1. Overview
This article explores the most photographed landmarks in Los Angeles, showcasing iconic spots ideal for selfies and sightseeing.
Given LA’s starring role in numerous movies and TV shows, the city is chock-full of famous landmarks that attract visitors from around the globe for unforgettable photo opportunities. These landmarks are worth visiting from the outside, even if you never go inside. Many also qualify as attractions you can explore further, and they rank among the top free things to do in LA due to their sightseeing and selfie potential. Observing and capturing your own photos is always complimentary.
The Most Photographed Landmarks in Los Angeles
Start with the Hollywood Sign, LA’s quintessential landmark. Strategically perched on Mt. Lee in Griffith Park, the sign can be seen from miles around and stands as the most recognized symbol of Los Angeles.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame, marked by its terrazzo stars embedded in the sidewalk that extends along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine, is another cherished icon that stretches for a mile through Hollywood. Posing alongside your favorite star’s star is a cherished tradition for tourists visiting Los Angeles.
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre
The stunning facade of Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, along with its Forecourt of the Stars, where numerous great actors have left their handprints and footprints, is another must-visit landmark in Los Angeles. This site serves as a frequent stop on many Hollywood Tours, where various tours commence.
Capitol Records Building
The Capitol Records Building, designed in 1956 to resemble a stack of vinyl records, is one of the most recognizable structures in Los Angeles. This 13-story tower, crafted by architect Welton Becket, is listed on the Los Angeles Register of Historic Places. Moreover, at night, a blinking light atop the tower spells out “Hollywood” in Morse code and tree-shaped lights adorn it during Christmas.
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier, located at the western terminus of Route 66, is another emblematic landmark in Los Angeles.
With its solar-powered Ferris Wheel in Pacific Park, the pier features prominently in movies and TV shows. The neon entrance, flanked by rides, is among the most photographed locations in LA. Additionally, the Santa Monica Route 66 End of the Trail Sign, installed in 2009 to celebrate the pier’s centennial, has become a favorite for selfies.
Disney Concert Hall
The Walt Disney Concert Hall in Downtown Los Angeles is an architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry. This building, resembling waves of stainless steel, has become one of LA’s most iconic and photographed landmarks since its opening in 2003. Although audio tours are available, visitors can also freely explore the exterior of this stunning venue.
Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park offers panoramic views of Downtown Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign. This remarkable venue is worth a visit to appreciate its architecture and vistas. Inside, the observatory houses a museum, and various telescopes are available for stargazing. The drive up to the observatory is rewarding, even if time constraints limit your visit to the scenic surrounds.
Universal Studios Globe
While the most notable Disneyland attractions are within the parks, the renowned spinning golden globe at Universal Studios Hollywood welcomes visitors outside the gates for an excellent photo opportunity. For those seeking budget-friendly options, a free shuttle from the Metro station provides easy access.
The Giant Guitar on Universal CityWalk
The giant guitar situated in front of the Hard Rock Cafe on Universal CityWalk has become synonymous with this iconic location since its inauguration in 1996. A visual reminiscent of various TV shows and films, the guitar underwent a fresh paint job in 2011 coinciding with the construction of the 5 Towers outdoor stage area. The current design is a replica of Eddie Van Halen’s famed Frankenstrat guitar.
The Hollywood Bowl – On the LA Landmark Tour
Attending a concert at the Hollywood Bowl typically involves purchasing tickets, however, visiting during the day when there are no events is complimentary. Additionally, the Hollywood Bowl Museum is free to access, and if timed correctly, visitors may witness LA Philharmonic rehearsals during the summer months. The Hollywood Bowl is also featured on the Starline Hop On Hop Off bus tour.
The Theme Building at LAX
The Theme Building at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is an unmistakable visual, reminiscent of the 1960s future illustrated in cartoons like The Jetsons. Previously featuring the Encounter Restaurant, it boasts an observation deck that remains open on weekends.
The Queen Mary
The majestic ocean liner The Queen Mary serves as both a hotel and attraction, situated alongside the Dome, which houses the Long Beach Cruise Terminal. Together, they distinctly identify their location in Long Beach, the southernmost city in LA County.
Union Station on the LA Landmark Tour
LA Union Station, recognized as the “Last Great American Train Station,” is another historic gem that has appeared in numerous films, representing Los Angeles on the outside and reflecting train stations from all over the globe inside.
Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels
Although not as recognized by outsiders compared to some of the city’s more illustrious landmarks, the modern Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels towers impressively over the 101 Freeway in Downtown Los Angeles, directly across from the Los Angeles Music Center and Chinatown.
Watts Towers
The Watts Towers may be more familiar to international visitors than to many Americans, yet a selfie by this landmark in South Los Angeles can show your friends that you ventured off the typical tourist path and experienced some of the unique alternative things to do in LA.
