19 Best Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles | 2024 (with Photos)

Los Angeles is a city that truly has something for everyone.

From the bustling streets of Downtown Los Angeles, Los Angeles Zoo, and Walt Disney Concert Hall to the peaceful trails of the Santa Monica Mountains, the Natural History Museum, and the famous Hollywood sign, visitors can experience it all in one of America's most iconic cities.

With its diverse cultural offerings, breathtaking natural beauty, and endless entertainment options, Los Angeles is a city that is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.

So, let's get started with another Travel-Lingual guide and discover the 19 best Los Angeles attractions together!

Table of Contents

1. Warner Bros Studio

2. The Petersen Automotive Museum

3. IMAX, California Science Center

4. Universal Studios Hollywood

5. Zuma Beach & Venice Beach

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1. Warner Bros Studio

Warner Bros Studio in Burbank, California, is a must-visit destination for movie buffs and fans of blockbuster movies.

This iconic Warner Bros Studio has been at the forefront of the entertainment industry for over a century, producing some of the biggest blockbusters in movie history.

The studio's Harry Potter exhibit is a major draw for fans of the beloved book and movie franchise.

Blockbuster movies are just one aspect of what Warner Bros Studio has to offer.

The studio tour also includes a behind-the-scenes look at how movies and TV shows are made, with stops at soundstages, prop rooms, and the iconic backlot.

You'll get to see famous sets from TV shows like "Friends" and "The Big Bang Theory", as well as movie classics like "Casablanca" and "Batman".

2. The Petersen Automotive Museum

The Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles is a world-renowned institution dedicated to the history and culture of the automobile.

With over 100 years of automotive history on display, the extensive collection this museum has to offer is a must-see for car enthusiasts and anyone interested in the evolution of transportation.

The Petersen Automotive Museum has a vast collection of cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles from different eras and countries.

The exhibits are organized in themes and chronologically, so visitors can take a journey through the history of the automobile from its early days to modern times.

One of the most impressive exhibits at the Petersen Automotive Museum is the Vault, a basement-level display featuring rare and iconic cars not usually seen in public.

Visitors can see everything from classic muscle cars to one-of-a-kind prototypes and race cars.

3. IMAX, California Science Center

The California Science Center in Los Angeles is an exceptional destination for science enthusiasts of all ages.

The museum's exhibits and interactive displays highlight a wide range of scientific disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, and space science.

The IMAX Theater at the California Science Center is one of the center's most popular attractions.

Visitors to the California Science Center can catch a variety of educational and entertaining films in the IMAX theater.

The California Science Center features a variety of films that cover different scientific topics, from deep space exploration to the world's oceans and everything in between.

Some of the most popular films currently playing at the IMAX theater include "Hubble 3D," "Great White Shark 3D," and "Journey to Space 3D."

4. Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios is a renowned destination in Los Angeles, attracting visitors from all over the world.

This movie studio and theme park is one of the most popular attractions in Southern California, offering a unique and immersive experience.

At Universal Studios Hollywood, visitors can enjoy an array of experiences, including thrilling rides, live shows, and behind-the-scenes tours of movie sets and soundstages.

Universal Studios Hollywood has something for everyone, with family-friendly attractions like Despicable Me Minion Mayhem and The Simpsons Ride, as well as high-speed coasters like The Revenge of the Mummy and Jurassic World: The Ride.

One of the highlights of Universal Studios Hollywood is The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and its magical roller coasters.

Universal Studios allows visitors to explore the magical world and experience attractions like Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey and Flight of the Hippogriff.

Visitors can also shop for wizarding wares and enjoy a glass of Butterbeer.

5. Zuma Beach & Venice Beach

Zuma Beach and Venice Beach are two of the most popular beaches in Southern California.

Both beaches offer stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, a variety of activities, and a vibrant atmosphere that attracts locals and tourists alike.

Zuma Beach is located in Malibu and is known for its long, wide shoreline and excellent surf.

The beach is a favorite among surfers and offers some of the best waves in the area. But it's not just surfers who love Zuma Beach.

Venice Beach, on the other hand, is famous for its quirky, bohemian vibe.

Located in the heart of Venice, the beach is a hub of activity and entertainment. Visitors can stroll along the boardwalk, watch street performers, or rent a bike and explore the area.

Venice Beach is also home to Muscle Beach, where bodybuilders show off their impressive physiques.

With its lively atmosphere and eclectic mix of people, Venice Beach is a must-visit destination.

Also Read: Fun Things to Do in Malibu at Night

6. Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park are two of the most iconic Los Angeles attractions.

Located in the Hollywood Hills, Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory offer visitors stunning views and a range of activities to enjoy.

Griffith Observatory, built in the 1930s, is a beautiful Art Deco-style building that houses a range of exhibits and telescopes.

The observatory is free to visit and offers visitors a chance to explore the universe and learn about astronomy.

From the top of the observatory, visitors can take in panoramic views of the city and even see the famous Hollywood sign.

Griffith Park, which encompasses over 4,000 acres, is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Moreover, Griffith Park is home to hiking trails, picnic areas, and a range of attractions, including the Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens.

Visitors can also enjoy a ride on the Griffith Park & Southern Railroad or take a horseback ride through the park's scenic trails.

Take a guided tour of the Griffith Observatory, view exhibits on space and astronomy, and even look through telescopes to observe the stars.

On clear nights, the observatory also hosts public stargazing events, allowing you to see planets, constellations, and other celestial bodies up close.

7. Santa Monica Pier and Santa Monica Mountains

Santa Monica is a coastal city in Southern California that offers visitors a range of attractions, including the famous Santa Monica Pier, the Santa Monica Mountains, and a vibrant downtown area.

The Santa Monica Pier, located at the end of Colorado Avenue, is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city.

The Santa Monica pier features an amusement park with rides and games, as well as a range of restaurants and souvenir shops.

Visitors can also take a stroll along the pier, enjoy the ocean views, and watch street performers and musicians.

In addition to the beach, Santa Monica is home to the Santa Monica Mountains, a range of hills and mountains that offer hiking trails and scenic views of the city and the ocean.

Here, you can hike through the mountains, explore the local flora and fauna, and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Back in town, the downtown area of Santa Monica offers visitors a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Be ready for the best Solar Powered Ferris Wheel that you see just in movies.

8. Hollywood Boulevard and the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Hollywood Boulevard is one of the most iconic streets in Los Angeles, known for its history, glamor, and entertainment.

From the Hollywood Walk of Fame to the Hollywood Hills, this area of the city offers visitors a range of attractions to explore.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame, located on Hollywood Boulevard, is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the city.

The Walk of Fame features over 2,600 stars embedded in the sidewalk, honoring some of the biggest names like movie stars in entertainment.

Visitors can take a stroll along the boulevard and see stars dedicated to the biggest celebrities of the past decades.

The area is home to the iconic TCL Chinese Theater, a historic theater that has hosted countless movie premieres over the years.

Visitors can take a tour of the theater, learn about its history, and even see the handprints and footprints of some of Hollywood's biggest stars.

Just north of Hollywood Boulevard is the Hollywood Hills, a range of hills and mountains that offer stunning views of the city and the ocean.

Visitors can hike through the hills and take in the stunning natural beauty of the area.

Back on Hollywood Boulevard, visitors should also check out the Hollywood Museum, which features exhibits on the history of Hollywood and its famous residents.

The museum is located in the historic Max Factor Building, which was once home to the famous makeup artist's studio.

Related Article: 25 Fun Things to Do in Hollywood

9. Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art, culture, and history. It is the largest art museum in the Western United States.

Located in the heart of Los Angeles County, the museum is home to an extensive collection of artwork from around the world.

The museum's permanent collection includes over 150,000 works of art, spanning a wide range of styles and periods.

You can explore art from ancient times to the present day, with collections featuring everything from European art to African masks, from American modernist sculpture to contemporary photography.

One of the highlights of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is its permanent collection of modern and contemporary art.

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art includes works by some of the biggest names in the art world, including Jeff Koons, Ed Ruscha, and Barbara Kruger.

10. Walt Disney Concert Hall and Downtown Los Angeles

Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of the most iconic landmarks of Downtown Los Angeles.

Designed by architect Frank Gehry, it is a marvel of contemporary architecture and a shining example of the city's cultural richness.

Located in the heart of Downtown LA, the concert hall's gleaming steel curves and undulating forms stand out in contrast to the surrounding skyscrapers.

The building's exterior is as impressive as its interior, with its polished steel surfaces reflecting the bright Southern California sun.

The concert hall is the crown jewel of the Performing Arts Center of Los Angeles County and is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic Orchestra.

This jewel of Downtown Los Angeles hosts a wide range of events, including classical music concerts, jazz performances, and contemporary music shows.

11. La Brea Tar Pits and Los Angeles Area

The La Brea Tar Pits are a unique geological formation located in the heart of Los Angeles.

This area has been one of the major tourist attractions in the Los Angeles area for over a century, drawing visitors from all over the world to witness the fascinating prehistoric discoveries.

The La Brea Tar Pits are a collection of tar pits that have trapped and preserved the remains of millions of prehistoric creatures for thousands of years.

This includes mammoths, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and many other species that once roamed the area.

Today, the La Brea Tar Pits are a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from all over the world to see the prehistoric fossils and learn about the region's natural history.

The site includes a museum, where visitors can view the fossils and learn about the geological processes that created the La Brea Tar Pits.

This attraction offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's prehistoric past and a reminder of the diversity of life that once flourished in this region.

The La Brea Tar Pits are not just a unique attraction but also a testament to the rich natural history of the Los Angeles area.

12. Disneyland Resort - The Magical Adventure

Disneyland Park is one of the most iconic tourist attractions in Los Angeles.

Located in Anaheim, just a short drive from Hollywood Bowl, Paramount Pictures, and the San Fernando Valley, Disneyland is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting the Los Angeles area.

The Disneyland Resort is a massive complex that includes theme parks, Disney California Adventure Park, Hollywood Land, and Downtown Disney.

It's a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the magic of Disney and create unforgettable memories with their loved ones.

Disney California Adventure Park is a newer addition to the Disneyland Resort opened in 2001.

It's a celebration of the California spirit, with attractions, roller coasters, and shows inspired by the Golden State's history, culture, and natural beauty.

13. Iconic Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign is one of the most iconic symbols of Los Angeles and a must-visit tourist attraction for anyone visiting the city.

Located in the Hollywood Hills, the sign is visible from many parts of the city, including West Hollywood and Runyon Canyon.

Originally erected in 1923 to promote real estate development, the Hollywood Sign has become a cultural icon and a symbol of the entertainment industry.

Visitors can hike to the sign via the Runyon Canyon trail, which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding hills.

In addition to the Hollywood Sign, West Hollywood is another popular tourist destination in Los Angeles. Known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining, West Hollywood is a hub of entertainment and culture.

Also Read: Fun Things to Do in Hollywood at Night

14. Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive

Beverly Hills is a glamorous neighborhood in Los Angeles that is known for its luxurious lifestyle, high-end shopping, and exquisite dining options.

It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Los Angeles, with visitors from all over the world coming to experience the rich culture and sophistication of Beverly Hills.

One of the must-visit destinations in Beverly Hills is Rodeo Drive, a high-end shopping district. Rodeo Drive is home to some of the world's most exclusive designer boutiques and luxury brands.

Visitors can stroll down the Rodeo Drive palm-tree-lined streets and admire the beautifully decorated storefronts or indulge in some luxury shopping.

Another popular attraction in Beverly Hills is the Getty Center, a world-renowned art museum that features an impressive art collection of European paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

The Getty Center, the museum's stunning architecture, and breathtaking views of the Los Angeles Basin make it a must-visit destination for art lovers and tourists alike.

Tour Beverly Hills to get an insight into how your favorite actors and musicians live.

Related Article: Best Things to Do in Beverly Hills at Night

15. Original Farmers Market

The Original Farmers Market is a historic landmark and culinary destination in Los Angeles, offering a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, and international cuisine.

It has been serving the city for over 80 years, making it one of the oldest and most beloved farmer's markets in the country.

Visitors can browse the stalls of over 100 vendors, who offer everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to artisanal cheeses and handmade crafts.

The Original Farmers Market is a perfect destination for foodies and anyone looking for unique, high-quality products.

The market is located just a short drive from Six Flags Magic Mountain, a popular theme park and attraction in Los Angeles.

After a day of thrilling rides and excitement, the Original Farmers Market is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy some fresh flavors.

The Original Farmers Market is a must-visit tourist attraction in Los Angeles for anyone looking to experience unique, high-quality products.

With its variety of vendors, restaurants, and cafes, there is something for everyone at this historic landmark. And, located just a short drive from Six Flags Magic Mountain, it is the perfect place to relax and refuel after a day of adventure.

16. Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is one of the most extensive natural history museums in the United States.

The museum was established in 1913 and is located in Exposition Park in Los Angeles, California and it is a gem of the West Coast.

The museum's collection includes over 35 million specimens and artifacts covering a diverse range of topics, including dinosaurs, mammals, birds, insects, marine life, and minerals.

One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is the Dinosaur Hall, which features one of the largest collections of dinosaur fossils in the world, including three complete Tyrannosaurus rex specimens.

Just ten minutes from this insightful landmark is the Japanese American National Museum. If you are a culture buff, you should check out these museums in Los Angeles.

17. Sunset Strip in LA

The Sunset Strip is a famous mile-and-a-half-long stretch of Sunset Boulevard in West Hollywood, California.

It has been a popular destination for tourists and locals alike since the 1920s and is known for its vibrant nightlife, live music venues, and celebrity hotspots.

Throughout the years, the Sunset Strip has been home to several iconic music clubs, including the Whisky a Go Go, the Roxy Theatre, and the Troubadour, which have hosted performances by legendary musicians such as The Doors, Led Zeppelin, and Guns N' Roses.

The area has also been the backdrop for several movies and TV shows, including "La La Land", "Entourage", and "Almost Famous".

18. Getty Center

The Getty Center is a world-renowned art museum located in Los Angeles, California. It was opened in 1997 and is one of two locations of the J. Paul Getty Museum, the other being the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades.

The Getty Center is located on a hilltop in the Santa Monica Mountains and offers stunning views of Los Angeles and the surrounding area.

The Getty Center Museum's collection includes over 130,000 cultural artifacts from prehistoric times to the present day.

19. Runyon Canyon Park

Runyon Canyon Park is a popular hiking and recreation area located in the Hollywood Hills of Los Angeles, California.

It covers 160 acres and offers stunning views of the city, as well as a variety of hiking trails for visitors of all skill levels.

The park is named after a wealthy landowner and developer, Rudolph C. Runyon, who owned the land in the early 20th century.

Today, the park is a favorite destination for locals and tourists alike, who come to hike, jog, and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.

Runyon Canyon Park features several hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous, that wind through the hills and canyons of the park.

The most popular trail is the Runyon Canyon Loop, which is a 3-mile hike that takes visitors up to the highest point in the park, providing panoramic views of the city below.

FAQs Regarding Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

Let's look at the most frequently asked questions relating to tourist attractions in Los Angeles.

What is the number 1 tourist attraction in LA?

For most travelers, the number one tourist attraction in LA is Beverly Hills and the celebrity houses that reside there. You can tour the streets of Beverly Hills to glimpse the lavish lifestyles of A-listers. Downtown LA is also a major tourist hotspot.

What are the best theme parks in LA?

When you visit Los Angeles, you will want to see the best theme parks in the area. Check out Universal Studios, Disneyland Park, and for the little ones, Pacific Park at Santa Monica.

What is the coolest place in LA?

There are many cool tourist attractions in Los Angeles, such as the Arts District, Hollywood Bowl, Paramount Pictures Studio, and Venice Beach. And if you think nature and science are cool, you'll love the Natural History Museum.

Is there anything worth seeing in Los Angeles?

Yes, there are many things worth seeing in Los Angeles. Here are some popular attractions and destinations that visitors often enjoy: Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios Hollywood, the Getty Center, Santa Monica Pier, and the Griffith Observatory.

Summing Up: 19 Best Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is rich with fantastic tourist attractions for the whole family to enjoy.

From contemporary art and the Hollywood Bowl to theme parks and Paramount Pictures Studio, this city has it all.

Downtown LA is where dreams come true, so pack your bags and head out to the City of Lights today. Remember your walking shoes so you can make the most of the Sunset Strip on Sunset Boulevard and all of the other major attractions. And if this is still not enough for you, check out the list of 35 best places to visit in LA.

And remember to book your accommodation, transport, and tickets before you go so you don't miss a thing. Have a great time in Los Angeles.