(Los Angeles, California) – Many first-timers make the mistake of trying to go all around metro LA in one visit. I would encourage picking a particular neighborhood as your home base.

I listed some of the Ultimate Best Things to Do in Los Angeles, California

Architecture

Downtown Los Angeles exhibits some wonderful art deco and later styles. Each neighborhood has unique architecture though.

Art

The Getty Museum is a free and must-see destination for anyone interested in art. Downtown LA’s arts district is also diverse and worth a visit.

Beaches

Venice Beach is my favorite. If you aren’t into sunbathing, I’d recommend a bicycle ride along the beaches.

Culture

Los Angeles has a lot of diversity and certain neighborhoods are known for certain cultures. Venice Beach is ground zero for surfer and skateboarder culture, and will make you glad to be part of this club called humanity.

Driving

It’s part of life in LA. Make the most of it – there are particularly beautiful routes such as Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu, Sunset Blvd. and many of the canyon roads.

Food

Good food is everywhere; food trucks have a particular place in my heart and LA has lots of them. You can find outstanding food both high-end and low-end. Use your favorite search engine or just walk around. If you like burgers, be sure to have a stop at In N Out.

Museums

Many near downtown, but they are all over. For an overall experience, Griffith Observatory is my favorite destination for its views.

Nightlife

LA has it in spades. Particular neighborhoods are known for great bars and clubs. The most energetic is likely West Hollywood; LA’s gay population is welcoming and probably having more fun than you.

Outdoors

There are scenic hiking trails less than an hour away from anywhere in LA. Rent a paddle board and check out the yachts in the marina. The city is also fairly bike friendly.

Shopping

There are fun destinations for shopping all over. For high-end boutiques visit Beverly Hills. Santa Monica has a lot of fun walkable shops on Main St. and in the promenade.

Abbot Kinney street in Venice is full of unique shops. Malibu has outdoor malls which make a great afternoon destination. In a category of its own- of the most quintessential LA shops is Fred Segal.

Tourist Destinations

You can also go to Santa Monica Pier, see celebrity impersonators and movie characters in Hollywood, go to Disneyland, etc.

Looking for a place to stay in Los Angeles? Find out in agoda for discounted rates and instant confirmation.

Have you tried to visit Los Angeles California? I would loved to hear your experiences in the comment.