25 Amazing Activities in Los Angeles
6 min read
Looking for thrilling things to experience in Los Angeles? Here are 25 incredible options! This vast California city offers plans for every taste, but be prepared for traffic jams. However, we must admit… our initial impression of Los Angeles wasn’t love at first sight. Not even the second time. Not even the last. But the city view from the Griffith Observatory is spectacularly beautiful. We loved Venice Beach. Walking Santa Monica Pier after travelling Route 66 was incredibly cool.
* In the end, we’ve provided useful information to plan your Los Angeles visit.
Unmissable Los Angeles Experiences
Hey, our Los Angeles trip turned out to be amazing after all. There, we met Ire, Rober’s sister, and her boyfriend, Santi… they joined us exploring the West Coast, but that’s another story.
Ready to discover Los Angeles?
Let’s go!
1. Walk of Fame
Stroll among the stars on the iconic Walk of Fame, seeking the most beloved… and the most despised. If you’re feeling lost, we recommend this Hollywood and Mulholland tour, guided in Spanish, passing through the cinema’s most emblematic sites.
2. Chinese Theater
Nearby lies the must-see Chinese Theater. Outside, you can view handprints of past greats like Clark Gable or Marilyn Monroe. It’s located at 6925 Hollywood Boulevard.
3. Dolby Theater
After some exploration, you’ll stumble upon the renowned Dolby Theatre, where Hollywood’s elite gather for the prestigious Academy Awards (And indeed, Leonardo DiCaprio finally claimed his Oscar glory!).
4. Tour of famous houses
Embrace your inner fangirl (or fanboy) with this tour of celebrity homes, though you can also navigate the Beverly Hills neighbourhood solo using this handy map. While we didn’t spot any A-listers, we paused before several iconic abodes. The standout? Elvis Presley’s former estate! Interestingly, this now ultra-posh and pricey area was once a humble bean field. Imagine that!
5. Hollywood sign, something to see in Los Angeles no matter what
Lace up your hiking boots and prepare for an unforgettable trek to marvel at the world-famous Hollywood sign up close. Brace yourself for an invigorating climb. Alternatively, if you prefer a more leisurely experience, savour breathtaking views from Beachwood Drive.
6. Griffith Observatory
Immerse yourself in the magic of La La Land by witnessing a spectacular sunset from the Griffith Observatory. This vantage point offers unparalleled panoramas of Los Angeles at dusk. Even better, admission is free! And don’t forget, Griffith Park, America’s largest urban green space, beckons adventurers with myriad hiking trails.
7. Beverly Hills Sign
Complete your Hollywood experience by posing for a photo op at the Beverly Hills sign – while less ionic than its Hollywood counterpart, it exudes undeniable glamour.
8. Rodeo Drive
If glamour captivates you, stroll along Rodeo Drive. However, exercise caution; it can leave your wallet drier than the Sahara.
9 . Museums to Visit in Los Angeles
Several museums in Los Angeles are worth exploring. If time permits, these rank among the finest (at least in our opinion):
Getty Center, a veritable art haven, showcases masterpieces by Rembrandt, Titian, Van Gogh, and others. While admission is gratis, parking demands a $15 fee – a small price for magnificent vistas from the “Los Angeles Acropolis.”
On Thursdays (5 to 8 pm), the Museum of Contemporary Art opens its doors sans charge, even waiving parking fees – a delightful bonus!
The Broad Museum houses works by luminaries like Roy Lichtenstein, Ed Ruscha, and Andy Warhol. Its crown jewel? The mesmerizing Infinity Mirrored Room.
As the birthplace of cinema, Los Angeles wouldn’t be complete without the Hollywood History Museum. Film enthusiasts rejoice – this is a must-visit!
10. La Brea Tar Pits, a Curious Sight in Los Angeles
One of Los Angeles’ most intriguing attractions lies in Hancock Park – the La Brea Tar Pits. Here, you can glimpse remarkably preserved Ice Age fossils, forever encapsulated by the sticky tar.
Many of these alluring destinations are included in the comprehensive Go City pass. Moreover, benefit from a 5% discount by using the code ‘MOCHILEANDO’.
11. Eldred Street, the steepest street to see in Los Angeles
Did you know Los Angeles boasts California’s steepest street? Eldred Street, with a staggering 33% incline, presents an uphill challenge!
12. Downtown
Skyscraper enthusiasts can explore downtown L.A., though compared to New York or Chicago’s towering giants, it may seem underwhelming. Visit only if you have ample time.
13. Venice Beach, one of the best things to see and do in Los Angeles
Don’t miss the Venice Beach canals – a unique, albeit non-Italian, experience. It’s undoubtedly among L.A.’s top attractions.
Venice Beach itself is a must-see. Boredom is impossible amidst quirky characters, drinking spots, and bodybuilder rs (à la Schwarzenegger) flexing oceanside. Surf lessons add excitement!
14. The Last Bookstores
Bibliophiles, prepare to fall in love at The Last Bookstores!
15. City Hall Observation Deck
For stunning city views, ascend to City Hall’s free 27th-floor Observation Deck and behold L.A. at your feet.
16. Los Angeles Helicopter Ride
For unbeatable vistas, splurge on an exhilarating (but pricey) helicopter tour. We didn’t, but seize the opportunity if you can!
17. Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Take a photo with the streetlights of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, one of the most popular places among Instagrammers.
18. Chinatown and Little Tokyo, are two great neighbourhoods to visit in Los Angeles
Do you like Asian culture? In Los Angeles, there is a Chinatown and even a Little Tokyo: guaranteed dumplings and a lot of atmosphere. Another option is to hire a car for Palm Beach and enjoy the road trip.
19. Santa Monica Pier and Beach
Look for Pamela Anderson and Mitch Buchannon on duty on the beach in Santa Monica, it’s cool! Here, you can also tour its famous pier where you will find the sign for the end of Route 66, Forrest Gump’s bench (and Bubba Gamp!), or a small but cute amusement park.
20. Malibu Beach
If you are addicted to sun, waves, and sand, you can also spend the day in Malibu, one of the most exclusive areas of one of the most exclusive cities in the United States.
21. Disneyland, the best plan to do in Los Angeles with children (and without them)
If one of your childhood dreams (and now!) was to see Disneyland … Well, what are you waiting for? Spending a day in this fantastic park is one of the best things to do in Los Angeles with kids (or without them hehe).
By the way, did you know that one of the most beautiful buildings in the city is the Walt Disney Concert Hall? It has a certain resemblance to the Guggenheim… and its architect was the same: Frank Gehry.
22. Universal Studios, another top thing to do in Los Angeles
Enjoying something small at Universal Studios is fantastic, among the best Los Angeles offers with black car service. We’d eagerly revisit now. There, you’ll meet Shrek, Krusty, and other celebs. It was a splendid day. Buy tickets here. Continue exploring incredible Studios. Indulge in an In-N-Out burger.
23. Savour
Savour an In-N-Out burger, California’s beloved fast food (including us tourists). Order animal-style fries; they yy ‘are not listed but an open secret. Bon Appetit! Our Los Angeles affordable eateries guide recommends it.
24. Staples Center
Sports fans, catch a Los Angeles Lakers game at Staples Center. Don’t miss hot dogs and beer, American style.
25. Pasadena
Big Bang Theory devotees stroll around Pasadena, spotting series locations. Stop by The Cheesecake Factory, where Penny supposedly worked. The interior differs, but cakes delight! Exhausted Los Angeles sights but have time? Rent a black car at the lax airport and explore California’s favourite corners. Or take nearby excursions, maximizing your LA trip.
