Top Rated Attractions in Los Angeles

Rendered in Art Deco style, this observatory was constructed in the early 1930s and is a highlight among landmarks in Southern California. See incredible light shows at the Oschin Planetarium, which puts the latest technology through the paces. Outside the observatory, you are accorded sweeping views of the nearby area, which is breathtaking during the day as well as at night. Exhibits and planetarium shows fascinate visitors. Some visitors might recognize the observatory as the site where the climax of Rebel Without a Cause was filmed. On clear nights, take advantage of the free public telescopes to see the stars up close.

Venice is known for its beach, the glorious stretch of pristine white sands, the warm sunshine and the palm trees making for the perfect postcard. You need not step onto the beach to experience the vibrant culture of Venice, just walk along the bustling boardwalk and you will see the local scene unfold before you. Watch the street performers mesmerize spectators with their talents, buy something unique from any of the shops that line the Boardwalk, or catch the attraction that is the Muscle Beach, which features an amazing outdoor gym and is extremely popular among weightlifters and gymnasts.

Sprawling across 80 acres, this spacious park is known for its sprawling lake tucked away in the San Fernando Valley. You can jog or walk along the lakeside as you watch the graceful swans and ducks glide through the water or enjoy a leisurely picnic beneath the Japanese Cherry Blossom trees. You can also indulge in activities like kayaking, biking and fishing. A children's playground will keep the little ones entertained while dogs run around in the grassy area. Barbecues, picnic tables and shady areas make this park a family-friendly locale.

Japan's top architect, Arata Isozaki, built the Museum of Contemporary Art, or MOCA as it is called by locals, in 1986. The series of bright galleries with exposed vaults display some of this century's finest artwork. Works by Mark Rothco, Franz Kline, Claes Oldenburg and more are displayed year-round. In addition to the curators, artists and critics frequently give guided tours. Inside the museum is a great restaurant called Patinette serving great Mediterranean cuisine.

Vintage locomotives and autocars are featured at The Nethercutt Museum, making it a haven for an automobile enthusiast. The founder J.B. Nethercutt began his collection in 1956, which was later transformed into a museum that could be enjoyed by the public. Apart from cars, this place also exhibits antique furniture and musical instruments. Though the museum can be visited without a guide, The Nethercutt Collection, located across the street, can only be perused through a guided tour.

Naples Island in Long Beach, located in the middle of Alamitos Bay, was the brainchild of Arthur Parson, who wanted to create a romantic spot that resembled Italy. He dug canals and built cozy cottage homes on the water. There is a park in the center of the island and a small beach encircling most of it. The most charming part of the island is the gondola rides that can be taken through the canals.