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Where to Avoid When Visiting Los Angeles

Venice Beach is undeniably attractive in certain lights, but best avoided after dark

Whether it’s braving long lines or crowds, elbowing past hoards of other tourists for the perfect photo, or disappointing landmarks with oversized reputations, not everything in Los Angeles is worth a visit, even when a destination makes it into the travel handbook. If you’re looking to avoid LA’s worst tourist traps, check out Culture Trip’s list of the top places not to go.

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Cinerama Dome

The Cinerama Dome is a dome and little more for most who visit. As part of the Arclight theater complex on Sunset Boulevard in Hollywood, the dome became renowned for its quick build time and state-of-the-art technology in 1963. Today, though one of only three theaters to show films in three-projector format, the chances are slim you’ll actually see a movie inside the dome. Like most visitors to the Arclight, the rounded architecture will be a landmark, good for a photo, and then passed by to attend a screening in one of the modern theaters.

worst places to visit in los angeles

Best known for hosting the Academy Awards since 2001, the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood attracts millions of tourists to the iconic red staircase leading up to the theater where stars receive their Oscars year after year. What you don’t see on TV, however, is that the theater itself is surrounded by a shopping mall. A mix of fast food joints, higher class eateries, bars, and typical mall shopping surround this iconic venue. Besides the disappointment of realizing the Dolby isn’t what it appears to be on TV, it’s mobbed year-round with tourists.

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Hollywood Walk of Fame

The clue is in the name – exploring the Walk of Fame involves a surprising amount of walking

Perhaps the most glorified sidewalk in the world, the Hollywood Walk of Fame isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. While it’s fun to search the inlaid stars for favorite actors and artists, this inevitably only lasts for a short time. The entirety of the Walk of Fame spans 15 blocks and boasts more than 2,500 stars. An online tool helps visitors search out the stars they really want to see, but it involves a lot of walking. Not to mention, the Walk of Fame is overcrowded in a heavily trafficked tourist area.

The Grove features many chain stores that can be found elsewhere

A well-known outdoor shopping mall in Los Angeles, this Miracle Mile haunt has topped many must-see lists. But The Grove’s collection of stores and chain restaurants can be found almost anywhere, in any state. Occasional celebrity sightings have only enhanced The Grove’s popularity with tourists, but you’re more likely to be swept away in a crowd of everyday shoppers than snap a picture of someone famous. While the fountain, outdoor spaces, and musicians create a pleasant atmosphere, it’s hard to enjoy in the company of so many people.

L.A. Live is bedlam on game nights

A hot spot for sports and concerts in Los Angeles, L.A. Live in downtown is home to the Staples Center, The Novo by Microsoft, and a collection of restaurants and bars befitting the sports atmosphere. L.A. Live has notoriously expensive parking, and on nights with games or concerts, the place is a madhouse. Though the Grammy Museum is worth a visit, if you’re not going to a show or a game, there’s not much to do other than eating at restaurants you can find elsewhere.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Madame Tussauds Hollywood is very similar to its other branches

Madame Tussauds wax museums have popped up all over the country as a convenient standby tourist attraction. Hollywood’s incarnation of the famous wax museum is promoted by copious amounts of coupons handed to tourists on the Walk of Fame. Once inside, visitors can view the wax lookalike of their favorite celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, Tom Hanks, and Taylor Swift. Other than the phoniest of photo ops, there isn’t much else to do. The definition of a tourist trap, Madame Tussauds just doesn’t have the punch of a truly original destination.

Pink’s Hot Dogs

The queue for Pink’s is always long

The line for the iconic Pink’s Hot Dogs on La Brea Avenue in West Hollywood often stretches around the block. While the dogs may be better than your average hot dog, they don’t quite measure up to the experience of waiting in line, often for an hour or more. As one reviewer put it, ‘No hot dog, no matter how good, is worth waiting in line this long.’ In addition, Pink’s has mixed reviews on the quality of their signature dogs and chili.

Rodeo Drive

Luxury cars and high-end shops are the only real sights on Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills has a big reputation as a luxury shopping destination, but in reality, the famous area is quite small. The 90210 zip code helps make this tiny strip mall famous, along with its exclusive, high-end brands. You’ll likely never see a celebrity shopping during your visit, and Rodeo Drive tends to attract volumes of photograph-seeking tourists. Often, fancy car owners will surreptitiously park their rides for tourists to gander at, and that may be the most amusing sight at this overrated destination.

Third Street Promenade

Third Street Promenade features many of the usual mall suspects

The outdoor mall of Santa Monica , Third Street Promenade is home to usual retail outlets such as American Eagle, Converse, Fred Segal, Old Navy, and Pottery Barn, among many others. Though it has welcoming pedestrian walkways complete with dinosaur statues and street performers, the Promenade suffers from overcrowding. With stores that can easily be found anywhere and an overabundance of chain restaurants combined with the tourist overflow, Third Street Promenade’s reputation doesn’t quite measure up.

Venice Beach

Away from Venice Beach you can find plenty of quieter stretches of sand

Los Angeles has many beaches to choose from, but Venice Beach is one you can avoid. Venice Beach’s boardwalk is home to a wide range of intriguing characters and street performers, as well as hippy-ish shops where green marijuana signs are easy to spot. Beyond the fact the area isn’t safe after dark, Venice Beach gets overcrowded and claustrophobic as tourists pour into the area. It doesn’t even have the best patch of beach in town.

Looking for the perfect place to stay in Los Angeles? Check out our guide to amazing hotels in LA.

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Top places to avoid in los angeles as a tourist.

September 18, 2023 by Amanda Harper 1 Comment

The hustle and bustle of Los Angeles is an unforgettable part of what makes this dazzling city fascinating. It has a magnetic appeal whether you’re lounging under the sun in Venice Beach or pondering over the local delicacies at a café in Santa Monica. There’s so much to do and so little time for tourists visiting Los Angeles.

Having spent considerable time in this captivating part of California, it’s best to start by looking at some of the more dangerous areas in the city and the hidden tourist traps.

Here is our take on the worst parts of Los Angeles that you should avoid as a tourist.

Watts This is a simple no-no as a tourist.

The average local is also going to avoid Watts because it’s commonly associated with gang activity. The idea of dealing with crime-ridden behavior is going to be the last thing you want to face in what’s already an unknown city to you.

While Los Angeles is breathtaking and offers lots to do, you still want to be careful about where you’re going as it can lead to some of the more unsavory elements of LA. Watts is one of those regions where the Crips and Bloods tend to fight it out.

You do not want to find yourself here on your trip.

worst places to visit in los angeles

Hyde Park This is located in South Los Angeles and has become an area that has gradually transitioned into a more gang-infested part of the city. There was a time when it was thriving but that was a long while ago.

These days, Hyde Park is jam-packed with criminal activity and it is not a part of the city you’re going to want to stay in for too long.

The crime rate is high here and it is simply not worth your time as a tourist.

Skid Row Skid Row is not an ideal stop for tourists.

Yes, the first thing on your mind is going to be the criminal activity and indeed that is one of the glaring issues associated with walking around Skid Row. However, you are also looking at a part of LA that doesn’t have much to do even when you’re here.

On its best day, you are going to see people selling vegetables and/or shelters being set up along the sides of the road. This is the last thing you are going to want to deal with as a tourist and it is not something you’ll want to seek out either

worst places to visit in los angeles

Crenshaw Crenshaw is not one of the worst areas of Los Angeles and it should not be associated with other regions such as Watts or Skid Row.

However, Crenshaw is still an unappealing region that has seen a consistent change in demographics over the years. This has led to certain elements of Crenshaw not doing as well as others.

We find the crime rate to be high here and it is not going to offer anything fun to do. As a result, you are better off going to see other areas in LA during your time in the city.

Boyle Heights Boyle Heights is another region that is known for having a higher crime rate than the rest of Los Angeles. This is not good for a tourist that is walking into a foreign territory unaware of how to get by while being there.

For the most part, the crime in Boyle Heights doesn’t have to do with violence. It is more around theft and robberies. As a result, you are not going to want to find a place to stay in Boyle Heights.

worst places to visit in los angeles

Fashion District Are you someone who loves spending a bit of money?

Unfortunately, the Fashion District is going to end up causing you to overpay on everything. The prices here are higher than the rest of Los Angeles because they are aware of the type of customers coming to the area.

With so many shops and boutiques in the Fashion District, it’s common for tourists to get trapped and end up paying too much for items. Do not let this happen to you even if you are willing to spend a bit.

South Park South Park is often associated with the show but it has nothing to do with that particular slice of entertainment. Instead, South Park is renowned for being a distinctive area where there is plenty of crime and it can be dangerous to find accommodation here unless you want to be watching over your shoulder the entire time.

People do get confused when they go to the Fashion District because of how close South Park is to that part of Los Angeles. We highly recommend not spending too much time in South Park and staying away.

worst places to visit in los angeles

Exposition Park It’s common for people to want to check out Exposition Park. We do not believe it’s best to completely stay away from Exposition Park because it is interesting, aesthetically pleasing, and often attractive to tourists.

However, if you are going to be heading out to Exposition Park then it’s best to stick to the center of the area. This is going to be closer to the museum. Otherwise, you are going to end up dealing with potential issues along the edges of the area where crime is far more common.

Cinerama Dome Now, it’s time to look at some of the more specific tourist traps in Los Angeles. Cinerama Dome has to be right near the top because it is a movie theater that has often been heralded as a historic part of the city.

The issue we have with this place is it has little to offer. You are going to take a photo and then there is nothing else to do.

It’s rarely possible to watch a movie at the Cinerama Dome, so you are going to end up wasting your time and effort when you come here.

Disneyland Most people are going to think about Disneyland as a “must-see” when they are in Los Angeles but we disagree.

There is no appeal to going to Disneyland because the prices are sky-high and you are not going to enjoy the effort it takes to go on the rides or buy anything when you’re on the premises.

Having to overpay for everything is simply not worth it.

Pinks Hot Dogs The appeal of eating a hot dog in Los Angeles is always there. People want to head out and check what Pinks Hot Dogs is all about because they might have heard about it through social media.

Yes, the hot dogs are good, but you are also going to end up having to spend too much time there.

You can find hot dogs elsewhere and also pay less for them. This includes a local hot dog stand.

Final Thoughts In our opinion, these are the top places to avoid in Los Angeles as a tourist.

Some of these regions are simply too dangerous and others are going to cost too much without offering enough value. Whether it is the long lines, crimes, or the amount of money you’re spending, you have to be careful when you’re in a major city like this one.

Los Angeles is no different than other major cities when it comes to dangerous spots you want to stay away from.

We recommend checking out these safe areas in Los Angeles for tourists .

Amanda Harper is a 32-year-old avid traveler and founder of Plugged In Travel based out of Las Vegas. She has spent time in a wide array of countries with 10+ years of traveling experience yet her thirst to see more continues to thrive. This passion for traveling is what makes Amanda a great one-stop resource for everything travel whether it’s in the US or elsewhere.

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worst places to visit in los angeles

September 19, 2023 at 6:59 pm

Hello Wow, this post is a fantastic guide to exploring North America . The tips on off-the-beaten-path destinations are especially insightful. As a newcomer to content writing. I’m eager to learn and improve. Your valuable feedback on my writing skills would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for sharing such informative content! Best Regards Nidhi Gupta

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worst places to visit in los angeles

10 Worst Neighborhoods In Los Angeles 2024: Beyond the Glamour

  • Srdjan Ilic
  • December 13, 2023

Worst Neighborhoods In LA

I’m about to take you on a journey through Los Angeles, a city famous for its celebrities, stunning beaches, and beautiful mountains. It’s a place where the sun seems to never stop shining, and stars are as common on the streets as they are in the night sky.

But there’s another side to LA that’s often hidden from the glossy magazine covers. This city, my city, has its share of problems. Some neighborhoods are known for high crime rates, including violent crimes and thefts, and we can’t ignore the homelessness issue.

I’m going to show you ten of LA’s most dangerous areas. We’re going beyond the bright lights of movie premieres and the iconic palm trees. We’ll explore parts of LA that are rarely seen but are just as important to understand the true nature of this city.

These stories are about survival, about the people and places that don’t make it to the tourist brochures. It’s a different side of LA, often overlooked, but so important to understand the full picture of my city.

Let’s dive into the reality of LA’s toughest neighborhoods, each with its own set of challenges and untold stories.

Oh, and by the way, marijuana is legal here in Los Angeles , adding another layer to this complex city’s narrative.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Ten Notorious Neighborhoods in Los Angeles : Hollywood, Compton, Fashion District, Watts, Koreatown, South Los Angeles, North Hollywood, Wholesale District/Skid Row, West Adams, and Downtown LA.
  • High Crime Rates : Many of these areas experience crime rates significantly higher than the national average, with issues ranging from violent crimes to property theft.
  • Community Resilience and Concerns : Despite the high crime rates, there’s a sense of resilience among residents, though concerns about safety and law enforcement’s ability to manage crime persist.
  • Personal Safety Measures : Emphasis on staying vigilant, avoiding walking alone at night, and securing valuables to prevent theft.
  • Changes in Crime Rates : Fluctuating crime rates over the years, with recent upticks in certain crimes but an overall long-term decrease.
  • Efforts to Combat Crime : Continuous efforts by LAPD and community organizations to reduce crime, including increased police presence and community initiatives.

10 Baddest Places

10. hollywood: the reality of glitz and crime.

LA Hollywood Hood

A friend who works in the film industry mentioned how Hollywood’s glitz often overshadows its crime issues. She’s always careful when walking back to her car after late-night shoots.

  • Population Insight : Hollywood’s bustling streets are home to around 146,514 people. It’s more than just a tourist hotspot; it’s a thriving community.
  • Elevated Crime Rates : The crime scenario here is more intense than you might expect. Total crime rates soar 147% above the national average, with violent crimes being 282% higher. Walking these streets, you can feel the need for heightened caution according to the AreaVibes .
  • Personal Safety : Being in Hollywood, there’s a stark 1 in 18 chance of becoming a crime victim. This statistic always reminds me to be extra vigilant, especially at night or in crowded areas.

9. Compton: Resilience Amidst the Echoes of Crime

In 2005, Compton had the dubious distinction of having the highest murder rate in the country. While this has decreased over the past two decades, violent and property crimes have seen a resurgence since 2020. Despite a significant police presence, residents feel that law enforcement is stretched thin.

An old college buddy who grew up in Compton often talks about the community’s resilience amidst the high crime rates. He’s seen improvements over the years but admits there’s still a long way to go.

  • Population : Compton has a population of about 93,597 residents​​.
  • Crime Rate : The crime rate in Compton is alarmingly high. With a rate of 38 crimes per one thousand residents, it’s one of the highest in the nation. According to the Neighborhood Scout Your chances of becoming a victim of violent or property crime here are 1 in 26, which is starkly higher than many other communities in California and across the USA ​​.
  • Violent Crimes : The violent crime rate in Compton is notably high. Crimes like rape, murder, armed robbery, and aggravated assault are prevalent, giving you a 1 in 85 chance of becoming a victim​​.
  • Property Crimes : Property crime is also a significant concern in Compton. With crimes such as burglary, larceny, motor vehicle theft, and arson being common, there’s a 1 in 38 chance of falling victim to property crime​​.

8. Fashion District: Style Meets Security Challenges

Fashion District

Despite its small population of 2,466, the Fashion District’s crime rate is 168% higher than the national average. My cousin, a fashion designer, loves the vibrant energy of the District but is always vigilant about her surroundings, especially when leaving her studio late at night.

  • Population : The Fashion District has a small population of about 2,466 people​​.
  • Crime Rates : The crime rates in the Fashion District are significantly higher than the national average. AreaVibes states that Total crime rates are 105% higher, and violent crimes are 204% higher than the national average. In the Fashion District, there’s a 1 in 21 chance of becoming a victim of crime​​.

7. Watts: The Unspoken Story of Strength and Struggle

In 2021, there were 1,571 incidents of violent crime and 1,943 incidents of property crime in Watts. It’s not advised to walk alone at night , use public transit, or carry large amounts of cash or valuables.A colleague who volunteers in Watts shared how the community is close-knit and supportive, despite the challenging crime situation. She feels a strong sense of camaraderie when working on local projects.

  • Population : Watts has a population of approximately 39,593 people​​.
  • Crime Rates : The crime rates in Watts are significantly higher than the national average. Total crime rates are 75% higher, and violent crimes are 367% higher than the national average. In Watts, you have a 1 in 25 chance of becoming a victim of crime, which reflects the ongoing safety concerns in the area​​.
  • Chance of Being a Victim : Specifically, the chance of being a victim of violent crime in Watts is 1 in 58, and the chance of being a victim of property crime is 1 in 43​​.

Watts has a notorious history for its crime rates, and despite some improvements, it remains a challenging area. The high rates of violent and property crimes highlight the need for vigilance and caution, especially during night time or when using public transit.

6. Koreatown: Cultural Riches in the Shadow of Crime

Koreatown LA

Koreatown, with a population of 72,523, has a crime rate of 2,873 per 100,000 people, making it 22% more dangerous than the national average.

Gang and drug activity are common in this neighborhood, with associated crimes like prostitution also being prevalent. The Southern and Eastern parts of Koreatown are considered the most dangerous. A friend who lives in Koreatown often talks about the cultural richness of the area but also expresses safety concerns, especially near the eastern parts.

Other crimes, such as robberies, assaults, and pickpocketing, are also common. Many of these crimes occur on public transit, and it’s advised to keep all belongings secure at all times. Walking during the night is discouraged, and areas like Hancock Park and Wilshire Center should be avoided.

  • Crime Rates : Total crime is 50% higher than the national average. Violent crime is 118% higher than the national average. Property crime is 38% higher than the national average. The chance of being a victim of crime in Koreatown is 115.9 per 1,000 residents according to the crimegrade.com .

5. South Los Angeles: Navigating Through the Tides of Transformation

South Los Angeles, formerly known as South Central, is a neighborhood with a population of 249,670 and a crime rate of 4,268 per 100,000 people as per AreaVibes . It’s a hotbed for drug trafficking and gun violence, often linked to gang activity.

Despite the heavy police presence, which has led to a gradual decrease in crime since the 1990s, South LA remains one of the city’s most dangerous areas. My grandma, who’s lived in South LA for decades, reminisces about the neighborhood’s past and is hopeful about ongoing efforts to reduce crime and improve community life. The level of gang activity varies by neighborhood, and residents are advised to be cautious when walking at night. During the day, walking is somewhat safer, and public transit is generally considered safe.

  • Crime Rates : Total crime is 115% higher than the national average. Violent crime is 397% higher than the national average. Property crime is 61% higher than the national average. The chance of being a victim of crime in South Los Angeles is 1 in 24.

4. North Hollywood: Artistic Spirit in the Face of Adversity

North Hollywood

North Hollywood, or NoHo, is home to 64,587 residents and shares a boundary with Universal Studio. The crime rate here is 2,592 per 100,000 people, making it 10% more dangerous than the national average. Gang and drug activities are prevalent. A former neighbor moved to NoHo and often mentions the area’s creative vibe. He does, however, advise against walking alone at night, especially near some of the less busy streets.

  • Violent Crime Rate : In 2020, North Hollywood’s violent crime rate was estimated at 924.2 per 100,000 people. This rate is substantially higher than the national average of 366.7 per 100,000 residents, making it 2.5 times greater.
  • Property Crime Rate : The estimated property crime rate for 2020 in North Hollywood was 4,823, resulting in a rate of 4493.32 per 100,000 people as per vanlifewanderer . This is more than double the national average of 2,109.9 per 100,000 residents.

3. Wholesale District/Skid Row: Hope and Hardship in LA’s Heart

Skid Row-Fashion District Los Angeles

Known as Skid Row, the Wholesale District houses one of the largest homeless populations in America, with estimates ranging from 9,000 to 15,000 people. The overwhelming scale of homelessness often leaves commuters and residents feeling helpless.

Since 2010, crime in the Wholesale District has surged by 59%. In 2013 alone, there were 13,122 reported crimes, including 2,698 assaults, 1,350 vehicle break-ins, and 2,453 theft incidents as noted by the ABC11 .

Drug trade among the homeless population fuels much of the crime, with pickpocketing and theft being rampant. Areas like San Pedro street are particularly notorious. After 6 PM, Skid Row transforms into a hub of gang and drug activity.A social worker I know works in Skid Row and speaks about the profound challenges faced by its residents, including rampant crime and homelessness. She’s dedicated to making a difference, despite the hardships.

  • Population & Crisis Center : Skid Row has an estimated population of 10,850 and is central to LA’s addiction crisis and a large homeless encampment.
  • Crime rates are 33% higher than the Los Angeles average.
  • Mid-2022 data shows 3,828 reported crimes, including 963 violent and 2,865 property crimes.
  • Street gangs from South Los Angeles control drug, prostitution, and stolen goods markets.

2. West Adams: Historic Elegance Meets Modern Challenges

With its population of 11,961, is another neighborhood in LA that’s notorious for crime. The crime rate here stands at 6,811 per 100,000 people, implying that residents have a 1 in 15 chance of falling victim to a crime. As noted by the LATIMES, gang and drug activities are the primary sources of violent crime in West Adams. My uncle, who’s a history buff, often talks about the rich history of West Adams. He laments the current crime situation but is hopeful about community initiatives for improvement.

Despite a robust police presence, the sheer volume of criminal incidents overwhelms law enforcement. Robberies, assaults, and thefts are commonplace, and nighttime walks are discouraged. Residents often voice concerns about safety, even when using public transit.

  • Current population is approximately 22,000.
  • Crime rate of 6,168 per 100,000 population.
  • West Adams’ crime rate is 163% above the national average.
  • Recorded 4,025 property crimes and 2,143 violent crimes.
  • Violent crimes are 453% higher than the national average.

1. Downtown LA: A Tale of Two Cities within One

Downtown LA

The heart of Los Angeles, Downtown LA, often shortened to DTLA, is a paradox of sorts. It’s the city’s financial powerhouse, yet it’s also a hotbed for crime and illegal activities.

The FBI’s 2021 crime statistics paint a grim picture, with the violent crime rate in DTLA being twelvefold the national average. When you factor in property crimes, the overall crime rate soars to a staggering 530% above the national average.

LAPD’s 2022 data reveals 1,702 violent offenses, and the murder rate peaked at an alarming 490 in 2018.

Nighttime strolls, whether solo or in groups, are strongly discouraged. The area grapples with homelessness, and incidents of pickpocketing and robberies are frequent. Before, I frequently visited Downtown LA for business meetings,  you can feel the need to be extra cautious, especially after dark, due to the high crime rates and the prevalence of homelessness in the area.

While daylight hours see a dip in crime, caution is still paramount. The most perilous zones are south of 3rd street, north of 7th street, west of Alameda Street, and east of Main street. Carrying large sums of cash is ill-advised.

  • Population & Crime Rate : Downtown LA has over 27,000 residents, with a daytime population swelling to 207,440. The crime rate is very high, with one in every four residents experiencing crime according to the LATIMES .
  • Dramatic increase in smash-and-grab heists and gang violence.
  • Gun shop sales have skyrocketed.
  • Violent crime increased by 25% from 2019 to 2022, with a rate of 45 violent crimes per 1,000 residents according to Simmrin Law Group.
  • Grand theft person incidents rose nearly 57% between 2019 and 2022 according to the USA today .
  • Approximately 167 property crimes per 1,000 residents.
  • Notable increase in shoplifting, particularly along Fifth and Seventh streets.

Some of the Notorious Crimes in LA

One of the most notorious crimes in Los Angeles history is the North Hollywood shootout that occurred in 1997 . This was an armed confrontation between two heavily armed and armored bank robbers, Larry Eugene Phillips, Jr. and Emil Mătăsăreanu, and patrol and SWAT officers of the Los Angeles Police Department.

The event took place when responding patrol officers engaged Phillips and Mătăsăreanu as they were leaving the robbed bank. Seventeen officers and civilians were wounded before both robbers were killed.

Phillips and Mătăsăreanu had previously robbed several banks prior to their attempt in North Hollywood and were notorious for their heavy armament, which included automatic rifles.

Another significant crime event was the Rampart Scandal in the late 1990s . This involved widespread police corruption in the Community Resources Against Street Hoodlums (C.R.A.S.H.) unit of the Los Angeles Police Department.

More than 70 police officers either assigned to or associated with the unit were implicated in various forms of misconduct, including unprovoked shootings, unprovoked beatings, planting of false evidence, stealing and dealing narcotics, bank robbery, perjury, and the covering up of evidence of these activities.

The scandal constituted one of the most widespread cases of documented police corruption in U.S. history.

These events have left a significant mark on the history of crime in Los Angeles, reflecting the city’s struggle with both criminal activity and issues within its law enforcement agencies.

5 Safety Tips

  • Staying Alert : Whenever I’m out, especially in crowded spots, I make it a point to be extra vigilant. I’ve learned to minimize distractions, like not getting too absorbed in my phone. It helps me stay aware of any suspicious activities around me.
  • Nighttime Safety : I avoid walking alone at night in these areas. If I have to go out after dark, I always go with friends, stick to well-lit streets, and use reliable transportation services.
  • Protecting My Belongings : I’ve made it a habit to keep my valuables secure and out of sight. I don’t flaunt expensive items and always use the hotel safe for important documents like my passport.
  • Choosing Safe Transport : I prefer reputable taxi services or ride-sharing apps, particularly at night. While I find public transport okay during the day, I tend to avoid it in the evenings in certain districts.
  • Planning My Visits : Before heading to any new district, I do thorough research. Knowing which areas are safe, which to avoid, and the best times to explore, really boosts my sense of security.

What is the safest neighborhood in Los Angeles?

While crime rates can vary, some neighborhoods in Los Angeles are generally considered safer than others. These include Brentwood, Westwood, Pacific Palisades, and Beverlywood.

However, it’s always important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, no matter where you are.

How has the crime rate changed over the years?

Crime rates in Los Angeles have fluctuated over the years. While there was a significant decrease in crime from the 1990s through the early 2000s, recent years have seen a slight uptick in certain types of crime, such as property crime and violent offenses.

However, the overall trend shows a decrease in crime rates over the past few decades.

What measures are being taken to reduce crime?

The Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) and other law enforcement agencies are continually working to reduce crime. This includes increasing police presence in high-crime areas, implementing community policing strategies, and using data-driven approaches to predict and prevent crime.

Additionally, various community organizations and nonprofits work to address the root causes of crime, such as poverty and lack of education.

Is it safe to use public transportation?

Generally, public transportation in Los Angeles is safe to use, especially during daylight hours. However, certain areas and times may be riskier than others.

It’s always important to stay alert, keep your belongings secure, and avoid traveling alone at night if possible.

What should I do if I become a victim of crime in Los Angeles?

If you become a victim of a crime in Los Angeles, it’s important to report the incident to the police as soon as possible. If you’re in immediate danger, call 911.

For non-emergencies, you can contact the LAPD’s non-emergency line. It’s also recommended to contact your local embassy or consulate if you’re a foreign national.

How can tourists stay safe while visiting Los Angeles?

Tourists can enhance their safety by researching the areas they plan to visit, staying vigilant, securing their valuables, and using trusted transportation services.

It’s also advisable to avoid walking alone at night, especially in neighborhoods known for higher crime rates.

Final Words

In conclusion, Los Angeles, like any other major city, has its share of challenges. While it’s known for its glamour and allure, it’s also home to neighborhoods that struggle with crime and social issues.

However, it’s important to remember that these issues do not define the city as a whole. Los Angeles is a vibrant, diverse metropolis with much to offer, and understanding its complexities is part of appreciating its unique character.

Please note that the content provided here is based on personal opinions, expertise, and experiences, as well as information gathered from various online sources. It reflects an individual perspective and should be considered as a subjective interpretation of life. This narrative aims to share personal insights and experiences to offer a unique view of the city, rather than an exhaustive or universally applicable guide.

  • crime rates , Dangerous neighborhoods , high-crime areas , LA Neighborhoods , LA Safety Guide , Los Angeles , Los Angeles 2024

Srdjan Ilic

I am a Business Economics graduate from Singidunum University in Novi Sad, currently contributing to the Southwest Journal as a content creator and SEO team lead strategist. My professional journey includes a two-year period in Ocean City, USA, and extensive travels throughout Canada, experiences that have enriched my global outlook and influenced my writing style. Professionally, I am dedicated to producing engaging content and effective SEO strategies. Outside of work, I enjoy skiing and exploring new adventures, always valuing the power of human connections. My diverse skills and passion for life drive my success in various endeavors.

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20 Places to Stay Away From in Los Angeles, California

Marina Yoveva

Los Angeles in Southern California is the ultimate concrete jungle. With a population of some 4 million people who flock to L.A. for the weather, work, and entertainment, L.A. is an incredible American city. That said, as with every major cosmopolitan place, it is important to know where to go and where not to go. Evading neighborhoods that you should not be in, or areas to beware of, is one part of traveling safely.

Additionally, keeping out of soulless tourist destinations that are overpriced and under inspiring, is another element to be mindful of. Whether you’re concerned about safety, or simply want to avoid tourist traps, this list of places to stay away from in Los Angeles will help you navigate the many aspects of this major megalopolis. Read on to increase your knowledge of the nuances of L.A.’s social topography, with these places to stay away from in Los Angeles.

Places to Stay Away From in Los Angeles, California

See Also: Best things to do in Los Angeles

Dangerous Areas to Avoid

1) fashion district.

A hub for all-things textiles, the Fashion District is 90 blocks of shopping. However, it is easy to see why this is also a prime place for crime; where people have expendable incomes to spend on clothing, they also probably have money. If you’re a person who needs a little retail therapy to feel satiated on vacation, try an alternative shopping area such as The Grove, a beautiful outdoor shopping space with high-end fashion retailers.

Phone: +1 213.488.1153 Address: 818 S. Broadway St. #801 Los Angeles, CA 90014 Website: www.fashiondistrict.org

2) Skid Row/Wholesale District

Skid row is a place that probably isn’t on most tourist’s list of must-sees. This area is known for wholesale fishmongers and other produce-sellers. However, it is also a very dangerous area of Los Angeles with a high homeless population that is attracted to the area due to many shelters. Though in recent years many hipsters have flocked to the Skid Row/Wholesale District, it is still not advisable to head to Skid Row unless you have a local who is street-savvy and is aware of the nuances of the area.

Phone: N/A Address: 3rd to 7th streets, and Los Angeles to Alameda streets — eastward to Los Angeles Street Website: www.dornsife.usc.edu

Watts should be avoided solely for the reason that this is gang territory. A long rival between Crips and Bloods makes this a precarious area. Gunshots, due to this gang activity, are not unheard of. Surely, most crime in the Watts area is between gang members, however, why take the risk? A former hot-bed for the Black Panther Movement, it is a historic neighborhood in L.A. However, it is advised to stay out of Watts if you have no business in Watts, which is the case for most L.A. tourists.

Phone: +1 323.564.0260 Address:  1703 Santa Ana Blvd North Los Angeles, CA 90002 Website: www.wattsnc.org

4) Downtown

Downtown may be less dangerous than the aforementioned areas, however, because it is a high-drug area, it is advised to avoid Downtown L.A. or at least be alert when traveling through this area. A visit during the day is drastically different than being Downtown at the nighttime hours. And with good safety precautions, such as checking your surroundings, and being careful when getting in and out of your car, you should be okay.

Phone: +1 213.624.2146 Address: 600 Wilshire Blvd., STE 870, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Website: www.downtownla.com

5) Boyle Heights

The chances of being a victim of crime while in Boyle Heights are 12% above the national average, or 1 out of 35 chances. So, it certainly is a neighborhood to be careful if traveling to. A majority of the crimes are auto theft, which is only somewhat comforting as these heists frequently entail holding up a victim at gunpoint. Though this area is historically a melting pot of Mexican, Russians, and Japanese, and Armenians, the charming backstory may not be enough to lure you to the risky Boyle Heights.

Phone: N/A Address: It is located east of Downtown LA Website: www.discoverlosangeles.com

6) South Park

Neighboring the Financial and Fashion District, South Park consistently comes in as one of the most crime-ridden neighborhoods in L.A. This area is slowly being gentrified, which is bad for residents of South Park who will get outpriced, yet good for crime reduction. However, like many of these other neighborhoods listed, it may not be a top choice for visiting while in L.A. anyway. Storefronts are often barred on the windows and an industrial feeling overarches the ambiance of South Park.

Phone: +1 213.663.1111 Address: 1150-B S Hope St Los Angeles, CA 90015 Website: www.southpark.la

7)   Hyde Park

Hyde Park is in the southern part of L.A. and was once a city of its own before consolidating into the mega-city L.A. now is in 1923. With an overall crime rate being 75% higher in Hyde Park than other areas of the United States, it’s an easy choice to stay out of Hyde Park while in L.A. Though the neighborhood is easy to access LAX (L.A.’s international airport) from, the risk might outweigh the convenience in this case.

Phone: N/A Address: The city of Hyde Park was bordered by 60th Street on the north, Van Ness (now 8th Avenue) on the east, Florence Avenue on the south, and West Boulevard on the west. Website: www.urbanize.la

8) Chinatown

Chinatown takes the cake when it comes to astounding statistics. A whopping overall crime rate of 131% above the national average, Chinatown is off the charts. For every 100,000 people, 16.3 crimes occur daily; no small feat. That said, Chinatown offers many reasons to visit, such as restaurants, interesting stores, and an iconic Bruce Lee statue to check out. So, although the crime rates are quite impressive, if you do choose to Chinatown for the previous reasons, be alert and go in the day.

Phone: N/A Address: Los Angeles Chinatown – Central Plaza 943-951 N. Broadway Los Angeles, CA 90012 Website: www.chinatownla.com

9) Exposition Park 

You very well may have good reason to head to Exposition Park, as it is home to L.A.’s museum campus and is an incredible expanse of 160 acres of urban green space. Truth be told, you should continue with your plans to Exposition Park, being mindful of the park’s periphery, where more crime occurs. Travel by day, with friends or others, to navigate this potentially-risky part of L.A.

Phone: +1 213.744.2294 Address: 700 Exposition Park Drive  Los Angeles, CA 90037 Website: www.expositionpark.ca.gov

10) Crenshaw

Crenshaw has an interesting demographic history of being home to many Japanese Americans after WWII, then seeing an influx of blacks in the 1960s which is the predominant demographic today. Perhaps Crenshaw gets some of its reputation from the 1991 film, Boyz n the Hood , depicting a tough South Los Angeles neighborhood. Though some of this portrayal rings true, Crenshaw has seen an uptick in property value and a moderate crime rate for the city’s standards. This equates to being alert and smart when traveling to this neighborhood.

Phone: +1 323.290.6636 Address: 3650 WEST MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. BLVD, LOS ANGELES, CA 90008 Website: www.baldwinhillscrenshawplaza.com

Tourist Traps to Avoid

1 ) cinerama dome.

Great for a selfie, but little more, the Cinerama Dome is L.A.’s iconic movie theater. Built as a prototype in the 1960s to be a model of the Cinerama process, it is an important piece of L.A. history. Perhaps it’s not that you shouldn’t travel to Cinerama Dome, just keep your expectations at getting a good picture, then check it off your list. It’s difficult to see an actual movie at Cinerama Dome as only one out of three theaters are operating.

Phone: +1 323.615.2550 Address: 6360 Sunset Boulevard  Hollywood, California 90028 Website: www.arclightcinemas.com

2) Dolby Theater

Dolby Theater, which is known for annually hosting the Academy Awards, maybe best left in one’s imagination. Though the theater itself is pretty much as advertised, the surrounding area has a strip-mall vibe that may sour your impression of this otherwise glamorous location. It’s up to you if you’re willing to sacrifice that vision, to be grounded by scenes of every-day American consumerism.

Phone: +1 323.308.6300 Address: 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028 Website: www.dolbytheatre.com

3) Hollywood Walk of Fame

Certainly, there will be some who simply cannot pass up the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Known for the inlaid squares whose names contain famous actors, it is just plain tourist-central. 15 blocks of walking boast more than 2,500 stars; a hefty walk if you have to see all your dream celeb’s names. Maybe this isn’t enough to dissuade you from going, and by all means, then be it.

Phone:  N/A Address: Lanewood Ave &, N La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028 Website: www.walkoffame.com

4) L.A. Live

L.A. Live is an entertainment complex that frequently hosts major headliners for concerts, as well as having the Grammy Museum. Adjacent to the Staples Center and Los Angeles Convention Center, this area certainly gets a fair share of visitors. However, the area can be quite chaotic after a show and has expensive parking. Unless you’ve got your heart set on seeing your favorite musician, or need to check out the Grammy Museum, it’s okay to skip L.A. Live.

Phone: +1 213.763.LIVE (5483) Address: 800 W. Olympic Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90015 Website: www.lalive.com

5) Disneyland

Yes, yes, every child in us wants to go to Disneyland. However, have you seen how long those lines are? Or have you heard how expensive the tickets are, let alone anything else you want to buy while in a bubble of so-called magic? If you’re going to go, Google “ways to avoid lines in Disneyland” beforehand. The solution generally equates to paying more money.

Phone: +1 714.520.6222 Address: Disneyland Resort, 1313 Anaheim, California Website: www.disneyland.disney.go.com

6) Pinks Hot Dogs

The hot dogs at Pinks have become famous for their insane toppings, and yes, long waits. Though some people adore these dogs enough to be in line for a half-hour, there  are  other places to get hot dogs in L.A. Try The Stand, who has multiple locations in the L.A. area and fuses fresh ingredients with their classic dogs.

Phone: +1 323.931.4223 Address: 709 N. La Brea Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90038 Website: www.pinkshollywood.com

7) Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive does have luxury shopping if that’s your thing. However, the shopping isn’t that comprehensive; it covers a mere three-blocks. And most celebs, unlike the tabloids tell us, aren’t flitting around here. Though it’d be great to bump elbows with George Clooney while getting a latte, he’s most likely at his home in Lake Como, and I don’t blame him.

Phone: N/A Address: 295 Rodeo Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90212 Website: www.rodeodrive-bh.com

8) Hollywood Sign Hike

The Hollywood Sign hike is either 6.4 miles, 3.5 miles, or 3 miles. That’s all well and good if you love to hike, but if you love to hike you probably would enjoy the plethora of alternative hiking L.A. has at its fingertips even more. Try an in-city hike such as The Charlie Turner Trail to Mount Hollywood just behind  the Hollywood Sign hikes. Bask in a 360-degree view of L.A. to get some perspective.

Phone: +1 323.379.2110 Address: Hollywood Sign Trust P.O. Box 48361 Los Angeles, CA 90048-9998 Website: www.hollywoodsign.org

9) The Hollywood Wax Museum

Wax museums are strange to me all around, but some people love them. The problem is, they exist at every major city: from Paris to L.A. So, you can bet that they define what it means to be a tourist trap: pricey, meant for the pics alone, and overall an experience that could be had at any tourist city.

Phone: +1 323.462.5991 Address: 6767 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028 Website: www.hollywoodwaxentertainment.com

10) Venice Beach

Venice Beach is kitschy and somewhat predictable. It has all the street performers and small shops you’d expect, as well as being on the beach. However, Venice Beach can be somewhat unsafe at night, as well as being a sub-par beach. If you’re looking for an alternative, try El Matador State Beach or Santa Monica State Beach.

Phone: N/A Address: Los Ángeles, CA 90291 Website: www.venicebeach.com

Los Angeles is a vibrant city that bubbles over with creative energy. Beautiful weather, the beach, and American cinema all make L.A. unique. However, being safe and smart are important when traveling to L.A. There is no place that you  can’t  go when in L.A., but crafting an inspiring, non-risky itinerary is probably the wisest when visiting The City of Angels.

Post Author

Marina Yoveva

Marina Yoveva

Originally from Bulgaria, Marina caught the travel bug about 10 years ago with her first trip to Italy. Ever since there she has been obsessed with learning new cultures, languages and sharing her experiences and travel expertise online. Her favorite country for traveling to so far is Spain.

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worst places to visit in los angeles

THE EVOLISTA

15 Biggest Mistakes to Avoid Visiting Los Angeles, California

Los Angeles native here, born and bred, and I love my hometown. Unfortunately there is a tidal wave of bad advice about visiting Los Angeles on the internet. This post is an effort to set the record straight because I want you to love LA too.

This eclectic, fun city is a huge metropolis with distinctly different neighborhoods. If you run around trying to fill up your Instagram feed, you’ll sit in traffic and miss what’s great about visiting LA . You’ll also end up disillusioned.

As I clear up some of the misconceptions below, you’ll also find tips on how to do it right.

A few other helpful posts for visiting LA include:

  • 25 Free Things to do in LA
  • 10 Dazzling Scenic Drives in Los Angeles
  • Top 10 Hikes in Malibu & Pacific Palisades
  • 12 Best Boutique Hotels in Santa Monica

Los Angeles Fog

Best Time to Visit Los Angeles

Summer is crowded and not necessarily the best time to visit LA because the weather can be dreary with May Grey and June Gloom that bleeds into July.

Los Angeles gets a heavy marine layer on the coast in the early part of the summer. The fog typically burns off in the afternoon but sometimes it’s cold and grey for days. Don’t forget to pack a sweater and pants.

From August through October highs are in the 80s by the beach, 90s inland and regularly over 100 degrees in the Valley. Skip theme parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios on those crazy hot days.

So skip the summer and visit Los Angeles when the hotel rates start to dip and the sunny California days are picture perfect.

☀️ Best time to visit Los Angeles for good weather – You can get a perfect week any time of year but the best months for 70 degrees and sunny are March , April , November and December .

California Beaches Malibu Lagoon

Visit Los Angeles Beaches – There are Tons of Beautiful Ones

  • Santa Monica Beach is huge. The entire beach north of the pier for a few miles is an excellent and convenient choice.
  • Pacific Palisades has the ever popular State Beach and the beach near Temescal Canyon. There’s plenty of parking (even free spots on Temescal).
  • Malibu is filled with ideal surfing beaches like Topanga and Surfrider or fun in the sun beaches like Malibu Lagoon, Paradise Cove and Zuma. Many blogs suggest going to El Matador beach, and while it’s beautiful, you’ll be passing at least 10 great beaches on your 24 mile drive to get there.
  • Redondo Beach makes a perfect day trip. Dockweiler Beach in El Segundo may seem like a weird choice but if you’re an airplane geek like me, you’ll love watching jumbo jets fly right overhead.
  • South Bay beaches like Manhattan Beach are also ideal for playing or watching world class beach volleyball.

RELATED POST: 13 Prettiest Southern California Beaches

Visiting Los Angeles Venice Beach

The Worst Beaches in LA are Venice and Santa Monica Pier

The worst advice people get about Los Angeles is that Santa Monica Pier and Venice are the best beaches. These are honestly beaches to avoid in Los Angeles. Visitors end up missing the prettiest Southern California Beaches .

  • Venice Beach – Filled with street performers, junky souvenir shops, homeless people and marijuana vendors wearing green scrubs, this is not the real LA. It’s a grimy side show. Venice Beach can be great for interesting photography or a shot under the Venice sign, the best parts of Venice are a few blocks inland on Main Street and Abbott Kinney .
  • Santa Monica Pier – At the pier entrance, there are lots of homeless people and others who prey on tourists. If you really want to see the pier, go early on a weekday. The beach on both sides of the pier is dirty, with sketchy characters.

⚠️ Be Careful – Pay attention to your surroundings at both of these spots. It’s not necessarily dangerous but it’s also not 100% safe. Some of the people you encounter may have mental illness and/or drug issues.

Visiting Los Angeles Traffic

Don’t Underestimate Los Angeles Traffic

Los Angeles rush hour times are pretty much all day long. While the worst LA traffic times are from 7-10am and 2-7pm, you can even find traffic at midnight.

You don’t need to be afraid to drive on LA freeways because the trip is more like a parking lot that barely moves. Some simple tips will make your trip so much better.

  • Pick a hotel where you plan to spend the most time . A friend of mine stayed in Marina Del Rey thinking it was close to where she wanted to be in Santa Monica (4 miles away). It took more than 30 minutes to drive each way every time she had to go back to her hotel. Here are our favorite Santa Monica Hotels .
  • Plan sightseeing strategically . Spend the day in a specific area like Santa Monica or Downtown. Don’t attempt go to the beach in Malibu, shopping on Rodeo Drive and Hollywood in the same day unless you want to spend the whole time in the car.
  • Disneyland is not in LA . You can’t stay at a hotel in Los Angeles and go to Disneyland for a day trip, just know that you’ll spend at least 3 hours in the car. Or stay overnight in Anaheim by the park.

Rental Car Visiting Los Angeles

Renting a Car Will Make Visiting Los Angeles Easier

As much as the powers that be try to improve our public transit system, it’s nowhere near the caliber of other cities. Busses go everywhere but it will take double the amount of time. The metro rail is only convenient getting to and from Downtown.

Renting a car will be your best option to get around for an L.A visit. Google maps has gotten really good at predicting how long it will take to get everywhere and will give you the easiest directions.

Familiarize yourself with the directions before you start driving. You don’t want to be the person getting confused and making everyone honk. Angelenos are typically very friendly but no one likes people who block traffic.

Don’t want to rent a car? You can easily use Uber, Lyft, rental bicycles and scooters to get everywhere.

🚕 Dealing with transportation at LAX is more organized and less crowded with recent airport upgrades. Here is information for every type of transportation at LAX and how to get Ubers and taxis.

Visiting Los Angeles Airports

LAX is Typically the Best Airport Choice for Visiting LA

The worst advice I read on the internet was to skip LAX and go to one of the other airports. LAX is a huge airport and it’s a pain but it’s the most centrally located. Burbank Airport and Long Beach Airport are smaller but don’t fly to those airports if you aren’t going somewhere near them, unless you’re just dying to experience the full wrath of LA traffic.

  • LAX is best for Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, West LA, and beach cities north of Manhattan Beach. It’s also the top airport choice for Los Angeles in general.
  • Burbank Airport is good for San Fernando Valley, Hollywood or Downtown Los Angeles.
  • Long Beach Airport is good for areas by Long Beach, or south like Disneyland. If you are going to Disneyland, you should check John Wayne Airport too.

✈️ The best advice for Los Angeles airports is to arrive and depart at lowest car traffic times . Weekdays, the best flight times are before 7am, 11am-1pm or after 7pm. Try not to arrive/depart on Friday afternoon. On weekends, before noon is easiest.

Visiting Los Angeles In N Out

Don’t Miss In-N-Out Burger on an LA Visit

In-n-Out is a favorite of Angelenos. There are always long lines and it’s delish. One blogger actually said to skip it (yikes!) and is robbing their readers of a true Los Angeles experience.

There’s no reason you can’t go to other delicious burger places like Father’s Office, The Apple Pan, Tommy’s, Fatburger or the Heavy Handed Food Truck too.. LA has great burgers!

Kill two birds with one stone by going to the In-n-Out next to LAX. If you get to the airport early and like watching planes take off and land, it’s entertainment and good food.

Gracias Madre Visiting Los Angeles

Los Angeles Has Amazing Restaurants

It would be a full time job to keep up with the LA restaurant scene. I could recommend my favorite restaurants but the truth is that there is always somewhere new that everyone is dying to try.

If you truly want a foodie experience, you should google “best restaurants Los Angeles Fall 2023” or whatever month you are visiting Los Angeles.

LA Eater puts out new lists regularly and they’re a trustworthy source. Time Out and a couple of other websites know the latest hot spots. There are also lists for great coffee shops, brunches, fast food, healthy food, and vegan food.

I constantly see restaurants with crowded parking lots that no locals go to anymore. They are probably recommended by a guide book that is outdated. You will thank me for telling you to use LA Eater for the latest restaurants.

Visiting Los Angeles Museums The Broad

Don’t Skip the Awesome Museums in Los Angeles

You’re probably all about the beach and being outdoors but LA museums are terrific. You could spend your entire trip just visiting museums. There are so many that are well worth your time. Grouped by interest, here are a few recommendations:

Modern Art – The Broad, MOCA, Geffen Contemporary, Hauser & Wirth, Institute of Contemporary Art, LACO

Prettiest Grounds/Views – The Getty Center, Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Getty Villa, The Huntington, Norton Simon Museum, Descanso Gardens, The Arboretum

Best for kids – La Brea Tar Pits, Petersen Automotive Museum, LACMA, California Science Center, Natural History Museum, Museum of Tolerance, Skirball Cultural Center

Things to do in Los Angeles Hollywood Hiking

Bring Your Workout Clothes

Los Angeles is an exercise obsessed friendly city. The Santa Monica Mountains supply an endless supply of hiking options.

Some of the best trails are Runyon Canyon in Hollywood, Temescal Canyon in Pacific Palisades, and Sullivan Canyon in Malibu.

You can also stroll the beach boardwalks, rent bikes, go surfing, take workout classes, and even go skiing in winter. Take advantage of the active culture in Los Angeles and have fun with it. No need to put on vacation pounds in LA.

RELATED POST: 10 Best Hikes in Malibu & Pacific Palisades

LA Style is Casual Chic

I read somewhere that people will know you’re a tourist if you are seen in flip flops away from the beach. That’s absolutely false. The truth is being too dressy, especially in a conservative way, will make you look like a tourist.

LA style is trendy casual. Lots of exercise clothes during the day and denim all the time. If you’re not sure what to pack, don’t worry too much because you’ll find tons of boutiques that reflect that relaxed chic that Los Angeles is famous for.

The best places to shop for that LA look is Abbott Kinney in Venice, Montana Avenue in Santa Monica, Brentwood Country Mart, Malibu Country Mart, and Melrose Avenue.

If you want upscale designer boutiques, you’ll find them on Melrose Place in West Hollywood, Palisades Village and Beverly Hills.

There are also malls like The Grove and Santa Monica Place with big chain stores and other great shops.

Visiting Los Angeles Hollywood Bowl

Hollywood Has Great Places to Visit

Most visitors head to Hollywood Boulevard to see the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the footprints at the Chinese Theater. A quick pit stop is enough, then head off to do something much more interesting in Hollywood.

Film buffs should try one of the LA Conservancy’s self guided film location driving tours or a meal at the legendary Musso & Frank Grill . Go shopping for vinyl records at Amoeba Music . Get up close to the Hollywood sign on a hike.

The Hollywood Bowl is one of the best places to visit in Los Angeles. Don’t miss the chance to dine al fresco while you enjoy music under the stars. They have everything from current musical acts to classical music to a Fourth of July extravaganza.

You can even catch a movie at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery .

Smoking is Prohibited in Many Parts of Los Angeles

Californians don’t embrace cigarette smoke. Strangers will stop you in the street to tell you that you’re not allowed to smoke. If you are more than an occasional smoker, do some research before your trip so you know what to expect.

Los Angeles is pretty proactive about protecting citizens from second hand smoke. There is a ban on smoking indoors everywhere but in cities like Santa Monica, it’s banned outdoors too.

Celebrities Are Not at Tourist Locations

Some people come to Los Angeles hoping to spot celebrities. While there are plenty of famous people living in LA, you will not find them at tourist attractions. They are in grocery stores, at the gym, restaurants and places where locals live their lives.

There is not a guaranteed place to find celebrities other than getting tickets for a taping of your favorite sitcom.

You can go for a hike in Runyon Canyon, catch a Laker game, get drinks at Chateau Marmont, or eat dinner at the latest restaurants, but there is no guarantee.

The best thing to do, is go where locals go. If you get lucky, great. If you don’t, at least you had an authentic LA experience instead of a super touristy one.

Final Thoughts About A Visit to Los Angeles and Mistakes to Avoid

Hope these tips help you to be more prepared for your Los Angeles trip. Feel free to ask questions in the comments below.

Want to Save These Tips for Visiting Los Angeles for later? Pin it!

Visiting Los Angeles California

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Very helpful thank you…. There we’re a few things in here that others don’t mention (smoking rules-laws) This I’m sure will help me enjoy my trip more and stay out of the spot light

That’s a good point thanks. Hope you have a great trip!

I loved “Biggest mistakes to avoid and then some of the highlights. . As a local I miss some of those spots . . ..I’ve never had an In and Out Burger . . It’s .on my to do list…AND loved all of the magnificent photos . . . .Many thanks . . Eva

Thanks for the nice message Eva. There are so many great things to see and do in LA. It’s fun writing about our hometown and thinking of all the places we forget about sometimes. Hope you get to In-N-Out soon 😉

great information. I love the link to photography by Riley byington!

I love LA!! My plan is to still live there in the near future.

Jennifer Curated By Jennifer

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worst places to visit in los angeles

Where to go in L.A. to avoid the tourists

Steer clear of Disneyland, the Getty Center and Hollywood Boulevard and instead opt for these lesser-known L.A. spots

Annalise Mantz

There’s no shortage of great places to visit in L.A. for tourists  (and plenty of disappointing tourist traps to avoid , too). The only problem? Locals get shafted: All the top Los Angeles attractions , including essential museums and the best beaches , seem to be perpetually crowded with visitors. When you’re looking for a fun day out but don’t want to deal with tourists, check out some of the city’s lesser-known things to do. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-pumping hike, cool museums to visit or a peaceful meditation garden, there’s something for everyone on this list.

An email you’ll actually love

Peace Awareness Labyrinth

Peace Awareness Labyrinth

Yes, spending an afternoon meditating in a serene garden might be stereotypically L.A., but it’s also completely relaxing. The totally chilled out volunteers who run this spiritual center, historic villa and gardens won’t judge you anyway. Take a free tour of the grounds before walking the labyrinth or finding a quiet place to meditate or take a nap. Don’t be surprised if the guy manning the door comments on your aura on the way out.

Photograph: Courtesy CC/Flickr/ InSapphoWeTrust

Museum of Jurassic Technology

Museum of Jurassic Technology

Is the Museum of Jurassic Technology a real institution of learning? A satirical commentary on other museums? A celebration of all things bizarre? It’s hard to say—even after you take in the strange collection of scientific wonders, microminiature sculptures, oil paintings of the dogs from the Soviet space program and more. Take your time exploring the exhibits full of curios and oddities, then make your way upstairs to the rooftop tea garden to puzzle out what you’ve seen.

The Stronghold

The Stronghold

  • Sports and fitness
  • Lincoln Heights

Housed in the former Pabst Blue Ribbon factory in Downtown, this climbing gym boasts an impressive facility: 46-foot-high walls with hundreds of routes, plenty of bouldering terrain, a full gym on the mezzanine level and a canvas-tented yoga studio. Zone out as you pull yourself up, hand-over-hand, on one of the many routes. First-timers should sign up for an introductory class to learn the basics of top-rope climbing and belaying before climbing on their own.

Greenbar Distillery

Greenbar Distillery

  • Cocktail bars
  • Downtown Arts District

The first distillery to open in L.A., Greenbar churns out a wide portfolio of organic spirits including amaro, bitters, vodka and gin. Walk the distillery floor on a guided tour to learn about the craft distilling process and how the professionals taste spirits. You’ll sample as many as six different liquors but don’t worry—you’re sipping them rather than pounding shots.

Natura Spa

  • Health and beauty

L.A.’s Korean spas are a legendarily good bargain: With enormous saunas and a plethora of pampering treatments, they offer the same caliber of service as Burke Williams without the hefty price tag. Slip into the warm embrace of Natura Spa for the afternoon to see what we mean. Whether you stick to the hot sauna, cold pool and jade rooms included with admission or opt to add a few extra treatments, you’ll leave with a newly relaxed grin on your face.

Petersen Automotive Museum

Petersen Automotive Museum

  • Transportation
  • Miracle Mile

This former department store turned car museum is smack in the middle of Miracle Mile, the first commercial development designed with drivers in mind. Even if you’re not an automotive enthusiast, you’ll certainly learn something about the car’s history and culture. Peep the 150-plus beautiful and bizarre vehicles on display, including Bugattis, Cadillacs and even Vespas. There’s really no more fitting city for this museum than Los Angeles—after all, it is the city with the worst traffic in the country.

The Knitting Tree

Making something with your own two hands can provide a blissful mental release. After working all day, you can finally turn off your brain and get lost in the moment. Knitting and crocheting certainly fit the bill: Both require repetitive movements and plenty of patience. Learn the basics in a beginner’s class at this Inglewood knitting store. Save some time to check out the store’s Branch Gallery (did you notice the theme?) next door after class. The gallery showcases fiber art by local artists. Expect to find anything from avant-garde installations to sculptures made using basket weaving techniques.

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

  • Things to do
  • Culver City

Alright, you will probably see plenty of other exercisers at the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook—or, as it’s affectionately referred to by locals, the Culver City Stairs. But they probably won’t be tourists: Unlike Runyon Canyon or Griffith Park, Baldwin Hills hasn’t yet become a place where everyone has to take an Instagram photo. Huff and puff your way up 282 steep concrete stairs for sweeping, 360-degree views of Los Angeles. It’s both a workout and a sightseeing activity.

Captain Kirk's Paddleboard Lessons and Rentals

Captain Kirk's Paddleboard Lessons and Rentals

Unlike Santa Monica or even Marina del Rey, San Pedro hardly ever feels crowded with tourists. For a paddleboarding experience that’s actually enjoyable, seek out Captain Kirk’s in this South Bay nabe. As long as you already know how to swim, your instructor will have you balancing on your board, paddling and turning with ease in no time at all. If the lesson goes well, you can always rent the board for another hour or two.

Echo Park Time Travel Mart

Echo Park Time Travel Mart

  • Cultural centers

Sci-fi fans could easily spend some time browsing the bizarre merchandise at this funky Echo Park store. You might just find a 50-year calendar, original version of the Simon computer game or wind-up robots you just have to have. Though dropping your hard-earned cash on some goofy toy might seem frivolous, you’re supporting a good cause—albeit unknowingly. This kooky storefront is actually one of seven themed stores nationwide that benefit 826 National, a literary nonprofit that offers after-school tutoring and creative writing workshops to area children. Westsiders can also visit its sister Time Travel Mart in Mar Vista.

Looking for more things to do in L.A.?

11 L.A. tours worth going on with a date

11 L.A. tours worth going on with a date

  • Walks and tours

Want to stand out from the pack of Tinder dates? Instead of meeting for drinks or seeing a forgettable movie, take someone special on one of these L.A. tours

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worst places to visit in los angeles

05 Aug 21:20

worst places to visit in los angeles

Literally, there is magic in Los Angeles. You will very certainly get the opportunity to visit The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, located in the village of Hogsmeade, in Universal Studios. If you don’t want that, there are festivals and concerts throughout the year featuring performances by bands and performers.

This city has many theatres, a 4,000-plus-acre park with a billion pathways for recreational activities and hikers, and many more features. Los Angeles is a hugely diversified metropolis where everyone can find a place!

The period of crime in Los Angeles is passed, and there has been a significant drop throughout the years. However, like in most major cities, there are a few areas to be wary of. Read on to find out which regions of Los Angeles are unsafe.

Top 10 Most Dangerous Places in Los Angeles, CA

Now, which city in Los Angeles is the most dangerous?

1. West Adams

This is a violent neighbourhood in Los Angeles. This neighbourhood has 474 percent more violent crimes than the national average. Even with this ridiculous figure, violence in this community has actually decreased. There was so much gang violence in the 1960s that citizens were banned to mumble. Although the police presence in W. Adams appears to be overpowering, measuring their response to the nonstop bombardment of crime is difficult.

This area has a population of 11,961 people and a total crime rate of 6,811 per 100,000 people. For the first half of 2019, crime increased by 12.3 percent as compared to 2018. Visitors in this neighbourhood are urged not to venture out at night, especially women travelling alone.

A female tenant described needing to grasp and clutch her pocketbook at all times for fear of being robbed, particularly while changing cash. Public transit does not appear to be any safer. In West Adams, your chances of becoming a victim of a crime are 1 in 15.

worst places to visit in los angeles

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2. Wholesale District – Skid Row

Crime in this neighbourhood has increased by 59% since 2010. In 2019, there were 13,122 recorded events, including 2,698 assaults, 2,453 thefts, and 1,350 auto break-ins. This downtown Los Angeles area has a population of 7,245 persons, with around 2,500 of them being homeless. Is skid row in Los Angeles truly dangerous?

The police officers are as relentless as the heroin and meth trades in this neighbourhood. Panhandlers and pickpockets may be present on public transportation, so keep wallets and cash close to hand. This area is already known as a hotspot for drug addiction, prostitution, and stolen items. San Pedro Street is a hotspot for illegal activity.

Cycling or walking in this area is only permitted before 6 p.m. Skid row then becomes devoid of pedestrians, and the street gangs recommence. Women who go alone should always be accompanied. So yet, no hotel has received positive feedback.

worst places to visit in los angeles

3. Downtown

This cultural and economic centre of Los Angeles has a population of 12,199 people. According to LAPD figures, the crime rate is somewhat decreasing year after year. In 2016, there were 1,702 violent offences reported in Central Division, down from 1,780 in 2015. The number of killings fell from 490 a decade ago to 13 in 2018.

However, crime remains high, with 14,219 offences reported in 2020. The most affected neighbourhoods are those located south of 3rd Street, north of 7th Street, west of Alameda Street, and east of Main Street. In certain areas, you will very certainly come into contact with pickpockets or be robbed for cash.

Is Downtown Los Angeles hazardous at night? Exploring the streets at night is discouraged, especially for solitary female tourists, as it becomes desolate and appears sketchy. If you need to remain the night and explore the next day, a few hotels come highly recommended. Despite frequent police patrols, the safest feeling is when walking or bicycling during the day.

Is Downtown Los Angeles safe? There are a few safe areas, such as Fourth and Sixth Streets, but altogether, you have a one in 29 chance of becoming a victim of crime in downtown Los Angeles.

worst places to visit in los angeles

Although gang activity in this neighbourhood declined about a decade ago, the reputation of murder, firearms, drugs, and poverty lingers. In 2005, Compton had the highest homicides per 100,000 people in the United States. In addition, between 2014 and 2018, there was an increase in violent crime and a decrease in property crime.

This is most definitely LA’s worst neighbourhood. Despite the fact that the police are virtually always present in this area, there were 3,733 recorded occurrences in 2019. In the first half of 2020, the population of 97,740 had already been subjected to 120 violent crimes and 257 property crimes on Compton’s worst street. This results in a crime rate of 39.9 per 10,000 people. What is the most hazardous location in Compton?

Visitors to this city are cautioned to be cautious while strolling or bicycling during the day and night. Though dangerous, violent crimes are primarily targeted. Females fare better when accompanied, but when travelling alone, use cautious. Although public transportation is reasonably safe, precious things and cash should be kept out of sight for your own piece of mind.

worst places to visit in los angeles

5. North Hollywood

The art district is known as NoHo by the inhabitants. It shares a boundary with Universal Studios and is home to the arts and sciences. The population is 158,322 people. This area has little criminal activities, such as drug selling and gang activity.

Property crimes are more prevalent in North Hollywood, accounting for 82 percent of total crimes reported in 2019 per 100,000 people. A saleswoman said that she had two acquaintances robbed at gunpoint at various dates. Little of this has been recorded in recent years, owing to heightened patrols during the previous three years. The neighbourhood around one of the buildings in Hatteras and Tujunga, on the other hand, is still infamous for drug selling and gang battles.

Is North Hollywood, however, safe? Magnolia, Lankershim, and the 170 highway are safe at any time of day, whether taking public transportation, Uber, walking, or bicycling. Females travelling alone have less to fear. There is Valley Village and North Oxnard, but anywhere past Burbank Boulevard or north of Victory Boulevard is not considered safe. If you’re looking for a hotel, some in Burbank and Sherman Oaks have received positive feedback.

worst places to visit in los angeles

6. South Los Angeles

This area of 248,666 inhabitants, formerly known as South Central, LA, is plagued by drug trafficking, gangs, and gang violence. This is the primary cause of violence in this area. The police are seen patrolling often, which has resulted in a decrease in crime as compared to the 1990s.

Is it unsafe to live in South Los Angeles? Because gang operations are divided into territory, ladies going alone, particularly at night, are discouraged in this neighbourhood for fear of wandering into a hostile operating hood. In 2019, violent crime was estimated to be 1702 percent higher than the national average. The total number of property crimes is 3,022.

During the day, walking, riding, and taking public transportation are all safe, with little risk of being robbed of money. There are extremely few hotels with reviews in the Southcentral area.

worst places to visit in los angeles

Watts tower, one of the most spectacular public monuments in the United States, attracts a large number of tourists. This is not a safe area, although it is not as deadly as it formerly was thanks to various developments over the years and constant police patrols.

Tourists are encouraged and must understand to keep wallets and valuables secure whether strolling or bicycling throughout the day. Residents worry about hoodlums at railway stations, as well as their dread of being pickpocketed and robbed of cash. As a result, public transportation is frowned upon.

The nightlife in this 40,795-person neighbourhood is not as risky, so solitary female guests can go about. The crime rate is 49 percent higher than the national average, yet crime is decreasing by 1 percent year after year.

worst places to visit in los angeles

8. Koreatown

This area is situated south of Hollywood and west of downtown. With a population of 72,523, Koreans make about 50-75 percent of the population. Visitors confirm that Koreatown has the most nightclubs and restaurants in all of Southern California.

This neighbourhood features aspects of prostitution, drug selling, and a strong presence of Hispanic gangs. As a result, the southern and eastern areas are unsafe and rife with crime. There have been reports of robberies and pickpockets, thus taking public transit should be avoided if at all feasible. It is preferable to use credit/debit cards instead than carrying cash in handbags and wallets.

Is Koreatown in Los Angeles safe? If you are not exploring secure locations such as Hancock Park, Wilshire Center, and so on, it is better to limit your excursions to the daytime only. Especially if you are a lady travelling alone. The police presence in this neighbourhood is not very noticeable.

worst places to visit in los angeles

Read: http://www.city-data.com/forum/los-angeles/473199-koreatown-safe.html#ixzz6WcE01Xi0

9. Fashion District

A tiny neighbourhood with 2,466 individuals with a low livability score. The crime rate is 33% higher than the Los Angeles average but 68% higher than the national average.

During the day, this neighbourhood is not very safe due to the broad mix of people and several businesses that draw visitors. Walking, biking, or taking public transit is not dangerous, but there is a possibility of pickpockets, putting your handbag and wallet at risk. You have a one in twenty-four risk of being a victim of a crime in the Fashion District.

But, at night, is Los Angeles dangerous? Nighttime brings an increase in assault and robbery offences that patrolling cops have wanted to curb. Visitors and visitors, particularly solitary female travellers, are consequently urged to avoid this area after 9 p.m.

worst places to visit in los angeles

10. Hollywood

This area with 90,322 inhabitants became a prominent tourist attraction after being the birthplace of Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros, and Universal Pictures studios. The rate of violent crime is 243 percent higher than the national average. In 2019, there were 1,306 recorded violent crimes and 4,152 reported property crimes, according to data.

Despite the surge of people on the streets and the prevalence of pickpockets and panhandlers, walking or bicycling during the day is reasonably secure. Perhaps you should set a reminder to check your cash and items at regular intervals. Nighttime, on the other hand, is a significant hit, and walks should be avoided. There are many dodgy spots, and cops are few and far between.

worst places to visit in los angeles

Crime Situation in Los Angeles, CA

According to FBI crime figures disclosed in the LA report, daily crime in 2018 was 1.15 times more than the California average and 1.26 times higher than the national average.

When the two years were compared, there was a 5.7 percent decrease in crime from the previous year by 2019. Crime decreased in 77 percent of all communities in Los Angeles.

Top 5 Safe Places in Los Angeles, CA

1. beverly hills.

With a population of 34,627 people, this area provides inhabitants with a pleasant and relaxing environment. According to FBI statistics, Beverly Hills’ violent crime rate is 19% lower than the national average, highlighting the city’s safety. An elite enclave of flash and glam, it has its own school system that is exclusive to district residents.

worst places to visit in los angeles

2. Westwood

Because to its closeness to UCLA, this area has a visible student and young professional presence. Except for property offences, crime is extremely rare, if not non-existent. This community’s 1,685 people have a one in 64 probability of becoming a victim of crime. Surprisingly, Westwood is safer than half of all cities in the United States.

worst places to visit in los angeles

3. Glendale

A big 197,895-person community with little attractions. There are several eateries and commercial places. The crime rate is 43% lower than the California average, and this community has an exceptional livability ranking.

Despite the fact that violent crimes are 74% lower than the national average, the few occurrences are usually assaults and robberies. Theft accounts for 72 percent of all property crime reported in 2019.

worst places to visit in los angeles

4. Mar Vista

This area is located in West Los Angeles, where the cost of living is 25% more than the LA average. Property crimes affect 42,620 more persons than violent crimes. It is typically a safe neighbourhood, with each inhabitant having a 1 in 58 chance of becoming a victim of a crime.

worst places to visit in los angeles

5. Playa Vista

This neighbourhood has a population of 35,789. Despite having real estate costs that are 32% more than the LA average, it provides affordable homes to allow a comfortable yet affluent lifestyle. Total crime per 100,000 people is 2,132, with property offences accounting for the majority.

Violent crimes are 17 percent lower than the national average, while crime has declined by 1 percent year over year.

worst places to visit in los angeles

Crime decreased in all key categories between 2017 and 2018. With homicides, gang-related homicides, rape, severe assault, and property crimes gradually declining, Los Angeles would rank as one of the safest places to live in.

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Is Los Angeles Safe? Warnings and Dangers Travelers Need to Know

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The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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Los Angeles Warnings and Dangers

Los Angeles is a vibrant, diverse, creative city with many complex layers—in short, it’s an extremely worthwhile place to explore. But is Los Angeles safe for travelers? Well, that depends. Like any big city, Los Angeles has safe areas as well as dangerous parts. And anywhere you go, you’d be well-advised to know where to stay, as well as areas to avoid.

There are plenty of safe places to stay in Los Angeles, as detailed below. Still, travelers should know how to be vigilant when visiting L.A. Incidents of violent crime and property crime in Los Angeles are significantly higher than those in many other U.S. cities, partly because of L.A. County’s huge population (more than 10 million people).

Keep in mind, though, that per-capita crime rates are actually lower in Los Angeles than they are in other popular U.S. tourist destinations such as Las Vegas, New Orleans, and San Francisco. In one ranking , Los Angeles clocked in as the world’s 123rd most crime-ridden city, with a score of 48.61 (for comparison, San Pedro Sula, Honduras, ranked first, with a score of 85.18).

Tips for Staying Safe in Los Angeles

  • Choose your hotel and neighborhood wisely : Consider avoiding staying overnight in neighborhoods with higher crime rates, like Hollywood, Chinatown, Fairfax, Crenshaw, or other areas near USC. Instead, book your hotel or vacation rental in a low-crime area like La Cañada Flintridge, Palos Verdes, Century City, Pacific Palisades, or Brentwood.
  • Blend in : When you’re out and about, don’t draw attention by wearing expensive items or leaving them within view in a car. Know where you’re going, travel in groups, and drive conservatively.
  • Prep for natural disaster : Make sure that you’ve read up on what to do during a natural disaster. Consider adding a small flashlight and crushproof whistle to your travel keychain.
  • Be wary of potential scams : Don’t fall prey to scammers pretending to be entertainment industry professionals. Be very skeptical if someone tells you that they’re a talent agent who wants to work with you.

Top Travel Safety Products for Los Angeles

Anti-Theft Backpack

Anti-Theft Backpack

Travel Money Belt

Travel Money Belt

Safety Whistle

Safety Whistle

Safe neighborhoods—and areas to avoid—in los angeles.

If you’re looking for safe areas to stay in Los Angeles, some of the neighborhoods with the lowest crime rates, according to statistics from the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department, include La Cañada Flintridge (home of the beautiful Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens), beachy Rancho Palos Verdes, posh Century City and Bel-Air, lovely Agoura Hills, and celebrity-favorite Calabasas; plus Westlake Village, Playa del Rey, tony Pacific Palisades, and hip Brentwood (near UCLA).

In terms of bad neighborhoods in Los Angeles, that same research shows the highest rates of crime occurring in Chesterfield Square, Watts, Exposition Park, Chinatown, Crenshaw, Fairfax, and Hollywood. Though you shouldn’t skip major tourist sites like Hollywood’s Walk of Fame, you may want to consider not staying overnight in these areas.

Note that while South-Central Los Angeles—now generally referred to as South L.A.—was widely associated with crime in the 1990s, today it ranks safer than both Hollywood and Chinatown based on violent crime statistics. And while East L.A. is not the tourist haven of Beverly Hills or Malibu, it offers visitors willing to embrace the neighborhood’s grittier charm the opportunity to immerse themselves in rich ethnic diversity, a lively arts scene, and Los Angeles’ most authentic and delicious Mexican food.

Visitors to Downtown Los Angeles should know that though DTLA is quickly gentrifying, the district’s blocks-long Skid Row is still known for its density of transients, drug use, and people in dire need of mental health services. So while most parts of Downtown Los Angeles are safe for tourists, visitors should take care in choosing their routes, especially at night.

How to Get Around Safely in Los Angeles

The Los Angeles Police Department’s official advice for steering clear of Los Angeles crime includes doing “all you can to blend in with the crowd,” refraining from wearing or carrying anything that looks expensive (jewelry, cameras, handbags), preparing before you go out by studying local maps, sticking to well-lit main streets, always locking your car, and not leaving anything pricey or touristy within view—that’s what the glove compartment and trunk are for. The police department also advises sticking together in pairs or groups (especially if you’re a woman), keeping a close eye on children, and making sure that kids know their hotel’s name and address, and what to do if they get lost.

According to recent statistics , L.A.’s Metro system is relatively safe. If you’re driving in Los Angeles, don’t tailgate, since stop-and-go traffic is the norm on L.A.’s freeways and you want to do all you can to avoid a fender bender—or being the target of road rage. It’s not difficult to drive in L.A. as long as you have a good map app and the patience to endure Los Angeles’ notorious traffic.

Finally, keep in mind that Los Angeles is prone to 13 of 16 federally identified threats —especially wildfires, flooding, mudslides, and earthquakes. It’s worth reading up on these risks before you head to L.A.

Common Scams in Los Angeles

There are a few common scams that con people use to target travelers to Los Angeles. Prime among them is falsely posing as a Hollywood talent agent who “discovers” you or your child. If someone claiming to be an agent or casting professional approaches you and appears serious about wanting to work with you, ask for the person’s business card and look them up on IMDB.com. If you agree to any meetings at the person’s office, make sure not to go alone, and never pay anything upfront, since bona fide agents only make money when their clients do.

More from SmarterTravel:

  • 10 Best Cheap Hotels in Los Angeles
  • 10 Best Los Angeles Beach Hotels
  • 10 Best Los Angeles Luxury Hotels
  • 10 Best Restaurants in Los Angeles
  • 10 Popular Los Angeles Restaurants for Celebrity Sightings
  • 10 Best Cheap Eats in Los Angeles
  • 10 Best Day Trips from Los Angeles
  • 9 Must-See Los Angeles Attractions
  • What to Pack for Los Angeles
  • What to Wear in Los Angeles

—original reporting by Avital Andrews

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The 10 Most Dangerous And Worst Neighborhoods In Los Angeles, CA

The most dangerous and worst los angeles neighborhoods are fashion district and wholesale district-skid row for 2024 based on saturday night science..

worst places to visit in los angeles

It’s not all sunshine and movie stars in Los Angeles, the City of Angels has some pretty sketch neighborhoods, too.

Just how bad are these neighborhoods? Well, you’re going to have to take a look below at RoadSnacks’ list of the worst neighborhoods in Los Angeles for 2024 to see where the crime is high and the average income is low. We call this the perfect storm.

But in order to determine Los Angeles’ worst neighborhoods, we had to give each neighborhood an actual concrete score: we call this a neighborhood’s overall ‘Snackability’. To get this score, we looked at the latest census data on income levels, unemployment rates, crime, and home prices for 83 Los Angeles neighborhoods with over 0 residents. Incidentally, this is our tenth time ranking Los Angeles’ worst neighborhoods, so trust us when we say that these are the worst of the worst.

Folks, the kind of places that we are talking about are the kind of places that you’ll want to invest in a security system or a guard dog. And in all honesty, if you find that one of Los Angeles’ worst neighborhoods is all that you can afford, you might want to think about renting : save yourself the headache.

And because the glass is always half full here a RoadSnacks, we think that If you do get stuck in one of Los Angeles’ worst neighborhoods, it might not be all bad. Heck, you could be front and center to a real life Cops episode in Watts and/or you could get some practice talking yourself out of sticky situations if you live Downtown .

So, want to know what Los Angeles’ neighborhoods you should avoid if you value your life? Keep reading.

Table Of Contents: Top 10 | Methodology | Summary | Table

The Most Dangerous Neighborhoods In Los Angeles For 2024

  • Fashion District
  • Wholesale District-Skid Row
  • Leiment Park
  • Lincoln Heights
  • Central City
  • Civic Center-Little Tokyo

Sadly, Los Angeles’ worst neighborhoods have carjackings happening in broad daylight, daily robberies, and plenty of violent crimes. There are currently 12,000 police officers that patrol Tinseltown, but the city houses 4 million residents. Law enforcement is doing their best to clean up the city’s worst neighborhoods, but they can’t be everywhere. As a result, places like Hollywood are starting to see the negative effects.

So, what’s the worst neighborhood in Los Angeles for 2024? The worst neighborhood in Los Angeles would be Fashion District according to the most recent data.

To see how the rest of Los Angeles’ neighborhoods faired, take a look at the list below; and if you don’t see what you’re looking for there, head to the bottom.

For more California reading, check out:

  • Best Places To Live In California
  • Cheapest Places To Live In California
  • Most Dangerous Cities In California

The 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods In Los Angeles For 2024

1. fashion district.

Fashion District Los Angeles, CA

Population: 2,466 Violent Crimes Per 100k: 973 Property Crime Per 100k: 2,893 Median Home Value: $89,350 (worst) Median Income: $39,866 (3rd worst) More on Fashion District:   Data

Where’s the worst neighborhood in Los Angeles? That would be the Fashion District.

There’s only about 2,466 people packed into this little hood, but all of them are broke. The Fashion District is the most dangerous part of LA, too, where you might just get blown away for wearing the wrong hat.

Homes here cost about $89,350 for a reason. Think about that. It’s 4 times more expensive to live in Watts than in the Fashion District neighborhood. Can we interest anyone in a $89,350 house in the Fashion District? No? Okay then.

The Fashion District kinda resembles a third world country in some blocks. You’d better be careful walking through this neighborhood in the day, and maybe reconsider at night.

2. Wholesale District-Skid Row

Wholesale District-Skid Row Los Angeles, CA

Population: 7,245 Violent Crimes Per 100k: 963 Property Crime Per 100k: 2,865 Median Home Value: $218,186 (3rd worst) Median Income: $29,771 (worst) More on Wholesale District-Skid Row:   Data

Believe it or not, there’s actually a couple of LA neighborhoods that are actually worse than South Central, Skid Row and Watts. Take for instance the Wholesale District. Most people call it Skid Row.

You’ve probably been here before at one point or another if you’re from the LA area. It’s where the city of LA has basically allowed anyone and everyone to camp out and squat along several major streets, including San Pedro and South Los Angeles Streets.

It’s essentially one big permanent homeless encampment with poop everywhere. Not good. Not fun.

Some people come here to gawk at the area. Others accidentally make a wrong turn and wind up here. No matter what – lock your doors.

Now, the only real difference between Skid Row and the Wholesale District is a line on a map. However, the Wholesale District is technically even more dangerous and poor than Skid Row.

3. Leiment Park

Population: 10,458 Violent Crimes Per 100k: 2,153 Property Crime Per 100k: 4,368 Median Home Value: $460,217 (15th worst) Median Income: $51,933 (14th worst) More on Leiment Park:   Data

4. South Park

South Park Los Angeles, CA

Population: 7,021 Violent Crimes Per 100k: 2,651 Property Crime Per 100k: 9,021 Median Home Value: $209,983 (2nd worst) Median Income: $48,922 (7th worst) More on South Park:   Data

5. Lincoln Heights

Population: 33,525 Violent Crimes Per 100k: 2,622 Property Crime Per 100k: 6,851 Median Home Value: $547,919 (28th worst) Median Income: $51,775 (13th worst) More on Lincoln Heights:   Data

Watts Los Angeles, CA

Population: 40,431 Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,571 Property Crime Per 100k: 1,943 Median Home Value: $354,525 (6th worst) Median Income: $36,669 (2nd worst) More on Watts:   Data

Watts is a notoriously horrible place you can live in the greater LA area.

Wanna play a joke on your friends? Tell them you’re going to a party in Watts tonight and watch their reaction.

This neighborhood, located just north of the 105 on Compton Boulevard, is basically a one big housing project. Things are so bad in Watts that this neighborhood has a Wikipedia entry. And a very lengthy one at that.

Believe it or not, but an average home in Watts actually costs $354,525. In most places in America, $354,525 gets you a really nice home in a pretty decent neighborhood. In Watts, that gets you a single story, 1200 square foot dump with bullet hole patches on it. This is one of many LA areas made famous by mid 90’s hip hop gangster rappers like TuPac, Snoop Dogg and Dr Dre, who featured Watts in songs like California Love.

They’ve tried to make Watts better. Every year there’s a “Toys for Watts” toy drive, a “Watts Summer Games” event, and even a Watts Christmas parade.

7. Central City

Population: 57,489 Violent Crimes Per 100k: 1,291 Property Crime Per 100k: 2,798 Median Home Value: $440,243 (11th worst) Median Income: $43,878 (4th worst) More on Central City:   Data

8. Civic Center-Little Tokyo

Population: 3,457 Violent Crimes Per 100k: 2,870 Property Crime Per 100k: 8,477 Median Home Value: $306,133 (5th worst) Median Income: $55,760 (20th worst) More on Civic Center-Little Tokyo:   Data

9. Downtown

Downtown Los Angeles, CA

Population: 45,198 Violent Crimes Per 100k: 5,099 Property Crime Per 100k: 9,691 Median Home Value: $704,691 (47th worst) Median Income: $50,463 (11th worst) More on Downtown:   Data

Our next stop along our undesirable drive through LA’s worst neighborhoods stops in, surprisingly, downtown. The downtown LA neighborhood is, well, downtown, and while many places here aren’t the worst part of LA, some of the worst parts of LA overlap downtown.

So, technically, the downtown neighborhood of Los Angeles has some okay parts and some don’t ever go there again parts.The statistics for downtown LA indicate there’s no real reason to live here if you have a choice. That’s one reason homes are the 47th cheapest in all of LA. Believe you me, if this area was desirable, every wanna be hip LA cool guy would try to live here.

They aren’t.

Sure, entertainment wise, there’s a lot to do in the downtown neighborhood. But the people who live downtown don’t really have the money to do them. Do you think the broke people who live downtown can afford to go to MOCA or the Chandler Pavilion? No.

10. Chinatown

Population: 9,144 Violent Crimes Per 100k: 2,910 Property Crime Per 100k: 2,598 Median Home Value: $488,417 (19th worst) Median Income: $53,225 (16th worst) More on Chinatown:   Data

Methodology: How we determined the most dangerous Los Angeles neighborhoods in 2024

To figure out how bad a place is to live in, we only needed to know what kinds of things people like and then decide what places have the least amount of those things. We plugged the following criteria into Saturday Night Science to get the worst neighborhoods in Los Angeles:

  • High crime (Estimated)
  • High unemployment (Less jobs)
  • Low median income (Less pay)
  • Low population density (No things to do)
  • Low home values (No one’s willing to pay to live here)

Then, we ranked each neighborhood in Los Angeles, California for each of these criteria from worst to best.

Next, we averaged the individual rankings for each criterion into a “Worst Score.”

The neighborhood with the lowest “Worst Score” ranks as the most dangerous neighborhood of Los Angeles.

The article is an opinion based on facts and is meant as infotainment. We updated this article for 2024. This report is our time ranking the worst neighborhoods to live in Los Angeles.

Skip to the end to see the list of all 83 neighborhoods ranked from worst to best.

Summary: The Worst Neighborhoods Around Los Angeles

Well, there you have it — the worst of the neighborhoods in Los Angeles with Fashion District landing at the bottom of the pack.

The worst neighborhoods in Los Angeles are Fashion District, Wholesale District-Skid Row, Leiment Park, South Park, Lincoln Heights, Watts, Central City, Civic Center-Little Tokyo, Downtown, and Chinatown.

As mentioned earlier, the neighborhoods in Los Angeles aren’t all bad. Playa Vista takes the cake as the best place to live in Los Angeles.

The best neighborhoods in Los Angeles are Playa Vista, Mar Vista, Palms, Bel Air, and Pacific Palisades.

We ranked the neighborhoods from worst to best in the chart below.

  • Richest Cities In California
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  • Worst Places To Live In California

Most Dangerous Neighborhoods To Live In Los Angeles For 2024?

Nick Johnson earned his masters in Business Administration from the Drucker School At Claremont Graduate University. He has written for 39 publications across the country and ran the media relations department at Movoto, a real estate portal based in San Francisco. He has been featured in over 500 publications as an expert in real estate and as an authority on real estate trends.

Nick's the creator of the HomeSnacks YouTube channel that now has over 260,000 subscribers and is an excellent source to learn about different parts of the country.

26 thoughts on “ The 10 Most Dangerous And Worst Neighborhoods In Los Angeles, CA ”

I’m going to find the neighbor who put my house up here in El Sereno,I know it’s someone who don’t like us,well guess what we don’t like u

Nobody gives a shit, Pedro.

The editor’s disclaimer and infotainment premise are both big jokes. The article? Let’s put it this way: if the article were a person earning its keep, it couldn’t survive in any but the cushiest LA neighborhoods.

Why wasn’t a photo of Banning Blvd. north of L St. posted for Wilmington? Why Broad Ave.? Talk about bias. Roadsnacks? No, roadkill.

I live in Wilmington, California the place you said was “the #1 worst neighborhood in Los Angeles, CA”. So you live in Durham NC ? Have you ever actually visited any of the neighborhoods in your inaccurate article. Well for one thing I would obviously disagree with you on your ranking Wilmington # 1 Worst in Los Angeles. I have lived here my whole life and I know the place inside and out.

Many of the other places you named are in smoggy hot inland parts of LA, whereas Wilmington is on the coast and gets great cool weather all summer long. Downtown LA and other LA neighborhoods you named can be over 90/100 degrees in the summer at the same time Wilmington is in the 70s with a cool daily ocean breeze.

Wilmington has several Parks including a brand new Wilmington Water Front Park, and plans for the LA Harbor Department for a further Harbor Water Front development with restaurants, picnic areas, boat rentals, etc.

We are also within very short driving proximity to many beaches and things to do, including but not limited to, Long Beach, CA Beaches, Queen Mary and the world class Long Beach Aquarium of the Pacific, Shoreline Drive Village, the Long Beach Pike Amusement Zone, many restaurants, nightclubs, and Harbor Cruises, etc., which are a 3 to 4 mile drive away (5 to 10 minutes).

Wilmington itself is right on on the LA Harbor, and has several Private Yacht and Boat Marinas contained within Wilmington.

Wilmington is also a 15 to 20 minute drive to three world famous beaches. Redondo beach, CA, Hermosa Beach, CA and Manhattan Beach CA where people come from all over the world to vacation. It is also adjacent to San Pedro, CA which has Cabrillo Beach and a number of Harbor locations including the Cabrillo Yacht Marina which rivals Marina Del Ray, Port’s ‘O Call all within a few minutes drive.

Wilmington also is the locale of Los Angles Harbor Community College. Adjacent to the college is the Los Angeles County Ken Malloy Regional which Has a hugea nature preserve and also contains Machado Lake with covers many acres. Picnic places, hiking trails etc are contained within this Huge Park and Lake complex in Wilmington. Also the Regional Park is currently under a $150 million renovation project which will make it an even better place to go.

Anyway …. my point is you did a huge disservice to my home town just showing again anyone can put anything in on the internet and be absolutely wrong about what they are saying.

I’m sorry to say this Mr. Sparkes, but you are an ignorant libelous so called reporter who should check his facts before using certain statistics to be the sole judge of his story.

I think this “study” is BS, too. If I were going to reply about Wilmington, it would be very close to what your wrote.

You can’t libel a place or a thing, only a person.

I dislike that individuals want to label a whole community.. Have you even been to any of these areas? My family has lived in Wilmington for over 60 years. In the same house with the same neighbors. Families who have lived, worked, and raised generations, side by side. Who love and respect there city and thoes in it. Just because there are a few bad “apples” don’t make an entire city bad. If that was the case then every city in the USA would be bad.

Does anyone with their feelings hurt realize that this article is based off statistics!? The guy did is homework; if you dispute what he is saying based off opinion, that’s ok- but ask the guy for his sources because I can put money on it that he has sources! come on people read statistics. Its all averaged out from the population even if certain groups(cities) are bigger they average out.

Thank you for the article.

I have a cousin that lives on 106 & Vermont.

Pacoima bad I don’t think so, I grew up there 20 years plus. And still would love to live there for the fact that that neighborhood is tight with family and friends. So the next you through city names into a list that you have an opinion maybe keep them to yourself thanks no really thanks.

The list is absolutely spot on. The entire part of the city of Los Angeles that lies between south of the 10 and east of the 405 is in absolute shambles, a wasteland, worse than conditions in a third world country. There is absolutely no reason for a civilized human to be in this part of town unless he’s driving through trying to get to friendly territory in the South Bay. For example, the 90062 zip code has a shocking 35% of the population living below the poverty line. 40% of the population doesn’t have a high school education. A civilized person would feel awkward having poorly educated, rude, loud, buffoonish idiots as his neighbors. There are no jobs, no shopping, no entertainment, no amenities out there. Failed schools. There’s nothing to do there other than stop by at the liquor store. Crime, drugs, hookers, homeless, trash, graffiti everywhere.

In central LA, I would steer clear of Westlake aka MacArthur Park. Alvarado/6th – you’d swear you were in a slum somewhere in El Salvador. Koreatown north of Wilshire is quite awful.

The ghetto disease has spread to chunks of the 818 since the 1980s. Sylmar, San Fernando, Panorama City, Sun Valley, parts of North Hollywood, Canoga Park are sketchy and sleazy and should be avoided.

East of the LA river – Boyle Heights, El Sereno, Lincoln Heights are no-go zones. Unfriendly territory for civilized people.

Basically almost the whole city of LA is a big fat disaster. The LAUSD and LAPD are national embarrassments. Traffic will take a toll on your mental health. Trash, graffiti, drugs, homeless everywhere. Perhaps half the residents do not have citizenship, legal residence, work permit or any kind of visa. Broken English will pollute your ear drums. I would strongly recommend anyone having to be in LA County to seek out a separate municipality: Burbank, Calabasas, Santa Monica, Glendale, South Pasadena, Torrance – the local governments there actually know to provide services, the schools are not churning out gang-bangers and baby mamas, traffic is tolerable, and the streets are clean.

You truly are the scum of the earth. Thank god I can be rest assured I’ll never have the chance of bumping into you in my slumland of a neighborhood.

What Tom says is nothing but the truth. Don’t believe him if you don’t want to but DO look with your eyes at areas like Boyle Heights. I presently live here and am doing my best to GET OUT. It’s got cracked sidewalks, filth all over the streets. The city officials obviously don’t care. It used to be a clean family town with the pretty Hollenbeck Park near the freeways. It’s now an unkept park. Last week a woman was gang-raped at the park. When I first moved here 2 years ago, one of my fellow tenants was shot and killed across the street. If only there were fines for not keeping up your homes and businesses, the way they do in Glendale. Glendale is beautifully kept…So is Beverly Hills. Cleanliness is King.

…what a leap to correlate bad behavior with a poor education. I was raised in NYC, a wealthier and more educated population than LA overall and I can say I never experienced the kind of low class behavior I’ve experienced in supposed best place to live, Century City. As a woman of color, I’ve lived in Century City for the past 7 years and people don’t clean up after their dogs, leave their beer bottles in the grass, are unfriendly, have no sense of community and cross the street when they see me walking my menacing 15 lb cockapoo. (That last part was sarcasm); there’s nothing classy or high minded about people who behave that way. I’m one of the youngest people in my neighborhood and one of the few people who don’t need someone to share the rent with and yet, the first thing my neighbors routinely ask me (if they address me at all) is what do I do for a living because they want to know how we live in the same neighborhood. There are a lot of racist and ignorant comments here underscoring the fact that money doesn’t buy you class or good sense. PS- I’m no one’s baby mama or kept woman and though I don’t fall into the poor category, poor people tend to work more for less pay and pay more in taxes so they don’t get to see their kids either and they don’t have some creative/knowledgeable Accountant to save them money…that’s for you, you know who you are.

LOL! Only the scum of the earth would ever say LA is a nice place to live. They all jumped the fence at TJ and cant afford to buy shoes to “jump back” to their mexsiken toilets! Illegal subhumans from the south and their illegal shit bred rats make this the worst city on west coast by far! GO TRUMP!!!!

I see some places ranked higher on the safety end than really should be. Please remember this is only a rough guide which uses paperwork, bar graphs, pie charts, with a fair amount of PC mixed into it all. For example, Venice Beach is OK if you stay on your high dollar hotel property. Don’t go barefoot lest you gouge your foot with a used syringe. (no needle exchange in county). Busted alcohol bottles, plenty of “street theater”. If you’re young and adventurous and looking for some goods, this is the area for you. Just watch yourself. Santa Monica is nice, but they’re taking the bad with the good. Daytime in SM is best. Downtown is expensive if you wish to do something upscale or do the Staples Center. The hotelery ranges from terrible to the finest. I may as well tell you the rougher parts of LA are the residential areas in which low income “people of color” live. Don’t be attempting to buy any drugs from anyone on the street, pot is legal in state stores, no pick ups as they can go bad. Just use your head, don’t get drunk and you should be fine.

When you copy whole articles from Wikipedia, it would be nice to add somewhere so that people don’t think some of the article was original…

Excellent Excellent excellent so much discrimination against white peopl HERE IN LA IVE BEEN TOLD THINGS MOSTLY BY HISPANICS AND I learned that language to be by living here in Los Angeles never took a class… never brought up speaking or WANTING TO HAVE TO SPEAK IT! Bravo to you! Thk you

Let’s do this with these criteria:

1. heat/humidity index 2. number of days with below freezing temperature 3. racial grrymandering taken to court 4. racialky rigged elections 5. redneck index 6. bugs 7. body fat index 8. creationism 9. climate çhange denial 10. homophobia 11. evangelical/pentecostal/southern baptist index 12. vinegary barbecue 13. good old boy sexist index 14. resistance to progress index 15. erc etc etc

Where would you rank, North Carolina? Sorry, you make Wilmington, CA (not NC with its hurricane index) sound pretty good. You lose.

LOL, you did a lot of research. Um, “Number 1- the Fashion District”, you have a photo of The Broad Museum. That’s in a whole different part of DTLA. But, you’re an intern that doesn’t live in LA, right?

A map of the bad neighborhoods would have been better than a list.

Wow what rank is Compton and Marina Del Rey where you see a lot of homeless people and crack heads walking around everywhere we recently moved from Manhattan Kansas to playa vista in L.A. and it is very safe you see lots of fur kids and security and cops and I never seen a crackhead or homeless person in playa vista

According to this list, the Hollywood Hills (home values over $1 Million) is a worse neighborhood than Sylmar (home values in the $300K)? Are you kidding me? Valley Village is home to many very wealthy actors and people in the biz that could live anywhere they choose. San Pedro has million dollar homes on the cliffs overlooking the ocean and Catalina Island. And Panorama City (don’t go there) is listed as better than all of those places? This list has so many mistakes. But yes…Bel Air is nice.

Glassell Park is higher on the list than Toluca Lake?? That’s hilarious.

The bumbling moron that wrote has the median home price in Palms, California as $440K. You can’t get a house in Palms for under $1.5 million. That should tell you all you need to know about this fact-less pile of rubbish.

RyanB,…just about everything you said is inaccurate. Only 15% of Californians are asian. You’re clueless.

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The Worst (And Best!) Times to Visit Los Angeles

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Are you thinking of visiting Los Angeles? With its long sunny days, unique cultural attractions, and rich nightlife experiences, it’s no wonder why the City of Angels continually draws in throngs of tourists each year. But to make sure that your stay in LA goes as smoothly as possible — timing your visit is key. So when should you jet off on your next journey to southern California? Read on for a full rundown of the worst times to visit Los Angeles AND the best times to be in LA!

What Is Off-Season in California?

Off-season in California is typically from November to February. Many travelers stay away, as it’s often when rain and chilly ocean breezes can be expected. On-season is during the summer months of May to September when the weather is warmest and students are on break.

The good news is that the off-season can be a great time for locals and visitors to take a discounted vacation without the crowds. Not only are hotels more affordable, but the scenery at places like Santa Barbara or Big Sur can be especially breathtaking in winter months.

Los Angeles County view

What Is the Worst Time of Year to Visit Los Angeles?

While it is truly subjective and depends on whether you are trying to avoid bad weather or crowds, the consensus on the worst time of year to visit Los Angeles is from June through August when the temperatures are hot and crowds and prices skyrocket.

Luckily, southern California has a relatively mild and pleasant climate year-round, so there is really not a horrible time to visit weather-wise.

However, the times of year to avoid, if possible, are when the weather is at its worst (cold and rainy) from January to March or when the crowds are heaviest from the end of May through mid-September during summer and peak tourist season.

crowds at Venice Beach

The crowds can be quite overwhelming in Los Angeles over the summer. Traffic on the freeways and around town increases and there is far less parking (often no parking if you don’t arrive early enough) at popular locations such as the beaches, attractions, and restaurants. Plus, prices on everything from accommodation to Ubers and events will also increase.

What Is the Coldest Month in Los Angeles?

December is the coldest month in Los Angeles (followed closely by January ). The daily high in December averages 67°F (20°C) and the low is 48°F (9°C).

The winter can even bring snow to the mountains around LA within easy driving distance. For those who enjoy skiing and snowboarding, check out the best spots around southern California for snow by clicking below.

Does It Snow in Southern California? 11 Best Snow Spots!

When Is the Rainy Season in Los Angeles?

The rainy season in Los Angeles is usually from November to mid-April , but the heaviest rainfall most often happens from December through February.

LA in the rain

Worst Time of Day to Visit and Drive to Los Angeles

Rush hour in Los Angeles (when traffic is at its heaviest) happens from about 7am to 10am in the mornings and from 4pm to 7pm in the evenings.

Typically, it is best to try and time your drive TO Los Angeles for either very early morning or late at night. When driving around LA, aim for the early afternoon or late at night.

During the summer, traffic can be a bit more sporadic and it tends to be more even throughout the day. More people are on vacation so the usual rush hour work traffic isn’t as bad, but more tourists flock to LA meaning traffic as a whole increases throughout the day.

downton LA at night

BEST Times of Year to Visit Los Angeles

Spring and Fall are the best times of year to visit LA. Both times of year have perfectly pleasant, warm weather and the crowds have not settled in yet for summer or for winter break.

What Is the Best Month to Go to Los Angeles?

April or October are the best months to visit Los Angeles.

Los Angeles in the spring

What Is the Cheapest Month to Visit California?

January. This month falls in California’s off-season, meaning you will be able to save some money with cheaper flights, accommodation, and attractions.

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Best Time to Visit Los Angeles Weather Wise

For those looking for hot and dry weather, the summer months of July through September will be your best bet. For those who enjoy mild weather, March through May are excellent months to be in LA.

June is surprisingly not a great month to visit Los Angeles. While the weather is starting to warm up, we get a lot of grey days that locals refer to as “June Gloom.”

>>> RELATED POST: The Best Weather in California: 17 Best Cities to Visit

Santa Monica Pier

Best Time to Visit Los Angeles Beaches

October. The weather has been warm all summer, meaning the ocean water temperature has had time to rise to a very comfortable level (average of 66°F in October vs. 58°F in February).

The weather also tends to be warm in October while cooling off from the more extreme heat of the dead of summer. The daily high averages 79°F (26°C) and the low averages 60°F (15.5°C).

Venice Beach and Los Angeles County

In October, the crowds have thinned out with kids going back to school, so the beaches are much easier to park at and enjoy.

October is my favorite month of the year to surf in Los Angeles! Not only are the temperature and crowds ideal, but the waves are also some of the best at this time of year as well.

>>> RELATED POSTS: A Guide to Surfing in Los Angeles: 21 Best Surf Spots! Best California Winter Beaches

me holding my board

How Many Days Do You Need to See Los Angeles?

How much of a city person are you? Those who love cities and doing things like visiting museums, seeing tourist sites, and spending time on epic rooftop bars or at events will want more time visiting Los Angeles .

About one week in Los Angeles would allow you plenty of time to get a good taste. If you plan on using LA as a day base and taking trips around southern California, 2 weeks is a better time frame.

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Hiking to the Hollywood Sign with my dog

For those who don’t typically enjoy spending much time in cities, 2-3 days is ideal for you to see the best of LA while giving you plenty of time to explore the many other incredible natural attractions and smaller cities around California.

Looking For Help Planning Your Trip to California?

Personalized travel planning & custom itineraries from a local.

Month-By-Month Comparison of the Worst & Best Times to Visit LA

Average High Temperature: 68°F Average Low Temperature: 49°F

BEST FOR: Low crowds, cheapest month to visit California

WORST FOR: Weather – one of the colder months, not as many events happening

>>> RELATED POST: 15 Best Places to Visit in California in January

Average High Temperature: 69°F Average Low Temperature: 51°F

BEST FOR: Low crowds, one of the cheaper months to visit California

WORST FOR: Weather, one of the colder months

>>> RELATED POST: Best Hollywood Tours From Santa Monica

snow-capped mountains behind Los Angeles

Average High Temperature: 70°F Average Low Temperature: 52°F

BEST FOR: Weather is warming up and spring flowers are starting to bloom

WORST FOR: Potential spring break crowds

Average High Temperature: 73°F Average Low Temperature: 55°F

Average High Temperature: 74°F Average Low Temperature: 58°F

BEST FOR: Weather is pleasant and mild

WORST FOR: Students start to get out of school for the summer, some potential for crowds

EP & LP rooftop bar in Los Angeles

Average High Temperature: 79°F Average Low Temperature: 62°F

BEST FOR: Weather is warming up, summer events start to happen

WORST FOR: Crowds – students are out of school, “June Gloom” grey days

Average High Temperature: 83°F Average Low Temperature: 65°F

BEST FOR: Hot weather, swimming at the beaches, 4th of July celebrations

WORST FOR: Crowds are at their peak

Average High Temperature: 85°F Average Low Temperature: 66°F

BEST FOR: Hot weather, summer festivals

WORST FOR: Crowds are at their peak, it can get uncomfortably hot at mid-day

crowded LA beach during summer

BEST FOR: Hot weather but students are starting to go back to school, crowds are thinning

WORST FOR: Still some summer crowds

Average High Temperature: 79°F Average Low Temperature: 60°F

BEST FOR: Warm weather and warm ocean water

WORST FOR: Weather can vary drastically between hot days and cool ones

El Porto Beach

Average High Temperature: 73°F Average Low Temperature: 53°F

BEST FOR: Weather is starting to cool down

WORST FOR: Potential for rain

BEST FOR: Holiday events and festivals

WORST FOR: Colder weather and potential for rain, some crowds with holiday vacationers

Christmas on Hermosa Beach Pier

CONCLUSION: Worst Time to Visit Los Angeles

With beautiful sunny weather year-round, Los Angeles can be a great vacation destination at any time of the year. However, it’s important to consider the time of year when visiting to make sure that your experience is pleasant and enjoyable. Many factors such as beach crowds, traffic, rain, and heat need to be taken into consideration before booking a trip.

During the summer months of June-September, you are likely to encounter high temperatures along with increased traffic and crowds, which can detract from the overall experience. For those looking for an enjoyable, yet slightly more affordable trip to Los Angeles, October and November or April and May could be fantastic options.

worst places to visit in los angeles

Whatever time of year you choose to travel, you are sure to have plenty to do to make for an excellent trip to southern California!

Related Posts: Safest Cities to Visit in Los Angeles County Swimming With Dolphins in Los Angeles California Stereotypes

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❗ Is Travel Insurance Required in the U.S.? No, it’s not. However, it’s always recommended to have travel insurance any time you travel in case of injury, accident, lost luggage, missed flight, etc. The best and most affordable travel/expat insurance is Safety Wing . It covers some medical as well, which is important in the U.S. due to the high cost of health care. >>> CLICK HERE FOR INFO

☔️  When Is the Best Time to Visit California? Summer (June-August) – is the warmest (in some parts it can be pretty hot) but you will have the most crowds. Some parts of the state get “June Gloom” where it can be cloudy during the morning and burn off by mid-day. Spring (March-May) or Fall (September-November) – are cooler and have the potential of rain, but you will beat some of the crowds and see some incredible wildflowers (spring)/greenery (fall).

🏠 Where Should You Stay in California? Hotels, vacation rentals, and house-sitting are all available for accommodation. My top recommendations for each are: • Booking.com • Vrbo • Trusted Housesitters (watch a home/pets in return for a FREE place to stay)

🌴 Where Can You Find Tours? I find incredible tours around the world >>> HERE with private and guided group tours of the most popular attractions and ones that fit your specific interests.

🚘 Should You Rent a Car in California? I very highly recommend  renting a car  in California so you don’t miss out on the gorgeous scenery and wonderful things to do in between the big cities! California is fantastic for road trips – there is SO much to see up and down the coast. Plus, sites are often spread far out, even in the cities, so having a car is the most convenient option. >>> Best car rental rates and deals

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Janelle Axton is a travel consultant and owner of Make the Trip Matter, a service dedicated to helping people create a lifestyle around frequent travel and extended time abroad. She grew up in California and spent time living abroad in Ireland in addition to traveling to over 25 countries.

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Hey guys can anybody tell me where not to go in L.A..?Had to catch a bus the other day downtown east los angelos on the corner of 8th and maple and didnt exzactley look like the freindlyiest of places i seemed to be the ony white person walking around does anybosy no downtown on the corner of 8th and maple...?is this a bad area..?

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Beverly Hills it ain't :) Seriously, its not really the greatest of areas, no. Around downtown, things start to get dicey east of (roughly) Broadway - not entirely true for the whole area, but something of a rule of thumb.

worst places to visit in los angeles

You seem oblivious to the fact that L.A. is a majority Latino city. Yeah, whites are the minority. Of course, from watching TV you'd never know.

No, it is not a bad area. It is part of a bustling commercial district.

I might also want to add that not having "white people" around does not make it automatically a "dangerous" place

8th & Maple you are fine.... that isn't even East L.A. yet and east L.A. is fine... not Beverly Hills, but not especially dangerous either.

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I guess you were the only person scared enuff to turn white as a ghost, so everyone else must have felt they were safe. Good sign that you were in a good area.

Read the last post three times now and still dont understand it :-(

If you don't know your way around downtown it's best to stick west of Broadway and north of 2nd Street.

So all the nice bars/restaurants and galleries along main and 4th are off limits to tourists? Say it aint so...

West of Broadway - agree with that. But north of 2nd st.? Did you perhaps mean to say south? Probably the nicest part of downtown is Bunker hill, which is largely south of 2nd street.

I mean stay West of Broadway, either side of 2nd.

EAst of Broadway, just stay north of 2nd.

And YES if you do not know where you are going, I would not go wandering around 4th & Main at night. You can always get a taxi to or from Pete's.

This is ADVICE for tourists, not people who know their way around.

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The worst places to travel in 2024

Posted: March 20, 2024 | Last updated: March 20, 2024

<p>It’s a <a href="https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/672/">UNESCO World Heritage Site</a> famed for its limestone pillars rising from the sea. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam is a popular scuba diving, hiking, and boating destination which hosts more than <a href="https://www.visithalongbay.com/news-updates/halong-bay-tourism-statistics--latest-data.html">11 million</a> tourists a year. However, this is one spot travellers will want to avoid in 2024 as the over-tourism issue is negatively affecting the local community and impacting the environment. <a href="https://www.scmp.com/lifestyle/travel-leisure/article/3222669/why-vietnams-ha-long-bay-under-threat-plastic-pollution-crisis-and-whats-being-done-stop-tourists">Plastic pollution</a> and marine waste such as diesel are damaging the local ecosystem of this beautiful bay. </p>

There’s no doubt that travel is a booming business and the popularity of going to new places is not declining. In fact, an expected 4.7 billion people will be packing their bags for a trip in 2024 according to airline experts . Not only is travel good for the economy, but studies have shown that it’s great for mental health as well. A full 91 per cent of American travellers see their trips as a reset button on their stress and anxiety levels. However, since vacation time can be limited, intrepid trippers will want to choose their destination wisely, so read on for the 20 worst places to travel in 2024.

<p>This beach resort town along Mexico’s Pacific Coast is known for sunny beaches, luxury hotels, and stunning mountain views. While this all sounds like an ideal travel destination, Acapulco is also known for its high rates of violent crime such as homicides, kidnappings, carjackings, and assaults. Several countries have <a href="https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mexico">travel advisories</a> for this Mexican city, and after a devastating hurricane in 2023, access to food and water remains a <a href="https://www.reuters.com/world/americas/devastated-acapulco-rebuilds-other-mexico-resorts-urged-heed-its-lessons-2023-11-06/">challenge,</a> making it less than perfect for a carefree vacation. </p>

Acapulco, Mexico

This beach resort town along Mexico’s Pacific Coast is known for sunny beaches, luxury hotels, and stunning mountain views. While this all sounds like an ideal travel destination, Acapulco is also known for its high rates of violent crime such as homicides, kidnappings, carjackings, and assaults. Several countries have travel advisories for this Mexican city, and after a devastating hurricane in 2023, access to food and water remains a challenge, making it less than perfect for a carefree vacation.

<p>Sure, it’s sometimes considered one of the <a href="https://www.niagarafallshotels.com/blog/niagara-falls-8th-wonder-world/#:~:text=While%20there%20is%20no%20'official,th%20wonder%20of%20the%20world.">wonders of the world</a>, but it is also Canada’s biggest <a href="https://www.thestar.com/news/canada/niagara-falls-one-of-the-worst-tourist-traps-in-the-world-report-finds/article_be02d6d7-0f9b-5090-acaf-bdd6220e429c.html">tourist trap</a>. Niagara Falls is comprised of three beautiful waterfalls surrounded by tacky and underwhelming attractions. Tourists have described the town as expensive and overcrowded—it is only a perfect location if you have money to burn. For a more sophisticated trip, try <a href="https://www.niagarafallstourism.com/niagara-region/niagara-on-the-lake/#:~:text=Beyond%20the%20quaint%20downtown%20and,of%20world%20famous%20Niagara%20Icewine.">Niagara-on-the-Lake</a>, known for its quaint downtown, world-renowned theatre, and award-winning wineries. </p>

Niagara Falls, Canada/USA

Sure, it’s sometimes considered one of the wonders of the world , but it is also Canada’s biggest tourist trap . Niagara Falls is comprised of three beautiful waterfalls surrounded by tacky and underwhelming attractions. Tourists have described the town as expensive and overcrowded—it is only a perfect location if you have money to burn. For a more sophisticated trip, try Niagara-on-the-Lake , known for its quaint downtown, world-renowned theatre, and award-winning wineries.

<p>It’s an engineering marvel of giant skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and interesting attractions plopped right down in a desert. However, Dubai is also a city with very strict laws and <a href="https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2022/country-chapters/united-arab-emirates">dubious human rights</a>. It is the safest city in the Middle East, but many countries warn their citizens of the risk of <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/united-arab-emirates-travel-advisory.html">terrorism</a> while visiting. And while violent crime directed at tourists is rare, there is a long list of <a href="https://www.bhtp.com/blog/safe-travel-to-dubai/">common actions</a> that are considered illegal here. </p>

It’s an engineering marvel of giant skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and interesting attractions plopped right down in a desert. However, Dubai is also a city with very strict laws and dubious human rights . It is the safest city in the Middle East, but many countries warn their citizens of the risk of terrorism while visiting. And while violent crime directed at tourists is rare, there is a long list of common actions that are considered illegal here.

<p>This gateway to the Sahara Desert is a touristy and <a href="https://globalcastaway.com/what-not-to-do-in-marrakesh/">bustling city</a> that, while popular to visit, is best to be avoided. In Marrakech, Morocco visitors will experience <a href="https://anywhereweroam.com/is-marrakech-safe/#:~:text=But%20Marrakech%20does%20have%20its,can%20be%20difficult%20to%20shake.">verbal harassment</a> from locals who are trying to sell you trinkets and fake guides willing to take your money for a sham tour. Instead, book a flight to these seaside Moroccan cities along the Atlantic Coast: <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.ca/Tourism-g293737-Tangier_Tanger_Tetouan_Al_Hoceima-Vacations.html">Tangier</a>, Rabat, or Essaouira. </p>

Marrakech, Morocco

This gateway to the Sahara Desert is a touristy and bustling city that, while popular to visit, is best to be avoided. In Marrakech, Morocco visitors will experience verbal harassment from locals who are trying to sell you trinkets and fake guides willing to take your money for a sham tour. Instead, book a flight to these seaside Moroccan cities along the Atlantic Coast: Tangier , Rabat, or Essaouira.

<p>While Cape Town, South Africa is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning landscapes and cultural experiences, it is also a place that travellers may want to avoid in 2024. Tourists will want to <a href="https://www.remoteyear.com/blog/is-cape-town-safe">exercise caution</a> while in Cape Town, as gang-related activity is common and rallies and protests occur frequently. Instead, head to <a href="https://www.thetravel.com/what-is-durban-south-africa-known-for/">Durban</a> with its sunny beaches, rich history, and outdoor adventure. </p>

Cape Town, South Africa

While Cape Town, South Africa, is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning landscapes and cultural experiences, tourists will need to exercise caution during their stay, bearing in mind the crime and safety issues that arise in all major cities. For an interesting alternative, head to Durban with its sunny beaches, rich history, and outdoor adventure.

<p>Many climbers train nearly a lifetime to conquer Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth. However, unless you’re an experienced mountaineer, <a href="https://www.nationalreview.com/the-morning-jolt/climbing-mount-everest-is-overrated/">making the trek</a> up this Himalayan Mountain is best to be avoided. With more and more people visiting the area, it has become largely overcrowded and <a href="https://education.nationalgeographic.org/resource/trash-and-overcrowding-top-world/">polluted</a>. Skip the long lines and “highest garbage dump” in the world and try scaling the height of <a href="https://www.adventurealternative.com/climb-mount-kilimanjaro/">Kilimanjaro</a> instead. </p>

Mount Everest, Nepal

Many climbers train nearly a lifetime to conquer Mount Everest, the highest point on Earth. However, unless you’re an experienced mountaineer, making the trek up this Himalayan Mountain is best to be avoided. With more and more people visiting the area, it has become largely overcrowded and polluted . Skip the long lines and “highest garbage dump” in the world and try scaling the height of Kilimanjaro instead.

<p>This South American capital city is definitely on the list of worst places to travel in 2024. From criminal activity and civil unrest to kidnapping and <a href="https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/venezuela-travel-advisory.html#:~:text=Do%20not%20travel%20to%20Venezuela,terrorism%2C%20and%20poor%20health%20infrastructure.">arbitrary enforcement</a> of local laws, tourists will want to give a wide berth to Caracas, Venezuela. This densely overpopulated and polluted city is a pretty dangerous place and recent <a href="https://www.reuters.com/markets/currencies/venezuelas-anti-inflation-efforts-dealt-blow-currency-tumbles-2022-11-24/">economic unrest</a> makes it even worse. Instead, head to the <a href="https://www.britannica.com/place/Altiplano#:~:text=Altiplano%2C%20region%20of%20southeastern%20Peru,3%2C650%20metres)%20above%20sea%20level.">Altiplano</a> region in Bolivia.</p>

Caracas, Venezuela

This South American capital city is definitely on the list of worst places to travel in 2024. From criminal activity and civil unrest to kidnapping and arbitrary enforcement of local laws, tourists will want to give a wide berth to Caracas, Venezuela. This densely overpopulated and polluted city is a pretty dangerous place and recent economic unrest makes it even worse. Instead, head to the Altiplano region in Bolivia.

<p>This Honduran city is known for its high level of violent crime, making it one of the worst travel destinations in 2024. The <a href="https://www.travelsafe-abroad.com/honduras/san-pedro-sula/">second-largest city</a> in the country, San Pedro Sula has one of the highest murder rates in the world and is known for gang activity, drug trafficking, and targeted theft on tourists. Instead, hop on a bus and explore the charming town of Copán and its ancient <a href="https://www.visitcentroamerica.com/en/visitar/ruins-of-copan/">Mayan ruins</a>. </p>

San Pedro Sula, Honduras

This Honduran city is known for its high level of violent crime, making it one of the worst travel destinations in 2024. The second-largest city in the country, San Pedro Sula has one of the highest murder rates in the world and is known for gang activity, drug trafficking, and targeted theft on tourists. Instead, hop on a bus and explore the charming town of Copán and its ancient Mayan ruins .

<p>It’s sometimes included on travel bucket lists and many tourists have cheesy photos of themselves in front of it, but the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the worst places to travel to in 2024. Enthusiastic trippers will most likely be <a href="https://manhattanite.co/pisa-italy/">disappointed</a> in the tower and the cathedral in Pisa, Italy. The long lines, expensive tickets, and rather underwhelming leaning of the structure is sure to put people off. Instead, check out <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/San_Gimignano">San Gimignano</a> in Tuscany to see beautiful medieval towers and stay away from the tourist onslaught. </p>

Pisa, Italy

It’s sometimes included on travel bucket lists and many tourists have cheesy photos of themselves in front of it, but the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa is one of the worst places to travel to in 2024. Enthusiastic trippers will most likely be disappointed in the tower and the cathedral in Pisa, Italy. The long lines, expensive tickets, and rather underwhelming leaning of the structure is sure to put people off. Instead, check out San Gimignano in Tuscany to see beautiful medieval towers and stay away from the tourist onslaught.

<p>It’s the largest island in Thailand and it’s surrounded by lush forests and beautiful beaches with warm water, making <a href="https://www.travelweekly.com/Hotels/Phuket-City-Thailand/Spotlight">Phuket</a> sounds like a traveller’s paradise. However, along with the tourist attractions comes crowding, <a href="https://www.thebrokebackpacker.com/is-phuket-safe/">tourist scams</a>, and robberies. For those looking for a more relaxed Thai paradise vacation, check out <a href="https://www.placesofjuma.com/krabi-beaches-thailand">Koh Poda</a>, which was voted one of the best beaches in the country. </p>

Phuket, Thailand

It’s the largest island in Thailand and it’s surrounded by lush forests and beautiful beaches with warm water, making Phuket sounds like a traveller’s paradise. However, along with the tourist attractions comes crowding, tourist scams , and robberies. For those looking for a more relaxed Thai paradise vacation, check out Koh Poda , which was voted one of the best beaches in the country.

<p>There’s no doubt that travel is a booming business and the popularity of going to new places is not declining. In fact, an expected 4.7 billion people will be packing their bags for a trip in 2024 according to <a href="https://www.cnbc.com/2023/12/06/airlines-signs-are-pointing-to-a-bumper-travel-year-in-2024.html#:~:text=Total%20revenues%20in%202024%20are,4.5%20billion%20seen%20in%202019.">airline experts</a>. Not only is travel good for the economy, but studies have shown that it’s great for mental health as well. A full <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzannerowankelleher/2019/07/28/this-is-your-brain-on-travel/?sh=679182032be6">91 per cent</a> of American travellers see their trips as a reset button on their stress and anxiety levels. However, since vacation time can be limited, intrepid trippers will want to choose their destination wisely, so read on for the 20 worst places to travel in 2024. </p>

Cairo, Egypt

History buffs travel in droves to check out the ancient pyramids, amazing museums, and the sights and sounds of this historical city. Cairo is home to some very cool tourist spots; however, it can be a very dangerous place to travel to in 2024. Rife with scams, pickpockets, and threats of terrorism, Cairo is also a particularly hostile city for women. Female travellers have reported catcalling, harassment, and sexual assault and Egypt is, in general, unsafe for LGBTQ+ travellers.

<p>The extreme weather conditions of Death Valley in California and its remote location make this one of the worst places to travel in 2024. There are limited options for food, water, and gas, meaning that unprepared travellers are putting themselves at very high risk. With <a href="https://www.cbsnews.com/news/death-valley-hottest-place-on-earth-near-record-high-heat-wave/">temperatures soaring</a> to 52 degrees Celsius (125 degrees Fahrenheit) and numerous fatalities recorded in the area due to heat and extreme conditions, this is not a tour for the faint of heart. If you still insist on visiting, safety should be a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/deva/planyourvisit/safety.htm#:~:text=Rattlesnakes%2C%20scorpions%2C%20or%20black%20widow,mice%20and%20cactus%20mice%20here.">top priority</a>, with guidelines such as drinking plenty of water, avoiding hiking in the heat, and following the speed limits. </p>

Death Valley, California, USA

The extreme weather conditions of Death Valley in California and its remote location make this one of the worst places to travel in 2024. There are limited options for food, water, and gas, meaning that unprepared travellers are putting themselves at very high risk. With temperatures soaring to 52 degrees Celsius (125 degrees Fahrenheit) and numerous fatalities recorded in the area due to heat and extreme conditions, this is not a tour for the faint of heart. If you still insist on visiting, safety should be a top priority , with guidelines such as drinking plenty of water, avoiding hiking in the heat, and following the speed limits.

<p>Glitz, glamour, and the rich and famous—that sums up many people’s expectations of Hollywood. The reality is that <a href="https://www.worldnomads.com/travel-safety/north-america/united-states/is-los-angeles-safe">Hollywood</a> is a relatively small neighbourhood in Los Angeles, and while there’s plenty to see—including the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Dolby Theatre, and the famous sign—it’s a very crowded and sometimes sketchy place. Skip this part of Tinseltown and head to the Getty Museum or Griffith Observatory in <a href="https://travellersworldwide.com/is-los-angeles-safe/">downtown L.A.</a> and then hit up some amazing Mexican food as well. </p>

Hollywood, California, USA

Glitz, glamour, and the rich and famous—that sums up many people’s expectations of Hollywood. The reality is that Hollywood is a relatively small neighbourhood in Los Angeles, and while there’s plenty to see—including the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Dolby Theatre, and the famous sign—it’s a very crowded and sometimes sketchy place. Skip this part of Tinseltown and head to the Getty Museum or Griffith Observatory in downtown L.A. and then hit up some amazing Mexican food as well.

<p>Boasting beautiful beaches and a bustling and vibrant nightlife, <a href="https://www.thetravel.com/travel-guide-to-nassau-bahamas/">Nassau</a>, the capital city of the Bahamas, sounds like it has it all. However, due to its popularity, the city is also known for its overcrowding, high prices, and pushy vendors. It is also the most visited port for <a href="https://www.iqcruising.com/ports/caribbean/bahamas/nassau/index.html#:~:text=Nassau%20is%20the%20most%20visited,destinations%20in%20the%20Caribbean%20itineraries.">cruise ships</a> in the Bahamas, leading to an influx of tourists. The city is unfortunately also facing <a href="https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/americas/bahamas#:~:text=Armed%20robberies%2C%20burglaries%2C%20purse%20snatchings,)%2C%20where%20gang%20violence%20occurs.">high rates of crime</a>, meaning this destination is one to skip in 2024. </p>

Nassau, Bahamas

Boasting beautiful beaches and a bustling and vibrant nightlife, Nassau , the capital city of the Bahamas, sounds like it has it all. However, due to its popularity, the city is also known for its overcrowding, high prices, and pushy vendors. It is also the most visited port for cruise ships in the Bahamas, leading to an influx of tourists. The city is unfortunately also facing high rates of crime , meaning this destination is one to skip in 2024.

<p>Gondola rides, romantic candlelit dinners, and historical canals may await Venetian tourists; however, this sinking city is completely overwhelmed with visitors. More than eight million <a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/world/article-venice-entry-fee-italy-tourists/">day-trippers</a> descend onto this tiny Italian city annually, and not only is it crowded but Venice is also one of the most <a href="https://www.venicetraveltips.com/is-venice-expensive/#:~:text=Believe%20it%20or%20not%2C%20Venice,expensive%20cities%20in%20the%20world!">expensive cities</a> in the world. Skip the long lines and wander the waterways of <a href="https://www.tripsavvy.com/bassano-del-grappa-italy-5079079">Bassano del Grappa</a> instead. </p>

Venice, Italy

Gondola rides, romantic candlelit dinners, and historical canals may await Venetian tourists; however, this sinking city is completely overwhelmed with visitors. More than eight million day-trippers descend onto this tiny Italian city annually, and not only is it crowded but Venice is also one of the most expensive cities in the world. Skip the long lines and wander the waterways of Bassano del Grappa instead.

<p>It has all-night parties, amazing food and culture, and plenty of sunshine, but Barcelona also has an <a href="https://www.responsibletravel.com/copy/overtourism-in-barcelona">over-tourism problem</a>. As a result, the city has resorted to restricting the number of visitors, from reducing the number of cruise ships <a href="https://www.theneweuropean.co.uk/barcelonas-war-on-tourism-ada-colau/">allowed to dock</a> to limiting hotel beds, making it one of the places to avoid in 2024. </p>

Barcelona, Spain

It has all-night parties, amazing food and culture, and plenty of sunshine, but Barcelona also has an over-tourism problem . As a result, the city has resorted to restricting the number of visitors, from reducing the number of cruise ships allowed to dock to limiting hotel beds, making it one of the places to avoid in 2024.

<p>This fourth-largest city in Japan also has the reputation of being the <a href="https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2016/10/08/national/media-national/nagoya-boring-city-japan/">most boring</a> in the country, meaning that it may just be one of the worst places to travel in 2024. While <a href="https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2155.html">Nagoya, Japan</a> has some famous attractions, the city is mostly industrial and lacks the tourism infrastructure that many visitors expect. Tourists in the Land of the Rising Sun would be better off heading to Okinawa or Kanoya. </p>

Nagoya, Japan

This fourth-largest city in Japan also has the reputation of being the most boring in the country, meaning that it may just be one of the worst places to travel in 2024. While Nagoya, Japan has some famous attractions, the city is mostly industrial and lacks the tourism infrastructure that many visitors expect. Tourists in the Land of the Rising Sun would be better off heading to Okinawa or Kanoya.

<p>Devastating forest fires ripped through <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2023/11/01/us/hawaii-maui-fire-timeline.html">Lahaina</a> in 2023, making this tropical destination one of the worst places to travel to this year. With its lush rainforests and amazing beaches, it’s not hard to see why the second-biggest island in Hawaii is usually a vacationer’s paradise. However, the area needs time to rebuild and locals are <a href="https://spectrumlocalnews.com/hi/hawaii/news/2023/08/15/tourists-discouraged-from-visiting-west-maui-#:~:text=%E2%80%9CMaui%20is%20not%20the%20place,and%20678%20acres%20in%20Kula.">begging tourists</a> to stay away. Instead of Maui, try Fiji for those tropical vibes.</p>

Maui, Hawaii

Devastating forest fires ripped through Lahaina in 2023, making this tropical destination one of the worst places to travel to this year. With its lush rainforests and amazing beaches, it’s not hard to see why the second-biggest island in Hawaii is usually a vacationer’s paradise. However, the area needs time to rebuild and locals are begging tourists to stay away. Instead of Maui, try Fiji for those tropical vibes.

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its limestone pillars rising from the sea. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam is a popular scuba diving, hiking, and boating destination which hosts more than 11 million tourists a year. However, this is one spot travellers will want to avoid in 2024 as the over-tourism issue is negatively affecting the local community and impacting the environment. Plastic pollution and marine waste such as diesel are damaging the local ecosystem of this beautiful bay.

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The Worst Time To Visit Los Angeles 🇺🇸: Traveler’s Guide in 2024

Colin A. Borden

Los Angeles, often referred to as the “City of Angels,” is a sprawling metropolis that beckons millions of visitors each year with its sun-soaked beaches, iconic landmarks, and the allure of Hollywood glamour. However, beneath the veneer of palm-lined boulevards and celebrity sightings lies a crucial factor that can make or break the visitor experience: timing.

While Los Angeles boasts a Mediterranean climate, offering generally pleasant weather throughout the year, not all moments are created equal for those seeking an optimal visit. From congested traffic arteries to swarms of tourists, the City of Angels has its fair share of drawbacks during certain periods. However, In this article, we will focus on one particular year when a unique set of factors aligns to make it the worst time to visit Los Angeles.

Month By Month

  • Weather: January in Los Angeles features mild temperatures, with average highs around 64°F (18°C) and cooler evenings. It’s a comfortable time for outdoor activities without the scorching summer heat.
  • Events: The city starts the year with a bang, hosting events like the iconic Rose Parade on New Year’s Day, showcasing elaborate floats and marching bands. Additionally, the Golden Globe Awards bring glitz and glamour to the entertainment industry.
  • Crowds: Post-holiday season, January experiences lighter tourist traffic. This makes it an ideal time to explore popular attractions, museums, and cultural sites without enduring long lines.
  • Considerations: While the weather is generally mild, occasional rain showers are possible. Visitors should pack a light jacket and be prepared for some wet days.
  • Weather: February maintains the mild temperatures of winter, with average highs around 66°F (19°C). It’s a great time for outdoor activities, and the risk of rain diminishes compared to January.
  • Events: The city embraces the romantic atmosphere with Valentine’s Day events and festivities. Additionally, the Academy Awards (Oscars) ceremony takes place, attracting attention from the global entertainment community.
  • Crowds: While still relatively quiet in terms of tourism, the city may see an increase in visitors attending Oscars-related events and activities.
  • Considerations: Bring layers for cooler evenings, and check for any road closures or event-related disruptions.
  • Weather: March sees a gradual increase in temperatures, with average highs around 68°F (20°C). Spring blooms start to emerge, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
  • Events: Various cultural events and festivals take place, celebrating the diversity of Los Angeles. The LA Marathon is a notable event for sports enthusiasts.
  • Crowds: With spring break beginning, there might be a slight uptick in tourists. However, crowds are generally moderate compared to peak summer months.
  • Considerations: Enjoy the blossoming scenery and consider participating in outdoor events before the warmer months.
  • Weather: April marks the onset of spring, bringing pleasant temperatures to Los Angeles, averaging around 70°F (21°C). The city is adorned with blooming flowers, and the skies are usually clear.
  • Events: One of the most notable events in April is the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, held in nearby Indio. Drawing music enthusiasts from around the world, it adds an extra layer of excitement to the region.
  • Crowds: With spring break ending, April experiences a decline in tourist numbers. It’s an excellent time to explore popular attractions and enjoy outdoor activities.
  • Considerations: Pack sunscreen as the sun becomes more intense, and consider attending outdoor festivals and events.
  • Weather: May brings warmer temperatures, with average highs around 74°F (23°C). It’s a delightful time for outdoor exploration before the peak of summer heat.
  • Events: The city hosts various cultural and art festivals in May. Cinco de Mayo celebrations add a festive touch, honoring Mexican heritage.
  • Crowds: Tourist numbers start to increase as summer approaches, but May generally offers a pleasant balance with manageable crowds.
  • Considerations: Plan outdoor activities in the first half of the day to avoid the warmer afternoons. Check out cultural events happening throughout the city.
  • Weather: June marks the beginning of summer, bringing warmer temperatures with average highs around 79°F (26°C). It’s a popular month for beachgoers and outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Events: The LA Film Festival and various outdoor concerts and performances kick off the summer entertainment season.
  • Crowds: Tourist numbers rise significantly, especially around popular beaches and attractions. Expect longer lines and busier streets.
  • Considerations: Stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and plan activities early or late in the day to avoid the peak of the sun’s intensity.
  • Weather: July is peak summer in Los Angeles, with warm temperatures and average highs around 84°F (29°C). It’s the height of beach season and outdoor festivities.
  • Events: Independence Day celebrations light up the city’s skies with impressive fireworks displays. The month also hosts various summer festivals and outdoor concerts.
  • Crowds: Expect higher tourist numbers, particularly around popular attractions and coastal areas. Plan ahead and arrive early to secure prime spots.
  • Considerations: Stay sun-safe with sunscreen and hydration, as the summer sun can be intense. Traffic may be heavier due to increased tourism.
  • Weather: August continues with warm summer temperatures, with average highs around 84°F (29°C). It’s a prime month for outdoor activities and enjoying the city’s beaches.
  • Events: Various music and cultural festivals take place during August, providing entertainment options for visitors and locals alike.
  • Crowds: Tourist numbers remain high in August, especially around popular tourist spots and coastal areas. Beaches can be crowded, so plan accordingly.
  • Considerations: Stay cool in the summer heat, and be prepared for warm evenings. Explore cultural events to get a taste of the city’s diverse offerings.
  • Weather: September transitions into late summer, with slightly milder temperatures compared to August, averaging around 79°F (26°C).
  • Events: The city hosts events like the LA County Fair, offering a mix of entertainment, food, and culture. It’s a great time to explore outdoor activities with more comfortable temperatures.
  • Crowds: While still relatively busy, September sees a gradual decline in tourist numbers compared to the peak summer months.
  • Considerations: Enjoy outdoor events and festivals, and take advantage of the more moderate temperatures for sightseeing.
  • Weather: October ushers in autumn with milder temperatures, averaging around 73°F (23°C). Fall foliage adds a touch of color to the city.
  • Events: The LA Haunted Hayride and other Halloween-themed events dominate October, creating a festive atmosphere. The LA County Fair may extend into early October.
  • Crowds: While not as crowded as the summer months, October sees a steady stream of tourists. Popular attractions and events may still have moderate crowds.
  • Considerations: Pack layers, as temperatures can vary throughout the day. It’s advisable to check event schedules and book accommodations in advance, especially around Halloween.
  • Weather: November brings cooler temperatures, with average highs around 68°F (20°C). It’s a pleasant time for fall activities and exploring the city without the summer heat.
  • Events: Thanksgiving Day is celebrated with various events and parades. Additionally, film festivals and cultural events offer entertainment options.
  • Crowds: Tourist numbers start to decline in November, creating a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s a good time to enjoy popular attractions with fewer crowds.
  • Considerations: Bring a jacket for cooler evenings, and plan for Thanksgiving-themed events and activities.
  • Weather: December sees mild temperatures, with average highs around 64°F (18°C). While it’s not as cold as many other parts of the country, there’s a festive and holiday atmosphere in the air.
  • Events: The city comes alive with holiday decorations, and events like holiday parades and festivals add to the festive spirit. New Year’s Eve celebrations mark the end of the year.
  • Crowds: Tourist numbers increase again in December, particularly around holiday-themed events and shopping districts. Plan for popular attractions to be busier.
  • Considerations: Embrace the holiday spirit, explore festive events, and be prepared for cooler evenings. Book accommodations early for popular New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Seasonal Weather Patterns

The city’s proximity to the Pacific Ocean moderates temperature extremes, resulting in relatively consistent weather throughout the year. Here’s a breakdown of the seasonal patterns in Los Angeles:

Winter (December to February):

  • Temperature: Winters in Los Angeles are mild, with average daytime highs ranging from 64°F to 68°F (18°C to 20°C). Nighttime temperatures can drop to around 48°F (9°C).
  • Rainfall: This is the rainy season, with occasional but generally light rainfall. January is typically the wettest month.
  • Activities: While temperatures are cooler, winter is still a great time for outdoor activities without the summer crowds. It’s also a season for festive events and holiday celebrations.

Spring (March to May):

  • Temperature: Spring brings a gradual warming trend, with average daytime highs ranging from 68°F to 73°F (20°C to 23°C). Nights become milder, with temperatures around 53°F (12°C).
  • Rainfall: Rainfall decreases as spring progresses, and the city starts to transition to drier conditions.
  • Activities: Spring is a delightful time to enjoy blooming flowers, outdoor festivals, and cultural events. The weather is pleasant for exploring the city and its attractions.

Summer (June to August):

  • Temperature: Summer is characterized by warm temperatures, with average highs ranging from 79°F to 84°F (26°C to 29°C). Nights are milder, with temperatures around 63°F (17°C).
  • Rainfall: Summer is typically very dry, with minimal rainfall. The city experiences a Mediterranean climate with a distinct dry season.
  • Activities: It’s prime beach season, and outdoor activities flourish. Popular events, festivals, and concerts take place throughout the city. However, be prepared for increased tourist crowds.

Fall (September to November):

  • Temperature: Fall sees a gradual cooling, with average daytime highs ranging from 73°F to 68°F (23°C to 20°C). Nights become cooler, with temperatures around 55°F (13°C).
  • Rainfall: While fall is still relatively dry, there might be a slight uptick in rainfall compared to the summer months.
  • Activities: Fall is a great time for outdoor exploration, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the summer. Cultural events and festivals continue, and it’s an excellent time for hiking and outdoor activities.

Overall, Los Angeles provides a fairly consistent climate, making it a year-round destination.

Worst Time To Visit Los Angeles

The worst season to visit Los Angeles, perhaps ironically, is the summer.

While the city’s Mediterranean climate generally offers pleasant weather, the summer months (June to August) present several challenges for visitors.

The scorching temperatures, with average highs ranging from 79°F to 84°F (26°C to 29°C), can make outdoor activities uncomfortable, particularly for those unaccustomed to the heat.

The city experiences a significant influx of tourists during this time, leading to crowded beaches, popular attractions, and congested roadways.

Also, the lack of rainfall during the summer results in dry conditions, occasionally contributing to wildfires and impacting air quality.

While summer in Los Angeles has its appeal, the combination of intense heat, elevated tourist numbers, and potential environmental concerns makes it the least favorable season for those seeking a more relaxed and enjoyable experience in the City of Angels.

Best Time To Visit Los Angeles

The best time to visit Los Angeles is arguably during the fall months, spanning from September to November.

This season offers a perfect balance of pleasant weather, reduced tourist crowds, and a myriad of cultural events.

As the summer heat begins to wane, temperatures in fall range from 73°F to 68°F (23°C to 20°C), creating an ideal climate for outdoor exploration.

The city comes alive with a variety of festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions, providing visitors with a rich cultural experience.

With milder temperatures and fewer tourists compared to the summer peak, fall allows for a more relaxed and enjoyable visit to iconic landmarks, picturesque beaches, and renowned attractions.

Whether strolling through vibrant neighborhoods, hiking in the nearby hills, or attending seasonal events, fall offers a delightful combination of favorable weather and diverse activities, making it the optimal time to savor the essence of Los Angeles.

Least Busy Time To Visit Los Angeles

Now, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds and don’t mind slightly cooler temperatures, the least busy time to visit Los Angeles is during winter (December to February).

This period immediately follows the bustling holiday season, resulting in a noticeable decline in tourist numbers.

The city experiences mild temperatures during this time, with average highs ranging from 64°F to 68°F (18°C to 20°C), making it comfortable for outdoor exploration without the crowds.

Attractions, museums, and popular landmarks are more accessible, allowing visitors to appreciate the city’s offerings at a more leisurely pace.

Also, the post-holiday lull contributes to quieter beaches and less congested roadways. While occasional rain showers may occur, the overall serenity and reduced tourist activity make winter an excellent choice for those who prefer a more relaxed and uncrowded visit to the City of Angels.

Things To Consider While Visiting Los Angeles

When planning your visit to Los Angeles, there are a few factors to consider that may impact your experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Traffic and Transportation:

  • Congestion: Los Angeles is notorious for heavy traffic, especially during rush hours. Plan your itinerary to avoid peak traffic times.
  • Public Transportation: Explore the city’s Metro system and buses as alternatives to driving, especially for navigating downtown areas and popular tourist spots.
  • Ridesharing: Consider using rideshare services for convenience and flexibility, especially when exploring areas without efficient public transportation.

Diverse Neighborhoods:

  • Cultural Exploration: Los Angeles is a melting pot of diverse neighborhoods, each offering a unique cultural experience. Explore areas like Koreatown, Little Tokyo, and Venice Beach for distinct vibes.
  • Local Cuisine: Each neighborhood boasts its own culinary scene. Don’t miss the opportunity to try diverse cuisines, from food trucks to high-end restaurants.
  • Street Art and Murals: Many neighborhoods feature vibrant street art and murals, adding to the city’s creative atmosphere. Take a walking tour to discover these hidden gems.

Weather Variability:

  • Microclimates: Los Angeles has microclimates, meaning weather can vary between neighborhoods. Pack layers to adapt to temperature changes throughout the day.
  • Sun Protection: Sunscreen and hats are essential, especially during the sunny and warm months. Protect yourself from the sun’s intensity, particularly if engaging in outdoor activities.
  • Rainy Season: If visiting in winter, be prepared for occasional rain. Carry an umbrella and check weather forecasts to plan accordingly.

Attractions and Entertainment:

  • Advance Reservations: Some popular attractions, like theme parks and studio tours, may require advance reservations. Plan and book tickets ahead to secure your spot.
  • Event Calendar: Check for local events, concerts, and festivals happening during your visit. Los Angeles offers a vibrant entertainment scene, and you might catch a show or cultural event.
  • Beach Etiquette: If heading to the beaches, be mindful of local regulations, and consider bringing essentials like sunscreen, towels, and reusable water bottles.

Safety and Neighborhood Awareness:

  • Safety Precautions: Like any major city, practice general safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings, secure valuables, and use well-lit areas during nighttime.
  • Homelessness Awareness: Los Angeles faces homelessness challenges. While exploring, be compassionate and aware of the issue, and consider supporting local organizations working towards solutions.
  • Neighborhood Research: Research neighborhoods before visiting to understand their dynamics. Some areas may have specific cultural attractions, while others are known for shopping or nightlife.

Final Thoughts

So, Los Angeles offers a diverse and vibrant experience year-round, but careful consideration of timing and factors can enhance your visit.

For the least busy experience, consider winter, especially post-holidays, with milder temperatures and fewer crowds. If you’re a fan of pleasant weather and cultural events, fall is the best time to explore.

Be mindful of the notorious traffic, diverse neighborhoods, and the city’s microclimates. Plan ahead for attractions and events, use public transportation, and stay sun-safe.

Finally, embrace the uniqueness of each season, whether it’s the festive atmosphere of December, the blooming flowers of April, or the beach vibes of July.

Also, this state invites you to discover its dynamic energy, but a well-prepared visit ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience in this iconic metropolis.

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Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Los Angeles

Hash-mark 10 most dangerous neighborhoods in los angeles (2023).

  • Downtown LA
  • Wholesale District/Skid Row
  • South Los Angeles
  • North Hollywood
  • Fashion District

hash-mark 1. Downtown LA

The most dangerous neighborhood in Los Angeles is Downtown LA. Often abbreviated as DTLA, Downtown LA is the city’s economic hub. While this may be LA’s financial hub, it’s also a hotspot for crime and illicit activity. Based on FBI crime statistics, the violent crime rate is very high in Downtown LA, making it 12 times as dangerous as the national average. When property crimes are included, the overall crime rate in Downtown Los Angeles is 530% higher than the national average. According to LAPD statistics, there were 1,702 violent offenses reported in 2022. In addition, the murder rate downtown was at an all-time high of 490 in 2018. 

Walking alone or in a group is highly discouraged at night. Homelessness remains a large issue downtown while pickpocketing and robberies are common. Crime isn’t as rampant during the day, but caution is still highly advised. The worst areas are located south of 3rd Street, north of 7th Street, west of Alameda Street, and east of Main Street. Carrying large amounts of cash is highly discouraged. 

hash-mark 2. West Adams

West Adams is another one of the worst areas in Los Angeles when it comes to crime. The neighborhood has a population of 11,961 and a crime rate of 6,811 per 100,000 people meaning that residents have a 1 in 15 chance of becoming the victim of a crime. Much of the crime in West Adams is violent crime stemming from gang and drug activity. There is a solid police presence in this neighborhood, but residents often complain that police cannot respond to so many criminal incidents at once. 

Aside from gun violence, crimes like robbery, assault, and theft are common. Because of this, it is not advised to walk at night. Many residents complain of a lack of overall safety, even when taking public transit in this area. 

hash-mark 3. Wholesale District/Skid Row

The Wholesale District, commonly known as Skid Row, is another one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Los Angeles. It's also one of America’s largest homeless encampments. Estimates of Skid Row’s permanent homeless population range from 9,000 to 15,000 people. Commuters and residents often feel overwhelmed by the sheer scale of homelessness in the area. 

Since 2010, crime in the Wholesale District has increased by 59%. In 2013 there were 13,122 reported crimes, with 2,698 assaults, 1,350 vehicle break-ins, and 2,453 incidents of theft. Much of the crime among the homeless population stems from the ubiquitous drug trade, with crimes like pickpocketing and theft also common. Areas such as San Pedro Street are known for being especially bad. Since cycling or walking is only permitted until 6 PM, Skid Row becomes a hotspot of gang and drug activity. 

hash-mark 4. Hollywood 

Surprisingly, Hollywood is also one of the worst neighborhoods in LA for crime. While Hollywood is known worldwide as the home of many of the biggest movie production companies, the area also has a major crime problem. The neighborhood has a population of 90,322, and the crime rate is 4,894 per 100,000 people making Hollywood 109% higher than the national average. Despite being a major tourist attraction, property theft, and pickpocketing are very common in Hollywood. Walking during the day shouldn’t be an issue as long as personal belongings are secure. However, walking at night isn’t advised.

hash-mark 5. South Los Angeles 

South Los Angeles has a population of 249,670 and a crime rate of 4,268 per 100,000 people. Formerly known as South Central, this is one of the most dangerous areas in LA. It is mainly affected by drug trafficking and gun violence, which is closely linked to gang activity. A heavier police presence in South LA has resulted in a gradual reduction of crime since the 1990s. The level of gang activity depends on the neighborhood, and residents are advised to take precautions when walking at night. During the day, walking is somewhat safer, and using public transit is generally considered safe. 

hash-mark 6. Compton 

Compton is also one of the worst neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Although the neighborhood's crime rate has decreased since the 1990s, Compton is still dangerous , and the area has a reputation for gun violence, drug activity, poverty, and violent crime. With a population of 97,740 and a crime rate of 3,533 per 100,000 people, Compton is 51% more dangerous than the national average. In 2005, Compton topped the national charts for having the highest murder rate in the country, but that has dropped in the past 2 decades. However, since 2020, there has been an increase in violent crime and property crime in Compton. Despite having a significant police presence, residents feel that police lack the capacity to respond to incidents. 

hash-mark 7. Watts

Watts is another one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Los Angeles. The crime rate in Watts is 50% higher than the national average. Overall, the crime rate is 3,514 per 100,000 people, and the chance of becoming the victim of a crime in Watts is 1 in 29. Just like Compton, Watts’ violent crime rate has fallen since the 1990s. 

In 2022 there were 1,574 incidents of violent crime and 1,943 incidents of property crime in Watts. Walking alone at night, taking public transit, and carrying large amounts of cash or valuables is not advised. 

hash-mark 8. Koreatown 

With a population of 72,523, Koreatown has a crime rate of 2,978 per 100k people making this neighborhood 32% more dangerous than the national average. Gang and drug activity are common in this neighborhood, with other associated crimes like prostitution being quite common as well. The Southern and Eastern parts of Koreatown are considered to be the most dangerous. 

Other crimes, such as robberies, assaults, and pickpocketing, are common as well. Many of these types of crimes occur on public transit, and it is advised to keep all belongings accounted for at all times. It is recommended to avoid walking during nighttime and to avoid areas like Hancock Park and Wilshire Center. 

hash-mark 9. Fashion District 

Out of a small population of 2,466, the Fashion District’s crime rate is 28% higher than the national average. The crime rate is 2,870 per 100,000 people, making the chances of becoming a victim 1 in 35. During the daytime being out walking or taking public transit isn’t dangerous as long as precautions are taken. 

hash-mark 10. North Hollywood

With a population of 64,587, North Hollywood has a crime rate of 2,592 per 100,000 people, making the neighborhood 10% higher than the national average. Also known as NoHo, this neighborhood shares a boundary with Universal Studio. North Hollywood’s criminal activities are mostly based on gang and drug activity. 

Property crimes are the most prevalent in North Hollywood, accounting for 82% of total crime in 2022. This is not limited to other crimes such as burglary, robbery, and assault. Areas around Magnolia, Lankershim, and the 170 highway are considered safe during the day, and taking public transit rarely presents any issues. 

hash-mark Most Dangerous Areas in Los Angeles Bottom Line

Los Angeles is a sprawling city made up of a variety of diverse neighborhoods. Even though many of these neighborhoods have higher crime rates, many remain popular tourist attractions. Neighborhoods like Hollywood and Koreatown offer cheaper rent than other areas of the city. However, even with cheaper rent, these neighborhoods might not be the best places to live if safety is a concern as they continue to face issues stemming from property crime and homelessness. 

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worst places to visit in los angeles

10 Odd And Unusual Things To Do In Los Angeles

Thinking of visiting Los Angeles, people immediately picture the Hollywood sign, Grauman’s Chinese Theater, or Rodeo Drive. But what do you *do* there?

For people who want to more than just see sights, there are a lot of cool event spaces, museums, and experiences that are a little off the beaten track (both in popularity and normalcy).

Los Angeles is known for producing world-famous actors, writers, artists, and musicians. It’s a huge metropolitan hub of culture that has something for everyone.

While we can’t deny the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must-see tourist attract, there are many others dating back older than you’d expect that are just as ready to welcome you, without half the crowds.

( Related: The Worst Tourist Traps In Los Angeles )

We’ve found 10 unusual things to do and see around L.A. for the alternative tourist – even the local ones!

1. Museum of Death

museum of death

It’s weird to consider someone making death their life’s work, but that’s exactly what J.D. Healy and Cathee Shultz do.

The Museum of Death is tribute to morbidity. $17 gets you access to hundreds of items that have been collected for both education and art, featuring antique objects used in autopsies and funerals to artwork made by serial killers.

As the museum is a self-guided experience, the time you spend inside is up to you. It’s recommended that you’ll need at least 45 minutes, but some people spend longer. Others are not so sturdy and give what the museum calls a “falling down ovation” – they faint.

A word to the weary: only go if you’re sure you can stomach it. All objects and photos are genuine and certainly graphic.

*Note: as of Fall 2021, the Hollywood location is under relocation and closed until further notice.

6616 Sunset Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

2. Cinespia Screenings, Hollywood Forever Cemetery

cinespia hollywood forever cemetery

No car? No problem. Skip the Drive In and still be able to watch a film under the stars. If you’re not scared, that is. Cinespia hosts outdoor showings of movies in the Hollywood Forever Cemetery!

The Fairbanks Lawn is a big field inside the cemetery where Cinespia projects the movie. The comfiest experience includes bringing a picnic blanket and pillows (don’t forget a ground tarp to keep your blanket from getting dewy!) and a picnic dinner of course.

In fact, they encourage you to bring your own drinks – beer and wine included! That’s a better set-up than most movie theaters these days. It will cost you, though. Most movies cost around $30 plus a $3.50 booking fee.

If you want to bring the car and park, it’ll cost you almost just as much.

While they don’t have previews, most shows start and end with a DJ set to set the ambiance. Sometimes showings are even accompanied by a fireworks display afterwards.

Cinespia screenings are rain or shine, so don’t think you’ll get your money back even if it’s raining cats and dogs. The only time they’ll reconsider is if conditions are truly deemed unsafe.

6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038

3. The Magic Castle

the magic castle los angeles

The Magic Castle is a member’s only club, so if you’re only visiting L.A. it’s unlikely you’ll get a chance to go, although members can invite guests.

If you’re an avid fan or are friends with them, there are multiple ways to enjoy the evening there.

A bit of a living museum, rooms are filled with magical memorabilia as well as live performances scattered throughout the Castle.

There are several stages throughout the Castle, the smallest sitting only 26 guests and the largest being accompanied by dinner reservations.

Both dinner and brunch are served in the dining room, though under-21s are only welcome to brunch.

The club enforces a strict dress code, too.

The history of the Magic Castle dates back to 1909, when it was by a couple who invested in and volunteered for the well being of the surrounding area, Holly Chateau was a well known address in Old Hollywood.

After the couple’s passing in the ‘40s, the mansion went through some uncertain changes until a great admirer of the building, Milt Larsen, bought the house with his brother and sister-in-law in 1961 and established the Academy of Magical Arts, Inc. and its home, which it has been since.

While the Castle itself doesn’t list their membership prices (you have to call or e-mail them), one 2014 source put it at $1,500 for initiation plus $750 for the yearly fee.

Who knows if those prices have gone up. Membership includes (on top of the dining and showtime experiences) access to a magical library, lectures, and AMA classes.

7001 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028

4. Visit The Stay on Main Hotel (Formerly Cecil Hotel)

stay on main cecil hotel

Another great construction designed for high society before the Great Depression hit, the hotel on S. Main Street in Los Angeles was first christened the Cecil Hotel back in 1924.

Its 700 rooms over 15 floors quickly developed a ghastly reputation, though, as violent acts – even deaths – began to mount up at the infamous hotel.

The first suicide that was documented at the hotel was in 1927. Since then, an unofficial estimate tallies 13 suicides total over the past 90 years the hotel has been open.

Two serial killers, Richard Ramirez, “the Night Stalker,” and Jack Unterweger, stayed at the hotel during their periods of activity.

There have also been brutal murders linked to the hotel. Most recently, the curious death of Elisa Lam in 2013.

In an attempt to distance itself from its disastrous past, the hotel attempted to rebrand itself in 2011 to the Stay on Main Hotel.

In 2017 the hotel was marked as a Los Angeles Historic-Cultural Monument due to its significant architecture.

In the same year it temporarily closed for repairs, but has not opened since.

Thrill seekers who believe in ghosts may be holding their breaths a while yet before the Stay on Main reopens its bookings.

640 S Main St, Los Angeles, CA 90014

5. Cliftons Cafeteria

cliftons cafeteria

Where to begin with The Neverlands ? An experience as whimsical and immersive as their own website, Clifton’s Republic is an immersive night out.

The original restaurant, Clifton’s Cafeteria, began operating in 1931. It was opened by Clifford Clinton in the hopes of raising the country’s spirits after the Great Depression.

Opulence and adventure were the inspiration for this theatrical hospitality experience.

Over time, Clifton’s has changed hands and, as of 2018, became Clifton’s Republic.

In its current state, there are different themes across three floors. The Tree Tops, located on the highest floor, is an elegant cocktail experience.

Lower down, the Pacific Seas takes place in the Art Deco Map Room, celebrating the Golden Age of Travel with a Caribbean atmosphere that pays homage to tiki bars.

There’s also the Brookdale Ballroom for a glimpse back to 20th century nightlife; The Monarch, with a less-refined, more outdoorsy feel; and, coming soon, The Marketplace will give you the ability to bring such curios and amusements home for a souvenir.

While those familiar with Clifton’s lament the loss of dining there (the cafeteria shut down for renovation in 2018 without any opening update since), they still admire the one-of-a-kind experince you can have over drinks there.

Like the Magic Castle, though, the dress code is strict! Be sure to dress your best before heading out that night.

48 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014

6. Bob Baker Marionette Theatre

bob barker marionette theater

Another niche hobby that has taken off into an iconic business, the Bob Baker Marionette Theater is a wonderful experience for children and adults alike.

The eponymous founder was fascinated by puppets from an early age and was making and selling his own puppets by high school.

He first opened the theater in 1963. His success was proven when the theater was made a Los Angeles Historical-Cultural monument in 2009.

Though the theater has relocated since, it continues to host shows, puppeteer lessons, and private parties.

The main stage is surrounded by red carpet where guests are encouraged to grab a seat (without blocking a toddler’s view, of course)!

Shows can be interactive and guests are encouraged to feel involved. Arguably the best part after the show is the free ice cream guests get, a tribute to the tradition Bob started decades ago.

Tickets tend to be around $20, which isn’t bad at all when you consider the fact that it includes dessert!

4949 York Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90042

7. Bearded Lady’s Mystic Museum

Bearded Ladys Mystic Museum

The Mystic Museum harkens back to the macabre start to this list. It’s a museum dedicated to the occult, the paranormal, mysticism – just horror in general!

Owned by Kiko And Erick, it’s in business with Bearded Lady Vintage & Oddities shop, further purveyors of ghoulish clothing, memorabilia, and more.

Aside from interactive exhibits and art shows, the Mystic Museum also offers tarot card readings and regularly hosts charity drives.

It’s an ideal stop for horror movie fans and admirers of alternative subculture.

3204 W Magnolia Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505

8. Soap Plant, Wacko

worst places to visit in los angeles

Since 1971, Soap Plant (home to WACKO ) has been a Mecca for anything offbeat.

A shop (WACKO) and an exhibition space (La Luz de Jesus Gallery), Soap Plant started as exactly that: a store for Barbara Shire to sell her homemade soap.

As her son took over the business, it expanded to include WACKO and go beyond soap. Today, bars of soap may be hard to find on the shelves, but so is anything: there are over 10,000 different products for sale at Soap Plant/WACKO.

Want to get lost among a variety of tchotchkes, clothing, toys, and books? Soap Plant/WACKO has it all.

Starting in the 1980s, it also got its own art gallery. The La Luz de Jesus Gallery moved in above Soap Plant/WACKO and is a home to modern artists, many of whom have ties to or were inspired by punk rock.

Famous guests in past include Andy Warhol, Axl Rose, and Elvis.

The iconic shop made a home for burgeoning artists and musicians alike.

You can shop its range of cute toys and gifts online, but part of the experience is visiting Soap Plant/WACKO in person!

4633 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

9. Old Zoo, Griffith Park

old zoo griffith park

Famously known to be home of the iconic Hollywood sign, Griffith Park is also home to the Los Angeles Zoo.

The current zoo was built in 1965, but before that, the Old Zoo was located a mere 4 minute drive away, still on the grounds of Griffith Park.

What’s more, the ruins of the Old Zoo are still there! The reason they shut down the Old Zoo was due to criticism over how small the animal enclosures were.

Over half a century later, you can wander freely through Griffith Park and walk past the abandoned animal cages – even picnic in them!

A Google search of the Old Zoo ruins may look familiar. They’ve been used several times as a film set.

The famous bear scene from Anchorman was filmed here, as well as scenes from the Pawnee Zoo for the TV show Parks and Recreation.

It’s allegedly off the tourist radar, so a relaxing place to bring a picnic for the whole family – including dogs!

4801 Griffith Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027

10. Jumbo’s Clown Room

jumbos clown room

People with phobias rest easy, for Jumbo’s is indeed not a clown theater. Though there are some eye-popping shows, they tend to be more adult themed.

Founded in 1970, Jumbo’s went from your neighborhood local to cabaret to prominent bikini bar.

It’s known for rock ’n roll, dancing, acrobatics, and of course its dive bar.

Jumbo’s subtly claims to have started the tradition of the beer and shot combo.

Over the years the bar was known for pillow parties, discos, Halloween parties, a pizza oven, and pole dancing.

It currently focuses more on the latter, having nightly live musical acts and physical performances.

If you’re on the fence about visiting this seductive night club, know that it’s been highly recommended by many a famous connoisseur.

It was known to be frequented by Bukowski, David Lynch, and Anthony Bourdain, proving it’s not just a sleezy stop-off, but a home for high-quality entertainment.

5153 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Final Thoughts

As you can see, Los Angeles can offer a variety of visits for the young and old alike.

While some places are certainly more family friendly than others, these 10 unsual things to do can suit almost anybody’s visit.

Californians shouldn’t be ashamed of just learning about one of these places, either, as L.A. is a huge city constantly offering brand new and exciting things to do and see every day.

It may take a local to be able to cross each of these places off the to-do list!

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Mariska Lee

Mariska is a recovering attorney who gave up her professional job to discover new perspectives of life while traveling in a 2009 Ford Transit. She has been living the van life for 3 years and has not looked back since.

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The 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA

01 Oct 12:00

10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles is an incredibly diverse city where everyone has a place! There is magic in the city, and it boasts multiple theatres, a 4,000-plus-acre park with zillion trails for recreational activities, hike lovers, and many more highlights.

However, not all Los Angeles  neighborhoods regarding crime, gang activities , and safety are equal. But like most big cities, there are still a couple of places to be watchful over. Read on to know what areas of LA are dangerous.

Current Crime Situation in Los Angeles 

Los Angeles, perceived as the US's most prominent crime hub, saw an 11% increase in its overall crime rate in 2022, with 60 reported crimes per 1,000 residents, compared to 54 per 1,000 residents in 2019. However, property crime drives most of the crime numbers, specifically burglary from motor vehicles.

According to Los Angeles Police Department , the 2023 first half-year report reveals that homicides, rape, and aggravated assaults have declined by 23%, 19%, and 2% when compared to 2021 reports over the same period. Meanwhile, there was an increase in reported property crimes and robberies.

The 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA 2023

1. skid row.

Skid_row_Map_2023

Skid Row is a part of Los Angeles’ territory referred to as the City of Angels. Its estimated population of 10,850 is the epicenter of LA's addiction crisis and one of the US' largest homeless encampments. This neighborhood is littered with drugs, divided into sections by street gangs from South Los Angeles, who control the markets for heroin, meth, prostitution, and stolen goods.

Crime rates are 33% higher than the Los Angeles average. From a total reported crime of 3,828 in mid-2022, violent crime falls to 963, with property crime to 2,865. A large bit of the crime among the homeless population is rooted in the obnoxious drug trade, with crimes like pickpocketing and theft very common.

As persistent as drug trafficking happens in this neighborhood, so are the police officers. Areas such as San Pedro Street are known for being especially bad. Since cycling or walking is only permitted until 6 PM, this neighborhood becomes void of pedestrians and resumes as a hotspot of street gang and drug activity. Women travelers should move with company at all times.

Compton_Map_2023

There are several fantastic reasons to visit Compton and some apparent reasons why you shouldn't go there. Compton has a long-standing history of gang wars, gun violence, drug activity, and crimes such as burglary, homicide, auto theft, and robbery, although it used to be way worse in the 80's and 90's. Its 2023 population of 89,695 is ethnically diverse and requires increased police protection.

According to the crime statistics 2022, Compton is an unsafe place to stay. In 2019, Compton had a violent crime rate of 1,125 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime rate of 2,249 per 100,000 residents. This makes a 1 in 29 chance of becoming a victim of crime in that neighborhood.

Visitors in this city are reminded to be alert and not wander in gang neighborhoods at night because they are very active. A standard advice is to only visit during the day and not wear valuables or expensive designer clothes. Females would fare better accompanied, but caution should be taken when solo. Public transit systems are relatively safe, but valuable items and cash should be out of view for peace of mind.

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3. Downtown LA

Downtown_LA_Map_2023

Downtown Los Angeles is where crime regularly happens. It is a neighborhood in Central LA region of Los Angeles County with a population of over 27,000. But with its hub of commercial and cultural activity, dining, and business, its daytime population gets to around 207,440. This contributes to its sky-high crime rate, equivalent to a little more than one crime for every four residents.

There are dozens of dramatic smash-and-grab heists in this neighborhood, and gang violence is increasing. Gun shops report record sales, with lines stretching around the block. The crime rate was more than six times citywide and triple other LA neighborhoods in 2022.

From the record, more than 370 reported crimes per 1,000 people downtown. By comparison, downtown experienced a 25% rise in violent crime – from more than 1,800   incidents in 2019 to more than 2,200 in 2022 – and a rate of 45 reported violent crimes per 1,000 residents.

In property crime, specifically grand theft person, downtown recorded a nearly 57% increase between 2019 and 2022, and roughly 167 property crimes reported per 1,000 residents. There is even an increase in shoplifting from businesses along the Fifth and Seventh streets. And worse areas are located north of 7th Streetstreet, south of 3rd Streetstreet, east of Main Street, and west of Alameda Street. As known across this neighborhood, the police presence is insufficient for the crime that is going on.

Nighttime strolls, whether in groups or solo, are strongly discouraged, more so for females. As pickpocketing and robberies are common, carrying large amounts of cash during the daytime is also highly discouraged, especially when you explore by foot, bike, or public transport.

4. Fashion District

Fashion_District_Map_2023

This is an area across Downtown LA. The population is relatively small at 2,466  but borders some of the city's meanest streets. The 90-square-block district, the Main Streets, Santa Monica Freeway, Spring and San Pedro Street, have evolved from a crime-ridden eyesore to a haven today primarily due to the hard work of so many people.

The police department resources are stretched thin in the district, making residents keep requesting to step up patrols in the area in response to occasional broad-daylight stabbings and other criminal activities. Fashion District crime rates are 65% higher than the national average, with violent crimes 151% higher. Not surprisingly, property crime accounts for over 150% of the crimes reported.

Public transit isn't dangerous during the daytime if you adopt some Fashion District   street smarts, especially for female travelers. Some like Uber exclusivity, walking in the middle of the Streetstreet where possible, and not wandering off onto random side streets or down streets lined with tents. Parking in safe areas, staying with a friend or preferably a group, and not wearing pricey jewelry or handbags.

5. Hollywood

Hollywood_Map_2023

This neighborhood of 90,322 residents, which may be widely known as the entertainment capital, has residents viewing it as a place where violent crime supersedes reputation. Constant outrage stems from high-profile burglaries, robberies, and attacks, especially in West Hollywood.

While West Hollywood is located near Hollywood, North Hollywood is located in the San Fernando Valley, 9.2 miles away. In 2021, North Hollywood's yearly crime rate was 51.66 per 1,000 residents, and West Hollywood's is 61.8 per 1,000. In comparison, Hollywood has more crime at 70.82 per 1,000 residents.

In mid-2022, there were 1,282 violent crimes per 100,000 people, and information has it that 450 active gangs exist, with 45,000 members fighting for territory in LA. Of which, 10 of the most dangerous, including the infamous MS-13, are active in Hollywood. Hollywood's violent and property crime is nearly double that of most Los Angeles neighborhoods.

Crime statistics from the sheriff's department, however, show that, as a whole, violent crime from the 1st quarter of 2023 dropped by about 18% in the West Hollywood area compared to the same period in 2022. Some dangerous streets to be wary of are the intersection of Hawthorne Avenue and North Orange Drive, Selma Avenue, and several blocks south of Hollywood Boulevard.

Hollywood is pretty safe for women to walk around in the daytime, although it's recommended that women be accompanied by a friend at night.

6. South Los Angeles

South_Los_Angeles_Map_2023

South Los Angeles is a hotbed for gun and gang violence, drug trafficking, and property crimes. Historically known for its high crime rates, this neighborhood with 248,666 population faced challenges with violent crime rates as high as 331% higher than the national average and crime rates 50% higher than the LA average. Also, property crime is higher in South LA than in many cities and towns nationwide.

Despite the heavy police presence, which has led to a gradual decrease in crime since the 1990s, South LA remains one of the city's most dangerous areas. Gang operations are split in territories, so females traveling independently, especially at night, are not encouraged in this neighborhood for fear of entering a hostile operating hood. Strolling, biking, and using public transport at the time is safe, with minimal fear of being robbed of cash. The chance of being a crime victim in South Los Angeles is 1 in 24.

7. Chinatown

Chinatown_Map_2023

With 47,844 residents , Chinatown is perceived as several blocks of Los Angeles near the Hill Street exit of CA - 110, smaller than NY's and San Francisco's Chinatown. At 5,508 reported crimes per 100,000 people, the amount of crimes per population is high. In Chinatown, assaults and robberies are much more common than elsewhere.

According to statistics , Chinatown has 2,598 property crimes, 2,910 violent crimes, and an estimated 5,508 crimes per 100,000 population. Its proximity to Union Station and Olvera Street makes this neighborhood less unsafe to walk around during the day, hence, less wandering at night is recommended. However, it is also closer to some gang areas than many tourist areas of Los Angeles; and being a top-rated tourist destination, there is a strong police presence.

Male and female travelers are expected to exercise caution and be aware of the surroundings, as your cash is never safe. It is safe during the day if you are in the main areas. However, Chinatown is surrounded by gang areas in several directions. So, if you venture more than a couple of blocks in the wrong direction during the night, you might find yourself in an unsafe situation.

8. West Adams

West_Adams_Map_2023

its prime, West Adams was one of the wealthiest neighborhoods and most infamous for gang violence. There was so much gang violence in the 60s that residents were forbidden to utter words. It has an estimated 22,000 living in it.

According to data , because West Adams had 4,025 property crimes, 2,143 violent crimes, and a total estimated crime rate of 6,168 per 100,000 population, that authorities advise people not to walk in this area late at night, especially women. West Adams’ crime rate is 163% above the national average, and you just don't see the presence of the police as you would think you would in a place that is so desperate.

Meanwhile, homicides and shootings were at an all-time high throughout the city, and violent crimes were 453% higher than the national average. While exploring the city, care should be taken for valuables and personal properties so as not to expose them to be vandalized. Public rides and Uber rides are as safe as they can be. Cash theft is less commonly reported.

9. Koreatown

Koreatown_Map_2023

With a population of about 186,000, this neighborhood in LA, located South of Hollywood and West of downtown, has the current connotation of prostitution, drug dealing, and defined Hispanic gang presence.

Koreatown's crime rate is 2,978 per 100,000 people, which makes this neighborhood 32% more dangerous than the national average. Gang and drug activity are typical here, and the Southern and Eastern parts of Koreatown are considered the most difficult.

As the police presence in this neighborhood is not very visible, it is best to restrict movements to daytime. Only if not exploring safe areas like the northern and northwest areas such as Hancock Park, Wilshire Center, etc., specifically if traveling independently as a woman.

There are murmurs of robberies and pickpockets, so public transportation should be avoided if possible. Better to switch to credit/ debit cards rather than carrying cash in purses and wallets.

10. Watts 

Watts_Map_2023

Like Compton, Watts' violent crime rate has been since the 1990s, and the 40,795 populated neighborhood is generally considered a dangerous part of LA. Police often patrol the area, as the neighborhood's crime rate is 50% higher than the national average, with violent crime 305% more.

Overall, the crime rate is 3,514 per 100,000 people, and the chance of becoming the victim of a crime in Watts is 1 in 29. Exploring the streets at night is not advisable, especially if you are a solo female traveler, as it becomes deserted and appears sketchy.

Tourists are advised, and they need to understand how to keep wallets and valuables guarded when walking or biking in the daytime. Residents complain of hoodlums around train stations and fear being pickpocketed and robbed of cash. For this reason, public transportation is frowned upon.

The Safest Places in LA

Insecurity in Los Angeles is concentrated only in certain parts of the city and not everywhere. Beyond the specific dangerous neighborhoods, LA's crime problem is no more significant than many other major American metropolises.

Over the years, the authorities have taken important steps to improve public safety and see crime rates drop. Hence, the safest areas to live in are L. A are   Highland Park, Glendale, West LA, Marina Del Rey, Playa Vista,   Westwood, Venice Beach,   Sherman Oaks, and   Westchester.

Despite the dramatic increase in violent offenses, LA's overall crime rate remains far lower than decades ago when gang warfare and the crack epidemic wreaked havoc on our streets. For instance, in 1992, LA had 2,589 homicides, six times greater than the record in 2021. It is just necessary to always be aware of your surroundings and never to let your guard down.

Column: Polls get it right most of the time. Here’s what to be wary of

A small dog and the legs of two people can be seen below a line of voting stations.

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Without polls, you can’t understand politics; with them, you can misunderstand a lot.

With both major party presidential nominations sewn up, we’re deep into the season in which fretting over polls can become an obsession. That’s especially true this year, as former President Trump holds a small but persistent edge over President Biden in most national and swing-state surveys.

That’s led many Democrats to search deep into the innards of polls in an often self-deluding search for error.

The fact is, polls continue to get election results right the vast majority of the time. They’re also an indispensable tool for democracy — informing residents of a vast and varied nation what their fellow Americans believe.

At the same time, errors do exist, often involving either problems collecting data or troubles interpreting it.

This week, let’s examine a couple of examples and take a look at how L.A. Times polls did this primary season.

A Holocaust myth?

In December, the Economist published a startling poll finding : “One in five young Americans thinks the Holocaust is a myth,” the headline said.

Fortunately for the country, although perhaps not for the publication, it’s the poll finding that may have been mythical.

In January, the nonpartisan Pew Research Center set out to see if it could replicate the finding . They couldn’t. Pew asked the same question the Economist poll asked and found that the share of Americans ages 18-29 who said the Holocaust was a myth was not 20%, but 3%.

What’s going on?

The problem isn’t a bad pollster: YouGov, which does the surveys for the Economist, is among the country’s most highly regarded polling organizations. But the methodology YouGov uses, known in the polling world as opt-in panels, can be victimized by bogus respondents. That may have been the case here.

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Panel surveys are a way to solve a big problem pollsters face: Very few people these days will answer phone calls from unknown numbers, making traditional phone-based surveys extremely hard to carry out and very expensive.

Rather than randomly call phone numbers, polling organizations can solicit thousands of people who will agree to take surveys, usually in return for a small payment. For each survey, the pollsters select people from the panel to make up a sample that’s representative of the overall population.

Some people join simply for the money, however, then may speed through, answering questions more or less at random. Previous research by Pew has found that such bogus respondents most often claim to belong to groups that are hard to recruit, including young people and Latino voters.

Pollsters have found evidence of organized efforts to infiltrate panels, sometimes involving “multiple registrations from people who are outside the U.S.,” Douglas Rivers, the chief scientist at YouGov and a political science professor at Stanford, wrote in an email. Those could be efforts to bolster particular causes or candidates or, more often, schemes to make money by collecting small sums over and over again.

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“We have a whole host of procedures to screen out these panelists,” Rivers wrote, adding that the firm was continuing to analyze what happened with the Holocaust question.

On polls of close elections, bogus respondents answering at random will usually “more or less cancel each other out,” said Andrew Mercer, senior research methodologist at Pew.

“But for something that’s very rare, like Holocaust denial,” random responses will produce error that is all on one side. “It’s going to end up inflating the incidence,” he said.

In previous research for example, Pew found that 12% of respondents in opt-in survey panels who said they were under 30 also claimed that they were licensed to operate a nuclear submarine.

The lesson here is an old one, popularized by the late astronomer Carl Sagan: “Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence.” If a poll result seems just too startling to be true, there’s a good chance it isn’t.

Leaping to conclusions

A second category of potential problems doesn’t involve the data so much as the way people, especially us journalists, interpret them — drawing definitive conclusions from less than definitive numbers.

Consider the question of how much progress Republicans are making among Black and Latino voters.

There’s no question, as I’ve previously written, that Republicans gained ground between 2016 and 2020 , especially among Latino voters who already identified as conservatives. There was also smaller movement toward the GOP among Black voters.

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Has that trend continued? Some recent surveys, including the widely cited New York Times/Siena College poll , indicate it may have accelerated. Biden has hemorrhaged support among younger Black and Latino voters, that poll has found.

In a recent article that drew a lot of attention, John Burn-Murdoch, the chief data journalist for the Financial Times, stitched together data from several different types of polls to declare that “ American politics is in the midst of a racial realignment.”

The response from many political scientists and other analysts was, in effect, “Not so fast.”

Pre-election surveys can tell you what potential voters are thinking today, but comparing them with past election returns is dicey, they noted.

If the actual results in 2024 track what the New York Times/Siena polls are currently finding, “fine, let’s talk racial realignment,” said Vanderbilt University political science professor John Sides. Until then, however, “we have to wait and see.”

Our UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies/Los Angeles Times polls had a notably good year predicting elections.

The final poll before this year’s primary showed, for example, that Proposition 1, the $6.4-billion mental health bond measure backed by Gov. Gavin Newsom, had support from 50% of likely voters.

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As of Thursday morning, that was almost exactly where the “yes” vote stood — 50.2% — with almost 90% of the state’s votes counted.

The poll also correctly forecast that Democratic Rep. Adam B. Schiff of Burbank and Republican former Dodgers player Steve Garvey would be the top two finishers in the primary for Senate, with Democratic Rep. Katie Porter of Irvine in third place.

In the survey, taken about a week before the election, 9% of voters remained undecided. Among those who had made up their minds, Garvey had 30% of the vote, Schiff 27% and Porter 21%, the poll found.

The poll appears to have been very close on Garvey’s number — with about 800,000 votes still to count, he has 32%, well within the poll’s estimated margin of error of 2 percentage points in either direction. The survey slightly understated backing for Schiff, who also has 32%, and overstated support for Porter, who currently sits at 15%. That could mean that final group of undecided voters broke for Schiff.

That level of accuracy is not uncommon. In the 2022 midterms, for example, polls by nonpartisan groups, universities and media organizations were extremely accurate .

There’s a takeaway in all this for people interested in politics, especially in a hotly contested election year: Don’t over-focus on any individual poll, especially if it has a startling finding that hasn’t cropped up anywhere else. Be skeptical about sweeping conclusions about events that are still unfolding. And even, or maybe especially, when a poll shows your favored candidate trailing, take it for what it is — neither an oracle, nor a nefarious plot, but a snapshot in time.

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Jan. 17, 2024

worst places to visit in los angeles

David Lauter is a senior editor at the Los Angeles Times, based in Washington, D.C. He began writing news in Washington in 1981 and since then has covered Congress, the Supreme Court, the White House under Presidents George H.W. Bush and Bill Clinton and four U.S. presidential campaigns. He served as Washington bureau chief from 2011 through 2020. Lauter lived in Los Angeles from 1995 to 2011, where he was The Times’ deputy Foreign editor, deputy Metro editor and then assistant managing editor responsible for California coverage.

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IMAGES

  1. 10 Creepy Places to Visit in Los Angeles

    worst places to visit in los angeles

  2. 10 Creepy Places to Visit in Los Angeles

    worst places to visit in los angeles

  3. The Most Dangerous Places to Visit in Los Angeles

    worst places to visit in los angeles

  4. 13 Haunted Places in Los Angeles to Go Get Spooked for Real

    worst places to visit in los angeles

  5. The Most Dangerous Places to Visit in Los Angeles

    worst places to visit in los angeles

  6. Five Most Dangerous Areas in Los Angeles

    worst places to visit in los angeles

VIDEO

  1. The WORST Places to Live in Fiction (part 2)

  2. Top 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods In Los Angeles

  3. I visit LOS ANGELES COUNTY HISTORICAL MUSEUM

  4. 8 WORST CITIES IN CALIFORNIA 2024!

  5. Los Angeles Vlog 2024| Things to do in LA| Walk of Fame| Madame Tussauds| Indian Students in USA #LA

  6. Top 10 best places to visit in Los Angeles

COMMENTS

  1. Where To Avoid When Visiting Los Angeles

    Los Angeles has many beaches to choose from, but Venice Beach is one you can avoid. Venice Beach's boardwalk is home to a wide range of intriguing characters and street performers, as well as hippy-ish shops where green marijuana signs are easy to spot. Beyond the fact the area isn't safe after dark, Venice Beach gets overcrowded and ...

  2. Top Places To Avoid In Los Angeles As A Tourist

    Here is our take on the worst parts of Los Angeles that you should avoid as a tourist. Watts. This is a simple no-no as a tourist. The average local is also going to avoid Watts because it's commonly associated with gang activity. The idea of dealing with crime-ridden behavior is going to be the last thing you want to face in what's already ...

  3. 10 Worst Neighborhoods In Los Angeles 2024: Beyond the Glamour

    5. South Los Angeles: Navigating Through the Tides of Transformation. South Los Angeles, formerly known as South Central, is a neighborhood with a population of 249,670 and a crime rate of 4,268 per 100,000 people as per AreaVibes. It's a hotbed for drug trafficking and gun violence, often linked to gang activity.

  4. 20 Places to Stay Away From in Los Angeles, California

    If you're a person who needs a little retail therapy to feel satiated on vacation, try an alternative shopping area such as The Grove, a beautiful outdoor shopping space with high-end fashion retailers. Phone: +1 213.488.1153. Address: 818 S. Broadway St. #801 Los Angeles, CA 90014. Website: www.fashiondistrict.org.

  5. 15 Biggest Mistakes to Avoid Visiting Los Angeles, California

    The worst advice people get about Los Angeles is that Santa Monica Pier and Venice are the best beaches. These are honestly beaches to avoid in Los Angeles. ... The Hollywood Bowl is one of the best places to visit in Los Angeles. Don't miss the chance to dine al fresco while you enjoy music under the stars. They have everything from current ...

  6. The 6 Worst Tourist Traps In Los Angeles And Where To Go Instead

    1. Hollywood Boulevard. Hollywood Boulevard is the most famous sidewalk in the world. It's a cultural icon and a key attraction for many tourists visiting Los Angeles. The most iconic part of this street is the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Tourists worldwide come here to celebrate the world's brightest stars.

  7. Lesser-known places in L.A. where you can avoid tourists

    There's no shortage of great places to visit in L.A ... There's really no more fitting city for this museum than Los Angeles—after all, it is the city with the worst traffic in the country. ...

  8. What are the most dangerous areas in Los Angeles? Security, crime, and

    Top 5 Safe Places in Los Angeles, CA. 1. Beverly Hills. With a population of 34,627 people, this area provides inhabitants with a pleasant and relaxing environment. According to FBI statistics, Beverly Hills' violent crime rate is 19% lower than the national average, highlighting the city's safety.

  9. Is Los Angeles Worth Visiting? 43 Pros and Cons to Consider

    1. The Weather: Los Angeles is known for its warm and sunny weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for those seeking sunshine. 2. Beaches: Los Angeles is home to some of the most beautiful beaches ( and surf spots) in the world, including Venice Beach, Santa Monica Beach, and Malibu Beach. 3.

  10. How Safe is Los Angeles? Dangers and Warnings To Know

    It's not difficult to drive in L.A. as long as you have a good map app and the patience to endure Los Angeles' notorious traffic. Finally, keep in mind that Los Angeles is prone to 13 of 16 ...

  11. 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods In Los Angeles, CA [2024]

    The worst neighborhoods in Los Angeles are Fashion District, Wholesale District-Skid Row, Leiment Park, South Park, Lincoln Heights, Watts, Central City, Civic Center-Little Tokyo, Downtown, and Chinatown. As mentioned earlier, the neighborhoods in Los Angeles aren't all bad. Playa Vista takes the cake as the best place to live in Los Angeles.

  12. The Safest Neighborhoods In Los Angeles (& Dangerous Ones)

    Century City has low crime rates, making it one of the safest places in LA. Los Feliz is another one of the safest areas in Los Angeles; it's safer than many California cities and offers a unique ...

  13. Best and Worst Time to Visit Los Angeles: A Comprehensive Guide

    Analyzing the Weather in Los Angeles: Seasons and Climate. Los Angeles has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. Temperatures range from an average of 59°F (15°C) in January, the coldest month, to 84°F (29°C) in August, the warmest month. The wettest month of the year is February, while the driest month is July.

  14. Los Angeles: The Best Worst Place Ever

    LA's obvious draws were the beaches, year-round sunshine, and Hollywood history, but reading articles such as Reasons why Los Angeles is the Worst Place Ever or The 10 Sickest Burns about Los Angeles made me realize how hilariously hated and polarizing this city is. I was excited to finally visit in January and find out for myself.

  15. The Worst (And Best!) Times to Visit Los Angeles

    Worst Time of Day to Visit and Drive to Los Angeles. Rush hour in Los Angeles (when traffic is at its heaviest) happens from about 7am to 10am in the mornings and from 4pm to 7pm in the evenings. Typically, it is best to try and time your drive TO Los Angeles for either very early morning or late at night. When driving around LA, aim for the ...

  16. The Best & Worst Times to Visit Los Angeles in 2024

    The theater district is a famous tourist attraction/Sean Pavone/Shutterstock. The best time to visit Los Angeles is in spring, during the March-May period. This period offers the ideal combination of fewer crowds, an ideal climate, and engaging activities. The lack of summer's persistent smog and winter's annoying rain is a nice bonus too!

  17. The Safest and Most Dangerous Places in Los Angeles, CA: Crime Maps and

    Los Angeles is in the 9th percentile for safety, meaning 91% of cities are safer and 9% of cities are more dangerous. This analysis applies to the Los Angeles area's proper boundaries only. See the table on nearby places below for nearby cities. The rate of crime in the Los Angeles area is 107.0 per 1,000 residents during a standard year.

  18. worst areas in L.A

    2. Re: worst areas in L.A. 14 years ago. Save. Two places to avoid in L.A. are skid row and the public housing projects. San Pedro & 5th is the heart of skid row. 8th & Maple is in the Flower District, which is adjacent to skid row. A couple blocks south is the booming Fashion District. The Flower District is a lot of fun on a Saturday morning.

  19. The worst places to travel in 2024

    The reality is that Hollywood is a relatively small neighbourhood in Los Angeles, and while there's plenty to see—including the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Dolby Theatre, and the famous sign ...

  20. The Worst Time To Visit Los Angeles: Traveler's Guide in 2024

    Events: Various cultural events and festivals take place, celebrating the diversity of Los Angeles. The LA Marathon is a notable event for sports enthusiasts. Crowds: ... The worst season to visit Los Angeles, perhaps ironically, is the summer. While the city's Mediterranean climate generally offers pleasant weather, the summer months (June ...

  21. Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Los Angeles

    Watts is another one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in Los Angeles. The crime rate in Watts is 50% higher than the national average. Overall, the crime rate is 3,514 per 100,000 people, and the chance of becoming the victim of a crime in Watts is 1 in 29. Just like Compton, Watts' violent crime rate has fallen since the 1990s.

  22. 10 Odd And Unusual Things To Do In Los Angeles

    5153 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90027. Final Thoughts. As you can see, Los Angeles can offer a variety of visits for the young and old alike. While some places are certainly more family friendly than others, these 10 unsual things to do can suit almost anybody's visit.

  23. The 10 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Los Angeles, CA

    3. Downtown LA. Downtown Los Angeles is where crime regularly happens. It is a neighborhood in Central LA region of Los Angeles County with a population of over 27,000. But with its hub of commercial and cultural activity, dining, and business, its daytime population gets to around 207,440. This contributes to its sky-high crime rate, equivalent to a little more than one crime for every four ...

  24. What Are the Worst Places to Park in Los Angeles?

    The county-wide average for a parking ticket is about $60, and after Beverly Hills, the most expensive places to get caught parking illegally are the City of Los Angeles ($73), Santa Monica ($64), West Hollywood ($63). Long Beach clocks in way down at $50 for the average parking ticket. The statistics are courtesy of a new website released by ...

  25. Is Los Angeles, CA a Good Place to Live? 12 Pros and Cons

    Learn if Los Angeles, CA is a good place to live and make an informed decision before moving to this vibrant city. ... all within close proximity and without the need for extensive travel." 2. Pro: Job Market. The Los Angeles job market is another advantage for those considering living in the city. ... The city has some of the worst air ...

  26. Everyone hates LAX. Here's how to make it suck less.

    While See's Candies has expanded to other parts of the country, its original shop opened in Los Angeles in 1921, and more than half of the company's stores are still in California. There are ...

  27. Column: Polls get it right most of the time. Here's ...

    Polls get things right most of the time, but problems crop up, generating headlines. How to tell the good from the bad, and how L.A. Times polls did this year.