There's a LOT to do in LA. So if you've only got three days, here are the highlights...

From Hollywood showbiz and studio tours to amusement parks and beaches, can you possibly fit it all into 3 days? The answer is yes, you can! And here's how. 

Los Angeles itinerary – 3 days in Los Angeles for first timers

<p>From movie magic to beach days, it&#39;s tricky to make sure everyone can see and do all the LA attractions they want to, so kick back, relax, and take advantage of our 3 Days in Los Angeles itinerary. It&#39;ll help you plan to visit many of the top attractions and get the full spectrum of LA entertainment in just a long weekend.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>This 3-day Los Angeles itinerary includes...<br />
&nbsp;</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Universal Studios Hollywood</li>
	<li>Universal Citywalk (free!)</li>
	<li>Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood</li>
	<li>Madame Tussauds Hollywood</li>
	<li>Behind-The-Scenes Hollywood Tour</li>
	<li>Dolby Theatre&reg; Guided Tour</li>
	<li>Pacific Park</li>
	<li>Malibu Celebrity Homes Tour</li>
	<li>Santa Monica Pier Aquarium</li>
	<li>Perry&#39;s Beach Caf&eacute; &amp; Bike Rentals</li>
	<li>Venice Boardwalk (free!)</li>
</ul>

<p>Only have a few days in Los Angeles? We&rsquo;ve also put together a&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/one-day-in-los-angeles" rel="noopener" target="_blank">1 day</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/blog/weekend-in-los-angeles/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">weekend in Los Angeles itinerary</a>.</p>

<h2>DAY 1 Stop #1: Universal Studios Hollywood</h2>


<p>You could spend the entire day at this mega-attraction and it will be well worth your time.&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/universal-studios-hollywood-ticket" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Universal Studios Hollywood</a>&nbsp;is part working studio, part theme park, and all fun. Take an extensive and informative tour and you&#39;ll get a peek behind the scenes at one of the world&rsquo;s most famous studios. Enjoy thrilling rides, shows, and attractions that feature your favorite films, like&nbsp;<em>TRANSFORMERS</em>,&nbsp;<em>Despicable Me</em>, and more.</p>

<p>The Wizarding World of Harry Potter is a popular attraction with kids and adults alike, providing everything from recreated sets and real props to exciting souvenirs and genuine Butterbeer and Pumpkin Juice at the Hog&#39;s Head pub (located in the recreated village of Hogsmeade).</p>

<p>We recommend reserving between 5-6 hours for this attraction. Learn more about&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/disneyland-vs-universal-studios-hollywood" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Universal Studios or Disneyland">Universal Studios or Disneyland</a>&nbsp;so you can plan your agenda appropriately.</p>


<h2>Stop #2: Universal Citywalk (free!)</h2>

<p>This shopping and dining destination is part of the true Universal Studios Hollywood experience, and you&rsquo;ll want to check it out before you leave. With 30 different restaurants to choose from, you&rsquo;ll easily be able to enjoy both lunch and dinner here without feeling like you&rsquo;re restricting your tastebuds.</p>

<p>There&rsquo;s more to this area than just dining &ndash; there are also tons of attractions, shops, and experiences for you to enjoy with the whole family. Admission is free, although additional attractions may incur costs. There are also nightlife spots that adults will enjoy, including music venues.</p>

<h2>DAY 2 Stop #1: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood</h2>


<p>Experience the authentic California beach lifestyle with a 3-hour bike or rollerblade rental from&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/perrys-beach-cafe-all-day-rentals" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Perry&#39;s Beach Caf&eacute; and Rentals</a>. Part caf&eacute;, part beach rental hotspot, Perry&#39;s specializes in gear for active beach-goers. Here you can enjoy a ride along the boardwalk and experience the famous Santa Monica beachside community.</p>

<p>The sun is likely to be shining, so you&#39;ll be able to enjoy warm temperatures during your excursion. Plus, after your rental is done, you can stop at the cafe for a sampling of their incredible menu, with diverse organic options and fresh fare.</p>


<h2>Stop #4: Venice Boardwalk (free!)</h2>


<p>Head a bit further south along Santa Monica Beach to Venice Beach and explore new territory with a visit to the famous Venice Boardwalk. This charming neighborhood is filled with great photo ops and chances for people-watching, in addition to being a good place to top up your tan. Explore the nearby Abbot Kinney area for something new.</p>


<h2>Make the most of your three days in Los Angeles</h2>

<p>This itinerary should give you a great selection of places to go and things to do in LA - we hope it&#39;ll ensure your vacation is full of fun and entertainment without the stress of planning from scratch.</p>

<p>In terms of getting around In LA, we&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/getting-around-los-angeles" rel="noopener" target="_blank" title="Los Angeles Transportation Options">recommend personal transportation</a>, but there are other options. Spending some more time in sunny California? Then check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/california-road-trip-itinerary" rel="noopener" target="_blank">San Diego to San Francisco itinerary</a>&nbsp;- talk about a fun road trip!</p>


<h2>Stop #3: Behind-The-Scenes Hollywood Tour</h2>

<p>Pick up this next tour right in the same neighborhood, conveniently located on Hollywood Boulevard. This&nbsp;behind-the-scenes Hollywood Tour&nbsp;is a fun walking tour that takes you all throughout the Hollywood neighborhood, highlighting both the big-name attractions and the lesser-known points of significance.</p>


<p>Some of the highlights of your tour include the TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman&rsquo;s), the Dolby Theatre, the Walk of Fame, the Hollywood Sign, the Roosevelt Hotel, plus famous filming locations and sets. We recommend making reservations if you&rsquo;re traveling during the busy season, as this tour does fill up fast. Set aside at least 1 hour for this tour.</p>


<p>Today&rsquo;s another day spent in Hollywood. Begin with the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/warner-bros-studio-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Warner Bros. Studio Tour</a>, a comprehensive, behind-the-scenes look at the world&rsquo;s busiest studio. You&rsquo;ll get to see stock sets for locations like &ldquo;quiet town&rdquo; and &ldquo;busy urban exterior,&rdquo; and the sets of current shows being filmed on location.</p>

<p>Current shows at Warner Bros. Studio include&nbsp;<em>Young Sheldon</em>,&nbsp;<em>Conan</em>, and many more. Several special exhibits pay homage to shows or movies filmed here in the past, like the actual set of Central Perk (the famed coffee shop from&nbsp;<em>Friends</em>), Gilmore Girls, a collection of various Batmobiles, and DC Universe: The Exhibit. This tour typically lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes.</p>

<p>Be sure to check out&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/la-movie-studio-tours" rel="noopener" target="_blank">our post about the best Los Angeles studio tours</a>&nbsp;before your visit.</p>


<h2>Stop #2: Madame Tussauds Hollywood</h2>


<p>Who wouldn&rsquo;t love the chance to meet their favorite celebrities? (Well, in a way.) Head to the world&rsquo;s most famous wax museum for a chance to explore celebrity culture the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/madame-tussauds-hollywood" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Madame Tussauds Hollywood</a>&nbsp;way.</p>

<p>Some highlighted exhibit areas at Madame Tussauds Hollywood include &ldquo;Movie Stars,&rdquo; &ldquo;Hollywood Icons,&rdquo; &ldquo;Pop Stars,&rdquo; &ldquo;Sports Stars,&rdquo; and many more. With over 100 different celebrities and characters depicted at this museum, you&rsquo;re sure to find a favorite. We recommend leaving at between 1-2 hours for this attraction - that should give you enough time to snap some superb selfies.</p>


<h2>Stop #4: Dolby Theatre&reg; Guided Tour</h2>

<p>This half-hour&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/dolby-theatre-tours" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Dolby Theatre&reg; Guided Tour</a>&nbsp;is your VIP access to the home of the Academy Awards&reg; Ceremonies. Step inside and revel in the elegance of this state-of-the-art facility. During the tour you will get a chance to do several fascinating things, like see an official Oscar&reg; statuette (IRL), visit the Dolby Lounge and spots where only celebs get to go, plus see photos from past ceremonies.</p>

<p>You&#39;re essentially walking in the footsteps of the famous actors and actresses who fill this famous building each year for the Academy Awards!</p>

<h2>DAY 3 Stop #1: Pacific Park</h2>


<p>Today is your day to explore charming Santa Monica.&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/pacific-park-santa-monica-pier" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Pacific Park, located on the Santa Monica Pier</a>, is a charming amusement park with exciting rides and historic attractions that the whole family will love. Did you know that Pacific Park also owns the world&rsquo;s only solar-powered Ferris wheel?</p>

<p>They also have plenty of other classic rides and traditional arcade games to round out a fun morning. It&#39;s a great place to go with kids, and is a wonderful little jolt of nostalgia for adults, too. Try some fairground games and save some room for cotton candy! We recommend reserving between 1-2 hours for this attraction.</p>


<h2>Save on admission to top Los Angeles attractions with Go City&reg;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Discover our full line-up of Los Angeles attractions including the Hollywood Sign Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott&#39;s Berry Farm, and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>🤩 &gt;&gt; If you want to see and do as much as you can, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/all-inclusive?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">All-Inclusive Pass</a> is for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>😎 &gt;&gt; If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/explorer?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a> is the perfect option.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Whichever <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" target="_blank">Los Angeles attraction pass</a> you pick, it&#39;ll help you save money on LA&#39;s best bits!</p>


<h3>Want to save money on those bucket-list attractions?&nbsp;</h3>

<p>Check out passes from Go City and you could save yourself up to 50% on your must-sees &ndash; perfect!&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Compare Los Angeles passes</a>☀️ &ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explore other destinations </a>🌏 &ndash;&nbsp; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/all-inclusive?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy a pass ✈️</a>&nbsp;</p>


<h2>Stop #2: Heal the Bay Aquarium</h2>

<p>After you&rsquo;ve taken the time to explore human life in Santa Monica, why not learn about the diverse marine life of the area? A visit to the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/santa-monica-pier-aquarium" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Heal the Bay Aquarium</a>&nbsp;is the perfect opportunity to do just that. Home to over 100 different species, from sea urchins to sharks, this aquarium is the perfect destination for the aspiring marine biologist or the animal lover in the family.</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re visiting on a Sunday, be sure to catch their shark presentation and feeding. We recommend leaving between 1-2 hours for this attraction.</p>

<h2>Stop #3: Perry&#39;s Beach Caf&eacute; &amp; Bike Rentals</h2>


This popular Los Angeles itinerary includes the best things to do during your 3 days in LA. Save on admission & more. Enjoy!

Los Angeles Itinerary - 3 Days in Los Angeles for First-timers

What are the differences between Disneyland® vs Universal Studios Hollywood in California? 

Both are amusement parks with themes from popular movies; movies which each theme park owns exclusive rights to represent.

Disneyland vs Universal Studios Hollywood - Comparing the two popular Southern California theme parks

<p>We&rsquo;ve put together a list of the key similarities and differences between the two attractions broken down by:</p>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>General Admission Price</strong></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Skip the Line Options</strong></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Park Themes</strong></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Location of the Parks</strong></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Attractions and Rides</strong></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Conclusion: an At-a-Glance Comparison</strong></li>
</ul>


<h3><strong>Should I visit Disneyland or Universal Studios Hollywood?</strong></h3>

<p>You&#39;ll save on <a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/universal-studios-hollywood-ticket" style="text-decoration:none">admission to Universal Studios Hollywood</a> plus dozens of other top LA area attractions with a pass for Los Angeles! General admission tickets are included on our <a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive" style="text-decoration:none">All-Inclusive 3, 4, 5, or 7-Day Passes</a>.</p>

<p>Please note, tickets to Disneyland are separately ticketed and not included on the Go Los Angeles pass.</p>

<p>If you&#39;re a fan of rollercoasters and theme parks, check out our guide to the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/best-la-attractions-for-thrill-seekers" style="text-decoration:none">best LA attractions for thrill-seekers</a>. You may want to visit <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/six-flags-magic-mountain-guide" style="text-decoration:none">Six Flags Magic Mountain</a> or <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/knotts-berry-farm" style="text-decoration:none">Knott&#39;s Berry Farm</a>.</p>


<h3><strong>What is the price of General Admission at Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland?</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Universal Studios Hollywood: General Admission ranges from $105-$116, depending on the day.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Disneyland: General Admission ranges from $97-$124, depending on the day.</li>
</ul>


<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The Simpsons RideTM: a cinematic experience featuring Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie and a hilarious visit to Krustyland.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Special Effects Show: learn all about what really goes on to create &#39;Hollywood Magic&#39; in your favorite movies with a behind-the-scenes look at special effect technology and some of the best stunt performers in the business.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Universal&#39;s Animal Actors: watch real animals in this live show re-enact some of your favorite scenes from <em>The Secret Life of Pets.</em></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Jurassic Park&reg;--The Ride: this water ride travels through terrain inspired by the hit movie, <em>Jurassic World</em>, where you&#39;ll narrowly miss dinosaurs, including a 50-foot T-Rex.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Revenge of the MummySM - The Ride: this fast moving coaster ride travels through scenes from <em>Revenge of the Mummy</em> with hair-raising special effects and unexpected surprises along the way.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">TransformersTM: The Ride-3D: combining 3D theater technology with motion simulation, you&#39;ll be fully immersed in a battle of epic proportions as you fight alongside Optimus to save the human race.</li>
</ul>


<h3><strong>Studio Tour:</strong></h3>

<p>Go behind-the-scenes of many of your favorite TV shows and movies on this real, working studio backlot tour in an open-air tour bus.</p>

<ol>
	<li style="list-style-type:decimal">King Kong 360 3-D: the world&#39;s largest 3-D experience takes you on a heart-pounding struggle between King Kong and a massive T-Rex.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:decimal">Fast &amp; Furious - Supercharged: at the end of the tour, your bus will get involved in a high-speed chase in the world of fast cars and international crime cartels.</li>
</ol>


<h3><strong>Disneyland:</strong></h3>

<p>Disneyland features a central &#39;kingdom&#39; that the park revolves around with 8 themed areas: Main Street, U.S.A.: Main Street ushers visitors into the park and features a variety of shops, caf&eacute;s, theaters, and more. Adventureland:</p>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Enchanted Tiki Room: presented by Dole&reg;, the Enchanted Tiki Room is a 15-minute musical celebration featuring tropical birds, tiki gods, and colorful flowers</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Indiana JonesTM Adventure: fast-paced thrill ride that navigates rough terrain through a cursed temple starring Indiana Jones</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Jungle Cruise: a gentle, guided water cruise through some of the world&#39;s most remote rivers</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Tarzan&#39;s TreehouseTM: a tour of Tarzan&#39;s jungle home that requires navigating suspense bridges and stairs up in Tarzan&#39;s larger-than-life tree</li>
</ul>

<p>New Orleans Square:</p>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Haunted Mansion: one of Disney&#39;s most iconic attractions. This hair-raising ride features a slow moving coaster that takes you on a tour of a haunted mansion full of paranormal activity, ghosts, ghouls, and more frightening surprises</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Pirates of the Caribbean: embark on a treacherous voyage on the seas on a 15-minute water ride with small drops</li>
</ul>

<p>Critter Country:</p>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: this slow moving coaster travels through Hundred Acre Wood through scenes from Pooh&#39;s adventures</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Splash Mountain: follow the adventures of Br&#39;er Rabbit as he tries to escape Br&#39;er Bear and Br&#39;er Fox. Enjoy a 5 story drop ending in a big splash</li>
</ul>

<p>Frontierland:</p>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: a high-speed coaster that travels through cursed southwestern mines in search for gold</li>
</ul>

<p>Frontierland Shootin&#39; Exposition:</p>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Practice your target shooting skills at this rustic shooting range. It features replica .54-caliber Hawkins buffalo rifles set amid a southwestern landscape.</li>
</ul>


<h3><strong>Fantasyland:</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Alice in Wonderland: follow the White Rabbit to his &#39;very important date&#39; into the nonsensical world of <em>Alice in Wonderland. </em>You&#39;ll hop aboard a slow-moving caterpillar themed coaster.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Casey Jr. Circus Train: a kid-centric colorful train ride through Storybook Land.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Dumbo the Flying Elephant: take flight with Dumbo on this spinny, high-flying ride geared towards younger kids.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">It&#39;s a Small World: one of the most famous rides. This water-based ride travels through various parts of the world exploring different cultures and customs through animatronic dolls and catchy tunes.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">King Arthur Carrousel: a classic theme park ride inspired by Knights of the Round Table.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Mad Tea Party: an <em>Alice in Wonderland</em> Unbirthday themed of the spinning tea cups ride.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Mr. Toad&#39;s Wild Ride: buckle up and get behind the wheel of an open-air, 2-seater buggy for a wild ride.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Peter Pan&#39;s Flight: fly to Never Land by way of London aboard a flying ship.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Pinocchio&#39;s Daring Journey: follow Pinocchio as he makes it back to Gepetto to become a real boy and avoid the evil puppet master, Stromboli.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Sleeping Beauty Castle Walkthrough: explore Princess Aurora&#39;s castle and re-live scenes of <em>Sleeping Beauty.</em></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Snow White&#39;s Scary Adventures: follow Snow White as she ventures into the dark forest to avoid the evil Queen.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Storybookland Canal Boats: float along a mini tour of fairytale settings on a slow canal cruise</li>
</ul>


<h3><strong>Mickey&#39;s Toontown:</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Chip &#39;n Dale Treehouse: climb up the nutty treehouse home of Chip &#39;n Dale for an unbeatable view of Mickey&#39;s Toontown</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Donald&#39;s Boat: take a tour of Donald Duck&#39;s &quot;quacky&quot; boat home</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Gadget&#39;s Go Coaster: this small-scale thrill ride features small drops</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Goofy&#39;s Playhouse: walk through Goofy&#39;s goofy house, featuring a loony layout and fun design elements</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Mickey&#39;s House and Meet Mickey: head to Mickey&#39;s House for a chance to get a photo with Mickey Mouse</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Minnie&#39;s House: go on a walk-through of Minnie&#39;s living room, kitchen, and bedroom</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Roger Rabbit&#39;s Car Toon Spin: hop behind the wheel of a runaway taxi and navigate the loony streets of Toontown in pursuit of Roger Rabbit</li>
</ul>


<h3><strong>Tomorrowland:</strong></h3>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Astro Orbiter: a high-flying, spinny, space rocket-themed ride geared towards younger kids.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Autopia: buckle in and get ready to race on the Tomorrowland Speedway behind the wheel of a racecar.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters: practice your target shooting skills on this slow moving ride. It features glow lights in a dark, space-themed setting.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Disneyland Monorail: for a smooth ride with incredible views of the park, board the high-speed monorail.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage: climb aboard a submarine for an undersea expedition following Marlin and Dory on their journey to find Nemo.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Star Tours - The Adventures Continue: this motion-simulated 3D experience explores a galaxy far, far away aboard a Starspeeder 1000.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Hyperspace Mountain: this high-speed thrill ride darts around in outer space dodging dangerous extraterrestrial elements.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Star Wars Launch Bay: go behind the scenes of <em>Rogue One</em> and see your favorite characters from the <em>Star Wars </em>universe, including film props, video clips, and more in this exhibition.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Star Wars: Path of the Jedi: watch a video compilation of all the highlights of the <em>Star Wars </em>films and re-live Luke Skywalker&#39;s heroic tale.</li>
</ul>

<p>Each area in Disneyland caters towards a diverse crowd with rides geared towards younger kids and rides geared towards older kids (and adults).</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>Conclusion &amp; Comparison At-a-Glance:</strong></h3>

<p>https://www.instagram.com/p/B0Gr4eDBu_y/ Both parks are similar in that they offer entertainment for the whole family. But the experience at each park can be quite different. If you&#39;re trying to decide between the Universal Vs. Disney parks, do both. If you have to choose one, narrow your choice down to the following deciding factors:</p>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Price: Universal Studios Hollywood is more affordable. Plus you can save on combined admission with a Go Los Angeles pass.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Age: Disneyland has more activities geared towards ages 2-10. Many of Universal Studios Hollywood&#39;s attractions require a minimum height of 40&quot; or more.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Location: Universal Studios Hollywood is significantly closer to Los Angeles.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Time: Universal Studios Hollywood can be done in less than a day. Disneyland requires at least a full day, but is more manageable in two or more days.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Experience: If you&#39;ve visited each respective park&#39;s sister park in Orlando or another location, they&#39;re arguably very similar. Perhaps you prefer a new theme park experience.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Theme: Disneyland features Disney&#39;s beloved characters, like Mickey Mouse and popular Disney Princesses, and stories. Universal Studios Hollywood features a variety of attractions inspired by various blockbuster movies, including The Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM.</li>
</ul>

<p>If you choose <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/universal-studios-hollywood-ticket" style="text-decoration:none">Universal Studios Hollywood</a>, be sure to check out our helpful guide for top tips. Plus, check out the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/things-to-do-near-universal-studios-hollywood" style="text-decoration:none">attractions near Universal Studios Hollywood.</a></p>


<h3><strong>Save on Admission at Universal Studios HollywoodTM</strong></h3>

<p>Save on combined admission to dozens of popular attractions in Los Angeles. Your pass will include Universal Studios Hollywood tickets, when you buy a All-Inclusive Pass for Los Angeles of 3 days or more.</p>

<p>The All-Inclusive Pass includes admission to your choice of as many other included Los Angeles attractions as you want. These include Universal Studios Hollywood, Madame Tussauds Hollywood, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood, Knott&#39;s Berry Farm, Pacific Park - Santa Monica, Aquarium of the Pacific, and lots more. So grab a <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" target="_blank">Los Angeles pass</a> and save while you sightsee!</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>How do you skip the line at Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland?</strong></h3>

<p>Both parks offer ways to &#39;Skip the Line&#39; at popular attractions and rides and minimize waiting time in lines.</p>

<p>Universal Studios Hollywood: Front of Line upgrades are available for around $70-$150, depending on the day. This is in addition to general admission. Front of Line lets visitors skip to the front of the line at each ride or attraction once.</p>

<p>Disneyland: select rides and attractions feature FASTPASS on a first-come, first-serve basis at no additional cost. However, quantities are limited. FASTPASS kiosks are located near the main entrances of major attractions. They dispense timed tickets tied to your admission ticket that let you come back at an assigned time for an expedited wait in a shorter line.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>What are the park themes of Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland?</strong></h3>

<p>Both parks cater to the whole family with attractions specifically designed for young kids, teens, and adults. But which is better? Depending on the main purpose of your trip, one park might be better suited to your travel group than the other.</p>

<p>Universal Studios Hollywood features attractions inspired by popular films. Plus, it has tours of the working studio included with the park&#39;s general admission. Families with kids ranging from toddler age to young adult. While there are rides and attractions geared towards younger kids, the majority of the park&#39;s attractions are suitable for a slightly more mature audience than Disneyland. Most rides have a minimum height requirement of 40&quot; or more. If you are visiting SoCal with young kids, we highly recommend a trip to <a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/attractions/legoland-california" style="text-decoration:none">LEGOLAND California</a>.</p>

<p>Disneyland themes exclusively revolve around characters and setting from the Disney movie franchise with a large emphasis on their animated films, Mickey, and Minnie Mouse. Families with kids ranging from toddler age to young adult and nostalgic millennials. While there are rides and attractions geared towards all ages, the majority of the park&#39;s attractions are suitable for ages 2-10. Disneyland also targets loyal Disney fans, particularly &#39;budding princes and princesses.&#39;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>Where is Universal Studios Hollywood? Where is Disneyland?</strong></h3>

<p>Both parks are located in California. Universal Studios Hollywood is located right in Hollywood, outside of Los Angeles and Disneyland is located in Anaheim, CA which is about a 50-minute drive south of Los Angeles. How big is each park? Disneyland is a larger park with a greater number of attractions and rides, but Universal Studios Hollywood is expanding at a faster pace.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>How long does it take to visit Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland?</strong></h3>

<p>Both parks require about a full day to experience all of the attractions. Universal Studios Hollywood a little less, Disneyland at least a full day, especially if visiting during a peak time or on the weekend. If visiting with younger kids, you may want to break up the day and visit over a two or three day period, especially at Disneyland as there are more attractions geared towards younger kids.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>What attractions &amp; rides are at Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland?</strong></h3>

<h3><strong>Universal Studios Hollywood:</strong></h3>

<p>Universal Studios Hollywood is arranged around its major attractions, which can be themed areas, rides, or activities.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>Jurassic World &ndash; The Ride</strong></h3>

<p>Jurassic World has just opened in Universal Studios Hollywood. Based on the popular movie franchise, this area includes lots of new rides, dining options and shops, including...</p>

<ol>
	<li style="list-style-type:decimal">Raptor encounter: meet Blue the velociraptor and a triceratops</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:decimal">DinoPlay: DinoPlay is a fun, interactive play area for smaller children</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:decimal">Jurassic Cafe: A Costa Rican inspired lunch spot.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:decimal">Jurassic Outfitters: Clothing and jewellery store &ndash; perfect for gifts or souvenirs</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:decimal">Isla Nu-Bar: A tropical tiki cocktail bar.</li>
</ol>


<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">WaterWorld&reg;: inspired by the hit movie, this 20-minute stunt show features water-packed fun with explosions, surprises, and more</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Shrek 4-DTM: enter Lord Farquaad&#39;s dungeon and make your way to the 4-D theater for an exclusive Shrek experience. It features moving seats, water, wind, mist, and other special effects that will make you feel like you&#39;re fully immersed in the story</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">The Walking Dead Attraction: prepare to fight for your survival in a post-apocalyptic world based on the popular TV show. (Parental advisory).</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Despicable Me Minion Mayhem: transform yourself into a Minion and help Gru and his daughters in their latest scheme.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Super Silly Fun Land: this outdoor family play zone features a wacky, Minion-inspired playground. It has water play features, climbing structures, slides, and more.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc">Universal Plaza: central area in the park featuring shops, caf&eacute;s, and dining and seating areas.</li>
</ul>


<h3><strong>The Wizarding World of Harry PotterTM:</strong></h3>

<ol>
	<li style="list-style-type:decimal">Harry Potter and the Forbidden JourneyTM: follow Harry, Ron, and Hermione on a journey through the castle grounds as you dodge obstacles and surprises along the way.</li>
	<li style="list-style-type:decimal">Flight of the HippogriffTM: hop on the back of a Hippogriff on this family-friendly coaster and soar around Hagrid&#39;s hut and through the pumpkin patch.</li>
</ol>


Disneyland vs Universal Studios Hollywood? Compare the major differences between these 2 popular attractions and see which park is better for your trip.

Disneyland vs Universal Studios Hollywood - Compare Major Differences

If you're in the advanced planning stages of a trip to LA, take a look at some of these top-rated indoor attractions. 

If you choose Los Angeles as your family vacation destination, chances are you're picturing yourself basking in the abundant California sunshine. And chances are you will be — but for those few days per year that contribute to Los Angeles' 15-inch average rainfall, here's a list of fun and exciting indoor activities and things to do in LA when it rains.

10+ things to do in LA when it rains

<p>Then, as the time of your trip gets closer, check the weather forecast &mdash; if you see a chance of bad weather, you&#39;ll already know what to do in LA when it rains:</p>

<ul>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Madame Tussauds Hollywood</strong></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>California Science Center &amp; IMAX Movie</strong></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>K1 Speed Indoor Karting</strong></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Natural History Museum</strong></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>Hollywood Museum</strong></li>
	<li style="list-style-type:disc"><strong>and many more!</strong></li>
</ul>

<p>Planning to visit lots of Los Angeles attractions? With <a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us" style="text-decoration:none">Go City&reg;</a> you won&#39;t miss a thing, plus with a pass you can save up to 50% compared to buying individual entry to everything you want to do - winning!</p>

<p>☀️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes?duration=1" style="text-decoration:none">Compare Los Angeles passes</a> ☀️ &ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en" style="text-decoration:none">Explore other destinations </a>🌏 &ndash;&nbsp; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/all-inclusive?duration=1" style="text-decoration:none">Buy a pass ✈️</a></p>


<h3><strong>Madame Tussauds Hollywood</strong></h3>

<p>One of the top things to do on a rainy day is to get up close to Hollywood&#39;s top stars at <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/madame-tussauds-hollywood" style="text-decoration:none">Madame Tussauds Hollywood</a>. The life-like wax figures you&#39;ll find at the museum are so real-looking that you can easily fool your friends back home with pictures of you and your favorite celebrity standing side by side. The 100+ wax figures span a variety of interests and time periods, so adults and kids alike will be entertained. So whether it&#39;s Harry Styles, James Dean, or Beyonc&eacute; you swoon over, make sure to bring your camera!</p>

<p>👉Don&#39;t miss: the <a href="https://www.madametussauds.com/hollywood/what-s-inside/whats-new/" style="text-decoration:none">newest figures immortalized in wax</a>, and the <a href="https://www.madametussauds.com/hollywood/what-s-inside/#are-there-only-wax-figures-at-madame-tussauds-hollywood" style="text-decoration:none">non-waxwork experiences</a>.</p>

<p>🎟️ Getting in: Admission to Madame Tussauds Hollywood is available on all Los Angeles Passes.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>California Science Center &amp; IMAX Movie</strong></h3>

<p>The California Science Center is a great idea for things to do indoors on a rainy day. The Science Center features exciting science exhibits that will engage visitors of all ages. Experience a simulated earthquake or volcano, climb a rock wall, or play a game of virtual volleyball. At the Science Center, adventure takes place right indoors.</p>

<p>To make the most of your trip, catch an IMAX movie at the Center&#39;s state-of-the-art theater featuring a 7-story tall screen. With a variety of films to choose from, you&#39;ll find something entertaining for the whole family.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>Catch a movie at a luxury theater</strong></h3>

<p>Take shelter from the rain with oversized popcorn, a blockbuster hit, and a luxury experience. Lots of movie theaters in the Los Angeles area now focus on offering a luxury movie viewing experience. It&#39;s a fun and relaxing way to wait out the weather.</p>

<p>Check out the<a href="https://www.ipic.com/los-angeles-ca-westwood/location" style="text-decoration:none"> newer iPic movie theaters </a>for the ultimate luxury experience, or book a lounge experience at <a href="https://www.landmarktheatres.com/our-locations/x00d9-landmark-westwood-los-angeles/" style="text-decoration:none">Landmark Theatres</a>. You could also head to <a href="https://www.amctheatres.com/movie-theatres/los-angeles/amc-dine-in-marina-6" style="text-decoration:none">AMC DINE-IN Marina 6</a> for a classic dinner and a movie combination, right from the comfort of your oversized seat.</p>

<p>🎟️ Getting in: Admission isn&#39;t included with the Los Angeles Pass, so check with each theater for show times and prices.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>Save on admission to top Los Angeles attractions with Go City&reg;&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<p>Discover our full line-up of Los Angeles attractions including the Hollywood Sign Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott&#39;s Berry Farm, and more.&nbsp;</p>

<p>🤩 &gt;&gt; If you want to see and do as much as you can, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/all-inclusive?duration=3" style="text-decoration:none">All-Inclusive Pass</a> is for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>😎 &gt;&gt; If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/explorer?duration=3" style="text-decoration:none">Explorer Pass</a> is the perfect option.</p>

<p>Whichever <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" target="_blank">Los Angeles attraction pass</a> you pick, you&#39;ll be saving as you sightsee!</p>


<h3><strong>Share your adventure with us&nbsp;</strong></h3>

<p>📱Tag @GoCity in your vacation photos and we&rsquo;ll feature you on our page. Follow the <a href="https://www.instagram.com/gocity/?hl=en" style="text-decoration:none">Go City Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GoCityOfficial/" style="text-decoration:none">Facebook</a> channels for exclusive competitions, special offers, and events to help you make the most of your travels.</p>


<h3><strong>Aquarium of the Pacific</strong></h3>

<p>Head down to Long Beach and explore the majestic wildlife of the seas from indoors at the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/aquarium-pacific" style="text-decoration:none">Aquarium of the Pacific</a>. You&#39;ll have access to 19 different habitats, with over 100 exhibits, where you can view 12,000 aquatic creatures! There&#39;s something for everyone here.</p>

<p>You&#39;ll delight in seeing the playful sea otters and learning about conservation efforts to keep their natural habitats alive. You&rsquo;ll also come face-to-face with, and even touch, the ocean&rsquo;s ultimate predators in Shark Lagoon; you can hand-feed colorful lorikeet birds, and watch the Magellanic Penguins play.</p>

<p>👉Don&#39;t miss: the immersive Honda Pacific Visions Theater experience, where you&#39;ll enjoy two films with multi-sensory effects played on a 180-degree curved screen.</p>

<p>🎟️Getting in: Admission to the Aquarium of the Pacific is available on all Los Angeles Passes - but you&#39;ll need to book in advance.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>Natural History Museum</strong></h3>

<p>Visit the first museum in Los Angeles, the <a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/natural-history-museum" style="text-decoration:none">Natural History Museum</a> of Los Angeles County. It&#39;s the authority on exploring the &#39;big picture&#39; of the planet of the natural and cultural world. This museum has amassed one of the world&#39;s most extensive and valuable collections of natural and cultural relics that date back 4.5 billion years. You&#39;ll see dinosaur skeletons and mammal fossils, rare gems and minerals, intricate habitat dioramas, and ancient Latin American archaeological treasures.</p>

<p>🎟️Getting in: Admission to the Natural History Museum is available on all Los Angeles Passes.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h2><strong>GRAMMY Museum&reg;</strong></h2>

<p>Love music? Leave LA on a high note and visit the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/grammy-museum" style="text-decoration:none">GRAMMY Museum&reg;&#39;s</a> impressive collection of artifacts, exhibits, films, and more, in the museum&#39;s interactive permanent and traveling exhibits. Pay tribute to legendary artists such as John Lennon, Barbra Streisand, Roy Orbison, Bob Marley, and more. The special exhibits will inspire a new-found appreciation for the music-making process, and for the talent and precision it takes to produce award-winning music.</p>

<p>👉Don&#39;t miss: the special exhibits which change from year to year</p>

<p>🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Los Angeles Passes.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>Hollywood Museum</strong></h3>

<p>See a hundred years of Hollywood history from your favorite films and TV shows at the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/hollywood-museum" style="text-decoration:none">Hollywood Museum</a>. You&#39;ll explore the most extensive collection of Hollywood memorabilia in the world, boasting over 10,000 authentic show business artifacts. See Rocky&#39;s boxing gloves, Marilyn Monroe&#39;s iconic dresses, Indiana Jones&#39; whip, Cary Grant&#39;s Rolls-Royce, and much more! It&#39;s the perfect indoor activity for a film lover, and it&#39;s a must-see when you come to Hollywood.</p>

<p>🎟️Getting in: Admission to the Hollywood Museum is available on all Los Angeles Passes.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>Studio Tours</strong></h3>

<p>One of the best things to do in Hollywood is to visit to a real working studio!</p>

<p>Places like <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/universal-studios-hollywood-ticket" style="text-decoration:none">Universal</a> and <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/warner-bros-studio-tour" style="text-decoration:none">Warner Bros</a>. offer exciting, behind-the-scenes looks at the way Hollywood works. You&#39;ll enjoy tours through back lots, across sound stages, around prop rooms, and through wardrobing. Get a real chance to see where (and how!) movie magic is made with a tour through the amazing studios.</p>

<p>If the rainy day clears up, take advantage of the theme park of Universal Studios Hollywood, which offers some delightful outdoor fun, too. Keep in mind that some portions of these studio tours will involve being outdoors, so be sure to plan accordingly with your gear.</p>

<p>🎟️ Getting in: One-time admission to Universal Studios is only available on the Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass. Admission to Warner Bros. is available on all Los Angeles Passes.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>Dolby Theatre&reg; Guided Tour</strong></h3>

<p>Get VIP access to the home of the Academy Awards&reg; Ceremony with a guided tour of the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/dolby-theatre-tours" style="text-decoration:none">Dolby Theatre&reg;</a>. You&#39;ll see areas of the theater not seen on TV, and get a behind-the-scenes look at where events such as the American Idol finals, the AFI Awards, the Daytime Emmys, and Victoria&#39;s Secret Fashion Show take place.</p>

<p>👉Don&#39;t miss: seeing an Oscar&reg; statuette, visiting the Dolby Lounge, and viewing the images from previous Academy Awards ceremonies.</p>

<p>🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Los Angeles Passes -&nbsp; book in advance.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>Autry Museum of the American West</strong></h3>

<p>Regarded as one of Los Angeles&rsquo;s premier cultural institutions, the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/autry-museum-american-west" style="text-decoration:none">Autry Museum of the American West</a> features art, artifacts, and special exhibitions that focus on the history of American West. The Autry is known for its dedication to educating visitors. Enjoy a selection of informative tours, special events, and family activities. There are film screenings, lectures, workshops, and more.</p>

<p>🎟️ Getting in: Admission is available on all Los Angeles Passes.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<h3><strong>Get in some retail therapy</strong></h3>

<p>We&rsquo;re firm believers that you don&rsquo;t need an excuse to shop. Even so, a rainy day is the perfect reason to dip into your souvenir funds. Los Angeles is one of the best shopping destinations and home to a variety of stores that cater to every price point. Stroll around the shops (and be ready to splurge) on the famous and iconic <a href="https://www.rodeodrive-bh.com/" style="text-decoration:none">Rodeo Drive</a>, and find a variety of luxury boutique shopping along <a href="https://melroseavenue-shop.com/" style="text-decoration:none">Melrose Avenue</a>.</p>


Visiting during rainy weather? Check out our top things to do in LA when it rains, so you can experience fun indoor activities while staying dry.

10+ popular indoor things to do in LA when it rains  | Go City®  

There's more to Hollywood than the movies, but it's a great place to start.

Looking for fun things to do on your California trip that will fit into your Universal Studios Hollywood itinerary? Look no further, we've rounded up the best of the best.

Things to Do Near Universal Studios Hollywood

<p>Planning a trip to California to visit Universal Studios Hollywood&trade;? Great choice &mdash; there&#39;s so much to experience in this popular SoCal destination!</p>

<p>Once you&#39;ve had your fill of thrilling rides, studio tours, and amazing movie experiences, be sure to leave time in your itinerary to explore the many attractions in the area. Here are some don&#39;t-miss things to do on your next trip to Los Angeles.</p>

<h2>Universal Studios Hollywood</h2>


<p>If you love movies, your time in LA won&#39;t be complete without a day (or two, or three) spent exploring&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/universal-studios-hollywood-ticket">Universal Studios Hollywood</a>&trade;. Here, you&#39;ll experience your favorite films and shows in a whole new way, with heart-pounding rides, behind-the-scenes tours of movie sets, special effects shows, and much more. As with any theme park, weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, and holidays can be extra busy. Universal Studios allows you to bring in your water bottles, so pack up to 2 liters and stay hydrated.</p>

<p>💰 &gt;&gt;&nbsp; See how you can <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes?duration=3" target="_blank">save up to 50%</a> on Los Angeles attractions with&nbsp;Go City&reg;</p>

<p><strong>Please note: </strong>Universal Studios is only available on the All-Inclusive Pass</p>

<p><strong>Tips for visiting:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Show up earlier in the day to avoid crowds.</li>
	<li>Eat breakfast before you go.</li>
	<li>Check the website a few weeks before your trip to reserve tickets to live tapings and see which celebrities may be filming that day.</li>
	<li>Schedule your day&#39;s activities around show times, rather than rides</li>
</ul>


<p>See a side of Hollywood that tour buses can&#39;t access on a self-guided bike tour! Explore at your own pace as you pedal through beautiful neighborhoods and landscapes you&#39;ll recognize from famous films. Take your tour outside of rush hour, when traffic will be minimal. Be sure to bring extra water and stay hydrated on this three-hour ride.</p>

<p><strong>Tips for visitors:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>The ride forms a 12-mile loop</li>
	<li>Helmet, hybrid bike rental, and safety vest included</li>
	<li>You&#39;ll use an included GPS to follow the route</li>
	<li>Schedule an early morning or evening ride to avoid the sun and high temperatures</li>
	<li>A moderate level of fitness may be required to handle hilly areas</li>
</ul>


<h2>Dolby Theatre Guided Tour</h2>

<p>Explore the stunning venue that hosts the Academy Awards. The&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/dolby-theatre-tours">Dolby Theatre Guided Tour</a>&nbsp;takes you behind the scenes in this iconic facility. Plan your visit during a time other than the run-up to the Oscars in February, as it&#39;s closed to the public during that time. Bring your camera, but note that some areas of the facility don&#39;t allow photography.</p>

<p><strong>Tips for visiting:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Read up on the history and architecture of this stunning venue before your visit for a better understanding.</li>
	<li>You&#39;ll have to check your stroller at the door.</li>
	<li>The theatre validates parking for the first two hours.</li>
	<li>Check ahead to ensure that the theatre is open, as often closes for special events.</li>
	<li>Don&#39;t miss the photo galleries of past Academy Award winners on the sides of the spiral staircase.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Hollywood Museum</h2>


<p>See the world&#39;s largest collection of movie props, costumes, and photos at the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/hollywood-museum">Hollywood Museum</a>. From Marilyn Monroe to Max Factor, this amazing collection of memorabilia from the silver screen (and the small screen) will keep you mesmerized. Wear shoes you can walk and climb stairs in, as the museum has four floors to explore. Plan your visit on Wednesdays through Sundays, as it&#39;s closed during the first part of the week.</p>

<p><strong>Tips for visiting:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Budget enough time to explore this large museum, as it contains more than 10,000 items.</li>
	<li>Very young children may not appreciate this attraction.</li>
	<li>Paid parking is available across the street.</li>
	<li>Check out your reflection in each of the &quot;hair color&quot; rooms in the Max Factor exhibit.</li>
	<li>Be aware that the basement is dedicated to horror films and shows.</li>
</ul>


<p>If you want to see filming in real-time, don&#39;t miss&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/warner-bros-studio-tour">Warner Bros. Studio Tour</a>. On this entertaining and educational tour, an expert guide will drive you around the 110-acre studio lot in a comfy golf cart, where you&#39;ll see sets from classic and current movies. Keep your eyes open for celebrities who may be on-site filming.</p>

<p>To avoid crowds, plan your visit on a winter or spring afternoon, which tend to be less busy. Bring your comfy shoes, as the tour does involve walking, as well as golf cart rides.</p>

<p><strong>Tips for visiting:</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Don&#39;t forget your camera, as you may see movies and TV stars on set, but remember that video isn&#39;t allowed.</li>
	<li>Book in advance, so your preferred tour doesn&#39;t fill up.</li>
	<li>Got a favorite WB show? Let your guide know, as they may be able to swing by the set.</li>
	<li>Plan to spend a couple of hours at the Stage 48 museum after the tour ends.</li>
	<li>Grab a coffee at Central Perk.</li>
</ul>


<h2>Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens</h2>


<p>Gorillas, Komodo dragons, and snow leopards, oh my! More than 1.5 million people visit the fabulous&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/la-zoo-and-botanical-gardens">Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens</a>&nbsp;each year to view thousands of colorful, noisy, and fascinating birds, mammals, reptiles and insects.</p>

<p>Bring sunscreen and a hat, because the afternoon sun can be intense. To see the animals when they&#39;re most active, plan to visit the zoo as soon as possible after they open in the morning.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Tips for visiting:</strong><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>You may see more animals on overcast days.</li>
	<li>Don&#39;t miss the daily elephant training demonstration, free with admission.</li>
	<li>Book your Hippo Encounter tickets before you go, as they tend to sell out quickly.</li>
	<li>If cutting down on walking, take the shuttle to the top of the zoo and work your way back toward the entrance; it&#39;ll be downhill.</li>
	<li>To skip the carousel lines, purchase tickets in advance.</li>
</ul>


<h2>Hollywood Sign Tour</h2>

<p>Get your daily steps in while enjoying some of the best views in town! A knowledgeable guide leads you through beautiful Griffith Park and the Hollywood Hills on this&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/hollywood-sign-tour" rel="noopener" target="_blank">walking tour</a>, which includes stops at the Griffith Park Observatory and amazing photo ops of the infamous Hollywood sign. Avoid the afternoon heat and schedule your hike in the morning. Bring sunscreen and wear your most comfortable shoes.</p>

<p><strong>Tips for visiting:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>This hike is rated as easy to moderate</li>
	<li>Expect to walk for 90 minutes&nbsp;on your tour</li>
	<li>Park for free at the Greek Theater</li>
	<li>This hike is appropriate for families and solo travelers</li>
	<li>Take the twilight hike for romantic views of the city</li>
</ul>

<h2>Madame Tussauds Hollywood</h2>

<p>Get up close and personal with your favorite celebs &mdash; or at least with their amazingly life-like wax doppelgangers &mdash; at&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/madame-tussauds-hollywood">Madame Tussauds Hollywood</a>. Bring your camera, because this is the best place in Hollywood to take selfies with your celebrity crush. If you plan your visit for early in the day, you&#39;ll have a better chance of getting a space in the valet parking area located under Madame Tussauds Hollywood.</p>

<p><strong>Tips for visiting:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Eat before you visit, as Madame Tussauds Hollywood doesn&#39;t allow outside food or drink.</li>
	<li>Leave any large bags or backpacks in your hotel, as you won&#39;t be permitted to bring them inside.</li>
	<li>Displays are always changing, so check the website before you go to ensure you see your top celebrity wax figures.</li>
	<li>For a fee, you can have a wax mold made of your own hand.</li>
	<li>Make sure your camera has a flash, as certain areas of the museum don&#39;t have optimal lighting for photos.</li>
</ul>


<h2>Save on admission to top Los Angeles attractions with Go City&reg;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Discover our full line-up of Los Angeles attractions including the Hollywood Sign Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott&#39;s Berry Farm, and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>🤩 &gt;&gt; If you want to see and do as much as you can, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/all-inclusive?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">All-Inclusive Pass</a> is for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>😎 &gt;&gt; If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/explorer?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a> is the perfect option.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So pick whichever <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" target="_blank">LA pass</a> suits you best, and get ready to see all the city&#39;s best bits!</p>


<h2>TCL Chinese Theatres Guided Tour</h2>


<p>Experience decades of iconic history when you visit&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/tcl-chinese-theatre-tour-or-movie-drink">TCL Chinese Theatre</a>. This 30-minute walking tour offers a rich glimpse into Hollywood&#39;s past and present, with access to the movie theater where celebrities attend red-carpet premieres and, of course, those famous cement hands and footprints in the Forecourt of the Stars.</p>

<p>Take a morning tour, as the forecourt tends to fill with tourists (and sometimes technicians setting up for a premier) in the afternoon. Bring a few small bills with you if you plan on taking pictures with the street performers outside the theater, as they&#39;ll expect a tip.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<ul>
	<li>Reserve your tour ahead of time to get the time slot you want</li>
	<li>Look for the three celebrity horse hoof prints among the human hand and footprints</li>
	<li>See a movie at matinee prices in the early afternoon or late morning</li>
	<li>See an IMAX film in the world&#39;s largest IMAX auditorium</li>
	<li>The TCL validates parking</li>
</ul>


<h2>Hollywood Movie Star Homes Tour</h2>

<p>Dreaming of running into your favorite A-lister? Then you won&#39;t want to miss this drive past celebrity mansions, hang-outs, and hot locations for spotting luminaries of stage and screen. This two-hour hour takes you through Beverly Hills, the Sunset Strip, Rodeo Drive, and more. Schedule your tour for a sunny day and bring a sun hat, because you might ride in an open-air vehicle.</p>

<p><strong>Tips for visitors:</strong></p>

<ul>
	<li>Check the weather before you go and be prepared for sun or showers.</li>
	<li>Bring your camera and keep your eyes open for the stars.</li>
	<li>Use the restroom before you go as there may not be a chance to stop.</li>
	<li>Bring water and sunscreen.</li>
	<li>If you tour on a chilly day, bring a jacket or sweater for the open-air vehicle.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Self-Guided Movie Star Homes Bike Tour</h2>


Visiting Universal Studios Hollywood and looking for things to do nearby? Check out our list of the most popular attractions, activities, and more.

Things to Do Near Universal Studios Hollywood™ - Go City

A hugely successful operational studio, historical attraction, and a magnificent theme park all rolled into one.

It's a can’t-miss attraction for L.A. and Southern California visitors and a favorite of movie buffs and pop culture fans around the world.

Universal Studios Hollywood guide - Discount admission, tips & more

<p>Ranking highly on many a list of top things to do in Los Angeles, you are guaranteed an excellent day out. Take a comprehensive tour of the back lot, then devote a few hours to their thrilling rides, exciting shows, and delightful attractions.</p>

<p>Don&rsquo;t forget to leave time to explore Universal CityWalk, the shopping and dining destination adjacent to the park. Many people wonder how long you need at Universal Studios or how many days to spend there. Check out our helpful guide for visiting Universal Studios Hollywood, packed full of tips for visiting, ways to save on admission, other nearby attractions, and much more.</p>


<h2>How can you get Universal Studios Hollywood discount tickets?</h2>

<p>We&rsquo;ve got you covered &ndash;&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/universal-studios-hollywood-ticket" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Universal Studios Hollywood tickets</a>&nbsp;are available with the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive" rel="noopener" target="_blank">All-Inclusive Pass</a>&nbsp;on 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-day Los Angeles passes. The pass can be used on one day within the lifetime of your pass.</p>


<h3>Despicable Me Minion Mayhem</h3>

<p>Fans of this hit movie franchise will love this 3D ride. Experience life in the day of a Minion as you begin an adventure that drags you into Gru&rsquo;s latest scheme. Leave time for the fun and sweet Minion dance party, and afterward, be sure to visit&nbsp;<strong>Super Silly Fun Land<em>,&nbsp;</em></strong>a recreation of the first film&rsquo;s carnival. Try ringing the doorbells and see what happens!</p>


<h3>TransformersTM: The Ride 3D</h3>

<p>Another smash-hit movie franchise, this Transformers super ride is one crazy experience. In a ride that &ldquo;blurs the line between fiction and reality,&rdquo; anything can happen! A motion simulator with special effects, 3-D features, and Transformer animatronics, the ride is set in the ongoing battle between the Autobots and Decepticons. The ride features an original storyline as well as your favorite heroes and villains transforming into cars, planes, and who knows what else!</p>

<p>Be prepared to fight alongside Optimus Prime as he wages war against the evil forces of the Decepticons.</p>


<h2>Where is there to eat near Universal Studios Hollywood?</h2>

<p>If you&rsquo;re spending the day at Universal Studios, it makes the most sense to enjoy all of your meals at the park. You have tons of dining options to choose from, and two basic destinations for your restaurants: Universal CityWalk and next to various attractions at Universal itself.&nbsp; Dine before 12:30 or after 2:00 to avoid lines. Here are some of the dining highlights at Universal:</p>


<ul>
	<li><strong>Krusty Burger, Moe&rsquo;s Tavern</strong>, and<strong>&nbsp;Luigi&rsquo;s Pizza </strong>are&nbsp;all located inside the Springfield exhibit at the Simpsons&trade;&nbsp;Ride. You&rsquo;ll find burgers, soda, pizza, and even Duff beer at these locations.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Gru&rsquo;s Lab Caf&eacute;&nbsp;</strong>and&nbsp;<strong>Despicable Delights:</strong>&nbsp;Located within the Despicable Me exhibit. Expect everything from nachos and grilled cheese to pulled pork and smoothies.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Palace Theatre Caf&eacute;:</strong>&nbsp;A&nbsp;more upscale option, featuring&nbsp;gourmet sandwiches, salads, and other delicious grab-n-go options.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Hollywood Grill: </strong>Serves food all day including breakfast. Some menu items to check out include homemade pizza and breadsticks, mouth-watering funnel cake, and fresh salads.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Mel&rsquo;s Diner:</strong>&nbsp;A&nbsp;blast from the past, features burgers, sandwiches, milkshakes, and all the classic diner foods.</li>
</ul>

<p>Here are a few of your many options at Universal CityWalk:</p>

<ul>
	<li><strong>Bubba Gump Shrimp Co:&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;Home of all things seafood, especially shrimp!<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Buca di Beppo: </strong>A&nbsp;family-favorite Italian restaurant.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li><strong>Jillian&rsquo;s: </strong>A&nbsp;unique &ldquo;dine n&rsquo; game&rdquo; establishment that kids will love. In addition to great food, you&rsquo;ll also find a state-of-the-art arcade.</li>
</ul>


<h2>Save on admission to top Los Angeles attractions with Go City&reg;</h2>

<p>Discover our full line-up of <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/" target="_blank">Los Angeles attractions </a>including the Hollywood Sign Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott&#39;s Berry Farm, and more.</p>

<p>🤩 &gt;&gt; If you want to see and do as much as you can, our<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes?duration=3" target="_blank"> All-Inclusive Pass</a> is for you.</p>

<p>😎 &gt;&gt; If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/explorer?duration=3" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a> is the perfect option.</p>

<p>So pick whichever <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" target="_blank">LA pass</a> suits you best and get exploring!</p>


<p>The perfect place to discover all things Tinseltown. The&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/hollywood-museum">Hollywood Museum</a>&nbsp;is full of artifacts, props, and costumes from your favorite films. Swoon over Marilyn Monroe&#39;s red dress, see Cary Grant&#39;s Rolls Royce, and explore make-up rooms, film sets, and more.</p>


The Hollywood Museum

<h3>The Simpsons Ride&trade; &amp; Springfield</h3>

<p>Immersing visitors and fans in the world of &ldquo;The Simpsons&rdquo; like never before, this exhibit area is a pretty unique experience.</p>

<p>Enjoy a funny animation specially created just for this ride, then pay a visit to downtown Springfield and leave some time for a Krusty Burger run or a brew at Moe&rsquo;s. You&#39;ll love exploring this replica of the famous town, including all your favorite hangouts from the show.</p>


<h3>Jurassic Park&reg;: The Ride</h3>

<p>This one&rsquo;s not for the faint of heart. You&rsquo;ll come face to face with ginormous, realistic dinosaurs (including a 50-ft-tall T-Rex) before you drop a startling 84 feet down on a water-borne raft. Also, be sure to check out the hair-raising&nbsp;<em>Raptor Encounter.</em></p>


<h3>King Kong 360 3-D</h3>

<p>Created by Peter Jackson (director of&nbsp;<em>The Lord of the Rings&nbsp;</em>trilogy, as well as 2005&rsquo;s&nbsp;<em>King Kong</em>), the King Kong 3-D experience at Universal Studios Hollywood is arguably one of the park&rsquo;s most popular attractions. On the ride, you&rsquo;ll face a 30-foot-tall King Kong and a 35-foot-tall T-Rex in the middle of two massive 187ft wide by 40ft high screens &ndash; equivalent to 16 movie theater screens put together. The ride is one of the world&rsquo;s largest, most intense 3-D experiences.</p>


<h3>The NBC Universal Experience</h3>

<p>This exhibit features objects and artifacts from over 100 years of movie magic at Universal Studios. See props and costumes from award-winning and fan-favorite films like&nbsp;<em>Back to the Future</em>,&nbsp;<em>Jurassic Park</em>, and the&nbsp;<em>Fast &amp; Furious</em>&nbsp;franchise. Television fans will enjoy similar artifacts from hit shows like&nbsp;<em>Warehouse 13</em>,&nbsp;<em>Covert Affairs</em>, and&nbsp;<em>Parks and Recreation</em>.</p>


<h2>What are the best things to do at Universal Studios Hollywood?</h2>

<p>One of the best and most popular things to do at Universal Studios Hollywood is the Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour. This legendary tour brings you behind the scenes of one of Hollywood&rsquo;s most popular and productive movie studios. Roam 13 city blocks spread across four acres of studio lot as you listen to a narration recorded by&nbsp;<em>Tonight Show</em>&nbsp;host and&nbsp;<em>SNL&nbsp;</em>alum Jimmy Fallon.</p>


<h2>What is there to do near Universal Studios Hollywood?</h2>

<p>Some of our favorites include...</p>

<h3>Universal CityWalk</h3>

<p>This diverse dining and shopping destination is adjacent to the park (though you won&#39;t need an admission ticket to get in). You can explore your favorite retail shops or catch a movie at the cinema.</p>

<h3>LA Zoo &amp; Botanical Gardens</h3>

<p>Not too far from Universal City, you can find the&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/la-zoo-and-botanical-gardens">LA Zoo &amp; Botanical Gardens</a>. Visit lowland gorillas, seals, chimpanzees, Komodo dragons, exotic birds, tigers, snow leopards, and plenty more. From birds to mammals to reptiles, you&#39;ll see endless types of animals.</p>


<h3>The Hollywood Museum</h3>

<p>The perfect place to discover all things Tinseltown. The&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/hollywood-museum">Hollywood Museum</a>&nbsp;is full of artifacts, props, and costumes from your favorite films. Swoon over Marilyn Monroe&#39;s red dress, see Cary Grant&#39;s Rolls Royce, and explore make-up rooms, film sets, and more.</p>

<h3>Madame Tussauds Hollywood</h3>

<p>Get up close and personal with your favorite celebrities in wax-figure form. Over 100 figures live within the walls of&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/madame-tussauds-hollywood">Madame Tussauds Hollywood</a>, each impressive and life-like in ways you could never imagine. Explore exhibits made up of Movie Stars, Hollywood Icons, Movie Characters, Pop Stars, Sports Stars, and more.</p>


<h2>Top Tips for Visiting Universal Studios<br />
&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Arrive early! You&rsquo;ll need at least one entire day to visit Universal to make the most of your experience.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Consult Universal&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.universalstudioshollywood.com/">website</a>&nbsp;and social media channels before visiting to see what&rsquo;s new and happening at the park during your visit.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Studio tours are available in English, Spanish, and Mandarin for your convenience.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Parking is available for the entire day. Parking prices vary.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Strollers and wheelchairs are available for rent if you need them.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Locker facilities of varying sizes are also available if you end up accumulating tons of souvenirs.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Plan on eating at the park for both lunch and dinner, as there are tons of quality dining options.<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-day Los Angeles All-Inclusive&nbsp;passes can include day tickets to&nbsp;Universal Studios Hollywood.</li>
</ul>


<h2>How long do you need at Universal Studios Hollywood?</h2>

<p>Most people would say 6-7 hours is the average time needed to see the best of Universal Studios, essentially a full day. You could certainly spend multiple days here seeing all the theme park has to offer but 6-7 hours should cover the main sights and experiences.</p>


<h2>When is the best time to visit Universal Studios Hollywood?</h2>

<p>To maximize your time at Universal Studios Hollywood, we recommend arriving as soon as the park opens.</p>


<h2>What to bring for the day:<br />
&nbsp;</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Comfortable shoes &amp; clothes<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A camera or phone<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Sunscreen and/or a hat<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Pre-packed snacks<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Bottled water<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A waterproof bag<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Your phone charger<br />
	&nbsp;</li>
	<li>A light jacket</li>
</ul>


<h2>What is there to do at Universal Studios Hollywood?&nbsp;</h2>

<p>From rollercoasters to live shows, there is so much to do. Here are just a few of their popular rides and attractions:</p>


<h3>The Wizarding World of Harry Potter&trade;</h3>

<p>From magical spells to magical creatures, from dark villains to daring heroes, it&rsquo;s all here at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter&trade;. Explore the mysteries of Hogwarts&nbsp;Castle, and experience pulse-pounding rides and attractions that transport you into a world of magical thrills and excitement.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Fast and Furious: Supercharged</h3>

<p>See the stars from the Fast &amp; Furious series reunite in an epic grand finale to the world-famous Studio Tour. This exhibit centralizes on everyone&#39;s favorite super-speed franchise - the Fast &amp; Furious films.</p>

<p>The special effects on this one are out of this world - you&#39;ll feel like you&#39;ve been thrown into the films as you enjoy huge, state-of-the-art 3D screens. Join the all-star cast in a supercharged ride that mimics a high-speed chase of over 120mph.</p>


Make the most of your visit to the amazingly fun Universal Studios Hollywood and see how long to spend here with these tips, attraction highlights & much more.

Universal Studios Hollywood Guide - Tips for an Amazing Time

Heading to the City of Angels? Well you've come to the right place!

We've got your go-to guide with all the info on getting around the city and beyond, including how to get to and from the airport. When you're visiting this sunny Californian paradise, we're sure you'll want to see as much as humanly possible. So we've got all the best tips and tricks for completing your Los Angeles Bucket List.

Getting around LA - How to get around Los Angeles for tourists

<p>Amtrak services Los Angeles from roughly 500 U.S. cities. The L.A. train terminal is called Union Station (pictured) and is located on the northern edge of Downtown. From the station, you can either take one of the many taxis that line up outside, board the Metro Red Line to Hollywood or Universal City, or hop on a Metrolink commuter train to San Fernando Valley.</p>

<p>For cross country travel, you&rsquo;ll likely have to switch trains in Chicago or New Orleans. For Pacific coast travel, the Amtrak Coast Starlight runs direct from Seattle to Los Angeles. Additionally, Amtrak runs a specific train along the California coast, connecting to San Diego, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.</p>


<p>Planning to visit lots of Los Angeles attractions? With&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Go City&reg;</a>&nbsp;you won&#39;t miss a thing, plus with a pass you can save up to 50% compared to buying individual entry to everything you want to do - winning!</p>

<p><strong>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes?duration=1">Compare Los Angeles passes</a>☀️&nbsp;&ndash; 🌏&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en">Explore other destinations&nbsp;</a>🌏 &ndash;&nbsp; ✈️&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/all-inclusive?duration=1">Buy a pass&nbsp;✈️</a></strong></p>


<p>Most visitors to Los Angeles will arrive at the Los Angeles International Airport, LAX. This enormous airport is surprisingly easy to navigate and the terminals are connected with free shuttle buses. LAX is conveniently located just minutes from Santa Monica and the beaches are only a half-hour journey, traffic-permitting, from Hollywood and the Westside.</p>

<p>In the neighborhood surrounding LAX, you&rsquo;ll find every popular car rental agency in the area. Conveniently, each of these rental companies offers a complimentary shuttle to and from the airport. For more information about LAX, visit <a href="https://www.flylax.com/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">their website</a>.</p>

<p>It&#39;s super easy to get to and from the airport - whether you hail a taxi cab waiting outside, arrange for a ride-sharing service, or hop on a public bus.</p>

<p>The Bob Hope Airport in Burbank is located closer to Hollywood and downtown L.A. If you want to avoid L.A. city proper, you may want to fly into the Long Beach Municipal Airport, south of LAX on Long Beach and closer to Orange County.</p>

<p>Finally, if your destination is Disneyland, you may want to book a flight to John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana.</p>


<p>Los Angeles is a car-centric city and is connected to several major highways. From the north you will likely take I-5 or U.S. 101 (called the Hollywood Freeway). From the east, you&rsquo;ll be coming in on I-10, which continues through downtown and ends at the beach. From the South, you&rsquo;ll drive north on I-5, merging onto I-405 if the beach communities are your destination.</p>


<h2>By car &ndash; recommended!&nbsp;</h2>


<p>So there you have it, our go-to guide for getting around LA.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<h3><strong>Want to save money on those bucket-list attractions? </strong></h3>

<p><strong>Check out passes from Go City and you could save yourself up to 50% on your must-sees, so grab an <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" target="_blank">LA pass</a> and make the most of it!</strong></p>

<p><strong>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes?duration=1">Compare Los Angeles passes</a>☀️&nbsp;&ndash; 🌏&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en">Explore other destinations&nbsp;</a>🌏 &ndash;&nbsp; ✈️&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/all-inclusive?duration=1">Buy a pass&nbsp;✈️</a></strong></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<p>Fortunately, car rentals are relatively cheap in Los Angeles and all major car rental companies have offices at the airports and at popular hotels. Be sure to book ahead of time to get the best rate. Los Angeles has a system of toll-free freeways that connect the area&rsquo;s spread-out communities But, be prepared for bumper-to-bumper rush hour traffic from 7-9 AM and 3-7 PM.</p>

<p>To make the most of your time, it&rsquo;s best to spend each day in a specific area to minimize travel time. Check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/blog/los-angeles-neighborhoods" rel="noopener" target="_blank">Los Angeles by neighborhood guide</a>.</p>

<p><strong>Insider tip</strong>: a GPS is a big time-saver when navigating L.A. so be sure to bring one with you or if you&rsquo;re using your smartphone, remember to pack a car charger.</p>


<p>The&nbsp;<a href="http://www.metro.net/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Los Angeles Metro</a>&nbsp;is affordable, relatively easy to use and services most of Los Angeles County and its top attractions. The public transit system consists of Metro Buses, DASH Buses and Metro Rail Trains.&nbsp;</p>

<p>To ride these buses, trains and subways, we recommend purchasing a reusable&nbsp;TAP Card. These are easily available at TAP machines located within the bus or subway stations. You can load a preset cash value onto the card and travel across all three systems as needed. It&#39;s also super easy to add extra cash if you&#39;re running low.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Insider tip</strong>: use the MTA&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="https://www.metro.net/riding/trip-planner/" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Trip Planner tool</a>&nbsp;to plan your routes and get estimated travel times.&nbsp;</p>


<p>The railway system consists of two subway lines, four light-rail lines, and two express bus lines that connect to Downtown Los Angeles.</p>

<p><strong>🔴 Red Line </strong>is the most useful for tourists and visitors. This line links Downtown Union Station to North Hollywood via Hollywood and Universal City. It also connects with the Blue, Expo and Orange lines.</p>

<p><strong>🟣 Purple Line </strong>connects Downtown Los Angeles to Westlake and Koreatown.</p>

<p><strong>⚫️ Expo Line </strong>is a light-rail that links USC and Exposition Park with Culver City, Santa Monica, and Downtown LA.</p>

<p><strong>🔵 Blue Line </strong>is a light-rail line that runs from Downtown LA to Long Beach, connecting with the Green, Red, and Expo lines along the way.</p>

<p><strong>🟡 Gold Line </strong>is a light-rail line that connects East LA to Little Tokyo, China Town and Pasadena via Union Station, where it connects with the Red Line.</p>

<p><strong>🟢 Green Line </strong>is a light-rail line that services Norwalk and Redondo Beach.</p>

<p><strong>🟠 Orange Line </strong>express buses connect the San Fernando Valley to North Hollywood.</p>

<p><strong>⚪️ Silver Line </strong>express buses connect the El Monte regional bus station to Harbor Gateway Transit Center in Gardena.</p>


<p>The bus system offers 200 different lines that cross the entire city and beyond. There are three types of bus services to be aware of while navigating on the Metro Buses.</p>

<p><strong>🟠 Metro Local Buses</strong>&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;painted orange, make frequent stops along major districts and tourist attractions around the city.</p>

<p><strong>🔴 Metro Rapid Buses &ndash;</strong>&nbsp;painted red, stop less frequently but allow for an express ride. These buses even have special sensors that keep the lights green to avoid traffic. Check schedules and routes ahead of time and see if the Rapid Bus is right for you - it&#39;ll definitely save you time!</p>

<p><strong>🔵 Metro Express Buses &ndash;</strong>&nbsp;painted blue,&nbsp;are typically used by commuters. This route connects Downtown Los Angeles with other business districts and travels on a few of the city&#39;s freeways.</p>


<p>These small shuttle buses are run by the LA Department of Transportation and operate along 33 different routes around the city. Many of the Metro Rail and Bus lines connect with the DASH buses. For these buses, when you get on you&#39;ll need to pay the exact fee (typically 25-50 cents USD).</p>

<p><strong>🚌 Beachwood Canyon Route</strong>: this route runs Monday - Saturday and takes you right to the Hollywood Sign. It runs from Hollywood Blvd and Vine Street up to Beachwood Drive.</p>

<p><strong>🚌 Downtown Routes: </strong>these five routes run daily and service all the hot spots in Los Angeles. Get to Little Tokyo, Chinatown, the Financial District, Union Station and more.</p>

<p><strong>🚌&nbsp;Fairfax Route</strong>: this route runs Monday - Saturday and makes a loop around Beverly Hills Central Mall, the Pacific Design Center, Melrose Avenue, the Grove, and Museum Row.</p>

<p><strong>🚌 Hollywood Route</strong>: this route runs daily and services the east side of Highland Ave and Hollywood.</p>


<p>Hailing a cab in Los Angeles can be difficult. Your best bet is to call a taxi company or download Curb app (formerly Taxi Magic) to schedule a pick-up in advance. Taxis in LA are typically metered and charged by the mile. You can also use popular ride-sharing taxi services, like Uber or Lyft.</p>

<p>They are easily available and relatively cheap (depending on the time you are traveling and where), so make sure to download your preferred service to your phone before your trip. Please remember, Los Angeles traffic can get pretty jammed during rush hour so give yourself some extra travel time when getting to and from attractions at peak hours.</p>


The best way of getting around LA to explore the city during your vacation. A quick how to get around Los Angeles guide for tourists. 

Getting Around LA – How to Get Around for Tourists | Go City®

Discover Hollywood glitz and glamor beyond the wax, all without spending a cent!

Wander the Walk of Fame, hit hidden Hollywood gardens and discover LA’s creative side—all absolutely gratis.

Free things to do near Madame Tussauds Hollywood

<p>Hollywood is where stars shine and money talks, but you don&rsquo;t have to flash the cash to soak up the drama and glamor near <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/madame-tussauds-hollywood" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Madame Tussauds</a>. The blocks around Hollywood Boulevard deliver non-stop people-watching, quirky corners, and glimpses of movie magic you won&rsquo;t find anywhere else&mdash;no tickets, reservations or velvet ropes required. Ready to find the best ways to experience the real Hollywood for free? We&rsquo;ve rounded up everything from stargazing (literally and figuratively) to neighborhood gardens and secret vistas, all just steps from the famous Madame Tussauds Hollywood waxwork museum.</p>

<h3>Hollywood Walk of Fame</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Can you even say you&rsquo;ve been to Hollywood if you haven&rsquo;t strolled the Walk of Fame? No, you cannot. Conveniently, it starts on the sidewalk outside Madame Tussauds. This world-famous stretch of nearly 3,000 terrazzo-and-brass stars draws movie obsessives, music lovers and pop-culture sleuths from across the globe. Wandering here is like time-traveling through Hollywood history, all for free.</p>

<p>There&rsquo;s a new discovery every few feet as iconic names, beloved legends and pop stars&rsquo; signatures reveal themselves beneath your shoes. Pause by Marilyn Monroe, snap a selfie with Michael Jackson and Audrey Hepburn&rsquo;s stars, and keep your eyes peeled for the latest A-list additions. You&rsquo;ll also run into costumed characters, magicians, and breakdancers working the crowd&mdash;sometimes delivering performances as memorable as any sold-out LA show.</p>


<p>Movie magic comes alive just across the street from Madame Tussauds at the TCL Chinese Theatre Forecourt. While you&rsquo;ll of course need a ticket for the movies showing inside, access to the forecourt&mdash;where film stars have pressed their hands and feet into concrete since the 1920s&mdash;is free. Hollywood heavyweights including Judy Garland, George Clooney, R2-D2, and dozens more are immortalized here.</p>

<p>Visitors love lining up their hands with the stars&rsquo; or, for a classic LA moment, snapping a pic kneeling beside Marilyn Monroe&rsquo;s stilettos or Arnold Schwarzenegger&rsquo;s larger-than-life footprints. It&rsquo;s both a living museum and a constantly evolving part of the LA story.</p>

<p>The theater itself is a feast for the eyes, with its Chinese pagoda roof, dragon motifs, and sparkling glass. Street performers and tour groups keep things lively, and architecture buffs will appreciate the original 1920s design touches. If you time your visit right, you might catch a mini-red carpet event or a filmmaker Q&amp;A in the plaza&mdash;all free for sidewalk spectators. But, for pure Hollywood legend, nothing hits home quite like the theater&rsquo;s concrete monuments to fame.</p>


TCL Chinese Theatre forecourt 

<h3>Hollywood &amp; Highland Center public spaces</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just around the corner from Madame Tussauds, the Hollywood &amp; Highland complex is a retail and entertainment hub that&rsquo;s also home to one of LA&rsquo;s most spectacular (and totally free) public rooftops. Head up the escalators to the multi-level terraces, where open-air lounges and wide walkways offer jaw-dropping views of the iconic Hollywood Sign, framed through soaring Babylonian columns. Artists, musicians and dancers often perform in the main courtyard&mdash;so you can map out your next move while enjoying LA&rsquo;s finest street show, gratis.</p>

<p>The center is also packed with fun, Instagram-worthy details: dramatic towers (inspired by DW Griffith&rsquo;s silent-era epics), a musical water fountain and rotating public art installations. Don&rsquo;t miss the free Hollywood Sign viewing platforms on higher floors&mdash;ideal for souvenir selfies. With its sweeping plazas and generous terrace seating, this spot is proof LA wants you to enjoy its razzle-dazzle&mdash;no ticket required.</p>


<p>Set inside the Hollywood &amp; Highland Center, this is where the Oscars take place each year. And, while the auditorium itself is only accessible to ticket holders, you can explore the Dolby Theatre&rsquo;s dramatic public spaces and spiral stairways, which are free and open to everyone. Wander the stately colonnade lined with plaques for Best Picture Oscar winners, stretching back to the very first Academy Awards.</p>

<p>The curved grand staircase is a favorite photo spot&mdash;at the top, you&rsquo;re standing right where the A-listers gather on Oscar night. Ornate art-deco details and glass balustrades make the perfect backdrop for a glam selfie or short video. Time your visit right and you might see a public rehearsal or a set-up for a big event&mdash;watching the behind-the-scenes preparations gives you a taste of the real Hollywood glamour.</p>

<p>During Academy Awards season, this is the epicenter of red-carpet fever (come early to glimpse the transformation). On other days, the space is surprisingly tranquil, with sunlight filtering through open balconies and city views stretching up Hollywood Boulevard. It&rsquo;s a movie-lover&rsquo;s pilgrimage and a camera-ready slice of film history, all for free.</p>

<p><strong>Pro-tip: </strong>a budget-busting guided tour of the theater is included with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong><u>the Los Angeles attractions pass from Go City&reg;.</u></strong></a></p>


Dolby Theatre public areas

<h3>Capitol Records Building</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>No LA playlist is complete without the Capitol Records Building, one of the city&rsquo;s coolest pieces of modernist architecture&mdash;styled like a stack of records and topped with a flashing Morse code sign that spells out &lsquo;Hollywood&rsquo;. While the interior is off-limits to the public, music-obsessed fans know the sidewalk outside (a 10-minute walk from Madame Tussauds) is the main event.</p>

<p>Pose beside the walk-up mural tribute to The Beatles, snap a photo with the legendary &lsquo;Capitol&rsquo; sign, and check out the &lsquo;Hollywood Jazz&rsquo; mural on the rear wall (an unsung gem featuring Ella Fitzgerald and Charlie Parker). The street corner is often lively with buskers and tourists, providing that quintessential LA energy.</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re a fan of classic albums or want a taste of Hollywood&rsquo;s music history, just strolling by and soaking up the scene delivers a thrill all its own&mdash;no concert ticket required.</p>

<p><br />
&nbsp;</p>

<h3>Hollywood Heritage Museum Gardens and DeMille Lasky Barn Grounds</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Just a short stroll from Hollywood Boulevard, the humble barn that launched Hollywood&rsquo;s movie industry stands amid lush, welcoming grounds. Although admission is required for inside exhibits, the outdoor area and gardens are freely accessible, making it one of Hollywood&rsquo;s best open-secret history stops.</p>

<p>Why visit? The barn itself is California&rsquo;s oldest surviving film studio structure. Gaze up at its rustic fa&ccedil;ade and imagine DeMille, Lasky and a young Cecil B. filming &lsquo;The Squaw Man&rsquo; right here in 1913, effectively kickstarting both Paramount Pictures and Hollywood as the world&rsquo;s movie capital. These tidy cottage gardens and shaded lawns host native plants, vibrant roses, and benches for a restful pause. Interpretive signs outside highlight the barn&rsquo;s wild journey&mdash;from studio to field house to historical treasure.</p>

<p>Most weekends, friendly volunteers are on hand to chat about silent film days or share trivia. If you time your visit right, you might even catch costumed re-enactors or local arts groups rehearsing scenes on the little outdoor stage. It&rsquo;s peaceful, heartwarming and perfect for reflecting on how a humble barn changed global pop culture forever.</p>


<p>If you&rsquo;re ready for a true Los Angeles experience (and a workout), make your way north to the Fuller Avenue entrance of Runyon Canyon Park. Here you&rsquo;ll join joggers, walkers and perhaps even a pampered celebrity dog or two on city-famous hiking trails&mdash;all free, all loaded with spectacular views.</p>

<p>Choose from winding dirt paths of varying difficulty: a leisurely stroll along the lower fire road, or energetic climbs for panoramic spectacles you didn&rsquo;t realize were so close to Hollywood&rsquo;s heart. Pause along the way for peerless, open-air snapshots of the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and downtown LA gleaming in the distance. On clear days you can see all the way to the Pacific.</p>

<p>Along the lower trails, keep an eye out for fitness classes&mdash;Runyon hosts free yoga most mornings, and you&rsquo;re welcome to join. Benches and lookouts line the paths, great for catching your breath and soaking up LA&rsquo;s sunshine. In spring, wildflowers dot the trails and the city&rsquo;s everyday buzz fades into canyon calm. It&rsquo;s a &lsquo;see and be seen&rsquo; LA ritual, but also wonderfully democratic&mdash;everyone gets the same million-dollar view.</p>


Runyon Canyon Park – Hollywood entrance

<h3>The Ricardo Montalb&aacute;n Theatre rooftop&nbsp;</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The historic Ricardo Montalb&aacute;n Theatre isn&rsquo;t just an architectural treasure&mdash;its rooftop is one of Hollywood&rsquo;s lesser-known urban escapes. While indoor performances require a ticket, the rooftop frequently hosts free community nights, art installations, and summer movie screenings.</p>

<p>The view from the open-air deck is classic LA: neon lights shimmering below, the Pantages Theatre sign glowing to the east, and the hills silhouetted above. On event nights, you&rsquo;ll mingle with a creative local crowd&mdash;artists, musicians, even the occasional short-film shoot. Graffiti art and potted palms add a splash of color, while lounge chairs and fairy lights create a festive, laid-back atmosphere.</p>

<p>When the rooftop is open, it&rsquo;s a perfect spot to relax with friends, sip a spritz, and soak up Hollywood&rsquo;s creative pulse&mdash;without spending a cent. DJs sometimes play sunset sets, and public poetry slams or drag shows are frequent features. Even when there&rsquo;s no formal event, you&rsquo;re welcome to enjoy the building&rsquo;s historic interior murals and lobby art.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<h3>The Hollywood Bowl Overlook</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You don&rsquo;t need concert tickets to marvel at the Hollywood Bowl&mdash;or at the jaw-dropping city views from the overlook above it. Walk or drive up Highland Avenue, take a slight turn onto Mulholland, and discover a free public vista point that grants sweeping panoramas of the Hollywood Bowl&rsquo;s iconic bandshell, the city skyline and, on a clear day, the Pacific Ocean.</p>

<p>Arrive in the late afternoon as the city lights begin to twinkle for maximum LA magic. There&rsquo;s interpretive signage about the Bowl&rsquo;s storied musical history, and you&rsquo;re sure to encounter camera-toting locals and starry-eyed tourists soaking it all in.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On concert days, you might catch the distant echo of an orchestra tuning up or a famous headliner soundchecking&mdash;but the view is a showstopper year-round. Bonus: benches are plentiful, parking is free, and the air is fresh&mdash;a welcome retreat above Hollywood&rsquo;s busy streets.</p>

<h3>Barnsdall Art Park</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>A little further afield but absolutely worth the detour, Barnsdall Art Park offers one of LA&rsquo;s most unique (and free!) blends of art, history and green space. Sitting atop Olive Hill, this park surrounds Frank Lloyd Wright&rsquo;s landmark Hollyhock House (its exterior can be admired for free) and includes open lawns with sweeping views of Hollywood and the Griffith Observatory.</p>

<p>The park&rsquo;s gardens are dotted with sculptures, contemporary art installations and local artists painting the view. Wander through the olive groves, let kids play in the creative playground, or bring a sketchbook and join a free art class&mdash;offered most weekends. Local cultural festivals pop up throughout the year, from Greek food fairs to free outdoor movie nights beneath the stars.</p>

<p>Barnsdall&rsquo;s picnic vibe is friendly and relaxed, making it a perfect midday break after the energy of Hollywood Boulevard. Snap a panoramic photo, stroll through the poppy beds and enjoy the soundtrack of happy kids and amateur guitarists practising under the trees.</p>


<p>Wake up early on a Sunday, and you&rsquo;ll find the Hollywood Farmers Market in full swing just a short stroll from <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/madame-tussauds-hollywood" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><u>Madame Tussauds</u></a>. Spanning several lively blocks, this bustling open-air market is much more than a place to buy produce. It&rsquo;s one of LA&rsquo;s most beloved weekly traditions, offering a heady mix of live music, impromptu street performances, and people-watching galore&mdash;all completely free to enter and explore.</p>

<p>Wander through a parade of colorful tents inhaling the heady aromas of fresh flowers, herbs and freshly-cut fruit. Sample a juicy slice of California orange at one stand, listen to a jazz trio jamming at another, or catch a magician performing tricks for wide-eyed kids. The market is as much about community spirit as it is about farm goods&mdash;many regulars show up just to enjoy the vibe and watch Hollywood locals in their natural habitat. If you&rsquo;re traveling with little ones, look for the free community art tent, where they can doodle while you unwind with a coffee. Even if you don&rsquo;t buy a thing, it&rsquo;s one of the best ways to feel the neighborhood&rsquo;s creative pulse.</p>


Hollywood Farmers Market

<h3>Hollywood Sculpture Garden</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>High in the Hollywood Hills, hidden among Mediterranean-style homes and snaking canyon roads, the Hollywood Sculpture Garden is a true off-the-beaten-path delight. This private garden and outdoor art gallery is often open for free self-guided visits&mdash;just check online or call ahead (weekends are often easiest).</p>

<p>Stroll past 100+ original sculptures in every style imaginable: whimsical metal creatures, abstract stone mosaics, and playful installations made from repurposed movie props. The garden winds up the hillside, offering oddball seating, spectacular city views and plenty of quirky surprises&mdash;giant guitar sculptures, kinetic wind art and even an occasional outdoor performance or poetry reading.</p>

<p>The space feels like an open-air treasure hunt&mdash;creative, surprising and wholly unique to Hollywood&rsquo;s neighborhood arts scene. Even on a quick drop-in, you&rsquo;ll leave with a phone full of fun photos and a real sense of LA&rsquo;s endless imagination. The Sculpture Garden is proof that you don&rsquo;t need a ticket (or a big budget) to soak up world-class art in the heart of Tinseltown.</p>

<h3>LA Public Library&mdash;Frances Howard Goldwyn Hollywood Regional Branch</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Need a peaceful pause from the buzz or a quiet spot to plan your next adventure? The Goldwyn Hollywood Regional Branch of the LA Public Library welcomes everyone&mdash;locals and visitors alike&mdash;with free Wi-Fi, comfy reading rooms and friendly staff. Housed in a beautiful, contemporary building with a leafy courtyard, it&rsquo;s a perfect spot to check out LA-centric books, vintage Hollywood photo collections, or catch a free community art show.</p>

<p>Families will appreciate the lively children&rsquo;s section, often featuring free storytimes and craft hours. The branch regularly hosts free movie nights, creative writing workshops and local history presentations&mdash;so there&rsquo;s always something unexpected on the calendar.</p>

<p>Even if you&rsquo;re just dropping in to chill in the air conditioning or browse the latest graphic novels, you&rsquo;ll leave feeling a little more connected to LA&rsquo;s creative undercurrent&mdash;and maybe a little more inspired to write your own Hollywood script.</p>

<p><strong>Looking for more L.A. inspo? Find </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/free-things-to-do-near-richard-nixon-library" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>free things to do near the Richard Nixon Library</strong></a><strong>, and </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/free-things-to-do-near-knotts-berry-farm" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>the best gratis attractions around Knott&rsquo;s Berry Farm.</strong></a></p>

<h4>Step up your sightseeing with Go City&reg;</h4>

<p>We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We&rsquo;re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you&#39;ll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.&nbsp;</p>

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The best of Hollywood—for free! Featuring the Walk of Fame, Runyon Canyon Park, the Hollywood Heritage Museum Gardens and more.

Free things to do near Madame Tussauds Hollywood | Go City®

Explore the best of Hollywood Boulevard and beyond — absolutely gratis!

Hollywood dreams don’t have to cost a dime — here’s how to sightsee like an A-list celebrity near the TCL Chinese Theatre in LA.

Free things to do near TCL Chinese Theatre

<p>Hollywood shimmers with celebrity, creativity and showbiz nostalgia, but fun here doesn&rsquo;t need a blockbuster budget. <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/tcl-chinese-theatre-tour-or-movie-drink" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">The TCL Chinese Theatre</a> stands at the heart of the action, attracting film fans, selfie seekers and celebrity-spotters from all over the world. We&rsquo;ve rounded up our favorite free things to do within a stone&rsquo;s throw (or a breezy stroll) of TCL Chinese Theatre &mdash; from star-gazing on the Walk of Fame to discovering hidden courtyards and soaking up Tinseltown&rsquo;s quirky energy. Whether you&rsquo;re traveling with kids or flying solo on a spontaneous adventure, you&rsquo;ll find plenty to keep your Hollywood story rolling &mdash; no tickets or bank cards required.</p>

<h3>Hollywood Walk of Fame</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>It&rsquo;s hard to imagine a trip to Hollywood without wandering the world-renowned Hollywood Walk of Fame. This sidewalk is more than just a patchwork of terrazzo and brass stars &mdash; it&rsquo;s a living memory lane of entertainment&rsquo;s most cherished names. Stretching over 15 blocks on Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks on Vine Street, the Walk of Fame beckons star-seekers with glimmering tributes underfoot. With TCL Chinese Theatre as its glittering centerpiece, you&rsquo;re already at the heart of the celebration.</p>

<p>Why do we love this stroll so much? For one, every person&rsquo;s experience is unique. Some stop every few feet to snap a photo with their favorite celebrity&rsquo;s star &mdash; maybe you&rsquo;ll spot Michael Jackson, Walt Disney, or someone unexpectedly close to your heart. Others weave deftly through the crowds, gazing down to find international legends, TV trailblazers, and even characters like Snoopy and The Simpsons immortalized among the stars.</p>

<p>As you explore, you&rsquo;ll see street performers adding a little Hollywood flair &mdash; local magicians pulling off sleight of hand, singers belting out cover songs, or the occasional Captain Jack Sparrow offering a camera-ready grin. This makes the Walk of Fame a parade of personalities in its own right. Feel free to linger &mdash; there&rsquo;s always something to surprise you, and it&rsquo;s entirely free entertainment.</p>


<p>The courtyard at TCL Chinese Theatre is the stuff of Hollywood legend. This unforgettable stretch of concrete is sprinkled with nearly a century of showbiz hand (and foot) prints, all for free &mdash; offering a rare, tactile link with the stars who defined the silver screen.</p>

<p>Step into the forecourt and you&rsquo;ll find everyone, from families with wide-eyed kids to film buffs with cameras, tracing their fingers over the deep cement grooves. You&rsquo;re welcome to do the same, comparing your hands or feet to the likes of Judy Garland, Shirley Temple, John Wayne, Will Smith and Emma Watson, to name a few. Do check for quirky messages and little illustrations &mdash; some actors drew hearts, doodles, or even left a memorable paw print, while others scribbled heartfelt notes of thanks to fans.</p>

<p>What makes this spot extra fun is how approachable it is. You don&rsquo;t need a ticket. Kids love pretending to be movie stars lining up for their own red carpet event. Amateur photographers can pop creative selfies with hand-in-cement poses. It&rsquo;s a place where everyone is encouraged to participate, not just observe.</p>

<p><strong>Pro-tip:</strong> a budget-friendly guided tour of the theater is included with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong><u>the Los Angeles attractions pass from Go City&reg;.</u></strong></a></p>


Forecourt of the Stars at TCL Chinese Theatre

<h3>Street art and murals along Hollywood Boulevard</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some of Hollywood&rsquo;s most memorable sights come completely free &mdash; all you need are sharp eyes and a keen sense of adventure. Hollywood Boulevard is dotted with an ever-changing canvas of street art and murals, splashing color across old facades and alleyway walls. Every stroll along the boulevard feels like an art hunt, with your next discovery just around the corner.</p>

<p>Mural subjects are perfectly on point &mdash; think vivid portraits of legendary movie stars, tributes to classic films, and playful homages to the broader LA culture. The famous &lsquo;You Are the Star&rsquo; mural, just a few blocks from TCL Chinese Theatre, deserves a spot on your Instagram feed. From a distance, it looks like a classic movie theater packed with an audience, but on closer inspection, you&rsquo;ll spot every face belongs to a Hollywood icon: Marilyn Monroe, Charlie Chaplin, James Dean and more, all painted in incredible detail.</p>

<p>There&rsquo;s no map for this adventure, but that&rsquo;s half the fun. Just grab a coffee, wander the sidewalks, and let the art surprise you.&nbsp;</p>

<h3>El Capitan Theatre&rsquo;s Disney Studio Store</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>El Capitan Theatre is one of the crown jewels of Hollywood Boulevard, and it has a trick up its sleeve for the budget-minded explorer: the lavish Disney Studio Store right next door. There&rsquo;s no charge to pop inside &mdash; and even if you&rsquo;re not heading in for a show or a treat, the lobby and retail area is an experience in its own right.</p>

<p>Walk in and take a moment to gape at the historic Art Deco d&eacute;cor. Grand chandeliers, ornate gold trim, and plush drapes evoke Hollywood&rsquo;s old-school grandeur, but everything is infused with the childlike wonder of Disney. The store is decked out with whimsical statues and movie-themed displays &mdash; from life-size Olaf figures to Tangled lanterns glowing overhead. You don&rsquo;t even need to be a superfan to smile at the playful details and rotating d&eacute;cor, which changes up regularly to celebrate new film releases.</p>

<p>Locals and visitors alike shuffle through aisles stacked with plush toys, rare Disney pins, collectable art pieces, and eye-catching displays. Many folks come simply to browse and snap photos with giant Mickey and Elsa figures although, if you&rsquo;re visiting with kids, good luck getting out of there without being pestered into buying at least one souvenir toy or trinket!</p>


<p>The Hollywood &amp; Highland complex is much more than a shopping center &mdash; it&rsquo;s an open-air playground nestled right amidst all the Hollywood action, and you don&rsquo;t need to spend a dime to soak up its electric vibe. Just steps from the TCL Chinese Theatre, this sprawling multi-level hub glitters with energy and offers some of the best people-watching and free experiences in all of Los Angeles.</p>

<p>What&rsquo;s so special about this place? For one, its architectural nods to Hollywood&rsquo;s earliest blockbusters: towering columns and massive elephant sculptures inspired by the lavish Babylon set from the 1916 silent film &lsquo;Intolerance&rsquo;. Walk under the digital billboards and through sunlit arcades, and you&rsquo;ll spot photo ops galore &mdash; especially from the upper decks, where the views of the Hollywood Sign are some of the best (And easiest to reach) in Tinseltown.</p>

<p>There are plenty of benches, shaded walkways, and fountain areas to relax and take it all in. You can window shop your way around designer boutiques, snap a quick selfie in front of colorful public art, or just take in the prime view of Hollywood Boulevard. If the mood strikes, you can even join a free workout or yoga session when they&rsquo;re offered &mdash; you&rsquo;ll find these listed on Hollywood &amp; Highland&rsquo;s official website.</p>


Hollywood & Highland complex

<h3>Hollywood Heritage Museum grounds and the Lasky-DeMille barn</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Not far from Hollywood &amp; Highland, but feeling a world apart, are the peaceful grounds of the Hollywood Heritage Museum. While entry to the museum comes with a fee, exploring the grounds and viewing the storied Lasky-DeMille barn from the outside are completely free. And while it&rsquo;s a small detour off the main drag, it&rsquo;s one that&rsquo;s well worth your time if you&rsquo;re looking to connect with movie history&rsquo;s earliest moments.</p>

<p>This bright red barn is no ordinary building &mdash; it&rsquo;s considered the birthplace of the Hollywood film industry, where Cecil B. DeMille shot &lsquo;The Squaw Man&rsquo; in 1913, a movie that changed the face of entertainment forever. As you arrive, you&rsquo;ll notice how peaceful the surrounding garden is, shaded by tall trees and scattered with benches for contemplation. The quiet is a welcome contrast to Hollywood Boulevard&rsquo;s energy just minutes away.</p>

<p>There&rsquo;s plenty for history buffs here: interpretive plaques detail the barn&rsquo;s significance and provide fun facts about early Hollywood personalities, from DeMille himself to silent movie stars who helped shape modern cinema. Get up close for photos &mdash; the barn, with its classic trim and rustic facade, is tailor-made for vintage-style snaps.</p>

<h3>Dolby Theatre: public walkways and Oscar history</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Walking into the Dolby Theatre, even if you don&rsquo;t catch a show, puts you squarely in the footsteps of the stars. While tours and events require tickets, you can wander many of the grand public walkways, open daily for everyone wanting a taste of Hollywood royalty. And for film buffs, there&rsquo;s no greater trivia hotspot: as you ascend the grand staircase, you&rsquo;ll notice gleaming gold plaques embedded along the railings, listing every Best Picture winner since the very first Academy Awards in 1929.</p>

<p>Pause at your favorites &mdash; &lsquo;The Godfather&rsquo;, &lsquo;Titanic&rsquo;, or &lsquo;Parasite&rsquo; &mdash; and imagine that unforgettable Oscar night. The scale of the place adds to that special feeling. The theatre&rsquo;s sweeping, high-ceilinged walkways feel celebratory, and you&rsquo;ll sense a hush that suggests these halls have seen history&rsquo;s finest toasts and triumphs.</p>

<p>This is an ideal photo-opp stop too. Position yourself on the red staircase and ask someone to snap your pose &mdash; you&rsquo;ll look every bit the silver screen star and, in the background, the impressive architecture glows with a soft gold warmth.&nbsp;</p>

<p>If you have time, poke around the upper-level viewing terraces for different perspectives on Hollywood Boulevard and the bustling Hollywood &amp; Highland plaza below. Between its world-class movie history and glam interiors, the Dolby Theatre&rsquo;s public walkways are a love letter to cinema &mdash; and yours to enjoy whenever you wish.</p>

<p><strong>Pro-tip:</strong> a guided tour of the theater is included with <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>the Los Angeles attractions pass from Go City&reg;.</strong></a></p>


<p>A quick walk north on Vine from the TCL Chinese Theatre brings you face-to-face with one of Hollywood&rsquo;s most distinctive landmarks: the Capitol Records Building. Its circular, stacked design was inspired by a pile of vinyl records &mdash; fitting, since some of music&rsquo;s greatest legends recorded hits here, from Frank Sinatra to The Beatles.</p>

<p>You can&rsquo;t go inside unless you&rsquo;re invited (or recording a chart-topping album!), but the exterior is a treat. Wander around and you&rsquo;ll spot the &lsquo;Hollywood&rsquo; Morse code light at the very top, beaming its message out over the city day and night &mdash; a quirky bit of LA trivia that&rsquo;s fun to tell fellow travelers. Many fans pose at the corner of Hollywood and Vine to snap the perfect shot of the building as palm trees line up for a picture-perfect frame.</p>

<p>The Capitol Records Building rewards lingering: don&rsquo;t miss the sidewalk plaques honoring Capitol Records&rsquo; many artists, or the mural on the northern wall celebrating some of recording&rsquo;s greatest voices.</p>


Capitol Records Building—Hollywood’s musical beacon

<h3>Hollyhock House views</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>A short ride from the bustle of Hollywood Boulevard is Barnsdall Art Park, perched atop Olive Hill like LA&rsquo;s unofficial arts playground. Savvy locals and in-the-know travelers love this spot for its free views and al fresco art.</p>

<p>The park weaves together grassy picnic lawns, palm-lined paths and open-air sculpture gardens with an always-buzzing creative crowd. It&rsquo;s a favorite spot for artists with sketchbooks, families flying kites, and yoga groups practicing under shade trees. Even if you&rsquo;re just wandering through, the panoramic views across the city &mdash; from Griffith Park to Downtown LA &mdash; are worth the trip alone.</p>

<p>The centerpiece, Frank Lloyd Wright&rsquo;s Hollyhock House, is a stunner even viewed from outside. While interior tours carry a fee, anyone can wander the grounds to admire the Mayan-inspired exterior details and dramatic architectural angles. Don&rsquo;t forget your camera &mdash; the house framed by olive trees or the Downtown skyline as a backdrop is pure Los Angeles.</p>

<h3>Runyon Canyon entrances and Hollywood Hills hiking</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Craving a little fresh air and a totally different angle on Hollywood? Runyon Canyon Park is your go-to for spectacular views &mdash; and you don&rsquo;t need to be a world-class hiker to make the most of it. The park&rsquo;s southern entrance is about a 20-minute walk up from the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/tcl-chinese-theatre-tour-or-movie-drink" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">TCL Chinese Theatre</a>, and it&rsquo;s worth every step, unlocking some of the best urban wilderness in LA for free.</p>

<p>Paths wind up and across the hills, each offering a different perspective: sweeping city views, dramatic shots of the Hollywood Sign, and the feeling that you&rsquo;ve left city noise behind&mdash;even though the skyscrapers are still in sight. You choose your own adventure: the gentler fire road for a casual stroll, or the steeper trails that serve up a mini workout (local runners and yoga groups love these). Along the way, look out for native wildflowers, colorful butterflies and, of course, celebrity canines&mdash;Runyon is a top LA dog spot, so expect happy pups bounding past or lounging with their owners at hilltop rest stops.</p>

<p>At a few key lookout points, you&rsquo;ll be treated to panoramic vistas: the Downtown skyline on one side, the ocean glinting in the far distance on another, and close-ups of celebrity mansions for the architecture-curious. Bring a camera&mdash;this stretch is the ultimate spot for top-of-the-world city shots, with the Hollywood Sign soaring dramatically nearby.</p>


<p>There&rsquo;s something infectious about the energy of Hollywood Boulevard, and its unofficial ambassadors&mdash;the street performers&mdash;are a huge part of the experience. While tips are appreciated, there&rsquo;s no need to open your wallet to enjoy this parade of creativity, which takes place right outside TCL Chinese Theatre and in the surrounding blocks.</p>

<p>You&#39;ll see a glorious variety of acts, spanning the truly impressive to the beautifully bizarre. Keep your eyes peeled for Michael Jackson and Marilyn Monroe lookalikes ready to pose for a photo, plus acrobatic breakdancers, soulful buskers covering everything from The Beatles to Billie Eilish, and the occasional magician wowing the crowds with close-up tricks. The acts are ever-changing, and so is the audience: you&rsquo;ll find crowds forming, clapping, and occasionally dancing along. It&rsquo;s not uncommon to spot someone filming their own music video, TikTok dance, or YouTube sketch&mdash;Hollywood is nothing if not creative! And the best part? You can swing by as often as you like (for free!) and always find something new to entertain you.</p>


The best of Hollywood Boulevard’s street performers

<p><strong>Looking for more fun things to do in LA? Check out our favorite </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/things-to-do-in-los-angeles-at-night" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>after-dark activities and attractions</strong></a><strong>, and discover all </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/best-aquariums-in-los-angeles" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>the best aquariums in town.</strong></a></p>

<h4>Step up your sightseeing with Go City&reg;</h4>

<p>We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We&rsquo;re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you&#39;ll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>See more, do more, and experience more with </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>Go City&reg; - just choose a pass to get started!</strong></a></p>


All the best free activities on and around Hollywood Boulevard, including the Walk of Fame, Hollywood & Highland complex and Capitol Records building.

Free things to do near TCL Chinese Theatre | Go City®

A pennywise guide to the Nixon Library neighborhood.

Go beyond the history books with gardens, parks, trails and more free activities near the Nixon Library in Yorba Linda, Los Angeles.

Free things to do near the Richard Nixon Library

<p>The Richard Nixon Library stands tall in Yorba Linda, shining a spotlight on presidential history and the roots of Orange County. But what if you want to soak up more local flavor&mdash;without dipping into your vacation funds? The area around the Nixon Library is packed with delightful, free things to do: relaxing gardens, scenic trails, quirky parks, and art you just can&rsquo;t find elsewhere. We&rsquo;ve scouted out the smartest ways for you, your friends and family to fill an afternoon (or two!) with memorable local experiences that won&rsquo;t cost you a cent&mdash;you&rsquo;re about to see a side of Yorba Linda that&rsquo;s just as impressive as its most famous resident.</p>

<h3>Nixon Presidential Library Gardens</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Did you know the <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/richard-nixon-library" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Nixon Presidential Library</a> has stunning free gardens to explore, even if you don&rsquo;t have a ticket to get inside? The beautifully manicured library grounds are open to the public most days&ndash;stroll through nine acres of winding paths, rosebeds and reflecting pools, all meticulously maintained. You&rsquo;ll spot California poppies, native oaks, sculpted hedges and seasonal blooms that keep the landscape lively and interesting year-round. Palm-lined walkways lead you around a beautiful reflecting pool, past memorial plaques and even up to Nixon&rsquo;s modest childhood birthplace&mdash;a classic white farmhouse set in its original orange grove.</p>

<p>What draws people here&mdash;besides the flowers and peaceful shade&mdash;is a sense of local history. Pausing at the rose garden, you&rsquo;ll see flowers in the same varieties sent to the White House during Nixon&rsquo;s tenure. On major holidays, you&rsquo;ll find free commemorative ceremonies and sometimes live music on the broad lawns. Benches and fountains offer places to rest, journal, or simply enjoy the breeze with a view. It&rsquo;s a favorite for quiet contemplation as well as family strolls and romantic selfies.</p>

<h3>Jessamyn West Park</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>For families and fans of the great outdoors, Jessamyn West Park is a fine local staple, offering shady lawns, rolling hills and a relaxing atmosphere just a stone&rsquo;s throw from the Nixon Library. Visitors praise the gentle walking loops that make for great morning or evening strolls, passing through mature sycamores and tall eucalyptus. Perched above the neighborhood, the park offers peaceful views west&mdash;sunset here is a treat, with the orange glow sweeping over the OC hills.</p>

<p>Play areas feature modern equipment for children of all ages, including a unique climbing wall and spinners. Open fields often host neighborhood soccer games or impromptu frisbee matches, but there&rsquo;s plenty of room left for laid-back picnics under the trees. Shaded benches line the perimeter, giving parents a comfortable spot to relax while kids explore.</p>


<p>Downtown Yorba Linda is quietly charming&mdash;and thanks to recent revitalization, more inviting than ever. Start your self-guided walking tour right in the center, around a 10-minute walk from the Richard Nixon Library. This modern plaza weaves new construction with nods to Yorba Linda&rsquo;s agricultural past. Sculptures and outdoor murals bring historical characters to life, celebrating everything from the town&rsquo;s ranchero roots to its presidential pride.</p>

<p>Main Street is lined with boutiques, casual cafes and playful public art. Don&rsquo;t miss the Presidential Path&mdash;a sidewalk trail featuring trivia tiles and brass plaques about Richard Nixon&rsquo;s boyhood adventures. The central plaza buzzes with community energy: live music on weekends, pop-up markets with handmade crafts, and free outdoor movie screenings all summer long.</p>

<p>Take a seat by the large central fountain, let the kids enjoy climbing on the massive anchor chain feature, or grab a selfie with the playful &ldquo;I Love YL&rdquo; sculpture.</p>


Yorba Linda town center walking tour

<h3>Susanna Bixby Bryant Ranch Museum and Gardens</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>For a fascinating window into Southern California&rsquo;s agricultural beginnings, head south to the Susanna Bixby Bryant Ranch Museum. Admission to the museum is free, and the surrounding gardens deliver an extra layer of charm. The sprawling grounds were once part of the vast original Yorba&ndash;Bixby land grant. You&rsquo;ll find lush lawns, native plant gardens and rows of historic citrus trees lining the entrance, with interpretive signs detailing Yorba Linda&rsquo;s ranching past.</p>

<p>Inside the museum, you&rsquo;ll encounter exhibits on the OC&rsquo;s ranchero era&mdash;handwritten letters, antique farming gear, and black-and-white photographs of families who shaped the region. Volunteer docents are full of quirky anecdotes, eager to share how lemon, olive and walnut groves built the area&rsquo;s identity. On weekends, living history re-enactors often demonstrate crafts or traditional games for children, keeping the local legacy alive and interactive.</p>

<h3>Box Canyon Park</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tucked away in the foothills, Box Canyon Park is a hidden gem for anyone who enjoys open space and scenic views. This neighborhood favorite is well-known for its peaceful atmosphere and excellent play structures. The themed adventure playground is a winner with younger children&mdash;think castle turrets, slides and a fun splash pad in summer months.</p>

<p>Wander along the paved trails that wind through gentle slopes and mature trees. The canyon itself is small but packed with native wildflowers and birds, drawing local birdwatchers and sunset chasers. There are free-to-use BBQ grills, shaded picnic tables and a surprising sense of tranquility for being so close to the city. Fitness-minded folks find the park&rsquo;s open grassy areas perfect for yoga, casual soccer, or tai chi classes (often organized by locals and open to drop-ins).</p>

<p>For families, the bonus is a little &lsquo;fossil dig&rsquo; sandbox filled with replica dino bones, sparking plenty of creative play. The views from the park&rsquo;s higher ground are spectacular&mdash;on clear days you can see past Yorba Linda to the coastal hills. It&rsquo;s an ideal spot to relax, recharge, and let kids expend some energy&mdash;without spending anything.</p>

<h3>Black Gold Golf Course scenic overlook and trails</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Swinging a club here ain&rsquo;t free, but the walking trails and overlook points at Black Gold Golf Course most definitely are. Though the course draws plenty of golfers, locals know that the public nature trails skirting the property offer some of the best panoramic vistas in Yorba Linda&mdash;for zero bucks. The trails start near the course parking lot and wind through native sage brush, chaparral and cactus clusters, offering peeks of the manicured green fairways and the wide sweep of the valley beyond.</p>

<p>There are benches perfectly placed for sunset or sunrise watching: on a clear day, you&rsquo;ll catch a glimpse of Catalina Island in the distance. Fitness fans use the loops for brisk walks and jogs, while families and photographers come for the golden-hour lighting and peaceful setting. You&rsquo;ll often spot hawks circling overhead or rabbits darting into the brush. It&rsquo;s a perfect, low-key way to soak up Southern California&rsquo;s natural beauty and get those steps in after a morning at the museum.</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re traveling with a canine companion, leashed dogs are welcome on the trails&mdash;just bring water and your camera for a few unforgettable snapshots along the way.</p>


<p>This sprawling park is a kid&rsquo;s paradise. The star attraction is the adventure playground&mdash;a hands-on play area full of tubes, bridges, water features (in season), and imaginative equipment built for safe exploration and discovery. It&rsquo;s a dream come true for children (and grown-ups hunting for a peaceful bench in the shade).</p>

<p>Surrounding the playground, you&rsquo;ll find open green lawns, soccer fields and benches beneath gnarled sycamores. Walking and jogging paths loop around the park, lined with native landscaping and interpretive signs about regional plants and animal life. Families spread out blankets, join pick-up games of frisbee, or take part in free yoga and tai chi classes led by local instructors on many mornings.</p>


Hurless Barton Park and adventure playground

<h3>Oak Canyon Nature Center</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>For anyone seeking a deeper connection with local wildlife, Oak Canyon Nature Center is a pristine urban wilderness that feels miles from civilization, but is just a 15-minute drive south of <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/richard-nixon-library" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Richard Nixon Library</a>. Free to enter and wander, the 58-acre nature preserve boasts four miles of well-marked trails that wind through oak woodlands, coastal sage scrub, babbling streams and forests heavy with the scent of eucalyptus. Each path offers a different microhabitat&mdash;you might spot a family of deer, a red-tailed hawk, or even a lizard lounging on a rock.</p>

<p>Interpretive signs line the trails, sharing details about ecosystems and the native Tongva people who first stewarded this land. Inside the John J. Collier Interpretive Center (open weekends), kids love peeking at local taxidermy and hands-on science displays. Monthly nature walks and bird-watching workshops&mdash;always free&mdash;give curious families a new way to see the park.</p>

<h3>Veterans Park</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Veterans Park blends community pride and family fun in the form of wide lawns, shade trees, and a dazzling, patriotic war memorial at its center. Locals love it for its peaceful vibe&mdash;there&rsquo;s always a quiet corner to spread out a blanket or enjoy a group picnic. The creative playground features climbing boulders and slides, while the butterfly garden next door thrives with native plants and (natch) fluttering monarchs.</p>

<p>History fans will enjoy reading the names on the memorial wall, designed to honor Yorba Linda&rsquo;s servicemen and women. In the evening, locals gather for free outdoor concerts, movie nights and city-led seasonal festivals&mdash;a true slice of California community life. Poetry readings and storytimes are regular fixtures, and there&rsquo;s ample information on local hiking routes and the city&rsquo;s historical sites posted near the entrance.</p>

<h3>Yorba Regional Park</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Yorba Regional Park stretches for over a mile along the Santa Ana River, weaving together groves of mature sycamores, connected lakes, bike paths and playgrounds into one vast green oasis. There&rsquo;s no entrance fee, and parking in the main lot is free during off-peak hours; otherwise, you can park along La Palma Avenue for zero cost and walk straight in.</p>

<p>Locals flock here for walking, biking, rollerblading and paddling&mdash;bring your own gear or just stroll as far as your feet will take you. Up for birdwatching? Great blue herons, ducks and egrets love the lakeside shallows, and you might even spot a turtle or two along the way. Families often gather for picnics under the many shelters, while others use the exercise stations sprinkled along the walking course. There&rsquo;s a little something for everyone: kids&rsquo; play areas, shaded picnic zones, and even a model boat cove where hobbyists race RC boats on weekends.</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re keen to see how Orange County relaxes, Yorba Regional is lively, friendly, and always photogenic&mdash;especially at sunrise and sunset, when the lakes light up with color.</p>

<p><strong>Looking for more L.A. inspo? Find </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/free-things-to-do-near-knotts-berry-farm" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>free things to do near Knott&rsquo;s Berry Farm</strong></a><strong>, and check out our pick of </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/blog/things-to-do-in-los-angeles-for-pride-parade-festival" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>the city&rsquo;s best Pride festival events.</strong></a></p>

<h4>Step up your sightseeing with Go City&reg;</h4>

<p>We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We&rsquo;re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you&#39;ll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>See more, do more, and experience more with </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>Go City&reg; - just choose a pass to get started!</strong></a></p>


The best of Yorba Linda and beyond—for free! Featuring the presidential gardens, Jessamyn West Park, the Black Gold golf course and more!

Free things to do near the Richard Nixon Library | Go City®

Enjoy the best of Knott’s Buena Park neighbors—absolutely free!

Forget about the price tag: your Knott’s Berry Farm trip comes with plenty of gratis side quests in and around Buena Park.

Free things to do near Knott’s Berry Farm

<p><a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/knotts-berry-farm" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Knott&rsquo;s Berry Farm</a> may get all the attention for its thrilling rides and old-school charm, but there&rsquo;s a whole world of free fun waiting just steps from this popular theme park. Whether you&rsquo;re keeping an eye on your vacation budget or just love discovering local hangouts, Buena Park and its neighbors really deliver. We&rsquo;re here to let you in on the best things to do for free near Knott&rsquo;s Berry Farm, from vintage architecture to quirky history, peaceful escapes and cultural gems. All you&rsquo;ll need for this list is your curiosity (and maybe a camera, because you&rsquo;ll want to remember these finds). Get ready to fill your itinerary&mdash;without emptying your wallet.</p>

<h3>Buena Park Downtown Art Walk</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>If you fancy yourself a bit of an art fiend (or just need a break from coasters and funnel cakes), you&rsquo;ll want to check out the Buena Park Art Walk. This collection of colorful murals and street sculptures begins practically on Knott&rsquo;s doorstep, with Beach Boulevard and La Palma Avenue as your creative trailheads. Grab a coffee from a nearby caf&eacute; and spend some time exploring artwork that captures the city&rsquo;s vivid personality&mdash;a blend of California sunshine, historic roots and fresh, youthful energy.</p>

<p>What makes this open-air gallery so appealing is the way it connects you to the community. No admission fees, no velvet ropes&mdash;just you, your camera and a whole sidewalk filled with splashes of color and creativity. Look for the art honoring the city&rsquo;s farming history, including tributes to Walter Knott and his early berry fields, as well as contemporary pieces inspired by pop culture and local heroes.</p>

<p>Along the way, take a seat on one of the benches for a people-watching break, or pop into one of the independent shops, galleries or taquerias that line the street. The best part? You can make your route as long or short as you like. The Art Walk loops right back to Knott&rsquo;s, so it&rsquo;s easy to fill an hour&mdash;or spend an entire afternoon soaking up Buena Park&rsquo;s diverse expression, all for free.</p>


<p>You don&rsquo;t need a theme park ticket or a roller coaster wristband to step back in time at Knott&rsquo;s California Marketplace. This charming bundle of shops and eateries sits right outside the main gates, free to browse and filled with California spirit. The Western storefronts, wooden sidewalks and flower pots set the scene for a relaxing stroll, all within sight of the park&rsquo;s famous Old West Ghost Town.</p>

<p>Taking a walk here feels a bit like exploring a village from another era. On one corner, you&rsquo;ll spot a genuine train car; on another, you&rsquo;ll hear three generations of families debating if they should join the (always tempting) queue for Mrs. Knott&rsquo;s Fried Chicken. But you don&rsquo;t need to spend a dime to enjoy the century-old ambiance. Peek inside the Berry Market for a complimentary sample of boysenberry jam, or take in the details of the preserved Western architecture&mdash;spot the hand-painted signage, quirky windmills and original 1940s touches on every storefront.</p>

<p>At sunset, soft lighting and twinkle lights bring the marketplace to life for a magical, family-friendly evening. Grab a bench, sip the free water infused with fresh berries from the outdoor cooler, and let yourself drift back to the days when Buena Park was just a handful of berry fields.</p>


Knott’s California Marketplace

<h3>Independence Hall Replica</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You may not expect to find American Revolutionary history in the middle of Orange County, but the Independence Hall replica, commissioned by Walter Knott himself, sits proudly just opposite the theme park. It&rsquo;s accurate to the very last brick&mdash;a full-scale, meticulous recreation of Philadelphia&rsquo;s world-famous landmark, built in the 1960s. Walter Knott gifted it to the state as a testament to the country&rsquo;s values, and a visit here sets a completely different mood from the roller coasters across the street.</p>

<p>A walk through its lamplit halls immerses you in stories of liberty, democracy and national pride. The experience starts as soon as you step onto the manicured lawn and see the grand colonial fa&ccedil;ade, complete with the clock tower and brick arches. Inside, you&rsquo;ll find exhibits on the Founding Fathers, a gorgeous replica of the Liberty Bell (the perfect selfie spot if you&rsquo;re a history nerd), and displays detailing the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The rooms are filled with American flags, oil paintings, and thoughtful artifacts&mdash;ideal for both quick visits and deep dives into US heritage.</p>

<h3>Buena Park Historic District</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Take a step into the past with a leisurely exploration of the Buena Park Historic District, a hidden slice of 19th-century Southern California located a short, pleasant walk from Knott&rsquo;s Berry Farm. Whitaker Street and the surrounding blocks are where the city&rsquo;s first settlers built their ranch homes, and today you can stroll among Victorian-era houses and rustic storefronts, and stand beneath the shadow of the original Stage Stop Hotel, which first opened its doors to stagecoach travelers in the late 1800s.</p>

<p>No ticket is required&mdash;this is open, walkable history, lined with free-to-read storyboards that reveal quirky details about the town&rsquo;s former blacksmiths, schoolteachers, pioneers and more. You&rsquo;ll discover cast-iron fences, colorful gardens trimmed with old-fashioned roses, and shaded porches that look ready for rocking chairs and root beer. On weekends, volunteers sometimes lead free guided tours, offering extra layers of storytelling and even letting visitors peek inside some of the buildings, which have been lovingly restored with authentic d&eacute;cor.</p>


<p>Sometimes, you just need a sprawling green space to spread out a blanket and recharge. That&rsquo;s where Bellis Park comes in&mdash;a community favorite that&rsquo;s easy to reach from Knott&rsquo;s and well worth a visit for anyone seeking a taste of local life. This spacious park, located right on Beach Boulevard, serves as a gathering spot for Buena Park residents and offers plenty of room for visitors to claim their own patch of grass.</p>

<p>You&rsquo;ll find wide walking trails circling the lawns, a duck pond where you can watch ducks (and turtles!) basking in the sun, and a charming little gazebo perfect for shade (and impromptu photo shoots). Nature lovers will appreciate the landscaping, with its mix of palms, bougainvillea, and native shrubs, as well as the quiet corners where you can spot hummingbirds and squirrels going about their busy lives. The vibe here is relaxed; on weekends it fills with families tossing frisbees or lounging under mature trees. If you&rsquo;re traveling with kids, they&rsquo;ll love the playground areas and open fields that practically beg for a game of tag or catch. Looking to unwind? Nap under the willows or settle in with a good book while the breeze rustles through the leaves.</p>


Bellis Park

<h3>Fullerton Arboretum</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Nature lovers, welcome to paradise&mdash;just a 15-minute drive from Knott&rsquo;s Berry Farm. The Fullerton Arboretum straddles 26 lush acres on the Cal State Fullerton campus, and while donations are appreciated, admission is always free. Once inside, you&rsquo;re enveloped by a wave of vibrant greenery&mdash;California native plants, towering redwoods, bamboo forests and desert cacti gardens await. Meander along peaceful paths shaded by enormous trees, each section of the arboretum themed to show off a different climate and plant community.</p>

<p>Part of the fun is simply wandering. Spot hummingbirds flitting between vibrant blooms one minute, and turtles sunning themselves by the tranquil pond the next. There are benches everywhere, inviting you to pause, soak up the serenity, and maybe even sketch or read under a jacaranda tree. Kids love the natural scavenger hunts and the hands-on Children&rsquo;s Garden bursting with sunflowers, herbs and pint-sized pathways. The onsite farmhouse museum&mdash;sometimes open for free tours&mdash;lets you peek into Orange County&rsquo;s agricultural history, complete with antique tools and vintage photos.</p>

<h3>Heritage Park</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tucked behind stately trees and lush lawns, Heritage Park delivers pure small-town charm around a mile south of <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/attractions/knotts-berry-farm" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank">Knott&rsquo;s Berry Farm</a>. The star attractions are the authentic heritage buildings: there&rsquo;s a tiny early 1900s schoolhouse, a blacksmith workshop, a restored windmill and even an old church with charming stained-glass windows. Each tells a story of Buena Park&rsquo;s pioneer days.</p>

<p>The park&rsquo;s tranquil rose garden is a local favorite for quiet picnics, while children gravitate toward the shaded play areas in the corner. Stroll around and you&rsquo;ll likely find history displays with fascinating trivia&mdash;did you know the city used to be a stagecoach hub? Free community events fill the calendar, including outdoor movie nights, holiday singalongs, and occasional open house days when volunteers in period dress demonstrate old-school crafts or blacksmith skills. Heritage Park is a peaceful place to unwind, slow down and savor views you won&rsquo;t find anywhere else in Orange County&mdash;all for zero cost.</p>

<h3>El Dorado Nature Center</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>You won&rsquo;t believe such a serene oasis sits on Long Beach&rsquo;s northern edge, barely 20 minutes&rsquo; drive from rollercoaster central. El Dorado Nature Center is a dreamy 105-acre retreat crisscrossed by walking trails through woods, beside slow-moving streams, and around peaceful ponds. It&rsquo;s open to wander for free&mdash;bring a friend, a camera, or just your curiosity.</p>

<p>As you explore, you&rsquo;ll notice a natural soundtrack: birds chirping from the trees, frogs croaking in the reeds, and soft breezes rustling the willows. Pause at scenic viewing decks to spot turtles basking, or watch herons strut through the marshes on long, skinny legs. Shady benches and picnic islands promise respite for hot afternoons.</p>

<p>The visitor center offers interpretive displays on local wildlife, plus free discovery packs filled with nature guides and activities for kids. Trails are mostly flat, so they&rsquo;re perfect for strollers or wheelchair users. The Nature Center feels like a secret garden for everyone who ventures here and is a breath of fresh air if you need a break from crowds and city noise. Bring some water and your sense of wonder&mdash;you&rsquo;ll leave feeling calmer than when you arrived.</p>


<p>Fullerton&rsquo;s walkable historic downtown is a feast for architecture buffs, vintage lovers, and anyone craving classic SoCal ambiance&mdash;all without the price tag. Pick up a free walking map from Fullerton Train Station or online. It guides you to vintage banks, art-deco theaters with neon marquees, Spanish Colonial gems, mid-century retailers, and quirky businesses filled with stories. Don&rsquo;t miss the restored Fox Theatre&mdash;its terra cotta ornamentation and soaring sign are photo favorites.</p>

<p>Hidden plaques reveal tidbits about Fullerton&rsquo;s early citrus-packing pioneers, plus the jazz musicians and painters who gave the area its artistic spirit. Sidewalk caf&eacute;s and bookstores line the stroll, and there&rsquo;s always somewhere to pause for a free water refill or to rest tired feet.</p>

<p>For families, the scavenger hunt for historic details is a great way to keep kids engaged. Weekends sometimes feature car shows or sidewalk art displays&mdash;check local calendars or simply let your route unfold naturally. Snap pictures beneath the ancient Moreton Bay fig tree, enjoy the buzz from local buskers, and let the charm of old-town Orange County unfold.</p>


Downtown Fullerton Historic Walking Tour

<h3>Hillcrest Park</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>This rambling park offers classic SoCal scenery with free perks at every turn. Located in Fullerton, Hillcrest Park is famous for its curving trails up gently sloping hills dotted with giant sycamores, pine trees and dramatic city views. The newly restored fountain near the park&rsquo;s central plaza is a local gathering spot, with gentle splashing and tiled steps leading to panoramic overlooks that make every sunset magical.</p>

<p>You&rsquo;ll find several themed gardens: native plant landscaping, cactus gardens and a &lsquo;memory walk&rsquo; honoring local history. The playground area is shaded by heritage trees and framed with soft mulch&mdash;perfect for energetic young travelers. If you&rsquo;re a fitness buff, climb the park&rsquo;s stately &lsquo;grand stairs&rsquo; and join the locals jogging at sunrise or dusk. Photo ops abound: the Spanish-influenced stonework, ornate benches and public art installations give the place a nostalgic charm.</p>

<h3>Laguna Lake Park</h3>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>If you&rsquo;re craving a slice of nature with a lakeside twist, Laguna Lake Park in Fullerton is a delightful discovery. The park centers around a glittering man-made lake lined with shady trees, wildflowers and the occasional family of ducks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Joggers, walkers, and cyclists glide by as anglers try their luck from scenic piers and grassy banks (catch-and-release only, if you wondered). There&rsquo;s an equestrian area on-site, so don&rsquo;t be surprised if you spot a few happy horses trotting along the bridle path. Benches and picnic tables, many nestled under old oaks and sycamores, offer perfect spots to picnic or simply sit and watch the sunlight dance on the water.</p>

<p>Kids gravitate toward the large playground and open lawns for games. If you&rsquo;re an early riser, morning mist on the lake is a magical sight&mdash;photographers, take note! Interpretive signs throughout the park introduce you to the local flora and fauna, and there&rsquo;s often a free fitness or wellness class happening beneath the trees.</p>

<p><strong>Looking for more stuff to do in Los Angeles? Check out </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/things-to-do/things-to-do-in-los-angeles-in-the-morning" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>our favorite ways to spend an L.A. morning</strong></a><strong>, and peruse </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/blog/best-markets-in-downtown-los-angeles" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>our pick of the best downtown markets.</strong></a></p>

<h4>Step up your sightseeing with Go City&reg;</h4>

<p>We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We&rsquo;re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you&#39;ll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>See more, do more, and experience more with </strong><a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" style="text-decoration:none" target="_blank"><strong>Go City&reg; - just choose a pass to get started!</strong></a></p>


The best of Buena Park and beyond—for free! Featuring downtown Buena Park art walks, the California Marketplace, Fullerton Arboretum and more.

Free things to do near Knott’s Berry Farm | Go City®

Christmas events and beyond

Southern California is one of the best places in the world to visit during the winter months. The temperature is mild but there’s still guaranteed sunshine. Here's our guide to the best December and January events in Los Angeles.

10+ Things to Do in Los Angeles in Winter 

<p>While seeing snow (on the ground, rather than on the snow-capped mountains on the horizon) is highly unlikely in L.A., there are still lots of seasonal activities and things to do during the Los Angeles winter, from big-budget theme park attractions to relaxed exploring.</p>

<p>We put together a list of our favorite things to do in Los Angeles in winter to help you plan the perfect winter itinerary. Check out our list of the best holiday activities and attractions for ideas!</p>

<h3>Want to save money on those bucket-list attractions?&nbsp;</h3>

<p>Check out passes from Go City and you could save yourself up to 50% on your must-sees &ndash; perfect!&nbsp;Please note: some of these special winter events may be separately ticketed and not included on Go City Los Angeles passes.</p>

<p>☀️<a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Compare Los Angeles passes</a>☀️ &ndash; 🌏 <a href="https://gocity.com/en" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explore other destinations </a>🌏 &ndash;&nbsp; ✈️ <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/all-inclusive?duration=1" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Buy a pass ✈️</a>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


<p>Want to see more behind-the-scenes Hollywood magic? Head down to the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, complete with the chance to get on the set of hit television shows like&nbsp;<em>The Big Bang Theory</em>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<em>The Ellen Degeneres Show</em>.</p>

<p>What&rsquo;s more, if you&rsquo;re lucky, you might even see some celebrities on set. The Warner Bros. Studio Tour also includes a 10-million item prop department, the tallest sound stage in the nation, and a ride through the back lots where you&rsquo;ll see some well-known outdoor sets from some of the world&rsquo;s most beloved sitcoms.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting in:&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://gocity.com/los-angeles/en-us/products/all-inclusive/attractions/warner-bros-studio-tour">Warner Bros. Studio Tour tickets</a>&nbsp;are included on all Go City&reg; Los Angeles passes.</p>


Warner Bros. Studio Tour

<p><strong>Where:</strong>&nbsp;Six Flags Magic Mountain&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>When:&nbsp;</strong>Select dates, November - December</p>

<p>Test your fear of speeds, heights, twists, and turns on the many roller coasters and thrill rides at Six Flags Magic Mountain, and check out&nbsp;<strong>Holiday in the Park</strong>&nbsp;events to see the park transformed into a winter wonderland! Comprising beautiful festive lights, fun activities, live performances, and visits with Santa, Six Flags&rsquo; holiday transformation is truly magical.</p>

<p>The plaza is known as Holiday Square over the festive season, with hundreds upon hundreds of glittering lights, winter &lsquo;snowfall&rsquo;, and festive carolers. You can also enjoy musical performances and dance numbers with a holiday theme, and, of course, pay a visit to Santa and Mrs. Claus with their merry elves!&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Getting in:&nbsp;</strong>Six Flags Magic Mountain is separately ticketed.&nbsp;Holiday at the Park activities are included with admission unless noted otherwise.</p>


Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Magic Mountain

<p>Vivid sunsets are commonplace during the Los Angeles winter. Take advantage of the miles of unobstructed views along the coastline for some of the best sunset views around.&nbsp;Some of the best LA spots to watch winter sunsets include Griffith Observatory, Hermosa Beach Pier, Dockweiler State Beach (bring a camera to get a photo of the sunset over the famous shipwreck that washed up onto the shore), and Terranea Bluff Top Park.</p>

<p>Make a day of it and head to Santa Monica Pier for thrill rides and quintessential boardwalk fun at Pacific Park and then visit the sea life at the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium before watching the sun set over it all, creating a postcard-worthy vista.</p>


Watch a winter sunset

<h2>Save on admission to top Los Angeles attractions with Go City&reg;&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Discover our full line-up of Los Angeles attractions including the Hollywood Sign Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Tour, Universal Studios Hollywood, Knott&#39;s Berry Farm, and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>🤩 &gt;&gt; If you want to see and do as much as you can, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/all-inclusive?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">All-Inclusive Pass</a> is for you.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>😎 &gt;&gt; If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our <a href="https://gocity.com/en/los-angeles/passes/explorer?duration=3" rel="noreferrer noopener" target="_blank">Explorer Pass</a> is the perfect option.&nbsp;</p>


Check out these popular Los Angeles winter activities. Save on admission to many of these top attractions, fun holiday events & seasonal activities. Enjoy!

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