Los Angeles County, California Travel Guide

Discover Los Angeles County: A vibrant blend of culture, adventure, and entertainment in Southern California.

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Los Angeles County

Los Angeles County, often simply referred to as L.A., is a sprawling and diverse region in Southern California. It is renowned for its stunning beaches, vibrant neighborhoods, and the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. From the iconic Hollywood Sign to the sunny shores of Santa Monica, L.A. offers a little bit of everything for every type of traveler. One of the county's main attractions is its rich cultural scene. Visitors can explore world-class museums like the Getty Center and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), or wander through the art galleries of Downtown's Arts District. For a taste of history, there's the historic Olvera Street, where you can experience the city's Mexican heritage. Nature lovers will find plenty to do as well. The county boasts numerous hiking trails offering breathtaking views, such as those in Griffith Park, home to the Griffith Observatory, and Runyon Canyon. The coastline is dotted with beautiful beaches like Malibu, Venice, and Manhattan Beach, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, or simply enjoying a sunset. Foodies will be delighted by the diverse culinary offerings, from food trucks and street vendors to high-end dining establishments. The Grand Central Market in Downtown L.A. is a must-visit for a wide range of delicious eats. Los Angeles County is also a shopping paradise, with luxury boutiques on Rodeo Drive, trendy shops on Melrose Avenue, and sprawling malls like The Grove. Whether you're here for the arts, the outdoors, the cuisine, or the shopping, L.A. County has something unforgettable to offer.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Los Angeles County.

Avoid driving during rush hour; traffic can be heavy. Use public transport or rideshares instead.
Check the local weather before heading to the beach; mornings can be foggy.
Wear comfortable shoes for exploring; many attractions require a lot of walking.
Purchase tickets in advance for popular attractions like Universal Studios or the Getty Center to avoid long lines.
Visit local farmers' markets for fresh produce and artisanal goods. The Hollywood Farmers' Market is a favorite.

Top City Travel Guides in Los Angeles County

The cities of Los Angeles County, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Venice Beach

Los Angeles

Laguna Beach

Santa Monica

Hollywood

Destinations in Los Angeles County

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Santa Catalina Island

Explore Los Angeles County: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Los Angeles County

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Browse the full guide

All Attractions

Universal Studios Hollywood

Discover thrilling rides, captivating shows, and the magic of movies at Universal Studios Hollywood, the ultimate theme park experience.

4.6

Santa Monica Pier

Discover the iconic Santa Monica Pier, a historic landmark blending fun, dining, and stunning ocean views in beautiful Santa Monica, California.

4.6

Griffith Park

Explore Griffith Park in Los Angeles, a vast urban oasis filled with stunning views, hiking trails, and cultural attractions for every traveler.

4.7

Universal CityWalk Hollywood

Discover Universal CityWalk Hollywood, the ultimate shopping and entertainment destination for tourists, featuring diverse dining, unique shops, and exciting attractions.

4.6

Best landmarks in Los Angeles County

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Griffith Park

Discover Griffith Park: A breathtaking urban oasis in Los Angeles, perfect for outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, and stunning views.

4.7

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Discover the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you can stroll among the stars and experience the heart of the entertainment industry in Los Angeles.

4.0

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Discover the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, where the past meets the present in a captivating journey through our planet's history.

4.8

Venice Canals

Discover the captivating Venice Canals in California—an enchanting blend of history, nature, and charming architecture that transports you to a serene world.

4.6

Best restaurants in Los Angeles County

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

République Café Bakery & République Restaurant

Experience exquisite French cuisine at République Café Bakery & Restaurant in Los Angeles – where every meal is a celebration.

4.8

Castaway

Experience fine dining at Castaway in Burbank - where steakhouse elegance meets stunning valley views.

4.6

Perch

Experience exquisite French cuisine with breathtaking views at Perch in downtown Los Angeles—an unforgettable dining destination.

4.4

Yamashiro Hollywood

Discover culinary excellence at Yamashiro Hollywood - where Asian flavors meet breathtaking views in a magical setting.

4.3

Best bars in Los Angeles County

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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All Bars

Nobu Malibu

Discover the exquisite flavors of Nobu Malibu, where ocean views and world-class cuisine create an unforgettable dining experience.

4.4

Tom's Watch Bar - Los Angeles

Discover the ultimate sports bar experience at Tom's Watch Bar in Los Angeles, where great food meets the excitement of live sports.

4.1

Seven Grand

Explore the vibrant nightlife at Seven Grand, a stylish bar in LA's Financial District known for its extensive whiskey selection and lively atmosphere.

4.6

Good Times at Davey Wayne's

Discover the vibrant 70s atmosphere at Good Times at Davey Wayne's, a unique bar in Hollywood known for cocktails and lively nightlife.

4.3

Best nightclubs in Los Angeles County

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

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All Nightclubs

La Cita Bar

Discover La Cita Bar in Los Angeles: A fusion of a lively dance club and a charming bar, perfect for nightlife lovers.

4.1

Savoy Entertainment Center

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Savoy Entertainment Center in Inglewood, where great music and a lively atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night.

4.0

Exchange LA

Discover the pulsating nightlife of Los Angeles at Exchange LA, a premier nightclub known for its electrifying beats and unforgettable experiences.

3.8

Catch One

Experience the best of Los Angeles nightlife at Catch One, featuring live music, diverse DJs, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

3.6

Best shops in Los Angeles County

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

Downtown Santa Monica

Experience the vibrant shopping, dining, and entertainment in Downtown Santa Monica, a must-visit destination for tourists on the California coast.

4.6

Citadel Outlets

Discover unbeatable deals and a vibrant shopping experience at Citadel Outlets, California's premier outlet mall featuring top brands and delicious dining.

4.5

Ovation Hollywood

Experience the glamour of Hollywood at Ovation Hollywood, where shopping meets entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.4

The Grove

Discover the charm of The Grove in Los Angeles, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in a picturesque outdoor setting.

4.6

Explore Los Angeles County on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Los Angeles County, mapped for you.

Los Angeles County Essentials

Los Angeles County is served by multiple major airports, with Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) being the primary gateway. Other options include Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Long Beach Airport (LGB), and Ontario International Airport (ONT). These airports offer numerous domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can take a taxi, rideshare service, or shuttle to your destination. Additionally, Amtrak and various bus services connect Los Angeles to other cities in California and beyond.
Public transportation in Los Angeles County includes buses, light rail, and subway systems operated by LA Metro. TAP cards are used for fare payment and can be loaded with credit. For shorter distances, rideshares like Uber and Lyft are popular. Renting a car is also a convenient option, especially for exploring areas outside the city. Traffic can be heavy, so plan your travel times accordingly. Biking is another viable option in many neighborhoods, with bike-sharing programs available.
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, though it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and tips. ATMs are plentiful, but be aware of potential fees. Mobile payment options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay are also commonly accepted.
Los Angeles County is generally safe, but it's important to stay vigilant. Areas with higher crime rates that target tourists include parts of Downtown LA, Skid Row, and certain neighborhoods in South Los Angeles. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and be cautious with your belongings in crowded places. Always use well-lit, busy streets and stay aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Los Angeles has numerous hospitals and urgent care facilities. It's wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are readily accessible. Keep a list of emergency contacts and the address of your accommodation handy.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and in layers, as temperatures can vary. Casual attire is generally acceptable, but upscale venues may require more formal dress. Religion: Do respect diverse religious practices. Many places of worship welcome visitors, but observe local customs and dress codes. Public Transport: Do use TAP cards for seamless travel on public transit. Don't block doorways or seats with luggage. Greetings: Do use a friendly 'hello' or a handshake. In casual settings, a nod or wave is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local cuisines and tip around 15-20% in restaurants. Don't skip reservations at popular dining spots, especially on weekends.
To experience Los Angeles County like a local, visit farmers' markets and food trucks for a taste of the local cuisine. Explore diverse neighborhoods like Koreatown, Little Tokyo, and Olvera Street for cultural experiences. Attend a live show at the Hollywood Bowl or a local music venue. Enjoy outdoor activities like hiking in Griffith Park or surfing in Malibu. Remember, Los Angeles is spread out, so plan your days to minimize long travel times.

When is the best time to visit Los Angeles County?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Los Angeles County

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Los Angeles County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHey
  [hey]
- GoodbyeLater
  [lay-ter]
- YesYeah
  [yeah]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomeNo problem
  [noh prob-lum]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryExcuse me
  [ex-cuse me]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [how's it go-ing]
- Fine. And you?Good. You?
  [good. you?]
- Do you speak English?Do you speak English?
  [do you speak English?]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [I don't get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu?
  [can I see the men-u?]
- I don't eat meatI'm vegetarian
  [I'm ve-ge-tar-i-an]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I get the check?
  [can I get the check?]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Leave me alone!
  [leave me a-lone]
- Call the Police!Call 911!
  [call nine-one-one]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [get a doc-tor]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm not feeling well
  [I'm not feel-ing well]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
  [I want to buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [just brows-ing]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much?]
- That's too expensiveThat's way too much
  [that's way too much]
- Can you lower the price?Can you drop the price?
  [can you drop the price?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [what time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
- Half past (10)It's half past ten
  [it's half past ten]
- MorningMorning
  [morn-ing]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [af-ter-noon]
- EveningEvening
  [eve-ning]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yes-ter-day]
- TodayToday
  [to-day]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [to-mor-row]
- 1One
  [one]
- 2Two
  [two]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [sev-en]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [where's the...?]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [what’s the ad-dress?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me on the map?
  [can you show me on the map?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [when's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [a tick-et to...]

History of Los Angeles County

Long before European settlers arrived, the Los Angeles basin was home to the Tongva people. This indigenous tribe, also known as the Gabrielino, had a rich and complex society with established trade routes, sophisticated craftsmanship, and deep spiritual practices. The Tongva's relationship with the land is still remembered today in various place names around the county.
In 1781, Spanish settlers established El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles, now known as Los Angeles. This marked the beginning of the mission era, with the construction of Mission San Gabriel Arcángel. The Spanish missions aimed to convert local indigenous populations to Christianity and integrate them into colonial society, fundamentally altering the region's cultural landscape.
After Mexico gained independence from Spain in 1821, Los Angeles became part of Mexican California. This era saw the flourishing of large ranchos, land grants given to prominent families. These ranchos were centers of cattle ranching and agriculture, significantly shaping the region’s economy and land distribution.
The 1848 discovery of gold in California led to a massive influx of settlers and the eventual U.S. annexation of California in 1848. By 1850, Los Angeles was incorporated as a city. This period marked significant growth and transformation, as the new American statehood brought infrastructure development and new economic opportunities.
The late 19th century saw the arrival of the railroads, which connected Los Angeles to the rest of the country. The Southern Pacific Railroad and later the Santa Fe Railway played crucial roles in the city's expansion, facilitating the movement of goods and people. This connectivity spurred population growth and economic diversification.
The early 20th century heralded the rise of Hollywood, transforming Los Angeles into the entertainment capital of the world. Studios like Universal, Paramount, and Warner Bros. established their roots here, producing iconic films and fostering a cultural boom. Hollywood's Golden Age not only shaped global entertainment but also solidified Los Angeles as a city of dreams.
During World War II and the subsequent Cold War era, Los Angeles became a hub for the aerospace industry. Companies like Lockheed, Northrop Grumman, and Boeing established major operations in the area, contributing to advancements in aviation and space exploration. This industry brought economic prosperity and technological innovation to the region.
Los Angeles played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. The Watts Riots of 1965 were a pivotal moment, highlighting racial tensions and leading to significant social and political changes. Activists and community leaders in Los Angeles worked tirelessly to address issues of inequality and justice.
Today, Los Angeles County is one of the most diverse regions in the world, home to a vibrant tapestry of cultures. From the historic Olvera Street and Chinatown to the bustling neighborhoods of Koreatown and Little Tokyo, Los Angeles celebrates a rich cultural heritage that spans the globe. This diversity is reflected in the county's cuisine, festivals, and community life.