If you have any other cool suggestions or places drop a comment below!

Hollywood Sign

You can’t go to LA without a mandatory visit to the Hollywood Sign! This is located up in the Hollywood Hills. The sign can be seen from different angles on numerous streets if you don’t fancy the long trip up the winding roads. There are also tours available all over the internet, including Airbnb where local residents will take groups along the hiking trail to give you some of the best shots and views possible. The hiking trail can also be done without a guide and more information is available online.

Griffiths Observatory 

We loved Griffiths Observatory! Inside is a great place to understand more about astronomy and projects they are involved in. The observatory also provides some of the best views overlooking LA where you can get some good photos, oh and you can see the Hollywood sign from it too! They have a chargeable car park but if you’re lucky you may find a space on the road leading to the observatory where you can park for free. 

Venice 

Venice boardwalk and beach have a great atmosphere, full of people, different cultures and a friendly buzz. It is a huge stretch where you can join from any point and see the weird and wonderful things LA has to offer, including the muscle gym. There are food vendors, souvenir shops, arcades, you name it, it’s pretty much here!  

Santa Monica Pier 

Santa Monica is a great little location with plenty of shops further inland but the main attraction is the Pier. There is a true carnival fairground theme as you are surrounded by candy floss, food stands and funfair rides. The Ferris wheel is a great attraction especially when the sun is setting as it gives you great views of the Venice and Malibu coastline.

Theme parks: Disneyland and Universal Studios

USA is known for its huge theme park attractions.California Disney and Universal would be the obvious two however there are many more available! There are rides and events for all ages with upgrades and features on tickets allowing you faster access. You can do both Disney parks in one day without missing any of the big rides. They are located slightly out of LA so be sure to plan appropriately.

Sports: Basketball, Baseball and Soccer  

Another one USA is known for, their sports. There is a fantastic choice of sporting events and stadiums to go to, even if sports aren’t your thing soaking up the atmosphere is an experience. Tickets can vary from $20-$100 so check online beforehand, you can also purchase tickets on the day. We would recommend the LA Dodgers stadium- They have a great back drop for when the evening sky comes alive along with a traditional firework display after the game. 

Outlets 

Shopping! A stop at the outlets is a must if you enjoy fashion. This is suitable for all sorts of budgets with some great savings to be made and hidden gems to be found.  

Hollywood Walk of Fame 

The Walk of Fame isn’t all glitz and glamour as it is made out to be however it is definitely worth the visit to see if you can spot your favorite celebrity Hollywood star.  Pop in to the stores on the strip or even just say you’ve done it. 

Beverly Hills/ Rodeo Drive 

The famous names associated with LA, Rodeo Drive located in the heart of Beverly Hills offers a huge range of high end designer shops. Don’t feel shy to go in and have a look around as staff are super friendly and always willing to help. You will also find the Beverly Hills sign located in the Beverly Gardens park. 

Malibu 

A great beach surrounded by multimillion-dollar mansions and villas. It is much quieter and more relaxed to the electric Venice beach. 

Explore LA: Downtown, Korea Town and Nature parks 

Feel free to explore the other areas in LA if you are mobile. Korea town was one of our favorites where we found a great Korean BBQ restaurant that hit the spot. There are also nature parks and canyons just on the outskirts that are worth the visit if you fancy getting away from all the city madness. 

Mullhound Drive 

A great view point in looking over the city, it is known for the “Make out” location for couples and has been a point visited by many when the evening kicks in and the city starts to glow. 

Nightlife- Bars and Clubs 

Where to start?! We would recommend doing your research on the ambient or music you are looking for and give it a try. There are also bars and nightclub crawls available that take you to some of the most popular venues the city has to offer. 

The Grove & Farmers Market 

The Grove is one of the few malls that is outdoors in LA. It offers great stores as well as keeping traditional family own businesses a place to thrive. You will also find the farmers market, offering fresh and locally produced goods opposite.