Things To Do
in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a sprawling metropolis known for its influence in entertainment, culture, and innovation. The city offers a diverse tapestry of neighborhoods, from the glamour of Hollywood to the laid-back vibes of Venice Beach. Visitors can experience world-class museums, scenic coastline, and eclectic culinary scenes.
LA’s year-round sunshine and creative energy make it a vibrant destination.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Your morning begins with a stroll along the Santa Monica Pier boardwalk, enjoying ocean breezes and street performances. You can grab a hearty breakfast at one of the beachfront cafes while watching surfers catch the waves. The soft sand underfoot and iconic Ferris wheel views set the perfect tone for a relaxing start to your trip.
Spend the afternoon wandering Third Street Promenade with its lively shops and street musicians. Pop into boutiques for unique souvenirs and sample local snacks from food trucks stationed nearby. Be sure to rent a bike and pedal along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail for scenic coastal vistas.
As the sun sets, return to the pier for a ride on Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel and indulge in classic carnival treats. Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking the water, savoring fresh fish tacos or clam chowder. Then, take a sunset walk along the beach to end your first night in LA on a magical note.
Begin your day with a moderate hike up to Griffith Observatory, enjoying panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline and the iconic Hollywood sign. Once at the top, explore interactive exhibits on space and gaze through the antique telescopes. The fresh morning air and sweeping vistas make for an inspirational start to your LA adventure.
Descend into Hollywood to stroll along the Walk of Fame and find your favorite stars embedded in the sidewalk. Stop by TCL Chinese Theatre to compare your handprints with those of movie legends. Grab a light lunch at a nearby cafe while people-watching on Hollywood Boulevard.
Head to the Sunset Strip for dinner at a trendy bistro or classic dive bar. Enjoy live music or comedy at one of the many iconic venues, soaking in the vibrant nightlife. Cap off the evening with a drive up Mulholland Drive for glittering city lights below.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $1.75 |
| 🍺Pint of beer | $6-8 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (5 miles) | $10-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Diverse cultural attractions and cuisines
- Mild weather year-round
- Heavy traffic and sprawl
- High costs for lodging and dining
Places to Visit in Los Angeles
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers sweeping views of the LA skyline and the Hollywood Sign, especially at sunset.
Iconic installation of restored street lamps—great for night shoots.
Quaint walkways and arching bridges that evoke European charm by the beach.
Food in Los Angeles
Los Angeles Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Marinated pork tacos with pineapple, onions, and cilantro—find them at street vendors and taco trucks across East LA.
Must-Try!
Grill your own marinated meats at spots like Kang Ho Dong Baekjeong in Koreatown.
A West Coast staple served at cafés like Sqirl in Silver Lake.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic downtown food hall with vendors serving pupusas, egg sandwiches, and artisanal coffee.
Weekly outdoor market in Downtown’s ROW DTLA featuring dozens of food stalls and local artisans.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A casual “Hi” or “Hey” is fine; a firm handshake is common in business settings.
People value personal space—keep about an arm’s length when talking.
Appointments and reservations run on time; consider LA traffic when planning arrivals.
Safety
Tipping in Los Angeles
Ensure a smooth experience
Tip service staff 15–20% of the pre-tax bill. Taxi drivers, hotel housekeeping, and baristas often receive small tips ($1–$2).
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for street vendors and food trucks. Contactless payments like Apple Pay are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures (60–75°F), wildflowers bloom in hiking areas, occasional rain early in the season.
Hot and dry (75–90°F), beach weather ideal, expect crowds and higher accommodation rates.
Warm days and cooler nights (65–85°F), fewer tourists, perfect for outdoor festivals.
Mild and wet (55–65°F), rain primarily December–February, whale watching off the coast.
Los Angeles at Night
Hiking in Los Angeles
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy 3.5-mile trail to a seasonal waterfall near Pasadena.
Moderate 4-mile loop in the Pacific Palisades with ocean views.
Airports
How to reach Los Angeles by plane.
Main international gateway with extensive global connections; 30 minutes from downtown LA by car.
Smaller airport serving domestic flights; about 20 miles north of Hollywood.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Significant influence on culture, food, and festivals; large Mexican and Central American populations.
Vibrant Korean, Chinese, Filipino, and Japanese neighborhoods with authentic shopping and dining.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Home to the Lakers and Clippers—catch an NBA game at Crypto.com Arena.
Watch the Dodgers at Dodger Stadium in the spring and summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Los Angeles.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options at most restaurants; look for dedicated menus at Plant Power Fast Food and Gracias Madre.
Many eateries offer gluten-free bread and pasta; let servers know your needs to avoid cross-contamination.