If there’s one city that feels like a movie set come to life, it’s Los Angeles. The moment I first arrived, I understood why people call it the City of Angels. From the glowing palm-lined boulevards to the hills dotted with Hollywood mansions, every corner feels like a postcard you’ve somehow stepped into. But with so many iconic landmarks and hidden gems, figuring out where to start can feel like a full-time job. So, after countless visits (and a few tourist mistakes), I’ve narrowed down the top rated top 10 places to visit in Los Angeles — the ones that truly capture the city’s spirit, not just its picture-perfect face.
1. Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
Let’s start with one of my all-time favorites — Griffith Observatory. It’s not just a building; it’s an experience. Sitting atop Mount Hollywood, the observatory gives you one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of Los Angeles. I still remember standing there one evening, watching the city slowly light up as the sun dipped behind the Pacific. It’s magical — especially if you catch that golden hour glow.
Inside, you can explore fascinating exhibits about space, telescopes, and the solar system. And the best part? It’s free to enter. I always recommend walking one of the nearby trails, like the Griffith Observatory Trail or Mount Hollywood Trail, for a bit of exercise and a killer view of the Hollywood Sign. Parking can be tricky on weekends, so going early or taking a ride-share saves the headache.
Pro tip: Bring a light jacket, even in summer — the hilltop breeze gets chilly at night.
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2. The Getty Center
The Getty Center isn’t just a museum — it’s art, architecture, and nature perfectly intertwined. I remember spending almost an entire day here and still not seeing everything. Designed by architect Richard Meier, the white travertine stone buildings gleam under the California sun. Inside, you’ll find masterpieces by Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt. But honestly, even if you’re not a huge art fan, the views alone are worth the trip.
One thing I love most is how peaceful it feels. The gardens are beautifully curated — full of colorful flowers, quiet fountains, and twisting paths that make you forget you’re in one of the busiest cities in the world.
Tip for visitors: Admission is free, but you’ll need to reserve parking online. And if you can, go during the week. It’s much quieter, and you can actually hear the birds over the crowd chatter.
3. Santa Monica Pier & Beach
If you’ve seen a photo of Los Angeles, chances are it featured the Santa Monica Pier — that iconic boardwalk with the Ferris wheel spinning against a sunset sky. But let me tell you, the experience in person is even better. There’s this nostalgic, old-school carnival vibe that makes everyone — no matter their age — feel like a kid again.
I once spent an afternoon biking the path from Venice Beach to Santa Monica, and honestly, it was one of my favorite LA memories. The ocean breeze, the street performers, the distant laughter — it’s pure Southern California.
Beyond the rides, there are seafood shacks, street musicians, and breathtaking sunsets that turn the sky into pink and gold swirls. Sure, it gets crowded, but that’s part of the fun.
Best time to visit: Late afternoon. You can catch the sunset from the Ferris wheel and still have time to walk along the beach as night falls.
4. The Hollywood Walk of Fame
I’ll admit it — the first time I visited the Hollywood Walk of Fame, I wasn’t sure what to expect. I’d seen it in movies, but in real life, it’s a mix of glitz and chaos. Still, it’s one of those must-see spots, especially if it’s your first time in Los Angeles.
Stretching along Hollywood Boulevard, the Walk of Fame honors over 2,700 celebrities with stars embedded in the sidewalk. It’s touristy, sure, but there’s something fun about finding your favorite actor’s name or realizing how many legends have walked the same street.
Right nearby, you’ll also find TCL Chinese Theatre, where you can see handprints and footprints of Hollywood icons in the cement. I remember pressing my hands into Marilyn Monroe’s imprint — cheesy but undeniably cool.
Honest take: It’s a bit crowded and commercial, but worth visiting once. Go early in the morning before the crowds and souvenir vendors take over.
5. Venice Beach
Now, Venice Beach is a whole different kind of energy. If Griffith Observatory is serene and the Getty is refined, Venice is wild, artsy, and unapologetically quirky. I’ve always loved coming here to people-watch — skateboarders, street artists, muscle-bound lifters at Muscle Beach, and locals selling handmade jewelry. It’s the perfect blend of chaos and creativity.
The Venice Beach Boardwalk runs for about two miles, lined with funky shops and street murals. Every time I visit, I notice something new — a new painting, a performer juggling fire, or a pop-up art stall.
A must-do: Rent a bike or rollerblades and cruise the path down to Santa Monica. It’s the classic LA experience — sunshine, palm trees, and ocean breeze all in one ride.
6. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
If you’re even slightly into art, you can’t skip LACMA — the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Even if you’ve never stepped inside, you’ve probably seen its most famous outdoor installation: Urban Light. Those 202 restored vintage street lamps lined up in perfect symmetry? They’re practically an Instagram rite of passage. I remember standing there at dusk, surrounded by those glowing lamps — it felt like stepping into a dream.
Inside, LACMA holds one of the largest art collections in the western United States. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, there’s something for everyone. I especially love wandering through the modern art section — it’s bold, colorful, and sometimes wonderfully weird.
Insider tip: Visit in the late afternoon so you can catch both daylight and night photos of Urban Light. There’s also a great café onsite if you need a little caffeine boost between exhibits.
7. The Broad Museum
Downtown LA has gone through a huge transformation, and The Broad Museum is one of the highlights. It’s modern, sleek, and filled with some of the most striking contemporary art you’ll ever see. I still remember walking into Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Room — suddenly surrounded by endless reflections of tiny lights — and feeling like I’d stepped into another universe.
The Broad’s collection includes works by Andy Warhol, Jeff Koons, and Basquiat, and admission is free (which is always a win in LA). But here’s a heads-up — you’ll need to reserve tickets online, especially if you want to see the special exhibits.
After your visit, take a short stroll to the nearby Walt Disney Concert Hall, another architectural wonder designed by Frank Gehry. Even if you’re not attending a concert, it’s worth walking around the building just to admire its flowing metallic curves.
8. Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills
If you’ve ever wanted to window-shop like a celebrity, Rodeo Drive is the place. I won’t lie — it’s a little intimidating at first. Designer stores like Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton line the streets, and the polished luxury cars parked out front look like they belong in a movie. But the beauty of Rodeo Drive is that you don’t have to buy a thing to enjoy it.
I once spent an afternoon just strolling the area, people-watching, and grabbing coffee at Il Pastaio, a local favorite. It’s a slice of Beverly Hills glamour — clean streets, manicured palms, and that subtle buzz of wealth and fame.
Fun fact: The iconic Pretty Woman shopping scenes were filmed at the nearby Beverly Wilshire Hotel, which you can still visit (and maybe splurge on afternoon tea).
9. The Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens
Hidden within Griffith Park, the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens is a surprisingly peaceful escape from the city’s rush. I’ve gone there a few times, and each visit feels like a mini vacation. You’ll see elephants, tigers, gorillas, and flamingos — but what I love most is how green and open it feels compared to other city zoos.
The zoo also doubles as a botanical garden, with hundreds of plant species spread across lush landscapes. It’s perfect for families, or anyone who just wants a calm afternoon surrounded by nature.
Local tip: Visit in the morning when the animals are most active and the air is cooler. Don’t skip the giraffe feeding — it’s surprisingly fun and makes for great photos.
10. Universal Studios Hollywood
Last but not least, no trip to Los Angeles is complete without a stop at Universal Studios Hollywood. It’s part theme park, part working movie studio — and that mix makes it pure LA magic. I’ve visited twice, and both times I felt like a kid again, hopping from The Wizarding World of Harry Potter to the Jurassic World Ride.
The Studio Tour is the highlight — you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at real film sets and sound stages, with a few surprises (yes, King Kong and Jaws both make an appearance). It’s equal parts educational and thrilling.
Pro tip: Buy tickets online ahead of time and get there early to avoid long lines. If you can, splurge on the Express Pass — it’s worth every minute you save in wait time.
Hidden Gems & Day Trips Around Los Angeles
Once you’ve hit the major landmarks — from Griffith Observatory to Santa Monica Pier — it’s easy to think you’ve “done” Los Angeles. But the truth is, the best parts of LA often hide just beyond the tourist trail. Some of my most memorable moments here happened in the in-between places — the quiet beaches, the mountain roads, the neighborhoods where locals hang out without ever snapping a selfie.
So, if you want to see another side of the city beyond the top rated top 10 places to visit in Los Angeles, here are a few bonus gems that are absolutely worth adding to your list.
1. Malibu’s Secret Beaches
Malibu isn’t just a celebrity playground — it’s a coastline full of hidden coves and stunning sea cliffs. I still remember the first time I stumbled upon El Matador Beach. The rock formations looked like something straight out of a fantasy film, with waves crashing through sea caves as the sky turned orange and pink. It’s easily one of the most photogenic beaches in California, yet somehow still feels peaceful compared to Santa Monica.
Other great stops include Zuma Beach for surfing and Point Dume for a short, scenic hike with sweeping ocean views. Parking can be tricky, but once you’re there, you’ll forget everything else.
Pro tip: Go during low tide for the best access to the sea caves at El Matador. Bring sandals you don’t mind getting sandy — trust me, it’s worth it.
2. Echo Park Lake
Nestled near downtown, Echo Park Lake is one of my favorite little escapes in the middle of the city. You can rent a pedal boat shaped like a swan (yes, it’s as cute as it sounds) and glide across the lake with the downtown skyline in the background.
I love coming here in the late afternoon when locals jog by, couples picnic under palm trees, and the fountain sprays mist across the golden light. It’s simple, charming, and feels a million miles away from the chaos of Hollywood Boulevard.
Grab a coffee from Woodcat Coffee Bar or Stories Books & Café nearby — they both have that cool, artsy Echo Park vibe that’s pure LA.
3. Runyon Canyon Park
If you’ve ever wondered where LA locals actually go to work out (and secretly people-watch), it’s Runyon Canyon. It’s not just a hike — it’s a full social scene with some of the best skyline views in town.
The first time I hiked it, I’ll admit I was out of breath halfway up — but the view at the top was absolutely worth it. You can see the entire city spread out below you, from the Hollywood Sign to the Pacific Ocean.
It’s also a great spot to get a taste of LA’s fitness culture. You’ll see everything from dogs in backpacks to influencers live-streaming their hikes. It’s pure, unfiltered LA energy.
Insider tip: Go early in the morning before 9 AM to beat the heat and the crowd. Parking fills up fast, so rideshare is your best friend here.
4. The Arts District (Downtown LA)
Whenever I need inspiration, I head to the Arts District. It’s an old industrial area that’s transformed into one of LA’s coolest creative hubs. Think massive street murals, design studios, and trendy little coffee spots tucked inside old warehouses.
There’s an authenticity here that you don’t always find in more polished parts of the city. You can spend hours just wandering the colorful streets, checking out spots like Angel City Brewery or Hauser & Wirth, an art gallery with an open-air courtyard that feels straight out of Europe.
If you’re hungry, stop by Wurstküche for gourmet sausages or Bavel for incredible Middle Eastern-inspired dishes. And if you love taking photos, this neighborhood will spoil you — every corner is an art piece waiting to be framed.
5. Day Trips Worth Taking
Sometimes the best part of visiting Los Angeles is leaving it — just for a day. There’s so much beauty within a two-hour drive that it almost feels unfair.
Here are a few of my favorite mini getaways:
- Santa Barbara: A two-hour drive up the coast — think red-tiled roofs, ocean breeze, and some of California’s best wine.
- Joshua Tree National Park: Surreal desert landscapes, perfect for stargazing or a quiet day of hiking.
- Catalina Island: Just an hour by ferry from Long Beach — ideal for snorkeling, ziplining, or simply relaxing with island views.
- Laguna Beach: About 60 miles south — a beach town full of art galleries, tide pools, and cliffside trails.
These day trips give you a taste of California’s diversity — from mountains to desert to sea — without straying too far from the city.
The Real LA: Beyond the Selfies
Every time I visit Los Angeles, I find something new — a mural tucked behind a café, a hidden trail, or a local market that somehow feels like it’s been waiting just for me to discover it. That’s what makes LA so addictive. It’s not just about chasing stars on the sidewalk or posing in front of the Hollywood sign — it’s about finding your own version of the city.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles is not just a destination — it’s a feeling that stays with you long after your plane takes off. Whether you’re here to chase movie magic, explore world-class art, or simply breathe in that Pacific air, one thing’s certain: there’s no place quite like it.
So go ahead — walk the boulevard, ride the Ferris wheel, hike the canyon, and let LA show you why it truly earns its wings as the City of Angels.
