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.

Located in beautiful Griffith Park and given to the City of Los Angeles as a gift in 1896, the Greek Theater is an outdoor concert venue you must experience while staying in L.A. Though it can seat more than 6,000 patrons, you may never again enjoy such a truly intimate setting for listening to one of your favorite performers. Surrounded by trees, the space offers outstanding acoustics. Whether you prefer classical music, rock, easy listening or jazz, you'll love this place. Ticket prices vary widely and can often be somewhat expensive. Depending on the time of year, you'll probably want to bring along a sweater or jacket, since you'll be seated outdoors in a city that can get a bit chilly in the evenings. On show nights the box office remains open for 30 minutes before the show.

After Palace Theater was converted for films of the silent era, the Orpheum vaudeville circuit moved here for its remaining years. Just as the Los Angeles Theater, it emulates the opulence of a French palace, boasting a marble lobby or foyer, a gold gilded ceiling and a rare organ. One of the landmarks in the region, the theater continues to host multiple events, both corporate and private; shows, musical and otherwise; and live concerts and gigs by big-ticket performers. Tickets can be booked online or at the box office, one hour prior to the show.

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.

Since its inception in 1961, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) has been devoted to collecting works of art going back to ancient times. Today, the museum features exceptionally notable collections of Asian, Latin American, European, and American art and houses a contemporary museum on its campus, Broad Contemporary Art Museum (BCAM). With this expanded space for contemporary art, innovative collaborations with artists, and an ongoing transformation project, LACMA is creating a truly modern lens through which to view its comprehensive fine collection of more than 100,000 works. With this much to explore, it is an ideal spot to spend an entire day at the museum.

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.