LA is an excellent vacation destination, filled with top attractions. If you really want to make the most of your Los Angeles trip, however, you should consider attraction options besides the often-pricey Disneyland.
There are other superb amusement parks with more reasonable price tags and an arguably more unique experience. Of course, there is also a wealth of cultural attractions like museums to explore in LA. A variety of activities will help you appreciate the diversity of Los Angeles. Let's get crafting your itinerary!
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour
- Knott’s Berry Farm & Knott's Soak City
- Six Flags Magic Mountain
- And more!
Universal Studios Hollywood
One of the top alternatives to Disneyland in Los Angeles is Universal Studios Hollywood. This entertainment giant offers the fun and excitement of a studio tour alongside multiple exhilarating rides, attractions, and exhibits to explore.
Featured attraction areas and rides include the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Despicable Me Minion Mayhem, AMC’s The Walking Dead Experience, and much more. Don’t forget to explore Universal CityWalk, either – it’s filled with shops, restaurants, and more entertainment to help you round out a full day.
Please note: Universal Studios Hollywood is available on the Go City® Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass only.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour
Another great studio tour option, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour is about as authentic as it gets. It’s a working studio, so you’ll need to be on your toes to respect ongoing filming (and to keep an eye out for stars!) Popular shows and movies that have been filmed at this studio include Casablanca, Friends, The Big Bang Theory, Pretty Little Liars, and more.
After touring the backlot and soundstages, you’ll get to explore memorabilia that ranges from past costumes to real cars (like a Batmobile!) to archival photographs.
Knott’s Berry Farm & Soak City
California’s very first theme park, Knott’s Berry Farm is a one-of-a-kind experience that you simply won’t want to miss on your Los Angeles vacation. Although they’ve got a history stretching back to the Great Depression, their rides are thrilling and modern, with some of the most innovative roller coasters and rides out there.
Knott’s also offers family rides for the little ones. They’ve got a restaurant and market with their beloved comfort food and the famed boysenberry preserves (either in pie form or in a jar to take home). So, be sure to eat here as well.
Right next door you’ll also find Knott’s Soak City, their younger sister waterpark that delights families from across the country.
Please note: Knott's Berry Farm is available on the Go City® Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass only.
Six Flags Magic Mountain
If you’re really going all in on the affordable amusement parks, then Six Flags Magic Mountain should also be on your list. With over 250 acres of roaring fun to be had, it’s a favorite family destination for a reason.
You can take your pick of nearly 20 phenomenal roller coasters and over 100 (!) other exciting rides, slides, and games. In addition to world-class coasters like Tatsu and Full Throttle, they also have gentler rides for your younger kids like the Grand Carousel or one of the many Looney Tunes-themed options.
Please note: Six Flags Magic Mountain is separately ticketed.
Sony Pictures Studio Tour
Another working studio that everyone will love the chance to explore, Sony Pictures really brings it when it comes to the cinematic history department. Here is where the Yellow Brick Road winds, Spider-Man leaps, the Wheel of Fortune Turns, and Jeopardy contestants hope to make their millions.
Sony is also home to the Barbara Streisand Sound Stage, where some of the most iconic music in Hollywood has been recorded.
Madame Tussauds Hollywood
For those of you looking for some great cultural attractions outside of the studio tour or amusement park genre, a place like Madame Tussauds Hollywood is an excellent choice. You’ve got the fun and delight of walking through wax replicas of famous people from around the world, alongside the sheer joy of snapping that perfect celebrity selfie.
Come here to meet everyone from Hollywood celebs to historical figures to modern legends – you’re bound to find a favorite at Madame T’s.
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.
