Los Angeles, the entertainment capital of the world, offers a perfect mix of Hollywood glamour, outdoor adventures, and cultural hotspots. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, LA has something exciting for everyone.
From iconic attractions to hidden gems, here are the top 5 activities to do in Los Angeles, along with what makes them special and their estimated costs.
Top 5 activities to do in Los Angeles
1. Hike to the Hollywood Sign – Best Panoramic Views of LA
📍 Location: Griffith Park, Los Angeles
⏳ Duration: 2-3 hours
💰 Costing: Free
What Makes It Special?
No trip to LA is complete without seeing the iconic Hollywood Sign up close. The best way to experience it is by hiking through Griffith Park, where you’ll get stunning panoramic views of the city skyline, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding hills.
There are multiple trails, but the Brush Canyon Trail and Mount Hollywood Trail are the most scenic and offer the best photo opportunities.
👉 Pro Tip: Start your hike early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds and capture breathtaking sunrise shots.
2. Explore Universal Studios Hollywood – The Ultimate Movie-Themed Adventure
📍 Location: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA
⏳ Duration: Full-day experience
💰 Costing:
- General Admission: $109 – $149 (varies by season)
- Express Pass: $199 – $309 (skip-the-line access)
What Makes It Special?
Universal Studios Hollywood is not just a theme park—it’s a working movie studio where you can experience the magic of Hollywood firsthand. The park features thrilling rides based on blockbuster films, live shows, and an immersive Harry Potter world.
The World-Famous Studio Tour gives you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at film sets, including the Fast & Furious and King Kong attractions.
🎢 Must-Try Rides & Attractions:
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Sip on Butterbeer & explore Hogwarts!
- Jurassic World – The Ride – Get up close with a T-Rex!
- Transformers: The Ride 3D – High-tech immersive action.
👉 Pro Tip: Buy tickets online in advance to get discounts and avoid long queues.
3. Visit the Santa Monica Pier – Classic LA Beach Vibes
📍 Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA
⏳ Duration: 3-5 hours
💰 Costing:
- Entrance: Free
- Pacific Park Rides: $5 – $12 per ride or $40 for an unlimited wristband
- Bike Rental: $10 – $15 per hour
What Makes It Special?
The Santa Monica Pier is one of LA’s most famous landmarks, combining oceanfront entertainment, amusement park fun, and stunning beach views. Whether you want to ride the Ferris wheel, grab a bite from local food stalls, or simply watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean, this spot offers something for everyone.
🎡 Things to Do:
- Ride the Pacific Park Ferris Wheel for incredible ocean views 🌊
- Rent a bike and cruise along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail 🚴
- Enjoy live street performances and try fresh seafood at The Lobster 🦞
👉 Pro Tip: Visit in the evening for a magical sunset view and enjoy a romantic walk along the beach.
4. Stroll Along the Hollywood Walk of Fame – Star-Studded Experience
📍 Location: Hollywood Blvd & Vine St, Los Angeles
⏳ Duration: 1-2 hours
💰 Costing: Free
What Makes It Special?
Ever wanted to walk in the footsteps of your favorite Hollywood stars? The Hollywood Walk of Fame features over 2,700 celebrity stars embedded on the sidewalk, honoring legends from film, television, music, and theater. Along the way, you can spot famous landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre, where many movie premieres are held, and the Dolby Theatre, home to the Oscars.
🎬 Must-See Highlights:
- Find your favorite celebrity’s star ⭐
- Visit the iconic Hollywood & Highland Center for shopping & dining 🛍️
- Tour the TCL Chinese Theatre and see the handprints of movie legends 🎥
👉 Pro Tip: Want to see real celebrities? Head to the area during film premieres or award season for a chance to spot A-listers!
5. Discover The Getty Center – World-Class Art & Stunning Views
📍 Location: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles
⏳ Duration: 2-4 hours
💰 Costing: Free (Parking: $20 per car)
What Makes It Special?
The Getty Center is one of LA’s top cultural attractions, featuring world-class art collections, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking views of the city. The museum houses European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from masters like Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt. Beyond the art, the Getty’s architecture and hilltop location offer some of the best panoramic views of Los Angeles.
🖼️ Things to See & Do:
- Admire Van Gogh’s Irises – One of the most famous paintings in the world 🎨
- Stroll through the Central Garden, a masterpiece of landscape design 🌿
- Capture stunning views of LA’s skyline & the Pacific Ocean from the terrace 🌅
👉 Pro Tip: Arrive early to get free guided tours and make the most of your visit.
Final Thoughts: Which Activity is Right for You?
Los Angeles is a city full of iconic landmarks, outdoor adventures, and unforgettable entertainment. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a movie buff, or an art lover, there’s something for everyone.
| Activity | Best For | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hollywood Sign Hike | Nature lovers, photographers | Free | 2-3 hours |
| Universal Studios | Movie buffs, thrill-seekers | $109 – $309 | Full day |
| Santa Monica Pier | Beach lovers, families | Free (rides: $5-$40) | 3-5 hours |
| Hollywood Walk of Fame | Pop culture fans | Free | 1-2 hours |
| The Getty Center | Art enthusiasts, culture seekers | Free (parking: $20) | 2-4 hours |
So, whether you’re hiking up the Hollywood Hills, riding roller coasters at Universal, or catching the sunset at Santa Monica Pier, LA promises an unforgettable experience!
👉 Which activity excites you the most? Let us know in the comments!
