10 Best Things to Do in Los Angeles

Picture yourself as Mia from La La Land twirling under the city lights, or Iron Man cruising down Malibu’s coast. Los Angeles makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into a movie scene. You can hike the same trails as Hollywood stars, explore museums that feel larger than life, and watch sunsets that look straight out of a rom-com. From star-studded hikes to beaches you’ve seen on screen, the city is both familiar and exciting for any Filipino traveller ready to explore.

Here are 10 must-do experiences that bring the city to life!

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Imagine standing right under the famous Hollywood Sign, the same one you’ve seen in countless movies. The hike takes effort, but the view of the sprawling city is worth it. Stars like Zac Efron and Kendall Jenner have been spotted on these trails, so keep your eyes open as you might bump into a celeb mid-jog!

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Runyon Canyon is practically LA’s outdoor catwalk. Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus, and even Channing Tatum have been seen walking their dogs here. The views are spectacular, and the vibe is pure California fitness culture. So, you’ll feel like part of the scene just by lacing up your trainers.

Also read: PH Travellers Safe from New US Visa Bond Rule

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This is where baseball fever takes over the city. Stars like George Lopez and Jason Bateman are known Dodger fans who sometimes show up to cheer. Even if you don’t know the rules, the crowd energy, stadium snacks, and classic “Dodger Dogs” will make you feel like a local.

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Step into the movies where so many of your favourites were filmed. The studio tour takes you past sets used in Fast & Furious and Jurassic Park. Who knows? You might even catch a production in action, since this is still a working film studio!

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With over 2,700 stars, the Walk of Fame lets you hunt for your idols. Spot Bruno Mars, Jackie Chan, or Michael Jackson’s star right on the pavement. Touristy? Yes. But it’s one of those moments you’ll definitely flex on your IG stories.

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The Getty’s art collection is world-class, with works by Van Gogh and Monet. But it’s also famous for its hilltop gardens and sweeping LA views. Celebrities like Reese Witherspoon and Natalie Portman have been spotted enjoying its calm vibe away from Hollywood chaos.

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Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)’s Urban Light installation has appeared in films like No Strings Attached (starring Ashton Kutcher and Natalie Portman). Just next door, the bubbling tar pits preserve fossils from sabre-toothed cats and mammoths. It’s a mix of pop culture, science, and plenty of photo ops.

Also read: 12 Places to Visit in LA for First-Timers

Image credit: California Science Center

The Natural History Museum takes you face-to-face with giant dinosaur skeletons, while the California Science Center houses the retired Space Shuttle Endeavour. Even celebs like Chris Pratt have taken their kids here. It is that family-friendly! Perfect if you want to feel inspired without spending a fortune.

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The Broad is one of the coolest modern art museums in LA, filled with colourful, larger-than-life pieces. Beyoncé and Jay-Z famously filmed their Apesht* video inside the Infinity Mirrored Room here. It’s not just art, it’s a vibe that blends perfectly with your feed.

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Santa Monica Pier is a classic LA postcard! Picture cotton candy skies, a Ferris wheel, and ocean breezes. Head to Venice Beach and you might see pro skaters, musicians, or even celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio blending into the crowd. End the day with a sunset that feels like straight out of a Netflix rom-com.

Also read: A Quick Guide to Historic Filipinotown in Los Angeles

Los Angeles isn’t just about star-spotting, it’s about living like one, even for a few days. From free hikes with panoramic views to beach hangouts where celebrities blend with locals, LA offers a mix of glamour and grit that fits every budget.

If you’re flying in from Manila or Cebu, make LA your first stop in the US. It’s a city where Hollywood sparkle meets laid-back California sunshine, making every hour of that long flight worth it.