Discover the Ultimate Top 10 Must-See Destinations in Los Angeles

Explore the vibrant city of angels with our Top 10 Places To Visit In Los Angeles guide! Discover iconic landmarks, stunning beaches, and cultural hotspots that make this city a must-see.

Sydney Blunt

• 4 min read
Discover the Ultimate Top 10 Must-See Destinations in Los Angeles

1. The Getty Center

The Getty Center stands as a beacon of art, architecture, and garden design in Los Angeles. Positioned atop a hill in the Santa Monica Mountains, it offers visitors an unparalleled view of both the city and the Pacific Ocean. The Getty Center is not just a feast for the eyes but also a treasure trove of knowledge, holding an extensive collection of European paintings, decorative arts, and sculptures.

What Makes The Getty Center Special?

Designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, the Getty Center's unique architecture harmonizes with its art collections, making it an artistic marvel in itself. The museum also focuses on conservation and education, regularly hosting workshops and tours. Currently, it attracts around 1.8 million visitors yearly, highlighting its popularity among tourists and locals alike. (Getty.edu)

2. Griffith Observatory

A visit to Los Angeles would be incomplete without a stop at the Griffith Observatory. Settled on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, the Observatory allows guests to explore the stars above and take panoramic photos of the L.A. basin below. It's a scientific haven for astronomy enthusiasts, educators, and casual visitors.

Exploring the Stars

Inside, the Observatory features exciting exhibits, a high-powered rooftop telescope, and the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, one of the best of its kind. Each year, around 1.5 million visitors, including school groups from around Los Angeles, flock to engage with the heavens. (Griffith Observatory)

3. Santa Monica Pier

Known for its iconic Ferris wheel and lively atmosphere, the Santa Monica Pier marks the westernmost end of historic Route 66. This bustling coastal landmark is not only a place for fun but also a symbol of Los Angeles's carefree beach culture.

Beyond the Beach

Visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment options like arcades, an aquarium, and street performers. For those seeking a more relaxed experience, sunset walks or dining in one of the seaside restaurants offer a perfect way to end the day. According to recent reports, the Pier draws over 8 million tourists each year. (Santa Monica Pier)

4. Hollywood Walk of Fame

For film enthusiasts, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must-visit attraction, surrounded by the glitz and glamor of the film industry. Spanning over 15 blocks, this historic sidewalk honors more than 2,700 figures who have made significant contributions to entertainment.

Star-Spotting in Downtown Hollywood

Beyond finding your favorite stars, the area also offers classic attractions like the TCL Chinese Theatre and various movie premieres. As of 2026, the foot traffic has continued to climb, marking an impressive 10 million annual visitors, according to local tourism boards. (Hollywood Walk of Fame)

5. Venice Beach

A mecca for eclectic souls, Venice Beach is famed for its vibrant boardwalk, street performers, and Muscle Beach, where bodybuilders have flexed for fame since the 1930s. It’s a perfect location for those interested in art, music, and an overall bohemian vibe.

A Hub of Diverse Culture

Besides sunbathing and surfing, visitors can explore the local art scene in the many galleries and street murals. Food lovers will revel in the diverse culinary offerings ranging from inventive cuisine at Abbot Kinney Boulevard to classic beachside snacks. Recent data suggest an approximate annual visitor rate of 16 million people, confirming its standing as a major tourist attraction. (Venice Beach)

6. Universal Studios Hollywood

In the realm of amusement parks, Universal Studios Hollywood offers the dual appeal of a film studio and an entertainment park. Famous for thrilling rides and immersive experiences based on blockbuster movies, it's a prime destination for family fun.

More Than Just a Theme Park

From interactive attractions like "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter" to its backlot tours of actual film sets, Universal Studios engages guests in unprecedented ways. In 2026, the park expects to welcome over 9 million guests, showcasing its enduring appeal in the competitive landscape of theme parks. (Universal Studios Hollywood)

7. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

Los Angeles' pride in its artistic endeavors is epitomized in LACMA, the largest art museum in the west of the United States. Situated next to the La Brea Tar Pits, LACMA spans across an impressive 20 acres.

A Comprehensive Art Collection

Covering everything from ancient to contemporary art, LACMA houses close to 150,000 works. It stands as a cultural resource, offering educational outreach and community programs weekly. The institution is not only a tourist site but a critical establishment for cultural dialogue and exhibition in the city, drawing approximately 1 million visitors each year. (LACMA)

8. Dodger Stadium

Dodger Stadium isn't just a place to watch baseball; it's a pillar in the heart of Los Angeles that embodies the city's love for sports. It is the home field of the storied Los Angeles Dodgers and a venue steeped in history and tradition.

A Historic Venue

Opened in 1962, Dodger Stadium also hosts concerts and other large-scale events, making it a versatile gathering ground. In 2026, the stadium is projected to host over 3.8 million fans, reflective of the Dodgers' strong community ties and enduring popularity. (Dodger Stadium)

9. The Broad

One of the newest stars in the constellation of Los Angeles cultural institutions, The Broad is a modern art museum established in 2015. With an emphasis on contemporary thought, it provides public access to the collections of Eli and Edythe Broad.

A Modern Art Sanctuary

As much celebrated for its architecture as its art, The Broad's "veil-and-vault" design makes it a visual centerpiece in downtown L.A. Housing over 2,000 works of post-war and contemporary art, it offers a fresh perspective on modern artistry and hosts over 900,000 visitors each year. (The Broad)

10. Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Showcasing the natural world from prehistoric times to the present, this museum offers something for every age group. Situated in Exposition Park, it notably features impressive dinosaur fossils, gemstone exhibits, and interactive natural history displays.

Learning Through Exploration

In 2026, the museum continues to see strong attendance, thanks to curated exhibits that include rotating special displays, and community events attracting around 1.2 million visitors annually. The museum plays a critical role in educating the public about natural history, contributing to L.A.'s status as a hub for culture and learning. (Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County)

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