37 Epic Once in a Lifetime Things to do in Los Angeles
Looking for once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles?
Trust me, this city is more than just palm trees and Hollywood dreams—it’s a rollercoaster of unique experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve left. As a Midwest woman myself, I loved exploring LA and this list of 37 once in a lifetime things to do in Los Angeles already has me itching to go again.
From cruising the Pacific Coast Highway and catching waves at Venice Beach, Los Angeles is a treasure trove of iconic adventures to make your trip unforgettable. Do not make your LA itinerary without at least a handful of the cool things to do from this list!
Quick Tips:
- Best time to visit Los Angeles: March-May or September-November
- Where to stay in Los Angeles: $$$$ The Peninsula Beverly Hills, $$$-Shutters on the Beach Santa Monica, $$ Hotel Figueroa Downtown LA
37 Once in a Lifetime Things to do in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is one of the most well-known cities in the world, and this guide will help you maximize your visit:
1. Get a haircut by Chris McMillan
Maybe you’re thinking, why would I go to LA to run an errand like getting my hair cut? Well, this is no ordinary haircut. Chris McMillan is the creator of the worldwide phenomenon – “the Rachel.”
That’s right, you could step into the salon run by the man behind Jennifer Aniston’s legendary haircut. A man trusted by many other notable celebs as well, ranging from Kim Kardashian to Reese Witherspoon and beyond.
You can book an appointment with select stylists online. But if it’s Chris you want, or any stylist not available to book online, you’ll have to call the salon directly to inquire about scheduling. And of course, be prepared to pay hundreds for access to a true celebrity stylist.
2. Ride around town in a luxury car
Another epic way to take in Los Angeles is to cruise through the city in a Ferrari. Ride from Hollywood to Beverly Hills alongside a private guide for a unique way to see the sights. Don’t forget to snap some photos to capture the memory.
👉 Book your Ferrari Driving Tour
3. Surf at Venice Beach
Venice Beach is much more than a stretch of sea and sand. You’ll find shops blasting music along the boardwalk, skateboarders hanging out at the skatepark area, people working on their fitness and surfers.
If you’re already an experienced surfer, join right in and hit the waves. Or, take a private surf lesson with an expert teacher. Even if surfing isn’t your thing, just watching the pros at work is a show in itself.
👉 Book a Private Surf Lesson on Venice Beach
4. Take to the skies on a helicopter tour
Hop onto a helicopter and see the City of Angels from the clouds above. You’ll get a unique perspective on iconic LA sites like Beverly Hills, the Hollywood sign,Venice Beach, The Getty Center and Santa Monica Pier.
Plus, make a short stop in Malibu where you’ll hop off to enjoy a glass of bubbly as you look out onto more stunning views.
👉 Book this Helicopter Tour with Malibu Landing
5. Go on a photo walk with a color stylist
Whether you’re visiting Los Angeles solo or making memories with loved ones, booking a professional photographer is a great way to capture your adventure.
And while there are plenty to choose from, those interested in a truly unique opportunity will book this photo walk with a color stylist.
With guidance from your professional photographer and stylist you’ll choose the location, topic, colors and mood of your photo shoot.
Along the way you’ll see more of LA, have the chance to learn Instagram photography tricks, and end up with 50+ beautiful photographs to remember your time in Los Angeles.
👉 Book Photo Walk with a Color Stylist
6. Hike to the Hollywood Hills sign
Lace up your hiking boots for a journey to the iconic Hollywood Hills Sign. As you ascend the trails, you’ll leave the hustle of the city behind and step into the serenity of the hills, taking in the beauty of Los Angeles from yet a different angle.
Learn about the history of the area and explore nearby sites with your guide including the Walk of Fame, Chinese Theater and more. Enjoy panoramic views of Los Angeles at sunset at the peak of your hike.
👉 Book Hollywood Hiking Sunset Tour
7. Watch sunset from Griffith Observatory
Another great sunset viewing opportunity is from Griffith Observatory. Arrive later in the afternoon and spend some time exploring the Observatory itself.
As sunset nears, make your way to the outdoor terrace of the cafeteria and pull up a chair for Mother Nature’s show. Or, find a different viewpoint on the property – there are plenty to choose from.
8. Be escorted around town in a classic convertible
Step back in time with a ride around town in a 1970s classic convertible! This classy tour lasts for approximately 4-8 hours and can accommodate groups of up to 5 people at a time.
Together with your private tour guide you’ll learn about quintessential Los Angeles sights as you see them, wind flowing through your hair as you ride from place to place. It’s a perfect way to see LA in style!
👉 Book your Classic Convertible Tour of Los Angeles
9. Ride the Amtrak Starlight train along the coast
If stunning views are what you’re after, then put the Amtrak Starlight train on your list of to-dos. Now, this won’t be for everyone because it’s something you have to commit to a bit.
This train goes all the way to Seattle from Los Angeles, and you can book a sleeper car for the best experience (for close to $700).
But for those who want the experience without the mileage, you could ride to a closer city like San Diego or San Francisco instead.
While it may take some extra planning to fly into one city and out of another during your visit to LA, it’s worth it – this is known as one of the most spectacular train rides on the Western coast.
For the best views of the Pacific Ocean and more, sit on the left side of the train when you’re going toward Seattle, or on the right if traveling the opposite direction.
The best tip is to drop your bags off at you seat when you board and head straight to the lounge car. There, seats are set up facing ‘floor-to-ceiling’ windows making this the ultimate observation car.
10. Day trip along the Pacific Coast Highway
Of course, if long-distance train travel doesn’t fit on your agenda then you could always cruise the Pacific Coast Highway yourself instead. Rent a car and make your way to Highway 1.
Start at Santa Monica Beach and drive along the coast to Malibu, passing Big Sur along the way and ending with Santa Barbara as your destination for the perfect day trip from Los Angeles.
While in Santa Barbara, enjoy an exclusive wine tour visiting family-owned wineries that are not typically open to the general public. Spend a night in the area or give yourself enough time after the wine tastings to be able to comfortably make the drive back to LA.
👉 Book Wine Tour to Private Locations in Santa Barbara
11. Go on a Warner Brothers Studio tour
When in LA, don’t miss seeing where some of your favorite movies and TV shows were filmed! The Warner Bros Studios Tour lets you check out back-lot sets, sound stages, iconic sets like Central Perk from Friends and green-screen technology and more.
👉 Book a Warner Brothers Studio Tour
12. Attend a live taping
Want in on the, “Action!”?
Attending a live taping is for sure a once in a lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles. And, it’s a real possibility to cross this item off your bucket list.
Most live tapings take place in Burbank, and you’ll want to arrive early as well as to stick around for several hours for the show itself so plan your day accordingly.
Do your research for a chance to watch a live taping of one of your favorite shows!
13. Scope out celebrity homes
Take a fun tour around the city to see where some of your favorite celebrities live, as well as where popular movie scenes were filmed. You’ll ride in an open-top minivan with a funny and informative guide for an enjoyable afternoon experience.
👉 Book the Los Angeles Celebrity Homes Bus Tour
14. Shop at Erewhon market
Even if you don’t plan to buy anything (get ready for some sticker shock), it’s worth walking around an Erewhon Market. If you feel like splurging, spring for one of the popular smoothies which can easily set you back about $20 for one.
As you make your way around the store, check out what unique (to us non Los Angelesians) items are so readily available to LA’s finest.
15. Eat animal style at In-N-Out
Try an In-N-Out meal where the joint first started, right here in Los Angeles back in 1948. While you’ll now find In-N-Out in several different states, there’s nothing like going to where it all originated.
Get a cheeseburger, milkshake, and ‘animal style’ fries to indulge in the popular flavors of this family-run establishment.
16. Dine where the celebs dine
Want a brush with fame? Then seek out where the celebs dine for a chance to see stars while you’re in LA. A few popular restaurants include Giorgio Baldi, Polo Lounge, Sugarfish Beverly Hills, Craig’s and Delilah.
If you’re planning to stake out at one of these celeb-favorite restaurants, be sure to make reservations in advance and dress to impress.
17. Stay where the celebs stay
Rather just stay where the celebs are staying?
Check out Chateau Marmont, Sunset Tower Hotel, Beverly Hills Hotel and more. If celebrity sightings are on your wish list then Los Angeles is a great place to pursue fulfillment.
With a little planning around where to stay, eat and hang out and some dedication you could find yourself brushing shoulders with Hollywood A-listers. Or, at least, peeking at them in real life from a short distance away!
18. Embrace the magic
One of the most incredible things to do in LA for magic lovers in particular is visiting the exclusive Magic Castle. The Castle has been welcoming magicians and magic lovers since 1963, and is set in a historic mansion.
Within, you’ll encounter a variety of magic shows taking place in different rooms, dining opportunities and shops.
But the Magic Castle isn’t open to everyone. You’ll either need to be invited by a current member, become a member yourself or book a night at the Magic Castle Hotel for an invitation.
For true magic lovers, this is a can’t miss, once in a lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles.
19. Take a swan boat ride at night
Whether you’re looking for something family friendly or romantic, a swan boat ride on Echo Lake at night covers both bases.
While it may seem a bit cheesy at first, you’re likely to find yourself really enjoying the experiencing of gliding around the lake on an LED-adorned swan boat. Spend a couple hours taking in the city lights from the water to delight your inner child.
👉 Book a Swan Boat Night Ride on Echo Lake
20. Step into a virtual reality
Escape reality for a couple hours with a VR headset and let yourself be transported with a variety of games and adventures. From virtual reality roller coasters to VR-versions of games like laser tag, this is a fun and unique way to spend a few hours in LA.
👉 Book a Virtual Reality Experience
21. Get the VIP treatment at Universal Studios Hollywood
Go behind the scenes with VIP access to the movie studio slash theme park at Universal Hollywood Studios.
Your experience will include a gourmet lunch, valet parking, express access to park attractions, a guided tour of the film studio and more. Save time and make the most of your visit with skip-the-line access and reserved seats for all the shows!
👉 Book the VIP Experience at Universal Studios Hollywood
22. Stroll along the Walk of Fame
Stroll along the star-studded Hollywood Walk of Fame and consult the directory to find your favorite stars. There are about 20 stars added each year, and the ceremonies to award these stars are open to the public, from the public viewing area.
You might get lucky and have your visit coincide with one of these ceremonies, live! Check here for upcoming ceremonies, which run from 11:15am-12:30pm.
23. Shop on Rodeo Drive
Whether you’re interested in spending money or solely window shopping, don’t miss strutting down luxe Rodeo Drive. Enter at Two Rodeo and take in the architectural beauty there.
Then, make your way down the drive, popping in and out of shops looking for your perfect souvenir.
24. Take an art class at LACMA
Of course, snap your must-have photos with the famous lamp post installation outside of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. But be sure to make plans within the museum as well. Specifically, by signing up for an adult art class.
It’s one thing to say you’ve visited LACMA, but another to say you’ve practiced your artistic craft there.
25. Dine in the dark at Opaque
For a unique dining experience, make your way to Opaque. Not only will you dine in the pitch black, you’ll also be kept in the dark about what you’re eating as your waiter will choose for you!
This is not an experience for those looking for a comfortable, fine dining moment. But if you’re feeling adventurous and willing to try something new then this will be a meal unlike any other. Go without any expectations.
26. Get quirky at the Time Travel Mart
Whether you’re traveling backwards or forwards in time, this trippy convenient mart will have whatever knick knacks you could need. Have fun exploring the whimsical products and pick up a gift or two – all proceeds go to supporting a youth non-profit.
27. Indulge in fairytale aesthetic at The Charlie
Charlie Chaplin purchased this property from Elizabeth Goddard and redeveloped it, before selling it himself in the 1940s.
Seventy years later, a real estate developer brought it back to life and now it is a hidden gem hotel with each room named after a celebrity who once resided there. The charm of the place is in its quaint, fairytale-like aesthetic which you can enjoy with a stay here.
28. Take a sunset ferris wheel ride
We’re all kids at heart, right? Sitting on the beach near the Santa Monica pier at sunset was one of my favorite activities in LA. But what would make the experience even better? Riding the ferris wheel on Santa Monica pier at sunset.
29. Watch a live music show at the Hollywood Bowl
Can you believe that the Hollywood Bowl is the world’s largest natural amphitheater?
It has also been voted one of the top 10 live music venues in the United States, as well as been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Needless to say, catching a show here belongs on your Los Angeles bucket list.
30. Eat your way around Grand Central Market
There’s some great food to be eaten in LA and at Grand Central Market you can try a large variety of it under one roof.
This trendy food market has delicious donuts, tacos, empanadas, sushi, pastries, ch-… you’d probably be better off consulting the full list of vendors for yourself.
31. Indulge at LA’s oldest ice cream parlor
Fosselman’s ice cream has been serving up hand-made ice cream for more than a century. Clearly, they’re doing something very right and very delicious. Visit to taste for yourself, and consider trying whatever flavor happens to be their special that month.
32. Spend the day at Disneyland
What can I say about ‘the happiest place on earth’ that you wouldn’t already assume? You could easily spend a whole day (and a whole lot of $$$) there, so plan accordingly.
33. Take me out to the ballgame…
Even as someone who could care less about sports, I always recommend a Cubs game to visitors of my home city – Chicago. There’s something fun about the experience of a ball game, so take yourself out to one at Dodger Stadium while you’re out in LA.
34. Ferry on over to Catalina Island
Only an hour away from LA by ferry is Catalina Island, and with a little planning you can easily take a day trip to visit it.
Once you arrive, spend some leisurely time in Avalon. You can explore the shops and restaurants, lounge at a beach club or book an activity like a glass-bottom boat tour or parasailing.
Alternatively, rent a golf cart to drive around and explore even more of the island.
35. Kick off the New Year at the Rose Parade
Every January 1st the Tournament of Roses, or Rose Parade, welcomes the New Year along Colorado Boulevard. Be a part of the fanfare (get tickets in advance) and you’ll have a memorable start to a brand new year!
36. Bask in nature at Angeles National Forest
Whether you choose to visit it as a day trip or to go camping there, Angeles National Forest is a beautiful getaway from the hubbub of LA city life. You’ll encounter plenty of hiking trails and a variety of ecosystems.
Note that to fully and freely explore Angeles National Forest you’ll need an Adventure Pass! You can purchase this at most LA sporting good stores (think REI) or even some gas stations. Be sure to do this before you go to ANF.
37. Have some laughs at Dynasty Typewriter
If you want a place that oozes cool then don’t miss Dynasty Typewriter in the industrial part of LA. This intimate and quirky performance space opened in 2018 and is the place to be for curated events including comedy shows and live podcasts.
Final Thoughts: Once in a Lifetime Things to do in Los Angeles
There you have it! There are so many incredible, unique things to do and see in Los Angeles. While some are the typical tourist attractions that are a must in LA, there are also plenty of hidden gems awaiting your discovery.
Whether you’re simply visiting or actually living in LA, bringing some of the ideas in this post to life is sure to enrich your experience of this popular California city.
