https://https://au.trip.com/toplist/tripbest/recommend/los-angeles/best-things-to-do/100000010454
Best Things to Do
Top 50 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles [2025]
Show All Photos
Universal Studios Hollywood
4.8
/5
7128 reviews
10
From AU$ 119.56
Based on 37,875 reviews
Universal City | 13.8 km from downtown
Phone +1 800-8648377
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 days
Selected for 2 years in a row
Highlights:
Explore Hogwarts Castle and experience the magical world
Explore Hogwarts & magical world
Saved by 3180 users3936 positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
It's a good deal. Buy one get one free for two-day tickets. You can enter directly by scanning the QR code. It's very convenient. There weren't many people on the two days I went there, which was not a weekend. I played all the projects and the waiting time was not long.
A must-visit project. Few people came in February, and all the projects were easily completed in one day. I took my children to learn about the filming base of the movie, and the experience was full. If you are a fan of American dramas, you must come here. Many scenes of classic American dramas are here
Show All Photos
Disneyland Park California
4.7
/5
1807 reviews
10
From AU$ 159.82
Based on 28,257 reviews
Anaheim City Center | 40.1 km from downtown
Phone +1 714-7814636
Address: Anaheim, CA 92802, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
Selected for 2 years in a row
Highlights:
Fantasy parade & Disney character interaction
Space Mountain
Saved by 2018 users1033 positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
บัตรใช้งานง่ายมากแต่ต้องทำการจองวันก่อนเข้าบริการซื้อแล้วยังไม่สามารถที่จะสแกนบัตรเข้าได้เลย
Disneyland in California is more interesting than Universal Studios and exceeded expectations. It is completely possible to visit two parks and LL in one day. I visited 20 projects in one day. Star Wars is amazing. I visited it twice.
Show All Photos
Disney California Adventure Park
4.7
/5
460 reviews
8.7
From AU$ 159.82
Based on 15,803 reviews
Anaheim City Center | 40.5 km from downtown
Phone +1-714-7814636
Address: Anaheim, CA 92802, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
Featured in 2024 Global 100 - Family-Friendly Attractions
Highlights:
Thrilling coaster across the park
Sky-high California view experience
Saved by 712 users323 positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
Disney California Adventure Park is a vibrant celebration of imagination, thrills, and the spirit of California. From the exhilarating Incredicoaster and Radiator Springs Racers to the whimsical charm of Pixar Pier and Avengers Campus, every corner offers immersive storytelling and unforgettable rides. The park beautifully blends Disney magic with local flair, showcasing themed lands, live entertainment, and mouthwatering food options—like the famous churros and lobster nachos.
Disney California Adventure packs thrills and charm!Radiator Springs Racers delivered high-speed fun while Guardians of the Galaxy had me screaming with joy. I soared over global wonders on Soarin' and marveled at Spider-Man's stunts in Avengers Campus. The breathtaking World of Color show was the perfect finale. Between attractions, I snacked on Pym Test Kitchen's inventive bites and classic churros. From Buena Vista Street's nostalgia to Pixar Pier's whimsy, every area dazzled.
No.
4
Show All Photos
Griffith Observatory
4.7
/5
559 reviews
8.3
Based on 20,803 reviews
9 km from downtown
Phone +1 213-473-0800
Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Selected for 2 years in a row
Highlights:
360° view of LA lights
Hollywood set & LA landmark
Saved by 726 users336 positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
Griffith Observatory: The Eye of Wisdom in Los Angeles, a Must-Visit Free Landmark
Griffith Observatory is no ordinary attraction. It is a spiritual symbol of Los Angeles, where science and romance interweave. Whether you are an astronomy enthusiast or not, it is definitely worth a visit, and admission is free (except for certain exhibitions and performances). Its charm lies in its unique integration, with distinct and profound highlights:
Core Highlights:
1. Unparalleled panoramic view of the city:
Located on the top of the Hollywood Hills, the observatory itself is the best viewing platform overlooking Los Angeles. During the day, the city texture is in full view; at dusk, witness the "City of Angels" covered with golden rays of light, the lights are on, until the lights of thousands of homes under the bright stars, and the Hollywood sign is within reach - this is the most iconic postcard perspective of Los Angeles, a holy place for photography enthusiasts.
2. Immersive astronomy science hall:
Samuel Oschin Planetarium: The world's top dome theater, with advanced laser projection system and surround sound effects. Its programs (tickets required) such as "Dark Night Stars" and "Center of the Universe" are not simple popular science, but a soul-stirring journey of cosmic art, taking you through time and space to feel the vastness and mystery of the universe.
Free exhibition hall The content is easy to understand and highly interactive. Must-see:
Foucault pendulum: a classic device that intuitively demonstrates the rotation of the earth.
Planetary models and astronomical maps: Exquisite display of solar system and cosmic knowledge.
Giant Tesla coil demonstration: (at a specific time) watch the spectacular sight of artificial lightning, full of scientific sense.
The historical building itself: The Art Deco style incorporates Greek revival elements, and the dome and murals are full of astronomical symbols, which is itself a work of art.
3. A window to experience the stars:
Free public telescope observation: This is the most precious tradition of the observatory! Open at night when the weather is fine (see the official website for details), you can witness the lunar craters, Jupiter stripes, Saturn rings, and even distant nebulae with your own eyes through powerful Zeiss refracting telescopes and other equipment. Professional volunteers explain on the spot, making the universe within reach. This real stargazing experience cannot be replaced by any screen.
Is it worth going? Conclusion:
Highly recommended to:
Visitors who are visiting Los Angeles for the first time: This is a great starting point to understand the city's geography and temperament.
Photography enthusiasts: Capture the classic camera position of Los Angeles panorama and Hollywood sign.
People who are curious about astronomy and science: Free and high-quality science feast.
Griffith Observatory: The junction of the Starry Sky and the Earth This art deco building, completed in 1935, is suspended on the Hollywood Hills like a giant astronomical instrument targeting the Los Angeles Basin. Free and open setting makes it the city's most generous viewing platform. Fu Ke in the main hall is the most philosophical. The brass hammers slowly deflect the trajectory of the star map floor, silently proving the physical facts of the earth's rotation. When the Tesla coils on the basement floor were performed, artificial lightning burst in the dome, turning the scientific demonstration into a modern witchcraft show. But the true souls are on the night rooftops when city lights spread like magma beneath their feet, and the visible galaxy hangs overhead, forming a barren war between heaven and man. It is recommended to arrive an hour before sunset. First look at the sun on the west terrace as the Hollywood sign is gilded, then line up in the dusk to touch the astronomical telescope. The couples in line, the photographers on tripods and the children counting stars cast overlapping silhouettes on the metal shell of the telescopeperhaps more worth observing than the celestial body itself. Don't forget to look back at the Greek theater-style dome when you leave, and the bronze statue of Einstein is smiling in the shadow of the porch, as if you already know all about human obsession with the universe.
No.
5
Show All Photos
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
4.6
/5
157 reviews
8.2
From AU$ 27.81
Based on 1,373 reviews
South Los Angeles | 5.7 km from downtown
Phone +1 213-763-3466
Address: 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 2 hours
Featured in 2025 Global 100 – Family-Friendly Attractions
Highlights:
Dioramas with lighting effects
Real specimens & natural habitats
Saved by 352 users109 positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
We arrive around 12:00noon so the main parking area is already full. They told us to park in the science center building which you need to walk around 5-10mins which is not a problem for us. Its a 3 floor building and we really enjoyed checking each artifacts.
The dynamic experience is well worth a visit for nature lovers, family tourists and anyone curious about the story of life on Earth. Its highlights are its depth and breadth:
Core highlights:
1. Dinosaur Hall:
Dinosaur Hall: *The treasure of the town! It has more than 300 real fossils, including**the world's only Tyrannosaurus Rex "Thomas" growth series fossils (juvenile, sub-adult, adult), which directly shows the mystery of dinosaur growth. The stunning Triceratops "Destiny" skeleton** (one of the largest and most complete found in North America) and the Diplodocus skeleton are breathtaking.
Immersive setting: Fossils are not displayed in isolation, but are placed in a carefully restored prehistoric ecological environment, with sound and light effects, as if traveling back to the dinosaur era.
2. The dazzling world of minerals and gems:
"Gem and Mineral Hall": It is a visual feast! It collects**more than 2,000**amazing specimens.
Giant natural gold nuggets: Giant natural gold nuggets such as "Golden Dog" are astonishing.
Rare Gemstones: Glittering amethyst geodes, rough emeralds, perfectly cut diamonds, and slices of meteorites from Mars and the Moon, showcasing the magnificent wealth of the Earth and the universe.
Interactive Exploration: Learn about mineral formation, mining, and their application in technology.
3. Rich North American and California Ecological Displays:
"North American Mammal Hall": Lifelike ecological scenes (Diorama) show grizzly bears, mountain lions, bison and other animals in their natural habitats, with both artistic and scientific qualities.
"California History Hall" & "Becoming California Hall": In-depth exploration of California's unique biodiversity, geological changes, and the impact of human activities on the environment, with distinct local characteristics.
4. Fun Interaction and Exploration Space:
"Discovery Center": Designed for families, it encourages hands-on touching of fossils, microscope observation of specimens, and participation in small experiments to stimulate children's interest in science.
No.
6
Santa Monica State Beach
4.7
/5
590 reviews
8.2
Based on 6,769 reviews
24.2 km from downtown
Phone +1-310-4588300
Address: California, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
No.1 of Water fun & Cool Retreats in Los Angeles
Highlights:
Santa Monica's iconic pier symbol
Titanic Ferris Wheel & Forrest Gump Restaurant
Saved by 675 users292 positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
Key highlights:
1. The legendary Santa Monica Pier:
Pacific Park is a seaside playground located on the pier! The colorful solar-powered Ferris wheel is an absolute landmark. When it rises to its highest point, you can see the panoramic view of the sea, sky and city, especially at sunset. The romantic value is off the charts. The exciting roller coaster roars over the Pacific Ocean, and screams and the sound of waves are intertwined.
History and feelings: The old pier built in 1909 is itself a historical relic, and the creaking wooden boardwalk is full of traces of time. This is the legendary end of Route 66, and the famous "End of the Trail" sign is a must-see.
* Street art and performances: Street artists often perform on the pier and pier (music, juggling, performance art), full of unexpected fun.
2. Vibrant seaside atmosphere:
Third Street Pedestrian Street: Close to the beach, a world-renowned pedestrian shopping and dining street. Brand stores, specialty shops, restaurants and cafes are lined up, and street performers are constantly performing. The bustling vitality extending from the beach to the city is seamlessly connected.
Bicycle Path and Skateboard Culture The wide and flat seaside bicycle path is the best way to experience the coastline (car rental is available). The skateboard park is full of masters, showing California's unique street sports culture.
Muscle Beach: Outdoor fitness area on the south side of the pier, watch the strong men and hot girls show their muscles, practice gymnastics, and experience California's healthy and sunny lifestyle.
3. Classic California Seaside Experience
Watching the sunset: The pier is a great place to enjoy the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. The silhouette of the Ferris wheel is set against the sunset sky, and the atmosphere is full.
Beach Walk and Leisure: The beach is wide, suitable for walking, sunbathing (bring your own blanket), and watching surfers chasing waves. But the sand is coarse, the sea water is cool and the waves are big, and the pure swimming experience is average
Santa Monica Beach is a free attraction, with a long coastline, soft sand, a long dock plank road, a playground, or the end of Route 66 that runs through the United States. Very beautiful. Many tourists from all over the world. Traveling all the way, I saw a lot of street artists performing, each with its own characteristics. Suitable for leisure and vacation
No.
7
Show All Photos
The Getty
4.7
/5
548 reviews
8.0
Based on 14,838 reviews
21.3 km from downtown
Phone +1 310-440-7300
Address: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
Highlights:
Azalea maze with 400+ plants
LA panoramic view deck
Saved by 406 users334 positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
Getty Center: The art temple on the top of a hill in Los Angeles is definitely worth a special visit!
Even if you are only slightly interested in art, the Getty Center is still a place that will make your trip worthwhile. It is far more than a museum, but more like a mountaintop cultural paradise that combines architectural wonders, top art collections and beautiful scenery.
Core highlights not to be missed
1. The building itself is a masterpiece of art: the pure white building complex designed by the master architect Richard Meier has simple and smooth lines and a modern feel. Take the iconic cable train slowly up the mountain, full of ritual, and the city scenery of Los Angeles gradually unfolds in front of you, and you are already intoxicated before entering the museum.
2. Hall-level art collection: *The core attraction! From the manuscripts of Renaissance masters, the shocking large paintings of Rubens in the Baroque period, to Van Gogh's vibrant "Irises" (the brushstrokes are breathtaking when seen up close), Monet's charming impressionist landscapes, Cezanne's solid still lifes... The key chapters of Western art history are vividly presented here, with extremely high quality and free to visit (only parking fees are charged).
3. The tranquil and elegant Central Garden: The Central Garden designed by Robert Irving is an oasis in the hustle and bustle. The winding paths, carefully matched plants, gurgling streams and unique water platform maze are full of natural interest and design ingenuity. It is a great place to stroll, relax and relax.
4. The unparalleled viewing platform: Located on the top of Santa Monica Mountain, the view is extremely wide. Standing on the terrace, you can see the city skyline of Los Angeles, the rolling mountains and the vast Pacific Ocean. When the weather is fine, the bustling city and the magnificent nature blend at this moment, especially at sunset, the scenery is particularly shocking.
Is it worth going? Without a doubt, it is highly recommended!
Art lovers must pilgrimage: the quality and breadth of the collection are enough to make people linger.
Architecture and landscape control will fall in love: the perfect dialogue between modern architecture and nature and urban landscape.
Visitors who seek unique experiences: the top of the mountain location, the small train, free high-quality art, the beautiful garden and the view, the combination experience is unique.
Practical tips: Parking is expensive (about $20, $15 after 3pm), so it is recommended to book a parking space on the official website in advance. Reserve at least 3-4 hours to enjoy the experience. Bring a camera, the sunset view is not to be missed!
Summary: The Getty Center combines top art, outstanding architecture, exquisite gardening and magnificent landscapes, providing a high-quality cultural experience full of aesthetic enjoyment and spiritual relaxation that far exceeds ordinary museums. It is not only a cultural landmark in Los Angeles, but also a must-see for anyone visiting Los Angeles.
Free private museum, on the mountain, after the car parks in the underground parking lot, you can take the elevator upstairs, and then take the free train to the main building of the Getty Center after security check, divided into four museums in the southeast and northwest, it takes some time to go shopping, there are Van Gogh's Iris, Monet, Miller, Gao Geng and other works. . The glass windows on the high floor can see the mountain view, the view is wide, and there is a big beautiful garden downstairs. Los Angeles must punch in
No.
8
Show All Photos
Griffith Park
4.6
/5
163 reviews
7.9
Based on 3,213 reviews
10.5 km from downtown
Phone +1 323-644-2050
Address: Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Featured in 2025 Global 100 – Family-Friendly Attractions
Highlights:
Stargazing up close at observatory
Hollywood sign view & nature
Saved by 169 users47% positive reviews
Verified User Reviews
Griffith Park: Wilderness and Stars on the Top of Los Angeles
Griffith Park is no fine garden, but a rugged and charming oasis in Los Angeles. As one of the largest urban parks in North America, it is definitely worth a special visit, especially for travelers who want to embrace the majestic nature and urban legends at the same time.
The undisputed centerpiece is the Griffith Observatory, which stands on the top of the mountain. It is an architectural masterpiece in itself, and it also has a "God's eye view" overlooking Los Angeles. During the day, the Hollywood sign is clearly visible on the hillside in the distance, and the city skyline spreads out at your feet; but at dusk is the real magic moment, when the setting sun melts into gold and the city lights gradually light up until they merge into a dazzling starry sky. Inside the observatory, Foucault's pendulum swings leisurely and the dome screen presents cosmic wonders, where science and romance blend together.
The vast hinterland of the park is a paradise for hikers and explorers. From easy family-friendly trails to challenging mountain routes (such as the steep trail leading to the Hollywood sign), there are many options. Walk through the dusty California oak forests and cactus bushes, encounter deer or coyotes, and feel the wilderness. The abandoned zoo area is a mysterious and desolate place, which is an alternative check-in point. The Greek Theater is hidden deep in the valley and holds concerts in certain seasons. Listening to the sounds of nature under the stars is an unforgettable experience.
Real challenges to note: Parking in the observatory area is extremely difficult due to the constant crowds (it is strongly recommended to use the DASH Observatory Shuttle or online taxi); the facilities inside the park are relatively primitive, some trails lack shade and the signs are not clear enough, so you need to plan your route in advance and prepare enough drinking water.
In short, the charm of Griffith Park lies in its primitive and simple wildness and unparalleled vision. Touch the stars in the observatory, feel the mountain breeze on the trail, and listen to the echo in the Greek Theater, and you will understand why it is not only a landmark of Los Angeles, but also a spiritual home for citizens-an extraordinary bridge connecting the bustling city with the quiet wilderness, the real earth and the vast universe.
A very suitable place to enjoy the night view of Los Angeles, you can overlook the night view of the entire Los Angeles, but it is often crowded here, so you have to squeeze out a spot by yourself~ It was a bit foggy when we came, and the weather was not very good, but you can still enjoy a good night view. It is said that this is the filming location of the movie Lalaland. Friends who are interested can come to make a pilgrimage!
No.
9
Show All Photos
Crypto.com Arena
4.8
/5
147 reviews
7.9
Downtown Los Angeles | 2.4 km from downtown
Phone +1 213-742-7100
Address: 1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-3 hours
Highlights:
Landmark viewing spot in LA
Shared arena for four teams
Verified User Reviews
Managed to catch some big superstar for Lakers outside the arena. Pretty upset as NBA regular season is ended when I visited in June and no playoff games at the time hence I wasn’t able to watch the game in the arena but I’m sure I will be back some day again to watch a NBA game.
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Celebrates 75th Birthday With Former Showtime Teammates During Win Over Thunder
No.
10
NBA Los Angeles Lakers Home Game
4.2
/5
6 reviews
7.9
Downtown Los Angeles | 2.4 km from downtown
Address: 1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015, United States
Highlights:
Experience the passionate charm of basketball at the Lakers' home court
Experience the immersive atmosphere of an NBA game
Recently viewed by 1,000+ people
Verified User Reviews
Lakers is the favorite team of most fans. From the Kobe era to the current James-led basketball empire, there is one less game to watch. The live viewing experience is definitely worth the fans to find out.
The scene was quite shocking and it felt great to watch the game live.
1
2
3
4
5
