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About this guide
Renowned as the global entertainment hub, Los Angeles shines as the epicenter of Southern California's culture, commerce, and finance. There are exclusive behind-the-scenes movie studio tours and iconic Hollywood landmarks that promise an immersive experience. Travelers from around the world enjoy the mild Mediterranean climate at local beaches and indulge in laid-back tours of wineries and breweries. With family-friendly activities like museums and world-famous theme parks, Los Angeles has something for every traveler to enjoy.
- Best time to travel: June to August (peak season), December to February (off-season), March to May and September to November (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Pacific Time Zone (PST)
- Currency: USD ($)
- Language: English, Spanish
- Noteworthy: CicLAvia (quarterly), Pan African Film & Arts Festival (February), LA County Fair (May), LA Pride Festival (June), Taste of Soul LA (October)
- Best for: Film and Pop Culture Fans, Nightlife & Urban Explorers, Foodies & Fashionistas, Wellness Getaways
Get Away: Getting To and Around Los Angeles, California
By Air
Los Angeles, California has a major hub traveled by many at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). With extensive flight options to various destinations worldwide, make sure to book tickets in advance for the best deals.
By Car
The city of Los Angeles can be explored best by renting a car for more flexibility and convenience. There are numerous reputable agencies around different neighborhoods with iconic attractions nearby. Research traffic patterns and utilize GPS to avoid delays and find eco-friendly ways to get around.
By Public Transit
Public transit offers an efficient and eco-friendly means to explore the city's vast expanse. The extensive bus and train network of the LA County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) connects to major landmarks and neighborhoods.
Explore Los Angeles, California on Foot
Additionally, Los Angeles deserves to be seen in all their glory on then walkable neighborhoods like Downtown LA, Koreatown, and Santa Monica. Iconic landmarks and eclectic shops are within walking distance of top-rated hotels and renowned restaurants. Stroll along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, wander through the historic Olvera Street, and enjoy scenic views along the Southern California coast.
Quick facts
Pacific Time Zone (PST)
USD ($)
English, Spanish
Good For
Film and Pop Culture Fans
Nightlife & Urban Explorers
Foodies & Fashionistas
Wellness Getaways
Keep in mind
- CicLAvia (quarterly)
- Pan African Film & Arts Festival (February)
- LA County Fair (May)
- LA Pride Festival (June)
- Taste of Soul LA (October)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Los Angeles, California
In Studio City, Burosu Ramen makes classic and creative ramen dishes with top-rated handmade noodles and quality ingredients. Japanese favorite appetizers include miso soup and fried soft-shell crab with regional teas, soft-serve ice creams, and other desserts.
Providence LA is an unparalleled fine-dining seafood experience in the heart of Los Angeles with Chef Michael Cimarusti's award-winning cuisine. The top-ranking spot serves exquisite seafood specialties like Hawaiian big-eye tuna and decadent desserts like house-made Hawaiian chocolate with raspberry.
Salt & Straw Ice Cream highlights LA’s artisanal excellence with fresh cream from fifth-generation Scott Brothers Dairy. Inspired creations like Pear & Blue Cheese and Lucky Charms-inspired Pots of Gold & Rainbows shape the 36-flavor menu.
Enjoy an authentic churrascaria experience at Pampas Brazilian Bar & Grill with traditional Brazilian BBQ and the option to “pay by the pound”. There's a variety of meats like Sirloin Cap and garlic chicken, sides like fried plantains and Pão de Queijo, and desserts like flan and passion fruit mousse.
République Cafe & Bakery is a versatile casual bakery, café, and bar with creative coffee and cocktails. The French-inspired menu curated by award-winning Chef Margarita includes classics like brioche French toast and steak frites alongside freshly baked bread.
For a taste of Chinese-American comfort cuisine infused with flavors from Taiwan, Shanghai, and Hong Kong, visit Lui’s Cafe in Los Angeles. Dishes include braised pork belly rice, sesame cold noodles, in-house baked pastries, and unique blends of iced or hot milk and fruit herbal teas.
Stay
Stay: Places to Stay In Los Angeles, California
This Underground Speakeasy Apartment on Airbnb has views of the Hollywood sign and Griffith Park with an exclusive spacious backyard. Modern amenities include a private entrance, kitchenette, stylish bathroom, backyard grill, and bricked-in porch.
This two-story Historic LA Oasis housed in a private, detached guest house is steps from the famed Hollywood Bowl and iconic Whitley Heights stairs. The charming spot features a full kitchen and an outdoor patio with a separate entrance.
For business, pleasure, and everything in between, the one-of-a-kind Los Angeles Athletic Club Hotel blends history and tradition. Amenities include fitness classes, a basketball court, luxury spa services, a continental breakfast, and 24/7 concierge services.
Mama Shelter creates a blend of Old Hollywood and laid-back bohemian style in the 70 designer rooms across six stories. Quirky touches include novels and movie scripts on the nightstand, complimentary beverages, and a rooftop DJ set and dance party.
The Hoxton Hotel in Downtown LA has serene bedrooms, two restaurants, and a rooftop pool in the historic building. The 174 rooms blend beachy California vibes with Old Hollywood glamor with a rooftop Peruvian-inspired Cabra restaurant by Chef Stephanie Izard.
As part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection, Hotel Per La has skyline views from the pet-friendly residential suites with Italian-style decor. The amenities include a cocktail lounge, coffee bar, rooftop heated pool, 24-hour concierge, and so much more.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Los Angeles, California
This guided Warner Bros. Studio Tour explores iconic sound stages like Central Perk cafe from “Friends” and recreated sets from the Harry Potter series. Visitors learn behind-the-scenes secrets of film production, green-screen technology, special effects, and more.
This downtown food tour showcases LA’s culinary landscape including made-to-order donuts, artisanal cheeses, and handmade tacos. Guests will explore iconic landmarks like Grand Central Market, the Bradbury Building, and the Last Bookstore as well.
Experience the wonder of the cosmos at the Griffith Observatory with insights into science, history, architecture, and movie trivia. This tour explores the iconic site's 67,000 square feet of exhibition space and a mesmerizing 40-minute planetarium show.
Book an expertly guided woodworking session at this DTLA studio to learn basic wood selecting and finishing techniques. Guests leave with a unique all-natural air plant holder based on a personalized design or ready-made templates.
For outdoor lovers who want to get away from LA crowds, this Malibu Hiking Adventure is the ultimate nature excursion. A knowledgeable guide captures expert photos of guests with the breathtaking landscapes and scenic ocean views.
The specialty coffee tasting takes guests through eight immersive seed-to-cup tastings with four flights using manual pour-over methods. There are delicious snack pairings of fruit, chocolate, and nuts to enjoy alongside the world's finest brews.
Experience vintage thrift shopping with personalized assistance included at Pasadena's Rose Bowl Flea Market, every second Sunday of the month. Over 2,500 vendors offer quality clothing, antiques, and plants with the best deal at LA's biggest flea market.
The celebrity homes bus tour is a hassle-free ride to top attractions including the Hollywood Sign and Walk of Fame. Visitors travel on an open-air bus to take unobstructed photos as a local guide shares fascinating insights about celebrity homes.