Los Angeles is an incredible location, so much glamour, a must see for any travel fan. Let’s be real—many people who travel to Southern California come primarily for Disneyland, “The happiest place on Earth.” Walt Disney’s inaugural theme park is more than 60 years old now, but its magic and excitement always feel brand-new. In 2001, an army of Imagineers added a second park to the resort, California Adventure, extending the fun with 30-plus more rides and attractions. At both of these Los Angeles attractions, Disney fans of all ages meet beloved characters, smile and scream aboard rides, cheer on parades, and get exhilarated by fireworks. Through it all, enchanting fantasy experiences make you feel like you’re right in your favorite Disney or Pixar movie. The theme parks—both prime Los Angeles tourist attractions—are surrounded by the lively Downtown Disney shopping district and many fantastic hotels.
It might seem morbid for a cemetery to feature in a list of must-visit sights, but the Hollywood Forever Cemetery is undoubtedly one of LA’s top attractions. This cemetery is known for its famous permanent residents, including director Cecil B DeMille, actress Judy Garland, and The Beatles’ George Harrison. Johnny Ramone of The Ramones was cremated after his death in 2004, but a bronze statue stands as a memorial to the musician in this cemetery. The burial ground comes into its own in the summer when Hollywood Forever regularly hosts concerts, film screenings and other events for the living to enjoy. Designers Charles and Ray Eames – the husband-and-wife duo who gave us the Eames chair – built the Eames House in 1949 as part of the Case Study House Program. The couple lived in this home (also known as Case Study House No 8) until their deaths in 1978 and 1988, respectively. Since 2004, the Eames Foundation has managed this landmark of mid-20th-century modern architecture. Visitors can see the home’s striking exterior for $10 (reservations required 48 hours in advance) from 10am to 4pm daily, with the exception of Wednesdays and Sundays. Interior tours are $275 for up to two people.
Always pay attention to the Fuel Policy. Not always pick up full and return empty option is advantageous. Don’t rush to purchase the full tank of fuel from a car rental supplier on a small island or if you rent a car for a few days. It may turn out that you won’t be able to use all that purchased fuel. Consider different pickup types. The most convenient pickup type is Meet & Greet. By choosing a car rental with such option, you won’t have to stand in line or go with your suitcases to a shuttle bus to get to your car rental location. Instead you will be met near the exit from your terminal with a sign with your name or the car rental company name and your car will be waiting in the parking lot. In addition, car rentals with Meet & Greet option are usually cheaper than car rentals from the companies with a rental desk at the airport, because they don’t include the airport fee in the rental price. Read additional info on LA car rental under 25.
Tucked away in a 16-square-bloock area known as the Golden Triangle in the exclusive neighborhood of Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive is L.A.’s most famous shopping street. While few come to buy the high-priced designer clothing and accessories sold in the luxury shops, Rodeo Drive is nevertheless a tourist hot spot. Window-shopping is irresistible on this avenue of haute couture, and there’s always the chance of spotting a celebrity shopping for the latest styles. The mini-mall at Two Rodeo Drive always attracts attention. With its “faux-European” architecture and cobblestone street, it looks more like a theme park than a mall.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art lays claim to being the largest art museum in the western United States, with almost 130,000 pieces spanning from antiquity through to modern times. Of particular note are the outstanding collections of Asian, Latin American, and Islamic Art. The huge complex consists of a number of separate buildings that have been acquired and renovated over the years.The most recent expansion, known as the Transformation, saw the opening of several new buildings on the western half of the campus, designed by Renzo Piano Building Workshop. Venice Beach deserves its reputation as a place to see and be seen, making it perfect for people walking, although the vibe here is a little unusual. This stretch of golden sand and the Venice Beach Boardwalk are always thronged with people walking, cycling, rollerblading, and jogging. Eclectic shops and street performers of all kinds line the walkway. The Skate Park, also just off the beach, is frequented by some of the area’s best skateboarders, and nearby are a number of creative art installations. At the appropriately named Muscle Beach, people pump iron in the hot California sun. Food stalls selling everything from shaved ice to kettle corn and funnel cakes make you feel like you’re walking through fair grounds. This is not a typical family beach, but it’s well worth a visit.