Discover the Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

Surprising fact: more than 10 million annual visitors chase film sets, beaches, hikes, and street art across this sprawling city each year.

I wrote this simple guide because planning a first trip felt overwhelming when I first arrived. I wanted a relaxed plan that highlights iconic stops like Universal Studios Hollywood and Warner Bros. Studio Tour, but also shows free viewpoints such as Griffith Observatory.

My aim is practical: I link big-name experiences with easy add-ons and low-cost options like Angels Flight or The Last Bookstore. I also explain when combo passes—Go City or hop-on hop-off buses—save money and time.

Whether you love museums and gardens or prefer beach rides between Santa Monica and Venice, I share clear ways to string neighborhoods together. Expect candid tips on timing, parking wins, and how I plan routes that feel doable and fun.

Key Takeaways

• I offer a compact first-timer’s guide for a relaxed, iconic trip.
• Mix big attractions with free viewpoints for better value.
• Use passes and combos like Go City to save time and money.
• Pair studio tours with nearby eats and strolls for easy days.
• Choose museums or outdoor spots based on how calm you want the day.

Your quick list of the best things to do Los Angeles (at a glance)

I lay out a quick roster of spots that capture the city’s movie magic, skyline views, and laid-back neighborhood flavor. Use this as a one-page plan to pick a park, a viewpoint, and a local hang for any length of stay.

Iconic movie magic

Universal Studios Hollywood is a compact, one-day park with the famous Studio Tour and Wizarding World thrills. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers working backlots, the Friends couch, DC displays, and Oscar items—pick one or do both if you have time.

Classic views and sunsets

Griffith Observatory gives free telescopes and night “star party” events, and the Mt. Hollywood loop (about 4 miles) delivers skyline and Hollywood Sign perspectives.

Finish the day with a sunset at santa monica or a stroll along venice beach for classic coastal vibes.

Local vibes and easy wins

• Smorgasburg in DTLA on Sundays for curated food vendors and casual bites.
• Melrose murals for changing street art and quick photos.
• Rooftop bars across neighborhoods and quiet mornings at Descanso Gardens or The Huntington.
• Hop-on hop-off tours link Hollywood, beverly hills, santa monica, and downtown—handy when time is tight.

Quick extras: Angels Flight is a $1 ride in DTLA and The Last Bookstore is free to browse—small wins that add variety without a big cost.

Universal Studios Hollywood: rides, shows, and the Studio Tour

Universal Studios Hollywood packs film magic into a compact park that you can cover in a single relaxed day. I aim the Studio tour early, then enjoy the Wizarding World mid-morning for shorter lines and butterbeer breaks.things-to-do-in-puerto-rico

Wizarding World highlights and why one day is enough

The Wizarding World offers fun rides like Forbidden Journey and wand shopping that fans love. Because the park is smaller than Orlando, the layout keeps walking short and momentum high. I build in buffer time for shows and photos of the valley views from the StarWay escalators.

Pro tips for timing, CityWalk eats, and saving with passes

• Hit the Studio tour first, then stack Wizarding World before lunch.
• Time lunch early or late, then finish with CityWalk food for a low-effort dinner.
• Compare direct tickets, Go City Los Angeles inclusions, and combo bundles for the best price and time.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour: behind the scenes with TV and movie sets

I took the Warner Bros. tour in Burbank and enjoyed a working 110‑acre backlot that shifts from faux city streets to small-town storefronts in seconds.

Highlights include the Friends couch photo op, hands-on DC and Batman exhibits, and props and costumes you can inspect closely.things-to-do-in-oahu

Friends couch, DC heroes, and backlot secrets I loved

I got to hold a real Oscar and saw displays that trace production history and practical effects. The tour touches on shows like The Big Bang Theory and even items from the Wizarding World archive.

Because it’s an active lot, route changes happen during filming. I book date-specific, timed tickets ahead, watch for reseller promos, and go weekday mornings for fewer crowds.

“Seeing how sets transform around you is the best reminder that movie magic is crafted, not accidental.”

• I loved the sneaky skyline views from certain backlot angles for quick photos.
• The experience suits older kids and teens; younger visitors may prefer theme parks with rides.
• Combo options exist that pair this tour with a Celebrity Homes Tour if you want a fuller city sightseeing day.

For film fans, this is one of the most intimate, informative experiences in los angeles—packed with stories and small easter eggs that stick with you after the visit.things-to-do-in-lisbon

Griffith Park to Observatory: hikes, skyline views, and star parties

Griffith Park packs rugged trails, wide skyline views, and evening stargazing into one easy visit. I often aim for late afternoon so the light, the exhibits, and the night sky all line up.

Mt. Hollywood loop vs. guided hikes to the Hollywood Sign

The Mt. Hollywood Summit loop is about 4 miles and gives broad Downtown and Hollywood Hills perspectives. I choose this hike when I want moderate effort and tasteful angles of the hollywood sign without crowds.things-to-do-in-mexico-city

Guided hikes remove parking guesswork, share park history, and sometimes include horseback or sign-focused routes. Some sightseeing passes even bundle guided hikes into a larger guide plan.

Inside Griffith Observatory: telescopes, planetarium, and night visits

The Observatory has free public telescopes and the Samuel Oschin Planetarium shows (ticketed). On clear nights, the public “star parties” let you chat with local astronomers and peek at planets and nebulae.

Greek Theatre vibes and family-friendly nature breaks

Check the Greek Theatre calendar; a hike plus a show is a classic evening. If you are short on time, the Observatory grounds alone deliver sweeping city views—and on very clear days you can spot santa monica along the coast.

Runyon Canyon and Malibu Creek State Park: easy city hikes with big payoffs

For a fast dose of hollywood hills energy, I head up Runyon; for wide skies I choose Malibu Creek. Both parks are great choices when I want an accessible hike that rewards effort with memorable views.things-to-do-in-wilmington-nc

Runyon’s quick climbs and dog-friendly paths

Runyon Canyon connects West Hollywood and Mulholland Drive with short loops and skyline overlooks. I pick a paved or dirt route depending on shoes and time. The scene is dog-friendly and lively, so the people-watching is its own kind of fun.

Malibu Creek’s film history and wide-open scenery

Malibu Creek State Park spans thousands of acres of oak savanna and tall grass. Parts of M*A*S*H and other productions were filmed here, so film buffs enjoy spotting historic history markers along creekside trails.

• I hit Runyon when time is tight for a steep, quick climb and skyline payoff.
• At Malibu Creek I linger: golden fields, mellow climbs, and lighter crowds.
• Bring a hat and extra water; shade is limited on both routes.
• Combine Malibu Creek with a Pacific Coast Highway drive for a longer day.

“When hills call, Runyon gives energy; when I crave space, Malibu Creek delivers wide-open calm.”

Street art and selfies: Melrose murals and Venice Beach flavor

A morning on Melrose feels like a rotating gallery; I time my visit to catch new wall art before crowds arrive.things-to-do-in-oklahoma-city

Posing on Melrose Avenue

Melrose is a hub for changing murals, boutique shopping, and colorful photo ops. I aim for first light so glare is low and shops are just opening.

I pin three anchor murals, then let side streets surprise me — no two visits match.

Skatepark action and the Venice boardwalk

Venice offers electric people-watching. I drift from murals to the skatepark for dynamic shots and ocean backdrops.

Crowds, noise, and unpredictable performers are part of the vibe; I brief my group so everyone enjoys the scene.

• I start early on Melrose for clear light and quick photos.
• I keep the walk flexible: coffee, snap, browse, repeat.
• When I want depth, I book a street art walking tour in the Arts District for artist stories.
• For an easy loop, I pair Melrose in the morning with a late-afternoon Venice stroll for softer light.

For a photo-forward guide to an iconic stretch, I also recommend this most Instagrammable street resource—handy when I plan routes across local neighborhoods in los angeles.

Santa Monica to Venice Beach by bike: the breezy coastal route

I often start at the Santa Monica Pier and let the ocean breeze guide a slow bike ride south. The beach path is an easy, roughly three-mile cruise that mixes ocean views, skaters, and colorful street art.

For rentals, expect about $7/hour or around $20/day from vendors like Unlimited Biking. I rent by the hour when I plan quick stops and pick a day rate when I want to linger over coffee or a long lunch.

Where I stop and what I pack

• I grab a cruiser near the pier, then roll south and pause for quick pier photo ops.
• Must-stops: the chess park overlook, Muscle Beach, Venice Skatepark, and mural walls.
• Bring a small lock, water, and a soft phone case so you can pull over without worry.
• On holiday weekends I ride slower—the path is shared with walkers, skaters, and strollers.
• For a quieter way back, I detour through the Venice Canals before returning to Santa Monica.

If I want structure, I book a guided bike tour so friends can coast, learn, and shoot without map stress. It’s a simple, fun route that links two classic beaches and gives a lively slice of los angeles beachfront life.

Manhattan Beach and Hermosa: South Bay favorites for a local beach day

For a low-key coastal pause, Manhattan Beach and Hermosa give that classic neighborhood shoreline feel. I can park, stroll, and settle into a bench without the rush found at bigger piers.

Pier-to-pier promenades link the towns with an easy paved route for walking or biking. I ride the path, pause at volleyball courts, and watch local teams run a fast, friendly scene.

Volleyball culture and sunset ice cream

The courts are a daily show. Locals meet for casual matches and friendly banter. Golden hour is my favorite time. I grab an ice cream cone and wander the pier as the sky turns color.

Views back toward Palos Verdes frame photos perfectly. If I want more movement, I add a short coastal hike or stair set by the bluffs before beach time.

• I treat these South Bay favorites as an easy half-day escape near LAX.
• Quiet blocks off the main drags hide mellow cafes for brunch or coffee.
• Pack a light layer—coastal winds can surprise even warm inland days.

“As the sun dips, the piers glow, crowds thin, and the vibe turns extra relaxed.”

For more specifics on local spots and timing, see my Hermosa Beach guide.

Hollywood icons in one stroll: Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and Madame Tussauds

I map a short, walkable Hollywood loop that delivers the main icons without the usual pace pressure. It’s an easy morning plan: scan star plaques, check the TCL forecourt, and pop into a nearby wax museum if the kids ask for pictures.

Finding your star and quick route notes

The hollywood walk is a public sidewalk. It’s open 24/7 and free, so you can hunt plaques early for smaller crowds. I start near the Dolby/TCL area, then sweep west or east depending on which stars I want to find.

Handprints at TCL and premiere lore

TCL Chinese Theatre’s forecourt showcases celebrity handprints and footprints. I linger for a minute; the patterns tell bite-size pieces of film history. Read about world‑famous premieres and you’ll get why the site still matters.

Madame Tussauds: quick, silly family shots

Madame Tussauds Hollywood sits next door and is heavy on interactive photo sets. Online tickets are easy, and combo options pair this stop with a celebrity homes tour or a studio visit.

• Timing: go early or midweek to avoid peak crowds.
• Watch: event setups can block stretches of the walk fame during awards season.
• Tip: keep valuables close, snap a few must-have shots, then move on—this loop is iconic and quick.

Ride Angels Flight and browse The Last Bookstore: DTLA on a budget

You can stitch a rich, low-cost city visit by pairing a $1 rail ride with a wander through a photogenic bookstore.

I hop on the Angels Flight funicular — the world’s shortest railway at 298 feet — for a quirky, quick lift that costs just a buck each way. It drops me right across from Grand Central Market, ideal for a fast, affordable bite.

Then I slow down at The Last Bookstore. Entry is free, the book tunnels are whimsical, and the sculptures make great photos. The space feels like a small maze made for lingering.

• Plan: a short walking loop past a few architecture highlights so the stop feels full and compact.
• Photo tip: morning light is kinder; the bookstore’s interiors stay friendly any hour.
• History note: DTLA mixes old theaters and new facades, so I keep my eyes up while I walk.

“With a dollar, a snack, and an afternoon of browsing, downtown can feel like a full experience.”

For a detailed primer on the ride, see an Angels Flight Railway ride guide I trust. I often cap the loop with a rooftop glance, then head off refreshed and ready for the next neighborhood.

Gardens and quiet escapes: Descanso Gardens and The Huntington

I head for a garden morning when I need a slow reset. Both sites offer wide paths, themed plantings, and easy pace that calm a busy itinerary.

Seasonal blooms, themed landscapes, and peaceful walks

Descanso Gardens spans about 150 acres in La Cañada Flintridge with oak forests, ponds, and focused areas like a Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, and camellia collections. I favor early visits for softer light and quieter lanes.

The Huntington covers roughly 130 acres in Pasadena and features 16+ themed gardens — from Chinese and Desert to Jungle and Australian — perfect for a grand, slow loop. I time a visit around peak blooms when possible; roses and camellias are spectacular.

Art, rare manuscripts, and where to slow down

At The Huntington I split time between the gardens and select galleries. The art museum and rare manuscripts — including a Gutenberg Bible and an illuminated Chaucer — offer a quiet, contemplative contrast to the outdoor strolls.

• Plan: go early, follow shaded paths, then stop at a cafe for a long break.
• Architecture: pavilion details and garden structures make lovely, unhurried photo backdrops.
• History: both sites pair horticulture with cultural depth for visitors who want calm and context.
• Tip: book ahead on busy weekends or during seasonal light installations.

Classic LA nights: Cinespia at Hollywood Forever and the Hollywood Bowl

Some evenings I trade tourist sites for open-air concerts and classic screenings under the stars. A simple picnic and a blanket can turn a routine night into something memorable in los angeles.

Picnics, DJs, and movie magic under the stars

Cinespia screens classic films at Hollywood Forever Cemetery with pre-show DJs that warm the crowd. I arrive well before sunset to claim space, set a blanket, and soak up the community vibe.

Quick tips: layer up as temperatures drop, bring a low chair for sightlines, and pack trash bags so cleanup is easy.

BYO at the Bowl: what I pack and parking tips

The Hollywood Bowl lets you bring food and alcohol, so I build a small Trader Joe’s spread and a cooler for the night. Seating is casual; I bring a cushion and a light blanket for comfort.

Parking note: the Bowl uses stacked parking that can slow exits. I prefer shuttles or rideshares when possible for a smoother way out.

• I check the Bowl calendar early—film-with-orchestra nights and John Williams tributes sell fast.
• For back-to-back evenings, one night is simple dinner and show; the other gets the full picnic treatment.

“Some of my favorite memories are stargazing above stage lights while a score swells — a true los angeles experience.”

Eat and drink like a local: Smorgasburg and rooftop bars

Smorgasburg DTLA runs Sundays with a curated lineup of up‑and‑coming SoCal food vendors. I arrive hungry, walk a full loop, and pace myself through coffee, donuts, sushi tacos, burgers, and churros.

I treat the market as a walking tasting menu. I start with coffee and something sweet, then share savory picks. I bring a small tote for craft finds and a bottle of water; shade can be limited on hot days.

Sunday tastings at Smorgasburg DTLA (what I always sample)

My rule: sample one item per vendor and swap bites with friends. This keeps the day light and fun and lets me try more.

Rooftop cocktails with a view: neighborhoods I love

For sunset drinks I choose a rooftop that matches the neighborhood mood—ocean-kissed in santa monica, skyline glam in West Hollywood, or chill patios in Pasadena like Magnolia House, Kings Row, and The Blind Donkey.

• I reserve on busy nights or arrive early for walk-up seating.
• If I’m already exploring a neighborhood, I anchor there to save driving time.
• Of course, bring a light jacket for breezy patios and enjoy easy people-watching.

“Snack, sip, and wander at your own pace—it’s the locals’ way to spend a Sunday in los angeles.”

Choose-your-own tour day: hop-on hop-off, celebrity homes, and night tours

For an easy city overview, I often book a narrated bus loop and plan short hops where I want to linger.

Cover more ground with CitySightseeing or Big Bus. Their routes link Hollywood, beverly hills, santa monica, and DTLA with 40+ stops and multilingual commentary. I ride a full loop first, then hop where a stop looks worth an hour or two.

Star-studded drives through Beverly Hills and Bel-Air

Celebrity homes runs use open-air minibuses that point out notable residences and scenic overlooks. I add one when I want star spotting, then jump back on the hop-on line near Rodeo Drive for a short stroll and a photo.

After-dark LA: Observatory overlooks and lit-up boulevards

Night tours often include a Griffith Observatory stop and routes down neon boulevards. The lights change familiar views—the hollywood sign and the hollywood walk fame glow differently at night, and the narration makes the evening feel fresh.

• I check route maps for stops near Rodeo Drive, farmers markets, or museums.
• Combos can bundle a hop-on pass with a celebrity homes run or a studio visit for savings.
• I bring layers for open-top seating and pick a side for the best coastal or skyline sightlines.

“This plug-and-play day is my low-stress way to sample much of Los Angeles without parking headaches.”

Tickets and passes to save time and money

Planning tickets well can turn a packed itinerary into a relaxed, efficient visit. I start by listing the must-see stops, then test whether a pass or single tickets actually save money for my exact plan.

Go City Los Angeles, combo tickets, and when they’re worth it

The Go City All‑Inclusive Pass covers 40+ attractions and can include premium add-ons on select pass types. I check for Universal Studios inclusion and compare that against buying direct for the specific date I plan to visit.

My rule: only buy a multi-attraction pass if I can realistically use enough entries in a short span. Otherwise, single tickets or a targeted combo often wins.

Booking Universal, Warner Bros., and popular experiences smartly

For studio tours and popular experiences I lock a timed slot early. Warner Bros. tours sell out on weekends, so I pick morning times when possible.

• I compare inclusions, blackout dates, and premium fees before I buy.
• If a celebrity homes combo pairs with a studio tour, I confirm travel time between stops so a single day isn’t overstuffed.
• For bike rental or guided beach rides, I price a basic rental versus a guided tour and choose the simpler option for a short day on the coast.

“Plan your must-dos, price the options, lock your times, and keep room for surprises.”

In short, this quick guide saves me money and preserves energy: pick priorities, compare passes honestly, and book dated tickets early so the day feels organized rather than rushed.

Conclusion

This compact conclusion ties studio visits, skyline stops, and neighborhood picks into a clear plan you can follow on any trip.

Pick two anchors per day—say a studio and a view—then stitch in a neighborhood cafe or a garden for breathing room. I recommend booking timed entries where crowds matter and saving a flexible block for a beach walk or rooftop sunset.

Use hop-on routes and targeted passes when they cut logistics and buy back time. Mix paid attractions with free views and local favorites so each visit feels balanced and relaxed.

Save this guide, make it yours, and leave room for serendipity—the best experiences often arrive when you least expect them.