Known as the “entertainment capital of the world,” Los Angeles, California, is known for its spectacular film locations, celebrities, luxurious mansions, and numerous tourist attractions. Here are ten of our favorite places to visit while on vacation to the greater Los Angeles area.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Los Angeles

1. Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios Hollywood is a lot more than an amusement park. Although it does boast some incredibly thrilling rides that have been based on blockbuster hits (think: “Jurassic Park,” “Transformers,” and “The Mummy”), it’s also an active film studio! You absolutely don’t want to miss the world-famous Studio Tour, which takes visitors on a tram ride throughout the Universal backlot and onto the sets of some of the most famous films in history. When you’re done, you can grab a Butterbeer and hop on a broomstick in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. And just because the park closes doesn’t mean your day has to end. Universal Studios connects to City Walk, a popular spot for nightlife in LA. All in all, this is the ideal spot for family travel.

2. Disneyland

Just a short drive from Downtown Los Angeles, Disneyland in Anaheim is where the magic of the Disney theme parks franchise began. Ever since its opening in 1955, Disneyland has delighted visitors from across the globe with fantasy rides, thrill rides, costumed performers, and more! We recommend buying a “Park Hopper” pass so that you can enjoy both the main park and California Adventure, which is home to Cars Land, Hollywood Land, and Sorain’.

3. Battleship USS Iowa

History buffs will want to make a trip to San Pedro (just south of Long Beach) to visit the Battleship USS Iowa museum. This massive navy ship was built in 1943 and served the US Navy in World War II, the Korean War, and the Cold War before being permanently stationed in San Pedro Bay. Visitors are free to wander the ship to see what life was like for military veterans who lived and worked aboard during wartime.

4. Warner Bros. Studio Tour

In addition to Universal Studios, the Warner Bros. lot is another fabulous pick for visiting an active TV and movie studio. You’ll be shuttled around by tram, with frequent stops at popular filming locations, so you can get an up-close look at where the magic happens. Depending on availability, most studio tours will also take you onto the soundstage of a show currently in production. Another favorite is the “Central Perk” set from “Friends,” which is fully intact, and you’ll get the opportunity to have your photo taken on the iconic couch before being ushered to a warehouse filled with props and memorabilia from major movies like Harry Potter, and the DC universe.

5. Madame Tussauds

Maybe you’ll be lucky enough to run into a celebrity during your visit to Los Angeles, but if not, Madame Tussauds is the next best thing. Situated on the infamous Hollywood Blvd, this massive collection of wax figures will dazzle and delight you!

6. Hollywood Walk of Fame

When planning a visit to Madame Tussauds, be sure to set aside some extra time for a stroll on the infamous Hollywood Walk of Fame. Also located on Hollywood Blvd, you’ll have a blast looking for your favorite stars’ names preserved in stone. The TCL Chinese Theater is also located along the Walk of Fame, and you’ll be able to put your hands in the hands of celebrities from the classic era of film. Finally, you’ll enjoy views of the Hollywood Sign from various points on the boulevard.

7. Exposition Park

Nestled in Downtown Los Angeles, Exposition Park is a favorite of locals but is often overlooked by tourists. This green paradise in the middle of the city boasts a spectacular rose garden and gorgeous trees. The park features the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Here, you can check out dinosaur skeletons and the natural history of California. Right next door is the California Science Center which is loaded with hands-on exhibits and space memorabilia. Plan on spending an entire day here!

8. Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica is one of the best places to enjoy the beach in Los Angeles. In addition to offering sprawling sand and easy access to the water, it’s home to Santa Monica Pier – a hot spot for family travel! The Pier marks the end of Route 66 and is home to many restaurants, an aquarium, an arcade, street vendors, performers, and numerous rides at Pacific Park. If you don’t ride anything else, we recommend taking a spin on the Ferris wheel for incredible views of the ocean and beach below.

9. Griffith Observatory

Everyone knows that the Hollywood Hills are home to the Hollywood sign, but did you know that it’s also home to the Zeiss telescope? The Griffith Park Observatory is free to the public, and visitors are able to enjoy a close look at the moon, stars, and planets above Los Angeles. While you’re there, be sure to enjoy Griffith Park’s beautiful walking trails and Bronson Caves (often known as “The Batcave”). The park even features an old, abandoned zoo and Roger Rabbit’s “Toontown Tunnel.”

10. Petersen Automotive Museum

If you love cars, you’ll definitely want to set aside some time to visit Petersen Automotive Museum near Los Angeles’s Miracle Mile. The museum houses a collection of more than 300 different cars and motorcycles. You’ll be able to check out authentic antique cars from 1886, classics from the ‘50s and ‘60s, movie prop cars, luxury vehicles, and even concept cars for the future. You can stroll through the museum at your own pace, so you can take in every little detail. There’s also an option to purchase an extra 90 or 120-minute guided tour of the vault. This gives visitors a chance to discover all the details and receive insights into the most rare and unusual vehicles.

Don’t miss out on anything that Los Angeles has to offer. By sticking with this simple guide, you’ll hit all of the highlights and have the time of your life.