21 Best Places to Visit in LA (2026)

Best places to visit in LA span beaches, museums, viewpoints, and Hollywood favorites — discover the top 21 spots for an unforgettable trip.

An incredible city – there are my top things to do in Los Angeles. Attractions are spread across this expansive city so it may be worth hiring a car or using a Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing bus; especially if you want to visit Downtown LA or West Los Angeles.

Looking to get out of the city? Check out these perfect weekend getaways from Los Angeles or take a road trip to Palm Springs.

Best Places to visit in LA

1. Hollywood Boulevard & Walk of Fame

Perhaps not as glamorous as you were led to think, I actually loved staying in an apartment just off the Boulevard – its worn-out, tired look reminded me of the ‘Old Hollywood’ that you see in the movies.

The Walk of Fame is popular for many reasons (and the people posing for a picture becomes a slight trip hazard) but this is one of the best places to visit in LA. The bars and restaurants along the Boulevard make this area of town a great choice to stay in or spend an afternoon. If you only have 1 or 2 days in Los Angeles, this should be on your itinerary.

2. Hollywood Sign

Iconic for LA, the Hollywood sign can be seen all over town and is another one of the best places to visit in LA as well as one of the reasons to visit Los Angeles for many. For that great shot, head to Griffith Park Observatory, another must on your Los Angeles bucket list.

It can be difficult to get up close to the sign so jump on a tour bus or drive to the various viewpoints around the city.

3. A production tour – Warner Brothers tour recommended.

As the filming location for many TV programs and movies, LA is scattered with the best production companies in the world with most accompanied with a tour open to the public. There are many options available but we chose Warner Brothers Studio Hollywood for our visit, as one of the best places to visit in LA.

Speak to your tour guide about which programs you love and they may be able to take you to see those sets.

During our visit, we saw Ellen Degeneres’s show set, the office set for the TV program ‘The Mentalist’, and the famous Friends Coffee shop set as well as the Warner Brothers prop museum with Batman and Harry Potter props and costumes. The Warner Brothers VIP tour is included in the Go Los Angeles Card.

4. Disneyland

Though technically just outside Los Angeles, Disneyland Resort remains a timeless draw for many visitors to the region — especially those travelling with kids or who grew up loving Disney stories. It’s a world of imagination and nostalgia: classic rides, magical atmospheres, colorful parades, and the fairy-tale castle that symbolizes childhood wonder for generations.

Because it can get crowded, a bit of Disneyland planning helps — early arrival and checking crowd calendars can make a big difference. For travelers who want a break from urban sightseeing and a bit of enchantment, Disneyland offers a chance to step into a different kind of LA magic and is one of the more magical best places to visit in LA.

Make sure you check out the Disney restaurants like this Disneyland Princess breakfast.

5. Universal Studios Hollywood

Disney’s biggest competition is Universal Studios Hollywood and you can’t go to one without visiting the other, especially if you love thrilling rides and behind-the-scenes-styled tours. This is easily one of the best places to visit in LA.

Head to universal studios and visit the different areas themed after your favorite films and programs. The Simpsons area is a favorite of mine. The entrance fee is included in the Southern California CityPASS.

6. Griffith Park and observatory

Set in one of the largest urban parks in the United States, the combination of Griffith Park and the observatory offers both natural escape and cultural-scientific discovery. The Griffith Observatory — perched above the city — features astronomy exhibits, public telescopes, and planetarium shows that let you explore the cosmos.

On a clear night, the telescopes and rooftop vantage provide breathtaking views of city lights. The surrounding Griffith Park has hiking trails, open green spaces, and the potential for peaceful retreats away from the city rush.

For a visitor to Los Angeles, it’s a wonderful blend of nature, science, and a chance to see the city from above.

7. Venice Beach and Canal District

For a more relaxing best places to visit in LA, head to Venice beach to relax and enjoy some sun, sea and skates; one of the best reasons to visit Los Angeles.

Just a short walk from Venice Beach is the canal district; with beautiful houses and glistening waterways providing a peaceful stroll.

On the boardwalk you’ll see skateboarders, street performers, bodybuilders at Muscle Beach, vibrant graffiti, and a lively mix of vendors — it’s a place that pulses with local color and alternative vibes.

If you wander away from the bustle, the nearby Venice Canals offer a surprisingly peaceful contrast: charming waterways and quaint houses that evoke a bit of old-world Venice.

Whether you’re people-watching, skating, strolling, or just lounging on the sand, this area shows a more laid-back, creative side of LA.

8. Santa Monica Pier

Ideal for a late afternoon or early evening visit, the Santa Monica Pier marks the end of route 66. The pier holds some cute boutique and souvenir stores alongside a few arcade and funfair rides.

The Pier is also home to a variety of seafood restaurants although slightly pricey. Entrance to the Pacific Park and the Aquarium is included in the Southern California CityPASS.

Santa Monica Pier offers classic California coastal charm, blending family-friendly fun with seaside serenity. The pier supports a small amusement park, arcade games, and a Ferris wheel that overlooks the Pacific Ocean — perfect for a relaxed ride with a view.

Adjacent to the pier, Santa Monica Beach offers wide sands, ocean breezes, and opportunities to swim, sunbathe, or stroll along the shoreline. For many visitors, it’s an easy way to swap cosmopolitan city energy for laid-back beach vibes, maybe throw in some sunsets, ocean sounds, and salty air. 

9. TCL Chinese Theatre

Stepping outside TCL Chinese Theatre feels like stepping back into the golden age of Hollywood glamour. The theater — famous since the 1920s — is known for its ornate architecture, red carpet premieres, and the celebrated “Forecourt of the Stars,” where generations of film legends left their handprints and footprints in cement.

Even if you’re not catching a film, walking the forecourt and imagining old Hollywood premieres offers a nostalgic thrill. Paired with nearby landmarks like the Walk of Fame, it gives a sense of the history and legacy of LA’s film-industry roots and one of the most iconic best places to visit in LA.

10. Rodeo Drive

This drive always reminds me of that ‘big mistake’ moment from Pretty Woman and is another one of the best places to visit in LA. For a taste of luxury and a glimpse of celebrity-style living, taking a stroll down Rodeo Drive in the upscale Beverly Hills neighborhood feels like entering a glossy movie set.

With high-end boutiques, designer stores, palm-lined streets, and an air of sophistication, Rodeo Drive embodies the glamorous — perhaps even slightly over-the-top — side of Los Angeles. Even if you’re not planning to splurge, window-shopping here can still feel indulgent and fun; just walking through can give you that classic “luxury LA” vibe, maybe even with a dash of celebrity spotting.

11. The Getty Center

Perched high in the Santa Monica Mountains, The Getty Center combines world-class art with some of the most impressive views in Los Angeles. Its sleek, modern architecture, dramatic terraces, and beautifully landscaped gardens create a serene atmosphere perfect for wandering.

Inside, you’ll find European masterpieces, photography exhibits, decorative arts, rotating galleries, and educational spaces at this gorgeous best places to visit in LA.

Even travelers who aren’t typically “museum people” fall in love with the ambiance — the interplay of sunlight on stone, breezy hilltop vistas, and calm open courtyards make it feel like an escape from the busy city below.

12. The Getty Villa

Inspired by ancient Roman architecture and perched near Malibu’s coastline, The Getty Villa feels like stepping into a Mediterranean estate from centuries past.

Its tranquil gardens, shaded colonnades, and bubbling fountains set the stage for an impressive collection of Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities.

Visitors can stroll through reconstructed ancient rooms, admire sculpture and pottery, and enjoy peaceful views of the surrounding hills and ocean. For anyone who loves history, architecture, or photography, the Villa is one of the most atmospheric cultural experiences in LA.

13. The Broad Museum

The Broad brings contemporary art to life with its striking honeycomb exterior and playful, modern exhibits at this interesting best places to visit in LA.

Home to iconic works by Yayoi Kusama, Jeff Koons, and Jean-Michel Basquiat, the museum is as much a visual experience as a cultural one. The airy white interiors, interactive displays, and vivid installations make it perfect for art lovers and curious newcomers alike.

Its location in Downtown Los Angeles also makes it easy to pair with nearby attractions like Grand Park or Walt Disney Concert Hall, creating a fun day of modern culture.

14. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Designed by legendary architect Frank Gehry, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of the most recognizable buildings in Los Angeles and another one of the best places to visit in LA.

Its sweeping stainless-steel curves shine brilliantly in the California sun and make it a magnet for photographers and design lovers. Inside, the acoustics are world class, offering an immersive musical experience for performances by the LA Philharmonic and guest musicians.

Even if you don’t attend a concert, the exterior grounds and self-guided tours let you appreciate the building’s artistry up close; this is a must on your California bucket list.

15. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

LACMA is one of the largest art museums in the western United States and a cultural treasure for anyone exploring LA. Its collection spans thousands of years — from ancient artifacts to contemporary installations — making it a place where you can wander for hours without running out of inspiration.

Outside, the iconic “Urban Light” installation, featuring 202 vintage lampposts glowing at dusk, has become one of LA’s most photographed spots.

Whether you’re exploring sculpture gardens, global art, or modern pieces, LACMA offers a deep dive into artistic heritage.

16. The La Brea Tar Pits & Museum

Right beside LACMA lies one of the most fascinating prehistoric sites in North America: the La Brea Tar Pits. Here, bubbling pits of natural asphalt have preserved thousands of Ice Age fossils for tens of thousands of years.

Visitors can watch paleontologists at work, learn about animals like mammoths and saber-toothed cats, and explore interactive exhibits that bring ancient Los Angeles to life.

It’s an unexpected blend of science, history, and outdoor exploration, making it a favorite for families and curious travelers.

17. Runyon Canyon

Runyon Canyon is one of the most popular hiking spots in Los Angeles thanks to its convenient Hollywood location and spectacular views over the city. The trails range from easy walks to steep climbs, making it accessible for all fitness levels.

Along the way you’ll see dog walkers, fitness lovers, and occasionally even a celebrity out for a workout. The sweeping panoramas — especially at sunrise or sunset — give visitors a postcard-worthy look at Downtown LA, the Hollywood Sign, and the coastline beyond.

18. The Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens

Located within Griffith Park, the Los Angeles Zoo is home to hundreds of species from around the world, set among lush habitats and landscaped gardens and one of the best places to visit in LA with family.

You can explore environments ranging from tropical rainforests to arid African plains, enjoy educational presentations, and learn about wildlife conservation efforts. Combined with its beautiful botanical displays, the zoo offers a full day of nature, animals, and family-friendly fun.

It’s also easy to pair with other Griffith Park attractions for a full outdoor adventure.

19. Melrose Avenue

Melrose Avenue is where LA’s edgy street style, café culture, and creative energy come to life. The avenue is lined with vintage shops, art murals, designer boutiques, quirky stores, and trendy restaurants.

It’s a hub for fashion lovers, photographers, and anyone looking to soak up local culture beyond the typical tourist spots. The colorful murals — including the famous pink wall — add to the area’s youthful, urban vibe, making it a go-to destination for shopping, strolling, and people-watching.

20. The Queen Mary (Long Beach)

Although located just outside Los Angeles in Long Beach, The Queen Mary is a historic attraction beloved by LA visitors.

This retired ocean liner — once one of the grandest ships afloat — now functions as a floating hotel, museum, and cultural venue. Guests can explore its art deco interiors, historic exhibits, and legendary paranormal stories.

Whether you’re joining a guided tour, attending an event, or simply walking the decks overlooking Long Beach Harbor, the ship offers a fascinating blend of nautical history and old-world elegance.

21. El Matador Beach

Tucked along the Malibu coastline, El Matador Beach is one of the most dramatic and photogenic shorelines in the Los Angeles area and another one of the best places to visit in LA.

Towering rock formations, sea caves, natural arches, and golden cliffs create a rugged, cinematic landscape perfect for sunset photos, romantic walks, or peaceful solo exploration.

The beach requires a short hike down a steep path, but the payoff is huge — striking views, fewer crowds than Santa Monica or Venice, and a wild, natural beauty that feels worlds away from the city. It’s one of LA’s most breathtaking coastal escapes.

Things to Know before you go to Los Angeles

Best Places to Visit in Los Angeles FAQ

– What is the number one place to visit in Los Angeles?

The number one place to visit in Los Angeles is often considered the Hollywood Sign or Griffith Observatory, as both offer iconic views, great photo opportunities, and a true taste of LA’s culture and scenery.

– What is the most visited attraction in Los Angeles?

Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the most visited attractions thanks to its mix of thrilling rides, movie sets, and behind-the-scenes studio experiences. Santa Monica Pier is another top contender for foot traffic year-round.

– What are the best free things to do in LA?

Great free activities include visiting Griffith Observatory, strolling the Venice Boardwalk, exploring The Getty Center, hiking in Runyon Canyon, walking Hollywood Boulevard, and enjoying sunset at Santa Monica State Beach.

– What are the best places in LA for families?

Families love Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland (nearby in Anaheim), Santa Monica Pier, The Los Angeles Zoo, and La Brea Tar Pits, which all offer fun, educational, and interactive experiences.

– Where should first-time visitors go in Los Angeles?

First-time visitors should prioritize Hollywood Boulevard, Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, Universal Studios, and The Getty Center for a mix of culture, scenery, and classic LA vibes.

– What is the best beach to visit in Los Angeles?

Santa Monica State Beach is the most popular, while Venice Beach offers a more eclectic atmosphere. For quieter, more dramatic landscapes, El Matador Beach in Malibu is a must.

– What is the best time of year to visit Los Angeles?

The best time to visit LA is March to May or September to November, when the weather is warm, crowds are lighter, and hotel prices tend to be lower.

– How many days do you need in LA?

Most travelers spend 3–5 days in Los Angeles to see the major attractions, enjoy the beaches, and explore a few neighborhoods like Beverly Hills, Hollywood, or Santa Monica.

– Is Los Angeles walkable?

LA is only partially walkable. While areas like Santa Monica, Hollywood Boulevard, and Downtown are pedestrian-friendly, the city is very spread out. Renting a car or using rideshare is often necessary.

– What are the best neighborhoods to explore in LA?

Popular neighborhoods to explore include Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Venice, Downtown LA, Hollywood, and Melrose, each offering different cultures, food scenes, and attractions.

– What is the most photogenic place in Los Angeles?

Some of the most photogenic spots include Griffith Observatory, El Matador Beach, Urban Light at LACMA, The Getty Center, and the Venice Canals, all offering standout scenery and iconic LA visuals.