Los Angeles which is Spanish for “the angels,” is the second largest city in the U.S. and located in sunny southern California. Also called the “City of Angels,” this sprawling metropolis has great weather, and averages only 35 days of the year with rain, making it a great vacation spot. There are tons of things to do in the city and surrounding area that includes theme parks, museums, professional sports games, parks, ships, tours, the beach and its activities, and so much more. See the second biggest city in the U.S> and explore all the great things it has to offer.
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Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios is a great theme park in Los Angeles to visit. There are things to do and fun for all ages. There are some great rides to ride and characters to meet and get your picture taken with. The tram ride is about 45 minutes and is a favorite, as is the 4D theater of Shrek. Universal Studios has made great technological improvements and is an amusement park that has movie themes and special effects. Adults love it as there are many interesting things for them to see and do, and there is plenty for the kids too.
The Getty Center
The Getty Center in an architectural delight and contains many surprises for its guests. The buildings are on different levels and spread across the manicured grounds. On clear days you can see all the way to downtown L.A. and Long Beach. There are a few impressive collections in the museum and art areas that will take your breath away, not to mention the views from the buildings, the fine dining, the gardens, tours, and performances. There is so much to see and do that you may need to plan at least a day here, if not more. Rave reviews make this a hot spot when visiting the big city of L.A.
Battleship USS Iowa
Touring a battleship located just off the pier where the cruise ships depart and arrive is a fantastic opportunity. Guided tours are available and allow a few hours to complete the tours or exploration of this giant ship. Start by honoring the veterans and then dive into the ship’s history in World War II and the Korean War. Wear comfortable shoes as the ship is gigantic and there is lots of walking and stair climbing. See what it was like for the sailors and officers on the ship they called home and take in the magnificence of the USS Iowa.
Photo: Commons.Wikimedia
Venice Beach
Venice Beach is located about 20 miles from central Los Angeles, and it is an exciting place to visit. Although the water is slightly cold, it is okay for swimming, but the beach activity of choice is sunbathing. Many people come to visit Venice Beach, not to mention all the locals who live there and frequent the area. Boutiques and mansions make up the quirky area of Venice Beach. See all the excitement and activity for yourself.
Dodger Stadium
Dodger Stadium is the third-oldest ballpark in the U.S., and it is also home to the baseball team the L.A. Dodgers. If you’re visiting during baseball season, catch a Dodgers’ game with the cityscape as the backdrop of the stadium. A few hockey games were held in the stadium in 2014 as well. The Dodger Stadium is the largest capacity stadium in the major leagues, and you can cheer on at the stadium with thousands of others.
Natural History Museum of Los Angeles
The History Museum not only has an impressive architectural appearance but contains displays that both children and adults find fascinating and can keep you entertained all day. The dinosaur and fossils exhibits are by far the favorite. They have older displays such as the taxidermy animals, but they are still enjoyed by many. There is an insect hall, and also a hands-on children’s area where they can touch and handle items. Lately, there has been a mummy exhibition put on by the museum, and many have flocked to see it and loved it. Check to see if there are any other special exhibitions if you’re in the area, and have fun exploring.
Staples Center
The Staples Center is right in the middle of all the action. The stadium itself is impressive, and there is not a bad seat in the house. The center is typically used for professional sports games or concerts. NBA games seem to be the favorite for all locals and visitors, as they say, the atmosphere is exciting and electric as the fans cheer for their team. The area surrounding the center has lots of restaurants and attractions to keep you entertained all day.
Griffith Observatory
Most people head up to the observatory to see the fantastic views of the sprawling city and the surrounding landscape. You can walk or hike around the area to find the best places for photos, and then come inside to experience the observatory. There is a short video to watch, guides, displays, and a planetarium show just to name a few things. There are lots to do and see here, and all those who have visited said they would make return trips.
Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive was made famous in a movie where Julia Roberts goes on a shopping spree here. This area is high-end stores, designer labels, and private boutiques. Keep your eyes open, and you may see a celebrity or two. Don’t forget to scan the street for those high-end cars that most of us will only ever see in pictures.
The City of Angels Awaits You
These items only represent some of the top things to do and see in the City of Angels. L.A. is so massive that there are things to do and see all over. Sunbath on the sunny beach, catch a professional sports game or learn a thing or two in the beautiful museums and observatory. No matter what you want to do Los Angeles has it, and it is waiting for you.
