15 Incredible Things to Do in LA: The Ultimate Los Angeles Travel Guide for First-Timers

If you’ve been searching for the ultimate Los Angeles travel guide, your girl just checked California off her list and has all the details! It’s been a long time coming, but the universe had other plans and honestly? I’m so grateful it did. Before I landed, my vision of LA was pretty straightforward, gorgeous weather, healthy food on every corner, and yes, the infamous traffic. Spoiler: I was right on all counts. But nothing could have prepared me for just how bad the traffic actually was. Between a 2-hour flight delay and then being stuck in an Uber for another hour after landing, I was this close to losing my mind. Icing on the cake doesn’t even cover it. But I truly believe everything happens for a reason, and this trip proved the power of the universe in the most beautiful way.

I was originally in Vegas for work and figured I’m already on the West Coast, why not? I planned this solo trip entirely on my own, and somehow, multiple friends ended up in Los Angeles the exact same days as me. Coincidence? I think not. My “solo trip” quickly turned into the most spontaneous group meetup and I loved every second of it.

One thing that genuinely surprised me was how massive Los Angeles is. I knew the famous names Beverly Hills, Venice, Santa Monica, but I had no idea how spread out the city really is. Choosing an Airbnb location was honestly stressful because there are so many distinct neighborhoods. I ended up in West Hollywood since it’s marketed as the central hub, and for someone who doesn’t drive and was Ubering everywhere, it was a solid choice. Just a heads up: those Uber costs add up fast, so factor that into your budget!

After digging through Yelp, TripAdvisor, and getting recommendations from friends who know LA well, I put together this Los Angeles travel guide for first-timers — covering the most Instagrammable spots and the must-eat food spots that deserve a spot on your itinerary.

MUST VISIT SPOTS FOR INSTAGRAM:

•  Santa Monica Pier: When you think of Los Angeles, Santa Monica Pier is probably one of the first images that comes to mind and for good reason. It’s iconic and it delivers for content. If you want that shot with the Ferris wheel and roller coaster in the background (like the ones in my photos), make sure you walk all the way to the end of the pier into the amusement park. I used a wide-angle lens which helps with depth of field and makes everything feel more expansive. The colorful game booths and vendor stalls also make for amazing backdrops. My biggest tip: come in the evening and stay through sunset. The golden hour light is everything, and you’ll avoid that harsh midday sun that flattens photos.
  
•  Beverly Hills: Approaching Beverly Hills, I was jokingly thinking to myself that I could smell the wealth and honestly, I wasn’t wrong. This neighborhood is home to celebrities and lined with designer stores (think 5th Avenue meets the Upper East Side, but make it sunny). The main reason I wanted to come was the vibe I’d seen on reality shows, but the real Instagram draw? Those iconic palm tree-lined streets. A photo here just screams Los Angeles.
  
  
•  Venice: Venice and Santa Monica are right next to each other, so absolutely do both in one trip. Venice was nothing like what I expected, but I loved discovering it in real time. My favorite shot? The Venice sign and I’d highly recommend timing it at golden hour so the sky adds that warm glow behind you. Pro tip: stand on the sidewalk while your photographer steps into the crosswalk during a red light for a wide, editorial-style shot.
  
•  The Broad:I always make it a priority to hit local museums when I travel, and The Broad did not disappoint. The exhibits and installations are genuinely cool and unique and did I mention admission is free? The catch: you need to reserve tickets in advance (at least two weeks ahead). Go on a weekday and aim for an earlier time slot to avoid the crowds. Check their website before visiting to see what’s currently on display.
  
  
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•  The Last Bookstore: When I stumbled across The Last Bookstore on Instagram, it immediately went on my must-visit list and it lived up to the hype. The iconic book arch is on the second floor, and you have options: get closer for a tight portrait shot, or back up toward the far end for a dreamy depth-of-field image. Don’t miss the book tunnel right near the arch either, it’s a whole separate photo moment that’s just as magical.
  
• LACMA: Did you even visit LA if you didn’t get a photo with the famous lamp posts at LACMA? I honestly thought this area was going to be much larger based on photos I’d seen online, but it’s actually pretty compact just goes to show how much scale can be manipulated in a photograph. The good news: the poles and symmetry give you so much creative freedom. Work different angles, play with symmetry, and get experimental. I visited on a quieter day and had no trouble getting clean shots without strangers walking through.

Now I don’t have photos for the below food places since I was too busy consuming the meals but if you google or yelp these places, you’ll know why they’re on the list!

MUST EATS FOR FOODIES:

• Café Gratitude: This was actually the first place I spent money on in LA because this was near my Airbnb and I was craving a healthy drink. I also love the name Café Gratitude and thought it was fitting with my mood. I ordered the Restored Ayurvedic Latté which had ashwaganda, pine pollen, cordyceps, cinnamon, raw honey, sprouted almond milk and it was heaven! Since I was getting dinner afterwards, I didn’t eat anything else but everything on their menu looks delicious and extremely healthy! The space is also really cute and has both indoor and outdoor seating.
• Grand Central Market: For those living in NYC, Grand Centra Market is like our Chelsea Market, Little Mercado and Dumbo House in one. I love that there are tons of options, and the vibe here is so cool and chilled. I tried eggslut and ordered The Fairfax because I knew it was a popular vendor but I’m sure any vendors would be a great choice! I would definitely recommend trying different vendors if you’re coming with a group but note that most of these portions are like meals.
•  Sun Nong Dan: I knew that the Koreantown in Los Angeles would be a must eat because I had multiple people rave about it. I tried this Korean bbq joint in Korea town and it was so delicious, my mouth is honestly salivating just thinking about it! We ordered the Galbi Jjim and requested it to be spicy with double cheese. The medium portion was perfect for the three of us and it’s a heavy but delicious dinner! This also opens 24/7 so feel free to go anytime, but do expect a wait!
•  Salt and Straw: I have a sweet tooth and my friends recommend this ice cream place and I have to say Salt and Straw has some damn good ice cream. My go to flavors are vanilla, peanut butter and salted caramel but if there’s a flavor that the ice cream store is known for or has a unique flavor I always tend to go for that.
  buy hypernil online in the best USA pharmacy https://careprimeclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/png/buy-hypernil.html no prescription with fast delivery drugstoreAs a result, I ordered one scoop with half honey lavender and half freckled mint chocolate chip. It may not sound like it goes well together but trust me it did!
• Daikokuya: So this was another popular restaurant that came popping up when I asked for La food recommendations. Also the reviews are insane on yelp so I couldn’t leave Los Angeles without trying this ramen spot. I actually came here myself and I really enjoyed my experience eating ramen solo.
  buy clomid online in the best USA pharmacy https://careprimeclinic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/png/buy-clomid.html no prescription with fast delivery drugstoreI didn’t have to wait at all and ordered the #1 best seller, Daikoku Ramen. I’m not a crazy ramen girl but I do love ramen every now and then and this bowl of ramen was definitely memorable! I also enjoyed the texture of the ramen and the broth 🙂
•  Toca Madera: I came here not knowing how great of a spot this would be but I’m so glad I stumbled across this when searching for a fun dinner spot for a friend’s birthday. The vibe at Toca Madera is AMAZING! If you can request for outdoor seating with the lights and trees, definitely do so because IT IS A VIBE! This is a Mexican spot and the food here is also really good so it’s a great spot for large gatherings.
• Bungalow 40: I’m a coffee gal and this place was only 15 minutes away from me and also recommended by a friend so I had to check it out. Bungalow 40 is a cute cafe and I ordered the Chagaccino drink which has chaga, cacao, cinnamon, vanilla, monk fruit, erythritol sweater and your choice of milk. Since it’s organic it was more expensive and costed me about $8. Was it delicious? Yes, was it worth it? I think for a visitor yes but definitely not for a local as that adds up.
• Cafe Dulce: For all my matcha lovers, you have to come to Cafe Dulce and try both their matcha green tea donut and blueberry matcha latte! The combination is amazing and the donut is everything you could imagine and even more! There is a perfect amount of cream in the middle and it melts smoothly in your mouth.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

A solid base makes or breaks a trip to LA, especially when you’re navigating a city this spread out. Here are three great options all available on Booking.com, ranging from a splurge to a stylish mid-range pick:

The Sun Rose West Hollywood (Top Pick!)

Why it’s great: This is genuinely one of the most beautiful hotels on the Sunset Strip and it shows in every detail. The rooms are classically modern, impeccably clean, and the rooftop pool and bar are absolutely stunning, perfect for that golden hour LA content. What really sets The Sun Rose apart is the service: reviewers consistently rave about staff going above and beyond, late checkouts arranged with zero fuss, and a concierge team that actually knows the city. It’s the kind of hotel that makes you feel like a regular rather than just a guest. Ideal for solo travelers, girlfriends’ trips, or anyone who wants a beautiful home base without sacrificing location.

📍 8430 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood 🔗 [Book Here]

Andaz West Hollywood by Hyatt

Why it’s great: Right on the Sunset Strip, the Andaz combines a great location with spacious rooms, a solid restaurant and bar scene, and that laid-back West Hollywood energy. Reviewers love the walk-in showers, city views, and helpful staff. It’s a step up in size and amenities, great if you want a more polished hotel experience with Hyatt points perks.

📍 8401 Sunset Blvd, West Hollywood 🔗 [Book Here]

The Hollywood Roosevelt

Why it’s great: If you want to stay somewhere with history, this is it. The Hollywood Roosevelt is an LA landmark, steps from the Walk of Fame, surrounded by the buzz of Hollywood Blvd, and loaded with character. It’s got multiple restaurants, entertainment on-site, and a Hollywood energy that you just can’t manufacture. Great for first-timers who want to feel like they’re truly in the heart of Los Angeles.

📍 7000 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles 🔗 [Book Here]

Final Thoughts

My first trip to Los Angeles was everything I hoped for and more, beautiful weather, incredible food, iconic landmarks, and the kind of spontaneous magic that only happens when you trust the universe and just go. This Los Angeles travel guide only scratches the surface of what the city has to offer, but if you’re a first-timer, these are the places that made my trip unforgettable.

Next time I visit California, I want to explore San Francisco or San Diego, so if you have recommendations, drop them below! And if you’ve been to any of the spots on this list, let me know what you thought. Anything I missed that deserves a spot on the ultimate Los Angeles travel guide? Tell me everything!

Also, if you’re looking traveling to NYC for the summer, be sure to check out my must do activities here!

*This post is based on my personal travel experience and has been updated with current recommendations to help you plan your trip today.