29 popular tourist spots in Los Angeles: Visit a world-class city with entertainment

Los Angeles, the largest city on the West Coast of the United States, is a vibrant tourist destination with numerous attractions such as the world’s first Disneyland, Universal Studios, the entertainment capital of Hollywood, and the celebrity-studded Beverly Hills.

To fully enjoy all that Los Angeles has to offer, here are 30 popular spots to explore in this charming city. Be sure to use this guide as a reference for your trip.

1. Hollywood Walk of Fame

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Los Angeles, featuring star-shaped plaques honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to film, television, radio, and theater worldwide. The number of these stars continues to grow, with over 2,400 currently displayed.

Located on Hollywood Boulevard, from Gower Street on the east end to La Brea Avenue on the west, the Walk of Fame attracts many visitors, making it a bit challenging to leisurely view each star. To make the most of your visit, it’s recommended to search for the location of your favorite celebrity’s star beforehand. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must-visit for any Hollywood fan, known for its star-shaped plaques but also offering other sights.

2. Hollywood Sign

When people think of Los Angeles, Hollywood comes to mind, and the iconic Hollywood Sign is a symbol of the city. Widely featured in the media, this famous sign is popular with both tourists and Los Angeles locals alike.

The sign is approximately 14 meters tall and 110 meters wide, making the letters visible even from a distance. Popular viewing spots include the Griffith Observatory and Lake Hollywood Park, where you can get a good view of the sign. There’s also a trail if you’d like to get closer, which takes around two hours round-trip. Be prepared with water and sun protection for this hike.

3. Griffith Observatory

The Griffith Observatory is a top tourist destination in Los Angeles, boasting an Art Deco-style building constructed in 1935 and named after Griffith, who donated the observatory to the city. Located atop a hill, it offers a stunning view of Los Angeles, making it a popular spot for night views as well.

As an observatory, it features a planetarium, astronomy exhibits, and a café. It's also famous for appearing in numerous movies, attracting both movie buffs and casual visitors alike as one of LA’s most beloved attractions.

4. Griffith Park

Spanning 1,704 hectares, Griffith Park is Los Angeles’ largest municipal park and a renowned tourist attraction. It offers various trails, cycling paths, and other activities enjoyed by both tourists and local families.

The observatory is located within Griffith Park, which also houses a zoo, museums, and a concert theater, making it a place for all ages. The zoo is home to a wide range of animals, including reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and birds, and it features a botanical garden. The park is also home to wild coyotes, which lucky visitors might spot.

5. Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is a classic attraction in Los Angeles that draws visitors from around the world, with some traveling specifically to experience this iconic destination. It’s the oldest film studio in Hollywood and is famous worldwide.

In addition to studio tours that allow visitors to see actual film sets, the park offers movie-themed attractions that captivate everyone. The special effects experiences are a must for film enthusiasts. Plus, characters roam the park, making it fun to search for your favorites. It’s a place where you can easily spend an entire day, and it's a must-visit staple in Los Angeles.

6. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, officially known as "Los Angeles County Museum of Art" and often abbreviated as "LACMA," is the largest art museum on the West Coast of the United States, showcasing works from ancient to contemporary art.

The museum is extensive, requiring more than a day to fully explore. Its vast collection spans American art, European paintings and sculptures, and works from Southeast Asian and Islamic cultures. Exhibits on ancient Egypt and Mayan civilization make it ideal for those interested in ancient cultures. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has a collection exceeding 100,000 pieces, making it the largest art museum on the West Coast with plenty of highlights.

There’s so much to explore, from its extensive collection across various periods and cultures to the famous Urban Light installation, a must-see for visitors.

7. California Science Center

The California Science Center is a museum where visitors can enjoy learning about science, nature, and space, making it a popular attraction for both children and adults in Los Angeles.

The most popular exhibit at the California Science Center is the Space Shuttle Endeavour, which has completed multiple journeys into space. Interestingly, it often captures the attention of adults as much as children. While entry to the museum is free, there is an admission fee for the Endeavour exhibit. Visitors pass displays of spacecraft equipment on the way to the shuttle itself.

Don’t miss the impressive IMAX theater, which screens movies about nature and space, as well as the large aquarium. The IMAX requires a ticket, but advance reservations are recommended to ensure easy access during busy times.

8. J. Paul Getty Museum

The J. Paul Getty Museum, located on a hill to the north of Los Angeles, is a cultural hotspot where visitors can admire European paintings and antique furnishings. This art gallery was established by oil magnate J. Paul Getty to house his private collection. Among the masterpieces on display are works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Gauguin, and entry is free. Its scenic surroundings make it one of the top attractions in Los Angeles.

The Getty Center's exterior features distinctive Italian marble, enhancing its beauty amidst the lush natural landscape. The well-maintained gardens are also a highlight, with a vast pond resembling a maze made from over 500 types of plants. The museum's exhibits change regularly, making it a place worth revisiting.

9. Santa Monica

Santa Monica epitomizes the image of the American West Coast. The beautiful beach is bustling daily with tourists, adding to the area’s lively atmosphere.

Visitors can enjoy swimming at the scenic beach, go cycling, or visit the nearby Muscle Beach, where Arnold Schwarzenegger once trained. Shopping at Santa Monica Place, with its array of luxury brands, is another great option. Santa Monica is a must-see when visiting Los Angeles, offering a true West Coast experience just by taking a stroll.

10. Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica is a must-see destination in Los Angeles, featuring the historic Santa Monica Pier, which has stood for over 100 years and is one of the oldest piers in the U.S.

Stretching about 700 meters into the ocean, the pier is lined with souvenir shops and trendy cafes, popular with tourists and locals alike. Pacific Park, an amusement park on the pier, offers a family-friendly roller coaster, Ferris wheel, and an aquarium showcasing marine life from Los Angeles waters. Santa Monica Pier is a fantastic spot for family outings and offers something for everyone.

11. Aquarium of the Pacific

Long Beach is one of Los Angeles' famous beaches, and along this beach lies the Aquarium of the Pacific, the largest in Southern California.

This aquarium mainly features marine life from the Pacific Ocean, with over 500 species and 12,500 creatures on display. The Shark Lagoon is a highlight, allowing visitors to see and even touch some 150 species of sharks. There’s also an area where guests can interact with colorful parrots—a rare experience with animals.

12. Disneyland Park

It’s no exaggeration to say that Disneyland Resort is Los Angeles' most famous tourist attraction. Disneyland Park, part of the resort, was the first Disneyland ever built in 1955 and has passionate fans worldwide.

One major difference from Tokyo Disneyland is the castle; while Tokyo features Cinderella’s Castle, Disneyland Park in Los Angeles has Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. There are many unique attractions not found like the Matterhorn Bobsleds, Disney’s oldest coaster styled after a bobsled ride that even those who aren’t fans of thrill rides can enjoy. Be sure to stop by the park’s Starbucks, which offers exclusive merchandise and treats that make great souvenirs from Los Angeles.

Disneyland Park also features many attractions, making it fun to compare. Convenient bus routes run directly from Los Angeles to the park, making access easy.

13. Disney California Adventure Park

Just as Tokyo has Disneyland and DisneySea, Los Angeles has two separate areas: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.

Opened in 2001, Disney California Adventure Park is themed around California itself, featuring many exclusive attractions that draw Disney fans from around the world.

Cars Land, based on the hit movie "Cars," is a favorite for kids and adults alike. Attractions inspired by other Pixar films are also popular, but the Ferris wheel with Mickey’s face stands out as the best photo spot in the park. Be sure to snap a photo here as a memento of your visit!

14. Venice Beach

Venice Beach in Los Angeles is a tourist spot known not only for its beautiful sandy shores and clear water but also for its unique shops and cultural atmosphere. Originally an area with some safety concerns, it has since transformed into a popular, open area for surfing, skateboarding, and training at Muscle Beach.

Along the 2.4 km beachfront promenade, visitors can explore various stalls, food vendors, and enjoy street performers. Nearby, Abbot Kinney Boulevard is home to many artists and features a variety of unique restaurants and shops. This West Coast area with its modern vibe is best explored at a leisurely pace by renting a bicycle.
Name: Venice Beach

15. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Built-in honor of Walt Disney’s wife, Lillian Disney, this concert hall opened in 2003 and is known as one of the world’s premier venues for classical music. It also serves as the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic.

Designed with exceptional acoustics, the hall is notable for its outstanding sound quality. Located in downtown Los Angeles, its stunning exterior is also a visual highlight. If you plan to visit Los Angeles, check the concert schedule for a chance to attend a performance. On non-performance days, guided tours are available to explore the beautiful Walt Disney Concert Hall.

16. La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

The La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles is a unique attraction where visitors can view fossils of animals that became trapped in natural asphalt pits. Here, the distinct scent of tar and recreated scenes of mammoths trapped in the pits offer a glimpse into the area's ancient past.

Next door is the Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits, another popular destination where you can view mammoth fossils and actual tar pits. The museum also features a theater with easy-to-understand video explanations, making it an engaging visit for families. You can even observe researchers at work, studying fossils and excavating specimens.

Located just east of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, it’s easily accessible and offers a rare opportunity to explore natural asphalt pits and the fossils uncovered from them.

17. Battleship Iowa Museum

Located at the Port of San Pedro in Los Angeles, the Battleship USS Iowa Museum is a maritime museum housed on one of the most powerful battleships in history. Its impressive size and massive gun turrets stand out, with the ship measuring approximately 270 meters and equipped with the largest guns in U.S. Navy history, leaving visitors in awe.

The museum offers tours where visitors can explore the ship’s weaponry, virtual simulations of its firepower, the missile deck, captain’s quarters, and mess hall. This spot is a must-visit for naval and battleship enthusiasts. Situated about 40 km south of downtown Los Angeles, it’s best reached by rental car.

18. Los Angeles City Hall

Located in downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles City Hall is a popular tourist spot known for its observation deck. Situated on the 27th floor, the deck is open to the public for free, offering sweeping views of the cityscape, including the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory. On the 3rd floor, visitors can also view a collection of art and crafts gifted to Los Angeles by various countries.

City Hall is conveniently located near other tourist attractions, including the American National Museum and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Additionally, there is a beautiful garden park nearby, perfect for a leisurely stroll after visiting City Hall.

19. Malibu

Malibu, located in the west of Los Angeles, is a famous tourist spot that is especially famous as a high-end area among the beaches in Los Angeles. It is also known that many Hollywood stars have vacation homes in Malibu, and one of its charms is that it is not very touristy.

Like other beaches in Los Angeles, Malibu also has surfing spots. Surfrider Beach in Malibu is a surf spot known to surfers around the world. Of course, many people enjoy not only surfing, but also swimming, sunbathing, fishing, and more.

Malibu in Los Angeles, an upscale area, has a wide range of restaurants, from restaurants frequented by celebrities to casual takeout shops. If you want to decide on something a little more luxurious, why not visit this Malibu?

20. Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills is famously known as a luxurious residential area in Los Angeles, featured in countless films and TV shows, and home to many celebrity mansions. A key attraction here is shopping along Rodeo Drive.

Rodeo Drive is lined with high-end designer boutiques from around the world, making it the prime shopping destination in Beverly Hills. Just behind it is Two Rodeo Drive, another popular shopping street with beautiful European-style architecture blended with the West Coast ambiance.

Other recommended spots include the Beverly Center shopping mall and the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel. If you have time, consider joining a trolley bus tour to explore famous celebrity homes.

21. The Grove

The Grove is a trendy, open-air shopping mall near Beverly Hills, designed to feel like a small town.

It features popular, affordable brands like Topshop, Barneys New York, and Gap, along with dining options, a bookstore, and a cinema, making it an entertainment hub. A free trolley runs through The Grove, adding to its vibrant atmosphere and making it a delightful spot to stroll and shop.

22. Farmers Market

Located next to the popular shopping mall, The Grove, the Original Farmers Market has been a beloved spot for locals for over 80 years.

Starting in 1943 with just a handful of farmers selling produce, it has grown into Los Angeles’ top food market, offering fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, and even cooking equipment. The market is a favorite among local chefs for its quality and variety.

In addition to restaurants, there are numerous food stalls with global cuisine options, including sushi. You’ll also find a variety of souvenirs, accessory shops, aromatherapy items, and even a shoe repair shop. After shopping at The Grove, be sure to check out this vibrant market.

23. Dodger Stadium

Dodger Stadium, home to the Los Angeles Dodgers, has gained even more attention with Shohei Ohtani’s recent move to the team. On game days, the stadium is packed with fans in Dodgers uniforms.

The baseball season runs from early April to late September, so plan your trip to catch a game if possible. Dodger Stadium is known for creating a fun atmosphere for fans. Even during the off-season, the stadium offers tours where you can explore behind the scenes—a dream come true for baseball fans.

And don’t miss the iconic Dodger Dog, the most popular hot dog at any American stadium. A visit to Dodger Stadium wouldn’t be complete without trying this legendary snack.

24. Runyon Canyon Park

Located in the Santa Monica Mountains, Runyon Canyon Park is a popular destination in Los Angeles, known for its variety of hiking trails and breathtaking views from the summit.

The park offers several trails for beginners to intermediate hikers. There’s also an off-leash area for dogs, so many visitors bring their pets along. The intermediate trails have steep inclines, so wear comfortable shoes. With views of the Los Angeles cityscape and the chance to see locals hiking, it’s a memorable experience. Free yoga events are regularly held, adding another fun activity to enjoy.

25. Japanese American National Museum

Located in Little Tokyo, Los Angeles, the Japanese American National Museum opened in 1992. It’s the only museum in the U.S. dedicated to Japanese Americans and is a popular attraction.

Many Japanese people immigrated to Hawaii and the West Coast of the U.S. during the Meiji era. Today, many Japanese Americans are descendants of these early immigrants. During WWII, they faced difficult conditions, yet they persevered. This museum showcases the history and culture of Japanese Americans, making it a meaningful place to visit for both Japanese tourists and locals, and it serves as a bridge between Japanese and American cultures.

26. Chinatown

Los Angeles is home to one of the largest and oldest Chinatowns in the United States. Stepping into Chinatown feels like traveling across countries and eras, making it a must-visit attraction in Los Angeles.

The area is packed with various shops, from retro restaurants to modern art galleries, embodying the eclectic charm of Chinese culture. Many locals visit Chinatown for lunch or shopping. In addition to Chinese cuisine, there are popular restaurants featuring global flavors, so stopping for a meal is highly recommended.

27. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Adjacent to the California Science Center, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is a family-friendly museum with extensive exhibits.

The most popular attraction for kids is the dinosaur fossil exhibit, especially the impressive Tyrannosaurus fossil. The North American and African mammal displays are lifelike, almost as if they could come to life. The museum also showcases beautiful gems and minerals and has unique exhibits on ancient South American civilizations and California history.

With its vast and rich displays, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is best enjoyed over a full day.

28. Six Flags Magic Mountain

Los Angeles is famous for large theme parks like Disneyland Resort and Universal Studios, but Six Flags Magic Mountain is equally impressive, especially for thrill-seekers.

This park is packed with a variety of intense roller coasters, including some that once held records for height and speed, coasters with seats that change direction mid-ride, and even the world’s longest wooden coaster. For adrenaline enthusiasts, it’s a must-visit spot, offering unforgettable memories in Los Angeles.

29. Grammy Museum

Located in downtown Los Angeles at L.A. Live, the GRAMMY Museum is a must-visit for music fans.

The museum showcases the history of the GRAMMY Awards, along with fascinating exhibits on artists’ costumes and memorabilia. You can also learn about the music-making process and see behind-the-scenes aspects of live performances. The museum hosts regular performances and seminars, and the gift shop offers exclusive souvenirs that can only be found here.

Summary of popular tourist spots in Los Angeles

We’ve introduced 29 popular tourist spots in Los Angeles. Located on the West Coast, Los Angeles offers everything from beaches and theme parks to shopping spots, museums, and art galleries. It’s impossible to visit them all in a single trip, but every place guarantees a fun and satisfying experience. Be sure to pick your favorites and enjoy everything Los Angeles has to offer.