Los Angeles, California is known for many things. I’m of the opinion that there’s no bad time to visit the city (I’ve now been twice: once in May and once in late November) but you’ll have to soak up the sun while it lasts. And if you’re a foodie like me (vegan or not), you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more diverse city when it comes to dining. I would go back for the food alone because Los Angeles is a vegan foodie’s paradise and with plenty to do, you’ll never get bored (as long as you don’t have to sit in standstill traffic).
Here are my top 10 things to do in Los Angeles if you’re visiting for the first time:
Santa Monica Pier
Around since 1909, no trip to LA is complete without a walk on the Santa Monica pier and adjacent beach. The weather was less than ideal both times I’ve been but there are plenty of rides, boardwalk food, carnival games, souvenir stands, and more for the entire family. You’ll want to stick around to the sunset too.
Hollywood Sign
Another one of LA’s most iconic landmarks, the Hollywood Sign turned 100 last year but doesn’t look a day over 23. There are a few hiking trails you can take to reach the sign but if you don’t have the time or don’t want to, you can get decent photos in Lake Hollywood Park, which you’ll likely have to pass anyway. It’s open and dog-friendly; bring a picnic blanket and lunch to make a trip out of it.
Griffith Observatory & Park
This is one of my favorite things to do in LA. Once you see the Hollywood Sign, head over to the nearby Griffith Observatory & Park for unparalleled views of the city below and the sky above. Since its opening in 1935, it’s been one of the most visited public observatories in the world and for good reason. Enjoy a show, a live performance, or any of the nearly 60 exhibits contained in the observatory. It’s a great place to get lost among the stars.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
To see another kind of star, take a stroll down Hollywood Boulevard and marvel at all the stars on the sidewalks. You’ll pass the famous TCL Chinese Theatres as well. It is always packed with tourists and you might find it hard to breathe when you’re packed in like sardines. Still, I recommend going just once and then you’ll never have to go again. Plus, if you’re looking for a spot to eat, I recommend the Palms Thai restaurant, which is a reasonable walk away.
Catch a Dodgers Game
No list of mine is complete without mention of a sporting event. As one of the oldest teams in the history of Major League Baseball (formerly known as the Brooklyn Dodgers), the 2020 World Series Champion Dodgers now of Los Angeles have solidified themselves as a must-see (though they kind of always were). With the addition of superstar Shohei Ohtani to their lineup, you shouldn’t pass up the chance to see them in person whether you enjoy baseball or not. Dodger Stadium is also one of the most iconic venues in baseball, up there with Wrigley Field and Fenway Park (which sometimes hurts to say as a New York Yankees fan). I haven’t been since 2017 (when I was still just a vegetarian) so I can’t recommend vegan options but you can check out this post to learn more.
Sunset Boulevard
No Los Angeles trip is complete without driving (or walking) down Sunset Boulevard. Also the title of a 1950 film, you’ll pass through many famous neighborhoods (Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Bel Air just to name a few) and attractions synonymous with LA. Snap a photo in front of the Crossroads of the World tower, visit The Hollywood Palladium, or explore the Getty Center. You’ll also come across the Hollywood Walk of Fame called out above.
Rodeo Drive
Likewise, visit Rodeo Drive if you’re itching to shop or burn off some calories after dinner. This famous street (akin to others like Sunset Boulevard and Lombard Street) is two miles long and located in Beverly Hills. There are a ton of restaurants to eat at, world-renowned brands to shop, and you can even stay in the hotel featured in ‘Pretty Woman’. For a picturesque shot where no one will mistake where you are, head to the corner of Two Rodeo Drive. The streets get lit up in the winter for the holidays and if you love cars, there’s no better place to watch them.
Venice Beach & Canals
There are divided opinions about Venice Beach but it’s another one of those places that everyone should visit once. Walk along the busy boardwalk, shop for souvenirs, watch the street performers and skateboarders, and dip your toes into the Pacific Ocean. This is where you come to experience a microcosm of LA’s specific brand and blend of culture. The good vibes and energy are tangible. If you need to step away from the noise, head inward and walk along the Venice Canals.
Universal Studios
If you visit any amusement park, it should be this one. I was never the biggest fan of Disney parks growing up because I felt like once you experience them, you don’t need to go again. I don’t feel that way about Universal Studios. And now that the Hollywood location has new themed lands like SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, Jurassic World, and Minion Land, there’s no reason not to go and enjoy the rides. If you’re anything like me, you’ll want to go in October for Halloween Horror Nights. For vegan food options, check out this post.
The Grove
There’s no better place to close out a day in LA than The Grove, a premier shopping and dining destination (though, where in LA isn’t?). There’s almost always live entertainment and a farmers’ market, and tons of cute shops, restaurants and bars. If it’s raining, you can catch a movie. Rain or shine, The Grove is open seven days a week all year long. You’ll have no trouble finding vegan food either.
What did I miss? Let me know in the comments below!
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