Discover LA like a true insider! These are my go-to spots for food, hidden gems, iconic sights, beach days, hikes, and everything in between. Skip the tourist traps and see the real LA!
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Are these "Tourist Traps" worth the hype?
Hollywood Sign -- Hidden Gems
Foodie - Restaurants worth the hype!
Best Beaches in LA
Shopping
Movie Locations!
Are these "Tourist Traps" worth the hype?
These are the iconic places you’ll want to see once. Think photo ops, pop culture moments, and bucket list vibes. Touristy? Yes. Worth it? Maybe, maybe not.
This place is great to see once but honestly it's such a huge tourist trap and overpriced and dirty all around
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Fun for the photo ops and the “I’ve been there” moment. I honestly recommend keeping an eye out for movie premieres! They’re usually held here and make the visit way more exciting!
TCL Chinese Theatre
100% worth the visit, hassle, and hype! I highly recommend going during sunset so you can experience a gorgeous skyline at night too!
Griffith Observatory
Fun to do at least once! It’s a laid-back way to see the city with a general tour! Just sit back, relax, and take it all in.
LA: Celebrity Homes and Lifestyle Tour and Hop-on Hop-off Tour
Hollywood Sign -- Hidden Gems
Skip the crowds and discover LA’s best-kept secrets!
The BEST location if you want a photo with the Hollywood Sign!
Lake Hollywood Park
The most iconic spot you can find to get a great photo of the Hollywood Sign
How to Find the Palm Tree Lined Street with a View of the Hollywood Sign
Best spot for a short walk with a great view of the Hollywood Sign! No intense hiking required! Perfect if you want that iconic photo without breaking a sweat.
Hollywood Reservoir
If you're more adventurous and want to hike up to the Hollywood Sign, there's a trail that allows you to do that!
Griffith Park Hollywood Sign Trail, California
Super fun and you get the best views without having to hike! I love doing this as a local!
Mulholland Trail Horseback Tour
Foodie - Restaurants worth the hype!
These spots actually live up to the buzz. From viral bites to chef-loved gems, they’re 100% worth the reservation (or the wait).
A MUST when in LA! This is a local favorite and worth the lines!
In-N-Out Burger
Scenic dining with panoramic views, delicious food, and a perfect spot for special occasions or sunset cocktails.
Castaway
My favorite Ramen place! Their noodles are freshly made and SO good!
Ramen Nagi
Worth the Hype! SO good!
Craig's
Local’s favorite spot! The pastries here are good! Perfect for a sweet treat any time of day.
Porto's Bakery and Cafe
Probably the best bagels I've found in LA!
Courage Bagels
This place feels like a hidden gem! The food is absolutely fantastic!
Home Restaurant - Bar & Grill in Los Angeles, CA
Cool spot to check out with a fun vibe and tons of food options! Great for groups or casual exploring!
Grand Central Market
Best Beaches in LA
From iconic spots to local favorites! These are the best beaches to soak up the sun, catch a wave, or just vibe by the coast.
So fun to visit once! It is overpriced, but it's great to visit with kids!
Santa Monica Pier
If you’re looking for a less crowded beach, I highly recommend this one! It’s a true local hidden gem! Peaceful, scenic, and far from the usual tourist buzz.
Manhattan Beach Pier
A great local beach we love! It’s super lowkey and way less crowded than the popular spots! Perfect for a chill beach day.
Zuma Beach – Beaches & Harbors
Another great local beach we love! Gorgeous for photos
El Matador, La Piedra and El Pescador State Beaches, California
Shopping
From trendy boutiques to iconic shopping streets, LA has it all! Whether you're hunting for vintage finds, luxury labels, or local gems.
Great to explore and shop! You might run into a celebrity here
The Grove
Similar to the Grove but parking doesn't cost $$$. Glendale Galleria is across the street, which means more shopping options!
The Americana at Brand
Super fun to walk around and shop! Great photo ops too!
RODEO DRIVE – THE INTERSECTION OF LUXURY, FASHION AND ...
Another great mall to check out!
Westfield Century City
Perfect if you love vintage finds! This is my favorite spot for unique clothes, jewelry, and one-of-a-kind keepsakes. A true hidden gem!
Melrose Trading Post
Movie Locations!
Step into the scenes of your favorite films! Discover iconic spots around town where Hollywood magic was made! Perfect for fans and photo ops alike.
Worth EVERY penny if you love movies & TV!
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
A must if you're visiting for the first time! Start at the lower lot then make your way up. Don't forget to check out the Studio Tour as well!
Universal Studios Hollywood
The Office
Quixote Central Valley Studios
Parks and Recreations
Pasadena City Hall
Jenna and Matt's Homes - 13 going on 30
13 Going On 30
Modern Family - Dunphy House
"Modern Family": Dunphy House
Modern Family - Jay and Gloria's Home
"Modern Family": Jay and Gloria's Home
Modern Family - Mitchell and Cam's Home
"Modern Family": Mitchell and Cam's Home
Back to the Future: Doc Brown's Mansion
The Gamble House
“L.A Confidential” and “Beverly Hills Cops lll” were filmed here
The Formosa
“Mad Men”, “Once upon a time in Hollywood”, “Ed Wood”, “Little Things”, and “Bosch” were filmed here!
Musso & Frank Grill
“Blade Runner”
Bradbury Building
“The Big Lebowski” and “There Will Be Blood”
Greystone Mansion and Gardens
Gorgeous Gardens
Escape the city buzz and wander through LA’s most beautiful gardens! Perfect for peaceful walks, scenic views, and a dose of nature.
Self-tours can get overwhelming with so much to see! I highly recommend booking a private tour! It makes the experience smoother and ensures you don’t miss the highlights.
Demystifying Art at The Getty - 90 minutes
A beautiful blend of nature, history, and wildlife! Stroll through lush gardens, see peacocks roam free, and explore the iconic Queen Anne Cottage.
Arboretum & Botanic Garden
A stunning escape filled with lush gardens, art, and history! Perfect for a peaceful stroll, beautiful photos, or a quiet day out.
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
A peaceful nature retreat with blooming roses, shaded trails, and seasonal displays! Perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
Descanso Gardens
Theme Parks
From roller coasters to movie magic, these theme parks bring the fun! Perfect for thrill-seekers, families, and anyone ready for a full day of adventure.
Where movies come to life! Packed with thrilling rides, live shows, and behind-the-scenes magic! This park is a must for film lovers and fun seekers alike and it's in the heart of LA!
Universal Studios Hollywood
If it’s your first time in California or LA, Disneyland is a must! If you’re planning to visit both parks, I definitely recommend starting with California Adventure and then going to Disneyland for that classic Disney magic! If you're going with mino...
Disneyland Park
This place is for thrill seekers! The hype has kind of died down for locals here, so it's definitely a great place to visit if you prefer parks with shorter lines
Six Flags Magic Mountain
A fun spot to visit, especially if you're a fan of the Charlie Brown series! Cute, nostalgic, and full of Peanuts charm for all ages!
