The 18 Best Things to Do in Downtown Los Angeles

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

TripSavvy / Amanda Blackard

Unlike other large cities, many people visit Los Angeles without ever setting foot downtown, preferring to spend their time at the beach near Santa Monica or strolling around Hollywood . And while the downtown area may lack the most iconic attractions that people come to see in Los Angeles, those who venture into this underrated neighborhood know that it's rich with historic  architecture , cultural attractions, and some of the best foodie hotspots in the city.

Here are the 18 best things to do downtown, from visiting historic sites, museums, and watching live theater performances, to strolling around the many iconic districts that help shape downtown into what it is.

Eat Sushi in Little Tokyo

There are only three official Japantowns in the United States, and all three of them are in California. The one in Los Angeles, known as Little Tokyo, is the largest of the three and also a National Historic Landmark. Apart from actually going to Japan, it's one of the most authentic Japanese experiences you can have and the perfect place to pick up some typical snacks, flip through some manga comics, or enjoy a cup of matcha tea.

Perhaps the best time of the day to explore Little Tokyo is around lunch, dinner, or anytime you're hungry. Several local eateries offer traditional Japanese and Japanese-American cuisine, from hot bowls of ramen to the fun-to-eat (and say) shabu-shabu . Also, don't miss out on trying a California roll from any one of the sushi restaurants in the area ⎯ it was invented right in the neighborhood.

Take a Ride on the Tram

It may not have the same global recognition as the San Francisco cable car or the Lisbon tram , but the Angels Flight Railway is still one of the most iconic landmarks in downtown L.A. (and even more so since it appeared in the Oscar-winning Best Picture, "La La Land"). The funicular train has been shuttling passengers one block—albeit one very steep block—since 1901, from Hill Street to Olive Street.

The cost is $1 to ride it one-way, or 50 cents if you have an L.A. Metro pass. You can ride the tram in either direction but enter at Hill Street to ride it uphill and avoid making the steep climb on foot.

Check Out Contemporary Art for Free

If you're into contemporary art, two of Southern California's preeminent museums are not just in downtown Los Angeles, but they're across the street from each other and both are free to enter.

The Broad —pronounced like "brode"—is the newer contemporary art museum that opened in 2015 on Grand Avenue, next to the Walt Disney Disney Concert Hall . Built by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, the 120,000-square-foot museum houses their personal and their foundation's art collection of more than 2,000 works by over 200 different artists, including the museum's most Instagrammable exhibit, the Infinity Mirrored Room by Yayoi Kusama.

Walk out of the Broad and cross the street to enter the Museum of Contemporary Art , which locals just call the "MOCA." The MOCA doesn't have any permanent exhibits, so check ahead to see what's on display at the time of your trip.

Visit El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument at Olvera Street

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley 

El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, more commonly known simply as Olvera Street, is the location of the oldest remaining structure in Los Angeles, the Avila Adobe. However, it's the Mexican Marketplace running up and down the pedestrian street that primarily draws visitors. The Marketplace started in 1930 and was originally conceived as a way to rejuvenate the dilapidated neighborhood by bringing in the charm of old-world Mexico with locals selling their crafts and hosting vivacious fiestas. Nearly a century later, Olvera Street is still one of the most popular attractions in downtown Los Angeles.

It is also the home of the LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes , a museum that charts Latino history from the arrival of the first 11 Mexican families who were among the earliest settlers in Los Angeles.

Olvera Street is a one-block pedestrian zone across from Union Station, which is served by the red and gold lines of the  Metro .

See a Show at the Disney Concert Hall

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley

The Los Angeles Music Center consists of a group of original theaters that are home to the city's drama, dance, and opera companies, the most famous of which is the architecturally stunning Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry. It's home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, one of the most celebrated orchestras in the country. The "winter season" of the LA Phil at the Disney Concert Hall typically runs from October to June (in the summer, they play at the Hollywood Bowl ).

Even if you can't make it to a concert or tickets are outside of your budget, it's worth visiting the Disney Concert Hall just to appreciate the building itself. Guided tours of the inside are available for free (or you can choose to wander around yourself) but don't forget about the outside of the building. Gehry designed the hall to be explored from all sides and angles, including the exterior staircases that take visitors right up to the roof.

Feast at the Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market is an indoor public market on Broadway between Third and Fourth streets in downtown. The market has been open continuously since 1917 and has always housed a mix of greengrocers, butchers, delis, bakers, and prepared food vendors. The culinary offerings in the market have always been fresh and local, although they have become more "artisanal and gourmet" compared to its early days. The options today also represent the diversity of the local area, including Thai street food, Salvadoran pupusas, and several flavors from Mexico.

The market is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., but individual vendors may set their own hours. If you're arriving by public transportation, take the red or purple line of the metro to Pershing Square.

Explore the Fashion District in Los Angeles

The Fashion District is a great place to shop for bargain clothes, textiles, and accessories. Previously known as the Garment District, this expansive neighborhood sits in the southern part of downtown L.A. and specializes in retail and wholesale for all types of clothing. One of the most popular areas is a street of outdoor shopping called Santee Alley, where you can find great deals and cheap knock-off brands.

Many businesses are closed on Sundays, so it's not as busy if you want to roam but there's not nearly as much selection. Aspiring designers will also love  The Fashion Institute for Design and Merchandising  (FIDM) at Ninth Street and Grand, just outside the Fashion District, which has a gallery that features costume exhibits from movies and television.

Get Lost in the Downtown Los Angeles Arts District

Even though there's an endless option of art museums and galleries to visit around Los Angeles, none of them offer what you can find in the Downtown Los Angeles Arts District . It's nestled between Alameda Street and the L.A. River on the east side of downtown, and this industrial area has been a flourishing artist community since the 1970s. Most notable are the larger-than-life murals that dominate the walls and are constantly changing. In fact, it's one of the best places to see street art in all of California.

Apart from the murals, the neighborhood also has a high density of studios and galleries that are free to enter. For an immersive experience and a comprehensive history of the Arts District, several companies offer guided tours of the area, such as L.A. Art Tours .

Take a Tour of Los Angeles City Hall

Completed in 1928, the 32-story Los Angeles City Hall was the tallest building in the city until modern building methods allowed taller, high-rise buildings to appear in the 1960s. The building is a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument and is still home to the mayor and city council office chambers. It is part of the Civic Center district, which also includes county, state, and federal buildings, and has appeared in dozens of TV shows, movies, and video games. You can walk in and explore on your own with the self-guided tour materials available at the information desk on the third floor, but whatever you do, be sure to take the elevator up to the free observation deck on the 27th floor.

Enjoy the Sun at Grand Park

It isn't easy finding refuge in all of the commotion of downtown L.A., but Grand Park is a 12-acre oasis nuzzled in between the skyscrapers. It stretches for over three blocks of tranquil green space, making it the perfect location to escape from a day of trekking around the concrete jungle. At the west end of the park, the restored Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain includes a spouted wading area that is a favorite place to cool off on hot summer days. At night, a light show draws romantic strolling couples and photo enthusiasts. The park also includes 24 botanic gardens inspired by the six floristic kingdoms of the world and plenty of green lawn for playing and relaxing.

Browse Around at The Last Bookstore

The Last Bookstore, at the corner of Fifth and Spring streets in Downtown Los Angeles, has become an international tourist draw. They don't just sell, buy, and trade second-hand books and records at The Last Bookstore. They've created an intriguing combination of quirky art and wide-ranging literature in a really unique space. The bones of the original architecture are allowed to shine through with a painted beamed ceiling supported by classic columns. The second floor wraps around the open first floor with a balcony walkway, keeping your eyes busy with everything going on above and below. Upstairs houses unique art studios and galleries, a knitting shop, and a labyrinth of more books, including the dollar room with over 100,000 books for $1.

There are some overstuffed sofas and chairs around for reading, but you're just as likely to see people pull up a spot on the floor wherever they've discovered treasure among the stacks. The Last Bookstore hosts a variety of events from book signings, author talks, and art openings to comedy shows, music performances, and open mic nights.

Visit Union Station Los Angeles

Museimage / Getty Images

Union Station is still the hub of long-distance and commuter rail transportation in Los Angeles, serving Amtrak, MetroLink, and MTA Metro trains. It's also worth visiting as an architectural landmark, with a gorgeous waiting hall and public areas. The historic station was built in 1939 and is a mix of Spanish Colonial, Mission Revival, Art Deco, and modern architectural styles.

Enjoy a Meal at Engine Co. No. 28

Courtesy of Engine Co. No. 28

Housed in an old fire station, Engine Co. No. 28 serves delicious American-styled dishes inspired by old recipes from firehouses throughout the nation. The building was originally built in 1912 and operated as a full-fledged fire station until its closure in 1967. A little more than 20 years later, the station was renovated and opened as a restaurant.

Their specialties include New York steak, meatloaf, a firehouse chili, and a few other American and Southern staples. You can make reservations for indoor or heated outdoor seating through their website, where they guarantee they can put out your "appetite fire."

Catch a Fly Ball at Dodger Stadium

John Liu / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

If you're itching to catch a baseball game while you're visiting L.A., why not stop in at Dodger Stadium? The stadium itself is iconic, it's the third-oldest continually used stadium in the MLB, and even if you aren't a baseball fan, you've probably caught a glimpse of it in one of its many movie appearances. ("Benny The Jet" Rodriguez became a Dodger and played here at the end of "The Sandlot.")

If you're interested in seeing more of the iconic stadium itself, they offer 90-minute tours that cost just $25 for adults.

Pick Up a Book at the Los Angeles Central Library

Jim Winstead / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

Considered an architectural landmark, the Los Angeles Central Library (also known as the Richard J. Riordan Central Library) is one of the leading public research libraries located in downtown L.A. Not only is it listed as a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument, but it's also listed in the National Register of Historic Places. The main building was built during the mid-1920s and is a beautiful example of the art deco architecture of that period.

Besides the stunning architecture and the flood of knowledge in the building, visitors can also explore the Maguire Gardens on the library's west side.

Visit the California Science Center

ray_explores / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

If you're looking for hands-on fun for the entire family, what better place to visit than the California Science Center? Open seven days a week with free general admission to four of its main exhibit areas, this is an easy stop on any itinerary.

Become fire safety experts at the "Fire! Science & Safety" exhibit, study where life began and how it changes in the "Life! Beginnings"  exhibit, and live out your astronaut dreams in the "Humans in Space" exhibit.

Their mission is to promote learning and wonder through fun and entertaining experiences, as they believe science is the future.

Explore Music History at the GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live

Mario RM / CC BY-SA 2.0 / Flickr

The GRAMMY Museum L.A. Live is dedicated to its mission—cultivating interest and appreciation for music history. Their exhibits range from appreciating what artists wear on the red carpet with their "On the Red Carpet" exhibit to an immersive experience of their "Mono to Immersive" exhibition, where visitors can experience their favorite artists' sound on the classic gramophone.

Adult tickets are $18, and the museum is open every day except Tuesday.

Admire the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels

Clinton Steeds / CC BY 2.0 / Flickr

Some of the most impressive pieces of architecture are buildings of worship, and the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels is no exception. The building was finished in the spring of 2002 and is said to feature virtually no right angles, as the "geometry contributes to the Cathedral's feeling of mystery and its aura of majesty," they state on their website .

Inside, visitors will find stunning stained glass windows in the mausoleum, tall bronze doors, and beautifully done hanging tapestry, the largest amount in a Catholic church in the United States.

National Park Service. "Little Tokyo Historic District." Retrieved April 2, 2021

Britannica. "California Roll." Retrieved April 2, 2021

County of LA. "History." Retrieved April 2, 2021

Arts District LA. "Arts District History." Retrieved April 2, 2021

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24 Things to Do in Downtown Los Angeles

In this post, we are heading the Los Angeles, and I’m going to show you 24 of my favorite spots to explore in Downtown LA. Check it out and let me know what I left off in the comments. Click on the images to read more about the recommendation.

1. Broad Museum

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Stop number one, takes us to The Broad Museum, which is one of the most popular new museums in Los Angeles. This gallery became popular because of its “Instagram-able” attractions like the mirror rooms, the big tulips, the America sign. It even has a larger than life size table you can walk right underneath. It’s a free museum, but you do need tickets in advance, and be prepared to wait for about an hour if you don’t get a ticket in advance to get in.

  • Read more about the Broad .

2. Walt Disney Concert Hall

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Across the street from The Broad, we have the Walt Disney Concert Hall. You’ve probably seen this awesome architectural feat right in the heart of downtown Los Angeles multiple times while driving by. Still, I would recommend getting out of the car, walking around, taking a tour of the concert hall, and walking through the gardens. It’s a beautiful area and every time you go, you see something new. Of course, if you get a chance, see a show there as well. It’s supposed to have the best acoustics in all of Los Angeles.

3. OUE SkySpace LA (This location has been closed)

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Recommendation number three is OUE SkySpace, which is in the US Bank Tower. This unique Los Angeles attraction has a glass slide, where you slide from the 70th floor to the 69th floor, all completely in glass. The slide goes fast, so you don’t have a ton of time to look around, but it’s a fun experience that gets the adrenaline going. Also, they have two open-air observation decks that are amazing spots for sunset.

  • Read more about OUE Skyspace .

4. Union Station

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Union Station is the Los Angeles train station, and it’s been featured in movies like Blade Runner. It’s many decades old and is an excellent place to walk around and explore the unique architecture or take the train somewhere outside of Los Angeles.

  • Read more about Union Station .

5. Olvera St

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

From Union Station, head over to Olvera Street, which is right across the street from the train station and is a fun cultural heritage site in the middle of Los Angeles. Here, you can visit the center pavilion, go to some of the museums, see one of the oldest houses in Los Angeles and have taquitos at Cielito Lindo. Olvera Street is also impressive during the Day of the Dead Festival, which happens right around Halloween every single year.

  • Read more about Olvera Street .

6. Chinatown

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

For a different cultural experience, head over to Chinatown, which is a few blocks up from Olvera Street. This small area has food, shopping, and lots of unique architecture. It also has the traditional Chinese lanterns that go across many of the streets, and it has a wishing fountain that you can throw coins into.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

My next recommendation is MOCA, which is a contemporary art museum in the heart of downtown LA. While this doesn’t have as many of the crazy exhibits like The Broad does, it’s still a great place to see some unique art and walk around the two to three floors they have. The giant metal piece in the outdoor lobby is worth visiting just to see that.

8. Grand Central Market

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Next stop, we have Grand Central Market, which is Downtown LA’s food court. It’s been there for decades, with lots of unique restaurants coming in and out over the years. Now, it’s part of the foodie revival in LA with places like Eggslut, PBJ.LA, Wexler’s Deli, and many others bringing people from all over Southern California to try a unique dish.

9. Bradbury Building

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

From there, head across the street to the Bradbury Building, which was also featured in Blade Runner, and is a super cool piece of architecture that you can explore during business hours. You can’t ride the old elevators, but you can walk up some of the staircases and see the building from many different angles.

10. Angels Flight

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

After that, head over to Angels Flight, a fun little train that you can ride. It takes you about a block up, and it only costs 50 cents to a dollar, depending on whether you have a metro pass or not. No doubt you’ve seen this fun attraction in some recent movies like La La Land. It was actually closed for about five years, so it’s great to have it back open again.

  • Read more about Angels Flight .

11. The Last Bookstore

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

My next recommendation is The Last Bookstore. This old bank building was turned into a two-story bookstore that has an insane amount of books but has a lot of other cool things to see as well. Some of those are the book tunnel that you can walk through and the old bank vault, which houses crime novels. It’s a good place just to walk around and take it all in.

  • Read more about The Last Bookstore .

12. Clifton’s Cafeteria

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Close by The Last Bookstore is Clifton’s Cafeteria, which is a famous Los Angeles spot that has been around for over 50 years. This unique cafeteria has all sorts of absurd things for you to see, such as tigers that you can sit next to, a giant three-story tree, and all kinds of weird oddities around the restaurant. It just reopened a year or two ago, and it’s a great place to go with your family.  This location is not always open, check the website before you go. 

13. Art’s District

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Next, I recommend heading over to the Art District. The Art’s District is the up and coming downtown neighborhood that everybody wants to live at, and everyone else comes to eat at. The Art’s District has lots of artistic murals on all of the buildings, a bunch of crazy places to eat like Wurstkuche, which has rattlesnake and rabbit sausages, breweries, ice cream, you name it they have it in the Art’s District. It’s an excellent place to just park, walk around and explore. Naturally, bring your appetite because there are lots you’re going to want to eat.

14. Spire 73 Bar at the InterContinental Hotel

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

If you are in LA at night, head over to the InterContinental hotel, the tallest building on the West Coast. From there, you can take the elevator to the 70th floor and then another elevator to the 73rd floor to go to the tallest open-air bar in the entire country. This is a great place to grab a drink or snack and look out over the city lights.

15. LA Live and the Grammy Museum

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

My next recommendation is to head down to LA Live, which is right across from the Staple Center and has lots of restaurants as well as the Grammy Museum. If you’re a fan of music, then the Grammy Museum is a great place to explore. It talks about past winners, has instruments that you can play, microphones you can sing into, and revolving exhibits on things like punk rock and famous guitars. Also, along the sidewalk, outside of the museum, there are big records in the ground, much like the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, that talk about the different artists that won categories during each year of the Grammy’s.

  • Read more about The Grammy Museum .

16. Smorgasborg LA

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

If you’re in Los Angeles on a Sunday, the only day of the week that this happens, head over to Smorgasburg. Smorgasburg is much like a food truck event where 30 or so restaurants all have little pop-up shops in this one big industrial area. You can walk all around and try things ranging from fried chicken in a waffle cone, shrimp in a pineapple boat, acai bowls, tea, all sorts of crazy stuff. I recommend bringing your appetite and some money so that you can try a few different things. There’s also a shopping area down the middle that you can check out in between eating.

  • Read more about Smorgasborg

17. Little Tokyo

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Little Tokyo is in the heart of downtown LA where Chinatown is a little bit north of the city center. This area has a unique mall full of all sorts of Japanese-related items, has different restaurants that you can try, and it has one of my favorite places in all of downtown Los Angeles which is Daikokuya, a ramen restaurant. Be sure to get there really early, though, as Diakokuya is always busy, super small, and you normally have to wait at least an hour.

18. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Next stop, we have a Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, a beautiful church that you can check out while you are in the city. This church is stunning with a contemporary design and a large open floor plan. You can walk through the entire area or go down to the mausoleum below the church. Obviously, be respectful if you visit here.

19. LA City Hall

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

If you’re in Los Angeles during a weekday, from 9 AM to 5 PM, go to LA City Hall. You can get a visitor’s pass and take the elevator to the top of the city hall. From there, you can walk around in an open-air observation deck completely free. This is a great place to explore as it gives you impressive views of downtown LA and all the surrounding areas. You can even see the Hollywood Sign if there’s not any smog.

  • Read more about LA City Hall .

20. Grand Park

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

From City Hall, you can head up to Grand Park, another fun place to relax in downtown. This long narrow park goes up about three city blocks, and it gains elevation as you’re walking up to the top. Each area has grass with tables and chairs that you can relax at and look out over City Hall. Also, at the top, there is a fountain that kids often play in.

21. Pershing Square

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

From here, you can head to Pershing Square, which is one of the other popular city parks in Los Angeles. There’s not a lot to do in Pershing Square daily, but there is a park for kids to play at, and during Christmas, they have an ice rink here so you can ice skate in the heart of Downtown LA.

22. LA Library

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Pershing Square is about a block from the LA Library, another excellent place to explore for a few hours during the day. They have a cool atrium with lots of unique art, and, on the second floor, they have rotunda that you have to see to believe.

23. Bob Baker Marionette Theater (the theater has moved to a new location)

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

My last two recommendations are a little bit outside the downtown area, but they’re both fun to visit. First, head over to Bob Baker Marionette Theater. This theater on the west side of downtown has been running for over 50 years, and it has an impressive marionette puppet show the whole family will enjoy. It’s a lot of fun during the holidays as well as they often have holiday-themed shows with their different puppets.

  • Read more about Bob Baker Theater .

24. Dodger’s Stadium

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

My last recommendation is a visit to Dodger’s Stadium. You may have been to Dodger’s Stadium during a game day, but I recommend you visit it when there’s no game in town. During normal business hours, most days of the week, you can drive into Dodger’s Stadium, and you can visit the company store. From there, you can actually walk out into the upper deck, eat lunch, and look out over the beautiful stadium. I’m not a huge baseball fan myself, but there’s just something cool about being in Dodger’s Stadium with no one else around.

  • Read more about Dodger’s Stadium .

If you want to see clips of all these spots, check out this video I made talking through them.

So, that’s it, 24 spots in downtown Los Angeles for you to check out. Hopefully, there are some new ones on there that you hadn’t heard of before and be sure to let me know where I left off that you love in the comments. Also, if you want to visit Hollywood, check out this guide .

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THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Downtown, Los Angeles

Top things to do in downtown.

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  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

1. Staples Center

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2. Walt Disney Concert Hall

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3. The Broad

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4. Little Tokyo

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5. GRAMMY Museum

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6. Japanese American National Museum

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7. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

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8. Los Angeles Central Library

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9. Angels Flight Railway

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10. Bradbury Building

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11. City Hall

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12. The Museum of Contemporary Art

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13. Los Angeles Convention Center

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14. Orpheum Theater

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15. LA Fashion District

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16. Microsoft Theater

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17. Flower Market

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18. Ahmanson Theatre

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19. Gloria Molina Grand Park

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20. Lucky Strike LA Live

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21. Downtown Historic District

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22. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

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23. FIDM Museum and Galleries

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24. The Santee Alley

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25. Civic Center

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26. Grand Central Market

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27. Greenbar Distillery

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28. Mrs. Fish

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29. Macy's Plaza

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30. Pershing Square

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What travelers are saying

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downtown los angeles tourist attractions

This must be the Arts District

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Visitors don’t come to the Arts District to escape from city life: This is downtown Los Angeles, and the neighborhood is gritty. But it’s also a vortex of creative energy with a thriving community built on legacies of art, punk and industry.

handwritten text title: This must be the place

Get to know Los Angeles through the places that bring it to life. From restaurants to shops to outdoor spaces, here’s what to discover now.

The Arts District has its own urban geography: Sandwiched between the Los Angeles River rail yards and Alameda Street, its bridges and roads are thoroughfares for commuters and freight barreling to and from the nearby 10, 101 and 5 freeways.

Here among the warehouses and truck depots is a nexus of independent galleries, public art, edgy shops and some of the best restaurants and cafes in the country. Just beyond 1st Street was the city’s original red-light district. And before it was the Arts District, the area was known as the Warehouse District. Continuous new construction — including its first (and controversial) high-rise — promises future transformation.

Downtown is made up of several neighborhoods, and over the course of a decade I’ve lived in its Historic Core, Little Tokyo and Arts District, each of them profoundly distinct. Friends in the core jokingly call the Arts District “the suburbs of downtown.”

That’s partly because the Alameda Corridor divides it from the more densely populated historic center, Skid Row, Little Tokyo and Olvera Street. It’s also subtextual commentary on the sprawl of housing and retail developments, encroaching on the once-inexpensive lofts that drew artists here in the first place. (What used to be a bar that was the epicenter of L.A. punk rock is now a store selling T-shirts that say “Brentwood Swim Club.”)

But the idiosyncratic spirit of the Arts District remains palpable. At night, thumping warehouse raves at the southernmost part of the neighborhood, impromptu takeovers on the 6th Street Bridge (fireworks and drag races included) and swirls of people around the bars and galleries at Joel Bloom Square, which is actually a triangle, are reminders of the brilliance and allure of living in a city where it feels as if anything can happen.

The late Bloom , with the eponymous “square,” was a beloved community activist who owned a general store on Hewitt Street. “I get a feeling here I haven’t gotten anywhere else,” he said in a 1994 interview with the L.A. Times. “It may look desolate, but it’s not. There’s no place I’d rather be.”

On the south fringes are abandoned buildings, piles of detritus, parked big rigs. But also, members-only club Soho House ; Maru , arguably the most stylish coffee shop in L.A.; Bestia , one of the hardest reservations anywhere; and avant-garde clothing boutiques such as H. Lorenzo and Dover Street Market . Some alleyways you avoid, and some lead you to a secret movie theater , mural , gym , teahouse or tacos .

The north half of the Arts District is a playland of bars, breweries, restaurants, galleries and stores. The international art gallery Hauser & Wirth established itself as a central hub when it debuted in a former flour mill on 3rd Street in the spring of 2016. But the artist ghosts of another generation might haunt the American Hotel (the building with Kent Twitchell’s giant mural of Ed Ruscha overlooking Bloom Square) around the corner on Traction, where the punk scene at legendary Al’s Bar blazed in anarchic fashion until the club closed in 2001. They probably never expected a Kreation juice bar would open across the street.

Nearly 200 years ago the whole area was the source of a different kind of juice: cabernet. Those vineyards gave way in the late 19th century to orange and grapefruit groves, where the story of the Arts District as we know it began. The warehouses and depots built to support the packing and shipping of citrus laid the foundation for the neighborhood’s architectural character (which also helps make it one of the world’s most filmed locations). Factories overtook the citrus groves, and when the factories emptied between the 1950s and ’70s, artists moved in, creating live-work spaces.

Jump to the present, and the 35-story mixed-use high-rise looming above the 4th Street Bridge is nearing completion. (It was connected to a corruption scandal centered on former City Councilmember José Huizar and bribes from real estate developers.) Several hundred new apartments have been built at Alameda and Industrial, with more to come. Film production studios are taking over old warehouses. A brand-new shopping center on Traction called Signal brings luxe retailers including Flamingo Estate, M5 Shop, Lawson Fenning and Alchemy Works.

The neighborhood keeps changing. For many who live, work and play here, there’s still no place they’d rather be.

What's included in this guide

Anyone who’s lived in a major metropolis can tell you that neighborhoods are a tricky thing. They’re eternally malleable and evoke sociological questions around how we place our homes, our neighbors and our communities within a wider tapestry. In the name of neighborly generosity, we included gems that may linger outside of technical parameters. Instead of leaning into stark definitions, we hope to celebrate all of the places that make us love where we live.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

View the 'Undiscovered America' mural on 4th Place

Dipping a spoon into a cup of Cream Top coffee at Maru

Start your day with a Cream Top at Maru coffee shop

A woman and a man seated for a late morning breakfast at Guerrilla Cafecito.

You're here for the breakfast burrito at Guerrilla Cafecito

Merchandise on display in the front window of the Good Liver, with a sandwich board visible outside.

Shop for City Pop records and home goods at the Good Liver

A yawning dog riding in a backpack among a crowd of people, with pop-up canopies and a building in the background

If it's Sunday, it's Smorgasburg

A white, nearly windowless corner building seen from outside, under utility lines and poles.

For avant-garde fashion, step into Dover Street Market

A woman and a child sit on a bench in a bright space with bookshelves.

Move over, MOCA. Check out the Institute of Contemporary Art

A pair of David Kawecki puzzle chairs on display at the Motley Design Warehouse.

Find Midcentury Modern treasures at Motley

A woman and a man smile as they look through an art book that she holds

Drop into an art opening or book signing at Webber Gallery

Carnitas Taco and Fish Flauta on a yellow plate at Ditroit Taqueria

Snack on a crispy flauta in a back alley at Ditroit Taqueria

A woman leans over a potter's wheel

Take a pottery workshop at Still Life Ceramics Studios

A person stands in front of and among bookshelves, flipping through a book

Buy an art book or magazine at Hennessey + Ingalls

Two chickens enjoy late-afternoon sunshine at the courtyard garden of Hauser & Wirth Downtown Los Angeles.

Find a secret wildlife habitat at Hauser & Wirth

An audio system and record racks on display at Common Wave Hi-Fi.

Geek out on world-class audio gear at Common Wave Hi-Fi

Mini bike riders on the Sixth Street Viaduct, aka the Sixth Street Bridge.

Take a sunset stroll on the 6th Street Bridge

A server walks past tables under a large gridded window in the dining room of Yess restaurant in the Arts District.

Try for a bar seat at Zen-like Yess and order chirashi

Clinking wine glasses at a restaurant

Book a 'cycle of life' tasting menu at Baroo

Diners on the outdoor patio at Everson Royce Bar.

Have a cocktail on the patio at Everson Royce Bar

A woman seated in a red theater seat

Watch a favorite cult film at Secret Movie Club

A grill master tends to a flaming al pastor spit at Ave. 26 Tacos.

It's late. You want suadero at Ave. 26 Tacos

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The Broad Museum of Los Angeles.

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Grammy Museum

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Union Station

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United Artists Theatre

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US Bank Tower

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Olvera Street

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Avila Adobe

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Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

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Southern California Institute of Architecture

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25 Best Things to Do in Downtown LA

What are the best things to do in Downtown LA?

Downtown LA, or DTLA as it is more commonly known , has much to offer. If you’re visiting Los Angeles or are a local looking for some fun attractions, take the time to visit Downtown Los Angeles.

The coastline of Los Angeles is a 30-minute drive away. Some of us may want to spend the day at Venice Beach , but DTLA immerses us in a different side of Los Angeles. Yes, some parts are rougher than others, but you’ll see plenty of beauty if you look closely.

Downtown Los Angeles is what you make of it. It’s not New York City or San Francisco but it has its own vibe.

From restaurants and bars with modern decor and some of the best food in town to cultural institutions like The Broad Museum and Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Since we’re in Pasadena, living only 20 minutes from Downtown Los Angeles, we make a day or afternoon of it now and then. Sometimes we venture out for dinner at one of the many amazing restaurants in DTLA.

It’s always exciting to explore this part of Los Angeles. I’m always in awe when we pass by the Walt Disney Hall. We love to visit the Grand Central Market because of its great selection of delicious local food stands. Hit up Little Tokyo for some authentic shabu shabu or delicious ramen. Spend the afternoon with a friend at the Broad Museum.

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One of the things to do in Downtown LA, if you love older architecture as we do, is to keep an eye out for the intricate details found in structures. You’ll see glimpses of what Downtown LA used to be in the early 1900s. We always say, look up because you never know what you’ll miss.

You’ll find all the top things to do in Downtown LA in this list. Start planning some adventures into the city and heart of Los Angeles, California.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Downtown LA

Here is a link to the Top Things to Do in Downtown LA in Google Maps to help with your itinerary plans.

Book a Hotel in Los Angeles – Booking.com

1. Visit the Walt Disney Concert Hall

downtown los angeles walt disney hall

It’s an architectural beauty that is both breathtaking and iconic, the Walt Disney Hall on Grand Avenue. Frank Gehry designed this concert hall, one of Downtown LA’s most photographed structures.

la phil center sign in front of walt disney hall

It’s also the home of the LA Philharmonic. You can visit to see this exceptional concert hall in person or book tickets to one of their events.

Self-guided tours of the venue are available daily: click here for further information.

Walt Disney Concert Hall | 111 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

Tour Ideas: DTLA Architecture Walking Tour [ Book Tour Here ]

2. Explore Little Tokyo, Eat Shabu Shabu

entrance at japanese village plaza little tokyo

Founded in 1884, Little Tokyo is a historic district located in downtown Los Angeles. The neighborhood encompasses five blocks and is home to a vibrant Japanese-American community.

Visitors to Little Tokyo can enjoy a variety of Japanese experiences, from sampling traditional cuisine to browsing charming shops filled with Japanese treats and items, like the Little Tokyo Market. The Japanese Village Plazas is one of the most popular spots to visit in Downtown LA, filled with shops, restaurants, and outdoor seating.

The neighborhood is also home to the Japanese American National Museum .

Whether you’re interested in exploring Japanese culture or want to experience LA’s history, Little Tokyo is well worth a visit.

Top Foodie Pick : Shabu Shabu House has been part of Little Tokyo for decades. Eating here was the first time we ever had an authentic shabu experience.

Explore Little Tokyo | Los Angeles, CA | Google Map It

3. Explore Chinatown

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Chinatown is vibrant, with its red lanterns strung up across plazas and Xie Shan roofs. There are many shops and restaurants on Grand Avenue to explore. You’ll find everything from Chinese medicine to Asian bakeries.

Chinatown’s Central Plaza is the most photographable area and spot to visit, where you can find Bruce Lee’s statue. There are many opportunities for photos with the Chinese gate and lanterns that adorn this plaza.

A great time to visit Chinatown is during one of their festivals, like the Chinese New Year. The city will come alive with festivities with dancing dragons, a parade, and more.

Top Foodie Pick : Golden Dragon is a long-standing Dim Sum restaurant in Chinatown. Also, Chinatown is home to the infamous Howling Ray’s .

Chinatown | Los Angeles, CA | Google Map It

4. Eat at Philippe The Original

french dip sandwich

Philippe’s is a Los Angeles institution serving French-dipped sandwiches since 1908.

As a matter of fact, not until you eat at Philippe’s are you considered a Los Angeles local. People would mention Philippe’s to me and gasp when I didn’t know what it was. We have been there many times now.

Is it worth the hype? In our honest opinion, no. Is it worth the experience? YES.

old telephone booths

What I love the most about Philippe’s is the vibe. It’s old-school. There are even old telephone booth stalls. Sawdust on the ground. The staff is super friendly. It seems to be always busy, but you get that old-school LA feeling.

Foodie Tip : Get the sandwich double-dipped! The messier, the better. Don’t forget to add their famous mustard to it when you sit down to eat it.

Philippe The Original | 1001 N Alameda St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

5. Eat Way Through the Grand Central Market

outside of grand central market

The Grand Central Market is one of the top Los Angeles attractions . This market wins every foodie’s heart with various food options and cuisines. You can also find produce, unique ingredients, flowers, and a local butcher.

The Grand Central Market has been part of Downtown Los Angeles since 1917. It has changed so much since then, now a trendier popular food hall where locals dine daily.

If you’re in the area, this is a great bathroom stop as they have multiple clean restrooms downstairs from the market.

Top Foodie Picks : Egg Slut for the most delicious breakfast egg sandwiches. Carnitas tacos from Villa Moreliana . Although everything we’ve tried at Grand Central Market was delicious.

Grand Central Market | 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles | Google Map It

Top Los Angeles Attractions

Visiting Los Angeles, California? Planning to explore and be a tourist in LA. Walk amongst the stars on Hollywood Blvd. See the spectacular views of Los Angeles from the Griffith Observatory. Take a short ride on Angel’s flight. Here are the top attractions in the city of Angels.

6. Take a Ride on Angel’s Flight Railway

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

This funicular railway in Downtown LA goes up and down one of the steepest hills. It goes between Hill Street and Grand Avenue. It’s the shortest railway in the world.

Angel’s Flight has been closed down and restored a few times. The latest reopening was in 2017. We suggest experiencing this piece of Los Angeles history before it’s down again.

It only costs $1 each way, or you can buy a round-trip ticket for $2.

Angel’s Flight has been featured in movies, most notably in La La Land.

Angel’s Flight | 350 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

7. Bradbury Building

Inside the bradbury building

This is a beautiful building that was built in 1893. It’s been used as a location for countless films and TV shows. One movie that comes to mind and features the inside of it is 500 Days of Summer.

The Bradbury Building is also a National Historic Landmark. It’s one of those buildings you’ll want to visit if you love architecture. The outside is unassuming, but the inside is amazing. The ornate ironwork, the glass atrium, and the open “birdcage” elevator are a few of my favorite things from this building.

You can see this for FREE as long as the building is open. They probably will only allow you to go into the main floor, but that’s enough to see why it is so special.

Bradbury Building | 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles | Google Map It

Tour Idea: Old and New Downtown Los Angeles Walking Tour [ Book Tour Here ]

8. Visit Union Station

outside of union station palm trees framing the front

If you take the train downtown, Union Station is a great place to land to start your day in DTLA.

Union Station is the hub of Downtown LA for the Los Angeles MTA system. It’s a beautiful building and one of Los Angeles’s architectural gems to visit, even if you’re not taking the train.

The main hall is stunning, with high ceilings, beautiful tilework, and art deco-style touches that make you feel like you stepped back in time.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Many movies, TV shows, and commercials have been filmed here. You can click here for more info.

Interactive Art Display at Union Station

A fun little tidbit that is not widely known… there is an interactive LED art display inside the station. It is called the “A-train” by Bill Bell, and it’s been there since 1996.

The display is next to the escalators, in the escalators down to the B train (Red Line) and D train (Purple Line). On one side of the escalators, you’ll see the display across from it. On the other side, you’ll find a plaque on the wall that says “A Train” by Bill Bell. In that plaque, there is a hidden microphone.

Here are classic celebrity names that you can use to turn on the interactive art display. You’ll start by speaking loudly into the plaque, “Hey, Billy, Old Pal, Play me some [insert name of celebrity here].”

  • Judy Garland – “Somewhere Over the Rainbow” song will play
  • Johh Weissmuller – the Tarzan call will play
  • Duke Ellington’s “Take the A-Train” song will play

Sometimes, it does take a few tries.

Top Foodie Pick: Check out the Slice for a quick slice of square pizza, or Traxx Restaurant and Bar is a great spot to meet up for cocktails and a bite to eat.

Union Station | 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

9. Take a Stroll Through Olvera Street

olvera street shops full of colorful souveniers

Across from Union Station, you’ll find Olvera Street. It is said to be the oldest street in Los Angeles. The street is filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment celebrating Mexican culture. It’s a fun spot to bring kids or just wander around and explore.

You’ll find plenty of souvenirs to take home with you here. The best thing to do is try as many food stands as possible. Perhaps you’ll be there on a day when there are mariachi players outside entertaining the crowds.

The street is also home to the Avila Adobe, the oldest Los Angeles residence.

Dias de Los Muertos and Cinco de Mayo are great times to visit Olvera Street.

Top Foodie Pick : Try the tacos at Cielito Lindo , a food stand on Olvera Street since 1934.

Olvera Street | 800 N Alameda St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

10. Prepare to Eat at Smorgasburg LA

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

If you’re looking for things to do in DTLA this weekend, Smorgasburg LA runs every Sunday. This is an outdoor food market that has everything from BBQ to tacos. There is even a bar area!

This food market is a foodie’s dream. You will want to add Smorgasburg LA, to your Sunday to-do list. Have a lunch date or spend it a foodie afternoon with friends and family. Try a few different food stands and see which is your favorite.

Admission is FREE, but food and drinks are available for purchase.

Open every Sunday from 10 am to 4 pm.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

While we’ve only tried a handful of spots so far, we love the sugarcane juice from Sweet Grass , the arepas from Sus Arepas , and the triple-fried fries in beef tallow from Super Frites .

Tip: Order on Uber Eats for pickup and skip the line. Enter Smorgasburg in the locations box, and all the vendors available for pick-up will pop up to order. Use code eats-kathya3465ue for $10 off your first Uber Eats order.

Parking: Large parking garage is available, and the first two hours are free.

Smorgasburg | 777 S Alameda St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

11. Visit ROW DTLA

refurbished industrial buildings at row dtla

ROW DTLA is a shopping and dining destination in itself. When Smorgasborg LA isn’t happening, you can visit this historical commercial area of Downtown Los Angeles, where it once used to be the Los Angeles Terminal Hub for the Southern Pacific Railroad. This is also where wholesale produce would take place.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Now it has a chic industrial vibe to it. Old warehouses have been refurbished and converted into art galleries, coffee shops, boutiques, trendy restaurants, and cafes. It’s a great place to explore and get a bite to eat.

ROW DTLA | 777 S Alameda St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

12. Have Drinks at a Rooftop Bar in DTLA

sunset from rooftop bar in downtown los angeles

One of the fun things to do in Downtown LA is enjoying a drink and the view at a rooftop bar. There are plenty of rooftop bars to choose from.

Some favorites are…

  • Spire 73 at the Intercontinental Hotel DTLA
  • The Rooftop Lounge at the Standard
  • Upstairs at Ace Hotel

13. Visit The Last Bookstore

the last bookdstore neon sign

This bookstore is iconic in Los Angeles and a must-do in Downtown LA, especially if you’re a bookworm. It’s a magical labyrinth of new and used collections of books. It’s also the most significant new and used bookstore in California.

They often have events and readings. It can be a fun place to spend an hour or two browsing through books.

Please be respectful of the books and support this business if you go here. Don’t just go for the photos.

The Last Bookstore | 453 South Spring Street, Los Angeles | Google Map It

14. The Broad Museum

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Just steps away from the Walt Disney Hall are the Broad Museum.

The Broad Museum is a contemporary art museum that opened in 2015. It’s home to over 2000 works of art from artists like Jeff Koons, Andy Warhol, and Roy Lichtenstein.

This is a must-do in Los Angeles for anyone who appreciates modern art. The exterior design of this building alone is worth admiring.

Amazingly, the Broad has FREE general admission. You have to book your tickets in advance. For more info, click here .

If you do not book tickets in advance, sometimes there is a queue that you can wait online until space is available. Your best bet is to book a reservation and plan your day around it.

The Broad | 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

15. Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

This is the mother church of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. It’s a beautiful building and not what you’d expect when you think of a Cathedral. It’s one of the newest churches built in the Western US.

Spanish architect Professor José Rafael Moneo designed this modern cathedral. It’s unique with its sharp contemporary lines and angles. Reminds me of a modern museum.

Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels | 555 W Temple St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

Day Trips from Los Angeles

If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles, then these day trips are perfect for you! From stunning beaches to awe-inspiring mountain ranges, there’s something for everyone.

16. Los Angeles City Hall Observation Deck

view of city of los angeles from city hall

Not many know this, but you can visit the Los Angeles City Hall and take an elevator to the observation deck on the 27th floor of City Hall. From here, you’ll have panoramic views of Downtown LA. It’s one way to see a beautiful view of Los Angeles.

view from los angeles city hall observation deck

It’s one of the FREE things to do in Downtown Los Angeles.

Los Angeles City Hall | 200 N Spring St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

17. Take a Helicopter Tour of DTLA

Feeling like taking a daring adventure? Book a helicopter tour of Downtown LA. You’ll get amazing aerial views of Los Angeles and see things you cannot do by car or on foot.

It’s one of the more expensive things to do in Los Angeles, but it can be worth it for those who like thrill-seeking activities.

Tour Ideas: Private Helicopter Tour of Beaches & Downtown Los Angeles [ Book Tour Here ] Los Angeles at Night 30-Minute Helicopter Flight [ Book Tour Here ]

18. The Los Angeles Flower Market | Flower District

flowers at the los angeles flower market

If you love flowers and plants, this is one of the things to do in Downtown LA that you should add to your list. You can find bulk bouquets and some of the most exotic plant life on display here at wholesale prices.

You’ll want to plan to come here in the morning as most days they close at noon.

Entry: $2 on weekdays | $1 on Saturdays

LA Flower Market | 754 Wall St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

19. See a Game or a Concert at The Crypto.com Arena (formerly known as the Staples Center)

The Crypto.com Arena is home to the LA Lakers basketball team. You can also find other sporting events, concerts, and shows happening throughout the year. You can buy tickets to one of the games or events at Staple Center.

We haven’t attended a game because we are not sports fans, but we enjoyed Disney on Ice at this multi-arena space.

For more info on events and tickets, click here .

Crypto.com Arena | 1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

20. Check out LA Live

Adjacent to the Crypto.com Arena is LA Live. This entertainment complex has restaurants, a movie theater, a bowling alley, and even a Grammy Museum .

It’s the most alive at night on weekends as locals and tourists flock here for a fun night in Los Angeles. Book tickets to see a movie at Regal LA Live . Grab a beer and a bite to eat at the Yard House .

This is also a great spot to go ice skating and enjoy some of the Christmas festivities in Los Angeles .

LA Live | 800 W Olympic Blvd, Los Angeles | Google Map It

21. Grand Park

For a day out with your family and friends, Grand Park is a great spot to enjoy and get some fresh air. There’s a playground, a splash pad, a dog run, picnic tables, and plenty of green space to relax in.

City events, small concerts, and celebrations would take place here from time to time.

Grand Park | 200 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It ) | Website

22. See an Opera at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is a performing arts center home to the LA Opera. It is one of the halls of the Los Angeles Music Center. It was built in 1964 and named after Dorothy Buffum Chandler, an American Patron of the Arts.

If you’re into classical music or opera, this is one of the things to do in Downtown Los Angeles. Have you experienced an opera in person? It’s absolutely amazing experience.

courtyard at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

Outside the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is a nice courtyard with a water fountain facing City Hall. If you’re in the area, it’s a nice place to come by and enjoy a beautiful day.

You can find tickets to the LA Opera here .

Dorothy Ch andler Pav ilion | 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles | Google Map It

23. Pershing Square

pershing square downtown los angeles

The historic park that’s been around since 1866 was known then as La Plaza Abaja. Pershing Square was renamed in 1918. It is in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles.

It is a nice spot to walk through and enjoy the scenery. Maybe even grab a bite to eat at nearby outdoor cafes or food trucks.

Events and concerts do take place here from time to time.

at night in pershing square in los angeles

Pershing Square | 532 S Olive St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

24. The BLOC

The BLOC is not only an open-air shopping center in Downtown Los Angeles. It also has offices, restaurants, a hotel, and the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema. It stands for “Building, Living, Operating, and Culture.”

There are plenty of Instagrammable opportunities at The BLOC.

Alamo Drafhouse at The BLOC is one of the nicest movie theaters downtown, great for a date night in LA.

Looking for a hotel in Downtown Los Angeles? The Sheraton Grand at the BLOC is a fantastic option. Click here to check for nightly rates.

The BLOC | 700 W 7th St, Los Angeles | Google Map It

25. Take a Downtown LA Food Tour

One of the fun things to do in any city is take a food tour. As a foodie, it’s a great way to introduce yourself to local spots serving delicious eats that you may never have discovered without a local guide. Whether it’s your first visit to Downtown Los Angeles or you’re a local looking to do something fun and different, book a food tour.

You will eat a lot. Discover new delicious eats. Perhaps make a few new friends because food brings us together.

Tour Idea: Los Angeles: Downtown Food Tour [ Book Tour Here ]

Read: 5 Practical Tips to Book a Food Tour

What’s the best way to get around DTLA?

Many of these places listed below are close to one another and walkable. But, we recommend using public transportation, ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, or, if you’re adventurous, renting shareable bicycles and scooters, you’ll find across Downtown Los Angeles.

How do I spend a day in Downtown LA?

There are so many options for spending a day in Downtown LA. You can start by taking the train to Union Station, walking over to Olvera Street, Grand Central Market, and the Bradbury Building, and then riding the iconic Angel’s flight one way up to continue exploring. Keep reading for ideas on how to plan your day.

What is there to do in Downtown LA for free?

Exploring on foot is always free. But some activities in Downtown LA are free, like The Broad Museum (must book in advance), Walt Disney Music Hall, the Los Angeles City Hall observation deck, checking out the Bradbury building, hanging out in Olvera Street, relaxing at Grand Park or Pershing Square. Keep reading for more things to do in Downtown LA.

What is there to do in Downtown LA at night?

LA Live is a great place to visit at night in Downtown LA, as it has a movie theater and restaurants. You can also grab drinks at one of the rooftop bars or make dinner reservations at one of the many restaurants in Downtown LA.

Is Downtown LA safe during the day?

Parts of Downtown Los Angeles are vibrant, exciting, and full of tourists and locals alike. Then, some parts are gritty. Like with any big city, you should practice being safe and vigilant. We recommend exploring and staying in the city’s more popular and crowded areas.

If you’re looking for history, great architecture, good food, drinks, or just an exciting day out in the city. There’s no shortage of things to do in Downtown LA.

What do you love to do in Downtown LA? What’s one thing on this list you’re planning to do?

Share the tips & love on Pinterest:

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Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

Written by Brad Lane , Joni Sweet , and Lana Law Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The sprawling city of Los Angeles, in Southern California, is filled with year-round attractions and things to do. It has long been known internationally in the film and entertainment industry, particularly for Hollywood , a place that has drawn aspiring actors and actresses from across the country for over a century.

Santa Monica

Today, LA is a culturally diverse city with a reputation for being the creative center of America. The thriving culinary scene, incredible shopping, outstanding museums, and fun family attractions are some of the top things to do in California . And with abundant sunshine and moderate to hot weather throughout the year, a suitcase typically includes shorts and T-shirts for almost any visit.

Sunseekers coming to enjoy the warm climate and beaches will find plenty of things to do and interesting neighborhoods to explore. Upgrades to the public transportation network in recent years and the addition of a Metro Bike Share in downtown LA have made getting around and sightseeing easier than ever.

For families, nearby Disneyland and Universal Studios are key places to visit that often warrant repeat visits.

To help plan your sightseeing itinerary, see our list of the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles.

1. Universal Studios Hollywood

2. griffith park and griffith observatory, 3. disneyland resort, 4. hollywood, 5. the getty center, 6. petersen automotive museum, 7. santa monica, 8. natural history museum of los angeles county, 9. california science center, 10. the broad, 11. the original farmers market, 12. los angeles county museum of art (lacma), 13. venice beach, 14. beverly hills, 15. la brea tar pits, 16. battleship iowa museum, 17. runyon canyon park, 18. little tokyo, 19. melrose avenue, 21. long beach, 22. the nethercutt collection, 23. the getty villa, 24. museum of contemporary art (moca), where to stay in los angeles for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to los angeles, map of tourist attractions in los angeles, los angeles, ca - climate chart.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Highlights: Massive amusement park with movie-themed rides and entertainment

Universal Studios Theme Park is known for its mind-blowing rides based on blockbuster movies, but it is also a working movie studio and an attraction everyone can enjoy. The highlight for most is the ever-changing selection of rides, ranging from simulators to roller coasters. Favorite movie and TV-themed rides and sets include The Wizarding World of Harry Potter , The Simpsons , Transformers , Jurassic World - The Ride , and Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.

To save time standing in long lines consider purchasing a Skip the Line: Front of Line Pass at Universal Studios Hollywood . This handy ticket gives you a one-time fast entry to each of the park's rides, attractions, and shows, as well as behind-the-scenes access to select attractions.

When you are tired of the rides, you can check out CityWalk , a three-block entertainment area, with shopping, dining, and theaters. Another option is a guided tour of the studios to explore behind-the-scenes of some of Universal's most popular movie sets. The VIP Experience allows you opportunities to see the sets and areas not open to the general public.

Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, California

Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory

Highlights: Sprawling public park with observatory and many other tourist attractions

Griffith Park , in the eastern part of the Santa Monica Mountains, and covering an area of 4,210 acres, is the largest city park in Los Angeles. It's home to the Los Angeles Zoo , the Griffith Observatory, a planetarium, and a Greek theater. It's also home to golf courses, tennis courts, hiking trails, and a riding center created for the 1984 Olympic Games. And walking trails and scenic drives through the mountains offer views over the city and beyond.

The Griffith Observatory is one of the city's most interesting experience-based attractions, and it's all free to the public. On the grounds are exhibits and telescopes. The main highlight is a look through the Zeiss telescope , used for viewing the moon and planets. You can use the telescopes free each evening the facility is open. Also on-site are solar telescopes used for viewing the sun.

Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory

The park and observatory are named for Griffith J. Griffith, who donated the greater part of the parkland to the city in 1896 and willed funds to the city for the creation of the observatory.

Carousel

Highlights: Massive theme park in Anaheim with Star Wars rides and other attractions

Just outside Los Angeles, Disneyland is California's premier family vacation destination, attracting visitors since the 1950s. Disneyland Park , with rides and experiences in elaborately created theme sets, is what most people picture when they imagine Disneyland. The Disneyland California Adventure Park , created during one of the expansions, holds even more action and adventure, with seven lands based on movie themes.

Relatively new to the scene are several Star Wars-themed rides. They include Star Wars Rise of the Resistance and The Millennium Falcon: Smuggler's Run. The rides are in the new Star Wars Galaxy Edge area, which is full of shops and restaurants made out to look like the Black Spire Outpost on the planet of Batuu.

Beyond the rides and Disney characters wandering the streets, the resort also offers a full complement of features and services for a complete vacation. Hotels, restaurants, shopping, and all kinds of entertainment options are available at Disneyland Resort.

Anaheim, home to Disneyland Resort, is also worth exploring on a weekend trip. Several outdoor dining and shopping areas extend from the park throughout the city, including the historic downtown core of Anaheim, known as Central City .

Read More: Things to Do in Anaheim, California

Hollywood

Highlights: Hollywood sign, Walk of Fame, shopping, dining

Hollywood is a suburb of Los Angeles and a destination with its own unique history and iconic sites. Hollywood attractions are closely associated with the film industry and the glamour of the silver screen.

The hillside Hollywood sign , Hollywood Boulevard , and the Chinese Theatre are some of the top places to visit. If you're lucky, you might even spot a celebrity or two out for a shopping trip on Rodeo Drive. A fun family activity in Hollywood is finding all your favorite actors' stars among the 2,500 plus on the Walk of Fame .

  • Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Hollywood

The Getty Center

Highlights: Esteemed cultural center and museum with beautiful landscaping

The Getty Center is a huge complex measuring 0.75 square miles and set on 110 acres on a hilltop in the Santa Monica Mountains. The unique building and the beautiful grounds provide the perfect setting for this impressive museum. Collections include European paintings, drawings, sculpture, and decorative arts, as well as 19th- and 20th-century photography.

The views from the museum grounds out over Los Angeles are incredible. Book a table at The Restaurant and enjoy a casual lunch while soaking up the scenery.

The Getty Center is one of two locations of the J. Paul Getty Museum, created by the late oil magnate, J. Paul Getty. The Getty Villa , set in a recreated Roman country house, deals with art from the Stone Age to the end of the Roman Empire.

Address: 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, California

Exterior of the Petersen Automotive Museum

Highlights : Extensive car collection housed in an eye-catching museum building

Car lovers will not want to miss the incredible assortment of vehicles at the Petersen Automotive Museum . Spread over four floors are a mix of permanent and temporary exhibits featuring more than 300 cars and motorcycles, ranging from perfectly preserved items from 1886 right through to concepts for the 21st century.

The museum underwent major renovations and is now one of the most modern institutions of its kind. The exterior façade is an eye-catching architectural masterpiece. For an additional fee, you can sign up for either a 90- or 120-minute guided Vault tour, which provides additional insight into rare and unusual cars.

The museum is also host to a regular series of special exhibits featuring new, old, and unusual cars from the past, along with ones you might see in the future.

Address: 6060 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, California

Bike riding along the beach in Santa Monica

Highlights : Popular beach with pier, promenade, and miles of sand connected by bike path

Santa Monica is a unique destination that is both chic and laid-back, with a population that ranges from surfers, skateboarders, and yoga devotees to techies and business people.

The beautiful stretch of golden sand along the coast and the famous Santa Monica Pier , with its iconic Ferris wheel, are what most tourists come to enjoy, but you can find a variety of experiences in this beachfront city next to LA.

The downtown district of Santa Monica is lively throughout the day and night. Shoppers will find a range of options, from quirky vintage stores to high-end boutiques. Check out the Third Street Promenade for shopping and people-watching, including catching the various street performers.

For a little activity, check out the 26-mile bike path along the waterfront. This lengthy paved path spans nearly the entire Santa Monica Bay coastline, connecting all the best beaches near Santa Monica . A few visitor favorites include Venice Beach to the south and Will Rogers State Beach to the north.

Getting to Santa Monica is now much easier since the opening of the new Expo Metro line, connecting downtown LA to Santa Monica.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Santa Monica, CA

Natural History Museum

Highlights: Expansive museum with dinosaur skeletons, SoCal history, and seasonal exhibits

While the Natural History Museum has numerous galleries and an extensive permanent collection that covers a range of topics, it is best known for its collection of dinosaurs. The 14,000-square-foot Dinosaur Hall has an awesome display of dinosaur skeletons, including a series of Tyrannosaurus rex fossils, known as the growth series, featuring three full skeletons that range from baby to adult. Also on display are a Triceratops and a Stegosaurus.

The museum deals with the natural history of California and areas throughout the world. Becoming Los Angeles , which explores the past 500 years of history in Southern California, is another must-see exhibit. The Discovery Center and Insect Zoo offers hands-on experiences and is particularly interesting for younger visitors.

Address: 900 Exposition Boulevard, Los Angeles

Main engine of the Space Shuttle Endeavour in the California Science Center

Highlights: Science exhibits on space travel and underwater ecosystems, Imax theater

The California Science Center , open to the public free of charge, is home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour , as well as other major exhibits. Mission 26: The Big Endeavour is currently on display at the Samuel Oschin Pavilion, while the new Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center is being built.

You can see the space shuttle, as well as artifacts from the space mission, and learn all about it and the people involved in the program.

Other exhibits at the Science Center cover such topics as the living world, technology, and ecosystems. The Ecosystems exhibit features an impressive 188,000-gallon kelp tank, as well as live plants, animals, and fish. In addition to the permanent exhibits, the California Science Center also features special exhibits, for an ever-changing selection of things to see.

Address: 700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles, California

The Broad

Highlights : Free contemporary art museum with a massive collection and always-rotating displays

The Broad opened in late 2015 and was immediately an overwhelming success and has remained popular. The museum focuses on contemporary and postwar art , with some large and dramatic installations. More than 2,000 works of art are on display in this unique building, with a "veil-and-vault" concept.

Tickets are free of charge for general admission, but these are often booked out in advance. Standby tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis on the day of admission, but this will usually require some wait time in a line, particularly on weekends. Admissions to some special exhibitions do carry a fee.

The museum was founded by Eli and Edythe Broad, who have been long-time collectors of postwar and contemporary art.

Address: 221 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, California

Berries for sale at the Original Farmers Market

Highlights: Open-air market offering fresh produce and local goods every day of the week

The Los Angeles Farmers Market first started in 1934 as a very modest affair that sprung from the hardships created by the Great Depression. At the height of the economic depression, eighteen farmers came together and set up stalls on a piece of open land near Wilshire Boulevard in order to sell their produce direct to the consumer.

This experiment was so successful that the market continued to expand. At that time, it truly was a fruit and vegetable market, but over the years the market has grown to accommodate more and more vendors. Today, the market hosts vegetable and other food stands, as well as restaurants and specialty shops. You can find everything from jewelry and candles to kitchenware and toys.

If you are looking for things to do at night in Los Angeles, the market hosts a variety of entertainment, including free evening concerts on Friday nights in summer.

Address: 6333 West 3rd Street, Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Highlights: Iconic art museum spread across several buildings and exhibits

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art lays claim to being the largest art museum in the western United States , with almost 130,000 pieces spanning from antiquity through to modern times. Of particular note are the outstanding collections of Asian, Latin American, and Islamic Art.

The huge complex consists of a number of separate buildings that have been acquired and renovated over the years. The most recent expansion, known as the Transformation, saw the opening of several new buildings on the western half of the campus, designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop. The LACMA is next to the La Brea Tar Pits on museum row.

Address: 5905 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, California

Venice Beach

Highlights: Sunny beach with snaking bike path and bohemian shopping corridor

Venice Beach deserves its reputation as a place to see and be seen, making it perfect for people-watching, although the area definitely has its own unique vibe. This stretch of golden sand and the Venice Beach Boardwalk are always thronged with people walking, cycling, rollerblading, and jogging.

Eclectic shops and street performers of all kinds line the walkway. The Skatepark , also just off the beach, is frequented by some of the area's best skateboarders, and nearby are a number of creative art installations. At the appropriately named Muscle Beach , gym members pump iron in the hot California sun.

Food stalls selling everything from shaved ice to kettle corn and funnel cakes make you feel like you're walking through fairgrounds. You can also find some good restaurants here. This is not a typical family beach, but it's well worth a visit.

Beverly Hills

Highlights: Chic Golden Triangle of fashion, several public parks, nearby mansions

Beverly Hills borders Los Angeles to the west, encompassing 5.7 square miles tucked beneath the Santa Monica Mountains. And within this small footprint are some of the poshest streets in America, including the world-famous Rodeo Drive .

Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica Boulevard, and Wilshire Boulevard converge in Beverly Hills to create the city's " Golden Triangle " of upscale retail and dining. This luxe thoroughfare is worth the visit even without shopping, as the glamour spills out onto the sidewalks with celebrity sightings and luxury cars.

And there are a lot more things to do in Beverly Hills besides shopping and dining. The city is very walkable with several gardens, historic buildings, and public art throughout. Spend some time at Beverly Gardens Park for a sample of these first-class public spaces.

Page Museum and La Brea Tar Pits

Highlights: Indoor and outdoor exhibits detailing the incredible natural history of the area

In Hancock Park, La Brea Tar Pits offers a unique opportunity to see live excavations of fossils and learn about the process. The Tar Pits were formed 40,000 years ago, when oil seeped through the rock, entrapping passing animals, which would get stuck in the substance. The tar then preserved the fossils throughout the ages, leaving behind an incredible glimpse into another age.

The museum at la Brea Tar Pits (formerly the George C. Page Museum) shows reconstructed fossils of prehistoric animals found at the site, as well as the process of fossil recovery. You can see bones being worked on and learn what takes place behind the scenes, before skeletons are able to be displayed.

The museum displays fully reconstructed fossils of a variety of mammals including mammoths, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and others, all dating from between 40,000 and 10,000 years ago. An outdoor area displays replicas of extinct animals.

Plans are in the works for a renovation and new design. The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is reviewing plans from architecture teams in the hopes of reinventing this unique attraction.

Address: 5801 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles

Battleship Iowa

Highlights: Guided tours of a retired battleship

The Battleship Iowa Museum is an imposing sight on the waterfront close to the Port of Los Angeles and is a great family activity. You can wander throughout this massive battleship and see what life at sea would have been like for the sailors on board.

Included with admission is a self-guided tour showcasing the history of the ship. One of the highlights is a look at the massive 16-inch guns. Kids enjoy a free scavenger hunt, searching the ship to find the 10 secret locations of Vicky, the ship's dog (displayed on posters or in augmented reality).

For those wanting to really get behind the scenes, for an additional fee you can take the Full Steam Ahead Guided Tour , which allows you access to the inner workings of the ship, including the engine room, boiler room, and the Combat Engagement Center, among other restricted areas. Note that dates and numbers are limited for this tour, and it should be booked well in advance.

Address: 250 S Harbor Blvd., Low Angeles, California

A trail in Runyon Canyon Park

Highlights: Beloved hiking area with great views and celebrity sightings

Runyon Canyon Park is a 160-acre park known for its hiking trails and magnificent views of Downtown Los Angeles . Its convenient location near Hollywood and the Hollywood Hills makes it a popular place with celebrities —if you've seen paparazzi photos of celebs hiking in Los Angeles, they were probably taken at Runyon.

Trails run from 1 to just over 3 miles and range from easy to strenuous. For some of the best views, hit the East Trail from the Fuller Avenue entrance. It passes through two beautiful lookouts: Inspiration Point and Cloud's Rest.

Parking can be particularly tricky on the streets near Runyon Canyon Park, so be sure you leave ample time to look for a spot, or consider using a ride-share service.

Lanterns in Little Tokyo

Highlights: Japanese restaurants, historic fire tower, wishing tree, gardens

Los Angeles is home to one of just three remaining Japantowns in the United States: Little Tokyo. The petite neighborhood packs tons of culture, cuisine, and color into about five city blocks.

The Japanese Village Plaza is considered the central gathering place. Lit by red and white paper lanterns, this pedestrian-only plaza feels like it was plucked from Tokyo and dropped into Downtown Los Angeles. Check out the Yagura Tower at the First Street entrance—this replica of a rural Japanese fire tower has been greeting visitors for nearly 50 years.

In addition to popular shops, like Nijiya grocery store and the Sanrio Hello Kitty boutique , another major attraction is the wishing tree . People from around the world jot down their hopes and dreams on colorful paper strips, then hang them from the tree's branches in hopes that they'll come to fruition. Reading the notes is deeply touching.

Come hungry—Little Tokyo has some of the best Japanese restaurants in Los Angeles. Slurp ramen noodles at Hachioji , fill up on okonomiyaki (a Hiroshima speciality!) at Chinchikurin , and satisfy your sweet tooth with fresh mochi from the 120-year-old Fugetsu-Do Bakery Shop .

Interested in learning more? Enjoy a more detailed read with our article on Visiting Little Tokyo: Come for the Ramen, Stay for the Culture.

Author Joni Sweet on Melrose Avenue

Highlights: Vintage shopping, murals, comedy clubs

Melrose Avenue is one of the city's most famous streets due to its large number of vintage shops with funky storefronts. On the two-mile span from La Cienega Boulevard to La Brea Avenue, you can shop at more than 15 vintage stores , some of which have been adding vibrancy to this street for decades.

The west side of Melrose tends to have higher-end shops, like Decades , which is beloved for its dazzling designer gowns from as far back as the 1930s . Head east and you'll get a lot more bang for your buck at mega vintage shops like Wasteland , American Rebel, and American Vintage. Browsing the racks at these stores feels like digging for wearable treasure, and no matter what your style or budget, you'll likely find a unique piece to upgrade your wardrobe.

Once you find something you love, wear it right out of the store for an impromptu photoshoot at one of the many murals on Melrose. The famous pink wall on the Paul Smith flagship store is popular among the influencer crowd.

Comedy clubs are another highlight on Melrose. Get your laughs with stand-up a t Hollywood Improv or sketch comedy at The Groundlings.

Read More: Vintage Shopping on Melrose: Retro Treasures on Los Angeles' Trendiest Street

Malibu

Highlights: Beautiful oceanfront city with several public beaches and posh places to visit

The Santa Monica Mountains meet the Pacific Ocean in Malibu, on the far western coastline of LA County. This dramatic backdrop sets the scene for many Malibu attractions and things to do , while beachside mansions and the occasional celebrity sighting help set the tone for Malibu culture.

Exploring some of Malibu's best beaches is one of the best ways to enjoy the city. All are within an hour's drive of Los Angeles, depending on traffic, and each offers a different beachscape to enjoy. From the broad shores of Zuma Beach to the wild landscape surrounding El Matador State Beach, the coastline appeals to both relaxing and adventurous outings alike.

Malibu is also home to several seafood restaurants worth the drive alone. The famous Neptune's Net perhaps has the most notoriety, partly thanks to its roles in movies like Point Break and The Fast and the Furious . Other spots with menus worth perusing include Dukes Malibu and Paradise Cove Beach Cafe.

Long Beach

Highlights: Vibrant city with a long beachfront, several city parks, and family attractions

Long Beach is another community in the Los Angeles area that's easy to spend a day exploring. It borders LA to the south, about 20 miles from downtown, and extends along San Pedro Bay. The miles of beach in Long Beach are common motives for a visit, capped off by a tourist-friendly and attraction-filled waterfront downtown district.

Things to do in Long Beach's waterfront district include a visit to the historic Queen Mary ocean liner , due to reopen in late 2022; the Aquarium of the Pacific ; and exploring the unique shops at Shoreline Village . You can also catch the Catalina Express for a trip to Santa Catalina Island .

And it's not just the ocean to explore in Long Beach. Several of the city's best parks also offer inland attractions, like the historic Bixby Park or sprawling El Dorado East Regional Park. El Dorado East is also home to the lovely Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden , filled with tranquil appeal.

  • Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Long Beach, CA

Grill of a Vintage Automobile

Highlights: Classic antiques with an emphasis on vintage vehicles spanning the last century

If you're a fan of antique, vintage, and classic cars, this is the place to visit. The Nethercutt Collection displays an outstanding array of American and European automobiles from the 1890s to the 1990s. The pristine condition of these vehicles and the variety of models is beyond impressive. The history of the cars and descriptions of their previous owners are displayed with the vehicles.

The museum also showcases a collection of antique furniture and mechanical musical instruments. Outside, you can see a restored steam locomotive and railcar.

Address: 15151 Bledsoe Street, Sylmar, California

The Getty Villa

Highlights: Stunning courtyard, gardens, and rare art and sculpture collections

The Getty Villa is the other site operated by the Getty cultural institution, located near the ocean in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, just east of Malibu. It's set within a photogenic recreation of a Roman country house with decorative gardens and courtyards.

On display throughout the Getty Villa are ancient artworks and relics, ranging from marble statues to rare coins and jewelry. Different exhibits are found around every corner on the first and second floors of the museum, and in combination with the landscaped settings, expect to spend at least two to three hours exploring the grounds.

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)

Highlights: Downtown museum with satellite locations and ever-changing art on display

The Museum of Contemporary Art ( MOCA ) consists of two separate facilities and is dedicated to works from the 1940s onwards. Pieces from the permanent collection are on display, and regularly changing exhibits feature new works and emerging media.

The MOCA Grand , on Grand Avenue, is the museum's primary facility, with the main galleries, as well as the largest museum store. The MOCA Geffen is in Little Tokyo, in what was formerly a police car warehouse.

Double Negative is another art location associated with MOCA, located in the desert in Moapa Valley on Mormon Mesa near Overton, in Nevada. This land art by Michael Heizer was acquired by the museum and can be visited free of charge.

Santa Monica Hotels

  • Shops, fabulous restaurants, blonde 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 are also a bonus for sightseers. The Viceroy Santa Monica and the eco-conscious boutique Shore Hotel are popular high-end accommodation options, and the stylish Shutters on the Beach exudes all the casual elegance of a family beach house.
  • For those seeking a fantastic salt-laced location without breaking the bank, try the Ocean View Hotel .

Beverly Hills Hotels

  • Famous for the designer shops along Rodeo Drive, this exclusive celebrity enclave offers some plush hotels in a quieter setting than Hollywood, but still with easy access to all the movie-themed attractions. Top high-end hotels include the famous Beverly Hills Hotel on Sunset Boulevard , The Peninsula Beverly Hills , the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel , and the Maybourne Beverly Hills .
  • For those seeking the glamour without the price tag to match, the Sonder Beverly Terrace is a great option.
  • Farther north, the Hotel Bel-Air pampers guests amid 12 acres of flower-flecked gardens.

Hollywood Hotels

  • Star struck travelers headed for the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Bowl , and Universal Studios should stay here in the heart of movie land. Close to Beverly Hills, Hollywood oozes with celebrity glitz and glamor without gauging the wallet. The Hollywood Roosevelt and the Hollywood Celebrity Hotel are both highly rated options in the area.

Anaheim Hotels

  • Families headed to the theme parks with the kids in tow usually base themselves here in a whimsical Disney-themed hotel. Popular options include the Disneyland Hotel and Disney's Grand Californian Hotel & Spa , an easy stroll from the Disney theme parks.
  • Sonesta ES Suites Anaheim Resort Area is a more affordable option with convenient apartment-style accommodation.

Downtown Los Angeles Hotels

  • Bristling with new restaurants and art galleries amid the skyscrapers, Downtown LA is finally finding its soul. Sports fans catching a game at the Staples Center, hipsters, foodies, and business travelers often base themselves here and score cheaper hotel rates than at the typical tourist hot spots. Popular quality hotel choices include the luxury Omni Los Angeles at California Plaza near the Walt Disney Concert Hall , and the more modestly priced Doubletree by Hilton .

See the Sights:

  • One of the best ways to see Los Angeles is on a Los Angeles City Sightseeing Hop-on Hop-off Tour , which offers a fun overview of the city with maximum flexibility. Enjoy 360-degree views from the open-air bus and hop on or off at more than 50 locations, including Beverly Hills, Hollywood, downtown LA, and Santa Monica. Choose between a 24- or 48-hour ticket.

Save Money:

  • If you plan on visiting multiple attractions while you're in the City of Angels, the Go City: Los Angeles Explorer Pass is a great way to save money. This versatile card gives you discounts at top Los Angeles attractions. You can choose between two and seven attractions from a list of 30.

Los Angeles notoriously enjoys warm weather throughout the year. However, the best seasons to visit are the "shoulder seasons," including spring (March, April, May) and fall (September, October, and November). The air is easier to breathe this time of year, and the streets are less crowded with tourists.

June, July, and August are still some of the most popular times to visit Lost Angeles. And for good reason. The hot weather beckons for the beach and the late evenings extend a day of exploring. Expect to pay the highest rates for things like lodging and transportation this time of year.

The winter months, including December, January, and February, are suitable months to visit. Expect slightly colder temperatures that keep most people away from the beach. But, with average daytime temperatures still in the 60s Fahrenheit, it's often a welcomed warm escape from other parts of the country.

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Around Los Angeles: If you are spending time in the area and considering exploring outside the city, start your planning with a read through our articles on the Top Day Trips From Los Angeles and the Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles . From LA, choices range from hopping a ferry to Santa Catalina Island or heading to the desert for a visit to Palm Springs or Joshua Tree National Park .

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.st0{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#fff} .st0{fill-rule:evenodd;clip-rule:evenodd;fill:#fff} SMS Main navigation Things to Do Attractions & Tours Arts & Culture Outdoors & Wellness Shopping Budget Family Hidden Gems Luxury Pet-Friendly Eat & Drink Bars Clubs Dine LA Restaurant Week Restaurants Business Spotlight Find Events Itineraries Where to Stay Celebrate LA Heritage AAPI Heritage Black LA Latino Heritage LGBTQ+ Tourist Information Meetings About LA Tourism Travel Trade Membership Business Spotlight Media Research Careers Today's must read Hidden Gems of Los Angeles Log in Search Search Things to Do Arts & Culture Discover Downtown Los Angeles Shopping, budget friendly dining, and hidden gems by Discover Los Angeles   Mar 14, 2019 Photo courtesy of The Theatre at Ace Hotel, Facebook Share Been There Login Register My Next Trip Login Register Tours Restaurants Shopping Downtown Los Angeles is the heart of the city and the site of its birthplace. Home to some of L.A.'s most historic neighborhoods, Downtown L.A. is also a vision of the future, with world-class hotels, spectacular cultural attractions, and highly anticpated restaurants opening in the months and years ahead. Read on for our guides to shopping, budget friendly dining, and hidden gems in Downtown L.A.

HIDDEN GEMS

There are hidden gems amidst the skyscrapers and bustling crowds of Downtown L.A. Some of these places might even escape the attention of locals. Others are well-known destinations that house secret spots to find art, culture or adventure. None of them should be missed on your tour of Downtown Los Angeles. Read More →

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24 Top Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

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Los Angeles is known as the entertainment capital of the world, and for good reason. The movies, television shows and music produced in the City of Angels are enjoyed all over the globe. While the city’s show-business history and the chance to rub elbows with a celebrity draws many visitors to L.A., the area’s beaches, theme parks and year-round sunny weather are also big attractions.

A world-class collection of museums, arenas and theaters means that art lovers, history buffs and sports fans will find plenty to love about the tourist attractions in Los Angeles as well.

Outdoor enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either. This something-for-everyone destination boasts a wealth of natural attractions and outdoor activities. From impromptu volleyball games on the beach and camping getaways in the nearby mountains to whale watching and sailing on the blue Pacific, there’s always something fun and exciting to do in sunny Southern California.

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Los Angeles Map

24. California Science Center

California Science Center

Located in Exposition Park, the state-of-the-art California Science Center is packed with interesting and educational exhibits. While some sections focus on animals from various ecosystems, others instead look at energy, transportation and even outer space.

Since being founded in 1951, the massive museum has expanded enormously and now contains amazing aircraft and space shuttles. While the Endeavour is undoubtedly the standout sight, its World of Life and Creative World galleries are equally impressive to peruse. It also regularly hosts temporary exhibits and has an IMAX theater where you can watch educational films.

23. Paramount Pictures Studio Tour

Paramount Pictures Studio Tour

The last remaining film studio of the ‘Big Five’ still left in Hollywood, Paramount Pictures is a treat to tour around with its recognizable stages, costumes and memorabilia. After having entered through its famous double-arched gate, you’ll get to visit and explore iconic sets from TV shows and blockbuster movies.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll whizz around the sprawling studio on golf carts, stopping off here and there to see sets from Sabrina and Breakfast at Tiffany’s or even watch a shot being filmed. Offering a fascinating look into the world of Hollywood and how TV shows and movies are made, the Paramount Pictures Studio Tour is definitely well worth going on when in town.

22. Hollywood Bowl

Hollywood Bowl

One of the most renowned and revered live music venues in the States, the Hollywood Bowl is nestled amidst the rolling Hollywood Hills. Carved into the hillside with the world-famous Hollywood Sign appearing far off in the distance, it hosts countless concerts each year with operas, orchestras and musicals also taking place on its hallowed stage.

Built in 1922, the huge outdoor amphitheater is certainly a special place to enjoy a show with big names like Cher, Queen and The Beatles all having played beneath its distinctive set of concentric arches. Thanks to its superb sound quality, sight lines and spellbinding setting, the Hollywood Bowl is one of the most memorable places you could ever catch a performance.

21. Zuma Beach

Zuma Beach

If it’s sun, sea and sand you’re after then you’ll definitely want to head to picture-perfect Zuma Beach. Located in Malibu about an hour’s drive west of L.A., its sun-kissed sands curve gently along the ocean, overlooked by the majestic Santa Monica Mountains.

Very popular with locals and tourists alike, it offers all kinds of fun outdoor activities with excellent fishing and beach volleyball, as well as sunbathing, swimming and surfing. Aside from enjoying its clean waters, visitors can stroll peacefully along its broad sands with the beautiful beach having appeared in numerous films, TV shows and adverts over the years.

20. Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Madame Tussauds Hollywood is home to a huge collection of wax figures of famous celebrities from all different eras. One of the city’s top tourist attractions, it lies along Hollywood Boulevard and has rooms full of movie stars and pop icons, plus exciting VR experiences.

Only opened in 2009, it now contains over a hundred remarkably life-like wax models with replicas of Barack Obama and Leonardo DiCaprio appearing next to Taylor Swift, Snoop Dogg and Spider-Man, among others. After having snapped photos with all of your favorite celebs, you can head to its theater and watch a thrilling 4D Marvel Universe film.

19. Runyon Canyon Park

Runyon Canyon Park

While its stunning scenery offers a welcome respite from the hum of downtown, Runyon Canyon Park actually lies just a couple of blocks off bustling Hollywood Boulevard. Due to its setting amidst the Hollywood Hills, celebrity sightings are common with epic old mansions and estates also dotted about its scenic confines.

Besides hiking about its hills, visitors can stop by Rock Mandala – an arresting public art piece – or head to Inspiration Point or Clouds Rest for phenomenal panoramas over Los Angeles. Although its hot, dry climate can make hiking tough, the park is well worth visiting for its wild look and feel. Snakes, lizards, deer and coyotes can sometimes be spotted, too.

18. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Another of the city’s unique and impressive music venues is the striking Walt Disney Concert Hall, home to both the Los Angeles Philharmonic and Los Angeles Master Chorale. Due to its incredible architecture, acoustics and acts, do check out its packed schedule of events when in town.

Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, its shiny stainless steel structure and flowing facade stand out delightfully against the drab buildings of downtown. Just as appealing is the concert hall’s elegant auditorium that features a lovely layout with its ‘vineyard-style’ seating guaranteeing guests great views of the stage and even better acoustics.

17. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

As it boasts an astonishing collection of artworks, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art really is a must-visit for art aficionados. The largest museum in the western United States, its sprawling site covers a huge part of LA’s Miracle Mile neighborhood, with photos and paintings, carvings, ceramics and sculptures on show.

Since being founded in 1961, its captivating collection has swelled to over 150,000 items with some sections focusing on ancient Greek and Egyptian artifacts, and others on Islamic art, Renaissance paintings and contemporary Latin American pieces. While perusing its endless galleries, visitors can expect to see masterpieces by Degas, Magritte and Rembrandt, among countless others.

16. The Broad

The Broad

While the Los Angeles County Museum of Art covers millennia of art history, The Broad instead focuses on contemporary and postwar artworks. Another recent addition to Downtown Los Angeles, it opened in 2015 with its eye-catching ‘honeycomb-like’ exterior making for a striking sight.

Aside from taking in its attractive architecture, there are thousands of interesting artworks and installations to enjoy. Amongst its fabulous photos, paintings and sculptures, you’ll spy brilliant works by Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman and Jeff Koons and others. Temporary exhibits showcasing new and upcoming artists are regularly displayed on its lobby floor.

15. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Offering a close-up look at the glitzy world of Hollywood, the renowned Warner Bros. Studio can be found just to the north of LA in neighboring Burbank. On tours around the humongous site, you can see iconic sets from TV shows and films with incredible props, costumes and memorabilia also on show.

One of the oldest film studios in the world, it contains enormous outdoor sets that depict locations, like New York and a mid-western town, with soundstages for The Big Bang Theory and Pretty Little Liars too. Besides stopping off at recognizable places, such as the ‘Central Perk’ from Friends, guests can see Batmobiles, ride broomsticks from Harry Potter and tour interactive exhibits on the DC Universe.

14. Battleship USS Iowa Museum

Battleship USS Iowa Museum

Now protected as part of a museum, the hulking great Battleship USS Iowa Museum is permanently moored in San Pedro Bay. While wandering about its decks, bridges and cabins, visitors can learn all there is to know about life at sea and also delve into the massive ship’s fascinating past.

Built in 1943, the Iowa served during the Second World War, Korean War and Cold War and was impressively awarded eleven battle stars over the course of her career. Finally decommissioned in 1990, it has an interesting Combat Engagement Center to explore, as well as engine rooms, boiler rooms and officers’ wards.

Besides being known as the ‘Mighty I’ and ‘Big Stick’, it also earned the nickname the ‘Battleship of Presidents’ as over the course of the decades it not only hosted Roosevelt and Reagan but George H.W. Bush, too.

13. Petersen Automotive Museum

Petersen Automotive Museum

Also located in LA’s Miracle Mile neighborhood you can find the fantastic Petersen Automotive Museum which contains an amazing and extensive collection of cars and motorcycles. Its sparkling showrooms and countless classic cars take you on a whirlwind journey through the history and evolution of the automobile industry.

One of the largest museums of its kind in the world, it now occupies a magnificent modern building that sports a stainless steel exterior that glints in the sun. In total, the museum now has over 300 cars and motorcycles in its collection. Lavish limos and Rolls-Royces appear alongside fast Porsches, Ferraris and sleek, shiny cars that appeared in famous films or were owned by well-known celebrities.

12. The Grove & Original Farmers Market

The Grove & Original Farmers Market

The Grove & Original Farmers Market is one of LA’s most loved landmarks. It lies in West Hollywood and has hundreds of superb shops, stands and stalls to peruse that sell everything under the sun.

Since 1934, the Original Farmers Market has been very popular with locals and tourists alike due to its endless array of coffee stands, ethnic eateries and stalls selling fresh food, artisanal products and souvenirs. Right next to it is The Grove; a huge retail and entertainment complex that has chain stores, restaurants and a massive movie theatre for guests to enjoy.

With so many eateries and establishments to stop by, it really is one of the best places to shop, dine and go out in the city.

11. Sunset Strip

Sunset Strip

The undoubted star of LA’s nightlife scene, however, is the Sunset Strip renowned for its restaurants, music venues and nightclubs. The most famous stretch of Sunset Boulevard – one of the city’s main thoroughfares – is bordered by boutiques and blingy billboards with pretty palm trees towering overhead.

Over the decades, the happening area has been the favorite hangout of mob bosses and Marilyn Monroe to massive rock stars and glam metal bands. Due to its iconic look and fabled venues, Sunset Strip has also featured in numerous films, TV shows and even video games over the years.

In addition to simply taking in its lively yet laid back ambience and seeing all the sights, you can also check out famous venues, such as the Comedy Store and Whisky a Go Go.

10. Hollywood Sign

Hollywood Sign

Originally erected to advertise real estate in the Hollywood Hills, the Hollywood sign has come to represent the glamour and excitement of the movie industry. Virtually every visitor to Los Angeles wants to snap a picture of the iconic Hollywood sign, but getting a close-up shot isn’t easy.

Nowadays, the 45-foot (14-meter) high letters perched on Mount Lee are blocked off by barriers and protected by a security system. While the sign is visible from all over Tinseltown, the best places to park and take pictures are at the Griffith Observatory, Lake Hollywood Park and the Hollywood and Highland Center shopping mall.

9. La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

La Brea Tar Pits

A pool of black tar in the middle of a green city park is an unexpected sight in Los Angeles, but the famous La Brea Tar Pits have provided a treasure trove of archeological finds for the nearby George C. Page Museum. Excavations of the prehistoric site have resulted in one of the largest collections of Ice Age fossils in the world.

The oldest of the approximately 100 tons of bones hauled out of the pits date back 38,000 years. Complete skeletons of animals like saber-toothed cats, dire wolves and mastodons are on display in the museum. In the Paleontology Laboratory, visitors can watch scientists working on the latest finds.

8. Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive

Tucked away in a 16-square-bloock area known as the Golden Triangle in the exclusive neighborhood of Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive is L.A.’s most famous shopping street. While few come to buy the high-priced designer clothing and accessories sold in the luxury shops, Rodeo Drive is nevertheless a tourist hot spot.

Window-shopping is irresistible on this avenue of haute couture, and there’s always the chance of spotting a celebrity shopping for the latest styles. The mini-mall at Two Rodeo Drive always attracts attention. With its “faux-European” architecture and cobblestone street, it looks more like a theme park than a mall.

7. Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier

The world-famous Santa Monica Pier is actually two piers in one. With its bait shop and pier-end restaurant, the longer section built in 1909 is characteristic of most Southern California piers. It’s the shorter adjacent pier constructed in 1916 that most attracts visitors.

The elevated plaza linking the two piers is home to an old-fashioned amusement park with a vintage roller coaster, a wooden carousel and one of L.A.’s most recognizable landmarks, a solar-powered Ferris Wheel that sparkles with an ever-changing LED light show every night. There’s a small aquarium, a trapeze school and an array of tasty eateries at the pier too.

6. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Hollywood Walk of Fame

The idea of memorializing celebrities with stars embedded into sidewalks was conceived in the 1950s as a way to keep the glamour of Hollywood alive. More than 2,500 stars have been added since the first permanent installation at the corner of Hollywood Boulevard and Gower Street in 1960. Operated by the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, the program has been a huge success.

Each year, around ten million visitors stroll along the mile-long stretch of sidewalk in search of their favorite actor, singer, musician, director or television personality. Closely associated and right in front of part of the Hollywood Walk of Fame, is the famous Chinese Theatre, which has seen some of Hollywood’s most glamorous movies stars and premieres.

5. Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood

Home to one of the oldest still-operating film studios, Universal Studios Hollywood is a sprawling complex in the San Fernando Valley best known for its family-friendly theme park. Many of the park’s rides and attractions are centered on blockbuster movies, offering an immersive experience for fans of films ranging from “King Kong” to “Waterworld.”

Behind-the-scenes studio tours are available as well. The complex also includes Universal CityWalk, an outdoor shopping center where visitors can catch live performances, see a movie or watch celebrities.

4. Disneyland

Disneyland

Located around an hour’s drive from Downtown Los Angeles in Orange County, Disneyland was the first of Walt Disney’s chain of theme parks. It’s been the star tourist attraction in the city of Anaheim since 1955. Adjacent to the original park is the relatively new California Adventure, which features rides and attractions inspired by the Golden State.

“Park hopper” tickets give visitors access to both parks. The meticulously maintained amusement parks are laid out in themed areas ranging from Tomorrowland and Fantasyland to Hollywood Land and Cars Land. Costumed performers wander the parks, offering children once-in-a-lifetime encounters with their favorite Disney characters.

3. Getty Center

Getty Center

The oil magnate Jean Paul Getty was considered one of the richest men in the world when he established the J. Paul Getty Trust in 1953. Today, the world’s wealthiest art institution funds several institutions, including the stunning billion-dollar Getty Center perched high atop L.A.’s Brentwood Hills.

A sleek hover-train funicular whisks visitors up to the museum where an extraordinary collection of artwork from the Middle Ages to the present awaits, including masterpieces like van Gogh’s “Irises,” Monet’s “Wheatstack” and “The Abduction of Europa” by Rembrandt. Outside, sculpture-ornamented gardens offer panoramic views of the Los Angeles Basin.

2. Griffith Park & Observatory

Griffith Park & Observatory

One of the largest municipal parks in the United States, Griffith Park offers a welcome escape from L.A. traffic. In addition to acres of hilly trails and green spaces, the park is home to a broad array of fun-filled attractions, from the Los Angeles Zoo to the outdoor Greek Theatre.

It’s also the location of one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: the Griffith Observatory. Built in 1935, the beautiful Art Deco complex boasts dozens of engaging exhibits, an out-of-this-world planetarium and multiple telescopes available for public use. A visit to the observatory at dusk offers views of stars emerging in the sky above and the twinkling lights of the city below.

1. Venice Beach

Venice Beach

Tobacco magnate Abbot Kinney gets the credit for transforming a marshy stretch of shoreline south of Santa Monica into the “Venice of America.” In 1904, Kinney turned a series of drainage channels into scenic canals and constructed a Venetian-inspired arcade on the beach.

While the canals remain one of the community’s top tourist attractions in Los Angeles, most visitors head for the beach’s world-famous boardwalk where eccentric street performers compete with shops, stalls and food stands for attention. The beach’s volleyball courts, skating plaza and body-building Muscle Beach area are crowd-pleasers as well.

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Griffith Observatory

30 Los Angeles attractions for tourists and natives alike

Whether you’re a tourist visiting for the weekend or a native looking to explore, these are the essential Los Angeles attractions for any trip

Michael Juliano

L.A. covers a mindbogglingly massive volume of land (and for that matter, ocean too). So it’s no surprise that Los Angeles packs in an enormous number of world-class attractions. If you’re a tourist looking out for  things to do , you’ll have no problem finding vacation inspiration, from  Hollywood tours  to a day at one of the city’s  best beaches . And locals might very well find ways to fall in love with the city all over again in our extensive list of the best Los Angeles attractions.

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

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30 essential L.A. attractions for sightseeing

Griffith Observatory

1.  Griffith Observatory

  • Science and technology
  • Griffith Park
  • price 1 of 4

The vista from the Griffith Observatory is stunning, particularly at night when the whole of Los Angeles twinkles below you. Inside this hilltop landmark you’ll find a selection of exhibits, including a Foucault pendulum, Tesla coil and planetarium show. Give yourself plenty of time before the 10pm closing to line up and gaze through the 12-inch refracting telescope on the roof. Otherwise don’t worry: You can look through the far less crowded modern, reflecting telescopes often set up on the front lawn. Just a heads up that parking now costs about $10 per hour—though you can take a DASH bus up there for only 35 cents with a TAP card.

Getty Center

2.  Getty Center

  • Art and design

Free timed tickets required.

What we now call the Getty Villa  (itself worth a visit) was the decades-long Pacific Palisades home for the J. Paul Getty Trust’s huge art collection. But that all changed in 1997, when the Getty Center opened in Brentwood. It’s a truly distinctive building, a remarkable complex of travertine and white metal-clad pavilions. Inside you’ll find ornate French furniture, famous Impressionist pieces and a series of rotating exhibitions. It’s not exactly the most accessible of locations, but when you get there it’s more than compensated for by the astonishing views, which run from the hills and ocean in the west all the way across to Downtown in the east.

Huntington Library, Art Collections & Botanical Gardens

3.  Huntington Library, Art Collections & Botanical Gardens

  • Things to do
  • Event spaces
  • price 2 of 4

Timed reservations required on weekends, recommended on weekdays.

Bequeathed by railroad magnate Henry E. Huntington, this splendid library and art collection now makes for one of the most enjoyable attractions in the Los Angeles area. Between the library holdings, the art and the sublime outdoor spaces, there’s easily enough to see at this San Marino space to fill an entire afternoon—indeed, it’s definitely best taken at a leisurely pace rather than any sort of mad dash. From a Gutenberg Bible to an exquisitely landscaped Japanese garden, pretty much every inch of the estate’s grounds and collection is essential (including new additions like the renovated tea room and a restored Japanese house ).

Grand Central Market

4.  Grand Central Market

  • Restaurants
  • Downtown Historic Core

Operating on the ground floor of the iconic Homer Laughlin Building since 1917, this European-style food hall is a true Los Angeles mainstay. Even if you’re not personally in the market for food, you should definitely still come; people from all corners of L.A. mingle and mix among rows of spices, produce and vintage neon signage. And if you are hungry then boy have you come to right place: get yourself some affordable pupusas, carnitas tacos and aguas frescas, or else food from handsome, trendy eateries like Sticky Rice , Broad Street Oyster Co. , Shiku ,  Eggslut and G&B Coffee .

Santa Monica Pier

5.  Santa Monica Pier

  • Historic buildings and sites
  • Downtown Santa Monica

The focal point of the iconic Santa Monica Beach, Santa Monica Pier is bursting with fun (but crowded) things to do: it includes a Ferris wheel, aquarium, fairground games and cotton candy stands. On weekends when the weather’s warm, the stretch is busy with families, beach bums and the gym bunnies who do their public workouts at the original Muscle Beach, just to the south of the pier. In recent years, the Pier has played host to a number of outdoor film and music events , which tends to bring in a (slightly) trendier clientele to the boardwalk.

Hollywood Bowl

6.  Hollywood Bowl

First opening at its prime location in the Hollywood Hills way back 1922, in the century since this stunning open-air amphitheatre has regularly featured on the screen large and small, and welcomed major acts to its stage. When there isn’t a concert on, members of the public are free to visit at any time.  But if you do want to see some live concert action—and really, why wouldn’t you?—we’d strongly advise you to take along a picnic (perhaps one with a bottle of wine or two) when you go to see the LA Philharmonic or one of the many stellar pop acts that call in on tour.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

7.  Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

  • Miracle Mile

Timed tickets recommended.

It feels like it’s taken no time at all for Chris Burden’s Urban Light (an outdoor art installation made up of 202 cast-iron street lamps that have been sourced from around L.A. and carefully repaired so they work again) to become one of the city’s most beloved landmarks. But it would be a shame if you just left it at the Instagram-friendly installation; step inside and you’ll find LACMA’s collections boast modernist masterpieces, large-scale contemporary works and consistently terrific special exhibitions. Just note that the eastern half of the campus is currently under construction, with a single-building replacement due to be completed by the end of 2024.

Venice Beach and Boardwalk

8.  Venice Beach and Boardwalk

Venice Beach is actually a pretty good beach: the sand is soft, the beach big, with postcard views of the mountainous coastline. However, people-watching is unquestionably the raison d'être here. Expect attention-grabbing street performers along the sort-of-grimy Venice Boardwalk and pumped-up gym obsessives working out at Muscle Beach. Street parking is usually jammed, but there are several beachside lots. For a completely different side of Venice , take a stroll through the idyllic Venice Canals . 

Book a Segway tour of the beach.

The Broad

9.  The Broad

Three words: Infinity Mirror Rooms. Downtown’s persistently popular contemporary art museum has two of Yayoi Kusama’s immersive, mirror-laden rooms (and you can book a reservation for its most spectacular one in advance now). Elsewhere in the free museum, Eli and Edythe Broad’s collection of 2,000 post-war works includes artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Ed Ruscha, Cindy Sherman, Barbara Kruger, Jeff Koons and Kara Walker.

The Hollywood Sign

10.  The Hollywood Sign

  • Sightseeing

Originally created in 1923, the sign, which back then said “Hollywoodland,” was supposed to be up for only a year and a half. Yet here it is, a century later . Actually getting up close and personal to the  Hollywood Sign  is not as easy as you might think: it’s often a contentious issue thanks to the objections of local homeowners. On Beachwood Drive you can catch a dead-on glimpse of the sign, or again farther up the hill close to  Lake Hollywood Park . You want to get closer still? You could always go horseback riding at Sunset Ranch , or even lace up for a hike along the dirt road on Mt. Lee Drive—eventually you’ll find yourself standing directly above the Hollywood Sign, with a jaw-dropping 360-degree view of the city.

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downtown los angeles tourist attractions

33 Best Things to Do in LA

Los Angeles has an exhaustive array of fun things to do, from the family-friendly La Brea Tar Pits and the must-visit Natural History Museum to a behind-the-scenes studio tour at Universal Studios or Warner Bros. Out-of-towners love the palm-lined

  • All Things To Do
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downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park free

Griffith Observatory sits on the south face of Mount Hollywood and overlooks the Los Angeles basin. Its location gives visitors impressive views of the surrounding area, which many rave about. But there's more than just a pretty photo-op here. The observatory hosts fascinating exhibitions and features a top-notch planetarium.

Most recent visitors cited the beautiful setting as Griffith Observatory's main draw, though the free entry was certainly a bonus. However, you will have to pay between $6 and $10 to see the planetarium shows. Griffith Observatory is open Tuesdays to Fridays from noon to 10 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. A gift shop and cafe can be found on-site as well. For information about parking, public transportation and other information to plan your visit, check out Griffith Observatory's  website .

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

The Getty Center The Getty Center free

The Getty Center is one of the most impressive architectural achievements in the United States – and it also contains some of the finest works of art in the world. The circular concrete-and-steel structure was designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, and it houses an abundance of art from various ages and nations. Here you'll find Renaissance paintings, 20th-century American photography, Baroque sculptures, historic manuscripts and more, all housed inside a sprawling, modern campus amid the Santa Monica Mountains. The museum also offers spectacular views of Los Angeles on clear days.

Recent travelers loved the museum for its vast collection and beautiful grounds and views, with some stating that they enjoyed the tram ride to get to the museum. Many visitors suggest taking a guided tour, noting that the volunteer guides were very knowledgeable. Tours of the Getty Center's architecture and gardens are available, as well as a Collection Highlights tour and tours of art in specific eras. Tour times and days vary depending on tour type. Check the Getty Center's website for a complete calendar . Visitors can also download the GettyGuide app for self-guided tours.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre free

U.S. News Insider Tip: In this area, you'll find people dressed as celebrities and Hollywood characters, such as Spiderman, Shrek, Marilyn Monroe and Darth Vader. Have some cash on hand as a tip if you want to take photos with any of them. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

One of Hollywood's most iconic and memorable sites, the TCL Chinese Theatre (originally Grauman's Chinese Theatre) opened in 1927 and represents the excess of Hollywood's Golden Age. You can take a 30-minute walking tour of the theater for $16; tours are offered daily at multiple times. Because of this attraction's popularity, it's best to reserve your spot online in advance. This working theater also shows various newly released films throughout the year.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

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downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Santa Monica Pier and Beach Santa Monica Pier and Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss trying the classic (and yummy!) funnel cake, a kind of fried waffle topped with powdered sugar and your choice of toppings, such as strawberries, chocolate syrup, caramel syrup, whipped cream and ice cream. They are big enough to share. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

West of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica contains one of the most legendary beach scenes in the United States. It also boasts an abundance of great restaurants and excellent nightlife spots. Its more than 3 miles of shoreline are renowned as some of the best in the area thanks to the soft sands, ideal weather and bevy of attractions. "State Beach," as it's known, has more than 300 days of sunshine a year and acted as the backdrop for the popular TV series "Baywatch."

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Zuma Beach Zuma Beach free

Malibu has a reputation for excessive wealth and exclusivity, yet all of the town's beaches are public – everyone's welcome. If you're seeking an LA beach spot for sunbathing and swimming, look no further than Zuma. This 1.8-mile beach is far cleaner than those at Santa Monica or Venice Beach .

Malibu's Zuma Beach is considered one of the finest beaches in the Los Angeles area. Locals and tourists laud Zuma for its awesome waves, ample parking and easy access to beachside snacks. Plus, there are a plethora of lifeguard stations and bathroom facilities. Beach wheelchairs and a beach mat (from April to October) are also available.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Sunset Boulevard Sunset Boulevard free

One of the most iconic thoroughfares in the United States, Sunset Boulevard continues to live up to its legend. In the old days, it represented the classic and glamorous Hollywood lifestyle and became the setting of several famous films, including the obvious classic "Sunset Boulevard." Today, the palm-lined street (which connects downtown LA to Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the Pacific Coast Highway) retains its cinematic appeal, and the Sunset Strip portion has become a popular nightlife spot. The strip is also home to many classic music venues, including the Rainbow Bar & Grill and The Roxy Theatre .

Recent visitors loved driving along this famous boulevard, adding that gorgeous sunsets can be enjoyed during late afternoon drives. But like other parts of LA, this thoroughfare gets congested with traffic.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

The Original Farmers Market and The Grove The Original Farmers Market and The Grove free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Kids will love riding the free, open-air, double-decker trolley that runs through The Grove and connects to The Original Farmers Market. It runs daily from 1 to 8:45 p.m. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Sitting south of West Hollywood is one of LA's most beloved landmarks: The Original Farmers Market. Founded in 1934, this cream-colored facility reels in both residents and tourists with the promise of fresh produce and the aroma of ready-to-eat snacks. You can visit throughout the week, although hours vary depending on the day. Entry is free, but you'll want to have some cash on hand should any of the treats whet your appetite. You can park for free for up to 90 minutes at the market's two lots, provided that your ticket is validated at the market. (Fees apply for parking after the allotted 90 minutes and for non-validated tickets.) For a little help navigating the market, you can also take a guided foodie tour  (one of the best California tours ).

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Los Angeles County Museum of Art Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Next door to the La Brea Tar Pits sits the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the linchpin of the Los Angeles museum district. Since its 1965 opening, LACMA has showcased thousands of pieces, from Islamic artifacts to European impressionist paintings to modern art. With constantly shifting exhibitions and unique architecture, LACMA offers a rewarding experience for both serious art buffs and casual travelers.

Currently, the museum is constructing a new building for its permanent collection, called the David Geffen Galleries, which is scheduled to open in 2024. For now, pieces will be on display in the BCAM and the Resnick Pavilion. The Urban Light and Levitated Mass exhibits remain open to visitors. There is a restaurant and grab-and-go eatery on-site. Many visitors appreciated both the indoor and outdoor art exhibits and were impressed with the size of the collection of modern and contemporary art.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Air Bus

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downtown los angeles tourist attractions

The Broad The Broad free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Two of the most popular exhibits that have blown up on social media are Yayoi Kusama's "Infinity Mirror Rooms." You have to book tickets online for timed entry to these exhibits, but they are free and include general museum admission. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad founded The Broad museum in 2015 and the structure made for a stunning addition to downtown Los Angeles. The eye-catching, honeycomb building, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Gensler, is home to an expansive collection of contemporary art dating from the 1950s to the present. The collection includes works by Jean Michel Basquiat, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, Kara Walker and Andy Warhol. In addition to the permanent collection, temporary exhibits showcase new and emerging artists. The museum gets high marks from recent visitors who loved both the artwork and the architecture.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Runyon Canyon Park Runyon Canyon Park free

Just two blocks from Hollywood Boulevard, Runyon Canyon Park is an often-overlooked urban park that offers some great views. The park boasts several hiking trails and is a popular spot for celebrities to exercise. During your hike, you'll see plenty of palm trees. Atop the canyon, you'll be treated to sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley.

Hikers recommend bring plenty of water and going later in the day since it can get hot on the trails. Some recent visitors lamented the lack of facilities, while others raved about the views.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Paramount Pictures Studios Paramount Pictures Studios

Since 1912, Paramount Pictures Studios has showcased the talents of film's all-time heavyweights, including Mae West, Alfred Hitchcock, Eddie Murphy and Meryl Streep. The notable site has been home to everything from classic television shows like "I Love Lucy" to modern favorites like "Glee" to box-office hits like "Mission: Impossible" and "Titanic." Today, Paramount Pictures is the only remaining film studio in the Hollywood area.

For an authentic Hollywood experience, set aside some time to tour the grounds . On the 2-hour studio tour, a guide will take you around the site's 65 acres in a golf cart, and you'll also be able to hop off and explore sound stages and recognizable studio sets from many current TV shows and movies. Previous visitors praised the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, although some felt the tours offered at Warner Bros. Studio were better. Also, keep in mind the tours' age restrictions. Studio and VIP tours permit visitors ages 10 and older.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Hollywood Bowl Hollywood Bowl free

If you can catch a gig at the Hollywood Bowl , LA's beautiful amphitheater, don't pass it up. Since its inaugural season in 1922, this unique stage, set in the Hollywood Hills, has entertained thousands of fans and hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Stevie Wonder, Igor Stravinsky, Madonna, Elton John and Tina Turner.

Many travelers praise the Hollywood Bowl, touting everything from the sound quality to the scenic overlook. Several also add that all of the seats offer great views and suggest arriving early with a bottle of wine and a picnic basket.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Walt Disney Concert Hall Walt Disney Concert Hall free

This Frank Gehry-designed concert hall's curvaceous, stainless-steel façade is an imposing structure in downtown LA. The hall helped revive this particular section of downtown, which was once dominated by mundane office buildings and lackluster entertainment options. Now, nightlife and culture burgeon in the area and the concert hall is at the forefront. Music-loving travelers will want to catch one of the Los Angeles Philharmonic's performances here. (For ticket and price information, visit the Los Angeles Philharmonic's website .)

You don't have to invest in concert tickets to experience this performance venue: You can follow  a self-guided audio tour of the exterior and interior (though the actual concert auditorium is off-limits). Past visitors recommend the free hourlong audio tours; self-guided tours are also offered daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For a full tour schedule, visit The Music Center's website .

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket

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from $ 109.00

The VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood

The VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood

(435 reviews)

from $ 379.00

Authentic 3-Hour Hollywood to Beverly Hills Tour

Authentic 3-Hour Hollywood to Beverly Hills Tour

(72 reviews)

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Hollywood Homes Tours Hollywood Homes Tours

Once you've seen where the stars shop, where they eat, where they surf and where they party, you'll want to see where they live. A variety of Hollywood homes tours provide ample opportunities to spot homes owned by the rich and famous. You probably won't see the celebs themselves, but you can snap pics of the homes affiliated with A-listers like Sandra Bullock, Tom Cruise, Bruno Mars and Halle Berry. Also, expect to see facades that once housed the likes of Lucille Ball, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. Along with the stars' abodes, buses usually make stops at the Hollywood Walk of Fame , the Sunset Strip and Rodeo Drive .

Some recent travelers were disappointed because many homes are at the end of long driveways or behind hedges. Be sure to check the weather for the day: Extreme heat or a sudden shower can put a damper on an open-top bus ride.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Rodeo Drive Rodeo Drive free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop for lunch at the hidden Mexican steakhouse, The Hideaway, on the subterranean level of the Rodeo Collection. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Immortalized by Julia Roberts' "Pretty Woman" shopping spree, Rodeo Drive is an upscale shopping street in Beverly Hills that features world-class designer stores and small private boutiques. The area is popular with wealthy shoppers, sunglass-wearing celebrities and tourists hoping to see fashion icons.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Hollywood Forever Cemetery Hollywood Forever Cemetery free

As morbid as it may seem, your best chance of spotting a celebrity in LA is at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Here, you'll find the final resting places of Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille and other stars who once worked at the adjacent Paramount Pictures Studios . Maps detailing the celebrities' gravesites are available at the cemetery's flower shop or on its website . A 2 ½-hour walking tour is also available starting at $25.

Recent visitors described the cemetery's quiet grounds as "peaceful," adding that the grounds are well-maintained. Some recommend doing a walking tour to learn the stories of famous people buried there. The venue also offers cultural events, such as outdoor classic film screenings, concerts and author evenings. Visit their events calendar to find out more.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

You could spend an entire day at this property that includes a research library with 11 million items, an art museum with more than 42,000 pieces and a 130-acre botanical gardens with more than 12 themed gardens. The Huntington opened in 1928 and is a nonprofit that provides humanities scholarships, fellowships, special exhibitions and hosts more than 800,000 visitors a year. Ongoing exhibitions feature items such as Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" manuscript, replicas of Pacific Electric Railway Company's "red cars," rock slab art in the Japanese Garden, contemporary art and so much more. There are also temporary exhibits that rotate regularly. The Botanical Gardens include themed gardens – such as the California garden, jungle garden, rose garden and Japanese garden – botanical living collections and is the site for botanical conservation and research. Most visitors enjoyed touring the gardens the most and said that the gardens alone can be a full-day excursion.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is open from Wednesdays to Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations are recommended from Monday to Thursday and required for weekend visits. Weekday admission is $25 for adults, $21 for students, $13 for youth (ages 4 to 11) and children younger than 4 explore free. Weekend rates are slightly higher. Admission is free the first Thursday of every month; you can snag tickets on the final Thursday of the month prior at 9 a.m. PST. Free parking is available. A variety of guided tours and events are offered; dates and prices vary.  View the online calendar for more information. There are restrooms, a gift shop and dining facilities on the property, as well as a limited number of picnic tables. Picnics in the garden are not permitted. For more information, visit the website .

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Angeles National Forest Angeles National Forest

In about a half-hour, travelers can trade busy downtown LA for the serenity of nature at the Angeles National Forest. The almost 700,000-acre forest is an easily accessible place for locals and visitors to hike, bike, ski, ride horses, swim, fish and even camp. Encompassing the San Gabriel Mountains, terrain ranges from desert to dense forest. Perhaps one of the most visited sites is Mount San Antonio (nicknamed Mount Baldy), which is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains at 10,064 feet. There you will find a variety of hikes, from moderate to challenging. Recent visitors loved the views and found the range of trail options perfect for different types of hikers.

Visitors to the Angeles National Forest must purchase a National Forest Adventure Pass. It’s $5 for a daily pass or $30 for an annual pass; the pass is good at other national forests in the area. There are visitor and information centers in different areas of the forest, which offer general information, activities and educational events. Visit the forest's website for specific hours and details.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Mulholland Trail Horseback Tour

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Luxury EV SUV Tour of Los Angeles with hotel pickup

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7-Day Tour to San Francisco, Yosemite, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, and Zion from LA

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downtown los angeles tourist attractions

La Brea Tar Pits La Brea Tar Pits free

If your kids go crazy for dinosaurs – and really, what kid doesn't? – then a visit to La Brea Tar Pits is sure to be the highlight of their trip. Although the pits look like the set of a cheesy PG movie, hot tar has been bubbling from the earth at this spot along Museum Row in the Miracle Mile for about 50,000 years. And from the gooiest part of LA, more than 3.5 million fossils have been discovered. The adjoining museum houses many of the artifacts found at the tar pits; consequently, it is home to one of the largest collections of Ice Age fossils in the world. Recent visitors said the site was very educational and the amount of fossils was impressive.

You can check out the tar pits completely free of charge, but museum tickets start at $15 for adults and $7 for children 3 to 12; reduced entry fees are available for students and seniors. LA County residents get in free Mondays through Fridays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. All tickets include tours of property facilities like the fossil lab, lake pit and observation pit; some special exhibits will cost extra. Ticket lines can be long, so consider purchasing your ticket online before you arrive. Even if you have to pay to visit, most visitors agree that the exhibits are well worth perusing.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

California Science Center California Science Center free

A world of fun and exploration await kids, as well as curious adults, at the California Science Center. In the permanent "Ecosystems" exhibit, museumgoers will learn about everything from islands to rivers to forests across ten different zones via interactive displays. In "Life! Beginning," visitors learn about reproduction, mating and genes. Many recent visitors were impressed with the museum's "Air & Space" section that includes the Space Shuttle Endeavour and the Gemini 11 Capsule. An IMAX theater is also on-site. Recent visitors say the center is wonderful, lots of fun and especially great for kids.

The center is free to visit (including the Endeavour) though special exhibits and IMAX screenings incur a fee. Timed tickets for IMAX and special exhibits are required and can be purchased online . The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking costs $15. You can also take the Metro Expo Line to Expo Park/USC Station and walk five minutes to the center. Visit the center's website for more information.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Dodger Stadium Dodger Stadium

Baseball fans should enjoy a visit to Dodger Stadium, which is home to the LA Dodgers and is Major League Baseball's third oldest continually used park. The stadium is carved into Chavez Ravine and overlooks downtown LA to the south and the San Gabriel Mountains to the north, making this ballpark quite unique. If the Dodgers aren't playing when you're in town, you can still see the stadium on a guided tour. Tours of the 56,000-seat stadium last approximately 90 minutes. During the tour, visitors will learn about the stadium's history and may get to go on the field, look at the Dodger Dugout or peek into the Yaamava' Dugout Club (the VIP restaurant and lounge located behind home plate), which houses the team's World Series trophies and various other awards. Additional specialty tours, such as a Jackie Robinson tour, are also offered. Recent tour-goers say the guides are knowledgeable and engaging.

The Dodger Stadium Tour is offered on the hour from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (on game days ) or 3 p.m. (on nongame days). Tickets cost $30 for adults and $25 for kids 14 and younger. Specialty tours are also available for varying fees. Parking is $25 in advance and $30 to $50 at the gate, with no in-and-out privileges and no refunds. Tickets to baseball games are seasonal and prices vary.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Greystone Mansion and Park Greystone Mansion and Park free

Greystone Mansion is one of the largest mansions in Beverly Hills and an important landmark for American cinema. The nearly 13-acre parcel of land was a wedding gift from oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny to his son, Ned, in 1926. Construction on the mansion began in 1927 and took almost three years to complete. Greystone now represents a golden age in American cinema. Many films, including "The Big Lebowski" and "Ghostbusters," and television shows like "General Hospital" and "Gilmore Girls" have been shot on these gothic-inspired grounds.

Visitors can walk around the property and self-guided tours of the inside of the mansion are offered monthly. Many visitors say Greystone Mansion has stunning grounds with picturesque views. Travelers describe the park grounds as spectacular and enjoy learning which of their favorite movies and shows used Greystone as a backdrop.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Venice Beach Venice Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Rent an e-bike at the boardwalk and spend the day riding along "The Strand" (aka the Marvin Braude Bike Trail) to the Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy delicious Mexican dishes at MariaSol, which sits at the end of the pier. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Developed in the early 20th century, Venice Beach is modeled – canals and all – after its  namesake city in Italy . Admittedly, the experiment didn't live up to its Italian inspiration, but the neighborhood has become distinctly Californian, embodying the spirit of the wealthy, the alternative and the just plain bizarre. Rather than towering churches and intimate pizzerias, you'll find canal-side mansions near funky boutiques and restaurants.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

3-Day California Coast Tour: Santa Barbara, San Francisco and Yosemite

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The Best of LA Tour: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Griffith Park +More

The Best of LA Tour: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Griffith Park + More

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Skip the Line: Express Ticket at Universal Studios Hollywood

Skip the Line: Express Ticket at Universal Studios Hollywood

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downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. free

If you're looking for a trendy hot spot, heed the advice of recent visitors and head to the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles. Formerly an urban artists' colony in the 1970s, the area is now filled with restaurants, cafes and bars serving creative cuisine and craft cocktails. Popular favorites include Angel City Brewery, Bestia, Girl & the Goat and EightyTwo, a bar that features vintage pinball and arcade machines. The neighborhood is also home to art galleries featuring a variety of genres showcasing inspiring art, art shops and art classes. One example is Art Share L.A., a 28,000-square-foot creative art space featuring community art classes, art exhibits and live performances.

According to past visitors, parking in this area can be challenging. Though there is street parking, it's limited. Travelers advise leaving your car in a public parking garage.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios Hollywood

One of the most popular attractions in the Los Angeles area, Universal Studios Hollywood features rides and amusements based on some of the most popular scenes and characters from film and television. You can take the tram Studio Tour past the creepy Bates Motel from "Psycho" and get caught up in a high-speed chase with the "Fast & Furious" cast. Kids can shake hands with cartoon favorites like The Minions and Scooby-Doo. Of course, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is another huge hit, as is Jurassic World – The Ride. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, a new attraction opened in 2023, features a Super Mario-themed ride, interactive games, a restaurant and shop.

If thrills are your thing, there are plenty of hair-raising coasters and rides. On Transformers: The Ride-3D, riders join Optimus Prime in his battle against the Decepticons; meanwhile, youngsters will love the 3D ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (complete with a Minion dance party).

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Abbot Kinney Boulevard Abbot Kinney Boulevard free

Shoppers will love this retail mecca that stretches for a mile from Washington Boulevard to Main Street. Located a half-mile inland from Venice Beach , the boulevard features popular chain stores, such as Lululemon, Birkenstock and Warby Parker, as well as local boutique shops, including Ananda Venice, Satine and The Stronghold. In between shopping, stop for a bite to eat at The Butcher's Daughter, Plant Food + Wine or Gjelina. Or, plan your visit for the first Friday of every month, when starting at 5 p.m. dozens of food trucks serve up casual craft meals along the street.

Recent visitors suggested you stroll along Abbot Kinney Boulevard if you're in the Venice Beach area, praising its hip collection of boutiques and restaurants. In addition to the shops and eateries, reviewers also admired the colorful murals and street art. 

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Grand Central Market Grand Central Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For something fun and unique near the market, check out the Angels Flight Railway. Built in 1901, the funicular takes passengers between Hill Street and Grand Avenue on Bunker Hill. One-way tickets cost $1. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Grand Central Market, or foodie heaven according to visitors, is located in downtown Los Angeles by the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad . The venue features high ceilings and an open layout, with food vendor stalls offering different cuisines that represent cultures from the Los Angeles area and beyond. The market has been in operation since 1917 and serves everything from coffee and pressed juices to deli fare, egg sandwiches, falafel, tacos and chow mein.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Whether you're interested in the deep sea, dinosaurs, insects or gems and minerals, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers hours of exploration of all things related to natural history. Ongoing exhibitions include the impressive Dinosaur Hall (where you can view more than 300 fossils and see 20 life-sized dinosaur skeletons), Nature Lab, Hall of Birds and Visible Vault, which houses artifacts from Aztec, Maya and Inca civilizations. Visitors said that the museum is great for all ages, with the Dinosaur Hall being the most popular attraction. There are also special exhibitions that are on display for a limited time. Kids will love the Dinosaurs Encounters Show that features juvenile dinosaur puppets. The shows are offered Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $6 per person.

Guests can also explore the nature gardens with more than 600 varieties of plants and a plethora of garden wildlife. Free guided tours are available daily. If you want to dive deeper into natural history, special programs are available for children, adults and families. Check the events calendar online for more info.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Los Angeles Private Guided Sightseeing Full-Day Tour

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Hollywood and Celebrity Homes Bus Tour

Hollywood and Celebrity Homes Bus Tour

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Perfect 5 ½ Hour LA & Hollywood Tour from Santa Monica

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downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Battleship USS Iowa Museum Battleship USS Iowa Museum

A visit to the iconic Battleship USS Iowa Museum includes access to both interior and exterior areas on seven decks. The self-guided tour lets visitors see what life was like on the ship. You'll also view the officer's wardroom, senior officer's cabins, admirals bridge, navigation bridge and crew's quarters. Recent visitors enjoyed the multiple exhibits along the route that tell the story of the Battleship USS Iowa, as well as the U.S. Navy, through artifacts, photographs, artwork and equipment. Kids can participate in the "Vicky the Dog" scavenger hunt to get a more in-depth look at the ship through the eyes of its canine mascot.

The General Access pass is valid for two hours and costs $29.95 for adults, $21.95 for kids 3 to 11 and are free for kids 2 and younger. For an additional fee, visitors can upgrade to a themed guided tour, such as the Gun Tour or Engineering Tour. Past visitors said it is worth paying extra for a guided tour. They also enjoyed their visits overall. While visiting the ship, check out the waterfront views, grab a snack at Vicky's Doghouse Café and pick up a souvenir at the Ship's Store. The ship is open daily at 10 a.m. and closes around 4 p.m. (or whenever the final guided tour ends). Parking is available, with the first hour free and $2 each hour after that, with a maximum of $20 a day.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Shop along Olvera Street Shop along Olvera Street free

Stroll this historic street in Downtown Los Angeles for authentic Mexican culture, music and cuisine. Along the block-long, brick-lined street, you'll find strolling mariachi bands, taco shops, Aztec and Mexican folkloric dancers and vendors selling handcrafted souvenirs, such as pottery, leather goods and traditional clothing. The street also hosts various traditional events throughout the year, including the Blessing of the Animals (Saturday before Easter), Cinco de Mayo, Fiestas Patrias (Mexican Independence Day), Dia de los Muertos and Las Posadas.

This Mexican marketplace is part of the El Pueblo Historic Park, the "birthplace of LA," which also includes historic sites, such as Avila Adobe (LA's oldest house), Pico House and the America Tropical Interpretive Center. 

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

L.A. Live L.A. Live

L.A. Live is the hub of entertainment in Downtown Los Angeles. It's features the Crypto.com Arena, home of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers basketball teams, the Los Angeles Kings hockey team, as well as the Los Angeles Sparks women's basketball team. It's also where music fans attend world-class concerts by some of the biggest names in the industry. Other entertainment includes the interactive GRAMMY Museum, a Lucky Strike bowling alley and a Regal movie theater, as well as smaller event venues like the Microsoft Theater, The Novo and The Conga Room.

There are more than a dozen eateries to choose from, including Yard House and Katsuya. After a night of entertainment, stay over at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE or The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Petersen Automotive Museum Petersen Automotive Museum

Car enthusiasts will be thrilled with a visit to the Petersen Automotive Museum as it houses a range of impressive cars, from high performance to historic. In the permanent galleries, travelers can try an exhilarating racing simulator, see the “Commutercycle” from the HBO documentary "The Lady and the Dale" and participate in hands-on activities with a Disney "Cars" theme. Featured exhibitions rotate frequently. There are an additional 250 cars that are stored in The Vault. The museum also hosts a variety of events, from exhibition openings to hands-on workshops. Visit its online calendar for more info.

Admission is $21 for adults, $13 for youth ages 12 to 17 and $11 for kids 4 to 11. There is an additional $27 fee for people 12 and older to tour The Vault (children 4 to 11 will pay an extra $10); many visitors say it's worth the fee, but warn that it could take you a half-day to explore. Keep in mind children younger than 4 cannot enter the museum nor the vault. If you're a true car fanatic, consider taking the guided Vault and Workshop tour to see both the Vault and the museum's restoration area. Tickets for this tour are limited and run on Saturdays only. Fees are $150 for individuals 4 and older.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Warner Bros. Studio Warner Bros. Studio

Located in Burbank, California – a city that sits just 5 miles north of Hollywood – Warner Bros. Studio gives visitors a close-up look at iconic movie and TV sets and props, such as the original Batmobiles, costumes from the "Harry Potter" movies and a replica of the cafe featured in "Friends." Travelers will also drive around the studio's 110-acre backlot, where 30 soundstages are used for producing shows like "Young Sheldon," "Bob Hearts Abishola," and "The Ellen DeGeneres Show."

Previous visitors loved exploring this property and appreciated their "fun and knowledgeable" tour guides. Additionally, many enjoyed getting out of their golf carts to go inside a working set and other buildings used for filming, citing this as the main reason to tour this studio instead of others like Paramount Pictures Studios . But keep in mind, children 7 and younger are not permitted on any tour.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

Beach Grand Tour: LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills + Santa Monica

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The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles

The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles

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Half Day Private Wine Tasting Tour in Malibu

Half Day Private Wine Tasting Tour in Malibu

(6 reviews)

from $ 699.00

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Los Angeles Tourist Attractions - Downtown LA

Attractions near union station and chinatown.

Attractions Near Union Station and Chinatown, including the Union Station Metro train station in Downtown Los Angeles. [Photo Credit: LAtourist.com]

UNION STATION & CHINATOWN Including Union Station, El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, Olvera Street, LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes, Chinese American Museum, Old Chinatown Central Plaza, and Los Angeles State Historic Park.

Attractions near Civic Center

Attractions Near Civic Center, including the Music Center in Downtown Los Angeles. [Photo Credit: LAtourist.com]

NEAR CIVIC CENTER Including Los Angeles City Hall, Observation Deck at City Hall, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Performing Arts Center (Music Center), MOCA Grand Avenue, The Broad, Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, Grand Park.

Attractions near Little Tokyo

Attractions Near Little Tokyo in Downtown L.A., including Weller Court Shopping Plaza. [Photo Credit: LAtourist.com]

LITTLE TOKYO DISTRICT Including the Japanese American National Museum, Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, Little Tokyo Historic District, Japanese Village Plaza Mall, Little Tokyo Galleria Shopping Center, Weller Court, James Irvine Japanese Garden, Union Center for the Arts, Little Tokyo Restaurants and Dining and the Metro Train Station in Little Tokyo.

Attractions near Pershing Square

Attractions Near Pershing Square --  the Jewelry District in Downtown Los Angeles. [Photo Credit: LAtourist.com]

NEAR PERSHING SQUARE Including SkySpace L.A. Observation Deck, Grand Central Market, the L.A. Jewelry District, Pershing Square, Los Angeles Central Library.

Attractions near L.A. LIVE

Attractions Near L.A. LIVE, Staples Center in Downtown Los Angeles. [Photo Credit: LAtourist.com]

NEAR L.A. LIVE Including L.A. LIVE, The GRAMMY Museum, Club Nokia, Lucky Strike, Conga Room, Microsoft Theater, Staples Center, L.A. Convention Center.

Attractions near the Fashion District

Attractions Near the Fashion District in Los Angeles. [Photo Credit: LAtourist.com]

NEAR THE FASHION DISTRICT Including the Flower Market, L.A. Fashion District, Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising, Clifton's Cafeteria, The Orpheum Theatre and The Belasco Theater.

More Attractions near Downtown L.A.

More Attractions Near Downtown L.A., including Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. [Photo Credit: LAtourist.com]

MORE NEAR DOWNTOWN L.A. Including the California Science Center, Natural History Museum, California African American Museum, Fisher Gallery, Coliseum Historic Tours, Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), Dodger Stadium Tours and more.

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

10 Worthwhile Los Angeles Attractions To Visit At Least Once In Your Life

From Griffith Observatory to the Hollywood Bowl, these Los Angeles attractions are essential stops for both tourists and locals.

Jamie Ferrell

As one of the most-visited cities in the United States , Los Angeles is a coveted international destination with some of the country’s best sightseeing. The city is a non-negotiable stop for avid cinephiles , foodies , U.S. history buffs, beachgoers , theme park aficionados, music lovers , comedy fans, and basically any subculture you can think of. No matter your interests or hobbies, be sure to take stock of these Los Angeles attractions on your next visit.

We pulled a mix of museums , viewpoints , and neighborhoods that most tourists have on their minds when visiting Los Angeles. If you need more inspiration, consider scrolling through our longer list of things to do in L.A.

1. Griffith Observatory

Aerial view of the Griffith Observatory during the sunset

The grand and imposing Griffith Observatory is perhaps the most famous viewpoint in Los Angeles. Visit for dramatic sweeping views from the Pacific Ocean to Downtown L.A., which are just as impressive day or night. The observatory is completely free to visit , and visitors can stargaze with on-site telescopes, explore rotating exhibits , and see live shows in the Planetarium.

Leave extra time to explore the sprawling Griffith Park , the largest urban-municipal park in the country. It comprises 4,210 acres of both natural and landscaped terrain including three golf courses, the L.A. Zoo, and the Greek Theatre.

📍Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

2. Santa Monica Pier

Carnival rides and attractions lit up on Santa Monica Pier at sunset.

In 1909, the Santa Monica Pier was built as the first concrete pier in the United States and quickly became a popular fishing spot. Within a decade the pier had welcomed several amusement park rides at the behest of entrepreneur Charles Looff. Today it holds the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel , a historic merry-go-round, and even marks the end of Route 66. Consider biking or walking a few miles down the oceanfront pathway to Venice Beach or going shopping at Santa Monica Place.

📍 Location : 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica

3. Universal Studios

A yellow boat crashes into a pool in the Jurassic Park ride at Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is a massive theme park and actively operating Hollywood film studio. Film aficionados jump at the chance to take the world-famous studio tour featuring sets from legendary movies and TV shows, but the entire park is filled with themed lands that cater to the entire family. Plan to spend a full day here, as Universal Studios is one of the most elaborate Los Angeles attractions to visit.

America’s first Super Nintendo World is the most recent addition to Universal Studios, but you’ll want to leave plenty of time to hit the Jurassic World ride, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the “Revenge of the Mummy” roller coaster.

📍 Location : 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City

4. Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood sign during the sunset

The historic Hollywood Sign is a veritable cultural icon of Los Angeles and California as a whole. It began as a temporary billboard for real estate developer “Hollywoodland,” but with the rise of the Golden Age of Cinema, the sign stayed put and has remained in its position for over a century. The 50-foot-tall letters were replaced with durable steel-enforced alternatives in 1978.

You can see the Hollywood Sign up close via several hiking paths in Griffith Park , including the Mt. Hollywood Trail, Brush Canyon Trail, and Cahuenga Trail.

📍 Location : Griffith Park, Los Angeles

People gather around "Urban Light" sculpture at LACMA.

LACMA is one of the most well-known free art museums in L.A. , flanked by the 202 iron lamps that make up Chris Burden’s recognizable Urban Light installation. Head inside to discover a collection of modern and traditional masterpieces.

As the largest art museum in the western United States, LACMA boasts a collection of more than 142,000 objects that illuminate 6,000 years of artistic expression across the globe. The general public can enjoy free admission on second Tuesdays, and LA County residents get free admission on weekdays after 3 pm.

📍 Location : 5905 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles

6. Venice Beach

A group of people biking in Venice Beach while carrying surfboards.

The eccentric and exciting coastal town known as Venice Beach is a historic Los Angeles attraction visited by up to 30,000 people daily . The two-mile boardwalk stretch is populated by street performers, independent vendors and artists, souvenir shops, and occasional film productions.

Keep your eyes peeled for the world-famous Muscle Beach Gym once frequented by Arnold Schwarzenegger, the charming beach canals and cottages on Dell Avenue, lively pick-up basketball games on the public courts, and some seriously impressive skating in the public skate park. The area taps into California’s surf, skate, and beach culture in a way that’s thrilling for tourists and even locals to witness.

📍 Location : Venice neighborhood, Los Angeles

7. Hollywood Bowl

Hollywood Bowl bandshell lit up with blue lights and a full audience.

The Hollywood Bowl outdoor amphitheater is arguably the most storied and iconic music venue in Los Angeles . The recognizable arched bandshell has backed legendary musicians such as Billie Holliday, The Beatles, and Yo-Yo Ma since 1922.

Listings often include big-name standups and world-renowned musicians, but guests love to attend their popular movie nights where the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra performs live film soundtracks.

📍 Location : 2301 Highland Ave, Los Angeles

8. The Huntington

A white building reflected in the water at Huntington Gardens.

Visitors who are bent on seeing the fast-paced, glamorous side of the city may undervalue The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. This gorgeous destination is one of the more underrated Los Angeles tourist attractions, but you can’t beat the payoff of a 130-acre garden with 83,000 living plants . Explore 16 bountiful themed gardens , plus fascinating collections of orchids and bonsai trees.

The illustrious Huntington Library is home to over 11 million items dating between the 11th and 21st centuries including the Ellesmere manuscript of Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales and one of twelve surviving copies of the Gutenberg Bible. Make sure you leave plenty of time to explore the art museum housing over 45,000 pieces of British, European, American, and Asian art.

📍 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino

9. Hollywood Walk of Fame

People walk down the Hollywood Walk of Fame

As one of the busiest Los Angeles attractions , the Hollywood Walk of Fame is practically synonymous with the city itself. Since its inauguration in 1958, the legendary landmark has installed over 2,700 stars honoring the crème de la crème of the entertainment industry. Tourists are known to stroll through Hollywood Boulevard to spot their favorite celebrity stars.

The stars are five-pointed terrazzo inlays sporting brass symbols that indicate each respective honoree’s category. Some of the most sought-after stars include Marilyn Monroe, Harrison Ford, and Michael Jackson. If you want to attend a free installation ceremony, make sure to keep an eye on the Hollywood Walk of Fame website.

📍 Location : Hollywood Blvd from Gower to La Brea, and Vine Street from Sunset to Yucca

10. Getty Center

A garden with a pond and hedge labyrinth outside the Getty Center.

The Getty Center is a breathtaking cultural institution in Los Angeles boasting exquisite gardens, city views, and a gorgeous white-tiled complex. Here you’ll find the Getty Museum with massive collections of artworks including Greek and Roman pieces from the Neolithic period and European art dating back to the Middle Ages. Prominent featured artists include Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and Pontormo.

Leave plenty of time to explore the 134,000-square-foot Central Garden designed by Robert Irwin as an “evolving work of art” that changes with the seasons. It holds over 500 plant varieties and an eye-catching maze of azaleas.

📍 Location : 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles

downtown los angeles tourist attractions

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best things to do in Los Angeles Downtown

Downtown Los Angeles: Take a Walking Tour from Bunker Hill to the Financial District

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The entire metropolitan area of Los Angeles is so large that it has a great variety of neighborhoods and districts. Just think of the VIP areas such as Beverly Hills and Bel Air , the fashionable coastal cities like Santa Monica , Malibu , and Venice Beach , the mecca of cinema in Hollywood , the old and colorful Mexican district of El Pueblo , and the elegant and historic streets of Pasadena . In addition to all these districts, there is, of course, Downtown Los Angeles , the center of business and economic life in Los Angeles that is recognizable thanks to its skyscrapers and modernist architecture.

As I have already explained in my guide on where to stay in Los Angeles , the neighborhood is, in my opinion, one of the best areas to stay in while visiting the city , not only because of the high concentration of hotels available, but it also allows you to better organize the trips to the many attractions located in the area. Since you are likely to spend at least a few hours in Downtown Los Angeles , you may be wondering what this area of the city has to offer.

Is it better to spend a few hours there, or is it better to get out of there as quickly as possible and head to the most popular areas of the city? Are there things to see or places of interest ? In this article, we’ll discover that although Downtown Los Angeles is not the area with the greatest tourist appeal, it has a surprising number of attractions, especially from an architectural and artistic point of view. So here is an itinerary designed for you to spend a pleasant afternoon in the downtown area of the City of Angels.

The Amazing Architecture of Pershing Square

A corner of ancient egypt among the skyscrapers, the bunker hill staircase and the oue skyspace, angels flight: the historic railway of bunker hill, modern art and architecture along grand avenue, 3 must-see historic buildings…, events and entertainment in downtown los angeles, where to stay overnight in downtown los angeles, attractions in downtown los angeles.

Please note : If you visit the city with a car (or rental car), take a look at our tips on where to park in Los Angeles . Those who prefer to use public transportation can read our guide on how to get around Los Angeles .

Los Angeles Downtown things to do

In fact, in this square, you will find numerous spaces designed for the inhabitants (chess tables, children’s play areas, and areas for pets), but what is particularly striking is the unique design of the structures in the square, for example, the purple bell tower, the fountain in the shape of a turntable ( DJ Reminisce ), and the surrounding statues and monuments. After coming here, anyone who thought of Los Angeles’ downtown area as something unimportant or uninteresting will think again…

Los Angeles Downtown attractions

The library boasts more than 6 million volumes and contains many elements of artistic interest such as Dean Cornwell’s 1933 mural, which retraces the main stages of California ‘s history, as well as other mosaics and statues.

On the northeast side of the Public Library, just across the street, we find our next 2 destinations, the Bunker Hill Steps , a beautiful and elegant staircase that leads to the Bunker Hill area (I recommend climbing to the top to photograph the public library’s tower) and the OUE Skyspace , a hotel that is home to the highest observatory in all of Los Angeles (984 ft), with a 360° view.

Los Angeles Downtown places to visit

But that’s not all. On the skyscraper, besides admiring the view, you can have fun riding the Skyslide , a transparent open-air slide more than 40 ft long that will transport you to the lower panoramic terrace. There are two types of tickets to visit the OUE Skyspace, one with and one without slide. You can buy them online and skip the line at the entrance by clicking on the button below:

OUE Skyspace tickets

Los Angeles Downtown financial district

Originally it was built in 1901 in another area of the city, but it was then moved in the 50s to facilitate the ascent in this area. In reality, it is only 230 ft and you could even walk up the stairs that are right next to Angels Flight, but it is a historical attraction that the people of Los Angeles are particularly fond of. It certainly deserves a photo and maybe a ride, even if it costs $ 1 dollar one way (for a 1-minute ride …).

Los Angeles Downtown points of interest

Even if you don’t intend to enter the museum, it is still worth crossing the portico to view the fascinating sculpture composed of airplane parts placed in the small plaza.

Returning to Grand Avenue, you will not fail to notice The Broad , another museum erected by the city of Los Angeles dedicated to contemporary art. The futuristic building deserves to be photographed for its own sake and if you did not enter the MOCA, if I were you, I would seriously consider visiting at least this museum, even if you are not very fond of contemporary art or if you prefer more traditional museums such as the Getty Center . Admission is free, which is rare!

Los Angeles Downtown things to see

But the most fascinating example of architecture in this area, in my opinion, is the one that is about to appear before your eyes. Even in this case, it is impossible not to notice it and the effect will be even more surprising. This building is characterized by asymmetry and pure and disjointed shapes that create the effect of enveloping movement rather than a rigid form. I’m talking about the Walt Disney Concert Hall , a significant work of the famous “deconstructivist” architect Frank Gehry.

Just a block ahead, at the junction with Temple Street, you will see another imposing building, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels , a large church built in the postmodern style. It is undoubtedly impressive, but from an aesthetic point of view, it has received much criticism. The underground floor houses a mausoleum containing 1,270 crypts and 4,746 burial niches, including the relics of Saint Viviana, a young Christian martyr from Roman times, and actors June Marlowe and Gregory Peck.

Los Angeles Downtown must see places

According to the itinerary, now you should turn right, but to get a better view of the church and admire another intriguing modernist building, I suggest that you cross the bridge, take a picture of the Ramón C. Cortines School of Visual and Performing Arts and then go back .

Los Angeles Downtown best things to do

  • Los Angeles City Hall . It was built in the 1920s in the style of the time, featuring a tower that was once the tallest in the city until the mid-1960s.
  • The Los Angeles Times Building is located a few yards further, at the intersection with 1st Street. Built in the Art Deco style, it makes you imagine what Los Angeles must have been like in the 1930s.
  • Bradbury Building . To get to this building of historical importance, walk until you reach 3rd Street and turn right. The Bradbury Building will be the second building on the left. It was built in 1893 and was declared a National Historic Landmark. In addition, fans of Blade Runner will see something familiar .. . the scenes of J.F. Sebastian’s apartment as well as the ending of the movie were filmed here.

Los Angeles Downtown buildings

Union Station , 800 N Alameda St, the Los Angeles train station, is one of the most architecturally significant buildings in the city. Don’t just admire it from the outside. Explore it from the inside too. Blade Runner fans will recognize another building used for the movie (in the police station scene).

It’s true that Downtown’s Financial District gets quiet in the evening, yet there are plenty of entertainment venues nearby, such as the Staples Center , where the Lakers and Clippers (NBA) and the Kings (Hockey) play, and L.A. Live , the nearby entertainment complex with theaters, restaurants, movie theaters, and clubs. In the Walt Disney Concert Hall area, you will also find Grand Park , a park that extends almost 5 hectares, which in addition to hosting many events, serves as a meeting place for locals.

Most of the accommodations are located in the Financial District around Pershing Square , the starting point of our itinerary. As I already mentioned, Downtown Los Angeles is also a good base to visit the attractions located around the Greater Los Angeles Area (for a detailed list, take a look at our article about the things to do in Los Angeles ). For more information about Downtown L.A. and other recommended neighborhoods where you can find great accommodations, click on the button below.

Our tips on where to stay in Los Angeles

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

lorenzo puliti

lorenzo puliti

I am fascinated by the wonders of the world I never tire of going in search of them.

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  1. 21 Best Things to Do in Downtown Los Angeles Right Now

    Discover the cultural, architectural and gastronomic attractions of DTLA with these quintessential things to do in the city center. From the Walt Disney Concert Hall to the Bradbury Building, from Grand Central Market to Union Station, you'll find a variety of experiences to suit your taste and budget.

  2. The 18 Best Things to Do in Downtown Los Angeles

    Phone +1 213-359-6007. Web Visit website. Grand Central Market is an indoor public market on Broadway between Third and Fourth streets in downtown. The market has been open continuously since 1917 and has always housed a mix of greengrocers, butchers, delis, bakers, and prepared food vendors.

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    Tucked near some must-see tourist attractions — Grand Central Market, the Bradbury Building — Kippered happens to be downtown's friendliest local hang, a place to find adventurous wines, a ...

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    4. Union Station. Union Station is the Los Angeles train station, and it's been featured in movies like Blade Runner. It's many decades old and is an excellent place to walk around and explore the unique architecture or take the train somewhere outside of Los Angeles. Read more about Union Station.

  5. THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Downtown, Los Angeles

    Lots of things to view, read, and with which to interact, makes for a great few hours to spend in Downtown LA. See tours. 6. Japanese American National Museum. 380. Speciality Museums • History Museums. Downtown. Open now. By loisl610.

  6. A guide to the Arts District in downtown Los Angeles

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    Angels Flight® Railway. 351 S. Hill St., Los Angeles 90013. 213-626-1901. View Website. Angels Flight is a Bunker Hill funicular that marries a historic landmark to public transportation with the spirit of a fairground ride. Originally opened in 1901, "the world's shortest railway" has given more than 100 million rides.

  8. 24 Best Things to Do in Downtown LA in 2024 (By a Local)

    In this guide, we'll go over my top picks for things to do in Downtown LA! Table of Contents. 24 Best Things to Do in Downtown LA. Union Station. Olvera Street. Grand Central Market. Bradbury Building. Angels Flight Railway. Walt Disney Concert Hall.

  9. 24 Best Things To Do In Downtown LA

    Big Bus Tour is a hop-on hop-off tour that allows you to see some of the most popular tourist attractions in LA. With around 20 hop-on hop-off spots, this bus tour covers it all. ... As you can see, Downtown Los Angeles can hold its own against rivals like Hollywood and Beverly Hills. With a variety of delectable foods, wild attractions ...

  10. Must-see attractions in Downtown Los Angeles & Boyle Heights

    Home to the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, this 16-story Ferraro-designed classic dates back to 1964. While it isn't LA's biggest, tallest or…. 1. 2. 3. Discover the best attractions in Downtown Los Angeles & Boyle Heights including Broad, Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, and Walt Disney Concert Hall.

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    Downtown Los Angeles' historic public Los Angeles Central Library is a real architectural gem in LA! It has whimsical chandeliers and 8-stories to explore unique, comprehensive book collections from all over the world. ... While tourist attractions like the Hollywood Sign and Hollywood Walk of Fame are fascinating and very popular, there's ...

  12. 25 Best Things to Do in Downtown LA

    If you're visiting Los Angeles or are a local looking for some fun attractions, take the time to visit Downtown Los Angeles. The coastline of Los Angeles is a 30-minute drive away. Some of us may want to spend the day at Venice Beach, but DTLA immerses us in a different side of Los Angeles. Yes, some parts are rougher than others, but you ...

  13. 24 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

    Downtown Los Angeles Hotels. Bristling with new restaurants and art galleries amid the skyscrapers, Downtown LA is finally finding its soul. ... Map of Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles. Los Angeles, CA - Climate Chart. Average minimum and maximum temperatures for Los Angeles, CA in °C: J: F: M: A: M: J: J: A: S: O: N: D: 20 9: 21 10: 21 11: ...

  14. Explore Downtown L.A.

    The pulsating heart of the city's core, Downtown L.A.'s renaissance has created a walkable, dynamic urban center featuring scores of new and refreshed hotels. Downtown L.A. is home to world-class museums, concert halls, theatres and critically acclaimed restaurants. With rapidly expanding public transit options, thriving nightlife and art scene and countless new shops and boutiques ...

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    Hip and historic, Downtown Los Angeles (or simply DTLA) offers big-city excitement with trendy restaurants, cultural attractions, budget-friendly shopping, and major-league sports.Easily accessible by Metro and perhaps one of the most pedestrian-friendly urban neighborhoods in Los Angeles, DTLA is being transformed by a multitude of cultural offerings such as regular art walks and street ...

  16. Discover Downtown Los Angeles

    Downtown Los Angeles is the heart of the city and the site of its birthplace. Home to some of L.A.'s most historic neighborhoods, Downtown L.A. is also a vision of the future, with world-class hotels, spectacular cultural attractions, and highly anticpated restaurants opening in the months and years ahead. Read on for our guides to shopping ...

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    Another recent addition to Downtown Los Angeles, it opened in 2015 with its eye-catching 'honeycomb-like' exterior making for a striking sight. ... While the canals remain one of the community's top tourist attractions in Los Angeles, most visitors head for the beach's world-famous boardwalk where eccentric street performers compete ...

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    Tourist attractions in the Downtown LA area of Los Angeles, California. Includes Disney Hall and the Performing Arts Center, and many others like Olvera Street, Little Tokyo, the Jewelry District, MOCA Museums and the Observation Deck at L.A. City Ha

  21. Top 10 Los Angeles Attractions To Visit At Least Once

    Leave extra time to explore the sprawling Griffith Park, the largest urban-municipal park in the country. It comprises 4,210 acres of both natural and landscaped terrain including three golf courses, the L.A. Zoo, and the Greek Theatre. Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027. 2. Santa Monica Pier.

  22. Things to do in Downtown Los Angeles: Attractions and Places to Visit

    Contents. Attractions in Downtown Los Angeles. The Amazing Architecture of Pershing Square. A Corner of Ancient Egypt among the Skyscrapers. The Bunker Hill Staircase and the OUE Skyspace. Angels Flight: The Historic Railway of Bunker Hill. Modern Art and Architecture along Grand Avenue. 3 Must-see Historic Buildings….

  23. Things to Do in Los Angeles ️ 16 Bucket List Picks

    12. Visit the Urban Light at LACMA. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the largest museum in the western United States! You can easily spend a whole day here walking through the halls, admiring the 150,000 works of art that span from the ancient world to the present, 21st-century world.