10+ Places in LA Music Fans Should Visit

From strolling down the Hollywood Walk of Fame to spotting concrete handprints of your favorite guitarists and browsing the iconic vinyl shops, LA's vibrant music scene is thriving.

Published: July 18, 2024
Hollywood

While Los Angeles is the home of Hollywood glamour, it's not all about movie stars. LA has a world-famous music scene and rich musical history, with plenty to delight audiophiles. From seeing your favorite musician's star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame to visiting the legendary venues on the Sunset Strip, there are tons of attractions in LA for music fans, including...

  • GRAMMY Museum
  • Madame Tussauds
  • Hollywood Walk of Fame
  • Guitar Centre Rock World
  • Hollywood Bowl
  • Sunset Strip
  • LA Music Strip
  • And more!

GRAMMY Museum

gramophone-interior

The GRAMMY Museum is a superb place to learn about musicians in a fun, unique, interactive way. With the help of innovative programming, you'll discover the stories behind the artists and the music they created. Music has shaped how we understand the world, and the GRAMMY Museum breaks down the boundaries between artist and audience.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood

madame-tussauds-hollywood
The images shown depict wax figures created and owned by Madame Tussauds.

Madame Tussauds Hollywood is one of the top attractions to visit in LA. Immerse yourself in all the glamour of Hollywood past and present, and surround yourself with Los Angeles' rich and famous. You can get close enough to touch some of the sculptures - and, of course, take that all-important selfie with your favorite singer.

Rub shoulders with the likes of Madonna, Michael Jackson, and Rihanna. Don't miss the themed areas such as the Pop Icons Room - it's filled with all your favorite music stars.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Hollywood walk of fame

You can't visit Los Angeles without taking a stroll down the Walk of Fame. It's a 1.3-mile walk that runs east to west on Hollywood Boulevard and boasts more than 2,600 stars over 15 blocks. These stars represent the names of actors, singers, musicians, directors and so many more who have shaped the entertainment industry. Look for your favorites and snap some photos.

Guitar Center Rock Walk

This may seem like just a giant guitar store, but it's so much more. They have the biggest guitar collection you will ever see, plus other instruments and memorabilia. You can practice any instrument you like without salespeople hanging around. Plus, in front of the store, they have a cement block with the hand-prints of many famous rock stars. See which ones you recognize!

The Hollywood Bowl

Rolling Stone Magazine called The Hollywood Bowl one of the top 10 best live music venues in America.  This amphitheater in Hollywood Hills opened in 1922 and has seen the likes of Billie Holiday and the Beatles play on its stage.

Over the years, it has been upgraded to improve the audience's experience and the performers' acoustics. Today, you can see performances by Cyndi Lauper, Tony Bennet, Hugh Jackman, and so many more. You can purchase tickets for single performances, or create your own package. Don't forget to stop in at the Hall of Fame while you're there.

Sunset Strip

Sunset Strip

If you're going to Los Angeles, the Sunset Strip is a must-see for any music fan. A mile and a half long and steeped in history, the Sunset Strip was the go-to destination of Hollywood stars in the 1920s. It was bursting with supper clubs and nightclubs.

However, it has changed with the times, as the classy jazz age slipped into a more complex web of beatniks and literary geniuses. It has changed with society through folk, rock and roll, and punk. Today it's a pop culture haven, full of bars and shops. Some musical must-sees on the Strip are...
 

  • Whiskey A Go Go - On the corner of the Strip, Whisky A Go Go has been an anchor since 1964 and is still a happening nightspot. It's small, but if you want no-frills rock performances, this is a must for you. If you're looking to listen to metal, this is where you'll find it.
     
  • The Troubadour - The Troubadour is an intimate setting for contemporary music acts. Billy Joel, Elton John, James Taylor, and many more have played on the Troubadour stage.
     
  • The Roxy - If you want to launch your career in LA, this is where you perform. The Roxy Theatre is a place for aspiring new artists, plus well-established acts. The two merge together at The Roxy and you get to experience the wonder of performances in a state-of-the-art facility.

LA Music Center

The LA Music Center is best known for its dance program and affordable ticket prices. The Music Center has four theaters and four resident companies; the LA Master Chorale, the LA Opera, the Center Theatre Group, and the LAPhilharmonic. This is a must-see destination if you want the best in live performances from a nationally recognized program. The LA Music Center is a non-profit organization that brings art and live performance to the world.

Amoeba

Searching through records

Amoeba is another place audiophiles need to put on their must-see list. It is the largest independent music store and it stocks all kinds of music from today's top hits to experimental music. It has a huge collection of vinyl LPs and is still a trading post for new and used discs.

Its selection changes almost daily, so if you see something in this store that you just have to have, you'd better buy it. It considers its staff to be veterans of music retail, with the knowledge to rival everyone else in the business. Amoeba's goal is to match its customers to the music of their soul. 

Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Gardens

tropical-botanical-garden

You may not think a zoo would be the first stop for a music fan, but in summer, Los Angeles Zoo hosts Roaring Nights. Their annual summer music series is complete with dancing, bars, wild hosts, and DJs. Every year, there's a new theme, so check the website to find out what's going on. It's how the zoo does music. Plus, who doesn't love a great zoo?

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Sundays Done Right: Top Activities for LA Adventurers

Wake up, LA! It’s Sunday—the city’s best day to slow down, try something new, and discover why everyone falls in love with Los Angeles. Whether you’re an early riser or a brunch connoisseur, the city is buzzing with adventure. From the Pacific coastline’s salty air to the star-studded hills of Hollywood, LA rolls out the red carpet for weekend explorers. You’ll find colorful farmers’ markets, world-class museums, outdoor adventures, and the kind of food that’s worth writing home about. So, whether your style is mellow and beachy or you’re up for movie magic and city thrills, we’ve rounded up the ultimate Sunday itinerary. Ready to make your Sunday one for the memory books? Let’s dive in!  Los Angeles Sunday: Essential Experiences  Looking for the best ways to spend your Sunday in Los Angeles? Here are our top picks:  Whale Watch & Dolphin Tour by Newport Whales  Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Discover Tour  Griffith Observatory Tour  Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking  Farmers Market at The Original Farmers Market  California Science Center IMAX Movie  Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard  The Getty Center Guided Tour  Brunch at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker  Late Afternoon at Venice Beach Boardwalk  Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Discover Tour  If you want to see a mix of neighborhoods and sights, the Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Discover Tour is your flexible ticket to LA’s highlights. Sundays are made for exploring, and this open-top double-decker bus lets you curate your own adventure at your pace. Cruise through Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Downtown, hopping off when something grabs your attention—be it the flash of a mural, the allure of a boutique, or the smell of food drifting from the market.  The vibes on board are super friendly, with guides offering entertaining commentary packed with fun facts and local legends. Take in the sights: the glitter of the Walk of Fame, the architectural drama of Walt Disney Concert Hall, or the lush greenery of urban parks. Stop for spontaneous detours—a coffee here, a quick photo opp there. No need to stress about traffic or parking; you can just sit back and soak up the city. For first-timers, this tour brings Los Angeles’ many personalities together in a single (relaxing) Sunday experience.  Griffith Observatory Tour  There’s something magical about spending a Sunday surrounded by the serenity of Griffith Park, high above the city at Griffith Observatory. Mornings and early afternoons are perfect for the guided Griffith Observatory Tour. As you walk up that iconic hill, LA’s cityscape unfolds beside you, and on clear days the view stretches from the downtown skyline all the way to the Pacific.  Inside, you’ll find fascinating science and astronomy exhibits—the Tesla coil, the funky Foucault pendulum, and interactive displays that are as fun as they are educational. Climb up to the rooftop for a closer look at the Hollywood Sign and to peer through the Zeiss telescope; you might spot a planet or two, even in daylight!  The tour guides here are enthusiastic and love sharing behind-the-scenes stories—about the Observatory’s role in film history and its place in the city’s collective imagination. And the feeling of standing under the Art Deco rotunda, surrounded by curious minds, is pure LA magic. Whether you’re an astronomy buff or just love panoramic views, this spot brings out your inner explorer.  Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking  Sunshine, flat paths, and beautiful views—Santa Monica is a cyclist’s dream on a Sunday. With Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking, you can roll from the legendary Santa Monica Pier to Venice Beach, soaking up everything the coastline has to offer. Stop for street performers on the pier, watch skateboarders carve up Venice Skatepark, or just cruise the beach path until you find a spot for a snack.  These bikes are built for comfort and style, so you can ride for miles without a care. The energy is laid-back and friendly—fellow cyclists, rollerbladers, and joggers all share the path, and there’s always something to watch. We love grabbing an iced coffee at Perry’s Café right on the sand, or stopping at the original Muscle Beach for people-watching.  A Sunday bike ride in Santa Monica isn’t just exercise, it’s a celebration of the great LA outdoors. Expect sun, sea breeze, and tons of photo ops—this is California at its most relaxed.  Farmers Market at The Original Farmers Market  Sometimes the perfect Sunday starts with food. The Original Farmers Market at 3rd and Fairfax has been feeding LA locals and visitors since 1934, and its Sunday vibe is unmatched. Think dozens of open-air stalls and permanent eateries heaped with California’s best produce—sweet strawberries, vibrant citrus, and avocados so fresh they’re practically begging to be mashed into toast.  Beyond the fruits and veggies, this is a true world food bazaar, with everything from Brazilian barbecue at Pampas Grill to Parisian crêpes at The French Crepe Company. There’s live music, friendly crowds, and the happy buzz of food discovery around every corner.  Find a communal table, order something you’ve never tried before (the corned beef at Magee’s is legendary), and soak up the laughter and chatter. This is LA’s melting pot at its friendly best—and a great way to fuel your Sunday for more exploring.  Explore Abbot Kinney Boulevard  If your idea of a fun Sunday is a blend of window shopping, people-watching, and discovering LA’s creative heart, Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice is calling your name. This mile-long stretch is the city’s unofficial trend capital—lined with indie boutiques, stylish cafes, galleries, and one-of-a-kind street art.  Here’s the deal: you could start with gourmet doughnuts from Blue Star, browse for handmade jewelry, or sample house-roasted coffee at Intelligentsia. The energy is relaxed, creative, and effortlessly cool—local artists chat with shoppers, friendly dogs wag outside storefronts, and food trucks pulse with the scent of global street food.  Every Sunday, it seems, Abbot Kinney reveals something new: a pop-up vintage clothing sale, a street fair, live music, or maybe a celebrity sighting if you keep an eye out. Even if you’re not in shopping mode, the creative buzz is contagious and makes for a perfect LA afternoon.  The Getty Center Guided Tour  Perched on a hilltop with skyline views, The Getty Center is a Sunday treat for art, architecture, and garden lovers alike. Take the tram up from the parking area—it sets the tone for an experience that’s both inspiring and utterly unique to LA.  The guided tours bring the Getty’s art and architecture to life, highlighting everything from Renaissance paintings to modern photography, all in light-filled galleries. Guides are engaging and happy to answer your questions. Don’t skip a stroll in the Central Garden—created by artist Robert Irwin, it’s a living sculpture of meandering paths, reflective pools, and creative plantings.  Even if you’re not a hardcore art buff, the atmosphere is serene yet stimulating, with terraces overlooking the mountains and the sea. People linger over coffee and pastries at the café, or find a shady spot to sketch or read. It’s the kind of place where you can be both energized by culture and calmed by nature—an unbeatable LA combo.  Brunch at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker  No LA Sunday is complete without brunch, and The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker (a/k/a BBCM) is the place to do it in style. Located in West Hollywood, this hotspot is famed for its pastel-hued espresso drinks and a brunch menu that has LA foodies queuing up all weekend.  If you’re feeling classic, the eggs benedict are pillowy and perfectly sauced. Those after something a bit more colorful should try the signature “Colorburst” lattes—swirled with rainbow hues and almost too pretty to drink (almost). The lemon ricotta pancakes are a must, too—fluffy, bright, and topped with berry compote.  BBCM’s décor is as photo-worthy as the plates: lush greenery, sun-drenched atriums, and buzzy with a crowd of brunch fans from morning till the late afternoon. Don’t be surprised if you spot a celebrity or two, but the real stars are the creative cocktails and the welcoming staff. Make a reservation if you can—it’s worth waking up a bit early.  Late Afternoon at Venice Beach Boardwalk  Round off your LA Sunday with a stroll along the Venice Beach Boardwalk. As golden hour approaches, the atmosphere hits peak LA: skaters zip past mural-painted walls, bodybuilders flex at Muscle Beach, and street performers entertain kids and grown-ups alike. The energy here is electric—quirky, irreverent, and joyful.  Stop into one of the old-school snack shacks for a lemonade or coconut water, rent a pair of roller skates from one of the local shops, or browse pier-side stalls for handmade art and jewelry. If you’re hungry for a sunset treat, Great White just across from the boardwalk serves up fresh, beachy plates—give their breakfast burrito or fish tacos a try. Their airy, minimalist vibe pairs perfectly with salty air and views of the ocean.  As the sun dips into the Pacific, the boardwalk lights up with an only-in-LA mix of beach lovers, cruisers, musicians, and artists. End your day here, soaking up the ever-changing scene, and you’ll understand why so many people call LA the city where summer never ends.    There’s no wrong way to do a Sunday in Los Angeles, but there are some extra-fun ways to make the most of it. Whether you’re gazing at whales, dining on artful brunches, biking beside the Pacific, or soaking in culture high above the city, there’s always a new adventure around the corner. LA’s neighborhoods glow with personality, and Sundays show them all at their vibrant, laid-back best. We hope this roundup helps you fill your day with stand-out experiences, delicious food, and plenty of sunny memories. Here’s to your perfect LA Sunday—where fun is as endless as the California sky!    Enjoyed this? Check out our favorite ways to spend an L.A. morning, and peruse our pick of the best downtown markets.   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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