Top-Rated 13 Once in a Lifetime Things to do in Los Angeles

Headed to Los Angeles and looking for the ultimate once in a lifetime things to do? Here are 13 incredible options!

Los Angeles is one of the most famed locations in the world. Known as much for its beautiful climate and nature as it is for film, the City of Angels has an endless supply of once in a lifetime activities.  

Narrowing down the list is hard work, but these 13 one in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles will guarantee you an unforgettable California dream trip! Take it from my friend Laurén at Wander with Wren who is an LA local! 

Let’s dive in!

1. Hike to the Hollywood Sign

Forever an icon for the City of Angels, the Hollywood sign stands as the universal beacon for all things showbiz. Depending on where you start, the hike ranges from 3-7 miles total and has some moderate elevation gain. 

Budget a few hours for this one, as there are plenty of vistas and overlooks to get the perfect Instagram shot. Plan the season that you visit too, as mid-summer temperatures can easily be upwards of 90°F for the full hike.  

Once you arrive, however, you’ll get sweeping views of the Los Angeles Basin below you, and on a clear day, you can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Bring a friend or a selfie stick so you can get a shot of the Hollywood sign behind you, embraced by the Hollywood Hills. 

This sunset hike in Hollywood is unforgettable and truly a once in a lifetime experience during your LA visit. 

>> Book Your Organized Sunset Walking Tour in Hollywood! <<

---

🌴 Custom Travel Itineraries Inquiry Form 🌴

Looking for a travel expert to plan your California itinerary? As a travel enthusiast, I’ve gotcha! Fill out the form below and I’ll be in touch!

---

2. See the Stars on Sunset

Let’s be honest, a visit to LA wouldn’t be complete without hoping for a celebrity sighting. If you aren’t able to meet your favorite actor in the flesh, you can still find their star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Almost as famous as the sign itself, the Walk of Fame is located on Sunset and Hollywood Boulevard. Don’t miss this once in a lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles! 

>> Book Your Hollywood Walk of Fame Guided Tour! <<

3. Happy Hour at LA Iconic Sites

As you pass the stars, you’ll see the iconic TCL Graumman theater (aka the  Chinese Theater) where you can still watch films in the historic auditoriums.  

Hollywood never disappoints with once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles, and there are plenty of renowned bars and restaurants that have been frequented by stars since the days of old Hollywood. 

Check out the Roosevelt or W Hotels for a drink that transports you back to the golden years. For a more upscale scene and amazing dinner, Yamashiro’s will fit the bill. 

4. Visit the Griffith Observatory

Well known among all Angelenos, and certainly, a once in a lifetime thing to do in LA is a visit to the Griffith Park Observatory. Located just a bit south of the Hollywood sign, the Griffith Park Observatory sits atop hundreds of acres of walking and nature trails. 

Start with a picnic in the park where there is plenty of space to spread out among the trees and hills.  

Walk or drive up to the observatory, which is free to all visitors. The telescope has been in operation since 1935 and daily tours are still available. 

If you prefer, you can also walk self-guided through the different exhibits. 

Outside, there are various viewpoints where you can take photos of the beautiful art-deco building or even get nice shots of the basin below. 

5. Drive the Pacific Coast Highway  

Another once in a lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles is driving the Pacific Coast Highway. This road in California is iconic in films and photos due to its beautiful rugged coastline hugging the Pacific Ocean. 

Rent a car (a non-negotiable in LA) and drive North from Los Angeles towards Malibu. Your worries will melt away as you gaze west toward the gorgeous horizon.  

Make sure to plan this drive on a day when you have some downtime. There is no alternative route around once you start on the PCH, so once you begin you’ll have to continue on and come back the way you came. 

While it’s beautiful to drive, it can also be a bit dangerous because of traffic and the windy cliffs, so be sure to exercise caution as you go. 

It’s best to make this iconic drive on a weekday between the rush hours of 9 AM to 5 PM. That way, you can head North without encountering the equally famous LA traffic.

Pull over in Malibu at Point Dume, a breathtaking landmark with sweeping views of the Palos Verdes coast and Catalina Island out in the distance.

Drive a tiny bit further North and hit Leo Carillo beach – there you can hike and walk along the tide pools, all while taking in the seaside bluffs. On your way back to LA, stop for a quick bite of fish and chips at Neptune’s Net! 

>> Download your Pacific Coast Highway Audio Guide! <<

6. Go to the Getty Villa

Make a pit stop on your way south when returning from your drive on the Pacific Coast Highway and stop at the Getty Villa Museum. This museum is a perfect reconstructed replica of an ancient Italian villa and is nestled in the cliffs of Malibu. 

Admission is free (with the exception of $20 for parking), and the exhibits are curated with pre-classic and classic art from Greece and Italy. Take your time and wander the different gallery exhibits – the curation is impeccable.  

The showstopper of the museum, however, is not the exhibits but the gardens. There are multiple hidden courtyards, sculpture gardens, and koi ponds around the property. 

Walk past the amphitheater (visit in the summer for live performances of Greek classic plays) towards the roman columns to see incredible views of the Pacific Ocean.  

7. Walk the Santa Monica Pier 

Once you conclude your drive down the PCH, you’ll stop at the Santa Monica Pier. A landmark for Angelenos and moviegoers everywhere, the Santa Monica Pier offers many activities like riding electric bikes. 

Try your hand at some of the carnival games on the boardwalk and grab a funnel cake. For the best view, get on the Ferris Wheel that overlooks the Pacific Ocean and the adjoining shoreline. 

Don’t forget to people-watch and see the fishermen, young couples, and street performers all mingling around the dock. 

>> Book Your Electric Bike Tour on the Beach! <<

8. Eat in Sawtelle

There are tons of places one should try while out eating in LA, however on the West Side, an unforgettable experience is in the Sawtelle area. 

Sawtelle is known for its Japanese food, with dozens and dozens of restaurants and shops around.  Stop in for a bowl of noodles or other Japanese cuisines like Katsu curry or sushi.  

Once you’ve had your fill, stretch your legs and walk around the cute and eclectic novelty, comic, and clothing boutiques. There are also spas and karaoke booths nearby to have even more fun! 

Finish with a sweet treat at one of the many dessert places offering boba, ice cream, and mochi.  

9. Museum Row 

LA LA Land effect is in full swing here at museum row! Check out one of the many museums nearby, including the Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art and the La Brea Tar Pits (yes, you can smell them before you see them). 

Nearby is the newer and impressive Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, where you can learn about the art and science of film and cinema. Once you check out all four floors of the museum, be sure to head up to the roof for a lovely al fresco experience.  

>> Book You La Brea Tar Pits Segway Tour! <<

10. See the Lights at LACMA 

Plan your museum tour to end at dusk so you can take in the LACMA light installation. The world-famous light installation includes 202 vintage lights and is framed by a row of Palm trees. 

It truly doesn’t get more LA than this! If you don’t have the time to stay past sunset, consider getting there early in the morning.  While not illuminated it still makes for an electric shot!

11. Shop at Beverly Hills 

Ready to have a 90210 moment? Head over to the shops at the walkable Beverly Hills. 

You’ll see all of the glamor and glitz that are in the movies. Shop til you drop – at all of the designer stores and brands you can think of–from Louis Vuitton to Chanel. Beverly Hills is over the top and notoriously expensive, but if extravagance is what you’re after then you’re in the right place. If you prefer a nice meal or cocktail instead, consider trying Crustacean or Il Fornaio for dinner.

12. Walk the Beverly Hills Greenbelt 

Splurges aren’t your thing? Walk the Beverly Hills Greenbelt along Santa Monica  Boulevard, or take the Beverly Hills Segway Tour!

The Greenbelt runs through the city and allows you to take in all the luxurious sights and mansions without spending money. It also drops you off at the famous Beverly Hills sign. A perfect free afternoon! 

13. Baldwin Hills Overlook

Hiking the Baldwin Hills overlook in Culver City is a true Angeleno experience. Smack dab in the center of the city, this moderate hiking trail leads you up a  steep mountain. 

From the summit, you’ll see a 360° view of the city – clear to the Hollywood sign and the Pacific Ocean to the west. 

There are two ways to access it. You can walk up the sloping fire road, but for the best experience take the steps. Once you’ve completed your mini-trek, take advantage of the smoothie trucks and fruit carts awaiting at the bottom of the hill. 

It doesn’t get more Los  Angeles than a morning hike and green juice! 

LA is obviously a big city, but many don’t know that it’s also a car-dependent city. It’s best to fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

Once you arrive, pick up your rental car or uber. While there are options for shuttles to downtown or busier hubs of the city, LA is not walkable, and relying on public transportation will dampen your experience. 

Public Transportation is available in some parts of Los Angeles, but there are large stretches where transit remains unconnected. I highly recommend renting a car, otherwise, Uber is required. 

🚙 When booking your rental car online, I highly recommend going through Discover Rental Cars as they have the best prices for California!

Because LA is so sprawling, the hotels you choose should be near the neighborhood that you plan to explore the most. Here are the best hotels in Hollywood, the Beach Cities, and West La. 

Hollywood

If you’re after the La La Land experience, stay in Hollywood. This neighborhood offers everything you’ve seen in the movies: Hollywood Studios, the iconic theaters, a hike to the Hollywood sign, and great nightlife.

There’s too much to do and not enough time! Stay at some of the below recommendations for a movie star experience!

Luxury Option: The SLS

Located in downtown Hollywood and in the heart of Beverly Hills, The SLS has world-class service with poolside cocktails and spa treatments. The hotel is only 5 minutes from the Broadway Art Museum and 10 miles from Venice Beach.

>> Check availability for The SLS Hotel! <<

Mid-Range Option: Dream Hotel Hollywood

With a rooftop pool and sun terrace, Dream Hotel Hollywood is located within feet of the Dolby Theater and the Capitol Records Building. The hotel also offers Asian-inspired cuisine with indoor and outdoor seating.

>> Check Availability for Dream Hotel Hollywood! <<

Budget Option: Hollywood Hills Hotel

Providing Hollywood vibes, Hollywood Hills Hotel is a great option for stunning LA views and a comfortable stay. The property also has a delicious Japanese restaurant. Many of the touristy sites are also within walking distance.

>> Check availability for Hollywood Hills Hotel! <<

Santa Monica

Santa Monica is great for fun times and beach vibes! It’s the perfect tourist place since you can enjoy the ocean during the day and meander the Santa Monica boardwalk and promenade at night.

This area offers the full LA experience: enjoy yoga studios and juiceries or rent a bike and meander along the Pacific Coast shoreline.

Luxury Option: Shutters on the Beach

Located directly on Santa Monica beach, Shutters on the Beach is a beautiful hotel with stunning views of the ocean. The hotel offers 2 oceanfront restaurants, luxurious sheets, and a gorgeous design.

>> Check availability for Shutters on the Beach! <<

Mid-Range Option: Ambrose Hotel 

Giving a boutique feel, Ambrose Hotel is located in a residential area with great options for hiking around Los Angeles. The hotel is well-maintained and comfortable with delicious fares for breakfast.

>> Check availability for the Ambrose Hotel! <<

Mid-Range Option: Loews Hollywood Hotel

Set near all the best things to see in LA, Loews Hollywood Hotel is in a great location and within walking distance of the subway. Loews Hollywood Hotel also has comfortable and clean rooms with breakfast in the morning.

>> Check availability for Loews Hollywood Hotel! <<

West LA

West LA is a larger area of LA but offers many things to do for tourists. Culver City is a smaller neighborhood that is walkable and within quick distance to Santa Monica and Downtown LA by public transportation or car.

West LA is also a great option for families, as there is a small-town feel to many of the areas, and also has more parks and museums nearby.

Luxury Option: The Culver Hotel 

Located in the business district of Los Angeles, The Culver Hotel offers a boutique stay in a safe and walkable area. There is no breakfast option, but the friendly staff makes it up with their help.

>> Check availability for The Culver Hotel! <<

Mid-Range Option: The Shay 

The Shay is a great option for being in West LA. It’s located just 3 miles from the LACMA lights and 6 miles from Venice beach. The Shay offers a la carte breakfast and has amenities like a fitness center, private parking, and a shared terrace.

>> Check availability for the Shay! <<

Budget Option: Mayumi

Mayumi is a modern hotel located in West LA. It offers continental breakfast, sleek hotel rooms, and even a working desk. The hotel is within 10 miles of Venice beach, a farmer’s market, and Los Angeles airport.

>> Check availability for Mayumi! <<

One of the best parts of Los Angeles is its temperate climate and welcoming weather. Temps are typically quite warm and hover in the 60s and 70s (Fahrenheit) year long. 

For that reason, always pack a sweater and a light jacket. Other than that, you can typically break out casual and light clothing year-round. 

Los Angeles is a city of contrasts. You have the glamor and legend of Hollywood along with the grit of a large city. Folks come from every corner of the world to start a new life here, and it’s common to have people coexisting with completely different experiences of the city. 

The city is thrilling because it offers so many once in a lifetime things to do, but it can also appear very laid-back. LA is truly what you make it!

About the Author: Born and raised in Los Angeles, Laurén is the author of the blog and podcast, Wander With Wren, where she shares diverse travel content with diverse travelers. Her goal is to encourage and empower women through solo travel. When she’s not working or traveling, you can find her on the beach with a book inspiring her next adventure.

---

More California Content:

• One Day in Yosemite National Park: Must-See Sights for First-Time Visitors!
• Is Sonora Worth Visiting? (And 17 Incredible Things to Do)
• 15 Amazing Cheap Vacation Spots to Visit in California
• Monterey and Big Sur Itinerary: Plan the Perfect Road Trip
• 17 Fun Things to do in Santa Rosa, California
• 18 Spectacular Things to do in Cayucos, California
• 17 Charming Things to do in Cambria, California
• 20 Incredible Things to do in Petaluma, California

Liked what you read? Share it on Pinterest!