Los Angeles is one of the most famous cities in the United States, known for its iconic movie and TV locations, luxurious beaches, and celebrity lifestyles. There is so much to see and do, and planning your first trip can be rather overwhelming. We get asked often about LA, and it’s a city we’ve had the chance to visit a few times. Our first visit was back in 2006 during a one-year sabbatical around the world, and since then, we’ve come back to explore more of what this sprawling city has to offer. In fact, despite being the ultimate playground for the rich and famous, I am often asked by my readers, “Is Los Angeles worth visiting?”
So I thought I would answer just that! In this post, we are going to dive into the pros and cons of visiting LA and show you the top things to do in Los Angeles, so you can ultimately decide if visiting this iconic city is something you want to add to your US bucket list. For those planning their stay, check out hotels in Los Angeles for options that suit various budgets and styles.
Pros of Visiting Los Angeles
It’s Cool!
Let’s face it, even if you only have a few days to spend in LA, the City of Angels is a cool place to visit. There are iconic sights everywhere you look, not to mention celebrities, from Hollywood to Beverly Hills, Malibu to Santa Monica. There are so many cool places to go in LA.
Chances are you will spot a TV star or two or end up in one of the famous celebrity hangouts. Sample Hailey Bieber’s $19 Skin Smoothie or catch the next big star performing at Chateau Marmont—there are so many unique things to do in LA that you can’t find anywhere else!

Endless Things to Do
One thing I really like about Los Angeles is the endless list of things to do. There is something for everyone to enjoy, no matter what your travel style is. From checking out the beautiful coastline to stumbling across an open-mic night, visiting the vast number of museums, or enjoying the celebrity highlights, LA offers something for everyone.
Family-Friendly Attractions
The city is super family-friendly, with famous theme parks like Disneyland and Universal Studios right on its doorstep. Many families would say Los Angeles is worth visiting for the child-friendly attractions alone.
A Multicultural Hub
Los Angeles is one of the most culturally diverse destinations in the world. It is home to people from 140 countries who speak 224 different languages. This means that on your trip, you will not be short of fun and unique things to do, from vibrant festivals and art scenes to trying tasty bites from around the world.
Beautiful Beaches
Los Angeles boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the United States. From the lively beach resort of Santa Monica and its iconic pier to the stunning setting of Malibu where you can see how the other half live, there’s a beach for every type of traveler.
Great Weather Year-Round
One of the most appealing aspects of Los Angeles is its excellent weather. With an average of 263 days of sunshine per year, you have a high chance of enjoying a dry and pleasant holiday, no matter when you visit.

Cons of Visiting Los Angeles
There Isn’t a City Center
Unlike most cities, Los Angeles lacks a centralized downtown area. There are 10 main regions and officially 114 neighborhoods in Los Angeles County. It’s not the type of city where you can get your bearings after a morning guided tour.
Traffic and the Need for a Car
Due to its lack of a city center, it’s not practical to walk between major attractions—they’re too spread out. The subway is useful but doesn’t cover all the highlights. Renting a car is the most practical solution, though traffic can be overwhelming.
High Costs
Los Angeles, like most major US cities, can be expensive. While Downtown LA offers more affordable dining and accommodation options, staying in trendy spots often comes with a hefty price tag. However, many museums in LA are free, which helps offset costs.
Where to Stay in LA
Hollywood
Hollywood is the most famous location in LA and a popular choice for first-time visitors. It’s home to Hollywood Boulevard, the Walk of Fame, and countless theaters, restaurants, and bars. However, it’s not the glamorous area many expect, and it can feel seedy after dark.
West Hollywood
West Hollywood, or WeHo, is one of the best areas to stay in. Situated between Hollywood and Beverly Hills, it’s home to the Sunset Strip and a vibrant LGBTQ community. This area is known for its trendy cafes, restaurants, hotels, and nightlife.
Santa Monica
Santa Monica is LA’s most popular beach town. With its glorious beach, iconic pier, and fantastic shops and restaurants, it’s a great place to stay, especially for families. Malibu, a short drive away, offers a quieter, more luxurious beach experience.

Top Things to Do in Los Angeles
- Explore Santa Monica Pier: Enjoy the amusement park rides, solar-powered Ferris Wheel, and classic carousel. Don’t miss the nearby 3rd Street Promenade for shopping and dining.
- Visit Griffith Observatory: This spot offers incredible views of the Hollywood Sign and the Los Angeles skyline.
- Experience Hollywood Boulevard: Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and take photos at the TCL Chinese Theatre.
- Relax at Venice Beach: Soak in the vibrant atmosphere with street performers, skaters, and unique shops.
- Tour Universal Studios Hollywood: A must-visit for movie fans, featuring rides and behind-the-scenes tours.
- Shop on Rodeo Drive: Indulge in luxury shopping or simply enjoy window-shopping in Beverly Hills.
- Discover the Getty Center: Marvel at world-class art and architecture while enjoying panoramic city views.
- Take a Day Trip to Disneyland: Located in Anaheim, it’s the perfect spot for families or Disney enthusiasts.
- Hike Runyon Canyon: This trail offers stunning views of the city and is popular among locals and celebrities.
- Explore Downtown LA: Visit the Broad Museum, Grand Central Market, and the Arts District.
- Stroll Through Little Tokyo: Discover Japanese culture, food, and shops in this vibrant neighborhood.
- Visit Malibu: Experience the luxurious side of LA with pristine beaches and celebrity homes.

Final Thoughts
Los Angeles is a city of contrasts, offering everything from glitz and glamour to natural beauty and cultural diversity. While it has its challenges, like traffic and high costs, the variety of experiences makes it a destination worth considering. Whether you’re drawn to the Hollywood allure, sandy beaches, or vibrant neighborhoods, Los Angeles has something for everyone.
If you’re traveling from the UK or Europe, don’t forget to arrange comprehensive travel insurance before your trip—it’s essential for covering unexpected situations and ensuring peace of mind during your adventure.

Lived in England since 1998 and travelled the world since 2005, visiting over 100 countries on 5 continents. Writer, blogger, photographer with a passion for adventure and travel, discovering those off beat places not yet on the tourist trail. Marco contributes the very best in independent travel tips and lifestyle articles.