Los Angeles is the most populous city in California. It is also the second most populous city in the country, after New York City. Unsurprisingly, the city of angels has many attractions and activities to keep visitors busy. Exploring the whole city in one trip is impossible, but the following five places are must-see destinations.
5: Griffith Observatory
The Griffith Observatory is located on the south-facing slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park. It commands a view of the Los Angeles skyline, including Downtown Los Angeles to the southeast, Hollywood to the south, and the Pacific Ocean to the southwest. At night, free public telescopes are available outside for viewers to see the skyline close-up, which is especially gorgeous at night.
Inside the Observatory, there are several activities to keep visitors busy. Its most prominent daily programs are their shows at the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. Guests may also see the live image of the Sun on the coelostat (solar telescope) in the Ahmanson Hall of the Sky. Leonard Nimoy narrates The Once and Future Griffith Observatory movie profiling the Observatory’s history, renovation, and current offerings. You can join the staff for talks about local noon, the Tesla Coil, and The Big Picture, or just walk through the exhibit galleries.
4: Larchmont Blvd
Larchmont is a half-square-mile neighborhood in the central region of the City of Los Angeles. Several boutiques and restaurants are located in the neighborhood, including perfume store the Scent Room on Larchmont Blvd. The fragrances are rather pricey, but with Mother’s Day coming, it’s perfect spot to shop for mom if it’s within your budget. Need an afternoon pick me up? Grab a coffee and croissant at Peet’s Coffee and Tea.
3: The Grove Mall
Located on parts of the historic Farmers Market, The Grove is an outdoor retail and entertainment complex that homes a Nordstrom, Barnes & Noble, and Nike, and several other boutiques. On a rainy day or if you’ve just had enough of the Los Angeles heat, catch a movie at AMC The Grove 14, located right near the iconic Grove Fountain. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite, or a sit down meal, The Grove offers options. The Grove will satisfy your craving with Wetzel’s Pretzels, The Cheesecake Factory, and more. Don’t worry about getting around, because the double-decker trolley is ready every day to take you where you need to go!
2: Venice Beach
Venice is a neighborhood in Los Angeles that hosts a beach, an ocean-front boardwalk, and several restaurants and boutiques. During the summer months, spend a day at the beach. Whether you’d rather work on your tan, or ride the waves on your surfboard, Venice is the perfect spot for a hot summer day. Even when it’s too cold to dip your feet in the water, you can still enjoy the beautiful beach by taking a stroll along the boardwalk all year-round. Shop for souvenirs at the various gift shops, or enjoy some seafood on the beach at the Venice Whaler.
1: Santa Monica Pier
The ultimate must see destination on a trip to Los Angeles is the Santa Monica Pier. Located at the foot of Colorado Ave., it contains a small amusement park, concession stands, and areas for views and fishing. There are several gift shops right along the pier, so visitors have tons of chances to grab souvenirs to show off to their friends and family back home, or pick up a gift for a loved one. After a long day of shopping, grab a bite to eat with an ocean view at The Albright. Situated right next to Santa Monica Beach, take a dip in the ocean, work on your tan, or enjoy the sunset with an ocean view after a memorable day with family and friends.
