Sunshine, cars, celebrities... these are just a few of the things that define Los Angeles. But as any visitor to this expansive Southern California city will tell you, it's a place with seemingly infinite possibilities. There's downtown, with Crypto.com Arena, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and Olvera Street. There's Hollywood, with its Walk of Fame, maps to the stars' homes and palm-tree lined boulevards. There's Santa Monica, with its pier, shopping and ocean breezes. There's Los Feliz, with Griffith Park and its famous observatory. Head slightly north over into the San Fernando Valley, and another world awaits, with Universal Studios and the lengthy Ventura Boulevard stretching into Sherman Oaks, Encino and Woodland Hills. Head south to Orange County, and arrive in Anaheim to partake of the Disney empire. Go Northeast to Pasadena, home of the Rose Bowl and Rose Parade.
No single visit to Los Angeles will ever cover it all, so it's best to focus and decide what version of Los Angeles works for you. Into the beach life? Head down to Hermosa and Redondo. Like amusement parks? Disney, Knott's Berry Farm and Universal Studios Hollywood are all right here. Into dining? It's everywhere you look (don't miss the Farmers Market at Third and Fairfax). Into museums? Check out LACMA and the Getty Center. Want to shop? Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive await (or you could go to Beverly Center or the Grove for less stress on your wallet). Into sports? There's Dodger Stadium for baseball, Crypto.com Arena for the Lakers, the brand-new Intuit Dome for the Clippers, and SoFi Stadium, home to the Rams and Chargers. (Advance notice: The 2028 Summer Olympics will be held in Los Angeles as well.) Want to party like a rock star? Get pizza and beer at the Rainbow Bar & Grill on the Sunset Strip, then catch a show at the Whisky a Go Go. Arts and entertainment? Every night of the week brings scores of concerts, events and screenings that fit all ages and interests.
Los Angeles, with its near-constant sunshine, car lifestyle, and film and TV industries, is a place like no other. There's so much to do here, that travelers are well-advised to choose their own adventure.
Learn More About Los Angeles
Griffith Park Observatory
Get a truly panoramic view of Los Angeles, including the Hollywood sign, at this Los Feliz observatory, which includes a planetarium and science exhibits in its indoor facility.
Photo Credit: Bettina Nørgaard
Santa Monica Pier
This giant pier boasts an amusement park, concessions and areas for fishing. Be sure to see it at night when the Ferris wheel is illuminated!
Photo Credit: Peter Thomas
Hollywood Boulevard
It's a very "touristy" experience, but for anyone fresh to Hollywood, it's still worth looking down at the Walk of Fame stars on the sidewalk and finding your favorites. Be sure to see the celebrity hand and footprints in front of Grauman's Chinese Theatre, and walking up the steps that take you to the entrance of the Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards. The Hollywood & Highland shopping center is also right there, and has walkways where visitors can see the Hollywood sign.
The Getty Center
This majestic museum in Brentwood has a world-class art collection and is notable for its beautiful gardens, architecture and views.
Olvera Street
This historic area in Downtown Los Angeles features a pedestrian mall and Mexican marketplace.
The Original Farmers Market
Food and produce vendors, a wide variety of restaurant stalls and enjoyable sit-down dining are all part of the Farmers Market experience at Third and Fairfax. Keep your eyes peeled for celebrities having a bite, as well as contestants from "The Price is Right" (fresh from walking over from a taping at CBS Television City) with their nametags still on their shirts.
Getting Around
Subways, buses and light rail serve every corner of Los Angeles, and public transportation via the Metro system has improved markedly, depending on where you're headed. However, it is still highly recommended to rent a car or use rideshare services to navigate this sprawling city. Avoid rush hours when possible!
Olafur Eliasson: OPEN
From 9/15/2024 - 7/6/2025
Art enthusiasts and environmental supporters will marvel at a site-specific installation by Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson. Providing navigation through various visual and sensory experiences rooted in geometric optics and self-perception, this display stands as a key element of PST ART, an event inspired by the fusion of art and science.
Reframing Dioramas: The Art of Preserving Wilderness
From 9/15/2024 - 9/15/2025
The Natural History Museum readies its centennial celebration by reviving a long-closed diorama hall. The unique blend of art and science is explored through engaging installations and programs, addressing biodiversity, conservation, and complex topics like colonialism.
Experience a visual exploration molded by National Geographic Explorer, Ronan Donovan, that illuminates the intricate relationship between wolves and humans. Ronan's riveting images, capturing wolves in both the humanity-infused Yellowstone area and the isolating Canadian Arctic, evoke fertile discussions about the hardships and survival of these mesmerizing beings.
Joseph is an American folk-rock band from Portland, Oregon. Formed in 2014, the trio consists of sisters Natalie, Allison, and Meegan Closner. Their sound is a unique blend of folk, rock, and pop, and their live shows are renowned for their passionate and energetic performances.
Ana Segovia's bold artwork twists masculine stereotypes, blending framed renderings with reimagined queer film stills from her youth. The exhibit utilizes interactive strategies, infusing elements of installation, theater, dance, and video art to animate the space.
Ordinary People: Photorealism and the Work of Art since 1968
From 11/23/2024 - 5/4/2025
Ordinary People: Photorealism and the Work of Art since 1968 is a dynamic exhibition featuring over forty esteemed artists delving into the profound connection between photorealism and modern art from the '60s. This thought-provoking display covers a variety of mediums like paintings and sculptures while magnificently highlighting everyday life and the alluring essence of commonplace imagery by delivering these through innovative artistic techniques.
Fake It Until You Make It presents an exploration into the art of confidence and wrestling with Imposter Syndrome. With sessions brimming with empowering discourse, invigorating workshops, and networking opportunities, it's tailored for ambitious individuals seeking trust in their abilities.
Jerry Cantrell is a guitarist, singer, and songwriter born in Washington. Best known as an integral part of the rock band Alice In Chains, he has sung on some of their most successful albums including Black Gives Way to Blue, The Devil Put Dinosaurs Here, and Rainier Fog.
Combining country twang with with a blues-inspired style, ZZ Ward has garnered attention on tracks like "Put the Gun Down" and "Ride," featuring Gary Clark Jr. Her unique style has won her millions of fans around the world, and her live shows never fail to leave audiences spellbound.
Stavros Halkias is a stand-up comedian and podcaster from Baltimore who has been based in New York since the early 2010s. Along with touring nationally and performing at venues such as the New York Comedy Festival, he also co-hosts the podcast Cum Town with two fellow comedians.
Aleks Syntek is an award-winning Mexican singer-songwriter who has captivated audiences around the globe with his heartfelt lyrics and danceable beats. With more than a dozen Grammy nominations to his name, his unique and captivating music has earned him widespread recognition and admiration.
Keaton Prescott is an American DJ and heavy metal artist who goes by the alias Sullivan King. His distinctive combination of EDM and electric guitar-centered heavy metal performance has caught the attention of the music press, making his live concerts one of the rare venues where ravers and metalheads meet.
Gimme Gimme Disco is a DJ-based disco dance party inspired by ABBA, where plenty of other '70s and '80s hits are also played from artists like Cher, The Bee Gees, and Donna Summer.
Only the Poets, a UK-based band, is known for their energetic indie-pop sound. Their music, characterized by catchy melodies and relatable lyrics, has resonated with a growing audience, particularly through their live performances.
The Velveteers is a rock band from Boulder fronted by the singer and guitarist Demi Demitro. They have released singles like "Charmer And The Snake," "Father Of Lies," and "Motel #27."
Bishop Briggs is a groundbreaking alt-pop group led by singer-songwriter Sarah McLaughlan, better known as Bishop Briggs. Their music fuses classic and electronic elements, and their energy and sound have been described as "cathartic and mesmerizing". The group has quickly gained worldwide recognition for their distinctive synthesizer-infused sound, with notable tracks from their brilliant debut album Church of Scars, such as "River", “White Flags” and “Wild Horses”.
Connor Price is a rapper, actor, and content creator known for his clever wordplay and diverse musical influences. Starting as a child actor, he transitioned into hip-hop, gaining recognition for his intricate flows and engaging storytelling. His music often blends personal experiences with a playful and modern rap style.
Copeland is a critically acclaimed indie rock band from Lakeland, Florida whose distinct sound is characterized by its intricate melodies and emotionally charged lyrics. Since their formation in 2001, the band has released several studio albums, each of which has been met with critical acclaim from fans and critics alike. With a loyal fanbase and a musical style that continues to evolve, Copeland remains one of the most beloved and respected bands in the indie rock scene.
Jason Isbell is a singer, songwriter and guitarist from Alabama who has won multiple Grammy Awards for his work as a solo artist including Best American Roots Song and Best Americana Album. His most popular singles are "24 Frames" and "If We Were Vampires."
High Fade is a funk and rock band known for their groove-heavy sound and electrifying performances. Their music fuses vintage funk rhythms with modern rock and soul influences, creating a fresh yet classic feel. With high-energy shows and tight musicianship, they are quickly gaining attention in the live music scene.
Formed in 2006, Vola is a progressive metal band from Denmark known for their eclectic blend of progressive rock, metal, and electronic elements. The band gained recognition with their debut EP, Monsters, in 2008, which received positive reviews for its progressive and experimental approach.
Natalia Beatriz Dora Peluso, known professionally as Nathy Peluso, is a singer-songwriter and dancer. Born in Argentina and raised in Spain, she started performing cover songs at bars as a teenager. Her 2020 album Calambre won the Latin Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album.
A film screening overlaps with an enlightened debate on 2025's Big Read Book, 'The House on Mango Street' by Sandra Cisneros. Intensifying the fun, all attendees are offered a charm of free novel copies subject to availability.
Participants delve into understanding henna's cultural significance while receiving tutoring on creating and applying henna paste. Each attendee rings the memory bell of the occasion, going home with a unique henna tattoo.
Make Them Suffer is an Australian metalcore band known for their atmospheric soundscapes, brutal breakdowns, and haunting melodies. Blending elements of deathcore, symphonic metal, and post-hardcore, they create an intense and emotionally charged listening experience. With each album, they push the boundaries of the genre, gaining a dedicated global fanbase.
Alexander Leon Gumuchian, also known as, bbno$, is a Canadian rapper and singer. The stage name, bbno$, can also be pronounced as "baby no money." His most popular and record-breaking single, "Lalala," has garnered hundreds of millions of listeners on Spotify.
Known as "masters of soulful folk," The Wood Brothers is a roots band from New York City that combines genres like folk, blues, jazz, and gospel. With extremely popular tracks like "Luckiest Man," "Postcards From Hell," and "I Got Loaded," they have earned over a million monthly listeners on Spotify.
Experience the Book Exchange, a haven for seasoned literature enthusiasts and novices alike. This platform offers opportunities to swap novels, leverage book suggestions, and engage in enlightening dialogues rather than merely persisting as a general literature event.
Scowl is a punk and hardcore band known for their aggressive energy, socially conscious lyrics, and dynamic stage presence. Blending elements of hardcore punk and alternative rock, they bring a fresh and rebellious sound to the modern punk scene. With a rapidly growing fan base, they are one of the most exciting new acts in hardcore.
Grab your dancing shoes and experience the ultimate Broadway experience. Broadway Rave is a one-of-a-kind musical theatre dance party that celebrates the best of Broadway. With a live DJ spinning the top Broadway show tunes, you'll be singing and dancing along to your favorite musicals all night long.
As the son of legendary singer-songwriter John Prine, Tommy Prine has big shoes to fill as a musical storyteller. On atmospheric songs like "Ships in the Harbor, " Prine has proven his talents and has carved his own path with rock-heavy songs such as "Mirror and a Kitchen Sink."
Caravan Palace is a French electronic band. Django Reinhardt, Vitalic, Lionel Hampton, and Daft Punk are among Caravan Palace's musical inspirations; the band's debut album was released in 2008 on the Wagram label. The album got onto the charts in Switzerland, Belgium, and France.
This dialogical art event offers the opportunity to practice diverse drawing techniques under the accompaniment of experienced artists. Known as a prime pathway for beginners or those keen on revitalizing old skills, be prepared with preferred drawing utensils.
Lil Skies, is a singer and rapper from Pennsylvania whose singles "I," "Nowadays," and "Red Roses" charted on the Billboard Hot 100. His 2018 debut mixtape, Life of a Dark Rose, went platinum and peaked at #10 on the Billboard 200 chart.
Jessica Baio is a pop singer-songwriter known for her emotional ballads, angelic vocals, and relatable lyrics. She gained popularity through social media, where her heartfelt covers and original songs connected with millions of listeners. With a mix of vulnerability and pop sensibility, she continues to carve out her own space in the music industry.
Daniel Seavey is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who gained fame as a member of the boy band Why Don’t We. Since going solo, he has embraced a more experimental pop sound, blending elements of alternative and electronic music. With his versatile musicianship and heartfelt lyrics, he is carving out a distinct identity as a solo artist.
Gregory Alan Isakov is a South African-born American songwriter, and singer. He moved back to the US in 1986. His music is a combination of indie and folk. His hit album, Evening Machines, was released in October 2018. He is widely known for his hit song, "Big Black Car."
Tamino is a truly innovative musical artist whose sound deftly combines elements of world, folk and pop music to create a unique and captivating sonic palette. His deeply soulful and emotive vocals, combined with his carefully crafted and intricate melodies, offer listeners an auditory experience that transcends genre conventions.
The Festival of Forgotten Grapes showcases unnoticed yet delightful underdog wines from California's industry. Attendees are offered tastings of these hidden gems and the chance to meet the fervent winemakers dedicated to their promotion.
Matteo Lane is a comedian, opera singer, and oil painter from Illinois who was recognized as one of the LGBT Icons, Innovators, and Disruptors by The Advocate in 2018. He has performed at the Just for Laughs festival and also appeared on many shows, including “Guy Code” and “The Nightly Show with Larry Wilmore.”
Kristine Flaherty, known professionally as K.Flay, is a Grammy-nominated singer, songwriter, and rapper from Illinois whose debut album, Life as a Dog, charted on the Billboard Rap Albums chart at number fourteen and on the Billboard Heatseekers Albums chart at number two.
LINKIN PARK is one of the most successful rock bands of the 2000s, blending nu-metal, alternative rock, and electronic elements. With iconic albums like Hybrid Theory and Meteora, they became known for their emotional lyrics, heavy guitar riffs, and rap-rock fusion. Their music continues to resonate with fans worldwide, cementing their legacy as one of the defining bands of their era.
Electric Feels is an experimental party from Los Angeles that blends indie rock and indie dance music with awesome DJs, live elements, and special guests.
Founded in 1919, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, also known as LA Phil, is one of the most forward-thinking symphony orchestras in the country. They're known for their visionary programming and concert location in the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall.
Immerse in a kaleidoscope of color and beauty at the refined yet exhilarating Opera Allegre concert. Anticipate spellbinding performances unveiling the best opera from Spain and America.
Formed in 1993, Old 97's is an alternative country band from Texas who was a pioneer in the alt-country movement during the '90s. They have released top ten charting singles like "Murder (or a Heart Attack)," "Nineteen," and "King of All the World."
