Looking for a guide to sightseeing in LA? If so, keep reading for 40 fun things to do in LA!
So, you’re planning to do some sightseeing in LA, and you’ve decided to head to LA for an amazing, star-studded experience? Go you! You’re now researching things to do in LA right?
LA is one of the most famous cities in the world, and it continues to be one of the top travel destinations in the USA, so of course, there are plenty of things to do in LA!
However, with so much to do and see, it can be tricky to plan the perfect trip. How do you know which parts of sightseeing in LA you should prioritise?
Well hopefully, this guide to sightseeing in LA will help you decide what to see!
If you’re someone that loves to travel but struggles to plan their itinerary, then we’ve got you covered as we’ve created the ultimate guide to tours and day trips in LA, perfect for sightseeing in LA and packed full of things to do in LA!
So, let’s get started!
Here’s what to check out when sightseeing in LA!
Private SUV tour of LA
First, on our list of suggestions for sightseeing in LA, it’s a private SUV tour! Now, if you’ve never been to LA before, you might not realise quite how spread out this city is.
Los Angeles is actually difficult to get around on foot, because it’s so big and the different points of interest can be hours of walking apart.
So, with that in mind, there’s no better way to see the city than by a private SUV tour! We recommend this tour, it’s definitely the best private SUV tour in the city!
It’s a perfect way to enjoy sightseeing in LA. This is a great choice for things to do in LA.
The Hollywood Sign
The Hollywood Sign is next on our list of things to do in LA. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks in LA, so of course, it had to make its way onto our sightseeing in LA guide!
Though you can drive close to the sign, what better way to spend the day than taking in the stunning views of Los Angeles from the San Fernando Valley and Catalina Island?
However, that’s not all! You can even get insider Hollywood history from your local tour guide that you wouldn’t find anywhere else.
What’s more, the guides on this particular tour are all certified in first aid and CPR, so you don’t need to stress that any accidents are going to turn nasty. Perfect for sightseeing in LA, and safe too!
We recommend this particular tour, as it’s seriously great!
Sightseeing in LA: Santa Monica Pier
When you’re sightseeing in LA, you absolutely have to check out Santa Monica Pier. Obviously, the beach is brilliant – but the pier is such a sight to see!
Sightseeing in LA wouldn’t be the same without visiting the Santa Monica Pier! This is a great choice for things to do in LA.
Sightseeing in LA is just amazing, and the Santa Monica Pier is the cherry on top of the cake!
Read more about LA: Beautiful photos of Santa Monica Pier
Petersen Automotive Museum
The Petersen Automotive Museum is one of the most interesting places for sightseeing in LA, and we highly recommend paying it a visit if you’ve got the chance.
With GetYourGuide you can even pre-purchase your admission tickets for a reduced cost and waiting time – cool, right?!
What we love about this museum is that is allows visitors to explore over 120 years of automotive history and culture over 3 incredible floors.
So, whether it’s vintage bikes or historic cars that you’re interested in, you’ll be able to see all of them at this amazing museum. A great choice for sightseeing in LA.
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Private Walking Tour of Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory is one of LA’s top attractions and places for sightseeing in LA, and it’s not difficult to why.
As well as being an awesome planetarium and exhibition space, it’s also a public observatory that offers some of the best views of LA around.
So, if you’re looking to get a great shot of the Hollywood Sign, then be sure to put this place on your itinerary!
However, if it’s the science that you’re after, then the Griffith Observatory has plenty to offer and it’s a great choice for things to do in LA.
If you’re really looking to take it all in, then be sure to give this private walking tour with GetYourGuide a try – trust us, booking in with the experts here is well worth the additional cost. Definitely add this museum to your list of sightseeing in LA.
Dodger Stadium
Next on our list of sightseeing in LA, it’s something for the sports enthusiasts! Dodger Stadium is a great choice for things to do in LA.
It’s the home stadium of Major League Baseball’s Los Angeles Dodgers, so it’s a local hotspot and somewhere that is visited by both locals and tourists alike.
If you can catch a game here, then that’s amazing, but there are tours available on noon-game days too!
So you’ve got plenty of flexibility if you want to check this place out! Definitely, one to add to your list of sightseeing in LA!
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Next on our list of sightseeing in LA, it’s the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. For art lovers who are looking for sightseeing in LA ideas, then this is a pretty amazing suggestion.
This is definitely one of the best art hubs in the country!
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is a must-see for art lovers – you’re going to love it if art is one of your interests or passions. It’s a must for anyone who is sightseeing in LA.
Another intruiging and fun option for things to do in LA.
LA in a Day Bike Adventure
Next on our list of things to do in LA, it’s a bike tour! If you’re someone that loves to move, then this bike tour of LA should be your method of choice for sightseeing in LA!
Instead of relying on Uber and public transport, you can simply get on your bike and explore the city at your own pace.
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Beginning on Route 66 in West Hollywood and travelling through Beverly Hills and Bel-Air, you certainly won’t run out of things to see on this bike tour.
So, if you’re an eco-warrior, then be prepared for some fun in the sun and book yourself a place on this amazing tour! Another great choice for sightseeing in LA.
Things to do in LA: Downtown LA Food Tour
If you consider yourself a foodie, then you’ll love this next suggestion for sightseeing in LA. then be sure to book yourself onto a great food tour whilst you’re in LA.
This walking tour of Downtown LA is perfect, as not only does it show you some of the city’s sights, but you’ll also fill up on some tasty samples at the best restaurants around.
Whether it’s great barbecue food or sweet treats that you love, you’re sure to find a sneaky sample on this food tour!
We do recommend bringing along a 15-20% gratuity for your tour guide if you take this tour; it’s not strictly compulsory, but with these kinds of tours it’s expected.
It’s a seriously cool way to enjoy some sightseeing in LA. This is another great option for things to do in LA!
Read more about Los Angeles: 47 things to do alone in Los Angeles!
Angels Flight Railway
Our next suggestion for sightseeing in LA is quite an underrated attraction in the city. The Angels Flight Railway might not be one of the most well-known places for sightseeing in LA, but it’s a really cute place to visit, and there are some great views to be found too!
The experience doesn’t last long (it’s the world’s shortest railway apparently) but it’s definitely a lot of fun and something unique to add to your list of sightseeing in LA. An unrated choice for things to do in LA.
Malibu Wineries
If you’re partial to a glass of wine or two, then you’ll absolutely love a trip to the Malibu Wineries.
Covering three vineyards and spectacular views to visitors, this private group tour is one of the best ways to discover how the other half lives. A perfect afternoon and option for sightseeing in LA
However, it’s not only the wines themselves that make this trip worth taking – it’s the scenic drive too! As you drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to reach the hills, you’ll see some excellent sights along the way.
So, if you’re looking to get out of the center of LA for a day trip, then this is an excellent option. A relaxed and lovely option for things to do in LA.
LEGOLAND California
Legoland is next on our list for sightseeing in LA, it’s a perfect choice for things to do in LA for families! If you truly believe that “everything is awesome”, then you’ll surely want to take a trip to LEGOLAND California!
Though LEGOLAND isn’t a landmark, we felt that it more than deserved a place on our list of the ultimate guide to day trips and tours in LA. Click here to pre-book tickets!
Providing interactive experiences and over 60 LEGO-themed rides, shows, and attractions, this is a great day out for the whole family, and perfect for sightseeing in LA as a family, or with kids.
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Marina Del Rey: Kayak and Paddleboard Tour with Sea Lions
If you can’t get enough of sea lions (and we don’t blame you!), then you’ll absolutely want to book onto this Kayak and Paddleboard Tour. Based in Marina Del Rey, we recommend this paddleboard or kayak tour lets water babies discover the local wildlife (including sea lions, dolphins, and local birds!).
It’s a really unique way to do some sightseeing in LA, and one of the most fun things to do in LA. The tour starts with a sailboat which is docked near Mother’s Beach.
Then, you’ll be provided with all the information you’ll need about the local environment, marine life, and safe paddleboard and kayak techniques.
If you fancy killing two birds with one stone and going wildlife-spotting whilst getting some activity in, then this is the perfect tour for you! This is such a favorite on this list for sightseeing in LA.
Santa Monica and Venice Beach
Sightseeing in LA wouldn’t be the same without a trip to the beach! If you’re not a fan of sea exploration, then why not keep things on dry land?
We recommend this Segway tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach is perfect for sun worshippers that are looking to cover as much land as possible. It’ one of the best things to do in LA.
As these areas are known for surfers, bodybuilders, street artists and other exhibitionists, there’s certainly plenty of ‘sightseeing’ to be done around here!
It is located away from LA, but it’s well worth taking a day trip to these two beaches to really get the feel of Southern California. Sightseeing in LA, and exploring the beaches go hand in hand!
See Los Angeles at Night by Helicopter!
There’s nothing quite like sightseeing in LA from the air! And there’s nothing more fantastical than a helicopter trip, and if you REALLY want to remember your trip to LA, then you should consider booking onto this amazing sightseeing helicopter tour of LA by night.
Though it only lasts for 30 minutes, it’s well worth the cost to see the city from above, and it’s an amazing way to do some sightseeing in LA.
Covering sights such as the Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign, it’s one of the most unique tours that you could embark on in LA – so get booking!
It departs from Bob Hope Airport in Burbank, so be sure to arrange your transportation well in advance to avoid missing your flight! A gorgeous choice for sightseeing in LA.
Paragliding
Another amazing choice for sightseeing in LA, is by quite literally taking to the skies! Though this isn’t for the fainthearted, paragliding over LA is truly an amazing experience and an incredible option for sightseeing in LA.
On this tour you’ll be able to fly like a bird above the Pacific Ocean on a tandem paragliding trip while taking in the breathtaking views of the beach, ocean, and wildlife below.
If you really keep your eyes peeled, you might even spot mountain lions, dolphins, whales, and hawks! Just be sure to book this experience well in advance – it really is popular, and you don’t want to be disappointed if you leave things too late. We recommend this tour and we think you’ll love this way of sightseeing in LA.
Read more about visiting Los Angeles: What is the best place to see the Hollywood sign?
The Hollywood Walk of Fame
How could we write a list about sightseeing in LA, and not mention The Hollywood Walk of Fame? The Hollywood Walk of Fame is (obviously) one of the most iconic and famous things to do when sightseeing in LA! It’s a classic choice, and it’s one of those things to do in LA that is absolutely classic!
You’ll have seen The Hollywood Walk of Fame in movies, in the news and on TV shows – and there are so many celebrity names to spot along the way! An iconic choice for sightseeing in LA.
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Madame Tussauds Hollywood
We can’t write a list of sightseeing in LA, and not include this place. Madame Tussauds is always a popular trip for those visiting LA, and it’s easy to see why. Is there really anything better than sizing up to your favorite celebrities? We think not!
Home to over 100 lifelike celebrity statues and great interactive displays, this is the perfect place to try and convince those friends of yours that you had a star-studded run-in on Hollywood Boulevard. This is classic sightseeing in LA.
We highly recommend purchasing a ticket through GetYourGuide, as not only does it guarantee you admission, but it gives you access to all of the interactive displays as well as the Marvel 4D Film & Experience.
Things to do in LA: Go Whale Watching
Whale watching is such a bucket list option for sightseeing in LA, and whilst it might not be one of the most ‘touristy’ things on this list – it’s definitely one of the best things! Whale watching is (quite simply) a life-changing experience, and it’s so epic, and one of the best things to do in LA.
We recommend this whale watching tour, as it’s perfect and leaves from nearby Newport Beach.
Evening Ghost Walking Tour
Though Hollywood is an amazing place, it is home to some nasty stories and troubled stars, this next choice for sightseeing in LA is for people who enjoy exploring the darker sides of a city.
This great Los Angeles ghost tour takes visitors through 8-12 different sites around Hollywood Boulevard that each has an element of paranormal history. As the tour is run by a knowledgeable local guide, you can be sure that you’re getting only the grizzliest details!
So, if you’re ready to look behind the façade of Hollywood’s rich and famous of years past, then be sure to book yourself onto this amazing ghost tour! A great option for sightseeing in LA. A great choice for things to do in LA for those who love a thrill!
La Brea Tar Pits
Next on our list of things to do in LA, it’s the La Brea Tar Pits. This is one of the more unique places for sightseeing in LA, and it’s packed full of history!
Basically, the La Brea Tar Pits is an area of LA, when thousands of years ago, animals would get stuck. These animals were then preserved in the tar pits, and you can still see some of those remains today. This is a really interesting choice for things to do in LA.
Explore the Venice Canals
If you’re looking for a laid back place to do some sightseeing in LA, then the Venice canals will be a gorgeous way to spend the day sightseeing in LA. Abbot Kinney originally conceived a mini replica of the famous Venice canals in Italy, and that’s essentially what this part of LA is! It’s sightseeing in LA with a twist, and a lovely option for things to do in LA.
Universal Studios Hollywood
How could we mention sightseeing in LA, and not include Universal Studios? This is one of the top things to do in LA.
Another amazing must-do sightseeing spot in LA is Universal Studios Hollywood. Ok, so this might not live up to the Hollywood sign in landmark status, it’s certainly a fun day out for the whole family! The great thing about this entry ticket is that it allows you the option to add the Universal Express Pass onto your booking.
As you’re likely only going to be hitting the park for one day, this could really come in handy! With the world-famous Backlot, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and The Walking Dead experience all included, you’ll be spoiled for choice on what to do with your day! Sightseeing in LA wouldn’t be the same without it.
TCL Chinese Theatre
The TCL Chinese Theatre is another classic choice for sightseeing in LA. It’s in the heart of the touristy part of LA, and it’s one of the main attractions in the city.
If you head here, you’ll find lots of characters from movies and TV shows, all dressed up and ready for some photos! Did you even go sightseeing in LA, if you didn’t stop by this place? It’s one of the most well known things to do in LA.
Warner Bros. Studios Tour
Another theme park to add to you list for sightseeing in LA. If you’ve always wanted to see a real-life movie studio, then be sure to put the Warner Bros. Studio Tour on your list of day trips to complete while you’re in LA! Housing everything from the “Friends” set to the set of “Batman”, this studio is a must-visit for movie-mad tourists.
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We highly recommend checking out Stage 48 whilst you’re here; acting as an exciting and interactive soundstage that explores the film and television production process, it’s unsurprising that this is one of the studio’s most popular attractions. If you’re looking to skip the (usually always long!) line, then we recommend pre-booking your ticket and using mobile entry.
Vintage Hippie Sightseeing Tour with Wine Tasting
If you’re looking to sightsee in LA like they did in the 60s and 70s, then why not head on this amazing Vintage Hippie Sightseeing Tour? With this tour, you’ll hop in a vintage VW camper van and tour the Malibu area! This is such a lovely choice for sightseeing in LA.
Along the way, you’ll take memorable photos, taste the best California wines, and check out some of the most iconic beaches in California. Though this tour is a bit bizarre, it’s really one of the best ways through which to see the city! It’s a perfect way to enjoy some sightseeing in LA. This is definitely one of the most unique things to do in LA.
Natural History Museum
Next on list of sightseeing in LA, it’s the Natural History Museum. This is a classic choice for sightseeing in LA, it’s one of those museums that just ticks all the boxes and the majority of people will find it entertaining and educational too!
We recommend booking tickets in advance here – just to make sure you secure them! This is classic sightseeing in LA, and great for all kinds of people and groups.
Surfing at Venice Beach
What about including a surfing lesson on your itinerary for sightseeing in LA? If you’re a huge surfing fan but haven’t quite worked up the courage to try it yet, then you’ll want to check out this amazing surfing tour at Venice Beach. As the guys that run this tour are all professional surfers, this is one of the best places to learn how to surf in the world!
It doesn’t hurt that LA sees a whole lot of sun, so you won’t be shivering in the frigid waters either – hooray! Don’t worry about equipment, as there is a surfboard and wetsuit provided for everyone that books onto the course.
Olvera Street
Next on our list for sightseeing in LA, it’s Olvera Street. If you love meandering around local markets and finding unique products – then you’ll absolutely love Olvera Street, and it should definitely make our list of things to do in LA.
It’s basically an outdoor market, with a cultural feel of Mexico (dating back to when California was still part of Mexico). There are restaurants, vendors, stalls, etc – and it’s a lot of fun to browse, it’s a lovely way to do some sightseeing in LA.
Read more about sightseeing in LA: Fun non-touristy things to do in LA
Celebrity Homes Tour
One of the best things to do if you’re really looking to nail your sightseeing in LA is a brilliant Celebrity Homes Tour. If you’re even remotely curious about the lives of the rich and famous, then you’ll want to book one of these in advance as they tend to sell out quickly.
However, it’s not only celebrity homes that you’ll encounter on this tour, but you’ll also be taken past some of LA’s most iconic sights. With the Hollywood Sign, Hollywood Walk of Fame, Chinese Theatre and the Capitol Records Building all being visible on this tour, it’s actually a great way to get your sightseeing done as quickly as possible! This is the classic choice when it comes to sightseeing in LA.
Disneyland Resort
We couldn’t write a list of ideas for sightseeing in LA, and not mention the famous Disneyland Resort. This is one of the main reasons people visit LA, and it’s the home of magic!
We don’t need to tell you any more about the Disneyland Resort, if you know you know. And who doesn’t know about the magic of Disney? This is one of the most iconic things to do in LA.
See the Los Angeles Coastline by helicopter
Next on our list of sightseeing in LA, it’s a coastline helicopter tour. Now, we recommend this particular coastline helicopter tour, because we know they take you over all the most beautiful parts of coastline and give you plenty of time to enjoy and soak in those amazing views.
This is one of those activities for sightseeing in LA, that feels utterly magical and once-in-a-lifetime. We definitely recommend adding this to your list for sightseeing in LA – especially if you love epic views and photography.
LA Cannabis Tour: The 420 Experience
Now for something a bit different on this list of sightseeing in LA. If you’re looking to light things up, then why not consider heading on a unique LA Cannabis Tour? Though this one obviously isn’t for the kids, it provides an interesting look into Los Angeles’ marijuana culture. As each trip caters to the vibe of the group, no one tour is the same.
However, each tour will explore a High-End Dispensary, Cannabis Growth Facility, and even a Cannabis restaurant! Now, this tour won’t be for everyone, but it’s an interesting look into an important part of LA’s culture, so if it interests you why not give it a try? Not your average choice for sightseeing in LA, but if you’re into it -then you’ll enjoy this!
Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive is a great choice for sightseeing in LA. If you fancy some retail therapy (or just some window shopping) then you need to head to Rodeo Drive Rodeo Drive is full of amazing design boutiques and stores and it’s a really great place to spend the day meandering around.
Even if you don’t have a big shopping budget, this neighborhood is so pretty, that’s it’s lovely just to go and walk around and soak in the atmosphere. This is a must for some laid back sightseeing in LA and a great option for things to do in LA.
The Getty Villa
Next on our list of sightseeing in LA, it’s The Getty Villa. This amazing location is a stunning museum, which holds some truly wonderful artworks from the ancient greek and roman historical periods.
As well as the artwork, it’s also a beautiful villa and the sheer scale and architecture is a sight to behold! Definitely, something to add to you schedule for sightseeing in LA.
Descanso Gardens
Descanso Gardens is next on our list for sightseeing in LA. Descanso Gardens is a 150-acre botanical garden, so if you love plants and floristry, then this should definitely be on your list for sightseeing in LA. It’s a wonderfully presented botanical garden!
California Science Center
Next on our list of sightseeing in LA, it’s the California Science Center. If you’re into educational things to do in LA, and you like learning new things – then the California Science Center is going to be right up your street.
It’s a fantastic museum, and it’s really fascinating to stroll around and learn from all the science-themed exhibits.
Things to do in LA: Mulholland Drive
And last on our list of sightseeing in LA, it’s Mulholland Drive. This isn’t an ‘activity’ as such, but more a place in the city to experience! You’ll have seen Mulholland Drive in movies and TV shows, and driving along it yourself is a must-do experience when sightseeing in LA.
We hope that this guide to sightseeing in LA has been helpful.
When it comes to tours and day trips, it can be difficult to narrow down what’s right for you, but there are so many great options for sightseeing in LA – so you shouldn’t struggle for ideas! So, hopefully our handy guide to sightseeing in LA and things to do in LA, has helped to point you in the right direction!
