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!
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.
Watch world-renowned illusionist Rob Lake magically bring dreams to life with daring stunts, sweeping illusions, and unbelievable grand-scale illusions. Witness extraordinary effects that defy all odds and captivate audiences of all ages.
The community market offers a plethora of meticulously handcrafted goods, breathtaking original art, captivating plants, and conservatively fashionable apparel rooted in sustainability. Attendees can support a vibrant local talent pool composed of artists and vendors such as 555olstice, Avoeyes Studio, Aura Photography, and many others; indulge culinary senses with savory delicacies from Little Joe's Tacos and enliven their palate with a stimulating drink from Atlaya Coffee.
The Yeah Yeah Yeahs are an American indie rock band formed in New York City in 2000. The band consists of vocalist Karen O, guitarist Nick Zinner, and drummer Brian Chase. Their music draws from a range of styles and genres, including punk, art rock, post-punk, new wave, garage rock, and synth-pop. The Yeah Yeah Yeahs have been praised for their energetic and frantic live shows, as well as their strong and catchy songs. They have been considered one of the most influential indie bands of the 2000s, and have been credited for helping to bring rock music back into the mainstream.
The 1st Annual Los Angeles African Restaurant Week boasts a variety of participating eateries that will showcase special and attractively discounted traditional African and Diaspora culinary treasures. It's a tremendous initiative symbolizing a twofold opportunity - an exploration and rediscovery of African-inspired gastronomy coupled with the power to bolster local establishments within your community.
This Will Destroy You is an American post-rock band known for its atmospheric and emotionally charged instrumental compositions. The band's music blends ambient soundscapes with intense crescendos, creating a dynamic and immersive listening experience. With their intricate arrangements and evolving melodies, This Will Destroy You crafts powerful, cinematic soundtracks that evoke deep emotional responses. Their music is often described as both haunting and beautiful, making them a standout act in the post-rock genre.
Formed in 1971 by guitarist Dave Hlubek, Molly Hatchet is a southern rock band from Florida. They have released multiple platinum albums including their self-titled debut album of 1978, Flirtin' with Disaster and Beatin' the Odds.
Vandoliers are a high-energy Americana rock and roll band from Dallas, Texas. Their soulful, roots-driven sound is a refreshing take on classic rock and roll, showcasing the band's powerful melodies and passionate performances. With heartfelt lyrics and clever storytelling, Vandoliers' music paints vivid pictures of life and love in the American South.
The Thriftopia Flea Night Market offers a fun-filled occasion where attendees enjoy the chance to buy, trade, or sell from an expansive selection of items ranging from Pokémon, Vintage clothing, streetwear, sports memorabilia, art, hats, and many more enticing finds. There'll be satisfying food and drinks served throughout, as well as live DJs providing entertainment, plus, chance giveaways held every hour featuring beloved items like Pokémon and Labubu.
The Lotus Festival in Echo Park, Los Angeles, celebrates Asian Pacific cultures with traditional music, dance, art, and food. Centered around the blooming lotus flowers on the lake, it’s a colorful and culturally enriching experience.
Absorb all the facets of Asian-American culture in a singular third culture experience, treated through comedy, food, and unified inspiration. Gain copious laughter from 30 comedians but also relish in mouthwatering triumph from 20-plus food and beverage vendors handpicked by Mama's Nightmarket.
Tegan Joshua Anthony Chambers, better known by his stage name, Sleepy Hallow, is a rapper and vocalist from the United States. Chambers, a Jamaican-American man, grew up in New York City's Flatbush neighborhood with longtime collaborator Sheff G. In collaboration with Sheff G, the duo produced "Flows," and Sleepy Hallow scored his first viral single in 2018.
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.
Expect a smorgasbord of delectable cuisines from a multitude of food trucks, each one boasting at least one special Mac-N-Cheese dish. Quench your thirst in style with a vast bevy of beverage options, featuring everything from icy cold beer and exquisite craft choices to divine wine slushies, rich cocktails, and refined spirits, ensuring everyone finds their perfect pour.
The inaugural Lotus Flower 5K run and walk is an all-abilities friendly fitness event offering a fun discharge. Each registrant is gifted with a commemorative T-shirt, a robust finisher medallion, a memento bib, and admits to a refresh zone full of revitalization.
Currently based in Washington, D.C., Hailu Mergia is a keyboardist from Ethiopia. He gained the most recognition being part of the Walias Band during the '70s, which was a significant group during Ethiopia's golden age of music.
The L.A. Shorts Fest in Los Angeles, California, is a prestigious showcase of short films, highlighting innovative storytelling and emerging talent from around the globe. As one of the largest and most acclaimed short film festivals, it serves as an Academy Award-qualifying event, offering filmmakers a platform for recognition and connection. Attendees can enjoy a diverse lineup of films across genres, from heartfelt dramas to experimental works, making it a must-visit for cinephiles and creators passionate about the art of short filmmaking.
Formed in 2013 by some choir students of Nashville, The Arcadian Wild is a musical group whose record, Finch in the Pantry, debuted at #9 on the Billboard Bluegrass chart. Their most popular tracks include “Rain Clouds,” “Liar,” and "Blue Eyed Girl.”
SLANDER is a DJ duo from LA consisting of Scott Land and Derek Andersen who primarily create music in the subgenre of heaven trap. With popular singles like "All You Need to Know," "Love Is Gone" and "Gud Vibrations," they have gained over 7 million monthly listeners on Spotify.
Art and Beer Night Market Los Angeles offers an evening echoing good vibes, which blends local art with craft beer at the centerpiece. The event marks the perfect amalgamation to support local artists while ambling through unparalleled artwork selection, enjoying toothsome food, and erupting with laughter bubbles amidst friendly conversations.
The Osees are an American rock band from San Francisco, formed in 1997 and currently located in Los Angeles. John Dwyer, the band's principal songwriter and core member, is presently joined by Tim Hellman, Dan Rincon, Paul Quattrone, and Tomas Dolas. A variety of rock genres influence Osees's sound.
Formed in 2014, The Spirit of the Beehive is a rock band from Philadelphia that works with subgenres like indie, alternative, dream, psychedelic and experimental rock. Their popular singles include "Fell Asleep With A Vision," "Nail I Couldn't Bite," and "The Server Is Immersed."
Harbour is an indie rock band from Ohio led by the vocalist and guitarist Ryan Green. Consisting of five members, the band has released popular singles like "Get You High," "Float," and "Judy You Hung the Moon."
Old Mervs are a rising indie-rock duo from Australia whose laid-back sound blends surf rock vibes with relatable storytelling. Their music captures youthful energy and nostalgic emotions, creating an easygoing yet emotionally resonant listening experience. They have quickly gained attention with their catchy hooks and honest lyrics.
Banda El Recodo is a Mexican music ensemble formed in 1938. It consists of vocalists and musicians who play a number of traditional instruments such as tenor horn, tambora, sousaphone and trombone. With hits like "La Mejor De Todas" and "Deja" they've gained millions of monthly listeners on Spotify.
Ethan and Alex, two best friends who grew up listening to music, going to gigs, and throwing incredible parties together, launched Emo Night Brooklyn. The inaugural ENB took place in a crowded basement at a Williamsburg tavern.
The Afro-Latino Culture Fest is a standout experience that features a panel discussion series, where influential individuals from the Afro-Latino community lead thought-provoking talks on culture, identity, and representation. Speakers, including celebrities, scholars, and leaders, dive into the history, challenges, and unity that portray the significant influence Afro-Latinos have imparted and continue to etch in fields such as art, politics, and social movements.
Expect a fiery, vivacious blend of Afrobeats alongside the lip-smacking taste of Jollof rice at the LA Afrobeats Block Party and Jollof Cook-off. Complementing the tunes, open-air celebrations under the sunny and moonlit LA skies bring a buzz of exclusive live performances and DJs adding to the enchanting vibe.
of Montreal is an indie rock band from Georgia. It was formed by Kevin Barnes in 1996. It takes its name from a failed intimate relationship between Barnes and a woman, "of Montreal." They are known as a part of the Elephant 6 collective.
Eslabon Armado is a regional Mexican band known for their romantic ballads and corridos. Their music, characterized by traditional instruments and heartfelt lyrics, has made them a prominent name in the Latin music scene.
Formed in 1983, Hombres G is a pop-rock band from Spain. With extremely popular singles like "Devuélveme a mi chica," "Te Quiero," and "El Ataque de las chicas cocodrilo," they have gained a Latin Grammy nomination and amassed over six million monthly listeners on Spotify.
At the Rock 'N' Roll Flea Market, participants get to hunt for treasures such as vinyl records, unique t-shirts, handcrafted artifacts, and much more. In addition to the pulsating live music and ambrosial food, the event promises a fun and lively atmosphere, truly providing a rockin' good time.
Mahamadou Souleymane, known as Mdou Moctar, is a Tuareg musician who hails from Agadez, Niger. His modern adaptations of Tuareg guitar music will transport you to the Saharan desert with its contemporary sound.
Disney Descendants Zombies is a popular Disney Channel movie series blending fantasy, musical theater, and teen drama. Featuring a mix of high-energy songs, dance choreography, and a unique twist on classic fairytales, it has gained a dedicated fan base. With its colorful characters and catchy soundtrack, it continues to be a hit among younger audiences. You can dance and sing along in a one-of-a-kind interactive live concert experience celebrating the chart-topping music from the "Descendants" and "Zombies" movies including "Red", "Someday", "Chillin' Like a Villain", "Flesh & Bone" and more!
Dub Club is a dance and night club in Los Angeles that spins the best of classic reggae, dancehall, and dub music. It showcases innovative DJs like Boss Harmony and Tom Chasteen.
Wallows is an LA-based alternative rock band formed in 2017 known for popular songs like "Are You Bored Yet?" "Scrawny" and "Pleaser" which peaked at the number two spot on Spotify Global Viral 50. In 2022 they performed at Coachella, joining headlining artists such as Harry Styles, Billie Eilish and The Weeknd.
At the Brewsology Beer Fest, beer admirers will bask in the Dr. Jekyll-meets-Budweiser spirit as they merge the rousing energy of a brewery with the intriguing vibes of a museum visit. There will be numerous local breweries sharing craft beers and ciders, and the opportunity to gain insight from these professionals, all whilst humoring intellectual interests with interactive science demonstrations and exploratory exhibits throughout the fest.
A.R. Rahman is an internationally recognized musical talent who comes from India. In addition to primarily being a composer, record producer, and singer-songwriter for Indian cinema, he also earned the highest global accolades. These include two Academy Awards, two Grammys, a BAFTA and a Golden Globe. His most notable works include the score of Slumdog Millionaire and the multi-lingual tracks for Avengers: Endgame.
Morgan Freed and T.J. Petracca founded Emo Nite in December of 2014. What started as a tiny gathering at a dive pub in Echo Park suddenly turned into a full-fledged sensation. The movement has grown from a dive pub on LA's east side.
Jessie Reyez is a Canadian singer-songwriter known for her raw, emotional vocals and genre-blending sound that fuses R&B, pop, and hip-hop. Her breakout single “Figures” showcased her intensely personal lyricism and unique voice. Reyez continues to earn acclaim for her fearless storytelling and powerful performances.
Noah Cyrus is a singer-songwriter who has carved her own path with a moody blend of pop, indie, and country influences. Known for her emotional vulnerability and smoky voice, she has released acclaimed projects like The Hardest Part. Cyrus continues to evolve artistically while forging an identity distinct from her famous family.
KCON LA is an annual convention held in Los Angeles that celebrates Korean pop culture, with a particular focus on K-pop music, Korean dramas, beauty, and food. The event attracts fans from around the world who come to experience live performances by popular K-pop artists, engage in fan meet-and-greets, and attend panels and workshops featuring industry experts. Additionally, KCON LA showcases the latest trends in Korean beauty and fashion, offering attendees the chance to discover new products and styles. The convention provides a vibrant and immersive experience, highlighting the global influence and appeal of Korean culture.
Phil Wickham and Brandon Lake are two of the most recognized voices in contemporary Christian music. Wickham is known for his soaring vocals and worship anthems like "Living Hope," while Lake brings a raw, passionate energy to songs like "Gratitude" and "Praise You Anywhere." Together, their performances create an uplifting and powerful worship experience for audiences.
