So, you’ve decided that Los Angeles will be your next big adventure? Awesome choice! LA is a city that’s got it all—beaches, mountains, movie magic, and a cultural scene just as diverse as its people.
But before you pack your bags and head to the City of Angels, there’s a lot you’ll want to know to make the most of your trip.
So, before you jump on that plane, let’s get you fully prepped with the best times to visit, must-see attractions, and all the insider tips you need to navigate this huge, sun-soaked city like a local.
Key Takeaways
- To avoid summer's heavy crowds and scorching heat, aim to visit Los Angeles in the Spring (March to May) or fall (September to November).
- Consider using a mix of public transportation, rideshares like Uber and Lyft, and even renting a bike or scooter for shorter trips. Plan your routes to avoid peak traffic times, and don’t forget to factor in some extra time for LA’s infamous traffic.
- To experience LA like a local, seek out lesser-known spots alongside the big attractions. Check out neighborhood gems like the Venice Canals, Echo Park Lake, and local food trucks.
Best Time to Travel to Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a great place to visit any time of year, but the best time to visit largely depends on what you want to experience.
Here’s a guide to help you decide when to go based on the weather, crowds, and activities available.
Spring (March to May)
It’s safe to say that Spring is one of the best times to visit—the weather is nice and mild, with temperatures from the low 50s to mid-70s Fahrenheit (10-24°C).
It’s less crowded than summer, so it’s perfect for checking out attractions like Griffith Park or catching events like the LA Marathon and food festivals.
Not to mention, the flowers are blooming, especially in spots like the Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve, so you’ll be able to take in the gorgeous scenery.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the busiest time in LA, with lots of visitors drawn by the warm weather and tons of events. Of course, it’s super hot this time of year—temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (18-29°C).
So, it’s the best time for beach days and big events like the LA Pride Parade or outdoor movies, but be ready for crowds and higher prices.
Fall (September to November)
Fall is another great time to visit, especially if you want to skip the summer crowds while still enjoying warm weather.
With fall temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to low 80s Fahrenheit (18-27°C) and clear skies, it’s an excellent time for outdoor activities like hiking and garden visits.
Meanwhile, you can enjoy cultural events like street festivals, Halloween parties, and Thanksgiving parades.
Winter (December to February)
Los Angeles’s winter is mild, with temperatures ranging from 45°F to 65°F (10-18°C).
Though it’s not the best for beach activities, there’s still plenty to do, especially with holiday events like the Rose Bowl Parade, Christmas celebrations, and the Lunar New Year.
Oh, and it’s also a great time to check out museums or LA’s food scene, and you might find better deals on flights and hotels.
Best Places to Visit in Los Angeles
When visiting Los Angeles, there’s no shortage of amazing places to see and unforgettable experiences.
Below are some must-see attractions and activities to include in your itinerary:
1. Universal Studios Hollywood
Aside from being a theme park, Universal Studios Hollywood is a real movie studio where you can see what goes on behind the scenes of famous movies.
The studio tour, which lasts about an hour, shows you movie sets like the plane crash scene from War of the Worlds and the Bates Motel from Psycho.
On top of that, the theme park has rides like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic World. Tickets start at $109 for a day and $159 for two days.
2. Griffith Park and Observatory
Griffith Park, one of the largest city parks in the U.S., offers plenty of trails and picnic spots. Right in the middle of the park is the Griffith Observatory—a must-see for anyone interested in astronomy or just wanting great views of LA and the Hollywood Sign.
Also, the observatory features free exhibits on space and science, so it’s a fascinating stop for visitors.
3. Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood Boulevard, the heart of LA’s entertainment scene, is bustling with activity. Among its top attractions is the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you’ll spot the stars of your favorite celebrities embedded in the sidewalk.
Just a short walk away, you’ll find the TCL Chinese Theatre, famous for its celebrity handprints and footprints, and the Dolby Theatre, the iconic home of the Oscars.
Since it’s a lively area, heading out early is a smart move to avoid the crowds.
4. Art and Culture on Grand Avenue
Grand Avenue is where you’ll find LA’s cultural landmarks, including the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad Museum.
For example, the Walt Disney Concert Hall, designed by Frank Gehry, is home to the LA Philharmonic and features stunning architecture.
Just across the street, the Broad Museum displays an impressive collection of modern art, including the famous Infinity Mirror Rooms by Yayoi Kusama.
Remember to book your tickets in advance to make the most of your visit.
5. Paramount Pictures Studio Tour
Paramount Pictures offers a more personal and historically rich studio tour than others. The two-hour guided tour takes you through iconic sets like the New York Street backlot.
As the oldest major studio still operating in Hollywood, Paramount is packed with history, making this tour a great way to explore the world of movies.
6. Venice Beach and Venice Canals
Venice Beach is a lively area known for its bohemian vibe. You can check out the Venice Skate Park or take a peaceful walk along the Venice Canals, which feel like a little slice of Venice, Italy.
The canals are surrounded by cute houses and greenery, making it a great spot for photos, especially at sunset.
Close to Venice Beach, you can hit up the boulevard packed with cool shops, art galleries, restaurants, and bars.
On the first Friday of every month, the street turns into a lively scene with live music and food trucks. Without a doubt, it’s one of the trendiest spots in town, with tons of action and locals hanging out all day and night.
7. Nightlife on the Sunset Strip
The Sunset Strip is the place for LA nightlife—this part of Sunset Boulevard is packed with famous music venues, bars, and restaurants.
Whether you want to catch a live show at Whisky a Go Go or enjoy a comedy night at The Comedy Store, the Strip has it all.
Nearby Beverly Hills offers a more upscale evening with fancy dining and the chance to spot a celebrity.
8. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
LACMA is the largest art museum on the West Coast, and it has a diverse collection of art from around the globe.
From ancient artifacts to modern works by Picasso and Matisse, there’s something for everyone.
And don’t miss “Urban Light,” the museum’s outdoor installation that’s a favorite for photos and a great way to wrap up your visit.
9. Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica Pier is a great spot for a fun day at the beach. You’ll find Pacific Park here, featuring an amusement park with a solar-powered Ferris wheel and various food trucks serving up treats like funnel cakes.
Just a short walk away, Santa Monica Beach is perfect for unwinding, taking a swim, or playing volleyball.
10. Angeles National Forest
If you want to escape the city, the Angeles National Forest offers beautiful natural scenery just a short drive from downtown LA.
The forest has lots of hiking trails, including challenging ones like the hike up Mount San Antonio, the highest peak in LA County. Thus, it’s a great place for hiking, camping, or enjoying the outdoors.
11. Echo Park Lake
Echo Park Lake is a lovely spot near downtown LA where you can rent a swan pedal boat and cruise around the water.
The lake is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers sublime views of the downtown skyline, especially at sunset—a peaceful escape from the city hustle.
12. The Original Farmers Market
The Original Farmers Market at 3rd and Fairfax has been around since 1934 and is a beloved LA spot.
You’ll find a variety of food vendors offering everything from fresh produce to international dishes.
It’s a great place to grab a bite, browse unique shops, and enjoy the atmosphere of one of the city’s oldest marketplaces.
How to Get Around Los Angeles
Getting around Los Angeles can be tricky with its sprawling layout and notorious traffic, but don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to make your visit easier and more enjoyable.
Here’s a handy guide to help you navigate the city like a pro:
1. Public Transportation: Metro and Buses
The Los Angeles Metro system, which includes buses, light rail, and subways, is a budget-friendly way to get around the city.
You’ll need a TAP card to use public transit, and fares are pretty cheap, with a one-way ticket costing $1.75 and a daily cap of $5.
Key Metro lines include the B Line, which takes you from Downtown LA to Hollywood, and the E Line, which goes from Santa Monica to Downtown LA.
Buses like the Metro Local, Metro Rapid, and Metro Express cover different routes, and DASH buses are a quick and cheap option for short trips, like getting to the Griffith Observatory.
2. Ridesharing Services: Uber and Lyft
Uber and Lyft are available all over Los Angeles and are great for late-night trips or trips to places where public transit isn’t easily accessible.
They offer door-to-door service but keep in mind that prices can increase during busy times. This option is flexible, letting you visit various spots without worrying about parking.
3. Car Rental
Renting a car is a popular choice if you want to explore Los Angeles at your own pace.
It allows you to go wherever you want, but be ready for heavy traffic, especially during rush hours, and finding parking can be tough in busy areas.
Using navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps can help you avoid traffic and find the best routes.
4. Biking and Scooters
Consider renting a bike or an electric scooter to explore areas like Venice Beach and Santa Monica in a more eco-friendly and fun way.
The city has plenty of bike lanes and paths that make it easier to get around without a car.
Also, electric scooters are available for short trips, mainly in Downtown LA and Venice.
5. Guided Tours
Getting around the city alone can feel daunting, so you can always join a guided tour.
These tours usually include transportation and make it easy to see major attractions like celebrity homes, studio backlots, or famous landmarks without worrying about planning your route.
Hop-on-hop-off buses are another excellent option if you want to explore at your own pace while following a set route.
6. Airport Transfers
When you arrive at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), there are a few ways to get to your hotel, like the FlyAway Bus, which offers direct routes to different parts of the city.
You can also use rideshare services or rent a car at the airport for more personalized transportation.
Safety Tips for Traveling in Los Angeles
When traveling in Los Angeles, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and take certain precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Here are some key safety tips to keep in mind:
- Stay in Safe Areas: Popular tourist spots like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica are generally safe, but it’s best to avoid specific neighborhoods, especially after dark.
Areas like Skid Row, South Central, and some parts of Downtown LA can be more dangerous, particularly at night.
- Avoid Flashing Valuables: Don’t display expensive jewelry, electronics, or large amounts of cash, especially in areas with a higher crime rate. This can make you a target for theft.
- Emergency Services: In case of an emergency, the LAPD offers resources like crime maps and non-emergency tip lines.
Get Ready to Experience LA Like Never Before
And that’s a wrap to our LA travel guide!
Finally, you’re all set to make the most of your trip to Los Angeles! No matter when you choose to go, LA is ready to welcome you with open arms and endless things to do.
Remember to stay safe, plan ahead, and take a moment to enjoy the vibe of LA—the mix of sunshine, culture, and that unmistakable Hollywood magic.
Now, it’s time to book your stay, pack your bags, get ready for some sunshine, and let the City of Angels show you an unforgettable time.
Safe travels, and enjoy every moment!
