Los Angeles tourist Attractions:
The City of Angels on the Pacific Ocean attracts tourists with a stunning entertainment industry, gorgeous beaches, vibrant nightlife and great food. Something happens here all the time - concerts, parties, exhibitions and, of course, filming. If you are traveling to Los Angeles for the first time and looking for information on what to see, read our article.
17 Best places to visit when in Los Angeles:
1. Santa Monica Pier
This is one of the most iconic places in the city. Santa Monica is a cozy little satellite town. Extensive sandy beaches, picturesque sunrises and sunsets attract many tourists here. Particular attention should be paid to the pier. This wooden structure was built 100 years ago. Now the pier looks like a small amusement park. There is something to do here for both children and adults. The pier goes 300 meters into the ocean. The children's attraction "Hippodrome" is very interesting.
Children rode 44 wooden horses a hundred years ago. The Ferris wheel is no less attractive. While riding it, you can admire the surroundings from a height of 40 meters. On the one hand, a view of the metropolis opens, and on the other, a boundless ocean. It is the only solar-powered ride of its kind in the world. An annual landmark event is associated with this pier - the famous circus du Soleil is setting up its tent next to it.
2. HOLLYWOOD Sign
The famous "HOLLYWOOD" sign is located on the Hollywood Hills, reaching a height of almost 14 meters.
You can take beautiful photos against the background of the sign, and then admire the attraction from the observation deck of the Griffith Observatory.
When is the best time to visit:
At its best, Los Angeles is a big, foggy city. If you want to see a sign at night, it is off, although it used to be. In 1923, when the sign appeared on the hill, it turned on lights (4000 lights, to be exact), making it easily visible at night. It is better to look at the famous letters in the daytime.
How to get there:
Locals know that the best unofficial spot to view the Hollywood sign is from the top of the Home Depot garage on Sunset Boulevard.
3. The Getty
Initiated and funded by the richest oil tycoon in California, J. Guetta, the museum complex is a series of magnificent buildings combined with an artificial landscape in the form of picturesque gardens with sculptures and natural areas. It is located on two ridge elevations connected to the foot by funiculars. An avid art collector, Getty collected a large number of exhibits, for which the villa was first built, where they were housed.
With the increased number of works of art, the need arose for more space. The oil tycoon purchased a 250-hectare site in the Santa Monica mountains, and since 1984, a grandiose construction has begun here under the direction of the experienced architect Meyer. Instead of the planned 4 years, construction lasted more than 10 and was completely completed in 1997, on which Getty spent $ 1.3 billion. The result was recognized by the world as the eighth wonder of the world - the landscaped territory of the Center is so beautiful, the architectural masterpieces are magnificent!
Today it is one of the most visited places where you can see enough of the beauty of the garden infrastructure, admire the art canvases of recognized masters of painting, and see antique sculptures. Getty left a huge amount of money to his Foundation, with which employees now have the opportunity to acquire more and more new works of art in different directions. An extraordinary personality, a successful businessman and pragmatist Getty, a romantic and dreamy person at heart, left a wonderful memory of himself.
When is the best time to visit:
The center accepts guests on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays from 10:00 to 17:30, on Saturdays until 21:00.
How to get there:
The Getty Museum is located west of Hollywood. Buses 734 and 234 stop at the entrance to the Getty Center, at the intersection of Getty Center Drive and S Sepulveda Blvd.
4. Griffith Park
This wonderful place breaks all the stereotypes about the metropolis as a bustling city in which there is no place for greenery. In the very center of the city, a colossal area of 1,700 hectares is set aside for a magnificent park. Its history is interesting. At the end of the 19th century, a certain Colonel Griffith bought an old, neglected ranch on the riverbank. There he decided to make an ostrich farm. The business was so lucrative that Griffith donated 1200 hectares of his own to the city. It was on this site that the most popular vacation spot was created.
The territory of the park is very well-groomed it is a pleasure to walk among the picturesque landscapes. The observation deck is especially attractive. There are stationary binoculars with which you can admire the surroundings and see the famous "Hollywood" sign on the side of the mountain. Evening concerts in the open air, an observatory and a planetarium make walks in the park not only enjoyable, but also rewarding.
When is the best time to visit:
Griffith Park is a place loved by both locals and foreign tourists. It is always crowded here. The timing of your visit depends on your preference.
How to get there:
There are several routes to get to the park:
• By metro: red line.
• By bus: 728, 754.
5. Griffith Observatory
This Los Angeles landmark was opened in 1935 on Hollywood Hill. Today it houses a planetarium for three hundred spectators and an underground exhibition complex. Visitors are invited to watch a half-hour laser show and feel themselves in the center of the Universe, as well as get acquainted with the world's largest painting of the highest definition, the size of which is 50x6 meters. The Griffith Observatory is famous for its state-of-the-art high-precision equipment, with which you can see the most distant objects in space. Those who wish can also go up to the observation deck, which offers a picturesque view of Los Angeles.
Visit cost:
The ticket prices are as follows:
• $ 7 - for adults.
• 5 dollars - for students.
• $ 3 - for children from 5 to 12 years old.
Children under 5 are only admitted to the first show of the day and must sit on an adult's lap.
When is the best time to visit:
The best time to visit is in the morning when it opens. Tour buses arrive during the day and then many people come a couple of hours before sunset to see the sunset. Morning or before 14:00 is the best time to visit.
How to get there:
The bus stops in front of the observatory along the horseshoe road every 20-25 minutes. There are also stops on the mountain.
6. California Science Center
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| Ken Lund / Flickr |
The museum occupies several buildings. Its exhibits cover topics as diverse as AIDS and earthquakes. It is a very educational place for young guests and many of the exhibits are interactive.
The Aerospace Complex is located nearby. It has not only a collection of aircraft and spacecraft, but also an IMAX theater, which shows the latest performances on 70mm film with a three-dimensional effect.
Visit cost:
Entrance to the Science Center's permanent exhibition galleries is FREE (excluding IMAX and special exhibits).
When is the best time to visit:
On weekdays in autumn, winter and spring, the best time to visit is after 13:00 due to the high group attendance. On weekends, it is best to arrive as early as possible.
How to get there:
The Science Center is located in the Exposition Park, less than a five-minute walk from the Expo Park Metro Station.
7. Walt Disney Concert Hall
The project for this unique media space was created back in 1987. Walt Disney's wife took part in this, she also financed it. Thus, Lillian immortalized the name of the famous cartoonist. The doors were opened for visitors in 2003. The hall amazes with its acoustics; it also houses one of the best world operas. A very interesting organ is a multidirectional metal tube.
The futuristic appearance is reminiscent of icebergs with sharp edges. The building was designed by Frank Gary. The construction of their metal sheets with matte and polished surfaces caused a lot of controversy, but now the city cannot be imagined without this spectacular building. You can visit it not only at the event. Many sightseeing tours include a tour of the interior and the stunning lobby.
8. Warner Brothers Film Studio
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| big-ashb / Flickr |
You can devote a whole day to this excursion. And also keep in mind - it is better to order tickets in advance, on the company's website. It is also better to come in advance. The territory of the film studio is huge, so you will have to examine it using a mini-bus. First, you will see a short film that tells about the really impressive history of the film studio and the films that have been filmed here. Then the turn will come directly to the excursion. You just need to remember that it is forbidden to shoot video here, you can only take photos. Moreover, in some pavilions, you cannot turn on the flash.
You will ride the bus through the territory, making stops from time to time to see the most interesting objects. You will see the scenery for the films, you will learn how these or those effects are achieved.
You can also admire the costumes of the heroes of popular films, especially many exhibits are associated with Harry Potter and his friends. A great impression is made by the unusual cars that "lit up" in the movies. Look at a whole mountain of scenarios. Numerous authors send their imperishable works here, in the hope that films will be made on them. In fact, only a few will become hits in the film industry.
Visit cost:
Depending on which tour you take, it will cost between $ 69 and $ 79 for an adult or $ 59 to $ 69 for a child, although there is an exclusive tour for $ 295 per person.
When is the best time to visit:
Go to the studio between 8:30 AM and 3:30 PM daily.
How to get there:
There are several routes to get to the studio:
• By metro: red line.
• By bus: 222, 501, 549.
9. Hollywood Walk of Fame
Every city has things that locals avoid like the plague, but tourists cannot afford to refuse.
Such objects include the Hollywood Walk of Fame, which features actors, musicians, directors, music and theater groups and even 16 fictional characters with stars on the pavement.
Just under half of all the stars here are dedicated to someone in the film industry.
The stars are made of brass and terrazzo, and in the spring of 2019 there were over 2,600 of them. The Walk of Fame, which began in 1958 with an initial 1,588 seats, runs 15 blocks on Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks from Vinaya Street.
About 24 new stars are installed each year, at a cost of $ 40,000 (paid by the nominee or sponsor), and guests of honor are required to attend the opening ceremony.
The current Barrymore dynasty is one of the most represented families, with a total of six stars on the alley.
Visit cost:
The visit to the alley is free.
When is the best time to visit:
There are always a lot of locals and tourists here, as city life is in full swing here. It is better to get acquainted with the names of the stars on the alley at night, when there are not so many people on the streets.
How to get there:
The Walk of Fame runs 2.1 km east-west along Hollywood Boulevard from Gower Street to La Brea Avenue, as well as a short stretch of Marshfield Way, which runs diagonally between Hollywood and La Brea, and 0.64 km from the north south on Vine Street between Yucca Street and Sunset Boulevard.
10. Universal Studios Hollywood
Another place where you can spend the whole day. Moreover, the program will include not only a tour of the famous film studio, but also a visit to an amusement park with phenomenal attractions. The park is divided into parts, each of which is dedicated to a popular film. Appropriate decorations have been built, tourists get the impression that they have been transported to other worlds. The electronic boards display the time that you will spend in line for this or that attraction.
You can visit Harry Potter, look into the windows of fairytale houses, buy magic wands. A tour of the film studio takes about an hour, where you will see 13 blocks - these are pavilions and open-air scenery. The guide will tell you what was filmed and where. Also waiting for you is the show "Water World", the attraction "The Walking Dead", in the "Jurassic Park" you will sail on a boat along the river and see the walking dinosaurs. In a word, most likely the most vivid impressions will be associated with this particular film studio.
Visit cost:
The cost of the visit will be $ 120.
When is the best time to visit:
Come on weekdays outside of school holidays to avoid the crowds.
How to get there:
The studio is located at 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, USA.
11. Los Angeles City Hall
Since 1940, the Los Angeles City Hall has been embossed on badges on the LAPD building.
This landmark, dating from 1928, has appeared on screen numerous times, in the original Dragnet series in the 50s and in 1997 in LA Confidential.
The City Hall complex has a neoclassical base topped with this unmistakable Art Deco tower.
Thanks to the city charter, which remained in effect until the late 1950s, the 138-meter tower was the tallest building in Los Angeles until 1964.
Visit cost:
The visit is free. If you arrive in your own car, you will have to pay for a parking space.
When is the best time to visit:
From Monday to Friday, 08:00 to 17:00, you can enter for free and take the elevator to the 27th floor for a view of the Los Angeles skyline.
How to get there:
The visitor entrance is located at 201 N Main St Los Angeles.
12. TCL Chinese Theater
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| traveljunction / Flickr |
Tourists walking around the city are invariably attracted by the exotic building built in the Chinese style. The year 1927 is considered the starting point of its history. At that time, there was a famous impresario Grauman in the city, who had already built more than one building. He dreamed of creating a unique Chinese pavilion in which premieres could be held. The construction was completed in a year and a half, and the grand opening of the theater amazed the townspeople.
Now it is a small complex that includes the theater itself and a small courtyard enclosed by 12-meter walls. Beautiful copper domes and graceful fountains reminiscent of lotus flowers give this place an amazing flavor. In front of the theater, there are slabs decorated with the prints of the hands and feet of famous actors. The interior of the theater is also very good. It fully reproduces the magnificent national Chinese style. There are group excursions, which are very easy to get on. The next group is sent for inspection every 15 minutes. The theater is still operating now. There are not only premieres, but also regular sessions.
Visit cost:
The ticket price is $ 14.
When is the best time to visit:
The timing of your visit depends on your preference.
How to get there:
There are several ways to get to the theater:
• By metro: red line.
• By bus: 212/312, 237/656.
13. Paramount Pictures Studio
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| Sk / Flickr |
Most of the major film studios have moved from Hollywood to the San Fernando Valley, and Paramount remains the last giant to still occupy Melrose Avenue. It was only recently that mere mortals were allowed to pass through the arch of the famous gate and arrange behind-the-scenes tours.
Visit cost:
The cost of the guided tour is $ 60.
When is the best time to visit:
The best time to visit is between 11:00 and 15:00, when filming may be in progress and you will have a better chance of spotting someone famous.
A 4.5-hour VIP tour is offered on weekdays where you can meet the archivist and merchants.
How to get there:
The easiest way to get to the Paramount Pictures home (and avoid driving in Los Angeles) is to book a tour or take the bus. Those wishing to visit on their own can head to Melrose Avenue from Highway 101, La Brea, or Highway 10 and park at the corner of Melrose and Windsor.
14. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (NHM)
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| Matthew Dillon / Flickr |
This is one of the most interesting museums not only in America, but all over the world. The expositions represent the multi-million dollar history of the planet. A huge number of exhibits - 35 million - clearly show the most distant periods. The first exhibits appeared about a hundred years ago - in 1913. The collection grew so quickly that it had to be divided into parts. It happened in 1961. The organization also has two subsidiary museums, one of which specializes in the Ice Age, and the other is a ranch museum.
The exposition occupies three floors. Visitors love the exhibitions on prehistoric animals and the history of America before Columbus. Children love the collection of magic items. Of course, there are also seasonal exhibitions - for example, the pavilion of spiders or butterflies. Interesting thematic excursions, such as "Travel along the Great Silk Road".
Visit cost:
The entrance ticket price starts at $ 15.
When to visit:
The museum accepts guests daily from 09:30 to 17:00. Last admission is at 16:00.
How to get there:
The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County 900 is located on Exposition Boulevard.
15. Grauman's Egyptian Theater
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| Tim Wang / Flickr |
Historical cinema, one of the first in the city. It was built thanks to the initiative of Sid Grauman. A few years earlier, Grauman had opened the Million Dollar Theater. The Egyptian theater cost the entrepreneur a little less than a million - “only” 800 thousand dollars. It was built in a year and a half. Sid Grauman, along with his father David, opened theaters in different cities of the United States. The Egyptian Theater began operating in 1922, after the death of Grauman the Elder.
In the same year, it hosted the premiere of the movie "Robin Hood". The noble robber was played by Douglas Fairbanks. The Egyptian theater brings to mind the city of Thebes. There is a palm alley in front of the entrance, inside you can see thematic drawings - hieroglyphs, pyramids, and the like. After many years of operation, the cinema demanded restoration, and it was completed. Today it is always crowded here - visiting the Egyptian Theater means touching history, admiring its beautiful interiors.
16. Madame Tussauds museum
It should be noted that this museum, which is a branch of the British, is adjacent to the largest in the United States of similar Spuni Singh wax museum. But there are enough tourists both there and there. Children and adults alike are happy to see their favorite actors and numerous historical characters. Here you can take a selfie or try on the costume of this or that hero. All characters are made in accordance with the real growth of their prototype. This is often surprising - for example, when the idol was presented taller.
In the halls you can see figures of popular TV presenters, heroes of westerns, thrillers, melodramas made of plastic materials. You can take a photo next to a copy of Marilyn Monroe or Charlie Chaplin. However, children prefer modern movie stars - their figures are also there. Adults talk about this place: The stars have come together. " All exhibits are strikingly realistic - from hair color to sparkle of eyes. Everyone can find their idol. There is also Patrick Swayze, and Audrey Hepburn, and King Kong, and Forrest Gump. And from the windows of the museum you can see the famous inscription "Hollywood" on the side of the mountain.
17. Los Angeles Zoo
One of the places that every tourist must visit is the zoo. It is especially good to come there with children, because in the zoo you can watch more than a thousand different animals. The area occupied by it is truly enormous - 54 hectares. 250 different species of animals feel great here. For some of them, the zoo is a real salvation, because 29 species are endangered. But not only animals attract visitors here.
On the same territory there is a botanical garden. Everywhere you can admire delightful plants - wine palms, blooming roses, cypresses and other representatives of the flora will not leave anyone indifferent. The design is especially worth noting. Experts have tried to recreate the natural habitat of animals. The zoo gained particular fame when its employees developed a unique program aimed at breeding condors.
Where to stay in Los Angeles for sightseeing
Santa Monica: Shops, fabulous restaurants, bright beaches and the famous Santa Monica Pier make this a natural magnet for tourists and locals alike. Easy access to Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive is also a bonus for sightseers. Viceroy and Shore Hotel's eco-conscious boutique are popular luxury accommodations, while the stylish Beach Louvers exude all the casual elegance of a family beach house. For those looking for fantastic salty spots without breaking the bank, try the Ocean View Hotel.
Beverly Hills: Known for its renowned designer shops along Rodeo Drive, this exclusive iconic enclave offers some plush hotels in a quieter environment than Hollywood, yet with easy access to all themed films. Top luxury hotels include the famous Beverly Hills Hotel on Sunset Boulevard, Peninsula, Beverly Wilshire and Montage. For those looking for glamor with no price tag to match, the Beverly Terrace Hotel is a great option. Further north, the Bel Air Hotel offers accommodation in 12 acres of lush gardens.
Hollywood: The star has impressed travelers heading for the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Bowl, and Universal Studios should stay at the heart of the film here. Close to Beverly Hills, Hollywood oozes famous glitz and glamor without taking a wallet. Redbury Hollywood, Hollywood Roosevelt and Hollywood Celebrity are all highly regarded options in the area.
Anaheim: Families heading to the theme parks with kids in tow usually rely on a quirky Disney hotel here. Popular options include Disneyland Hotel and Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa, within walking distance of Disney theme parks. Staybridge Suites Anaheim is a more affordable option with comfortable apartments.
Downtown Los Angeles: Offended by new restaurants and art galleries among skyscrapers, Downtown LA is finally finding its soul. Sports enthusiasts, hipsters, foodies and business travelers who have caught the game at the Staples Center, often settle here and find cheaper hotel prices than in typical tourist hotspots. Popular high-end hotel includes the Omni Los Angeles at California Plaza adjacent to the Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites. Doubletree by Hilton is a popular mid range option.
Los Angeles Travel Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Los Angeles
See the Sights: The Los Angeles Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour with Double Decker Bus offers a pleasant view of the city with maximum flexibility. Enjoy 360-degree open-air bus views and hop in over 50 locations including Beverly Hills. Hollywood, downtown Los Angeles and Santa Monica. Choose between a 24 or 48 hour ticket. If you're looking for a guided tour, the Los Angeles 6-hour city tour is a great option. Learn all about Los Angeles hotspots from a local expert look into celebrity homes in Beverly Hills and visit Hollywood Boulevard, Rodeo Drive, Sunset Strip and some of Los Angeles' most famous beaches. The price includes transfer and departure from the hotel.
Save money: If you plan on visiting multiple attractions while in the City of Angels, the Go Los Angeles Card is a great way to save money. This versatile card gives you discounts on the best Los Angeles attractions, dining and shopping options, including Six Flags Magic Mountain, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, Santa Monica Marina Aquarium, and more. If you buy a three, four, five, or seven-day Go Los Angeles Card, you also credit one pass to Universal Studios.
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