What is Los Angeles famous for?

Los Angeles has provided the backdrop to many blockbusters and anthems - but what makes it so special? Find out in our Tinseltown deep-dive.

By Seren Morris
Published: July 18, 2024
Palm Trees

Los Angeles, or LA, is one of the most well-known cities in the world. Hollywood stars, the TV & movie industries, and gorgeous beaches all make LA a popular vacation spot.

Check out our guide below on what makes Los Angeles famous. It’s full of tips on how to make the most of your LA vacation and has suggestions for tourist attractions and destinations including...

  • Hollywood attractions
  • The best beaches in LA
  • Theme parks
  • TV, Movie & Music Industries
  • LA-inspired pop culture

Top Los Angeles Facts
 

  • Los Angeles was founded on September 4, 1781.
  • The city's original name was El Pueblo de la Reina de Los Angeles (The Town of the Queen of Angels).
  • In 2018, 50 million people visited Los Angeles.
  • LA has various nicknames like La La Land and Tinseltown.
  • Los Angeles is the second-most populous city in the USA, after New York.
  • LA is the largest city on the West Coast.

Hollywood

One of the most famous areas in Los Angeles is Hollywood. It’s the neighborhood synonymous with the glamorous movie industry and where many celebrities call home. More importantly, there are so many things to do in Hollywood, so visiting this area should be at the top of your Los Angeles itinerary.

The Hollywood Sign

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An advertising company built the Hollywood sign in 1923 to read "Hollywoodland". Initially, the sign advertised a new housing development but was so popular that it became permanent. However, they dropped the “land” in 1946.

Today, you can hike the Hollywood Hills to see the sign up close or find a spot nearby to pose with the sign. Join the Hollywood Sign Tour for a guided hike through the Hollywood Hills area to learn all about this famous location. You'll be rewarded at the top with the best views over all of Los Angeles, all the way to the ocean!

Walk of Fame

The Walk of Fame was initially completed in 1961 and contained 1,558 stars. But that number steadily grew (an average of two stars is added each month) and now the Walk of Fame has more than 2,600 stars!

While exploring the Walk of Fame you will get to see other famous landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Dolby Theatre, too.

Hollywood Museum

Explore Hollywood’s history with a massive 3,500-square-foot collection of costumes and props at the Hollywood Museum. You will get to see famous Hollywood artifacts like Marilyn Monroe’s dress and Cary Grant’s Rolls Royce, not to mention fun exhibits like the Dungeon of Doom and Holy Hollywood History. This is a must-see attraction for movie buffs.

Los Angeles Beaches

The gorgeous beaches located on a 75-mile coastline, with stunning spots from Malibu to Long Beach, are one of the many reasons people visit LA. Here are our suggestions for the best Los Angeles beaches to visit...

Malibu

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Malibu is famous for its beaches, and the beautiful celebrity homes located along the coast. Take a tour of Malibu's Celebrity Homes and learn all about which stars call the area home. See homes belonging to Leonardo DiCaprio, Cher, and Bruce Willis, among others. You’ll also get the chance to explore the Malibu beach and pier.
 

Santa Monica

Santa Monica beach is lovely in its own right. But more importantly, the pier is worth a visit. The Pacific Park Santa Monica Pier is full of restaurants, shops, and of course, the Pacific Park amusement park.

With your pass, you can enjoy admission and unlimited access to Pacific Park’s twelve rides. You especially have to ride on Pacific Wheel, Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel, for amazing views of the beach and ocean.

Theme parks

Los Angeles is also known for its theme parks, so LA is the perfect city for thrill-seekers.

Whether you’re traveling with kids or in a group of adults, LA’s theme parks have something for everyone. Can't decide between Disneyland vs Universal Studios? See both!

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios

Universal Studios Hollywood is a theme park and a working film studio lot in one. Not only does it have tons of movie-themed rides and rollercoasters, it also has an interactive, theatrical Universal Studios Tour, which is partly a guided tour and partly a ride in its own right.

If you do anything at USH, it has to be the Studio tour. Be sure to check out our Universal Studios Hollywood guide before you go to make the most of your visit.

Knott’s Berry Farm

Knott’s Berry Farm was originally a family-run amusement park, that originated sometime in the 1920s. It is now one of the most visited theme parks in the USA. Additionally, its seasonal events, like Knott’s Scary Farm and Knott’s Merry Farm, are famous.

Whichever time of year you visit LA, be sure to visit Knott’s Berry Farm, and read our guide to Knott’s Berry Farm before you go.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Thrill-seekers have to visit Six Flags Magic Mountain. The high-thrill rides including the tallest, fastest and longest flying coaster, Tatsu, and the world’s tallest looping coaster, Full Throttle, make this park famous.

Moreover, Six Flags Magic Mountain also has kid-friendly rides, like a carousel and more in a Looney Tunes-themed area. To make the most of your visit, read our Six Flags Magic Mountain guide.

LEGOLAND California

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LEGOLAND California is guaranteed to be a hit with the kids. There’s no kid-area in this park – instead, little ones can enjoy access to more than 60 rides. Furthermore, to celebrate their 20th anniversary, there will be special events happening throughout the park all year round.

TV, movie & music industries

LA is the ideal destination for movie fans, as there are so many studio tours you can take. Music lovers will thrive on exploring the attractions dedicated to music-themed attractions located around the city. Here are some of our favorites. TV, movie, and music-themed attractions.

Sony Pictures Studio Tour

Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Sony Pictures and see the sets of famous films like The Wizard of Oz and Spider-Man. Your guide will tell you everything you need to know about the studios as they take you around real, working sets. With this in mind, keep an eye out for actors!

Madame Tussauds Hollywood

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

Madame Tussauds Hollywood is your chance to get up close to the stars. Take a selfie with Marilyn Monroe, and mingle with movie stars like Robin Williams and Nicole Kidman. Pop fans will love ‘meeting’ Beyonce, Madonna, and Lady Gaga. Plus, see stars of the small screen like Jane Lynch and Selena Gomez.

Dolby Theatre Tour

Movie fans have to visit the Dolby Theatre Tour, where the Academy Awards are hosted. On this 30-minute guided tour, you will see an Oscar statue, the Dolby lounge, and exclusive photos from past ceremonies.

The Hollywood Movie Experience

This 90-minute walking tour will take you to famous movie locations, as seen in films like La La Land and Ghostbusters. Firstly, your guide will tell you everything you want to know about the film industry and your favorite Hollywood A-listers. Secondly, you’ll get to ride on the Angels Flight Railway and see famous LA landmarks along the way.

GRAMMY Museum

collection-vinyl-records

This is a must-visit attraction for music fans. First of all, The GRAMMY Museum’s exhibits take place over four floors and teach you everything about the LA music industry. Secondly, you can see the Clive Davis Theater, where stars like Ringo Starr and Taylor Swift have performed.

Additionally, the GRAMMY museum often hosts events and concerts, so check their schedule before your visit to see what’s on.

Pop culture

As Los Angeles is such a famous city, it's no surprise that lots of movies and TV shows have been set here. Additionally, there are hundreds of songs with LA as their muse. Check out some of the most popular...

Movies: Loads of films are set here. Why not watch one to get in the LA spirit before your trip?:

  • La La Land
  • Clueless
  • Once Upon a Time in Hollywood
  • The Artist
  • Blade Runner
  • Pulp Fiction
  • Pretty Woman

Songs: There are endless songs about Los Angeles, too. Here are some you might consider adding to your LA playlist:

  • West Coast by Lana Del Rey
  • Free Fallin’ by Tom Petty
  • California Girls by the Beach Boys
  • California Dreamin' by the Mamas & The Papas
  • I Love LA by Randy Newman
  • Malibu by Miley Cyrus
  • Hollywood by Madonna
  • Tiny Dancer by Elton John

TV Shows: Lots of popular TV shows are set in LA – here are a few to watch before your vacation:

  • Modern Family
  • NCIS: Los Angeles
  • New Girl
  • The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
  • Baywatch
  • Beverly Hills, 90210
  • The Big Bang Theory

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. 

Whichever Los Angeles pass you pick, you'll be able to see LA's best!

Seren Morris
Go City Travel Expert

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Los Angeles Memorial Day Weekend

Summer in California is what dreams are made of, and there's a bevy of attractions just waiting for you. We've rounded up the best of the best, so you can focus on soaking up the sunshine.
Katie Sagal
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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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San Diego to San Francisco Road Trip Itinerary - A California Vacation for Tons of Fun

There are so many amazing things to see and do in California that we know it can be overwhelming when planning out your vacation. That's where we come in! Our local experts put together a California road trip itinerary covering a ton of fun family attractions from San Diego to San Francisco! Best yet, visiting these attractions with Go City Cards will allow you to save up to 55% on attraction admission. Enjoy! This itinerary includes family favorite attractions like: SeaWorld® San Diego LEGOLAND® California Universal Studios Hollywood Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood San Francisco Museum of Modern Art Aquarium of the Bay and more! You Can Save on Attraction Admission Admission to these top California attractions are available on our Passes. Go City Cards give you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose as you go from dozens of top attractions to create a vacation tailored to your family's interests. Remember, this California itinerary is just one of many ways to experience this beautiful region. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. LEGOLAND® California Upon entering the LEGO® world, you'll find an endless combinations of LEGO-related activities and fun for the whole family to share. At LEGOLAND California, there are more than 60 rides, shows, and attractions all along the themes of your favorite LEGO characters, games, and movies. The SEA LIFE® Aquarium in LEGOLAND is the home to more than 5,000 creatures that you can experience alongside your LEGO characters and friends. Don't forget about the LEGOLAND Water Park! This attraction offers more than 7 slides and other watery adventures to explore, and is a great family-oriented place that all ages will fully enjoy. NEW for Summer 2018 at LEGOLAND is the much-anticipated LEGO CITY: Deep Sea Adventure. This submarine-style ride sees you hunting for treasure alongside real sharks, rays, and fish. If you're lucky, you'll even get to see a shipwreck with LEGO divers! Getting In: LEGOLAND California tickets are included on the Go San Diego Card. Fun San Diego Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the San Diego area, including these activities, many of which are included on the Go San Diego Card. San Diego Zoo Safari Park - This sister attraction to the San Diego Zoo recreates a real African safari right outside the city. Pick a custom safari adventure for a specific journey, or take a trip around the park on the African Tram to see a little bit of everything! This park is a great experience for all ages and will transport you halfway across the world without getting on a plane. Belmont Park - This amazing beachfront amusement park offers endless fun for the whole family alongside a beautiful ocean view. From laser tag to countless rides to adventures in the waves, Belmont Park has an incredible amount of activities that will keep you busy all day long. More Time in Balboa Park - From museums to performances to restaurants to beautiful gardens, this Park has an incredible collection of exciting interesting and beautiful experiences. Many of the museums are also included with the Go San Diego Card, appealing to those interested in art, natural history, air & space, anthropology, and much more. Visit La Jolla - La Jolla, San Diego's jewel by the sea, is the most popular beach in California. This beautiful peninsula beach with spectacular views has many outdoor activities for the whole family to enjoy. This is a great destination with so much to do and a view that will take your breath away. Visit Torrey Pines - Torrey Pines is a natural state reserve located within the city limits of San Diego. It's comprised of 2,000 acres of preserved wilderness, untouched since the first development of the city. This expanse of wild land gives visitors an idea of what California must have looked like when it was first discovered by early settlers. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood The Warner Bros. Studio Tour in Hollywood brings you through one of the busiest movie studios in L.A. The tour includes the opportunity to visit several soundstages and backlots, as well as the exterior sets of classic Warner Bros. productions. Then, visit the interior of a current set and see what the team is working on at that moment and how the magic happens. Next, visit the Archived Exhibits of the preserved sets, costumes, and everything that went into some of the most famous movies. The tour will also include a visit to the Warner Bros. Prop Department (the largest in the world), as well as a visit to "Stage 48: Script to Stage" which will provide an interactive journey of how the creation process really happens. Getting In: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Hollywood Movie Star Homes Tour This tour will bring you to the homes of 45 famous L.A. residents, while providing a glimpse into the lives of many of your favorite celebrities that you hear so much about. Your narrated trip, conducted in a comfortable air conditioned tour bus, reveals all the popular places celebrities can be found in the city. If you're lucky, you may spot more then just houses -- so bring your camera! This 3 hour experience is also a great opportunity to become more familiar with the layout of the city in a fun and exciting way. Getting In: Hollywood Movie Star Homes Tour tickets are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. Fun LA Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the Los Angeles area, including these activities, many of which are included on the Go Los Angeles Card. OUE Skyspace LA - The exhilarating OUE Skyspace in Los Angeles is the tallest open air observation deck in California and will give you a spectacular 360 degree view of the city from almost 1,000 feet above the streets. The deck is amazing both in the day and at night, so you can't really go wrong with a visit here. Other Great Theme Parks - If the Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier wasn't enough for your thrill-seeking family, there are many other great theme park options in the area including: Six Flags Magic Mountain, Knott's Berry Farm, and Knott's Soak City Waterpark. All have great rides and games and everything you need for a day of complete and exciting family fun! Aquarium of the Pacific - Experience sea life up close through countless engaging exhibits. The incredible creatures of the sea will amaze the whole family, and you'll all learn more about the ocean and the organisms that live in it then you could have ever imagined. Sony Picture Studio Tour - This 2-hour guided walking tour of the Sony Picture Studio will allow you to visit historic sound stages and get to experience what a real working studio is like. Griffith Observatory - At this gateway to the sky, you will be able to look through the famous Griffith Observatory telescope, experience exhibits, see a live show and enjoy the incredible views of the city of L.A. and the famous Hollywood sign. Hop On Hop Off San Francisco Tour This easy and convenient bus tour is a great way to see a lot of the city and orient yourself quickly. Your guided adventure will take you through all the main parts of the city including Chinatown, Fisherman's Wharf, the Ferry Building, and so much more. The best part of this bus tour is its flexibility. If you see something that interests you, like the great shops in the Ferry Building, you can just hop off the bus, take your time looking around, and then catch another bus when you are ready to move on. This is a truly great way to see the city and experience all it has to offer. Getting In: Hop on Hop Off Big Bus San Francisco Tour tickets are included on the Go San Francisco Card. Fun San Fran Area Options to Add to Your California Road Trip Itinerary: There are plenty of other fun options to choose from in the San Francisco area, including these activities, many of which included on the Go San Francisco Card or the Build Your Own Pass. Golden Gate Park - The Golden Gate Park is home to the de Young museum and the California Academy of Sciences and many more attractions. This beautiful park is made up of large grassy spaces (great for picnics), incredible gardens, lakes, museums, and more. Fisherman's Wharf - On Fisherman's Wharf you'll find lots of activity and excitement. From the street performers to the fresh seafood stands, there isn't a dull moment at this iconic place. Other Cruise Options (Escape From The Rock, Golden Gate Bay Cruise) - If you're interested in spending more time on the San Francisco Bay, there are other great cruise options. Some of these options include the Escape From the Rock boat trip (a trip to Alcatraz, the prison of the San Francisco coast) and the Golden Gate Bay Cruise (which will take you around the Bay and the Golden Gate Bridge for great views and an unforgettable experience). Wine Country Tours - Wine Country Tours will take you outside the city of San Francisco and into the rolling hills of the surrounding country. On a Wine Country Tour, you will find yourself on a beautiful vineyard and with the opportunity to explore everything it has to offer. Blazing Saddles Bike Rental - Explore the city on your own time with a bike rental. One of the best ways to use this bike rental is to take a ride across the Golden Gate Bridge. At any of the Blazing Saddles Bike Rental locations, the employees will direct you to the fastest route to the Golden Gate Bridge. This unforgettable and thrilling experience will provide you with amazing views of the city and the bay. Let's Recap This California itinerary was designed to be a fun San Diego to San Francisco road trip packed full of the west coast's top attractions and things to do. Remember, many of these great attraction options and more are available on our California attractions pass options, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We hope you consider adding a few of these fun options to your California vacation itinerary!
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