If you are planning a visit to the city of angels, you will have no shortage of ways to fill your time, that’s for sure. This major city is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the country, for domestic and international tourists alike. There is a little bit of something for everyone, and you can’t possibly see it all. While you want to let your individual interests be your primary guide in planning your itinerary, there are a few places that you should really put on the list to get a taste of the quintessential Los Angeles experience.
A Quick Note First…
When planning a Los Angeles trip, it is important to remember the city is a sprawling metropolis, with many of the major attractions being quite a distance from one another. Traffic is famously horrific and the public transportation system is not great. While you don’t need to set an itinerary in stone, it might be a good idea to give some thought to the major sights you want to see and their locations. That can be helpful in booking accommodations in Los Angeles.
Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is the ultimate symbol of Los Angeles, which is the heart of the entertainment industry. Interesting history, it was originally constructed as an ad for a housing development, but said development never came to fruition. You actually can’t get close to the sign on foot—it’s against the law actually. But, you have lots of spots where you can get a great view and fabulous photos for your Facebook page of course! The intersection of Hollywood and Highland or the Griffith Park Observatory are two great choices.
Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and the Walk of Fame
While this might be one of the more kitschy attractions in the city, it really shouldn’t be missed. The theater, in all its ornate glory, opened in 1927 and is the home of opening night for pretty much every Hollywood blockbuster in the making. You can also catch many classic Hollywood films for just 25 cents. The Walk of Fame, which runs along Hollywood Boulevard, is another interesting sight that is worthy of some time and a few shots.
Universal Studios
While many of the big movie studios have set up shop in the suburbs of the city, Universal Studios has not only stayed put, but has turned their Hollywood locale into a full on theme park. There are daily tours to see filming in action and thrill rides based on classic movies. You can then head over to CityWalk, the promenade full of awesome shopping and dining options.
Venice Beach
This seaside neighborhood is one of the most famous spots in the city. While a fair share of famous people have lived here, that is really not what is famous for. Rather, it is best known as a bohemian haven, where you can find all manner of people cruising the boardwalk, from bodybuilders and BMX bikers, to fortune tellers and street performers. This vibrant place is also popular with surfers, and those who like to play basketball and volleyball among the various courts.
The Getty Museum
The Getty Museum has two branches: the Getty Center in Pacific Palisades and the Getty Villa in Malibu. The Villa is home to a large collection of Greek and Roman Art, and is actually looks just like a Roman seaside villa. The Center contains a vast collection of Western art spanning medieval times to present day. Here you can also find various gardens, outdoor sculptures, pools and fountains.
