Top 50 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles
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Top 50 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

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Trip.Best is a collection of travel rankings that takes into account the travel choices and genuine preferences of hundres of millions of Trip.com users. It is updated monthly based on real data.
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  • Universal Studios Hollywoodtop_1
    󰺂10
    72.93
    Los Angeles.Universal City13.8 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󱓊Explore Hogwarts Castle and experience the magical world
    󱓊Explore Hogwarts & magical world
    󱨠Saved by 3563 users󱨠3899 positive reviews
    4.8/5
    caroline0108caroline0108

    Having visited Universal Studios in Osaka, Beijing, and Singapore, I'd say Universal California is a bit dated and too small, lacking the immersive experience of Universal Studios Osaka. The themed areas are too close together, making it easy to get lost in the crowd. A 2-day pass isn't necessary outside of peak season. There are practically no lines, the longest being 5-10 minutes. With the buy-one-get-one-free tickets, I only got in around noon each day, making it a bit of a waste to spend an extra night at Universal Studios. Also, although I went during Halloween, Halloween tickets had to be bought separately, and without them, you had to leave the park by 6 PM. Next time, I'll try Universal Orlando.

  • Disneyland Park Californiatop_2
    󰺂10
    112.48
    Anaheim.Anaheim City Center40.1 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    Fantasy parade & Disney character interaction
    Space Mountain
    󱨠Saved by 2316 users󱨠1084 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    ARIEL ALCANTARAARIEL ALCANTARA

    Visited both attractions and definite the happiest place in the planet

  • Disney California Adventure Parktop_3
    󰺂8.6
    112.6
    Anaheim.Anaheim City Center40.5 km from downtown
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 Global 100 - Family-friendly Attractions
    Highlights:
    󰋄Thrilling coaster across the park
    Sky-high California view experience
    󱨠Saved by 808 users󱨠336 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    YNWA25YNWA25

    The security clearance was smooth and fast even though there was a huge crowd at the opening hour of the park. We had a great time enjoying the ride and facilities at Disneyland. Well maintained park.

  • Griffith Observatory
    4
    󰺂8.2
    Los Angeles9 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 3-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    360° view of LA lights
    󱨜Hollywood set & LA landmark
    󱨠Saved by 832 users󱨠329 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    学校🏫学校🏫

    Griffith Observatory: The Eye of Wisdom in Los Angeles, a Must-Visit Free Landmark Griffith Observatory is no ordinary attraction. It is a spiritual symbol of Los Angeles, where science and romance interweave. Whether you are an astronomy enthusiast or not, it is definitely worth a visit, and admission is free (except for certain exhibitions and performances). Its charm lies in its unique integration, with distinct and profound highlights: Core Highlights: 1. Unparalleled panoramic view of the city: Located on the top of the Hollywood Hills, the observatory itself is the best viewing platform overlooking Los Angeles. During the day, the city texture is in full view; at dusk, witness the "City of Angels" covered with golden rays of light, the lights are on, until the lights of thousands of homes under the bright stars, and the Hollywood sign is within reach - this is the most iconic postcard perspective of Los Angeles, a holy place for photography enthusiasts. 2. Immersive astronomy science hall: Samuel Oschin Planetarium: The world's top dome theater, with advanced laser projection system and surround sound effects. Its programs (tickets required) such as "Dark Night Stars" and "Center of the Universe" are not simple popular science, but a soul-stirring journey of cosmic art, taking you through time and space to feel the vastness and mystery of the universe. Free exhibition hall The content is easy to understand and highly interactive. Must-see: Foucault pendulum: a classic device that intuitively demonstrates the rotation of the earth. Planetary models and astronomical maps: Exquisite display of solar system and cosmic knowledge. Giant Tesla coil demonstration: (at a specific time) watch the spectacular sight of artificial lightning, full of scientific sense. The historical building itself: The Art Deco style incorporates Greek revival elements, and the dome and murals are full of astronomical symbols, which is itself a work of art. 3. A window to experience the stars: Free public telescope observation: This is the most precious tradition of the observatory! Open at night when the weather is fine (see the official website for details), you can witness the lunar craters, Jupiter stripes, Saturn rings, and even distant nebulae with your own eyes through powerful Zeiss refracting telescopes and other equipment. Professional volunteers explain on the spot, making the universe within reach. This real stargazing experience cannot be replaced by any screen. Is it worth going? Conclusion: Highly recommended to: Visitors who are visiting Los Angeles for the first time: This is a great starting point to understand the city's geography and temperament. Photography enthusiasts: Capture the classic camera position of Los Angeles panorama and Hollywood sign. People who are curious about astronomy and science: Free and high-quality science feast.

  • Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
    5
    󰺂8.1
    13.74
    Los Angeles.South Los Angeles5.7 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    󱓊Dioramas with lighting effects
    󱨜Real specimens & natural habitats
    󱨠Saved by 428 users󱨠109 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    We arrive around 12:00noon so the main parking area is already full. They told us to park in the science center building which you need to walk around 5-10mins which is not a problem for us. Its a 3 floor building and we really enjoyed checking each artifacts.

  • Crypto.com Arena
    6
    󰺂8.0
    83.62
    Los Angeles.Downtown Los Angeles2.4 km from downtown
    Highlights:
    󰀆Landmark viewing spot in LA
    󱓊Shared arena for four teams
    4.8/5
    Yee11Yee11

    Managed to catch some big superstar for Lakers outside the arena. Pretty upset as NBA regular season is ended when I visited in June and no playoff games at the time hence I wasn’t able to watch the game in the arena but I’m sure I will be back some day again to watch a NBA game.

  • Santa Monica State Beach
    7
    󰺂7.9
    Santa Monica24.2 km from downtown
    trip best small logoFeatured in 2026 Global 50 - Cool Water Escapes
    Highlights:
    󰋄Santa Monica's iconic pier symbol
    󰀆Titanic Ferris Wheel & Forrest Gump Restaurant
    󱨠Saved by 768 users󱨠279 positive reviews
    4.6/5
    学校🏫学校🏫

    Key highlights: 1. The legendary Santa Monica Pier: Pacific Park is a seaside playground located on the pier! The colorful solar-powered Ferris wheel is an absolute landmark. When it rises to its highest point, you can see the panoramic view of the sea, sky and city, especially at sunset. The romantic value is off the charts. The exciting roller coaster roars over the Pacific Ocean, and screams and the sound of waves are intertwined. History and feelings: The old pier built in 1909 is itself a historical relic, and the creaking wooden boardwalk is full of traces of time. This is the legendary end of Route 66, and the famous "End of the Trail" sign is a must-see. * Street art and performances: Street artists often perform on the pier and pier (music, juggling, performance art), full of unexpected fun. 2. Vibrant seaside atmosphere: Third Street Pedestrian Street: Close to the beach, a world-renowned pedestrian shopping and dining street. Brand stores, specialty shops, restaurants and cafes are lined up, and street performers are constantly performing. The bustling vitality extending from the beach to the city is seamlessly connected. Bicycle Path and Skateboard Culture The wide and flat seaside bicycle path is the best way to experience the coastline (car rental is available). The skateboard park is full of masters, showing California's unique street sports culture. Muscle Beach: Outdoor fitness area on the south side of the pier, watch the strong men and hot girls show their muscles, practice gymnastics, and experience California's healthy and sunny lifestyle. 3. Classic California Seaside Experience Watching the sunset: The pier is a great place to enjoy the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. The silhouette of the Ferris wheel is set against the sunset sky, and the atmosphere is full. Beach Walk and Leisure: The beach is wide, suitable for walking, sunbathing (bring your own blanket), and watching surfers chasing waves. But the sand is coarse, the sea water is cool and the waves are big, and the pure swimming experience is average

  • The Getty
    8
    󰺂7.9
    Los Angeles21.3 km from downtown
    trip best small logoNo. 5 of Night Attractions in Los Angeles
    Highlights:
    󱓊Azalea maze with 400+ plants
    󱨜LA panoramic view deck
    󱨠Saved by 464 users󱨠325 positive reviews
    4.7/5
    学校🏫学校🏫

    Getty Center: The art temple on the top of a hill in Los Angeles is definitely worth a special visit! Even if you are only slightly interested in art, the Getty Center is still a place that will make your trip worthwhile. It is far more than a museum, but more like a mountaintop cultural paradise that combines architectural wonders, top art collections and beautiful scenery. Core highlights not to be missed 1. The building itself is a masterpiece of art: the pure white building complex designed by the master architect Richard Meier has simple and smooth lines and a modern feel. Take the iconic cable train slowly up the mountain, full of ritual, and the city scenery of Los Angeles gradually unfolds in front of you, and you are already intoxicated before entering the museum. 2. Hall-level art collection: *The core attraction! From the manuscripts of Renaissance masters, the shocking large paintings of Rubens in the Baroque period, to Van Gogh's vibrant "Irises" (the brushstrokes are breathtaking when seen up close), Monet's charming impressionist landscapes, Cezanne's solid still lifes... The key chapters of Western art history are vividly presented here, with extremely high quality and free to visit (only parking fees are charged). 3. The tranquil and elegant Central Garden: The Central Garden designed by Robert Irving is an oasis in the hustle and bustle. The winding paths, carefully matched plants, gurgling streams and unique water platform maze are full of natural interest and design ingenuity. It is a great place to stroll, relax and relax. 4. The unparalleled viewing platform: Located on the top of Santa Monica Mountain, the view is extremely wide. Standing on the terrace, you can see the city skyline of Los Angeles, the rolling mountains and the vast Pacific Ocean. When the weather is fine, the bustling city and the magnificent nature blend at this moment, especially at sunset, the scenery is particularly shocking. Is it worth going? Without a doubt, it is highly recommended! Art lovers must pilgrimage: the quality and breadth of the collection are enough to make people linger. Architecture and landscape control will fall in love: the perfect dialogue between modern architecture and nature and urban landscape. Visitors who seek unique experiences: the top of the mountain location, the small train, free high-quality art, the beautiful garden and the view, the combination experience is unique. Practical tips: Parking is expensive (about $20, $15 after 3pm), so it is recommended to book a parking space on the official website in advance. Reserve at least 3-4 hours to enjoy the experience. Bring a camera, the sunset view is not to be missed! Summary: The Getty Center combines top art, outstanding architecture, exquisite gardening and magnificent landscapes, providing a high-quality cultural experience full of aesthetic enjoyment and spiritual relaxation that far exceeds ordinary museums. It is not only a cultural landmark in Los Angeles, but also a must-see for anyone visiting Los Angeles.

  • Griffith Park
    9
    󰺂7.9
    Los Angeles10.5 km from downtown
    trip best small logoAchieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
    Highlights:
    Stargazing up close at observatory
    󱓊Hollywood sign view & nature
    󱨠Saved by 206 users󱨠46% positive reviews
    4.6/5
    学校🏫学校🏫

    Griffith Park: Wilderness and Stars on the Top of Los Angeles Griffith Park is no fine garden, but a rugged and charming oasis in Los Angeles. As one of the largest urban parks in North America, it is definitely worth a special visit, especially for travelers who want to embrace the majestic nature and urban legends at the same time. The undisputed centerpiece is the Griffith Observatory, which stands on the top of the mountain. It is an architectural masterpiece in itself, and it also has a "God's eye view" overlooking Los Angeles. During the day, the Hollywood sign is clearly visible on the hillside in the distance, and the city skyline spreads out at your feet; but at dusk is the real magic moment, when the setting sun melts into gold and the city lights gradually light up until they merge into a dazzling starry sky. Inside the observatory, Foucault's pendulum swings leisurely and the dome screen presents cosmic wonders, where science and romance blend together. The vast hinterland of the park is a paradise for hikers and explorers. From easy family-friendly trails to challenging mountain routes (such as the steep trail leading to the Hollywood sign), there are many options. Walk through the dusty California oak forests and cactus bushes, encounter deer or coyotes, and feel the wilderness. The abandoned zoo area is a mysterious and desolate place, which is an alternative check-in point. The Greek Theater is hidden deep in the valley and holds concerts in certain seasons. Listening to the sounds of nature under the stars is an unforgettable experience. Real challenges to note: Parking in the observatory area is extremely difficult due to the constant crowds (it is strongly recommended to use the DASH Observatory Shuttle or online taxi); the facilities inside the park are relatively primitive, some trails lack shade and the signs are not clear enough, so you need to plan your route in advance and prepare enough drinking water. In short, the charm of Griffith Park lies in its primitive and simple wildness and unparalleled vision. Touch the stars in the observatory, feel the mountain breeze on the trail, and listen to the echo in the Greek Theater, and you will understand why it is not only a landmark of Los Angeles, but also a spiritual home for citizens-an extraordinary bridge connecting the bustling city with the quiet wilderness, the real earth and the vast universe.

  • Warner Bros. Studios Tour Hollywood
    10
    󰺂7.8
    53.39
    Burbank.Universal City13.9 km from downtown
    trip best TravelHotspot logoWarner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood in Los Angeles, a paradise for movie lovers
    Highlights:
    󰀆Broomstick flying in Harry Potter
    󱓊Explore Warner Bros. Studio
    󱨠Saved by 248 users󱨠77% positive reviews
    4.3/5
    Anonymous userAnonymous user

    If you are Warner Brothers fans, it is highly recommend to travel. If you are not a fan then, It maybe boring to you because the scenes that they talk about is quite a long time ago film.

What Best Things to Do are there in Los Angeles?
These are all Best Things to Do in Los Angeles:Universal Studios Hollywood, Disneyland Park California, Disney California Adventure Park, Griffith Observatory, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Los Angeles?
Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Los Angeles include:Universal Studios Hollywood:4.8, Disneyland Park California:4.7, Disney California Adventure Park:4.7, Griffith Observatory:4.7, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County:4.6
At what locations in Los Angeles can Best Things to Do in Los Angeles be found?
The Best Things to Do in Los Angeles are mainly located in:Universal Studios Hollywood:Los Angeles, Disneyland Park California:Anaheim, Disney California Adventure Park:Anaheim, Griffith Observatory:Los Angeles, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County:Los Angeles
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