50 Things to Do in Los Angeles in 2023

What’s special about this place?

Located at 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Griffith Park is a 4,310-acre municipal park that features both natural chaparral-covered terrain and landscaped parkland and picnic areas. It is the second largest city park in California, and one of the largest urban parks in North America. The park features a variety of plant communities, wildlife, and attractions such as the Griffith Observatory, the Los Angeles Zoo, the Autry Museum of the American West, and the Hollywood Sign!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Griffith Park is ideal for families, outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and recreationists of all ages. With attractions like the Griffith Observatory and the Autry Museum, it’s also ideal for amateur astronomers and American history lovers.

What to do here?

Explore Griffith Park. Hit the park’s numerous hiking trails or go on horseback. Check out the Los Angeles Zoo and the Griffith Observatory. Take a ride on the famous Griffith Park Merry-Go-Round, and take pictures of some of the park’s diverse plant communities and wildlife!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Griffith Park largely depends on your itinerary. The park is open 24/7, but attractions within the park such as the Griffith Observatory and the Los Angeles Zoo may have varying hours. Naturally, the park is quite busy during weekends, but this is usually during peak hours, around 12 PM to 4 PM.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 5801 Wilshire Boulevard, the La Brea Tar Pits is a collection of tar pits that have, over many centuries, preserved the bones of trapped animals. Since 1906, more than one million bones have been recovered from the tar pits. Considered as L.A.’s gateway back to the Ice Age, the La Brea Tar Pits is a registered National Natural Landmark!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The La Brea Tar Pits are ideal for families and tourists who have a proclivity for natural history and ancient animal fossils. While the smell of sulfur can discourage some, the La Brea Tar Pits are a real treat for any guest with an appreciation for natural phenomena.

What to do here?

Check out the La Brea Tar Pits. Explore the nearby George C. Page Museum and check out the only active urban paleontological excavation site in the United States. Check out the museum’s fossil exhibits, and don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

The La Brea Tar Pits is open Wednesday through Monday, from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. It’s best to visit the area on weekdays to avoid large crowds. It’s best to purchase online tickets ahead of time to ensure entry into the Museum and the 3D Theater!

Learn more about La Brea Tar Pits here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles’ Grand Central Market is an iconic downtown L.A. complex that features a diverse array of food vendors and fresh meats, seafood, and produce from California and around the world! This historic market is loved by locals and tourists alike!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Grand Central Market is ideal for families and tourists who want to explore the international flavors of the L.A. culinary scene. It’s also a great place to just pass the time and observe locals and immerse oneself in the L.A. culture.

What to do here?

Take a walk through bustling Grand Central Market. Check out its food stalls. Try the carnitas at Villa Moreliana and Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, and the sandwiches and tea at Moon Rabbit. For some authentic Thai food, check out Sticky Rice. Check out the market’s international selection of fresh produce and dry goods.

Best time to visit

Grand Central Market is open daily, from 8 AM to 9 PM. It’s usually quite busy during weekends, but expect the market to be crowded during weekdays as well, as it is one of the top L.A. destinations. That said, it’s best to visit the market around 8 AM to 10 PM, or around 4 PM to 7 PM.

Learn more about Grand Central Market here!

What’s special about this place?

It’s iconic and frequented by celebrities and families alike. Located at 751 Echo Park Avenue at the heart of the densely populated Echo Park neighborhood, Echo Park Lake is a man-made lake that’s considered an important part of the Los Angeles ecosystem. The lake primarily functions as a holding pond, storing the city’s storm drain system while providing recreational benefits and wildlife habitat. It also occasionally hosts community events such as the Lotus Festival.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Outdoor enthusiasts and tourists looking for a brief getaway from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles would enjoy a trip to Echo Park Lake. Featuring walking paths and picnic tables, Echo Park Lake is also great for families.

What to do here?

Escape the city and go hiking at Echo Park Lake’s walking paths. Rent a paddle boat and explore the man-made lake. Get your fishing gear ready and go fishing at the lake. The lake is strictly a catch-and-release site, though, so make sure to take pictures of your catch before you release them!

Best time to visit

Echo Park Lake is officially open daily, from 5 AM to 10:30 PM. However, most park-goers usually take late-night strolls here. That said, for safety reasons, it’s best to visit the lake during the day.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1000 Vin Scully Avenue within the Elysian Park neighborhood of Los Angeles, Dodger Stadium is the home stadium of Major League Baseball’s Los Angeles Dodgers. It is the world’s largest baseball stadium by seat capacity. Aside from baseball games, the park occasionally hosts events such as concerts. It has hosted acts like The Cure, The Beatles, and The Rolling Stones!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Baseball fans, primarily, would love Dodger Stadium. It’s also ideal for families looking to unwind and watch a baseball game, concert, or whatever event is being held at Dodger Stadium!

What to do here?

Go on a pregame stadium tour and get a behind-the-scenes tour of Dodger Stadium’s facility. Watch a Dodgers game. Check out the local Dodgers fan culture, and witness one of the most successful teams in Major League Baseball history!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Dodger Stadium really depends on your itinerary as well as the games/events being held at the time of your visit. As a general rule, it’s best to get to the stadium at least an hour before the game/event you’re attending starts.

What’s special about this place?

Spanning the central and western part of Los Angeles, Sunset Boulevard is an iconic 22-mile road that stretches from Hollywood to Malibu. While the road passes through many L.A. landmarks, including the Sunset Strip, the road itself is an icon that’s been immortalized in film many times over.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

All L.A. tourists, whether it’s the first time they’re visiting L.A., or the millionth time, would enjoy a drive through Sunset Boulevard. It’s a road that represents the essence and much of the history of the city of Los Angeles.

What to do here?

Drive through the 22-mile road. Check out the 1.5-mile Sunset Strip and explore the many L.A. landmarks within the strip. Stop by the historic Chateau Marmont for that old Hollywood feel. Stop by Whisky a Go Go and the historic Sunset Tower. Check out the iconic neighborhoods along Sunset Boulevard!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Sunset Boulevard depends on your itinerary. At some point of your L.A. adventure, you’re bound to pass by Sunset Boulevard. That said, a drive through this road is a great way to cap off your L.A. tour!

What’s special about this place?

Spanning 21 miles from Will Rogers State Beach on Pacific Coast Highway to Via Riviera and Paseo de la Playa, the Marvin Braude Bike Trail is a paved bicycle path that runs mostly along the Santa Monica Bay shoreline. Also known as The Strand, the famous trail is primarily used for walking, running, and road biking.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, runners, and tourists looking to tour some of Southern California’s finest beaches would definitely love the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. Aside from the scenic views of the beach, the trail is mostly Class 1, providing an ideal getaway from L.A.’s horrendous traffic conditions.

What to do here?

Go on a quiet hike or go biking through the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. Make sure to make stops along the way and check out the great beach scenery; and don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

The Marvin Braude Bike Trail is open all year round, so the best time to explore the trail depends on your itinerary. Ideally, you’d want to go on this trail on a nice sunny day to get the full experience!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 6000 Santa Monica Boulevard, Hollywood Forever Cemetery is a mortuary, crematory, cemetery, and cultural events center. Founded in 1899, the cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in Los Angeles, and is the final resting place of celebrities like Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney, and Chris Cornell. Hollywood Forever occasionally hosts concerts and cinema screenings. The cemetery is also known for its Dia de Los Muertos celebration–the biggest outside of Mexico!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Hollywood Forever Cemetery is ideal for families, Hollywood history buffs, and tourists looking to pay their respects to the many Hollywood legends laid to rest here. The cemetery is also ideal for those looking for a quiet hike among L.A. icons!

What to do here?

Explore the Hollywood Forever Cemetery and check out the graves of various Hollywood celebrities. Go on a nice little afternoon graveyard picnic. Check out the cemetery’s wandering peacocks. Try to catch one of the cemetery’s cinema screenings!

Best time to visit

Hollywood Forever Cemetery is open daily, from 8:30 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit the cemetery largely depends on your itinerary. If you’re planning to attend one of the cemetery’s cinema screenings, it’s best to inquire about screening schedules ahead of time.

Learn more about the Hollywood Forever Cemetery here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 905 Loma Vista Drive within Beverly Hills, just under 11 miles northwest of Los Angeles city, the historic Greystone Mansion, also known as the Doheny Mansion, is a Tudor Revival mansion constructed by Hoover Dam architect Gordon Kaufmann. The mansion sits on 16 acres of land. It was purchased by the city of Beverly Hills in 1965, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Greystone Estate is ideal for architecture enthusiasts, cinephiles, American history nerds, families, and tourists looking to experience what it’d feel like to be the scion of an oil tycoon during the Los Angeles oil boom!

What to do here?

Explore all 16 acres of the Greystone Estate. Take photos of its formal English gardens. Take a tour inside the Greystone Mansion and check out the well-preserved interior and furnishings of the Tudor Revival mansion.

Best time to visit

Primarily used for private events, weddings, and filming, the Greystone Estate is open to the public Wednesday through Friday, from 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It’s best to visit the estate on Wednesdays and Thursdays, as it tends to get quite packed on Fridays!

Learn more about Greystone Estate here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 6300 Hetzler Road in Culver City, just under 11 miles west of Los Angeles City, the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook California State Park is a 58-acre elevated urban park that features breathtaking views of the entire Los Angeles Basin, the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains. The park also features a very steep and straight staircase and a main hiking trail that zig zags around the staircase!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is ideal for tourists who want to see Los Angeles from the park’s 500 ft. peak. With its picnic areas, moderately challenging trails and staircase, and state of the art visitor center, the park is also ideal for families, avid hikers, and nature lovers of all ages!

What to do here?

Go hiking on the park’s main trail and climb the park’s famous staircase! Take in the breathtaking views of Los Angeles from the park’s peak. Check out the park’s native wildflowers and take pictures of the park’s thriving wildlife.

Best time to visit

The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook is open daily, from 8 AM to sunset. To avoid large crowds, it’s best to visit the park on weekdays. The sunsets here are breathtaking, so it’s best to wait until sunset before you leave the park’s premises!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1044 S Fairfax Avenue, Rosalind’s is an Ethiopian restaurant with a full bar that offers indoor and patio dining. Ever since it opened in 1988, Rosalind’s has been a Los Angeles staple, and is consistently rated among the best Ethiopian restaurants in the city!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Rosalind’s large space is ideal for families and tourists traveling with friends. Obviously, it’s a must-visit for tourists looking for reasonably priced authentic Ethiopian food. With its great variety of vegan options, it’s also ideal for vegans and vegetarians.

What to do here?

Try some of Rosalind’s bestsellers, like their Sambusa, Kitfo, and Gored Gored. For vegans, try their Vegan Goodness, a combination of all 6 of their vegan dishes. For the full Ethiopian dining experience, pair your dish with authentic Ethiopian beer!

Best time to visit

Rosalind’s is open from 11 AM to 10 PM. It’s best to visit Rosalind’s from lunch time, around 12 PM, to late afternoon, around 5:30 PM. The restaurant usually gets significantly busier in the evening.

Learn more about Rosalind’s here!

What’s special about this place?

Located in Newport Beach, just over 44 miles south of Los Angeles City, Balboa Island is a harborside community accessible via bridge, ferry, and several public docks. The Balboa Island community consists of three artificial islands that are all joined by a small bridge. The community is a well-known culinary and shopping hub within California.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

A trip to Balboa Island is ideal for families and tourists who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Yes, Balboa Island is still infested with tourists, but its idyllic community and cute little shops and restaurants and beaches more than make up for this.

What to do here?

Explore Balboa Island and walk through its paved concrete boardwalk. Take in the harborside community’s sights, smells and sounds. Rent a boat or a paddleboard and cruise through the community’s calm waters. Check out some of Balboa Island’s best dining spots, such as Wilma’s Patio and Village Inn. Check out the community’s selection of shops along Marine Avenue and shop ’til you drop!

Best time to visit

As Balboa Island is a popular tourist destination, it’s best to visit the community on weekdays, during non-summer months. If you have to visit it during the summer, though, try to come as early as you can, as the community is infamous for its scant parking!

Learn more about Balboa Island here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 6060 Wilshire Boulevard, the Petersen Automotive Museum is a nonprofit organization dedicated to automobile history. Featuring more than 250 vehicles from around the world, the Petersen Automotive Museum is one of the world’s largest automotive museums!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Petersen Automotive Museum is ideal for families, car enthusiasts, history buffs, and aspiring inventors, artists, and designers eager to learn about the world-changing history of the automobile–arguably one of the greatest inventions of all time.

What to do here?

Explore the Petersen Automotive Museum. Check out its current exhibits, such as its Supercars exhibit and The James Hetfield Collection. Don’t forget to check out the museum’s Vault and discover some of the most iconic and rare cars, motorcycles, and trucks spanning over 120 years of automotive history!

Best time to visit

The Petersen Automotive Museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 5 PM. As with most of the attractions on this list, it’s best to visit the museum on weekends to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about the Petersen Automotive Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Located in Beverly Hills and Los Angeles, Rodeo Drive is a 2-mile-long street that stretches from its intersection with Sunset Boulevard in Beverly Hills, to Beverwil Drive in Los Angeles. Rodeo Drive is one of the world’s top luxury destinations, with its collection of ultra-high-end designer and boutique shops.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Rodeo Drive is ideal for fashion enthusiasts and tourists looking to do a bit of luxury shopping, window or otherwise, in their Los Angeles trip. As Rodeo Drive has been featured in a number of Hollywood films such as Beverly Hills Cop and Clueless, movie fans would also love exploring Rodeo Drive. While the sheer spectacle of Rodeo Drive may entice a lot of tourists, it is definitely not for those who are bargain-hunting.

What to do here?

Check out the numerous luxury boutique shops on the street’s three magnificent blocks. Go shopping and/or window-shopping. Try to spot as many celebrities as you can. Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Anderton Court, the architect’s final structure in Los Angeles. Check out the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style, Rodeo’s version of the Hollywood Walk of Fame that honors fashion icons instead of movie stars.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Rodeo Drive largely depends on your itinerary. As a top luxury shopping hub, expect the street to be quite crowded at all times. A good shopping binge is at least a few hours long, but if you plan on just doing a bit of window-shopping, it shouldn’t take more than a few minutes.

Learn more about Rodeo Drive here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 200 Santa Monica Pier in Santa Monica, just under 16 miles west of Los Angeles City, the Santa Monica Pier is a large double-jointed pier that contains attractions like Pacific Park, a carousel hippodrome from the 1920s, a video arcade, and a number of pubs and restaurants. It’s also just a few steps away from Santa Monica State Beach!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Santa Monica Pier and Santa Monica State Beach are ideal for families and tourists looking for a one-stop tourist experience. From the great view of the beach, to the fishing spots, to the amusement park, to the pubs and restaurants, there’s something for everyone here.

What to do here?

Explore Santa Monica Pier. Take your kids to Pacific Park, the pier oceanfront amusement park. Check out their world famous solar powered Ferris wheel. Walk on the white sands of the 3.5-mile-long Santa Monica State Beach. After a long day of lounging at the beach, stop by one of the restaurants at Santa Monica Pier!

Best time to visit

The Santa Monica Pier is open daily, from 6 AM to 10 PM. It’s best to visit Santa Monica Pier and the nearby Santa Monica State Beach during non-summer months. It would still be quite packed, but not nearly as busy as it is during the summer!

What’s special about this place?

Centered near Eighth Street and Irolo Street, just west of Los Angeles’ MacArthur Park, Koreatown, or K-town, is an iconic neighborhood in central Los Angeles. Known for its many bars and casual 24/7 dining, K-town is one of the city’s top nightlife destinations!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Koreatown is ideal for tourists looking for some late-night entertainment and tourists keen on having a night of drinking and bar-hopping after a long day of doing obligatory touristy things. It’s also a great place for foodies looking for authentic Korean fare!

What to do here?

Tour the 3-square-mile neighborhood. Go shopping for skin care products and home goods at one of Koreatown’s malls. Have a cup of coffee at one of Koreatown’s cafes. Treat yourself with some Korean BBQ. Do some late-night karaoke and de-stress with the local salarymen!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Koreatown really depends on your itinerary. While it’s known for its nightlife, it is equally entertaining during the day. It’s important to note that Koreatown is one of the densest neighborhoods in L.A., and tourists and locals alike spend a good amount of time here, so expect it to be quite packed at all times!

What’s special about this?

The Pacific Coast Highway, formally known as California State Route 1, is a major north-south state highway. Running along most of the Pacific coastline in the state of California, it offers one of the most scenic drives in the whole country. That said, the 49-mile section of the highway that passes through Malibu from Santa Monica to Oxnard is one of the best sections of this designated National Scenic Byway!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

This drive is ideal for all types of tourists. While there are plenty of companies offering tours through the Pacific Coast Highway, the 49-mile drive is especially suited for tourists looking to do some actual driving through one of the country’s most scenic roads. The drive is half the fun!

What to do here?

Rent/bring a car with you. Start at the end of Interstate 10 in Santa Monica, then turn north onto the Pacific Coast Highway. Follow the thin strip of land that separates the Santa Monica Mountains from the Pacific Ocean. Check out the oceanfront residences and make sure to stop by the nice beaches along the way. For the full experience, drive back to Santa Monica from Oxnard!

Best time to visit

This drive is best done during weekdays, as traffic is busiest on weekends. That said, the drive will take you one to two hours depending on traffic and how often you stop. It’s best to allot at least half a day for this trip!

Learn more about the Pacific Coast Highway here!

What’s special about this place?

Located along Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is an iconic Hollywood sidewalk that currently comprises more than 2,500 terrazzo and brass stars. Each star bears the name of one Hollywood notable, and serves as a public monument to their legacy in the entertainment industry.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Hollywood Walk of Fame, arguably the most recognizable of all the tourist attractions in Los Angeles, is ideal for all kinds of tourists. That said, a walk through the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must for casual fans, cinephiles, and/or diehard Hollywood history nerds!

What to do here?

Pick a starting point in the Hollywood Walk of Fame and walk from there. Try to find the names of your favorite Hollywood icons and list how many names you can recognize along the way!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame depends on your itinerary. Most tourists typically spend no more than a few minutes here. It’s best to pass through the Walk of Fame in between your L.A. adventure stops.

Learn more about the Hollywood Walk of Fame here!

What’s special about this place?

Located just under 33 miles northeast of Los Angeles City, the Mount Wilson Observatory is an astronomical observatory located on Mount Wilson in the San Gabriel Mountains. The observatory features a small Astronomical Museum, the CHARA array consisting of six 1-meter telescopes, a 60-inch telescope, the historic 100-inch Hooker telescope, and a 150-foot solar tower. The observatory also offers stunning views from the Mount Wilson peak and a few hiking trails!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

A trip to the Mount Wilson Observatory is great for families, astronomy enthusiasts, nature lovers, and tourists who are looking for an educational tour through the cosmos. It’s also ideal for avid hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, as it features some hiking trails, including the optional 4-hour trek to Mount Wilson!

What to do here?

Take a tour through the Mount Wilson Observatory. Explore the observatory grounds. Check out the view of Los Angeles County from Mount Wilson Peak. Check out the Hooker telescope and the Astronomical Museum. Don’t forget to take pictures!

Best time to visit

The Mount Wilson Observatory is open daily, from 10 AM to 5 PM. It’s busiest on Saturdays, so it’s best to visit the observatory on other days. That said, it’s recommended to purchase tickets to the observatory’s guided tours ahead of time to make sure you get a slot.

Learn more about the Mount Wilson Observatory here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 500 W. Paseo del Mar in the San Pedro neighborhood, Los Angeles’ Sunken City is the site of a natural landslide that occurred in 1929. Most of what was once a prosperous beachside community collapsed and slid into the ocean. Today, only the colorfully-graffitied ruins of the community remain. While it’s strictly off-limits to the public for safety reasons, the Sunken City is considered a hidden gem by most locals.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Tourists who are looking for a weird little adventure would love a trip to Sunken City. The Sunken City terrain is dangerously unstable, but it’s perfectly safe to just take pictures of the area and enjoy the view of the Pacific Ocean from outside the Sunken City’s fence.

What to do here?

Get your camera ready and take pictures of the modern ruins that is the Sunken City of San Pedro. Check out all the graffiti art it’s accumulated over the years, and try to picture what kind of community once stood on the site. If you really want to explore the area, you can always do so with a drone!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Sunken City would probably be any time during the day. There is quite a lot of crime in the area, but it should be perfectly safe during the day!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 12371 Little Tujunga Canyon Road in San Fernando, just over 16 miles northeast of Los Angeles City, the Angeles National Forest is a national forest that covers over 650,000 acres and contains five nationally designated wilderness areas. The forest features a diverse range of terrains and over 50 accessible trails!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Nature lovers, conservationists, hikers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and all levels would definitely love Angeles National Forest! Offering a wealth of recreation opportunities, a trip here is ideal for families, and is a perfect getaway from the Los Angeles urban jungle!

What to do here?

Explore some of the hiking trails in Angeles National Forest. There’s plenty of trails here for newbies and experts alike, and the views are breathtaking. If you’re up for it, try camping at one of the park’s campgrounds. Go fishing at one of the park’s lakes, and check out the forest’s thriving plant and animal wildlife!

Best time to visit

The Angeles National Forest is open 24 hours, all year round. To avoid large crowds, the best time to explore the Angeles National Forest would be during weekdays. It’s also ideal to visit the forest during non-summer months, as the forest is notoriously fire-prone. When in doubt, consult a local ranger regarding forest weather conditions.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 100 Universal City Plaza in the county island of Universal City, just over 10 miles north of Los Angeles, Universal Studios Hollywood is a film studio and theme park. Universal Studios is split into two lots, each with its own set of movie-themed attractions. The Upper Lot contains The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, which features actual props from the films!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Universal Studios Hollywood is great for families and Hollywood movie fans of all ages. It’s also ideal for tourists looking to relive their childhood and explore a living piece of Hollywood history!

What to do here?

Tour Universal Studios Hollywood. Check out the attractions on the Upper Lot and Lower Lot, such as the Despicable Me Minion Mayhem motion simulator and the Revenge of the Mummy: The Ride roller coaster. Immerse yourself in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Strike up a conversation with the movie characters that roam the park grounds!

Best time to visit

Universal Studios Hollywood is open daily, from 9 AM to 8 PM. As this is a major tourist destination, it’s best to visit the park on weekdays, ideally during the non-summer months. In any case, expect the park to be consistently crowded!

Learn more about Universal Studios Hollywood here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 208 E 8th Street in Downtown Los Angeles, Sonoratown is a casual Mexican restaurant that focuses on serving North Mexican-style tacos. Known for their handmade flour tortillas, this humble Mexican restaurant has consistently been rated one of the top taco places in L.A., and has been featured on Netflix’s Taco Chronicles!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Sonoratown is ideal for families and tourists looking to get their taco and quesadilla fix after a long day of exploring Los Angeles. It’s also ideal for tourists looking for a quick meal before heading out to the next stop on their L.A. adventure!

What to do here?

Simple. Try some of Sonoratown’s bestsellers. Try their Quesadilla, their Chivichanga with shredded beef, and their famous Taco! Pair them with red or green salsa, and some aguas frescas! Planning a taco party? You can also order grilled carne asada, chicken or chorizo by the pound!

Best time to visit

Sonoratown is open daily. Sunday through Thursday from 11 AM to 9 PM, and Fridays and Saturdays from 11 AM to 10 PM. There’s no bad time for tacos, but if you want to avoid large crowds, stop by on weekdays!

Learn more about Sonoratown here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 5905 Wilshire Boulevard adjacent to the La Brea Tar Pits, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is the largest art museum in the western United States. The museum houses a collection of more than 142,000 objects that illuminate over 6,000 years of artistic expression all over the world!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is ideal for artists, art lovers, and tourists looking to immerse themselves global and local art and their respective stories. The museum also holds film screenings, so it’s great for cinephiles as well!

What to do here?

Take a guided tour of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Check out their current exhibitions, such as the Legacies of Exchange: Chinese Contemporary Art from the Yuz Foundation exhibition, and their Yoshitomo Nara exhibition. Check out the museum’s collections as well, such as their Islamic Art: Contemporary Art of the Middle East collection and their Latin American Contemporary Art collection.

Best time to visit

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is open Thursday through Tuesday. 11 AM to 5 PM on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays, 11 AM to 8 PM on Fridays, and 10 AM to 7 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. The museum is always a little busy, so it’s best to stop by the museum early, around 11 AM!

Learn more about the Los Angeles County Museum of Art here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 30000 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, Zuma Beach is one of the largest and most popular beaches within Los Angeles County. Zuma Beach is consistently rated among the healthiest beaches within Los Angeles County. It’s particularly famous for its long, wide sands and excellent surf!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Zuma Beach is ideal for all kinds of tourists. The beach is not as dirty as some of the more crowded beaches in Los Angeles, and its excellent surf is ideal for activities like bodysurfing, kiteboarding, and diving!

What to do here?

Spend a day on Zuma Beach. Go surfing or kiteboarding. For those who aren’t keen on surfing or swimming, Zuma Beach also has beach volleyball courts, perfect for those travelling with their family or their friends. If you’re travelling alone, beach volleyball is a great way to meet new friends!

Best time to visit

Zuma Beach is open daily from sunrise to sunset. It’s best to visit Zuma Beach during summer, for the full beach experience. If you’re planning on doing some surfing or swimming, it’s best to consult the lifeguards on duty first, as the Zuma Beach is known for its rip currents.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2232 Honolulu Avenue in Montrose, just over 13 miles north of Los Angeles City, Valeu Espetos is a Brazilian restaurant that offers Brazilian BBQ skewers with a little Korean twist. While it’s mainly a Brazilian BBQ joint, the restaurant also offers other Brazilian fare, such as Pao de Queijo!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Valeu Espetos is a must-visit for families and meat-loving tourists looking to try some Brazilian BBQ with a Korean flair. For locals and tourists alike, Valeu Espetos is a perfect addition to an already diverse culinary scene!

What to do here?

Try Valeu Espetos’ bestsellers. That is to say, try all of their skewers, such as their Carne skewer and their Bulgogi skewer. If you’re dining with a group, try their mini combo or family combo. Don’t forget to try their Pao de Queijo!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Valeu Espetos largely depends on your itinerary. As it’s fairly recent and not (yet) as popular as the other dining spots mentioned in this list, overcrowding shouldn’t be a problem.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1200 Getty Center Drive in the Los Angeles’ Brentwood neighborhood, the Getty Center is one of the two locations of the J. Paul Getty Museum. The Getty Center primarily features pre-20th-century European paintings, drawings, and decorative arts. Among the artworks on display are Van Gogh’s Irises and Gauguin’s Arii Matamoe.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Getty Center is ideal for artists, art enthusiasts, architecture enthusiasts, and tourists who want to educate themselves on the works of some of the European masters.

What to do here?

Explore the Getty Center and check out masterpieces from the Middle Ages to the current era. Check out the Getty’s unique architecture, and tour its famous Central Garden, which, according to its designer, is supposed to be a “sculpture in the form of a garden, which aims to be art.”

Best time to visit

The Getty is open Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 AM to 5 PM. Since it’s one of the most well-known L.A. tourist destinations, expect the museum to be fairly crowded, especially on Saturdays!

Learn more about The Getty here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 32350 Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu, El Matador Beach is a public beach with blufftop parking, beautiful sea stacks and tide pools. El Matador Beach is also known for its caves and arches. Its largest cave faces the ocean at the bottom of a huge rock connected to the base of the bluff.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

El Matador Beach is particularly suited for photographers, with its picturesque beach and rock formations. As with most beaches in this list, it’s also ideal for families and tourists looking to spend a quiet day on the beach.

What to do here?

Get your camera ready and take pictures of the pristine beach. Explore the beach’s rock formations and caves. Go tide-pooling and check out the seabirds that flock to this beach. If you can, try to catch the sunset here.

Best time to visit

El Matador Beach is open daily from 8 AM to 5 PM. It’s particularly busy during weekends, so it’s best to visit the beach on weekdays. If you plan on exploring its rock formations and caves, it’s best to visit during low tide!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1119 Wilshire Boulevard in Santa Monica, Rustic Canyon is an upscale Californian restaurant that offers a regularly changing menu of farmers’ market-inspired dishes with the best ingredients from local farmers, ranchers, and fishermen with sustainable practices. Rustic Canyon also offers artisanal beers, wine, and cocktails.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Rustic Canyon is ideal for families and tourists looking for a casual yet upscale dining experience. As such, Rustic Canyon is also a great place to bring a date!

What to do here?

Try some of Rustic Canyon’s specialties, such as their Autonomy Farms Chicken with pecan butter and smoke carrot, and their Amberjack Crudo with figs and dried porcini. For dessert, try their Dandelion Chocolate Cake with coffee and blackberries!

Best time to visit

Rustic Canyon is open daily, from 5 PM to 9:30 PM. It’s best to visit the restaurant on Sundays if you want to avoid large crowds. That said, it’s best to make a reservation here at least a few days ahead of time to make sure you get a table!

Learn more about Rustic Canyon here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 221 S Grand Avenue, The Broad is a 120,000-square-foot art museum that features two floors of gallery space. Housing over 2,000 works of art, it has one of the world’s leading collections of postwar and contemporary art!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

A trip to The Broad is ideal for artists, art lovers, and tourists looking to peruse one of the world’s best collections of contemporary art. The Broad is also ideal for architects and architecture enthusiasts, as the building itself is a work of art designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro.

What to do here?

Check out The Broad’s honeycomblike design. Explore the museum’s exhibition space and check out their expansive collection of the works of modern greats like Basquiat and Roy Lichtenstein. For artist-inspired souvenirs, check out The Shop at The Broad!

Best time to visit

The Broad is open Wednesday through Sunday. 11 AM to 5 PM Wednesday through Friday, and 10 AM to 5 PM on weekends. It’s best to visit The Broad on Sundays if you want to avoid large crowds!

Learn more about The Broad here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 6333 W 3rd Street, L.A.’s Original Farmers Market is a sprawling market that features over 100 gourmet grocers, food stalls, sit-down eateries, and produce markets. A historic L.A. landmark, The Original Farmers Market is a permanent installation and is open seven days a week!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Original Farmers Market is ideal for foodies and tourists looking to have a taste of the cuisines of all the different communities within Los Angeles. The Original Farmers Market offers everything from organic American cuisine to Latin American and Asian cuisines!

What to do here?

Go on a food trip and grab a bite at all of the Original Farmers Market’s best eateries. Get some contemporary Mediterranean fare at Zia Valentina. Check out the ice cream at Bennett’s Ice Cream. Stop by Singapore’s Banana Leaf for some authentic Singaporean-Malaysian food.

Best time to visit

As mentioned above, the Original Farmers Market is open daily. 10 AM to 8 PM Sunday through Thursday, and 10 AM to 9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. It’s best to visit the market on weekdays to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about the Original Farmers Market here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 2000 N Fuller Avenue, Runyon Canyon Park is a 160-acre park that offers hiking trails of varying difficulties. Since the park is near the residential areas of Hollywood and the Hollywood Hills, celebrity sightings are common. That said, Runyon Canyon Park is one of the top hiking destinations in Los Angeles, and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Runyon Canyon Park is ideal for avid hikers and tourists travelling with their dogs. Runyon Canyon Park is well-known for having a liberal dog policy, allowing dogs off-leash within 90 of the park’s 160 acres!

What to do here?

Explore Runyon Canyon Park. Hike through some of its trails. For an easy hike on paved road, try the Runyon Canyon Road. For experienced hikers, try hiking through the Star Trail and the Hero Trail. Climb up Indian Rock, the park’s highest peak, and enjoy the view!

Best time to visit

Runyon Canyon Park is open daily, from 7 AM to 5 PM. It’s best to visit the park on Sundays and Mondays, as it’s the least bust during those days. That said, since it’s a very popular hiking destination within the city, expect it to be fairly crowded at all times.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 6801 Hollywood Boulevard #201, Sweet! Hollywood is a 25,000-square-foot candy shop that has themed areas and offers a wide variety of candies and sweets and souvenirs such as t-shirts, magnets, and academy award figurines. At Sweet! Hollywood, guests can watch candy makers making traditional hard candy at their “Sticky” section, or make their own chocolate bars at the shop’s Chocolate Lab!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Sweet! Hollywood is ideal for families and tourists with a sweet tooth who are looking for a more interactive and hands-on candy shop experience! Since some of their sections are movie-themed, such as their “Wonka” section, it’s great for Hollywood movie fans well.

What to do here?

Explore Sweet! Hollywood. Make your own chocolate bar at Sweet! Hollywood’s Chocolate Lab. Try some traditional hard candy at Sweet! Hollywood’s “Sticky” section. Check out the quirky treats at the shop’s “Yucky” area!

Best time to visit

Sweet! Hollywood is open daily. 10 AM to 8 PM Sunday through Thursday, and 10 AM to 9 PM on Fridays and Saturdays. The best time to visit the shop largely depends on your itinerary, but it’s a great stop after exploring Hollywood’s Walk of Fame!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 700 Exposition Park Drive, the California Science Center is a science museum that is dedicated to stimulating curiosity and inspiring science learning in all of its guests. Often billed as the West Coast’s largest interactive science museum, the California Science Center features special traveling exhibitions, such as a climbing wall, motion simulator, and a high-wire bicycle.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The California Science Center is ideal for families and tourists traveling with children. That said, the California Science Center’s highly educational yet easily digestible tours are great for guests of all ages!

What to do here?

Check out the California Science Center’s exhibits. Tour the two-story, 45,000-square-foot Ecosystems exhibit that features display zones and aquariums about wildlife in different ecosystems. Stop by Creative World, an area with hands-on activities and exhibits that explore innovation and invention. Don’t forget to check out the museum’s space exhibits, featuring the Gemini 11 capsule and Space Shuttle Endeavor!

Best time to visit

The California Science Museum is open daily, from 10 AM to 5 PM. It’s best to visit the museum on weekdays to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about the California Science Center here!

What’s special about this place?

Located 22 miles south southwest of Los Angeles, Catalina Island is a 22-mile long island that contains two towns–the incorporated town of Avalon to the east end, and the unincorporated town of Two Harbors to the west end. The rest of the island is wilderness owned and operated by the Catalina Island Conservancy. Catalina is only accessible via ferry or helicopter, and is home to at least fifty endemic species!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Catalina Island is ideal for families, nature lovers, conservationists, divers, and tourists who want a full-on island experience. With its wide variety of trails and unique plant and animal wildlife, it’s also great for photographers!

What to do here?

Take a ferry or a helicopter from San Pedro to Santa Catalina Island. Tour the historic town of Avalon and explore Two Harbors. Check out the Catalina Island Museum. Go hiking on one of Catalina Island’s trails and do some scuba diving at Catalina Island’s most popular dive sites!

Best time to visit

The best time to take a trip to Catalina Island would be during the spring and fall months. The weather is just right, and the island is relatively not too busy. It gets quite busy during the summer months, and in winter, storms can be a problem.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 5555 Melrose Avenue, Paramount Pictures Studios, is an American film and television production and distribution company. It is the fifth oldest film studio in the world, and the second oldest film studio in the United States behind Universal Pictures. The company offers tours through its active backlot sets and prop warehouse in the Paramount Pictures Studios Tour, just a 2-minute walk from Paramount Pictures.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Paramount Picture Studios Tour is ideal for families, Hollywood movie fans and tourists who want to step into a fully functional film studio and look at relics of old Hollywood.

What to do here?

Explore the Paramount Pictures Studio and visit iconic locations like the Bronson Gate, New York Street Backlot, and the Prop Warehouse. Learn about Paramount’s 105-year legacy and how Paramount shaped Hollywood and consequently, the world at large.

Best time to visit

As of this writing, the Paramount Pictures Studio Tour is currently closed due to the COVID crisis. Under normal circumstances, it’s best to visit the studio during non-summer months to avoid large crowds. The tour typically takes 2 hours, so plan your trip accordingly!

Learn more about the Paramount Pictures Studios Tour here!

What’s special about this place?

Located in the Venice neighborhood in Los Angeles, within the Westside region of Los Angeles County, Venice Beach is a popular beach destination that’s been labeled as one of L.A.’s top cultural hubs. It has almost 3 miles of coastline with 238 acres of beach. Its features include numerous volleyball courts, tennis courts, and a bike trail. Its boardwalk hosts hundreds of street vendors and is the second most-visited destination in Southern California!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Venice Beach is ideal for all kinds of tourists. It’s a great beach for family recreation, picnicking, beach sports, and water sports. As one of the most touristy places in L.A., it’s also ideal for tourists looking to do some people-watching while chilling out at the beach.

What to do here?

As mentioned above, it’s a great place for all sorts of beach-related activities. Go surfing or paddleboarding on Venice Beach’s waters. Try your hand at beach volleyball. Check out the people that flock the beach and its boardwalk. After a long day of lounging, go shopping on Venice Beach’s boardwalk!

Best time to visit

Venice Beach is typically accessible 24/7. That said, it’s best to go there during the day and ideally in non-summer months. It will always be crowded, but it’s insanely busy during the summer months. If you plan on doing some souvenir shopping along its boardwalk, most of the stores open at around 11 AM.

Is Venice Beach not for you? Check out our list of the best surfing beaches in California!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 900 W Exposition Boulevard, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is an iconic natural history museum. Protecting and sharing more than 35 million specimens and artifacts, it houses the largest natural and cultural history collection in the western United States. It is one of L.A.’s oldest cultural institutions.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is more than just a natural history museum. It also showcases the city and its people’s history. That said, a tour here is ideal for families and tourists who want to check out extraordinary specimens as well as learn about the natural and cultural evolution of Los Angeles.

What to do here?

Tour the Natural History Museum. Check out exhibits like the Butterfly Pavilion, the Rise Up L.A. exhibit, and the Spiky, Hairy, Shiny: Insects of L.A. exhibition. Check out their Dinosaur Hall and Age of Mammals exhibit, as well as their Becoming Los Angeles exhibit.

Best time to visit

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is open Wednesday through Monday, from 9:30 AM to 5 PM. As with most tourist destinations on this list, it’s best to visit the museum on weekdays to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 621 W Main Street in Alhambra, just over 9 miles northeast of Los Angeles, Xiang La Hui is a Chinese restaurant specializing in authentic Chinese Sichuan cuisine. Xiang La Hui is particularly known for their well-balanced dishes, making a bold statement against preconceived notions that Chinese cuisine is a monolith of spiciness and intense flavors.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Xiang La Hui is ideal for families and tourists looking for authentic Chinese fare with a more refined flavor profile. For tourists who aren’t normally into Chinese food, Xiang La Hui might just change your mind!

What to do here?

Try some of Xiang La Hui’s specialties. Try their mapo doufu and their famous toothpick lamb with cumin. Sichuan cuisine features some of the best East Asian drinking food, so pair your meal with a nice beer. Savor the moment and be happy that you’re alive at a time when Chinese food is readily available to you.

Best time to visit

Xiang La Hui is open daily. 11:30 AM to 3 PM, and 5 PM to 9 PM Monday through Friday. 11:30 AM to 9 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. There’s really no bad time for Chinese food, but if you want to avoid large crowds, go there during lunch hours.

What’s special about this place?

Located at the southeastern edge of Culver City, 10.5 miles west of Los Angeles, the Hayden Tract is a collection of buildings that are among the most avant-garde architectural works in Southern California. Designed by Eric Owen Moss, the Hayden Tract currently consists of 30 buildings!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

A tour through Hayden Tract is ideal for architects, architecture enthusiasts, and all kinds of creatives. It’s a great place to find either the most inspiring architectural designs or the most bizarre. They’re modern works of art and are considered to be some of the most impressive urban architectural feats in the 21st century.

What to do here?

Get your camera ready and tour the entirety of Hayden Tract. Check out the Paramount Laundy-Lindblade Tower-Gary Group Complex. Check out the Box, Stealth, the Umbrella, the Beehive, Pterodactyl, Slash, and Backslash. Proper avant-garde names for avant-garde buildings.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Hayden Tract really depends on your itinerary. That said, as it is a few blocks full of buildings made out of concrete and steel, it’s best to tour the area in non-summer months, specifically in the fall or winter months when the weather is nice and cool.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 8001 Sunset Boulevard, Laugh Factory is a well-known comedy club that’s one of the most recognized L.A. institutions. Laugh Factory has hosted acts like Richard Pryor and Dave Chappelle. Today, it continues to host both seasoned and emerging comedians, as well as the occasional celebrity guest.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Laugh Factory is ideal for any tourist who’d like to cap off their day at L.A. with more than a few good laughs. For non-standup comedy fans, we highly suggest you give Laugh Factory a chance. We’re willing to bet you just haven’t found the right comedian yet!

What to do here?

Get your tickets in advance and enjoy the show. It’s best you keep an open mind; whether it’s a seasoned comedian or a newbie, there’s a big chance they’ll surprise you with their set. The unpredictability is part of the establishment’s charm.

Best time to visit

Laugh Factory is open daily, from 9:30 AM to 1:30 AM or 11:30 PM. The shows usually start at night, so it’s recommended to get there around 6 PM just before the opening act!

Learn more about Laugh Factory here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1418 Descanso Drive in La Cañada Flintridge, just over 14 miles north of Los Angeles, the Descanso Gardens is a 150-acre botanical garden with internationally renowned botanical collections and seasonal horticultural displays. It’s accredited as a museum of living collections by the American Alliance of Museums, and has been designated an International Camellia Garden of Excellence by the International Camellia Society.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Descanso Gardens is ideal for horticulturists, botanical artists, florists, and nature lovers of all ages. The Descanso Gardens is also ideal for tourists looking for a nice hike in a more landscaped setting.

What to do here?

Explore Descanso Gardens. Check out some of Descanso Gardens’ living collections, such as their Ancient Forest, their California Natives, their world-renowned Camellia Forest and their Oak Woodland. Check out some of the animals that thrive in this green space and take pictures!

Best time to visit

Descanso Gardens is open daily. 9 AM to 7 PM Monday through Friday, and 9 AM to 5 PM on weekends. It’s best to visit on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays if you want to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about Descanso Gardens here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 6031 Hollywood Boulevard, the Museum of Death is a museum that features the largest collection of serial murderer artwork, photographs of crime scenes, and other relics related to deaths and killings. Exhibits on the museum include the severed head of Henri Landru and full-size replicas of execution devices.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Museum of Death is ideal for tourists interested in crime history and serial killers. While it might shock more than a few visitors, the intention of the museum is to underscore the importance of life, by showing how fleeting it is and how easily it can be taken. That said, this museum is NOT for the faint of heart.

What to do here?

Take a self-guided tour through The Museum of Death. Check out the grisly crime scene photos of actual murders. Check out artifacts from (and remains of) serial killers, such as the clown shoes of John Wayne Gacy, and the guillotined head of Henri Landu!

Best time to visit

As of this writing, the Museum of Death is temporarily closed as they plan to relocate. It’s best to follow their website for updates on their new location. For those who can’t wait, they also have a branch in New Orleans.

Learn more about the Museum of Death here!

What’s special about this place?

Located within the Angeles National Forest and the San Gabriel Mountains National Monument, Mount Baldy is a 10,066-foot peak in the San Gabriel Mountains. Mount Baldy’s peaks dominate the Los Angeles Basin skyline, and the view from these peaks are breathtaking! Albeit quite challenging, it’s one of the most popular hikes in Los Angeles County.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Mount Baldy is ideal for nature lovers and all kinds of outdoor recreationists. With numerous hiking trails of varying difficulties, as well as activities like camping, winter mountaineering, and even hunting, there’s something for everyone here.

What to do here?

There’s a boatload of things to do at Mount Baldy, but start with hiking its trails and climb its peaks. On clear days, one can see from the Pacific to the Mojave from Mount Baldy’s peaks! If you’re up for it and you have a hunting permit, do a bit of hunting and go camping in the Mount Baldy wilderness.

Best time to visit

The best time to explore Mount Baldy depends on what you plan on doing there. For newbies, it’s best to hike through its trails in non-winter months. While Mount Baldy is particularly popular for winter mountaineering, such an activity should be planned out very thoroughly, as deaths are quite common here.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1088 Wilshire Boulevard, the Hammer Museum is an art museum and cultural center known for its artist-centric approach and progressive public programs. The museum features work from both emerging as well as historically-overlooked artists!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

A tour through Hammer Museum is ideal for artists, art lovers, and all kinds of creatives. While they do feature work from some of the well-known masters such as Rembrandt, the museum is especially suited for guests who are into edgy, contemporary art.

What to do here?

Explore the Hammer Museum. Check out the impressive Armand Hammer Collection for European and American paintings. Check out the Armand Hammer Daumier and Contemporaries Collection as well as the Grunwald Center Collection!

Best time to visit

The Hammer Museum is open Thursday through Sunday, from 11 AM to 6 PM. It’s best to visit the museum on weekdays to avoid large crowds.

Learn more about the Hammer Museum here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 7313 Beverly Boulevard, Angelini Osteria is an Italian restaurant featuring upscale authentic Italian fare. Since it opened in 2001, it has gained quite a cult following and has blazed the trail for many Italian dishes in Los Angeles.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Angelini Osteria is ideal for families and tourists looking for authentic Italian cuisine in an intimate, trattoria setting. One of the most celebrated restaurants in L.A., it’s also a great place for a casual date!

What to do here?

Bring your family or your date here. Try some of Angelini Osteria’s specialties. Order their Linguine Sea Urchin, or their famous Spaghetti Norcina. Try their Roasted Veal Bone Marrow, and for dessert, try Angelini Osteria’s Panna Cotta.

Best time to visit

Angelini Osteria is open daily; from 11:30 AM to 3 PM, and from 5:30 PM to 10 PM. It’s usually quite busy during its dinner hours, so it’s recommended to make a reservation here to make sure you get a table!

Learn more about Angelini Osteria here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 1151 Oxford Road in San Marino, just over 11 miles northeast of Los Angeles, The Huntington is a collections-based educational and research institution. The Huntington houses a library, an extensive art collection with a focus on 18th- to 19th-century European art and 17th- to mid-20th-century American art. The Huntington grounds also feature an approximately 120 acres of botanical landscaped gardens!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Like other destinations on this list, The Huntington is another one-stop tourist destination that offers almost everything a curious tourist can want. Its library, with its extensive collection of rare books and manuscripts and its Mediterranean Revival style architecture, is ideal for bookworms and architecture enthusiasts. The Huntington’s art galleries are ideal for artists and art lovers, and its gardens are ideal for nature lovers of all ages.

What to do here?

Tour the Huntington’s themed botanical gardens. Check out its collection of rare tropical plants, especially its carnivorous plants wing. Browse the rare manuscripts in the Huntington library and check out Benjamin Franklin’s autobiography. Lastly, explore The Huntington’s art galleries!

Best time to visit

The Huntington is open Wednesday through Monday, from 10 AM to 5 PM. It’s best to visit The Huntington on a Sunday to avoid large crowds. As it caters to all sorts of tourists, though, expect it to be consistently quite busy.

Learn more about The Huntington here!

What’s special about this place?

Located at 111 S Grand Avenue, just a 2-minute walk away from The Broad, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is an iconic concert hall and architectural landmark designed by Frank Gehry. It is the fourth hall of the Los Angeles Music Center, and serves as the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic orchestra and the Los Angeles Master Chorale. It seats 2,265 people and features state-of-the-art acoustics!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

The Walt Disney Concert Hall is considered a monumental Frank Gehry masterpiece, as such it is ideal for architecture enthusiasts and architects alike. The performances here are ideal for families and tourists looking for a taste of L.A. high culture.

What to do here?

Check out the Walt Disney Concert Hall’s architecture. Take a self-guided tour and explore the concert hall’s grounds. If you’re up for it, attend a performance in the venue and immerse yourself in the world-class music complemented by the hall’s state-of-the-art acoustics.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit the Walt Disney Concert Hall really depends on your itinerary and if you’re planning to attend a performance or not. If you plan on just passing by to check out the architecture, there isn’t really a bad time to do so.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 12000 Vista Del Mar in Playa Del Rey, Dockweiler State Beach features 3.7 miles of ocean frontage and 288 acres of beach. Amenities include picnic facilities, fire rings, volleyball nets, and a hang-gliding practice and training area. It also has a bike path that’s connected to the Marvin Braude Bike Trail system!

Who’ll enjoy it here?

Dockweiler State Beach is ideal for families and tourists looking for a beach that’s significantly less crowded compared to the main beaches in the Los Angeles area. It’s also an ideal stop for cyclists on the Marvin Braude Bike Trail.

What to do here?

Explore the expansive beach. Do some shore fishing. Try your hand at hang gliding at the Dockweiler Hang Gliding Center and the Hang-Gliding Flight Training Concession. Do a little barbecuing by the beach at one of the beach’s fire rings!

Best time to visit

Dockweiler State Beach is open daily; 6 AM to 8:30 PM Monday through Thursday, and 6 AM to 6 PM Friday through Sunday. While it’s not quite as crowded as some of the beaches in Los Angeles, it’s recommended to visit the beach during non-summer months if you want to avoid large crowds.

What’s special about this place?

Located at 3455 Overland Avenue, n/naka is a two-Michelin-star Japanese restaurant that offers upscale Japanese tasting menus that change depending on the season. n/naka also offers an inspired list of wines and sakes from around the world to pair with their courses.

Who’ll enjoy it here?

n/naka is ideal for families, gourmands, and tourists looking for an upscale authentic Japanese dining experience. While n/naka’s courses can be quite pricey, you definitely get what you pay for, and more!

What to do here?

Make a reservation. Try their Modern Kaiseki, a deep exploration of traditional Kaiseki service with a contemporary flair. Or, try their Vegetarian Tasting, a reinterpretation of the Modern Kaiseki composed of purely vegetarian elements. Don’t forget to pair your meal with some artisanal sake!

Best time to visit

The best time to visit n/naka depends on your itinerary. If you’re a foodie, dinner at n/naka is a great way to start and end your L.A. adventure. Make sure to book a table at least a few months before your trip!

Learn more about n/naka here!