Top Rated Attractions in Los Angeles

Bhagavad Gita Museum is a unique Los Angeles gem. Established in 1977, its aim was to teach visitors about the Bhagavad Gita, a 700-verse Hindu scripture calling for selfless action. You will gain an insight into the scriptures through eleven large dioramas that depict colorful scenes. Some of the awe-inspiring dioramas include the Changing Bodies diorama and the the Precarious Condition of the Living Entity diorama. You'll also see animatronics that help bring life to the story. Sign up for a guided tour to gain a deeper insight into the museum exhibits.

Specializing in stained glass work, the Judson Studio is situated in the Highland Park Section, Los Angeles. The studio was founded in the 1890s by William Lees Judson along with his three sons. It has composed, invented and installed various shapes of architectural glass. The studio stands as one of the most distinguished experts in the said field. It is host to various events that tend to enhance the practical knowledge of the art. Special hour-long tours are offered weekly.

Long Beach Firefighter's Museum is a tribute to firefighting in the city. This museum has an interesting collection of ancient firefighting engines and other vehicles, old technology and equipment, leather buckets, hoses, ladders, and other items that date back to the early 20th century. The museum is run by local firefighters and volunteers who are very friendly and are responsible for maintaining it. The museum is open on Wednesdays and every second Saturday and is definitely worth a visit when in the city.

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.

The Huntington, formerly the estate of Henry E. Huntington, is a cultural oasis offering a captivating blend of history, art, and nature. Here, you will find an extensive library filled with rare books, a large art collection containing numerous European prints and paintings, botanical gardens of almost unmatched splendor and a forum for regular lectures and other activities. You will also find a fine bookstore, cafe and tea room on the grounds. Come and wander through the colorful gardens, lily ponds and beautiful sculptures. The rare books and manuscripts in the library include some of the earliest editions of Shakespeare's works, a copy of the Gutenberg Bible on vellum and the Ellesmere manuscript of one or more of Chaucer's greatest works. A great place for those looking to enjoy a good read in a serene setting.

Endowed by industrialist, financier, and philanthropist Norton Simon (1907-1993), the Norton Simon Museum that bears his name is an extraordinary window into art and antiquities. This museum houses the single largest collection of art assembled by one man. Here, you will find art spanning several centuries and exhibited both in the galleries and in the charming gardens. Simon collected years' worth of artworks from the Indian subcontinent, as well as works from Tibet, Nepal, and Cambodia. In addition, there are works by Rembrandt, Rubens, Goya, Botticelli, Renoir, Van Gogh, and many more. The bookstore has an outstanding collection of art books. See their website for further details.