Los Angeles, California: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Los Angeles is more than just Hollywood's glitz and glamour. It's a city full of world-class attractions, outdoor fun, and cultural experiences. Whether you're visiting for the first time or you live here, our guide will show you LA's hidden spots and must-sees.

Key Takeaways

• Discover the Huntington Library's stunning gardens, including the recently expanded Chinese garden.
• Hike in the expansive Griffith Park and visit the iconic Griffith Observatory.
• Attend free summer concerts and enjoy the vibrant music festival scene in Los Angeles.
• Explore the world-class art collections at the Broad Museum and LACMA.
• Bike the 22-mile Marvin Braude Bike Trail along the city's westward-facing coastline.

This guide will take you from famous landmarks to local secrets. It's your ticket to the best of Los Angeles. So, get ready to explore and make memories in the City of Angels. Let's start planning your LA adventure now!

Explore the Huntington Library's Stunning Gardens

The Huntington Library, Art Museum & Botanical Gardens in Los Angeles is a must-see. It lets visitors dive into the beauty of its diverse gardens. The outdoor spaces, especially the expanded Chinese garden, are among the most beautiful in Southern California.

Walk through 120 acres of gardens with over 83,000 living plants, including rare species. Discover 16 themed garden areas, like the Japanese Garden with koi ponds and bonsai trees. Or visit the Palm, Jungle, Cactus, and Australian Gardens, which you can see in about two hours.

Twilight Garden Strolls

Make sure to visit during the Twilight Garden Strolls on select summer Sundays. This event is ticketed separately. As the sun sets, see the gardens in a new light.

The Huntington Library's gardens are perfect for nature lovers, history fans, or anyone looking for peace. They offer a unique and unforgettable experience.

Hike in Griffith Park and Visit the Observatory

Griffith Park is a huge green space in the middle of Los Angeles, covering over 4,000 acres. It's a place where you can find many hiking trails. These trails lead to beautiful views and the famous Griffith Observatory. Whether you want a easy walk or a tough hike, Griffith Park has it all.

The Griffith Observatory is a famous spot on Mount Hollywood. It offers amazing views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. You can still enjoy the views even when the observatory is closed. For a special experience, try Ellen Reid's Soundwalk. It's a musical piece that changes as you walk through the park.

1. Griffith Observatory is open Tuesday-Sunday, from noon to 10 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends.
2. There might be a line to get in during busy times.
3. The grounds, terraces, and sidewalks are open every day.
4. Griffith Park is open daily from 5:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., perfect for a sunrise hike.

Parking near the observatory can be hard and roads might be closed when it's busy. Plan your visit well. Or, use the DASH Observatory bus for just 50 cents each way.

Whether you hike, check out the observatory, or enjoy Griffith Park, it will make a big impact. So, put on your hiking boots, bring water, and get ready to see the beauty and history of Griffith Park.

Attend Free Summer Concerts

Looking for live music this summer without spending a lot? Los Angeles has you covered with many free concert series. From the famous Getty Center to the lively Grand Performances in downtown LA, there's music for every taste.

Don't miss the Off the 405 series at the Getty. It features new bands against the beautiful museum gardens. Getting free tickets is a bit of work, but it's worth it for the magical summer evenings.

For a mix of music, check out the KCRW Summer Nights program. It brings KCRW DJs and local artists to various spots across the city. Also, the Levitt Pavilion Los Angeles in MacArthur Park offers free shows every Saturday in summer.

For Latin music fans, the Summer of Salsa series at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes is a must. It features salsa and Cuban bands on the second Friday of each summer month.

With so many free summer concerts, you'll have lots of chances to enjoy live music in Los Angeles.

Los Angeles, California: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

The Academy Museum, a Cinematic Treasure Trove

The Academy Museum in Los Angeles is a top spot for movie fans. It's a permanent place for learning about movie history. Here, you can see iconic props and costumes, like C-3PO from Star Wars and the only Jaws shark left.

There are exhibits on famous films like The Godfather, Casablanca, and Boyz N the Hood. You'll also find special sections on filmmakers like Agnès Varda and Lourdes Portillo. A new exhibit looks at how Jewish founders helped shape Hollywood.

This museum gives a deep look into movie history with its vast collection and interactive experiences. It's a key spot for anyone wanting to dive into Los Angeles's film heritage.

"The Academy Museum is a treasure trove of cinematic history, bringing the magic of moviemaking to life through its impressive collection and thought-provoking exhibits."

Savor Delicacies at Grand Central Market

In the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, the Grand Central Market has been a top spot for food since 1917. This lively food hall is a mix of different tastes, featuring LA's best independent sellers, artisans, and makers.

Begin your food journey at the Grand Central Bazaar, happening every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in the Lower Level. You'll find a special selection of unique items and new products from local sellers. Craving tacos, pupusas, or aguas frescas? Grand Central Market has it all.

For dessert, try the tiger tail donuts from Cafe Lot, the rich cookies from Fat + Flour bakery, or the handmade ice cream from McConnell's. Don't miss the wide range of aguas frescas, refreshing fruit drinks that are a market favorite.

With its lively vibe and delicious food, Grand Central Market is a top spot for a unique culinary experience in Los Angeles. So, bring a friend, check out the stalls, and enjoy the tastes that make this place a city treasure.

Experience Los Angeles' Music Festival Scene

As summer ends, Los Angeles' music festivals start to shine. From the poolside vibes of Splash House in Palm Springs to the buzz of HARD Summer at SoFi Stadium, there's a festival for every music fan.

Splash House is a big event happening over two weekends in Palm Springs from August 11-13 and August 18-20. It's a poolside festival with DJs, electronic artists, and fun pool parties. There are also after-hours events to keep the party going.

HARD Summer music festival is coming to SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park from August 4-6. It's a top EDM event with big names in electronic dance music. Expect non-stop energy and unforgettable moments all weekend.

If you love soulful music, check out the Fool in Love festival. It's happening August 25-27 at SoFi Stadium-adjacent Hollywood Park. This event celebrates classic R&B and soul, with legendary artists to keep you dancing and singing along.

Los Angeles has a music festival for every mood this summer. Whether you want poolside fun, high-energy EDM, or soulful R&B, there's a festival for you. Get your tickets and dive into the city's summer music scene.

Admire Urban Light at LACMA

When you visit Los Angeles, don't miss the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). It's where you'll find the famous Urban Light by Chris Burden. This piece, with 202 vintage street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s, is a must-see. It's perfect for photos and draws many visitors.

LACMA has more than just Urban Light. It's filled with modern art, big contemporary pieces, and traditional Japanese screens. The museum also has great special exhibitions. Plan to spend about twenty minutes to an hour looking at the art.

LACMA is closed on Wednesdays. But, on weekday afternoons, LA County residents get in free. This is a great chance to see modern art and contemporary art without spending money. The museum also offers free online resources and Story Time for families on Fridays at 2 pm.

For a better visit, think about joining LACMA's NexGen program. It gives free entry to kids and one adult. LACMA is a treasure in Los Angeles, with amazing art, collections, and learning activities.

Bike the Marvin Braude Bike Trail

Discover the stunning California coastline on the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also known as the Strand. This 22-mile bike path runs from Will Rogers State Beach in the north to Torrance Beach in the south. It's a great way to see the beach communities of Santa Monica, Venice, and Manhattan Beach by bike.

The Marvin Braude Bike Trail is loved by locals and visitors. It has smooth pavement, gentle slopes, and amazing ocean views. It's perfect for a relaxing ride or a tough workout.

As you ride, you'll see famous spots like the Santa Monica Pier, the Venice Canals, and the Manhattan Beach Pier. You can stop to check out shops and restaurants, or just enjoy the ocean breeze and the sound of the waves.

To enhance your trip, think about renting a bike from a vendor along the trail. They offer cruiser bikes, electric bikes, and tandem bikes for groups or families. Always follow the road rules and watch out for pedestrians for a safe ride.

So, why not put on your cycling shoes and ride the Marvin Braude Bike Trail? It's a beautiful way to see Los Angeles' beachfront communities. With its great views, attractions, and easy access, it's a top choice for exploring the coast.

Enjoy Free Shakespeare at the Old Zoo

Experience the magic of Shakespeare's timeless works in Griffith Park's historic Old Zoo. The Independent Shakespeare Co. offers free outdoor performances all summer. They bring the Bard's classics to life with energy and passion.

This season, they're performing As You Like It at the Old Zoo's Dell. You'll need to make a reservation since the show moved due to construction. This change ensures everyone can enjoy the show safely.

Arrive early for an immersive prologue. You'll get to meet the characters and dive into the play's world. The seating is on all sides, making it an intimate experience. You'll feel like you're part of the action.

Watching the show is free, but you can pay $60 for a cushioned seat closer to the stage. This is a chance to see top-notch Shakespeare under the stars in Griffith Park.

Getting there is easy with plenty of free parking. Parking Lot 2 is closest to the show. They also have ADA access, so call ahead to reserve at 818-710-6306.

"The play's the thing, wherein I'll catch the conscience of the king."

- William Shakespeare, Hamlet

Visit the New Intuit Dome

The Intuit Dome in Inglewood is a billion-dollar, 18,000-capacity arena. It will be the new home for the L.A. Clippers and host big concerts before the NBA season starts. The arena features art by local artists, making it a unique experience for fans of sports and music.

This arena cost a whopping $2 billion to build. But it's worth it. It has a huge 40,000-square-foot double-sided Halo Board with a quarter billion LED lights. This creates an amazing atmosphere during games. Plus, it has the most leg room in the NBA, so everyone can be comfortable.

The Intuit Dome is designed to feel cozy and close to the action. Fans will be closer to the game than at the Crypto.com Arena. Tickets for the NBA season will be sold later in August. This will be a chance for fans to see the Clippers in their new home.

The Intuit Dome focuses on being sustainable. It's a net-zero stadium powered by solar panels and renewable energy. It's fully carbon neutral. The design also helps reduce energy use for cooling, making it eco-friendly.

The Intuit Dome also celebrates Inglewood's culture with six public art installations by local artists. You'll see a ship with sails by Glenn Kaino and a stunning video by Refik Anadol. These add excitement and engagement for visitors.

With the Intuit Dome, Inglewood is changing more. This is the fourth major facility to open in the city in the last decade. Basketball fans and music lovers can expect an unforgettable time at this cutting-edge arena. The Clippers and top performers will make their mark here.

Gaze into the Infinity Mirror Rooms at The Broad

The Broad in Los Angeles is a top spot for art lovers. It lets you step into Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirror Rooms. These rooms are a big hit, offering a world of endless reflections.

The Broad has two of Kusama's Infinity Mirror Rooms. Each one gives a special experience. It's smart to book ahead since they're often packed.

The museum also has art by famous artists like Basquiat and Therrien. It's free to visit, making it great for everyone.

Whether you love the Infinity Rooms or the other art, The Broad is a must-see in Los Angeles.

Navigating the Infinity Mirror Rooms at The Broad

Planning is key when visiting the Infinity Mirror Rooms at The Broad. Here are some tips:

• You need separate reservations for each Infinity Mirror Room. They get booked fast, especially on weekends.
• You can only stay in each room for 45 seconds. This lets everyone enjoy the magic.
• The Broad uses a virtual queue to handle the crowds. Arrive early to join.
• They offer big-print notes and sensory kits for everyone's comfort.

Plan well and use the museum's helpful options. This way, you can enjoy Yayoi Kusama's Infinity Mirror Rooms fully.

"The Souls of Millions of Light Years Away" is a truly mesmerizing Infinity Mirror Room that transports visitors to a boundless realm of light and reflection.

Conclusion

Los Angeles is full of amazing cultural spots, beautiful nature, and fun places to go. It's perfect for both first-time visitors and locals. You'll find everything from the Huntington Library's stunning gardens to free Shakespeare shows in Griffith Park.

This city shines with almost 300 sunny days a year, a big coastline, and famous spots like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Santa Monica Pier. It has something for everyone, whether you like art, music festivals, or outdoor fun.

When planning your trip, use the city's good public transport and check out its different areas. From West Hollywood's buzz to Griffith Park's calm, Los Angeles will give you memories you'll always treasure. You'll want to come back for more of its adventures.