Angeles, whether your interest is in amusement parks, upscale shopping, culturally rich museums or the great outdoors—the tens of thousands of square miles Los Angeles inhabits are home to infinitely more than the city could ever show visitors in a lifetime.
Are you ready to get started? Take time explore legendary landmarks such as Griffith Observatory, immerse in art museums like LACMA and the Getty Center or soak up luxury shopping on Rodeo Drive. It’s the land of the stars and though it’s never too easy to mix among them, you’ll surely have the time of your life trying.
Don’t forget to tap into Southern California beach culture and sunset views over the Pacific coast. Hiring a professional LA limo service will make your connections to the top attractions in this sprawling iconic city easy. Los Angeles is still one of the most premier travel destinations because of its year round sunny weather and so many vibrant neighborhoods to explore.