Hotspots Around LA: The Ultimate Guide to Explore Los Angeles
Los Angeles offers something for everyone. Even if you’re not a first-time visitor you can always explore new, unknown hotspots.
This guide will help you discover the city’s most iconic places, trendiest neighborhoods and useable tips.
1. Hollywood: Walk of Fame and Hollywood Sign
The Walk of Fame is a place to be, when this is your first time visiting. The impressions are different to everyone. The place ist very busy and touristy. You’ll find a lot of souvenir shops like Lalaland, but also street art which completes the cinematic Hollywood feeling. Don’t miss the TCL Chinese Theatre, where you can compare your handprints to Hollywood legends. You can also visit the Dolby Theatre or the Madame Trousseau Museum.
Insider tip: For fewer crowds, start your walk early in the morning or late in the evening when the neon lights are buzzing.
2. Downtown LA: Where Culture Meets Modern Vibes
May you will skip Downtown LA? The answer will be „no“, because you’ll miss a cultural part of the city. Visit The Broad Museum for contemporary art, or admire the futuristic architecture of the Walt Disney Concert Hall. The Arts District is perfect for street art lovers, coffee shop enthusiasts and foodies seeking LA’s best tacos.
Don’t miss: The Grand Central Market, where you can sample everything from authentic Mexican street food to gourmet donuts.
3. Santa Monica & Venice Beach: Oceanfront Icons
The Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach are also a must during your trip. The beachfront offers the iconic LA Vibe, due to the promenade is home to skateboarders, muscle beach bodybuilders, street artists and colorful murals at every corner. Surly you can find more in my Blogpost about Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
4. Griffith Park & Observatory: The City’s Best Views
For a mix of nature, history and breathtaking views is Griffith Park a must. Hiking trails lead you to the Griffith Observatory, where you can stargaze through telescopes and catch cinematic views of the LA skyline. This spot is a famous location so it’s always very busy. For a Visit to sunset make sure to arrive soon. The traffic and the parking situation can take time.
During opening hours you can visit the Observatory inside-out. You can also find a few exhibitions for free.
Insider tip: Parking fee comes up to 10/hour. When you visit before 11:00 you can park for free.
5. Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive: Luxe Living
Rodeo Drive is worth a visit for the sheer experience of luxury, even if you’re not shopping for high fashion. Glamorous boutiques, palm-lined streets and expensive cars describe the Beverly Hills vibe. For a quieter escape, check out the Beverly Gardens Park.
Insider tip: Visit both on day & nighttime for the whole vibe!
6. Malibu: Coastal Escapes
For travelers seeking relaxation and coastal beauty, Malibu offers pristine beaches and upscale dining. El Matador Beach is a local favorite with its dramatic cliffs and sea caves, perfect for photographers. Stop by Malibu Farm Pier Café for organic bites with unbeatable ocean views.
Don’t miss: Drive along Pacific Coast Highway for one of the most scenic coastal routes in California.
7. Hidden Gems: LA Beyond the Icons
LACMA Urban Light Installation
Runyon Canyon
The Last Bookstore
The Hollywood Sign
The Getty Center
Universal Studios
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