nice places to visit in downtown los angeles

The 18 Best Things to Do in Downtown Los Angeles

TripSavvy / Amanda Blackard

Unlike other large cities, many people visit Los Angeles without ever setting foot downtown, preferring to spend their time at the beach near Santa Monica or strolling around Hollywood . And while the downtown area may lack the most iconic attractions that people come to see in Los Angeles, those who venture into this underrated neighborhood know that it's rich with historic  architecture , cultural attractions, and some of the best foodie hotspots in the city.

Here are the 18 best things to do downtown, from visiting historic sites, museums, and watching live theater performances, to strolling around the many iconic districts that help shape downtown into what it is.

Eat Sushi in Little Tokyo

There are only three official Japantowns in the United States, and all three of them are in California. The one in Los Angeles, known as Little Tokyo, is the largest of the three and also a National Historic Landmark. Apart from actually going to Japan, it's one of the most authentic Japanese experiences you can have and the perfect place to pick up some typical snacks, flip through some manga comics, or enjoy a cup of matcha tea.

Perhaps the best time of the day to explore Little Tokyo is around lunch, dinner, or anytime you're hungry. Several local eateries offer traditional Japanese and Japanese-American cuisine, from hot bowls of ramen to the fun-to-eat (and say) shabu-shabu . Also, don't miss out on trying a California roll from any one of the sushi restaurants in the area ⎯ it was invented right in the neighborhood.

Take a Ride on the Tram

It may not have the same global recognition as the San Francisco cable car or the Lisbon tram , but the Angels Flight Railway is still one of the most iconic landmarks in downtown L.A. (and even more so since it appeared in the Oscar-winning Best Picture, "La La Land"). The funicular train has been shuttling passengers one block—albeit one very steep block—since 1901, from Hill Street to Olive Street.

The cost is $1 to ride it one-way, or 50 cents if you have an L.A. Metro pass. You can ride the tram in either direction but enter at Hill Street to ride it uphill and avoid making the steep climb on foot.

Check Out Contemporary Art for Free

If you're into contemporary art, two of Southern California's preeminent museums are not just in downtown Los Angeles, but they're across the street from each other and both are free to enter.

The Broad —pronounced like "brode"—is the newer contemporary art museum that opened in 2015 on Grand Avenue, next to the Walt Disney Disney Concert Hall . Built by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, the 120,000-square-foot museum houses their personal and their foundation's art collection of more than 2,000 works by over 200 different artists, including the museum's most Instagrammable exhibit, the Infinity Mirrored Room by Yayoi Kusama.

Walk out of the Broad and cross the street to enter the Museum of Contemporary Art , which locals just call the "MOCA." The MOCA doesn't have any permanent exhibits, so check ahead to see what's on display at the time of your trip.

Visit El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument at Olvera Street

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley 

El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, more commonly known simply as Olvera Street, is the location of the oldest remaining structure in Los Angeles, the Avila Adobe. However, it's the Mexican Marketplace running up and down the pedestrian street that primarily draws visitors. The Marketplace started in 1930 and was originally conceived as a way to rejuvenate the dilapidated neighborhood by bringing in the charm of old-world Mexico with locals selling their crafts and hosting vivacious fiestas. Nearly a century later, Olvera Street is still one of the most popular attractions in downtown Los Angeles.

It is also the home of the LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes , a museum that charts Latino history from the arrival of the first 11 Mexican families who were among the earliest settlers in Los Angeles.

Olvera Street is a one-block pedestrian zone across from Union Station, which is served by the red and gold lines of the  Metro .

See a Show at the Disney Concert Hall

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

The Los Angeles Music Center consists of a group of original theaters that are home to the city's drama, dance, and opera companies, the most famous of which is the architecturally stunning Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry. It's home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, one of the most celebrated orchestras in the country. The "winter season" of the LA Phil at the Disney Concert Hall typically runs from October to June (in the summer, they play at the Hollywood Bowl ).

Even if you can't make it to a concert or tickets are outside of your budget, it's worth visiting the Disney Concert Hall just to appreciate the building itself. Guided tours of the inside are available for free (or you can choose to wander around yourself) but don't forget about the outside of the building. Gehry designed the hall to be explored from all sides and angles, including the exterior staircases that take visitors right up to the roof.

Feast at the Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market is an indoor public market on Broadway between Third and Fourth streets in downtown. The market has been open continuously since 1917 and has always housed a mix of greengrocers, butchers, delis, bakers, and prepared food vendors. The culinary offerings in the market have always been fresh and local, although they have become more "artisanal and gourmet" compared to its early days. The options today also represent the diversity of the local area, including Thai street food, Salvadoran pupusas, and several flavors from Mexico.

The market is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., but individual vendors may set their own hours. If you're arriving by public transportation, take the red or purple line of the metro to Pershing Square.

Explore the Fashion District in Los Angeles

The Fashion District is a great place to shop for bargain clothes, textiles, and accessories. Previously known as the Garment District, this expansive neighborhood sits in the southern part of downtown L.A. and specializes in retail and wholesale for all types of clothing. One of the most popular areas is a street of outdoor shopping called Santee Alley, where you can find great deals and cheap knock-off brands.

Many businesses are closed on Sundays, so it's not as busy if you want to roam but there's not nearly as much selection. Aspiring designers will also love  The Fashion Institute for Design and Merchandising  (FIDM) at Ninth Street and Grand, just outside the Fashion District, which has a gallery that features costume exhibits from movies and television.

Get Lost in the Downtown Los Angeles Arts District

Even though there's an endless option of art museums and galleries to visit around Los Angeles, none of them offer what you can find in the Downtown Los Angeles Arts District . It's nestled between Alameda Street and the L.A. River on the east side of downtown, and this industrial area has been a flourishing artist community since the 1970s. Most notable are the larger-than-life murals that dominate the walls and are constantly changing. In fact, it's one of the best places to see street art in all of California.

Apart from the murals, the neighborhood also has a high density of studios and galleries that are free to enter. For an immersive experience and a comprehensive history of the Arts District, several companies offer guided tours of the area, such as L.A. Art Tours .

Take a Tour of Los Angeles City Hall

Completed in 1928, the 32-story Los Angeles City Hall was the tallest building in the city until modern building methods allowed taller, high-rise buildings to appear in the 1960s. The building is a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument and is still home to the mayor and city council office chambers. It is part of the Civic Center district, which also includes county, state, and federal buildings, and has appeared in dozens of TV shows, movies, and video games. You can walk in and explore on your own with the self-guided tour materials available at the information desk on the third floor, but whatever you do, be sure to take the elevator up to the free observation deck on the 27th floor.

Enjoy the Sun at Grand Park

It isn't easy finding refuge in all of the commotion of downtown L.A., but Grand Park is a 12-acre oasis nuzzled in between the skyscrapers. It stretches for over three blocks of tranquil green space, making it the perfect location to escape from a day of trekking around the concrete jungle. At the west end of the park, the restored Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain includes a spouted wading area that is a favorite place to cool off on hot summer days. At night, a light show draws romantic strolling couples and photo enthusiasts. The park also includes 24 botanic gardens inspired by the six floristic kingdoms of the world and plenty of green lawn for playing and relaxing.

Browse Around at The Last Bookstore

The Last Bookstore, at the corner of Fifth and Spring streets in Downtown Los Angeles, has become an international tourist draw. They don't just sell, buy, and trade second-hand books and records at The Last Bookstore. They've created an intriguing combination of quirky art and wide-ranging literature in a really unique space. The bones of the original architecture are allowed to shine through with a painted beamed ceiling supported by classic columns. The second floor wraps around the open first floor with a balcony walkway, keeping your eyes busy with everything going on above and below. Upstairs houses unique art studios and galleries, a knitting shop, and a labyrinth of more books, including the dollar room with over 100,000 books for $1.

There are some overstuffed sofas and chairs around for reading, but you're just as likely to see people pull up a spot on the floor wherever they've discovered treasure among the stacks. The Last Bookstore hosts a variety of events from book signings, author talks, and art openings to comedy shows, music performances, and open mic nights.

Visit Union Station Los Angeles

Museimage / Getty Images

Union Station is still the hub of long-distance and commuter rail transportation in Los Angeles, serving Amtrak, MetroLink, and MTA Metro trains. It's also worth visiting as an architectural landmark, with a gorgeous waiting hall and public areas. The historic station was built in 1939 and is a mix of Spanish Colonial, Mission Revival, Art Deco, and modern architectural styles.

Enjoy a Meal at Engine Co. No. 28

Courtesy of Engine Co. No. 28

Housed in an old fire station, Engine Co. No. 28 serves delicious American-styled dishes inspired by old recipes from firehouses throughout the nation. The building was originally built in 1912 and operated as a full-fledged fire station until its closure in 1967. A little more than 20 years later, the station was renovated and opened as a restaurant.

Their specialties include New York steak, meatloaf, a firehouse chili, and a few other American and Southern staples. You can make reservations for indoor or heated outdoor seating through their website, where they guarantee they can put out your "appetite fire."

Catch a Fly Ball at Dodger Stadium

John Liu / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

If you're itching to catch a baseball game while you're visiting L.A., why not stop in at Dodger Stadium? The stadium itself is iconic, it's the third-oldest continually used stadium in the MLB, and even if you aren't a baseball fan, you've probably caught a glimpse of it in one of its many movie appearances. ("Benny The Jet" Rodriguez became a Dodger and played here at the end of "The Sandlot.")

If you're interested in seeing more of the iconic stadium itself, they offer 90-minute tours that cost just $25 for adults.

Pick Up a Book at the Los Angeles Central Library

Jim Winstead / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

Considered an architectural landmark, the Los Angeles Central Library (also known as the Richard J. Riordan Central Library) is one of the leading public research libraries located in downtown L.A. Not only is it listed as a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument, but it's also listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The main building was built during the mid-1920s and is a beautiful example of the art deco architecture of that period.

Besides the stunning architecture and the flood of knowledge in the building, visitors can also explore the Maguire Gardens on the library's west side.

Visit the California Science Center

ray_explores / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

If you're looking for hands-on fun for the entire family, what better place to visit than the California Science Center? Open seven days a week with free general admission to four of its main exhibit areas, this is an easy stop on any itinerary.

Become fire safety experts at the "Fire! Science & Safety" exhibit, study where life began and how it changes in the "Life! Beginnings"  exhibit, and live out your astronaut dreams in the "Humans in Space" exhibit.

Their mission is to promote learning and wonder through fun and entertaining experiences, as they believe science is the future.

Explore Music History at the GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live

Mario RM / CC BY-SA 2.0 / Flickr

The GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live is dedicated to its mission—cultivating interest and appreciation for music history. Their exhibits range from appreciating what artists wear on the red carpet with their "On the Red Carpet" exhibit to an immersive experience of their "Mono to Immersive" exhibition, where visitors can experience their favorite artists' sound on the classic gramophone.

Adult tickets are $18, and the museum is open every day except Tuesday.

Admire the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels

Clinton Steeds / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

Some of the most impressive pieces of architecture are buildings of worship, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels is no exception. The building was finished in the spring of 2002 and is said to feature virtually no right angles, as the "geometry contributes to the Cathedral's feeling of mystery and its aura of majesty," they state on their website .

Inside, visitors will find stunning stained glass windows in the mausoleum, tall bronze doors, and beautifully done hanging tapestry, the largest amount in a Catholic church in the United States.

National Park Service. "Little Tokyo Historic District." Retrieved April 2, 2021

Britannica. "California Roll." Retrieved April 2, 2021

County of LA. "History." Retrieved April 2, 2021

Arts District LA. "Arts District History." Retrieved April 2, 2021

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24 Things to Do in Downtown Los Angeles

In this post, we are heading the Los Angeles, and I’m going to show you 24 of my favorite spots to explore in Downtown LA. Check it out and let me know what I left off in the comments. Click on the images to read more about the recommendation.

1. Broad Museum

Stop number one, takes us to The Broad Museum, which is one of the most popular new museums in Los Angeles. This gallery became popular because of its “Instagram-able” attractions like the mirror rooms, the big tulips, the America sign. It even has a larger than life size table you can walk right underneath. It’s a free museum, but you do need tickets in advance, and be prepared to wait for about an hour if you don’t get a ticket in advance to get in.

• Read more about the Broad .

2. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Across the street from The Broad, we have the Walt Disney Concert Hall. You’ve probably seen this awesome architectural feat right in the heart of downtown Los Angeles multiple times while driving by. Still, I would recommend getting out of the car, walking around, taking a tour of the concert hall, and walking through the gardens. It’s a beautiful area and every time you go, you see something new. Of course, if you get a chance, see a show there as well. It’s supposed to have the best acoustics in all of Los Angeles.

3. OUE SkySpace LA (This location has been closed)

Recommendation number three is OUE SkySpace, which is in the US Bank Tower. This unique Los Angeles attraction has a glass slide, where you slide from the 70th floor to the 69th floor, all completely in glass. The slide goes fast, so you don’t have a ton of time to look around, but it’s a fun experience that gets the adrenaline going. Also, they have two open-air observation decks that are amazing spots for sunset.

• Read more about OUE Skyspace .

4. Union Station

Union Station is the Los Angeles train station, and it’s been featured in movies like Blade Runner. It’s many decades old and is an excellent place to walk around and explore the unique architecture or take the train somewhere outside of Los Angeles.

• Read more about Union Station .

5. Olvera St

From Union Station, head over to Olvera Street, which is right across the street from the train station and is a fun cultural heritage site in the middle of Los Angeles. Here, you can visit the center pavilion, go to some of the museums, see one of the oldest houses in Los Angeles and have taquitos at Cielito Lindo. Olvera Street is also impressive during the Day of the Dead Festival, which happens right around Halloween every single year.

• Read more about Olvera Street .

6. Chinatown

For a different cultural experience, head over to Chinatown, which is a few blocks up from Olvera Street. This small area has food, shopping, and lots of unique architecture. It also has the traditional Chinese lanterns that go across many of the streets, and it has a wishing fountain that you can throw coins into.

My next recommendation is MOCA, which is a contemporary art museum in the heart of downtown LA. While this doesn’t have as many of the crazy exhibits like The Broad does, it’s still a great place to see some unique art and walk around the two to three floors they have. The giant metal piece in the outdoor lobby is worth visiting just to see that.

8. Grand Central Market

Next stop, we have Grand Central Market, which is Downtown LA’s food court. It’s been there for decades, with lots of unique restaurants coming in and out over the years. Now, it’s part of the foodie revival in LA with places like Eggslut, PBJ.LA, Wexler’s Deli, and many others bringing people from all over Southern California to try a unique dish.

9. Bradbury Building

From there, head across the street to the Bradbury Building, which was also featured in Blade Runner, and is a super cool piece of architecture that you can explore during business hours. You can’t ride the old elevators, but you can walk up some of the staircases and see the building from many different angles.

10. Angels Flight

After that, head over to Angels Flight, a fun little train that you can ride. It takes you about a block up, and it only costs 50 cents to a dollar, depending on whether you have a metro pass or not. No doubt you’ve seen this fun attraction in some recent movies like La La Land. It was actually closed for about five years, so it’s great to have it back open again.

• Read more about Angels Flight .

11. The Last Bookstore

My next recommendation is The Last Bookstore. This old bank building was turned into a two-story bookstore that has an insane amount of books but has a lot of other cool things to see as well. Some of those are the book tunnel that you can walk through and the old bank vault, which houses crime novels. It’s a good place just to walk around and take it all in.

• Read more about The Last Bookstore .

12. Clifton’s Cafeteria

Close by The Last Bookstore is Clifton’s Cafeteria, which is a famous Los Angeles spot that has been around for over 50 years. This unique cafeteria has all sorts of absurd things for you to see, such as tigers that you can sit next to, a giant three-story tree, and all kinds of weird oddities around the restaurant. It just reopened a year or two ago, and it’s a great place to go with your family.  This location is not always open, check the website before you go. 

13. Art’s District

Next, I recommend heading over to the Art District. The Art’s District is the up and coming downtown neighborhood that everybody wants to live at, and everyone else comes to eat at. The Art’s District has lots of artistic murals on all of the buildings, a bunch of crazy places to eat like Wurstkuche, which has rattlesnake and rabbit sausages, breweries, ice cream, you name it they have it in the Art’s District. It’s an excellent place to just park, walk around and explore. Naturally, bring your appetite because there are lots you’re going to want to eat.

14. Spire 73 Bar at the InterContinental Hotel

If you are in LA at night, head over to the InterContinental hotel, the tallest building on the West Coast. From there, you can take the elevator to the 70th floor and then another elevator to the 73rd floor to go to the tallest open-air bar in the entire country. This is a great place to grab a drink or snack and look out over the city lights.

15. LA Live and the Grammy Museum

My next recommendation is to head down to LA Live, which is right across from the Staple Center and has lots of restaurants as well as the Grammy Museum. If you’re a fan of music, then the Grammy Museum is a great place to explore. It talks about past winners, has instruments that you can play, microphones you can sing into, and revolving exhibits on things like punk rock and famous guitars. Also, along the sidewalk, outside of the museum, there are big records in the ground, much like the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, that talk about the different artists that won categories during each year of the Grammy’s.

• Read more about The Grammy Museum .

16. Smorgasborg LA

If you’re in Los Angeles on a Sunday, the only day of the week that this happens, head over to Smorgasburg. Smorgasburg is much like a food truck event where 30 or so restaurants all have little pop-up shops in this one big industrial area. You can walk all around and try things ranging from fried chicken in a waffle cone, shrimp in a pineapple boat, acai bowls, tea, all sorts of crazy stuff. I recommend bringing your appetite and some money so that you can try a few different things. There’s also a shopping area down the middle that you can check out in between eating.

• Read more about Smorgasborg

17. Little Tokyo

Little Tokyo is in the heart of downtown LA where Chinatown is a little bit north of the city center. This area has a unique mall full of all sorts of Japanese-related items, has different restaurants that you can try, and it has one of my favorite places in all of downtown Los Angeles which is Daikokuya, a ramen restaurant. Be sure to get there really early, though, as Diakokuya is always busy, super small, and you normally have to wait at least an hour.

18. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

Next stop, we have a Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, a beautiful church that you can check out while you are in the city. This church is stunning with a contemporary design and a large open floor plan. You can walk through the entire area or go down to the mausoleum below the church. Obviously, be respectful if you visit here.

19. LA City Hall

If you’re in Los Angeles during a weekday, from 9 AM to 5 PM, go to LA City Hall. You can get a visitor’s pass and take the elevator to the top of the city hall. From there, you can walk around in an open-air observation deck completely free. This is a great place to explore as it gives you impressive views of downtown LA and all the surrounding areas. You can even see the Hollywood Sign if there’s not any smog.

• Read more about LA City Hall .

20. Grand Park

From City Hall, you can head up to Grand Park, another fun place to relax in downtown. This long narrow park goes up about three city blocks, and it gains elevation as you’re walking up to the top. Each area has grass with tables and chairs that you can relax at and look out over City Hall. Also, at the top, there is a fountain that kids often play in.

21. Pershing Square

From here, you can head to Pershing Square, which is one of the other popular city parks in Los Angeles. There’s not a lot to do in Pershing Square daily, but there is a park for kids to play at, and during Christmas, they have an ice rink here so you can ice skate in the heart of Downtown LA.

22. LA Library

Pershing Square is about a block from the LA Library, another excellent place to explore for a few hours during the day. They have a cool atrium with lots of unique art, and, on the second floor, they have rotunda that you have to see to believe.

23. Bob Baker Marionette Theater (the theater has moved to a new location)

My last two recommendations are a little bit outside the downtown area, but they’re both fun to visit. First, head over to Bob Baker Marionette Theater. This theater on the west side of downtown has been running for over 50 years, and it has an impressive marionette puppet show the whole family will enjoy. It’s a lot of fun during the holidays as well as they often have holiday-themed shows with their different puppets.

• Read more about Bob Baker Theater .

24. Dodger’s Stadium

My last recommendation is a visit to Dodger’s Stadium. You may have been to Dodger’s Stadium during a game day, but I recommend you visit it when there’s no game in town. During normal business hours, most days of the week, you can drive into Dodger’s Stadium, and you can visit the company store. From there, you can actually walk out into the upper deck, eat lunch, and look out over the beautiful stadium. I’m not a huge baseball fan myself, but there’s just something cool about being in Dodger’s Stadium with no one else around.

• Read more about Dodger’s Stadium .

If you want to see clips of all these spots, check out this video I made talking through them.

So, that’s it, 24 spots in downtown Los Angeles for you to check out. Hopefully, there are some new ones on there that you hadn’t heard of before and be sure to let me know where I left off that you love in the comments. Also, if you want to visit Hollywood, check out this guide .

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 A Local Chef’s Tips for Having a Classic Weekend in Downtown L.A.

Chef Sujan Sarkar shares his favorite spots.

Sunset’s Insider Guide series highlights seasonal diversions and secret travel tips from local experts. Follow along as we learn where to eat, drink, stay, and shop.

Meet the insider: Sujan Sarkar, Chef/Partner at Baar Baar

Chef Sujan Sarkar grew up in a suburb of Kolkata, and while he has a real reverence towards the regional cuisines and produce of India, now he’s all about pushing the boundaries of the country’s authentic flavors at Baar Baar , which has locations in New York and Los Angeles. His playful take on cooking from the Asian subcontinent draws in a diverse and vibrant crowd, particularly during Sunday brunch, where a DJ spins as guests nosh on dishes like dahi puri with raspberry chaat masala or cauliflower with pickled kumquat and curry leaf. Here he shares some of his favorite spots in the heart of Downtown.

© Bottega Louie

For breakfast, The Original Pantry Cafe is a must. “Go early before the line gets too long.” Later in the day, head over to Bottega Louie “for wood fired pizza and pastries,” then round out the day of eating at Bavel “for great Middle Eastern food, wine, and atmosphere.”

Neil John Burger

Perch is an excellent “rooftop bar to meet friends for happy hour,” and of course Baar Baar has a “beautiful bar,” that includes a menu of “unique cocktails inspired by Indian movies.” If you find yourself out into the wee hours of the night as many do in DTLA, head to Death & Co , “a must for great cocktails and late-night food.”

Photo by The Ingalls

Hotel Per La boasts a “cozy and tastefully designed room, and the rooftop pool is amazing.” At Hotel Figueroa you’ll find a mix “of old and modern charm . You won’t want to miss Cafe Fig for breakfast” on their ground floor. The view of the pool gives that classic California vibe. If you’re looking for something for a work trip, Citizen M is “simple, no-frills fun.”

Peruse the bookshelves and “look for cookbooks at The Last Bookstore ,” or explore the many works at The Institute of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles . Make sure to stop in to “check out the vendors and shop for goods at Grand Central Market ,” a historic space that’s been continually operating and serving the community since 1917.

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If Los Angeles is a city in flux — a place with an ever-shifting center that’s home to many a transplant and is sometimes too eager to favor the new — then perhaps no neighborhood better embodies our town than downtown. Once the beating heart of the region, downtown has survived multiple eras of ups and downs, and remains a place in constant transformation.

To live in downtown — I have been a resident of the area for nearly 15 years — is not only to confront the fantasy of Los Angeles but also to come face to face with the city at its most dystopian. It’s a neighborhood of clashes, home to the grandeur of Walt Disney Concert Hall , the romance of rooftop eateries, the idealized history of Olvera Street and, of course, the harsh realities of class inequity and unrealized dreams, as downtown and Skid Row remain the epicenter of our homeless crisis.

And yet, downtown is history.

Get to know Los Angeles through the places that bring it to life. From restaurants to shops to outdoor spaces, here’s what to discover now.

The Angels Flight Railway today is a charmer, a short theme-park like journey connecting the heights of Bunker Hill with the Historic Core and Grand Central Market . But the Bunker Hill of today , with its skyscrapers and art museums, is a long way removed from its turn-of-the-century Victorian homes — or the so-called blight that the area was in the 1940s and ’50s when the rich jettisoned downtown. Displacement and leveling occurred.

Downtown is contradictions. Until 1957, downtown buildings were capped to a height of 150 feet. A building boom followed, and downtown won its reputation as a place occupied by 9-to-5 office workers by day, deserted by night. Today, unfinished skyscrapers have become canvases for graffiti artists , and a post-pandemic work-from-home lifestyle has pinned the hopes for downtown’s future on its potential as a residential area.

Downtown is the center of our city — where settlers and indigenous people before them found freshwater — but emblematic of a region where its people refused to agree upon a center for any length of time. Or weren’t always given a choice. Our magnificent Union Station , today a burgeoning public transit hub, was built on ground that was the original Chinatown. To fully embrace downtown is to be forced to reconcile our city’s sometimes messy past.

And yet downtown is home. The ornate movie palaces of Broadway still stand, though are used more often as concert venues today. One is an Apple Store, the arrival of which in 2021 was itself seen as something of a pivotal moment, heralded, much as was the return of Ralphs to the area in 2007, as a sign that downtown was once again a livable destination.

But it always was. To try to capture downtown in a neighborhood guide is nearly impossible: The Historic Core is as different from Bunker Hill as South Park is from the Fashion District. We’ve splintered off the Arts District , which is equally unwieldy, and have defined downtown as a place stretching from around Union Station to the mecca of activity near Crypto.com Arena. Look for the neighborhoods-within-a-neighborhood that are Little Toyko and Chinatown to receive a similar treatment soon.

What you’ll find here is a look at a heavily walkable slice of Los Angeles, a place where gourmet food resides in the 100-plus-year-old food hall of Grand Central Market , where cocktail bars such as the Wolves attempt to whisk us to a yesteryear that never existed, and a bookstore has become a tourist destination that serves as a living art gallery. There’s more to the region than is captured here, of course — the details of our city’s founding, for instance, or the battle over the creation of a French dip sandwich . But what is here is comfortable and communal, be it the gloriousness of a flour tortilla or the coziness of a neighborhood bar.

Downtown, finally, is a mystery. Venture into an alley, for example, to find the Smell , still the best all-ages location for underground and experimental music. Turn into a somewhat abandoned courtyard and stumble into a nearly forgotten slice of Old World kitsch . Nestled near the heart of Skid Row lies Mignon , one of the quietest, most intimate wine bars in the city. And hiding in the Central Library just happens to be one of the city’s niftiest little gift shops .

That it can hold all this and more, that it can be the birthplace of our city yet also one of our most malleable neighborhoods, is key to downtown’s allure. It can be grimy and unvarnished, sure, but it’s also never stopped dreaming. Is it the city core that it was envisioned as more than a couple of centuries ago? For many, it was never anything but.

What's included in this guide

Anyone who’s lived in a major metropolis can tell you that neighborhoods are a tricky thing. They’re eternally malleable and evoke sociological questions around how we place our homes, our neighbors and our communities within a wider tapestry. In the name of neighborly generosity, we included gems that may linger outside of technical parameters. Instead of leaning into stark definitions, we hope to celebrate all of the places that make us love where we live.

Get to know the locals at Kippered

Be transported by Joyce's Southern, seafood-inspired menu

Food is communal at Grand Central Market

Visit one of downtown's best gift shops at the Central Library

Attend a movie party at Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

Get lost in the labyrinth of the Last Bookstore

Enter a box of contemporary art at the Broad

Have a cocktail surrounded by angels at the Biltmore

Treat downtown like a theme park at Angels Flight Railway

Interact with music history at the Grammy Museum

Sample Sonoratown's glorious handmade flour tortillas

Dine in a former rectory at Redbird

Marvel at the Midwest-influenced comfort food of Moonlark's Dinette

Do some yoga at Gloria Molina Grand Park

Dive into L.A. history at Olvera Street

Explore the transitways — or have a pint — at Union Station

Relax with a coffee at the Bradbury Building

Enjoy the buzz of live theater at the Ahmanson Theatre

Skip the fancy rooftop brunch and see Los Angeles via City Hall

Explore the fantasy of another era at the Wolves

Explore the variety of French wine at Garçons de Cafe

Visit a rooftop garden before the symphony at Walt Disney Concert Hall

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Home » Travel Guides » United States » California (CA) » 25 Best Things to Do in Downtown LA

25 Best Things to Do in Downtown LA

Downtown Los Angeles has an authentic cultural buzz you won’t find in any other city. It’s a vibrant mix of old and new which has blended together to create something unique. Downtown LA is a part of the city where skyscrapers rub shoulders with historical buildings and museums share street addresses with movie theaters.

You never know what you’re going to find around the corner or on the next block. It could be a colorful mural covering the side of a building, a museum celebrating American music or a funicular railway. There are some fantastic suburbs in cities all over the States, but Downtown LA is one of the most exciting. DTLA is diverse.

Don’t miss out on any of these twenty-five things to do in Downtown LA when you’re there. Each and every one of them is unbelievably awesome.

1. Oue Skyspace

When you make it to Downtown LA, you’re going to want to see all of it. You can – from the Oue Skyspace Observation Deck.

The observation deck occupies the sixty-ninth and seventieth floors of the US Bank Tower. The iconic tower has featured in multiple films, ranks number ninety-two in the top one hundred tallest buildings in the world and is over a thousand feet high.

Take the elevator up, then step out onto the glass-walled terrace for incredible, three hundred and sixty-degree views of the city. You’ll feel like you’re standing on the edge of a precipice. Go during the day for uninterrupted vistas of Downtown LA stretching as far as the distant San Gabriel mountain range or at night, to see the city illuminated by a million lights.

Get tickets : OUE Skyspace LA Skyslide Combo Entry Ticket

2. Skyslide

If the sheer height of the Oue Skyspace doesn’t give you a dizzying adrenaline rush, then the Skyslide will.

The Skyslide is a forty-five foot long waterpark-style toboggan which juts out from the Oue Skyspace in the US Bank Tower. The chute is completely transparent, and as you whoosh down, you’ll see the street below, the sky above and the whole of downtown all around you.

It’s a wild ride and if you want to fly over Downtown LA, but don’t want to get in a helicopter, this is the way to do it.

3. Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market is not only the place to buy fresh produce; it’s the place to check out some of Downtown LA’s best street food.

The historic market has been serving the downtown community for a hundred years. Open seven days a week from early morning until ten at night, it’s the hub of the city and teeming with life.

Go hungry because you’ll want to taste it all. There’s everything from Mexican, traditional Japanese, sumptuous seafood and the all-American burger or barbecued ribs. Specialist breakfast stands, coffee, and confections, counter service or take away, you’ll definitely get well fed at the Grand Central Market.

LA Live is a mega entertainment complex in Downtown LA. If it’s not happening at LA Live, then it’s not happening anywhere. Believe it.

LA Live isn’t just one building, it’s more of a city within a city and has its own streets and plazas covering a ground space of over five and a half million square feet.

Here you can catch a movie or theatre show, watch a concert, eat at any one of the numerous restaurants or chill-out with a drink in one of the many bars. You can even pamper yourself with a full spa treatment at the Ritz Carlton Spa. You can read some more about the spa a little further on.

5. Grand Park

Grand Park is the twelve-acre green heart of Downtown LA and the spot to choose if you want to have a relax outdoors away from the city hubbub.

If the LA temperatures are high, you can cool off in the public splash pads and have fun with the interactive water jets. Take a picnic and enjoy it while laying on the grass reading a book.

The parks also hosts multiple events, day and evening music and theatrical performances plus various food festivals throughout the year.

6. Escape Room LA

Think you’re clever enough to figure out the answers to a string of clues in a set amount of time? If so, you’ll have major fun at the Escape Rooms LA.

The Escape Rooms LA are the largest in the city, and there are five different mysteries to solve.

Test your skills of deduction in the 1940’s themed Detective Room or decipher the secrets of an ancient civilization to escape from the Cavern. Find elements to beat the Alchemist, let loose the phantom of the Theatre room or find a lost Mayan treasure in the Pyramid. The question is – will you do it quick enough?

7. Nickel Diner

The Nickel Diner serves original, American diner food in classy, vintage surroundings. If you’re a fan of the TV show Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives, you may have already seen it on your TV screen.

The diner’s furnishings will make you feel as if you’ve stepped inside a capsule where time hasn’t moved forward since the late forties. The only things which have changed are the prices. It does cost a little more than the five cents the name suggests.

Dive into wholesome all time favorites dishes like Mac and Cheese or something more contemporary like Stuffed Avocado with Quinoa. Whatever you eat – don’t miss out on tucking into a maple-glazed bacon donut.

8. Grammy Museum LA Live

If you’ve watched the Grammy Awards on TV and are a music aficionado, then the Grammy Museum will be a must visit on your list of things to do in Downtown LA.

The Grammy Museum is located in the entertainment nucleus, LA Live and has four floors of exhibitions dedicated to all aspects of the music industry as well as star items from the fifty years of the Grammy Awards.

You can even make your own kind of music on electronic instruments too and record yourself live while you do it.

9. The Ritz-Carlton Spa

Take time out and pamper yourself at the Ritz-Carlton Spa. The spa brings the glamor of Hollywood to Downtown LA. Lay back and sip on champagne while you’re given the red carpet treatment. Manicures, pedicures, facials or a twenty-four-carat gold powder body shimmer.

You’ll feel like a star of the silver screen in the spa’s sumptuous surroundings which take up a staggering eight thousand square feet of the luxury hotel’s floor space.

If you don’t want the full treatment, go for one of the lunchtime rejuvenation sessions instead. It lasts for an hour, and you get a Bento boxed lunch too.

10. Helicopter Tour

By day or by night, one of the most exciting ways to see Downtown LA is from above. You’ll have a birds-eye view of it all on a helicopter ride, and you’ll be able to snap off some seriously Instagrammable photos during the flight.

Take off then fly over the city at an altitude of around a thousand feet. The views of the skyscrapers are incredible, and you’ll be able to count the helipads on top of them.

The helicopter flights over Downtown LA also take in the Hollywood sign and some of the California coastline so there’s a lot more than urban vistas to see.

Suggested tour : Los Angeles at Night 30-Minute Helicopter Flight

11. DTLA Club Crawl

One way to have a great night out, but beat the weekend club queues and admission charges is to go on a hosted Club Crawl.

Meet your host at a designated venue, and they’ll give you the VIP treatment. There’s no standing in line once you’re wearing your Club Crawl wristband, you’ll be straight into the party. Hit the dance floor and enjoy a drink until it’s time to move on to the next club of the night.

A club crawl is a perfect way to meet people if you’re traveling alone or want to meet a few like-minded partygoers in the city. They’re real icebreakers.

12. Little Tokyo

Little Tokyo is a historic area of Downtown LA which, as the name might suggest, has a distinct Japanese atmosphere. The district has been a magnet for Japanese migrants and visitors since the early twentieth century. It’s a cool place to go sightseeing, shopping or to eat out.

Get some retail therapy at the Japanese Village Plaza Mall which is full of shops selling authentic Japanese produce and has a terrace strung with typical lanterns. Visit the Japanese American National Museum, the pagoda-style Little Tokyo Watchtower or the Friendship Knot statue. Eat all kinds of Japanese noodles or traditional Shabu Shabu soups. Browse the stalls at the Nijiya Market or rent yourself a karaoke booth and sing the night away.

Little Tokyo is so Japanese, while you’re there, you’ll forget you’re actually even in Downtown LA.

13. Angels Flight Railway

The Angels Flight Railway is one of Downtown LA’s most iconic landmarks and has been in operation since 1901.

The twin-railed funicular track, which carries over a million passengers a year, climbs the hill between Grand Avenue and Hill Street. It’s a steep but short ride in a tramcar-like carriage lasting just a couple of minutes.

If you ride the Angels Flight Railway, make sure you get the souvenir return ticket to keep as a memento.

14. Museum Of Contemporary Art

They can’t get enough art in Downtown Los Angeles. The Museum of Contemporary Art or the MOCA’s occupies two different locations in the district. One on Grand Avenue and the other in Little Tokyo. There’s also another branch in West Hollywood.

You don’t even need to go inside the building on Grand Avenue to see the first work of art as the facade is decorated with a gigantic mural depicting elements of the artist’s life. Inside there are numerous exhibitions which will definitely make you think. There are permanent collections and short-run presentations which change periodically. They’re all fascinating.

Related tour : Downtown Los Angeles: Food, Arts and Culture Walking Tour

15. Cliftons

Drink a cocktail, have coffee and cake or eat some all-American food in the surreal surroundings at Clifton’s. It may be a bar and cafeteria, but as the sign outside states, it’s a cabinet of curiosities. On that level, it doesn’t disappoint.

The interior of Clifton’s is a fantasy forest complete with trees and wild beasts. Stuffed deer, bears,buffalo and even a lion stare glassy-eyed over the tables. Go up a couple of floors and the décor morphs to Polynesian in the tiki bar. There’s even a DJ in a boat and hula-hula girls.

Clifton’s most outstanding feature? An enormous redwood tree with a fireplace in its cavernous trunk. This place really does have to be seen to be believed.

16. Staples Center

Catch a game of football, ice hockey, basketball or a live concert at the Staples Center. The mega arena seats around twenty thousand people and covers a ground space of nine hundred and fifty thousand square feet.

The Staples Center is home to several of LA’s big sports teams, has hosted world boxing championships and is the favored venue for the Grammy Awards. A multitude of diverse music artists, from Barbara Streisand to Bruce Springsteen to the Black Eyed Peas, have rocked the arena with their performances since its inauguration and all with record-breaking, box office success.

17. Santee Alley Flea Market

The Santee Alley Flea Market is in the Fashion District of Downtown LA. The pedestrianized alley is lined with open-fronted stores selling everything from accessories to fashion-wear and shoes.

Open seven days a week from nine thirty in the morning until six in the evening, it’s buzzing with life and attracts crowds of shoppers daily. The market is the ideal place for gift or souvenir shopping.

Snack on the Alley Dog food stand’s infamous hot dog or try the fire-grilled chicken from El Pollo Loco.

18. Regal Cinemas, LA Live

If you don’t see anyone famous while you’re in Downtown LA., make up for it by watching top actors in the latest films on one of the big screens at the Regal Cinemas in LA Live.

The Regal Cinema Complex has a total of fourteen screens one of which, the Regal Premiere House, is reserved for first night openings of the big blockbusters.

For a novel and futuristic cinema experience go for the 4DX. Moving seats that vibrate, air and water effects which spray in your face, fog or strobe lighting and bubbles. You’ll feel as if you’re participating in the movie rather than watching it.

19. Music Center

Downtown LA’s Music Center is a group of venues for live artistic performances ranging from classical music concerts to opera, dance and theatrical shows.

The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is the home of the LA Philharmonic Orchestra and can seat over three thousand in its huge auditorium.

The Ahmanson Theater was inaugurated in 1967, and its stages have seen many world premieres.

The Mark Taper Forum is a smaller, intimate theater which highlights more controversial and innovative dramatic works.

The Walt Disney Concert Hall, dedicated to the memory of the great animator, is a fantasy of stainless steel externally and acoustically perfect internally.

20. Wells Fargo History Museum

Once upon a time in the US, if you wanted to make a money transfer, you did it by stagecoach. Wells Fargo, the company who transported everything from gold bullion to livestock to mail, is now one of the US and the world’s leading financial and banking institutions.

The Wells Fargo History Museum is a fascinating insight into the past of the Wild West with an exhibition of an Express office with a working telegraph, a stagecoach, and the twenty-seven ounce, gold Challenge nugget.

The museum is in the Wells Fargo Center on Bunker Hill in Downtown LA and is open from Monday through to Friday.

21. FIGat7th

The FIGat7th is the place to shop in Downtown LA. The open-air mall is spread over three floors and has more than three hundred thousand square feet of retail space. Yes, it’s a shopaholic’s paradise.

All of the thirty-five retail outlets at the mall carry big name branding with worldwide renown. There are over twenty different eateries and coffee shops serving everything from Italian ice cream to Greek cuisine to Spanish octopus.

The mall also hosts art exhibitions, fun days and workshops plus a Farmers Market every Thursday.

22. Villains Tavern

The Villains Tavern on Palmetto Street in the arts district of DTLA is a lively bar with art nouveau décor and cocktails with unusual names.

Sip on a Belladonna or Voodoo Vixen while admiring the bar’s colorful collection of vintage bottles and soda siphons. Slip out onto the open-air patio to listen to some great live bands playing music ranging from Johnny Cash to gypsy-style jazz. It’s a classy night out.

23. The Counter

The Counter is a burger restaurant with a difference. Take a table or sit at the counter amid the ultra-modern décor and large-screen TV’s showing all the big sports games.

Forget eating a simple beef patty between two pieces of bread with a slice of cheese thrown in for good measure. At the Counter, you get to build your own burger with the ingredients you choose.

Vegans and vegetarians are catered for too plus they also serve the meat-free Impossible Burger.

24. Exchange LA

Party the night away on the four floors of the Exchange LA nightclub. The club is housed in a renovated historic building on Spring Street which was the LA Stock Exchange.

The twenty-five thousand square foot venue presents some of the US’s top DJ’s, hosts TV shows, and has a catwalk for fashion parades. There are also intimate VIP rooms and special chill out spaces for when the partying gets too much.

It’s over 21’s only so don’t forget to take some ID.

25 Best Things to Do in Downtown LA:

• Oue Skyspace
• Grand Central Market
• Escape Room LA
• Nickel Diner
• Grammy Museum LA Live
• The Ritz-Carlton Spa
• Helicopter Tour
• DTLA Club Crawl
• Little Tokyo
• Angels Flight Railway
• Museum Of Contemporary Art
• Staples Center
• Santee Alley Flea Market
• Regal Cinemas, LA Live
• Music Center
• Wells Fargo History Museum
• Villains Tavern
• The Counter
• Exchange LA

THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Downtown, Los Angeles

Top things to do in downtown.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Central L.A
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Couples
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Crypto.com Arena

2. Walt Disney Concert Hall

3. The Broad

4. Little Tokyo

5. GRAMMY Museum

6. Japanese American National Museum

7. Los Angeles Central Library

8. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

9. Angels Flight Railway

10. Bradbury Building

11. City Hall

12. The Museum of Contemporary Art

13. Orpheum Theater

14. Los Angeles Convention Center

15. LA Fashion District

16. Flower Market

17. Microsoft Theater

18. Ahmanson Theatre

19. FIDM Museum and Galleries

20. Lucky Strike LA Live

21. Downtown Historic District

22. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

23. Gloria Molina Grand Park

24. The Santee Alley

25. Civic Center

26. Grand Central Market

27. Greenbar Distillery

28. Macy's Plaza

29. Mrs. Fish

30. Pershing Square

What travelers are saying

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The Top Things to Do and See in Downtown Los Angeles

If you’re in search of a day out in Downtown Los Angeles , here are some places you should definitely check out. From the contemporary art at MOCA to the Mexican candy stores of Olvera Street, let us facilitate your next DTLA trip.

Some consider adventures to be only those places far from their reach, but that doesn’t always have to be the case. So many new foods and destinations can be found in your local neighborhood, and what better place to start than in the heart of Los Angeles. We’ve curated a special food tour of LA , but for a general idea of things to do and see in DTLA – whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local – read on. Did you know you can now travel with Culture Trip? Check out our US trips , or browse our collections of Epic Trips , Mini Trips and Sailing Trips and discover the world like never before.

Olvera Street

The Los Angeles Mexican American community comprises a huge portion of the city, and the Latino culture of the community is beautifully showcased on Olvera Street. The streets are lined with taquerias and little shops where you can find authentic Mexican candy. Vibrant rainbow guitars and pottery decorate the windows on the brick-covered road. It is the perfect place to learn about Mexican culture while being able to indulge in Mexican food, candy and quirky knick knacks.

Philippe the Original is a must when in DTLA. This place not only has one of the best French dipped sandwiches in town, it is actually the very site where the sandwich originated way back in 1908. Their prices won’t put a hole in your wallet either. If a French dipped sandwich isn’t what you’re looking for, they have plenty of other delicious options.

The Original Pantry Café

The Original Pantry Café is an iconic L.A. institution that has only closed once since their doors first opened in 1924: the day John F. Kennedy was assassinated. It is an old-fashioned diner on the corner of 9th Street and Figueroa, serving American cuisine. The portions are huge, so if you decide to dine here, you should come with an equally huge appetite.

Rooftop Bar (at the Standard Hotel)

The Rooftop Bar sits atop the Downtown outpost of the Standard Hotel. The hotel itself has a groovy, modern vibe that is enhanced through their choice of decor. The bar’s main feature is the heating swimming pool, although they will charge you a cover unless you are staying at the hotel . Completely worth it when you keep in mind that you get a great view of the city, and enjoying a couple of drinks while doing so doesn’t hurt either.

Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market is not too far from the Standard Hotel, and it boasts over 30 vendors to choose from. It is a place that brings together the diversity found within the city via its wide array of food and beverages. There’s a huge variety of dining options, ranging from pupusas to ramen to oysters, with some serving craft beer. The Grand Central Market also hosts several events, including game nights, movie nights and special food/beverage promotions.

MOCA Grand Avenue

The Museum of Contemporary Art, Los Angeles, otherwise known as MOCA, is divided into four locations spread throughout the city. The main one is located in Downtown LA and is known as MOCA Grand Avenue. MOCA is a contemporary art museum that offers an insight into the art of today through educational programs and special exhibitions. There is a small fee to enter the museum, unless you visit from 5pm to 8pm on Thursdays. MOCA also has a shop that sells pieces of art as well as other novelty items.

Union Station

Union Station, originally known as the Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal, opened in 1939, serving as a fully functioning train station. It still serves as the departure point for travelers, via rail or bus, and it is a great place to find information on nearby communities, spend time during layovers and just appreciate the history and architecture of the building itself. The interior displays beautiful wooden ceilings and gorgeous tile floors.

LA Live/Staples Center

Staples Center has been said to be “the world’s most successful arena,” which hosts many, if not all, the major Los Angeles sporting events. It is the home to the LA Lakers, LA Clippers, LA Kings and LA Sparks. Not only does it host basketball and hockey games, it also hosts huge musical performances and televised entertainment events. When people think about Los Angeles, it is hard not to associate it with the Staples Center. A subdivision of the Staples Center is LA Live , which includes a movie theater, bars, concert theaters, restaurants, hotels and ballrooms. LA Live is also home to the ESPN broadcast offices where, if lucky, those into sports can attend a taping of ESPN’s SportsNation show.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Guides & Tips

How to spend a day in downtown los angeles.

See & Do

Ultimate guide to dtla: 5 must-see districts.

Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in downtown los angeles.

Food & Drink

Best places to drink downtown la, california.

Restaurants

Otium, a social restaurant in downtown la.

The Best Brunches In Downtown Los Angeles

The 10 Best Places To Eat And Drink In The DTLA Arts District

The Best Cheap Hotels in Downtown Los Angeles

Amazing Places To View The Downtown Los Angeles Skyline

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33 Best Things to Do in LA

Los Angeles has an exhaustive array of fun things to do, from the family-friendly La Brea Tar Pits and the must-visit Natural History Museum to a behind-the-scenes studio tour at Universal Studios or Warner Bros. Out-of-towners love the palm-lined

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Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park free

Griffith Observatory sits on the south face of Mount Hollywood and overlooks the Los Angeles basin. Its location gives visitors impressive views of the surrounding area, which many rave about. But there's more than just a pretty photo-op here. The observatory hosts fascinating exhibitions and features a top-notch planetarium.

Most recent visitors cited the beautiful setting as Griffith Observatory's main draw, though the free entry was certainly a bonus. However, you will have to pay between $6 and $10 to see the planetarium shows. Griffith Observatory is open Tuesdays to Fridays from noon to 10 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. A gift shop and cafe can be found on-site as well. For information about parking, public transportation and other information to plan your visit, check out Griffith Observatory's  website .

The Getty Center The Getty Center free

The Getty Center is one of the most impressive architectural achievements in the United States – and it also contains some of the finest works of art in the world. The circular concrete-and-steel structure was designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, and it houses an abundance of art from various ages and nations. Here you'll find Renaissance paintings, 20th-century American photography, Baroque sculptures, historic manuscripts and more, all housed inside a sprawling, modern campus amid the Santa Monica Mountains. The museum also offers spectacular views of Los Angeles on clear days.

Recent travelers loved the museum for its vast collection and beautiful grounds and views, with some stating that they enjoyed the tram ride to get to the museum. Many visitors suggest taking a guided tour, noting that the volunteer guides were very knowledgeable. Tours of the Getty Center's architecture and gardens are available, as well as a Collection Highlights tour and tours of art in specific eras. Tour times and days vary depending on tour type. Check the Getty Center's website for a complete calendar . Visitors can also download the GettyGuide app for self-guided tours.

Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre free

U.S. News Insider Tip: In this area, you'll find people dressed as celebrities and Hollywood characters, such as Spiderman, Shrek, Marilyn Monroe and Darth Vader. Have some cash on hand as a tip if you want to take photos with any of them. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

One of Hollywood's most iconic and memorable sites, the TCL Chinese Theatre (originally Grauman's Chinese Theatre) opened in 1927 and represents the excess of Hollywood's Golden Age. You can take a 30-minute walking tour of the theater for $16; tours are offered daily at multiple times. Because of this attraction's popularity, it's best to reserve your spot online in advance. This working theater also shows various newly released films throughout the year.

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Santa Monica Pier and Beach Santa Monica Pier and Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss trying the classic (and yummy!) funnel cake, a kind of fried waffle topped with powdered sugar and your choice of toppings, such as strawberries, chocolate syrup, caramel syrup, whipped cream and ice cream. They are big enough to share. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

West of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica contains one of the most legendary beach scenes in the United States. It also boasts an abundance of great restaurants and excellent nightlife spots. Its more than 3 miles of shoreline are renowned as some of the best in the area thanks to the soft sands, ideal weather and bevy of attractions. "State Beach," as it's known, has more than 300 days of sunshine a year and acted as the backdrop for the popular TV series "Baywatch."

Zuma Beach Zuma Beach free

Malibu has a reputation for excessive wealth and exclusivity, yet all of the town's beaches are public – everyone's welcome. If you're seeking an LA beach spot for sunbathing and swimming, look no further than Zuma. This 1.8-mile beach is far cleaner than those at Santa Monica or Venice Beach .

Malibu's Zuma Beach is considered one of the finest beaches in the Los Angeles area. Locals and tourists laud Zuma for its awesome waves, ample parking and easy access to beachside snacks. Plus, there are a plethora of lifeguard stations and bathroom facilities. Beach wheelchairs and a beach mat (from April to October) are also available.

Sunset Boulevard Sunset Boulevard free

One of the most iconic thoroughfares in the United States, Sunset Boulevard continues to live up to its legend. In the old days, it represented the classic and glamorous Hollywood lifestyle and became the setting of several famous films, including the obvious classic "Sunset Boulevard." Today, the palm-lined street (which connects downtown LA to Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the Pacific Coast Highway) retains its cinematic appeal, and the Sunset Strip portion has become a popular nightlife spot. The strip is also home to many classic music venues, including the Rainbow Bar & Grill and The Roxy Theatre .

Recent visitors loved driving along this famous boulevard, adding that gorgeous sunsets can be enjoyed during late afternoon drives. But like other parts of LA, this thoroughfare gets congested with traffic.

The Original Farmers Market and The Grove The Original Farmers Market and The Grove free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Kids will love riding the free, open-air, double-decker trolley that runs through The Grove and connects to The Original Farmers Market. It runs daily from 1 to 8:45 p.m. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Sitting south of West Hollywood is one of LA's most beloved landmarks: The Original Farmers Market. Founded in 1934, this cream-colored facility reels in both residents and tourists with the promise of fresh produce and the aroma of ready-to-eat snacks. You can visit throughout the week, although hours vary depending on the day. Entry is free, but you'll want to have some cash on hand should any of the treats whet your appetite. You can park for free for up to 90 minutes at the market's two lots, provided that your ticket is validated at the market. (Fees apply for parking after the allotted 90 minutes and for non-validated tickets.) For a little help navigating the market, you can also take a guided foodie tour  (one of the best California tours ).

Los Angeles County Museum of Art Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Next door to the La Brea Tar Pits sits the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the linchpin of the Los Angeles museum district. Since its 1965 opening, LACMA has showcased thousands of pieces, from Islamic artifacts to European impressionist paintings to modern art. With constantly shifting exhibitions and unique architecture, LACMA offers a rewarding experience for both serious art buffs and casual travelers.

Currently, the museum is constructing a new building for its permanent collection, called the David Geffen Galleries, which is scheduled to open in 2024. For now, pieces will be on display in the BCAM and the Resnick Pavilion. The Urban Light and Levitated Mass exhibits remain open to visitors. There is a restaurant and grab-and-go eatery on-site. Many visitors appreciated both the indoor and outdoor art exhibits and were impressed with the size of the collection of modern and contemporary art.

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The Broad The Broad free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Two of the most popular exhibits that have blown up on social media are Yayoi Kusama's "Infinity Mirror Rooms." You have to book tickets online for timed entry to these exhibits, but they are free and include general museum admission. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad founded The Broad museum in 2015 and the structure made for a stunning addition to downtown Los Angeles. The eye-catching, honeycomb building, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Gensler, is home to an expansive collection of contemporary art dating from the 1950s to the present. The collection includes works by Jean Michel Basquiat, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, Kara Walker and Andy Warhol. In addition to the permanent collection, temporary exhibits showcase new and emerging artists. The museum gets high marks from recent visitors who loved both the artwork and the architecture.

Runyon Canyon Park Runyon Canyon Park free

Just two blocks from Hollywood Boulevard, Runyon Canyon Park is an often-overlooked urban park that offers some great views. The park boasts several hiking trails and is a popular spot for celebrities to exercise. During your hike, you'll see plenty of palm trees. Atop the canyon, you'll be treated to sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley.

Hikers recommend bring plenty of water and going later in the day since it can get hot on the trails. Some recent visitors lamented the lack of facilities, while others raved about the views.

Paramount Pictures Studios Paramount Pictures Studios

Since 1912, Paramount Pictures Studios has showcased the talents of film's all-time heavyweights, including Mae West, Alfred Hitchcock, Eddie Murphy and Meryl Streep. The notable site has been home to everything from classic television shows like "I Love Lucy" to modern favorites like "Glee" to box-office hits like "Mission: Impossible" and "Titanic." Today, Paramount Pictures is the only remaining film studio in the Hollywood area.

For an authentic Hollywood experience, set aside some time to tour the grounds . On the 2-hour studio tour, a guide will take you around the site's 65 acres in a golf cart, and you'll also be able to hop off and explore sound stages and recognizable studio sets from many current TV shows and movies. Previous visitors praised the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, although some felt the tours offered at Warner Bros. Studio were better. Also, keep in mind the tours' age restrictions. Studio and VIP tours permit visitors ages 10 and older.

Hollywood Bowl Hollywood Bowl free

If you can catch a gig at the Hollywood Bowl , LA's beautiful amphitheater, don't pass it up. Since its inaugural season in 1922, this unique stage, set in the Hollywood Hills, has entertained thousands of fans and hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Stevie Wonder, Igor Stravinsky, Madonna, Elton John and Tina Turner.

Many travelers praise the Hollywood Bowl, touting everything from the sound quality to the scenic overlook. Several also add that all of the seats offer great views and suggest arriving early with a bottle of wine and a picnic basket.

Walt Disney Concert Hall Walt Disney Concert Hall free

This Frank Gehry-designed concert hall's curvaceous, stainless-steel façade is an imposing structure in downtown LA. The hall helped revive this particular section of downtown, which was once dominated by mundane office buildings and lackluster entertainment options. Now, nightlife and culture burgeon in the area and the concert hall is at the forefront. Music-loving travelers will want to catch one of the Los Angeles Philharmonic's performances here. (For ticket and price information, visit the Los Angeles Philharmonic's website .)

You don't have to invest in concert tickets to experience this performance venue: You can follow  a self-guided audio tour of the exterior and interior (though the actual concert auditorium is off-limits). Past visitors recommend the free hourlong audio tours; self-guided tours are also offered daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For a full tour schedule, visit The Music Center's website .

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Hollywood Homes Tours Hollywood Homes Tours

Once you've seen where the stars shop, where they eat, where they surf and where they party, you'll want to see where they live. A variety of Hollywood homes tours provide ample opportunities to spot homes owned by the rich and famous. You probably won't see the celebs themselves, but you can snap pics of the homes affiliated with A-listers like Sandra Bullock, Tom Cruise, Bruno Mars and Halle Berry. Also, expect to see facades that once housed the likes of Lucille Ball, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. Along with the stars' abodes, buses usually make stops at the Hollywood Walk of Fame , the Sunset Strip and Rodeo Drive .

Some recent travelers were disappointed because many homes are at the end of long driveways or behind hedges. Be sure to check the weather for the day: Extreme heat or a sudden shower can put a damper on an open-top bus ride.

Rodeo Drive Rodeo Drive free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop for lunch at the hidden Mexican steakhouse, The Hideaway, on the subterranean level of the Rodeo Collection. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Immortalized by Julia Roberts' "Pretty Woman" shopping spree, Rodeo Drive is an upscale shopping street in Beverly Hills that features world-class designer stores and small private boutiques. The area is popular with wealthy shoppers, sunglass-wearing celebrities and tourists hoping to see fashion icons.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery Hollywood Forever Cemetery free

As morbid as it may seem, your best chance of spotting a celebrity in LA is at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Here, you'll find the final resting places of Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille and other stars who once worked at the adjacent Paramount Pictures Studios . Maps detailing the celebrities' gravesites are available at the cemetery's flower shop or on its website . A 2 ½-hour walking tour is also available starting at $25.

Recent visitors described the cemetery's quiet grounds as "peaceful," adding that the grounds are well-maintained. Some recommend doing a walking tour to learn the stories of famous people buried there. The venue also offers cultural events, such as outdoor classic film screenings, concerts and author evenings. Visit their events calendar to find out more.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

You could spend an entire day at this property that includes a research library with 11 million items, an art museum with more than 42,000 pieces and a 130-acre botanical gardens with more than 12 themed gardens. The Huntington opened in 1928 and is a nonprofit that provides humanities scholarships, fellowships, special exhibitions and hosts more than 800,000 visitors a year. Ongoing exhibitions feature items such as Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" manuscript, replicas of Pacific Electric Railway Company's "red cars," rock slab art in the Japanese Garden, contemporary art and so much more. There are also temporary exhibits that rotate regularly. The Botanical Gardens include themed gardens – such as the California garden, jungle garden, rose garden and Japanese garden – botanical living collections and is the site for botanical conservation and research. Most visitors enjoyed touring the gardens the most and said that the gardens alone can be a full-day excursion.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is open from Wednesdays to Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations are recommended from Monday to Thursday and required for weekend visits. Weekday admission is $25 for adults, $21 for students, $13 for youth (ages 4 to 11) and children younger than 4 explore free. Weekend rates are slightly higher. Admission is free the first Thursday of every month; you can snag tickets on the final Thursday of the month prior at 9 a.m. PST. Free parking is available. A variety of guided tours and events are offered; dates and prices vary.  View the online calendar for more information. There are restrooms, a gift shop and dining facilities on the property, as well as a limited number of picnic tables. Picnics in the garden are not permitted. For more information, visit the website .

Angeles National Forest Angeles National Forest

In about a half-hour, travelers can trade busy downtown LA for the serenity of nature at the Angeles National Forest. The almost 700,000-acre forest is an easily accessible place for locals and visitors to hike, bike, ski, ride horses, swim, fish and even camp. Encompassing the San Gabriel Mountains, terrain ranges from desert to dense forest. Perhaps one of the most visited sites is Mount San Antonio (nicknamed Mount Baldy), which is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains at 10,064 feet. There you will find a variety of hikes, from moderate to challenging. Recent visitors loved the views and found the range of trail options perfect for different types of hikers.

Visitors to the Angeles National Forest must purchase a National Forest Adventure Pass. It’s $5 for a daily pass or $30 for an annual pass; the pass is good at other national forests in the area. There are visitor and information centers in different areas of the forest, which offer general information, activities and educational events. Visit the forest's website for specific hours and details.

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La Brea Tar Pits La Brea Tar Pits free

If your kids go crazy for dinosaurs – and really, what kid doesn't? – then a visit to La Brea Tar Pits is sure to be the highlight of their trip. Although the pits look like the set of a cheesy PG movie, hot tar has been bubbling from the earth at this spot along Museum Row in the Miracle Mile for about 50,000 years. And from the gooiest part of LA, more than 3.5 million fossils have been discovered. The adjoining museum houses many of the artifacts found at the tar pits; consequently, it is home to one of the largest collections of Ice Age fossils in the world. Recent visitors said the site was very educational and the amount of fossils was impressive.

You can check out the tar pits completely free of charge, but museum tickets start at $15 for adults and $7 for children 3 to 12; reduced entry fees are available for students and seniors. LA County residents get in free Mondays through Fridays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. All tickets include tours of property facilities like the fossil lab, lake pit and observation pit; some special exhibits will cost extra. Ticket lines can be long, so consider purchasing your ticket online before you arrive. Even if you have to pay to visit, most visitors agree that the exhibits are well worth perusing.

California Science Center California Science Center free

A world of fun and exploration await kids, as well as curious adults, at the California Science Center. In the permanent "Ecosystems" exhibit, museumgoers will learn about everything from islands to rivers to forests across ten different zones via interactive displays. In "Life! Beginning," visitors learn about reproduction, mating and genes. Many recent visitors were impressed with the museum's "Air & Space" section that includes the Space Shuttle Endeavour and the Gemini 11 Capsule. An IMAX theater is also on-site. Recent visitors say the center is wonderful, lots of fun and especially great for kids.

The center is free to visit (including the Endeavour) though special exhibits and IMAX screenings incur a fee. Timed tickets for IMAX and special exhibits are required and can be purchased online . The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking costs $15. You can also take the Metro Expo Line to Expo Park/USC Station and walk five minutes to the center. Visit the center's website for more information.

Dodger Stadium Dodger Stadium

Baseball fans should enjoy a visit to Dodger Stadium, which is home to the LA Dodgers and is Major League Baseball's third oldest continually used park. The stadium is carved into Chavez Ravine and overlooks downtown LA to the south and the San Gabriel Mountains to the north, making this ballpark quite unique. If the Dodgers aren't playing when you're in town, you can still see the stadium on a guided tour. Tours of the 56,000-seat stadium last approximately 90 minutes. During the tour, visitors will learn about the stadium's history and may get to go on the field, look at the Dodger Dugout or peek into the Yaamava' Dugout Club (the VIP restaurant and lounge located behind home plate), which houses the team's World Series trophies and various other awards. Additional specialty tours, such as a Jackie Robinson tour, are also offered. Recent tour-goers say the guides are knowledgeable and engaging.

The Dodger Stadium Tour is offered on the hour from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (on game days ) or 3 p.m. (on nongame days). Tickets cost $30 for adults and $25 for kids 14 and younger. Specialty tours are also available for varying fees. Parking is $25 in advance and $30 to $50 at the gate, with no in-and-out privileges and no refunds. Tickets to baseball games are seasonal and prices vary.

Greystone Mansion and Park Greystone Mansion and Park free

Greystone Mansion is one of the largest mansions in Beverly Hills and an important landmark for American cinema. The nearly 13-acre parcel of land was a wedding gift from oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny to his son, Ned, in 1926. Construction on the mansion began in 1927 and took almost three years to complete. Greystone now represents a golden age in American cinema. Many films, including "The Big Lebowski" and "Ghostbusters," and television shows like "General Hospital" and "Gilmore Girls" have been shot on these gothic-inspired grounds.

Visitors can walk around the property and self-guided tours of the inside of the mansion are offered monthly. Many visitors say Greystone Mansion has stunning grounds with picturesque views. Travelers describe the park grounds as spectacular and enjoy learning which of their favorite movies and shows used Greystone as a backdrop.

Venice Beach Venice Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Rent an e-bike at the boardwalk and spend the day riding along "The Strand" (aka the Marvin Braude Bike Trail) to the Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy delicious Mexican dishes at MariaSol, which sits at the end of the pier. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Developed in the early 20th century, Venice Beach is modeled – canals and all – after its  namesake city in Italy . Admittedly, the experiment didn't live up to its Italian inspiration, but the neighborhood has become distinctly Californian, embodying the spirit of the wealthy, the alternative and the just plain bizarre. Rather than towering churches and intimate pizzerias, you'll find canal-side mansions near funky boutiques and restaurants.

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Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. free

If you're looking for a trendy hot spot, heed the advice of recent visitors and head to the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles. Formerly an urban artists' colony in the 1970s, the area is now filled with restaurants, cafes and bars serving creative cuisine and craft cocktails. Popular favorites include Angel City Brewery, Bestia, Girl & the Goat and EightyTwo, a bar that features vintage pinball and arcade machines. The neighborhood is also home to art galleries featuring a variety of genres showcasing inspiring art, art shops and art classes. One example is Art Share L.A., a 28,000-square-foot creative art space featuring community art classes, art exhibits and live performances.

According to past visitors, parking in this area can be challenging. Though there is street parking, it's limited. Travelers advise leaving your car in a public parking garage.

Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios Hollywood

One of the most popular attractions in the Los Angeles area, Universal Studios Hollywood features rides and amusements based on some of the most popular scenes and characters from film and television. You can take the tram Studio Tour past the creepy Bates Motel from "Psycho" and get caught up in a high-speed chase with the "Fast & Furious" cast. Kids can shake hands with cartoon favorites like The Minions and Scooby-Doo. Of course, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is another huge hit, as is Jurassic World – The Ride. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, a new attraction opened in 2023, features a Super Mario-themed ride, interactive games, a restaurant and shop.

If thrills are your thing, there are plenty of hair-raising coasters and rides. On Transformers: The Ride-3D, riders join Optimus Prime in his battle against the Decepticons; meanwhile, youngsters will love the 3D ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (complete with a Minion dance party).

Abbot Kinney Boulevard Abbot Kinney Boulevard free

Shoppers will love this retail mecca that stretches for a mile from Washington Boulevard to Main Street. Located a half-mile inland from Venice Beach , the boulevard features popular chain stores, such as Lululemon, Birkenstock and Warby Parker, as well as local boutique shops, including Ananda Venice, Satine and The Stronghold. In between shopping, stop for a bite to eat at The Butcher's Daughter, Plant Food + Wine or Gjelina. Or, plan your visit for the first Friday of every month, when starting at 5 p.m. dozens of food trucks serve up casual craft meals along the street.

Recent visitors suggested you stroll along Abbot Kinney Boulevard if you're in the Venice Beach area, praising its hip collection of boutiques and restaurants. In addition to the shops and eateries, reviewers also admired the colorful murals and street art. 

Grand Central Market Grand Central Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For something fun and unique near the market, check out the Angels Flight Railway. Built in 1901, the funicular takes passengers between Hill Street and Grand Avenue on Bunker Hill. One-way tickets cost $1. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Grand Central Market, or foodie heaven according to visitors, is located in downtown Los Angeles by the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad . The venue features high ceilings and an open layout, with food vendor stalls offering different cuisines that represent cultures from the Los Angeles area and beyond. The market has been in operation since 1917 and serves everything from coffee and pressed juices to deli fare, egg sandwiches, falafel, tacos and chow mein.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Whether you're interested in the deep sea, dinosaurs, insects or gems and minerals, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers hours of exploration of all things related to natural history. Ongoing exhibitions include the impressive Dinosaur Hall (where you can view more than 300 fossils and see 20 life-sized dinosaur skeletons), Nature Lab, Hall of Birds and Visible Vault, which houses artifacts from Aztec, Maya and Inca civilizations. Visitors said that the museum is great for all ages, with the Dinosaur Hall being the most popular attraction. There are also special exhibitions that are on display for a limited time. Kids will love the Dinosaurs Encounters Show that features juvenile dinosaur puppets. The shows are offered Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $6 per person.

Guests can also explore the nature gardens with more than 600 varieties of plants and a plethora of garden wildlife. Free guided tours are available daily. If you want to dive deeper into natural history, special programs are available for children, adults and families. Check the events calendar online for more info.

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Battleship USS Iowa Museum Battleship USS Iowa Museum

A visit to the iconic Battleship USS Iowa Museum includes access to both interior and exterior areas on seven decks. The self-guided tour lets visitors see what life was like on the ship. You'll also view the officer's wardroom, senior officer's cabins, admirals bridge, navigation bridge and crew's quarters. Recent visitors enjoyed the multiple exhibits along the route that tell the story of the Battleship USS Iowa, as well as the U.S. Navy, through artifacts, photographs, artwork and equipment. Kids can participate in the "Vicky the Dog" scavenger hunt to get a more in-depth look at the ship through the eyes of its canine mascot.

The General Access pass is valid for two hours and costs $29.95 for adults, $21.95 for kids 3 to 11 and are free for kids 2 and younger. For an additional fee, visitors can upgrade to a themed guided tour, such as the Gun Tour or Engineering Tour. Past visitors said it is worth paying extra for a guided tour. They also enjoyed their visits overall. While visiting the ship, check out the waterfront views, grab a snack at Vicky's Doghouse Café and pick up a souvenir at the Ship's Store. The ship is open daily at 10 a.m. and closes around 4 p.m. (or whenever the final guided tour ends). Parking is available, with the first hour free and $2 each hour after that, with a maximum of $20 a day.

Shop along Olvera Street Shop along Olvera Street free

Stroll this historic street in Downtown Los Angeles for authentic Mexican culture, music and cuisine. Along the block-long, brick-lined street, you'll find strolling mariachi bands, taco shops, Aztec and Mexican folkloric dancers and vendors selling handcrafted souvenirs, such as pottery, leather goods and traditional clothing. The street also hosts various traditional events throughout the year, including the Blessing of the Animals (Saturday before Easter), Cinco de Mayo, Fiestas Patrias (Mexican Independence Day), Dia de los Muertos and Las Posadas.

This Mexican marketplace is part of the El Pueblo Historic Park, the "birthplace of LA," which also includes historic sites, such as Avila Adobe (LA's oldest house), Pico House and the America Tropical Interpretive Center. 

L.A. Live L.A. Live

L.A. Live is the hub of entertainment in Downtown Los Angeles. It's features the Crypto.com Arena, home of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers basketball teams, the Los Angeles Kings hockey team, as well as the Los Angeles Sparks women's basketball team. It's also where music fans attend world-class concerts by some of the biggest names in the industry. Other entertainment includes the interactive GRAMMY Museum, a Lucky Strike bowling alley and a Regal movie theater, as well as smaller event venues like the Microsoft Theater, The Novo and The Conga Room.

There are more than a dozen eateries to choose from, including Yard House and Katsuya. After a night of entertainment, stay over at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE or The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles.

Petersen Automotive Museum Petersen Automotive Museum

Car enthusiasts will be thrilled with a visit to the Petersen Automotive Museum as it houses a range of impressive cars, from high performance to historic. In the permanent galleries, travelers can try an exhilarating racing simulator, see the “Commutercycle” from the HBO documentary "The Lady and the Dale" and participate in hands-on activities with a Disney "Cars" theme. Featured exhibitions rotate frequently. There are an additional 250 cars that are stored in The Vault. The museum also hosts a variety of events, from exhibition openings to hands-on workshops. Visit its online calendar for more info.

Admission is $21 for adults, $13 for youth ages 12 to 17 and $11 for kids 4 to 11. There is an additional $27 fee for people 12 and older to tour The Vault (children 4 to 11 will pay an extra $10); many visitors say it's worth the fee, but warn that it could take you a half-day to explore. Keep in mind children younger than 4 cannot enter the museum nor the vault. If you're a true car fanatic, consider taking the guided Vault and Workshop tour to see both the Vault and the museum's restoration area. Tickets for this tour are limited and run on Saturdays only. Fees are $150 for individuals 4 and older.

Warner Bros. Studio Warner Bros. Studio

Located in Burbank, California – a city that sits just 5 miles north of Hollywood – Warner Bros. Studio gives visitors a close-up look at iconic movie and TV sets and props, such as the original Batmobiles, costumes from the "Harry Potter" movies and a replica of the cafe featured in "Friends." Travelers will also drive around the studio's 110-acre backlot, where 30 soundstages are used for producing shows like "Young Sheldon," "Bob Hearts Abishola," and "The Ellen DeGeneres Show."

Previous visitors loved exploring this property and appreciated their "fun and knowledgeable" tour guides. Additionally, many enjoyed getting out of their golf carts to go inside a working set and other buildings used for filming, citing this as the main reason to tour this studio instead of others like Paramount Pictures Studios . But keep in mind, children 7 and younger are not permitted on any tour.

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25 Best Things to Do in Downtown LA

What are the best things to do in Downtown LA?

Downtown LA, or DTLA as it is more commonly known , has much to offer. If you’re visiting Los Angeles or are a local looking for some fun attractions, take the time to visit Downtown Los Angeles.

The coastline of Los Angeles is a 30-minute drive away. Some of us may want to spend the day at Venice Beach , but DTLA immerses us in a different side of Los Angeles. Yes, some parts are rougher than others, but you’ll see plenty of beauty if you look closely.

Downtown Los Angeles is what you make of it. It’s not New York City or San Francisco but it has its own vibe.

From restaurants and bars with modern decor and some of the best food in town to cultural institutions like The Broad Museum and Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Since we’re in Pasadena, living only 20 minutes from Downtown Los Angeles, we make a day or afternoon of it now and then. Sometimes we venture out for dinner at one of the many amazing restaurants in DTLA.

It’s always exciting to explore this part of Los Angeles. I’m always in awe when we pass by the Walt Disney Hall. We love to visit the Grand Central Market because of its great selection of delicious local food stands. Hit up Little Tokyo for some authentic shabu shabu or delicious ramen. Spend the afternoon with a friend at the Broad Museum.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

One of the things to do in Downtown LA, if you love older architecture as we do, is to keep an eye out for the intricate details found in structures. You’ll see glimpses of what Downtown LA used to be in the early 1900s. We always say, look up because you never know what you’ll miss.

You’ll find all the top things to do in Downtown LA in this list. Start planning some adventures into the city and heart of Los Angeles, California.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Downtown LA

Here is a link to the Top Things to Do in Downtown LA in Google Maps to help with your itinerary plans.

Book a Hotel in Los Angeles – Booking.com

1. Visit the Walt Disney Concert Hall

It’s an architectural beauty that is both breathtaking and iconic, the Walt Disney Hall on Grand Avenue. Frank Gehry designed this concert hall, one of Downtown LA’s most photographed structures.

It’s also the home of the LA Philharmonic. You can visit to see this exceptional concert hall in person or book tickets to one of their events.

Self-guided tours of the venue are available daily: click here for further information.

Walt Disney Concert Hall | 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

Tour Ideas: DTLA Architecture Walking Tour [ Book Tour Here ]

2. Explore Little Tokyo, Eat Shabu Shabu

Founded in 1884, Little Tokyo is a historic district located in downtown Los Angeles. The neighborhood encompasses five blocks and is home to a vibrant Japanese-American community.

Visitors to Little Tokyo can enjoy a variety of Japanese experiences, from sampling traditional cuisine to browsing charming shops filled with Japanese treats and items, like the Little Tokyo Market. The Japanese Village Plazas is one of the most popular spots to visit in Downtown LA, filled with shops, restaurants, and outdoor seating.

The neighborhood is also home to the Japanese American National Museum .

Whether you’re interested in exploring Japanese culture or want to experience LA’s history, Little Tokyo is well worth a visit.

Top Foodie Pick : Shabu Shabu House has been part of Little Tokyo for decades. Eating here was the first time we ever had an authentic shabu experience.

Explore Little Tokyo | Los Angeles, CA | Google Map It

3. Explore Chinatown

Chinatown is vibrant, with its red lanterns strung up across plazas and Xie Shan roofs. There are many shops and restaurants on Grand Avenue to explore. You’ll find everything from Chinese medicine to Asian bakeries.

Chinatown’s Central Plaza is the most photographable area and spot to visit, where you can find Bruce Lee’s statue. There are many opportunities for photos with the Chinese gate and lanterns that adorn this plaza.

A great time to visit Chinatown is during one of their festivals, like the Chinese New Year. The city will come alive with festivities with dancing dragons, a parade, and more.

Top Foodie Pick : Golden Dragon is a long-standing Dim Sum restaurant in Chinatown. Also, Chinatown is home to the infamous Howling Ray’s .

Chinatown | Los Angeles, CA | Google Map It

4. Eat at Philippe The Original

Philippe’s is a Los Angeles institution serving French-dipped sandwiches since 1908.

As a matter of fact, not until you eat at Philippe’s are you considered a Los Angeles local. People would mention Philippe’s to me and gasp when I didn’t know what it was. We have been there many times now.

Is it worth the hype? In our honest opinion, no. Is it worth the experience? YES.

What I love the most about Philippe’s is the vibe. It’s old-school. There are even old telephone booth stalls. Sawdust on the ground. The staff is super friendly. It seems to be always busy, but you get that old-school LA feeling.

Foodie Tip : Get the sandwich double-dipped! The messier, the better. Don’t forget to add their famous mustard to it when you sit down to eat it.

Philippe The Original | 1001 N Alameda St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

5. Eat Way Through the Grand Central Market

The Grand Central Market is one of the top Los Angeles attractions . This market wins every foodie’s heart with various food options and cuisines. You can also find produce, unique ingredients, flowers, and a local butcher.

The Grand Central Market has been part of Downtown Los Angeles since 1917. It has changed so much since then, now a trendier popular food hall where locals dine daily.

If you’re in the area, this is a great bathroom stop as they have multiple clean restrooms downstairs from the market.

Top Foodie Picks : Egg Slut for the most delicious breakfast egg sandwiches. Carnitas tacos from Villa Moreliana . Although everything we’ve tried at Grand Central Market was delicious.

Grand Central Market | 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles | Google Map It

Top Los Angeles Attractions

Visiting Los Angeles, California? Planning to explore and be a tourist in LA. Walk amongst the stars on Hollywood Blvd. See the spectacular views of Los Angeles from the Griffith Observatory. Take a short ride on Angel’s flight. Here are the top attractions in the city of Angels.

6. Take a Ride on Angel’s Flight Railway

This funicular railway in Downtown LA goes up and down one of the steepest hills. It goes between Hill Street and Grand Avenue. It’s the shortest railway in the world.

Angel’s Flight has been closed down and restored a few times. The latest reopening was in 2017. We suggest experiencing this piece of Los Angeles history before it’s down again.

It only costs $1 each way, or you can buy a round-trip ticket for $2.

Angel’s Flight has been featured in movies, most notably in La La Land.

Angel’s Flight | 350 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

7. Bradbury Building

This is a beautiful building that was built in 1893. It’s been used as a location for countless films and TV shows. One movie that comes to mind and features the inside of it is 500 Days of Summer.

The Bradbury Building is also a National Historic Landmark. It’s one of those buildings you’ll want to visit if you love architecture. The outside is unassuming, but the inside is amazing. The ornate ironwork, the glass atrium, and the open “birdcage” elevator are a few of my favorite things from this building.

You can see this for FREE as long as the building is open. They probably will only allow you to go into the main floor, but that’s enough to see why it is so special.

Bradbury Building | 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles | Google Map It

Tour Idea: Old and New Downtown Los Angeles Walking Tour [ Book Tour Here ]

8. Visit Union Station

If you take the train downtown, Union Station is a great place to land to start your day in DTLA.

Union Station is the hub of Downtown LA for the Los Angeles MTA system. It’s a beautiful building and one of Los Angeles’s architectural gems to visit, even if you’re not taking the train.

The main hall is stunning, with high ceilings, beautiful tilework, and art deco-style touches that make you feel like you stepped back in time.

Many movies, TV shows, and commercials have been filmed here. You can click here for more info.

Interactive Art Display at Union Station

A fun little tidbit that is not widely known… there is an interactive LED art display inside the station. It is called the “A-train” by Bill Bell, and it’s been there since 1996.

The display is next to the escalators, in the escalators down to the B train (Red Line) and D train (Purple Line). On one side of the escalators, you’ll see the display across from it. On the other side, you’ll find a plaque on the wall that says “A Train” by Bill Bell. In that plaque, there is a hidden microphone.

Here are classic celebrity names that you can use to turn on the interactive art display. You’ll start by speaking loudly into the plaque, “Hey, Billy, Old Pal, Play me some [insert name of celebrity here].”

• Judy Garland – “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” song will play
• Johh Weissmuller – the Tarzan call will play
• Duke Ellington’s “Take the A-Train” song will play

Sometimes, it does take a few tries.

Top Foodie Pick: Check out the Slice for a quick slice of square pizza, or Traxx Restaurant and Bar is a great spot to meet up for cocktails and a bite to eat.

Union Station | 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

9. Take a Stroll Through Olvera Street

Across from Union Station, you’ll find Olvera Street. It is said to be the oldest street in Los Angeles. The street is filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment celebrating Mexican culture. It’s a fun spot to bring kids or just wander around and explore.

You’ll find plenty of souvenirs to take home with you here. The best thing to do is try as many food stands as possible. Perhaps you’ll be there on a day when there are mariachi players outside entertaining the crowds.

The street is also home to the Avila Adobe, the oldest Los Angeles residence.

Dias de Los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo are great times to visit Olvera Street.

Top Foodie Pick : Try the tacos at Cielito Lindo , a food stand on Olvera Street since 1934.

Olvera Street | 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

10. Prepare to Eat at Smorgasburg LA

If you’re looking for things to do in DTLA this weekend, Smorgasburg LA runs every Sunday. This is an outdoor food market that has everything from BBQ to tacos. There is even a bar area!

This food market is a foodie’s dream. You will want to add Smorgasburg LA, to your Sunday to-do list. Have a lunch date or spend it a foodie afternoon with friends and family. Try a few different food stands and see which is your favorite.

Admission is FREE, but food and drinks are available for purchase.

Open every Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm.

While we’ve only tried a handful of spots so far, we love the sugarcane juice from Sweet Grass , the arepas from Sus Arepas , and the triple-fried fries in beef tallow from Super Frites .

Tip: Order on Uber Eats for pickup and skip the line. Enter Smorgasburg in the locations box, and all the vendors available for pick-up will pop up to order. Use code eats-kathya3465ue for $10 off your first Uber Eats order.

Parking: Large parking garage is available, and the first two hours are free.

Smorgasburg | 777 S Alameda St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

11. Visit ROW DTLA

ROW DTLA is a shopping and dining destination in itself. When Smorgasborg LA isn’t happening, you can visit this historical commercial area of Downtown Los Angeles, where it once used to be the Los Angeles Terminal Hub for the Southern Pacific Railroad. This is also where wholesale produce would take place.

Now it has a chic industrial vibe to it. Old warehouses have been refurbished and converted into art galleries, coffee shops, boutiques, trendy restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place to explore and get a bite to eat.

ROW DTLA | 777 S Alameda St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

12. Have Drinks at a Rooftop Bar in DTLA

One of the fun things to do in Downtown LA is enjoying a drink and the view at a rooftop bar. There are plenty of rooftop bars to choose from.

Some favorites are…

• Spire 73 at the Intercontinental Hotel DTLA
• The Rooftop Lounge at the Standard
• Upstairs at Ace Hotel

13. Visit The Last Bookstore

This bookstore is iconic in Los Angeles and a must-do in Downtown LA, especially if you’re a bookworm. It’s a magical labyrinth of new and used collections of books. It’s also the most significant new and used bookstore in California.

They often have events and readings. It can be a fun place to spend an hour or two browsing through books.

Please be respectful of the books and support this business if you go here. Don’t just go for the photos.

The Last Bookstore | 453 South Spring Street, Los Angeles | Google Map It

14. The Broad Museum

Just steps away from the Walt Disney Hall are the Broad Museum.

The Broad Museum is a contemporary art museum that opened in 2015. It’s home to over 2000 works of art from artists like Jeff Koons, Andy Warhol, and Roy Lichtenstein.

This is a must-do in Los Angeles for anyone who appreciates modern art. The exterior design of this building alone is worth admiring.

Amazingly, the Broad has FREE general admission. You have to book your tickets in advance. For more info, click here .

If you do not book tickets in advance, sometimes there is a queue that you can wait online until space is available. Your best bet is to book a reservation and plan your day around it.

The Broad | 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

15. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

This is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. It’s a beautiful building and not what you’d expect when you think of a Cathedral. It’s one of the newest churches built in the Western US.

Spanish architect Professor José Rafael Moneo designed this modern cathedral. It’s unique with its sharp contemporary lines and angles. Reminds me of a modern museum.

Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels | 555 W Temple St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

Day Trips from Los Angeles

If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, then these day trips are perfect for you! From stunning beaches to awe-inspiring mountain ranges, there’s something for everyone.

16. Los Angeles City Hall Observation Deck

Not many know this, but you can visit the Los Angeles City Hall and take an elevator to the observation deck on the 27th floor of City Hall. From here, you’ll have panoramic views of Downtown LA. It’s one way to see a beautiful view of Los Angeles.

It’s one of the FREE things to do in Downtown Los Angeles.

Los Angeles City Hall | 200 N Spring St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

17. Take a Helicopter Tour of DTLA

Feeling like taking a daring adventure? Book a helicopter tour of Downtown LA. You’ll get amazing aerial views of Los Angeles and see things you cannot do by car or on foot.

It’s one of the more expensive things to do in Los Angeles, but it can be worth it for those who like thrill-seeking activities.

Tour Ideas: Private Helicopter Tour of Beaches & Downtown Los Angeles [ Book Tour Here ] Los Angeles at Night 30-Minute Helicopter Flight [ Book Tour Here ]

18. The Los Angeles Flower Market | Flower District

If you love flowers and plants, this is one of the things to do in Downtown LA that you should add to your list. You can find bulk bouquets and some of the most exotic plant life on display here at wholesale prices.

You’ll want to plan to come here in the morning as most days they close at noon.

Entry: $2 on weekdays | $1 on Saturdays

LA Flower Market | 754 Wall St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

19. See a Game or a Concert at The Crypto.com Arena (formerly known as the Staples Center)

The Crypto.com Arena is home to the LA Lakers basketball team. You can also find other sporting events, concerts, and shows happening throughout the year. You can buy tickets to one of the games or events at Staple Center.

We haven’t attended a game because we are not sports fans, but we enjoyed Disney on Ice at this multi-arena space.

For more info on events and tickets, click here .

Crypto.com Arena | 1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

20. Check out LA Live

Adjacent to the Crypto.com Arena is LA Live. This entertainment complex has restaurants, a movie theater, a bowling alley, and even a Grammy Museum .

It’s the most alive at night on weekends as locals and tourists flock here for a fun night in Los Angeles. Book tickets to see a movie at Regal LA Live . Grab a beer and a bite to eat at the Yard House .

This is also a great spot to go ice skating and enjoy some of the Christmas festivities in Los Angeles .

LA Live | 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles | Google Map It

21. Grand Park

For a day out with your family and friends, Grand Park is a great spot to enjoy and get some fresh air. There’s a playground, a splash pad, a dog run, picnic tables, and plenty of green space to relax in.

City events, small concerts, and celebrations would take place here from time to time.

Grand Park | 200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It ) | Website

22. See an Opera at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is a performing arts center home to the LA Opera. It is one of the halls of the Los Angeles Music Center. It was built in 1964 and named after Dorothy Buffum Chandler, an American Patron of the Arts.

If you’re into classical music or opera, this is one of the things to do in Downtown Los Angeles. Have you experienced an opera in person? It’s absolutely amazing experience.

Outside the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is a nice courtyard with a water fountain facing City Hall. If you’re in the area, it’s a nice place to come by and enjoy a beautiful day.

You can find tickets to the LA Opera here .

Dorothy Ch andler Pav ilion | 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

23. Pershing Square

The historic park that’s been around since 1866 was known then as La Plaza Abaja. Pershing Square was renamed in 1918. It is in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles.

It is a nice spot to walk through and enjoy the scenery. Maybe even grab a bite to eat at nearby outdoor cafes or food trucks.

Events and concerts do take place here from time to time.

Pershing Square | 532 S Olive St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

24. The BLOC

The BLOC is not only an open-air shopping center in Downtown Los Angeles. It also has offices, restaurants, a hotel, and the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. It stands for “Building, Living, Operating, and Culture.”

There are plenty of Instagrammable opportunities at The BLOC.

Alamo Drafhouse at The BLOC is one of the nicest movie theaters downtown, great for a date night in LA.

Looking for a hotel in Downtown Los Angeles? The Sheraton Grand at the BLOC is a fantastic option. Click here to check for nightly rates.

The BLOC | 700 W 7th St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

25. Take a Downtown LA Food Tour

One of the fun things to do in any city is take a food tour. As a foodie, it’s a great way to introduce yourself to local spots serving delicious eats that you may never have discovered without a local guide. Whether it’s your first visit to Downtown Los Angeles or you’re a local looking to do something fun and different, book a food tour.

You will eat a lot. Discover new delicious eats. Perhaps make a few new friends because food brings us together.

Tour Idea: Los Angeles: Downtown Food Tour [ Book Tour Here ]

Read: 5 Practical Tips to Book a Food Tour

What’s the best way to get around DTLA?

Many of these places listed below are close to one another and walkable. But, we recommend using public transportation, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, or, if you’re adventurous, renting shareable bicycles and scooters, you’ll find across Downtown Los Angeles.

How do I spend a day in Downtown LA?

There are so many options for spending a day in Downtown LA. You can start by taking the train to Union Station, walking over to Olvera Street, Grand Central Market, and the Bradbury Building, and then riding the iconic Angel’s flight one way up to continue exploring. Keep reading for ideas on how to plan your day.

What is there to do in Downtown LA for free?

Exploring on foot is always free. But some activities in Downtown LA are free, like The Broad Museum (must book in advance), Walt Disney Music Hall, the Los Angeles City Hall observation deck, checking out the Bradbury building, hanging out in Olvera Street, relaxing at Grand Park or Pershing Square. Keep reading for more things to do in Downtown LA.

What is there to do in Downtown LA at night?

LA Live is a great place to visit at night in Downtown LA, as it has a movie theater and restaurants. You can also grab drinks at one of the rooftop bars or make dinner reservations at one of the many restaurants in Downtown LA.

Is Downtown LA safe during the day?

Parts of Downtown Los Angeles are vibrant, exciting, and full of tourists and locals alike. Then, some parts are gritty. Like with any big city, you should practice being safe and vigilant. We recommend exploring and staying in the city’s more popular and crowded areas.

If you’re looking for history, great architecture, good food, drinks, or just an exciting day out in the city. There’s no shortage of things to do in Downtown LA.

What do you love to do in Downtown LA? What’s one thing on this list you’re planning to do?

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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7 Things to Do in Downtown Los Angeles

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There are tons of reasons to visit Downtown Los Angeles but regardless of whether you are in town for a Lakers game, convention of some sort, or just visiting for vacation you are going to need some fun things to do. This guide is to show you some of the most iconic and best activities in Downtown Los Angeles to help plan your visit with a variety of options for groups of all ages and sizes.

If you are looking for accommodations, check out my details guide to where to stay in downtown Los Angeles ! You can also use this handy map to find the best places to stay in DTLA by location:

Best things to do in downtown LA

Visit the broad museum.

One of the best activities in Downtown Los Angeles is to pay a visit to the Broad museum. The Broad is a contemporary art museum with a great permanent collection featuring works from Andy Warhol, Ray Lichtenstein, Cindy Sherman, and Jeff Koons. The museum is architecturally incredible and the galleries are very well curated and interesting.

The best part of the museum, however, is that general admission to the permanent galleries is completely free ! The location is also great as you are very close to Grand Park, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, and Grand Central Market. There is also a small green space right next to the museum which can be great to take any kids in your group to ice cream after the museum.

You do need to make reservations in advance and some temporary galleries require paid tickets which you can book here !

Grab a Meal from the Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market has been a Los Angeles favorite since they opened their doors in 1917. This bustling building is home to 40 food stalls including a wide array of restaurants from legacy vendors who have inhabited stalls for over 50 years and new successes from Los Angeles’ incredible food scene.

I highly recommend trying a couple things from different vendors and make sure to save room for dessert! Personal favorites include Broad Street Oyster Co., Horse Thief Barbecue, and legendary Wexler’s Deli. For dessert I normally get ice cream from McConnells but Nicole Rucker’s Fat and Flour is turning into a favorite of mine. Nearby Bradbury Building and Angels Landing are two fun attractions to check out after your meal as well.

Relax in Grand Park

Grand Park is a 12 acre park located centrally in Downtown Los Angeles. The park is full of green spaces, fountains, and seating for picnics. Grand Park also puts on a lot of civic events and has programming for kids of all ages. This is a great place to bring a meal from Grand Central Market and enjoy the green space that is so rare in Downtown Los Angeles. It is also right by the Broad so I like to do the Broad and then bring food from Grand Central Market into the park to eat.

Walk Around Olvera Street

Olvera Street is a historic street that is in the area of the Los Angeles plaza which was the center of life in the city going back to the 1820’s when Los Angeles was a part of Mexico. The street today features some incredible historic buildings going back to 1818 as well as great Mexican restaurants and lots of vendors selling various goods.

The street is very popular and a fun walk along old streets with some beautiful classic Mexican architecture. Olvera street is a fun homage to the early settlers of Los Angeles and a truly unique fun thing to do in Downtown Los Angeles.

Try Philippes the Original

One of Los Angeles’ most iconic food destinations is Philippe’s the Original, home of the french dipped sandwich. The story goes that in 1918 while making a sandwich, Philippe Mathieu dropped the roll into the roasting pan that had just come out of the oven. The customer wanted it anyways and came back the next day with a group asking for more, and thus the French Dip sandwich was born.

Philippes is about as iconic an institution as you can get in Los Angeles and they’ve been serving a delicious and simple menu of sandwiches, sides, and soups out of the same location since 1951. I could not recommend Philippes more and think it is one of the best places to eat in all of Downtown Los Angeles.

Even if you’re just passing through DTLA on an I-5 road trip , this is an amazing place for a lunch stop!

Enjoy Walt Disney Concert Hall

Walt Disney Concert Hall is the stunning home of the world-renowned Los Angeles Philharmonic and Los Angeles Master Chorale. The building is a Frank Gehry designed masterpiece that features massive metal paneling in an elegant curtain style design that truly does not seem possible.

The acoustics in the building are absolutely incredible and if you are a fan of the symphony, I would try and catch a performance at this incredible venue. Even if you don’t plan on seeing a show I would recommend walking around the building as the architecture is marvelous and they have a nice shady sculpture garden in the back of the building. Purchase tickets for the Los Angeles Philharmonic here .

Check Out LA Live

Located right next to the convention center and the Crypto.com Arena (formerly the Staples Center) LA Live is a great place to spend time in Downtown Los Angeles. The area features a bunch of great restaurants to grab a meal from before a game at the arena or concert at the Microsoft Novo.

Even if you aren’t in Downtown for an event, the statues outside and history of the arena make it an interesting place to walk around. The Grammy Museum is also part of the complex so if you have any fans of music history in your group, that can be a great way to spend some time. The area also has Lucky Strike LA which is a very fun bowling alley with a 21+ bar atmosphere at night. I would highly recommend spending some time in this hub of Downtown if you find yourself looking for something to do.

If you are looking for an itinerary style guide to Downtown, check out my guide here !

If you are interested in other activities check out my guides for the area around nearby Sofi Stadium and Pasadena !

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17 Things To Do In Los Angeles: Complete Guide To Exploring LA & Southern California

T he vast, sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles is the largest city in California. If that wasn't big enough, the "City of Angels" even ranks as the second-largest city in the US, painting a clear picture of just how seriously big this place is. What LA looked like before Hollywood shot this part of the country to global fame is an entirely different realm; the city and its surrounding regions have undergone a complete transformation into a substantial urban hub filled with a diversity of attractions, neighborhoods, activities, and people.

More notably, the city is famed for being favored by movie stars, hopeful actors, musicians, budding artists (and plenty of surfers), and is thus a hive of the arts and comes with a booming social scene (and a ton of traffic, too) to match its electric, trendy vibe.

While Los Angeles is a place where dreams come true for many, it's not everybody's cup of tea. Some can't get enough of the place; others can't stand it. A lot of people — visitors and residents alike — claim it's far too big and expensive, which does put many off from ever visiting. However, those who know how to plan a trip to LA, where to go, what to do and see, and where to stay will find it's a top destination in California for tourists — not just residents.

When wondering what part of California to visit , Los Angeles always comes top. However, the key to the ultimate LA vacation is to take it at one's own pace and remove the pressure of trying to tick every tourist track off the list. As a place designed for enjoying life's pleasures, from eating and drinking to lounging on the beach and dancing the night away, a getaway to LA will show tourists that life is for living — but only if they go to the right places.

To help aspiring visitors have the time of their lives and experience the unique magic oozing from this city's every nook and cranny, this ultimate guide to Los Angeles, California, goes through everything they'd ever need to know: top LA attractions, where to stay, eat, and how much a vacation to LA costs.

UPDATE: 2023/07/04 09:21 EST BY BARRY JUMA

The Ultimate Travel Guide To Los Angeles & Southern California & Things To Do There

One article can't cover everything Los Angeles has to offer, but this piece certainly tries to cover a huge portion of this destination's wonders. This update places the things to do at center stage, and it's an attempt to do justice to the city of stars. Still, those planning to visit one of the most glamorous cities in the US will be spoiled for choice both within the city and nearby.

Things To Do In Los Angeles

The top attractions in LA range from budget-friendly to high-end purse string pullers. From shopping, partying, hiking, and checking out famous LA landmarks to beach lounging, surfing, and wining and dining, there are so many things to do in LA that visitors could easily spend several weeks exploring and still run out of time.

Still, whether one has a weekend in LA or a few months, these are some of the best things to do in Los Angeles.

Related: 12 Unique Stops To Make On A Road Trip From LA To San Diego

Spend The Day At Venice Beach

Venice Beach is one of the best beaches in California ranked by surf . It's just as popular among swimmers, sports lovers, and beach loungers as surfers, too, which is no surprise, given that it's an all-around eventful stretch of shoreline with a lot going on.

In between all the surgery, skaters, and street performers, visitors can watch entertaining street basketball games, gaze at street art, and eat and drink to their hearts' content at the diverse restaurants lining the beach.

Although Venice Beach is an amazing spot to spend the day, it does get crowded in peak season and on weekends, so it's not recommended for those looking for privacy, peace, and quiet.

Huntington Beach, Playa del Rey, and Redondo Beach are also some of the best beaches in LA. Also, Abbot Kinney Blvd is close to Venice Beach, which offers even more restaurants, bars, shops, galleries, and interesting (and often quirky) businesses to check out.

Plus, Abbot Kinney Boulevard's First Friday event is the best time to go; as its name suggests, it takes place on the first Friday of every month, when food trucks and live music performances move in and create a fun, flamboyant and flavorful atmosphere.

• Tour: Los Angeles Venice Beach walking tasting tour with Secret Food Tours
• Duration: 3 hours
• Cost: From $84.53 USD per adult

Book this tour

Check Out The Getty Museum

The Getty Museum houses an expansive art collection — its works predominately consist of pre-twentieth-century European pieces along with nineteenth and twentieth-century European and American photography.

Among its many masterpieces by renowned creatives, the establishment even features work by Van Gogh, Gauguin, and many other legendary artists.

First opened in 1997, the museum's exteriors are just as impressive, with its gardens, gorgeous architecture, and stunning city views

• Getty Museum Price : Free to enter (but parking costs $20)
• Closed on Mondays
• Tour : Los Angeles City and Getty Museum Tour
• Duration: 5 hours
• Cost: From $288 USD per adult

Stroll Down Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard is an iconic LA landmark, where street performers put on a constant show and tourists from all over the world stroll along the sidewalks.

This spot is also home to one of the most famous attractions in LA: the Walk of Fame, where over 2,700 celebrities’ handprints and footprints are on show for all to marvel at and take photos.

• Tour: Hollywood Walk of Fame and Hollywood Boulevard Tour
• Duration: 2 hours
• Cost: From $24 USD per adult

Explore Downtown LA

Downtown Los Angeles has always been a popular area, but in recent years, it's received new additions that have made this part of the city an even busier place with lots to experience.

One such addition is a pedestrian center, which boasts concert halls, theaters, museums, and plenty of new restaurants.

Of course, no visit downtown would be complete without checking out LA's Grand Central Market . Boasting dozens upon dozens of the best food vendors in LA, there are so many options for grub comprising cuisines from all over the world.

• Tour: Downtown Los Angeles Architecture Walking Tour
• Cost: From $35 USD per adult

Visit Griffith Park

Griffith Park offers excellent picnicking and hiking; its lovely trails head to Mulholland Drive and provide beautiful views of the city. However, hikes aren't the only activity popular in this park.

Visitors can enjoy the Autry Western Museum, the LA Zoo, the Griffith Observatory , a golf course, a driving range, and even pony rides.

Spanning 4,310 acres, the park also houses abundant wildlife, including coyotes, mountain lions, rattlesnakes, and more to look out for.

• Tour: Griffith Observatory Hike: An LA Tour through the Hollywood Hills
• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Take A Tour Of Universal Studios Hollywood

• Universal Studios Hollywood one-day ticket price is $109. The two-day pass starts at $149

Universal Studios Hollywood is the world's only combined movie studio and theme park. The famed Studio Tour is a popular pastime, which only lasts an hour but grants an exclusive, behind-the-scenes glimpse at the Hollywood.

This tour even lets participants see real movie sets from well-known flicks, such as Peter Jackson's King Kong , the plane crash scene from War of the Worlds , cars from Fast and Furious , and the Bates Hotel from Psycho .

As for the amusement park side of the complex, there's Jurassic World, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, numerous special effects shows, and so much more.

• Tour: Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket
• Duration: From $109 USD per adult
• Cost: 8 hours

Related: 10 Beaches To Visit In Los Angeles Before Summer Is Over

Go Wild At Disneyland

Located in Anaheim, Orange County, just outside of Los Angeles, Disneyland is the place to be if travelers wish to enjoy being a kid again. Rivaling Florida's theme parks, such as Disney and Universal Studios , this is the West Coast's answer to the biggest amusement parks in the Sunshine State.

The complex packs in so many rides and attractions, with popular rides including Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and its Rise of the Resistance ride, Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, and Indiana Jones Adventure.

While it's around an hour and a half from LA, Disneyland in Anaheim is worth the venture if visitors are searching for some serious family-friendly fun and to let their inner child go wild.

Additionally, if traveling to the park from LAX, a Disneyland LAX shuttle operates the route (costing $85 for the first passenger and $10 for every extra person), affording park-goers the utmost convenience logistics-wise.

• Disneyland Anaheim tickets start at $104

Party On Sunset Boulevard

Sunset Boulevard first started life as a commuter route between the star-stuffed neighborhoods and all the film studios in and around Hollywood. Now, it's more than that; it's one of the most famous streets in the world, stretching from downtown to the ocean.

Sunset Blvd passes through the world-famous Sunset Strip, with no lack of movie studios and trendy beaches along the way. This place is a top spot for celebrity spotting, too; simply driving through and keeping an eye out for famous faces is a fun activity in itself.

Visit Santa Monica Pier

Constructed in 1909, The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most famous spots in LA and promises a fun few hours for all the family.

Located right on the beach, this spot boasts a vibrant, energized carnival vibe and is chock-full of rides, food stalls, an arcade, and carnival games, and plenty of shops.

Explore Santa Monica Pier to see precisely why this long-loved spot in Los Angeles has remained a local and tourist favorite for years.

• Address : 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States

Explore The Historic Old Town Pasadena

The old downtown Pasadena is only around ten minutes from Los Angeles. Extending 22 blocks, the pedestrian area is a National Register Historic District (under the National Register of Historic Places) and offers myriads of restaurants and boutique stores.

It's also fantastic for nightlife and is pretty popular among LA's young people who come for a night out on the town.

Though fashionable youngsters enjoy this area, it's enjoyed by all ages and remains a great hang-out spot, dining destination, and shopping hub.

Related: This Is The Best Beach Route To Skate In Los Angeles

Visit Huntington Library

Situated nearby Pasadena, this library looks elaborately beautiful from the outside and in, with its ornate architecture, sublime interiors, as well as its magnificent gardens — which include Chinese and Japanese gardens (the latter worthy of being one of the most tranquil Japanese gardens in the US to visit in spring ).

Of course, this isn't merely a breathtaking building with exquisite grounds; it's an enriching establishment overflowing with knowledge. In fact, the library houses some super rare, valuable books, one being a copy of The Canterbury Tales from the fifteenth century, as well as a fourteenth-century Gutenberg Bible in the main exhibition hall.

• Huntington Library ticket price: $20 (note that Huntington Library tickets cost $29 on weekends)
• Huntington Library hours: 10 am - 5 pm (closed on Tuesdays)

Running and hiking trails in LA are abundant; however, one of the most famous among residents and tourists is Runyon Canyon.

This area offers plenty of marked trails, with some of the easiest for beginners, including Fryman Canyon Park (2.5 miles), Los Liones Trail (3.5 miles), and Caballero Canyon (3.4 miles).

View The World-Famous Hollywood Sign

Visitors can hike to the iconic Hollywood sign via Griffith Park trails, which are open during daylight hours from sunrise to sunset.

Three trails (which take around a couple of hours or so) lead hikers to the sign, with the easiest being the Mt Hollywood Trail, followed by the Brush Canyon Trail and the Cahuenga Peak Trail, which are a little more strenuous.

The effort is worth it, though; panoramic views of Hollywood can be enjoyed from the sign — and, for that reason, the best time to visit the Hollywood sign is said to be sunset.

• Tour: The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles--FREE WATERS and PHOTOS
• Cost: From $25 USD per adult

Feed The Mind At The California Science Center

The family-friendly California Science Center is a treasure trove of educational exhibits covering a wealth of different niches. From space and aviation to biology, nature, and ecosystems (with river, forest, and island habitat exhibitions), guests can enjoy feeding their brains and eyes at this fascinating center of knowledge and research.

Although entry is free of charge, special exhibits and IMAX movies do require payment — usually anywhere from $10 to $20.

• California Science Center ticket price: Free (but parking costs between $15 and $20)
• Tour: Hollywood, California Science Center, and the Griffith Observatory from Anaheim
• Duration: 9 to 10 hours
• Cost: From $119 USD per adult

Related: A Flight To The Stars: Take This Celebrity-Themed Helicopter Ride Over Hollywood

Party In Echo Park And Silver Lake

Echo Park, Silver Lake, and the adjacent neighborhood of Los Feliz offer a constant party. These parts of Los Angeles are known for their hipster culture, trendy dive bars, and cool dining outlets that make for an awesome night on the town.

If partying sounds a little too much, though, visitors might enjoy a relaxing paddle boat ride on the lake instead.

Visit The Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The LACMA is the largest museum in the western United States and contains a humongous collection of artworks, including modern art and older masterpieces by coveted artists, such as Rembrandt, Ansel Adams, Magritte, and Cézanne.

In addition, the museum houses ancient works from all across the globe, including Roman, Greek, and Egyptian sculptures.

• LACMA ticket price: $25

Visit The Grammy Museum

Exhibitions, interactive experiences, costumes, movie artifacts, and a roster of films awaits at the famous Grammy Museum, which takes visitors through the entire timeline of the music industry and its history, along with previous Grammy winners' career stories.

• Grammy Museum ticket price: $18

How Much Does A Trip To Los Angeles Cost?

According to ChampionTraveler , the average price for a week spent in Los Angeles is just under $2,000 for a solo traveler, while that total sits at a little over $3,500 for a couple, and $6,700 for a family of four.

On average, hotels in Los Angeles range from $70 to $300 a night, and most vacation rentals are priced at anything from $250 to just over $1000 per night for a full home.

Up next, the following sections offer a deeper insight into the costs of visiting Los Angeles, from hostel and budget hotel prices to food and drink and backpacking estimates.

LA Hostel Prices

The prices of hostels in LA vary, depending on which part of the city visitors stay in. Fortunately, prices don't fluctuate too much throughout the year, but they aren't on the cheap side — yes , even for a hostel.

Dorm rooms in LA range from $30 to $50 as a starting point and can even be as high as $80 to $100 for those on the more upmarket side. A basic private hostel room with an ensuite bathroom is typically priced at around $80 to $120 a night, with most offering free Wi-Fi and a shared kitchen area for self-catering.

LA Budget Hotel Prices

The average budget two-star hotel room in LA costs roughly $100 a night. These rooms are very basic but comfortable, usually including free Wi-Fi, a TV, and air-conditioning.

Airbnb Prices in LA

Travelers who prefer Airbnbs are in luck; there are plenty of Airbnbs in Los Angeles to suit all budgets.

A basic private Airbnb room on the lower end starts at about $85 to $95 a night, while vacation rental homes and apartments can be booked for around $150 to $180 per night at a starting point.

However, these prices can double if booked last minute; therefore, reserving Airbnbs well in advance is a must in order to save big bucks.

Related: Adrenaline Junkies Only: 10 Bold Things To Do In Los Angeles

Food Prices in LA

Los Angeles is a foodie's heaven! Luckily, even for travelers on a budget, it doesn't cost an arm and a leg to get affordable and good street food in LA. This city is where food trucks, street vendors, and unique eateries proliferate, so options are seemingly endless.

Plenty of street grub and fast food options can be found for under $10; for example, hungry visitors can bag a hearty sandwich or a McDonald's for around $10 or tacos for $3 to $6.

As for restaurants, laid-back, casual dining outlets charge around $15 to $20 for a main course, while a three-course sit-down meal will range from $55 to $80, depending on the establishment.

When it comes to drinks, beer costs approximately $8 to $10, bottled water costs around $2 to $3, and coffee will be around $5.

Travelers who don't eat out and prefer to cook instead will find they'll spend between $50 to $90 a week on groceries, which will be enough for essential items like rice, pasta, bread, vegetables, and affordable meats.

Los Angeles Backpacker Budget

Backpacking in Los Angeles is a popular option among travelers exploring the West Coast.

On a low-end budget, travelers can expect to spend between $70 to $80 a day, which should cover a basic hostel dorm room, cooking for oneself (no dining out or drinking), public transportation, and free LA attractions and activities, such as exploring hiking trails and visiting beaches.

Related: Follow These Tips To Have A Non-Touristy Los Angeles Vacation

A mid-tier budget for LA is around $200 a day, which includes more comfortable accommodation in a private hostel room or an Airbnb.

This budget level also enables travelers to dine out for most meals, have a few drinks, utilize a taxi or two, and enjoy some of the pay-for activities in LA, such as attending Disneyland for the day, visiting LA museums, or catching a theater show or a concert.

A high-end budget for LA will be at least $400 a day. For this amount daily, travelers can stay in a hotel, eat and drink out anywhere they please, take taxis or rent a vehicle, and sample all the activities, attractions, and tours in LA they so desire.

Still, this budget is only the low end of the high end; a heftier daily budget will get travelers even greater luxury and experiences.

Where To Stay In Los Angeles

Ultimately, the top LA neighborhoods to stay in truly depends on travelers' preferences, style, what they intend to do and see, their budget, and also each area itself in terms of what it offers.

With those factors in mind, here's an in-depth rundown of some of the most famous neighborhoods and best places to stay in LA, along with accommodation suggestions for each based on three budget levels: budget, mid-range, and luxury.

What Are The Best Hostels In LA?

Before getting into the best places to stay in LA in each neighborhood, knowing some of the top hostels in LA is ideal for backpackers since most are on a tight budget.

For folks looking to stretch their funds without skimping on a good time, checking out the best hostels for backpackers in SoCal (top-rated SoCal hostels, at that) is a wise idea.

Related: The Ultimate List Of Dos & Don'ts When Staying In A Hostel

On the other hand, the following list of top-rated hostels in LA is based on traveler needs and preferences — which one sounds ideal for that dream trip in the City of Angeles?

• LA's best hostel for budget travelers: Samesun Hollywood Hostel
• Best family-friendly hostel: Freehand Los Angeles
• Best hostel in Los Angeles for solo female travelers: HI Los Angeles Santa Monica
• Best hostel in LA for partying on a budget: Banana Bungalow Hollywood
• Best LA hostel overall Samesun Venice Beach

For travelers free from financial constraints, luxury Los Angeles hotels might be more fitting!

What Are The Best LA Neighborhoods To Stay In?

Best place to stay in la for the celebrity experience: beverly hills.

Beverly Hills translates to rich and famous; it's the home of many of the world's A-listers, so it's no surprise some of the USA's most luxurious hotels, mansions, and restaurants bustle in this globally famed neighborhood.

Even if travelers don't stay in Beverly Hills, visiting Rodeo Drive lets everyone feel like a celeb for the day and walk among the one percent; this spot is lined with some of the world's most expensive luxury stores and boutiques, which command a pretty penny but, of course, don't cost anything to look around.

If visitors dream of staying in Beverly Hills — no matter their budget — there are a few options:

• $ Budget : Hotel del Flores (from $109 a night!)
• $$ Mid-range : Sixty Beverly Hills and Avalon Hotel
• $$$ Luxury : Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills

Related: 10 Super Unique Los Angeles Hotels To Book

Best Place To Stay In LA For Budget Travelers: Venice Beach

Venice Beach is the beach destination in LA, where miles of wide-open sandy shores beckon sun-chasers and surfers. The area's iconic promenade also makes the place an incredible day out, flanked by shops and stalls selling all kinds of goodies, from food and souvenirs to clothing, trinkets, and gifts.

As one of the top spots in LA for tourists (and residents, too), Venice Beach and its promenade are also stocked with hotels and hostels to suit all budgets and preferences.

With that in mind, the following options offer some of the best accommodations in Venice Beach:

• $ Budget: Samesun Venice Beach
• $$ Mid-range: The Kinney
• $$$ Luxury : Venice V Hotel

Best Place For First-Time Visitors In LA (For The Quintessential Hollywood Experience): West Hollywood

West Hollywood is the epitome of Los Angeles as it's portrayed in the movies.

Most visitors whose experience of LA comes from the big screen will resonate with this part of California, with its famous Sunset and Hollywood Boulevards, the Walk of Fame, movie studios, and streets decorated with palm trees all under the LA sun.

This part of the city isn't the most affordable; however, it's perfect for first-time visitors seeking the signature Los Angeles experience, as it's central to almost anything and everything tourists want to do and see during their vacation. Here are some of the best places to stay in West Hollywood:

• $ Budget : Banana Bungalow West Hollywood
• $$ Mid-range : Ramada
• $$$ Luxury : Andaz West Hollywood

Best Place To Stay In LA For Families: Santa Monica

Nestled by the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica is the perfect family-friendly destination in Los Angeles and is often considered one of the safest areas.

The gorgeous beach makes for the ideal day out, enjoying water activities and sunbathing, while the nearby pier offers even more entertainment, such as stalls and amusement park rides.

Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade is also a fun place to check out; it comprises numerous blocks of pedestrian streets full of restaurants, coffee shops, and all kinds of shops and stalls. The following picks are some of the best places to stay in Santa Monica:

• $ Budget : HI Los Angeles
• $$ Mid-range : Hotel Carmel
• $$$ Luxury : Hotel Casa del Mar and Shutters on the Beach

Best Place To Stay In LA For The Arts And Culture: Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles (sometimes referred to as DTLA) used to be off the tourist map; synonymous with crime and the home of the infamous skid row, it was a troubled part of the city and remained a no-go for the most part. There wasn't much to do or see in this part of LA, either, which didn't help its appeal.

However, over the last couple of decades, LA's downtown has undergone an overhaul and transformed its reputation. Now, it offers an array of fancy hotels, trendy cafés and restaurants, epic cocktail bars, and popular artistic establishments — such as The Museum of Contemporary Art, the Broad Museum, and the Disney Hall concert venue.

If nightlife, the arts, and culture are of focus, then downtown LA deserves a chance to impress. For those interested, here are some of the best places to stay in downtown LA:

• $ Budget : Little Tokyo Hotel
• $$ Mid-range: Freehand Los Angeles
• $$$ Luxury : The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles and Level Furnished Apartments – Downtown South Olive

Related: 8 Things You Shouldn't Miss When Visiting Los Angeles

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18 Superb Downtown Los Angeles Restaurants

Where to eat LA’s central business and cultural district

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There’s much to eat in the heart of Downtown LA — the official city center that spans from Bunker Hill to South Park and the Historic Core. The area caters to a mix of urban dwellers, businesses in the Financial District, and visitors to Crypto.com Arena, L.A. Live, Peacock Theater, and the L.A. Convention Center. The result is a colorful dining scene that includes upscale and affordable options, along with plenty of spots to help fuel big nights out. Here are 18 outstanding places to eat in Downtown Los Angeles.

Note: For restaurants in the Arts District, see the Essential Arts District map; for restaurants in Chinatown, check out the Essential Chinatown map; and for delicious things to eat in Little Tokyo, check out this guide .

Chef José Andrés’s finer dining restaurant San Laurel on the 10th floor of Conrad Los Angeles serves a stellar tasting menu on the restaurant’s terrace overlooking the Walt Disney Concert Hall or in the main dining room along the glass-encased open kitchen. The Chef’s Table experience ($180 per person), which needs to be booked in advance, begins with a cocktail and includes seven courses that wind through Spanish-inflected lighter bites, like a yuzu persimmon salad and hiramasa ceviche, before ending with black cod and wagyu beef. Dessert includes an impeccable selection of mignardise and is as memorable as the meal. Reservations are available on OpenTable .

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Former French Laundry chef Timothy Hollingsworth’s nearly decade-old restaurant serves beautifully executed modern American dishes, like Ora king salmon tartare with tamaki rice, spinach bucatini with bacon and clams, and grilled petrale sole with yeasted beurre blanc. In this part of Bunker Hill, it’s hard to think of a more elegant place for a cocktail at the bar or a romantic date night

• Book with OpenTable

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Downtown’s Bollywood-meets-pop-art gastropub serves modern takes on Indian classics. Founded by chef Pawan Mahendro and sons Nakul and Arjun, Badmaash translates to “naughty,” with a menu that reflects both the brothers’ Indian heritage and childhood in Toronto with dishes like chicken tikka poutine.

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Kwang Uh and Mina Park of Baroo fame opened Shiku inside Grand Central Market in 2021, with a menu of quality Korean home cooking at affordable prices. One can never have a bad meal here; just order the fried chicken or deep-fried pyogo mushrooms, or the dorisak of popular proteins like LA galbi, andong soy-braised chicken, or kimchi-braised pork belly.

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Sarita's Pupuseria

This long-standing Grand Central Market vendor specializing in pupusas fills the griddled Salvadoran staple with traditional ingredients like beans and cheese, the classic loroco and cheese, and a range of meats. Don’t sleep on the substantial breakfast plates or fried yucca topped with crispy chicharron.

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Downtown LA’s Niku X is all about excess with a focus on yakiniku (Japanese grilled meats). Chef Shin Thompson, who had a lengthy career in Chicago including Furious Spoon ramen and Michelin-starred Bonsoirée, helms the upscale restaurant on the second floor of the Intercontinental Hotel serving flaming tomahawk steak tasting menus on one side, and an 11-course yakiniku tasting on the other. Either will run a pretty penny, but expect extravagant and well-cooked meat from start to finish.

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Orsa & Winston

Josef Centeno’s restrained Downtown LA restaurant features a reasonably priced $125 five-course tasting menu that balances finesse and quality of ingredients. With food influenced by Japanese and European flavors, Orsa & Winston is the place that captures a specific kind of fine dining that doesn’t feel too stuffy or unapproachable, and it seems the Michelin guide agrees, continuing to award the restaurant with a star year after year.

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Leña at Sendero

The huge 24th-floor dining complex at Sendero exhibits chef Kevin Luzande’s varied influences, from the more casual seafood spot Corteza to the formal-leaning Argentine-style steakhouse Leña. Both offer incredible views of Downtown and beyond. Beef fans will love Leña’s various prime and wagyu offerings, while those looking for a balanced meal can expect polished starters. Try the wagyu beef carpaccio with black truffles or opt for chori-pan stuffed with chorizo, cauliflower escabeche, chimichurri, and aged cheddar.

The Exchange

Consider the Exchange inside the Freehand hotel a sneaky Downtown hit. The intimate dining room serves Israeli and other Levantine-inflected dishes from talented chef Narita Santos, who isn’t afraid to pepper in global influences. The results are well-crafted, seasonally appropriate food that pops with flavor. The restaurant’s quirky ’70s-inspired decor keeps the vibe loose.

Downtown LA kiosk Holy Basil is serving some of the best Thai street food in the city. This Historic Core gem is somewhat of a revelation for Thai food fans, serving everything from cold hand-pressed tofu, to gorgeous tom yum, green curry, and fried noodles. Check out the Thursday to Saturday seafood specials.

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Sonoratown is easily one of the top taco spots in town, serving smoky grilled meats atop perfect flour tortillas in this busy Downtown shop. Order the chivichanga with shredded beef and wonder why something so delicious isn’t available in every neighborhood in town. Those in the know order the costillas burrito (chopped grilled beef steak) with extra diced poblano chiles.

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Pine and Crane

LA’s most popular Taiwanese restaurant opened its Downtown location in 2022. It’s a blend of the Silver Lake original location and owner Vivian Ku’s Joy in Highland Park, with a menu that features daikon rice cakes, fan tuan, thousand-layer pancakes, pan-fried buns, beef rolls, and lots of noodle and rice dishes. It’s the ideal neighborhood restaurant for South Park denizens with service from breakfast through dinner.

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Maison Kasai

No one knew what to expect from a lavish rendition of teppanyaki, but Joshua Gil, an accomplished fine dining and modern Mexican chef, has pulled off something that balances one of LA’s flashiest dining experiences with top-quality preparations. Maison Kasai operates as one of multiple restaurants inside Level 8, an eye-catching production by Mark and Jonnie Houston. Maison Kasai weaves traditional teppanyaki elements of steel-top grilled meats and seafood with one of the best Benihana-inspired fried rice finishes anywhere. Expect plenty of opportunities to post Instagram gold.

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Qué Bárbaro

Ray Garcia’s South American-inflected grill restaurant stands as the most everyday but still date night-worthy destination inside Level 8, an impressive nightlife and eating spot at the AC/Moxy hotel complex just across from Crypto.com Arena. Here, Garcia starts the meal with a skillet of molten cheese and tomato, finishing with grilled picanha and shrimp. The cocktails are stellar too.

Caldo Verde

LA restaurant veterans Suzanne Goin and Caroline Styne have another hit on their hands with Caldo Verde. Located on the ground floor of the Proper Hotel, the restaurant explores the flavors of the Iberian Peninsula, particularly Portugal, while never losing its California essence. The caldo verde (the restaurant’s namesake dish) — arrives in a cauldron brimming with sausages, seafood, potatoes, and kale — comforts like few stews can. If time allows, sneak in an expertly made cocktail at Dahila Lounge next door .

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Steve and Dina Samson’s enduring Northern Italian restaurant continues to prepare some of the best, well-rounded cooking in the city. Rustic wood-fired dishes complement the incredible handmade pasta like the lobster risotto with mascarpone and English peas. It’s all served inside one of the most impressive high-ceiling dining rooms in the city.

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Pizzeria Bianco

Famed Phoenix chef Chris Bianco has taken a while to figure out his exact setup in Los Angeles, but it seems both the pizzeria and nearby Pane Bianco have settled into their respective rhythms. The pizzeria serves Bianco’s wood-fired pizzas with light Italian appetizers and sides, while Pane Bianco serves New York City-style slices, square slices, and sandwiches. Expect excellence all around, with simple but fresh ingredients prepared in a minimalist fashion.

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Kato remains a destination for its elegant, Taiwanese-influenced tasting menus. Reservations are hard to score, plus there’s a $275 price tag ($170 for the bar tasting menu) for dishes like A5 strip loin grilled and served with potatoes, black garlic, and braised tendon in a beautiful, understated dining room. Given its recent ascension back to the top of the Los Angeles Times “101 Best Restaurants” list and its continued Michelin star rating, it’s clear the critics have anointed Kato as one of the best places to eat in the city.

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Home » North America » Los Angeles

37 BEST Places to Visit in Los Angeles (2024)

What can you say about Los Angeles? It’s the city of angels, known just as much for its tourist vibe as it is for its entertainment and its close connections with the television and media industry. For anyone who’s interested in relaxing in the sun while they watch for celebrities or taking photos at famous movie sites, this is the place to come.

But Los Angeles doesn’t usually appeal to every type of traveler. If you’re not interested in seeing celebrities’ gates or immersing yourself in a culture that seems devoted to appearances and little more, this destination can seem like one to avoid. However, despite the advertisements, there is more to this city than meets the eye. And it’s definitely a place worth visiting if you’re interested in some fun nights out, more entertainment options then you could ever see, and some amazing food.

To help you find the places in Los Angeles that appeal to you, we’ve created this easy guide to this flashy city.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Los Angeles:

These are the best places to visit in los angeles, faq on the best places to visit in los angeles, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in los angeles.

Hollywood, California is a top destination for tourists and our recommendation for where to stay in Los Angeles for the first time.

• Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Tickle your taste buds with a famous In-N-Out burger
• Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships, a quirky and interesting museum

And if you need more inspiration on where to stay in Los Angeles, consider checking out one of the best vacation rentals in the city.

Los Angeles is home not only to many famous tourist attractions (and the hopes and dreams of aspiring young performers hoping to catch their big break), but also an immense metropolis of distinct neighbourhoods that appear to be mini-cities within themselves. Get the low down on where to stay in Los Angeles before delving into the magic below.

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#1 – Venice Beach – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

• A place to see a side of Los Angeles that has nothing to do with the movies.
• Soak up the rays and relax.
• Lots of great food options in the area.

Why it’s so awesome : If you get sick of the polished perfection of Hollywood then Venice Beach is another gem of visiting Los Angeles . This is an area that, despite the rush of tourists, holds onto its bohemian vibe and remains stubbornly eccentric. Some would even call it a little crazy. No matter who you are or what you like, this place will welcome you and offer people and attractions that suit your preferences.

What to do there : One of the best things to do in this area is people-watch, and you’ll find no shortage of fascinating and unusual people on the boardwalk. You’ll see everything from bodybuilders to skaters and everything in between. When or if you get sick of that, grab lunch at one of the many great restaurants or cafes in the area. Also, if you like to read then make sure you check out Small World Books for a kooky selection.

#2 – Rodeo Drive – A great place in Los Angeles if you love to shop!

• Made famous in some of the most popular movies and TV shows of all time.
• A great place for designer labels.
• The people watching in this area is amazing.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve seen the movie Pretty Woman , then you’ve seen Rodeo Drive. This is the shopping center of Los Angeles for people who enjoy designer everything and high-class, expensive boutiques. Just walking along this street can make you feel as if you’re on the set of a movie. It’s also located in Beverly Hills, which is one of the safest places in LA !

What to do there : Obviously you could drop a lot of cash in this area if you have it spare. You’ll find every prominent label in existence in this street, and none of them are cheap. But if you don’t have the money or any interest in buying designer clothes then it’s great to just window shop in this area. Also, if you enjoy architecture, make sure you check out the nearby Anderson Court, a shopping mall that was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

With a Los Angeles City Pass , you can experience the best of Los Angeles at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Universal Studios Hollywood

• A place where movie lovers can indulge their hobby.
• Great for photographers who want that iconic shot of Los Angeles!
• Kids will love the rides and other attractions.

Why it’s so awesome : Universal Studios in Hollywood isn’t technically a studio for actors anymore, instead, it’s a theme park that celebrates everything to do with the movies. This is the place to come if you love Harry Potter , the Fast and the Furious or any other Universal Studio movie and want to walk in the footsteps of the stars. And it isn’t just for kids either. Apart from rides and shows, they also have bars and restaurants as well as rides that are based on shows that are too scary for kids!

What to do there : There’s no shortage of things to do at Universal . This is a place to take the kids, or a handful of your friends, and just be a child again. Check out the Walking Dead Attraction, watch a movie at the cinema, drink butterbeer at the Harry Potter-themed pub and go on all the rides. And if you’re looking for a little more of a thrill, watch the Water World Show, or try the Revenge of the Mummy ride for some real scares.

#4 – The Broad – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Los Angeles

• A new museum that’s generating a lot of buzz.
• Some truly spectacular displays of light and technology.
• Free admission!

Why it’s so awesome: This is a contemporary art museum with a difference. Not only is it free to get into, which makes it a great place to offset your spending in other places in Los Angeles, the displays are also groundbreaking. Particularly popular are the Infinity Mirrored Rooms, designed by Yayoi Kusama. These are mirrored rooms that reflect LED lights that go on forever, just as they do in space. The display is so popular that there’s usually a wait of hours to get in!

What to do there : Make sure you see the Infinity Mirrored Rooms but don’t miss the other displays either. The museum has several permanent displays as well as rotating ones. So check out what’s on before you go so you know what the must-sees are.

#5 – The Museum of Jurassic Technology – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

• A fun and educational place.
• A pseudo-scientific nook in the center of the city.
• If you enjoy things that are quirky, you’ll enjoy a trip to this museum.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum mixes fact with fiction in a way that leaves you wondering which is which. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with the movie, instead, it focuses on scientific wonders both real and imagined. It’s a kooky little place and one that’s a nice break from the movie-obsessed city, so make sure you add it to your Los Angeles itinerary!

What to do there : This is a place to enjoy the oddities and try to work out what’s real and what’s not. There are a lot of weird things in this museum, from minuscule sculptures to bats that can fly through walls, and spending some time here is an exercise in getting your mind bent into a new shape!

#6 – Griffith Observatory

• Get in touch with some real stars while you’re in the city!
• A slightly strange observatory, because the light of the city means you can’t actually see much through the telescope.
• It has several fascinating and educational displays.

Why it’s so awesome : Los Angeles’ light pollution means that you can’t see any stars from the city, which might make an observatory seem a little redundant. However, there’s more than just a telescope at this place. You could easily spend a few hours here exploring the relationship between man and the rest of the universe through the exhibitions, so it’s well worth taking that time to just look around.

What to do there : While you’re there, make sure that you check out the Hall of the Eye and the Hall of the Sky displays. These two displays are connected and are fascinating enough that you probably won’t realize you’re actually learning more about man’s connection to the universe as you watch!

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#7- The Getty

• Great for lovers of fine art.
• One of the best collections of artwork in the world.
• There is art from almost every period in history, so you’ll definitely find something you like.

Why it’s so awesome : You wouldn’t think that Los Angeles would be home to one of the finest art collections in the world and yet the Getty contains just that. You’ll find art by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh as well as a very impressive collection of amazing photographs taken by some of the biggest names in this field.

What to do there : This is the type of collection that you need to take your time with. Make sure you look for your favorite artists but be open to new names as well. That’s the great things about places like this, they open your mind to all kinds of new possibilities.

#8 – The Hollywood Walk of Fame

• Find handprints left by today’s celebrities and old favorites too.
• A great place to take photos.
• One of the most iconic places in Los Angeles.

Why it’s so awesome : Everyone has heard about the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where more than 2,500 celebrities have their names and handprints immortalized in concrete. If you’re a film fanatic, or just want to take a photo next to your favorite star’s handprint, this is a great place to spend a little time.

What to do there: Browse the names. The Walk of Fame is larger than you might think and when you walk along with it, you’ll probably find a few names you hadn’t expected. This iconic spot isn’t as glitzy as it looks in the movies or on awards nights, but it’s well worth a look anyway.

#9 – Walt Disney Concert Hall

• Home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
• A spiky, metal covered building that’s impressive in its own right.
• There are over 250 concerts here a year.

Why it’s so awesome : If you enjoy music and architecture then this venue combines the two interests. The building itself was designed by Frank Gehry and is a spiky, strangely attractive building that juts into the air at seemingly random angles. But even if architecture isn’t your thing, the music here will make up for it. The acoustics are amazing, and the concerts are absolutely first-rate too.

What to do there : Make sure you take a photograph with this building in the background because it would make a quirky and interesting shot. Also, check the local programs to see what concerts are on while you’re in the city. The best of the best play here, and there’s nothing like seeing a great concert in a place that’s designed to get the most from the music.

#10 – TCL Chinese Theater – Cool place to see in Los Angeles with friends!

• A great place to get some photos.
• The building has welcomed some of the world’s biggest stars and it will welcome you too!
• You can see a movie and see where the stars have sat.

Why it’s so awesome : This is the prime spot for movie premiers in Los Angeles, which means that the biggest stars in the world have spent time in this theater. But if this second-hand celebrity encounter isn’t enough, the theater itself is still worth seeing. Its Chinese-style pagodas and temples are both iconic and striking and it’s an important symbol of America’s celebrity culture.

What to do there : You have to buy a ticket to see the inside of the theater but it’s free to just explore the courtyard. This building has become a symbol of celebrity culture and glamor because of its proximity to the Walk of Fame so you can get some great photos while you’re there, so make sure that you bring your camera with you . It’s worth buying a ticket to see a movie though if only so you can say that you’ve watched a movie in the same theater that’s held the world’s biggest stars.

#11 – Try To Escape From The Escape Game

Why it’s so awesome :If you are after something challenging, immersive but totally then then the LA Escape Game may be just what you are looking for. The Escape Game LA features a variety of different rooms which participants (that’s you and your crew) must try to escape from by working as a team, solving clues and completing puzzles.

What to do there : All of their games are designed to be suitable for everybody, from first-time players to experienced escapologists. No matter which one you decide to play, you’re sure to have an absolute blast!

#12 – Santa Monica Pier

• A great place to spend a sunny day eating junk food and riding a Ferris Wheel next to the ocean.
• If you like to people watch, this is a prime location for it.
• In the afternoon, the sunsets are spectacular from this location.

Why it’s so awesome : Sometimes it’s nice to remember that even in Los Angeles, there are places that offer ordinary fun. It isn’t all celebrities and high-end boutiques; the Santa Monica Pier offers the kind of fun that’s best enjoyed with friends or family. There’s a Ferris wheel, cotton candy, and amazing sunsets to enjoy at this location. So, take an afternoon and get reacquainted with things that were probably part of your childhood. It is one of the best day trips to take from LA .

What to do there : This is the place for old school fair activities. Ride the Ferris wheel and the roller coaster before you tuck in to typical fair food such as cotton candy and hot dogs. And stay late in the day because the sight of the sun setting over the Pacific is something that everyone should see at least once.

#12 – Farmers Market

• There’s a real sense of community and connection here that you’ll really enjoy.
• Great food and drink options.
• A prime spot for people watching.

Why it’s so awesome: The Farmers Market was founded in 1934 by a collective of farmers and nothing much has changed since that time. The market is held at 3rd and Fairfax, and it’s where all the locals go to enjoy good food, buy fresh goods, and enjoy a bit of community. There are now more than 85 shops at the market, and you’ll find everything from a barbeque place to a kebab stand there.

What to do there : All you need to do while you’re in this area is eat, drink and watch the people. This area has a laidback vibe that seems to conflict with the rest of the city. But this vibe has also contributed to the strong sense of community that the market has created. So just take your time and relax in the open-air bazaar, explore the many stores, and if you want to do some celebrity spotting afterwards then head down to The Grove shopping area nearby, where stars go to pick up the milk.

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#13 – Disneyland Park – Awesome place to visit in Los Angeles with kids!

• It’s Disneyland!
• Great for kids and adults who remember their childhood.
• You’ll get some amazing photos here and perhaps even see some favorite characters!

Why it’s so awesome : What isn’t awesome about Disneyland? It’s a place that’s dedicated to stories, to dreams, and to letting your imagination run wild. Of course, it’s also dedicated to outrageous prices, crowds, and heat, but you can ignore that for one day to see some of your favorite Disney characters walking around.

What to do there: There’s no end of things to do here with seven lands that are all dedicated to different themes and Disney cartoons. Make sure you try out rides like the epic Indiana Jones Adventure and the Grizzly River Run if you like a bit of a thrill. And if you’re not one for rides, then just stroll down Main Street USA. This is one of the main streets in Disneyland and there’s always something going on there from parades to fireworks and visiting Disney characters. Make sure you keep your camera at the ready!

#14 – Hollywood Bowl

• Made famous in movies and so much bigger in reality!
• Showcases everything from rock bands to the Philharmonic.
• Best of all, it’s completely casual, so take some food and a bottle of wine and enjoy!

Why it’s so awesome : This is a place where you can listen to music while you’re outside under the night sky. The venue plays host to a range of musical styles which are great on their own, but the real draw is the relaxed vibe. Chances are that cramming together in the bleachers and sharing your food with the people next to you will net you some new friends! And that’s what places like this are all about.

What to do there : While you’re in the city you absolutely must see a show at the Hollywood Bowl. And it doesn’t really matter which one either. The whole point of this place is to listen to music while you’re under the night sky. And this goal makes for a really relaxed atmosphere, so take your food and drink and share it with the people sitting next to you to make some new friends.

#15 – Griffith Park – One of the nicer places in Los Angeles to sightsee!

• A nice natural area where you can walk outside of the busyness of the city.
• There are a lot of different routes which will take you to various iconic spots in the city.
• If you don’t feel like walking, you can always go on horseback!

Why it’s so awesome : Chances are you’ll be getting around by car and by public transport while you’re in Los Angeles and sometimes there’s nothing better than taking a break from that and stretching your legs. And when you can do that in a place with panoramic and iconic views of the city, all the better!

What to do there : This park is extremely accessible and popular amongst locals and tourists alike. If you enjoy walking you can make it all the way up Mount Hollywood and be treated to views of the Los Angeles basin and the Hollywood sign. And if you’re a little more adventurous, you can hire a horse at the nearby private stables and take the specially marked trails to the same spots.

#16 – Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

• Has exhibits ranging from the start of art history to the present day.
• A great place for art lovers to spend some time.
• Educational and interesting.

Why it’s so awesome : This art museum has been modernizing of late, with more contemporary displays than ever before. You can see artwork from the ancient past as well as these more modern pieces and it will give you an education on art that you will never forget.

What to do there: This is a peaceful, enlightening place to spend an afternoon. Wander the halls and see through the eyes of some of the greatest artists who have ever lived. With that kind of inspiration, maybe you’ll get inspired to create something yourself!

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#17 – The Museum of Death – Quite the quirky place in Los Angeles!

• A spooky look at the past.
• It’s ideal for people who like to walk a little more on the macabre side.
• Good for anyone who’s interested in true crime.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum doesn’t shy away from the spookiest parts of humanity. It’s devoted entirely to the memorabilia left behind by some of the most infamous serial killers in history and other exhibits to do with murder and death. This is the place where you can look at some of history’s most famous and sadistic instruments of death and be reminded of just how precious life is.

What to do there : If you’ve ever been morbidly curious about crime scene photos or the most famous serial killers in history, you’ll learn about them here. Dahmer, the Manson Murders and original photos from the Dahlia Murders all have a place here. Basically, it’s a museum that will make you thoroughly creeped out about the people all around you.

#18 – The Underground Tunnels of Los Angeles – One of the most underrated places to see in Los Angeles

• Left behind from the days of Prohibition.
• A slightly creepy and sobering look at the past.
• A chance to get a look at a side of Los Angeles that most people never see.

Why it’s so awesome : These tunnels were once service tunnels, but during the days of Prohibition they became a way to transport liquor to speakeasies all around the city. During these long-ago days, the Major’s office ran the show, and people from all walks of life wandered around drinking below the law-abiding portion of the city.

What to do there : It’s an adventure in itself to find these tunnels. You need to go behind the Hall of Records on Temple Street where there’s an almost hidden elevator. The passages below are filled with strange street art, and gated where some areas have become unstable over the years. So remember to stay safe , take some friends with you, avoid the blocked-off areas, and just explore.

#19 – The Old Zoo Picnic Area

• A depressing look at how society treats animals.
• Educational and even important, but not an enjoyable lesson.

Why it’s so awesome : Modern zoos can sometimes be good places where the focus is on education and protecting endangered animals. But this isn’t always the case, and, in the past, it was hardly ever the case. The Old Zoo Picnic Area is a stark reminder of that reality. This zoo was closed in 1966 but some of the cages still remain, a reminder of a past that shouldn’t be forgotten.

What to do there : This is now a picnic area with benches and grills where you can hang out with your friends and have a nice meal. But don’t forget to at least acknowledge the other side of this place. There’s a trail that will take you up from the caves and around to more of the abandoned cages so you can experience just what it was like to be on the other side of the bars.

#20 – Necromance

• The best place to find souvenirs that are a little different than normal.
• Best for people who have a strong stomach.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’re tired of the usual souvenirs then check out this shop. Here you’ll find a wide range of antiques and oddities from medical instruments to stuffed animals. All of the goods in this shop are antiques and you could easily spend an hour or so looking at all the strangeness people have made through the ages!

What to do there : Make sure you buy something to take home. You obviously don’t have to choose something macabre like a Victorian bone saw, but there’s a wide range of goods available, so there will be something that will appeal to you or to someone you know!

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#21 – Hollywood Forever Cemetery

• Surrounded by lush, natural surroundings that are really beautiful considering what they contain.
• In the summer, they have film screenings in the park.
• Lots of olden day stars such as Estelle Getty and Johnny Ramone were laid to rest here.

Why it’s so awesome : This place is a slightly macabre look at celebrity culture and a reminder that nothing lasts forever. Even if you don’t like this lesson, the parks are truly beautiful and are listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, so they’re really worth seeing.

What to do there : If you like classic Hollywood films then make sure you attend one of the summer movie screenings and watch the action projected on the wall of a mausoleum! Just bring a blanket and some food and you can lie out under the stars and enjoy some classic cinema very close to where the stars of it could be buried. Apart from that, the cemetery is home to lots of stunning statues and mausoleums. So, if you’re interested in that kind of artwork then you’ll find lots of interesting examples when you walk around this site.

#22 – Phantasma Gloria – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

• If you enjoy unusual art, then you’ll love this!
• By appointment only.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a sculpture that’s designed to capture the light in all its glory. Over 24 feet tall and 50 feet long, the artist has created this web on his property and eventually it will wrap all the way around his yard. It’s made of colored glass, wire, and colored water and will only get bigger over time!

What to do there : This sculpture is a marvel of engineering and inventiveness. It’s open by appointment only on Saturdays and Sundays between 10 and 4, when the sun hits it just right. While you’re there, look closely at the twists of wire and glass, you’ll see dolphins and other shapes within the carefully crafted sculpture and start to understand the intricacy of the artist’s vision.

#23 – Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels – One of the most religious places to see in Los Angeles

• An architecturally unique postmodern building.
• The building is extremely elaborate, with the doors alone priced at over 3 million dollars.
• The lower level contains the relics of an early Roman saint

Why it’s so awesome : This church is spectacular, and for the amount of money spent on its construction it really should be. The archbishop at the time wanted to make a statement with the Cathedral and spared absolutely no expense on its construction. He spent 5 million dollars on a table, 3 million on a single set of doors, and 2 million for the wooden ambo and it shows. The result is an opulent display that really draws attention.

What to do there : If you’re Catholic then this Cathedral would hold great significance. The lower level houses a crypt with more than 6000 church officials, Gregory Peck, and the relics left behind by the early Roman martyr Saint Vibiana. But even if you aren’t Catholic, it’s worth visiting the site just to take in the opulence and rich furnishings of this fortress-like construction.

#24 – Ennis House

• Made famous in movies and TV shows like  Haunted House ,  Blade Runner,  and  Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
• An architectural gem.
• A weird and quirky piece of construction that has to be seen to be believed.

Why it’s so awesome: The Ennis House was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the early 1920s and is a marvel of engineering and architecture. It was restored in the 1970s after rain and earthquake damage and was designated a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument in 1976.

What to do there : Visitors are only allowed into the building on rare occasions so make sure you keep your eyes open during your trip to see if there’s a chance you’ll be able to go inside. But even if you can’t, the exterior of the house is stunning on its own, and if you’re a fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer , you’ll probably recognize the building as it was used during the iconic TV show!

#25 – Garden of Oz

• A fantastic place to get a quirky and unique photo op!
• A private garden that’s been turned into a showcase of color and magic.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a private garden in the Hollywood Hills that the owner has turned into a fantastical and whimsical space! Instead of concrete and dirt flower beds, you’ll find mosaics, thrones and fantastical creatures all over this area. It features hundreds of plants, a yellow brick road, and whimsical displays that bring to mind Munchkin land from the iconic movie.

There are also numerous thrones throughout the area, each of them dedicated to someone who’s important to the artist’s life. To that end, there’s a throne for Rosa Parks, the Dalai Lama, Elvis Presley and a friend of the artist who survived the Hiroshima bombing.

What to do there : This garden is on private property and the owner doesn’t give tours, though the neighborhood children apparently all have keys so they can play in the space. But if you’re interested, you can easily see most of the garden from the street and take in the whimsical beauty of the eclectic space.

#26 – Velaslavasay Panorama

• A stunning reminder of the past.
• This is 3D art with a difference!

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to see something truly unique then this is where to come. In the 1700s and 1800s, a new form of media was invented known as panoramic paintings. This was a form of 3D media that fell out of flavor when film and photos came along. Enormous paintings were displayed in circular rooms or on moving rollers to creating a moving landscape for the audience. And this venue is bringing back this old art form, with 360-degree displays that include light and sound.

What to do there : The display at this venue changes frequently so find out what’s on and go to see it. The shows include soundtracks as well as lights to create a truly 3-dimensional experience that has to be seen to be believed. A beautiful reminder of an old art form that deserves a place in today’s art world!

#27 – The Hollywood Sign

• Quite possibly the most famous site in Los Angeles.
• A great opportunity for a photo op.
• Built as a temporary advertisement that has stood the test of time!

Why it’s so awesome : Built-in 1923, the Hollywood sign was meant to last eight months but has become one of the most iconic sights in the city! You can see the sign in countless movies, TV shows, and celebrity photos and you really should own your picture of the sign too!

What to do there : It’s a fair hike up to the sign, around 45 minutes depending on how fast you go, and once you’re up there don’t try to climb or touch the fence that protects the site. Just take photos up there and take in the views. From this high-up landmark, you can see all of downtown Los Angeles, the Santa Ana Mountains and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. And you don’t have to stop at the sign either. If you want even better views, there are steps that go higher that will let you see even further and take in even more of the city.

#28 – Downtown – An awesome place to visit in Los Angeles for half a day!

• A perfect place to take a walking tour of Los Angeles’ architecture.
• You can do a walking tour on your own or there are a number of organized tours available.
• Lots of chances for pictures.

Why it’s so awesome : Los Angeles is a busy, exciting city and the best way to see it is on foot. By taking a walking tour on your own or with a group through the Downtown area you’ll be able to see some cool architecture and buildings that you recognize from the sets of movies and TV shows!

What to do there : Take lots of pictures while you’re wandering around. Los Angeles’s buildings range from Art Deco style to historic theaters and the mix is both interesting and indicative of the city’s history. If you do take an organized tour, make sure you book early as they’re popular, but you’ll also be fine walking around on your own. If you’re a fan of nightlife, then Downtown LA is also your best bet to find a hostel where you can stay close to all the fun.

#29 – Runyon Canyon Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Los Angeles

• An often-overlooked slice of nature in the city.
• A great place to get away from the city and breathe in the cleaner air.
• If you enjoy walking, hiking or running then there’s plenty of room here to really stretch out.

Why it’s so awesome : Green spaces in the middle of concrete and stone jungles are like gems in cities like Los Angles and this park is perfectly positioned to give you a break from the rush if you need it. It’s seldom visited by tourists which makes it the perfect place to have a rest before you dive back into the high-tech busyness of the city.

What to do there: There are some great views throughout the canyon. You can see the San Fernando Valley and the Pacific Ocean from selected spots as well as the Hollywood sign. This is a popular spot for the locals to exercise, so while you’re doing some hiking you might just see a celebrity keeping their world-famous body in shape too!

#30 – Peterson Automotive Museum

• A quirky, interesting building that looks great in photos.
• For car lovers of all kinds.
• Includes historical information as well as displays of famous movie cars!

Why it’s so awesome : This strange-looking building is located on the Miracle Mile, which was the first commercial development in the city that was designed for the benefit of drivers. And this museum celebrates that history in fine style. Apart from the historical information you’ll learn here, you’ll also get to see displays of some of the world’s most amazing cars, including the Batmobile!

What to do there : What else? Look at cars! You’ll be able to learn about the industrial process as it is today and as it was in the past and see an entire showroom dedicated to luxury vintage vehicles. If you’re a car buff, this will probably be your version of heaven. And even if you don’t like cars you can explore the driving simulation stations and augmented reality scavenger hunt experience.

#31 – La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

• A slightly quirky but still fascinating place.
• Another iconic location in Los Angeles.
• You’ll get some great photos here.
• Great for kids.

Why it’s so awesome : If your kids love dinosaurs, and what kids don’t, then they’ll love this museum. These tar pits have been bubbling for hundreds of thousands of years and more than a million animal bones have been found in their depths. And a lot of them are on display in the museum for your kids to marvel at.

What to do there : The tar pits are free, so check them out and take photos with your group or kids to mark the occasion. Then, if you’re interested in learning more, make sure you check out the attached museum to explore the creatures whose bones were preserved in the bubbling mess.

#32 – Zuma Beach

• Improve your tan and soak in the vibe of exclusivity.
• The activities here are first-rate so if you enjoy surfing or swimming, make sure you do it here.
• Great for kids and adults, with lots of facilities and lifeguards to make the day comfortable and safe.

Why it’s so awesome : This is Malibu, where everyone is beautiful and movie sets are everywhere and you can explore the same beaches you’ve probably seen in countless movies and on TV shows. Zuma Beach is a great place to explore that natural beauty and exclusive vibe, and it’s considered one of the best beaches in Los Angeles too.

What to do there: This is a beach where you should spend some time just people watching. But when you get sick of that, it’s a great place for activities too. The water is very clean, the waves are great for surfing and there are a lot of shops around where you can get a snack when you get tired of the sun. All in all, this beach makes for a great day in the sun!

#33 – Sunset Boulevard – A great place to visit in Los Angeles at night

• Don’t you want to get a photo on this iconic street?
• Made famous in some of history’s greatest movies.
• A beautiful, palm-lined street that still has great aesthetic appeal.

Why it’s so awesome : If you haven’t seen this street in movies then you probably never go to the theater. This street actually had a movie named after it, which is why people line up to take their picture under the street sign. And even if you’re not interested in that, the street is known for its nightlife and is lined with classic music venues where you can listen to some great tunes while you have a drink.

What to do there: Go there during the day to take your pictures in the sunlit streets and under the sign but also make sure you go there at night. Some of the bars and clubs here are legendary for their musical talent, including the Roxy Theater and the Rainbow Bar and Grill, so make sure you check them out.

#34 – Third Street Promenade

• Get some eclectic souvenirs and other goods here.
• An opening air shopping area with all the popular shops as well as some stranger options.
• Great restaurants in this area.

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to do some shopping in a slightly less touristy place then this shopping center is a good choice. You’ll find all your favorite shops here as well as some more unusual choices such as a toy shop obsessed with puzzles and a rare books shop.

What to do there: Visit your favorite shops while they’re there and available and see if you can get some bargains. Make sure that you have lunch while you’re in the area too, as the restaurants here are the best in the city. But it’s the promenade’s atmosphere that’s the most interesting, with street performers and a noisy, busy atmosphere that’s set up for anyone who wants to people watch.

#35 – Warner Brothers Studios

• A must see when you’re in Los Angeles.
• Home to hit shows and some of the biggest movies.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to see iconic movie and TV sets and props then you’ll experience all that and more at this landmark venue. The Batmobile, Harry Potter props and shows like The Big Bang Theory and Ellen DeGeneres all have a home here and you’ll get to experience them all!

What to do there : This studio is located 5 miles north of Hollywood and is an easy trip from the city when you have a free afternoon. You can wander the grounds and get a tour guide to show you around. And unlike some other studio tours, when you visit this location you can even walk around working sets!

#36 – Greystone Mansion and Park – A nice quiet place to see in Los Angeles

• A relic from the golden age of Hollywood.
• One of the largest mansions in Los Angeles.
• Shows like  Gilmore Girls ,  Ghostbusters  and  General Hospital  were all shot on these grounds.
• Lots of photo ops.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve watched TV in the last ten years then you’ve probably seen shots of this mansion even if you didn’t know where it was at the time. Despite its popularity in the cinema and on TV, this is actually a neglected landmark that’s a quiet respite from the city. So if you’re looking for a little break in a beautiful garden with a koi pond, flowers, and fountains, then this is the place you’re looking for.

What to do there : You can’t go into the mansion, but the grounds are open to visitors. Make sure you have a good walk around and see if you recognize any areas from your favorite shows and take a photo to remember the moment. Apart from that, just enjoy the serenity and beauty of the gardens.

#37 – Paramount Pictures Studios

• The last movie studio still in Los Angeles.
• This studio has showcased some of the world’s best starts.
• Lots of photo ops here!

Why it’s so awesome : If you like movies then taking a tour around a place that makes them is an incredible treat. Some of the set designs from this studio’s most popular shows are still in place so you can walk into the scene and actually experience a part of the movie from the inside. As an added bonus, there are several different types of tours. So, if you like to walk, take the walking tour. And if you’re a little more restricted in what you can do or want to do, the golf cart tours are probably right for you.

What to do there : You can take a two-hour tour around the studio during which you’ll actually get to look at some incredibly famous sets all from the comfort of a golf cart. You can see the set of I Love Lucy , Titanic , or even Mission: Impossible . There’s also an After Dark tour for adults only where you’ll get to see some of the sets that aren’t really suitable for children.

Get insured for your trip to Los Angeles!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Los Angeles

What are the best places to visit in LA at night?

For some epic nightlife and great parties, check out these places in Los Angeles: – Sunset Boulevard – Venice Beach – Hollywood Bowl

What places are free to visit in Los Angeles?

Check out these free places to visit in Los Angeles: – The Broad – Venice Beach – Santa Monica Pier

What places in Los Angeles can you visit today?

Find out about the best tours, attractions and places to visit in Los Angeles on Klook . Everything that’s on today will be listed there. And if you want a more local experience, check out Airbnb experiences .

What are the coolest places to visit in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is cool in itself, but a couple of places really stand out. Check them out: – Walt Disney Concert Hall – TCL Chinese Theater – Farmers Market

Los Angeles is often seen as a place that’s all surface and flash with nothing underneath and this reputation isn’t entirely undeserved. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t entertainment and food options for almost every taste in this sprawling city. After all, Los Angeles is a city that’s set up to enthrall and amuse, and it does both of these extremely well as you’ll see when working through this list.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Art Patterson

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Thanks Ashley Ryan for sharing this great information! It does not matter if its the first visit of Los Angeles (LA) or living in the city, as one of the most populated places globally has plenty of attractions to engage anyone like Los Angeles. The Broad, Hollywood Sign, Venice Beach Boardwalk, etc are one of the great examples of most attracted places in LA and having a charter bus rental ensures to have the best time on the trip.

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Home > Road Trip Itineraries > West Coast > California Road Trip Itineraries > California Coast > Los Angeles Travel Guide > Neighborhoods > Downtown Los Angeles: Take a Walking Tour from Bunker Hill to the Financial District

Downtown Los Angeles: Take a Walking Tour from Bunker Hill to the Financial District

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The entire metropolitan area of Los Angeles is so large that it has a great variety of neighborhoods and districts. Just think of the VIP areas such as Beverly Hills and Bel Air , the fashionable coastal cities like Santa Monica , Malibu , and Venice Beach , the mecca of cinema in Hollywood , the old and colorful Mexican district of El Pueblo , and the elegant and historic streets of Pasadena . In addition to all these districts, there is, of course, Downtown Los Angeles , the center of business and economic life in Los Angeles that is recognizable thanks to its skyscrapers and modernist architecture.

As I have already explained in my guide on where to stay in Los Angeles , the neighborhood is, in my opinion, one of the best areas to stay in while visiting the city , not only because of the high concentration of hotels available, but it also allows you to better organize the trips to the many attractions located in the area. Since you are likely to spend at least a few hours in Downtown Los Angeles , you may be wondering what this area of the city has to offer.

Is it better to spend a few hours there, or is it better to get out of there as quickly as possible and head to the most popular areas of the city? Are there things to see or places of interest ? In this article, we’ll discover that although Downtown Los Angeles is not the area with the greatest tourist appeal, it has a surprising number of attractions, especially from an architectural and artistic point of view. So here is an itinerary designed for you to spend a pleasant afternoon in the downtown area of the City of Angels.

The Amazing Architecture of Pershing Square

A corner of ancient egypt among the skyscrapers, the bunker hill staircase and the oue skyspace, angels flight: the historic railway of bunker hill, modern art and architecture along grand avenue, 3 must-see historic buildings…, events and entertainment in downtown los angeles, where to stay overnight in downtown los angeles, attractions in downtown los angeles.

Please note : If you visit the city with a car (or rental car), take a look at our tips on where to park in Los Angeles . Those who prefer to use public transportation can read our guide on how to get around Los Angeles .

In fact, in this square, you will find numerous spaces designed for the inhabitants (chess tables, children’s play areas, and areas for pets), but what is particularly striking is the unique design of the structures in the square, for example, the purple bell tower, the fountain in the shape of a turntable ( DJ Reminisce ), and the surrounding statues and monuments. After coming here, anyone who thought of Los Angeles’ downtown area as something unimportant or uninteresting will think again…

The library boasts more than 6 million volumes and contains many elements of artistic interest such as Dean Cornwell’s 1933 mural, which retraces the main stages of California ‘s history, as well as other mosaics and statues.

On the northeast side of the Public Library, just across the street, we find our next 2 destinations, the Bunker Hill Steps , a beautiful and elegant staircase that leads to the Bunker Hill area (I recommend climbing to the top to photograph the public library’s tower) and the OUE Skyspace , a hotel that is home to the highest observatory in all of Los Angeles (984 ft), with a 360° view.

But that’s not all. On the skyscraper, besides admiring the view, you can have fun riding the Skyslide , a transparent open-air slide more than 40 ft long that will transport you to the lower panoramic terrace. There are two types of tickets to visit the OUE Skyspace, one with and one without slide. You can buy them online and skip the line at the entrance by clicking on the button below:

OUE Skyspace tickets

Originally it was built in 1901 in another area of the city, but it was then moved in the 50s to facilitate the ascent in this area. In reality, it is only 230 ft and you could even walk up the stairs that are right next to Angels Flight, but it is a historical attraction that the people of Los Angeles are particularly fond of. It certainly deserves a photo and maybe a ride, even if it costs $ 1 dollar one way (for a 1-minute ride …).

Even if you don’t intend to enter the museum, it is still worth crossing the portico to view the fascinating sculpture composed of airplane parts placed in the small plaza.

Returning to Grand Avenue, you will not fail to notice The Broad , another museum erected by the city of Los Angeles dedicated to contemporary art. The futuristic building deserves to be photographed for its own sake and if you did not enter the MOCA, if I were you, I would seriously consider visiting at least this museum, even if you are not very fond of contemporary art or if you prefer more traditional museums such as the Getty Center . Admission is free, which is rare!

But the most fascinating example of architecture in this area, in my opinion, is the one that is about to appear before your eyes. Even in this case, it is impossible not to notice it and the effect will be even more surprising. This building is characterized by asymmetry and pure and disjointed shapes that create the effect of enveloping movement rather than a rigid form. I’m talking about the Walt Disney Concert Hall , a significant work of the famous “deconstructivist” architect Frank Gehry.

Just a block ahead, at the junction with Temple Street, you will see another imposing building, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels , a large church built in the postmodern style. It is undoubtedly impressive, but from an aesthetic point of view, it has received much criticism. The underground floor houses a mausoleum containing 1,270 crypts and 4,746 burial niches, including the relics of Saint Viviana, a young Christian martyr from Roman times, and actors June Marlowe and Gregory Peck.

According to the itinerary, now you should turn right, but to get a better view of the church and admire another intriguing modernist building, I suggest that you cross the bridge, take a picture of the Ramón C. Cortines School of Visual and Performing Arts and then go back .

• Los Angeles City Hall . It was built in the 1920s in the style of the time, featuring a tower that was once the tallest in the city until the mid-1960s.
• The Los Angeles Times Building is located a few yards further, at the intersection with 1st Street. Built in the Art Deco style, it makes you imagine what Los Angeles must have been like in the 1930s.
• Bradbury Building . To get to this building of historical importance, walk until you reach 3rd Street and turn right. The Bradbury Building will be the second building on the left. It was built in 1893 and was declared a National Historic Landmark. In addition, fans of Blade Runner will see something familiar .. . the scenes of J.F. Sebastian’s apartment as well as the ending of the movie were filmed here.

Union Station , 800 N Alameda St, the Los Angeles train station, is one of the most architecturally significant buildings in the city. Don’t just admire it from the outside. Explore it from the inside too. Blade Runner fans will recognize another building used for the movie (in the police station scene).

It’s true that Downtown’s Financial District gets quiet in the evening, yet there are plenty of entertainment venues nearby, such as the Staples Center , where the Lakers and Clippers (NBA) and the Kings (Hockey) play, and L.A. Live , the nearby entertainment complex with theaters, restaurants, movie theaters, and clubs. In the Walt Disney Concert Hall area, you will also find Grand Park , a park that extends almost 5 hectares, which in addition to hosting many events, serves as a meeting place for locals.

Most of the accommodations are located in the Financial District around Pershing Square , the starting point of our itinerary. As I already mentioned, Downtown Los Angeles is also a good base to visit the attractions located around the Greater Los Angeles Area (for a detailed list, take a look at our article about the things to do in Los Angeles ). For more information about Downtown L.A. and other recommended neighborhoods where you can find great accommodations, click on the button below.

Our tips on where to stay in Los Angeles

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

lorenzo puliti

I am fascinated by the wonders of the world I never tire of going in search of them.

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9 things you should know about L.A. before visiting

Los Angeles is an amazing place, but you have to know a few things about it before you learn to love it

Los Angeles isn’t the  celebrity  and paparazzi-filled la-la-land it’s made out to be in the movies and TV . It is, however, a beautiful, diverse and sometimes confounding city. If you’re visiting for the first time, it’s easy to get wrapped up in the gridlock and sprawl or overly fixated on famous landmarks and lose sight of what makes Los Angeles such a unique destination. So before you book your flight into LAX (bonus tip: try Burbank or Long Beach instead), here are nine things you should know about the city.

(Oh, and those mountains in the photo above? You may see them in photos all the time, but they’re not actually  that close—blame a long camera lens for the illusion. They are, however, often covered with snow in the winter, and only an hour or two from much of L.A.)

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1.  Los Angeles has no true center.

In most world-class cities, you can step off a plane and onto a train that’ll whisk you into the heart of the city. Not so in L.A. First of all, said train doesn’t exist (at least not until 2024 ). But second, L.A. is simply too spread out to stick to one compact area.

You can’t just wander around most of the city on foot and expect to stumble onto something amazing. On paper,  Downtown L.A. comes close to being a central exception: The onetime dead zone has developed walkable district for bars, restaurants, performance spaces and museums, all linked up by public transit. But DTLA is still very  hit-or-miss when it comes to how exciting or pleasant you’ll find each block, and the pandemic has sapped much of the dense area’s momentum.

Downtown also won’t satisfy most tourists’ ideas about an L.A. vacation—and that really goes for locals, too. Stick to only DTLA and you’d be missing out on hilly hikes through Griffith Park , dim sum in the San Gabriel Valley , Silver Lake’s coffee shop  culture and all of the Westside’s  glorious beaches  and ritzy shopping districts .

2.  In fact, L.A. has multiple cities inside of it.

We should step back and talk about what we mean when we say “L.A.” Somewhat confusingly, “L.A.” is often used interchangeably for both the City of Los Angeles and the dense cluster of neighboring cities within Los Angeles County.

The city proper is broadly split into the Valley  (the warmer, suburban sprawl to the north) and the Basin (the ocean-adjacent flat lands south of the Santa Monica Mountains). Within the Basin, you’ll find fancy suburbs and beachfront towns on the Westside, while Central L.A. harbors multicultural enclaves and hip ’hoods. Some famous neighborhoods  in those two regions, like Santa Monica , Beverly Hills and West Hollywood (home of the Sunset Strip ) are actually separate cities sandwiched into the middle of the City of Los Angeles. The same goes for some Valley cities like studio-filled  Burbank  and  Glendale  and celeb-magnet Calabasas.

We could go on and on when it comes to parts of L.A. that are technically outside of city limits: the South Bay, where Manhattan Beach and its neighbors are their own cities;  Long Beach;  all of the the communities within the San Gabriel Valley , like Monterey Park and Alhambra; and East L.A., which isn’t technically a city but instead an unincorporated area within L.A. County.

But here’s all you really need to know: We typically think of those areas and even more far-flung spots like Malibu and Pasadena  as part of L.A., culturally speaking—which means that your Airbnb within “the heart of L.A.” might not actually be as centrally located as it claims.

3.  You’re going to want a car.

After our little geography lesson, you might understand now why Angelenos measure distances in minutes and not miles —Los Angeles is big . As a result, navigating from one side of the city to the other during rush hour will absolutely test your patience. But thanks to our infamous freeways, when traffic finally eases up, cutting across town can be a cinch by car.

Plus, some of L.A.’s most iconic scenic spots, like a cruise along Angeles Crest Highway, Mulholland Drive  or the Pacific Coast Highway can only be experienced by car.

If you rent a car, just make sure to read the parking signs ; if you’re in a garage, remember where you parked and validate your ticket. Don’t forget to fire up Waze or Google Maps to avoid gridlock and getting lost.

4.  …But L.A. does have public transit options (including a subway).

L.A. may not have a subway system on par with New York, London or Paris, but the city’s six (and counting)  Metro  lines, two dedicated busways and countless sort-of-efficient bus routes can do the job.

If your destinations include  Downtown , Chinatown , Little Tokyo , Pasadena , Universal Studios , Santa Monica , Culver City or the museums in Exposition Park , you may be able to rely on Metro instead of a car. Don’t assume that you’ll be able to just hop on a train and go anywhere in the city, though. You largely won’t find subway lines on the Westside—except for Santa Monica—where bus rides become a matter of hours instead of minutes.

It’s still easiest to see everything in the city with a car, but it’s feasible to pair a Metro pass with a few Uber, bike, scooter or Metro Micro rides .

5.  Hollywood, West Hollywood and North Hollywood are not at all related.

When you’re booking a hotel, pay very close attention to which cardinal direction sits in front of “Hollywood.”

West Hollywood —which is technically a separate city from Los Angeles—probably best fits your image of Hollywood glamour: hilltop mansions, celebrity sightings and glitzy-yet-sleazy nightlife on the Sunset Strip.

Just to the east,  Hollywood  is home to all of those familiar Tinseltown attractions  along with a lot of grime and disappointment. The neighborhood is split by the 101 freeway; you won’t find many familiar sites in East Hollywood, but it is home to the Barnsdall Art Park and Hollyhock House , Thai Town and Little Armenia.

Head north over the hills and past Universal Studios, and you’ll reach North Hollywood, which is named as such so you forget that there’s a mountain range between it and Hollywood. The once gritty Valley suburb now boasts its own pedestrian and transit-friendly arts district dotted with small performance spaces.

6.  We pronounce some Spanish proper names with a Midwestern accent.

Midwesterners first started flooding into Los Angeles in the late 1800s, and the city’s Spanish-derived names haven’t been the same since then.

Forget everything you know about the Spanish language and instead pronounce all of L.A.’s landmarks with the haughtiest American accent possible. That means San Pedro becomes “San PEE-droh,” Sepulveda sounds like “Suh-PULL-veh-duh” and Los Feliz is—somewhat controversially—“Los FEE-lisz.”  Rodeo  (“Roh-DAY-oh”) is one of the few exceptions. Look out for some non-Spanish outliers, too, like Wilshire (“WILL-sher”) and the Broad (rhymes with “ode”).

7.  The most memorable destinations aren’t the most famous ones.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame and Venice Boardwalk are so much seedier than you would expect. We’re not proud to admit it, but some of L.A.’s most popular destinations are a bit of a letdown . We’re not saying you should skip  Rodeo Drive and the  Hollywood Sign  if seeing them is important to you, but do consider going beyond the as-seen-on-reality-TV locales.

For us, an ideal first fling with L.A. would involve an afternoon atop the Getty Center or at the Huntington Library , lunch at Grand Central Market  or by the beach , sunset at Zuma or El Matador State Beach and an evening spent gazing out on the city from the Griffith Observatory . If you’re  really  looking to get to know the city, this entire story of  things to do  will keep you busy.

8.  It’s always sunny, sometimes hot and usually “cold.”

Aside from some morning fog (dubbed May Gray and June Gloom in their requisite months), you can expect it to be sunny almost 300 days out of the year. Unless there’s a tropical storm hitting northern Mexico, you won’t see a drop of rain in the summer. In the winter, there might just be a handful of rainy days (or, more rarely, a week straight of precipitation).

When the sun’s out, it can get pretty toasty, especially in the summer and fall, and particularly in the Valley (streaks of Santa Ana Wind days bring triple-digital temperatures during the day). But at night, you’ll really regret wearing shorts as you learn that 70 degrees doesn’t actually feel warm at all. Oh, and the ocean? The water temperature barely breaks 70 degrees in the summer.

So to sum it up: Lather on sunscreen, bring a hat, leave the umbrella and carry around a sweatshirt.

9.  Los Angeles is like no other city.

You can keep it casual and wear flip-flops seemingly anywhere. Bar hopping isn’t feasible in most neighborhoods—and last call is an “early” 2am—but you’re never far from a fantastic hiking trail . You’ll have to make reservations for République  or Bestia  weeks in advance, but you can stumble up to the Taco Zone Truck  for a heaven-sent 2am taco. It’s possible to  surf in the morning, ski in the afternoon  and make it to Disneyland  just in time for fireworks. Los Angeles is an amazing place once you learn to embrace everything it has to offer, contradictions and all.

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Best Places to Visit in Los Angeles – 20 Unmissable Attractions

Last Modified: November 13, 2023 //  by  Anda //   5 Comments

It’s hard to know where to begin when visiting a city like Los Angeles. Home to Hollywood – a name synonymous with the American film industry, exclusive neighborhoods, famous theme parks, and world-renowned landmarks, L.A. is a great place to visit at any time of year. But unlike other metropolises around the world, Los Angeles’s attractions and best places to visit are spread all over. If you are coming  from a smaller town, you’ll probably find this sprawl a bit intimidating.

There are countless things to do in L.A., but unless you live here, like I do, you won’t be able to cover them all. Nonetheless, if this is your first time in Los Angeles, I’m sure you are looking for a guide that will give you some perspective on the top attractions and best places to visit during your trip. So let’s get started!

About this Guide

This guide will take you through a few of L.A.’s most famous neighborhoods, like Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, or Malibu. It will also show you some of the city’s famous landmarks, like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Chinese Theater, or Griffith Observatory. It will also give you an overview of the best theme parks in Los Angeles, in case you are traveling with children (or are still a child at heart!)

These are just a few of the popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles that I’ll be covering in this guide. I hope that by the time you finish reading this post, you’ll have an idea about what you’d like to include in your L.A itinerary . But before you go, here is a list of the best accommodation options in L.A.:

Best Things to Do in Los Angeles with Children

Los Angele is home to a ton of amusement parks which account for some of the city’s biggest attractions. And you don’t need to be a child to enjoy them. These parks are fun to visit at any age. Some of them are really unique and representative for the city.

Universal Studios

Universal Studios used to be one of my family’s favorite places to visit in Los Angeles, when our son was growing up. It has plenty of fun filled rides, which can be enjoyed by adults and children alike. But don’t expect tall rollercoasters here. There are rollercoasters, of course, but they are rides filled with fun filled and adventures. Universal Studios is more about rides with stories, stunts and special effects, which is very entertaining.

The Mummy Ride is probably the best rollercoaster you would experience here. A few years ago, they opened the new Jurassic Park ride. I also recommend the Harry Potter ride and the Transformers. Yes, the wait might be an hour long… but its totally worth it!

The park is located in Studio City, 11 miles away from downtown Los Angeles. Admission price is $114/day if you buy your ticket online , vs. $134/day if you buy it at the gate.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

And speaking of rollercoasters, if you are an adrenaline junkie you’ll get plenty of excitement at Six Flags Magic Mountain. The rides are super fun and they accommodate all ages, so everybody will enjoy them. They also have the best stage shows. Our son’s favorite ride was the Hall of Justice, but there are many fun rides to try.

The 262-acre amusement park is located in Valencia, California, 35 miles northwest of downtown Los Angeles. Admission price is $65/day.

Buy a Ski-the-Line ticket to Six Flags Magic Mountain and safe time at the Park.

Disneyland Park

Without a doubt the most popular attraction in Los Angeles for families with children is Disneyland theme park. This is a place that everybody visiting Los Angeles should see at least once. Disneyland represents more than just rides and entertainment; it’s a place that will remind you of your childhood characters.

Mickey Mouse and his cronies, the Lion King, Alice in Wonderland, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, and The Little Mermaid they are all present, waiting to entertain the park visitors with the wonderful world of Disney.

Built in 1955, the Disneyland Resort in California is in fact the original Disneyland. It is also one of the oldest and largest theme parks in the world.

The park is located in Anaheim, 27 miles south of downtown Los Angeles. Admission price is $104/day. You can purchase a multiple day pass and save.

Santa Monica Pier & Beach

Just a short 20-minute drive from Downtown area is one of L.A.’s most beloved landmarks: Santa Monica Pier. The famous Santa Monica beach which stretches along either side of the historic Pier is a magnet for beach lovers from all over the world.

But the bustling wooden wharf is where all the action  is. With its shops, small restaurants, arcade, roller coaster and giant Ferris wheel, the historic Santa Monica Pier continues to be the main attraction in Los Angeles for families with kids. Admission is free .

Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory is one of the best places to visit if you want to takes panoramic photos of Los Angeles. On a clear day, you can also see Santa Monica from up here. The Observatory features space-related exhibits, star shows in the planetarium, and a telescope.

The best time to visit is the late afternoon towards the evening when you can stick around to see the sun setting and the city lights.

Admission to the Observatory building, grounds, and telescopes is free. However, you will have to buy tickets if you want to watch the planetarium show.  Click here to get a ticket with the planetarium show included .

The grounds of the Observatory are very beautiful and fun to visit. And while up here, don’t miss the famous Hollywood Sign. You can catch an unobstructed view of the Sign on the opposite hill, to the right of the Observatory.

Since hiking to the Hollywood Sign is illegal, this is the best spot to observe this iconic landmark. One interesting fact to know is that the Hollywood Sign was’t part of a movie set, as many people believe. It was actually an outdoor billboard for a real-estate development.

Aquarium of the Pacific

The Aquarium of the Pacific sits on a 5-acre site in Rainbow Harbor, Long Beach. The aquarium is a one of the most educational attractions in Los Angeles, home to more than 500 marine species. This is a great place to visit for people of all ages, but especially for the little ones who in contact with touch pools and sensory exhibits.

Here you can see delicate sea horses, playful penguins, otters, and predatory reef sharks. Real marine biologists are at hand to answer questions.

The nearby Shoreline Village and the Queen Mary Hotel and Attraction are both worth visiting. The Aquarium is only 25 miles away from Los Angeles Downtown. Admission prices are: $35.95/adult, $26.95/child, $33.95/senior.

Los Angeles County Arboretum

Peacocks, waterfalls, a haunted mansion, and so much more! If you like parks and gardens, don’t miss the beautiful Los Angeles County Arboretum . This mesmerizing botanical garden has plants from all regions of the globe, grouped by geography. You’ll find Australian, Mediterranean, South American, African, and Asiatic-North American plants.

But in addition to the great variety of gardens, the L.A. Country Arboretum features a Historical Landmark: the Queen Anne Cottage, a significant example of  Queen Anne style architecture.

Los Angeles Arboretum is located in Arcadia, about 20 miles away from the Downtown. Admission prices are: $15/adults and $11/seniors & children.

La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

It’s hard to imagine that thousands of years ago mammoths and sloths roamed freely throughout what is now urban Los Angeles. And yet, the La Brea Tar Pits in Hancock Park are living proof of that.

Back in the 1900s, scientists discovered fossils of large animals, plants and insects trapped in the sticky mud of this area.

The museum has fantastic displays of skeletons found here and does a great job explaining how the tar pits were formed. You will also find out why or how the animals died, as well as the procedures for excavating the sites. There is also a path that takes you through the active excavation sites, where you can actually see the gas bubbling up from the tar.

Admission is $15/adults and $12/seniors and students. Click here to get tickets in advance .

Angels Flight Railway

Located in Downtown area is one of Los Angeles’ oldest landmarks: Angels Flight Railway. This 120 years old cable car that takes passengers up to the top of Bunker Hill from the Pershing Square Metro station, is the world’s shortest ride. It takes only 50 seconds!

If you ever wanted to ride the funicular from the movie  La-La Land , here is your chance. The funicular appeared in movies ever since 1918, but more recently it was used to film Ryan Gosling’s and Emma Stone’s characters riding it in the 2016 film  La La Land .

Angels Flight has two funicular cars –  Olivet  and  Sinai  – running in opposite directions on a shared cable. Admission is only $1 each way and the experience is really fun!

TOURS WE RECOMMEND:

Best attractions in los angeles for couples.

Whether you travel with a big family, a group of friends, or just your spouse, Los Angeles has plenty of attractions for everyone. So here are some of the places that you may enjoy as a couple.

Malibu is a must, even if you only have one day in Los Angeles . This is where  the famous Pacific Coast Highway drive  starts. Here is where you’ll see some of the most picturesque stretches of beach in Southern California.

The beaches in Malibu are however very different from the ones in Santa Monica or Venice. They offer a truly laidback experience where you can just lay in the sand and dip in the ocean.

In Malibu you will find surf beaches and stretches of shore with tide pools, caves and strange rock formations (Leo Carillo). Some of them are private, so they allow alcohol on the beach (Paradise Cove), but they are notorious for the huge parking fees.

Getty Center

Getty Center is more than just an art museum. It’s one of the most unique places to visit in Los Angeles composed of numerous galleries that spread out in multiple buildings. The Center holds European paintings, drawings, illuminated manuscripts, sculpture, and decorative arts.

Getty Center sits high up on a hill overlooking the city of Los Angeles and is connected to the parking lot at the bottom by a funicular.

Originally, the Getty Museum started in  J. Paul Getty ‘s house located in Pacific Palisades in 1954. After Getty’s death in 1976, the entire property was turned into a museum – the Getty Villa.

However, the collection outgrew the site and management sought a location more accessible to Los Angeles. And this is how the Getty Center was created. Today the Getty Villa displays only the antiquities collection. The rest of the Getty art collections have been moved to the Getty Center.

Admission is free, though temporarily requires a timed-entry reservation. I recommend getting a self-guided audio tour .

LACMA vs the Getty Center

I sometimes get asked whether I would recommend the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) or the Getty Center. This is a difficult decision to make since they both are outstanding art museums. If you are strictly interested in art, then you should go to LACMA as it has a more comprehensive art collection. However, I would choose Getty over LACMA simply because it also has an outstanding location, beautiful gardens, and more varied art collections.

If you are into art, you should also consider visiting the Norton Simon Museum in Pasadena , which has one of the world’s most remarkable private art collections ever assembled. The museum displays European masterworks from the Renaissance to the 20th century, and a collection of South and Southeast Asian art spanning 2,000 years. 

Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Walk of Fame is an internationally recognized Hollywood icon. It encompasses over 2,600 five-pointed stars made of terrazzo and brass and embedded in the sidewalks along Hollywood Boulevard. 

The stars – which are given in recognition for achievements in the entertainment industry – bear the names of famous musicians, actors, directors and producers.

What began as a Chamber of Commerce marketing tactic, is today one of Los Angeles’s biggest magnets. It attracts an estimated 10 million visitors each year.

Chinese Theater

Located on Hollywood Boulevard, in Hollywood, the Chinese Theater became famous for being the venue of the  Academy Awards  ceremony from 1944-1946. But most visitors are lured here by the celebrity handprints and footprints in the concrete of the theater’s forecourt. 

The tradition began during the theater construction, when one of the Hollywood legends at the time accidentally stepped into the wet cement outside the building.

Instead of covering the imprint, theater owner Sid Grauman encouraged other celebrities to repeat the “mistake.” And so it all began. The courtyard is usually cluttered with tourists trying to snap a shot of the famous imprints. 

Enjoy a 30-minute walking tour of TCL Chinese Theater with a ticket to see a movie inside it. Click here to get a Chinese Theater guided tour .

Dolby Theater

Right next to the Chinese Theater, also on Hollywood Boulevard, is the Dolby Theater – the current and permanent home of the Academy Awards. Dolby Theatre opened its doors in 2001 as the  Kodak Theatre .

Its façade is at the front of the Hollywood & Highland Center, a nice shopping area with boutiques and souvenir shops.

The Sunset Strip

The famous Sunset Strip is located in West Hollywood, one of the oldest and most fashionable neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Back in the 60s and 70s, West Hollywood became a major gathering place for the unconventional culture, with hippies, musicians and artists flooding the streets. 

Today, West Hollywood is the hottest destination for the entertainment industry with its boutique hotels, celebrity-owned restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. From elite and trendy clubs to low-key casual bars, gay clubs and old school rock’n roll hangouts, you can find something for everyone. Young actors tend to live out here, so this is the most likely place to see celebrities out on the street.

Huntington Library & Gardens

Hidden in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, just a few miles away from  Downtown Los Angeles , lies one of  the best kept secrets in L.A. : the Huntington Library & Gardens. Spread over 130 acres, this marvelous arboretum features 16 stunning theme gardens, a library, an art museum, a tea house and two cafés. 

The Library, which was founded by the railroad and real estate magnate Henry E. Huntington, contains a fine selection of books and manuscripts. There is also a great art collection in one of the buildings.

But the gardens are the most delighting part of this complex. Extending on 207 acres, the Huntington Gardens display more than 14,000 varieties of plants. Many of them are rare and exotic plants. The area is organized in over a dozen smaller gardens, each one with a very unique atmosphere and color. You have a Rose Garden, a Desert Garden, a Herb Garden, a Japanese Garden, a Jungle Garden, and many more. This is a great place to visit if you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.

Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive is a high end shopping area that stretches between Wilshire Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard and encompasses 3 blocks. The street itself –  Rodeo Drive  – is approximately 2 miles long.

Many people expect to see celebrities roaming around with hefty shopping bags on Rodeo Drive. But you’ll probably meet more tourists than locals here. So is Rodeo Drive worth visiting ? Even though chances of spotting celebrities are slim, Rodeo Drive is a very fancy area, full of luxury stores, fancy boutiques and high-end restaurants, that will surely make you feel like a celebrity.

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Located on South Grand Avenue in downtown Los Angeles, Walt Disney Concert Hall is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Its distinctive appearance, with stunning stainless steel curves, makes it easily recognizable.

Since 2003, when it opened its doors to the public, Walt Disney Hall has received worldwide praises for its stunning architecture and extraordinary sound. 

Attending a concert here is a dream-come-true. But if that doesn’t fit into you schedule, you should at least take a guided tour of the hall and the gardens.

Los Angeles Public Library

Also in Downtown Los Angeles you’ll find the L.A. Public Library, which has been designated a Historic Cultural Monument. The building itself is an architectural gem, featuring a tiled pyramid roof and a beautiful garden. Inside the library you’ll find many beautiful spaces, like the Atrium of the Tom Bradley wing, or the stairway outside the Getty Gallery.

But the focal point of the library is the Rotunda, a huge hall covered with elaborate paintings and a gigantic dome ceiling.

Admission is free.

Broadway Historic Theater District

The historic Broadway Theater District stretches along South Broadway, between 3rd Street and 9th Street, in Downtown Los Angeles.

The best way to visit these historic buildings is to take a tour of the Theater District. Walking into these theaters feels like looking through a window into the entertainment industry’s heyday.

What will surprise you is that some of these theaters seem much bigger on the inside than on the outside.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit to Los Angeles

• As I mentioned at the beginning of this post, Los Angeles’s attractions are spread all over the place. That is why, when making your itinerary, it’s important to group them according to their location, in order to save time on the road. Alternatively, you can make the trip more convenient by renting a car .

• One of the best ways to see Los Angeles on your own is the  Los Angeles Hop-on Hop-off Double Decker Bus Tour . Hop on or off at over 45 popular stops spread across 3 different routes and enjoy panoramic view of the city. You can explore Hollywood, Downtown Los Angeles, and Santa Monica Pier and beaches with a 24- or 48-hour bus pass.

• If you are interested in a guided tour, the 7-hour LA Grand Tour is your best bet. The open bus tour will take you through Hollywood, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica Beach on an open bus, to show you what Los Angeles has to offer. Stop at 4 different locations to experience the highlights of the city.

A Final Thought

Los Angeles is one the world’s most fascinating cities, so no matter what you choose to visit you’ll have an amazing time. Because there is so much to see and do here, you should plan on spending at least  3-4 days in L.A.  And if you have more time, you can add some day trips or easy  getaways from Los Angeles . There are so many beautiful places around!

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Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

Reader Interactions

Neet and Angel apk

January 30, 2024 at 10:10 pm

Wow, I had no idea there were so many amazing places to visit in Los Angeles! As a local, I’m excited to check out some of these attractions I’ve never been to before. Thanks for sharing! 😍

Leslie Smith

August 23, 2022 at 9:16 am

We will be there in a week. I have rented a car. Should I cancel and hop on the bus? This blog is amazing.

August 23, 2022 at 9:42 am

You probably should. If you have a car you can go anywhere you choose to and stay for as long as you want, you won’t need the hop-on-hop-off buss.

July 21, 2022 at 4:38 am

Great blog Anda! With the mindboggling massive volume of land that the city holds, it is no surprise the city has so many attractions Hollywood Bowl, Venice Beach Boardwalk, The Broad, The Hollywood Sign and more. Having a charter bus rental when considering of LA’s tour will be great idea as the professionals are there to plan a perfect vacation for you.

July 21, 2022 at 7:47 am

Yes, that can help too, but most people like to visit L.A. independently, Alvin.

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Top Instagram Worthy Places To See In Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles, or DTLA combines trendiness and historical value with its hip restaurants, cultural attractions, contemporary museums, street art, entertainment options and architecturally rich buildings. The city charms over 22 million tourists a year with its nightlife, photo-worthy scenes, travel must-sees, food and culture. From popular filming locations to trendy markets and eccentric street art, the city is packed with hidden gems in every corner.

For those who live in Los Angeles or other parts of California and haven’t had a chance to explore DTLA and appreciate all it has to offer, now is the perfect time to see the city. Even if you’ve already been to DTLA, you’re bound to discover a new place or corner you haven’t seen before! DTLA is easily accessible via metro and is one of the most pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods in Los Angeles. No matter where you’re at in California, you can easily hop on a train to  Union Station  and head out to DTLA for a fun-filled day! The main Metro exits in Downtown are Union Station, Grand Park,  Pershing Square  and the 7th St/Metro Center, which all run on the red or purple line. You can even get off directly at Chinatown on the yellow line. Explore locally, take day trips to cities you haven’t seen, and use this time to rediscover the beauty California has to offer.

Downtown LA’s vibrant blend of old and new buildings, skyline views, amazing murals from local artists and historic value makes it one of the most photo-worthy areas in California. DTLA is also a hotspot for filming locations and has been featured in several movies from La La Land, Terminator and Rush Hour as well as older classics like Grease and Blade Runner. Artists from around Los Angeles showcase their talent by painting murals throughout the city, giving the DTLA Arts District its reputation for unique graffiti and photographic walls. From the architecture of the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad Museum to the magical bookstore and urban street art in the Arts District, you won’t find photo opportunities like this anywhere else! Get your camera ready and document memories that will last you a lifetime.

By Kinya Claiborne & Thy Nguyen, STYLE & SOCIETY

Photo Credit: Kinga Sarabia, Bobby McGee, Donnell Spencer Jr., Carl Gerard

Second Street Tunnel

620 W. 2nd Street,  Los Angeles, CA 90012

Photo Credit: Kinga Sarabia

With its distinctive glossy white tunnels that resemble a photographic light box, the Second Street Tunnel has gained the title of being “LA’s Most Recognized Landmark No One Has Heard Of”. The 1500 foot long tunnel was built in 1924 to relieve congestion in the Third Street tunnel and has since become a widely filmed and photographed tunnel. It is one of the most famous movie locations as well as a popular location for several car advertisements. The Second Street Tunnel can be seen in films such as Blade Runner, Terminator, Rocky IV, Kill Bill, Transformers and many others. Many artists such as Cardi B, The Weekend, The Goo Goo Dolls, Bon Jovi, and Ke$ha have also shot music videos in this tunnel. It served as the set for designer Michelle Mason at LA Fashion Week in 2004 and the Elysium/Audi Party at the 2013 Golden Globe Awards. Next time you’re in Downtown Los Angeles, make sure you stop by this tunnel and follow in the footsteps of these iconic Hollywood celebrities!

Third Street Bridge

234 S. Figueroa Street Los Angeles, CA 90012

Photo Credit: Carl Gerard

The Downtown Los Angeles skyline can be seen from miles away all throughout California and is one of DTLA’s most notable sights. The closer you get to the city, the better the skyline views. While there are many skyline views, one of the best perspectives is the Third Street Bridge. The Third Street Bridge is located directly next to the  Bunker Hill Tower Apartments . You can access the bridge from the concrete spiral stairs on the northeast corner of Third Street and Figueroa Street.  The Wilshire Grand Center  is the tallest building in the skyline as of June 2017, standing at 1,100 feet high. It is the tallest building in California, West of the Mississippi River and the 14th tallest building in the United States. You can see the majority of the buildings perfectly from the Third Street Bridge and get several skyline shots that will instantly up your Instagram game.

Walt Disney Concert Hall

111 S. Grand Ave Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of the most iconic buildings in Downtown Los Angeles and is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra and Los Angeles Master Chorale. It was designed in 2003 by Frank Gehry and has since hosted events such as the world premiere of  The Matrix Revolutions  and  Idol Gives Back  with Ellen Degeneres. Its stainless steel with a matte finish has been seen on television in Collateral starring Jamie Foxx, Iron Man, Furious 7, and Get Smart. Rascal Flatts, II Divo, Kelly Clarkson and other great musicians have held performances here. This is one pit stop in Downtown LA you need to visit.

221 S. Grand Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90012

The Broad Museum is one of the world’s leading collections of postwar and contemporary art and is home to over 2,000 works of art. This two-story museum is one of Downtown’s greatest attractions and one you cannot miss. This contemporary art museum is like no other with its unique architecture and interactive installations. Popular installations at The Broad include Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Room – The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away, Jeff Koons’ Balloon Dog and Under The Table, a 10-foot tall table and chairs installation by Robert Therrien. This museum offers free general admission and several photo ops that will last you a lifetime.

Lower Grand Tunnel

W Gen Thad Kosciuszko Way Los Angeles, CA 90012

Right under The Broad Museum lies another popular filming location you may not have known about! The Lower Grand Tunnel is located on Grand Avenue and West Gen Thad Kosciuszko Way. It has been featured in films all throughout Hollywood including The Terminator, The Dark Knight Rises , Batman Forever and Austin Powers in Goldmember . The tunnel is also used largely for fashion shoots, car photoshoots and car commercials such as Audi , Mitsubishi , and Hyundai . When you visit the tunnel, you will most likely see tons of cars and cameras no matter what time of day it is. The skylight in the tunnel provides perfect light for all your shots when the sun shines down into the tunnel. Be sure to check out this notorious film and photoshoot location on your DTLA adventures!

  200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Photo Credit: Donnell Spencer Jr.

Head over to Grand Park for a change of scenery and for some relaxation time. Grand Park has been around since 1966 and is located in the civic center of Los Angeles directly across from City Hall. Take in some beautiful scenery as you sit by the fountain drinking your Starbucks and enjoying the weather at the park. You can walk around, have a socially distant picnic with your friends, and see City Hall. Grand Park even has events such as yoga in the park, disco nights, summits, food trucks, concerts and food festivals! They have a great Fourth of July Fireworks Show, a New Year’s Eve block party and fireworks show and Winter Glow during the months of December and January. Winter Glow is a collection of light interactive installations that will satisfy your desire to see some Christmas lights. The fountain at Grand Park is the biggest fountain in Downtown Los Angeles with lights that change colors every night and make for a perfect picture!

Los Angeles Music Center

135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Photo Credit: Bobby McGee

The Music Center is one of the largest performing arts centers in the United States located in the Bunker Hill district of Downtown Los Angeles. It includes the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Mark Taper Forum , Dorothy Chandler Pavilion and the Ahmanson Theater . The Los Angeles Philharmonic, Los Angeles Opera, Los Angeles Master Chorale and the Center Theatre Group all frequently hold performances, plays and concerts at the Music Center. The plaza includes a huge fountain, a coffee shop, big screens, and restaurants. There are even stairs and glass walls where you can take trendy pictures that will make you feel like you’re in New York rather than Downtown LA.

Grand Central Market & Angel’s Flight

317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013 & 350 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071

Grand Central Market is a bustling open food hall located in Bunker Hill that has been around for over a hundred years. Residents would ride down on Angel’s Flight and shop for groceries since 1917. Today, Grand Central Market has close to 50 vendors with new vendors constantly joining the community! It is home to some of LA’s most popular restaurants including Eggslut, Lucky Bird, Ramen Hood and more. The newest addition to the family is The Donut Man. Whether you’re looking to grab some fresh fruit, a quick bite or a full meal, the food options are endless at this food emporium! Satisfy your craving for Mexican food, Thai food, breakfast sandwiches, pasta, pizza and more. There’s even a little grocery store on the lower level and vendors that sell clothing and other various merchandise. You definitely donut want to miss out on coming here for an amazing dining experience.

Next door is Angel’s Flight, the world’s shortest railway located in the California Plaza across from Grand Central Market. It’s a short ride between Hill Street and Grave Ave on Bunker Hill. It costs $1.00 each way or you can spend $2.00 for a roundtrip ride and souvenir ticket. There is a $0.50 discount for TAP Metro card users. Angel’s Flight has been part of the Hollywood scene for over 100 years. Its debut film was Good Night Nurse in 1918 and has served as a location for movies we all know and love such as The Muppets and La La Land. Transport yourself to a different era as you take a ride on this classic railway!

Los Angeles Public Library

630 W. 5th Street Los Angeles, CA 90071

The Los Angeles Public Library has been around since 1926 and is a historic DTLA landmark. It is the largest publicly funded library system in the United States and the third largest public library in the United States in terms of books and periodical holdings. The interior of the library has chandeliers, statues, a four part mural and several other remarkable features. The exterior of the library is equally eye-catching and has hidden gems such as fountains, gardens and statues all around the area. Next time you’re in Downtown, be sure to check out the library and a book!

The Last Bookstore

453 S Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Photo Credit: Donnell Spencer Jr

Josh Spencer began selling books and other things online, focused on books and opened a small bookstore on 4th and Main Street in 2005. In June 2011, he moved the bookstore to the Spring Arts Tower. The Last Bookstore is a former bank vault that was converted into a two-story Instagrammable bookstore. There are books on both levels as well as in the former vault. Josh Spencer wanted to create a bookstore with artistic displays that would convert Instagram visitors into book purchasers. You can find books ranging on just about every topic from old childhood classics to books on history and racism. Upstairs you can find the lit up book tunnel, the book circle and even some art from the Spring Arts Collective. The Spring Arts Collective is made up of art installations, mini galleries and gift shops on the second level of the bookstore. The second you walk into the bookstore, it will feel like you stepped into a world of fantasy, fiction, history and magic. It’s a reading wonderland and every book lover’s dream! You can even sit on the chairs, benches and couches and read as you lose yourself in a whole other world.

Broadway Theater District

929 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015

Broadway was the principal entertainment center in Downtown Los Angeles and is the only large concentration of movie palaces left in the United States. It is a six block street that contains twelve movie theaters built between 1910 and 1931. The surviving theaters on this block are the Million Dollar Theater, Roxie Theater, Cameo Theater, Arcade Theater, Los Angeles Theatre, Palace Theater, State Theatre, Globe Theatre, Tower Theatre, Rialto Theater, Orpheum Theatre and the United Artists Theater. Several events, screenings and concerts are still held in these theaters today.

The United Artist Theater is a flagship theater built for the United Artists Motion Picture Studio. In 1990, the theater was converted into a church, but was converted back into a hotel and auditorium in 2013. The auditorium is now used as a concert venue, theater and has three bars. Performers such as Red Hot Chili Peppers and Celine Dion have held concerts at this venue. Walk along the Broadway Theater District as you’re exploring Downtown Los Angeles and soak in the architecture and history it has to offer!

Chinatown 

943 N Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Chinatown has been one of L.A.’s most popular tourist destinations since June 1938 and is located in Downtown Los Angeles near the city’s civic and cultural center. You can find the hottest restaurants and bars, Bruce Lee’s old studio, art galleries and more! Stop by the  Chinese American Museum , keep your eye out for the Twin Dragons gateway at the entrance,and the Bruce Lee statue at the Central Plaza. The Chinatown Central Plaza is filled with vivid colors and patterns, hanging lanterns and amazing architecture. It’s picturesque at every corner and so unique that no two photos will be the same! Walk into the little shops and grab yourself some souvenirs. Once you’ve finished exploring, head over to one of the several restaurants around. Some of LA’s most popular restaurants like  Howlin Rays  and  Phillipe’s French Dip  are around the corner or grub on some authentic Chinese food at places like  Yang Chow  or  Foo Chow , the famous restaurant from Rush Hour. Stop in for some cocktails at  General Lee’s  or  Grand Star Jazz Club . No matter where you go in Chinatown, you’re guaranteed to have the time of your life!

Olvera Street

125 Paseo De La Plaza, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Olvera Street is a colorful Mexican marketplace that is full of culture, history and shops. It is known as “the birthplace of Los Angeles” and was created in 1930 to preserve the customs and trades of early California. You can stroll along the brick road and take in the historical buildings as you browse through the handmade pottery, wallets, leather and art. With the mariachi music playing and the beautiful sights, it feels as if you’re actually in Mexico. While you’re there, the  Cielito Lindo  taquito stand is a must. They have the most delicious and authentic taquitos in all of Los Angeles! Olvera Street is a historical landmark of Los Angeles that you need to visit next time you’re in town.

Little Tokyo

335 E 2nd St, Los Angeles, CA 90012

If you’re in the mood for some authentic Japanese cuisine and fun shops, Little Tokyo is just the place for you! Little Tokyo has been around since 1905 and is one of the last remaining three Japantowns in the United States. The entire plaza has Japanese lanterns hanging from the buildings and makes for a picture perfect moment! It has over 15 authentic ramen places, sushi, shabu shabu, yakitori and tons of dessert.  Daikokuya  is the best ramen spot in LA and while the wait is usually long, it’s worth every second.

Little Tokyo has bakeries that sell Japanese pastries, a grocery store,  Honeymee , and a mochi ice cream shop called  Mikawaya . Once you’re done eating, check out one of the museums or head to one of the Japanese gardens. The  James Irvine Japanese Garden  is located in the Japanese American Cultural and Community Center and there is also a garden on the rooftop of the DoubleTree Hotel. Be sure to check out Weller Court and the Little Tokyo Galleria for some shopping. As you’re walking around, make sure to keep your eye out for the pink staircase and pink mural with blue eyes. It’s located near the Non Factory Skateboard Shop and will give your Instagram feed the pop of color you’ve been looking for. There’s also a Daiso, a Sanrio store, an arcade, purikura photo booths, karaoke bars and bowling alleys nearby! Little Tokyo has it all and will leave you wanting to take a trip to Japan as soon as you leave.

Arts District

Chromatic Cascade Wall by Jen Stark: 1828 Conway Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90021

The Arts District is one of the hottest neighborhoods in Downtown Los Angeles with its eye catching murals, street art and industrial buildings. The neighborhood began as a vineyard, grew into an industrial center for manufacturing and railroads and is now home to creatives in art, technology and architecture. The Arts District has unique, fun and Instagram worthy walls on just about every street! Whether you’re on the hunt for the popular angel wings by Colette Miller, the inspirational WRDSMTH quotes or the Chromatic Cascade wall, you will find endless street art that will have you snapping pictures all day long. The Arts district is also home to urban coffee shops, trendy bars,  Urth Caffe , and some hole-in-the wall art museums like Hauser & Wirth or  Over The Influence . Take a break and stop into  Salt & Straw  for the most delicious ice cream you’ll ever taste in your life. While you’re there, be sure to keep your eye out for the colorful steps on the Fourth Street Bridge!

One Santa Fe

300 S Santa Fe Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90013

One Santa Fe is a small plaza in the Arts District with murals and artwork that are bound to make you fall in love. You can stop here for a quick bite at  EdiBol  or  Cafe Gratitude , grab some ice cream at  Van Leeuwen’s , get your nails done or check out a bookstore! You’ve surely seen rainbow heart walls and WRDSMTH walls all around LA and if you’ve wanted to take some cute pictures of yourself, now’s your chance.

Hauser & Wirth

901 East 3rd Street, Los Angeles CA 90013

Iwan and Manuela Wirth, alongside Manuela’s mother Ursula Hauser, founded Hauser & Wirth in 1992 in Zurich. In March 2016, they opened an art gallery in Downtown Los Angeles in the Arts District. The gallery sits in the former Global Mills complex and has approximately two to three exhibits being simultaneously displayed. The artwork is a mixture of contemporary art and historical collections that tell a story. The plaza also includes  Manuela , a restaurant that uses fresh produce from its garden right next to the restaurant as well as a bookstore and gift shop that sells artwork and fun, miscellaneous accessories. The two exhibits currently on display are Lucio Fontana Walking the Space: Spatial Environments 1948-1968 until September 13, 2020 and August Sander: New Women, New Men and New Identities until July 19, 2020. The museum is free general admission as long as you book your reservations online in advance. Don’t forget to check out the green wall on the East side of the building for some fun shots! There are plenty of photo ops throughout this entire area so have your camera ready and dive into a world of art.

 777 Alameda St, Los Angeles, CA 90021

Located a few streets down from the main neighborhood of the Arts District, The Row DTLA is a trendy district with retail outlets, pop-up shops, galleries and exhibits, restaurants, coffee shops and office spaces. This is the perfect place to come if you need a new workspace or want to work and get fresh air at the same time. The Row is the home of  Smorgasburg , the largest weekly open-air food market in America with the best food vendors from all over Los Angeles. Eat until you drop, hang out with your friends in the Beer Garden, listen to live music and shop to your heart’s content every Sunday. The Row has also held events such as pop-up Christmas museums and Haus of Creep, an interactive haunted Halloween show last year. Look for the Instagram worthy walls around The Row including this pop art, comic style “You Are Going To Be Fine” mural by Leta Sobierajski. You can find this art next to  Poketo  and snap some pictures by the artwork right next to the parking garage.

150 N Myers St, Los Angeles, CA 90033

The Los Angeles River flows nearly 51 miles from Canoga Park to its mouth in Long Beach and has been featured in entertainment for years. Terminator 2: Judgement Day, Chinatown, Grease, Drive, American Horror Story and Amazing Race have all been shot at the LA River. Kanye West, Maroon 5 and Good Charlotte have also filmed music videos at this iconic landmark. The First Street Bridge and Fourth Street Bridge are popular photoshoot locations that will add a pop you didn’t know you needed to your Instagram feed.

The main entrances to the LA River have been closed off. To get down to the river, type in the address of the Color Graphics building and park your car in the lot. You can also get there by driving to First Street and Mission, turning left on Mission, turning left right before the freeway entrance and accessing the parking lot. From there, you will need to venture across the train tracks, find the broken gates, climb the wall and scale down the wall to the river. Be careful of the broken glass as you’re climbing down and don’t worry, it looks a lot steeper than it actually is! Once you’ve climbed down the wall, you can capture amazing shots and walk along the river. The river is mostly dry, but is beautiful if you can catch the flow. You can even ride your bike and skateboard down to the river. Once you’ve taken in all its beauty, head back up to the parking lot and snap some train track shots. The trains are still running so be weary and look both ways! There’s even a beautiful skyline view from the parking lot.

Tags: Kinya Claiborne Lifestyle Travel

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Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A First Timers Guide to The Best Places

Written By: Sara Oprasic

United States

Published On: April 16, 2024

Los Angeles is a fantastic city and definitely the most popular tourist destination on the West Coast. It’s a place everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime, but trying to find a hotel in LA is similar to looking for a needle in a haystack. With more than 1,000 hotels to choose from, how on Earth can you settle on just one? With my help, of course! This detailed guide on all the best hotels in Los Angeles compares all the most popular destinations in LA to help you find the best city area and hotel room for you.

Best Places To Stay In Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a very big city that encompasses several smaller areas that are also cities by definition. Beverly Hills is not part of the city of LA administratively, but it is such an iconic part of the area that everyone disregards the technicalities. And it’s one of the best places to stay in LA, even if it’s technically a different city. 

LA is massive, and choosing the right place to stay can make or break your trip. Consider which attractions you’re most interested in and how you plan to get around, and then decide on the appropriate area. If you want to party like a rockstar, make it West Hollywood or Santa Monica if you enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the sounds of the whooshing waves. I’ve got a few more suggestions, so let’s get into all the top places to stay in Los Angeles. 

West Hollywood

The bustling West Hollywood is an excellent area of LA for first-time visitors. It’s known for live music venues and clubs where the party never stops. This is by far the best part of LA for nightlife, whether you want to rock out with up-and-coming bands at Whisky a Go Go or laugh until your stomach hurts at The Comedy Store. 

West Hollywood is also known for the Sunset Strip, a vibrant neighborhood along Sunset Boulevard. That’s precisely where you’ll find most of the area’s best bars and clubs, but also some of LA’s best hotels. 

Consider staying here if you’re looking for mid-range or high-end hotels with premium service and excellent amenities. This isn’t the best area of LA for budget stays, but it offers more options than neighborhoods like the Beverly Hills or the Hollywood Hills.  

Luxury: The West Hollywood Edition

The West Hollywood Edition is a luxury hotel on Sunset Boulevard. Featuring a rooftop swimming pool with panoramic views, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and an excellent spa, the hotel is truly a top choice for a lavish stay in LA. The guest rooms at The Edition are all extra large and decorated with contemporary, LA-style furnishings, which means a lot of white furniture with warm wooden accents. 

Every room at this fabulous hotel offers an ensuite bathroom, a desk, a seating area, and a flat-screen TV. All the guest rooms have walk-in showers, while the larger suites offer both a shower and a bath. The hotel offers rooms on lower and higher floors, and I must point out that the rooms on higher floors have some of the best views of LA. 

Mid-Range: The Charlie West Hollywood

The Charlie West Hollywood is a four-star hotel set in a house that Charlie Chaplin once called home. As far as unique stays go in LA, this is one of the best options. The hotel is also within walking distance of Melrose Avenue, where you’ll find some iconic LA sights like the Pink Wall and the Hollywood Improv. 

The Charlie offers spacious suites, all featuring a bathroom and a kitchen. Every suite also has a desk, a seating area, a TV, and a coffee maker. Guests have access to a dishwasher in their room and the hotel’s laundry room. Everyone staying at The Charlie gets a private terrace, and guests can also use the shared garden space. 

Mid-Range: Hotel Ziggy Los Angeles

Hotel Ziggy is a nice hotel with excellent rates for Sunset Strip. And it’s a hotel you won’t regret booking, which I can’t say about some of the other, cheaper hotels in this area Trust me on this one. 

In addition to the premium location, this boutique hotel offers medium-sized rooms with comfortable beds and private bathrooms. Every guest room has a desk, seating area, and a TV. All guests at the Ziggy Hotel are welcome to make use of the saltwater pool and 24-hour gym. Some of LA’s best clubs and live music venues are just a short walk from this hotel, so definitely consider staying here if you want to experience this aspect of life in Los Angeles. 

Budget: Banana Bungalow West Hollywood Hotel & Hostel

The Banana Bungalow is one of the very few true budget options in West Hollywood. I originally wasn’t going to include it because its cleanliness ratings don’t meet my very high standards, but I figure you should be aware that the option exists, especially if cleanliness isn’t your pet peeve. Beds at this hostel are as low as $35 per night, with breakfast included, which is possibly the lowest rate in LA. 

Guests can also enjoy free coffee and tea all day long at this property, which is pretty cool. Billiards, foosball, and table tennis are available in the common spaces, so there’s plenty of opportunity for mingling and entertainment. The hostel’s cheapest option is dormitory beds, but it also offers a double room with a private bathroom. 

Pros of Staying in West Hollywood 

• Excellent nightlife
• Very LGBTQ+ friendly
•  Great for luxury hotel stays 

Cons of Staying in West Hollywood 

• The hotels aren’t cheap 
• Limited public transport 
• A crowded neighborhood

Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles is probably my favorite area of LA for a first visit. It’s one of a few walkable neighborhoods in the city with enough attractions that you can stay busy for a couple of days. Book a hotel in Downtown LA if you don’t have a car to get around because many interesting sights are within walking distance, plus the neighborhood has great public transport connections to other parts of the city. 

Ride the Angels Flight Railway, discover the modern art displayed at The Broad, see the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall, and get something to eat at Grand Central Market. Downtown LA is the undisputed heart of the city with music arenas, historic movie theaters, and high-rise buildings. 

This part of LA offers various hotels in every price range, and it’s one of the best city areas for a budget stay. It’s also the best part of the city to truly understand the divide between the vastly wealthy and the poor; just a few blocks from the high-rise office buildings and lavish hotels is Skid Row, the neighborhood with the largest population of homeless people in the US. Keep this in mind when exploring the Downtown, and stay away from the more dangerous neighborhoods, especially at night. 

Luxury: The Ritz Carlton

There are many luxury hotels in Downtown Los Angeles, but few are as fabulous as The Ritz Carlton . It’s one of the tallest skyscrapers in the neighborhood and one of the priciest hotels in the city, so there’s hardly a better option for a true luxury stay in LA. The hotel features very spacious rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with private bathrooms, TVs, desks, and seating areas. 

If you’re going to book a room at this hotel, make sure it’s on one of the higher floors. All the rooms at the Ritz Carlton have huge windows, but only the ones on the higher floors offer sweeping views of the Los Angeles skyline. As for the other amenities, this luxury hotel boasts a heated outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, a spa center, and several restaurants. 

Mid-Range: Omni Los Angeles Hotel

Omni Los Angeles is a nice four-star hotel with an excellent location in Downtown LA. It’s situated right next to the Museum of Contemporary Art and just a few steps from the Angel’s Flight Railway. Book a room at this hotel if you want to be within walking distance of some of the best landmarks in Downtown Los Angeles, but also just a couple of minutes from the Grand Park metro station. 

The Omni offers an outdoor swimming pool, three restaurants, a bar, and a nice spa and wellness center. All the guest rooms are spacious and feature ensuite marble and granite bathrooms. Desks, seating areas, flat-screen TVs, and coffee makers are also included in every room. Try to get one of the high-floor rooms for sweeping city views from the comfort of your bed. 

Budget: Freehand Los Angeles

The Freehand Los Angeles is probably my favorite option for budget travelers. It’s a four-star hotel with fantastic private rooms, as well as mixed dormitories. Travelers can book a single bed in a larger dormitory and spend a night in the heart of LA for less than $70. Yes, that’s still a bit steep for a budget stay, but the hotel has a rooftop pool with a sprawling pool deck that offers fabulous views of Los Angeles. 

Also, the bigger dormitories have two ensuite bathrooms, which is twice as many as you get in most hotels. Smaller, female-only dormitories are available, and they’re only a little pricier per night. The hotel is only a five-minute walk from the 7th Street metro station, which can take you to the iconic Holywood Walk of Fame in under half an hour or even all the way to Santa Monica in under an hour. It’s worth noting that the private rooms are much pricier, so only the dormitories are a true budget option in this part of LA. 

Pros of Staying in Downtown Los Angeles

• Walkable area
• Affordable hotel options 
• Lots of attractions and landmarks 
• Great public transport connections to the rest of the city 

Cons of Staying in Downtown Los Angeles

• Quite far from Hollywood and Beverly Hills 
• Very busy during the day 
• Not all areas are tourist-friendly 

Beverly Hills

Few places in this world are as well-known and legendary as Beverly Hills. The posh LA city is known around the world for Rodeo Drive, the iconic shopping street lined with luxury fashion stores. Beverly Hills is the synonym for wealth and opulence, and as such, it caters to a very niche group of travelers. 

In other words, if you’ve got money to burn, you’ll absolutely love it here. But if you’re trying to visit LA on a budget, I do not recommend staying at Beverly Hills at all. The neighborhood is nice and generally quite safe, but it’s also one of the most expensive areas in LA. There are no true budget hotels here, only cheap mid-range hotels and very old hotels that are very much falling apart. 

Beverly Hills offers iconic LA landmarks and locations, plus it’s pretty close to West Hollywood and Hollywood. It’s a good base for a more thorough exploration of LA, especially if you want to stay in a more quiet part of the city. Just remember that everything here is very expensive. 

Luxury: The Beverly Hills Hotel

The Beverly Hills Hotel is one of the best five-star hotels in this upscale area. It is on Sunset Boulevard, so it is just a short drive from The Strip and Rodeo Drive. Come here if you want to have an epic vacation in Los Angeles and enjoy some much-deserved R&R. Everything about this hotel screams luxury, from the high-end furniture to the vast ensuite bathrooms with double sinks. 

The Beverly Hills Hotel suites are in a league of their own, but it’s the bungalows that offer the authentic Hollywood experience. They’re inspired by their most famous guests, and you can usually tell which movie stars inspired the bungalows from the decor. The hotel also offers an outdoor pool and a full-service spa, as well as three restaurants.  

Luxury: Beverly Wilshire

We’re talking about Beverly Hills, so of course, I had to include two luxury hotels. Beverly Willshire offers the best shopping location in the area because it is only a few feet away from Rodeo Drive. It overlooks the Rodeo Drive Steps, and all that stands between this hotel and the best shopping in Los Angeles is a street crossing. 

This is a Four Seasons hotel, so everything about it is top-notch. The rooms are large and modern, with private bathrooms and floor-to-ceiling windows. The beds are extremely comfortable, and every room features a desk, a seating area, and a TV. All guests are welcome to use the hotel’s outdoor pool and can enjoy dinner at the hotel’s Michelin-starred steakhouse with a menu created by Wolfgang Puck. 

Mid-Range: The Beverly Hilton

The Beverly Hilton is the best option for a mid-range hotel in Beverly Hills. The four-star hotel features large rooms with comfortable double beds and roomy private bathrooms. All the guest rooms are equipped with a desk, couch, and flat-screen TV. Terraces with views of Downtown LA are reserved only for specific rooms. 

The Beverly Hilton offers a swimming pool, restaurant, fitness center, and several entertainment spaces. The hotel has many other facilities that make it a great place to stay, in addition to the superb location. Guests can play outdoor chess, visit the beauty salon, or just hang out at the hotel lounge. 

Budget: Maison 140 Beverly Hills

Maison 140 Beverly Hills is one of the most affordable hotels in this area. The rooms go for around $200, which is as cheap as it gets in Beverly Hills. The hotel is in need of some updating, but it’s in pretty good condition. All the rooms are decorated with somewhat tacky furniture, which is a bit of a nod to Parisian Inns from the previous century. 

The guest rooms are medium-sized, with large ensuite bathrooms and lots of decorations throughout. Every room features a desk and TV, and all guests get access to free Wi-Fi. However, the hotel lacks other facilities, as there is no restaurant, pool, or gym on the grounds. 

Pros of Staying in Beverly Hills

• The best part of LA for luxury hotel stays 
• High-end shops and restaurants 
• One of the safest areas of LA

Cons of Staying in Beverly Hills 

• Worst area for budget travelers 
• Fewer tourist attractions 
• Far from Downtown LA 

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is a small city on the coast, situated west of central Los Angeles. It’s a more peaceful area near LA with easy beach access, a small amusement park on the Santa Monica Pier, and more affordable hotel rates. If you want to experience a different kind of Los Angeles and stay close to the beach, Santa Monica might just be perfect for you. 

The small city is connected to Downtown LA by metro and bus, and you can be in the heart of Los Angeles in less than an hour. From there, you’re only 20-30 minutes away from West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and all the tourist sights that might interest you. And if you have a car in LA, you’re just a 20-minute drive along Santa Monica Boulevard from the center of all action. 

Santa Monica is also much closer to the airport than central LA, making it my top choice for shorter stays in Los Angeles. You’ll be able to beat the traffic more easily, and Uber will be significantly cheaper than if you were to travel to the airport all the way from the center of Los Angeles. 

Luxury: Shutters On The Beach

Shutters On The Beach is a fantastic five-star hotel located on Santa Monica Beach.  The hotel is also within walking distance of Venice Beach, as well as all the top attractions in Santa Monica. The beachfront hotel offers a fantastic outdoor pool, two restaurants, and a great spa center. Everything about this hotel reminds me of a huge country house, which I think is the perfect vibe for a relaxed vacation. 

Both restaurants are on the beach with lovely panoramic views. As for the guest rooms, they’re all spacious with extra-large and comfortable double beds. Every room has a spacious private bathroom, TV, a seating area, and a coffee machine. Some superior rooms have balconies that overlook the beach, and they’re the best option if you want to experience the best Shutters offers. 

Mid-Range: Viceroy Santa Monica

Viceroy Santa Monica is an excellent hotel for travelers who want to stay close to the beach. The rooms are contemporary but with lots of colorful accents that make them feel cozy and homey. Every hotel room features a spacious private bathroom, a desk, a small lounge area, and massive windows with stunning views. 

The Viceroy has two outdoor pools lined with cabanas. It’s the perfect setup for a relaxed day spent sipping cocktails by the pool. For meals, the hotel offers a restaurant with eclectic furniture indoors and a sprawling outdoor terrace. Overall, if you enjoy staying in design hotels where everything is carefully thought-out, and the staff is extremely professional, you will not be let down by the Viceroy Santa Monica. 

Budget: HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel

HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel is one of the cheapest hostels in the LA area. If you’re on a very tight budget and are looking to spend as little money as possible on accommodation, this is one of the best options. The hostel is mere steps away from Santa Monica Beach and Palisades Park, plus it’s within walking distance of the Santa Monica Pier. 

The metro station is also very close to the hotel, and it offers direct access to Downtown LA. Everything at the hostel is squeaky clean, which is the most important thing for me. Guests can choose to stay in single-sex or mixed dormitories, which can have 4-10 beds. A private room with an ensuite bathroom is also available, and it’s well worth the money if you’re traveling with at least three other people. The hostel also offers a lounge area, a TV room, and a garden that all guests are welcome to enjoy. 

Pros of Staying in Santa Monica

• Best for beach vacations 
• Cheaper than Downtown LA and Hollywood 
• A safe area for tourists 
• Closer to the airport 

Cons of Staying in Santa Monica

• Quite far from the city center
• Fewer landmarks and attractions in the area 
• Crowded with tourists 

Culver City 

Culver City is a great area of LA for a very specific group of travelers. If you’re excited to come to the City of Angels for its moviemaking history, you really should consider staying in Culver City. It is a little farther away from Hollywood and Downtown LA than most people like, but it has so many interesting things to see that you don’t even have to venture into Los Angeles proper to have a good time. It takes just 45 minutes to reach the Downtown area by public transport. 

Culver City was the center for film production in the 1920s, and would later become equally important in television production. It was the home of MGM for the better part of the previous century, and it’s still the headquarters for Sony Pictures Entertainment and National Public Radio West. 

Tour the Sony Pictures Studio to see where the Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy are filmed, and then catch a movie at the historic Culver Theater. The city also has a buzzing gastronomic scene with loads of top-notch eateries and nice cocktail bars. Oh, and staying here is significantly cheaper than staying in LA proper, so it’s great if you want to save some money. 

Luxury: The Culver Hotel

The Culver Hotel is one of the best hotels in Culver City. It is a four-star hotel situated right next to the Culver Theater. The location can hardly get any better, especially since the hotel is less than a mile up the street from Sony Pictures Studios. Also, the hotel is set in a historic building, which was erected way back in 1924.

The rooms at the Culver Hotel exude vintage luxury. Every room has an ensuite bathroom, a desk, a small seating area, and a coffee maker. The hotel offers in-room spa services to all the guests, which is pretty amazing. There’s a restaurant on-site as well as a fitness center, but no pool. And that’s probably the main reason why this hotel doesn’t have a five-star rating. 

Mid-Range: The Shay

The Shay is a Hyatt hotel, in a similar price range to the Culver Hotel. It’s situated on the northern edge of Culver City, directly opposite the Culver City light rail station. You can be in Downtown LA in under 30 minutes from this hotel, which is awesome for sightseeing. The Shay Hotel offers large rooms with modern furnishings and two on-site restaurants. 

Every guest room includes an ensuite bathroom, a desk, a TV, a coffee maker, and a seating area. I really like the decor of the rooms; it is contemporary, but there are plenty of colorful accents that make the rooms actually feel warm and cozy. The Shay also boasts a fitness center and a rooftop pool with a cocktail bar. Oh, and there are chairs in the pool, which is by far my favorite little detail about this excellent hotel. 

Budget: Travelodge by Wyndham Culver City

Travelodge by Wyndham is a good option for travelers on a tighter budget who don’t want to stay in hostels. This hotel offers affordable double rooms and studios at reasonable rates. All guests have access to a private bathroom in the room, as well as a desk and a seating area. There’s also a coffee machine in every room. The beds are big and comfortable, plus the hotel is in a pretty peaceful area of Culver City, so you’ll get a good night’s sleep. 

Also, the Travelodge Hotel is just a 20-minute walk from Sony Pictures Studio, and it’s close to several bus stops that can help you get to Downtown LA in under an hour. There’s a restaurant on-site and a vending machine for drinks, but it’s worth noting that the hotel doesn’t have a fitness center, spa, or pool. 

Pros of Staying in Culver City: 

• Hotels and restaurants are affordable
• Easy access to Downtown LA with public transport
• Great for movie lovers 

Cons of Staying in Culver City: 

• Fewer tourist attractions than in LA proper
• Traffic jams can make the journey into LA last a while 
• Fewer hotel options 

Silver Lake

Silver Lake is a trendy area of LA that has been consistently growing in popularity. Nowadays, it’s known as the hipster part of the city, which means one thing: craft coffee shops in Galore. If you’re anything like me and can’t resist a good cup of coffee, I think you might just love it at Silver Lake. 

This neighborhood is also mostly residential, with very few hotels. But that’s not a bad thing at all; Silver Lake is generally a more peaceful part of LA, which is considered perfectly safe for both locals and tourists. 

Stay at a hotel in Silver Lake, and you’ll be roughly half an hour from both Hollywood and Downtown LA. The neighborhood also borders Los Feliz, from where you can easily hike to the Hollywood Sign and the Griffith Observatory. Overall, it’s a good place to base yourself for exploring the touristy sights in LA, especially if you prefer being away from the crowds and noise of the busiest tourist centers. 

Luxury: The Paramour Estate

The Paramour Estate is a sprawling luxury property in the heart of Silver Lake. Featuring opulent guest rooms, suites, and cottages, this is one of LA’s premier estates for anyone who wants to feel like a movie star for a couple of days. It’s possible to rent the entire property, but I can’t even imagine how much that would cost. So, it’s great that you can also rent individual rooms at The Paramour Estate. 

All the rooms and suites are adorned with luxurious decor and equipped with designer furniture. There’s a pool on the grounds that guests are welcome to enjoy, and the entire estate is just a few minutes from the Silver Lake Reservoir with beautiful nature and relaxing walking trails. 

Mid-Range: Silver Lake Pool & Inn

Silver Lake Pool & Inn is a four-star hotel with modern and spacious rooms. The hotel is on Santa Monica Boulevard, roughly an hour’s walk from both the Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, so you’re still pretty close to all the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles. The rooms are clean and beautifully decorated, with spacious ensuite bathrooms and lots of warm wooden decor. 

There’s an outdoor pool at this inn, which is a tad small but still very nice. Guests can relax on the loungers by the pool and enjoy LA’s endless sunny days or hang out at the on-site coffee house to see why Silver Lake is locally known as a hipster’s paradise. There’s an Italian restaurant at this hotel for delicious dinners, but it’s worth noting that the inn doesn’t offer a fitness center or a spa. 

Budget: Comfort Inn Los Angeles 

Comfort Inn Los Angeles is an affordable place to stay on West Sunset Boulevard. It’s only half an hour from the city center by public transport, and a bus stop is directly across the street from the Inn. Also, this small hotel includes breakfast with every nightly rate, which starts at just $130 for a double room. That’s insanely cheap for LA, so consider this hotel if you’re on a tight budget but you would prefer not to share a bathroom with strangers. 

The Comfort Inn rooms are medium-sized and include ensuite bathrooms. The furniture is a little outdated, but nothing is falling apart, and the place is clean. Every room includes a TV and a microwave, as well as a desk, minifridge, and small seating areas. Granted, it’s a pretty small TV, but I wouldn’t count the inches for this price. 

Pros of Staying in Silver Lake

• Accommodation is more affordable
• Safe area for tourists
• Very close to Hollywood and Downtown LA 

Cons of Staying in Silver Lake 

• Few tourist attractions in the neighborhood
• Not many hotels to choose from 
• Quite far from Beverly Hills 

Best Areas To Stay in Los Angeles FAQ’s

What is the best area to stay in Los Angeles? 

The best area to stay in Los Angeles is either West Hollywood or Downtown LA. Either area offers easy walking access to famous landmarks and attractions, as well as good public transport connections to the rest of LA. 

Should you stay in Downtown LA or Hollywood? 

It is better to stay in Downtown LA than in Hollywood. Downtown LA is walkable and offers many hotels in every price range, while Hollywood is generally overpriced, dirty, and a tourist trap. 

Where should I go for the first time in LA? 

You should go to Downtown LA, West Hollywood, or Beverly Hills for the first time in LA. Either place is great for a first visit to the City of Angels and offers a chance to discover unique city landmarks. 

What is the safest area in Los Angeles for tourists?

West Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Beverly Hills are generally considered safe for tourists. Downtown LA is also mostly safe, but tourists should avoid some areas (like Skid Row) that are known for a very high homeless population. 

Where Not To Stay In Los Angeles

You might not like hearing this, but Hollywood is one of the worst areas of LA for a hotel stay. The neighborhood is dirty and crowded, with overpriced hotels and restaurants. It’s the most touristy part of Los Angeles, and most of it is just a massive tourist trap. Plus, the top attractions there are the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Paramount Pictures Studio, both of which you can visit without staying in the neighborhood. 

Instead, stay in West Hollywood or even Silver Lake. Both areas are relatively close to Hollywood so you can access the top tourist sights without a car. Silver Lake is a nice residential neighborhood with walking access to the Griffith Observatory and hiking trails that lead to the Hollywood Sign, so it’s a top choice if you want to experience the hiking culture of LA. 

Other areas to avoid are Compton and West Adams, both of which have a high crime rate and are known for high police activity. Instead, consider Culver City, Santa Monica, and even Venice Beach if you’re okay with being farther from central LA. You’ll get better hotel rates and more enjoyable surroundings, but you’ll still stay in a safe part of the city. 

Also, consider Hotel Bel Air if you’re fine staying outside central LA. It’s one of the best luxury hotels in the entire city and a place where you, too, can feel like Holywood royalty. Plus, it’s actually not too far from popular tourist attractions; both the Getty and Beverly Hills are less than a 10-minute drive from the iconic hotel. 

Why We Love Los Angeles

We love Los Angeles because the city promises glitz and glamour, and it delivers! It’s the best city in the world for celebrity sightings, whether you’ll catch them shopping on Rodeo Drive or heading to work in Hollywood . 

LA is a great city to visit because it offers something to everyone. If you’re into beaches and surfing, you can have the best time at Santa Monica and Venice Beach. But head to West Hollywood to experience some of the best nightlife in California and discover the city’s many clubs, live music bars, and comedy clubs. 

This fabulous city is also a top destination for hiking and nature excursions. More than a dozen state parks, forests, and recreation areas can be easily visited on day trips from Los Angeles , plus there are countless trails in the hills above the city.  

Plan Your Next Trip to California With These Resources

• 16 Best Cities in California
• 24 Of The Best Beaches in California
• 15 Best Hikes in California – Inspiration to Get Outdoors
• 12 Interesting and Cool Facts About California
• The Ultimate California Road Trip Itinerary

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About Sara Oprasic

Sara loves writing about travel as much as she loves traveling. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her cats, and crossing items off her bucket list. She’s yet to cross off Japan, Tromsø, and Hogsmeade. You can see what she’s up to on her Instagram Page

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Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A Guide to 5 Amazing Areas

Despite living in San Francisco for nearly a decade between us, we had never really spent any significant time in Los Angeles until recently. On our last visit we spent over a week living in LA and exploring the city’s many distinct neighborhoods. The sprawling city – which is truly GIGANTIC – has so much to offer, and there’s a nearly unlimited number of areas to consider staying. 

Picking where you stay will almost certainly play a huge role in shaping your LA experience – are you spending time doing, seeing, and eating, or are you spending time in the car full of road rage at LA’s crazy drivers? We put together this guide to help you decide where to stay in Los Angeles by narrowing down the options and giving you our take on what each area below has to offer. 

Our best advice? Figure out what you want to do while you are staying in LA, and then pick a location near the majority of those attractions. This will save you hours of wasted time stuck in traffic. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles: The 4 Best Places to Stay

If you are staying in LA for more than three or four days, our advice would be to stay in two or three different areas. You could spend a few days by the beach relaxing, a few days getting your adrenaline rush at the theme parks, and the rest of the time in Downtown LA or West Hollywood so you can explore the city. 

In this guide to the best places to stay in Los Angeles – based on our time exploring the sprawling California metropolis – you’ll get the information you need to choose a place to stay in LA and find a perfect home base for your visit. 

Here are the four neighborhoods we think you should focus on in your search. Each has distinct pros and cons, which we’ll cover below, and it kind of depends on what you’re looking for.

In most cities, we usually have a “best for first-timers” recommendation, but we don’t have that here. It totally depends on the experience you’re looking for in Los Angeles.  

Don’t have time to read the whole post? Here’s a quick summary (though we’d definitely recommend reading the section for the neighborhood you choose!).

• If you want to stay near the beach , stay in Santa Monica . 
• For a quick weekend trip (and those on a budget) , stay in Downtown LA .  
• If you want to stay in one of the coolest neighborhoods in LA , stay in Silver Lake .  
• If you want to stay in an area with amazing nightlife , stay in West Hollywood (also super LGBTQ+ friendly). 

Santa Monica: Best Place to Stay Near the Beach

If you want to be close to the beach, the answer is Santa Monica. Plus, it’s on the west side of the city, which means getting around the city will be just a tad easier thanks to the reverse commute (ish).

This beachside neighborhood is a destination in its own right, boasting a mix of celebrities, surfers, and hippies who call this place home. While most people come here solely for the beach, and it is an amazing beach, there are plenty of other things to do in the area. 

The famous Santa Monica Pier is a bustling attraction with arcades, shops, outdoor cinemas, and live music. Just underneath it is an aquarium which hosts educational talks and hands-on activities that are perfect for families. 

Santa Monica can be an expensive area to stay; if you are on a budget, nearby Venice Beach is more cost-effective (more on that in a second).

Alternatively, if you want to just spend a day here, you can actually catch a train from Downtown LA ! 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Santa Monica

Pros : The beach! You’ll be within walking distance of the best beach in LA. The Farmers Market in Santa Monica is AWESOME too. The stretch along Montana Avenue is one of our favorite stretches in LA, with all sorts of bars, restaurants, and shopping that is worth a visit. 

Cons : It’s going to take a while to get to Downtown LA, Silver Lake, and the rest of the east side. Plan on grouping those areas together if you’re going to make the trip over there. Parking is a nightmare here, and you’ll probably need to pay for parking – either at a hotel, or at a garage – if you stay here with a car. It’s also expensive – the closer you get to the ocean, the more expensive it’ll be. 

Santa Monica Highlights

• Spend the day at Santa Monica State Beach and Santa Monica Pier. Santa Monica State Beach is a 3.5-mile long expanse of sand that is perfect for relaxing or partaking in water sports. Make sure to check out Santa Monica Pier, a long boardwalk packed with arcades, shops, and restaurants. While you’re here, stop by Pacific Park, the amusement park on Santa Monica Pier. The ocean views from the roller coaster and Ferris wheel are unreal.
• Stroll through Palisades Park. Palisades Park is 25 acres of greenery by Santa Monica Beach. It has fantastic views of the ocean and trails for walking, running, or biking.
• Head to Venice Beach. Venice Beach is an iconic part of Santa Monica with its t-shirt shops and street performers. Head to Muscle Beach to watch the bodybuilders work out in front of crowds of curious people. While you’re in the area, explore the Venice Canals where ducks and paddle boarders float on the streams.
• Grab some fresh food at the Santa Monica Farmers Market . This is one of the best farmers markets in LA, with tables full of fresh produce from the area’s quality farmers. You will be buying your food alongside celebrities and famous chefs. It is open Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 8 am to 1 pm.
• Browse the stores at Third Street Promenade. Third Street Promenade is three pedestrianized blocks packed with 80 retailers. You will find everything from indie boutiques to designer stores. Once you’re finished shopping, there are some great restaurants and bars to try.

Where to Stay in Santa Monica

In our opinion, the best place to stay in Santa Monica is the north end of the neighborhood, between the beach and near Montana Avenue, a strip full of restaurants, bars, and shops that was our favorite “cutesy” street in LA.

However, there are a couple of beachfront hotels that are worth looking at. But you’ll be paying for it. Hotels in Santa Monica are expensive since it’s such an in-demand place to stay. 

Like I mentioned above, if budget is an issue, many of the hotels in Santa Monica are going to knock your socks off, at least in terms of how pricey they are. If you’re looking to splurge though – maybe you’re celebrating a special occasion – this is the place to do it. It doesn’t get any better than beachfront luxury in Santa Monica. 

The Georgian Hotel

The Georgian is by far the most affordable hotel in this neck of the woods, which is surprising since it’s steps away from the Santa Monica Pier and Beach. They have 84 rooms, some of which have ocean views, and a rooftop restaurant where you can watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. It’s pet friendly too – with a surcharge, of course. 

Palihouse Hotel Santa Monica

The Palihouse Hotel has been an iconic part of LA since the early 1900s. It has designer furnishings and is only five minutes away from the beach. All of the rooms except the classic rooms have kitchenettes. While It is too small for an onsite gym, they partner with local gyms that offer a range of different equipment and workout classes. 

Proper Hotel

The Proper Hotel is a beautifully decorated delight to the senses. It has won awards for its stunning interiors, decorated in natural colors and materials. The highlights of this hotel are its rooftop pool and proximity to local restaurants and bars. It also has a focus on wellness with a yoga terrace with regular classes and an Ayurvedic Spa. 

Casa Del Mar

Casa Del Mar is one of a few beachfront hotels in LA. It is a luxury hotel with a pool overlooking the beach and live music every evening. Each of the rooms is lavishly decorated and has four-poster beds, curated bookcases, and a little sitting area. The spa offers popular treatments like oxygen facials and hot stone massages. 

Shutters on the Beach

Shutters on the Beach is the other beachfront hotel in LA. It is frequented by celebrities because of its high-end amenities. The hotel offers private yoga classes or surfing lessons. Even if you don’t stay here, make reservations at the onsite restaurant 1 Pico, where they host a weekend lobster brunch. 

Downtown LA: Best for Short Trips + City Lovers

Downtown Los Angeles is a popular area to stay because it’s packed full of interesting attractions – from Grand Central Market to Staples Center – and bars, restaurants, and clubs. For that reason, it is one of the best places to stay in LA if you do not have a car. 

While it is the historic heart of the city, the grand bank buildings have been turned into quirky shops and world-class restaurants. The number of skyscrapers in this neighborhood means that Downtown LA is the commercial hub of Los Angeles. This is the best place to visit if you want cool nightlife and some of the best eateries in town. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Downtown Los Angeles

Pros : If you’re here for a short trip, then Downtown LA is a great home base because there’s a ton to do and see in the area, and you can hop over to Hollywood, the Arts District, Chinatown, and Silver Lake pretty easily. It’s also relatively cheap, with a huge selection of great hotels. If you’re into art and culture, this is the place to be – the Broad, Staples Center, and a lot of the music venues like the Philharmonic are here.

Cons : It’s very much a concrete jungle, though there are a few green spaces. It’s also adjacent to Skid Row, which is infamous and not the best place to be. Parking is hard, so if you have a car you’ll have to pay for parking. 

Downtown LA Highlights

• Try the best food in LA at Grand Central Market . Started in 1917, this LA staple collects some of the best LA food under one roof. No matter what you’re craving, you’ll find it here.
• Shop and eat at ROW DTLA . This downtown shopping hub offers 32 acres of unique shops, restaurants and cafes. It packs globally recognized brands and indie labels in one area. Don’t miss Smorgasburg on Sundays – it’s a HUGE open air collection of food trucks and stalls serving all different kinds of food.
• Check out what’s going on at LA Live . LA Live is a massive entertainment center which includes the Staples Center, a movie theatre, bowling alley, nightclubs, restaurants, and even a museum. If you are ever at a loss for what to do, there is always something fun happening at LA Live.
• Drink great coffee! There are some great coffee places in Downtown. Some great brands like Verve Coffee Roasters, Blue Bottle Coffee, and Stumptown Coffee have cafes here. But the pinnacle is Cognoscenti Coffee , which has two locations near downtown and is one of the best coffee shops in LA.
• Devour delicious tacos at Guisados . This is one of my favorite places to eat when I’m in Downtown LA. Aside from a couple of fillings, the whole menu is gluten-free, and all of the tacos are flavorful with a little bit of a kick.
• Browse the bookshelves at the Last Bookstore . This bookstore is housed in a former bank building, and the shelves of vintage books have found their home among the marble columns and high ceilings. Support your independent bookstores and stop by to find your next great read. 

Where to Stay in Downtown LA

This part of the city is full of incredibly hip hotels, and the best part is that they are more affordable than other parts of the city. 

If you have a car, be prepared to pay a little extra for parking every day.

The Freehand Hotel

The Freehand Hotel is decorated to look like you’ve walked into the 60s, with colorful print tiles, wood paneling, and shabby chic furniture. It’s one of the best combinations of style and affordability in the city. We have stayed at their location in New York City , and we liked it.

The traditional hotel rooms (they also have suites, which are plenty spacious) are on the small side, which the prices reflect, but you won’t be spending time in your room anyway – you’ll be exploring LA! The hotel’s restaurants and bars are regular hangouts for the cool crowd of LA. 

The Broken Shaker cocktail bar is on many lists of the best bars in LA. There is a rooftop pool and a small gym in the basement. 

The Hoxton , which is one of my favorite hotel chains in the world, has a classic feel to it, with vintage touches and a clean, neutral color scheme. It’s at the south end of Downtown LA, near Staples Center , the Fashion District , and Santee Alley , a fun flea market (ish) place to wander and shop for trinkets, some of which you didn’t know you needed. The building it’s in was once the home of the LA Railway HQ, but has since been restored with touches that give a nod to their London roots. 

The hotel draws a trendy crowd of locals and tourists to its restaurants. There is a hotel pool that is open from sunrise to sunset and has great views of Downtown LA. The pool bar serves a range of classic and new cocktails. 

Ace Hotel LA

The Ace Hotel , which is a hipster hotel chain that I have stayed at in both Seattle and New York City , resides in a theater building which was modelled after Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. The grandeur of the Gothic building has informed the vintage style of the hotel interior, and they have even restored the cinema in the basement. 

Alongside classic rooms, the hotel offers spacious industrial loft-style rooms with huge windows overlooking the city. For a special treat, get one of the rooms with a view. 

NoMad Hotel

The NoMad Hotel oozes sophistication with its luxe interior and a gorgeous rooftop pool overlooking the city. Rooms range from cozy hotel rooms to spacious suites, all with comfortable beds, hardwood floors, and – this is the first time I’ve come across this one – complimentary newspaper delivery (I’m in). There’s also a gym with Peloton bikes if you want to get a workout in before a day of exploring. 

The rooftop pool area also includes a popular cafe and a cocktail bar. Most of the suites at the Nomad come with a freestanding bathtub offering beautiful views of the city. 

Hotel Figueroa

Hotel Figueroa is an oasis of calm in the middle of a very busy city. It’s one of the oldest hotels in LA, and it was remodeled over the course of two years to restore it to its “1926 Spanish Colonial splendor” (I liked the phrasing there). It was originally a destination exclusively for professional women travelers, and has kept some of that ethos as it has grown into one of the best boutique hotels in Los Angeles over the years since. 

It is decorated with clean lines and plump, glamorous furniture with subtle pops of color. The décor celebrates women’s art, with female artists featuring heavily. However, the best amenity is the coffin-shaped outdoor pool with plenty of sun loungers. 

Hotel Indigo

Hotel Indigo is a great midrange hotel option in just about any city in the world, including Los Angeles. The rooms are stylish and simple, but they’re actually pretty spacious compared to a lot of other hotels. The Metropole Bar and Kitchen are the onsite bar and restaurant, and they also have a penthouse bar called 18 Social. Oh, and they have a pool, because of course they do it’s LA. 

The Wayfarer

The Wayfarer Downtown LA sets itself apart from other hotels. Standard rooms are small, but thoughtfully laid out and designed so that you won’t even notice. Customize your experience by choosing from what kind of view you want – skyline or urban, which I think means “no view” – and what kind of bed situation you’re looking for – one king, two queens. 

The rooftop pool includes a tiki bar with tropical cocktails. They also have a DIY restaurant on site where you select their meal and are given portioned ingredients to cook their own meal. This restaurant regularly hosts cooking classes and offers wine pairings too. 

Silver Lake: Best For Feeling Like a Local

Silver Lake and Echo Park are adjacent neighborhoods that are close to Chinatown and Downtown LA. Since these areas cater mostly to locals, there are amazing cafes, quirky boutiques, and hidden gems to explore. There’s really only one place to stay here that’s not a vacation rental, and we think you should avoid vacation rentals in Los Angeles. 

You should know before you choose to stay here that this is the epicenter of gentrification in Los Angeles . It’s a desirable neighborhood, which has brought more demand and caused rising rent prices that have forced out communities that have lived here for decades in order to renovate their apartments and turn them into vacation rentals, or open a new hip clothing boutique. 

We’re not going to fix gentrification here, but you should go into staying in these two areas knowing the impact that your visit (and others like you) have had on this community. We definitely recommend staying in a hotel (there’s basically only one) rather than a vacation rental, which takes much-needed long term housing units off the market in service of making landlords more money. 

With all that being said, we really liked this area of the city, and it’s nicely located for visiting the adjacent neighborhoods like Downtown LA and Los Feliz (and Hollywood). 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Silver Lake

Pros : There’s a ton of great restaurants, bars, and more in the neighborhood. Plus, it’s surrounded by other cool areas to explore, and close to Dodger Stadium, Elysian Park, and Griffith Park. 

Cons : This is a hotspot for gentrification in Los Angeles. If you’re not comfortable with that, look elsewhere. Sunset Boulevard isn’t the most pleasant street to walk on, since there’s multiple lanes of traffic zooming by (we thought it would be much more quiet), but the area near the reservoir is more charming and quiet. There’s not too many options outside of vacation rentals – in fact, there’s basically one good hotel – so your options will be limited (it’s a great hotel, though!). 

Silver Lake Highlights

• Explore the best coffee scene in LA. Silver Lake and Echo Park are residential neighborhoods that are a little bit hipster; therefore, they take their coffee very seriously. If you have been reading this blog for a while, you know that I love my coffee and will seek out the best coffee in every place I visit. Go to Intelligentsia and Dinosaur Coffee in Silver Lake, and Woodcat Coffee Bar in Echo Park.
• Eat amazing Thai food at Night + Market Song . This unpretentious restaurant serves a mix of popular and rare Thai street food. While it is a relaxed atmosphere with loud communal tables and a small counter serving as a bar, the delicious and authentic food draws the LA elite crowd.
• Browse the shelves at Stories Bookstore . This bookstore’s shelves are full of preloved books from classics to rare finds. On the outdoor patio is a small cafe where you can sit and enjoy the book you just purchased.
• Hike to the best views in LA in Elysian Park. There is a place in Elysian Park dubbed “the Secret Swing” which has the best views over LA and is one of the most popular spots for Instagram pictures. While it is a little bit of a hike, the views at the top are completely worth it. The swing tends to disappear from time to time, so be mindful it might not be there when you visit.
• Grab locally-grown produce at the Silver Lake Farmers Market . This farmers market is open Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings. Here you will find the freshest produce, grown right in LA.

Where to Stay in Silver Lake

Like we mentioned above, there’s basically one hotel option in this neck of the woods. 

Silver Lake Pool and Inn

The Silver Lake Pool and Inn is a hipster’s dream, located right in the heart of Silver Lake. It’s right at the junction of Sunset and Santa Monica Boulevards, which puts you within walking distance of places like Intelligentsia Coffee and the farmers market. 

The rooms are both spacious (the smallest are a whopping 250 sq. ft.) and beautiful, with local furniture and fixtures and tons of natural light. They also have double rooms with two beds, which are perfect for groups visiting the city. 

The highlight, though, is the stunning rooftop terrace with a pool and beautiful views of the Hollywood sign. This truly is the best seat in the house for sunset cocktails. Each of the rooms has a Nespresso machine and a tablet with a guide on what to do and see in the neighborhood. Wifi is free (wooo!), and the hotel is pet-friendly, so you can bring the furry friends! Plus, parking here is only $20 a night in an underground garage, which is a steal in LA. 

West Hollywood: Best Central Location

Hollywood itself – the main drag –  is a bit of a tourist trap, if we’re being honest. The Walk of Fame really isn’t that cool, and it’s crowded and dirty. Plus, prices can be inflated, and you don’t really get a feel for the city. 

Instead of staying in Hollywood, we recommend staying in West Hollywood, which is a short walk away from all of the sights but has more of a residential feel to the neighborhood and is closer to some of the food, drinks, and other parts of LA that we love.  

West Hollywood is also the best place to stay in LA for nightlife. Sunset Boulevard is home to some of the best clubs in the world, and Santa Monica Boulevard is home to a huge concentration of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in West Hollywood

Pros : West Hollywood is THE place to be after dark. Plus, it’s super central, particularly to the areas on the east side, but not too far away from places like Santa Monica. 

Cons : It’s loud and boisterous, so if you’re looking for a quiet retreat, this ain’t it. 

West Hollywood Highlights

• Run into celebrities at Book Soup . Book Soup on Sunset Boulevard is an iconic LA attraction. Celebrities such as Elton John, Bette Midler, and Stephen King have been sighted browsing the shelves. They don’t only sell books here; they also sell record players and a great selection of LPs.
• Stroll down the famous Sunset Strip. During the day, the Sunset Strip is full of popular stores. At night, the strip transforms into one of LA’s biggest nightlife hubs. If you are looking for a sophisticated night out, head to one of the hotel bars, such as the Tower Bar at Sunset Tower Hotel. For a trendy night out, head to one of the rock clubs like the Viper Room.
• Laugh until your sides hurt at iconic comedy clubs such as the Laugh Factory or Comedy Store . These venues attract big comedy names like Tiffany Haddish and Dave Chapelle. Make sure to check out who is playing during your stay. 

Where to Stay in West Hollywood

West Hollywood has a nice balance of hotels that offer a great value, and hotels that are splurge-worthy and great for special occasions (or just a treat-yourself weekend). 

Andaz West Hollywood

The Andaz is a super stylish hotel right on the Sunset strip. It has amazing views of the LA skyline from some of its 240 rooms, and some even have balconies with that unforgettable view. If you’re not one of the lucky ones, you can always head up to the rooftop pool or bar to soak up the views (and the booze). It’s also pretty affordable, which makes it a great combination of value, style, and location in West Hollywood. 

Kimpton La Peer Hotel

The Kimpton La Peer is popular because of the extra amenities you’ll have if you stay there. The hotel has bikes that you can borrow to explore the area, and you can even get short rides (under a mile) in the hotel Tesla if you need a ride somewhere nearby (bougie AF). The hotel also provides coffee, kombucha, and juice by the reception desk. 

Sunset Tower Hotel

Sunset Tower is right from the golden era of Hollywood, today it is still a popular celebrity hangout and a monument to opulence. The service here is unparalleled, with staff regularly going the extra mile. The spa is by Joanna Vegas, and if you are in town around the Emmys, celebrities are often here for treatments before the event. 

The West Hollywood Edition

The Edition is right on Sunset Boulevard. When you walk in, you’ll completely forget you’re in the middle of one of the biggest cities in North America thanks to a veritable jungle of greenery and tropical indoor plants. The clientele here are trendy and edgy, and you will feel a little bit cooler after just five minutes in the lobby. Check out the spa while you are there, which has a focus on natural and plant-based remedies (including those using CBD). 

Hotels vs. Vacation Rentals in Los Angeles: Which to Choose?

One thing I do want to touch on is vacation rentals in LA. 

If you didn’t already know, Los Angeles (like most West Coast cities) is in the midst of a full-fledged housing crisis, and while I wouldn’t point to vacation rentals as the primary cause, they’re certainly a contributing factor. 

I have mixed feelings about staying in vacation rentals in cities. 

On one hand, as a traveler who has Celiac Disease and usually needs access to a kitchen, they are a godsend that has allowed me to travel to places that just would not have been easy to visit if I had to stay in a hotel, where I MIGHT get a mini-fridge. 

On the other hand, in cities where there’s a housing crisis driven by a lack of supply and surging demand (which basically describes every major city on the West Coast, at this point), vacation rentals contributes to the problem by taking long term rental units off the market, since the landlord can usually make more money by renting it out for a weekend at a time. 

There are certainly pros and cons to staying in vacation rentals. To be a responsible traveler in LA, our recommendation would be to choose hotels in Los Angeles . There are tons of great hotels, so you’ll have no problem finding an amazing place to stay. 

Los Angeles Geography: A Rough Overview

The city is enormous, which gives you literally hundreds of choices of where to stay, with all sorts of different pockets that all have their own unique characteristics and cultures. 

At a super high level, we’d divide the city into east and west. And we’re going to speak in generalities here, so keep in mind that there are exceptions to the statements below. LA is massive, so we’re going to focus on the part of the city that you’re most likely going to want to consider when you’re searching for the right place to stay. 

On the east side of LA , you’ll find neighborhoods like Hollywood, Los Feliz, Silver Lake, and Downtown LA (among many others, like Koreatown and Chinatown). This side of the city feels more concrete jungle-y, particularly Hollywood and Downtown, and is less expensive than its western counterparts (with the exception of places like Los Feliz and Silver Lake). 

On the west side of the city , you’ll find the Pacific Ocean and neighborhoods like Santa Monica, Venice, and Culver City. The feel here is MUCH different, with beachy vibes all around and a more laid-back atmosphere. It’s also more residential, and significantly more expensive as you get closer to the beach. 

Should you Rent a Car in L.A.?

LA is the second most populous city in the USA, and the third most populous in North America ( Mexico City is the biggest). 

It is sprawling, covering over 500 square miles, and has no real public transportation system (WTF LA?) which means you’re probably going to be tempted to rent a car to get the most out of your stay. 

We’d recommend not renting a car and spending that money on rideshares instead. Parking can be a nightmare – plan on budgeting an extra ~$30 a night if you’re staying at a hotel with a car.

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Our main takeaway from our time in LA is that it is an ENORMOUS city. Even though we spent a full week exploring this last time, we didn’t make it to every place on our list. Or even close, really. That’s why it’s super important to carefully choose where you stay in LA – it can have a huge impact on your experience. And you’ll have to plan a return trip to hit all the stuff you missed on your first one!

More to Explore in California

Heading to the great state of California?  Here are some other posts you might like.

• One Day in San Francisco: How to See the Best of San Francisco in a Day
• 4 Days in San Francisco: How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Francisco: A Local’s Guide to the Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free San Francisco: A Complete Travel Guide for Celiacs
• The Best Day Trips from San Francisco: 10 Amazing San Francisco Day Trips
• 5 Days in Los Angeles: How to Plan a Perfect Los Angeles Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A Complete Guide to L.A.’s Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free Los Angeles: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
• 3 Days in San Diego: How to Plan a Perfect San Diego Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Diego: A Complete Guide to the Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free San Diego: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
• How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Northern California Road Trip: The Best of the Northern California Coast

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

What a fabulous page! We are going on a California family road trip next summer. SF to San Diego (14 days) and I loved to read your page! I changed my hotel reservations in SF and LA after reading your suggestions! Thank you

Love the website and the great advice and tips it offers for novice travellers.

My wife and I are coming to spend 3 nights in LA then head up to SF for 4 nights before flying up to Vancouver for an Alaska cruise.

Got loads of great tips for both LA and SF.

We are picking up a car from LA early and planning to drive up to SF in a day, so wandering if you have any tips for must stops along the way but also taking into account our limited time. We don’t mind if the trip up takes us 12 hours with the planned stops along the way, so any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

We love, sightseeing, beaches, eating so gives you a broad remit to play with.

Steve and Michelle

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