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.

Crypto.com Arena, located in downtown Los Angeles, is an iconic multi-purpose arena that has become a central hub for sports and entertainment since its opening in 1999. Formerly known as the Staples Center, the arena is home to several major sports franchises, including the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers (NBA), and the Los Angeles Kings (NHL). With a seating capacity of around 19,000 for basketball and 18,000 for hockey, it offers an intimate yet dynamic atmosphere for fans and concertgoers alike. The arena has hosted numerous high-profile events, including the Grammy Awards, NBA Finals, and the Democratic National Convention.

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.

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.

Art finds expression, culture finds a solid canvas, and entertainment blooms at Venice Beach, a charming beachfront neighborhood. Stretching two and a half miles along the edge of Los Angeles, Venice Beach is one of the city’s most recognizable strips of seaside real estate. Modeled on the romantic Venice in Italy, this waterfront town is quirky and charismatic, teamed with a thriving music scene. Its boulevards are lined with Californian palm trees, which deeply contrast the cottages resting under charming pastel facades. The neighborhood's expanse is stippled with an array of beachfront hotels, restaurants and open volleyball courts. Its many vibrant murals lend a vibrant hue, and the neighborhood boasts some iconic landmarks like Muscle Beach and the ultra-bohemian Abbot Kinney Boulevard, which is a shopping wonderland. A jewel of the West Coast, 'Venice' is a splendid locus of aesthetics, creativity and an indelible Californian spirit.