LA's most iconic sights — the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, the Getty, Santa Monica Pier, and more. What to expect at each, the honest cost breakdown, and how to avoid the tourist traps.
Six landmarks every first-time visitor should know about — with the honest details.
You cannot walk up to the sign itself — it is fenced off. The best views are from Griffith Observatory (free) or the Lake Hollywood Reservoir trail (free, 3.3-mile loop, popular early mornings). Drone photos require permits. Avoid the overpriced 'Hollywood Sign Tour' vans.
Free to view
Free admission and LA's best panoramic view — the entire city basin from the ocean to downtown, with the Hollywood Sign behind you. Samuel Oschin Planetarium shows cost $7. Arrive before 10am or after 4pm to avoid crowds. Parking is limited — Uber or hike up from Los Feliz Blvd.
Free (parking $10, shows $7)
The classic end-of-Route-66 photo opportunity. Pacific Park amusement rides cost $6–$12 each. The Aquarium of the Pacific is $8 for kids. Best times: weekday mornings for low crowds, or sunset any day. The solar-powered Ferris wheel is the Instagram landmark.
Free entry (rides extra)
World-class art collection — Monet, Rembrandt, Van Gogh — all free admission. The building and garden terraces are worth the visit alone. $20 parking but the tram ride up is part of the experience. Book timed parking in advance online.
Free (parking $20)
A 2.5-mile oceanfront walk lined with street performers, skaters, vendors, and muscle beach gym. At its best on weekends. Best entry point is the north end near the canals for a quieter approach. Abbot Kinney Blvd is one block east and worth the detour for shops and food.
Free
The luxury shopping street is free to walk and window-shop. Greystone Mansion (free, open to the public as a park) is two miles north and offers views over the city. The Beverly Hills sign at Canon Drive is the tourist photo. The Wallis Annenberg Center hosts free public events.
Free to walk
Skip-the-line tickets and guided tours for LA's top sights.
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