Los Angeles is a city of endless possibilities—sun-soaked beaches, iconic museums, buzzing nightlife, and secret spots only locals know. Whether you're a longtime Angeleno or a first-time visitor, this guide will help you experience LA like a true insider. Here are the best things to do in Los Angeles, organized by category.
Outdoor Activities and Nature
1. **Hike to the Griffith Observatory**: Skip the parking chaos and take the Fern Dell Trail up for panoramic views of the Hollywood Sign and downtown LA. 2. **Relax at El Matador Beach**: A secluded Malibu gem with dramatic rock formations—perfect for sunset picnics. 3. **Kayak in Marina del Rey**: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the serene marina waters. 4. **Stroll the Huntington Library Gardens**: Escape to these lush botanical gardens in Pasadena, featuring desert, Japanese, and rose gardens. 5. **Bike the Marvin Braude Bike Trail**: This 22-mile path stretches from Torrance to Pacific Palisades, offering ocean views the whole way.
Arts, Museums, and Culture
6. **Explore The Broad**: Downtown’s contemporary art museum boasts free admission to its Warhol, Koons, and Kusama collections. 7. **Tour the Getty Villa**: A Malibu-based replica of an ancient Roman villa, filled with Greco-Roman antiquities. 8. **Visit the Museum of Jurassic Technology**: A surreal Venice spot blending art, science, and whimsy. 9. **Catch a Show at the Hollywood Bowl**: LA’s iconic outdoor amphitheater hosts everything from classical concerts to film screenings. 10. **Walk Through the Arts District Murals**: Downtown’s street art scene is ever-evolving—don’t miss the ‘You Are the Star’ mural.
Nightlife and Entertainment
11. **Dance at Breakroom 86**: A Koreatown speakeasy hidden behind a fake noodle shop, serving cocktails and ’80s vibes. 12. **Sip Craft Cocktails at Death & Co**: This moody Los Feliz bar offers some of the city’s best mixology. 13. **Catch a Comedy Show at The Comedy Store**: A Sunset Strip institution where legends like Richard Pryor and Dave Chappelle have performed. 14. **Sing Karaoke at The Prince**: A Koreatown dive bar with private rooms and stiff drinks. 15. **Late-Night Eat at Canter’s Deli**: A Fairfax District staple serving matzo ball soup and pastrami sandwiches till 4 AM.
Family-Friendly Activities
16. **Spend a Day at Universal Studios**: Ride the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and meet Minions. 17. **Visit the California Science Center**: Home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour and interactive exhibits. 18. **Explore the Los Angeles Zoo**: Located in Griffith Park, it’s a hit with kids (and adults who love koalas). 19. **Play at Shane’s Inspiration**: A massive, accessible playground in Griffith Park with skyline views. 20. **Discover Kidspace Children’s Museum**: Hands-on exhibits and outdoor water play in Pasadena.
Hidden Gems and Local Secrets
21. **Find the Secret Swing in Elysian Park**: A rope swing with sweeping downtown views—just follow the trail near Angels Point. 22. **Browse the Last Bookstore**: Downtown’s labyrinthine bookstore features book tunnels and vinyl records. 23. **Eat at Guelaguetza**: A James Beard-winning Oaxacan restaurant in Koreatown serving killer mole. 24. **Visit the Sunken City**: The ruins of a collapsed neighborhood in San Pedro—technically off-limits, but adventurous locals sneak in. 25. **Sip Tea at Chado Tea Room**: A quiet Little Tokyo spot with over 300 tea varieties.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
26. **Attend the Rose Parade (January)**: Pasadena’s floral spectacle kicks off the new year. 27. **Celebrate Lunar New Year in Chinatown (February)**: Lion dances, fireworks, and dumplings galore. 28. **Experience CicLAvia (Multiple Dates)**: Streets close for this massive bike-centric open streets festival. 29. **Watch Movies at Street Food Cinema (Summer)**: Outdoor film screenings paired with LA’s best food trucks. 30. **Get Spooky at Halloween Horror Nights (October)**: Universal Studios transforms into a nightmare-filled maze.
LA’s magic lies in its diversity—whether you’re hiking a canyon, laughing at a comedy club, or uncovering a hidden bookstore, there’s always something new to discover.