If you’re looking for things to do in LA, you’re in the right place. From the Hollywood Sign to Sunset Strip, and Santa Monica Beach to the best street performances you’ll ever see, the things to do in LA are limitless.
Things can get confusing while planning your visit to the City of Angels. But don’t worry cause we will be showing you all the best things you can do in Los Angeles. Buckle up and read on!
Fun Things to Do in Los Angeles
With so many things to do in LA, you might find it hard to pick the right options. Here’s a list of activities you can engage in to have the best time in LA:
Things to Do in LA: Visit the Hollywood Sign
Right at the top of the Hollywood Hills sits the iconic Hollywood Sign, the symbol of the entertainment industry and the city of Los Angeles. This sign represents the global impact of the film and entertainment industry. Each year millions of visitors are attracted to this landmark.
You can get up to the hill using different trails, each with its own charm. Once you get up there, you have breathtaking views of the city of angels. Moreover, this is one of the best things to do in Los Angeles.
Experience the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Walk among the greatest artists that ever lived! This 1.3-mile trail of entertainment greatness is one of the biggest attractions of Los Angeles. People from all around the world come to visit this monument at Hollywood Boulevard.
You can take pictures with the stars of your favorite celebrity, and also enjoy the street performers as you go up and down the blocks. Needless to say, this is one of the most fun things to do in Los Angeles, and it’s absolutely free.
Visit the Sunset Strip
Known for its vibrant nightlife, rock clubs, and many different restaurants, the Sunset Strip is a household name when it comes to LA attractions. Back in the ’60s, the Sunset Strip was the place to go if you were a Rock fan, and it’s the birthplace of many iconic Rock hits.
Additionally, you can visit famous venues like The Roxy, and Whiskey a Go Go to get some drinks in and enjoy the music.
Also, the great Comedy Store is in the area so you can attend a couple of stand-up comedy sets. You’d be remiss if you didn’t put this on your list of fun things to do in Los Angeles.
Enjoy Venice Beach
On the Westside of LA, Venice is a beautiful landmark that has become the cultural hub of Los Angeles for locals and visitors. If you’re into arts and big on creativity, this area is for you.
With all the art walls, graffiti, and street performances, Venice Beach is for artists and art lovers.
Furthermore, you won’t be disappointed if you’re into physical activities. The Venice Beach Recreational Center has basketball courts, a paddle tennis court, and a handball and volleyball court.
Also, you could get a pump at Muscle Beach. All in all, a list of things to do in LA would not be complete without including Venice Beach.
Rodeo Drive, Among the Best Things to Do in LA
At the heart of Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive shines bright as the center of luxurious shopping. You can find over 100 international brands at the Drive housed in blocks in the style of a faux-European alley.
Additionally, if you’re a gearhead, you can attend the annual Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance ceremony where the world’s most expensive automobiles are on display.
Stroll around Santa Monica Beach
The clash of the natural and the new-age worlds at Santa Monica is among the best sceneries you can find in Los Angeles. Head down to the south coast of LA to visit this beach with its many playgrounds, parks, and picnic spots.
Moreover, this is a great place to visit with your kids as it has a huge amusement park, an aquarium, and to top it off, a Ferris wheel. You can also find many restaurants, shops, live music, and festivals in Santa Monica.
Walk around Universal Citywalk for a Fun Thing to do in Los Angeles
Right next to the Universal Theme Park, there’s the celebrated Citywalk. Whether you’re planning to go out for a date night or a friendly gathering, the Universal Citywalk offers you a great time.
Furthermore, you can attend different theatres, sing your heart out in karaoke bars, or dine in one of the many restaurants available in the place. If you’re looking for a memorable night out, this is one of the most fun things to do in Los Angeles.
Look into the Los Angeles County Museum of Art
You simply cannot miss the largest art museum in Western America. With up to 154,000 artifacts from different regions, languages, and time periods, LACMA is host to so many visitors each year from all around the globe.
Regardless of your origins, you can find something of your heritage in this museum. From contemporary arts to Latin objects, from old Asian artifacts to Greek and Roman statues, this museum has it all.
Get a Glimpse of LA from Griffith Park
Griffith Park is one of the biggest municipal parks in the entire United States and hosts 10 million people yearly. There are plenty of options for you to choose from while you’re at this park. The Griffith Observatory, the Los Angeles Zoo, a Greek Theatre, and a couple of museums to name a few.
You can also get a cardio in and hike up to the park, play a nine-hole Golf course, or set up a picnic.
While doing this, you can enjoy the presence of wild animals like coyotes and mountain bikes. Visiting this park is among the best things to do in Los Angeles.
Pedal around Echo Park Lake
If you’re looking for more mellow things to do in LA, it’s worth it to check out Echo Park Lake. You can rent pedals and enjoy the serenity of the lake. Additionally, you can go around the lake using the walking paths.
If you decide to stay longer, you can go to the boathouse which now houses a cafe in the lake area.
Get on a Disneyland Ride to Discover Fun Things to Do in Los Angeles
Referred to as the “Happiest Place on Earth” by many, Disneyland is the hallmark of a good time regardless of the location. Los Angeles Disneyland is no different and you can plan a fantastic day with your family there.
You can find classic rides like the Peter Pan Flight, the Star Wars-themed rides, Indiana Jones, and haunted mansions.
Also, it is a great chance for the younger kids to meet the Disney characters at the meet and greets. This is at the top of the list of fun things to do in Los Angeles. Just make sure to plan your visit ahead to get the best experience possible.
Things to Do in Los Angeles for Adults
If you’re an adult and looking for things to do in LA, there are plenty you can find. Here are some of the most fun ones:
- Gourmet Dining: Enjoy a culinary journey at famous spots like Nobu and Spago, putting these among the top things to do in LA for food lovers.
- Vibrant Nightlife: Experience hidden discos, rooftop bars, and clubs in downtown LA, with some of the most fun things to do in Los Angeles for a lively night out.
- Art and Culture: Visit iconic museums like The Getty Center and LACMA which are truly a treat for art lovers
- Music Festivals and Entertainment: Catch live jazz sessions in intimate venues or rock out at historic concert halls
- Local Markets and Boutiques: Discover vintage treasures and pop-up art markets in neighborhoods like Silver Lake
- Exclusive Wine Tastings: Participate in private wine-tasting events and cocktail-making classes
- Health and Wellness: Unwind with luxury spa treatments and wellness retreats that provide the perfect balance to the city’s energy, rounding out the ultimate fun things to do in Los Angeles.
Unique Things to Do in Los Angeles
Looking to go up and beyond the normal LA activities? Here are some of the best choices you have:
- The Last Bookstore: Explore the intricate interior of this iconic bookstore, a hidden gem among the many things to do in LA that perfectly blends literature with art.
- Secret Speakeasy Tours: Uncover retro-themed bars tucked away in unexpected corners of the city.
- Street Art & Mural Walks: Join a guided tour through the vibrant Arts District to admire murals and street installations that capture LA’s urban spirit. This is one of the best things to do in Los Angeles for art enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
- Interactive Museums: Visit innovative attractions like the Museum of Illusions or ARTECHOUSE, where technology and art collide in mind-bending exhibits.
- Vintage & Indie Shopping: Check out diverse boutiques and flea markets along Melrose Avenue, where you can uncover one-of-a-kind treasures and retro fashion finds.
- Rooftop Cinema Evenings: Enjoy a movie under the stars at a chic rooftop venue that offers beautiful views of the great cityscape. This experience is one of the best things to do in Los Angeles for a memorable night out.
- Underground Art Galleries: Discover offbeat galleries hidden within repurposed industrial spaces, where cutting-edge contemporary art is showcased in unconventional venues.
Last Word
So there you have it, a rapid tour of all the fun things to do in Los Angeles. Hopefully, we’ve given you a taste of everything this city has to offer, from the glam of Hollywood to the laid-back vibes of the beach. Remember, things to do in LA are plenty, but never enough!
FAQ
What Are Some Family-Friendly Activities in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is filled with family-friendly options such as the California Science Center, the La Brea Tar Pits, and the Natural History Museum. Amusement parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios Hollywood are also great for kids and adults.
Do I Need a Car to Get Around Los Angeles, or Are There Alternative Transportation Options?
While Los Angeles is known for its car culture, alternative transportation options are available. The Metro Rail system connects many popular destinations, and bus services are also available. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft also offer convenient transportation, especially for short distances.
Which Neighborhoods Are Recommended for Tourists to Stay in Los Angeles?
What Are Some Budget-Friendly Activities to Enjoy in Los Angeles?
Los Angeles has plenty of budget-friendly activities, including free attractions like the Griffith Observatory and the Getty Center, as well as exploring the beach, hiking in Griffith Park, and visiting the Los Angeles Public Library. Many museums offer free admission on certain days, and exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods can be a rewarding experience too. For a more complete grasp on these finances, check out our US travel cost guide.
