10+ Best Places in LA for Movie Fans

By Go City Expert
Published: July 18, 2024
Hollywood

If you’re visiting LA with a movie fan (or if you are one!) there's so much to see and do. From behind-the-scenes tours and museums to the Walk of Fame and real film locations, you won’t be short of things to do in Los Angeles.

Movie buffs head to Hollywood to soak up the history and glamour of the industry. You might even spot a starlet or two along the way. Check out our list of things to do for movie fans including...

  • Madame Tussauds
  • Universal Studios Hollywood
  • Warner Bros Studio Tour
  • Hollywood Museum
  • Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes Tour
  • Sony Pictures Studio Tour
  • Dolby Theatre Tour
  • Griffith Observatory
  • Union Station
  • And more!

💰 >> See how you can save up to 50% on Los Angeles attractions

Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Fancy brushing shoulders with your favorite actors? Head to Madame Tussauds Hollywood. You’ll get to ‘meet’ stars of the silver screen like Marilyn Monroe, Robin Williams, Zac Efron, and more. Check out the Making Movies area to see what goes on backstage, and see directors Steven Spielberg and Quentin Tarantino hard at work.

Classic movie lovers should head to the Spirit of Hollywood room to get up close and personal with the likes of Alfred Hitchcock and Audrey Hepburn. It’s your chance to take a selfie with the movie stars of past and present! 

Getting in: Entry to Madame Tussauds Hollywood is included on all Los Angeles passes.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood
The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

A trip to LA would be incomplete without a stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame. See the stars of Hollywood legends such as Elizabeth Taylor, Michael Douglas, Patrick Swayze, and hundreds more. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a public sidewalk and is completely free to walk along.

Or, use your pass and take the Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes tour (more on that below) for a guided tour of the trail. Keep an eye out for your favorite actors and directors and be sure to get that all-important snap. 

Getting in: Entry to The Hollywood Walk of Fame is free to see.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Take the Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes Tour to see famous LA sights such as TCL Chinese Theatre, the Dolby Theatre, the Walk of Fame, and the Hollywood Sign. Your guide will reveal Hollywood’s secrets and scandals as you explore. Feel like an Oscar winner on the Dolby Theatre’s Awards Walk, and don't forget to place your hands and feet on the prints at the TCL Chinese Theatre. 

Getting in: Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes Tour is separately ticketed.

Warner Bros Studio Tour

The Warner Bros Studio Tour is your chance to tour a real, working studio to see where the magic happens. Your knowledgeable guide will take you around 110-acre backlot which is home to well-loved shows like The Ellen Degeneres Show and The Big Bang Theory.

Batman fans will be in for a treat, as the studios served as a filming location for the films. Plus, there is a special DC exhibition featuring Batman, Superman, and Wonder Woman, plus the props used in the films. You’ll even get to see the Batmobile up close! 

Getting in: Entry to the Warner Bros Studio Tour is included on all Los Angeles passes.

Warner Bros studio tour

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is a mecca for movie fans, with rides inspired by everything from Harry Potter to Transformers and Despicable Me. Plus, you don’t need to be a fan of roller coasters to enjoy Universal Studios. A visit to this theme park would be incomplete without taking the world-famous Studio Tour.

Take a tram through the historic four-acre studio and see the sets of your favorite movies and TV shows. The interactive tour will even take you through a King Kong 4D ride, through a Jaws set complete with a very realistic shark. Norman Bates of Psycho might even pay a visit... you'll never guess what’s coming next. 

Getting in: Entry to Universal Studios Hollywood is only available on the Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass.

Universal Studios

Hollywood Museum

The Hollywood Museum is a must-see for movie fans. It's home to the largest collection of Marilyn Monroe memorabilia, an exhibition on 20th-century superheroes, and artifacts documenting the portrayal of LGBTQ+ lives on the big screen. The Hollywood Museum features more than 10,000 items over four floors, including costumes, props, scripts, and much more. 

Getting in: Entry to The Hollywood Museum is only available on the Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass

Sony Pictures Studio Tour

On the Sony Pictures Studio Tour, you will explore a working studio and learn all about its history and secrets. See where the likes of The Wizard of Oz and Spider-Man were filmed and get up close to real Academy Awards. Be sure to keep an eye out for stars working at the studio and don’t forget to take a picture under the famous 94ft rainbow. 

Getting in: Entry to Sony Pictures Studio Tour is separately ticketed.

Dolby Theatre® Tour

Every film fan knows that the Dolby Theatre® hosts the most important night of the film industry calendar: the Academy Awards. Take a 30-minute guided tour of the stage and backstage. The Dolby Theatre is 180,000 sqft and has a massive 3,400-seat capacity. You’ll see an Oscar up close and discover where celebrities celebrate their wins. Plus, see photos of Oscar winners such as Grace Kelly and Marlon Brando. 

Getting in: Entry to The Dolby Theatre® Tour is included on all Los Angeles passes.

Dolby Theatre

Griffith Observatory

LA is not only home to film sets - countless movies are filmed on location in the city. The Griffith Observatory is one of Los Angeles’ most famous landmarks and features in films like La La Land, The Terminator, Charlie’s Angels, and many more. Griffith Observatory is a must-see attraction for movie fans wanting to visit where the scene of the action. 

Getting in: Entry to Griffith Observatory is free.

Union Station

Another real-life location that is always popping up on screen is Union Station. The well-known station features in tons of movies such as Blade Runner, The Dark Knight Rises, and Catch Me If You Can. See Union Station for yourself and try to guess which other movies were filmed there. You’ll be surprised at just how many there are! 

Getting in: Entry to Union Station is free. 

Union Station

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The Ultimate LA Father’s Day Adventure Guide

Father’s Day is around the corner, and this year, why not give Dad something he’ll actually remember? Forget the socks and novelty ties—Los Angeles is bursting with ways to show your appreciation. Whether he’s into classic cars, blockbuster movies, sandy beaches, or culinary adventures, LA has Dad-sized experiences that go way beyond your average brunch. We’re talking science, history, laughter, and thrills—moments that’ll have Dad smiling long after the day is done. So grab your planner (and maybe some sunscreen), and let’s design the ultimate Father’s Day filled with adventure, great eats, and plenty of family bonding time.  Our favorite Father’s Day things to do in Los Angeles:  Battleship IOWA Museum  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood  Grammy Museum  Knott's Berry Farm  Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Heal the Bay Aquarium  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  Mariners Café and Bar at Fisherman’s Village  Griffith Observatory Tour  Classic LA steakhouse: The Smoke House in Burbank  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood: Dad Meets Movie Magic  Got a film buff in the family? Treat Dad to the ultimate behind-the-scenes experience at Warner Bros. Studio. The iconic backlots, the Batmobiles, and sound stages—this tour is like getting the golden ticket to movie magic. Your guide whisks you past rows of famous facades, sneaks you onto working sets, and pulls back the curtain on some of TV and film’s most beloved productions.  It’s the perfect mix of nostalgia, Hollywood glitz, and hands-on fun. Pose with a Sorting Hat or the actual Friends couch, marvel at Batman’s collection of jaw-dropping vehicles, and wander through Harry Potter props and costumes. The vibe is laid-back yet thrilling — you never know what surprise set you’ll visit or which star might zip by on a golf cart (hey, it happens!).  We love how the tour strikes the balance between guided storytelling and letting you explore. The guides love fielding questions (no query too geeky), and everyone walks away with new trivia tidbits. For the dad who's always quoting movie lines or debating superhero casting, this is pure gold.  Grammy Museum: Dad’s Soundtrack, Live and Up Close  Think of the Grammy Museum as a love letter to music in every form. For the dad whose vinyl collection takes up half the garage (or who simply hums along to everything), this downtown LA gem is a can't-miss. Spread across four floors, it’s a hands-on deep-dive into the making, meaning, and milestones of every genre, from jazz and hip-hop to rock and country.  There’s so much to check out. Step into replicated recording booths, gawk at sparkly stage costumes, and get hands-on with mixing boards. The highlight? The interactive exhibits—jam on drums, try your hand at producing, or belt out a power ballad in a soundproof mini-studio. You might just discover Dad’s karaoke alter ego.  The space is sleek and modern, but the stories are pure nostalgia: iconic performances, Grammy moments, and artifacts that will remind Dad of his favorite concert memories. Whether you do a deep-dive on one genre or wander the whole space, you’ll leave humming, swapping stories, and ready to make your next road trip playlist right then and there.  Knott's Berry Farm: Thrills, Chills, and Famous Fried Chicken  Theme park, wild west history, and berry pie—Knott’s Berry Farm is a triple threat for Father’s Day fun. This sprawling destination in Buena Park combines adrenaline-pumping rides with old-timey Americana and some of California’s most delicious comfort food.  Coasters like Silver Bullet will get your heart racing, but there’s plenty for every speed: log rides, carnival games, and Camp Snoopy for younger adventurers. Wander through Ghost Town and pan for gold, spar with cowboys in staged street showdowns, or just soak up the kitschy charm at every turn. The crowds feel more local and relaxed than some other parks, so your crew can take it easy and savor every ride, funnel cake, and photo op.  No trip to Knott’s is complete without their legendary fried chicken dinner at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant. The crispy, juicy chicken is world-famous, and the boysenberry pie (secret recipe, of course) has inspired generations of family dinners and happy bellies. If Dad loves a comfort-food splurge, this is where you’ll win major brownie points.  Beverly Hills Bike Tour by Bikes and Hikes: See LA In Style  Ready to get moving and see LA’s most storied neighborhoods? Grab a couple of e-bikes and let a guide whirl you around Beverly Hills’ star-studded streets. This two-wheeled adventure is a classic for a reason: you’ll pedal (or coast) under palm trees, past palatial mansions, and through legendary shopping districts like Rodeo Drive.  The best part? Local guides peel back the curtain with awesome trivia—anything from celebrity architecture to behind-the-scenes Hollywood lore. There’s plenty to gawk at, but you’ll always have time for photos thanks to frequent stops. The pace is relaxed, designed for sightseeing not sweating, with the option to cruise on an e-bike for an extra boost.  If Dad always wanted to see how the other half lives, or simply loves fresh air and easy banter, this tour mixes classic LA glam with a genuinely fun, active experience. Don’t forget to treat yourselves to a milkshake or cold brew at one of the small cafés you’ll pass along the way—a reward for all your pedaling.  California Science Center IMAX Movie: Big Science and Big Thrills  Calling all science-loving dads! The California Science Center in Exposition Park makes learning an adventure, and the IMAX Theatre takes it into another dimension. With a five-story-tall screen and state-of-the-art sound, you’re right in the middle of everything—from deep space to the ocean’s depths. The films change seasonally, often featuring dazzling nature documentaries or thrilling journeys through space.  Pair a show with a whirl through the Science Center itself—home to the space shuttle Endeavour, robot zones, and hands-on experiments for every age and curiosity. The place buzzes with excitement, discovery, and, yes, a few “whoa, check this out!” moments from both grown-ups and kids. The gift shop is prime for clever souvenirs, if Dad collects quirky mugs or sciencey T-shirts.  This is the spot where the whole family can geek out together, and the sheer scale of the IMAX experience makes even familiar stories feel fresh and magical.  Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking: Beachy Bliss  Looking for the classic LA beach day, but with a twist? Sign up for this scenic guided ride from Santa Monica to Venice Beach. Wide ocean views, endless bike paths, and pure California sunshine set the stage for a tour that’s both laid-back and packed with people-watching entertainment.  Your guide leads the way, pointing out Muscle Beach, quirky murals, skate parks and the vibrant Venice Boardwalk community. Each stop unveils another layer of this famous coastline, from boho surfer culture to sleek modernist architecture. Most tours include a few fun facts, photo stops, and recommendations for where to grab the best iced coffee or beach fries for refueling.  For dads who love to be active but want to keep it chill, the pace is just right—enough to work up an appetite but easy for all fitness levels. Bring your camera for quintessential LA snapshots: palm trees, lifeguard towers and (if you time it right) unforgettable sunsets.  Mariners Café and Bar at Fisherman’s Village: Lunch with a View  After the morning’s explorations, treat Dad to a chilled-out lunch and killer marina views at Mariners Café and Bar in Fisherman’s Village, Marina del Rey. This breezy, waterside spot blends classic SoCal seafood (think fish tacos and clam chowder bread bowls) with burgers, flatbreads, and a refreshing drinks menu.  What stands out is the relaxed, sun-soaked atmosphere. Colorful boats bobbing in the marina, patio tables perfect for people-watching, live music drifting over from nearby stage performances—Mariners lets you slow down and soak in the California vibe. Their loaded nachos and classic shrimp cocktail are standouts, ideal with a cold beer or watermelon margarita. The kids’ menu is solid, and the servers are always ready with a local’s tip for your next adventure.  After the meal, stroll the waterfront, pop into quirky souvenir shops, or hop on a harbor cruise—routes regularly include sea lion sightings!  Griffith Observatory Tour: Reach for the Stars, Literally  Elevate your Father’s Day with a trip high above LA at the Griffith Observatory. Perched on the slopes of Mount Hollywood, this classic landmark feels like a cross between a science temple and art deco palace. You’ll score panoramic city views—downtown, Hollywood Sign, even the ocean on a clear day—as well as a chance to peer through world-class telescopes.  Knowledgeable volunteers lead public tours (check schedules), and the hands-on displays make everything from moon landings to black holes engaging and accessible. Swing into a planetarium show for immersive journeys through the galaxy, or channel your father-son/daughter competitive streak by seeing who can spot Jupiter’s moons through the public scopes first.  As dusk falls, the whole place sparkles with an old-Hollywood vibe—think Rebel Without a Cause meets outer space. Bring a picnic (or grab a snack at the café), and toast to Dad under the stars.  Classic LA Steakhouse: Dine at The Smoke House in Burbank  No Father’s Day is complete without a hearty meal, and The Smoke House in Burbank delivers. This old-school steak spot has been serving up prime rib, massive steaks, and their legendary garlic bread since the days when movie stars smoked cigars in the red-leather booths.  Step inside and it’s pure Hollywood nostalgia—dim lighting, classic tunes playing, movie memorabilia on every wall. Despite its fame (it’s a locals’ favorite for both birthdays and “I just got a raise” dinners), the vibe stays warm, inclusive, and celebratory, packed with families tipping their hats and servers who know every regular’s usual order.  Order Dad the prime rib or the New York strip, and don’t forget the signature garlic cheese bread—one bite and you’ll understand why everyone raves about it. Old-fashioned cocktails (Manhattans and whiskey sours are house specialties) complete the experience. The portions are generous, the laughter even more so, and it’s the kind of dinner that feels like a celebration.    With so much to see, do and savor, Father’s Day in Los Angeles is a surefire win—no matter what Dad is into. From oceanfront bike rides to star-studded studio tours, and from classic battleships to sizzling steaks, you’ll find unforgettable ways to treat the guy who deserves the best. So set out together, snap a ton of photos, collect new stories, and remind Dad that LA really is the city of dreams—especially on his day.    Looking for more L.A. inspo? Find free things to do near the Richard Nixon Library, and the best gratis attractions around Knott’s Berry Farm.  Step up your sightseeing with Go City®      We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 
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Babies in the City: Where to Go in Los Angeles

Traveling with a baby in tow can make any city feel like a maze—unless you know exactly where to look for comfort and fun. Los Angeles, with its sunshine, laid-back vibes and endless options for families, makes it a dream for parents and their tiniest explorers. We’ve watched brand-new moms and dads swap worried whispers for wide smiles as they discover LA’s abundance of stroller-friendly adventures. Curious about introducing your little one to stingrays, sunshine picnics, splash zones or hands-on exhibits? We’ve found the best cultural gems, soothing parks, snacks and gentle-thrill attractions to enjoy—naps and snack time included. Ready to strap your baby in and discover LA’s softer side?  Our favorite things to do with babies in LA include:  Natural History Museum  Aquarium of the Pacific  Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden  Heal the Bay Aquarium  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Stroll the Santa Monica Pier and Beach  Griffith Park and the LA Zoo  The Original Farmers Market  South Coast Botanic Garden  Universal Studios (with tips for tiny visitors!)  Aquarium of the Pacific: Soothing Splashy Scenes  Babies love aquariums. Blame it on the cool, dim spaces and slow, mesmerizing movement of fish and jellies—which can turn even the fussiest nap-fighter into a wide-eyed onlooker. The Aquarium of the Pacific in Long Beach checks every box for new families: plenty of room for strollers, clean bathrooms, quiet nooks for feedings, and wave after wave of baby-friendly sights.  The touch pools invite gentle hands (or curious toes!), and the colorful Pacific Collections wing is brimming with easy-to-see tanks—ideal for little ones at eye level. If you have a crawler or early walker, check out the Explorer’s Cove play area. And when you need a break, the on-site café offers high chairs and healthy kid-friendly bites. You’ll feel relaxed, and it’s always cool, even in the LA summer.  Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden: Flower Trails and Giant Peacocks  Swap downtown bustle for the peace of 127 acres of green space, shaded paths, and gentle gardens at the LA Arboretum. With its wide walking trails, stroller access everywhere, and endless visual treats (giant lily ponds, arched bridges, and those famous roaming peacocks!), this is a wonderfully chill outing for new parents and their babies.  Find a quiet bench among blooming camellias, spread out a blanket for a bottle break, or introduce your little one to the sights and sounds of nature. The Arboretum’s gardens are well-maintained year-round, and on sunny days, the dappled shade keeps everything cool. There’s a handy café for snacks and restrooms with changing tables, making this an easy full-morning or afternoon escape.  Heal the Bay Aquarium: Ocean Wonders for Tots  Right under the Santa Monica Pier, Heal the Bay Aquarium offers a small-but-mighty lineup of sea life, touch tanks and interactive displays perfect for young minds. Babies and toddlers can get close to sharks, rays, starfish, and dozens of bright local fish at floor-level tanks—think big wow factor with minimal crowds or overstimulation.  You can easily wheel your stroller through the compact space, and the friendly staff love to chat about fishy facts or let curious hands gently explore shells and other sensory delights. Nursing-friendly benches, a mellow atmosphere, and pristine restrooms make this an easy win for caregivers. If nap time calls, transition upstairs and enjoy a gentle stroll along Santa Monica’s beachfront paths.  California Science Center IMAX Movie: Chill Out in the Big Screen Calm  Worried your museum tour might leave your baby snoozing or fussy? Plan for a break at the California Science Center’s astonishing IMAX theater—a perfect low-key stop, even with a tiny one in your carrier. The theater is spacious and dark, with booming visuals and soothing sounds that can be mesmerizing (and often nap-inducing) for babies.  Here’s the secret: choose a short, nature-focused documentary. At under 45 minutes, they’re the right length for most attention spans and not too loud for sensitive ears. The lobby has plenty of space to park strollers, and you’ll find changing tables in convenient locations. Combining this calm break with a quick stroll through the museum’s Life! Gallery (check out the colorful sea stars and tropical fish) makes for an easy, flexible day with your baby in LA.  Griffith Park and the LA Zoo: Urban Wilderness for Even the Youngest Adventurers  Griffith Park is LA’s green lung—a sprawling space filled with everything from old-fashioned trains to picnic groves and gardens. For families with babies, its wide, mostly flat trails and shaded lawns offer lots of freedom to wander at your own pace.  The LA Zoo, found inside Griffith Park, is surprisingly navigable with a stroller. You’ll find well-marked stroller paths and several shaded, quiet areas ideal for feedings or picnics. Animal exhibits are set at just the right height for curious little eyes. The petting zoo area has soft brushes and low-key animal encounters, making it a joyful addition for both parents and tots. Need a spark of nostalgia? Check out the Griffith Park & Southern Railroad for a gentle vintage train ride.  The Original Farmers Market: Food, People Watching and Colorful Sights  LA’s oldest market, opened in 1934, blends classic Americana charm with all the food options you could dream up. Fortunately, it’s also a wonderland for families with a baby on board. The market is mostly flat, with wide aisles and lots of covered areas for shade—stroller heaven!  Grab an excellent coffee from Bob’s Donuts while your baby people-watches, or sample the market’s standout fare: Pampas Grill’s Brazilian cheese bread, Magee’s homemade peanut butter or Trejo’s Tacos’ soft, flavorful rice bowls (mild enough for sharing snacks). Kids’ seating options, clean bathrooms, and a playful uncrowded energy make the Farmers Market a favorite reset button on any busy LA itinerary.  South Coast Botanic Garden: Colors and Calm on the Peninsula  For a more off-the-beaten-path retreat, the South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes invites families to wander through 87 acres of themed gardens and play spaces. Paved loop trails weave past ponds, rainbow-colored flower beds and gentle shaded areas ideal for nursing or changing breaks.  The garden’s Children’s Garden is tailored for tiny visitors and features oversized mushrooms, bright interactive sculptures and a butterfly habitat (in season). Your little one can crawl through grassy picnic circles or just take in the peace and color. Benches and wide open spaces make this an easy half-day trip, especially lovely in spring or autumn.  Universal Studios: Movie Magic—Yes, Even with a Baby  At first glance, Universal Studios may seem more big-kid than baby, but with a few tricks it’s actually a fantastic family day. Strollers are welcome everywhere, and the park even offers a “child switch” service so both parents can enjoy big rides—one rides while the other waits with baby, then you swap without waiting again. Most venues feature stroller parking, nursing lounges (check the Family Services Center), and comfy shaded spots for snack times.  Babies enjoy the atmosphere: watching costumed characters, catching short shows (like the Animal Actors stage), and soaking up the buzz of the bustling Main Street area. Air-conditioned shows and play zones mean happy babies—even during heat or rain. There’s lots to do just outside the entrance, too, including splash pads and colorful water features perfect for cooling off.    Planning a trip to Los Angeles with a baby doesn’t have to mean sacrificing fun or comfort. From the underwater adventures at the Aquarium of the Pacific to garden strolls under the canopies of the South Coast Botanic Garden, we’re big believers in LA’s power to make new parents feel confident and relaxed. Whether you’re seeking dinosaurs, sunshine, gentle walking tours or baby-friendly eats, LA’s attractions thrive on making all ages welcome—including your smallest traveler. Pick and choose a handful from our favorites above, and you’ll come away with easy memories—and maybe a souvenir or two slipped into the diaper bag for later.    Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Knott’s Soak City Water Park or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes    Step up your sightseeing with Go City®      We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.     See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started! 

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