Los Angeles, a city where palm trees silhouette against sun-kissed skies and dreams are woven into the fabric of everyday life, is a destination that defies ordinary travel. Known for its glittering Hollywood legacy, sprawling beaches, and vibrant cultural tapestry, LA is where the extraordinary feels within reach. But beyond the postcard-perfect sights lies a treasure trove of once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles—experiences that transcend typical tourism and immerse you in the city’s unique blend of glamour, creativity, and adventure.
Imagine standing atop the Hollywood Hills, the iconic white letters of the Hollywood Sign towering behind you as the city sprawls endlessly below. Or picture yourself soaring above the Pacific Coast in a helicopter, the Golden State’s beauty unfolding like a living painting. Los Angeles isn’t just a city; it’s a stage where every moment can feel cinematic. Whether you’re sipping cocktails at a celebrity chef’s rooftop restaurant, walking the halls where cinematic history was made, or laughing in the audience of a live TV taping, LA invites you to step into scenes usually reserved for the silver screen.
What makes these experiences truly unforgettable is their ability to blend the city’s legendary allure with personal connection. You’re not just a spectator here; you’re part of the story. From the hidden trails leading to breathtaking vistas to the hushed elegance of Rodeo Drive, each adventure offers a chance to see LA through a fresh lens. It’s a city of contrasts, where rugged mountain hikes coexist with Michelin-starred dining, and stargazing at the Griffith Observatory rivals the thrill of spotting a celebrity.
This article isn’t just a list—it’s a curated journey through moments that capture the soul of Los Angeles. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a lifelong Angeleno, these once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles promise to redefine how you see this iconic city. Ready to trade the ordinary for the extraordinary? Let’s dive in.
1. Soar Over LA on a Helicopter Tour
Why It’s a Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience
Los Angeles is a city that is best appreciated from above. While its neighborhoods and landmarks are captivating at ground level, a helicopter tour transforms the experience into something truly magical. Few places on Earth offer such a dramatic contrast of landscapes: the glittering urban jungle of downtown skyscrapers, the rugged Santa Monica Mountains, the endless blue expanse of the Pacific Ocean, and the iconic Hollywood Sign carved into the hills.
From the air, you’ll witness LA’s vastness and diversity in a way that ground travel simply can’t replicate. Imagine flying over the sun-drenched Venice Beach boardwalk, spotting surfers catching waves below, or tracing the curves of the winding Mulholland Drive as it snakes through the hills.
What elevates this adventure to a once-in-a-lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles is the sheer exhilaration of flight itself. Helicopter tours often include thrilling maneuvers, like banking over the Hollywood Bowl or hovering near the Griffith Observatory, offering photo opportunities that feel almost surreal. For many, the highlight is circling the Hollywood Sign—an emblem of ambition and fame—while learning its history from your pilot. Tours also reveal hidden gems, like the secret mansions of Beverly Hills or the sprawling Getty Center’s architecture, which takes on new dimension from the sky.
How to Make It Unforgettable
To maximize your helicopter adventure, start by choosing a tour that aligns with your interests. Companies like Sunset Helicopters or Blade LA offer themed flights, such as romantic sunset journeys, adrenaline-packed coastal routes, or even proposals mid-air (yes, it’s a thing!). For photographers, a “doors-off” tour eliminates window glare, ensuring crisp shots of landmarks like the Downtown LA skyline or the USS Iowa battleship in San Pedro.
Timing is key: book a late afternoon flight to watch the city transition from golden hour to twilight, when LA’s lights begin to sparkle like urban constellations. Many operators include add-ons like champagne toasts or curated playlists to enhance the mood. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, splurge on a private tour where the pilot can tailor the route to your bucket-list sights.
Pro tip: Dress in layers—temperatures drop at higher altitudes—and secure loose items like hats. Most tours depart from Van Nuys Airport or Beverly Hills, so arrive early to meet your pilot and review safety protocols. After landing, extend the magic by visiting a nearby rooftop bar, like Perch or Spire 73, to relive the flight over cocktails with a view.
For travelers seeking other sky-high adventures beyond LA, consider a hot air balloon ride in Irvine, where you’ll float over Orange County’s vineyards and coastal landscapes.
2. Step Behind the Scenes on a VIP Studio Tour
Exclusive Access to Hollywood Magic
Los Angeles is the beating heart of the global entertainment industry, and a VIP studio tour offers an unparalleled peek into the world where movies and TV shows come to life. Unlike standard tours, which stick to curated pathways, premium experiences at studios like Warner Bros., Paramount Pictures, or Universal Studios grant you behind-the-ropes access to active soundstages, prop warehouses, and backlots that double as New York City streets or quaint European villages.
Imagine walking through the Friends apartment set, gripping a lightsaber from Star Wars, or standing on the Harry Potter soundstage where magical battles were filmed. These tours often include anecdotes from guides who’ve worked on sets, revealing secrets like how fake snow is made or why certain props become iconic.
For true film buffs, some studios offer hyper-exclusive add-ons, such as lunch in the commissary where A-list actors dine or a visit to the archives housing costumes from classics like Casablanca or Jurassic Park. At Universal Studios, the “VIP Experience” even includes a private tram ride through working sets and priority access to rides. These moments transform a simple tour into a once-in-a-lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles, blurring the line between fan and filmmaker.
Insider Tips for Maximizing Your Studio Adventure
To ensure your VIP tour feels truly legendary, plan. Book tickets months in advance—especially for studios like Warner Bros., where slots fill quickly—and opt for weekday tours to avoid crowds. Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll cover miles of studio terrain, and bring a portable charger for your phone; you’ll want endless photos of standing on the Batman Batcave set or the Gilmore Girls Stars Hollow square.
For an extra dose of Hollywood flair, ask your guide about current productions filming nearby. While you likely won’t meet actors (studio rules are strict), you might catch glimpses of crew prepping sets or transporting jaw-dropping props. Studios like Sony Pictures even let you handle replicas of Oscar statuettes or step into voiceover booths to dub lines for famous movie scenes.
After your tour, extend the magic by visiting nearby film landmarks, such as the TCL Chinese Theatre or the Hollywood Museum. Or, if you’re inspired, book a themed workshop—some studios offer short classes on scriptwriting or special effects. Pro tip: Keep your ticket stub as a souvenir; many tours include collectible lanyards or access to digital photo ops you can share instantly.
For more California itineraries, check out this San Luis Obispo itinerary to explore Central Coast charm.
3. Attend a Live TV Show Taping
Become Part of the Audience
Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world, and attending a live TV show taping immerses you in the electric energy of Hollywood’s behind-the-scenes magic. From sitcoms and talk shows to game shows like Jeopardy! or The Price Is Right, these tapings let you witness the meticulous craft of television production. Imagine cheering alongside a live audience as a host delivers their opening monologue, or watching actors nail a scene in a single take on a sitcom set.
The thrill isn’t just about seeing famous faces—it’s about feeling the adrenaline of a countdown, the camaraderie of crowd reactions, and the occasional blooper that never makes it to air. For fans of reality TV, shows like The Voice or America’s Got Talent offer front-row seats to jaw-dropping performances and judge critiques.
What makes this a once-in-a-lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles is the spontaneity and exclusivity. You might catch a rising star’s debut or witness an unscripted moment that becomes pop culture history. Many shows film months before airing, so you’ll leave feeling like an insider with bragging rights. Plus, some tapings include audience participation—think bidding on The Price Is Right wheel or answering trivia questions during warm-up acts.
Insider Tips for Securing Tickets and Maximizing the Experience
Free tickets are plentiful but competitive. Websites like 1iota or Audiences Unlimited offer reservations for popular shows, but book early—slots for hits like Jimmy Kimmel Live! or The Late Late Show vanish weeks in advance. For last-minute options, follow shows on social media; they often release standby tickets the day before tapings. Arrive at least 90 minutes early to snag prime seats, and bring a valid ID for check-in.
Dress to impress (but comfortably). Most shows enforce a “no logos” rule and prefer bright, solid colors to avoid distracting cameras. While phones are typically locked away, some shows allow photos during breaks—ask staff for guidelines. Pro tip: Engage with the warm-up comedian; their jokes set the mood, and enthusiastic audiences often get more screen time.
Timing matters: Tapings can last 2–4 hours, so eat beforehand and avoid bulky bags (storage is limited). For game shows, energy is key—producers seek lively participants, to clap, laugh, and volunteer eagerly. After the taping, explore the studio lot if permitted, or head to nearby hotspots like Hollywood & Highland to debrief over coffee.
Bonus: Keep an eye out for “live audience” casting calls for new pilots—you could be among the first to see the next big hit. Whether you’re a TV addict or a casual viewer, this experience stitches you into the fabric of LA’s entertainment legacy.
For more budget-friendly fun across California, explore SF fun cheap or San Diego places to visit for free.
4. Dine at a Celebrity Chef’s Restaurant
Taste Culinary Stardom
Los Angeles’ dining scene is a constellation of Michelin stars, innovative flavors, and celebrity chef-driven hotspots that redefine what it means to “eat out.” From Nobu Matsuhisa’s legendary sushi at Nobu Malibu to Wolfgang Puck’s iconic Californian cuisine at Spago, these restaurants are more than meals—they’re performances. At n/naka, Chef Niki Nakayama’s two-Michelin-starred kaiseki experience blends Japanese tradition with LA’s seasonal bounty, while Providence offers oceanic artistry with dishes like Santa Barbara sea urchin topped with black truffle.
For a taste of modern Mexican, Guelaguetza, celebrated by chef and Netflix’s Chef’s Table star Carlos Salgado, serves Oaxacan moles so complex they take days to prepare. Even the city’s street food roots shine at Bestia, where Ori Menashe’s bold Italian-inspired plates draw A-listers and food critics alike.
What makes dining here a once-in-a-lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles is the fusion of creativity, celebrity, and exclusivity. Many chefs, like Nancy Silverton of Mozza or Curtis Stone of Gwen, often mingle with guests, turning dinner into a personal encounter. Restaurants like Vespertine push boundaries with avant-garde tasting menus in a futuristic building designed to heighten all five senses. Meanwhile, Majordōmo, from Momofuku’s David Chang, marries Korean-American flavors with communal dining in a chic Arts District space.
Elevate Your Experience
To secure a table at these coveted spots, book reservations weeks—or even months—in advance via platforms like Resy or Tock. Opt for the chef’s tasting menu, where courses unfold like a narrative (think: dry-aged duck at Bavel or the truffle-laced “cacio e pepe” egg yolk ravioli at Felix). For a dash of drama, request counter seating at Sushi Ginza Onodera to watch master chefs slice omakase with samurai precision.
Location amplifies the magic: Dine oceanside at Nobu Malibu as waves crash below, or toast with Champagne at Catch LA, a rooftop hotspot where the views of WeHo rival the truffle-lobster mac and cheese. For a hidden gem, Trois Mec—a tiny, unassuming spot by Ludo Lefebvre—serves a surprise prix-fixe menu in a converted strip mall pizzeria.
Pro tip: Mention special occasions when booking—many kitchens craft personalized desserts or complimentary bites. Post-dinner, stroll neighborhoods like Downtown’s Arts District or Abbott Kinney Boulevard to soak in LA’s eclectic vibe. Whether you’re a foodie or a casual diner, these meals aren’t just courses; they’re memories plated with passion.
For more culinary adventures, pair your LA trip with things going on in Santa Barbara, where farm-to-table dining meets coastal charm.
5. Hike to the Hollywood Sign via Secret Trails
Adventure with a View
The Hollywood Sign, an enduring symbol of ambition and stardom, is often admired from afar—but hiking to its base is a once-in-a-lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles that transforms admiration into achievement. While crowds flock to popular viewpoints like Griffith Observatory, lesser-known trails like the Brush Canyon Trail or Wisdom Tree Trail offer quieter, more immersive routes. These paths wind through Griffith Park’s rugged terrain, a 4,300-acre oasis where coyotes, deer, and hawks roam beneath chaparral-covered hills. As you ascend, the city’s chaos fades, replaced by the crunch of gravel underfoot and panoramic vistas of LA’s sprawl meeting the Pacific horizon.
The Brush Canyon Trail, a moderate 6.5-mile round trip, begins in a shady canyon before revealing sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley. The final stretch climbs to Mount Lee, where the sign’s 45-foot white letters stand guard over the city. Along the way, you’ll pass remnants of Old Hollywood, like the ruins of the Hollyland Ranch, a 1920s movie set turned ghostly relic. For a shorter but steeper option, the Wisdom Tree Trail (3 miles round trip) starts at a lone surviving tree post-wildfire and rewards hikers with 360-degree views from the summit. Standing inches from the sign’s towering letters, with LA’s skyline glittering below, feels like claiming your slice of Hollywood legend.
Pro Tips for the Trek
To maximize your hike, start at sunrise—not only to beat the heat and crowds but to watch the city awaken in golden light. Wear sturdy shoes (trails are rocky) and pack layers; mornings can be chilly, but the midday sun is relentless. Bring 2 liters of water, sunscreen, and a hat—shade is scarce. Download a trail map (cell service is spotty), or join a guided hike with companies like Bikes and Hikes LA, whose guides share insider stories about the sign’s history (it originally read “HOLLYWOODLAND” in 1923!).
Parking is limited near trailheads—arrive early or use rideshares. For Brush Canyon, park near 3200 Canyon Drive; for Wisdom Tree, use Lake Hollywood Park as a starting point. Stay on marked paths to avoid erosion and respect wildlife—this is their home, not a film set. Post-hike, refuel at Trails Café in Griffith Park with avocado toast and lavender lemonade or drive to the Griffith Observatory to explore cosmic exhibits with your newfound bird’s-eye perspective.
Pro tip: Snap your iconic sign selfie from the Mount Lee Drive gate, where angles hide fences and crowds. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or a casual wanderer, this hike isn’t just exercise—it’s a pilgrimage to the heart of LA’s mythos.
Looking for more trails? Discover places to hike in Monterey CA, where coastal cliffs meet redwood forests.
6. Live Like Royalty on Rodeo Drive
Indulge in Luxury Shopping
Rodeo Drive, the crown jewel of Beverly Hills, isn’t just a shopping destination—it’s a glittering microcosm of LA’s opulence. Stretching three blocks, this iconic street is lined with flagship stores from fashion’s most revered names: Gucci’s Romanesque arches, Chanel’s black-and-white elegance, and the diamond-drenched windows of Tiffany & Co. But Rodeo Drive transcends retail therapy. Here, shopping becomes theater. Step into Harry Winston to marvel at million-dollar jewels, or explore Prada’s sleek, art-filled space where limited-edition handbags are displayed like museum pieces. Even if haute couture isn’t in your budget, browsing stores like Dolce & Gabbana or Louis Vuitton feels like walking through a live editorial shoot.
What elevates this to a once-in-a-lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles is the exclusivity. Many boutiques offer “by appointment” access to private salons, where VIP clients preview collections before they hit the runway. For instance, Bvlgari hosts curated trunk shows, while Saint Laurent’s personalized styling sessions include champagne and runway-inspired looks. Don’t miss the historic Two Rodeo Drive, a European-style courtyard with cobblestone paths and frescoed facades housing brands like Jimmy Choo and Moncler.
Unforgettable Extras Beyond the Boutiques
Rodeo Drive’s allure extends far beyond shopping bags. Treat yourself to a spa day at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel (yes, the Pretty Woman hotel), where 24-karat gold facials and caviar-infused massages redefine pampering. For lunch, reserve a table at The Rooftop by JG, Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s chic eatery overlooking the strip, and order truffle pizza paired with rosé. Afternoon tea at The Peninsula Beverly Hills is a ritual: sip rare oolong from porcelain cups while nibbling on rose petal macarons and cucumber sandwiches.
For a dash of Hollywood fantasy, book a luxury convertible rental (think Rolls-Royce or Ferrari) through agencies like Beverly Hills Rent-A-Car, and cruise the boulevard with the top down. Snap a photo at the palm-lined “Beverly Hills” sign on Santa Monica Boulevard, then stroll to the Beverly Hills Hotel’s Polo Lounge, where moguls seal deals over martinis.
Pro tip: Visit in December when Rodeo Drive transforms into a winter wonderland, with twinkling canopy lights and life-sized Swarovski crystal ornaments. End your day with a bespoke fragrance at Creed Boutique, where perfumers craft scents tailored to your personality. Whether you’re window-shopping or splurging on a statement piece, Rodeo Drive isn’t just a street—it’s a stage where everyone gets to play royalty.
For more California glamour, explore cool places in California beyond LA.
7. Stargaze at the Griffith Observatory
Cosmic Wonders in the City
Perched high above Los Angeles in Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory isn’t just a museum—it’s a portal to the universe. This iconic Art Deco landmark, featured in films like La La Land and Rebel Without a Cause, combines science, art, and awe-inspiring views into one once-in-a-lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles. Inside, interactive exhibits like the Foucault Pendulum demonstrate Earth’s rotation, while the Samuel Oschin Planetarium immerses visitors in jaw-dropping shows about black holes, supernovas, and distant galaxies. But the real magic happens after dark when the observatory’s public telescopes unveil celestial wonders. Peer into the craters of the moon, spot Jupiter’s swirling storms, or marvel at Saturn’s rings, all under the guidance of knowledgeable astronomers.
The observatory’s hilltop location offers a dual spectacle: by day, panoramic views stretch from downtown’s skyscrapers to the Pacific Ocean; by night, the city’s twinkling lights mimic the stars above. Free admission makes this experience accessible, but its emotional impact is priceless. For a deeper dive, attend one of the monthly Public Star Parties, where amateur astronomers set up telescopes and share cosmic insights. Or time your visit to witness rare events like meteor showers or planetary alignments—LA’s minimal light pollution (for a major city) enhances visibility.
Nighttime Magic and Pro Tips
To maximize your visit, arrive an hour before sunset. Watch the sky transition from golden hues to indigo as the Hollywood Sign glows in the distance. Parking fills quickly, so take the DASH Observatory shuttle from the Vermont/Sunset Metro station or hike the East Observatory Trail (1.5 miles) for a scenic approach.
Inside, don’t miss the Tesla Coil demonstration, where lightning-like bolts crackle to life, or the Gunther Depths of Space exhibit, showcasing moon rocks and meteorites. For a romantic twist, pack a picnic and claim a spot on the observatory’s lawn, where the city’s hum fades beneath the cosmos.
Pro tip: Check the observatory’s calendar for special events like telescope workshops or lectures by NASA scientists. After stargazing, head to the Trails Café for hot cocoa or drive to Yamashiro Hollywood, a hilltop restaurant with skyline views, to reflect on the universe’s vastness over sushi.
Whether you’re a science enthusiast or simply seeking wonder, the Griffith Observatory bridges earthly beauty and cosmic mystery—a perfect finale to your LA adventure.
For more free activities across Southern California, check out Catalina Island things to do for free or Free things to do in Temecula.
1-Day LA Highlights: The Ultimate Whirlwind
Morning:
- 6:30 AM: Hike the Brush Canyon Trail to the Hollywood Sign for sunrise views.
- 9:00 AM: Breakfast at Trails Café in Griffith Park.
- 10:30 AM: VIP Studio Tour at Warner Bros. or Universal Studios (book via Viator).
Afternoon:
- 1:00 PM: Lunch at Nobu Malibu (reserve weeks ahead).
- 3:30 PM: Helicopter Tour over LA’s coastline and landmarks (book with GetYourGuide).
Evening:
- 6:00 PM: Sunset and stargazing at the Griffith Observatory.
- 8:00 PM: Dinner at Catch LA rooftop for city views.
Pro Tip: Use rideshares to save time. Prioritize pre-booked tours and meals.
3-Day LA Adventure: Dive into Glamour & Culture
Day 1 – Hollywood Immersion
- Morning: VIP Studio Tour + Walk of Fame.
- Afternoon: Live TV Show Taping (e.g., The Late Late Show).
- Evening: Dinner at Providence (Michelin-starred seafood).
Day 2 – Coastal & Luxe Vibes
- Morning: Explore Santa Monica Pier and bike to Venice Beach.
- Afternoon: Luxury shopping on Rodeo Drive + spa at Beverly Wilshire.
- Evening: Sunset cocktails at Malibu Farm Pier Cafe.
Day 3 – Arts & Night Sky
- Morning: Visit The Getty Center (free entry, $20 parking).
- Afternoon: Hike the Wisdom Tree Trail for 360° views.
- Evening: Stargazing at Griffith Observatory + late-night tacos at Guisados.
Book With: Expedia for hotel deals near Beverly Hills.
1-Week LA Deep Dive: Live Like a Local
Day 1-2 – Hollywood & Studios
- Day 1: VIP Studio Tour + Hollywood Sign hike.
- Day 2: Live TV Taping + dinner at n/naka (kaiseki).
Day 3-4 – Coast & Culture
- Day 3: Santa Monica beach day + hot air balloon ride in Irvine.
- Day 4: The Broad Museum (DTLA) + street art in the Arts District.
Day 5-6 – Luxury & Nature
- Day 5: Rodeo Drive shopping + afternoon tea at The Peninsula.
- Day 6: Day trip to Catalina Island (snorkel or zip-line).
Day 7 – Farewell Favorites
- Morning: Griffith Observatory + brunch at Republique.
- Afternoon: Helicopter Tour or free time at the best beach in Santa Cruz.
- Evening: Sunset dinner at Nobu Malibu.
Extras:
- Add a day trip to San Diego or Santa Barbara.
- Use SafetyWing for flexible travel insurance.
Budget Notes:
- Save: Mix free activities (hikes, beach days) with splurges.
- Splurge: Helicopter tours, Michelin meals, VIP experiences.
Key Links:
- SF fun cheap – Budget ideas for NorCal.
- Cool places in California – Extend your trip beyond LA.
These itineraries balance iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and local flavors—tailor them to your pace and passions!
Conclusion
Los Angeles is a city where fantasy and reality collide, offering adventures that linger in your memory long after you’ve left its sun-drenched streets. The once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles curated here aren’t just activities—they’re invitations to step into the city’s kaleidoscope of creativity, luxury, and natural wonder. From the adrenaline rush of soaring above the Pacific in a helicopter to the quiet awe of tracing constellations at the Griffith Observatory, each experience peels back a layer of LA’s multifaceted identity.
This is a place where you can walk in the footsteps of movie legends on a studio backlot, then dine under the stars at a chef’s table where culinary artistry rivals Hollywood glamour. It’s where hiking to the Hollywood Sign becomes a metaphor for chasing dreams, and where strolling Rodeo Drive lets you taste a lifestyle reserved for the silver screen. These moments aren’t just about checking off a bucket list; they’re about connecting with LA’s soul—a city that thrives on reinvention and revels in its contradictions.
Whether you’re laughing in a live TV audience, uncovering hidden trails, or savoring a meal crafted by a culinary genius, LA rewards curiosity with stories worth retelling. It’s a reminder that travel, at its best, transforms us. So pack your sense of wonder, embrace the unexpected, and let Los Angeles show you why it’s more than a destination—it’s a catalyst for unforgettable chapters in your life’s story.
Plan Your Trip
- Book tours and activities with GetYourGuide or Viator.
- Secure accommodations and flights via Expedia.
- Ensure peace of mind with travel insurance from SafetyWing.
