Los Angeles is a city that reveals its magic layer by layer. For years, I struggled to connect with LA, craving the walkability and immediate charm of cities like Paris or Rome. But I discovered that the secret to truly experiencing Los Angeles lies in embracing its identity as a collection of vibrant, distinct neighborhoods. Within these areas lie the best things to see in Los Angeles, from historic landmarks and world-class museums to bustling markets, stunning beaches, and unique cultural hubs. Approaching LA this way transforms the visit, allowing you to dive deep into the character and countless experiences each pocket of the city offers.
This guide will take you through some of the most unforgettable places and experiences, delving into the history, culture, and sheer spectacle that make LA unlike anywhere else. You could easily spend an entire day exploring just one neighborhood, discovering its unique attractions, hidden gems, and local flavors. Let’s explore the best things to see in Los Angeles, one amazing spot at a time, including fantastic nearby excursions that enhance your LA journey.
Iconic Landmarks & Neighborhoods in Los Angeles
Exploring the heart of Los Angeles means navigating its diverse districts, each offering a unique glimpse into the city’s past and present. From the historic core downtown to the glitz of Hollywood and the cultural heights of the Getty, these areas are home to some of the best things to see in Los Angeles. They offer a blend of architecture, history, art, and everyday life that captures the essence of this sprawling metropolis.
These locations are often best explored by focusing on one or two per day, allowing ample time to soak in the atmosphere and discover unexpected delights. Getting around requires planning, but the rewards are rich for those willing to explore beyond the obvious.
Downtown LA: Where History Meets Modernity
Downtown Los Angeles is a fascinating mix of old and new, where sleek skyscrapers stand alongside historic buildings. Start at Olvera Street, considered the birthplace of Los Angeles. Here, you can see the Avila Adobe, the oldest standing house in the city, dating back to 1818. The marketplace is a lively spot filled with traditional Mexican crafts, clothing, and food stalls, offering a colorful cultural experience.
Olvera St shopColorful shops line Olvera Street in downtown Los Angeles, offering traditional crafts.
Just across the street from Olvera Street is the majestic Union Station. Opened in 1939, this grand Art Deco and Spanish Colonial Revival style building is not just a transit hub but also a beautiful architectural marvel. Stepping inside feels like stepping back in time, with its soaring ceilings, intricate details, and stunning waiting rooms. It’s a fantastic place to appreciate classic design and perhaps even catch a train.
A short walk away lies the current Chinatown, a vibrant neighborhood marked by iconic gates. While smaller than in its earlier days, it remains a hub for delicious food, unique shops, and colorful photo opportunities. Exploring its streets offers a taste of the area’s history and ongoing community life.
An interesting historical tidbit: Before the rise of Northern California’s wine regions, Los Angeles was the center of California’s wine industry. Vineyards once covered much of the downtown area. The legacy lives on at San Antonio Winery, founded in 1917, which is the only operational winery remaining in downtown LA. It’s open for tastings and features a popular restaurant, offering a literal taste of local history and flavor.
Broadway Theater District
For lovers of history and architecture, a walk down Broadway Street is a must. This was once the premier entertainment hub of Los Angeles, lined with opulent movie palaces built in the early 20th century. Many of these theaters boast stunning Art Deco, Beaux-Arts, and Spanish Colonial architecture, remnants of Hollywood’s golden age glamour.
Organized walking tours, such as those offered by the LA Conservancy, provide access inside some of these beautifully preserved buildings, offering a deeper appreciation of their historical and architectural significance. It’s a journey back to a time when going to the movies was a truly grand event.
After exploring the theaters, two architectural and culinary landmarks are within easy walking distance: the Bradbury Building and Grand Central Market.
The Bradbury Building and Grand Central Market
The Bradbury Building, completed in 1893, is Los Angeles’s oldest commercial building and a true architectural gem. While its exterior is relatively modest, the interior courtyard is breathtaking, featuring ornate ironwork stairs, elevators, and balconies bathed in light from a glass ceiling. This stunning space has appeared in numerous films, including Blade Runner, making it a recognizable piece of cinematic history. Access is typically limited to the ground floor, but the view alone is worth the visit.
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The stunning interior of the Bradbury Building in Los Angeles, featuring ironwork and a skylight.
Across the street, Grand Central Market has been a downtown institution since 1917. This historic market has evolved into a bustling foodie paradise, reflecting the diverse culinary landscape of Los Angeles and California. It’s a vibrant spot to grab lunch, sample different cuisines, and experience the city’s gastronomic scene, ranging from traditional vendors to trendy new eateries. Don’t miss Roast To Go, one of the market’s oldest coffee stalls.
The Last Bookstore
If you appreciate unique spaces and the smell of old books, The Last Bookstore is an essential stop. Housed in a large former bank building downtown, this independent bookstore is an experience in itself. It sells new and used books, records, and art, with creative displays like a book tunnel and literary-themed art installations that make for great photo opportunities.
Spending time browsing the various rooms and levels of this expansive store is a delightful way to lose track of time. It embodies a certain creative, slightly quirky spirit that is very much part of the LA vibe. While it might be a short drive or slightly longer walk from Grand Central Market, the visit is well worth the effort. Parking is available nearby in paid lots.
To experience Downtown LA’s highlights, plan for anywhere from two to four hours, depending on your interests. A quick walk through Broadway might take an hour, while a guided tour will be longer. The Bradbury and Grand Central Market can be seen in an hour combined, but allow more time if you plan to eat or browse extensively. Olvera Street and Union Station can take 1-2 hours, especially if you shop. Adding Chinatown might add another 30-60 minutes.
woman in bookstore day trip in Los AngelesA person browsing the unique atmosphere of The Last Bookstore in downtown Los Angeles.
Hollywood: Glitz, Glamour, and Hidden Gems
No list of the best things to see in Los Angeles is complete without Hollywood. While sometimes perceived as overly touristy, it holds legendary status and offers iconic sights. Exploring Hollywood allows you to connect with the history of the entertainment industry and find surprising corners of culture.
Start your Hollywood exploration with a visit to the Original Farmer’s Market.
Farmer’s Market LA
Dating back to 1934, the Original Farmer’s Market at 3rd and Fairfax is a historic open-air market that retains its old-school charm. It was a popular spot for early Hollywood stars and continues to be a beloved place for locals and tourists alike. The market features a diverse range of vendors, from grocery stalls and specialty shops to an impressive array of international food vendors serving everything from Gumbo to Sushi.
Adjacent to the Farmer’s Market is The Grove, an upscale outdoor shopping and dining complex. The two venues contrast sharply – the historic, casual market next to the polished, modern retail center – but complement each other well. A fun highlight at The Grove is the electric trolley car, offering a brief, scenic ride through the complex and a great photo opportunity. Combining a visit to the market and The Grove is an easy way to spend a couple of hours, grabbing a bite and browsing shops.
A cable car travels through The Grove, an outdoor shopping area adjacent to the Farmer’s Market in Los Angeles.
The Chinese Theater and Hollywood Blvd.
Walking down Hollywood Boulevard is an iconic LA experience, famously captured in song. The TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre) is undoubtedly the centerpiece. Its unique architecture is fascinating, but its courtyard, with the handprints and footprints of countless celebrities embedded in concrete, is the main draw. Searching for your favorite star’s impressions is a fun activity for all ages.
The boulevard itself is home to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where stars line the sidewalks honoring achievements in the entertainment industry. While it can be crowded and bustling, it’s undeniably one of the quintessential best things to see in Los Angeles for anyone interested in film history and celebrity culture. You can also take a tour of the Chinese Theatre itself to learn more about its storied past.
A person posing with a character impersonator on Hollywood Boulevard near the Chinese Theater.
From the energy of Hollywood Boulevard, consider a short drive to a surprisingly peaceful and historically rich spot.
Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Hollywood Forever Cemetery, located near the Paramount Pictures studio, is far more than a burial ground. It’s a cultural landmark where many of Hollywood’s pioneers and stars are interred. Beyond its function as a cemetery, it hosts events like outdoor movie screenings in the summer and concerts, making it a unique community space.
Walking the grounds offers a chance to pay respects to legends like Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney, and Douglas Fairbanks, set against the backdrop of the iconic Hollywood Sign. It’s a place of quiet reflection, fascinating history, and beautiful landscaping – a truly unique spot among the best things to see in Los Angeles. Allow a couple of hours here. Combining the Chinese Theatre, Hollywood Blvd, and Hollywood Forever can easily fill a half-day.
The entrance to Hollywood Forever Cemetery with the Hollywood sign visible in the distance.
The Getty Center: Art, Architecture, and Panoramic Views
Perched in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Getty Center is a cultural institution and an architectural masterpiece offering spectacular views of Los Angeles and, on a clear day, the Pacific Ocean. Designed by Richard Meier, the complex of white travertine buildings is a work of art in itself, blending art, nature, and architecture seamlessly.
Admission to the Getty Center is free (only parking costs apply), making it incredibly accessible. The permanent collection focuses on pre-20th-century European paintings, sculptures, manuscripts, and decorative arts, including famous works like Van Gogh’s Irises. The rotating photography exhibitions are often a highlight. Beyond the art, the Central Garden, designed by Robert Irwin, is a stunning landscape art piece, perfect for strolling and relaxation.
Visiting the Getty is a rich experience that engages multiple senses – the visual beauty of the art and architecture, the tranquility of the gardens, and the expansive views. It’s easily one of the best things to see in Los Angeles for art lovers, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a moment of beauty and calm above the city sprawl. Plan to spend at least a half-day to truly appreciate the collections, gardens, and views.
View of Los Angeles from the Getty CenterA panoramic view of the sprawling city of Los Angeles seen from the Getty Center hillside.
Exploring LA’s Vibrant Coastal Scene
Los Angeles boasts miles of beautiful coastline, from lively piers to quiet coves. The beaches and coastal areas offer a different facet of the city’s appeal, centered around sun, sand, and ocean activities. Whether you’re looking to swim, surf, explore tide pools, or simply relax by the water, the coast provides some of the most enjoyable best things to see in Los Angeles and its immediate surroundings.
The transition from the urban intensity of downtown or Hollywood to the relaxed pace of the coast is a key part of the LA experience. Traffic can be a factor, especially on weekends, so timing your visit is important.
Santa Monica: Pier, Beach, and Beyond
Santa Monica is arguably the most famous coastal area directly connected to Los Angeles, known for its wide beach and iconic pier. The Santa Monica Pier is a historic landmark, marking the western end of Route 66. It’s a bustling destination with an amusement park (Pacific Park), aquarium, shops, and restaurants, offering classic seaside entertainment.
The adjacent Santa Monica State Beach is expansive, providing plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, and playing. Its accessibility, with bike paths and ample parking (though often paid), makes it a popular choice. While touristy, the pier and beach embody a classic California beach town feel that is a quintessential part of visiting the LA area. It’s a perfect place for a half-day outing.
Hwy 101 Santa MonicaLooking towards the Santa Monica Pier from the coast, with the highway nearby.
Discovering LA’s Diverse Beaches
Beyond Santa Monica, the coastline offers a variety of beach experiences, particularly heading north into Malibu. Malibu’s 22 miles of coastline include several distinct beaches, each with its own character. Zuma Beach is known for its wide sandy expanse, popular for swimming and sunbathing.
Leo Carrillo State Beach is famous for its tide pools and rock formations, ideal for exploration during low tide. It also has sandy stretches and a dog-friendly area. Topanga Beach, located where Topanga Canyon Boulevard meets the Pacific Coast Highway, is popular with surfers and walkers and offers convenient parking.
Malibu Lagoon State Beach, adjoining Surfrider Beach (a World Surfing Reserve), is where Malibu Creek meets the ocean. This area features fascinating tide pools, rich birdlife in the lagoon, and views of the historic Adamson House. Walking to the Malibu Pier from here is easy and offers beautiful coastal vistas.
These diverse beach options provide opportunities for various activities, from active watersports to simple relaxation. Choosing the right beach depends on your interest, but exploring even one or two of Malibu’s coastal gems is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty near LA. Plan at least a half-day to enjoy the beach properly, allowing extra time for travel.
Beyond the City: Memorable Day Trips from Los Angeles
While there are countless best things to see in Los Angeles proper, the surrounding areas offer wonderful opportunities for day trips that provide a change of pace and scenery. These excursions complement your LA experience by revealing more of Southern California’s diverse landscape, history, and culture.
Remember that traffic is a significant factor in Southern California. Distances might seem short on a map, but travel times can be long, especially during peak hours. Plan your day trips accordingly, leaving early and potentially returning late to maximize your time at the destination.
Pasadena: A Blend of Arts, Culture, and Architecture
Located just about ten miles northeast of downtown LA, Pasadena is an easily accessible city with a rich cultural scene. It’s home to beautiful architecture, renowned museums, and sprawling botanical gardens, making it an excellent day trip destination.
A highlight is The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. Spanning over 200 acres, The Huntington features diverse themed gardens (like the Japanese Garden and Chinese Garden), a significant art collection including famous works like “The Blue Boy” and “Pinkie,” and a world-class research library. You could easily spend a half-day or more exploring its vast grounds and collections.
Lush Chinese Gardens at The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in Pasadena.
Pasadena is also a haven for Arts and Crafts architecture enthusiasts. The Gamble House, designed by architects Greene & Greene, is a masterpiece and a National Historic Landmark. Built in 1908, the house showcases exquisite craftsmanship and detail, from the teak doors to the intricate wood inlay. Guided tours offer a deep dive into the design and history of this significant architectural work. Tours typically last about an hour, and booking in advance is recommended.
Interior Craftsman house, pasadenaThe detailed interior of the Gamble House in Pasadena, showcasing fine Arts and Crafts design.
Pasadena offers a sophisticated blend of culture, art, and history, providing a delightful escape from the urban hustle of central Los Angeles.
Malibu: Coastal Beauty and Relaxed Vibes
Just an hour north of LA (traffic permitting), Malibu offers a classic California coastal experience. Known for its stunning beaches, celebrity homes, and relaxed atmosphere, it’s a popular day trip destination from the city. The drive along the scenic Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) is part of the appeal.
Beyond the beaches mentioned earlier (Zuma, Leo Carrillo, Topanga, Surfrider), Malibu offers other attractions. You can enjoy a drink at the Malibu Pier, visit wineries like Strange Family Wines for a tasting, or stop at iconic spots like Duke’s for a meal with ocean views.
The historic Malibu Pier extends into the Pacific Ocean on a sunny day.
Malibu provides a quintessential California beach town vibe, perfect for a full day dedicated to coastal exploration, enjoying the scenery, and embracing the laid-back lifestyle.
tiki bar in Malibu Day Trip Los AngelesThe bar area at Duke’s Malibu, offering ocean views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Long Beach: Historic Ships and Aquatic Wonders
South of Los Angeles lies Long Beach, another excellent city for a day trip with its own set of attractions. The most famous is the Queen Mary, a grand ocean liner launched in 1936 that now serves as a floating hotel and historical attraction. Moored permanently in Long Beach since 1967, the Queen Mary is a fascinating piece of history, showcasing beautiful Art Deco interiors and offering tours. It’s even reputed to be haunted!
Visitors can explore the ship, learn about its transatlantic history, and enjoy its unique atmosphere. The Observation Bar is a particularly stylish spot for a drink, transporting you back to a glamorous era of ocean travel.
The historic Queen Mary ship is seen from Shoreline Park in Long Beach, California.
Long Beach is also home to the Aquarium of the Pacific, one of the largest aquariums in the United States. It features diverse marine life exhibits focusing on the Pacific Ocean. It’s a popular attraction for families and anyone interested in marine biology, requiring at least a couple of hours to explore thoroughly. Long Beach also has a walkable downtown area with shops and restaurants, adding to its appeal as a day trip destination.
Long Beach California waterfrontThe waterfront area in Long Beach, California, showing Shoreline Park and the harbor.
Santa Barbara: The American Riviera
While perhaps better suited for an overnight stay due to the approximately 1.5 to 2-hour drive north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is sometimes attempted as a long day trip. Known as the “American Riviera,” it’s a beautiful coastal city nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Santa Ynez Mountains, famous for its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, charming downtown, and wine regions nearby.
Key attractions include the bustling Funk Zone (an urban wine tasting and arts district), the pedestrian-friendly State Street with its boutiques and restaurants, the stunning Santa Barbara County Courthouse (offering panoramic views from its clock tower), and nearby wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley. Santa Barbara offers a more relaxed, upscale coastal experience. Be aware that weekend traffic from LA can be heavy. While a full day is the absolute minimum, staying overnight allows for a much richer experience of this lovely city and its surroundings.
A view of the harbor in Santa Barbara, with Stearns Wharf visible in the distance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about visiting Los Angeles and seeing its best attractions.
How should I get around to see the best things in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is spread out, and public transportation can be time-consuming. While ride-sharing and some metro lines serve popular areas like Downtown, Hollywood, and Santa Monica, having a car offers the most flexibility, especially for exploring multiple neighborhoods or taking day trips. Be prepared for traffic and factor in parking costs.
How many days do I need to see the best of Los Angeles?
To experience the truly best things to see in Los Angeles and its immediate surroundings, plan for at least 3-5 full days. This allows you to focus on a couple of key areas or attractions each day without feeling too rushed. If you want to include day trips like Pasadena, Malibu, or Long Beach, extend your trip to 5-7 days or more.
Is Los Angeles walkable?
Generally, Los Angeles is not considered a highly walkable city compared to places like New York or Paris, mainly due to its size and urban sprawl. However, within individual neighborhoods and specific attractions, such as exploring downtown blocks, walking Hollywood Boulevard, strolling the Santa Monica Pier, or wandering through The Getty Center grounds, walking is the primary way to get around and is essential for the experience. You’ll likely need transportation between these distinct areas.
Final Thoughts on Discovering Los Angeles
Experiencing the best things to see in Los Angeles is a journey best approached with curiosity and flexibility. By thinking of LA as a tapestry of unique neighborhoods and surrounding areas, you unlock a wealth of experiences spanning history, culture, art, food, and natural beauty. From the historic streets of downtown and the iconic sights of Hollywood to the artistic heights of the Getty and the relaxed vibes of the coast, LA offers something for every traveler.
Whether you’re exploring museums, sampling diverse cuisine at a historic market, walking in the footsteps of legends, or soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach, Los Angeles promises unforgettable moments. Pack your patience for the traffic, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover why LA is truly a global city with endless layers to explore.