Los Angeles is a city full of diverse neighborhoods, world-class museums, and breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Angeleno, there’s always something new to discover in LA. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a tour of the best that the city has to offer.
What to Expect
Los Angeles is a diverse and sprawling metropolis, home to over 4 million people. With an abundance of neighborhoods, each with their own unique charm and attractions, there is something for everyone in LA. The city boasts an array of museums, art galleries, shopping centers, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visitors can explore world-famous landmarks such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Griffith Observatory, and the Santa Monica Pier, or take a stroll down Rodeo Drive, in Beverly Hills.
In terms of weather, Los Angeles is known for its mild Mediterranean climate, with warm, sunny days and cool, comfortable evenings. However, it’s important to note that the city can experience occasional bouts of smog, especially during the summer months.
As with any major city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions when exploring LA. Avoid leaving valuables in your car or unattended in public areas, and stay aware of your belongings when in crowded areas.
Getting Around
Given its vast size, getting around Los Angeles can be a challenge, but there are several transportation options available to visitors.
Car Rental: Renting a car is a popular option for visitors, as it allows for flexibility in exploring the city. However, LA is notorious for its heavy traffic, so be prepared for congestion, especially during peak hours.
Public Transportation: LA’s public transportation system includes buses, light rail, and subway lines, operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro). While the system covers a large area, it can be confusing for first-time riders, and service may be limited in some areas.
Taxis and Rideshare: Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in LA, and can be a convenient option for short trips or getting around after public transportation stops running.
Biking and Walking: For visitors who prefer a more active mode of transportation, LA offers a variety of bike rental options, as well as several scenic bike paths. Walking is also a great way to explore certain areas of the city, such as the beachfront neighborhoods of Venice and Santa Monica.
Regardless of which mode of transportation you choose, be sure to plan ahead and allow plenty of time to get to your destination. LA’s traffic can be unpredictable, so it’s best to avoid rush hour if possible.
By knowing what to expect and how to get around, visitors can make the most of their trip to Los Angeles and experience all that this vibrant city has to offer.
Places to Stay
Hotels and Resorts
Los Angeles is home to a wide range of hotels and resorts, from budget-friendly options to luxurious five-star properties. Popular hotel chains such as Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt have a strong presence in LA, and offer a variety of amenities such as pools, spas, and fitness centers. Many hotels also offer convenient locations, such as in the heart of downtown or near popular tourist attractions.
For travelers looking for a resort-style experience, Los Angeles has several options. The Beverly Hills Hotel is an iconic property located in the heart of Beverly Hills, with elegant rooms, lush gardens, and a famous pool. The Terranea Resort in Palos Verdes offers stunning ocean views, a full-service spa, and access to several on-site restaurants and bars.
Vacation Rentals
For those looking for a more immersive experience, vacation rentals are a popular option in LA. Services such as Airbnb and Vrbo offer a variety of properties, from cozy apartments to spacious homes, often at a lower cost than traditional hotels. Vacation rentals can also provide a more authentic feel for the local neighborhoods and culture of Los Angeles.
Hostels
For budget-conscious travelers, hostels are a great option. Los Angeles has several hostels that offer affordable dorm-style accommodations, as well as private rooms for couples or families. Hostelling International Santa Monica and Freehand Los Angeles are two popular options that offer a fun and social atmosphere.
Camping
For outdoor enthusiasts, camping is a unique way to experience Los Angeles. The city has several campgrounds, including the popular Malibu Creek State Park, which offers tent and RV camping, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Santa Monica Mountains. For those looking for a more rugged experience, the Angeles National Forest offers backcountry camping and hiking opportunities.
Top Attractions
No trip to LA is complete without a visit to its iconic attractions. Head to the Hollywood Sign for the perfect photo opportunity or stroll along the Venice Beach Boardwalk for some people-watching. Don’t miss the Getty Center for its stunning architecture and art collection, or the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) for a taste of LA’s cultural scene.
Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is an iconic landmark that has been featured in countless movies and TV shows. Located in the Hollywood Hills, the sign offers stunning views of the city below. The best way to see the sign up close is by hiking the Hollywood Sign Trail, which takes you right up to the sign.
Venice Beach Boardwalk
The Venice Beach Boardwalk is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for a taste of LA’s unique beach culture. Here, you’ll find street performers, artists, and vendors selling everything from souvenirs to snacks. The boardwalk is also home to the famous Muscle Beach, where Arnold Schwarzenegger and other bodybuilders once trained.
Getty Center
The Getty Center is a museum and cultural center located in the Brentwood neighborhood of LA. The center features stunning architecture and beautiful gardens, as well as a collection of art from around the world. Don’t miss the center’s famous collection of European paintings, which includes works by Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Monet.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art, also known as LACMA, is one of the city’s premier cultural institutions. The museum’s collection includes over 150,000 works of art from around the world, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art. Don’t miss the museum’s outdoor installation Urban Light, a stunning display of 202 vintage street lamps.
Food and Drink
LA is a food lover’s paradise with an endless array of options to suit any taste. Head to Grand Central Market in Downtown LA for a sampling of some of the city’s best food vendors, or check out the trendy restaurants and bars in the Arts District. For a taste of LA’s famous Mexican cuisine, head to Olvera Street or the Boyle Heights neighborhood.
Grand Central Market
The Grand Central Market is a food hall located in Downtown LA that has been a staple of the city’s culinary scene since 1917. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of food vendors offering everything from tacos to oysters. Don’t miss the famous Eggslut, known for their delicious breakfast sandwiches, or the Thai street food at Sticky Rice.
Arts District
The Arts District is a trendy neighborhood in Downtown LA that has been transformed into a hub for food and drink. Here, you’ll find restaurants and bars housed in converted warehouses, serving up everything from artisanal cocktails to wood-fired pizzas. Don’t miss Bestia, known for its Italian cuisine, or the rooftop bar at the trendy Ace Hotel.
Olvera Street
Olvera Street is a historic street in Downtown LA that is considered the birthplace of the city. Here, you’ll find colorful markets, traditional Mexican restaurants, and historic buildings dating back to the 1800s. Don’t miss La Luz del Dia, known for their delicious margaritas and authentic Mexican cuisine, or the pan dulce (sweet bread) at Mr. Churro.
Nature and Outdoors
LA is home to some of the most breathtaking natural beauty in the world, from the beaches of Malibu to the mountains of the Angeles National Forest. Take a hike in Griffith Park, go for a swim at Santa Monica Beach, or check out the stunning views from the top of Mount Baldy.
Griffith Park
Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the world and a must-visit spot for any nature lover. Here, you’ll find hiking trails, picnic areas, and the famous Griffith Observatory, which offers stunning views of the city below. Don’t miss the Bronson Caves, known for their appearance in many movies and TV shows, including Batman and Star Trek.
Santa Monica Beach
Santa Monica Beach is one of the most iconic beaches in the world, known for its beautiful sunsets and lively atmosphere. Here, you can swim, surf, or just relax on the sand. Don’t miss the Santa Monica Pier, which features an amusement park and an aquarium.
Mount Baldy
Mount Baldy is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The summit can be reached via a challenging hike, but the views are well worth the effort. Don’t miss the ski resort at the base of the mountain, which offers winter sports like skiing and snowboarding.
Conclusion
LA is a city full of surprises, from its iconic attractions to its world-class museums to its stunning natural beauty. We hope this travel guide has given you a taste of what the city has to offer and inspired you to explore it for yourself. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the best of LA.
This travel guide is just the beginning of your LA adventure. There is so much more to explore and discover in this vibrant city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, LA is sure to leave a lasting impression. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today and get ready to explore the best of Los Angeles!
Additional Resources
For more information on things to do and see in Los Angeles, check out these additional resources:
- Discover Los Angeles – The official guide to the city of LA
- Los Angeles Times – Local news and culture coverage
- Time Out Los Angeles – City guide with recommendations for dining, nightlife, and events
- Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County – A museum dedicated to the natural history and diversity of Southern California and the world
We hope you found this travel guide informative and helpful in planning your trip to Los Angeles. With so much to see and do in this amazing city, we’re sure you’ll have an unforgettable experience. Happy travels!
Check out our other travel guides to save money on your next trip!
If you enjoyed this article, please share it with others.
Follow us on Twitter and Instagram!
