Living in Los Angeles means being steeped in its long and rich history. And this city certainly knows how to celebrate it! No matter where you go, you’ll find historical landmarks of every kind. Here are some of our favorite cool and quirky places to visit.
The Sunset Strip
Just how much music, dining, history, and comedy can be packed into under two miles? Visit The Sunset Strip, and you’ll have your answer. This legendary Los Angeles location was a favorite hangout of bootleggers, gangsters, gamblers, celebrities, protestors, musicians, and movie makers, who left layers of lore and even their ghosts, some say.
Today, their influence can still be seen, felt, heard, and tasted at restaurants like Katana and Carney’s, as well as top-talent comedy club the Laugh Factory and world-famous nightclubs like the Whisky a Go Go and the Roxy.
Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Called LACMA for short, this museum is the largest in the western US and attracts almost one million art lovers each year. And with over 150,000 works of art spanning an incredible 6,000 years, as well as concerts and films, you’re guaranteed to have a new experience each and every time you visit.
Location: 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Venice Beach
This interesting, stylish, and artsy part of Los Angeles was originally built in the early 1900s as an Italian-inspired beach resort. Today, Venice Beach and its storied boardwalk are home to street performers of every stripe, from jugglers and musicians to mimes and magicians. Hang out on the beach, or rent a beach cruiser bike to tour the Marvin Braude Coastal Bike Trail.
If you prefer a leisurely stroll-and-browse, hit the south side to Abbot Kinney Boulevard, where you’ll find boutiques, galleries, cafes, and unforgettable views.
Angels Flight Railway
Built in 1901, Angels Flight Railway holds the title for the shortest railway in the world. You may have even seen it at the movies or on TV. Its cable, or funicular, system transports its passengers 315 feet between Hill Street and Bunker Hill’s Grand Avenue for just $2 per round trip, which takes about a minute to complete.
Over 100 million people have traveled the Angels Flight Railway since it began operation. Will you be next?
Location: 351 So. Hill St, Los Angeles, CA
Disney California Adventure Park
An homage to California’s culture and history, the Disney California Adventure Park is the place to go for favorite characters from such films as Toy Story, Cars, Inside Out, and the Avengers.
But this fun and famous amusement park is also a place for adults to enjoy great shopping, dining, and more. On the theme park’s 72 acres, you’ll discover great places like Pacific Wharf, Carthay Circle Restaurant, and Hollywood Land.
Now some will say this locale isn’t in Los Angeles, per se, but Orange County is part of the Los Angeles metropolitan area, so we think it’s worth keeping on your list!
Location: 1313 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim, CA
Hollywood Boulevard
One of LA’s most popular tourist destinations, Hollywood Boulevard is the place for celebrity watching, shopping, or taking in a show. Find your favorite celebrity’s star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame between Gower and La Brea, or see their hand, foot and even nose prints at the TCL Chinese Theatre.
There’s also Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, Egyptian Theatre, Hollywood Museum, and far too many more to list.
The TCL Chinese Theatre
Perhaps the definition of “instant classic,” the TCL Chinese Theatre (originally Grauman’s Chinese Theatre) reached iconic status from its 1927 opening and subsequent premiere of the Cecil B. DeMille film, King of Kings. With its stunning Chinese architecture, artifacts and art, the Chinese Theatre is impossible to miss.
The theatre was lovingly renovated and restored twice, and now sports a refreshed exterior, upgraded amenities, and IMAX capability.
Location: 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA
Rodeo Drive
Have you ever wanted to steep yourself in luxury? Stroll world-famous Rodeo Drive to give your legs (and your credit card) a workout, then choose a celebrity hangout to nosh and stargaze in. Just one of many scenes you can act out in this unforgettable place.
Beverly Hills has more than enough to do in a day. This playground of the rich and famous offers fine dining, world-class designer shops and top-end hotels, not to mention museums, events, and much more.
Griffith Observatory
Located in Griffith Park on Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory is operated by the City of Los Angeles “for the benefit of all.” Southern California’s gateway to the cosmos, Griffith Observatory invites visitors to experience its planetarium, bookstore, cafe, and public telescopes. There’s also a great view of many areas in the Los Angeles Basin, including the Pacific Ocean, Hollywood, and downtown LA.
Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA
Santa Monica Pier
Built in 1909, the Santa Monica Pier, originally meant to be a public utility, is now a National Historic Landmark and must-visit destination for the almost 8 million visitors it receives each year. Not only is this beautiful destination one of the most photographed locations, but it’s also home to the only solar-powered Ferris wheel in the world.
Rides, attractions, treats, restaurants, and breathtaking views of the ocean are just a few of the many ways to enjoy the atmosphere of the Pier.
Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA
La Brea Tar Pits & Museum
The La Brea Tar Pits is the only excavation site of Ice Age fossils still active in the world today. The site’s natural tar continues to bubble to the surface, along with the preserved bones of animals who became trapped in the tar over several centuries.
Visitors can see the tar pits themselves, as well as view excavated specimens at the George C. Page Museum, located in nearby Hancock Park.
Location: 5801 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA
Getty Center
Art lovers, architecture buffs, and nature enthusiasts alike will find plenty to adore at the Getty Center. This beautifully constructed building houses a myriad of art from the Middle Ages to the present. Outside, visitors have over 86 acres of gardens and sculptures to enjoy, as well as gorgeous city views.
Location: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA
Warner Bros. Studio
Founded in 1932 by brothers Jack, Sam, Albert and Harry Warner, Warner Bros. Studio is open for tours of your favorite film and TV sets. Enjoy attractions like the Interactive Soundstage, which reveals how movies are made, and the Backlots tour, which allows you to walk in the footsteps of Hollywood’s most beloved legends.
Location: 3400 Warner Blvd., Burbank, CA
The Original Farmers Market
As local and fresh as it gets, the Original Farmers Market offers everything from crisp produce to indulgent treats, as well as all sorts of fun events from live music to classic car shows. Opening in 1934, this humble locale has hosted everyone from The Beatles to Frank Sinatra.
Explore the Original Farmers Market for a wide range of cuisine celebrating Los Angeles’ diverse immigrant communities and history.
Location: 6333 W. 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA
The Best of Los Angeles, Right From Your Door
All of the above locations allow you to experience Los Angeles’s history, culture, and style. But only one allows you to live it!
Carthay Pacific Apartments are located in the heart of Carthay. Buildings in this historic neighborhood are celebrated for their unique Googie architecture, which originated in Los Angeles. This includes the Carthay Pacific Apartments building, whose design was inspired by this style.
Our pet-friendly, luxury units feature top-quality amenities, in-unit laundry, and common area sundeck. We’re accepting applications now; book your tour today!
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