Hollywood

Los Angeles

California

United States

North America

There are no two ways about it; Hollywood is one of the weirdest places in the country. At the center of it, the glitz and glamor of the Hollywood Boulevard. Hollywood is an offbeat and wonderful town. Where else on earth could you hike to an observatory and then see a movie in a cemetery the same day?

There are no two ways about it; Hollywood is one of the weirdest places in the country. At the center of it, the glitz and glamor of the Hollywood Boulevard, Chateau Marmont, and Chinese Theater spark legends by merely existing. Hollywood is an offbeat and wonderful town. Where else on earth could you hike to an observatory and then see a movie in a cemetery the same day? It’s a city wherein the strange is possible, and the banal is frowned upon. Simply put, there are many things to do in Hollywood that might never have crossed your mind.
<h2>1. Catch a Matinée Movie at Hollywood Forever Cemetery</h2>
It's only right to cover the cemetery-cum-outdoor-movie experience before anything else. Launched in the early 2000s, Cinespia hosts screenings of classic films throughout Hollywood history at open-air locations around the city. Its most popular is, by far, those held at Hollywood Cemetery Forever. Now looked upon as the best movie theater in Los Angeles, Hollywood Forever is also the resting place of some of our most beloved stars including Cecil B. DeMille and the legendary Valentino. If you do nothing else in Hollywood, make sure you at least catch one of these shows.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1030956" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1284218776.jpg" alt="Tomb of actors Douglas Fairbanks Sr. and Jr., at Hollywood Forever Cemetery" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>2. Make Sure to Have Good Times at Davey Wayne’s</h2>
Just down the road from the Hollywood Museum of Death - and yes, you read that right - you'll find Good Times at Davey Wayne's. Now, Hollywood has more than its share of unique bars, but Davey Wayne's might just pip them all to the post. Literally, if you've ever wondered what your parents or siblings were doing in the 70s, one look behind the refrigerator entrance door of this kitschy-chic 70s-themed bar and all your questions will be answered. With an atmosphere that feels more like a house party than an establishment, sangria, and regulars spinning tunes on the vintage jukebox, Davey's is is more than worth your patronage.

[caption id="attachment_1030961" align="alignnone" width="920"]<img class="size-full wp-image-1030961" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/1419975719-la-goodtimesatdaveywayne_tickets.jpg" alt="" width="920" height="520" /> honeypot2night.com[/caption]


<h2>3. Venture into the Little Barn with a Big Past</h2>
Are you ready for your close up, Traveler DeMille? Good, because there's a tiny barn lying around the streets of Hollywood and it's packed with Hollywood memorabilia. Though uprooted four times, the Hollywood Heritage Museum was originally one of the legendary Cecil B. DeMille's first studios and had a huge role in the silent movie, "The Squaw Man." These days, its square-footage is jam-packed with original movie props, staff who know what they're talking about, and leftover gems from the golden days of Universal Studios.

[caption id="attachment_1030958" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1030958" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/HollywoodHeritageMuseum01-1024x768.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="768" /> wikipedia.org[/caption]


<h2>4. Dive into the Infamous Tropicana Pool</h2>
Art fans might recognize the aquatic section of the Tropicana Pool Cafe as being one of the only publicly accessible pools designed by David Hockney. According to legend, one morning the artist decided to paint the bottom of the pool and the rest, as the Hollywood debutantes that stay there would say, is history. If you're wanting to visit this wonderful, Mad Men-style cafe and bar or swim in its neighboring pool, you'll need to either get membership or book it for a special event. Considering the Roosevelt itself was the birthplace of the Academy Awards; however, you shouldn't let that deter you.

[caption id="attachment_1030962" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1030962" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/image-1024x767.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="767" /> timeout.com[/caption]


<h2>5. Witness the Magic of the California Institute of Abnormal Arts</h2>
You've heard of the California Institute of Technology, no doubt, but have you heard of its nightclub-cum-sideshow-museum distant cousin? While the two are in no way connected, the California Institute of Abnormal Arts is equally as, if not more, fascinating. You'll find the museum in North Hollywood just around the corner from Denny's making for a night of entertainment and classic Cali fast food. Inside of the museum, you'll find oddities from all corners of the globe, from two-headed babies, mummies, and the infamous dead clown. What could be more Hollywood than that?

[caption id="attachment_1030960" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1030960" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/CIAbar_art2-1-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> californiacuriosities.com[/caption]


<h2>6. Score Panoramic Views of LA from Hollywood’s Hidden Stairs</h2>
Throughout Hollywood, there are 14 unique, hidden staircases that each have their own unique benefits. From most of these sets of stairs, you'll find unique points of the city you otherwise might have missed. In downtown LA, for example, you'll find the artsy Bunker Hill Steps whereas up in the Hollywood Hills, the Broadview Terrace Stairs will take you through the succulent-lined back alleys of your wildest dreams. Our favorites have to be the music box stairs of Silver Lake.

<img class="alignnone size-large wp-image-1030963" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1317850283-1-683x1024.jpg" alt="One of the publicly-accessible, “secret staircases” of Los Angele" width="683" height="1024" />


<h2>7. Clean Up at Wacko Soap Plant</h2>
Didn't we tell you Hollywood was weird? It's just part of its charm. Wacko Soap Plant is the best gift shop you'll walk into during your time in Hollywood. Forget about t-shirts and tchotchkes from the Hard Rock Café or miniature Oscars, Los Feliz's eccentric treasure trove of pop-culture fare is where it's at. At Wacko, you'll find the most unusual selection of books of all genres, nostalgic toys, pins, and party favors. You'll also get to see art shows while shopping from the adjoining La Luz de Jesus Gallery. Even if you're not in it for the purchases, you're going to want to see the spot that's as much of a hit with locals as it will be for you.

[caption id="attachment_1030964" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-large wp-image-1030964" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/Wacko-Soap-Plant-9-1024x683.jpg" alt="" width="1024" height="683" /> californiathroughmylens.com[/caption]


<h2>8. Inject Your Tummy with Whimsy at Barton G.</h2>
One might argue that you can't even spell Hollywood without the use of the word "Quirky." That's exactly the market that Barton G. The Restaurant has cornered. Barton G. is full of whimsy from the dishes they serve to the way in which they serve them. Try as hard as you might, but you won't find another place that serves its house salad inside of a tiny house. Kids will love it here, adults will love it here, and none of you should leave until you've tried the lobster pop tarts. Yeah, you heard us.

[caption id="attachment_1030965" align="alignnone" width="1000"]<img class="size-full wp-image-1030965" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/o.jpg" alt="" width="1000" height="750" /> yelp.com[/caption]


<h2>9. See a Late-Night Improv Show at the UCB Theatre</h2>
Amy Poehler, Matt Besser, Ed Helms, and Donald Glover. These are only a few names that have been involved in the Upright Citizens Brigade. What began in Chicago as a long-form improv troupe really became what it was when Poehler and Besser took the show to New York and set up shop there. In 2005, the UCB opened what's now one of two Los Angeles branches and the stage has seen performances by some of the greatest faces in comedy. If you're in Hollywood, we recommend swinging by for a night of fun and frolics just across the road from the Scientology Celebrity Centre.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1030966" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_102019783.jpg" alt="Danielle Fishel performs with the Upright Citizens Brigade at the UCB Theatre in Los Angeles, California " width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>10. Have a Picnic in the Abandoned Los Angeles Zoo</h2>
Once upon a time, in a quiet and quaint area of Griffith Park, there lived a zoo. The original LA Zoo, as it happens. Now fully abandoned, you can take the opportunity to dine on the picnic tables that now occupy the old bear's grotto or explore the ruins of what used to be. The zoo operated for more than 50 years until it became evident that more space was needed and was then left to rot exactly the way it was. The zoo is easily accessible from any point in Griffith Park, and while there's a somber feeling that hangs over the area, you won't find a more unique experience. Even in Hollywood.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-1030967" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2019/06/shutterstock_1033226383.jpg" alt="Abandoned Zoo, Los Angeles" width="1000" height="667" />

Weird and Wonderful Things to Do in Hollywood

Los Angeles has earned its spot as one of the most glamorous cities in the United States. From the rolling estates of Beverly Hills to the high-end boutiques dotting Rodeo Drive, there won't be a dull moment on your trip to the City of Angels.

Los Angeles has earned its spot as one of the most glamorous cities in the United States. From the rolling estates of Beverly Hills to the high-end boutiques dotting Rodeo Drive, there won't be a dull moment on your trip to the City of Angels. You may even spot a star as you dine at one of the chic restaurants in the Grove.
<h2>10. Work up a sweat at Runyon Canyon.</h2>
Runyon Canyon boasts one of the best hiking trails in Los Angeles with its three-mile loop and great views of the city. If you are traveling with your dogs, bring them along as the trail is dog-friendly and even contains several spots for the pups to play off-leash. And an added bonus is that Runyon Canyon is a surprisingly great location to spot a celeb. Justin Timberlake, Vanessa Hudgens, Gwen Stefani and loads of other A-list celebrities are known to burn some calories on the trail.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/941931924-1024x683.jpg" alt="941931924" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">rez-art / Getty Images</span>

<h2>9. Visit the Santa Monica Pier.</h2>
West of downtown Los Angeles lies Santa Monica Beach and its famous Ferris wheel. The three miles of shoreline provide countless hours of entertainment for locals and tourists alike, with great shops and restaurants. The buzzing pier harbors a rollercoaster, food vendors, and arcade games that will keep the whole family entertained. And there's never a bad time to visit as the beach averages 340 days of sunshine per year.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/908692956-1024x698.jpg" alt="908692956" width="1024" height="698" /><span class="image-caption">stellalevi / Getty Images</span>
<h2>8. Play at Universal Studios Hollywood.</h2>
Universal Studios Hollywood is a great amusement park located in the Los Angeles area. The park's rides and entertainment are themed around the most beloved tv and movie characters from history. Certain spots are dedicated to recreating iconic scenes, such as the Bates Motel from Psycho and Wisteria Lane from Desperate Housewives. The park also features thrilling rides and costumed characters. To avoid wasting time in long lines, be sure to purchase a Front of Line pass online.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2231" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_159532049.jpg" alt="shutterstock_159532049" width="1000" height="664" />

<h2>7. Take a Hollywood home tour.</h2>
Many popular bus tours in Los Angeles will take you on a tour of celebrity homes. Hop on one of the buses to see the palatial estates of stars like Sandra Bullock, Tom Cruise, Bruno Mars, and Halle Berry. The tour guides will provide a continuing monologue as you zip along the streets of L.A., allowing you to learn a bit of Hollywood history as you view the homes. You can also expect to see the past residences of such classic stars like Elvis and Michael Jackson.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/494672298-1024x684.jpg" alt="494672298" width="1024" height="684" /><span class="image-caption">oneinchpunch / Getty Images</span>
<h2>6. See a real TV set at Paramount Studios.</h2>
One of the great features of the studio lots in Los Angeles is that they are often open to the public for tours. Paramount Picture Studios is a historic location where films such as <i>Titanic</i> and <i>Mission Impossible</i> were filmed. Tours typically last about two hours, and a knowledgeable guide will drive you around the lot in a golf cart, allowing you to get out and explore at certain spots.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/92237078-1024x683.jpg" alt="92237078" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">dsabo / Getty Images</span>
<h2>5. Go on your own Instagram-famous food tour.</h2>
Los Angeles takes the cake for the city with the most Instagram-famous foods. Grab a dozen wild donuts from California Donuts, including their famous Oreo donut that looks like a panda. Or pop into the Great White Hut for one of their dozens of crazy french fry combinations. And you can't leave without purchasing a Unicorn Melt at Chomp Eatery. The rainbow-colored grilled cheese is almost as beautiful as it is delicious.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/909275690-1024x683.jpg" alt="909275690" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">Dash_med / Getty Images</span>
<h2>4. Say hi to Mickey at Disneyland.</h2>
Disneyland, built in Anaheim in 1955, is the only amusement park designed and fully completed under the supervision of the great Walt Disney himself. The park boasts Disney-themed rides, shows, and characters that will keep the family entertained all day. Disneyland is sectioned off into designated themed areas such as Frontierland, New Orleans Square, and Mickey's Toontown. Be sure to keep an eye out for the new Star Wars expansion set to open in the summer of 2019.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/951170582-1024x683.jpg" alt="951170582" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">Handout / Getty Images</span>
<h2>3. Learn at the California Science Center.</h2>
The California Science Center is a dynamic destination featuring interactive exhibits, films, live demonstrations, and unique ways to learn about science. Exhibits center around ecosystems, air, and space, inventions and discovery, and the world of life. The permanent exhibit collections are absolutely free, but you may access IMAX films and special exhibits at an additional cost.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/973292338-1024x683.jpg" alt="973292338" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images</span>
<h2>2. Visit the Getty Center.</h2>
The Getty Center boasts both impressive architectural components on the outside and a museum on the inside. Architect Richard Meier designed the art museum and it, houses pieces ranging from the Renaissance sculptures to contemporary paintings. The museum also offers some of the best views of Los Angeles.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/682820936-1024x641.jpg" alt="682820936" width="1024" height="641" /><span class="image-caption">Igor Dantas / Getty Images</span>


<h2>1. Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame.</h2>
Aside from the grand Hollywood sign on the hills of Los Angeles, perhaps the most iconic image of the city is the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The street is lined with over 2,600 five-point terrazzo and brass stars acting as monuments to the entertainment industry. It is estimated that over 10 million tourists visit this spot each year. Also be sure to check out the TCL Chinese Theatre nearby, which plays IMAX movies daily. Los Angeles' Hollywood is at the forefront of film and television production, and the city has the highest concentration of celebrities in the world.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/1020423698-1024x655.jpg" alt="1020423698" width="1024" height="655" /><span class="image-caption">Albert L. Ortega / Getty Images</span>

Top 10 Countdown: Most Fun Things to Do in Los Angeles

From the rolling estates of Beverly Hills to the high&#x2d;end boutiques dotting Rodeo Drive, there won't be a dull moment on your trip to the City of Angels.

Los Angeles has earned its spot as one of the most glamorous cities in the United States. From the rolling estates of Beverly Hills to the high-end boutiques dotting Rodeo Drive, there won't be a dull moment on your trip to the City of Angels. Los Angeles' Hollywood is at the forefront of film and television production, and the city has the highest concentration of celebrities in the world. That means you may even spot a star as you dine at one of the chic restaurants in the Grove.
<h2>1. Los Angeles highlights</h2>
[gallery ids="42687,42692,42695,42688,42689,42690,42691,42693,42694,42696"]


<h2>1. Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame</h2>
Aside from the grand Hollywood sign on the hills of Los Angeles, perhaps one of the most iconic images of the city is the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The street is lined with over 2,600 five-point terrazzo and brass stars acting as monuments to the entertainment industry. It is estimated that over 10 million tourists visit this spot each year. Also, be sure to check out the TCL Chinese Theatre nearby, which plays IMAX movies daily.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/1020423698-1024x655.jpg" alt="1020423698" width="1024" height="655" /><span class="image-caption">Albert L. Ortega / Getty Images</span>
<h2>2. Visit the Santa Monica Pier</h2>
West of downtown Los Angeles lies Santa Monica Beach and its famous Ferris wheel. The three miles of shoreline provide countless hours of entertainment for locals and tourists alike, with great shops and restaurants. The buzzing pier harbors a rollercoaster, food vendors, and arcade games that will keep the whole family entertained. And there's never a bad time to visit as the beach averages 340 days of sunshine per year.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/908692956-1024x698.jpg" alt="908692956" width="1024" height="698" /><span class="image-caption">stellalevi / Getty Images</span>
<h2>3. Get lost in Venice</h2>
Known for its bohemian spirit, Venice is a vibrant and eclectic area of Los Angeles. Founded in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney as a beachfront resort town, his vision was to create a cultural mecca. This walkable city is known for its boardwalk lined with cafes, restaurants, stylish boutiques, skateparks, and the world-famous outdoor gym Muscle Beach. The boardwalk attracts hundreds of visitors every day. It's easy to lose time while visiting funky shops or watching the street performers, including artists, magicians, and fortune-tellers. Bike, roller skate, or walk around this colorful city and explore this side of the beautiful Pacific Coast.

[caption id="attachment_40166" align="alignnone" width="2120"]<img class="size-full wp-image-40166" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/11/GettyImages-521817332.jpg" alt="Crowded Venice Beach Broadwalk in Los Angeles. California." width="2120" height="1415" /> ferrantraite / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Take a look at LA and beyond from Griffith Park</h2>
This large, municipal park is located at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains in the relaxed and creative Los Feliz neighborhood. Griffith Park spans 4,310 acres, making it one of the largest urban parks in North America and one of the most famous as it has been featured in many films, such as the first two <em>Back to the Future</em> movies and <em>La La Land</em>. The park is comprised of wild, rugged hiking trails that separate the park into many areas for activities, including a golf course, picnic grounds, and tennis courts. Some of the more popular tourist attractions include the Hollywood sign, Los Angeles Zoo, and the Griffith Observatory.

[caption id="attachment_40169" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-40169" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/11/GettyImages-455637901.jpg" alt="Griffith Obervatory and Downtown Los Angeles, California, USA skyline at dawn." width="2121" height="1414" /> SeanPavonePhoto / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Play at Universal Studios Hollywood</h2>
Universal Studios Hollywood is a great amusement park located in the Los Angeles area. The park's rides and entertainment are themed around the most beloved tv and movie characters from history. Certain spots are dedicated to recreating iconic scenes, such as the Bates Motel from Psycho and Wisteria Lane from Desperate Housewives. The park also features thrilling rides and costumed characters. To avoid wasting time in long lines, be sure to purchase a Front of Line pass online.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-2231" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/shutterstock_159532049.jpg" alt="shutterstock_159532049" width="1000" height="664" />

<h2>6. Marvel at the La Brea Tar Pits</h2>
Tucked away in Hancock Park and registered as a National Natural Landmark, the tar pits were formed from natural asphalt that seeped up from the ground for tens of thousands of years, becoming thick enough to trap animals. The tar pits visible now were all created by human excavations, which began in 1913 in search of large fossils.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-40165" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/11/shutterstock_1441397045.jpg" alt="Sculpture of mammoth animals at the La Brea Tar Pits." width="1000" height="668" />


<h2>7. Work up a sweat at Runyon Canyon</h2>
Runyon Canyon boasts one of the best hiking trails in Los Angeles with its three-mile loop and great views of the city. If you are traveling with your dogs, bring them along as the trail is dog-friendly and even contains several spots for the pups to play off-leash. And an added bonus is that Runyon Canyon is a surprisingly great location to spot a celeb. Justin Timberlake, Vanessa Hudgens, Gwen Stefani, and loads of other A-list celebrities are known to burn some calories on the trail.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/941931924-1024x683.jpg" alt="941931924" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">rez-art / Getty Images</span>
<h2>8. Dig deep at the Huntington Library</h2>
Botanical Gardens? Yes. Art Museum? That, too, and more! The Huntington Library is one of the world's greatest independent research libraries and holds over 11 million items spanning from the 11th to 21st centuries. Some major library highlights include the Ellesmere manuscripts of Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales," first editions and manuscripts by authors such as Henry David Thoreau and Mark Twain, and literary archives of Octavia E. Butler and Charles Bukowski.

[caption id="attachment_40168" align="alignnone" width="2086"]<img class="size-full wp-image-40168" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/11/GettyImages-494223112.jpg" alt="Traditional Japanese gardens and red moon-shaped bridge Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens San Marino California" width="2086" height="1437" /> Robert_Ford / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Take a Hollywood home tour</h2>
Many popular bus tours in Los Angeles will take you on a tour of celebrity homes. Hop on one of the buses to see the palatial estates of stars like Sandra Bullock, Tom Cruise, Bruno Mars, and Halle Berry. The tour guides will provide a continuing monologue as you zip along the streets of L.A., allowing you to learn a bit of Hollywood history as you view the homes. You can also expect to see the past residences of such classic stars like Elvis and Michael Jackson.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/494672298-1024x684.jpg" alt="494672298" width="1024" height="684" /><span class="image-caption">oneinchpunch / Getty Images</span>
<h2>10. See a real TV set at Paramount Studios</h2>
One of the great features of the studio lots in Los Angeles is that they are often open to the public for tours. Paramount Picture Studios is a historic location where films such as <i>Titanic</i> and <i>Mission Impossible</i> were filmed. Tours typically last about two hours, and a knowledgeable guide will drive you around the lot in a golf cart, allowing you to get out and explore at certain spots.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/92237078-1024x683.jpg" alt="92237078" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">dsabo / Getty Images</span>
<h2>11. Go back in time at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art</h2>
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is located on Wilshire Boulevard in the Miracle Mile area. Founded in 1961, this is the largest museum in the western United States and attracts almost a million visitors every year. Holding more than 150,000 works spanning from ancient times to the present, there are several enticing art collections to wander through. Some of these collections include modern and contemporary art pieces, including 20 works by Picasso.

<img class="alignnone size-full wp-image-40170" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/11/shutterstock_1088522606.jpg" alt="A cheerful funny tourist girl taking photos with a camera at the famous artwork Urban Lights by Chris Burden at LACMA" width="1000" height="667" />


<h2>12. Go on your own Instagram-famous food tour</h2>
Los Angeles takes the cake for the city with the most Instagram-famous foods. Grab a dozen wild donuts from California Donuts, including their famous Oreo donut that looks like a panda. Or pop into the Great White Hut for one of their dozens of crazy french fry combinations. And you can't leave without purchasing a Unicorn Melt at Chomp Eatery. The rainbow-colored grilled cheese is almost as beautiful as it is delicious.
[instagram-image url="https://www.instagram.com/p/CFBrE_zjyd0/" caption="thegreatwhitehut" captionUrl="https://www.instagram.com/thegreatwhitehut/"]


<h2>13. Say hi to Mickey at Disneyland</h2>
Disneyland, built in Anaheim in 1955, is the only amusement park designed and fully completed under the supervision of the great Walt Disney himself. The park boasts Disney-themed rides, shows, and characters that will keep the family entertained all day. Disneyland is sectioned off into designated themed areas such as Frontierland, New Orleans Square, and Mickey's Toontown. Be sure to keep an eye out for the new Star Wars expansion set to open in the summer of 2019.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/951170582-1024x683.jpg" alt="951170582" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">Handout / Getty Images</span>
<h2>14. Learn at the California Science Center</h2>
The California Science Center is a dynamic destination featuring interactive exhibits, films, live demonstrations, and unique ways to learn about science. Exhibits center around ecosystems, air and space, inventions and discovery, and the world of life. The permanent exhibit collections are absolutely free, but you may access IMAX films and special exhibits at an additional cost.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/973292338-1024x683.jpg" alt="973292338" width="1024" height="683" /><span class="image-caption">monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images</span>
<h2>15. Visit the Getty Center</h2>
The Getty Center boasts both impressive architectural components on the outside and a museum on the inside. Architect Richard Meier designed the art museum, and it houses pieces ranging from the Renaissance sculptures to contemporary paintings. The museum also offers some of the best views of Los Angeles.

<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2018/08/682820936-1024x641.jpg" alt="682820936" width="1024" height="641" /><span class="image-caption">Igor Dantas / Getty Images</span>

The Top Things to Do in Los Angeles

Encompassing almost 500 square miles, Los Angeles spans pockets of lush national forests and stretches of arid deserts in between crowded cities. There's too much to see and do in the area to tackle it all in one trip. Luckily, you can tour some of the most historic and eclectic sites in the city for free.

Encompassing 500 square miles, Los Angeles spans pockets of lush national forests and stretches of arid deserts in between crowded cities. Multicultural communities thrive in areas that range from traditional neighborhoods to converted warehouse lofts. There's too much to see and do in the greater L.A. area to tackle it all in one trip. Even if you tried, the price tag of such an excursion could add up quickly. Luckily, you can tour some of the most historic and eclectic sites in the city for free, whether you're in town for a week or on an overnight layover. From art museums to parks, infamous stretches of road to renowned architectural structures, the City of Angels has plenty to offer the frugal visitor.
<h2>1. Griffith Park Observatory and Hikes</h2>
Nestled atop Mount Hollywood in Los Angeles's Griffith Park complex is one of the city's best-known treasures. The Griffith Park Observatory, an Art-Deco masterpiece, was part of a significant donation to L.A. intended to bring astronomy to the masses. Since its opening in 1935, the observatory and surrounding trails have been free to the public. Enjoy views of Downtown Los Angeles and the Pacific Ocean from the carved stone terraces, or wait for the sunset to watch the city streets light up like the night sky. Wander the dirt trails on several hikes to fantastic viewpoints and the famed Hollywood sign. Inside the renovated observatory, you'll marvel at beautiful murals and track the earth's rotation with the Foucault Pendulum. Browse the space-themed galleries, learn something new in the Depths of Space exhibit, and take advantage of year-round public telescope viewings and informative hikes.

[caption id="attachment_33220" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1049554410.jpg" alt="The Griffith Park Observatory is a stunning example of Art Deco architecture in L.A. " width="1200" height="801" /> 4kodiak / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Explore the Old Los Angeles Zoo</h2>
The Griffith Park Zoo closed its doors in 1966 when the new Los Angeles Zoo opened for business just down the road. Despite attracting over 2 million visitors a year at the time, the old zoo was could no longer safely house the animals. Today, the ruins of the old park are a storied landmark and a reminder of the importance of animal welfare. Local artists paint the walls with colorful murals and letterings, effectively creating a Grafitti Art gallery in the hills of Griffith Park. Be sure to pack a lunch to enjoy at the picnic tables or on a nice stretch of green grass. During the summertime, it's best to start your hike early in the morning or evening to avoid soaring temperatures.

[caption id="attachment_33221" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/475067588.jpg" alt="Local graffiti artists have created a makeshift art gallery inside the Old Los Angeles Zoo. " width="1200" height="800" /> ryanphilipp / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Strut Down the Hollywood Walk of Fame</h2>
The Walk of Fame follows Hollywood Boulevard from Gower Street to North La Brea Avenue in a loop through the heart of Tinseltown. The round trip journey is just over three miles long, without a dull moment along the way. Search for your favorite entertainer's name as you follow the path past Hollywood and Highland and Grauman's Chinese Theater. Stop for a selfie in front of the Pantages, and keep your eyes open for any celebrities out and about. If you need a rest or some retail therapy, stop at any of the numerous souvenir shops and thrift stores along the way before grabbing a bite to eat. You can also mingle with the locals at a dive bar and enjoy a few cocktails before completing your tour of the stars.

[caption id="attachment_33222" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/918304994.jpg" alt="The Walk of " width="1200" height="800" /> LeoPatrizi / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. Have a Photoshoot on Melrose Avenue</h2>
Melrose Avenue travels from Silver Lake to the border between West Hollywood and Beverly Hills. Life on this side of town is vibrant, eclectic, and always on the cutting edge of pop culture and fashion. In between locally-owned eateries and retail chain stores, antique shops and designer flagship stores line the busy sidewalks. Melrose Avenue is a great spot for people-watching and gaining inspiration for this season's wardrobe. If you're in the mood for an impromptu photo session, head for the Melrose Arts District that stretches from Fairfax to Highland. From murals to stenciled sidewalks, this open-air art gallery attracts some of the world's most talented graffiti artists to Los Angeles. Walk the mile-and-a-half route, and pose for some of the coolest Instagram photos from your vacation.

[caption id="attachment_33223" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/482064208.jpg" alt="The Pink Building on Melrose is a popular Instagram photo opportunity. " width="1200" height="900" /> bensib / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Browse the Free Museums in Downtown</h2>
The Broad in Downtown L.A. is one of the newest and most exciting art museums in the City of Angels. It's stark white, honeycomb-like exterior is a nice contrast to the undulating silver metal forms of the adjacent Walt Disney Concert Hall. The Broad's impressive permanent collection includes works by Yayoi Kusama, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Roy Lichtenstein, and Jasper Johns, to name a few. Admission to this contemporary art museum has always been free, so expect a short line in the early mornings. If you're in town on Thursday, plan to arrive later in the afternoon. When the Broad closes at 5, walk across the street to the Museum of Contemporary Art. The MOCA is always free on Thursdays from 5 to 8 p.m., which is more than enough time to tour this modern gallery space.

[caption id="attachment_33224" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/489027562.jpg" alt="The Broad Museum in Downtown is an architectural wonder. " width="1024" height="700" /> Kevork Djansezian / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. Enjoy Multicultural Adventures at Olvera Street and Chinatown</h2>
Tucked into a small passage between Little Tokyo and Chinatown, Olvera Street is a cultural center for traditional Mexican arts, fashion, and cuisine. The open-air market is easily walkable and perfect for sunny afternoon photo sessions or people-watching. Browse the small shops and colorful kiosks, and search your pockets for spare change toward a few pieces of authentic Mexican candy. Once you've toured this tiny neighborhood, walk less than a mile to the elaborately adorned gates of Chinatown. This small pocket of Chinese culture is home to older businesses and traditional restaurants, as well as a growing diversity of South Asian cuisines. Enjoy the inspired architecture of the train station and head for the main plaza for cultural events. For a unique experience, visit the Thien Hau Temple.

[caption id="attachment_33233" align="alignnone" width="2121"]<img class="size-full wp-image-33233" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/GettyImages-1061153118.jpg" alt="traveler looking at the specialties in Mexican outdoor vendors. travel in America lifestyle." width="2121" height="1414" /> PRImageFactory / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Soak Up the Sun on Cabrillo State Beach</h2>
Los Angeles has no shortage of stunning beaches. Santa Monica Pier, Malibu Beach, and the Venice Beach Boardwalk are all legendary California destinations, but you're bound to find large crowds at these locales year-round. Man-made Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro is a much quieter seaside city at the entrance to the Port of Los Angeles. Families and locals enjoy calm waters and cool ocean breezes, while the adventurous head into the open water for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and kayaking. After a day in the sun, head over to the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium to learn about marine life and habitats. Admission is donation-based. Before the sun sets, make your way over to Angel's Gate Park to see the Korean Bell of Friendship. The intricately carved bell and pavilion overlook the Los Angeles harbor, the Catalina Channel, and San Pedro hill.

[caption id="attachment_33226" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1127397670.jpg" alt="Cabrillo Beach is not as touristy as other L.A. beaches, and its pier surveys the Port of Los Angeles. " width="1200" height="800" /> steve_is_on_holiday / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. The Getty Center in Brentwood</h2>
High in the hills of the Brentwood neighborhood of L.A., the Getty Center houses a part of one of America's most impressive and extensive personal art collections. You could spend hours wandering the galleries and admiring the beautiful architecture of this hillside complex. Plan for a picnic lunch in the Central Garden and forget for a moment that a city of millions lies beyond the travertine walls. Have your picture taken at the beautiful fountains or with the bronze sculptures on the terraces. Admission to the museum is free of charge, but parking can cost a pretty penny. Bicycles park for free in the garage, so look into rentals if possible. You can also carpool to split the cost of parking, hire an Uber, or park for free at a Park and Ride lot and take the bus.

[caption id="attachment_33227" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/500157431.jpg" alt="The views from the terraces of the Getty Center in Brentwood are unparalleled. " width="1200" height="674" /> SheungYiu / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>9. Twist and Turn Down Mulholland Drive</h2>
It's tough to get around Los Angeles without a vehicle. Public transportation will take you to the busiest of neighborhoods, but between bus, subway, and train fares, a rental car may be a more economical choice for your trip. If you find yourself behind the wheel on your L.A. adventure, try fitting a leisurely ride down Mulholland Drive into your itinerary. Scenic overlooks pepper the route as it winds past the cliffs, but the Hollywood Bowl Overlook is the most recommended viewpoint. Past Topanga Canyon Boulevard, the Mulholland Highway twists and turns through the Santa Monica Mountains to Pacific Coast Highway and Leo Carrillo State Beach. Motorcyclists will love navigating The Snake, a serpentine section of road through Malibu Springs.

[caption id="attachment_33228" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/846048506.jpg" alt="Mulholland Highway is a popular drive for auto and motorcycle enthusiasts. " width="1200" height="803" /> Ed-Ni-Photo / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>10. The Arts District and Little Tokyo</h2>
The Arts District in Los Angeles is a haven for graffiti artists and creatives looking for some color in their everyday lives. Murals and art pieces adorn walls and alleyways, and the district's blocks are lined with galleries, creative shops, and stylish cafes. The community is friendly and eager to discuss the arts with visitors and aficionados alike. Spend an afternoon strolling through this picturesque neighborhood before walking to Little Tokyo.

An L.A. fixture for over a hundred years, Little Tokyo is a cultural hub for Japanese Americans visiting this historic neighborhood. Numerous Japanese restaurants line the streets, including some of the oldest establishments in the city. The Japanese Village Plaza is Little Tokyo's main hub. Its pretty streets lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes are a nice respite from the congested streets and freeways of the city.

[caption id="attachment_33229" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1152074319.jpg" alt="The Buddhist Temple in Little Tokyo is a beautiful and tranquil place to visit. " width="1200" height="800" /> benedek / Getty Images[/caption]

Experience the Best of L.A. for Free

Los Angeles is one of the most famous cities in the world, not to mention the heart of American culture. It's an extremely luxurious, exciting city filled with locales that are famous around the world. However, LA is also home to peculiar, unusual, and outright weird places that should also be highlights of your trip.

Downtown Los Angeles is one of the most famous cities in the world, not to mention the heart of American culture. It's an extremely luxurious, exciting city filled with locales that are famous around the world. However, LA is also home to peculiar, unusual, and outright weird places that should also be highlights of any trip to the City of Angels. The best LA trip will take you to a mix of famous destinations and hidden gems, not to mention some self-guided, itinerary-free exploration.
<h2>1. Sunbathe on the World-Famous Venice Beach</h2>
South of Santa Monica, you can find the much famous Venice Beach, developed in the early 20th century. As the name suggests, the beach and its attractions were inspired by Italian architecture and cuisine. You can even visit the “Venice Canals” of LA nearby, a set of canals in the Venetian style. Nowadays, visitors and locals alike love the beach for its Bohemian atmosphere and the iconic boardwalk. You can visit the Venice Beach Skatepark and go roller skating in a bikini, or visit the outdoor fitness center at Muscle Beach. Don’t let all those perfect beach bods intimidate you, though!

[caption id="attachment_32893" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/942642402.jpg" alt="The Venice Beach boardwalk" width="1200" height="800" /> LeoPatrizi / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>2. Explore the Sunken City of Long Beach</h2>
Have you ever thought to yourself, ‘Los Angeles is great, but it needs to be a bit more Lovecraftian?’ If so, first of all, that’s… quite strange. Second of all, you need to visit the Sunken City. A nasty landslide tore an entire neighborhood of luxury homes into the ocean and the remains often look like a setting straight out of a post-apocalypse reality.

[caption id="attachment_32894" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1150628661.jpg" alt="A shot of urban decay from the Sunken City " width="1200" height="800" /> David Diaz / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>3. Stroll Down Hollywood Boulevard</h2>
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a visit to the iconic Hollywood Boulevard, well-known for uncanny celebrity impersonators, Grauman’s Chinese Theater, and other American cultural trademarks. Any traveler is sure to put this destination on their itinerary, especially the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. If you’re lucky, you may be able to attend one of the ceremonies and see the installation of a new star. Admission is free, but you’ll have to head out early to beat the crowd.

[caption id="attachment_32895" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1065790216.jpg" alt="A shot of Hollywood Boulevard " width="1200" height="800" /> LeoPatrizi / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>4. The Abandoned 'Old Zoo' of Los Angeles</h2>
Not far from the current LA Zoo, you can visit the old zoo. It was abandoned over fifty years ago, but no one ever bothered tearing it down; as a result, it’s now a formidable urban jungle begging to be explored. It’s filled with varied environments and habitats where you can climb along, monkey-bar style, to search through tunnels and dark corners of the zoo.

[caption id="attachment_32896" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/101577428.jpg" alt="An abandoned bear exhibit" width="1200" height="798" /> cnicbc / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>5. Visit Universal Studios Hollywood</h2>
Universal Studios Hollywood is a wonderful destination where you can immerse yourself in the universe of blockbuster stories like Jurassic Park and King Kong. Check out the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, where you can roam the Hogwarts castle, explore Hogsmeade, and enjoy many other attractions. You can also take a studio tour and see where Universal shoots these and other famous films.

[caption id="attachment_32897" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/102144132.jpg" alt="The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" width="1200" height="799" /> Gustavo Caballero / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>6. View the City and the Stars from Griffith Park</h2>
Griffith Park and Observatory is a great destination for anyone who loves hiking and great views. Once you reach the park, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view from the top of Mount Hollywood. This includes the Hollywood sign, which is only one hiking trail away. You can also head to the Griffith Observatory on nights where the sky is clear, and enjoy free use of their industrial-grade telescope.

[caption id="attachment_32898" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/499335779.jpg" alt="A shot of Griffith Observatory and Mount Hollywood " width="1200" height="801" /> dszc / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>7. Learn to Appreciate Life at the Museum of Death</h2>
Curiously, the creators of the Museum of Death wanted to inspire people to be happy they’re alive. Whether this grisly museum achieves that goal is up to the individual visitor, but it’s certainly a unique destination. It proudly boasts to contain the largest collection of serial killer art, Manson family memorabilia, and pet taxidermy in the world—and that’s only the beginning.

[caption id="attachment_32899" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/183258484.jpg" alt="A skeleton that'd be right at home among the museum's exhibits" width="1200" height="699" /> ssuni / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>8. Go Shopping at Rodeo Drive</h2>
Rodeo Drive is one of the most iconic streets in the world. It’s located right in the heart of Beverly Hills and is home to some of the best shopping in the world. You can find accommodations at luxurious hotels such as the Luxe Rodeo Drive Hotel, renowned for beautiful interior design and a cozy, inviting atmosphere. You can also visit one of the less well-known attractions in the area, the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style. While it pays homage to the more famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, it immortalizes major figures in fashion, instead.

[caption id="attachment_32900" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/693455.jpg" alt="Traffic zooming along at Rodeo Drive " width="1200" height="782" /> David McNew / Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>The Towers of Simon Rodia</h2>
The Watts Towers are symbols of the disprivileged neighborhood and represent the resourcefulness, resilience, and creativity of the urban poor. Sabato ‘Simon’ Rodia, an impoverished, barely-literate Italian immigrant used everything he could cobble together to create these stunning works of modern art—from steel rebar, wire mesh mixed with concrete to bits of tile and glass. When the LA City Council desired to tear down the structures, activists and art lovers came together to fight the decision, and they ultimately won.

[caption id="attachment_32905" align="alignnone" width="1024"]<img class="size-full wp-image-32905" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/GettyImages-564088657.jpg" alt="The Watts Towers" width="1024" height="683" /> Carol M. Highsmith/Buyenlarge/Getty Images[/caption]


<h2>Rest and Read at the Huntington Library</h2>
The Huntington Library is a favorite spot for many Angelenos. It's a world-class library with more than 11 million items on display. You can drop by the Library Exhibition Hall and spend hours amongst the displays, which include a First Edition Shakespeare, Newton’s annotated copy of his Principia, Thoreau’s Walden manuscript and countless more. You can finish off your visit with the astonishing view from the Huntington Library gardens.

[caption id="attachment_32902" align="alignnone" width="1200"]<img class="attachment-large size-large" src="https://thegetaway.mblycdn.com/uploads/tg/2020/01/1129068126.jpg" alt="The Huntington Library Courtyard" width="1200" height="797" /> KY / Getty Images[/caption]

Los Angeles

California

Top Stories

Experience the Best of L.A. for Free

The Best Destinations For Any Trip to Downtown Los Angeles

The Latest

Weird and Wonderful Things to Do in Hollywood

Top 10 Countdown: Most Fun Things to Do in Los Angeles

The Top Things to Do in Los Angeles