Los Angeles, also known as the City of Angels, is full of amazing things to see and do. From stunning views to Hollywood excitement, there are so many once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles waiting for you. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve lived here for years, this guide will show you the best activities, hidden gems, and must-see spots.
1. Discover Unique Places in Los Angeles
LA has some of the most interesting and one-of-a-kind places in the world. Check out these unique spots:
- The Last Bookstore – A giant bookstore with cool book tunnels and creative displays.
- The Bradbury Building – A beautiful, historic building seen in movies like Blade Runner.
- The Museum of Jurassic Technology – A strange but fascinating museum with weird and wonderful exhibits.
- The Secret Stairs of LA – Old staircases hidden around the city with great views.
Exploring these unique spots is one of the once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles for anyone looking for something different.
According to Time Out Los Angeles, The Last Bookstore is one of the must-visit quirky spots in the city.
2. See Celebrity Homes in Beverly Hills
A trip to LA isn’t complete without seeing where the stars live! Take a Beverly Hills celebrity homes tour and explore:
- Huge mansions owned by famous actors and musicians.
- Famous streets like Rodeo Drive, where stars love to shop.
- The iconic Beverly Hills Hotel is a favorite spot for celebrities.
If you’re hoping for an unforgettable experience, this is another of the once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles that you can’t miss.
3. Attend Exciting Hollywood Events
Want to feel like a Hollywood star? Check out Los Angeles Hollywood events that happen all year:
- Academy Awards (Oscars) – Watch the red carpet and see the biggest stars.
- Movie Premieres at TCL Chinese Theatre – Spot celebrities at big film releases.
- Hollywood Bowl Concerts – Enjoy live music at a famous outdoor venue under the stars.
Attending a Hollywood event is one of the once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles if you love entertainment.
For upcoming concerts, visit the Hollywood Bowl official website.
4. Visit the Most Beautiful Places in LA
Los Angeles has some of the most breathtaking scenery. Here are some beautiful places in LA you shouldn’t miss:
- Griffith Observatory & Park – Amazing views of the city and the Hollywood Sign.
- El Matador Beach – A stunning beach with caves and giant rocks.
- The Getty Center – An art museum with gorgeous gardens and city views.
- Angeles National Forest – A perfect place for hiking and nature lovers.
Exploring these stunning spots is another of the once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles that will leave you speechless.
5. Take a Weekend Trip from Los Angeles
Want a quick getaway? There are plenty of weekend trips from Los Angeles that are perfect for a short escape:
Best Weekend Destinations:
- Santa Barbara – A beautiful coastal town with great beaches and wineries.
- Palm Springs – A sunny desert getaway with relaxing hot springs.
- Joshua Tree National Park – A cool desert with unique trees and awesome rock formations.
- San Diego – A fun city with beaches, a famous zoo, and great nightlife.
Weekend Trips for Adventure Lovers:
- Big Bear Lake – Go skiing in winter or hiking in summer.
- Channel Islands National Park – A hidden gem for kayaking and spotting wildlife.
- Sequoia National Park – Home to some of the tallest trees in the world.
Taking a weekend getaway from Los Angeles is an experience that should be on your list of once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles if you love to explore.
6. Go on a Movie Studio Tour
Los Angeles is the heart of the entertainment industry, and visiting a movie studio is one of the top once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles for film lovers. Check out these incredible studio tours:
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour – See famous sets like the Friends Central Perk café and the Harry Potter props.
- Universal Studios Hollywood – Go behind the scenes and experience thrilling rides.
- Paramount Pictures Studio Tour – Explore one of the oldest working studios in Hollywood.
Experiencing a real movie studio gives you a behind-the-scenes look at the magic of Hollywood and is truly a must-do in LA.
7. Try a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience in LA
Fly Over LA in a Helicopter
See the city from above on a helicopter tour. You’ll get amazing views of:
- The Hollywood Sign
- Downtown LA
- The Malibu coastline
Eat at a Fancy Restaurant
Los Angeles is a food-lover’s paradise, offering some of the most diverse and delicious cuisine in the world. Treat yourself to a meal at a top-rated restaurant like:
- Providence – Famous for fresh seafood.
- n/naka – A world-class Japanese dining experience.
- Bestia – A must-visit for Italian food lovers.
Explore LA’s Underground Tunnels
Did you know LA has secret tunnels under the city? These were used during Prohibition and are now open for guided tours—perfect for history buffs and adventure seekers!
Trying any of these experiences is a must if you’re looking for once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles that you’ll never forget.
Final Thoughts
Los Angeles is packed with amazing things to do. Whether you are exploring unique places in Los Angeles, taking a weekend getaway from LA, or hoping to see a celebrity, this city has something for everyone. No matter what you choose, these are truly once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles that will make your trip unforgettable.
For more travel inspiration, check out Discover Los Angeles, the city’s official tourism guide.
So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles today!
