Top Things to Do on a Trip to Los Angeles, California

Top Things to Do on a Trip to Los Angeles, California
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Explore the Famous Hollywood Boulevard

No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a visit to the iconic Hollywood Boulevard. This famous street is home to the Hollywood Walk of Fame with its more than 2,700 stars honoring celebrities in the entertainment industry. Take a stroll along the sidewalk to find your favorite celebrities' stars. Be sure to pose for a photo with the stars of your favorite singers, actors, directors, and more. You can also catch a glimpse of historic theaters like the TCL Chinese Theatre and El Capitan Theatre, venues for glamorous movie premieres.

Discover the Getty Center

Perched on a hilltop with sweeping views of Los Angeles, the Getty Center is one of the city's must-see attractions. This extensive complex features the stellar art collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum with European paintings, drawings, sculpture, illuminated manuscripts, and decorative arts. In addition to the museum, the Getty Center has beautiful gardens and architecture to admire. Outdoor highlights include the Central Garden with its intriguing water features,scenic tree-lined paths, and city vistas.

Spend a Day at Venice Beach

For a quintessential California beach scene, immerse yourself in the eclectic vibe of Venice Beach. This vibrant neighborhood offers miles of golden sand and surf, along with an iconic oceanfront boardwalk scene. Watch local athletes at the popular Muscle Beach outdoor gym, find unique gifts at the local shops and street vendors, or simply sit back and people watch. The Venice Beach Recreation Center has basketball, tennis, handball courts, and even paddle tennis. Rent a bike and cruise along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail for scenic views of the beachfront homes and surfers.

Wander through Griffith Park

For spectacular views and outdoor activities minus the beach scene, make your way to Griffith Park. This huge urban park offers hiking and horseback riding trails that weave through canyons, shady picnic spots, and captivating gardens like the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Enjoy panoramic views of the Hollywood sign from various vantage points in the park. One major highlight is the Griffith Observatory where you can look through telescopes, explore exhibits, and take in stunning city skyline and hillside views.

Shop on Rodeo Drive

Get your fill of luxury shopping and people watching on iconic Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. This chic three-block street is home to legendary fashion houses like Chanel, Prada, Giorgio Armani, and Gucci. Stroll past the high-end boutiques with their eye-catching window displays showcasing the latest fashions. Even if the prices are out of reach, Rodeo Drive still makes for excellent window shopping! Pop into the Renaissance-inspired Two Rodeo shopping center to check out Tiffany & Co. and Jimmy Choo. Fuel up with an espresso at a glamorous cafe in between boutiques.

Visit the La Brea Tar Pits

For a unique Los Angeles experience, discover the fascinating La Brea Tar Pits in the Miracle Mile district. This National Natural Landmark features bubbling pools of asphalt that have trapped animals for millennia. Explore the park to see rescued Ice Age fossils and the Tar Pits themselves. The onsite Page Museum displays giant sloths, saber-toothed cats, and mammoths excavated from the Tar Pits. Learn about the site's history and research through exhibits and observation areas where you can watch scientists working. It's an illuminating look into Los Angeles' prehistoric past.

Tour Paramount Pictures Studios

Get an insider's look at a real working movie studio with a tour of Paramount Pictures in Hollywood. This studio has produced countless iconic films since its founding over a century ago. On the two-hour walking tour, you’ll check out the soundstages and exterior movie sets. Some highlights include the New York backlot set featured in countless films and the iconic Bronson Gate entrance flanked by tall palm trees. You may even spot celebrities on the lot! The knowledgeable guides share stories about legendary movies filmed on the lot, from Sunset Boulevard and Titanic to Forrest Gump and The Godfather.

Catch a Dodgers Game

For a quintessentially Los Angeles experience, catch a Dodgers game at the iconic Dodger Stadium. Opened in 1962, Dodger Stadium is one of Major League Baseball’s longest-serving ballparks. Watching a game here is a favorite local tradition, whether you’re a diehard fan or simply want to enjoy the sunshine, people watching, and ballgame snacks. Soak up the atmosphere in the palm-framed setting surrounded by hills as you watch baseball action with views of downtown Los Angeles in the distance beyond the outfield. Don’t leave without sampling an iconic Dodger Dog!

FAQs

What is the best way to get around Los Angeles?

The best way to explore Los Angeles is by rental car. Many key attractions and neighborhoods are spread out over a large area. Renting a car allows you the flexibility to navigate the city's highways and roads at your own pace. Rideshare services and public transportation are also options but may be more time-consuming.

What is there to do in Los Angeles when it rains?

If rain is in the Los Angeles forecast during your visit, plan to explore the city's world-class museums including the Getty Center, the Broad contemporary art museum, the California Science Center, or the Petersen Automotive Museum. Catch a concert or comedy show at a venue like the Hollywood Bowl or Greek Theatre. Shopping destinations like Rodeo Drive, The Grove, and downtown LA indoor malls are also good rainy day options.

What should I wear for an evening out in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles dining and nightlife has a relaxed yet stylish atmosphere. Fashionable denim, sundresses and skirts, or slacks with blouses or nice tops are commonly worn for evenings out. Footwear ranges from sandals and wedges to loafers or ankle boots. Bring layers as restaurants and clubs can use strong air conditioning. It's LA, so you do you when it comes to fashion!

What is the best view of the Hollywood sign?

The closest view of the iconic Hollywood sign is from the Griffith Observatory, which sits on the south side of Mount Hollywood with a clear sightline. For a scenic backdrop, head to Lake Hollywood Park for a postcard-worthy shot with the sign and reservoir. The Hollywood sign can be spotted from various high points and hotels around Los Angeles on clear days.

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