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

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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

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Things to do in Highland Park Los Angeles

Trips to Los Angeles don’t just have to be about being in Hollywood; after all, La La Land isn’t just about all of the glitz and glam. Highland Park, Los Angeles’ first actual suburb has a storied history and all of the art, architecture and culture to match. With fantastic museums, great dining and unique points of interest, it’s an area that’s well worth visiting in the city. The neighborhood is easily accessible and more residential, too making it the perfect place for those who want to get a true taste of authentic L.A. living. So, if you’re planning to make the visit but aren’t quite sure where to start, check out our list of the best attractions and hidden gems in Highland Park. Which ones will you try? Check Out the Museums Though Los Angeles is known for being home to the world entertainment industry, it’s often said that the city doesn’t have much to offer in the realm of culture. Still, perhaps this next item on our list will help to change your mind about things just a little. Situated on a quiet residential street in ​​Montecito Heights, the Heritage Square Museum serves as a great educational tool for those who are interested in discovering more about the development of the city. The building is actually comprised of a collection of historic structures, including a railroad station from Century City, a church from Pasadena and formerly private residences. Inside, visitors can learn more about the city from the Civil War right through to the early twentieth century. Step back in time and discover the unique background of Los Angeles through fascinating exhibits and personal stories. Great for those of all ages, this spot provides a fantastic look into social change. Whilst the rest of Los Angeles is known for its beautiful beaches and popular tourist attractions, Highland Park is home to pretty unique museums. Standing out as one of our favorites, the Los Angeles Police Museum works to provide a comprehensive overview of the city’s law enforcement agency. Built into a police station which closed down in 1983, the institute is recognized as the oldest surviving station-house in the city. Upon entrance, visitors can learn more about the rich history of the LAPD through a collection of engaging and fascinating displays. Amongst its permanent repository, you’ll find photographs, uniforms, badges, squad cars and bulled-riddled vehicles. The original jail cells of the Highland Park Police Station can also be viewed alongside a recreation of the first woman’s police uniform in the nation once worn by LAPD officer Alice Stebbins Wells in 1910. A fantastic hidden treasure, this spot is great for anybody looking to incorporate some education into their travel experience. Get into Nature If you’re a seasoned visitor to Los Angeles, you might just be familiar with Griffith Park and the Santa Monica Mountains. Still, the city presents countless opportunities for outdoorsy types to get in touch with nature. Nestled in the Montecito Hills neighborhood of central-northeast Los Angeles, the Audubon Center at Debs Park is a unique environmental and conservation institute for those who just can’t get enough of the Los Angeles landscape. The center is located on Ernest E. Debs Regional Park, a beautiful green space with rolling hills, gleaming lakes, and a wide array of California native flora. There are plenty of great walking trails here for both novices and experienced hikers alike. Keep your eyes peeled as you’re making your way through the area since it is home to some beautiful wildlife. In particular, this spot has become a popular visitor site for birdwatchers, as it is home to over 140 species. Here, you can expect to see American Kestrels, Great-horned Owls, Northern Flickers and more. There’s also a children’s woodland, with boulders, a cave, a creek bed and raised planters. With its distinguished natural beauty, this spot is a total must-see. Try Something Different If you’re looking for a unique family activity to check out in the city, Bob Baker Marionette Theater just might be your best bet. Founded way back in 1963, this place is still pulling the strings in child entertainment to this day. Though the establishment moved from its original location in Westlake in 2019, it’s never lost its identity and creative integrity. This spot is actually the oldest children’s theater in Los Angeles and stays completely true to its art form by hosting engaging acts all throughout the week. These shows are charming, artistic and highly detailed, so really, there’s as much here for adults as there is for kids. 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An undoubtedly one-of-a-kind experience, this spot is perfect for grabbing a drink and relaxing after a long day of exploring. There are a lot of great places to visit in Los Angeles, each with something a little different to offer. For rich history and culture though, you couldn’t get anywhere better than Highland Park. Maximize your travel experience with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
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Things to do in Chinatown Los Angeles

Things to do in Chinatown Los Angeles L.A. is known for everything from its sweeping natural landscapes to Disneyland and Dodger dogs. It’s a total hive of activity, buzzing with life - that being said, there can be a whole lot to choose from here. In a city comprised of over 400 neighborhoods and districts, figuring out what to do next is a pretty bewildering task. Of course, for anybody looking to scratch beneath the surface of the city’s storied history and cultural development, Chinatown is always a must. Situated just Downtown, this unique ethnic enclave is undoubtedly one of the most dynamic areas of the city. Whether you’re looking for great shopping, unbeatable dining, or interesting hidden gems, there are just so many things to see and do in this area of the city. Still not sure quite where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. From grabbing a bite to eat at the Far East Plaza to visiting the Chinese American Museum, we’ve made a list of all of the best things you won’t want to miss on your trip to Chinatown. Arrive with a game plan, check out your favorites and you’re sure to have a great time! Shop and Dine The next stop on our list truly is a little slice of history. First constructed in 1938, the Chinatown Central Plaza is known as one of the nation’s first shopping malls. Today, this spot remains the nucleus of Chinatown, and a total hub of excitement. As you might have guessed, this place is a little different from most modern shopping malls! Created to resemble the streets of Shanghai, it’s well-recognised for its fanciful architecture. Inside, you can pick up anything from vintage Chinese dresses and original art to loose leaf teas and stylish house plants. There are also a wide variety of great food stops to choose from. Still, the highlight of this place has got to be its massive 7-foot statue of Bruce Lee! We recommend visiting during the week if you prefer to skip the crowds. Of course, a trip to Chinatown just isn’t complete without exploring some of the area’s most delicious food stops. That’s right - just as any Chinatown should do, L.A.’s iteration of this historic ethnic enclave boasts some of the best fast casuals, bistros and pop-ups for you to sink your teeth into. If you’re looking for an unfussy quick bite whilst exploring, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Some of our favorites include Pearl River Deli, Phoenix Inn Chinese Cuisine and Lao Tao Street Food. The area is also home to the marvellous Philippe the Original, AKA the iconic progenitor of the French Dip sandwich. Pull up a chair, sit back and enjoy one of the best sandwiches of your life. Or, if you’re looking for a wide variety in choice, we suggest heading to the Far East Plaza. Built way back in 1976, this bustling food hall and beloved Chinatown mainstay earned its stripes as one of the best spots to grab authentic regional cuisine in the city long ago. Here you’ll find everything from steaming bowls of pho and classic crunchy spring rolls to lip-smacking ice cream in a wide range of adventurous flavors. No doubt you’ll be able to find something to take your fancy! Learn About the Area For those looking to learn more about the Chinese American experience, there couldn’t be anywhere better than the Chinese American Museum, located on North Los Angeles Street. A great stop for anybody who wants to incorporate a little education into their travel experience, this place works to document and present one of the biggest Chinese American populations in the U S of A. Inside, visitors can enjoy a wide array of exhibits covering fine art from Chinese creators as well as historical artefacts from as far back as the late 19th century. The nature of the displays is fascinating and broad; past ones have focussed on community settlement in Los Angeles, the growth and development of Chinese American enclaves and Asian American activist movements. A thoroughly unique cultural experience, this one is not to be missed. Undoubtedly, Chinatown is one of the best places to go for those who want to learn a bit more about the development of the city. Along with its great shopping destinations, pretty parks and delicious eats, the neighborhood is also home to some really unique historical sites. Standing out as one of our favorites, the Italian American Museum is a surprising and beautiful landmark tucked around the corner of Olvera Street. For those wondering about its background, the spot was constructed way back in 1908 to serve as a gathering place for the Italian community way back in a time when Chinatown was actually Little Italy! Today, this spot is recognized as the oldest remaining structure from L.A.’s Italian enclave and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Inside, visitors can enjoy a fantastic repository documenting the history of Southern California’s Italian roots. Its collection includes over 6000 artefacts with art, photos, documents and more. With the history that lingers on-site and its remarkable displays, this spot is well worth the visit. Get in Touch With Your Spiritual Side If you’re looking to get in touch with your spiritual side, we suggest heading over to the Thien Hau Temple on Yale Street. Formerly an Italian Christian Church, this unique building was bought in the 1980s and converted into a Taoist worship house. Whilst the temple is young, it serves as one of the primary places of worship for Asian L.A. residents. Take time to marvel at its beautiful intricate facade before stepping inside. Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about the fascinating history of the building and explore its wonderful interior. Inside, you can expect to see statues, sculptures, artworks and more with a strong Chinese influence. We recommend visiting during Chinese New Year or Labor Day, since you can get in on all of the fun and festivities! A distinctive architectural marvel and well-recognized place of worship, this place is a total must-see. Vibrant and bustling with life, Chinatown is always a fantastic place to explore. Whether you’re looking to learn more about the city or just grab a bite to eat, you’ll never be bored here! Explore the area to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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