https://https://au.trip.com/toplist/tripbest/recommend/california/best-nightspots/10070021636150
Night Attractions
Top 20 Night Attractions in California [2025]
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Disneyland Park California
4.7
/5
1850 reviews
10
From AU$ 157.01
Based on 28,272 reviews
Anaheim City Center | >100 km from downtown
Phone +17147814636
Address: Anaheim, CA 92802, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
Selected for 2 years in a row
Saved by 2110 users1057 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
We went on a Weekdays and its not that crowded. The only thing we dont like is that the multi lightning pass has limits. Actually its our 2nd time so its starting to get boring.
I downloaded the Disney app, but couldn't pay. I ended up using Ctrip to manage it. I linked my ticket to the app and entered the park without any problems. I had a blast.
The Disneyland attraction we visited had a lot to offer, especially the Millennium Falcon, which my daughter enjoyed twice.
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Universal Studios Hollywood
4.8
/5
7202 reviews
10
From AU$ 117.58
Based on 37,902 reviews
Universal City | >100 km from downtown
Phone +18008648377
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 days
Selected for 2 years in a row
Saved by 3299 users3916 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Universal Studios Express Pass is a must-have for summer vacation. It's incredibly cost-effective. Booking with Ctrip is incredibly convenient, with tickets issued in just one second! I previously booked tickets somewhere else, but they didn't come through for an hour. I was so anxious I canceled and switched to Ctrip! Ctrip is truly reliable, and the price/performance ratio is better than Beijing! I hit all the attractions in one day, and basically played them as soon as I arrived with minimal lines. I even ate at Mario's Mushroom Restaurant! I had a blast! 🥳 Harry Potter and the Minions are a little different from Japan. The studio tour was a bit underwhelming at first, but it was amazing later on. Overall, I highly recommend it!!!
The ticket purchasing process was smooth, with a simple and clear interface. I filled in the ballot, filled in my information, and paid in just a few minutes. Tickets were also issued quickly, with clear order information. I easily entered the park with the QR code I received.
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Disney California Adventure Park
4.7
/5
465 reviews
8.7
From AU$ 157.17
Based on 15,806 reviews
Anaheim City Center | >100 km from downtown
Phone +17147814636
Address: Anaheim, CA 92802, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5-1 day
Featured in 2024 Global 100 - Family-Friendly Attractions
Highlights:
Dine with Disney characters nightly
Unique nighttime musicals & theater
Saved by 741 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
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Griffith Park
4.6
/5
163 reviews
7.9
Based on 3,213 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +13236442050
Address: Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Featured in 2025 Global 100 – Family-Friendly Attractions
Highlights:
Open until 10:30 PM
Stargazing & free lectures available
Saved by 181 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.
5
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Santa Monica State Beach
4.7
/5
590 reviews
8.1
Based on 6,773 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +13104588300
Address: California, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
No.10 of Best Things to Do in California
Saved by 707 users287 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.
6
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Fisherman's Wharf
4.5
/5
1589 reviews
8.1
Based on 19,700 reviews
Fisherman's Wharf | >100 km from downtown
Phone +14156733530
Address: San Francisco, CA, USA
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-3 hours
Selected for 2 years in a row
Highlights:
Enjoy stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge
PIER 39, a tourist landmark since 1978
Saved by 327 users575 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
a lot of sea lions! a must see place in san francisco! should get a sea lion plushie as well as a gift!
The Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco is the earliest known tourist attraction, located in San Francisco Bay within the Golden Gate Bridge, with a mild climate, calm water and pleasant scenery throughout the year. Fisherman's Wharf is close to the old town of San Francisco. There are many things to see, many things to play, and the transportation is convenient. There are many restaurants and hotels nearby, so you can walk slowly.
No.
7
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Alcatraz Island
4.6
/5
491 reviews
7.8
From AU$ 96.20
Based on 56,406 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +14155614900
Address: San Francisco, CA, USA
Recommended sightseeing time: 2-4 hours
No.19 of Best Things to Do in California
Saved by 261 users265 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
A few hundred metres from San Francisco's pier, Alcatraz was once the hardest-core prison in the United States, and after the prison closed in the 1960s, Alcatraz was occupied by Native Americans for nineteen months, and the island's social hall was burned down. Alcatraz became the Golden Gate National Amusement Park, designated as a national historical landmark in 1986, including the burned social hall, which is 15 minutes by boat from San Francisco.
Alcatraz Island is a stone island in San Francisco Bay, close to the Golden Gate, facing the old town of San Francisco, the scenery around the island is very beautiful. Because the water around the island is very deep and the water flow is very fast, the island used to be a prison. The island, which held the most famous and dangerous prisoners in the United States in the last century, became famous, and Hollywood made movies, and now it is a San Francisco Bay attraction.
No.
8
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Hollywood
4.8
/5
659 reviews
7.4
Based on 1,429 reviews
Hollywood | >100 km from downtown
Address: Los Angeles, CA, USA
Recommended sightseeing time: 1 day
Featured in Best Things to Do
Saved by 636 users143 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Controversy and the reality of the "magic mirror":
Over-commercialization and clutter: Parts of Hollywood Boulevard are filled with cheap souvenir shops, piercing music, "characters" wearing exaggerated costumes who charge for taking photos (the quality varies and they may force tips), and street performers. The environment is noisy and chaotic, and the "starlight" filter is easily broken.
Large gap in expectations: There is no red carpet, it is difficult to meet stars (the probability is extremely low), and the so-called "movie shooting site" is not visible on the streets, which is easy to be disappointed.
Cost-effective trap: Wax museums, horror houses and other attractions have high ticket prices and serious homogeneity of content, so you need to choose carefully.
Is it worth going? Rational decision:
* Fanatic movie fans & film history enthusiasts: Must go! The emotional satisfaction brought by the landmark, theater, and studio tour is irreplaceable.
First-time visitors to Los Angeles: You can go, but lower your expectations. Focus on the core landmarks (mountain landmarks, Chinese Theater, and a section of the Avenue of Stars), arrange 1-2 hours, and regard it as a "cultural symbol" experience.
Those who seek deep culture/tranquility experience: choose carefully or avoid it.
Hollywood is a sight to see in the day. Lots of souvenir shops and photo moments but according to my friend it is not a place to be in the night. I am glad I got to see it.
No.
9
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Golden Gate Bridge
4.7
/5
2106 reviews
7.3
From AU$ 53.61
Based on 49,931 reviews
>100 km from downtown
Phone +14159215858
Address: Golden Gate Brg, San Francisco, CA, United States
Recommended sightseeing time: 1-2 hours
Featured in 2025 Americas 50 – Night Attractions
Highlights:
Bridge lights reflect beautifully at night
Orange lights adorn San Francisco Bay
Saved by 436 users804 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Came here on September 24, 2017.
The Golden Gate Bridge is a landmark of San Francisco and a well-known tourist attraction in the United States. If you come to San Francisco, you must check in at the Golden Gate Bridge.
There are many bridges in China that are more majestic than the Golden Gate Bridge, so in fact, just take a tourist photo near the Golden Gate Bridge to say "I've been here". The best photo spot should be the Torpedo Wharf area on the southeast side of the bridge, and try to go early, otherwise when the sun sets, the photos will be backlit.
iconic landmark in San Francisco. there’s a beach nearby , a nice place to soak up some sun.
No.
10
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Lombard Street
4.6
/5
1830 reviews
7.3
Based on 18,439 reviews
San Francisco Downtown | >100 km from downtown
Phone +14153912000
Address: San Francisco, CA, USA
Recommended sightseeing time: 0.5 hour
Featured in 2025 Americas 50 – Night Attractions
Highlights:
Brick streets lined with seasonal flowers
Experience the thrill of driving on the winding mountain road
Saved by 287 users992 positive reviews
Verified user reviews
Came here on September 24, 2017.
This attraction is unique, beautiful and interesting, and is definitely one of the must-see attractions when visiting San Francisco.
Lombard Street is actually a section of Lombard Street, located between Hyde Street and Leavenworth Street. This section of the road is a steep slope, but it is designed into eight hairpin turns, and flowers are planted on both sides of the road.
If you need to take a nine-turn effect, you must stand on Leavenworth Street, which is low in terrain.
Chinese people can drive in the western United States where San Francisco is located with a translated driver's license. If you can drive in San Francisco, you might as well go and experience the feeling of driving through Lombard Street yourself.
Such a rich street. Just bursting with history. Lombard street must be a wonderful place to live on. The trees are so GREEN and the streets are so clean. It makes the living area so good you wouldn't want to leave. The hills in Dan Francisco amaze me as well, so many movies shot here. Like Miss Doubt fire and many more. Warner Bros is so lucky!!
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