Los Angeles Travel Guide

Discover the best of Los Angeles with our comprehensive travel guide. From stunning natural attractions to iconic museums and trendy eateries, find everything you need to plan your trip to the City of Angels.


Introduction to Los Angeles

Los Angeles, also known as the City of Angels, is a sprawling metropolis in Southern California. It is the second-most populous city in the United States, after New York City, and is renowned for its glitz, glamour, and diversity. With a vibrant culture, diverse neighborhoods, and stunning natural beauty, Los Angeles has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Los Angeles

There are plenty of things to see and do in Los Angeles, making it challenging to decide where to start. We’ve compiled a list of top attractions that should help you plan your trip more efficiently.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Los Angeles is home to some of the most iconic museums in the world. From modern art to ancient artifacts, there’s plenty to explore.

  • The Getty Center: A stunning museum complex known for its modern architecture, beautiful gardens, and massive art collection. This hilltop treasure is a must-visit for art lovers.

  • Los Angeles County Museum of Art: The largest art museum in the Western United States with over 150,000 works of art spanning from ancient times to the present day.

  • The Broad: A contemporary art museum located in Downtown LA. With its impressive collection of contemporary art and unique architecture, The Broad has become one of the city’s must-visit attractions.

  • La Brea Tar Pits and Museum: A national natural landmark where visitors can observe the excavation and preservation of Ice Age fossils, including mammoths and saber-toothed cats.

Natural Attractions of Los Angeles: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Los Angeles is known for its perfect weather and stunning natural beauty. There’s plenty to see and do if you love spending time outdoors.

  • Griffith Observatory: An iconic observatory nestled in Griffith Park and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. The Observatory hosts multiple exhibits on science history and astronomy.

  • Santa Monica Beach: One of the most famous beaches in the world, Santa Monica Beach has something for everyone from water activities to outdoor concerts on the pier.

  • Runyon Canyon Park: A beautiful park close to Hollywood Hills. This park offers multiple hiking trails that are pet-friendly and provide spectacular views of the city.

  • Malibu and the Pacific Coast Highway: A relaxed trip to Malibu and scenic Pacific Coast Highway is a great way to enjoy the coastline. Malibu and the PCH offer beautiful viewpoints of the Pacific Ocean.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Los Angeles

Los Angeles has plenty of hiking and biking trails. Some offer spectacular city views, while others let you experience nature’s splendors.

  • Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook: The perfect spot for morning yoga, this park offers hiking and biking trails. Visitors are awarded a stunning view of the city once they reach the 407 steps to the overlook at’s summit.

  • The Marvin Braude Bike Trail: Known among locals as “The Strand,” this trail runs for 22 miles from Pacific Palisades to Torrance Beach. It’s the perfect way to explore the coastline of LA on a rental bike or scooter.

  • The Hollywood Hills Hike: Take a break from the stereotype of celebrity tours in Hollywood and enjoy a beautiful hike with stunning views of the city or the Hollywood Sign.

Best Things to Do in Los Angeles: Activities and Tours

From food tours to art expeditions, Los Angeles has something for everyone.

  • Universal Studios Hollywood: Experience the magic of Hollywood by taking a studio tour which covers the filming and production locations of your favorite movies. Afterward, enjoy thrilling rides such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

  • The Bloc: A massive outdoor shopping center located in Downtown LA. This shopping center offers a wide range of dining options and outdoor art installations.

  • The Beverly Center: A prestigious mall in Beverly Hills that houses trendy luxury stores like Gucci, Prada, and Saint Laurent.

  • Sunset Boulevard: Treat your taste buds to iconic LA cuisine along the Sunset Boulevard. It is one of the renowned attractions of Los Angeles, where visitors can indulge in local gourmet meals in luxury restaurants.

Week-Long Itinerary for Los Angeles

  • Day 1: Visit the Getty Center museum and gardens and explore the Westwood neighborhood and its famous cafes and trendy eateries.

  • Day 2: Take a tour of Universal Studios Hollywood and spend the rest of the afternoon exploring Hollywood Boulevard, the Walk of Fame, and the TCL Chinese Theater.

  • Day 3: Rent a bike and ride along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail to explore the Manhattan Beach area while enjoying the beautiful beaches and unique restaurants.

  • Day 4: A day spent in Downtown Los Angeles, visiting the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Broad, and The Bloc shopping center.

  • Day 5: Enjoy the beautiful Santa Monica Beach and famous pier. Follow this with a visit to art galleries in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

  • Day 6: A day spent exploring culture-rich neighborhoods like Koreatown, Little Tokyo, and Chinatown.

  • Day 7: Take a trip to Malibu and the Pacific Coast Highway to explore the famous beaches and coastal lookout points.

Food and Drink Scene of Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a melting pot of cultures, making it a top-tier food destination.

Must-Try Dishes

  • In-N-Out Burger: A local fast-food chain famous for its freshly grilled burgers, cut fries, and secret sauce.

  • Tacos: Los Angeles is known for its authentic Mexican restaurants and food trucks that serve delicious churros, burritos, and tacos, among others. Locals have written off Santa Monica’s Tacos Por Favor and Guisados in Boyle Heights as a must-visit.

  • Korean BBQ: Korean BBQ is a staple of the LA dining scene, with K-Town boasting plenty of Korean restaurants. Genwa Korean BBQ and Kang Hodong Baekjeong are recommended.

  • Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles: Roscoe’s serves classic American soul food fare such as fried chicken, collard greens, and mac and cheese with a waffle on the side.

Local Beverages

  • Coffee Shops: There are plenty of coffee shops in Los Angeles, with Blue Bottle Coffee and Alfred Coffee being the most popular.

  • Juice Bars: Juice bars are trendy in LA. A few favorites include Pressed Juicery and Moon Juice.

  • Breweries: Drink local by tasting some of the best craft beers around LA. Angel City Brewery, Golden Road Brewing, and Arts District Brewing Company are local favorites.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Los Angeles is home to a variety of accommodations, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels.

  • The Beverly Hills Hotel: An iconic hotel with over a century of history, the Beverly Hills Hotel offers luxury rooms, a pool, and exceptional dining.

  • Freehand Los Angeles: A trendy hostel that offers shared rooms and private accommodations with art deco features. It is an excellent option for the budget-conscious.

  • The Ace Hotel Downtown: A trendy hotel located in the heart of Downtown LA. The rooms are spacious, and the hotel features a fantastic rooftop bar.

What to Buy in Los Angeles: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

LA is a shopping destination with several unique products inspired by the city.

  • Hollywood memorabilia: Get something “Hollywood” by visiting shops like Starline Tours Memorabilia, Madame Tussauds, or the Hollywood Museum.

  • Natural Skincare Products: Los Angeles is home to numerous natural skincare brands, such as The Body Deli and Lather, offering classic deodorants, moisturizers, and facial oils.

  • Local Art: The city is home to several artists. From art galleries to famous murals, there’s plenty of local art to choose from.

Local Culture and Customs of Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a diverse city, and customs can vary depending on the neighborhood. However, the city has a few customs that remain universal, including:

  • Tipping: It’s customary to tip at restaurants, bars, and other service establishments. Service charges are rarely included on bills.

  • Punctuality: Being punctual is necessary and essential in LA. When someone requests a meeting or a date, it’s best to arrive at the specified time or a few minutes earlier.

  • Car Culture: Cars play a significant role in LA culture. It’s convenient to have a rental car when exploring the city.

Best Time to Visit Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city that can be visited all year. However, the best time to visit Los Angeles is in the fall and spring. The weather is temperate during these seasons, avoiding the summer heat and freezing winter temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Los Angeles

Do:

  • Take public transportation: Los Angeles has a good public transportation system, including buses and trains. It is an affordable and efficient way to explore the city.

  • Visit the beaches: You cannot have a complete Los Angeles journey without exploring the beaches.

  • Explore different neighborhoods: The city is home to many diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique flavor and culture.

Don’t:

  • Expect to walk everywhere: LA is a sprawling city, and it’s difficult to explore the city on foot. Investing in a rental car is a wise idea, especially if a lot of sightseeing and traveling is on the agenda.

  • Joke about the traffic: LA traffic is a sensitive topic for locals, so it’s best to avoid it.

  • Expect to relax on a beach all day: California beach water is generally colder than anticipated, so swimmers should be prepared.

Safety and Health

Los Angeles has moderate crime rates, but it’s still essential to take precautions to ensure a safe and healthy visit to the city.

Safety in Los Angeles

  • Stay aware and cautious: It’s important to remain alert and aware of your surroundings while exploring the city.

  • Avoid isolated areas: Avoid visiting isolated areas to ensure safety.

Health in Los Angeles

  • Stay Hydrated: Bring water when exploring the city, especially on hikes.

  • Apply Sunscreen: Wear sunscreen to avoid sun damage and burns.

  • Avoid smoggy areas: Avoid jogging, biking, or exercising in areas with heavy smog.

Getting to Los Angeles: Transportation Options and Logistics

Los Angeles International Airport is the main airport for the city and Southern California. Other airports located near LA are Burbank Bob Hope Airport and Long Beach Airport. There are several options to get to and from these airports.

Airports Near Los Angeles

  • Los Angeles International Airport: The primary airport for the city, it serves within California and around the world.

  • Burbank Bob Hope Airport: A domestic airport that offers flights to major international airports.

  • Long Beach Airport: A small airport that mostly handles domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Los Angeles

The main bus terminal in Los Angeles is the Union Station. It’s trendy and linked to Amtrak and the LA Metro Rail.

Other Options

  • Car rentals/ ride-sharing services: Renting a car or hiring a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft is best when wanting to explore the city at your convenience.

  • Rail transport: LA has an excellent train system that connects the city to other major cities, including San Francisco and San Diego.

How to Get Around in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a sprawling city. The most convenient way to explore the city is with a car rental. However, the city also features an extensive public transportation system, including buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from Los Angeles: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Los Angeles is surrounded by many fantastic destinations to explore.

  • San Diego: A coastal city located south of Los Angeles that’s famous for its beautiful beaches and the San Diego Zoo.

  • Palm Springs: An affordable getaway destination in the desert that’s popular with celebrities and young people.

  • Las Vegas: The Entertainment Capital of the World is a few hours away from LA and offers luxurious hotels, world-class casinos, and entertainment.

Conclusion

Whether you’re planning on visiting Los Angeles for a weekend or a week, there’s plenty to see and do in the City of Angels. Our comprehensive guide has provided everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Los Angeles, from accommodation options to the best things to do in the city.

The iconic Theme Building at LAX The iconic Theme Building at LAX Union Station Union Station Metrolink system map Metrolink system map Metro Rail and Busway map Metro Rail and Busway map The four ways to TAP The four ways to TAP A five-level interchange in Los Angeles A five-level interchange in Los Angeles The San Diego Freeway The San Diego Freeway Grauman's Chinese Theater, Hollywood Grauman's Chinese Theater, Hollywood Old Los Angeles Plaza, El Pueblo de Los Angeles Old Los Angeles Plaza, El Pueblo de Los Angeles The Getty Center The Getty Center Looking over the city from Griffith Park Looking over the city from Griffith Park Santa Monica Beach Santa Monica Beach Crypto.com Arena, when it was known as Staples Center Crypto.com Arena, when it was known as Staples Center Walt Disney Concert Hall Walt Disney Concert Hall Inside the Pantages Theatre Inside the Pantages Theatre 4th of July at the Hollywood Bowl 4th of July at the Hollywood Bowl The shopping district of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills The shopping district of Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills The classic L.A. fast food: burgers and fries from In-N-Out The classic L.A. fast food: burgers and fries from In-N-Out


    Antelope Valley
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    Gateway Cities (Los Angeles County)
    Hollywood
    Northwest
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    San Gabriel Valley
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    South Bay (Los Angeles County)
    Westside (Los Angeles County)