Los Angeles is one of those places you simply have to visit once in your lifetime. Be it the Hollywood sign, or find your favorite star on the Walk of Fame. Pick up your credit card at Rodeo Drive. Live like a tourist, then go deeper.
While it's easy to get lost in tourist traps, there's so much more to this city than you think. LA is full of fun things to do – you just have to know where to look.
Whether it's just a quick stop on a California road trip or you're planning a long weekend in the city, La-La Land will steal your heart.
Ready to see the real LA? Here are ten things to do in Los Angeles that aren't the Hollywood sign (lol).
the last bookstore
In the heart of downtown Los Angeles, you'll find the state's largest new and used bookstore. This independent bookstore covers a whopping 22,000 square feet.
It's the perfect place to get lost in the mountains of stories and find your perfect Los Angeles souvenir.
Curiosity: there's a 2016 documentary about the place called Welcome to The Last Bookstore. It tells the interesting story of the shop owner who rethinks his life after an injury. And, minor spoiler, he's inspired to open a bookstore.
Bradbury Building
if you saw The Artist, Blade Runner or 500 Days of Summer, you will probably recognize the Bradbury Building. This historic building was built in 1893 and is the oldest historic building in Los Angeles.
Built by a 19th-century millionaire in an Italian Renaissance style, the Bradbury Building is open for tours daily.
Explore the Parisian-inspired interior and immerse yourself in rich history. This gorgeous spot is a design lover's dream and a great stopover for any traveller.
Grand Central Market has been a downtown landmark since 1917.
Great Central Market
If you're looking for things to do in Los Angeles and want something yummy, the grand central market definitely deserves a spot on your list.
Since 1917, this emporium has housed the best food vendors and florists in town.
From Thai comfort food to oysters and currywurst, Grand Central Market is an epicenter of flavors from the heart of Los Angeles. Sip Asian teas, explore cool international markets and stop to smell the roses.
Be sure to check the events calendar before you go. Try your luck at game night, catch a movie or treat yourself on National Cheese Day… or National Pie Day… or National Pizza Day.
Basically, any night of the week at the central market is an excuse to treat yourself.
Griffith Observatory
On Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park (on the south facing slope) you will find the world famous Griffith Observatory.
More than just a gateway to the cosmos, you'll find the best views in town here. You'll have breathtaking views of downtown, Hollywood and the Pacific Ocean.
Take the perfect Los Angeles selfie, look into the free public telescopes and soak in the beauty in every direction. You could easily spend an afternoon here learning, exploring and, of course, admiring the Hollywood sign!
Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Arguably one of the coolest things to do in Los Angeles is see a movie at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery!
Next to the studios Paramount Pictures, you can pay tribute to some of the greatest actors in the world. Stop by the flower shop on your way in to pick up a map of celebrity gravesites and walk through a piece of Hollywood history.
Before you go, check the events calendar. Catching a movie here is a summer highlight and is just one of the many activities they have throughout the year.
mosaic house
You've never seen a place quite like this 1940's marvel. This beautiful art gallery is unlike any place you've ever been.
Explore the colorful tiles and beautiful glass mosaics. If you're lucky, you might even get the chance to chat with the owners of this wonderland.
You won't find the mosaic house on most lists, it is definitely a unique place to visit in the Los Angeles area.
Above is Gonzalo, husband of the artistic duo that created the mosaic kingdom. The entire wall is a painted mural, depicting the events that led to his meeting his wife and scenes from her life. He is so excited to share his journey and inspire others to live passionately creative lives.
Chinatown
For a dreamy afternoon of shopping and incredible food, Chinatown in LA is my go-to destination. Browse the grocery stores and gift shops hidden inside the pagoda-style buildings. Sample dim sum under the red lanterns.
When you're full, explore the Thien Hau Taoist Temple and continue to the hidden galleries and dark bars that dot the winding roads.
Olvera Street
Founded in 1781, Olvera Street is the heart of the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument. This vibrant cultural hub offers a taste of Mexican culture as a chance to explore the oldest part of Los Angeles.
Stroll along the pedestrian street while admiring the historic spaces and tree-lined streets until you reach Avenida Cesar Chavez
Greystone Mansion and Park
Greystone Mansion, or Doheny Mansion as it is sometimes called, is a famous Tudor Revival mansion in Beverly Hills' Trousdale Estates.
You'll recognize this place as soon as you arrive. Famous movies like The Bodyguard, Big Lebowski, The Prestige, The Social Network and X-Men were all filmed here.
angel flight
This funicular is a much-loved landmark in downtown Los Angeles. Two cars, Olivet and Sinai, will take you up and down Bunker Hill neighborhoods on a nearly 300-foot incline.
Not only does the ride to Voo do Anjo only cost US $ 1, but it will also give you a great view as you make your way around the long walk up the stairs.
Bonus: Santa Monica and Venice Beach
A trip to LA wouldn't be complete without a day at the beach at Santa Monica and Venice.
The two areas are close together so you can easily reach them in one day. Best of all, even if it's not hot enough for a tan, there's plenty to do around town.
My first place to start any beach day is Abbot Kinney Blvd. This trendy area is full of funky boutiques. Grab a coffee at Tom's flagship store or Intelligentsia Coffee and start exploring.
When dinnertime comes around, there's no place in town like gjelina🇧🇷 This place can book well in advance so grab a table online before you do.
Feeling inspired?
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