April 6, 2026
Ah, the City of Angels, the land of entertainment and sprawling beaches. There’s so much to get giddy about in LA, and equally as much to get overwhelmed by.
If you’re visiting LA for the first time, there are a few things to know before you go. I’ve rounded up some of my top tips for visiting LA based on my own experience. These tips may just help you smooth out any final creases in your itinerary before you land.
Want to see more of California? Don’t miss my guide to the best activities in San Francisco.
Top Tips Before You Visit Los Angeles
Explore my top dos and don’ts to ensure you enjoy all the stops on your LA itinerary.
Don’t Underestimate the Traffic
LA is one of the most populous cities in the USA and attracts over 40 million visitors yearly. That means lots of people and lots of traffic. It’s also a sprawling city, so getting around takes time. Whether you’re driving or taking an Uber, be sure to plan your trip carefully, with buffer time just in case.
If you’re on a budget, look out for the LA DASH buses. These buses offer reliable short-distance transport throughout LA for only 50¢ a trip.
Do Bring a Jacket
LA can get cold and windy at night, even in the summer. So grab your favourite jacket before you head out.
Don’t Think You Can Just Walk Up to the Hollywood Sign
It’s not only a bummer, it’s illegal. Visiting the iconic Hollywood sign is one of the must-see places in Los Angeles, but it is surrounded by 24/7 cameras, and you will be fined if you try to trespass.
One of the best ways to get close to the sign is with a hike. Hiking routes range from 3–6 miles and take around 2-3 hours to complete. It’s the ideal way to start your day and get some fresh air.
If you can’t be bothered hiking, visit Lake Hollywood Park instead. This park sits among the Hollywood Hills, below the Hollywood sign. Plop down for a picnic or pose for the perfect photo.
Do Plan Your Trip to the Hollywood Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is long. The 1.3-mile stretch features more than 2,800 brass stars. So finding the ones dedicated to your favourite celebrities won’t exactly be a walk in the park. And you’re probably not going to see it all.
Shortlist your must-sees and check the Walk of Fame star map to plan your visit. You’ll also want to arrive early to avoid the crowds. Aim to get there before 9 am or after 7 pm. Middays and weekends are especially busy.
Don’t Miss LA’s Free Museums
You might not think of the museums when you consider the best things to do in LA. But museums offer the perfect break from the city chaos, and many of them offer free entry.
- The Broad: Reserve a free slot to see contemporary works by artists like Andy Warhol, Jean-Michel Basquiat and Barbara Kruger.
- The Getty Center: Reserve a free, timed ticket to admire the intriguing architecture and rotating exhibitions of art from medieval to modern times. The city views are breathtaking too.
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art: Free to enter every second Tuesday between 11am–6pm, the LACMA is the largest art museum in the Western United States. A feast for the eyes, this museum exhibits everything from ancient relics to quirky modern creations.
Do Enjoy the Melting Pot of Cultures in the LA Food Scene
Los Angeles is one of the most diverse cities in the world and a melting pot of cultures. And there’s no better place to get a taste of the world than at Grand Central Market in downtown LA.
Established in 1917, the GCM is LA’s oldest and largest market. Its 40+ vendors include legacy establishments like China Cafe and up-and-coming entrepreneurs. Open seven days a week, from 8am–9pm, the GCM is an all-day go-to when hunger calls.
Sample Thai noodles, Mexican tacos, Salvadoran pupusas or good old American burgers. Whatever you’re craving, you’re likely to find it here.
Don’t Miss the Most Beautiful Coffee Shop in LA
Savour your morning caffeine fix in a museum-esque coffee shop, complete with sky-high ceilings and marble flooring. Aquarela offers coffee directly sourced from Brazilian farms and micro-roasted in LA. Grab a drink and pastry and enjoy the views, or browse their unique selection of beans for a take-home treat.
Do Make Sure You Buy That $1 Ticket for Angels Flight
The Angel’s Flight railway offers the world’s shortest train journey and is an absolute must-do in Los Angeles. You may recognise the iconic orange funicular from films like The Muppets and La La Land. Originally opened in 1901, the railway is only 298 feet long, and a trip costs $1.50 each way.
Don’t Think You’ll Just Be Popping Into the Last Bookstore
The Last Bookstore is a magical maze of bookshelves stacked with new and old books. The 22,000-square-foot shop is the largest bookstore in California, with over 250,000 books. This eccentric and whimsical store opened in 2005, as many bookstores faced closures amidst the move to digital formats.
You could easily spend the day exploring the former bank. Not only are there books galore, but you can also browse vinyl records and art installations — including a book tunnel. So grab a coffee and get exploring, but don’t expect to leave early.
Don’t Miss the Best Sunset Spot in Los Angeles
End your visit to LA with the best view in the city: Griffith Observatory. Accessible via the LA DASH buses, this Art Deco observatory offers some of the most incredible sunset views. The Griffith Observatory also offers free access to a public telescope and hosts various exhibitions and events for the space-curious.
Final Tips for Your LA Trip
LA is absolutely worth visiting, whether you’re a major foodie, celeb-spotting or travelling with the family. But without careful planning, your trip may come with a few surprises. I hope my list of tips will help you enjoy all that LA has to offer without any delays or disappointment.
Here are a few more tips while you plan your LA itinerary:
- Best months to visit LA? Avoid the peak summer season crowds by visiting during spring (March to May) or fall (September to November).
- How many days in LA? There are so many things to do in LA that you can easily plan a week’s worth of adventures. If you’re exploring California, 2–3 days in LA should be enough to see the main attractions.
Looking for more places to explore in California? Have a look at my guide to the best activities in Santa Cruz and the San Francisco Peninsula.
