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Getting ready to visit Los Angeles? You’re in the right place because we’re here to help you plan the perfect trip!
We know all too well that deciding what to do in the City of Angels can be overwhelming. However, after several trips to LA, we’ve pretty much done it all here, from touring the Warner Brothers Studios to exploring the Griffith Observatory.
Whether you’re a movie buff, a nature lover, or a celebrity seeker, there’s something for everyone here. So keep on reading to get the insider scoop on LA’s best activities and start planning your ideal vacation!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Los Angeles was this LA highlights tour! We saw all the iconic sights from the Hollywood Sign to Beverly Hills to Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica, and more. It was stress-free, included hotel pick-up/drop-off, and a guide!
- Don't Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Los Angeles, California
- 1. Tour Warner Bros. Studio
- 2. See LA’s top sights in one day – Venice Beach, Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, and more
- 3. Visit the iconic Hollywood Sign
- 4. Spend time at the Griffith Observatory
- 5. See celebrity homes and other celebrity-filled sights
- 6. Spend the day at Universal Studios
- 7. Explore the city on a bicycle
- 8. Enjoy the views and food on a Venice Beach walking food tour
- 9. Find LA’s top movie and show locations on a guided tour
- 10. Drive a Ferrari to the Hollywood Sign
- Where to Stay in Los Angeles, California
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Los Angeles, California
1. Tour Warner Bros. Studio
- Duration: 2 – 3 hours
- Time: Various timeslots between 9 am – 3:30 pm
- Highlights: The fountain and the Central Perk cafe from Friends, Sheldon’s apartment from The Big Bang Theory, learning about green screen technology, stepping into Harry Potter and the DC Universe
- Inclusions: Admission ticket, expert guide, small group size
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 4,650+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re a movie or TV fan, this Warner Bros. Studio Tour is an absolute must-do in Los Angeles! We loved this tour because it brought Hollywood magic to life as we stepped into scenes of some of the most iconic films and tv shows ever made, like Friends and Harry Potter.
From the moment we arrived, our guide was full of fascinating behind-the-scenes stories. We started with a ride through the studio’s legendary backlots, where some famous outdoor scenes were filmed. It was incredible to see how the same streets and buildings have been transformed over the years for different movies and TV shows.
One of the highlights for me was stepping inside Central Perk from Friends. Sitting on that famous orange couch and seeing the actual set was surreal!
We also loved seeing Sheldon and Leonard’s apartment from The Big Bang Theory recreated in detail. And for those into superheroes and fantasy, the DC Universe and Harry Potter exhibits are mind-blowing. We even got to pose with the Batmobile and test our wizarding skills!
Throughout the tour, we got hands-on experiences with green-screen technology, sound effects, and set design. This tour definitely exceeded our expectations, giving us a new appreciation for Hollywood magic. It tends to sell out though, so if you love movies, don’t hesitate to book.
Grab your spot on this tour here, before it sells out!
2. See LA’s top sights in one day – Venice Beach, Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, and more
- Duration: 7.5 hours
- Time: Depart between 7 am – 8 am
- Highlights: Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, Griffith Park, Rodeo Drive, Original Farmers Market, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Chinese Theatre, the Kodak Theatre
- Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, driver and guide, bottled water
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 5,200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you only have time for one tour in Los Angeles, this is the one to take! It’s the perfect way to experience the best of LA without the stress of planning or navigating because it covers all of the top highlights in just one day.
And you don’t just have to take our word for it – check out over 5,000 5-star reviews here!
One of the biggest highlights was, of course, the Hollywood Sign. Seeing it up close from a secret vantage point, away from the usual crowds, made for an incredible photo opportunity. Our guide, Colin, even snapped some pictures for us to make sure that we got the perfect shot.
From there, we cruised along Mulholland Drive before heading to Beverly Hills and the world-famous Rodeo Drive. Seeing all of the mansions and designer stores made us feel like we had stepped into a movie! We also explored the legendary Hollywood Walk of Fame and then made our way to Santa Monica and Venice Beach, where we explored the ocean views and had fun watching street performers.
What made this experience extra special was Colin’s knowledge, humor, and passion. He made us feel as though we were exploring the city with a friend. The entire day was smooth and enjoyable – we didn’t have to worry about anything.
If you want to see all of LA’s iconic sights without the hassle, this tour is a must!
Book our favorite LA tour here, before it sells out!
3. Visit the iconic Hollywood Sign
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 10 am – 2:30 pm
- Highlights: The Hollywood Sign, the American Film Academy, the Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, hiking on a secret trail, finding hidden viewpoints, capturing photos with the famous sign
- Inclusions: Air-conditioned transport, WiFi on board, bottled water, professional guide
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
I think we can all agree that the Hollywood Sign is easily LA’s most famous attraction, so it’s worth taking the time to see it properly on this awesome sightseeing tour! Thanks to our guide, Justin, we got to avoid the crowded viewpoints that most tourists visit and find secret vantage points instead.
Honestly, having these spots all to ourselves was amazing. There were no tourists photobombing our pictures, and we had first-class views of the iconic white letters standing proudly against the LA skyline. We also loved hearing about the story of the famous sign. Did you know it started as a real estate ad?
The views from the trail were spectacular, too, as we could see the city stretching below us. This stop alone made the tour worth it, but getting to see other iconic LA spots such as the Beverly Hills sign, the Walk of Fame and Rodeo Drive made it even better. Justin even played clips from movies that were filmed in each area, so that we could fully appreciate just how many Hollywood classics were shot right where we were standing.
The entire tour was a blast but nothing compared to that moment standing near the Hollywood Sign, taking in the magic of Tinseltown. If you want to see the LA that you’ve seen on TV and in movies, then booking this tour is a must!
Book this tour here and enjoy FREE 24-hour cancellation!
4. Spend time at the Griffith Observatory
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 2 pm or 5:30 pm
- Highlights: Learning about the lore of the famous observatory, Astronomers Monument, interactive periodic table of elements, view the night sky as seen from the Samuel Oschin Telescope at Palomar Observatory, Albert Einstein statue, panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign
- Inclusions: Knowledgeable guide, curated itinerary, photo ops, chance to upgrade to add a ticket for the planetarium theatre
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 230+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Visiting the Griffith Observatory on this guided tour was an unforgettable experience! As someone who loves astronomy and history, I couldn’t have asked for a better way to explore this iconic landmark.
Our guide, Estevan, was incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Visiting the observatory just wouldn’t have been the same without his insight!
From the moment we arrived, we were immersed in the observatory’s fascinating history and scientific wonders. We started outside at the Astronomers Monument, where we learned about the six legendary scientists honored there. Then, stepping inside, we were amazed by the massive Foucault Pendulum, which visually demonstrates Earth’s rotation. It was mesmerizing to watch!
The interactive periodic table and the 50,000-volt Tesla Coil were also highlights, bringing science to life. But honestly, one of the best parts of the tour was the incredible view of the Hollywood Sign. It was the perfect photo opportunity, with the city skyline stretching below. Estevan also shared fun movie trivia, pointing out scenes from classics like “Rebel Without a Cause”.
For those wanting an even deeper dive into the cosmos, the optional planetarium show is a must. The 40-minute immersive experience with live narration made us feel like we were traveling through space.
Whether you’re a space enthusiast, a history buff, or just looking for stunning views of LA, this tour is a must-do. I’d recommend it to anyone visiting Los Angeles!
Reserve your spot on this tour here and pay nothing until 48 hours before you go!
5. See celebrity homes and other celebrity-filled sights
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple departures from 9 am – 5 pm
- Highlights: Traveling on an open-top bus, seeing celebrity homes and hotspots, the Hollywood Sign, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Beverly Hills, the Sunset Strip, Rodeo Drive, West Hollywood
- Inclusions: Bus transport, guide, live commentary, rain poncho if necessary
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,900+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to see the best of Los Angeles, this open-air bus tour is a must! It was the perfect way to take in Hollywood’s most famous landmarks while also getting a peek at some amazing celebrity homes.
Our guide, Yohan, was funny and full of great Hollywood stories. As we cruised through the city, we passed iconic sights like the Walk of Fame, the Dolby Theatre, and the legendary Sunset Strip. Seeing the Hollywood Sign from Mulholland Drive was definitely a highlight for us – it’s such a classic LA moment!
But the real excitement came when we entered Beverly Hills. Yohan pointed out stunning celebrity homes, from movie stars to music legends. I couldn’t believe we were driving past the actual mansions of some of the biggest names in entertainment!
Rodeo Drive was another standout, with its high-end boutiques and luxury cars lined up along the street. Yohan even shared behind-the-scenes gossip about where celebrities love to shop and dine.
What made this tour special was the open-air bus, as it gave us incredible views and made the experience feel so much more immersive. Plus, we covered so much ground without worrying about parking or traffic.
It was the perfect way to soak up the city’s glitz and glam! And we’re clearly not the only ones who loved it – you can read all of the glowing reviews here.
Check availability and book this tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
6. Spend the day at Universal Studios
- Duration: 1 day
- Time: Park is open from 8 am to 6 pm
- Highlights: Visiting Universal Studios, ease of booking tickets in advance, 1 or 2 day tickets options, and Express Tickets available
- Inclusions: Admission to Universal Studios, including access to shows, rides, and attractions
- Rating: 4 stars (check 1,450+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Out of everything to do in LA, Universal Studios Hollywood is the one experience that truly delivers on the wow factor. You’re not just visiting a theme park, you’re stepping into the world of movies, where you can ride through action-packed scenes, explore Hogwarts, and even see real film sets from some of your favorite movies. We spent the entire day there and still felt like we could’ve stayed longer.
We booked the 1-day general admission tickets, which gave us access to all of our favorite rides, attractions, and shows. It was all amazing, but as a Harry Potter nerd, running around Hogwarts was definitely my highlight. For Daniel, it was the Jurassic Park ride… though the Mario Kart one gave it a serious run for its money.
If you’re trying to maximize your time, they also offer Express Tickets, which give you skip-the-line access to all of the rides, shows, and attractions. This is a total game-changer during peak season! And if you have extra time to spend, you can book the 2-day ticket to spend even more time in the park.
One last tip to make the most of your Universal day: book your tickets in advance! The price is the same as buying at the gate, but ticket prices can fluctuate, so chances are you’ll save by grabbing them early.
Don’t miss out – book your Universal Studios day trip here!
7. Explore the city on a bicycle
- Duration: 5 hours
- Time: 10 am
- Highlights: West Hollywood, Santa Monica, Bel-Air, Marina del Rey, Muscle Beach gym, Route 66 sign, Brentwood, and Beverly Hills
- Inclusions: Use of bicycle or e-bike, helmet, safety vest, professional guide, onsite storage, bottled water, free parking
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 440+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
If you’re visiting Los Angeles for the first time, this cycling tour is the perfect way to see all of the city’s highlights and soak in its vibrant energy.
This 32-mile (51-kilometer) ride took us through some of LA’s most iconic neighborhoods, like West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and the star-studded streets of Bel Air. And if that sounds like a lot of ground to cover, don’t worry, because there are e-bikes available that make pedaling much easier!
What stood out to us about this tour was how much we were able to experience up close, as opposed to being stuck in a car or tour bus for hours. Our guide, Ryan, was fantastic and shared so many stories as we explored the city, which helped us get a feel for LA’s history and character.
One of the best parts of this tour was stopping at Venice Beach to buy lunch. Here, we got to explore the famous boardwalk and watch the skaters and street performers all around us as we chowed down. The walking tour of Greystone Mansion was another highlight, offering a peek into old Hollywood glamor.
This tour gave us a really intimate look at LA, and we’re clearly not the only ones who love it – you can read hundreds of glowing reviews here! If you want to see the city beyond traffic and tourist traps, this is absolutely the way to do it.
Book this fun cycling tour here with FREE cancellation!
Related Read: Need help planning your LA trip? Check out our epic 3-day itinerary here to make the most of your time!
8. Enjoy the views and food on a Venice Beach walking food tour
- Duration: 3 hours
- Time: 11 am, 1 pm, or 3 pm
- Highlights: Sampling local favorites, visiting popular food stands and hidden spots, learning about the history of Venice Beach and Venice Canal District, checking out street art murals
- Inclusions: Local guide, 10+ food samples, small group size, option to upgrade to a private tour, wine
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
Nothing says LA like food, culture, and a good ocean breeze – and that’s why we love this Venice Beach food tour so much. The city has an incredibly diverse food scene and we had so much fun discovering it while hanging out in the vibrant and beautiful Venice Beach area.
Our guide, Sade, was wonderful. She was full of local knowledge, fun stories, and insider tips about Venice Beach. We had so much fun with her as we visited iconic food spots and hidden gems that we would never have found on our own.
I think my favorite dish was the crispy beef taco, although the birria quesadilla was a very close second, or maybe the Argentinian empanada. It was all just so good! Then for dessert, we were treated to churro waffle bites and a refreshing acai bowl.
Each stop on the tour was thoughtfully chosen to highlight a different side of LA’s incredible food culture, from classic Mexican street eats to trendy, health-conscious bites. Whether you’re a foodie or just love a good adventure, this tour is a must-do in LA!
Grab your spot on this top-rated LA food tour here!
9. Find LA’s top movie and show locations on a guided tour
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 9 am, 12 pm, or 3 pm
- Highlights: The Hollywood Roosevelt, Formosa Cafe, Troubadour, Pink’s Hot Dogs, Jim Henson Company, Hollywood, hearing exclusive insider stories,
- Inclusions: Insider guide, transport, USB chargers, exclusive discounts
- Rating: 5 stars (check 140+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This tour is an absolute must for movie lovers. Hollywood is packed with legendary filming locations, and with an industry insider like Leo as our guide, we got to see them in a way that few tourists ever do!
We loved having the chance to dive behind the scenes of LA’s rich movie history, from classic films to major modern blockbusters.
We visited over 50 movie locations, from the historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel to famous spots like Pink’s Hot Dogs, where scenes from “The Lincoln Lawyer” and “The Golden Child” were filmed. We also stopped by the Jim Henson Company, formerly Chaplin Studios, where “The Muppet Movie” and “Labyrinth” came to life. Leo played us clips from each movie before we arrived so that we got the full impact of these legendary settings.
Honestly, what made this tour truly special was Leo’s insider knowledge. He has interviewed A-listers like Ryan Reynolds, Tom Hanks, and Halle Berry, and has exclusive behind-the-scenes stories to share. We loved hearing all about the red carpet moments and celebrity trivia along the way!
This tour offers a unique and in-depth Hollywood experience, so for that reason, it’s highly popular and often sells out. So if you’re a film buff or pop culture enthusiast, don’t wait to book this tour. After all, this is your chance to explore the real-life locations of your favorite movies and learn secrets that only an industry pro can share!
Check availability and grab your spot on this tour here, before it sells out!
10. Drive a Ferrari to the Hollywood Sign
- Duration: 30 minutes
- Time: Time slots available from 10 am – 5 pm
- Highlights: Driving or riding in a supercar, passing by iconic Hollywood landmarks, drive along Mulholland Drive, stopping to pose in front of the Hollywood Sign
- Inclusions: 30-minute Ferrari Drive, private guide or driver, pictures in front of the Hollywood Sign
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 600+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
Ever dreamed of getting behind the wheel of a Ferrari and cruising around like the rich and famous do? If you’re nodding “yes” then booking this tour is an absolute must while in Los Angeles!
I was overjoyed when I saw a gleaming red Ferrari waiting for me to climb behind the wheel. After a quick but thorough briefing from my instructor, John, I was ready to go. Driving through Hollywood in a supercar was a surreal experience. I even saw people turning their heads as I cruised along!
Not only did I feel like a VIP, but I also got to glide past iconic landmarks like the Chinese Theatre and El Capitan before heading up the winding roads of Mulholland Drive. The Ferrari’s power was incredible, and the roar of the engine echoed through the hills as I drove up the Hollywood Sign viewpoint.
And of course, stopping for photos with the Ferrari in front of LA’s most famous landmark was a priceless experience. John took tons of photos for me to ensure I got the perfect shot, then coming back down the hill was just as exhilarating – if not more so!
Whether you drive yourself or decide to be a passenger, this experience is really a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. So if you want to feel what it’s like to be a celebrity in LA, book this epic experience ASAP!
Book your Ferrari experience here, with FREE cancellation!
Where to Stay in Los Angeles, California
Los Angeles is a massive city with tons of unique neighborhoods, so choosing the right place to stay can make all the difference! If you want easy access to major attractions and the activities we mentioned above, Hollywood is our top pick! So to help you find the best place to stay, I’ve rounded up my top hotel recommendations for every budget below:
Luxury – $$$
1 Hotel West Hollywood is a 5-star luxury stay in the heart of West Hollywood. The sleek, modern rooms feature natural decor (with live plants!) and many have incredible views of the LA skyline. Guests can relax at the rooftop pool, work out at the state-of-the-art fitness center, and enjoy multiple on-site dining options. Plus, the hotel offers a complimentary Tesla drop-off service, making it easy to explore Hollywood’s top attractions in style!
Prices vary depending on the time of year but usually start around $500 USD per night. You can check prices and book this stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Best Western Plus Sunset Plaza Hotel is a fantastic mid-range stay right on LA’s iconic Sunset Strip. The spacious rooms are well-equipped with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffee makers, and guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast before heading out to explore. The hotel also features a beautiful outdoor pool perfect for unwinding after a day in the city. Plus, with its prime location, you’ll be just steps from Sunset Boulevard’s famous restaurants, bars, and nightlife!
Prices usually range between $250 – $400 USD per night depending on the time of year. You can book this stay on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Orange Drive Hostel is a budget-friendly stay in an unbeatable location, just steps from Hollywood Boulevard and the Walk of Fame. Set in a historic building, it offers a mix of private rooms and dorms, with shared or en-suite bathrooms. Guests can make use of the communal kitchen, and enjoy the cozy outdoor patio—perfect for relaxing after a day of exploring LA!
Private rooms usually start at around $90 USD per night and dorm beds are around $40 USD. You can reserve your room here on Booking.com!
For more options, see all of the hotels in Los Angeles here!
Related Read: For a full breakdown of the best areas and hotels to stay in, check out our Where to Stay in Los Angeles guide here!
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
With so much to see and do, I hope our list of the best things in Los Angeles helped you narrow it down! From movie-famous spots to amazing food and sights, you’ll want to soak up all this city has to offer while you’re here.
If you’re planning more travels beyond LA, have a look at all our blogs on the USA for more ideas and inspiration. We’ve been traveling around some of the best cities in the US for a while, so we have itineraries, tour recommendations, and more!
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