Tick off your Los Angeles bucket list: Top 10 things to do in the home of Hollywood

Los Angeles is not just a city, but it’s an experience. Los Angeles is a living movie set, a world of cultures, a dreamland. From the sunshine of Malibu to the flashing lights of Hollywood Boulevard, LA is full of experiences that feel like a movie scene. Apart from its palm tree-lined streets and starry sidewalks, there are some experiences that are extraordinary and could easily be spoiled by the words "once in a lifetime." 

Fly in a private helicopter above the city, dine under the stars at a celebrity chef's rooftop restaurant, or hike to the iconic Hollywood Sign at sunrise. Los Angeles has unforgettable experiences for all kinds of travelers. This guide contains the ultimate bucket list of unique adventures that are a mix of the iconic, extravagant, and unexpected adventures to help you make the most of your trip to Los Angeles, the City of Angels.

1. Take a Private Helicopter Ride Over LA

Enjoy a bird's-eye view of Los Angeles with a private helicopter tour that will allow you to see the Hollywood Sign, Griffith Observatory, and the Pacific coastline in a way you have never seen before. When the sun sets, the city will glow gold and twinkle like a sea of stars. Some nearby helicopter tours offer champagne, so indulge your romantic side and enjoy the experience entirely. Whether you're going over Malibu's beaches or Downtown LA's skyscrapers, you will have the ultimate experience seeing Los Angeles from above, and even better, you will have photographic evidence of your adventure!

2. Hike to the Hollywood Sign at Sunrise

There are few experiences more iconic than standing next to the Hollywood Sign with the city waking up below you as the sun rises. An early start means cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and magical light over Los Angeles. While there are plenty of routes like the Brush Canyon Trail or Griffith Park that offer amazing views on a clear day, you're most likely to capture a fantastic panoramic view, all the way to the ocean, in Griffith Park. It's a moderately difficult hike, and while you'll likely want to share it, the views and bragging rights make it worth the effort. 

3. Attend a Movie Premiere in Hollywood

Strike a pose in Hollywood style and attend a movie premiere at one of the historic venues like TCL Chinese Theatre. With a little planning, you could get your hands on tickets or stand in the fan zones and watch the stars arrive on the red carpet. Flashing cameras, cheering fans, and the energy is contagious. It's a fun opportunity to get close to your favorite actors while experiencing the energy of a major film debut, a true story to tell for years down the road. 

4. Explore the Getty Center at Sunset

The Getty Center features world-renowned art, magnificent architecture, and arresting views of the city. It is best to arrive late afternoon and enjoy the art of Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt indoors, but head outside for sunset. The gardens look ethereal and golden; the city skyline looks endless below. It's one of the most tranquil and inspiring ways to cap off the day with culture, nature, and scenery all combined into one epic experience.

5. Take a VIP Tour of Universal Studios Hollywood

Skip long lines and get behind-the-scenes access with a VIP tour of Universal Studios Hollywood. You'll visit working film sets, get to see locations not open to general admission, and learn stories and twists from your guide. You will have priority access to rides like Jurassic World and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter with no wait, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. The all-access pass will leave you on a high from the rides, yet fascinated by glimpses of the magic of filmmaking and what it's really like to be a Hollywood insider.

6. Have Dinner at a Celebrity Chef’s Rooftop Restaurant

Spoiling your taste buds in Los Angeles is an experience in and of itself, and a rooftop dinner by a celebrity chef elevates that experience. Consider an unforgettable dinner prepared by celebrity chef Nobu Matsuhisa, whose culinary dishes include signature offerings like his Black Cod with Miso. Or would you rather dine alfresco on the rooftop of the Perch Hotel and enjoy Wolfgang Puck's culinary masterpieces while the city twinkles below? Rooftop venues offer spectacular views and handcrafted cocktails in a casual yet luxe environment. 

LA is an unmistakable energy, and dining under the stars with this kind of ambiance elevates a meal to more than just food, but it announces itself loudly as the best meal you have ever had. Fine dining combines with skyline views and Hollywood indulgence, that's LA!

7. Spend a Day on a Private Yacht in Marina del Rey

Renting a private yacht out of Marina del Rey allows you to live out your LA luxury fantasies. In the glitter and glam of the Pacific, you can sip champagne, sunbathe on deck, or anchor off Malibu to dip in the surf. Many charters come equipped with gourmet catering, oversized lounge areas, and even a crew that handles everything for you. Dolphin sightings along the coast are common, and the salty breeze makes it all exceptionally refreshing. Anyway you slice it, whether for a romantic day, a birthday celebration, or merely the indulgence that is a private yacht day, you get to capture the glamour and peace of the Southern California lifestyle. 

8. Watch the Lakers or Clippers Courtside

There is nothing like the buzz of sitting courtside at a Lakers or Clippers game inside Crypto.com Arena. Up close, you hear every squeak of the sneaker on the hardwood, feel the collective roar of the crowd every time a basket is made, and watch as celebrities cheer right beside you. It is not just basketball, but it is an LA event of sports, entertainment, and celebrity. Halftime shows, buzzer-beaters, and a fantastic atmosphere serve to ensure the whole event is memorable, whether you're a lifelong fan or simply taking in one of LA's most iconic experiences.

9. Take a Scenic Drive Along the Pacific Coast Highway

One of the most beautiful road trips in the world begins right in Los Angeles. The Pacific Coast Highway meanders along dramatic cliffs and golden beaches with the ocean running along beside you as far as the eye can see. Starting in Santa Monica and going toward Malibu, the coastal drive allows you to stop at scenic lookouts, cute cafes, and surf spots. On early mornings, the roads can be completely calm, and soft golden light illuminates the harbor. At sunset, the colors of the sky take your breath away. It is worth taking your time on the drive - the windows down, listening to music, and soaking in the salty breeze will make every mile feel like a scene from a movie. 

10. Visit Catalina Island for a Day Trip

A ferry ride just an hour from LA, Catalina Island feels like miles away. It is a distant island, but the main town of Avalon is the perfect combination of pastel colored buildings, beachside cafes, and cute shops. 

Adventurous people can zip line above the canyon forest, snorkel with the colorful fish, or rent kayaks to discover hidden coves. For those less adventurous, a golf cart to drive around the scenic overlooks suffices, or just sit and enjoy a cocktail on the water. 

Travel Advice for Unique LA Experiences

1. Be Smart and Book Early: Lots of VIP tours, yacht charters, and helicopter rides sell out weeks or even months in advance!

2. Plan for Traffic: Los Angeles traffic is notorious for a reason, so build in extra time to get from one activity to another.

3. Dress for Comfort but with Style: Most LA experiences have an element of luxury and a bit of a laid-back vibe.

4. Prioritize icon and other unique experiences: You can choose from iconic landmarks and unique experiences, but try not to do all iconic, or too unique.

5. Don't worry, if you're budget-conscious: Some activities are pricey, but they'll make for unique memories you won't regret splurging for.