Did you know that almost 50 million people visit the city of Los Angeles every single year? The city is one of the United States’ biggest tourist destinations, and for good reason, as it’s jam-packed with fun and exciting things to do and see.
That said, the city can be a bit overwhelming for first-time visitors. Everyone’s Los Angeles bucket list is a bit different, so figuring out what you want to do before you arrive is key if you want to have the best time possible.
The good news? We can help!
In this article, we’ll tell you about 8 LA attractions or experiences that you need to do or see at least once when visiting the city. That way you can have a trip you and your friends or family will remember forever!
1. Explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame
When looking for things to do in LA, especially if you’re searching for that Hollywood experience, you can’t beat the Walk of Fame. Sure, it’s a massive tourist destination and a bit overcrowded. But its something everyone who loves TV and movies needs to experience at least once in their lifetime.
The walk itself is a little over a mile long and doesn’t take more than a few hours to complete. So, if you want to get outside one afternoon, and you’ve never been before, give the Walk of Fame and see if you can find your favorite celebrity’s star.
2. Spend the Day at a Local Theme Park
If you’re a thrillseeker looking for a good time in the LA area, you can’t go wrong with any of the major theme parks. Disneyland, Universal Studios, and Six Flags, in particular, are all a great time, especially if you enjoy rides.
We’ll be honest, it can be pretty hot spending the day at one of LA’s theme parks. But if you hydrate well and find some shade throughout the day, it can be an absolute blast for you and your friends and family.
3. Go on a Hollywood Studio Tour
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a great way to feel closer to your favorite shows and movies, as well as the stars who made them. The only thing better? Visiting the filming locations for those shows and movies in person.
LA is loaded with movie studios, most of which offer highly-rated tours to guests. On a tour, you’ll be able to see sets, filming locations, and possibly a star or two wandering around in between scenes.
4. Visit a Local Art Museum
Are you or someone in your party an art enthusiast? If the answer is yes, you’ll be glad to know that LA is home to some of the best art museums in all of the United States.
Finding the art museum for you depends on what type of art you like. With that in mind, you can’t go wrong with the Museum of Contemporary Art or The Broad, two of LA’s most popular and visited attractions.
5. See the Animals at the LA Zoo
Looking for things to do in Los Angeles that the entire family can enjoy? Look no further than the LA Zoo and Botanical Gardens.
The LA Zoo is over 130 acres large and is home to over 1,400 animals. The botanical garden is a great way to spend an afternoon, too, especially if you’re looking for somewhere to take that special someone.
6. Go Watch a Sporting Event
Regardless of what your favorite sport is, odds are you can find a team that plays that sport that calls Los Angeles home. Of course, watching a sporting event depends on a lot of things, including what’s in season and when you’re visiting. With that in mind, no matter when you visit, there should be at least one game to check out while you’re in town.
The Lakers, in particular, are a hot ticket that both locals and tourists are constantly on the lookout for. So, how much do Lakers tickets cost? That depends on the game, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and purchase your tickets early if you’re only going to be in town for a few nights.
7. Spend the Evening at a Drive-in Movie
Of course, Los Angeles isn’t just the perfect place to make a movie. It’s also a great place to go see one, especially if you’re going to watch a film at one of LA’s many drive-in movie theaters.
A pro tip? Do a bit of planning and try to find a theater that is playing multiple movies back-to-back on a weekend night. The tickets go fast, but if you can get some, it’s a fun time that the entire family will enjoy and remember.
8. Enjoy the Local Food Scene
Sometimes a simple dinner at one of LA’s many incredible restaurants is all you’re looking for. And of course, no matter what type of food you’re in the mood for, you can find it within the city itself.
The LA food truck scene, in particular, is very much worth checking out. It’s a great way to get a unique, LA experience, all while enjoying the vibes that the city has to offer with your friends and family.
8 Los Angeles Bucket List Items You Have to Do or See
Well, there you have it! Those are just a few Los Angeles bucket list items that everyone visiting the city, or even locals, need to experience at least once!
Remember, LA is a big city with something always going on. Finding something fun to do is easy, no matter what your interests are, but planning ahead is key if you want to avoid missing out on something.
Looking for more travel tips and tricks? Check out our blog!