The ‘City of Angels’ is home to some of the best destinations in the world, for visitors of all ages
Los Angeles is a virtual paradise for visitors and tourists as it offers a little something for everyone. From theme parks to beaches, museums to entertainment complexes and everything else in between, visitors are often spoilt for choice when they visit the second largest city in the U.S. If you’re keen to live out that Los Angeles dream of yours, our essential guide will more than keep you sorted.
FOR PLAY: DISNEYLAND PARK
Nestled in Anaheim, Disneyland truly lives up to its billing as the happiest place on earth. Established in 1955, the theme park was the first in the long line of theme parks that have mushroomed all over the world. Although there are bigger and more elaborate Disneyland Parks around the world, there’s something magical about this very first one, which is why it always worth a visit.
FOR CULTURE: THE GETTY CENTER
Part museum, part cultural centre, the ultramodern Getty Center boasts the impressive personal art collection of industrialist J. Paul Getty along with a finely manicured and maintained postmodern garden. Although many come here to view the art pieces on display, the Getty Center itself is a facility to marvel at, owing to its unique architecture and its exquisite location which offers visitors stunning views of the city of Los Angeles.
1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, California; www.getty.edu/museum
FOR STARS: THE TCL CHINESE THEATRE
An iconic building in Hollywood, the formerly named Grauman’s Chinese Theatre is a Chinese-themed theatre that has stood since 1927. In addition to being a landmark attraction, the theatre has also carved a reputation for itself as one of the main venues for major movie premieres. Adjacent to the theatre is also the world-renowned Hollywood Walk of Fame that runs for about a mile along Hollywood Boulevard and features the handprints of thousands of stars and celebrities.
6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, California, www.tclchinesetheatres.com
FOR SHOPPING: RODEO DRIVE
If you want to shop where the rich and famous do, this is the place. A shopper’s paradise, Rodeo Drive offers a mix of branded high-end stores the likes of Gucci, Versace and Cartier. But don’t worry too much about blowing the monthly pay check here as there are also moderately priced shops, outlets and eateries in the area.
FOR A SLICE OF LIFE: VENICE BOARDWALK
You can find virtually anything here – girls skating in bikinis, street magicians, buskers, fortune-tellers, street food vendors, the list goes on and on. For many years, the Venice Boardwalk has been an institution of sorts for visitors to L.A. as it offers a unique perspective of its multi-faceted society and colourful citizens.
FOR DINING: THE FARMERS MARKET
Looking for some time to chill, people watch and tuck into some local flavours? The Farmer’s Market, which opens daily from after 9am has got you covered. Established in 1934, the market has grown from its humble beginnings to what it is today – an enticing smorgasbord of shops, stalls, eateries, cafes and restaurants. The vendors in this market cater to a wide mix of customers, which is evident by the numerous international dishes and food available here.
6333 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, California; www.farmersmarketla.com
