Los Angeles, California is one of the most popular cities in the world. Whether you want to live in L.A. or you are just planning a brief trip, immersing yourself in the unique culture of this location is an absolute must. As the second most populous city and metropolitan area in the United States, finding the spots you need to visit should be your first course of action.

What Defines Los Angeles Culture?

Dubbed ‘The City of Angels’, Los Angeles is defined by a culture of entertainment, but also heartbreak. Many are lured to the city in an attempt to make a name for themselves in Hollywood, but the cutthroat industry is astoundingly difficult to break into. This leads to many different people laying down roots in the city following their endeavors.

As a result, the culture of Los Angeles is a mixing pot of many different cultures, which is reflected in the art and architecture of the city. So many people have joined the culture of the city that it is a commonly searched location for people searches, as others try to reconnect with old loved ones or friends.

5 Must-See Locations to Be Apart of LA Culture

Whether you’re in Los Angeles for a night or a week, the following five locations are must-visit spots if you’re hoping to learn about the culture of the City of Angels:

1. The Hollywood Sign

Standing as one of the greatest American landmarks, the Hollywood Sign was originally completed in 1923 for a whopping $21,000. Ironically, it was originally meant to be the name for the neighborhood beneath it, yet it was quickly adopted as the name for an entire sub-town within Los Angeles where stars are born. At a height of 45 feet and recently renovated in 2022, those visiting Los Angeles can hike to the back of the sign for an up-close view or to the base of the sign for a photo opportunity. Whether you are miles away or directly in front of it, the Hollywood sign is a monument to the rich history of the area.

2. Griffith Observatory

Originally made popular in the Terminator franchise, Griffith Observatory sits not far down the hill from the Hollywood sign. Acting as the gateway to the cosmos for Southern California, those who love the starts can book a tour or simply go to see the free exhibits. The grounds themselves are stunning and offer sweeping views of downtown all the way out to Santa Monica and the ocean on a clear day.

3. The Broad Museum

Offering free admission, the Broad Museum is a modern contemporary art museum in downtown Los Angeles. Founded by two philanthropists: Eli and Edythe Broad, this gorgeous museum is a $140 million building that is just a two-minute walk from the also famous Walt Disney Concert Hall. The museum was designed by the world-renowned architectural firm Diller Scofidio and Renfro in conjunction with Gensler and has been dubbed the veil and the vault due to its unique design.

4. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

Not only is LACMA the biggest museum in Los Angeles, it is the biggest museum in the western United States. Founded in 1961, this museum sees over 1.5 million visitors on a yearly basis. LACMA split off from the Los Angeles Museum of History, Science, and Art, which is an excellent exhibit in and of itself. On top of this, LACMA is directly across from the famous La Brea Tar Pits which is an added bonus for those interest in preserved history.

5. Universal Studios

Finally, Universal Studios is just on the outskirts of Hollywood at a quick 10-minute drive away. With theme park rides, amazing food, and a whole “city” just outside the entrance that features more shops, you’ll never be bored at Universal Studios. Additionally, take a tour to see the sets of famous movies throughout history and even ride a tram that takes you down next to the actual buildings were iconic movie scenes were actually filmed.

Become a Part of Los Angeles Today

In reality, there’s no way to plan a bad Los Angeles trip. As a city dripping in culture, any place you visit will provide you with a unique and fun experience. However, the five above locations are some of the defining points of the city that make it what it is. Consider stopping in to see what all the craze is about on your next trip.