Things to Do in Los Angeles include iconic entertainment, world-class museums, coastal neighborhoods, and scenic outdoor viewpoints that make LA easy to love but tricky to plan. The city is spread out, so your experience depends on choosing attractions by area and timing them well around traffic.
In one trip, you can see Hollywood landmarks, ride a studio backlot tour, hike to panoramic views, explore contemporary art, and unwind on Santa Monica or Malibu beaches. This guide lists the most worthwhile stops with practical details to plan efficiently.
- 1. Explore Universal Studios Hollywood
- 2. Visit Griffith Observatory & Park
- 3. Explore The Getty Centre
- 4. Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre
- 5. Santa Monica Pier & Beach
- 6. Venice Beach Boardwalk
- 7. The Broad Museum
- 8. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
- 9. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
- 10. California Science Centre
- FAQs
1. Explore Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is one of the most exciting things to do in Los Angeles, a theme park and working movie studio where you step into blockbuster films, enjoy thrilling rides, immersive shows, and the world-famous Studio Tour.
You’ll find attractions like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Transformers-The Ride 3D, and seasonal events that make it a full-day adventure for families and movie lovers alike.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.8/5 (based on visitor reviews)
- Location:Universal City, Los Angeles, California
- Timings: Typically 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (varies by season and event)
- Price: 1-Day General Admission from $109 USD (₹9,000 INR); Express & VIP options available (prices vary)
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2. Visit Griffith Observatory & Park
Griffith Observatory & Park is one of the most iconic things to do in Los Angeles, a free-admission lookout and science destination perched above the city offering sweeping views of LA, the Hollywood Sign, and stellar exhibits.
You can explore interactive astronomy displays, attend live telescope viewing, and (for a small fee) enjoy immersive planetarium shows, making it a perfect stop for both science lovers and casual travelers alike.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5 (visitor reviews)
- Location:Griffith Park, Los Angeles, California
- Timings: Observatory grounds often open 5:00 AM – 10:30 PM; Planetarium show times vary by schedule
- Price: Grounds free; Planetarium show $10 USD (~₹830 INR) for adults; children & seniors discounted
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3. Explore The Getty Centre
The Getty Center is one of the most enriching things to do in Los Angeles for art and culture lovers, offering free admission to world-class collections of European paintings, decorative arts, photography, and sculpture set amid breathtaking architecture and gardens.
You’ll explore galleries, wander the Central Garden, and enjoy panoramic views of Los Angeles and the Pacific from its hilltop terraces, making it ideal for both casual visitors and serious art enthusiasts.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5 (visitor reviews)
- Location:1200 Getty Center Drive, Brentwood, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Timings: Generally 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Wed–Sun; extended to ~8:00 PM on Saturdays; closed Mondays; check official calendar before visiting)
- Price: Free admission; Parking ~$20–$25 USD (~₹1,660–₹2,075 INR) per vehicle (timed-entry reservations recommended during peak)
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4. Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre
The Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre together represent two of the most classic things to do in Los Angeles, stroll the iconic sidewalks dotted with more than 2,700 brass stars honoring celebrities, then visit the historic TCL Chinese Theatre’s forecourt to see handprints and footprints of film legends.
This area immerses you in Hollywood history, perfect for photography, celebrity spotting, and soaking up the entertainment culture that made LA world-famous.
Highlights
- Google Rating: ~4.6/5 overall for Hollywood Walk of Fame experiences (based on visitor reviews)
- Location:Hollywood Blvd & Vine St, Hollywood, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Timings: Open 24 hours for Walk of Fame; TCL Chinese Theatre typically 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (hours vary)
- Price: Free to walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame; TCL Chinese Theatre tickets range from $15 USD (~₹1,250 INR) for general showings or forecourt visits
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5. Santa Monica Pier & Beach
Santa Monica Pier & Beach is one of the most classic things to do in Los Angeles, you get an oceanfront boardwalk vibe with street performers, coastal views, and easy beach time in one stop.
You can stroll the pier, watch the sunset, and add rides at Pacific Park if you want more action, making it a perfect half-day or evening plan for first-time visitors.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location:200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
- Timings: Santa Monica Pier open daily 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM (business hours vary)
- Price: Pier & beach access Free; Pacific Park rides typically $8–$20 (~₹720–₹1,800 INR), Unlimited Ride Wristband $40 (~₹3,600 INR) (ages 8+) / $20 (~₹1,800 INR) (ages 7 & under)
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6. Venice Beach Boardwalk
Venice Beach Boardwalk is one of the most iconic things to do in Los Angeles for people-watching and pure LA energy, you walk past street performers, local artists, quirky shops, and beachside fitness zones like Muscle Beach.
It’s perfect for a sunset stroll, quick photos, or pairing with a bike ride along the coast toward Santa Monica.
Highlights
- Google Rating: ~4.6/5
- Location:Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291
- Timings: Open daily (public boardwalk); Parking lot & street parking hours typically 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Price: Free ($0 / ₹0)
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7. The Broad Museum
The Broad is one of the best things to do in Los Angeles if you love contemporary art, can explore major works by postwar and modern artists in a striking downtown building, and you can reserve free timed-entry tickets to skip long lines.
It’s an easy, high-impact stop near other DTLA landmarks, perfect for a culture-focused afternoon.
Highlights
- Google Rating: ~4.7/5
- Location:221 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012
- Timings: Tue/Wed/Fri 11:00 AM–5:00 PM; Thu 11:00 AM–8:00 PM; Sat–Sun 10:00 AM–6:00 PM; Closed Mondays
- Price: General admission Free ($0 / ₹0); timed ticket recommended
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8. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
LACMA is one of the most rewarding things to do in Los Angeles if you want a deep art-and-culture day, you explore major collections across centuries and regions, then step outside for iconic photo spots like Urban Light.
It’s ideal for a relaxed half-day in Museum Row, especially if you like museums that mix blockbuster exhibitions with easy outdoor moments.
Highlights
- Google Rating: ~4.6/5
- Location:5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
- Timings: Mon 11:00 AM–6:00 PM; Tue 11:00 AM–6:00 PM; Wed Closed; Thu 11:00 AM–6:00 PM; Fri 11:00 AM–8:00 PM; Sat–Sun 10:00 AM–7:00 PM
- Price: Adults $30 USD (~₹2,700 INR) (LA County residents discounted); timed-entry tickets available online
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9. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
The Natural History Museum is one of the most family-friendly things to do in Los Angeles. You can walk through dinosaur halls, explore gem and mineral displays, and enjoy nature-themed exhibits that keep both kids and adults engaged. It’s an easy half-day plan in Exposition Park, especially if you want an educational attraction that still feels fun and visual.
Highlights
- Google Rating: ~4.8/5
- Location:900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007
- Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Mon–Sun); closed the first Tuesday of every month (except January)
- Price: Adults $18 USD (~₹1,620 INR); Seniors/Students $14 (~₹1,260 INR); Child $7 (~₹630 INR)
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10. California Science Centre
The California Science Center is one of the best things to do in Los Angeles for families and curious adults. You explore hands-on science galleries with free general admission, then upgrade with an IMAX film if you want a bigger experience.
Note that the Space Shuttle Endeavour is currently off display while its new permanent home is being built, so plan your visit around the core exhibits and IMAX.
Highlights
- Google Rating: ~4.7/5
- Location:700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90037
- Timings: Open daily 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day)
- Price: General admission Free ($0 / ₹0); IMAX ticket (Adult) $15 (~₹1,350 INR)
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FAQs
What are the best things to do in Los Angeles at night?
Best night things to do in Los Angeles include watching a concert at the Hollywood Bowl, walking along Santa Monica Pier at sunset, exploring rooftop lounges in Downtown, or enjoying live music and comedy on the Sunset Strip.
What are the best things to do in Los Angeles for tourists?
Top experiences for tourists include Universal Studios Hollywood, Griffith Observatory, The Getty Centre, Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, and LACMA, each showcasing a different side of LA’s culture and landscape.
What are free things to do in Los Angeles?
Free attractions include walking the Venice Beach Boardwalk, exploring Griffith Observatory, seeing LACMA’s Urban Light installation, visiting The Broad Museum, or taking scenic hikes in Runyon Canyon.
What is Los Angeles famous for?
Los Angeles is famous for Hollywood, its movie studios, iconic beaches, luxury shopping in Beverly Hills, world-class art museums, and its diverse culinary scene representing over 100 cultures.
Is Los Angeles worth visiting?
Yes. Los Angeles blends entertainment, beaches, nature, and art into one vibrant destination. It’s ideal for families, solo travellers, and culture enthusiasts alike.
Is Los Angeles expensive?
LA offers both luxury and budget options. Public attractions like beaches and parks are free, while theme parks, dining, and hotels can vary widely in cost depending on location and season.
What is the best time of year to go to Los Angeles?
Spring (March–May) and Fall (September–November) are the best times to visit, offering pleasant weather, clear skies, and fewer crowds at major attractions.
Do Indians need a visa for Los Angeles?
Yes. Indian citizens require a US tourist visa (B2) to visit Los Angeles.
