10 Must-See Los Angeles Attractions: Your Ultimate LA Travel Guide
Ever dreamt of soaking up that California sunshine, hitting the beach, or figuring out how to spot a celeb? Los Angeles attractions are hella diverse, loaded with everything from famous landmarks to thrilling theme parks. But how do you even begin to map out this huge city? And what really makes an LA trip stick with you? Let’s just jump right into the best of what this city has for you.
Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory: Killer Views & Stellar Photo Ops
First up, you can’t come to LA and just not see the Hollywood Sign. It’s the ultimate symbol. Those nine massive, 14-meter-tall letters. Originally, it was a real estate ad from 1923, “Hollywoodland.” Then they rebuilt it with steel in 1978. For those straight-out-of-a-postcard shots, get yourself to Hollywood Lake Park; it’s got a big grassy area that’s ideal for snapping pics.
Just a short drive away, way up on a hill, sits the Griffith Observatory. This landmark, 345 meters up, gives you huge views of the LA skyline. And, yep, another killer peek at the Hollywood Sign way off in the distance. The building itself? A stunner. Greek style, looks like something from a movie. Inside, you’ll find totally free exhibits on astronomy and science – real brain food!
Evenings here are pure vibe when the city lights sparkle below. Be careful, though. Rogue fogs can roll in sometimes. Films like “Transformers” and “La La Land” definitely put this spot on the map. Getting there is easy with Google Maps, but arrive early for free roadside parking before 12 PM; after that, it’s $10 an hour in the main lot.
Santa Monica Pier: Beach Fun & Route 66 History
Craving some classic California beach time? Santa Monica Pier. Your spot. You snag 5.6 kilometers of sandy beach and more than 300 sunny days a year – ideal for sunbathing and watching people. The pier itself has the Pacific Park amusement park, adding that Coney Island-esque charm.
Don’t you dare miss the famous “End of the Trail” sign for Route 66. This legendary highway, the first to connect the Midwest to the Pacific Ocean, runs over 3,900 kilometers across eight states. And another thing: It’s so iconic, you’ve seen it in movies like “Forrest Gump.” Parking is generally easy to find near the pier, but it can fill up fast on busy days.
Diverse Dining: From Celeb Hotspots to Budget Bites
Los Angeles is every food-lover’s dream, no doubt about it. If you’re feeling fancy, Malibu’s Moonshadows restaurant has amazing ocean views and is a known hangout for Hollywood stars. Imagine dining on a big balcony, feeling that ocean breeze, maybe even from “the best seat in the house.” Service often includes complimentary bread, butter, and water. American portions are notoriously generous, so sharing a few main courses among your group is a smart move. Street parking is your friend here; the restaurant’s own lot usually charges a fee.
For a more casual, yet totally famous, experience, you have to hit up In-N-Out Burger. This West Coast fast-food legend boasts a loyal following. Why? Fresh, inexpensive burgers. Try the “Animal Style” with special sauce and grilled onions, or a thick Neapolitan shake. Because the burgers are satisfyingly meaty, loaded with cheese and fresh lettuce, they make for a surprisingly non-greasy bite. Seriously, a must-try.
Downtown, the Grand Central Market has been a local institution since 1917. It’s a bustling food hall, full of different, affordable food choices. The popular Eggslut stall often has a line. But it moves quickly. Their signature dish, a creamy potato and soft-boiled egg mix served with baguette slices, is insane. Also, try the Fairfax with its brioche, scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese – pure comfort food right there.
Smart Stays: Airbnbs with Parking and Essential LA Stops
When planning your LA stay, especially if you’re driving yourself around, an Airbnb can be a game-changer. A game-changer. Many choices give you more room than hotels, along with extras like full kitchens – dishwashers, ovens, huge fridges, all that jazz – and cool living areas with big TVs. Look for properties with dedicated parking; it saves a ton of stress. A two-bedroom setup just means everyone gets their own space. Always confirm the exact address and entry codes with the host well before arrival.
Beyond where you crash, LA is full of quirky spots. The Pink Wall on Melrose Avenue (part of a Paul Smith store) is truly a vibrant, Insta-famous photo op—a quick stop and you’re good. Nearby, the Urban Light art collection at LACMA, with its grid of over 200 restored streetlights from the 1920s and ’30s, makes for a more artsy photo backdrop. Especially at sunrise or sunset.
And for practical needs, pop into Trader Joe’s for organic goods and unique brand items, or a Super King Market for a larger selection of groceries, especially if you’re cooking during your stay.
Maximize Fun: Disneyland and Universal Studios
These aren’t just theme parks; they’re entire worlds! Both Disneyland (the O.G.!) and Universal Studios Hollywood (the first Universal spot) require smart planning. Seriously.
Download their official park apps. These are your secret weapons: navigating crowds, checking wait times, finding show schedules. Getting early entrance, if you can swing it, makes a huge difference, especially for the super popular rides.
At Disneyland’s California Adventure, Cars Land truly comes alive at night. Neon lights glow. It’s a hella cool experience. The Avengers Campus lets you mingle with heroes and even sling webs with Spider-Man. Do not skip Soarin’ Around the World in Grizzly Peak; it’s a pull-you-in 3D flight experience you’ll never forget. End your day with spectacular water and fireworks shows that just light up Pixar Pier.
Universal Studios Hollywood is famous for its Harry Potter’s Hogsmeade and Hogwarts Castle. The Forbidden Journey ride is a must-do. Pure broomstick adventure. The Studio Tour is unique globally: a 1-hour tram ride through actual film sets, complete with 3D King Kong and Fast & Furious sequences, and even flood simulations. The WaterWorld show is seriously good with live stunts and pyrotechnics. For popular rides like Mario Kart, hitting them first thing at park opening or during off-peak times is super smart.
Los Angeles. It’s sprawling. Vibrant. Packed with unforgettable experiences. Come ready, know your routes, and embrace that California sunshine. This city is truly something else.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where’s the best spot to photograph the Hollywood Sign?
A: Hollywood Lake Park has a huge grassy area. That spot gives you awesome vantage points for getting great pictures of the famous Hollywood Sign.
Q: What makes the Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood unique?
A: The Studio Tour at Universal Studios Hollywood is one-of-a-kind in the whole world. It’s a 1-hour tram ride through actual working film sets, with cool 3D moments like the King Kong fight and Fast & Furious car chase, letting you peek behind the scenes of moviemaking.
Q: Is parking generally easy to find at popular Los Angeles attractions?
A: Parking varies at Los Angeles attractions. Some spots, like Santa Monica Pier, have plenty of parking. Others, like Griffith Observatory, might have paid lots or just limited free street parking (especially if you’re early). For self-driving trips, choosing places to stay like Airbnbs with dedicated parking is often a great idea.
