All-Time Best
Disneyland Resort
Disneyland Resort
The original Disney theme park and the Happiest Place on Earth. Experience classic attractions, beloved characters, and the magic that started it all. Adjacent Disney California Adventure adds even more thrills and entertainment.
Highlights
- Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge
- Indiana Jones Adventure
- Space Mountain
- Avengers Campus
Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood
Experience the ultimate Hollywood movie theme park with thrilling rides based on blockbuster films, a working movie studio tour, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Where movies come to life.
Highlights
- Wizarding World of Harry Potter
- Jurassic World ride
- Studio Tour
- Super Nintendo World
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier
This iconic pier features Pacific Park amusement park with its famous Ferris wheel, an arcade, aquarium, and stunning ocean views. The perfect blend of beach fun and carnival atmosphere.
Highlights
- Pacific Park rides
- Solar-powered Ferris wheel
- Historic carousel
- Ocean views
Hollywood Bowl
Hollywood Bowl
The legendary outdoor amphitheater in the Hollywood Hills hosts concerts from classical to rock in a stunning setting. Bring a picnic and enjoy world-class performances under the stars.
Highlights
- LA Philharmonic performances
- Iconic shell design
- Picnic-friendly
- Summer concert series
Griffith Observatory
Griffith Observatory
Free admission to this Art Deco landmark offering spectacular views of LA, the Hollywood Sign, and the cosmos through public telescopes. The planetarium shows are among the best in the world.
Highlights
- Hollywood Sign views
- Free telescope viewing
- Samuel Oschin Planetarium
- City panoramas
SoFi Stadium
SoFi Stadium
State-of-the-art home of the LA Rams and Chargers featuring the world's largest video board. Beyond football, it hosts major concerts, WWE events, and the 2028 Olympic ceremonies.
Highlights
- NFL game days
- World's largest LED screen
- Concert venue
- Stadium tours
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Venice Beach Boardwalk
Experience LA's eclectic beach culture along this famous oceanfront walkway. Street performers, bodybuilders at Muscle Beach, skate parks, and colorful murals create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Highlights
- Muscle Beach gym
- Street performers
- Skate park
- Unique shops
Crypto.com Arena
Crypto.com Arena
Home court of the Lakers and Clippers, this premier arena hosts NBA games, concerts by global superstars, and major events. The electric atmosphere during Lakers games is legendary.
Highlights
- Lakers games
- Major concert venue
- Central downtown location
- Star-studded crowd
Six Flags Magic Mountain
Six Flags Magic Mountain
The undisputed thrill capital of the world with 20 roller coasters including record-breaking rides. Adrenaline junkies flock here for extreme thrills that can't be found anywhere else.
Highlights
- 20 roller coasters
- X2 360-degree spin
- Twisted Colossus
- Full Throttle launch
Dodger Stadium
Dodger Stadium
The iconic home of the LA Dodgers and the third-oldest MLB stadium still in use. Watch America's pastime with stunning views of downtown LA and the San Gabriel Mountains.
Highlights
- Classic baseball atmosphere
- Mountain backdrop
- Dodger Dogs
- Stadium tours available
Best of 2026
Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
Super Nintendo World at Universal Studios Hollywood
The newest immersive land bringing Mario's world to life with Power-Up Bands for interactive gameplay, the cutting-edge Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge ride, and incredible themed environments.
Highlights
- Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge
- Power-Up Band activities
- Toadstool Cafe
- Incredible theming
Intuit Dome
Intuit Dome
The brand-new state-of-the-art home of the LA Clippers featuring innovative fan experience technology, the famous Halo Board display, and premium amenities throughout.
Highlights
- Revolutionary Halo Board
- Wall of Fame fan section
- Cashless venue
- Premium experiences
Immersive Art Exhibitions
Immersive Art Exhibitions
Los Angeles has become a hub for immersive digital art experiences. Current installations feature projection-mapped environments that surround visitors in stunning visual displays from renowned artists.
Highlights
- 360-degree projections
- Interactive elements
- Music-synced visuals
- Photo-worthy spaces
Spring Fun
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival
The world's most famous music festival draws top artists and fashion-forward crowds to the desert each April. Experience incredible performances, art installations, and the ultimate California festival vibe.
Highlights
- World-class headliners
- Art installations
- Two weekends in April
- Festival fashion
Dodgers Opening Day
Dodgers Opening Day
Nothing beats the excitement of Opening Day at Dodger Stadium. Spring in LA means baseball season begins with tailgating, Dodger Dogs, and the hope of a new championship run.
Highlights
- Opening ceremonies
- Perfect spring weather
- Tailgate atmosphere
- New season energy
Summer Fun
Hollywood Bowl Summer Season
Hollywood Bowl Summer Season
The Hollywood Bowl comes alive in summer with nightly concerts ranging from the LA Phil to rock legends. Pack a picnic, watch the sunset over the Hollywood Hills, and enjoy music under the stars.
Highlights
- Nightly performances
- Picnic tradition
- Sunset atmosphere
- Legendary acoustics
Beach Volleyball at Manhattan Beach
Beach Volleyball at Manhattan Beach
Join locals and visitors for beach volleyball on some of the best courts in Southern California. The summer vibes, perfect weather, and competitive pickup games make this a quintessential LA experience.
Highlights
- Free public courts
- Pro player sightings
- AVP tournament site
- Perfect weather
Fall Fun
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios
Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Studios
Universal Studios transforms into a nightmare with elaborate haunted houses, scare zones, and horror-themed entertainment. The most terrifying Halloween event on the West Coast.
Highlights
- Movie-quality haunted houses
- Scare zones
- Themed food and drinks
- September-October
Lakers Season Opener
Lakers Season Opener
The NBA season tips off in October with the Lakers returning to Crypto.com Arena. The energy, celebrity sightings, and championship expectations make every Lakers game an event.
Highlights
- New season energy
- Celebrity courtside
- Championship banners
- Lakers tradition
Winter Fun
Disneyland Holiday Season
Disneyland Holiday Season
Experience the magic of the holidays at Disneyland with festive decorations, special entertainment, and attractions transformed for the season. Haunted Mansion Holiday and It's a Small World Holiday are must-sees.
Highlights
- Haunted Mansion Holiday
- Sleeping Beauty Castle lights
- Holiday fireworks
- November-January
Rose Parade
Rose Parade
Start the New Year with this iconic parade featuring elaborate floral floats, marching bands, and equestrian units. A beloved tradition watched by millions along Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena.
Highlights
- Incredible floral floats
- Marching bands
- January 1st tradition
- Rose Bowl game follows
Frequently Asked Questions
It depends on your interests. Disneyland offers classic Disney magic, beloved characters, and family-friendly attractions perfect for all ages. Universal Studios Hollywood has movie-based thrills, the famous Studio Tour, and attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Ideally, visit both if time permits - they offer very different experiences.
LA has teams in every major league: Lakers and Clippers (NBA), Dodgers and Angels (MLB), Rams and Chargers (NFL), Kings and Ducks (NHL), Galaxy and LAFC (MLS), and Sparks (WNBA). Check schedules in advance as tickets to popular teams like the Lakers often sell out quickly.
Enjoy Griffith Observatory with its views and telescope access, Venice Beach boardwalk, Santa Monica Pier (rides cost extra), hiking at Runyon Canyon, the Getty Center museum, and many beach activities. LA offers plenty of free entertainment if you plan strategically.
If you love roller coasters, absolutely. Magic Mountain has more coasters than any park in the world, including several record-breakers. It's about 45 minutes to an hour north of LA without traffic. Best visited on weekdays to avoid long lines, and the thrill level far exceeds other LA-area parks.
Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, see the TCL Chinese Theatre footprints, and take a studio tour at Universal, Warner Bros, or Paramount. For the best Hollywood Sign views, hike Griffith Park or visit the Griffith Observatory. Consider a nighttime drive down Sunset Boulevard to see the famous clubs and venues.