What to See and Do in Los Angeles: A Local-Inspired Guide, Los Angeles, California

This guide to What to See and Do in Los Angeles was originally written after an extended stay and has since been thoughtfully updated to reflect the city as it is today — with a few new discoveries I would happily return to.

There are certain cities that reveal themselves slowly, and Los Angeles is one of them. It’s a city that rewards a slower, more considered approach.

Los Angeles is vast, and best experienced by neighbourhood. Rather than trying to do everything, I would suggest choosing one or two areas each day and allowing time to enjoy them properly.

If you’re planning your itinerary, you might also enjoy my guide to where to eat and drink in Los Angeles.

I would also recommend either hiring a car or downloading the UBER app in order to get between one site and the next.

I have grouped what to do and what to see in Los Angeles by theme, and where possible, also by area to help in planning your day.

While you can’t climb up to the famous Hollywood sign itself, you can get a good view (and photo) from either Griffith Park or the Hollywood Hills – particularly in the early morning or just before sunset. ...... (follow the instructions below for accessing the rest of this article).