La County Map With Cities
If you’re planning a trip to Los Angeles County, also known as LA County, you’re in for a treat. This vibrant destination is home to numerous attractions, hidden gems, and outdoor adventures that cater to all types of travelers. From the bustling city streets to the scenic beaches and mountains, LA County offers something for everyone. To make the most of your trip, use this comprehensive travel guide that covers the top things to do, see, and explore in LA County.
Top Attractions in LA County
LA County is home to some of the world’s most iconic attractions. Here are a few must-visit places:
- The Hollywood Walk of Fame
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- The Getty Center
- Santa Monica Pier
- The Griffith Observatory
- The Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Hidden Gems in LA County
While the popular attractions in LA County are definitely worth a visit, there are also numerous hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are a few of our favorites:
- The Last Bookstore
- The Bradbury Building
- The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
- The Japanese Garden in Van Nuys
- The Venice Canals
- The Museum of Jurassic Technology
Food Scene in LA County
LA County is known for its diverse food scene that caters to all types of taste buds. From street food to fine dining, you’ll find it all here. Some of the must-try dishes include:
- Tacos from any of LA’s countless taco trucks
- Korean BBQ in Koreatown
- Sushi in Little Tokyo
- Thai food in Thai Town
- Mexican food in Boyle Heights
- Seafood in Santa Monica or Long Beach
Budget-Friendly Tips
LA County can be an expensive destination, but there are ways to save money while still having a great time. Here are a few budget-friendly tips:
- Visit the free museums and attractions
- Take public transportation instead of renting a car
- Eat at food trucks or hole-in-the-wall restaurants
- Stay in Airbnbs or budget-friendly hotels
- Visit during the off-season to avoid crowds and high prices
Outdoor Adventures in LA County
LA County is blessed with a mild climate that allows for year-round outdoor adventures. Here are a few activities to add to your itinerary:
- Hiking in the Santa Monica Mountains
- Biking along the LA River bike path
- Surfing at Malibu Beach
- Stand-up paddleboarding in Marina del Rey
- Kayaking in the Long Beach harbor
- Ziplining in the San Gabriel Mountains
Historical Landmarks in LA County
LA County has a rich history that is reflected in its numerous historical landmarks. Here are a few places to explore:
- The Bradbury Building, built in 1893
- The Gamble House, a masterpiece of American Arts and Crafts architecture
- The Watts Towers, a unique example of folk art
- The Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner turned hotel and museum
- The Los Angeles Union Station, a stunning example of Art Deco architecture
Family-Friendly Activities in LA County
LA County is a great destination for families with kids of all ages. Here are a few activities that the whole family will enjoy:
- The California Science Center, home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour
- The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
- The Griffith Observatory, featuring interactive exhibits and planetarium shows
- The Petersen Automotive Museum, a must-visit for car enthusiasts
- The Santa Monica Pier, with its amusement park and aquarium
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique and off the beaten path, LA County has plenty of options. Here are a few experiences to consider:
- Exploring the murals and street art in the Arts District
- Visiting the Museum of Death in Hollywood
- Attending a taping of a TV show
- Going on a haunted ghost tour
- Exploring the abandoned ruins of the LA Zoo
Natural Wonders in LA County
LA County is home to some stunning natural wonders that are worth a visit. Here are a few places to explore:
- The Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve, a sea of orange poppies in the spring
- The Devil’s Punchbowl Natural Area, a geological wonder with hiking trails
- The Vasquez Rocks Natural Area, a unique rock formation with hiking trails
- The Angeles National Forest, with hiking, camping, and scenic drives
Vibrant Nightlife in LA County
LA County has a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes. Here are a few places to check out:
- The Sunset Strip, with its legendary music venues and bars
- The bars and clubs of West Hollywood
- The rooftop bars of Downtown LA
- The beachside bars of Santa Monica and Venice Beach
- The craft breweries of the South Bay
Local Markets in LA County
LA County has a thriving local market scene that is worth exploring. Here are a few markets to check out:
- The Original Farmers Market, a historic market with food stalls and shops
- The Grand Central Market, a food hall with diverse offerings
- The Smorgasburg LA, a weekly food and craft market
- The Rose Bowl Flea Market, a massive flea market with vintage finds
Beaches and Mountains in LA County
LA County is blessed with a stunning coastline and scenic mountains that offer plenty of outdoor activities. Here are a few places to explore:
- The beaches of Santa Monica, Venice, and Malibu
- The hiking trails of the Santa Monica Mountains
- The ski resorts of the San Gabriel Mountains
- The scenic drives of Angeles Crest Highway and Mulholland Drive
Cultural Immersion in LA County
LA County is a melting pot of cultures, and there are numerous ways to immerse yourself in the local culture. Here are a few places to explore:
- The Chinese American Museum in El Pueblo de Los Angeles
- The Museum of Latin American Art in Long Beach
- The Museum of Tolerance in West Los Angeles
- The Japanese American National Museum in Little Tokyo
Art and Music Scene in LA County
LA County has a rich art and music scene that is worth exploring. Here are a few places to check out:
- The Broad, a contemporary art museum in Downtown LA
- The Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in Downtown LA
- The Walt Disney Concert Hall, a stunning piece of architecture and home to the LA Philharmonic
- The Troubadour, a legendary music venue that has hosted countless famous acts
- The Hollywood Bowl, an iconic outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts and events
Walking Tours in LA County
LA County is a great city for walking tours, with numerous neighborhoods and landmarks to explore. Here are a few walking tours to consider:
- The Hollywood Walk of Fame tour
- The Downtown LA Art Walk
- The Beverly Hills Celebrity Homes tour
- The Venice Beach Graffiti and Street Art tour
- The Los Angeles Conservancy Historic Downtown tour
Architectural Marvels in LA County
LA County is home to some stunning architectural marvels that are worth exploring. Here are a few places to check out:
- The Walt Disney Concert Hall