If you’re planning a trip to the City of Angels, you’re in for a treat. Los Angeles is one of the most exciting destinations in the world and knowing the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles before you arrive makes all the difference. From sun-soaked beaches and world-famous Hollywood landmarks to hidden cultural gems, this guide covers everything you need to explore the best of LA like a local.
Top Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles Image Credit: Photo by Jesus Curiel on Unsplash
Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles never get old. In this guide, you’ll find detailed information on 15+ must-visit places to visit in Los Angeles, complete with entry fees, travel tips, best times to visit, and budget advice. Let’s dive in.
Table of Contents
- Quick List: Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles
- Iconic Landmarks & Famous LA Tourist Spots
- Beaches & Outdoor Attractions
- Museums & Cultural Highlights
- Theme Parks & Entertainment
- Hidden Gems in Los Angeles
- Hotels in Los Angeles
- Tours & Tickets
- Travel Insurance for Los Angeles
- Tips for First-Time Visitors
- FAQ
Quick List: Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles
Short on time? Here are the top 10 tourist attractions in Los Angeles at a glance, perfect for featured snippet readers and fast planners:
- Griffith Observatory & Griffith Park
- Hollywood Walk of Fame
- The Getty Center
- Santa Monica Pier & Beach
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- The Getty Villa (Malibu)
- Venice Beach Boardwalk
- LACMA – Los Angeles County Museum of Art
- Disneyland Resort (Anaheim, 30 mins from LA)
- The Broad Museum
Iconic Landmarks & Famous LA Tourist Spots
1. Griffith Observatory & Griffith Park
Perched high in the Santa Monica Mountains, Griffith Observatory is arguably the most iconic of all the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles. With sweeping 360-degree views of the city, the Hollywood Sign, and on clear days, the Pacific Ocean, this is a must-do for every visitor.
Why Visit: The views alone are worth the trip. The observatory also houses fascinating planetarium shows and space exhibits.
Entry Fee: Free admission to the grounds and building. Planetarium shows cost $7–$10 per person.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for golden-hour city views, or after dark for stargazing.
Travel Tips: Drive up early or take the DASH Observatory bus from Los Feliz. Weekends get very crowded arrive before 10am.
Image Suggestion: Wide-angle shot of Griffith Observatory at dusk with Los Angeles city lights glowing in the background.
Alt Text: Griffith Observatory at sunset with Los Angeles skyline top tourist attraction in Los Angeles.
2. Hollywood Walk of Fame
No list of top tourist attractions in Los Angeles is complete without the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Stretching 1.3 miles along Hollywood Boulevard, over 2,700 brass stars honor legends of entertainment.
Why Visit: Spot stars from your favorite movies, TV shows, music, and sports. The TCL Chinese Theatre and Dolby Theatre (home of the Oscars) are right here too.
Entry Fee: Free to walk. Tours start from $20.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday mornings to avoid tour buses and crowds.
Travel Tips: Watch your pockets in busy areas. Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station the easiest way to get here.
Image Suggestion: Close-up of a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame with tourists in the background.
3. The Getty Center
One of the finest free museums in America, The Getty Center is a crown jewel among places to visit in Los Angeles. Perched in the Brentwood hills, it houses an extraordinary collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
Why Visit: World-class art (Monet, Van Gogh, Rembrandt) plus stunning architecture and gardens. The view over LA and to the ocean is breathtaking.
Entry Fee: Free. Parking is $25 (or free after 5pm on Saturdays).
Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons. Saturday evenings in summer when it stays open late.
Travel Tips: Book timed tickets online in advance. Take the tram from the parking structure up to the museum.
Image Suggestion: The Getty Center white travertine buildings against a blue California sky.
Beaches & Outdoor Attractions
4. Santa Monica Pier & Beach
Santa Monica is the quintessential LA beach experience and one of the most beloved Los Angeles tourist spots in the city. The iconic pier with its Pacific Park amusement rides and famous Route 66 endpoint sign is instantly recognizable.
Why Visit: Stunning beach, great food, street performers, and the energy of a classic California boardwalk.
Entry Fee: Beach is free. Rides at Pacific Park from $5–$12.
Best Time to Visit: Spring (April–June) before summer crowds peak, or weekday mornings year-round.
Travel Tips: Rent a bike and cycle the beach path north to Venice Beach. Parking is expensive — take the Metro Expo Line to Downtown Santa Monica.
Image Suggestion: Santa Monica Pier Ferris wheel at golden hour with the Pacific Ocean in the background.
5. Venice Beach Boardwalk
Venice Beach is unlike anywhere else on earth and one of the most unique things to do in Los Angeles. From bodybuilders at Muscle Beach to street artists, fortune tellers, and skateboarders, it’s a vibrant circus of life.
Why Visit: Free entertainment all day. The Abbot Kinney Boulevard nearby offers excellent cafes and boutique shopping.
Entry Fee: Free.
Best Time to Visit: Weekends between 10am–2pm when performers are most active.
Travel Tips: Leave valuables at your hotel. Try the famous Cow’s End Cafe nearby for coffee with locals.
Image Suggestion: Venice Beach skate park with colorful street art murals behind it.
6. Malibu Beaches — El Matador State Beach
While Santa Monica gets the crowds, El Matador State Beach is where Angelenos actually escape. This stunning sea-cave beach with dramatic rock formations is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Los Angeles and a true hidden gem.
Why Visit: Dramatic sea stacks, caves, and turquoise water. Popular with photographers and couples.
Entry Fee: $8 day-use parking fee.
Best Time to Visit: Low tide for the best cave access. Sunrise for magical golden light.
Travel Tips: The path down is steep wear good shoes. Arrive early on weekends as the small lot fills by 9am.
Museums & Cultural Highlights
7. LACMA — Los Angeles County Museum of Art
LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States and a crown jewel among best attractions in Los Angeles. Its iconic ‘Urban Light’ installation 202 antique streetlamps is one of the most photographed spots in all of LA.
Why Visit: Over 150,000 works spanning 6,000 years of art history, plus world-class rotating exhibitions.
Entry Fee: Adults $20, students $16. Free for LA County residents on the second Tuesday of each month.
Best Time to Visit: Tuesday–Thursday mornings for fewer crowds.
Travel Tips: The ‘Urban Light’ is best photographed at dusk. Check their website for free admission days.
Image Suggestion: LACMA’s ‘Urban Light’ installation at dusk rows of antique streetlamps glowing warmly.
8. The Broad Museum
The Broad is one of the most exciting contemporary art museums in America and a standout among Los Angeles tourist spots. Free to visit (with reservations), it houses works by Jeff Koons, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Cindy Sherman.
Why Visit: Yayoi Kusama’s ‘Infinity Mirrored Room’ is here one of the most Instagram-worthy experiences in the world.
Entry Fee: Free (tickets must be reserved in advance online).
Best Time to Visit: Open Tuesday–Sunday. Book 2–3 weeks ahead for the Infinity Room.
Travel Tips: Walk to The Grand Central Market and Angels Flight Railway nearby for a full cultural downtown day.
9. The Getty Villa — Ancient Art in Malibu
Often overshadowed by its Brentwood sibling, The Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades is a hidden treasure among places to visit in Los Angeles. Built to resemble a 1st-century Roman villa, it houses a stunning collection of Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities.
Why Visit: Walk through ancient history in a gorgeous setting overlooking the Pacific.
Entry Fee: Free. Timed tickets required (book online). Parking is $20.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons for a peaceful, uncrowded experience.
Travel Tips: Combine with a visit to nearby El Matador Beach for a full Malibu day.
10. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles
A fantastic family-friendly option among the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles, the Natural History Museum features one of the world’s finest dinosaur fossil collections, a live butterfly pavilion, and a gem and mineral hall that will leave you speechless.
Entry Fee: Adults $15, children $7.
Best Time to Visit: School holidays get busy visit on weekday mornings for the best experience.
Travel Tips: The Exposition Park rose garden right next door is a lovely free add-on.
Theme Parks & Entertainment
11. Universal Studios Hollywood
One of the most thrilling best attractions in Los Angeles, Universal Studios Hollywood combines world-class theme park rides with a real working movie studio backlot. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter alone is worth the trip.
Why Visit: Jurassic World ride, Minion Land, studio tram tour with iconic movie sets, unforgettable for all ages.
Entry Fee: From $109 per person (buy online for discounts). Express Passes from $79 extra.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays in January–March (lowest crowds). Avoid school holidays.
Travel Tips: Arrive 30 minutes before gates open. Book tickets online for up to 20% savings.
Image Suggestion: The entrance to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Studios Hollywood.
12. Disneyland Resort (Anaheim — 30 Min from LA)
Technically just outside the city in Anaheim, Disneyland is one of the most visited places to visit near Los Angeles and arguably the most magical experience in Southern California. It’s an easy 30-minute drive or train ride from downtown LA.
Entry Fee: From $104 per person (varies by date).
Best Time to Visit: January–February (excluding MLK weekend) for the shortest lines.
Travel Tips: Download the Disneyland app for virtual queue reservations on popular rides. Stay nearby in Anaheim to maximize park time.
Hidden Gems in Los Angeles — Off-the-Beaten-Path
13. Watts Towers
One of the most remarkable things to do in Los Angeles for art lovers, Watts Towers is a set of 17 interconnected sculptural towers built entirely by hand by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia between 1921 and 1954. Using steel rods, wire mesh, mortar, and embedded found objects sea shells, glass, tile it’s a one-of-a-kind folk art masterpiece.
Entry Fee: Tours from $7.
Best Time to Visit: Saturday–Sunday when guided tours run.
Travel Tips: Combine with a visit to the local 103rd Street restaurants for an authentic South LA experience.
14. The Last Bookstore — Downtown LA
Book lovers will adore this quirky, sprawling independent bookstore in the heart of downtown. With a famous spiral tunnel of books and a curated art gallery upstairs, The Last Bookstore is one of the most unique and underrated Los Angeles tourist spots around.
Entry Fee: Free.
Best Time to Visit: Weekday afternoons for a relaxed browse.
Travel Tips: Spend $10 minimum and you get a free bookmark signed by the owner.
15. Mulholland Drive Scenic Overlook
For one of the best free views in Los Angeles, drive up Mulholland Drive to the famous overlook near Mulholland and Bowmont Drive. This is where locals come at night to see the entire San Fernando Valley light up. A hidden gem among the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles.
Entry Fee: Free.
Best Time to Visit: After dark for city light panoramas.
Travel Tips: It can get cold at night bring a jacket. Not all areas are well-lit, so go with a group.
Hotels in Los Angeles — Where to Stay
Choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as finding a great hotel. Here’s a quick breakdown of where to stay based on your itinerary:
| 🏨 Hollywood/West Hollywood — Best for nightlife, entertainment, and the Walk of Fame 🏖️ Santa Monica/Venice — Ideal for beach lovers and laid-back vibes 🌇 Downtown LA (DTLA) — Best for museum lovers, business travelers, and budget-friendly options ✈️ Westside (Beverly Hills/Brentwood) — Luxury hotels near top shopping and The Getty 💡 Budget Tip: Use hotel comparison sites and book 3–4 weeks ahead for best rates |
Recommended hotels: The LINE Hotel (Koreatown), Hotel Casa del Mar (Santa Monica), Ace Hotel (Downtown), The Farmer’s Daughter (Fairfax), Loews Hollywood Hotel (Hollywood).
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Tours & Tickets — Make the Most of Your Trip
Booking guided tours or attraction passes can save you serious money when exploring the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles:
- Go City LA All-Inclusive Pass — Access 40+ attractions for one flat fee
- Hollywood & Homes of the Stars Tour — Classic open-top bus tour (from $40)
- Viator Griffith Observatory Night Sky Tour — Guided stargazing from $55
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour — Walk real movie sets (from $69)
- LA Combo Passes — Bundle Universal Studios + Getty + LACMA for savings
Book tours at least 48 hours in advance, especially for popular experiences like the Warner Bros. Studio Tour and Universal Studios.
Travel Insurance for Los Angeles — Don’t Skip This
Healthcare costs in the USA are among the highest in the world. A travel insurance policy protects you against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and more — especially important for international visitors exploring the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles.
- World Nomads — Ideal for adventure travelers and long trips
- SafetyWing — Affordable, subscription-based coverage
- Allianz Travel Insurance — Popular with families and group travelers
Even a basic plan covering medical evacuation is essential. A simple ER visit in Los Angeles can cost $5,000+ without insurance.
Tips for First-Time Visitors to Los Angeles
| 🚗 Rent a Car: LA’s public transport is improving but a car gives you the most flexibility 💰 Budget: Plan $150–$250/day per person (mid-range) including food, transport & entry fees 🌤️ Best Time to Visit: March–May and September–November for best weather + fewer crowds 🚌 LA Metro: Use the Metro for Hollywood, Downtown, and Santa Monica to avoid traffic & parking 🕶️ Safety: Most tourist areas are safe. Avoid sleeping rough areas late at night near Skid Row 🧴 Sun Protection: LA sun is strong year-round — wear SPF 50+ daily 🚦 Traffic: Factor in 30–60 extra minutes for any drive during rush hours (7–9am, 4–7pm) |
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions About LA Tourist Attractions
What are the most famous tourist attractions in Los Angeles?
The most famous tourist attractions in Los Angeles include Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, Universal Studios Hollywood, The Getty Center, Venice Beach, and LACMA. These are the places most first-time visitors prioritize.
Is Los Angeles worth visiting for tourists?
Absolutely. Los Angeles offers an extraordinary range of experiences — from world-class museums and theme parks to stunning beaches and hiking trails. With 300+ days of sunshine per year and some of the world’s best dining, LA is one of the top tourist destinations in the USA.
How many days do you need to see the top attractions in Los Angeles?
We recommend a minimum of 5–7 days to cover the best tourist attractions in Los Angeles comfortably. If you plan to visit Disneyland, add 1–2 more days. A full 10-day itinerary allows you to explore both popular spots and hidden gems.
What are some free things to do in Los Angeles?
There are many free things to do in Los Angeles: visit Griffith Observatory (grounds and building are free), walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, browse The Broad Museum (free with reservation), explore Venice Beach, hike in Runyon Canyon, and visit The Getty Center.
Is it safe to visit Los Angeles as a tourist?
Most of the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles are very safe. Exercise standard travel precautions — keep bags close, avoid flashing expensive items, and stick to well-lit areas at night. Areas like Hollywood, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and the Westside neighborhoods are generally very tourist-friendly.
What is the best time of year to visit Los Angeles?
The best times to visit Los Angeles are spring (March–May) and fall (September–November). Summers are warm and sunny but crowded and expensive. Winters are mild, but some outdoor events are limited. Spring offers perfect weather with lighter crowds.
Do I need a car to visit tourist attractions in Los Angeles?
A car is highly recommended for the best experience exploring Los Angeles tourist spots. However, the Metro Rail system connects Hollywood, Downtown, Koreatown, Santa Monica, and Culver City well. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft are also widely available.
From the star-studded Hollywood Walk of Fame to the peaceful hillside gardens of The Getty, the top tourist attractions in Los Angeles offer something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re chasing the best attractions in Los Angeles for a bucket-list Hollywood moment, relaxing on Santa Monica Beach, exploring world-class art, or discovering hidden gems like the Watts Towers, LA delivers on every level.
Plan ahead, book tickets early, factor in traffic, and give yourself plenty of time because the places to visit in Los Angeles are too good to rush. With the right preparation, the City of Angels will be one of the most unforgettable travel experiences of your life.
About This Guide
This guide was written by an experienced travel writer with multiple visits to Los Angeles. All entry fees, operating hours, and recommendations are accurate as of 2026. Always verify details directly with attractions before your visit, as information can change.
