Top 37 Must-Do Activities in Los Angeles for 2025 – Insider Tips

Planning a trip to Los Angeles but unsure of how to commence? Discover LA’s premier attractions with this compilation of essential experiences in Los Angeles. Our colleague Jeremy from Travel Freak resides in Los Angeles and has curated a selection of top activities from a local perspective. The list incorporates some of the principal attractions and renowned sites, providing a comprehensive guide to Los Angeles.

Table of Contents

Top Things to Do in Los Angeles

As with many prominent cities in the United States, organizing a visit to Los Angeles can be quite daunting due to the sheer volume of options available. This compilation presents a variety of destinations and activities, ranging from customary tourist sites to some of LA’s hidden gems. Updated by the GoTravelDaily team.

Regardless of your preferences, and no matter where you choose to stay, at least one of these options is likely to capture your interest.

Rich in culture, history, and artistic vitality, a trip to the West Coast of the United States is incomplete without a visit to Los Angeles. Not only is it a haven for those with an appreciation for culture, but its vast expanse of 4,000 square miles is also filled with hiking trails, beaches, and various outdoor activities!

Hollywood, Sunset Boulevard, and the sandy beaches of Southern California—these are essential landmarks for first-time visitors. Let us begin with LA’s most iconic sites and continue to explore some lesser-known treasures. Are you prepared?

1. Snap A Photo with The Famous Hollywood Sign

No visit to Los Angeles is complete without seeing the city’s most recognizable landmark: the Hollywood sign. Perched on Mount Lee in the Santa Monica Mountains, this emblematic site offers a multitude of viewing options with varying degrees of difficulty.

If physical exertion does not appeal to you, a distant view while driving along Beverly Drive suffices. For a more intimate perspective, consider heading to Lake Hollywood Park in the Hollywood Hills, which is suitable for families. For those eager for a hike, utilize a ride-hailing service to reach the end of Deronda Drive, where you can spot the white archway with the green gate and ascend the trail leading to Mt. Lee.

Insider Tip: Instead, consider hiking to the Griffith Observatory during sunset. The Observatory features numerous fascinating artifacts and exhibits, including the 12-inch Zeiss telescope and the Rebel Without a Cause monument. Its most significant attraction, however, is the remarkable view, affording a clear view of the sign along with a spectacular vista of the city skyline.

2. Go Window Shopping on Rodeo Drive

A visit to Los Angeles is not complete without at least a drive through Rodeo Drive. This two-mile stretch, lined with high-end designer brands such as Saint Laurent, Gucci, Prada, Versace, and Chanel, epitomizes style and luxury.

Though it may no longer hold its former celebrity allure, it has remained indelibly ingrained in popular culture thanks to the iconic shopping scene portrayed in “Pretty Woman.” While in Beverly Hills, take the opportunity to explore other opulent locations like the Greystone Mansion Gardens and the Beverly Hills Hotel.

For potential opportunities to encounter celebrities, consider joining a guided tour that showcases Beverly Hills mansions while also visiting Rodeo Drive and Hollywood film studios.

3. Drive Down Sunset Strip

There is nothing more quintessentially Los Angeles than traversing Sunset Boulevard as the sun descends. When day transitions to night, Sunset Strip—a 1.5-mile stretch in West Hollywood from Doheny to North Crescent Heights—comes alive with music and nightlife.

As night falls, the city lights illuminate The Roxy Theatre, Whisky A Go Go, and the Viper Room, which have hosted some of the music industry’s most prominent figures. In the meantime, venues like the Comedy Store and the Laugh Factory feature stand-up alumni such as Eddie Murphy, George Carlin, and Chris Rock.

4. Hit the Beach

From Baywatch to The OC, the beaches of Southern California have served as the backdrop for numerous famous movies and television series. If surfing is your passion, Los Angeles is a true paradise. The city provides convenient access to some of Southern California’s premier surf spots, including El Porto, Zuma, Topanga, and Huntington Beach—the world’s surfing capital!

5. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Venice Beach is one of Los Angeles’ most iconic and vibrant destinations, and for good reason. It is a place where the city’s diverse culture, scenic beauty, and eccentricity converge, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Venice Beach is renowned for its boardwalk that extends to Santa Monica Beach, as well as its impressive waves. The Venice Boardwalk, or Ocean Front Walk, is a microcosm of Los Angeles culture, featuring surfers, street performers, vendors, buskers, skaters, and fitness enthusiasts at Muscle Beach.

For fitness enthusiasts or those wishing to observe, Muscle Beach is a historic outdoor gym where bodybuilders display their skills. The area also features one of the world’s most famous skate parks, the Venice Skate Park.

Inspired by its Italian counterpart, the Venice Canals provide a more serene experience. The picturesque pathways alongside the canals are ideal for a leisurely stroll amidst charming residences and arched bridges, offering a European-like atmosphere.

From shopping and dining to beach activities and surfing, Venice Beach presents something for everyone. It is not merely a beach, but a destination with character, where each visit offers the prospect of new adventures.

6. Santa Monica Pier

For a family-friendly environment, Santa Monica Pier is the ideal location. It features a seaside amusement park, live music, an arcade, and an assortment of restaurants and shops suitable for all ages.

Begin your visit by exploring Pacific Park, the amusement park located on the pier. Experience the famous Santa Monica Pier Ferris wheel, the Pacific Wheel, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and coastline. Be sure to take advantage of other exhilarating rides like the West Coaster roller coaster.

7. Other Los Angeles Beaches

If you prefer to avoid large crowds, consider visiting Will Rogers State Beach. Nestled between Topanga and Santa Monica in the Pacific Palisades, this three-mile stretch of beach experiences fewer visitors compared to others on this list.

For those seeking a dose of adventure, Point Dume State Beach, located at Malibu’s end on a bluff that protrudes into the Pacific, offers various activities such as swimming in the clear blue waters, scuba diving alongside sea lions, or taking a rock climbing excursion.

Insider Tip: Los Angeles’ Mediterranean climate remains relatively consistent, making any day suitable for a beach visit. However, for those looking to evade summertime throngs, consider visiting between September and November.

8. Stroll Down Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard is akin to Los Angeles’ version of New York’s Times Square. Attracting tens of thousands of visitors daily, it represents the ultimate tourist trap. Nevertheless, its iconic status warrants a visit!

Here, you will encounter the Hollywood Walk of Fame, a 1.3-mile pathway adorned with the names of numerous film and television stars, directors, and producers. If you have children in your group, turn it into a game to identify their favorite celebrities first.

In addition to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Boulevard is home to other notable attractions including the TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre), the Dolby Theatre, and historic movie venues such as the Vista Theatre and American Cinematheque.

9. Grand Avenue

Grand Avenue is often regarded as the city’s cultural nucleus. With its blend of art, architecture, and entertainment, it is a vital destination for anyone visiting Los Angeles. Do not overlook the opportunity to visit the Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry, where you can attend a concert by the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

The Broad Museum showcases contemporary art, featuring one of the city’s more popular exhibits, the Infinity Mirror Rooms by Yayoi Kusama. Alternatively, you can visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) across the street. It is wise to secure reservations well in advance.

Be sure to include a stop at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, which has hosted many events including the Academy Awards and is currently home to the LA Opera.

10. Go Celeb Spotting at The Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Located less than 10 minutes from Hollywood Boulevard, the Hollywood Forever Cemetery serves as the final resting place for many prominent personalities from the Golden Age of Hollywood.

Consider it a more tranquil alternative—albeit somewhat morbid—to the bustling Walk of Fame. Within, you will find the graves of Mel Blanc, Jayne Mansfield, Cecil B. DeMille, Dee Dee, and Johnny Ramone.

Organizing Your Trip To Los Angeles at This Moment?

Below are some of the leading tours available in Los Angeles. It is essential to plan ahead when visiting LA!

Top Activities and Tours in Los Angeles:

• Hollywood Sign Walking Tour (best outdoor activities)
• Celebrity Homes Tour (Most Popular in Los Angeles)
• Full-Day Iconic LA Tour – Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches, and More

11. Get Some Grub at The Original Farmers Market

Once you have exhausted yourself searching for celebrities, head to Fairfax and 3rd Street for an authentic Los Angeles dining experience.

This historic marketplace dates back to 1934 and has evolved into a multicultural hub for food enthusiasts. It’s a favored spot for both travelers and locals alike and has seen countless celebrities, from The Beatles to James Dean.

12. Visit the Sound Stages of Your Favorite Films and TV Shows

Film and television aficionados will revel in a tour of Hollywood’s leading studios. At the Warner Bros studio, “Friends” enthusiasts can live out their ultimate dream with a visit to the Stage 48: Script to Screen soundstage, featuring a replica of the Central Perk Cafe.

Meanwhile, at Paramount Studios, visitors can explore its legacy as the longest-operating studio in Hollywood and admire its expansive New York Street backlot. For a nostalgic experience, visit Sony Pictures, which retains the historic Art Deco buildings of the former MGM studio.

Film lovers may also take a self-guided tour of their favorite filming sites across Los Angeles. Download this app for a GPS-guided experience from Downtown LA to Griffith Park, where Hollywood’s history and iconic shooting locations await.

13. Visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

LACMA stands as the largest art museum on the West Coast. Its galleries feature notable works by artists such as Henri Matisse, Diego Rivera, Pablo Picasso, and Rene Magritte.

Outside, you can capture photographs near two remarkable installations: “Urban Light,” an assembly of 202 restored streetlamps from the 1920s and 1930s, and “Levitated Mass,” a 340-ton environmental sculpture.

14. Take an Architectural Tour

Los Angeles is home to some of the most unique and celebrated houses, buildings, and museums in the world. Consider taking a tour to uncover the history behind some of the city’s architectural wonders, including:

• Richard Neutra’s Lovell Health House
• Frank Lloyd Wright’s Hollyhock House
• The Walt Disney Concert Hall
• The Broad Museum
• The Richard Meier-designed Getty Center (home of the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Getty Villa, and the Getty Research Institute)

15. Visit the Getty Center

The Getty Center stands as one of Los Angeles’ most renowned cultural destinations, recognized for its extensive art collection, meticulously landscaped gardens, and stunning views of the city.

Situated in the Brentwood area of Los Angeles atop a hill in the Santa Monica Mountains, the Getty Center showcases works by Vincent Van Gogh and Rembrandt.

Admission to the Getty Center is complimentary, although parking incurs a charge of $20 ($15 post-3 p.m.). It is advisable to review the official website for updated visiting hours and any special exhibitions or events currently taking place. The Getty Center is highly regarded as being family-friendly, offering diverse programming suitable for all ages.

16. Explore LA’s Secret Stairs

During the mid-1900s, Los Angeles boasted an extensive trolley system, covering over 1,100 miles of track. While the trolleys have long since disappeared, vestiges of them remain within the network of steep stairs traversing neighborhoods such as Silver Lake, Echo Park Lake, Pacific Palisades, and Beachwood Canyon.

The latter is a charming residential area inhabited by a variety of A-listers and former celebrities. For those travelers interested in spotting beautiful homes, this is a perfect opportunity. Additionally, it provides an excellent cardio workout!

17. Echo Park

While in the vicinity, allocate some time for Echo Park Lake, the neighborhood’s shining gem. Paddle boats are available for rent, or take a leisurely walk around the lake. Reserve a swan boat in advance to experience a quieter side of Los Angeles.

This area is celebrated for its vibrant street art and murals. Stroll through the neighborhood to discover colorful and often thought-provoking contemporary art adorning the buildings and walls.

18. Griffith Park

Los Angeles residents are well aware that one of the city’s finest attributes is its abundant hiking trails, parks, and various outdoor adventures.

If you desire a brief urban hike, Griffith Park is an excellent choice. Covering an area roughly six times that of New York’s Central Park, Griffith Park hosts the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, the Bronson Canyon Caves, the Los Angeles Zoo, the Greek Theatre, and a 53-mile network of trails and paths.

For a different experience, consider the 3.5-mile Runyon Canyon hike located in the Santa Monica Mountains. This park notably allows dogs to run off-leash, making it a must-visit for those traveling with pets.

Should you be interested in organizing more intense day trips, California offers 300 state parks! While camping may currently be off the table, numerous fun activities abound.

19. Dodgers Stadium

If sports pique your interest, head over to Dodger Stadium, home of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Attempt to catch a baseball game or take a stadium tour.

20. Silver Lake

Silver Lake is yet another dynamic neighborhood situated in central Los Angeles, celebrated for its eclectic charm, trendy shops, restaurants, and artistic community.

The neighborhood derives its name from the Silver Lake Reservoir, a significant body of water that serves as a picturesque focal point. Encircled by a walking path, this area is favored by residents for jogging, dog walking, and enjoying scenic vistas.

21. Cycle the Strand

The Strand, also referred to as the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, spans 22 miles, commencing at Will Rogers State Beach and passing through Pacific Palisades, down to Santa Monica, Redondo, Manhattan, Venice Beach, and Torrance County Beach.

Enjoy a cycling excursion along this beautiful path. Note that it is a leisurely route welcoming travelers of all ages and skill levels. If you are seeking high-octane sprints, this may not be the appropriate trail for you.

22. Immerse in Japanese Culture in Little Tokyo

As the epicenter of the United States entertainment industry, Los Angeles is a melting pot of art, talent, and cultural diversity.

Little Tokyo is a 135-year-old community located in Downtown Los Angeles. It stands as the second oldest neighborhood in LA and one of only three designated Japantowns in the United States, making Little Tokyo a pivotal historical and cultural landmark.

At the Japanese American National Museum, gain insights into the experiences of Japanese Americans throughout history, or visit the Bunkado shop for unique gifts. Delight in traditional Japanese cuisine on 1st Street. Discover more about Tokyo in The Best Things to do in Tokyo, Japan.

23. Feast at The Grand Central Market

Another vital destination in Downtown LA, Grand Central Market is a heaven for food lovers. Arrive with an appetite since the market is overflowing with delectable options.

Among the must-tries are Villa Moreliana’s tacos, Belcampo Meat Co.’s dry-aged beef burger, and Eggslut’s famous egg sandwiches. For dessert, make sure to stop by McConnell’s Fine Ice Cream.

To further explore the Los Angeles culinary scene, consider this downtown food tour starting at Pershing Square, where you can sample various delights while learning about Hollywood’s history.

24. Catch A Concert at The Hollywood Bowl

The Hollywood Bowl is recognized as the premier venue for live music in Los Angeles. This expansive amphitheater has hosted a diverse range of musicians—from Hall and Oates to Lady Gaga—while serving as the home for the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra.

The park area was previously open during the day, allowing visitors to watch rehearsals free of charge.

25. Explore Exposition Park

When traveling with family, it is crucial to identify destinations that cater to everyone’s interests. Below are five highly recommended family-friendly activities in Los Angeles.

If you and your children are eager for a field trip, venture to Exposition Park. This expansive urban park features attractions such as the Banc of California soccer stadium, the Rose Garden, the California African American Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the California Science Center.

The Science Center is particularly compelling as it exhibits the Space Shuttle Endeavour, the last operational shuttle constructed for NASA.

26. Enjoy the Petersen Automotive Museum

For families sharing an affinity for cars, drive up Wilshire Boulevard and take a break at the Petersen Museum. As one of the largest automotive museums globally, it showcases over a hundred vehicles across 25 galleries.

For automobile enthusiasts, an additional $20 grants access to “The Vault,” an underground parking area housing cars that have been rotated out of the exhibitions and those never before seen by the public.

Among the remarkable cars on display are Steve McQueen’s 1957 Jaguar and a 1998 open-top Cadillac Popemobile. Note that children under the age of 10 are not permitted in this section.

27. Learn About the Ice Age at The La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

What makes the tar pits one of LA’s most frequented attractions? The La Brea Tar Pits is the only active Ice Age fossil site located in an urban environment. For over a century, scientists have excavated fossils from this site, with all recovered artifacts showcased at the La Brea Museum.

Here, children can discover subjects like prehistory, archaeology, biology, and climate change. Overall, it provides an engaging opportunity for a fun, interactive, and educational experience!

28. Experience the Thrills of Movie Magic at Universal Studios Hollywood

California is home to a plethora of theme parks, including Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, Six Flags, and Legoland.

If you and your children are fans of pop culture, Universal Studios Hollywood might be one of the few theme parks that genuinely brings the magic of movies to life. Some of the park’s central attractions include the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the Jurassic World ride, and the World-Famous Studio tour. Purchase your Skip the Line tickets for Universal Studios in advance to enhance your experience.

29. Mulholland Drive

Another remarkable drive is Mulholland Drive, which Jay Leno referred to as the “spine of Los Angeles.” With the San Fernando Valley on one side and Beverly Hills on the opposite, the drive presents breathtaking views of the Los Angeles Basin.

Popular among enthusiasts, “The Snake,” a section featuring sharp turns, attracts bikers and car lovers alike. Regrettably, much of Mulholland Drive has been closed since the Woolsey fire affected the area.

Best Day Trips from Los Angeles

The greater Los Angeles region is extensive, and with a car and a few additional days, you should explore some of these locations within driving distance from downtown. Some trips require several days, while others can easily be accomplished in a single day.

30. Historic Battleship USS Iowa Museum

Among the most significant attractions is the historic Battleship USS Iowa Museum, located at the LA Waterfront in San Pedro. This iconic World War II battleship invites visitors to immerse themselves in American naval history through its detailed exhibits and guided tours.

A short distance away lies the Los Angeles Maritime Museum, which further recounts the region’s rich maritime heritage.

31. Long Beach

Long Beach is another coastal city in Southern California within the greater Los Angeles metropolitan area. One of its most famous attractions is the Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner permanently docked in the harbor since 1967. It now functions as a hotel, museum, and event venue, and it is also reputedly haunted, offering ghost tours.

The waterfront area of Long Beach is lively, featuring numerous restaurants, shops, and attractions. The Rainbow Harbor and Shoreline Village are particularly favored spots for strolling, dining, and enjoying waterfront views.

Additionally, the area boasts several miles of beaches ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Belmont Shore is a popular beach neighborhood recognized for its relaxed ambiance, while Alamitos Beach is celebrated as LGBTQ2S+ friendly.

32. Summit Mt. Baldy

Standing at 10,066 feet (3,068 meters) above sea level, Mount Baldy (also known as Mt. San Antonio) is the tallest peak in Los Angeles County.

A variety of trails are available throughout the mountain, ranging from the short Mt. Baldy Notch trail (approximately 3.5 miles one way) to the more extended Mt. Baldy trail (6.5 miles one way), the oldest route leading to the summit. From the peak, stunning views of Los Angeles await. On a clear day, glimpses of Catalina Island are even possible.

In winter months, Mt. Baldy is a popular venue for skiing.

33. Bungee Jump Off the Bridge to Nowhere

The Angeles National Forest spans over 700,000 acres, incorporating the San Gabriel and Sierra Pelona Mountains. An exhilarating activity here is the Bridge to Nowhere hike within the San Gabriel Mountains. This 10-mile hike involves river crossings, tunnels, and an awe-inspiring 120-foot-high concrete bridge that leads to nowhere, as it is wedged into the canyon.

If the hike isn’t thrilling enough, you also have the option to bungee jump from the bridge. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, night jumps can be arranged, providing a plunge into an abyss while looking up at a starry sky.

However, a word of caution: always check weather conditions before embarking on this hike. The area is susceptible to flash floods during wet seasons, and can become exhausting in the summer months due to the lack of shade.

34. Go Bouldering in Joshua Tree National Park

If you can only allocate time for one or two day trips, ensure one of them is a journey to Joshua Tree National Park. Approximately a 2-hour-and-45-minute drive from Los Angeles, this park is definitely worth the visit.

Recognized as the location where the Colorado and Mojave deserts converge, the park is home to some remarkable landscapes in the United States. Notable sights include the peculiar Skull Rock formation and the 30-foot arch of Arch Rock.

Joshua Tree’s impressive rock formations make it a prime spot for bouldering and rock climbing as well. Beginners can explore locations such as Trashcan Rock, Lizard’s Hangout, and the Blob. Read More: 11 Best Hikes in Joshua Tree National Park

35. Go Off-Roading in The Mojave Desert

Mojave Road spans 150 miles and is a historic dirt road commencing at Beale’s Crossing by the Colorado River and concluding at Drum Barracks in Wilmington, LA.

You can traverse the entire trail in three days; however, ensure you carry ample food, water, and gasoline, as there are virtually no establishments in the desert. It is also advisable to bring tools, a spare tire, and emergency supplies.

Due to its unmaintained nature, a 4×4 vehicle is necessary for this rugged desert road.

36. Sail Off to Catalina Island

For a more relaxed adventure, consider arranging a private charter to Catalina Island. On your voyage, expect to sail alongside dolphins, engage in kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding, and snorkel in Catalina’s vibrant coral reefs.

Catalina Island lies an hour away by boat from Newport Beach, Long Beach, or San Pedro Beach.

37. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

Los Angeles is as much a city of cars as it is of stars, with a car culture ingrained in its design and infrastructure. Consequently, LA is one of the finest locations for travelers to embark on a road trip.

One of the most scenic routes available begins at Santa Monica and continues to Zuma Beach in Malibu via the Pacific Coast Highway. This highway winds along California’s Pacific coastline, delivering some of the most breathtaking vistas in the world. While in Malibu, don’t forget to stop by Neptune’s Net, the iconic seafood and beer joint situated right along the highway. For a more thorough exploration, check out The Ultimate Big Sur Road Trip Itinerary and The Best Viewpoints.

About Los Angeles

Los Angeles is part of Los Angeles County, comprising 88 incorporated cities in total. Also recognized as the City of Angels, LA is California’s most populous city with over 80 neighborhoods. The boundaries of these neighborhoods can be contentious, so do not be concerned if you cannot locate a specific destination on a standard map. If lost, consulting a local is often the best course of action!

Your primary entry point into Los Angeles is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located in the beachside neighborhood of Westchester. Progressing northwest will lead you to other renowned coastal towns like Venice, Santa Monica, the Pacific Palisades, and Malibu.

While Los Angeles does provide sufficient public transportation, the optimal mode of travel is by vehicle. There exists a saying that “nobody walks in LA”—due to the vastness of the county and the thriving car culture, this statement is essentially true. Actually, I retract that—it is definitively accurate. Compare car rental prices here.

Whether you seek swift urban hikes, leisurely beach days, exhilarating surf sessions, or awe-inspiring day trips in the desert, Los Angeles is a dream destination for adventurers. There is no shortage of activities available in LA!

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