Los Angeles

The sky is literally the limit at the Griffith Observatory, a national leader in public astronomy.  Situated on Mount Hollywood overlooking the Los Angeles basin, visitors can take in fascinating  exhibits, live shows, the world-class Samuel Oschin planetarium for viewing the heavens, and look through the Zeiss  which,  according to the website, is one of the most “looked-through” telescopes on the planet!   

(Note, while entrance is free, there is a small fee to see the planetarium shows.)

For outdoor fun, spend some time at Griffith Park which covers more than 4,210 acres and features more than 50 miles of hiking and biking trails, horseback riding trails, campgrounds with facilities appropriate for families and more. 

Also on the grounds are the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens, the Hollywood Sign and the Autry Museum of the American West. 

Located in the Brentwood neighborhood, The Getty Center is a campus of the Getty Museum and other programs of the Getty Trust.  

The 24-acre site is known for its architecture, gardens and views and also houses the Getty Research Institute, the Getty Conservation Institute, the Getty Foundation, and the J. Paul Getty Trust. 

The Center is one of two locations of the J. Paul Getty Museum; the other   location is the Getty Villa in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood of Los Angeles, California.

Art lovers will appreciate an abundance of pre-20th-century European paintings, including  Vincent Van Gogh’s painting Irises and Arii Matamoe (The Royal End) by Paul Gauguin; plus drawings, historic manuscripts,  decorative arts,  20th century photography, and outdoor sculptures displayed on terraces and gardens. 

Visitors can explore on their own or take guided tours. 

The Getty Center, designed by  renowned architect Richard Meier, is considered an one of the most impressive architectural achievements. 

You don’t have to be a wealthy fashionista to appreciate Rodeo Drive, one of the world’s most exclusive luxury shopping destinations.

Stroll along the sidewalks and window shop at designer stores Dolce & Gabanna, Prada, Tom Ford, Gucci, Jimmy Choo and small private boutiques.  Despite what was portrayed in the movie “Pretty Woman,” shop owners won’t mind if you browse through their collections with no intention of buying. Although some boutique owners require appointments for entry.    

Check out the Walk of Style, featuring plaques set in the sidewalks honoring fashion icons for their work in style and fashion.   At the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way is the sculpture titled “Torso,” created by world-renowned sculptor Robert Graham and a symbol for the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style. 

Not into clothes? Rodeo Drive is fun for people watching and gawking at expensive vehicles parked along the swanky streets

Located just west of downtown L.A., Santa Monica contains one of the most well-known beach scenes in the United States with more than three miles of shoreline and access to bike trails.  

Visitors can stroll the soft-sand beaches and partake in the wealth of restaurants, bars, people watching and other attractions. If you don’t like sand between your toes, it’s a short walk to popular hotels, shops and restaurants. 

Santa Monica is easy to explore on foot or bicycle.  One of the most scenic bike rides is along the 22-mile bike path, known as The Strand, which runs parallel to the Pacific Ocean and takes riders through Marina del Rey and Playa del Rey along with Venice, Manhattan, Hermosa and Redondo beaches

Be sure to spend some time at the Santa Monica Pier which boasts numerous attractions for adults and family-friendly entertainment. 

Ride the famous Ferris wheel at Pacific Park, the historic merry-go-round, and a roller coaster.  Get your game on at the Playland Arcade or learn to fly through the air at the Trapeze School.  Visit the Heal the Bay Aquarium, and the 66 to Cali, a shop situated at the end of the iconic Rte. 66, go fishing or watch the lively acts of local  street performers.

If you don’t mind crowds and mingling with eclectic folks of all types, be sure to visit the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. 

Located on 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and three on Vine Street, the stars are monuments to achievement by professionals in all areas of the entertainment industry including musicians, actors, directors, theater groups, artists, producers and even fictional characters.  As of 2020, the Walk comprises more than 2,690 brass stars embedded in the sidewalks. 

Although it’s not free ($18 for adults, $8 for children and $14 for seniors), visitors may want to check out the world famous TCL Chinese Theatre.

Opened in 1927, the TCL Chinese Theatre has been the home to the most prominent red carpet movie premieres and special events. The theatre has the unique Forecourt of the Stars, featuring cement hand and footprints of major movie stars from past to present. 

Take a guided VIP tour to learn about its star-studded history or take in a newly released movie. Reservations are recommended.

Other Los Angeles Attractions and Activities:

• Trolley and Bus Tours
• Walking Tours
• Bike and Segway Tours
• Water Tours
• Helicopter and Plane Tours
• Museums 
• Sports
• Beaches, Nature, Parks and Gardens
• Arts and Culture 
• History 
• Landmarks, Monuments and Sites
• Amusement Parks
• Disneyland
• Day Trips