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.

An iconic attraction in Hollywood, Universal Studios is a must-visit for anyone who enjoys the thrill and excitement of a theme park. With a slate of ever-changing attractions, the park is a great outing for the whole family and can easily take up an entire day. After the guided tour, you can wander around the park, and get something to eat at one of the numerous restaurants and cafes scattered around its sprawl. Later, take in various shows like WaterWorld or visit the Dreamworks Art Theater. Some other park attractions that will definitely get your adrenaline pumping include the Revenge of the Mummy Ride, various rides at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and the acclaimed King Kong 360-3D virtual ride.

This lavish pantheon of fame and glamor captured in wax is one of Hollywood’s crown jewels. Hailing from London, Madame Tussauds brings to Hollywood its world-class interactive viewing entertainment, great for all ages. Located on Hollywood Boulevard, just next to TCL Chinese Theatre, the museum is hard to miss due to its open-air façade with a few wax figures casually spilling out on the sidewalk. Come in and stroll the vast grounds populated with the rich and famous (as well as the infamous) and the beautiful and formidable. Whether it is shaking hands with President Obama or wrapping your arm around Mae West, you will be exhilarated by the lifelike, vivid portrayals and infinite photo ops.

Located on the flood control basin of the Hansen Dam, Hansen Dam Recreation Area is an extensive recreational park. It features two artificial lakes - one for fishing and the other for swimming. The fishing lake also allows paddling and rowing. Both of these water bodies are manned by life guards. Picnic spots, equestrian, hiking and walking trails, a skate park, playground and restrooms are added amenities of this place.

The famed town of Beverly Hills is arguably synonymous with Los Angeles. From opulent mansions to the glamour associated with Hollywood, Beverly Hills embodies the essence of LA's fanciful lifestyle. There is a lot to enjoy here, enough to justify a day visit, if not more. You may start by exploring the heart of Beverly Hills, the fabulous Rodeo Drive and the adjacent streets, all lined with some of the best world-class boutiques from coast to coast. Visit a few art galleries, such as the Gagosian and Christie's Los Angeles, located in the same area. Grab a bite to eat at one of the more casual cafes and bakeries, or splurge at the legendary Spago. Dozens of top-notch spas are at your fingertips. A mid-afternoon stroll through the lush Beverly Hills Park provides a nice change of pace and a natural respite between your urban explorations. West Melrose and Robertson shopping districts await insatiable shoppers looking to explore further.

Disney's magic kingdom, Disneyland Park in Anaheim is the original theme park. A labor of love designed by Walt Disney himself, it is the only one of the franchises to have been built directly under his utmost care. Since its grand opening in 1955, this theme park has become renowned as a place where dreams come true, where ogres, dragons, and wizards roam, and where dazzling visions of the future get realized. Disneyland Park comprises nine captivating themed lands like Critter Country and Mickey's Toontown. Here, fairytale princesses and Mickey Mouse greet visitors of every age and welcome them into a world of thrilling experiences where magical lands come to life and where imagination knows no bounds.