10 Touristy Things In LA Worth Doing as a Local
Los Angeles is iconic, my loveee, and so are you. Not only does LA boast a ton of unique and exciting things to do, but it’s one of the top destinations in the world, with millions of people around the globe that have an LA visit on their vision boards and manifestation lists. For those lucky enough to live here full time, the best part is having these activities and sights to see at your fingertips, whenever your heart desires! Here is a round-up of some touristy things to do in LA, that we think you’ll even love as a local. You don’t need to wait for your out-of-town cousins to visit in order to enjoy them, and you just may surprise yourself by falling in love with the city all over again.
1. Take a Studio Tour
Whether it’s seeing the original Batmobile or brushing up on your knowledge of “I Love Lucy,” visiting one of the iconic movie and TV sets doesn’t have to be just for out-of-towners. Check out Paramount Pictures or Warner Bros Studio for some great guided tours and a way to explore Hollywood history.
2. Yamashiro
The LA Girl’s favorite Yamashiro restaurant overlooking the city of Los Angeles recently hosted Debbie Durkin’s ECOLUXE Rock ’N Rolla Lounge for MTV Movie & TV Awards and Pride month. Yamashiro’s executive chef, Vallerie Archer, spoiled everyone with a variety of delicious sushi while guests enjoyed the outside Garden Courtyard and Skyview lounge that Yamashiro has to offer. They hosted guests, influencers, and special attendees like Dancing with the Stars’ Gleb Savchenko, Dance Moms Melissa Gisoni, and Emmy winner Terrence Terell, who all enjoyed complimentary skincare products, wine, and more, plus a night of fun!
3. The Hollywood Sign
(You knew we would include it. We had to.) As a local, there’s a good chance you already have your picture in front of the Hollywood Sign or have done a hike up to it, but there are other ways to enjoy this world-famous monument. For example, you can take a horseback riding tour and harness your inner cowgirl, or grab your friends or book for a picnic in Lake Hollywood.
4. Universal Studios
It’s so easy to forget that we have an incredible theme park smack dab in the middle of the city. Locals tip: be sure to reserve enough time to hang out at the restaurants and check out the stores at the Universal CityWalk. If I were you, LA Girl, I would plan a Universal Studios drop-in right around Halloween and check out their “killer” Horror Nights.
5. The Grove
The Grove is not just a mall, it’s a lifestyle. Tourists may view it as a place to shop, but locals know the amazing events they program, from book signings to fashion shows to exclusive concerts. Plus, a movie theater hotspot, complete with a water-show out front. Local tip: come hungry and hang out at the Farmers Market!
6. Rodeo Drive
A place to try and spot celebs while drooling at luxury fashion, but with an LA Girl local twist. Use the beautiful pieces on Rodeo (and Bev Hills in general) to inspire you and add some pop to your own personal fashion wish list. Take a break from window shopping to dine at Nate ‘n Als, or sit outside The Maybourne and have a beautiful book/iced latte moment.
7. Griffith Observatory
The real “star gazing” here in LA goes down at this famous observatory. Locals twist: become a member and check out the monthly shows by awe-inducing artists or sign up for “Airbnb experience” and get a tour by a local.
8. The Getty Center
Come on people, we’ll go see a museum in another country, but maybe haven’t visited our own LA Gem? Admiring art and culture from all over the world and throughout history is a great way to get out of your own neighborhood bubble and expand your experience. Local tip: The Getty Center gift shop is a great place to shop for gifts for all different occasions. Thoughtful, unique, and supporting a solid cause.
9. Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Hollywood Forever is a resting place for some of the biggest celebrities and legendary names that draw in tourists, but locals also love the Cemetery’s partnership with Cinespia to put on movie screenings on the Fairbanks Lawn. Local tip: get there early! Movie nights get PACKED.
10. Santa Monica Pier
Tourists love the Santa Monica Pier because it’s fun, colorful, and always bumping. As a local, we think you’ll love it as a fun date spot. Grab a ride on the Pacific Wheel or stay on the land and walk the pier while getting ice cream. Luckily, the Pier has already done that thought quite well and put together a nice little round-up of events during their Local’s Night.
