Why Go to Los Angeles
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Los Angeles lives up to some of its stereotypes and shatters others. Yes, it's sprawling and the freeways can be packed, but it's also one of the most diverse cities in America, made up of dozens of distinct neighborhoods, each with its own personality. There's Hollywood glamour and movie magic, but also world-class art and architecture at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the Getty Center.
As the entertainment capital of the world, LA lets you peek behind the scenes on studio tours at Warner Bros. and Paramount, or head to Universal Studios Hollywood for rides and backlot tours. Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame and see the Hollywood Sign from Griffith Observatory. The food scene is one of the best in the country, from taco trucks to award-winning restaurants. For sun and sand, head to the beaches of Santa Monica and Malibu, or people-watch along the Venice Beach boardwalk. Hike the trails of Griffith Park and the Angeles National Forest for a break from the city.
LA covers more than 500 square miles, so the key to a great trip is choosing a smart base and planning your days by area. I'll do exactly that, and add Disneyland or a cruise from San Pedro or Long Beach.
BEST FOR
Film fans, foodies, museumgoers and beach lovers
BEST MONTHS
March to May and September to November
EXPLORE
Hollywood has entertainment landmarks; Downtown offers museums and architecture; Santa Monica and Venice are coastal destinations; West Hollywood is known for restaurants and nightlife.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Los Angeles
North America › West Coast › USA › California
Hollywood glamour, sunny beaches and world-class culture in the City of Angels.
Coastal & Harbor
Entertainment
Hollywood
Culinary
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
Plan your days by neighborhood to avoid traffic. LA is huge, and staying in one area at a time saves hours in the car.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Visit at sunset for views of the city lights and the Hollywood Sign.
Griffith Observatory
A famous observatory in the hills above Hollywood, with free admission, telescopes and stunning city views.
Parking has a fee, but admission is free; don't miss the Central Garden.
Getty Center
A stunning hilltop museum with world-class art, gardens and sweeping views, with free admission.
Ride the solar-powered Ferris wheel at sunset.
Santa Monica Pier
A classic pier with an amusement park, a Ferris wheel and the end of Route 66.
Look for handprints and footprints in the forecourt of the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
The famous sidewalk of stars along Hollywood Boulevard, near the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Don't miss the Studio Tour and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Universal Studios Hollywood
A working movie studio and theme park with rides, shows and the famous Studio Tour.
The legendary "Pink Palace" on Sunset Boulevard, a Hollywood icon.
The Beverly Hills Hotel
Beverly Hills / Sunset Boulevard
Hotel Tags
A secluded luxury hotel in Bel Air, famous for its gardens and swans.
Hotel Bel-Air
Bel Air / Stone Canyon Road
Hotel Tags
A modern luxury hotel in Century City, with a spa and elegant rooms.
Fairmont Century Plaza
Century City
Hotel Tags
A luxury hotel in a Frank Gehry-designed building in Downtown LA.
Conrad Los Angeles
Downtown / Grand Avenue
Hotel Tags
A luxury hotel in the tallest building in LA, with a sky lobby and stunning views.
InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown
Downtown / Wilshire Grand
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Los Angeles
High 73°F · Low 53°F · Rain 1.1 in
The Hollywood Christmas Parade marches down Hollywood Boulevard after Thanksgiving.
The best times to visit Los Angeles are March through May and September through November, when the weather is warm and pleasant. Summer is sunny and hot, while early summer can bring morning clouds known as "June Gloom." Winter is mild and sunny.
Best Times to Visit Los Angeles
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
LA's food scene is one of the most diverse in the world, from taco trucks and Korean barbecue to celebrity-chef restaurants.
- Tacos: Try the city's legendary taco trucks and taquerías.
- Koreatown: Enjoy Korean barbecue late into the night.
- Must-try: Street tacos, Korean barbecue, an In-N-Out burger and a French dip sandwich.
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Walking
Some neighborhoods, like Santa Monica and Downtown, are easy to explore on foot.
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Buses
Metro buses cover the city, though trips can be slow.
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Taxis & Rideshares
Rideshares are the most popular way to get around without a car.
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Metro Rail
LA Metro trains connect Downtown, Hollywood, Santa Monica and Universal Studios.
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Rental Cars
A car is the easiest way to explore LA's sprawling neighborhoods, though traffic can be heavy.
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Flying In
Los Angeles International (LAX) is the main gateway. Hollywood Burbank (BUR) and Long Beach (LGB) are smaller, easier alternatives.
Most visitors fly into LAX, Burbank or Long Beach. A rental car or rideshare is the easiest way to get around, while Metro rail connects key areas like Downtown, Hollywood and Santa Monica.
Getting Around Los Angeles