The City of Angels is a bright and vibrant metropolis brimming with iconic historical landmarks, cultural diversity, and endless entertainment options. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, you’ll never run out of new and exciting things to explore and experience. Here’s a fun and informative guide to the top eight absolute must-see places in Los Angeles.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Location: Hollywood Boulevard between Gower Street and La Brea Avenue
Why It’s a Must-See: The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a historic landmark that is known around the globe. The Walk of Fame celebrates the achievements of people in the entertainment industry. While some of cinema’s biggest stars like Harrison Ford and Marilyn Monroe have stars emblazoned on the walk, other icons of the entertainment industry in the categories of Motion Pictures, Broadcast Television, Music, Broadcast Radio, Theater, and Sports entertainment are also memorialized. With over 2,600 stars embedded in the sidewalks, it’s a delightful stroll down memory lane. Don’t miss the chance to find your favorite celebrity star and snap a photo!
Fun Facts: The first star to be laid was for actress Joanne Woodward in 1960 and there are over 2,700 stars embedded in the sidewalk.
Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Why It’s a Must-See: Perched on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood and featured in such popular movies like Rebel Without a Cause and La La Land, Griffith Observatory offers some of the most breathtaking views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign. Inside, you’ll find fascinating exhibits on astronomy and space science. The observatory is also a great spot for stargazing through their public telescopes. Best of all, admission is always free, however there is a fee for tickets to the short films and planetarium shows.
Fun Fact: More people have gazed through the observatory’s lenses than any other telescope in the world. Over 8 million!
Santa Monica Pier and Beach
Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Why It’s a Must-See: The Santa Monica Pier is a legendary symbol of Southern California’s beach culture. The pier features an amusement park with a Ferris wheel, an aquarium, and tons of dining options. There are also tons of fantastic street performers and carnival games. The adjacent Santa Monica Beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and people-watching.
Pro Tip: Do yourself a favor and do not drive down here in your own vehicle. Parking and traffic, especially during peak tourism season (which, let’s face it, is practically ALL the time in Southern California), are insane. Let us get you there in comfort with one of our shuttle options.
The Getty Center
Location: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Why It’s a Must-See: The Getty Center is a cultural oasis featuring a world-class art collection, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens. Not only can you explore works by Van Gogh, Monet, and other renowned artists, but the center also offers breathtaking views of Los Angeles where you can get some pretty amazing selfies for your social media.
When you’re there, don’t forget to download the GettyGuide app and take a detailed and informative audio tour of the museum’s art. Incredibly, admission to “The Getty” is always free; however, they are temporarily requiring a timed-entry reservation, so book ahead.
Pro-Tip: Parking is $25 but fills up very fast. Unfortunately, parking “around the corner” is not possible as the museum sits atop a hillside and walk-in visitors are not permitted.
Universal Studios Hollywood
Location: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Why It’s a Must-See: Universal Studios Hollywood is a thrilling destination for movie lovers and adventure seekers. The theme park offers exciting rides and attractions based on popular films and TV shows, such as “Harry Potter,” “Jurassic Park,” and “The Simpsons.” Don’t miss the famous Studio Tour for a behind-the-scenes look at real movie sets.
After your day at the theme park make sure to leave a little in the tank to explore Universal Citywalk to explore even more shopping and dining. Make sure to check out our Guide to Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood for even more great tips!
Pro Tip: Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the long lines.
Rodeo Drive
Location: Rodeo Dr, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Why It’s a Must-See: The iconic Rodeo Drive area of LA is known for being the “intersection of luxury, fashion, and entertainment”. Synonymous with opulence and glamor, this world-famous shopping district is lined with some of the most well-known high-end boutiques and designer retailers in the world. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s a great place for people-watching and soaking up the glitzy Beverly Hills atmosphere. Spend enough time here and you’re bound to bump into a celebrity or two.
Pro Tip: Check out the Beverly Wilshire Hotel, featured in the movie “Pretty Woman,” which is located at the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard. Parking is metered and very limited. Not to mention that you don’t want to get into a fender bender with a million-dollar Bentley.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
Location: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Why It’s a Must-See: Opening in 1965 at its current location, the LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States, boasting a diverse collection of over 152,000 works spanning ancient times to the present. The museum’s outdoor installations, like the “Urban Light” sculpture, are Instagram favorites so don’t forget to take the time for a selfie. Like the Getty, you must either reserve timed-entry tickets or purchase them in advance. There are also multiple dining options at the museum so you don’t have to leave the grounds when your group gets hungry.
Pro Tip: Check out the contemporary art collection and rotating special exhibitions for unique and thought-provoking works. Plan wisely for parking as self-parking is $21 per vehicle at the museum however, there is also metered street parking on Wilshire Blvd. Just make sure to not leave any valuables in your car.
The Broad
Location: 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Why It’s a Must-See: The Broad is a contemporary art museum housing an impressive collection of postwar and contemporary art. However, that description alone is not enough to fully illustrate the visual wonders of the museum. The museum features works by artists such as Jeff Koons and Cindy Sherman. The building itself is a stunning work of art, with its distinctive “veil and vault” design.
Pro Tip: Like others in our guide, admission is free but they do require a timed-entry ticket. Certain features of the museum are ticketed, so you’ll want to book those in advance as well. Make sure you absolutely check out the Infinity Mirrored Room of Souls by Yayoi Kusama!
Get There with Xpress Shuttles
Los Angeles is a city that offers something for everyone, from iconic landmarks and world-class museums to beautiful beaches and thrilling events. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering the city, these must-see places will provide unforgettable experiences and lasting memories.
Be prudent and make sure to plan ahead. Let us take care of your transportation needs by providing convenient shuttle service to and from your destination. We have everything from a private car for you and your special someone on a museum date to the LACMA, to a larger shuttle bus for your larger group of unruly family members embarking on an adventure through Universal Studios. Whatever your needs are, we’re happy to help, so pack your bags and get ready to explore the magic of Los Angeles!