Things to Do in Los Angeles

Tickets, tours and experiences in Los Angeles, United States

Events in Los Angeles

196 events

About Los Angeles

Los Angeles sprawls from the Hollywood Hills to the Pacific coast, blending movie-industry icons with beaches and museums. Universal Studios Hollywood pairs theme-park rides with a working studio tour, while the Griffith Observatory offers free city views and a look at the Hollywood Sign. The Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre and Dolby Theatre cluster along Hollywood Boulevard.

The city's neighborhoods reward exploration: Santa Monica and Venice for the beach, pier and boardwalk, downtown for The Broad and Grand Park, and Beverly Hills for Rodeo Drive. Art lovers head to the Getty Center and LACMA, both worth a half-day each.

LA is spread out, so distances between sights are significant and traffic is heavy at rush hour. A rental car or rideshare is usually the most practical way to get around, and mornings are best for beating both crowds and freeway congestion.

Highlights

  • Studio tour and rides at Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre
  • Free city and Hollywood Sign views from Griffith Observatory
  • Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach boardwalk

Tips for Visiting Los Angeles

Plan your day around traffic, sightseeing in one area before moving across the city.

Reserve a timed parking slot or arrive early at Griffith Observatory on weekends.

Buy Universal Studios Hollywood tickets ahead and consider Express for shorter waits.

Wear layers, as coastal mornings are cool while inland afternoons turn hot.

Frequently Asked Questions About Los Angeles

Is Universal Studios Hollywood worth a full day?

Yes. Between the rides, the famous Studio Tour through backlot sets, and themed areas like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World, a full day is realistic. Arriving at opening and considering an Express pass on busy days helps you fit in the headline attractions.

How do I see the Hollywood Sign?

Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park trails offer some of the clearest free views of the sign and the city skyline. Other good vantage points include the Hollywood Bowl Overlook and Lake Hollywood Park. Hiking trails get you closer, but the sign itself is fenced off.

Do I need a car in Los Angeles?

LA is very spread out, so a car or rideshare is the most practical way to cover attractions in different neighborhoods. Public transit and the Metro rail cover some routes, but service between major sights can be slow. Plan around peak-hour traffic when scheduling your day.