15 Best Things to do in Los Angeles

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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!

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 5,200+ 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. It brings Hollywood magic to life by letting you step straight into scenes from some of the most iconic films and TV shows ever made.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories before going through the studio’s legendary backlots, where countless famous outdoor scenes were filmed. Seeing how the same streets and buildings have been transformed over the years for completely different movies and shows is surprisingly eye-opening.

One of the standout moments is stepping inside Central Perk from Friends. Sitting on the famous orange couch and seeing the real set up close feels surreal—even if you’ve watched the show a dozen times. You’ll also walk through Sheldon and Leonard’s apartment from The Big Bang Theory, recreated with all the small details fans love.

For superheroes and fantasy fans, the DC Universe and Harry Potter exhibits are easy highlights. You can pose with the Batmobile, check out authentic props, and try a little wizarding magic. Along the way, hands-on experiences with green screens and set design give you a new appreciation for how Hollywood magic is made.

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour is more than a collection of famous sets—it’s a fun, immersive look at how entertainment history is still being made every day. So, if stepping onto real soundstages and seeing iconic scenes up close sounds like your kind of experience, this is one tour you won’t want to miss!

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: 4.9 stars (check 6,100+ 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, and capturing photos with the famous sign
• Inclusions: Air-conditioned transport, WiFi on board, bottled water, professional guide
• Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,600+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check prices here!

The Hollywood Sign is easily Los Angeles’ most famous landmark, and seeing it up close is one of those classic LA experiences worth doing right. Because of that, the most popular viewpoints tend to be crowded and shoulder-to-shoulder, but this sightseeing tour offers a better way to see the sign—through quieter spots with clearer views and far fewer people.

Instead of sticking to the usual tourist spots, the tour includes a secret hiking trail that takes you to lesser-known vantage points with clear, unobstructed views of the iconic white letters against the LA skyline. Having space to actually enjoy the moment makes a huge difference, especially when it comes time for photos. Along the way, you’ll hear the surprisingly interesting backstory of the sign, from its beginnings as a real estate advertisement to its rise as a global symbol of Hollywood.

The views don’t stop there. As you move along the trail, you’ll get sweeping panoramas of Los Angeles stretching out below, offering a whole new perspective on the city. Beyond the Hollywood Sign, the tour also passes other iconic LA sights like the Beverly Hills Sign, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and Rodeo Drive—all with movie clips playing along the way to connect famous scenes to the exact places where they were filmed.

The entire tour is a blast, but nothing compares to that moment standing near the Hollywood Sign, taking in the magic of Tinseltown. If you want to see the LA you know from TV and movies, this tour is a must!

Book this tour here and enjoy FREE 24-hour cancellation!

4. See a comedy show on the Sunset Strip

Los Angeles is famous for its comedy scene, and catching a live stand-up show is one of the most fun ways to spend an evening in the city. The Sunset Strip, in particular, is an iconic stretch of road that helped shape LA’s comedy culture and launched the careers of some of the biggest names in stand-up. 

With legendary clubs packed into this area and nearby Hollywood, it’s the kind of place where big laughs and surprise appearances are always possible. Just note that these shows are extremely popular, so booking tickets in advance is highly recommended.

The Comedy Store

The Comedy Store is one of the most legendary comedy clubs in Los Angeles and a staple of the Sunset Strip. Known for its long line of famous alumni and marathon-style shows, this venue delivers an unforgettable night of stand-up. Multiple comedians typically take the stage, creating a fast-paced, laugh-filled experience where you never quite know who might pop in for a set. Check their official website here for featured shows and headliners.

The Laugh Factory

Located in the heart of Hollywood, The Laugh Factory is another must-visit spot for comedy fans. Shows usually feature several comedians in one evening, keeping the energy high and the laughs coming. The crowd is lively, the atmosphere is fun, and while there’s a two-drink minimum (standard for LA comedy clubs), it’s a small price to pay for a memorable night of stand-up in one of the city’s most famous venues. Be sure to check their website here for upcoming events. 

5. 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: 4.6 stars (check 300+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Perched high above Los Angeles, the Griffith Observatory is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, known for its science exhibits, movie history, and those unbeatable views. Visiting with a guide is easily one of the best ways to experience it, and this small-group tour adds context, fun stories, and details you’d probably miss exploring on your own.

The tour kicks off outside at the Astronomers Monument, where you’ll learn about the scientists who helped shape our understanding of the universe before heading inside the observatory. Inside, you’ll find crowd-pleasers like the massive Foucault Pendulum, which visually demonstrates Earth’s rotation, along with interactive exhibits such as the periodic table and the impressive 50,000-volt Tesla Coil.

The experience isn’t all science, though. The tour also dives into the observatory’s Hollywood connection, pointing out its role in classic films like Rebel Without a Cause. One of the most memorable moments comes when you step outside and take in the sweeping views of Los Angeles, with the Hollywood Sign perfectly framed in the distance—camera ready.

For anyone wanting to go a little deeper, the optional planetarium show is well worth adding. The immersive 40-minute presentation, complete with live narration, makes it feel like you’re traveling through space rather than sitting in a theater.

Whether you’re into science, movie history, or just chasing the best views in LA, this guided tour is a fun, easy way to experience one of the city’s most famous spots.

Reserve your spot on this tour here and pay nothing until 48 hours before you go!

6. Visit The Getty Center

The Getty Center is one of Los Angeles’ most iconic attractions and a must-visit for anyone interested in art, architecture, or simply incredible views. Set high above the city, this expansive museum and garden complex is just as famous for its striking design and manicured gardens as it is for its world-class art collection. With more than 20 million visitors each year, it’s clear this spot lives up to the hype.

Admission is completely free, which is almost unheard of for a museum of this caliber. That said, a timed-entry reservation is required, so it’s best to book your spot in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Once inside, you can explore everything from European paintings and sculptures to photography, decorative arts, and rotating exhibitions. Even if museums aren’t usually your thing, the outdoor gardens and panoramic views of Los Angeles are reason enough to visit.

The Getty Center is typically open from 10 am to 6:30 pm and is closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly and try to arrive earlier in the day to avoid crowds and give yourself plenty of time to wander at a relaxed pace. Comfortable shoes are also a good idea—the grounds are larger than they look. 

7. See coastal views and celebrity-filled sights in Malibu

• Duration: 5.5 hours
• Time: 9:30 am
• Highlights: Explore Malibu on an open-air sightseeing tour, cruise past celebrity homes and filming locations, stop at Malibu Pier and Point Dume for coastal views, enjoy free time at the Malibu Country Mart
• Inclusions: Live tour guides, fully narrated cultural & historic Malibu tour including celebrity homes and filming locations, open-air vehicle, small-group tour
• Rating: 4.9 stars (check 470+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Malibu has a reputation for effortless luxury, dramatic coastline, and celebrity-filled neighborhoods—and this guided sightseeing tour shows you exactly why it’s one of Southern California’s most iconic destinations. From famous beachside neighborhoods to quieter gems like Point Dume and the historic Adamson House, the experience blends coastal scenery with Malibu’s laid-back luxury vibe.

Cruising along the coast in an open-air vehicle, you’ll soak up ocean breezes as your guide shares stories about Malibu’s famous residents, filming locations, and fascinating history. The drive itself is a highlight, passing celebrity homes, scenic beaches, and landmarks that define this glamorous stretch of coastline. 

The route covers a mix of well-known sights and lesser-known locations, including the Getty Villa, Pepperdine University, and dramatic coastal stretches like El Matador and Leo Carrillo State Beach.

From there, you’ll stop at Malibu Pier for a closer look at the coastline, then head to Point Dume for a short walk that leads to some of the best ocean views in Southern California. The tour also passes the Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon, offering a glimpse into Malibu’s early history before wrapping up at Malibu Country Mart, where you’ll have time to grab lunch or browse boutique shops.

With its small group size, open-air ride, and mix of scenery, celebrity culture, and free time to explore, this tour offers an easy, enjoyable way to experience the very best of Malibu—no planning required.

Malibu is calling—book this popular tour here before it sells out!

8. 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!

9. Relax on Santa Monica Beach

Relaxing on Santa Monica Beach is one of those classic Southern California experiences that simply belongs on any LA itinerary. With its wide stretch of golden sand, palm-lined paths, and laid-back atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to slow down and soak up California’s famous sunshine.

One of the biggest perks of Santa Monica Beach is how easy it is to reach, especially compared to other beaches around Los Angeles. It’s one of the most accessible options from downtown LA, with convenient public transportation, plenty of nearby parking, and walkable access to restaurants, shops, and attractions. The beach itself is clean and well-maintained, with restrooms, bike rentals, and volleyball courts available throughout the area.

The iconic Santa Monica Pier sits right at the center, adding a fun, lively energy with street performers, food stands, and ocean views that stretch for miles. If you prefer something quieter, walking a little farther north or south along the shoreline quickly leads to calmer stretches of sand. The paved bike path is also perfect for a scenic ride along the coast, connecting Santa Monica to Venice Beach.

Whether you’re laying out a towel, watching the sunset, or just enjoying the ocean breeze, Santa Monica Beach is an easy, no-planning-required way to experience the laid-back side of Los Angeles.

10. 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 470+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check prices here!

Visiting Los Angeles for the first time can feel overwhelming—sprawling neighborhoods, nonstop traffic, and so many “must-see” spots spread across the city. That’s exactly what makes this cycling tour such a standout way to explore. Instead of sitting behind a windshield, this experience puts you right in the middle of the action, cruising through the city’s most iconic areas on two wheels.

The roughly 32-mile (51-kilometer) route winds through famous neighborhoods like West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and the palm-lined streets of Bel Air. It sounds ambitious, but the option to ride an e-bike makes the distance surprisingly manageable, even for casual cyclists. The pace is comfortable, with plenty of stops along the way to soak up the scenery and snap photos.

What really sets this tour apart is how personal it feels. A knowledgeable guide leads the way, sharing entertaining stories, local history, and insider details that bring each neighborhood to life. You’re not just passing landmarks—you’re learning what makes them special.

One of the most fun stops is Venice Beach, where you can grab lunch, wander the boardwalk, and soak up the nonstop action from skaters, street performers, and beach vibes. The tour also includes a stop at Greystone Mansion, with time to hop off the bikes and enjoy a quick walk through a classic slice of old Hollywood glamour.

For anyone wanting to experience Los Angeles beyond traffic jams and tour buses, this cycling adventure delivers an energetic, memorable introduction to the city.

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!

11. 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!

12. Explore LA’s best farmers’ markets

Exploring LA’s farmers’ markets is one of the best ways to tap into the city’s laid-back, food-loving culture. These markets aren’t just about picking up fresh produce; they’re social hubs where locals gather for breakfast, casual strolling, and some of the best people-watching in the city. If you have time to visit one or two, each market offers a slightly different experience.

• The Original Farmers Market (Open Daily) – Located next to The Grove shopping mall, The Original Farmers Market feels more like a permanent food hall than a traditional farmers’ market. It’s packed with food stalls, bakeries, and casual eateries serving everything from international dishes to classic comfort food. This is the easiest option if you want flexibility and don’t want to plan around specific days.

• Hollywood Farmers’ Market (Sundays, 8 am–1 pm) – Set at the base of the Hollywood Hills, Hollywood Farmers’ Market is a favorite among locals and chefs. You’ll find top-quality produce, fresh bread, and specialty foods in a lively atmosphere. Arriving earlier in the morning helps beat the crowds.

• Santa Monica Farmers’ Market (Wednesdays & Saturdays, 8 am–1 pm) – Known for having some of the best produce in the city, Santa Monica Farmers’ Market attracts restaurant chefs on Wednesdays, while Saturdays offer a more relaxed, visitor-friendly experience. It’s a great stop if you’re already exploring Santa Monica.

Stopping by any of these markets is a fun, low-key way to experience LA like a local—and eat very well while you’re at it!

13. 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 200+ reviews here)
• Free cancellation: Yes
• Price: Check price here!

Hollywood isn’t just a place you visit—it’s a place you’ve watched a thousand times on screen. So, if you’d like to step straight into iconic scenes and uncover the real stories behind the films that made this area legendary, this movie locations tour puts you right in the middle of it all.

The experience covers more than 50 filming locations, blending classic Hollywood with modern blockbusters. You’ll pass iconic spots like the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel and famous places such as Pink’s Hot Dogs, where scenes from The Lincoln Lawyer and The Golden Child were filmed. 

Another standout stop is the Jim Henson Company, formerly Chaplin Studios, where movies like The Muppet Movie and Labyrinth came to life. One fun bonus is that movie clips are played before you arrive at each stop, making it easy to recognize the scenes and see just how much movie magic happens on ordinary streets.

What truly sets this tour apart is the guide’s industry experience. Instead of recycled facts, you’ll hear real insider stories, red carpet moments, and celebrity details you won’t find online. With firsthand experience interviewing major A-listers, the commentary feels personal, entertaining, and refreshingly authentic.

If you can, aim for an earlier tour slot. With less traffic and fewer crowds, it’s easier to see filming locations clearly and enjoy the experience. And since this tour fills up fast, booking early is the best way to make sure you don’t miss out.

Check availability and grab your spot on this tour here, before it sells out!

14. 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!

15. Wander through the Venice Canals

Wandering through the Venice Canal Historic District is one of the most unexpectedly peaceful things to do in Los Angeles. Tucked just a few blocks from the beach, this quiet neighborhood feels worlds away from the energy of nearby Venice Beach, making it a perfect place to slow down and reset for a bit.

The canals were originally designed in the early 1900s as part of Abbot Kinney’s vision to recreate the feel of Venice, Italy. Today, they’re lined with charming footbridges, palm trees, and some of the most interesting residential architecture in the area. You’ll pass everything from historic bungalows to sleek modern homes, many of which belong to creatives and celebrities who value the neighborhood’s low-key vibe.

This is a great spot for a relaxed stroll before heading to nearby museums, cafes, or shops along Abbot Kinney Boulevard. The canals are especially lovely in the morning or early evening, when the light is soft, and the area is quieter. One small tip—keep voices low and stay on the public walkways, as this is a residential neighborhood, and part of what makes it special is how calm it feels.

If you’re looking for a break from LA’s busier attractions, the Venice Canals offer a slower, more scenic side of the city that’s well worth experiencing.

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!

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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