8 Once In A Lifetime Things To Do In Los Angeles for an Unforgettable Trip

If you’re looking for Once In A Lifetime Things To Do In Los Angeles, you’re in the right place! LA is a magical city filled with movie stars, sandy beaches, and exciting adventures you won’t find anywhere else. Whether you love Hollywood glamour, outdoor fun, or delicious food, Los Angeles has something special for everyone.
From exploring famous movie studios to sipping wine with giraffes, there are so many unique experiences waiting for you. In this blog, we’ll share the top once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles that will make your trip truly unforgettable!
Meet Movie Magic: Behind-the-Scenes Studio Tours in LA
Los Angeles is the heart of the movie industry, and you can see where the magic happens! Studio tours take you behind the scenes of famous films and TV shows. You can visit real sets, see props, and even spot actors at work.
Some of the best studio tours include Warner Bros., Paramount, and Universal Studios. Warner Bros. lets you walk through the Friends and Harry Potter sets. Universal Studios combines a tour with exciting rides based on famous movies.
If you love movies, this is a must-do activity. You’ll learn how films are made and see places that millions of people have watched on screen. It’s an experience you can only have in LA!
Hollywood Dream: Be Part of a Live TV Show Audience
Have you ever wanted to be in a real TV show audience? In Los Angeles, you can watch famous shows being filmed live. Many talk shows, game shows, and reality shows allow fans to attend for free!
Popular shows like The Ellen Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and The Price is Right offer tickets to visitors. You just need to book in advance or arrive early to grab a spot.
Being in a live audience is exciting because you see celebrities up close. You might even get a chance to interact with the hosts or win prizes. It’s a fun way to experience Hollywood in real life!
Sip and Safari: Wine-Tasting with Exotic Animals in Malibu
Just outside Los Angeles, Malibu offers a one-of-a-kind adventure. You can enjoy a wine-tasting safari while meeting exotic animals like zebras, llamas, and a famous giraffe named Stanley.
Malibu Wine Safari takes you through a scenic vineyard in an open-air truck. You’ll taste delicious local wines while feeding friendly animals. The tour guides share fun stories about the animals and the winery.
This is a perfect activity for couples or groups of friends. It’s a mix of adventure, relaxation, and great wine, making it one of the most unique things to do in LA.
Snap Iconic Photos: Best Instagram-Worthy Spots in Los Angeles
Los Angeles is full of picture-perfect locations. If you love taking photos, you’ll find amazing spots all over the city.
The Hollywood Sign is a must-visit for any traveler. You can hike up to get a close-up view or snap a picture from Griffith Park. The Walk of Fame is another classic location where you can find stars of famous actors.
LA is also home to colorful street murals and unique photo spots. The pink wall at Paul Smith, angel wings in Melrose, and Venice Beach’s street art are all great places to capture stunning photos.
Feel the Thrill: Ride the Santa Monica Pier Ferris Wheel at Sunset
The Santa Monica Pier is one of LA’s most famous landmarks. It’s a place where you can enjoy amusement park rides, ocean views, and delicious food.
The Ferris wheel is the best ride for breathtaking views. When you reach the top, you can see the ocean, the city, and a beautiful sunset. It’s a peaceful and magical moment you won’t forget.
After your ride, take a walk along the pier and try some fresh seafood or sweet treats. The lively atmosphere and ocean breeze make this a perfect place to relax and have fun.
Hunt for Celebrities: Where to Spot Stars in LA

Los Angeles is home to many celebrities, and there are a few places where you’re more likely to see them. If you love star-spotting, here’s where to go!
Rodeo Drive is a famous shopping street where celebrities buy luxury fashion. Restaurants like Nobu Malibu and Chateau Marmont are also known for hosting A-list stars.
For the best chance of seeing a celebrity, you can join a guided Hollywood tour. These tours take you past celebrity homes and popular filming locations. You never know who you might see!
Disneyland Wonders: Why It’s a Must-Visit Even for Adults
Disneyland isn’t just for kids – it’s a magical place for everyone! Located in Anaheim, just outside LA, it’s the perfect place for fun and adventure.
With exciting rides, live shows, and themed lands, there’s something for every visitor. The Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge attraction is a must-see, where you can build your own lightsaber and ride the Millennium Falcon.
Even if you’ve been to Disneyland before, there are always new things to discover. The park keeps adding new attractions, so every visit feels like a brand-new experience.
Disneyland Must-Do Attractions:
- Space Mountain – A thrilling indoor roller coaster in the dark.
- Haunted Mansion – A spooky but fun ride with amazing special effects.
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance – A cutting-edge attraction for Star Wars fans.
Hidden Gems: Unique LA Experiences Most Tourists Miss
Beyond the famous spots, Los Angeles has hidden gems that many visitors don’t know about. If you want a different experience, check out these places!
Secret Spots to Explore:
- The Last Bookstore – A huge bookstore with secret tunnels and cool art displays.
- The Bradbury Building – A stunning historic building featured in many movies.
- El Matador Beach – A beautiful, quiet beach with sea caves and rock formations.
Exploring these lesser-known spots will give you a different view of LA. Sometimes, the best adventures are the ones most people don’t know about!
Explore the Stars: Visit the Griffith Observatory for a Cosmic Experience
The Griffith Observatory is one of the best places to explore space and see amazing views of Los Angeles. Sitting on top of Griffith Park, this spot offers free access to exhibits about planets, stars, and galaxies.
Inside, you can look through powerful telescopes and see the sun, moon, and distant planets. The observatory also has fun space shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, where you can learn about the universe.
One of the best parts is the view from the terrace. You can see the whole city of Los Angeles, including the Hollywood Sign. If you visit at sunset, the sky turns beautiful colors, making it a great place for photos.
Why You Should Visit Griffith Observatory:
- Free entry to see space exhibits and telescopes.
- Amazing city views from the hilltop location.
- Educational and fun for all ages.
Hike to the Hollywood Sign for a Picture-Perfect Moment
The Hollywood Sign is one of the most famous landmarks in Los Angeles. If you love adventure, hiking up to the sign is a once-in-a-lifetime thing to do in Los Angeles.
There are a few trails that take you close to the sign. The Griffith Park Trail is the easiest and gives great views. The Brush Canyon Trail is longer but takes you directly behind the Hollywood Sign for the best photo spots.
Along the way, you’ll see beautiful nature, city views, and maybe even some wildlife. It’s a great way to get fresh air while experiencing a true Hollywood moment.
Tips for Your Hollywood Sign Hike:
- Wear comfortable shoes – The hike can be steep in some areas.
- Bring water and snacks – There are no shops on the trail.
- Go early or late – Midday can be very hot in LA.
Discover Art and Culture at The Getty Center

If you love art and history, The Getty Center is a must-visit in Los Angeles. This museum is home to beautiful paintings, sculptures, and photographs from different time periods.
The museum is famous for its stunning gardens and breathtaking city views. The Getty Center sits on top of a hill, and you take a fun tram ride to reach it. Once inside, you can see works by artists like Van Gogh and Monet.
Besides art, The Getty Center has peaceful gardens where you can relax and take amazing pictures. The architecture of the museum itself is a work of art!
Highlights of The Getty Center:
- World-famous art from different centuries.
- Beautiful gardens perfect for a relaxing walk.
- Free entry – You only need to pay for parking.
Conclusion
Los Angeles is a city full of fun, adventure, and magic. From seeing movie sets to hiking to the Hollywood Sign, there are so many once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles. Whether you love beaches, food, or famous sights, LA has something special for everyone.
Every trip to LA brings new memories and exciting experiences. So, plan your visit, explore famous spots, and enjoy all the amazing things this city has to offer. Your adventure in Los Angeles will be one you’ll never forget!
FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit Los Angeles?
A: The best time to visit Los Angeles is in spring (March–May) or fall (September–November). The weather is nice, and there are fewer crowds.
Q: Can you hike to the Hollywood Sign?
A: Yes! There are several hiking trails that take you close to the sign. The Griffith Park Trail and Brush Canyon Trail are popular options.
Q: Are studio tours in LA worth it?
A: Yes! Studio tours let you see real movie sets, props, and behind-the-scenes areas. Warner Bros. and Universal Studios are the best for visitors.
Q: Is it possible to see celebrities in Los Angeles?
A: Yes, but it’s not guaranteed. The best places to spot celebrities are Rodeo Drive, Nobu Malibu, and Chateau Marmont. You can also take a Hollywood Star Tour.
Q: What is a must-try food in Los Angeles?
A: LA is famous for street tacos, In-N-Out burgers, and food trucks like Kogi BBQ. If you love seafood, try fresh sushi at Nobu Malibu.