Los Angeles is an incredible city with plenty of diverse towns and sights to enjoy. The city is so big, chances are, you haven’t been able to check out all of the fun things to do here. Planning a visit, or touring the sites of LA can be overwhelming, so, here is the ultimate LA Bucket List. A one-stop shop for all the city’s must-sees. We have ideas for those who have just moved here and for locals who haven’t discovered everything this city has to offer. So get ready to jot down some places and start checking them off your LA bucket list.
Santa Monica Pier
Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier
Nothing screams iconic SoCal then a trip to the beach at the Santa Monica Pier . This is LA’s most famous beach and boardwalk where you can catch plenty of rays and enjoy the ocean. Once you’ve had your fill of the sand and sea, the pier provides endless entertainment with rides, games, restaurants and snack joints. Yup, you wont leave hungry.
The Griffith Observatory
Location: 2800 E Observatory Road
You can’t call yourself an LA local until you’ve been to The Griffith Observatory. Learn about the planets, admire the beautiful views of the city, check out a show, and snap your La La Land inspired photo. If you’re in the mood for some exercise, you can hike up to The Observatory, but if hiking isn’t your thing, there is also paid parking available for drivers.
Courtesy of laparks.org
The Hollywood Bowl
Location: 2301 N Highland Ave
We may sound a little sappy saying this, but The Hollywood Bowl really is one of the most special places to see a concert. Its rich history spans over 100 years and the impeccable acoustics make it a music venue like no other. There’s so much charm in hearing your favorite artists live on a cool LA evening in The Hollywood Hills (by the way, their food is to die for!). And if you’re looking to save a few bucks, you can pack a basket and picnic on the grounds before the show starts. Some shows even allow visitors to bring their own beer or wine, but we recommend checking the website for the alcohol rules pertaining to the concert you’re attending.
The Grove
Location: 189 The Grove Drive
The Grove’s has one of the most unique and and chic shopping experiences ever. It’s a top spot for tourists and locals alike. You’ll be kept busy for hours with their variety of stores, a movie theater to catch a show, fun pop-up shops and events. Or, if you’re in the mood for some downtime, you can take a blanket and relax on the greens while listening to The Grove’s classic playlist. Don’t forget to catch the free waterfall show, or take a ride on the trolley. And, if all that shopping works up your appetite, there are plenty of restaurants to enjoy.
Lake Hollywood Park
Location: 3160 Canyon Lake Drive
Seeing The Hollywood Sign may be a no-brainer for most people, but we bet you haven’t seen it this closely before. Lake Hollywood Park gets you an up close and personal view of the iconic landmark. The luscious greenery and hills that surround the sign are the perfect backdrop for that IG worthy post. And, did we mention there’s free parking?
Walk the Historic Hollywood Blvd
Location: 6925 Hollywood Blvd
Although Hollywood Blvd can be crowded, it’s something everyone needs to see at least once in their lives. Fans of the TV, Film and entertainment industry will love feeling the energy of standing in the spot where some of the most prestigious and biggest award shows take place. Plus, the nostalgia of The Chinese Theater and Hollywood Walk of Fame will spark a feeling of connection to old Hollywood. If you’ve never explored Hollywood Blvd, it’s worth taking some time to be a tourist for one day.
Visit Dodgers Stadium
Location: 1000 Vin Scully Ave
Sports fans and non sports fans alike will appreciate the beauty that is Dodgers Stadium. And watching a Dodgers game is only part of the experience. Dodger Stadium has an impressive list of food and drink options, like Dunkin’, California Pizza Kitchen and Golden Road Brewing Company. Trust us, you’ll want to hit them all up.
Pro Tip: Per their website, Dodger Stadium gives out free pins to commemorate your first visit. So, if you’ve never been to a Dodgers game before, be sure to pick one up at their Fan Service Stations.
The Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Location: 3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank
Have you ever dreamed of visiting the scenes of your favorite TV shows and movies? The Warner Bros. Studio Tour puts you right in the action by bringing you onto the actual sets of famous pictures. You’ll visit Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls, sit on the Central Perk couch from Friends, and hang in the apartment from The Big Bang Theory. There’s even an interactive experience, where you can step into the world of your favorite DC Superheroes and Harry Potter. The coolest part is, you’re touring a live backlot – so you never know who or what you’ll see.
Need some ideas for activities to enjoy when it rains in LA? We’ve got your back! Here is a list of some fun things to do on a rainy day.
