Big cities each carry their own personality, but only a few turn ordinary moments into experiences that feel truly memorable. The contrast between relaxed daytime escapes and vibrant evenings creates a rhythm that keeps every visit exciting and full of possibility.
Los Angeles captures this energy with iconic landmarks, scenic coastal drives, and experiences that feel straight out of a film. From famous movie locations to elevated views and unforgettable settings, each moment leaves a lasting impression. In this listicle, you will discover seven bucket list experiences that showcase the cinematic spirit of this California city.
1. Hike to the Hollywood Sign
When visiting LA, it’s a must to take photos in front of the Hollywood Sign. There are many trails with views of the sign (head to Griffith Observatory for easy views!), but there is only one consistent trail that takes you to the back of the Hollywood Sign. The closest you can get to the sign is up above it from behind, and it’s not clear online which trail takes you there.
The Hollywood Sign via Innsdale Trail and Mount Lee Drive is the best trail to take for both views of the sign and to get the closest you can to it. While the trail itself is not too strenuous, make sure to leave early enough in the day to escape the hot California sun. Parking is also fairly easy to come by, with street parking accessible in the neighborhood near the trailhead.
2. See What Life Is Like on a Movie Set
Have you ever dreamed of life as a movie star? If so, you’re in luck! In Los Angeles, you can have the once in a lifetime experience of being on a real Hollywood movie set.
There are a handful of great studio tours, but the best is the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. Not only does it showcase the props and sets from some of many visitors’ favorite shows (Friends, The Big Bang Theory, DC, and Harry Potter) but it’s still a working set too, which means you might spot some stars and filming action!
Or, if you spend time at the Universal Studios Hollywood amusement park, make sure to take the Studio Tour Ride. The ride travels through sets with props and re-created scenes of classic films (such as Jaws) as well as through a working film studio, with various film sets.
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3. Even Better, Be a Part of a Live Audience
If simply touring the studio is not enough for you, it’s actually quite easy (and typically free!) to be a part of a live studio audience for a show that’s being filmed. You can be a part of talk shows, reality shows, game shows, sitcoms, and children’s shows.
To reserve a ticket to the taping of your favorite show, you might have to do a bit of research on which online audience services company represents the show.
Otherwise, you can check general sites such as On Camera Audiences (specializes in providing audiences for talent shows such as “Dancing with the Stars” and “America’s Got Talent” or 1iota (offers tickets to shows such as “Jimmy Kimmel Live!” and “The Late Late Show with James Corden”).
4. Enjoy a Malibu Hills Wine Hike
Drinking wine while hiking through the Malibu hills will certainly be a once in a lifetime opportunity! The Malibu Wine Hikes tours take you through their expansive property where you will be treated to gorgeous views of the Santa Monica Mountains and stop for a mid-hike beverage.
You can also take wine tasting tours by 4×4 or in an adorable yellow VW bus that allows you ocean views as well. On your tour, you may see llamas, miniature donkeys, miniature horses, alpacas, and cows on the property. Plus, there is a lovely outdoor bar and dance area just off the property to enjoy when you are finished.
5. Take a Helicopter Ride Over Los Angeles
A helicopter ride over Los Angeles is a truly incredible thing to do on your visit to southern California. Not only do you get to see the city from a completely different perspective, but you also get to enjoy the perks of a private ride. With no crowds or lines, you can relax and take in the city sights at your own pace. And of course, the views are simply incredible!
From high above, you can see everything from the Hollywood Sign to the Pacific Ocean. Some helicopter tours start further south over the beach towns of the South Bay and Long Beach before heading up into Los Angeles. Or you can start in LA and see more of the northern parts of the area up into Malibu. Whatever you decide, you will certainly have an experience you won’t forget!
6. Experience True SoCal Beach Culture
Los Angeles is full of exciting things to do, and you definitely need to check out the beaches! Venice Beach is the place to go for unique people, street performers, cool shops, and fun activities like biking and roller-skating.
Just north of Venice is Santa Monica, where you’ll find the famous Santa Monica Pier. Take a ride on the huge Ferris Wheel for amazing views of the ocean and the city. At night, stop by The Bungalow, a popular bar where you might even spot a celebrity.
To the south of LA is the “South Bay,” a group of charming beach towns that are often overlooked. Watch the surfers at El Porto, hang out on Hermosa Beach Pier at night, or rent a paddleboard in Redondo Beach Harbor. If you visit during events like the 4th of July, Fiesta Hermosa, or the International Surf Festival, you’ll experience the fun, festive vibe of LA’s beach culture.
7. Party on a Rooftop Bar Overlooking the City of LA
After spending a long day exploring the incredible city of Los Angeles and all it has to offer, what better way to relax and enjoy the nightlife than at one of the popular rooftop bars? Enjoy the city lights from a spot such as the Perch, Wayfarer Downtown LA, or E.P & L.P.
Any of the rooftop bars in downtown Los Angeles or West Hollywood will serve incredible drinks and cocktail foods along with stunning views of the city. Dance the night away at one of the rooftop bars to complete your once in a lifetime trip!
This post was originally contributed by Janelle Axton from Make the Trip Matter, with additional updates and personal insights by Shreeyeh Rajan from Bae Area and Beyond.
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