Los Angeles is a dream destination for travelers, offering a mix of Hollywood glamour, stunning beaches, cultural hotspots, and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning a return trip, LA has countless must-see attractions.
To help you make the most of your visit, here’s a detailed guide to the 7 best places you absolutely must visit in Los Angeles – from world-famous landmarks to hidden gems!
1. Griffith Observatory & The Hollywood Sign – Best Views of LA
One of the most iconic and scenic locations in Los Angeles is Griffith Observatory. Perched on Mount Hollywood, this spot offers breathtaking panoramic views of the LA skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and even Downtown Los Angeles.
Why Visit?
✔ Offers the best view of the Hollywood Sign without hiking too far
✔ Home to interactive astronomy exhibits and telescopes for stargazing
✔ Stunning place to watch the sunset over Los Angeles
💡 Pro Tip: If you love hiking, take the Griffith Park Trails to get even closer to the Hollywood Sign while enjoying nature!
2. Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre – The Heart of Hollywood
No trip to LA is complete without visiting the Hollywood Walk of Fame! This famous sidewalk is home to over 2,700 celebrity stars, making it one of the most famous attractions in the world.
Right next to it, you’ll find the TCL Chinese Theatre, where Hollywood’s biggest movie premieres happen. Here, you can see the handprints and footprints of legendary actors like Marilyn Monroe, Tom Hanks, and Robert Downey Jr.
Why Visit?
✔ A bucket list destination for movie lovers
✔ Perfect place for taking iconic Hollywood photos
✔ You might even spot a celebrity at a movie premiere!
🎟️ Pro Tip: If you’re a film fan, take a guided tour inside the TCL Chinese Theatre or catch a movie in its legendary auditorium.
3. Santa Monica Pier & Venice Beach – Classic California Vibes
For a classic California beach experience, visit Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach.
Santa Monica Pier is home to a historic amusement park, an aquarium, and beautiful ocean views. You can ride the Ferris wheel, eat delicious seafood, or just enjoy a walk along the beachfront boardwalk.
A short walk down the coast takes you to Venice Beach, famous for its street performers, skate park, and artistic atmosphere. The Venice Canals nearby are a hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape from the busy beach scene.
Why Visit?
✔ Perfect mix of fun, relaxation, and stunning ocean views
✔ Great place to try street food, biking, or rollerblading
✔ Experience LA’s artistic and vibrant culture
🚲 Pro Tip: Rent a bike or electric scooter to explore the entire beachfront from Santa Monica to Venice Beach!
4. The Getty Center – A Free Must-Visit Museum in LA
The Getty Center is a world-class museum with an impressive collection of art, stunning gardens, and some of the best views in Los Angeles.
Why Visit?
✔ Completely free entry – no tickets required!
✔ Houses works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt
✔ Beautiful modern architecture and peaceful gardens
📍 Pro Tip: Even if you’re not a huge fan of museums, the views from The Getty Center are worth the visit alone!
5. Downtown LA & The Arts District – A Cultural Hotspot
Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA) is a mix of historic and modern LA with some of the city’s best museums, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
Top Places to Visit in DTLA:
✔ The Broad Museum – A free contemporary art museum with Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms
✔ Grand Central Market – A food lover’s paradise with the best tacos, burgers, and ramen in LA
✔ The Arts District – Full of colorful murals, trendy cafés, and indie boutiques
🏙️ Pro Tip: Go on a weekend to experience the bustling street markets and live music events in Downtown LA!
6. Rodeo Drive & Beverly Hills – Luxury Shopping & Iconic Streets
If you want to see where celebrities shop and live, head to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills. This world-famous shopping street is lined with high-end boutiques like Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton.
Beverly Hills is also home to some of LA’s most beautiful streets, with palm trees and million-dollar mansions everywhere you look.
Why Visit?
✔ A perfect place for shopping or window-shopping
✔ One of the most Instagrammable spots in LA
✔ You might even spot a celebrity!
📸 Pro Tip: Take a Beverly Hills Tour to see celebrity homes and famous filming locations like the house from Pretty Woman!
7. Universal Studios Hollywood – The Best Theme Park in LA
For movie lovers and thrill-seekers, Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit! This world-famous theme park offers exciting rides, movie sets, and behind-the-scenes tours.
Top Attractions in Universal Studios Hollywood:
✔ The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Walk through Hogwarts Castle and Hogsmeade Village
✔ The Studio Tour – Go behind the scenes of real Hollywood film sets
✔ Jurassic World & Transformers Rides – Epic theme park attractions
🎟️ Pro Tip: Get a Front of Line Pass to skip the long queues and make the most of your day at Universal Studios!