After a short introduction to the best locations to explore in California, we decided to dedicate an entire post to the wonders of Los Angeles. Before listing the best places to visit in Los Angeles, let’s find out more about this fantastic, sprawling metropolis.
Known as the center of the indigenous motion picture industry and the home of many celebrities (at least of their handprints), LA is also the most populous city in California state. Hollywood is not the only thing that attracts visitor, though. The city is best known for its ethnic and cultural diversity. Also, many of those who consider it less creative and artistic than other major centers like San Francisco or New York will be surprised by what presence of galleries and museum it hosts.
As a quick, interesting fact about its history, it appears that Los Angeles has Spanish roots. Founded in 1781 by Felipe de Neve, it was part of Mexico until the closing of the Mexican-American War.
Known today under the nickname of the City of Angels, LA is one of the most powerful cities in the United States, covering many professional and cultural fields. The entertainment industry and the performing arts also play an important part in Los Angeles’s cultural identity. Let’s not forget that the city hosts the oldest film educational center in America – the ESC School of Cinematic Arts.
Without a doubt, there are many things to see and things to do in Los Angeles. So let’s cut it short and take a look at the following fabulous Los Angeles places to visit.
Top Places to Visit in Los Angeles, California
The Chinese Theatre
This historic site is one of the main points of interest especially for those passionate about the LA entertainment industry. The beginnings of this iconic place date back to 1927. Since then, it has accommodated many awards ceremonies and film premieres. Don’t miss celebrities’ handprints, footprints, imprints, and signatures displayed on the concrete courtyard.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
LACMA is the perfect place to visit in Los Angeles for art and architecture lovers but is really a thriving location to see for any traveler. No wonder LA is called by some “the city of learning” with so many awesome museums open for free or little cost. For those who have little time, we recommend at least to check out the Urban Light installation located at the entrance to the museum on Wilshire Boulevard. This is a piece of contemporary art in itself, consisting of over 200 restored lamps from the 1920s and 1930s.
Griffith Park
Looking for a haunted place to visit in Los Angeles? Griffith Park is one of the most visited landmarks of the city, but few people know that a couple of park rangers claim to have seen ghosts in the park.
Walt Disney Concert Hall
Our list of top visiting places Los Angeles citizens can be proud of must include this wonderful location. Music aficionados cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy a unique acoustic experience. There is a variety of concerts going on here throughout the year.
Free Places to Visit in Los Angeles CA
There are a few must visit places to visit in Los Angeles, which are wallet-friendly. The best part is that you can visit them in one day.
Griffith Observatory
Not only it offers free admission and parking, but the Griffith Observatory provides tourists with one of the most beautiful views over the city. As a top tip, visit this iconic location later in the day as the Planetarium is a great place from where to watch the sunset.
California Science Center
Ideal for both kids and adults, the CSC transforms science into an interactive experience. You will surely need an entire day to enjoy the Space Shuttle Endeavour, a fun, informative IMAX movie, as well as the Pompeii exhibition that also includes a virtual earthquake.
Annenberg Space for Photography
Among Los Angeles visiting places where you can also take your kids free of charge and enjoy some quality family time, there’s the Annenberg Space for Photography. Get ready for a dynamic artsy experience as the exhibits here do not consist only of print works, but they also include video, music, and interactive digital displays.
Fun Places to Visit in Los Angeles
It ‘s hard to define the best place to visit in Los Angeles, but the following locations are surely fun to visit.
Venice Beach
If you are looking for a very entertaining vacation near Los Angeles, Venice Beach is the place for you. As a Tripadvisor reviewer says:
“Venice is and always has been a bit of a circus. The only difference is that you are part of the spectacle.”
Indeed, this seaside resort is an eccentric tourist destination where you will see things that generally don’t cross many people’s minds. Venice Beach is definitely one of those cool places to visit in Los Angeles.
Rodeo Drive
Now, let’s head downtown. Who doesn’t love spending money on vacation, especially when there is plenty of time for window-shopping? If you cannot afford glamourous outfits, this two-mile street of luxurious shops would at least keep you updated on Beverly Hills’ high style and fashion.
Hollywood Bowl Museum
Another famous place to visit in Los Angeles is Hollywood Bowl Museum. Located near Hollywood & Highlands, the venue is home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, and to many other live performances. The location is part of the best places to visit in Los Angeles by night. Book a ticket for a charming cultural experience.
Of course, if you have enough time, there are many nice places to visit near Los Angeles. To name just a few, make sure you include in your list Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Madonna Inn (three-hour drive north of LA), Bristlecone Pine Forest (five hour drive north of LA), and the Danish capital of America – Solvang.
If you are planning a longer USA tour, make sure you take a look at our list of best places to visit in other major urban and cultural centers like New York, San Francisco, Florida, and Chicago. Enjoy traveling!
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