Los Angeles has to be one of my favorite cities in the world: you have the beach, sunshine, amazing food, dynamic neighborhoods, that SoCal coolness and lotsssssss of fun activities. If you’re planning a visit to LA and want some fun and unique things to do during your stay, this guide is your go-to! (P.S. These activities also very photo-worthy if you’re looking to amp up your ‘gram)
1. BOARD IN VENICE BEACH
Bring your board or rent one from a shop along the boardwalk and cruise the streets of Venice Beach. If boarding isn’t for you, take a walk around and discover some of the cute cafés, shops and restaurants in one of LA’s most charming neighborhoods.
2. ENJOY A BEACH PICNIC
Go to the local market and pack up a picnic to enjoy on the beach. For an extra lush experience, bring some cushions, blankets and candles to stay cozy until after the sun goes down.
3. LATE-NIGHT VISIT TO LACMA
The Urban Light installation at LACMA is undeniably an icon of this city. This sculpture is beautiful during the day, but it really comes to life at night! There will be tons of people trying to snap a photo here, so come a bit later in the night if you want to (mostly) have it to yourself!
4. SUNSET AT SANTA MONICA PIER
Nothing beats a sunset at Santa Monica Pier. Relive your childhood, play some games, ride some rides, eat some junk food & soak in one of LA’s best sunset views.
5. SEE THE BEST VIEW OF LA
If you’re not afraid of heights & want to see the best 360° views of LA, take the climb up to the top floor of the OUE Skyspace. Don’t worry, there is an elevator that takes you up to the top and the space is enclosed by glass walls to protect you from the vertical drop below!
P.S. There is also an all-glass slide here if you want to slide 1000 feet above LA hanging off the side of the building!
6. TRY A HELICOPTER TOUR
Firstly, it’s important to remember that helicopter safety is an absolute must. Cruising over LA in a helicopter was one of the highlights of my year and it was such a unique experience to soar above the city and see views from the Pacific coast to downtown LA and Hollywood! If you’re feeling extra adventurous, opt for a door-less helicopter!
7. BRUNCH AT THE BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL
It does not get much more iconic than the Beverly Hills Hotel in LA. If you can’t opt for an expensive stay at the luxurious hotel, have brunch here instead! It is absolutely worth it to experience this historic (& ever-so instagrammable) LA institution.
8. TAKE A DRIVE TO MALIBU
If you have time for a day trip, take a scenic drive down the Pacific Coast highway to Malibu. Malibu is an absolute dream and it is the escape to nature you will need after a few days in the city. Spend the day hiking the cliffs at Zuma Canyon or Point Dume and have some fresh California cuisine at Malibu Farm.
9. BIKE ON THE BOARDWALK
Rent a bike and ride along the beach boardwalk. Make a day out of it and pack a bag with your swimsuit, some snacks and of course, sunscreen!
Travel Tip: This is also a great way to avoid the LA traffic & get some exercise at the same time!
10. HUNT THE BEST VIEWS OF THE HOLLYWOOD SIGN
The Hollywood Sign watches over LA and is one of the most photographed landmarks in the United States… but not all views are created equal! Unfortunately, there is not an obvious viewing point for the Hollywood Sign as you would imagine, so it will take some effort to find the best spots! For a view from below, check out the Hollywood Sign Outlook on South Windsor Blvd and from above, find a spot at Lake Hollywood Park or hike the trailhead from 3200 Canyon Drive.
