Top 10visitLos Angeles

Top 10 Best Places to Visit in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world, where sun-soaked beaches meet glamorous Hollywood and world-class museums. From the iconic Hollywood Sign to the artistic Getty Center, the laid-back vibes of Santa Monica to the stargazing at Griffith Observatory, LA offers an endless mix of celebrity culture, outdoor adventures, and diverse neighborhoods.

Updated January 21, 2026

All-Time Best

1.

Hollywood Sign

Hollywood Sign
Los Angeles, CA 90068Website

The world's most recognized landmark, this 45-foot-tall sign in the Hollywood Hills has symbolized the entertainment industry since 1923. Several hiking trails lead to viewpoints, with the Griffith Observatory offering the most accessible vistas. The sign has become an enduring symbol of dreams, ambition, and the magic of cinema.

Highlights

  • Hiking Trails
  • Photo Opportunities
  • Mt. Lee Summit
landmarkhikingiconic
2.

Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory
2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027Website

Perched on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, this iconic observatory offers free admission, planetarium shows, and the best panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin, the Hollywood Sign, and the Pacific Ocean. A must-visit for both science enthusiasts and sunset seekers, featuring exhibits on astronomy and space exploration.

Highlights

  • Samuel Oschin Planetarium
  • Hollywood Sign Views
  • Zeiss Telescope
landmarkviewscience
3.

Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier
200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401Website

This historic landmark features Pacific Park amusement park with its iconic solar-powered Ferris wheel, the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, street performers, and the official western terminus of Route 66. The surrounding beach and Third Street Promenade offer endless entertainment, dining, and shopping opportunities.

Highlights

  • Pacific Park Ferris Wheel
  • Route 66 End Sign
  • Street Performers
beachamusementiconic
4.

Getty Center

Getty Center
1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049Website

This stunning hilltop museum complex houses an impressive collection of European paintings, drawings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning from the Middle Ages to present day. The Richard Meier-designed architecture, beautifully manicured Central Garden, and sweeping views of the city make it a world-class cultural destination with free admission.

Highlights

  • Central Garden
  • Van Gogh's Irises
  • Sunset Views
artmuseumarchitecture
5.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood
100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608Website

This legendary theme park and working film studio offers thrilling rides, behind-the-scenes studio tours, and immersive worlds including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World. Experience movie magic like nowhere else with attractions based on blockbuster films and cutting-edge special effects.

Highlights

  • Studio Tour
  • Wizarding World of Harry Potter
  • Super Nintendo World
theme-parkmoviesentertainment
6.

Venice Beach

Venice Beach
1800 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291Website

This bohemian beachfront destination is famous for its colorful Ocean Front Walk boardwalk, Muscle Beach outdoor gym, world-renowned skate park, and eclectic street performers and artists. The nearby Venice Canals offer a peaceful escape with charming bridges and waterfront homes inspired by the Italian original.

Highlights

  • Muscle Beach
  • Street Performers
  • Venice Canals
beachculturestreet-art
7.

The Grove

The Grove
189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036Website

This premier outdoor shopping and entertainment destination features a mix of high-end retailers, popular restaurants, and a vintage trolley that runs through the center. Adjacent to the historic Original Farmers Market, The Grove offers a quintessential LA experience with its Art Deco-inspired architecture and dancing fountain.

Highlights

  • Original Farmers Market
  • Dancing Fountain
  • Vintage Trolley
shoppingdiningentertainment
8.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036Website

The largest art museum in the western United States, LACMA houses a comprehensive collection spanning 6,000 years of artistic achievement from ancient times to the present. The iconic Urban Light installation of 202 restored vintage streetlamps by Chris Burden has become one of LA's most photographed landmarks.

Highlights

  • Urban Light Installation
  • Levitated Mass
  • Diverse Collections
artmuseumphotography
9.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Hollywood Walk of Fame
Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028Website

Stretching along Hollywood Boulevard, this world-famous sidewalk features over 2,700 terrazzo and brass stars honoring achievements in entertainment across five categories. Combined with the nearby TCL Chinese Theatre and its legendary celebrity handprints and footprints, it's the quintessential Hollywood experience.

Highlights

  • Celebrity Stars
  • TCL Chinese Theatre
  • Dolby Theatre
celebritylandmarkentertainment
10.

Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210Website

The world's most famous luxury shopping street in Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive is home to flagship stores from the most prestigious fashion houses including Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Cartier. The three-block stretch epitomizes glamour and has been featured in countless films, most notably Pretty Woman.

Highlights

  • Luxury Boutiques
  • Via Rodeo
  • Celebrity Spotting
shoppingluxurycelebrity

Frequently Asked Questions

Los Angeles enjoys mild weather year-round, but the best times to visit are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are comfortable and crowds are smaller. Summer brings beach weather but also more tourists, while winter offers the mildest weather and holiday festivities.

While LA has an expanding Metro system and rideshare services, having a car is highly recommended due to the city's sprawling layout. Many attractions are spread across different neighborhoods, and driving gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Be prepared for traffic, especially during rush hours.

A minimum of 4-5 days is recommended to experience LA's major highlights, including Hollywood, the beaches, museums, and a theme park. For a more relaxed pace and to explore diverse neighborhoods like Downtown, Silver Lake, and Malibu, plan for 7-10 days.

Yes, all beaches in Los Angeles are free to access and enjoy. However, parking can be expensive, especially at popular spots like Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Metered street parking and paid lots are available, with prices varying by location and season.

Santa Monica and Venice are ideal for beach lovers, Hollywood for first-time visitors wanting to be near attractions, Downtown LA for arts and culture enthusiasts, and West Hollywood for nightlife and dining. Beverly Hills offers luxury accommodations, while Silver Lake and Los Feliz provide a more local, hipster vibe.