What is Los Angeles famous for?

Los Angeles has provided the backdrop to many blockbusters and anthems - but what makes it so special? Find out in our Tinseltown deep-dive.

By Seren Morris
Palm Trees

Los Angeles, or LA, is one of the most well-known cities in the world. Hollywood stars, the TV & movie industries, and gorgeous beaches all make LA a popular vacation spot.

Check out our guide below on what makes Los Angeles famous. It’s full of tips on how to make the most of your LA vacation and has suggestions for tourist attractions and destinations including...

  • Hollywood attractions
  • The best beaches in LA
  • Theme parks
  • TV, Movie & Music Industries
  • LA-inspired pop culture

Top Los Angeles Facts
 

  • Los Angeles was founded on September 4, 1781.
  • The city's original name was El Pueblo de la Reina de Los Angeles (The Town of the Queen of Angels).
  • In 2018, 50 million people visited Los Angeles.
  • LA has various nicknames like La La Land and Tinseltown.
  • Los Angeles is the second-most populous city in the USA, after New York.
  • LA is the largest city on the West Coast.

Hollywood

One of the most famous areas in Los Angeles is Hollywood. It’s the neighborhood synonymous with the glamorous movie industry and where many celebrities call home. More importantly, there are so many things to do in Hollywood, so visiting this area should be at the top of your Los Angeles itinerary.

The Hollywood Sign

los-angeles-california-usa

An advertising company built the Hollywood sign in 1923 to read "Hollywoodland". Initially, the sign advertised a new housing development but was so popular that it became permanent. However, they dropped the “land” in 1946.

Today, you can hike the Hollywood Hills to see the sign up close or find a spot nearby to pose with the sign. Join the Hollywood Sign Tour for a guided hike through the Hollywood Hills area to learn all about this famous location. You'll be rewarded at the top with the best views over all of Los Angeles, all the way to the ocean!

Walk of Fame

The Walk of Fame was initially completed in 1961 and contained 1,558 stars. But that number steadily grew (an average of two stars is added each month) and now the Walk of Fame has more than 2,600 stars!

While exploring the Walk of Fame you will get to see other famous landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Dolby Theatre, too.

Hollywood Museum

Explore Hollywood’s history with a massive 3,500-square-foot collection of costumes and props at the Hollywood Museum. You will get to see famous Hollywood artifacts like Marilyn Monroe’s dress and Cary Grant’s Rolls Royce, not to mention fun exhibits like the Dungeon of Doom and Holy Hollywood History. This is a must-see attraction for movie buffs.

Los Angeles Beaches

The gorgeous beaches located on a 75-mile coastline, with stunning spots from Malibu to Long Beach, are one of the many reasons people visit LA. Here are our suggestions for the best Los Angeles beaches to visit...

Malibu

aerial-view-malibu-beach

Malibu is famous for its beaches, and the beautiful celebrity homes located along the coast. Take a tour of Malibu's Celebrity Homes and learn all about which stars call the area home. See homes belonging to Leonardo DiCaprio, Cher, and Bruce Willis, among others. You’ll also get the chance to explore the Malibu beach and pier.
 

Santa Monica

Santa Monica beach is lovely in its own right. But more importantly, the pier is worth a visit. The Pacific Park Santa Monica Pier is full of restaurants, shops, and of course, the Pacific Park amusement park.

With your pass, you can enjoy admission and unlimited access to Pacific Park’s twelve rides. You especially have to ride on Pacific Wheel, Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel, for amazing views of the beach and ocean.

Theme parks

Los Angeles is also known for its theme parks, so LA is the perfect city for thrill-seekers.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or in a group of adults, LA’s theme parks have something for everyone. Can't decide between Disneyland vs Universal Studios? See both!

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios

Universal Studios Hollywood is a theme park and a working film studio lot in one. Not only does it have tons of movie-themed rides and rollercoasters, it also has an interactive, theatrical Universal Studios Tour, which is partly a guided tour and partly a ride in its own right.

If you do anything at USH, it has to be the Studio tour. Be sure to check out our Universal Studios Hollywood guide before you go to make the most of your visit.

Knott’s Berry Farm

Knott’s Berry Farm was originally a family-run amusement park, that originated sometime in the 1920s. It is now one of the most visited theme parks in the USA. Additionally, its seasonal events, like Knott’s Scary Farm and Knott’s Merry Farm, are famous.

Whichever time of year you visit LA, be sure to visit Knott’s Berry Farm, and read our guide to Knott’s Berry Farm before you go.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Thrill-seekers have to visit Six Flags Magic Mountain. The high-thrill rides including the tallest, fastest and longest flying coaster, Tatsu, and the world’s tallest looping coaster, Full Throttle, make this park famous.

Moreover, Six Flags Magic Mountain also has kid-friendly rides, like a carousel and more in a Looney Tunes-themed area. To make the most of your visit, read our Six Flags Magic Mountain guide.

LEGOLAND California

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LEGOLAND California is guaranteed to be a hit with the kids. There’s no kid-area in this park – instead, little ones can enjoy access to more than 60 rides. Furthermore, to celebrate their 20th anniversary, there will be special events happening throughout the park all year round.

TV, movie & music industries

LA is the ideal destination for movie fans, as there are so many studio tours you can take. Music lovers will thrive on exploring the attractions dedicated to music-themed attractions located around the city. Here are some of our favorites. TV, movie, and music-themed attractions.

Sony Pictures Studio Tour

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Sony Pictures and see the sets of famous films like The Wizard of Oz and Spider-Man. Your guide will tell you everything you need to know about the studios as they take you around real, working sets. With this in mind, keep an eye out for actors!

Madame Tussauds Hollywood

madame-tussaud-outside-view
The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood is your chance to get up close to the stars. Take a selfie with Marilyn Monroe, and mingle with movie stars like Robin Williams and Nicole Kidman. Pop fans will love ‘meeting’ Beyonce, Madonna, and Lady Gaga. Plus, see stars of the small screen like Jane Lynch and Selena Gomez.

Dolby Theatre Tour

Movie fans have to visit the Dolby Theatre Tour, where the Academy Awards are hosted. On this 30-minute guided tour, you will see an Oscar statue, the Dolby lounge, and exclusive photos from past ceremonies.

The Hollywood Movie Experience

This 90-minute walking tour will take you to famous movie locations, as seen in films like La La Land and Ghostbusters. Firstly, your guide will tell you everything you want to know about the film industry and your favorite Hollywood A-listers. Secondly, you’ll get to ride on the Angels Flight Railway and see famous LA landmarks along the way.

GRAMMY Museum

collection-vinyl-records

This is a must-visit attraction for music fans. First of all, The GRAMMY Museum’s exhibits take place over four floors and teach you everything about the LA music industry. Secondly, you can see the Clive Davis Theater, where stars like Ringo Starr and Taylor Swift have performed.

Additionally, the GRAMMY museum often hosts events and concerts, so check their schedule before your visit to see what’s on.

Pop culture

As Los Angeles is such a famous city, it's no surprise that lots of movies and TV shows have been set here. Additionally, there are hundreds of songs with LA as their muse. Check out some of the most popular...

Movies: Loads of films are set here. Why not watch one to get in the LA spirit before your trip?:

  • La La Land
  • Clueless
  • Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
  • The Artist
  • Blade Runner
  • Pulp Fiction
  • Pretty Woman

Songs: There are endless songs about Los Angeles, too. Here are some you might consider adding to your LA playlist:

  • West Coast by Lana Del Rey
  • Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty
  • California Girls by the Beach Boys
  • California Dreamin' by the Mamas & The Papas
  • I Love LA by Randy Newman
  • Malibu by Miley Cyrus
  • Hollywood by Madonna
  • Tiny Dancer by Elton John

TV Shows: Lots of popular TV shows are set in LA – here are a few to watch before your vacation:

  • Modern Family
  • NCIS: Los Angeles
  • New Girl
  • The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
  • Baywatch
  • Beverly Hills, 90210
  • The Big Bang Theory

Save on admission to top Los Angeles attractions with Go City®  

Discover our full line-up of Los Angeles attractions including the Hollywood Sign Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott's Berry Farm, and more.  

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

Whichever Los Angeles pass you pick, you'll be able to see LA's best!

Seren Morris
Go City Travel Expert

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The Spectator's Guide to the Long Beach Marathon

The hours are ticking down to the 28th annual Long Beach International City Bank Marathon, which will take over the city on Sunday, October 7th. One of the most scenic and flat courses in America, the Long Beach Marathon draws tens of thousands of athletes and spectators each year. The course meanders through quaint seaside communities and urban landmarks, offering ocean views throughout 80% of the route. Although 23,000 athletes are expected to take part in the five events offered, only about 5,000 will be running the full marathon, making it a somewhat intimate event. Moreover, the certified marathon course is the perfect qualifier for other popular races, even the notorious Boston Marathon. As a spectator, you’ll appreciate Long Beach’s moderate Mediterranean climate and the spectacular views of the ocean and the cityscape along the race course. So whether you're a runner yourself, or just someone who loves excitement and good cheer, viewing the Long Beach Marathon is one of the truly unique things to do in Los Angeles. To make the most of your marathon experience, check out the guide below. Events Five separate athletic events will take place over the race weekend: the Marathon, Half-Marathon, 26.2 Mile Bike Tour, Run Forest Run 5k, and the Aquarium of the Pacific Kids Fun Run. The Kids Fun Run will take place on Saturday, October 6th, while all the other events will be held on the official race day (Sunday). The race day events will kick-off with the Bike Tour at 6 AM, followed by the Marathon and Half Marathon at 7AM and finally the Run Forest Run 5k at 8:30 AM. Fore more information on start times and specific waves, visit the Marathon’s official website. The Health & Fitness expo draws nearly 50,000 visitors each year, and is the perfect prelude to the race. A surplus of vendors and exhibitors will be on display, selling official Long Beach Marathon merchandise, including top-of-the-line performance gear, running caps, visors, headbands, and much more. The Finish Line Festival on Marina Green is THE place to be as exhausted runners cross the finish line. Celebrate with the athletes and enjoy a wide variety of vendors as well as a Beer Garden for those of age. Best Viewing Areas  The Long Beach Marathon boasts one of the most beautiful courses in the country. Start/Finish Line – As this is a loop course, you can catch the start and the end of the race without moving a muscle. You’ll also be able to enjoy the food, drinks, and other entertainment as the first runners cross the line. Situate yourself on Shoreline Drive between Linden and Pine. Belmont Plaza Olympic Pool (Mile 9) – Catch the runners here as they get into their groove. There’s a huge grass area to sit on while you wait for the runners. Colorado Lagoon (miles 14 and 22.5) – This is an ideal spot because you can catch the runners in two places, just by taking a quick walk along the grassy Lagoon. Cal State University (Mile 17-20) – If you want to be there for the runners as they “hit the wall,” find yourself a viewing spot by the California State Academy. Ocean Avenue between Livingston and Alamitos (Mile 24-26) – Cheer the runners on as they race to the finish on Ocean Avenue. You’ll also be able to catch the end of the half marathon from this spot. Accommodations Finding inexpensive accommodations on marathon weekend can be tricky. However, these hotels offer reasonable prices and still currently have vacancy. Best Western Golden Sails Hotel 6285 E Pacific Coast Highway Long Beach, California, 90803-4803 Phone: (562) 596-1631 Holiday Inn Downtown 1133 Atlantic Avenue Long Beach, California 90813 Phone: (562) 590-8858 Parking By far the most convenient place to park on race day is in the Convention Center/Arena/Terrace Theater parking lots. Although there is a $10 charge for parking, you will be located adjacent to the Long Beach Arena and will be within walking distance of the official start/finish line. Make Your Way Around LA While in Greater Los Angeles for the race day festivities, why not see what else the area has to offer? Spend the day before the marathon taking advantage of our Go Los Angeles Card including access to over 39 attractions for one low price. Some of the most popular attractions include the Warner Brothers Studio Tour, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier, and Knotts Berry Farm—to name a few.
Go City Expert
Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles
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Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles

Are you heading to Los Angeles this year? Then you ought to check out the city's market scene. With a market for pretty much every need, you'll be well served! Today, we're talking about the best markets in LA's downtown district, so if you plan to stay in or around the area, this one's for you! From flower markets to farm-to-table grocers, we've got you covered. Including: Grand Central Market Downtown LA Farmer's Market Smorgasburg LA Wholesale Produce Market The Santee Alley ...and more! Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: Grand Central Market Hold on to your taste buds, because we're diving straight into a gastronomic wonderland. If you want nothing but the freshest fruit and veg, or some of the tastiest street food in the city, look no further than Grand Central Market. Taking up an enviable 30,000 square feet, it's one of the larger markets on this list. It's unsurprising, then, that it attracts plenty of food establishments from across the city to set up shop. Popular joints like Eggslut and Press Brothers have stalls where you can sample their culinary delights, but that just scratches the surface. Every cuisine under the sun is represented here under the sun, so go and see what other secrets await you at Grand Central Market. For foodies, it's one of the best markets in Downtown Los Angeles. Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: Downtown LA Farmers Market Even if you've never been to the Downtown Los Angeles Farmer's Market before, you may have seen it. A certain angry Brit is often there buying stuff on his cooking shows, so if you hear someone shouting expletives and spot a spikey mop of blonde hair, you'll know you're in the right place. But it's not just modern celebrities like Gordon Ramsey who have frequented the Downtown Los Angeles Farmer's Market. The Beatles, Marylin Monroe, and Frank Sinatra are just some of the many famous faces that have graced its stalls and halls. So, what brings all these recognizable people to the Downtown Los Angeles Farmer's Market? Well, it's likely the produce. Tons of family-run businesses set up shop here, offering top-quality, fresh produce to all who visit. If you live locally, or plan to stay in an Airbnb instead of a hotel, you won't find a better place to pick up ingredients. There are also recognizable brands like Starbucks there, if you need some creature comforts. Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: Smorgasburg If you're happy to hit up a market that only opens its doors once a week, then Smorgasburg is one of the best markets in Downtown Los Angeles. Just be prepared for crowds - after all, plenty of people likely have the exact same idea as you. If you do brave it, you'll find a market offering tons of food, drink, and a variety of specialty items collectors will die for. LA powerhouses like Baohaus, Daddy's Chicken Shack, and Big Mozz all have pop-up stalls at Smorgasburg, so your tastebuds are in for a treat. However, what's unique about Smorgasburg, and what makes it one of the best markets in Downtown Los Angeles, is that on every third Sunday of the month, the Record Fair and Vintage Market turns up. You'll find thousands of rare vinyl, CDs, cassettes, and merch for underground bands and artists. If you love discovering new talent, or just want to show off when they eventually blow up, then you owe it to yourself to go check it out. Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: LA Wholesale Produce Market Need a load of fresh produce in a pinch? Why go to a supermarket when you can get it fresh from the farm at the Los Angeles Wholesale Produce Market? Offering arguably the widest selection of locally-sourced produce in Downtown, it's a great place to buy early. If you arrive before today's produce is trucked in, you can get great deals on yesterday's produce they'll just throw out. So be savvy, set your alarm, and rise and shine for some sweet, sweet deals. Just be prepared to buy big - after all, it's a wholesale market. You'll need to buy in bulk - by the box. Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: The Santee Alley Calling all bargain hunters! Welcome to Santee Alley, where haggling is a sport, and finding a hidden gem is the ultimate victory. This bustling street market is like a maze of fashion chaos, and the perfect place to unleash your inner fashionista without maxing your credit cards. You'll find both recognizable labels and unique boutique items on offer, as well as handmade oddities from homebound seamsters. Fashion lovers will be in heaven, but really, you need to be prepared to barter. Every item has a hidden price, but you'll need to negotiate to get the best deal. If you don't have wheeling and dealing up your sleeve, prepare to pay a premium. Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: Original LA Flower Market And finally, if you're after flowers, then the Original Los Angeles Flower Market is a must-visit! Local florists, event planners, and flower enthusiasts flock to discover a wide array of flora. You'll find bunches of pretty much every flower imaginable here, from roses to chrysanthemums, and everything in between. Want to make a big impression on a first date? You know where to go. There's not much more to say, really. It's flowers. If you want or need flowers, this is your best bet. Just bear in mind that the Original Los Angeles Flower Market can get a little hectic on weekends. If you want to beat the rush of frothy-mouthed flower enthusiasts, best head there during the week. And those were our picks of the best markets in Downtown Los Angeles! If you're a local who wants some entertainment ideas, or on vacation and need some inspiration, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of LA's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley
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Adventurous Things to do in Los Angeles

Looking for unexpected and unique experiences in Los Angeles - it shouldn’t be this difficult, right? Home to some of the West Coast’s most wonderful seascapes, scenic nature trails and iconic amusement parks, The City of Angels is a thriving and dynamic city bursting with great options to choose from. Really, the hardest part is narrowing things down. But don’t worry if you’re having trouble choosing, because we’ve rounded up our top points of interest and fun excursions in Los Angeles and are sharing them right below. So, note down your favorites and experience a different side to the city to make your trip an unforgettable one. However you choose to enjoy L.A., we’re sure you’ll have a blast! Explore Nature Los Angeles’ coastal seat makes an ideal destination for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike. Set along the magnificent jagged sea cliffs of San Pedro, White Point/Royal Palms Beach offers postcard-worthy scenery and spectacular ocean views. There are a lot of great things to do here, but our favorites has got to be inspecting the tide pools dotted along the coastline. Get up close here, and you’ll be able to see all sorts of wonderful marine creatures, from small fish and hermit crabs to sea stars and anemones. These wonderful sea basins are best explored at low tide, so that you can get a better look and stay dry at the same time. Still, if you thought that was all that there is to see here, you couldn’t be more wrong! Other popular activities at White Point/Royal Palms include hiking, surfing, scuba diving and much more. This spot is less touristy than other beaches in Los Angeles, so if you want to make it a day trip we suggest bringing food along with you - there’s a fantastic picnic area right near the bluff where you can take a break and soak up those panoramic ocean views. Offering a chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat and serene, picture-perfect views, this spot is hands down one of the best beaches that the city has to offer. Where New York has Central Park, L.A. has Griffith Park. Don’t get it twisted though - unlike Central Park, this vast greenspace is all-natural and well-recognized for its sweeping hilltops and unique gardens. Covering over 4,000 acres around the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains, this large municipal park gives walkers a chance to explore the Californian landscape in all its glory. Meander along scenic nature trails and explore Southern California’s most wonderful natural attributes. Keep an eye out for wildlife as you go - visitors can expect to see lizards, hawks, deer and more. This spot is especially popular around dusk since it is home to the Griffith Observatory, which provides fantastic views of the Los Angeles Basin. Aside from its delightful splendor, Griffith Park is also home to some of the city’s top attractions. Catch a play or concert at the brilliant Greek Theatre, check out the animals at Los Angeles Zoo, or learn something new at the Autry Museum of the American West. Or, for something a little different, head over to the Old Los Angeles Zoo. Situated near the east side of the park, this historic abandoned attraction complete with old animal enclosures and ruins makes the perfect picnic spot. Home to some of the best scenery in Los Angeles, this place is well worth the visit. Take a Trip If you’re looking for a fun and spontaneous day trip in L.A., the Catalina Express Ferry should do just the trick. Set sail from Long Beach, San Pedro and admire the crystalline waters of the Pacific Ocean as you head over the beautiful island which lies just southwest of the city. Billed as ‘’a Hidden Paradise in Southern California’’, this rocky island is great place for relaxation and play. The city’s charming cultural hub, Avalon, is packed with engaging and interesting things to do, including the Catalina Island Museum, Catalina Casino, and Lover’s Cove. But if you’re hankering to get in touch with nature, the island presents more than its fair share of exciting activities. Explore Wrigley Memorial & Botanic Garden, try your hand at fly fishing, or whiz through the air over Descanso Beach - the choice is yours! A thoroughly unique excursion, this place should rank way high up on any visitor’s itinerary. Have a Blast! Visiting a theme park is a great way to spend time with friends and family on vacation, And of course, there’s no better place to test your sense of bravery than at Six Flags Magic Mountain. As one of the most popular amusement parks in the United States, this spot draws in around 3 million visitors each year - and it’s easy to see why! With 19 rides and attractions to choose from, this spot holds the record for the largest number of rollercoasters in an amusement park. Perhaps not one for the faint-hearted, the attraction is well-recognized for its corkscrewing roller coasters and dizzying thrill rides. Fan favorites include X2, Goliath and Tatsu. In addition, Six Flags’ neighboring water park, Hurricane Harbor is a fantastic place to make a splash and cool off from the California heat in the summertime. A total crowdpleaser and quintessential L.A. attraction, this place is perfect for any visitor looking for an exciting day out. With a vibrant mix of cosmopolitan and nature attractions, Los Angeles has a little something to offer everybody. The perfect destination for the voracious traveller, the city offers everything from fun day trips to only-in-L.A.-experiences. Explore the area to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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