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

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

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

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

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

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Things to Do in Los Angeles When It's Hot Out

LA's hotspots are a force to be reckoned with, but so is the summer sun. When you feel like a melting popsicle, but you still want to get some sightseeing done, here's where we'd go.
Katie Sagal
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How to Spend a Perfect Tuesday in Los Angeles

Let’s be honest: every day in Los Angeles feels like a scene from a movie, but there’s something about Tuesdays here that hits differently. Maybe it’s the lighter crowds, the last-minute tables at beloved eateries, or how the city hums with the promise of adventure if you know where to look. Whether you’re a culture buff, foodie, thrill-seeker, or just chasing sunshine, LA serves up endless ways to make your Tuesday memorable. From sunrise vistas to starlit jazz, we’ve packed this guide with our favorite things to do, see, and taste on a Tuesday across the City of Angels. Ready to dive in? Here’s how to build your best-ever Tuesday itinerary in Los Angeles.  Our favorite things to do in Los Angeles on a Tuesday include:  Griffith Observatory Tour  Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes  Aquarium of the Pacific  Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County  Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood  Explore the Grand Central Market  Taco Tuesday at El Cholo  Getty Center Guided Tour  Listen to Jazz at Musichead Gallery  Santa Monica & Venice Beach Bike Tour by Unlimited Biking  If you want your Tuesday to swing between laid-back and lively, nothing beats a spin on two wheels along the Pacific Coast. The Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour with Unlimited Biking turns the city’s beachside icons—from Muscle Beach to the pier—into your very own playground.  The vibe on a Tuesday is unmatched: there’s space to cruise down the oceanfront path, chat with friendly locals, and watch street performers setting up as the day builds. No traffic jams—just breeze in your hair and salty air on your skin.  Why do we love this idea for a Tuesday adventure? The pace is up to you. Your guide keeps things lively with stories about the area’s wild surf history, secret mural spots, and quirky LA personalities. You’ll likely spot skaters carving at Venice’s legendary skate park, artists selling original paintings along the Boardwalk, and sunbathers staking out their slice of sand.  The tour isn’t all go-go-go—you’ll make plenty of stops for photos, people-watching, and snacking. Santa Monica Pier’s amusements and the picture-worthy Venice Canals both make an appearance on the route. And let’s be honest: exploring by bike lets you cover way more ground than by foot.  We suggest ending your tour with something cool from Venice’s Abbot Kinney Boulevard—a neighborhood packed with indie cafes (check out Blue Bottle Coffee or Salt & Straw for wild ice cream flavors). If you’ve got energy left, stay for a sunset that’ll make your Instagram followers envious.  The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes  The Hollywood Sign might be one of LA’s most famous sights, but nothing compares to seeing it up close from the rugged trails of Griffith Park. The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour kicks off your Tuesday with a bang—connecting you to film history, wild open spaces, and a city panorama that’ll have you grinning from ear to ear.  Why choose Tuesday? The trail feels like your own kingdom. You can chat leisurely with your guide and have plenty of space to snap that ultimate selfie. As the path winds through chaparral and shady groves, your expert shares tales of the sign’s wild past (let’s just say: sabotage, makeovers, and plenty of movie magic). There are detours for secret viewpoints, stories about the celebrities who call the hills home, and plenty of time to soak in the clean canyon air.  Reaching the closest legal vantage point, the sign looms above, the city sprawls below, and your sense of “is this real?” peaks. Fellow hikers are generally cheerful and up for a chat—everyone’s here for the LA moment. Heading back down, keep an eye out for local wildlife (look up for red-tailed hawks!) and finish with a cold brew at a nearby café in Los Feliz or Hollywood.  Whether you’re a movie lover, hiker, or just love bragging rights, this urban adventure makes for a Tuesday highlight you’ll remember long after your trip.  Aquarium of the Pacific  Trade LA’s famous traffic jams for underwater drama at the Aquarium of the Pacific—a short drive south in Long Beach and perfect for a Tuesday visit thanks to smaller crowds and relaxed vibes. The aquarium feels like a gateway to another world, with over 11,000 animals and dozens of brilliantly designed habitats to explore.  What strikes us the most is how immersive this aquarium feels. You’ll wander through lush forest tunnels, icy penguin exhibits, and coral lagoons glowing with exotic fish. Tuesday means more time chatting with knowledgeable staff—ask them about the resident sea otters, and they’ll probably share a behind-the-scenes fact or two. The animal feeding sessions are less crowded on weekdays, and you’ll have a front-row spot as sharks, rays, and mischievous seals swim by.  Interactive displays set this aquarium apart. Touch moon jellies, feed lorikeets in the outdoor aviary, and press your nose to floor-to-ceiling tanks teeming with colorful jellyfish. It’s perfect for families, solo travelers, and anyone who wants a little “wow” in the middle of the week.  The views outside are just as great! Step onto the harbor promenade for a photo with the Queen Mary or a snack at the nearby Shoreline Village—where waterfront restaurants offer everything from clam chowder to gourmet tacos. You’ll leave refreshed, inspired, and probably humming “Under the Sea” all afternoon.  Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County  Dinosaurs, dazzling gems, and hands-on labs: LA’s Natural History Museum brings science and discovery to life. On Tuesdays, you’ll find the airy marble halls pleasantly uncrowded—perfect for taking your time with jaw-dropping exhibits.  What makes this museum a stand-out Tuesday pick? The sense of adventure. You’ll stand face-to-face with a T. rex trio, walk through a glass-encased butterfly pavilion (in season), and be wowed by the stunning Gem and Mineral Hall, where crystals sparkle under dramatic lighting. The history of Southern California unfolds through ancient fossils, towering mammoth skeletons, and interactive displays that encourage even the most reluctant scientist to get involved.  For families, the Discovery Center is a hands-on wonderland. Budding paleontologists can dig for bones and peer through microscopes, while nature lovers compare feathers and leaves in the outdoor Nature Gardens. Special programming on Tuesdays often means pop-up labs and friendly staff on hand to answer your wildest questions.  The museum café serves up fresh salads and sandwiches, and the grounds are lush—a lovely lunch stop before or after your expedition. Best of all, Exposition Park’s rose gardens outside make for a sweet-smelling stroll in the afternoon. This spot works rain or shine, making your Tuesday in LA totally adaptable.  Explore the Grand Central Market  Downtown LA’s Grand Central Market is the go-to for breakfast tacos, green smoothies, and pastries that’ll knock your socks off. On Tuesdays, the market buzzes with local office workers, die-hard foodies, and chefs hunting for inspiration—but the weekend crush is blessedly absent.  There’s no better way to taste the city’s diversity. Wander from Mexican carnitas to Filipino rice bowls, marvel at rainbow piles of fresh fruit, and debate whether Eggslut’s cult-status egg sandwiches live up to the hype. (Spoiler: they absolutely do.) Hit G&B Coffee for a single-origin cold brew, scoop up a slice from McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams, or settle in for ramen at Sticky Rice.  What sets the Grand Central Market apart? It’s the energy—open, casual, and full of stories. Pull up a communal seat under twinkle lights. Strike up a chat with a taco chef or local regular. Soak up the atmosphere with a view of Broadway’s historic neon signs outside. Grand Central feels like LA in miniature: layered, flavorful, and just the right amount of quirky.  If you want a change of pace after eating, Angels Flight Railway—LA’s tiniest funicular—is just across the street for a fun, vintage ride up to Bunker Hill.  Taco Tuesday at El Cholo  If Los Angeles has an official food holiday, it’s Taco Tuesday—and there’s no better place to join the party than at El Cholo. This beloved, vintage Mexican restaurant has been dishing up classics since 1923, and their Tuesday specials are legendary.  Step inside and you’re greeted by Spanish-tiled floors, family photos, and a lively crowd of Angelenos who wouldn’t dream of missing a week. The must-order? El Cholo’s signature carnitas tacos—tender pork with zesty salsa and pillowy handmade tortillas. Pair your tacos with their signature house margarita, served icy-cold in salt-rimmed glasses, or try the seasonal aguas frescas if you’re alcohol-free.  Why make El Cholo your Tuesday stop? The energy is undeniably festive, waiters zip around balancing sizzling platters, and regulars tend to adopt you as their own. Stay for their decadent green corn tamales or finish up with cinnamon-dusted churros for dessert. The patio fills up quickly but offers a cheerful spot for people-watching as the LA sunset works its magic.  Getty Center Guided Tour  Sitting high above West LA in Brentwood, the Getty Center is a feast for both the eyes and soul. Best of all, Tuesdays see gentle crowds and more space for you to soak up the art, architecture, and unreal city-to-ocean views.  The tram ride up the hill sets the tone—white travertine gleaming, gardens tumbling down the slopes, and that laid-back Westside breeze in your hair. The museum’s guided tours add depth to your wanderings, with friendly docents sharing stories about masterpieces from van Gogh to Monet and gleaming decorative arts from centuries past.  Between exhibits, take a moment to stroll through the Central Garden: zigzag paths, gurgling brooks, and flower beds bursting with color. The peaceful, modern terraces invite you to linger with a coffee or pastry from the cafe, or snag a seat with a panoramic view of the city and Santa Monica Mountains.  Tip for romance-seekers or photographers: stay until late afternoon, when the golden light makes the marble glow and the LA skyline feels like it’s floating on air. The Getty isn’t just a museum—it’s an experience that puts everything you love about LA (creativity, sunshine, and space to breathe) in one place.  Listen to Jazz at Musichead Gallery  Top off your Tuesday with a little night music. On Sunset Boulevard, Musichead Gallery pairs world-class art with a jazz series that draws musicians and fans from across the city. The gallery, usually known for its photography exhibitions—think portraits of guitar gods and rock legends—transforms on Tuesday nights with intimate live sets in a cozy, bohemian space.  The mood is laid-back and inviting. You’re as likely to find yourself chatting with a local jazz pianist as with an up-and-coming singer sipping a glass of red wine in the back row. The acoustics here are warm—no booming amps, just crystalline sound and an audience that actually listens.  Arrive a little early to browse the art on the walls: handwritten setlists, iconic album covers, and rare signed prints. Then, as dusk falls, let the music transport you far from LA’s rush. Tuesday’s “Jazz Night” series covers every style, from smooth classics to bold improvisations.  Afterward, stroll down Sunset to swing by The Den on Sunset for a late-night cocktail on their dimly lit patio, capping off a Tuesday that hits every note.    Tuesdays in LA are anything but ordinary. In fact, the city shines brightest on these midweek adventures—when lines are shorter, streets are friendlier, and treasured local experiences await at every turn. Whether you’re high above Hollywood, biking along the beach, time traveling through natural history, or feasting at an old-school taco joint, LA turns your Tuesday into an endless playground. So go ahead, try something unexpected, follow your curiosity, and let Los Angeles surprise you. This city’s always ready to make your Tuesday truly spectacular.    Enjoyed this? Check out the Best Food Markets in Los Angeles or Things to Do in Los Angeles with Family.  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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Best LA attractions for thrill-seekers

If you're on your way to LA and making plans for what to do there, let us help you out. We've compiled a list of some of the top Los Angeles attractions for thrill-seekers – there's much more to Los Angeles than Disneyland and Universal Studios. (Although these are great attractions, too!) Many of these popular attractions are perfect for the thrill-seekers and roller coaster fans in your group. However, most of these LA attractions also have family-friendly rides and activities for children. With a little planning and preparation, you and your whole family will have a fun-filled vacation. Check out our guide to the top LA attractions for thrill-seekers, including... Knott's Berry Farm Pacific Park Six Flags Magic Mountain Knott's Soak City Waterpark Universal Studios Disneyland and much more! Knott’s Soak City Waterpark Cool down at Knott’s Soak City Waterpark on one of their 23 speed, tube, and body slides –or all 23! The Shore Break slide provides a floor dropping, heart stopping good time through the entire seven story ride. There's also a 75,000-gallon wave pool, 200 water guns, and other toys available. And when you're ready to relax, the Lazy River will be waiting for you. After you've worked up a good appetite, you have the choice between a pizza joint and a grill. Hurricane Harbor If you're looking for some more water adventures, Hurricane Harbour might just be the place for you. Travel down the Tornado’s 132 foot tunnel, and ride Reptile Ridge through its twisted routes. Then, jet through the Black Snake Summit’s twists and turns, and hold your breath as the Bonzai Pipelines’ trapdoor disappears from beneath your feet sending you on a six-floor drop. Try to stay afloat in the wave pool, dine on some delightful dishes, or relax in a private cabana. On Fridays, chill out at the dive-in theater. Universal Studios Universal Studios Hollywood has something for everyone. Film buffs will experience movies like never before. With behind-the-scenes tours, authentic stunt and special effects shows, dining at Hogsmeade and trying some Butterbeer, surviving the Walking Dead, and shopping to your heart’s content, you will have an unforgettable time. As if the room full of walkers isn't scary enough, thrill-seekers can hop on some 3D rides that will send your heart racing. You might also meet dinosaurs, Transformers, and more along the way. Don’t forget that there is plenty of family fun, too, including kid-friendly rides and character encounters. You might even find Shaggy and Scooby hiding with a snack! As there is so much to see and do at this attraction, check out our Universal Studios Hollywood guide to make the most of your visit. Disneyland No Los Angeles trip can be considered a vacation without a visit to see Mickey! Check out the ghost-infested Haunted Mansion, meet the beauties behind the crowns, and make your child’s Disney-dreams come true with a royal makeover. Be wowed by the pyrotechnical splendor of Mickey’s Fantasmic battle. Dine in the beautiful and quaint Victorian restaurant, Plaza Inn. For the space lovers out there, Tomorrowland and the fabulous Star Wars characters will make your day. And do not forget to check out the beautiful Disneyland Forever fireworks show, or the enlightening Main Street Electrical Parade. Save on admission to LA theme parks With so many great activities, how do you choose which ones to do? Admission to many of these attractions is included with Go City®.
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