Who says LA is all palm trees and traffic? This city loves its heights—so much so, that some of its best memories are made way above the hustle. Whether you’re up for a sky-high cocktail, a classic hike, an elevator ride to the clouds, or even ancient observatories, Los Angeles knows how to show off. We’ve scouted the very best viewpoints—from mountain tops to rooftop lounges—so you can soak in those famous sunsets, city lights, and maybe even a few Hollywood legends. Lace up your sneakers or book that ticket: your picture-perfect LA panorama is waiting.
Our fave LA viewpoints include:
- Griffith Observatory
- OUE Skyspace LA (US Bank Tower)
- Runyon Canyon Park
- Mulholland Drive Scenic Overlook
- Hollywood Bowl Overlook
- Elysian Park and Angel’s Point
- The Getty Center
- Hollywood Sign Trail
- SoFi Stadium Tour & Rooftop Views
Griffith Observatory
Set high above the city on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory gives you that quintessential LA view—sprawling city grids by day, a sparkling blanket of lights by night, with the Pacific Ocean often glinting in the distance. The Observatory’s plaza doubles as an overlook, giving visitors an unbeatable vantage of downtown, the Hollywood Sign, and even the mountains beyond. Time your visit for sunset and watch the city put on a show.
Inside, the airy rotunda and public telescopes bring the cosmos closer while you enjoy planetarium shows and hands-on exhibits. There's a certain magic to sipping coffee on the terrace as stargazers and dog walkers take in the scenery. Hikers will love the trails that snake up from the Greek Theatre below, for a scenic workout with brag-worthy rewards. Pack your binoculars and let your inner astronomer roam free!
OUE Skyspace LA (US Bank Tower)
Want to see the city from the top of its tallest building? Head to OUE Skyspace LA, perched 1,000 feet above the heart of downtown at the US Bank Tower. Two open-air observation decks wrap you in sweeping 360° views: gaze out over landmarks like Dodger Stadium, the shimmering Pacific, Santa Monica Mountains, and the endless LA grid disappearing into the haze. The altitude lets you appreciate just how massive, and beautiful, this city can look.
For an extra jolt, step onto the glass-floored Skyslide: a see-through chute that whisks you down the side of the building (perfect for thrill-seekers and future TikTok stars). Inside, interactive exhibits add context to what you see outside, and friendly staff are mostly on selfie-duty. Visit day or night; you can’t lose, but if we had to choose, sundown snacks and drinks up here taste a lot sweeter.
Runyon Canyon Park
Runyon Canyon Park
Runyon Canyon is a favorite among locals for good reason—those panoramic city-to-sea views are hard to beat. Located just a stone’s throw from Hollywood, the main trails climb steadily up, opening onto wide ridgelines perfect for breaks and people-watching. The higher you go, the better the vistas: you’ll see the entire city fan out before you, from downtown’s skyscrapers to the ocean beyond Santa Monica.
The vibe here is part outdoor gym, part social scene, with friendly pups and fitness fans dotting the paths. The various lookout points make fantastic settings for sunrise jogs or sunset yoga—plus, you might spot a celebrity or two. Bring water, your camera, and that best friend who’ll join you in shouting “we made it!” at every turn.
Mulholland Drive Scenic Overlook
Cruising Mulholland Drive feels like starring in your own LA movie—and the official Mulholland Scenic Overlook is the city’s ultimate drive-up panorama. Park the car and step to the railing for an open-air postcard view: from the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory to the towers of downtown, with San Fernando Valley stretching out behind you.
Early mornings blanket the city in a soft mist, while twilight brings out a river of tiny red tail lights below. Information boards help you pick out all the geography, but honestly, the best part is simply standing still, soaking up that “so-this-is-LA” feeling. Don’t forget a jacket for those canyon breezes!
Hollywood Bowl Overlook
Just off Mulholland, the Hollywood Bowl Overlook is a small-but-mighty spot that packs an outsized punch. It's a favorite for fans hoping to peek into the legendary amphitheater from above—especially at night, when the stage glows and LA’s lights glimmer beyond. A short walk from the parking turnout leads you to a viewpoint lined with benches and shade trees.
This is a great place to impress out-of-town friends, or just enjoy a snack with one of the finest views of both the city and the iconic sign. Take in a concert at the Bowl, then climb up for a post-show wind-down and cityscape selfie. It’s all the charm of LA, distilled into one hillside perch.
Elysian Park and Angel’s Point
Tucked away between downtown and Dodger Stadium, Elysian Park is LA’s oldest public green space—and Angel’s Point is its quiet, photogenic gem. Follow the meandering paths up to the overlook, where wide-open cityscapes await. From this peaceful perch, the skyline feels close enough to touch, backed by the distant San Gabriel Mountains.
Pack a picnic and relax under shady eucalyptus trees—this spot is made for lazy afternoons and impromptu solo adventures alike. The vibe is laid-back, with locals jogging by and families sharing blankets on the grass. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel part of LA’s rhythm, even as you gaze out over it all.
The Getty Center
The Getty Center
The Getty Center isn’t just for art lovers: it’s also one of LA’s finest hilltop retreats, offering panoramic scenes stretching from downtown to the Pacific. Glide up the hillside tram to crisp white museum buildings, surrounded by gardens and terraces with photo-ready perspectives. On clear days, everything from the Santa Monica Mountains to Catalina Island sparkles below.
The setting feels serene and somewhat surreal—modern architecture, world-class art collections, and the hum of city life far beneath you. Whether you’re admiring Van Gogh indoors or the sunset outside, the Getty lets you blend culture with those sweeping valley vistas. Don’t forget to wander the cactus garden for unique angles no one else gets!
Hollywood Sign Trail
Nothing says “LA” quite like standing above the Hollywood Sign, watching the city spin out far below. The trail leading behind the famous letters offers a heart-pumping hike and a tableau reserved for those ready to earn their selfie. Gentle switchbacks climb through the chaparral, with frequent rest stops to gaze back at Hollywood and Burbank.
Once you’re at the summit, you get not only head-on sign views but also incredible sightlines stretching from downtown to the coast. The air feels crisp, the mood triumphant—and even the coyotes seem impressed. Arrive for sunrise if you want to beat the crowds and grab that golden glow for your photos.
SoFi Stadium Tour & Rooftop Views
Football fan or not, the SoFi Stadium tour gives you more than just a look at this architectural wonder—it lets you ascend high above the field for vibrant 360° views. Walk the catwalk and rooftop decks to see Inglewood, the South Bay, and even a sliver of downtown on clear days. You’ll appreciate the futuristic design and learn how this venue redefined LA’s sports scene.
The vibe here is lively and futuristic, with cool breezes and album-worthy panoramas from above. Tours mix fun facts, local sports lore, and plenty of time for photos—so wear comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and prepare for some serious wow-factor.
Los Angeles isn’t shy about showing off from above, and we think you shouldn’t be, either. These viewpoints offer something for every mood—quiet sunrise hikes, lively rooftop lounges, artful escapes, or adrenaline-fueled adventures high above the streets. Whether you catch a glowing sunset over the city, snap a selfie behind those famous letters, or relax with a drink as the lights come up, you’re sure to leave with dazzling new memories. Soar above, explore below, and see LA from its best angles—you’ll never look at the city the same way again.
Enjoyed this? Check out the Best Photo Opportunities in Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes
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