Los Angeles, California brings to mind sun-soaked beaches, Hollywood celebrities, and wonderful weather as well as awesome luxury car rental options in LA. The City of Angels is located in southern California and is home to one of the most diverse communities in the world. There enough interesting things to see and do to take up an entire month. The definition of the top 3 things in LA will certainly be different for each person, but there are some LA experiences everyone should enjoy.
The city boasts some of the most iconic visitor destinations anywhere. Disneyland sits on the edge of the city and hosts millions of visitors every year. Hollywood is known for its famous personalities and almost every visitor wants to stop at Grauman's Chinese Theater and the Hollywood Walk of Fame and see if their foot is the same size as their favorite actor's.
If you're not into traditional tourist and visitor sites, the Los Angeles locals have recommendations of their own. If you're into good food, start with Philippe the Oirginal in downtown LA. The owner of this restaurant claims to have invented the French Dip and the restaurant has been open since 1908. It still serves thousands of sandwiches every day. After lunch, stop by and visit Union Station, Chinatown and Olvera Street.
Even though Los Angeles is considered a city of cars, it is possible to ditch the vehicle and see the real city. There are companies offering biking and hiking tours of the city. During these trips, visitors set out on a six-hour walking and hiking trek which shows them some the city's hidden gems. One of the best hikes in Hollywood that gives you both a great workout and incredible views of the iconic Hollywood sign is the Hollywood Hills Hike.
Something else that is special to the Los Angeles local culture is Venice Beach. This is the place to see everyone and everything unusual and special in Los Angeles. There is literally nowhere else in the world that can compete for people watching. Take a stroll along the boardwalk and you'll see hippies, roller-skating guitar players, and powerlifters with bronzed skin and huge pecs. The beach can get crowded with people and vendors hawking their wares, but it's a great time at all times.
For a little shopping therapy, Los Angeles is second to none. From Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills to the Grove near Hollywood, you can find a plethora of items to purchase. One of the funkier areas is in Los Feliz Village along Hillhurst and Vermont Avenues. Here, higher-end boutiques fight for space with thrift shops, theaters, and bookstores. There are also a couple of hamburger joints, including Fatburger and Juicy Burger.
If you'd rather enjoy a more secluded beach experience than Venice Beach, visit Leo Carrillo State Beach near Santa Monica. Here you can enjoy crystal clear waters, dozens of tidepools, and stunning rock formations.
Visiting Los Angeles doesn't have to be a trek to all the traditional tourist destinations. Take a day and check out the sites and sounds the locals recommend. You will be happy you did.