Top Attractions, Eateries and Places to Stay in Los Angeles

Los Angeles, commonly called the City of Angels, is a popular destination south of the border among Canadians. From sunny weather and famous beaches to iconic landmarks and a plethora of things to do and see, this vibrant and world-class destination has something for all tastes.

We have prepared this ultimate Los Angeles travel guide designed to help travellers best plan their trip. It covers everything from must-see attractions and hidden gems to suggestions for places to stay and eat. With our recommendations, you will certainly make the most of your trip to Los Angeles.

• Griffith Observatory – In addition to offering unmatchable views of the city of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign, this attraction also features planetarium shows, regular exhibits like the Tesla Coil, Gunther's Depth of Space, and free telescope viewing. Other fun things to see and do include Foucault's Pendulum, which shows the rotation of the earth, attending a party of the stars event, or even taking part in a half-mile sunset hike led by park rangers and museum guides while learning about the history of Griffith Park and the many objects in the sky.

 
• Huntington Library – Located inside Huntington Estate, this must-see cultural attraction is home to hundreds of thousands of the world's rarest books and manuscripts, and famous works of art. The walls of the many exquisite rooms in this residence are decorated with European paintings from the 15th to 20th centuries. Around the grounds, you will also find Japanese, Chinese, and Desert-style gardens, which provide the perfect backdrop for Instagrammable photos. If you have time, spend it at the Conservatory and explore three different habitats (i.e. tropical and cloud forests, and the carnivorous plants' bog. To end you stay at Huntington Estate, sit down and relax at the Rose Garden Tea Room.
• Universal Studios Hollywood – This attraction is ranked among the top 10 theme parks in the US. From live performances and play areas to thrill rides, there's something for all ages and interests. Go for an immersive experience in one of the themed lands including The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Super Nintendo World, or have fun with popular characters from The Simpsons, Minions, Jurassic Park and more. Be sure to catch the studio for your chance to discover how a real Hollywood studio works..

 
• Behind-the-scenes tour at Warner Bros – No trip to Los Angeles would be complete without a visit to the studio hangars where TV shows and movies are produced. Take a behind-the-scenes tour and peek at props and sets from classic movies to current hit TV shows. If you're lucky, you might even see celebrities in action.
• The Battleship USS Iowa Museum – Having originally served during WWII and the Korean and Cold Wars, the USS Iowa is permanently docked at the Los Angeles waterfront and currently functions as a museum offering daily tours and educational visits to the public. Explore the ship’s interior and its exterior decks, and learn more about its guns, missile room, mess areas and Captain’s Cabin. Visitors will also be able to enjoy a virtual reality simulator where they ca fly an actual HUP helicopter, as well as take a simulated ride in the Motion Flight Theatre.
• Day trip to Catalina Island – If you are travelling to California during the summer and want a break from exploring Los Angeles’ urban landscape, a day trip to this island should be an essential part of your itinerary. Located about 30 miles off the cost of California, this island is a hidden gem. Visitors will certainly feel blown away by the breathtaking beauty of this nature and water paradise.

 

• Grand Central Market – Located in downtown LA, this is one of the best places to spend some time if you are a foodie. With outstanding food options ranging from seafood and Indian to Japanese and Thai at a reasonable price, this market with its fun atmosphere will not disappoint. Grab something to eat and delight your palate at communal tables available through the market.
• The Original Farmers Market – This beloved town square has been around since the early 1930s, and its exterior façade still resembles a village of cottages. The market features an eclectic variety of shops and dozens of food joints serving cuisine ranging from Singaporean and Brazilian to wine and cheese in an open-air setting.

 
• 71 Above – Offering modern American cuisine in a 3-course menu, this dining and sky lounge, which rises 950 feet above the ground, boasts breathtaking views of Los Angeles and the surrounding mountain ranges, and spectacular ocean views from Laguna Hills to Malibu.
• Yamashiro – Set above Hollywood Blvd in a gorgeous Japanese-inspired pagoda, the iconic restaurant features stunning architecture and decor along with tranquil gardens and spectacular views of the city. Diners will find themselves immerged in magical settings.

 
• Nobu – Considered one of the world’s high-end eateries, Nobu caters to foodies interested in upscale Japanese cuisine blended with Peruvian influence. Taste some of Chef Nobu Matsuhisa's signature dishes like Toro Tartar with Caviar and Black Cod with Miso.

• Hollywood –  Considered one of the best areas to stay in LA due to its security and location. Because it is equally distant from all major attractions and is well served by public transport, the area is ideal for those without a car. Some of the top-rated hotels in this area are Hollywood Celebrity Hotel, Adler a Hollywood Hotel, and Godfrey Hollywood Hotel.
• Venice Beach – Being increasingly popular among travellers who want to stay in a tourist area in LA, Venice Beach offers lodging at prices that are usually lower than those in Santa Monica, which is north of LA's coastline. Great top-rated hotels options in this neighbourhood are Venice on the Beach Hotel, Jolly Roger Hotel, and Vitorrja.
• Los Feliz – This is an ideal area for walking around and taking a break from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Besides several museums in and around this area, this is where you'll also find the famous Griffith Park and get breathtaking views of Hollywood. If you want to stay in Los Feliz, Cara Hotel, The Rosemary, and the Silver Lake Pool & Inn are great choices.
• West Hollywood – In addition to being home to many attractions, several famous people live here. West Hollywood Park is an excellent choice for places to stay locally as it is one of the busiest and safest places in the city. Top-rated hotels in this area include BLVD Hotel & Spa and Tilt Hotel. 
• Downtown – Considered a business district, downtown Los Angeles may be the best choice for business travellers. It's one of the most convenient places to sleep in town because everything is within reach. The area is also home to top hotels such as The Metric, The Hoxton and Hotel Per La.

Ready to head to the iconic City of Angels? Don’t forget your travel insurance! There’s a plan for every budget and every traveller. See your plans options here.

Travel insurance is underwritten by CUMIS General Insurance Company, a member of The Co-operators group of companies and administered by Allianz Global Assistance. Allianz Global Assistance is a registered business name of AZGA Service Canada Inc. and AZGA Insurance Agency Canada Ltd.

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