Best Landmarks in Los Angeles

LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) & Urban Light

The largest art museum in the western US, now anchored by the new Peter Zumthor-designed David Geffen Galleries that opened in April 2026, fronted by Chris Burden's beloved Urban Light installation of 202 vintage street lamps. Go for the encyclopedic collection and the iconic lamp-forest photo. Practical note: Urban Light is free and lit nightly from dusk; the galleries are closed Wednesdays, so confirm hours and book timed entry.

Landmarks

Santa Monica Pier

A historic 1909 pier capped by Pacific Park's amusement rides, including the solar-powered Pacific Wheel, plus a vintage carousel, arcade, aquarium, and the western terminus of Route 66. It's a quintessential California beach outing with great sunset views. Practical note: the pier is free and open daily 6am-10pm, but individual rides and shops set their own hours, so check Pacific Park's calendar.

Landmarks

TCL Chinese Theatre & Hollywood Walk of Fame

The 1927 Chinese Theatre is a movie-palace landmark whose forecourt holds the handprints and footprints of film legends, set right on the Walk of Fame and its 2,700-plus brass stars. It's the classic Hollywood photo stop and still an operating premiere cinema with IMAX screenings. Practical note: free to stroll the boulevard, but it gets crowded and gritty — go in the morning for a calmer visit.

Landmarks

The Original Farmers Market

An open-air market and LA institution since 1934 at Third and Fairfax, with dozens of food stalls, grocers, and counters under its landmark clock tower, adjacent to The Grove shopping district. Go to graze on everything from gumbo to fresh doughnuts in a historic, casual setting. Practical note: open daily (Mon-Fri to 9pm, shorter weekend hours); parking is validated, and it pairs easily with a walk through The Grove.

Landmarks

Venice Beach Boardwalk (Ocean Front Walk)

A famously eclectic beachfront promenade lined with street performers, artists, skaters at the Venice Skate Park, and the outdoor Muscle Beach gym. Go for the people-watching, bike or skate rentals, and laid-back oceanfront atmosphere. Practical note: it's most pleasant by day; come early to avoid crowds, and bring small cash for vendors and performers.

Landmarks

Walt Disney Concert Hall

Frank Gehry's billowing stainless-steel concert hall, home of the LA Philharmonic and an architectural icon of downtown. Even without a ticket you can admire the exterior, walk the rooftop Blue Ribbon Garden, and take a free self-guided audio tour narrated by John Lithgow. Practical note: free self-guided tours run most days roughly 10am-2pm but pause on matinee performance days, so check ahead.