6 Things Everyone Needs to Experience When Visiting Los Angeles

 

 

The Hollywood Sign. Venice Beach. Disneyland. California’s City of Angels is home to more iconic sites than anyone can see in a single visit. Among the thousands of iconic eateries, boulevards and beaches, there are a handful of experiences no one should leave Los Angeles without.

These six La La Land staples will give you a broad view of the city’s many neighbourhoods and will leave you with plenty to brag about when returning home.

1. Catch a Dodgers Game

 

There’s nothing more American than seeing a professional baseball game in person, and rest assured, it’s much more exciting than what you’ve seen on TV. The Los Angeles Dodgers are one of the league’s favourite teams, and Dodger Stadium, in Los Angeles’ Elysian Park neighbourhood, is one of the best places to experience a sporting event, LA history (Dodger Stadium is one of the oldest in the league), and classic American eats, like hot dogs and overpriced — but huge — beers.

 

2. People Watch at Venice Beach

Venice Beach is an iconic California beach, and it’s one of the best places in America to people watch. Known for attracting interesting people from all walks of life — including musicians, street performers, skateboarders, costumed rollerbladers and so much more — the Venice Beach Boardwalk will easily provide a full day of fun, food, drinks and entertainment. The vast beach lining the ocean in front of the boardwalk is also a perfect place to catch some rays.

 

3. Don’t Skip Hollywood

 

You don’t have to be a movie buff to want to see where all the silver screen action happens. Snap photos at the Hollywood Walk of Fame, hike to the iconic Hollywood Sign at Lake Hollywood Park, search for celebrities at the famous bars, restaurants and lounges or take a tour to uncover the area’s action-packed history.

 

4. Shop with Celebs on Rodeo Drive

There are arguably more celebrity sightings per day on Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive than in the heart of Hollywood, and just gazing in the shop windows will make you feel rich and famous. Join your fellow tourists, peering in the windows of some of the world’s most high-end shops, then take the short walk to Anderson Court — the only shopping mall in the world designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

 

5. Catch Some Waves in Santa Monica

 

Santa Monica, also known as DogTown and the home of the storied Zephyr surf team, is steeped in surf history. The historic pier, dating back to 1909, has topped countless lists as one of the world’s best beach hangouts. Rent a surfboard, a beach chair, an umbrella, and a bike and experience Santa Monica like the locals have for decades, then spend an evening indulging in the rides, games, entertainment and carnival food of Pacific Park.

 

6. Eat a Randy’s Donut Before You Go

Randy’s World Famous Donuts is Los Angeles’ most famous donut shop, and you’ve probably seen the giant donut on top of the building pictured in movies and magazines. Located next to LAX, Randy’s is one last place to snap a few photos and snack on classic American eats before boarding a long flight home.