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Los Angeles thrives on diversity, individuality and boundless creativity. This vibrant tapestry of a city offers iconic sites like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Santa Monica Pier, as well as amazing and eclectic natural and cultural experiences throughout its varied neighborhoods and beaches.

With this guide you can see the city like a local and explore the city's dynamic personality.

Here are the top 10 things to do in LA.

1. See the stars at Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory is an iconic must-visit landmark when traveling around Los Angeles, but it takes on a new level of enchantment from sunset to nightfall with its stellar outdoor views. The observatory is set on the slopes of the Santa Monica Mountains, providing visitors with unparalleled panoramic views of the city. Marry this with one of Los Angeles' picturesque sunsets and clear night skies, and words truly can't describe the magnificence of the surroundings.

Inside you'll find the observatory's 12-inch , which might let you witness celestial objects like Halley's Comet firsthand if you're lucky. The telescope was installed in 1935 and is now the most looked-through telescope in the world – seven million people and counting!

Detour: Instead of joining the large crowds and traffic heading to the observatory in time for sunset, arrive early and spend the day. With nearly 70 different trails around Griffith Park, there's plenty to do and see before dusk falls.

2. Blend nature, fitness and yoga at Runyon Canyon Park

There's a reason Runyon Canyon is a popular spot among tourists, locals and even celebrities. It has stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and across Los Angeles, as well as a sense of community along the trail. Reaching the top feels like a shared experience of accomplishment and positivity.

Beyond the beaten path is a lesser-known free yoga class that's been happening since 1999 every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 10:30am. Meet at the Fuller Avenue entrance (2000 North Fuller Avenue). While there's no admission fee, a donation of $5–15 is encouraged.

Planning tip: If you choose to do a hike, keep in mind that Runyon Canyon gets busy, especially during early morning, at sunset and on weekends. The path is wide and there's enough room for all, but if you stop to take in the gorgeous city views (highly recommend you do), be sure to stick to one side. In addition, the Runyon Canyon West Trail is closed due the January 2025 fires. Find updates on the .

3. Explore the Venice Beach boardwalk

What sets Venice Beach and its famed boardwalk apart is its celebration of individuality and diversity. There's a good chance you'll run into a local vibe setter who rides his bike up and down all day with his blaring boombox while also seeing magicians, street performers and artists. Meanwhile, you might start salivating over the various exotic-yet-familiar street food options.

If you visit during the weekend, stick around until sunset for the famous Drum Circle. When the sun goes down, hundreds gather with their drums, shakers, congas and other percussion instruments to have a jam. Bring your music maker or just your dancing feet, and enjoy the communal festivities.

Detour: Venice Beach can be overwhelming at times, so if you're looking for a charming escape to break up the day, head over to 25th Street and allow yourself to be transported to Italy. The were founded in 1905 after tobacconist Abbot Kinney was inspired by the Italian city. While he started with 13 canals, by 1928 he was left with the six that remain today. After many court hearings between Kinney and the city, the Supreme Court ruled that the city was within its rights to pave over seven canals to make room for more roads.

4. Tour the Arts District

The Arts District is a great place to find inspiration and invigoration with a street art tour. This vibrant neighborhood boasts an impressive two miles of street art and murals that often go unnoticed by people rushing through the city. You can stroll and see murals and graffitti throughout the neighborhood or take an artist-led tour like those offered by . Joining a tour lets you delve into the urban expression around you and uncover stories and culture that live within the city's walls.

Each guide is a local artist who provides knowledgeable commentary about the inspiration behind each piece, the techniques used and the artists themselves. Tours take approximately two hours, and movement is at a slow pace, making them accessible for most.

5. Watch an outdoor movie at Hollywood Forever Cemetery

The Hollywood Forever Cemetery is not just a burial ground and place to pay tribute to some of LA's biggest stars like Judy Garland and Estelle Getty, but also a cultural legacy and place of celebration. Located in the heart of Hollywood, the cemetery was established in 1899 and is one of the oldest in Los Angeles. And while places of rest are typically somber, Hollywood Forever has been the home to 's outdoor film screenings each summer since 2002. Just like in the movie Valentine's Day, hundreds of people gather on Fairbanks Lawn to watch a movie that's projected onto the side of a mausoleum.

Planning tip: If you're not visiting during screening season, you can still tour the cemetery; the grounds are open every day.

6. Travel back to the Prohibition era at No Vacancy

Tucked away in Hollywood is a hidden gem and a one-of-a-kind experience. , a speakeasy-style tavern, transports you back to the Prohibition era with dim lighting, vintage decor and a sense of mystery. I don't want to spoil the entrance for anyone who hasn't visited yet; it will set the tone and be something you will talk about for a long time.

Local tip: The bartenders at No Vacancy are skilled mixologists. Twelve of the top mixologists (aka "The Dirty Dozen," including Adrian Biggs and Simon Ford) were brought in to create a slew of drinks that pay homage to Prohibition times.

7. Savor global flavors at historic Grand Central Market

Amid the towering skyscrapers and urban pulse of Downtown Los Angeles, has been an iconic spot and immersive journey for food lovers since 1917. The city's rich and diverse cultural cuisines, flavors and aromas all come together into one melting pot. Beyond being a foodie destination, it's a hub of cultural activities like live music and food festivals.

Local tip: While your senses won't let you down when choosing what to eat, visiting is an LA non-negotiable. The legendary donut shop has been around since the '70s, and you'll find its stall at the front left corner (if you enter from Broadway). The strawberry-stuffed donut is a must-try and is what made this little vendor an LA icon.

8. Hike to the Wisdom Tree

One of the many Griffith Park hikes leads you to the tranquil escape of the Wisdom Tree. The tree gained fame during the 2007 Hollywood Hills fire when it was the only piece of nature to survive. Since then, the Wisdom Tree has been an important place for those looking to reflect and gain perspective while seeking resilience and inspiration. Join in with a symbolic token of gratitude or add to the many handwritten notes that adorn the tree base to feel connected with others who have visited.

Views of the sprawling city when hiking to the Wisdom Tree are breathtaking. On a clear day, you'll be able to see from Downtown's skyscrapers to the glistening Pacific Ocean on the west side.

9. Discover hidden coves and sea caves at El Matador Beach

El Matador State Beach, part of , is the kind of place you'll eagerly share with friends and family when returning home. With its rugged cliffs, unique rock formations and pristine setting, the site is known as a haven for photography enthusiasts, especially during sunset. You'll have no regrets about visiting any time of day, but views during golden hour are unmatched. Kids will also keep occupied exploring the tide pools that are home to marine life like anemones, sea stars, hermit crabs, small fish and the odd octopus.

Planning tip: El Matador is not an accessible beach. To get to the sand, you'll need to walk down a steep pathway and a flight of stairs. You might get lucky and find parking in the paid lot (spaces are limited and fill quickly) or you can park along the Pacific Coast Highway.

10. Shop for deals in the Fashion District

Looking for a bargain? Check out the frantic 100-block warren that makes up Downtown LA’s . It's a bit overwhelming at first but worth a visit for fashionistas and shopping lovers. You can find amazing deals every day, but are usually held on the last Friday of every month from 9am to 3pm. Popular showrooms include the California Market Center, Cooper Design Space, Gerry Building and New Mart.