Things to do in Los Angeles

Like in any big city, where you go and what you do can really depend on who you ask. However, Los Angeles isn’t just an urban playground, it’s a city that stretches out to the beach, up the hills, and even into a canyon. One thing is certain: Don’t expect to find people hopping from West Hollywood to Manhattan Beach in one day unless it’s a special occasion — LA traffic is very real, and most people plan day trips when leaving their respective neighborhood.

Dine in Downtown Los Angeles (DTLA)

Over the last 20 years, the DTLA scene has changed dramatically from a place where nobody walks in LA to an area buzzing with award-winning restaurants, museums, shopping, and entertainment. Old Hollywood charm exudes from early 1900s buildings, where at the press of an elevator button, you’re zipped up to rooftop bars for happy hour; meanwhile inside the historic Grand Central Market, food tours led by locals lead you to some of the best bites in LA. For those short on time or want to skip the ride shares: Hop on the Metro to quickly get from place to place. Little Tokyo and the Arts District are some of the favorite go-to areas.

Spend a day in Silver Lake

Silver Lake is still the place to go see emerging indie acts and undiscovered musicians in dive bars and small clubs, but it is also an extremely walkable Eastside neighborhood. Rent paddle boats on the Silver Lake Reservoir, or walk it alongside families, pets, and couples. For shopping and people watching, take the stroll to Sunset Junction, a stretch of boutiques, cafes, and restaurants on Sunset Boulevard.

Shop at the Rose Bowl Flea

While this shopping destination is in Pasadena, not Los Angeles, locals love making the trek to California’s largest flea market. Typically held the second Sunday of a month, this event draws hundreds of vendors who stake out spots to sell antiques, collectibles, clothing, you name it, in front of the Rose Bowl stadium. Pro shoppers and interior designers know to go for the early bird special (when doors open at 6:30am), long before the brunch crowds emerge for the early afternoon. Always check ahead of time for the most up-to-date information on entry.

You can take to the sands on some 15 beaches in LA County, notably Malibu, Santa Monica, Hermosa, and Manhattan Beach. One of the best ways to get from beach to beach is on bikes or rollerblades along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, also partly known as The Strand. Each beach offers its own personality and perks, but no matter where you end up, there are plenty of beach activities for everyone from volleyball and surfing to brunch cruises and beach picnics. For those looking for something quintessentially LA: go roller skating at Venice Beach, or get in on a training session from celebrity trainers through Airbnb Experiences.

Griffith Observatory is perhaps one of the most beloved hikes in LA, a place where you might even cross paths with a celebrity who is getting their steps in for the day. One of the more typical hikes starts on the 2-mile trailhead of the Greek Theatre. Expect the best views of the city, and if you go further, you can even stand above (and behind) the iconic Hollywood sign. The best way to ensure you stay on the right path is to go on guided hikes with in-the-know locals.