Attractions in Los Angeles

With so much to see and do, Los Angeles can be overwhelming to the first time visitor, especially if time is short. Don't try to do everything! The following is a selection of the most popular attractions, providing a little something for everyone.

Disneyland
The world's first amusement park and the happiest place on earth! With over 60 attractions, Disneyland still retains its magic after almost fifty years. Even the most grown up of grown ups can't resist the sugary, colourful fantasy fun. The Disney's California Adventure Park is right next door to the original Disneyland Theme Park.
Address: 700 W Ball Rd
Phone: +1 (0)714 7814000

Getty Center
The fabulous art collections of oil magnate J. Paul Getty were united eight years ago in this gorgeous setting in the Santa Monica Mountains. The 110- acre complex houses a permanent collection of paintings, sculpture, photographs, drawings and furniture, as well as rotating exhibitions. There are pieces by Van Gogh, Monet, Rembrandt and Titian among others. The modern architecture and breathtaking views of the city themselves make the visit worthwhile.
Address: 1200 Getty Center Drive
Phone: +1 (0)310 4407300

La Brea Tar Pits
La Brea's oozing tar pits have trapped thousands of animal bone and plant remains over the past 40,000 years. Many of these are on view in this fascinating museum, including the remains of a 9,000 year old woman! During the late summer, the outdoor excavation pits can be visited with experts demonstrating how the remains are recovered.
Address: 5801 Wilshire Blvd Curson Avenue
Phone: +1 (0)323 934 7243

Universal Studios & Universal City Walk
The Universal Studios Theme Park is one of L.A.'s top tourist destinations thanks to its Hollywood themed attractions. Even the locals come to check out new movie themed rides. Check out one of the many stage shows or take a "behind the scenes" tour at the world famous studio. The evening can be spent visiting shops and restaurants under the neon lights of the Universal City Walk promenade.
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza
Phone: +1 800 508 9600

Norton Simon Museum
With its Frank Gehry designed interior and wonderful collection of masterpieces by Degas, Picasso, Rembrandt, Goya and Rodin, the Norton Simon is the best kept secret in Los Angeles. The house is set in beautiful gardens and exhibits one of the most superb private collections of American, European and Asian art in the world. A recorded guide is available and worthwhile.
Address: 411 W. Colorado Blvd
Phone: +1 (0)626 4496840

Grauman's Chinese Theatre
This iconic movie palace known for its celebrity footprints and handprints was created in 1927 by Sid Grauman and still continues to draw stars to immortalize themselves in the forecourt. The theatre, which still operates as a cinema, has green copper roof, temple bells and artefacts from China. It is the location of many blockbuster premieres.
Address: 69265 Hollywood Blvd
Phone: +1 (0)323 4646266

Griffith Park
Spread over 4,000 acres, Griffith Park is the largest urban park in the United States, and has been used as the backdrop for several movies, including "Batman" and "Jurassic Park". It houses the Griffith Park Observatory (www.griffithobs.org), and the Los Angeles Zoo (www.lazoo.com). Also within the park are the Autry Museum of Western Heritage (www.autry-museum.org) and the Travel Town Transportation Museum (www.traveltown.org). 53 miles of picturesque hiking trails as well as swimming, biking and horseback riding ensure something for everyone. Griffith Park is also home to the Hollywood sign, which stands on Mt. Lee.
Address: Griffith Park, 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Feliz Blvd
Phone: +1 (0)323 9134688

Walt Disney Concert Hall
Designed by Frank Gehry, the Walt Disney Concert Hall is the home of the Los Angeles Philharmonic. This is a visual and aural wonder. As well as the main stage, the complex houses two more intimate indoor spaces, outdoor amphitheatres, a restaurant and a café. The attractive gardens provide a green haven amongst the urban downtown surroundings. Check the website for current programme.
Address: 111 South Grand Ave
Phone: +1 (0)323 8502000

Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
Los Angeles Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) has one of the finest permanent collections of contemporary art, as well as rotating exhibitions. There are two different centres, the main one being on Grand Avenue, which has a great gift shop and café. The Geffen Contemporary, situated in Little Tokyo, houses larger works and installations. Free informal guides are available and admission is free to all on Thursdays 11-8.
Address: MOCA: 250 Grand Avenue The Geffen Contemporary: 152 North Central Avenue
Phone: +1 (0)213 626-6222

Los Angeles County Museum of Art
This cultural mecca houses a superb permanent collection of pieces from all over the world, and maintains a vibrant programme of events, exhibitions, art house films and jazz concerts.
Address: 5905 Wilshire Boulevard
Phone: +1 (0)323 857 6000