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53 essential L.A. filming locations: How many have you visited?

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Whenever Helen Ramirez has family visiting from Guatemala, she asks them to watch “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” and the “Back to the Future” series before they come.

She and Liz Highstrete are the chair and vice-chair of the L.A. Conservancy volunteer committee that created several self-guided walking tours of filming locations throughout Los Angeles during the pandemic.

“My cousins were huge, huge ‘Back to the Future’ fans, so when I took them to the Gamble House , they were like, ‘Oh my God, this house is real,’” she said. “And I was like, ‘Yes. Yes, it is.’”

Then she takes them to the tunnel in Griffith Park where the “Back to the Future Part II” chase scene was filmed. The tunnel is also the location of the entrance to Toontown in “Who Framed Roger Rabbit.”

In this week’s edition of The Times’ guide to Hollywood careers , we’re delving into the world of locations. What’s it like to be a location scout ? What do you do if you want your own home to be a filming location ?

“Successful filming should be a win-win,” said veteran location scout Lori Balton. “The production gets an evocative location, with depth and nuance, and the site gets a location fee.”

In the case of historic properties, this fee often goes to support the maintenance of the location, she said.

Highstrete pointed to L.A.-set films like 1955’s “ Rebel Without a Cause ” and 1997’s “ L.A. Confidential ” that showcase numerous unique locations throughout the city. There are also newer films like 2009’s “ (500) Days of Summer ,” 2016’s “ La La Land ” and 2019’s “ Once Upon A Time... In Hollywood ” — that are also love letters to L.A.

These memorable Hollywood backdrops are often easy to visit. We gathered a list of some of Los Angeles’ memorable filming locations, including some recommendations from Ramirez, Highstrete and Balton. Which ones have you been to? Are there others you recommend? Email us at [email protected] to let us know.

The Gamble House

'Music Box' steps

'Halloween' house

The flying bikes street

The Frolic Room

South seas apartment complex.

Los Angeles Theatre

Pee-wee's house.

Occidental College

Heritage Square Museum

Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden

Boardner's

Ennis House

'back to the future' neighborhood.

The Cowboy Palace Saloon

Larry Edmunds Bookshop

Formosa Cafe

Musso and Frank Grill

Santa Monica Pier

Los Angeles City Hall

Union Station

Hollywood sign

Beverly Wilshire

Castle Green

Astro Family Restaurant

Chinatown intersection.

The Wiltern

Cole’s French Dip

Millennium Biltmore Hotel

Griffith Observatory

Torrance high school, puente hills mall, the blue room.

The Palace Theatre

The Tower Theatre

Bradbury Building

Cicada restaurant and lounge.

Greystone Mansion and Gardens

Mrs. Robinson’s house

The Aero Theatre

Rae's restaurant, hinano cafe.

Venice High School

Judy's house from "rebel without a cause", cathy's corner, john marshall high school, dresden restaurant.

Randy's Donuts

Starkman building.

'(500) Days of Summer' bench

Jerry seinfeld's new york apartment building.

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Ranking LA's 50 Most Iconic Filming Locations

As we all know, many of Hollywood’s films are shot on the lot of a motion picture studio which the rest of us don’t have access to. However, you’ve probably visited at least a few of these spots in Los Angeles that have made appearances in popular films and television shows. While some of these locations have been filmed on countless times, others are memorable for one iconic scene from a film.

A couple of these have even been a stand in for a setting in another state or country. From the violent action in Pulp Fiction to the romance in La La Land, our list covers a diverse mix of properties which have been featured in every genre imaginable.

In our search, we have taken into consideration the number of film permits, the novelty, and popularity of the films that featured these locations. Whether you’re looking to rent a location or are eager to visit a spot from your favorite movie, take a look at our list below:

IV. Memorable Locations (50-36)

50. pulp fiction junkyard.

Film Permits: 1 Appears in: Pulp Fiction

A junkyard might seem worlds apart from the glamour of Hollywood, it became the backdrop for an important scene in Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction. In this scene, the two main characters played by Samuel L. Jackson and John Travolta attempt to dispose of a body and car. While known as Monster Joe’s in the film, the real junkyard is called A & R Auto Dismantlers in Sun Valley, California.

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48. the parking lot from a star is born.

Film Permits: 26 Appears in: A Star is Born

This grocery store located in Glassell Park made its way into one of the most talked-about movies of 2018. When Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper’s characters stop by for frozen peas, they end up discussing songwriting in the empty parking lot. While this may have been a normal supermarket to shop at, A Star is Born has now made Super A Foods a destination.

47. The Frolic Room

Film Permits: 10 Appears in: LA Confidential

The Frolic Room is said to be the most historic dive bar in Hollywood with household names like Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland being regulars of the establishment. The giant neon yellow sign invites customers into an immersive space with a jukebox and walls lined with historic photos of celebrities. With the Black Dahlia last seen at this bar and countless celebrities stopping by since the 30s, the bar has an authenticity to it that other new bars don’t possess. This atmosphere made it the ideal setting for scenes in the 1997 film noir, L.A. Confidential .

46. Strip Mall from Nightcrawler

Film Permits: 11 Appears in: Nightcrawler

Located at 1522 West Sunset Boulevard, by the strip mall at Laveta Terrace in Echo Park, Angelino's is a popular local bakery, well loved for its delicious croissants, donuts, smoothies and coffee. Kavanaugh says that location scouting for this type of night scene needs to be done at night because in the daytime, the same location usually doesn't look as dramatic. "I was washed ashore in the ebb and flow of the city at night," says Kavanaugh. "These intersections, neighborhoods, 24-hour laundromats, late-night taco trucks and Korean BBQ stands would be the sets and locations—and characters—for this film."

45. The Smokehouse

Film Permits: 8 Appears in: Argo, La La Land, The Office (TV)

Established in 1946, this restaurant is located next to the Warner Brothers lot in Burbank, California which has led to its strong connection with the film industry. The establishment became so popular that it relocated just a few years later. While producers and actors frequent the establishment for a bite to eat, it has also been used as a set for several films and television shows. You have probably seen characters from La La Land, Argo, The Office, and Scandal stopping here for a meal or a discreet meeting.

44. Desert Hideout from Terminator 2

Film Permits: 2 Appears in: Terminator 2

Out in the desert, Cactus Jack's market which sat along a dusty road in Lancaster, California stood out with its bright yellow and red exterior. You may remember it from Terminator 2: Judgement Day when Sarah, John, and T-800 made a pit stop here. While the market has since closed, the building still remains in a barren state in the surrounding desert.

43. Vista Theatre

Film Permits: 17 Appears in: True Romance, Get Shorty, Cafe Society

Located on Sunset Drive, this single-screen theater opened in 1923 is one of the remaining buildings from Hollywood’s construction in the 20s. Out front, the theater’s sidewalk displays hand and footprints from independent and cult film icons. The theater was also featured in the film, True Romance where Christian Slater and Patricia Arquette’s characters first meet. While having mostly screen pornographic films, the theater has recently been renovated to show newly released films.

42. Victorian Village

Film Permits: 51 Appears in: Countless photoshoots

Established in 1969, the Heritage Square Museum has preserved eight historic Victorian buildings which were at risk of being demolished during expansion in the 60s. These properties include a barn, a methodist church, and an octagonal house which has become more rare in the U.S. Walking through the open-air museum takes you back in time and immerses you in another era. The museum has been featured in films like Saving Mr. Banks and Legally Blonde.

41. The Last Bookstore

Filming Permits: 111 Appears in: Gone Girl, You (TV)

Founded in 2005, the bookstore has moved from its original location to a former bank in Downtown LA. This gives the store extra character with the vault still in place. Their interesting displays are constantly posted on Instagram, attracting countless tourists. The bookstore has been featured in David Fincher’s Gone Girl.

40. The Train Station from Collateral

Filming Permits: 24 Appears in: Collateral

A scene in Collateral takes a hit-man played by Tom Cruise chasing Jamie Foxx’s and Jada Smith’s characters through multiple metro stations and lines along the winding Los Angeles Metro Station. They first appear to run down into the underground component at the 7th Street/Metro Center Station, jumping onto a departing train to escape, unsuccessfully. The chase takes them through the underground subway component of the Blue Line, all the way to the Green Line’s Harbor Freeway Station where they run out of room to run. This train station is located at the interchange of the Harbor and Century freeways, overlooking a knot of concrete ramps and overpasses, and was used in an eerie foreshadowing scene at the beginning of the movie, while Foxx’s and Smith’s characters were still developing their relationship.

39. Cunningham House from Happy Days

Film Permits: 7 Appears in: Happy Days

If you were to search out the house from Happy Days at its official address: 565 North Clinton Drive in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, you would be severely disappointed. The actual house is located in Hancock Park near Paramount Pictures which was used for all the establishing shots in the show. While the show ended over 30 years ago, the house has remained the same with its white pillars and brick-lined lawn.

39. The Pool from Fast Times at Ridgemont High

Film Permits: 3 Appears in: Fast Times at Ridgemont High

This Los Angeles private residence was used in the filming of Fast Times at Ridgemont High. The property is known as the Hamilton house as it fictionally belonged to the characters from the film, Stacy and Brad Hamilton. The most memorable part of the film shot at this residence was Phoebe Cates’s topless scene in the pool.

38. Lovell House

Film Permits: 2 Appears in: LA Confidential

The famed hillside abode designed by Richard Neutra doubled as Pierce Patchett's (David Strathairn) luxurious home, whose modernist design represented a distinct change from Ellroy's novel. “Curtis had been thinking that unlike what seemed to have been written in the Ellroy book, that the Strathairn character would have modern taste and live in a modern building,” she says. “And that place came to mind because all architectural historians, amateur and professional ... know about it.”

37. Herald Examiner Building

Film Permits: 21 Appears in: Hundreds of Photoshoots

Built in a Spanish Colonial Revival style in 1914, this building is located in Downtown Los Angeles and houses the Los Angeles Herald Examiner. In 2015, renovation plans began to open restaurants and shops on the bottom floor. It has become an architectural icon with its arched windows and figures carved into the walls. The intricate detailing in its design has made it a popular backdrop for hundreds of photoshoots.

36. The Jungle from Training Day

Film Permits: 3 Appears in: Training Day

Formally known as Baldwin Village, this neighborhood was developed in the early 40s and 50s in South LA. While the tropical trees scattered around are what led to locals nicknaming it “The Jungle,” this somewhat negative connotation forced the city to change the name to its current one. Magic Johnson, former NBA hall of famer, has attempted to revitalize the area which has begun to improve the area. The neighborhood is most recognizable for appearance in the 2001 film Training Day.

IV. Standout Locations (35-26)

35. schaffer residence from a single man.

Film Permits:  12 Appears in: A Single Man

This mid-century modern house located in Glendale, California was built in 1949 and has made it onto the National Register of Historic Places. The property feels at home in the landscape as the large windows almost give an illusion of being outside among the oak trees which the house was built around. The residence was also used in the Tom Ford film, A Single Man where Colin Firth’s character lived.

34. Theater from Donnie Darko (Aero)

Film Permits: 3 Appears in: Training Day, Get Shorty, Donnie Darko

Built in 1939 by Donald W. Douglas, this theater’s main purpose was to serve as a 24 hour movie-house for Douglas’s employees. It eventually became popular in the neighborhood where it is located in Santa Monica. While the theater almost closed after a lack of funds, it was saved by the nonprofit organization, American Cinematheque. You can catch a glimpse of Aero Theater in the films, Get Shorty and Donnie Darko.

33. The Rosslyn Hotel

Film Permits: 74 Appears in: Se7en  

Built in 1914, with its annex built across the street in 1923, these historic buildings once constituted the largest hotel on the west coast. Its enormous dining room and marble lobby with a five panel mural gave off a luxurious feel. The hotel was built for one million dollars next to an older hotel which inspired the movie it was featured in, The Million Dollar Hotel. The hotel has also appeared in films like Se7en and The Rock.

32. Mulholland Drive

Film Permits: n/a Appears in:  Twin Peaks (TV), Planet of the Apes (TV)

This 21 mile stretch of road in Santa Monica Mountains connects the east and west end of U.S. Route 101 and is one of the most traveled roads in the U.S. Some of the most expensive homes can be found along this road which gifts homeowners with a stunning view of the Hollywood Sign, the L.A. Basin, and the San Fernando Valley. The street even has a David Lynch film named after it which he has said evokes a feeling of “the history of Hollywood.”

31. Pulp Fiction Pawn Shop

Film Permits: 4 Appears in: Pulp Fiction

Located in Canoga Park, this seemingly ordinary pawn shop was actually the location for a famous scene from Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction. In the Crown Pawn Shop, the two main characters from the film end up being captured by the store owner and are forced to fight their way out with dire consequences. When not being used as a filming location, you can stop by their establishment to sell your gold, jewelry, and watches for cash-but maybe stay away from the basement.

30. Jackson Maine's House

Film Permits: 4 Appears in: A Star is Born

The real house that served as Bradley Cooper ‘s troubled character’s home in A Star is Born is actually lovely and light-filled. The 2,986-square-foot home where the fictional singer Jackson Maine lived in the movie — and which played host to its dramatic final scene (no spoilers here) — is a single-story midcentury property in Calabasas, California. Originally built in 1973 by Douglas Rucker.

29. Pacific Electric Building

Film Permits: 86 Appears in: Se7en, LA Confidential, Face/Off

Opened in 1905, this historic building was used as a terminal for the Pacific Electric Red Car Lines. Being over a century old, the building has made it onto the National Register of Historic Places and was once the largest building west of Chicago. After the closure of the terminal, the vacant space was a popular spot for film shoots like Se7en and L.A. Confidential. The building has since been converted into a residential space but artifacts from its past remain in the lobby.

28. Starship Trooper

Filming Permits: 47 Appears in: Face-Off, Britney Spear, Chris Brown music videos

Though the architecture, by Ed Niles, is distinctive, the 7,000-square-foot home's most notable feature may be its Hollywood history. It has appeared in more than 20 pieces of entertainment, serving as the backdrop for Chris Brown's "Fortune" album cover, Britney Spears' "Work B**ch" music video, and movies from "Face Off" starring Nicolas Cage and John Travolta to "Benchwarmers" starring David Spade, Adam Sandler , John Lovitz, and Rob Schneider. · Gone in 60 seconds – Angelina Jolie , Nicolas Cage, Rocky 6 – Sylvester Stallone, Fun with Dick and Jane – Jim Carrey, Tea Leoni, Alec Baldwin, Starship Troopers - Casper Van Dien, Denise Richards.

27. Union Station

Film Permits: 316 Appears in: The Dark Knight Rises, Blade Runner,  Catch Me If You Can

Opened in 1939, Union Station is the main railway station in Los Angeles and is close by to Chinatown and the Civic Center. The station is often visited by tourists for photos due to its attractive design of marble running along the floor and walls and the enclosed garden patios. The station has been a backdrop for iconic films such as Blade Runner, Catch Me if You Can, and The Dark Knight Rises.

26. Velazut Ranch

Film Permits: 250 Appears in: Westworld (TV)

The possibilities are endless at Velazut Motion Picture Ranch which in a 30 mile radius includes sets such as ranches, a Western town, a Mexican city and many more. Not to mention, their 750 acres of natural landscape which can be used to film any scene out in a rural country. The ranch was used to film the hit show, Westworld in which they used the set of a small Mexican-border town.

II. Unforgettable Locations (25-11)

25. bradbury building.

Film Permits: 2 Appears in: Blade Runner, Bosch, 500 Days of Summer, Chinatown

This architectural landmark is a remarkable sight due to the atrium which fills the building with light. The building’s five open floors showcase the geometric staircases which have stood the test of time since being built in 1893. The Bradbury Building has made countless appearances in pop culture from films to television to music videos and literature. It has most notably been featured in Blade Runner as well as The Artist and 500 Days of Summer.

24. The Graduate Church

Film Permits: Appears in: The Graduate

This mid-century church built in 1961, displays impressive windows and floor to ceiling glass behind the altar. The church has become famous after filming for The Graduate took place there in 1967. The raunchy content of the film spurred disagreement among the congregation following its release but has remained a popular spot as parishioners still see passerbys taking photos during the day.

23. The Mall from Terminator and Ridgemont High

Film Permits: 25 Appears in: Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Commando, Terminator 2

This three level shopping mall opened in 1980 and soon became famous for the teen mall culture which erupted from the many teens who frequented their department stores. It currently has been reopened as an open-air center with only one part of the original mall court remaining. Before its renovation, the location was featured in Fast Times at Ridgemont High, Terminator 2: Judgement Day, and Back to the Future Part II.

22. Club Ed

Permit Count: 228 Appears in: Hundreds of commercial shoots

Club Ed is a movie set in the high desert that was built in 1990 for the Dennis Hopper film "Eye of the Storm." After the movie's shooting was complete, the crew felt that the classic Route 66 set was too good to tear down and so Club Ed was born and named after Ed who was the caretaker. I didn't walk the property, as I was not sure if it was allowed and there was filming was going on. Make sure you get permission from the caretaker before you enter the property.

21. The Stahl House

Film Permits: 152 Appears in: Countless photoshoots and films

With floor to ceiling glass walls and a pool overlooking the expanse of Los Angeles, this 1960 house is a dream come to fruition. Not only is it listed as a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument, but it is on the National Register of Historic Places as well as in the top 150 properties for America’s Favorite Architecture list. The house has been used for fashion shoots, ads, films, and music videos. Before you get out your checkbook to make an offer on this magnificent house, it is unfortunately only available for tours or commercial use.

20. Elysian Park

Film Permits: 1108 Appears in: Terminator 2

Elysian Park is known as an escape from the hustle and bustle of LA because of its beauty and tranquility.  Try to locate the hidden swing with stunning views of DTLA as a fun bonus! If you are looking to shoot at a serene location that still captures LA’s beauty and essence, Elysian Park is right for you.

19. Bronson Canyon

Film Permits: 12 Appears in: Batman (TV)

Nestled in the foothills above Hollywood Boulevard and at the northern end of Canyon Drive, Bronson's iconic quarry has been seen in everything from classic Westerns ( The Searchers, Ride the High Country ) to beloved sci-fi ( Invasion of the Body Snatchers, Robot Monster ). The cave is most famously identifiable as "the Batcave" on the 1960s Batman TV series.

18. UCLA Campus

Film Permits: 1 Appears in: Legally Blonde, The Godfather, Gilmore Girls, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The House Bunny, Forrest Gump

With 419 acres of campus ground, the well known university contains countless areas to film in. The charming tree-filled campus with lush grassy areas is a refreshing break from the surrounding urban area. Located near Beverly Hills, the university opened its campus to students in 1929. Since then, it has been the backdrop for films like Legally Blonde, The Godfather, and tv shows like Gilmore Girls and Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

17. USC Campus

Film Permits: 23 Appears in: The Graduate, Ghostbusters, Blue Chips, Forrest Gump, Road Trip, Legally Blonde, Harold & Kumar Go to White Castle, The House Bunny

USC’s campus is in a prime location being a couple miles from Downtown LA and right next to the Shrine Auditorium as well as the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The stunning red brick campus includes many fountains and an impressive courtyard at the School of Cinematic Arts. The campus has been featured in at least 180 films and tv shows including Forrest Gump, Legally Blonde, Ghostbusters, The Graduate, and more.

16. The Office from The Office

Film Permits: 37 Appears in: The Office

Situated in Van Nuys, this building might be mistaken as being located in Scranton, PA. What might seem like a simple, gray office building and parking lot was the stand in for Dunder Mifflin in The Office. On a regular day, this building is the home of Chandler Valley Center Studios.

15. Linda Vista Hospital

Film Permits: 531 Appears in: Terminator 2: Judgement Day

The psychiatric institution Sarah Connor escapes from sounds quite a bit like Atascadero State Hospital in San Luis Obispo County, which some have claimed as the real-life inspiration behind the cinematic sanatorium. The scenes at the hospital seen in the film were actually shot much closer to home, at the then-abandoned Lake View Terrace Hospital. A drug and alcohol rehab facility now stands at the site.

14. Kill Bill Church

Film Permits: 13 Appears in: Kill Bill, True Confessions, Inferno

This location is most familiarly the backdrop for the famous, bloodied scenes of Uma Thurman in a wedding dress from Kill Bill: Volume 1 and Kill Bill: Volume 2. The church more formally known as the Sanctuary Adventist Church is built in a Spanish style and is surrounded by farms and ranches. The paint chipped church with a lone Joshua tree has the perfect aesthetic for any project with an ominous mood. The building has also been featured in Inferno, Crossroads, and True Confessions.

13. Angel's Flight

Film Permits: 6 Appears in:  La La Land, Bosch (TV)

This historic landmark built in 1901, has been a popular stop for tourists which stands out with its bright orange and black theme among the other buildings on Hill Street. The location was featured in countless films including a 1965 film noir titled, Angel’s Flight. However, it is most recognized from La La Land in which you can watch Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling taking a ride to the top.

12. Point Fermin in San Pedro

Film Permits: 36 Appears in: Chinatown, Pearl Harbor, The Usual Suspects, Crash This seaside urban green space, complete with a 1874 Victorian lighthouse, historic Band Shell, and sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, is located near the southern terminus of L.A.’s Harbor Freeway. It's here that detective Jack Nicholson discovers what happened to the missing reservoir water in Chinatown . Surrounding highlights include Walker's Cafe ( Gods and Monsters ), Fort MacArthur Military Museum ( Pearl Harbor ), the 1932 Cabrillo Beach Bathhouse ( Face/Off ), and the Korean Friendship Bell ( The Usual Suspects ) at Angels Gate Park. The entrance to Angels Gate was the setting of a pivotal scene in Crash , when Matt Dillon rescues Thandie Newton.

11. Terminator 2 Chase Scene Location

Filming Permits: 12 Appears in: Terminator 2: Judgement Day

Dedicated filming location enthusiasts have identified this as the spot where the T-1000 crashes his 18-wheeler into the Bull Creek spillway in pursuit of John Connor. The flood control channel's extensive use in the breakneck sequence makes it arguably the most famous culvert in Los Angeles County.

I. Legendary Locations (10-1)

10. la times building.

Film Permits: 504 Appears in: Drive

Opened in 1935, this building won a gold medal only two years later at the 1937 Paris Exposition. These Art Deco headquarters will no longer be home to the Los Angeles Times but is still used as a prime filming location. The building can be seen in films such as Argo , Moneyball, and Dreamgirls and tv shows like Scandal and Bones.

9. Leo Carillo Beach

Film Permits: 150 Appears in: Grease

Established in 1953, this state park was named after Leo Carrillo who worked on the State Parks Commission. The park is situated along the Malibu coast and contains many cool spots such as their tide pools, sea caves and reefs. Its 1.5 miles of beach have been used for films like Grease, The Karate Kid, Usual Suspects, Cast Away, and more.

8. Pink Motel

Film Permits: 371 Appears in: Drive

Located on historic U.S. Route 99, Cadillac Jacks Cafe and Pink Motel is a perfect retro movie set with a bright pink motel and a diner decorated with neon lights. Also available for use is between 28 to 30 fully restored classic cars from the 1950s and 1960s. This set has been featured in Netflix Original’s GLOW and the 2011 film, Drive.

7. Black Dahlia

Film Permits: 51 Appears in: Drive

The John Sowden house has been recognized as one of Lloyd Wright’s most important works. Its most notable features are the unique structure which resembles either a temple or a shark mouth and the concrete textile blocks used to build the house. This Mayan revival style residence was originally not received well by critics but has since been praised for its uncommon appearance. You can see this house in Martin Scorsese’s film, The Aviator.

6. Park Plaza Hotel

Film Permits: 368 Appears in: Drive

Created by the architect, Claud Beelman, the Gothic Revival style hotel was built in the 1920s complete with a massive brass clock above the entryway. Its elaborate interior has been a backdrop for music videos like Kendrick Lamar’s “HUMBLE” and Maroon 5’s “Sugar.” It was announced in 2016 that it would be restored to its original grandeur and has been renamed The MacArthur.

5. Lower Grand Avenue

Permit Count: 421 Appears in: Terminator, Dark Knight Hidden under South Grand Ave is this downtown underpass which is lit with stripes of light running vertically along the bottom of the overpass. This gloomy location was the backdrop for the 2009 film, The Soloist. In the film, Lower Grand Ave was shown as a busy main street although it is regularly a vacant area.

4. The Sheats-Goldstein Residence

Permit Count: 205 Appears in: The Big Lebowski As one of Los Angeles’s most iconic homes, the Sheats-Goldstein residence stands apart with its concrete roof that almost resembles a cave. It has been featured in movies such as The Big Lebowski and Charlie’s Angels . With its full glass walls and stunning view of LA, it’s no surprise it has also been used for music videos and parties by the likes of Snoop Dogg, Rihanna, Lana Del Ray and more.

3. Point Dume

Permit Count: 1200 Appears in: Planet of the Apes, Big Lebowski With its close proximity to the film and television industry location, Point Dume's Westward Beach continues to be a popular filming location for films, television, advertisements, and videos, appearing frequently whenever a beach scene is needed.Jackie Treehorn’s beach party in The Big Lebowski was filmed near the cliff face as well as important scenes in the Planet of the Apes series.

2. Venice Beach

Permit Count: 2720 Appears in: American History X, Californication (TV) Venice Beach is not only the most popular beach location for filming in LA County, it’s also the second most permitted filming location overall (second only to Griffith Park). In many ways, it’s ultimate California backdrop providing a diverse mix of people, places, and scenery. If you’re looking to film crowds, Venice has you covered with approximately 28,000 to 30,000 people visiting the Venice Beach on a daily basis. The Venice Boardwalk stretches over two miles and hosts hundreds of vendors, performers, and homeless vagrants. The beach also offers various filming landmarks including the basketball and handball courts, the fishing pier, the skatepark and graffiti wall, and of course, the bodybuilding mecca at Muscle Beach.

1. The Griffith Observatory

Permit Count: 4740 Appears in: La La Land, Rebel Without a Cause Our list topper, Griffith Observatory, is easily one of the most iconic and beautiful places in Los Angeles County. Griffith Observatory is a public observatory that is owned and operated by the City of Los Angeles. The views from the observatory, especially of the famous Hollywood Sign, are spectacular and breathtaking. Inside of the beautifully constructed main building, there is an educational museum where you can learn about the solar system while looking out at the night sky.

So there you go, our list of the best residential filming options in LA . Hopefully, it will help inform your choosing a location, and giving you a reference point on market rates in the city. If none of these options feel like a good fit, you can always explore more locations on Giggster.com .

Find thousands affordable spaces on Giggster!

22 Famous Movie Locations In Los Angeles That You Can Visit For Free

Open spaces, parks, museums, and more city spots that you can see without spending a dime to relive legendary scenes of your favorite movies.

Los Angeles, famously known as the entertainment capital of the world, boasts an array of iconic movie locations that have graced the silver screen for decades. From bustling city streets to serene parks and historic landmarks, the city serves as a cinematic backdrop for countless legendary scenes. In this guide, we’ll delve into famous movie locations in Los Angeles that hold a special place in cinematic history. Best of all, these sites are accessible to all movie fans, offering an opportunity to step into the shoes of beloved characters and relive unforgettable moments without spending a dime.

1. South Pasadena – Halloween

This place in Los Angeles has been chosen by producers since… It doesn’t really look like Los Angeles. The only thing that can be a tell-tale sign that you’re indeed in the city of angels is a few palm trees that are very well hidden thanks to movie magic.

The appeal of this area is that it looks like your “all-American” neighborhood, which makes it ideal for shooting blockbusters. This is exactly what happened with the 1978 film, Halloween. In this neighborhood, we can find the terrifying home of Mike Myers, intended to depict the fictional town of Haddonfield, Illinois. 📍 Location: 1000 Mission St., South Pasadena, California 91030 🎥 Also seen on: Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Back To The Future (area, not specific location).

2. Santa Monica Pier – Forrest Gump

This filming location is iconic and historical, so much so that the first scene ever shot here was featured in Charlie Chaplin’s 1914 “Tillie’s Punctured Romance”. The Pier is one of LA’s main attractions that offers storytellers a picturesque setting with ocean views, sandy beaches, an amusement park, and a classic boardwalk.

But without a doubt when visiting this place, it’s impossible not to think about, Forrest Gump. The 1994 film features the memorable scene where Tom Hanks, makes the life-changing decision to start running for “no particular reason.”

📍 Location: Griffith Park 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027. 🎥 Also seen on: A Night at the Roxbury, Hancock, Her, The Kissing Booth.

3. Randy’s Donuts – Mars Attacks!

The world’s favorite giant donut that gives our city an extra sweet view of the sky. Randy’s Donuts is not only a gastronomical icon but also an inspiration for the Simpson Lard Lad Donuts and an incredible background in some of the greatest movies ever made.

The hilarious 1996 Tim Burton movie Mars Attacks!, starring Jack Nicholson, Anette Benning and Dany Devito, showcases Randy’s huge donut during the alien invasion. Sadly, the donut gets destroyed by the hostile big-headed aliens coming to Earth.

📍 Location: 805 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood, CA 90301. 🎥 Also seen on: Get Shorty , Zootopia, 2012.

4. Venice Beach – Barbie

Quirky, cool, and hype, Venice Beach is one of the most famous movie locations in Los Angeles. Here, the bohemian spirit collides in peaceful living with our beloved gym bros from Muscle Beach.

But aside from that, what makes Venice also memorable, is the hilarious Barbie movie scene where the main characters (spoiler alert) enters the human world. Put on your roller skates and your flashiest clothing and get ready to become Margot Robbie or Ryan Gosling at the Venice Beach boardwalk.

📍 Location: Venice Boardwalk. 🎥 Also seen on: Once Upon A Time In Venice, American History X, Falling Down.

5. Griffith Park – Rebel Without A Cause

City of stars… Are you shining just for me? If you can sing those lyrics along, then you know many La La Land scenes have the Griffith Observatory as an unforgettable background. But that’s not all, other iconic films have made this spot one of the famous movie locations in Los Angeles, and that is Rebel Without A Cause.

In the 1955 film starring James Dean, Griffith Observatory serves as a central location for several key scenes, including the dramatic climax where the main characters engage in a tense confrontation. This scene has become emblematic of the movie’s exploration of teenage rebellion and the search for identity. BDW: You can get the best views of LA from here.

📍 Location: Griffith Park 4730 Crystal Springs Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027. 🎥 As seen on: Jurassic Park, The Terminator, Back To The Future.

6 . Los Angeles City Hall – L.A. Confidential

Right in the heart of downtown LA, you’ll find the iconic LA City Hall, a favorite spot for filming scenes in countless movies and TV shows (and also one of the best places to get amazing views of Los Angeles).

This spot is among the most famous filming locations in Los Angeles, thanks to movies such as The Usual Suspects or Speed. But the 90s classic L.A. Confidential makes the most out of this place, as It serves as a prominent location in several scenes throughout the movie, adding to the noir atmosphere and authentic portrayal of 1950s Los Angeles.

📍 Location: 200 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012. 🎥 Also seen on: The Nice Guys, Crash, Ocean’s Eight.

7. Huntington Gardens – Iron Man 2

This place is not only an incredible museum but the best place to discover nature around its lovely gardens. The Huntington is also one of the top movie locations in Los Angeles.

Memoirs Of A Geisha and Scandal were shot here, but there’s a more recent movie that takes place here as well. A more recent film that changed the history of superhero movies for good. And that is Iron Man. More specifically the sequel, where the final presentation of medals to Stark and Rhodes by a reluctant Senator Stern, the ceremony takes place atop the steps of the newly constructed Munger Research Center at the library. 📍 Location: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108 🎥 Also seen on: The Nice Guys, Crash, Ocean’s Eight.

8. Millennium Biltmore Hotel – Ghostbusters

In the heart of L.A., where elegance gleams, where dreams meet themes… And where ghosts get busted!

Great movie scenes of legendary films have been shot here, for sure, but what makes this spot one of the most famous movie locations in Los Angeles is the 80s classic, Ghost Busters. While Venkman, Stantz, and Spengler successfully capture Slimer, they inadvertently demolish an elaborate Sedgewick ballroom in the course of their actions. Oh, and this has also been the chosen place to host eight Academy Awards ceremonies.

📍 Location: 506 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071. 🎥 Also seen on: Ocean’s 11, The Sting, Chinatown.

9 . Leo Carrillo Beach – Grease

One of the best beaches in L.A. if you’re looking for a surf afternoon, swimming, just chilling… Or filming an absolutely iconic and unforgettable movie scene, which was Randal Kleiser choice when making Grease.

In this 1978 musical romantic comedy, John Travolta portrays Danny Zuko, the leader of the Burger Palace Boys gang, while Olivia Newton-John plays the character of Sandy Olsson. They fall in love during their high school years in 1950s America. And that love sadly ends when Sandy heads back to her home, Australia, which is something that we see in the iconic opening scene shot here that made Carrillo Beach one of the most famous movie locations in Los Angeles and around the globe.

📍 Location: Leo Carrillo State Beach35000 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu, CA 90265. 🎥 Also seen on: Karate Kid, She’s All That, 50 First Dates.

10. Occidental College – Clueless

Located in L.A., this is a private institution that focuses on liberal arts education. As if! This place is better known for being a prime location for a range of Hollywood blockbuster movies, such as the 90s gem, Clueless.

The BFFs and stars of the movie, Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone) and Dionne Davenport (Stacey Dash) spend most of their time on screen roaming at the fictional Bronson Alcott High School, which is, in fact, the Occidental College’s exterior, interior, buildings, and walkways.

📍 Location: 1600 Campus Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90041. 🎥 Also seen on: The Kids Are All Right, Jurassic Park III, The Face of Love

11. Bradbury Building – The Artist

This five-story office building is famous for its super cool skylit atrium with walkways, stairs, and elevators decked out in fancy ironwork. Its unique design and aesthetics make this spot a prime location for all kinds of Hollywood productions.

Just to name one iconic movie moment captured at the Bradbury Building, we must mention the one that appears in the 2011 film “The Artist.” In this silent flick, the building provides the setting for a crucial encounter between characters George Valentin and Peppy Miller, contributing to the film’s nostalgic allure.

📍Location: 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013. 🎥 Also seen on: Blade Runner, 500 Days of Summer, Chinatown, L.A Confidential.

12. The Hollywood Sign – Mullholland Drive

It was an obvious choice, for sure, but it had to be on the list. Our beloved Hollywood sign has been the stage for first kisses, natural disasters, zombie apocalypse, shark tornados… The sign has been through a lot. An iconic landmark and a symbol for locals and pop culture worldwide, this place is the perfect background for any moviemaker and one of the most famous movie locations in Los Angeles.

In Mulholland Drive (2001), directed by David Lynch, a memorable moment involves a close-up shot of the sign against the backdrop of a nightmarish sequence, capturing the essence of Hollywood’s dark underbelly and the psychological depth of the story.

📍 Location: Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles, CA 90068. 🎥 Also seen on: City of Angels, The Day After Tomorrow, La La Land, Resident Evil…

13. Hollywood United Methodist Church – Sister Act

At the heart of Hollywood, this church established in 1909, is not only a holy space for Christianity but also for the film industry.

The 1992 comedy starring Whoopi Goldberg, Sister Act, was practically entirely shot at this place. You might remember the scenes depicting nuns dining at a communal table and Whoopi Goldberg scrubbing floors, those were filmed in Grant Hall of the church. Additionally, the scene featuring nuns gossiping in the kitchen over ice cream was shot in the church’s own kitchen. Side note: The Enchantment Under the Sea dance from Back To The Future, occurred in the church’s basement.

📍Location: 6817 Franklin Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90028. 🎥 Also seen on: Back To The Future, That Thing You Do, The Godfather.

14. Union Station – Blade Runner

Union Station, a historic landmark in LA, is a bustling transportation hub connecting trains, buses, and metro lines. Its iconic architecture and role as a gateway to the city make it an essential part of Los Angeles’s identity and transportation infrastructure… And filming industry.

The station has been featured in plenty of movies and TV shows, but probably what made it one of the most famous movie locations in Los Angeles, was the 1982 film Blade Runner. In the sci-fi classic, Union Station doubles as the police station where Deckard deals with the replicants. Ridley Scott didn’t bother hiding those recognizable arches, fitting them right into the futuristic LA setting of the movie.

📍Location: Union Station. 🎥 Also seen on: Catch Me If You Can, The Dark Knight Rises, Pearl Harbor.

15. Fox Plaza – Die Hard

Also called 20th Century Studios Plaza, it’s this massive 34-story skyscraper reaching 490 feet high, with a sprawling 90,115 square meters (969,990 square feet) of space.

And in case you were wondering, this is the fictional Nakatomi Plaza we see in the 1988 action classic, Die Hard. In the movie, the Plaza “plays the role” of the Nakatomi Corporation headquarters. The building is a prominent location throughout the film but the most iconic scene is the final one, when the place (or a miniature replica) blows up, which makes this one of the most famous movie locations in Los Angeles.

📍 Location: 2121 Avenue of the Stars Los Angeles, CA 90064. 🎥 Also seen on: Lethal Weapon, Fight Club, Robocop.

16. Pink Motel – Drive

The Pink Motel’s got that picture-perfect motor court vibe that’s great for all sorts of filming. This spot from the 1940s is an absolute icon when it comes to movie locations.

The OC and Dexter TV series fans know this place by heart. But if we’re talking about films (which we are), then you have to know that this is where one of the most gruesome scenes in 2011 Drive was shot, where Driver and Blanche hideout after the pawn shop job goes south.

📍 Location: 9457 San Fernando Rd, Sun Valley, CA 91352 🎥 Also seen on: The Whole Ten Yards, All Good Things.

17. Frolic Room – Black Dahlia

The Frolic Room in LA is a historic dive bar known for its iconic neon sign and Hollywood connections. It has been featured in numerous movies for its authentic atmosphere and vintage appeal.

Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland enjoyed drinks here, and curiously enough, this bar marks the final sighting of Elizabeth Short, the real Black Dahlia. That fact made this place the perfect choice for Brian De Palma to use as a main location while shooting the 2006 Black Dahlia movie.

📍Location: 6245 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028 🎥 Also seen on: Once Upon a Time… in Hollywood, The Little Things.

18. South Seas Apartment Complex – Karate Kid

Wax on, wax off… As Mr. Miyagi would say. The 1984 legendary film Karate Kid, made this seemingly ordinary place, one of the most famous movie locations in Los Angeles.

The movie kicks off with Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) and his mom (Randee Heller) moving to Los Angeles. They settle into the South Seas Apartments, a dilapidated building located in the San Fernando Valley. This spot is featured almost throughout the entire Karate Kid saga.

📍 Location: 19223 Saticoy St, Reseda, CA 91335 🎥 Also seen on: Karate Kid III, Cobra Kai.

19. Heritage Square Museum – Legally Blonde

This museum gives you a peek into SoCal’s architecture from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. This particular Victorian-era building is worth checking out if you want to feel like in a movie set, as it was featured in a ton of TV shows, movies, and commercials.

But for now, we’ll only focus on the early 2000s hit, Legally Blonde. The iconic scene were Elle (Reese Witherspoon) shows up to a regular party dressed up as a Playboy Bunny (as she was pranked by colleagues) takes place at this museum.

📍Location: 3800 Homer St, Los Angeles, CA 90031. 🎥 Also seen on: Lessons in Chemistry, Saving Mr. Banks.

20. The Last Bookstore – Gone Girl

Founded in 2005 by Josh Spencer, the store started in a downtown LA loft, selling stuff online. By December 2009, they switched to books, opening a small bookstore on 4th and Main. Then, on June 3, 2011, they moved to their current spot.

But this place is not only a great bookstore, is the movie location where the romantic scene that marks the start of the twisted love story of Nik and Amy Dunne (Ben Affleck and Rosamund Pike), takes place in, David Lynch’s masterpiece, Gone Girl.

📍Location: 453 S Spring St Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013. 🎥 Also seen on: Under The Silver Lake, You, Crime Scene: The Vanishing at the Cecil Hotel.

21. Crown Pawn Shop – Pulp Fiction

Here you can make a few bucks and get some bargains… For sure. But this iconic pawn shop is way more than that, as this is the actual spot where key scenes from Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 Pulp Fiction were shot.

📍Location: 20933 Roscoe Blvd. ​ Canoga Park, CA 91304

22. Music Box Steps – The Music Box

Silverlake’s Music Box Steps were made famous by Laurel and Hardy , a slapstick comedy duo known internationally during their tenure from 1927-1955. The staircase acts like a main character in their 1932 film The Music Box (1932) , which won the first-ever Academy Award for Best Live Action Short (Comedy).

📍Location : Between 917 and 935 N. Vendome Street, Silver Lake, Los Angeles, CA

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Los Angeles Best Movie Locations

Los Angeles is the home of the stars and the birthplace of Hollywood. This urban jungle is a mecca for creativity and also a well-represented set location for many of Hollywood’s biggest movies. While everywhere you look in Los Angeles there are movie locations, I have some of my favorites that I take people to if they want to experience what the town has to offer. Here they are below, and I will be adding more as I explore, feel free to leave your suggestions in the comments, as I want to make this a cool resource for others.

Union Station – Blade Runner, Dark Knight Rises, many more

One of Los Angeles’s most famous places, Union Station, is home to hundreds of Hollywood movies, but none more famous than Blade Runner. If you have seen it, then you know of the office location that Harrison Ford’s character goes to, and if you have seen the inside of Union Station, then it is easy to pick out. One of the other recent movies filmed there was Scarecrow as the judge in the city ruled by Bane in The Dark Knight Rises. Whichever movie you prefer, Union Station is a great place to visit and an icon of Los Angeles.

The Bench – 500 Days of Summer

I love seeing indie movies, so when I first heard about 500 Days of Summer, I was immediately excited to see it. It is a great movie, and one of the iconic scenes from it is the scene where the main character goes to sit on this specific bench and overlook the city. That bench is right in the heart of downtown LA at Angels Knoll, right next to Angels Flight and Grand Central Market. It is closed every night, but if you go during the day, you can walk in and take a picture. The park is currently closed and fenced off. Hopefully it will open again soon.

Bradbury Building – Blade Runner, The Artist, 500 Days of Summer and many more

Only a couple blocks away from the above bench, this iconic building is home to some of Hollywood’s best scenes. Whether it’s the staircase scene in The Artist or the futuristic world of Blade Runner, the Bradbury Building has seen it all. During the day you can walk the bottom floor of this beautiful building and even if you are not a film buff I would say it’s worth checking out for the history and the architecture alone.

Randy’s Donuts – Mars Attacks, Iron Man and more

If you follow my blog, then you know how much I love donuts . This place has been a staple for me for years with its fabulous apple fritters and anything with chocolate. That being said, it is also one of the most famous landmarks in LA. People from all over the world have seen the massive donut that sits atop this small little shack, and if you visit, you will see many people taking pictures and getting excited about it. My favorite scenes with Randy’s are when it is rolling down the street in Mars Attacks and when Iron Man is sitting in the middle enjoying a snack in Iron Man 2.

Old LA Zoo – Anchorman

While the Old LA Zoo is just one of the most unique places in LA in general, it is also the location of one of my favorite movies, Anchorman. While the movie was filmed all over LA, the part at the end with the cages and Ron Burgandy jumping in was filmed in this old zoo.

Point Dume – Planet of the Apes

While not technically in Los Angeles, this area of Malibu has been filmed so much you could make an entire post out of it. It is easy to see why when you visit Point Dume as it is a fantastic example of the California Coast, that is so close to Los Angeles. The most famous scene filmed right at the base of Point Dume is the broken Statue of Liberty at the end of the original Planet of the Apes. This scene is classic is cinema, and it is a great place to pay a visit for a hike or just to relax on the beach.

Griffith Observatory – Tons of Movies

It is probably easier to say what movies have not been filmed here, but everything from Rebel Without a Cause to Jurassic Park has graced this Los Angeles overlook. While Griffith Observatory is a planetarium the majority of the time that attracts a ton of guests, it does moonlight in the movie industry. From movie buffs to hikers, this area of LA will almost make you forget all of the craziness that happens in the city. It is also a great place to see the Hollywood Sign from or even to start the hike to it  yourself.

So there you have it, my list of Hollywood film locations. I would love to hear which ones I missed in the comments if you have a favorite I left off, and make sure to check back often as this post will get updated when I have new ones to add.

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10 iconic filming locations in Los Angeles

This story originally appeared on Giggster and was produced and distributed in partnership with Stacker Studio.

Los Angeles is flooded with sites that have appeared in movies, TV shows, and even music videos. Some locations have been used numerous times, while other locales are memorable for a single acclaimed scene.

Giggster researched L.A. filming locations and highlighted 10 places across the city from famous films that you can visit—complete with address—on a cinematic pilgrimage.

Filmmakers sometimes use particular sites that have a range and can be used during any period, such as the Millennium Biltmore Hotel. Some film locations, such as the John Sowden House, are used for their aesthetic appeal. In the case of the Sowden House, detailed fixtures such as an ornate fireplace and sculptured concrete walls lent an air of historical authority to Martin Scorsese's "The Aviator."

Sometimes a particular LA location may be set decorated to represent a location in another state or even another country if it's more affordable for the filmmaker to go this route. Whatever the reasoning is, for the storyteller all that matters is securing the ideal film location.

Multiple movies at Santa Monica Pier

- Location: 200 Santa Monica Pier

The iconic Santa Monica Pier, one of California's most popular piers, opened to the public in September 1909. It took 16 months to build the pier, which is now known for its amusement park (Pacific Park) that houses a solar-powered landmark Ferris wheel, which opened in 1996, and fishing remains a recreational favorite for many who visit.

The pier provides filmmakers with ocean views, sandy beaches, and a boardwalk—so it makes sense why this landmark location has been the backdrop for countless films, commercials, and other productions.

The pier appears in "Beverly Hills Cop III" in a scene where backup officers investigate a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot on the West End of Colorado Avenue. And in the Oscar-winning 1994 film "Forrest Gump," the pier appears in a scene after Gump takes off running "for no particular reason" and runs straight to the ocean.

The 'Casablanca' airport

- Location: Van Nuys Airport, 6590 Hayvenhurst Ave.

Van Nuys Airport, located in the San Fernando Valley, was built in the 1920s by a group of Californians who formed a corporation. From the 1930s, Van Nuys became a popular location for filming; the airport's owners were quite welcoming to filmmakers, as it proved to be profitable for the airport. Most of the 1942 romantic drama "Casablanca" was shot at a soundstage in Burbank, but the hangar used in the scene where Capt. Strasser (Conrad Veidt) arrives was filmed at Van Nuys Airport.

Over the years, the hangar has gone through many changes, having moved to another location, and even being destroyed and then replaced. During WWII, the U.S. government used the airfield as a military installation, and in the 1950s, the California Air National Guard built new facilities; the airport didn't actually gain its present name until 1957.

Other productions filmed at Van Nuys Airport include the 1999 John Travolta film, "The General's Daughter" and Michael Bay's 2001 historic drama "Pearl Harbor."

Theodore's apartment lobby and the airplane art installation from 'Her'

- Location: Pacific Design Center, 8687 Melrose Ave.

The Pacific Design Center opened in 1975, establishing West Hollywood as a design district. The center serves as a meeting space for creatives for screenings, lectures, special events, and yes—even as a filming location.

In the 2013 Spike Jonze film, "Her," there is a scene where Theodore Twombly (Joaquin Phoenix) stops to marvel at an airplane installation at the Pacific Design Center, portrayed as an art plaza in the flick.

A majority of the filming for "Her" took place over the summer of 2012, with most scenes shot in LA.

Ava Gardner's house in 'The Aviator'

- Location: John Sowden House, 5121 Franklin Ave.

The John Sowden house, designed by architect Lloyd Wright, is a 6,000-square-foot mansion situated on a busy street that runs through the heart of LA. The home encompasses Mayan and Aztec design features and commands attention due to its unique exterior and visible location. John Sowden, the original owner of the residence, was a painter and photographer and only lived at the house for a few years. He asked his friend Lloyd to design the house.

The seven-bedroom, four-bathroom mansion gained popularity in the 1940s as it's believed to be the site of the real-life alleged murder of Elizabeth Short and other victims in the Black Dahlia case.

The home was famously used as a shooting location to depict Ava Gardner's (played by Kate Beckinsale) home in the 2004 film, "The Aviator." Other productions that have been filmed at the residence include the 1998 TV movie "Brave New World," and the 2012 film "Ruby Sparks."

Multiple movies at Grand Olympic Auditorium

- Location: 1801 S. Grand Ave.

This Grand Olympic Auditorium was built in the 1920s, and throughout the 1930s and 1940s was home to some of the biggest headlining events in sports such as boxing, wrestling, and roller derby.

The indoor arena was used in the fight scenes for 1976's "Rocky." Several other films have used the Grand Olympic Auditorium as a shooting location, among them Martin Scorsese's "Raging Bull" and "Million Dollar Baby." It was also the location of Elvis Presley's last live concert. The venue, which over the years became known as the "Madison Square Garden of the West," is now a Korean American church called Glory Church of Jesus Christ.

Sarah Connor's apocalyptic nightmare park in 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day'

- Location: Elysian Park, 929 Academy Rd.

Elysian Park is LA's oldest public park. It is the second largest park in the city after Griffith Park. While it is well known to Angelinos as a favorable recreation location, Elysian Park was also one of the filming locations for the 1991 movie "Terminator 2: Judgment Day."

In the film, Sarah Connor (Linda Hamilton) has a recurring nightmare about judgment day, and the scenes from the nightmare, in which atomic fallout destroys the cityscape, took place at Elysian Park.

Multiple movies at Venice High School

- Location: Venice High School, 13000 Venice Blvd.

Venice High School is renowned for being used as the location for Rydell High School in the 1978 film, "Grease." Filming for "Grease" began the summer of 1977 with opening scenes showing excited students on their first day of school walking across the campus and a shot of the Myrna Loy statue. The statue, sculpted in the 1920s, has become a landmark for Venice High.

A couple of the movie's most well-known musical numbers were also filmed at Venice High—Rizzo's (Stockard Channing) ballad "There Are Worse Things I Could Do," which takes place along the school's outside corridor, and "Summer Nights," where the school's bleachers and outdoor cafeteria were used. The bleachers and cafeteria locations look entirely different today due to renovations that have taken place over the years.

Other films that have used Venice High School as a filming location include crime drama "American History X," serial slasher flick "A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master," and "Matchstick Men," the 2003 Nicolas Cage comedy directed by Ridley Scott.

Multiple movies at The Millennium Biltmore Hotel

- Location: 506 S. Grand Ave.

When it opened in 1923, the Millennium Biltmore was called the Los Angeles Biltmore Hotel. Its ornately embellished design featuring gilded moldings and marble columns has made it a go-to filming location for several movies and TV shows.

The hotel's location—situated minutes away from the Walt Disney Concert Hall on foot and just a quick cab ride away from Dodger Stadium—and its popularity for notable film projects also helped to establish downtown LA as a vibrant entertainment hub.

For the 1982 film, "Rocky III," the hotel's ballroom was transformed into a boxing ring for the scene where Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) prepares for his big fight. In the 1984 action-comedy, "Beverly Hills Cop," Axel Foley (Eddie Murphy) is in the hotel lobby and attempts to check-in, claiming he is a reporter for Rolling Stone. Later the hotel's exterior can be seen as Foley attempts to evade the cops trailing him by sending a room service order to their squad car. And if that isn't enough, the famous Slimer scene from "Ghostbusters" was filmed at the Biltmore.

Most recently, in season two of the Netflix period romance series "Bridgerton," the Queen's Ball was filmed in the hotel's Crystal Ballroom.

The 'Reservoir Dogs' diner

- Location: Pat & Lorraine's Coffee Shop, 4720 Eagle Rock Blvd.

Pat & Lorraine's Coffee Shop, a cozy diner that serves breakfast and lunch, has been open since the 1970s.

In the opening scene of Quentin Tarantino's 1992 film, "Reservoir Dogs," Mr. White (Harvey Keitel), Mr. Orange (Tim Roth), Mr. Brown (Tarantino), Mr. Blonde (Michael Madsen), and the rest of the heist crew engage in a discussion about tipping and the nature of the lyrics in Madonna's "Like A Virgin."

This diner also happens to hold a special memory for director Tarantino. It was the first film location he ever used, and he chose the diner because it was more affordable to film there—and it was located kitty-corner from the warehouse where a bulk of the film's runtime takes place.

Griffith Observatory

- Location: 2800 E. Observatory Rd.

Since the Griffith Observatory opened in the 1930s, it has become one of LA's most popular public locations. The Observatory and Park were inspired by Welsh-born American, Griffith J. Griffith, a former reporter and mining adviser.

The Observatory has a long history with Hollywood; its iconic status can be traced to 1955's "Rebel Without a Cause," where James Dean both engages in a knife fight at its rear lookout and at the film's close returns to try to rescue a disturbed Sal Mineo from harming himself. It can also be seen in the 2003 film, "Charlie's Angels: Full Throttle," where the modern angels (Cameron Diaz, Drew Barrymore, and Lucy Liu) find out that the villain, Madison Lee (Demi Moore), was a former angel.

In the 1991 flick "The Rocketeer," a night scene at the observatory features a faceoff between the Rocketeer against a pack of Nazi villains. The location can also be seen as a backdrop in 2007's "Transformers" and appeared in the 2016 film "La La Land," starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling.

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The ultimate guide to Los Angeles movie and television filming locations

From Insecure to Clueless , we’ve got you covered

For much of the world, Los Angeles is synonymous with the movies. Studios set up shop in Hollywood and actors and filmmakers flocked here to live .

But the city of Los Angeles sprawls even wider across film history. As a backdrop for corruption , horror , destruction , and romance , LA has served as a pivotal character in some of the entertainment industry’s best offerings. The city even doubles as a convincing stand-in for other places, from the Pacific Northwest to the Midwest and even New York .

Here’s a complete list of our guides to Los Angeles filming locations for some of our favorite shows and movies.

• Feud: Bette and Joan
• True Detective Season Two
• L.A. Confidential
• The Terminator
• Terminator 2: Judgment Day
• Boogie Nights
• Back to the Future
• Pretty Woman
• Pulp Fiction

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La La Land (2016) Multiple loca tions

A Star is Born (2018) Multiple locations

Discover LA Newsletter

Filming Locations In Los Angeles: Our Complete Guide

Filming locations in Los Angeles are very popular and make for a great experience. We have seen many movies filmed here in the past like “The Terminator”, “Grease”, “Bad Boys”, “Forrest Gump” and many more.

Films like these have made a name for the city and people have come to love it.  

filming locations in los angeles

What is like to film in los angeles .

If you have a project coming up, then you may be wondering what it is like to film in Los Angeles .

This is definitely one of the most popular locations for filming due to the amazing weather year-round and all of the different types of climates that can be found around the area.

However, every city has its pros and cons, and you need to know what to expect when filming your next project here.

There are so many different reasons why Los Angeles is one of the best places to film a project.  

Los Angeles isn’t just the City of Angels; it’s the backdrop for countless cinematic masterpieces.

From the sun-kissed beaches of Santa Monica to the historic streets of Downtown LA, we’ll take you on a tour of the most iconic filming locations in the city.

Whether you’re a film buff or just looking for your next adventure, join us as we uncover the spots where movie magic comes to life.

Get ready to walk in the footsteps of Hollywood legends and discover the real-life settings of your favorite scenes.

The Hollywood Sign: A Symbol Of Glamour And Fame

As we navigate through Los Angeles’ vast array of film locations, it’s impossible to overlook the Hollywood Sign.

Perched on Mount Lee, this iconic symbol stands as a beacon of inspiration for filmmakers and actors alike.

Every angle of the Hollywood Sign offers a different narrative, encapsulating LA’s cinematic history.

Films like La La Land and The Day After Tomorrow showcased the sign not just as a background, but as a character in itself.

For those of us in filmmaking, the sign represents the pinnacle of success.

It’s where countless dreams of glamour and fame are projected onto the silver screen.

Access to the sign is carefully managed, yet we find inventive ways to capture its essence.

Aerial shots, creative angles, and strategic positioning allow us to portray the sign in unique light.

Observing the Hollywood Sign, we’re reminded of the movies that have utilized its grandeur:

• Hollywood Homicide – resonating action sequences,
• Tropic Thunder – comedic antics against a characterized landscape,
• The Rocketeer – a vintage portrayal of Hollywood’s golden age .

This emblem of Hollywood’s allure isn’t just for show; it plays a crucial role in our narratives.

Its commanding presence adds gravity to any scene, making it more than a backdrop—it’s a statement.

While the Hollywood sign might seem static, its significance evolves with every project.

Each use in film enriches its legacy and reaffirms its status as a monument to the stories we tell.

The Famous Streets Of Hollywood: From Walk Of Fame To Sunset Boulevard

As we jump further into Los Angeles’s rich tapestry of filming locations, one can’t overlook the allure of Hollywood’s famous streets.

The Walk of Fame, with its terrazzo and brass stars, not only honors entertainment luminaries but also provides a quintessential backdrop for films diving into Tinseltown’s lore.

Sunset Boulevard, meanwhile, has a cinematic history that’s as vibrant as its bustling thoroughfare.

This iconic stretch has served as a gritty canvas for classics such as Sunset Boulevard and captivates filmmakers with its transformative potential – symbolizing both the glitz and the underbelly of Hollywood life.

Here are some of the streets that have become synonymous with film in Hollywood:

• The pulsating heart of the city, Hollywood Boulevard – The legendary strip of dreams and ambition, Sunset Strip,
• The picturesque palm-lined residential avenue, Wilshire Boulevard.

Filming along these streets requires careful planning and logistical finesse.

We know that securing permits and managing public interaction can be complex, yet when done successfully, the result adds an unmistakable element of authenticity to any project.

The bustling intersections and neon signs along Vine Street have witnessed narratives of fame and fortune unfold within their frame.

As filmmakers, capturing the vibrancy of this location brings a dynamic energy to the screen, resonating with audiences worldwide.

Melrose Avenue offers a different flavor, known for its high-end boutiques and avant-garde atmosphere.

Film scenes set against this trendy backdrop imbue a contemporary edge that speaks volumes about the ever-evolving tapestry of LA culture.

Venturing further, we find the serene and upscale stretches of Rodeo Drive.

Though lesser-seen in raw cinematic textures, this luxurious strip adds a dose of opulence and high-fashion allure whenever it graces the silver screen.

The streets of Hollywood embody the essence of Los Angeles as a filmmaking mecca.

Each location tells a story of its own, weaving a rich narrative that has, and will continue to fascinate storytellers and audiences alike.

Santa Monica Pier: Where Movies Meet The Beach

Santa Monica Pier provides a scenic escapade that epitomizes the laid-back beach culture often depicted in film.

This iconic location blends the Pacific Ocean’s horizon with the vibrant atmosphere of a classic amusement park – a combination that’s irresistible to filmmakers.

Characters navigating life-changing experiences with the backdrop of a Ferris wheel or a sunset beach stroll have become emblematic scenes.

Films like Forrest Gump and Iron Man have captured the essence of the Pier, allowing audiences to both recognize and relive these cinematic moments.

It’s more than a picturesque spot; it’s a character in its own right, with the bustling pier and soothing tides setting a unique narrative tone.

Our cameras roll as we capture the interplay of natural light and the Pacific’s expansive beauty, knowing that each shot cements the Pier’s legacy in film history.

The practical aspects of shooting here include:

• Permit acquisition – ensuring we have the right to film without interruption.
• Crowd management – navigating the public space to minimize impact on both visitors and production.

Even with these logistics in mind, the cinematic allure of Santa Monica Pier is irresistible.

It stands as a testament to the enchantment of mixing natural beauty with the art of storytelling through film.

Downtown La: A Historical Backdrop For Blockbusters

Los Angeles doesn’t stop impressing with its versatility in film locations.

Downtown LA (DTLA) offers a rich palette of historical buildings and modern skyscrapers that become the backdrop for many blockbusters.

It’s a place where the old and the new collide to create cinematic magic.

The ornate facades of Broadway theaters have set the scene in La La Land , while the sleek lines of the US Bank Tower have towered over action-packed sequences in San Andreas .

We see streets transform into cinematic gold; Second Street Tunnel is perhaps one of the most visually arresting locations.

Its futuristic look has been used to represent a dystopian world in Blade Runner .

DTLA’s versatility shines through when films require a setting that exudes a vintage charm or an ultra-modern vibe.

Historic locations like The Bradbury Building have appeared in 500 Days of Summer , showcasing its timeless appeal.

Filmmakers are often drawn to the authenticity that DTLA presents –

• The Union Station’s grand architecture becomes ideal for period pieces.
• The Los Angeles River’s concrete channels have made it a favorite for car chase scenes.

Bringing together an array of styles and eras, DTLA is a treasure chest for location scouts.

It’s a place where each corner holds a story waiting to be captured through the lens of a camera.

From the heart of the city, it’s clear why DTLA remains a firm favorite for filmmakers.

Its dynamic character narrates its own tale with every film it graces.

Griffith Observatory: Starry Nights And Silver Screen Moments

Perched atop Mount Hollywood, Griffith Observatory commands a presence both in the surrounding landscape and in cinematic history.

Its iconic architecture and stunning views make it a magnetic destination for filmmakers seeking the perfect blend of romance and science fiction.

The observatory has provided a dramatic backdrop for countless films since it opened in 1935.

Rebel Without a Cause immortalized its planetarium, while more recent science fiction epics have tapped into its futuristic vibe.

Films aren’t the only medium to appreciate the Observatory’s visual splendor.

Its scenic vistas and intriguing exhibits are a filmmaker’s dream, offering a variety of shooting angles and opportunities for both interior and exterior shots.

The domed ceiling and expansive terraces give us creative freedom.

They provide a canvas for scenes requiring a blend of the cosmic and the intimate.

Griffith Observatory isn’t just a set piece, it’s a character in its own right.

The building has a palpable presence that can steer the emotional direction of a scene, whether it’s awe-inspiring discovery or the tranquility of a Los Angeles sunset.

We’ve compiled a list of notable features filmmakers love at Griffith Observatory –

• The Zeiss telescope dome,
• The Art Deco architecture,
• The sweeping views of Los Angeles,
• The Foucault pendulum,
• The historical exhibits.

These elements create a space where storytelling and reality converge.

Griffith Observatory offers an inspiring testament to man’s reach for the stars, both literally and metaphorically.

Filmmakers often leverage its symbolism to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences worldwide.

Venture beyond the star shows, and you’ll discover the nuanced ways directors use the observatory.

Each film shot here adds a new layer to its legend, forever entwining Griffith Observatory with the magic of the movies.

Filming Locations In Los Angeles – Wrap Up

We’ve journeyed through the streets of Hollywood and the heart of DTLA, uncovering the cinematic treasures that make Los Angeles an epicenter for filmmaking.

Our exploration has shown that the Griffith Observatory isn’t just a backdrop—it’s a star among stars in the film industry.

With its timeless allure and architectural grandeur, it stands as a testament to LA’s enduring relationship with the silver screen.

Let’s carry the inspiration from these iconic locations with us, recognizing that the magic of movies is right at our fingertips, ready for us to discover and enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes griffith observatory a popular filming location in los angeles.

Griffith Observatory’s popularity stems from its iconic architecture, stunning views of Los Angeles, versatile scenery, and the blend of romance and science fiction it imbues into films.

Its visual splendor offers unique shooting angles for both interior and exterior shots that attract filmmakers.

Since When Has Griffith Observatory Been A Filming Location?

Griffith Observatory has been a sought-after filming location since it opened in 1935.

Its historical significance and distinct architectural style have made it a Hollywood favorite for decades.

Why Do Filmmakers Often Choose Griffith Observatory For Movies?

Filmmakers choose Griffith Observatory for its blend of Art Deco architecture, panoramic views, and scientific intrigue.

Its timeless appearance and emotional resonance allow it to serve as not just a setting, but as a character that enhances the narrative.

Are There Specific Features Of Griffith Observatory That Filmmakers Find Appealing?

Yes, specific features include the Zeiss telescope dome, Art Deco design elements, sweeping views of the city, the Foucault pendulum, and the historical exhibits.

These offer a wealth of opportunities for compelling cinematography.

How Does Griffith Observatory Impact The Films It Is Featured In?

Griffith Observatory often acts as more than a backdrop, influencing the emotional direction of a scene with its palpable presence.

It’s a location that can evoke a sense of wonder, nostalgia, or futurism, contributing to the storytelling.

What Role Does Griffith Observatory Play In The Film Industry?

Griffith Observatory is often regarded as a character in its own right within films, embodying the fusion of human curiosity and the unknown expanse of space.

It adds to the cinematic legend with every film appearance, intertwining its history with the magic of the movies.

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Filming Locations Los Angeles: 100+ Iconic Places

Although some filmmakers use sets for their movies, others seek out unique locations to tell their stories. When it comes to filming locations , Los Angeles has some of the best and most recognizable options in the nation.

100+ Iconic Filming Locations in Los Angeles

From well-known landmarks to parking lots and junkyards, filmmakers can choose from a wide range of locations. Check out over 100 of the most iconic filming locations in the Los Angeles area.

101 Coffee Shop

• Featured in “ Swingers .”

A & R Auto Dismantlers

• Featured in “ Pulp Fiction .”

Scene from “Pulp Fiction”

AES Power Plant

• This Redondo Beach location appeared in Britney Spears’ “You Drive Me Crazy” music video.

Aero Theater

• Featured in “ Donnie Darko ,” “ Get Shorty ,” and “ Training Day .”

Scene from “Donnie Darko”

Angels Flight Railway

• Featured in “ La La Land .”

Scene from “La La Land”

ATM at 14400 Roscoe Blvd.

• This ATM appeared in “ Terminator 2 .”

Baldwin Village

• This jungle-like LA neighborhood has appeared in “Training Day.”

Beverly Hills City Hall

• Featured in “ Beverly Hills Cop .”

Beverly Hills Hotel

• Featured in “ California Suite .”

Beverly Wilshire Hotel

• Featured in “ Pretty Woman .”

Bob’s Big Boy

• Featured in “ Heat .”

Bradbury Building

• This futuristic structure has appeared in “ 500 Days of Summer ,” “ The Artist ,” “ Blade Runner ,” and “ Double Indemnity .”

Bronson Canyon

• Featured in the “ Batman ” TV series, which aired from 1966 to 1968.

Scene from “Batman”

Bull Creek Spillway

• Featured in “Terminator 2.”

Scene from “Terminator 2”

Cactus Jack’s Market

California State University – Northridge

• The campus was the location for exterior shots in J.J. Abrams’ “ Star Trek .”

Chandler Valley Center Studios

• Featured in “ The Office .”

Chateau Marmont

• Featured in “ A Star Is Born .”

Chinatown Express

• This vintage restaurant has appeared in “ Nightcrawler .”

Cicada Restaurant

• Featured in “ Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D .” and “ Scandal .”

Cindy’s Eagle Rock Restaurant

• Featured in “ Aquarius .”

Circus Liquor

• Featured in “ Clueless .”

City National Plaza

• Featured in “ Marathon Man .”
• Featured in “ Eye of the Storm .”

Crown Pawn Shop

• Featured in “Pulp Fiction.”

Dinah’s

• Featured in “ The Big Lebowski .”

The Dresden

• Featured in “Swingers.”

El Capitan Theatre

• Featured in “ The Muppets .”

El Matador Beach

• Featured in “ The Notebook .”

Elysian Park

Ennis house.

• Featured in “House on Haunted Hill.”
• Featured in “ Die Hard .”

Frolic Room

• Featured in “ LA Confidential .”

Scene from “LA Confidential”

Gamble House

• Featured in “ Back to the Future .”

Godmother’s Saloon

• Featured in “ This Is Us .”

Grand Central Market

• Featured in “La La Land.”

Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

• Featured in “ Singin’ in the Rain .”

Greek Theatre

• Featured in “A Star Is Born.”

Greystone Mansion Bowling Alley

• Featured in “ There Will Be Blood .”

Griffith Observatory

• Featured in “ Charlie’s Angels: Full Throttle ,” ”  Rebel Without a Cause ,” and “La La Land.”

Hancock Park

• Featured in “ Happy Days .”

Heritage Square Museum

• Featured in “ Legally Blonde ” and “ Saving Mr. Banks .”

High Tower Court

• Featured in “ The Long Goodbye .”

Hollywood Bowl Self Storage

Hollywood palladium.

• Featured in “Back to the Future” and “ GLOW .”

Scene from “Back to the Future”

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

• Featured in “ The Fabulous Baker Boys .”

The Hotel Cafe

• Featured in “This Is Us.”
• This restaurant appeared in “Legally Blonde.”

Johnnie’s Coffee Shop

• Featured in “ American History X .”

LA Times Building

• Featured in “ Drive .”

The Last Bookstore

• Featured in “ Gone Girl ” and the TV series ” You .”

Scene from “You”

La Verne United Methodist Church

• Featured in “ The Graduate .”

Scene from “The Graduate”

Laveta Terrace Strip Mall

• Featured in “Nightcrawler.”

Scene from “Nightcrawler”

Leo Carrillo State Beach

• Featured in “ Grease .”

Scene from “Grease”

Linda Vista Hospital

Los angeles central library.

• Featured in “Heat.”

Los Angeles Metro

• Featured in “ Collateral .”

Scene from “Collateral”

Los Angeles River

• Featured in “Grease” and “Terminator 2: Judgment Day.”
• Featured in “LA Confidential.”

Lovell House

Lower grand avenue.

• Featured in “ The Dark Knight ,” where it represents Gotham City.

Marshall High School

• This classic campus has appeared in “ Boy Meets World ,” “ Can’t Hardly Wait ,” “ Grosse Pointe Blank ,” “ Pretty in Pink ,” and “ Sabrina the Teenage Witch .”

Mavericks Flat

• Featured in “ Insecure .”
• Featured in “GLOW.”

Scene from “GLOW”

Merkato Ethiopian Restaurant

Featured in “Insecure.”

Millennium Biltmore Hotel

• Featured in “Beverly Hills Cop,” “ Cruel Intentions ,” “ Ghostbusters ,” “Heat,” and “ Splash .”

Monrovia House

• Featured in “ Bird Box .”

Mulholland Drive

• Featured in “ Twin Peaks .”

Musso & Frank Grill

• Featured in “ Ed Wood .”

Nickel Diner

Niles henman house.

Featured in “ Face/Off ” and “ Gone in 60 Seconds .”

Orange Grove Avenue

The houses featured in “ Halloween ” still stand in Hollywood.

Pacific Design Center

• This colorful complex has appeared in “ Demolition Man ,” “ Her ,” and “ Westworld .”

Pacific Electric Building

• Featured in “Face/Off, ” “LA Confidential,” and “ Se7en .”

Scene from “Se7en”

Paramount Studios

• Featured in “ Sunset Boulevard .”

Park Plaza Hotel

• Featured in “Drive.”

Pat & Lorraine’s

• Featured in “ Reservoir Dogs .”

Pink’s Hot Dogs

• Featured in “ Mulholland Drive .”

Point Dume State Beach

• This waterfront location has appeared in “The Big Lebowski,” “ Iron Man ,” and “ Planet of the Apes .”

Scene from “The Big Lebowski”

Point Fermin

• Featured in “ Crash .”

Scene from “Crash”

Private LA Residence – Hamilton House

• This private pool appeared in “ Fast Times at Ridgemont high .”

Scene from “Fast Times at Ridgemont High”

• This bar has appeared in “ Chinatown ,” “ Mad Men ,” and “ Thank You for Smoking .”

Puente Hills Mall

• This “Back to the Future” scene features the famous DeLorean.

Rabbit Slim’s

Randys’s donuts.

• Featured in “ Dope .”

Rodeo Drive

• This picturesque street has appeared in “Beverly Hills Cop,” ” Clueless,” and “Pretty Woman.”

Rosslyn Hotel

• Featured in “Se7en.”

Rucker House

Scene from “A Star Is Born”

Sam’s Hofbrau

• Featured in “ Jackie Brown .”

San Gabriel Mountains

• Featured in “ E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial .”

Sanctuary Adventist Church

• Featured in “ Kill Bill .”

Scene from “Kill Bill”

Santa Monica Pier

• This waterfront amusement park has appeared in “ 2012 ,” “ Falling Down ,” “ Forrest Gump ,” “ Hancock ,” ”  Hannah Montana ,” “Iron Man,” “ Not Another Teen Movie ,” “ Pacific Rim Uprising ,” and many others.

Schaeffer Residence

• Featured in “ A Single Man .”

Second Street Tunnel

• This downtown LA location has appeared in “ Independence Day ” and “Kill Bill.”

Sheats-Goldstein Residence

• Featured in “The Big Lebowski” and “ Charlie’s Angels .”

The Smokehouse

• Featured in “ Argo ” and “La La Land.”

Set from “La La Land”

Snow White Cottages

• Featured in “Mulholland Drive.”

South Bay Beaches

• Featured in “Jackie Brown.”

Sowden House

Stahl house.

• This popular house, which has a glass wing, has appeared in “ Galaxy Quest ,” “ Why Do Fools Fall in Love? ,” and “ The First Power .”

Sunken City Trail

• Featured in “The Big Lebowski.”

Super A Foods

• Featured in “ East Los High .”

Union Station

• Featured in “Blade Runner,” “ Catch Me If You Can ,” and “ The Dark Knight Rises .”

Scene from “The Dark Knight Rises”

University of California – Los Angeles

• Featured in “ Buffy the Vampire Slayer ,” “ The Godfather ,” “ Gilmore Girls ,” and “Legally Blonde.”

University of Southern California

• The campus has appeared in “Forrest Gump,” “The Graduate,” “Legally Blonde,” and “ The Social Network .”

Scene from “Legally Blonde”

Van Nuys Airport

• Featured in “ Casablanca .”

Velazut Ranch

• Featured in “Westworld.”

Venice Beach

• Featured in “American History X.”

Venice High School

• Featured in “Grease.”

Vista Theatre

• Featured in “ Get Shorty ” and “ True Romance .”

Vivian’s Millennium Cafe

• Featured in “ Battle Creek .”

Watts Towers

• Featured in “ Colors .”

Westin Bonaventure

• Featured in the underground bunker in “ Interstellar ” and in “Heat,” “ In the Line of Fire ,” and “ True Lies .”

Windward Avenue

• Featured in the famous tracking shot in “ Touch of Evil .”

Becoming a well-rounded filmmaker starts with knowing the best techniques used in the industry today. Apply for the Cinema Production Diploma at Nashville Film Institute to begin your career.

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13 of the best film locations you can visit in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the perfect place to visit the locations of your favourite films and shows.

--> BY Katie Carlin

Last updated . 18 February 2020

Immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of Hollywood by visiting the bars, hotels, restaurants and precincts featured in 2019’s most talked about films and television shows.

Los Angeles is the undisputed entertainment capital of the world. It has served as the backdrop to countless award-winning films and television shows since Hollywood first became the central hub of the emerging U.S film industry in the early 1900s. This makes L.A. the perfect destination for film and television buffs looking to experience the locations featured in the most talked about films and shows of 2019.

The Virgil features in A Star Is Born, starring Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper.

A Star Is Born

Could there be a more perfect location for a film about a love story between a rock star and aspiring singer than the city where dreams are made? Locals and visitors to Los Angeles can find the locations of some of their favourite scenes in the movie.

The Virgil is the set for first time Jackson watches Alley sing.

The Virgil – The popular East Hollywood bar is the location where Jackson first watches Ally perform La Vie en Rose at the drag show.

Address: 4519 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles

Ally perform La Vie en Rose at the drag show at Los Angeles’ Virgil bar.

Greek Theatre – Jack attempts to convince Ally to come with her to his next concert at none other than the Greek Theatre in Griffith Park. Ally decides to take a risk, quits her job and flies to the Greek where Jack convinces her to sing Shallow on stage.

Address: 2700 North Vermont Avenue, Los Angeles

A cosier side to The Virgil that we didn’t see as much of in the film.

Chateau Marmont – Ally and Jackson share a moment in their hotel room, filmed at the Chateau Marmont, just before the launch of her album while looking out at her billboard on Sunset Boulevard.

Address: 8221 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles

The Chateau Marmont is the setting for the scent in A Star Is Born when Ally and Jackson look out over her billboard just before her album launch.

The award-winning television show may be set in Pittsburgh and the New York tri-state area but it is filmed in the City of Angels. You can find the locations of the show’s most heartwarming and tear-jerking scenes throughout Los Angeles.

Nickel Diner in Downtown Los Angeles serves up some mouthwatering sweets.

Godmother’s Saloon  – ‘Froggy’s’ may be the name of Rebecca and Jack’s local Pittsburgh hangout in the show, but Godmother’s Saloon, located in San Pedro, is the actual filming location.

Address: 302 West 7th, San Pedro

Nickel Diner also happens to be the very diner that Kevin and Sophie share their first kiss in This Is Us.

Nickel Diner –Downtown Los Angeles’s Nickel Diner is the place where Sophie and Kevin had their first kiss and where Kevin attempts to win Sophie back in season one of the show. Customers will be transported back to the 1940s in this vintage-style restaurant.

Address: 524S Main Street, Los Angeles 

Nickel Diner is also the same diner Kevin tries to win Sophie back in season one of This Is Us.

Hotel Café –It is the location of Rebecca’s Valentine’s Day show in season one and the venue is a Los Angeles musical landmark in Hollywood. Some of the Hotel Café’s most notable performers include Coldplay’s Chris Martin, Katy Perry, Ed Sheeran and John Mayer.

Address: 1623 ½ North Cahuenga Boulevard, Los Angeles 

The Hotel Café is the location of Rebecca’s Valentine’s Day show.

Openaire is located on the LINE Hotel’s rooftop in Koreatown.

The HBO hit series has received countless accolades for depicting a more positive side to life in South Los Angeles than what viewers generally see in mainstream television shows or films. The majority of scenes are filmed in the South L.A. neighbourhood but there are a few hangouts for Issa and friends sprinkled throughout the city.

The restaurant was the location of Molly and Issa’s brunch in season two of Insecure.

Mavericks Flat –The location of where Issa runs into Daniel in the very first episode of Insecure . Artists such as the Temptations and Marvin Gaye performed at this Leimert Park landmark, and it was once known as the ‘Apollo of the West’ during the ’60s and ’70s when it was one of the foremost jazz, soul and R&B venues in the city.

Address: 4225 Crenshaw Boulevard, Los Angeles 

Openaire is Josiah Citrin’s new restaurant (formerly known as The Commissary).

Merkato Ethiopian Restaurant – The city’s oldest Ethiopian restaurant plays host to Issa’s birthday party in another episode, starring in a scene between Molly and Issa. Located in Los Angeles’s Little Ethiopia district, this intimate establishment is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal.

Address: 1036 ½ Fairfax Avenue, Los Angeles

Openaire – Josiah Citrin’s new restaurant (formerly known as The Commissary) is located on the LINE Hotel’s rooftop in Koreatown. The restaurant’s distinctive greenhouse decor makes it instantly recognisable as the location of Molly and Issa’s brunch in season two.

Address: 3515 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles

Netflix’s original comedy pays homage to the Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling variety show of the 1980s that was originally set in Las Vegas. Netflix decided to move the show’s location to Los Angeles and as a result it gives us a look into the city’s colourful history.

The Pink Motel – To prepare for the show the ladies of GLOW  are sent to live at the Dusty Spur, which is actually the Pink Motel in Sun Valley. The retro hotel has also appeared on shows such as Dexter and Drive , and while it is closed for business you can still get an outside look at the location before popping in next door to Cadillac Jack’s Cafe, another popular filming location for GLOW .

Address: 9457 San Fernando Road, Sun Valley

Ruth and Sam stopped in at the Mayan in Downtown L.A. in GLOW, but you’ll also recognise it from scenes in The Bodyguard and A Night at the Roxbury.

The Mayan – When scouting for locations to shoot GLOW , Ruth and Sam stopped in at the Mayan in Downtown L.A. The historic theatre is intricately designed with Aztec features and has also appeared in The Bodyguard and A Night at the Roxbury . It now operates as a nightclub.

Address: 1038 South Hill Street, Los Angeles

The Hollywood Palladium’s interior is used as the fictional Hayworth Hotel in GLOW.

Hollywood Palladium – The women of GLOW decide to film the first episode at the fictional Hayworth Hotel, which uses the interior of the Hollywood Palladium. The exterior of the Palladium was also used in a different episode of the show as a movie theatre screening Back to the Future .

Address: 6215 Sunset Boulevard, Hollywood

The exterior of the Palladium was also used in a different episode of the show as a movie theatre screening Back to the Future.

Sandra Bullock stars in the chilling Netflix movie Bird Box . The 2019 film has taken over Australia’s screens (and memes!) and travellers will be pleased to learn they can visit the Monrovia home from the film, which is located in Los Angeles County.

Monrovia House – Monrovia is located 32 kilometres north of Los Angeles, and this seven-bedroom property is the home of Sandra Bullock and her children in Bird Box . The suburb is also the location of numerous other iconic films, including Legally Blonde , American Pie and Never Been Kissed .

Address: 304 North Canyon Boulevard, Monrovia

Travelling to Los Angeles? Here is how you can spend a perfect 48 hours solo in the City of Angels.

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Los Angeles in the movies: A tour of 50 iconic film locations (photos)

• Published: Mar. 04, 2018, 11:01 a.m.

John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

Los Angeles in the movies

It’s all a blur driving down Sunset Boulevard.

Not just because the iconic road cuts through Los Angeles’ tourist attractions, souvenir shops and billboards advertising the latest blockbuster movies. Or because it shares the same name as the 1950 classic by Billy Wilder – a Hollywood film about Hollywood that was nominated for 11 Academy Awards and captured three.

Text and photos by John Petkovic, The Plain Dealer

A city or a movie set?

You see, there’s something vaguely familiar about this place – the streets, the buildings, the blueish-purple skies overhead. Those winding rows of majestic palm trees swaying in the sun.

They’ve appeared in so many films and are so burned into our pop consciousness that they are more than “cinematic.” They blur reality and film… Am I in a city or on a movie set?

Actually I’m sitting in L.A. traffic and not moving much, but you get the point.

Hollywood Boulevard

I’ve visited L.A. dozens of times. With each trip I’ve increasingly come to see the city as some sort of living, breathing extension of the movies.

Yes, there are more than 2,600 stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Tourists snapping photos and comparing their hands to the impressions of movie stars in the concrete around Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. Bright lights and garish impersonators lording over Hollywood Boulevard.

Movies reflecting a city

But there is also that milieu created over decades with dozens of movies -- hyper-informed and loaded with images that reflect the city like some funhouse mirror. Of course, there’s the sing-song valentine known as “La La Land.” There are countless others, including “The Big Lebowski,” “Pulp Fiction,” “Straight Outta Compton," "Repo Man,” “Mulholland Drive,” “Swingers,” "Boyz N the Hood," “Boogie Nights,” “Chinatown,” “Double Indemnity,” “The Long Goodbye.”

Film locations of Los Angeles

I recently spent a week tracking down the real-life places in films that made L.A. famous… Or, perhaps, movies L.A. made famous.

Lest you think this is a meandering dash into Hollywood obscurity, many of the spots are located near other attractions most curious travelers would want to hit anyway: breathtaking beaches, stylish diners, glamorous hotels, scenic drives and iconic landmarks.

Many are close enough to one another that they make up six short mini tours you can take in anywhere from a few hours to a full day.

Grauman's Chinese Theatre

Hollywood Boulevard is the first stop for anyone visiting L.A. with a camera. There are the stars, the circus of impersonators on the street, the lights and the kitsch. Many head right to TCL Chinese Theatre (6925 Hollywood), or Grauman's as it was known during its Hollywood heyday. Opened in 1927, it's renowned for those celebrity hand and footprints in the concrete – not to mention premiering everything from Cecil B. DeMille's "The King of Kings" to "Star Wars." Movie buffs will also remember it as the backdrop for the opening scene of "Singin' in the Rain," the 1952 musical that is considered one of Hollywood's all-time classics.

Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

Across and down the street a bit is the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel (7000 Hollywood) -- where the Academy Awards debuted in 1929; where Marilyn Monroe once lived and where countless films were shot, including "The Fabulous Baker Boys."

Life imitates the screen

This isn't a movie set; it only looks like one. The design for the Hollywood and Highland Center -- a shopping mall located at 6801 Hollywood Blvd, next to Grauman's Chinese Theatre -- was inspired by D.W. Griffith's "Intolerance."

El Capitan Theatre

Just down the street and away from the crowds, you get a different piece of classic Hollywood with the El Capitan Theatre (6838 Hollywood), the 1926 movie palace that premiered "Citizen Kane" and was a stand-in for The Muppet Theater in "The Muppets."

Musso & Frank Grill

Don't forget to cross the street and check out Musso & Frank Grill (6667 Hollywood). This place might have a monopoly on Tinseltown allure, with its elegant bar and dining room, legendary literary and movie guests and servers in red coats. But it offers a slice of vintage Hollywood that make you feel like an extra in a movie. Oh yeah, it played backdrop to a meeting of Ed Wood Jr. and Orson Welles in "Ed Wood" and made cameos in "Mad Men."

Frolic Room

Follow it up with a shot and a beer at Frolic Room (6245 Hollywood), a vintage dive bar with Art Deco style that has been open since Prohibition. It attracts a shadowy set of Hollywood vampires, was one of author Charles Bukowski's favorites and appears in the noir classic, "L.A. Confidential."

101 Coffee Shop

Due north and a seven-minute walk away from Frolic Room is the 101 Coffee Shop (6145 Franklin Ave.), a stylish 1960s-era diner that serves killer shakes and has appeared in "Swingers," "Entourage" and "Gilmore Girls."

High Tower Court

Fans of the L.A. noir will no doubt enjoy getting a glimpse of High Tower Court , (located a mile away, at 2178 High Tower Drive), the apartment block that plays a prominent role in Robert Altman's classic, "The Long Goodbye."

Sowden House

Due east from "The Long Goodbye" apartment block is another noir gem: Sowden House (5121 Franklin Ave.), an opulent 1926 Frank Lloyd Wright-designed mansion that appeared in "L.A. Confidential" (and hosts tours).

Pink's Hot Dogs

David Lynch and The Muppets paid homage to L.A. in very different ways. They come together at Pink's Hot Dogs (709 N La Brea Ave). A colorful legend since 1939, this retro blast serves two dozen foot-longs and has appeared in, whoa, "The Muppets" and "Mulholland Drive."

Paramount Studios

The Hollywood tour ends with "Sunset Boulevard," er, actually an homage to "Sunset Boulevard" on Melrose Avenue – Paramount Studios (5515 Melrose). Most of the locations, including Norma Desmond's glorious mansion, have been torn down. But Paramount – where she comes to visit Cecil B. DeMille in the hopes of jumpstarting her career -- remains. The studio still does movie tours.

Hollywood on the beach

Yes, the movie industry set up shop in Hollywood in the 1910s to evade movie patents held by Thomas Edison in New Jersey. But it also came for the blue skies and sun that guaranteed most days fine for filming. There are no better sunsets in America than those drifting over the Pacific Ocean – which makes these spots scenic on the screen and in person. From Malibu, to the north, to San Pedro, 47 miles southeast, you can take in some of the country’s most breathtaking vistas and views, and memorable movie scenes.

El Matador Beach

At the northern tip is El Matador Beach , a romantic getaway from the world that features dramatic sunsets and otherworldly rock formations. The beach is sandy and you will regret not bringing a bathing suit or a camera for his heavenly spot that played backdrop in the 2004 romance, "The Notebook."

Point Dume State Beach is just as much a natural beauty. It shoehorns soft sand, still waters, rugged rocks and vicious waves on one coastline. It's also the site of the 1968 sci-fi classic, "Planet of the Apes." The one-hour walk up to Point Dume – where the Statue of Liberty was located in the film - takes you through desert shrubs, wildflowers and thick bushes and offers some of the most beautiful views anywhere.

Santa Monica Pier

The circa-1901 Santa Monica Pier (20 miles east along the coast) is a deep dive into humanity -- a jam-packed carnival of tourists and amusement park rides, including a charming carousel and a massive Ferris wheel. It's also the site of countless films, from "The Sting" to "Forrest Gump" to "Iron Man."

Venice Beach

It boasts gorgeous views of the Pacific and a storied past. Jim Morrison used to hang out in this former hippie lair. So did Olivia Newton- John, who roller skates there in the film "Xanadu." You can even stay at the Samesun Venice Beach , a hostel that appeared in the 1958 film noir classic "Touch of Evil."

Dinah's

Hungry? Lucky you, there are two famous movie eateries a short drive inland. Dinah's (6521 S. Sepulveda Blvd, Los Angeles) is renowned for its stylish interior, cool lighting and that big bucket of chicken sign. The circa-1959 diner also played backdrop to a gang of German nihilists in "The Big Lebowski" and a weird job interview scene in "Nightcrawler."

Randy's Donuts

Since 1953, Randy's Donuts (805 W. Manchester Blvd, Inglewood) has wowed Angelinos with fried dough and that massive donut sign, not to mention appearances in "Dope," "Iron Man 2," "Get Shorty" and "Earth Girls are Easy."

South Bay Beaches

The South Bay Beaches have also seen their share of roles – mostly for their sand and sun and piers. The Manhattan Beach Pier has appeared in "Point Break" and "Starsky and Hutch." The Hermosa Beach Pier starred in "La La Land" and its beach house community appeared in "Jackie Brown." The Redondo Beach Pier was a regular in "The OC."

Sunken City Trail in San Pedro

California's vibrant port town San Pedro (15 miles southeast of Redondo) is home to Sunken City Trail , the site of the messy funeral in "The Big Lebowski" where The Dude and Walter try and scatter Donny's ashes over the Pacific Ocean. The area, a collection of rocks and trees sitting on a cliff, is beautiful, but also a popular suicide spot, which has resulted in the city limiting access.

From Beverly Hills to Compton

It's 20 miles and a seemingly a world away from Beverly Hills to Compton. The space in between features a number of film locations, though they tend to be more spread out and are often located out of the way from from traditional tourist routes and destinations. Gritty working-class areas in Inglewood and South Central Los Angeles provide the backdrops for films such as "Boyz N the Hood" and "Menace II Society." Beverly Hills provided a very different kind of backdrop, which was used to comedic effect in "Beverly Hills Cop" -- the 1984 flick about a cop from the streets of Detroit who ends up working in buttoned-up and uptight Beverly Hills.

Johnnie's Coffee Shop

Yes, it's closed. But Johnnie's Coffee Shop (on the corner of Wilshire and Fairfax, near the Los Angeles County Museum of Art) is a museum piece: a historic landmark, a fine example of Googie architecture and the backdrop for "The Big Lebowski" and "American History X."

Beverly Hills Hotel

Johnnie's is less than a mile south of the Original Farmer's Market, a popular tourist attraction, and four miles east from Beverly Hills Hotel (9641 Sunset Blvd). "The pink palace," an Old Hollywood icon that played host to the Rat Pack, W.C. Fields, Elizabeth Taylor and appeared on the Eagles "Hotel California" album, was the filming location for "California Suite."

Beverly Hills City Hall

Of course, you can make a beeline to Rodeo Drive or pretend you're Eddie Murphy and go to Beverly Hills City Hall (455 North Rexford Drive), which doubled as the police department building in "Beverly Hills Cop."

Beverly Wilshire Hotel

It's famous for a number of reasons. Elvis Presley was a regular at the circa-1928 hotel. So were a ton of actors, from Warren Beatty to Dustin Hoffman to Anjelica Huston. It has also  played in the movies, beginning with Charlie Chaplin's 1931 classic yarn about a tramp and a millionaire, "City Lights."

Watts Towers

Seventeen miles and a world away from Beverly Hills are the Watts Towers (1727 E 107th St.). Located in L.A.'s Watts neighborhood, the 99-foot towers were built out of concrete, steel, broken glass and found objects by an Italian immigrant, Sabato Rodia, from 1921 to 1954. They are so cinematic that they've appeared in countless films, from "Menace II Society" to "Colors," "Dr. Black, Mr. Hyde" and "La La Land

Downtown L.A.

Downtown was the forgotten part of L.A. No more. The area has experienced a two-decade-long revival and has reclaimed its place as the center of life – and an important piece of movie history.

Millennium Biltmore Hotel

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences was founded at this 1923 gem (506 S. Grand Ave), which hosted many of the early Oscar ceremonies. It has also played a starring role on the screen, appearing in more than two dozen movies including “Chinatown,” “True Lies,” “Beverly Hills Cop” and “Ghostbusters.”

Downtown walk

Downtown is perfect for a walking tour that takes in the city’s architecture and a number of movie locations.

Bradbury Building

The Bradbury Building (304 S. Broadway) is a dazzling architectural gem of ornate brick, wood and iron that has seen more roles than most A-list actors: "Blade Runner," "Double Indemnity" and "DOA."

Grand Central Market

Across the street is the Grand Central Market (315 S. Broadway), a sprawling and buzzing market that was built in the late-1800s and which makes a cameo in "La La Land."

Angels Flight

The circa-1901 railway lift is one of the few remnants of the Bunker Hill neighborhood, which was obliterated in the 1960s to make way for downtown redevelopment. It remains a popular tourist attraction and appeared in L.A.-centric films “La La Land,” “The Muppets” and “Kiss Me Deadly."

2nd Street Tunnel

This 1,500-foot-long glowing tube, which runs runs under Bunker Hill, was built to alleviate traffic in downtown Los Angeles. At least, that was the official reason when it opened in 1924. These days, you'd think it was built as part of a noirish scif-fi movie set; it's been featured in countless movies, from "Repo Man" to "The Terminator" to "Blade Runner.

For color, a three-mile drive into thriving Koreatown takes you to The Prince (3198 W 7th St). The colorful restaurant -- lots of reds and ornate décor – serves a stellar Korean-style chicken and boasts an appearance in "Chinatown." Speaking of Chinatown (four miles to the east), the bustling neighborhood rolls out shops and restaurants and movie roles in "Chinatown" and "Rush Hour."

Sam's Hofbrau

This strip joint located amid the warehouses of downtown L.A. has been hailed as one of Los Angeles' top adult spot by Playboy.  Sam's Hofbrau (1751 E Olympic Blvd) also has a fan in Quentin Tarantino. The director has used is as a backdrop for two of his films, "Jackie Brown" and "Kill Bill Vol. 2."

Los Angeles' Los Feliz neighborhood boast some of the areas most iconic movie spots, including the Visa Theatre. The stylish 1923 movie palace continues to screen films on a regular basis. It also appears in the 1997 neo-noir classic, "L.A. Confidential."

Los Angeles River

No, the city didn't encase the Los Angeles River in concrete to make it hospitable to car chases. It was done to deal with a flood in 1938. But the effect was all the same: The river, which often looks more like a creek or a trickle, has played a major role in films such as "Repo Man," "Drive" and "Point Blank." Accessing the river can be difficult, but you can get to it between L.A.'s Los Feliz and Atwater Village neighborhoods along Fletcher Drive.

Griffith Park

Along with stellar views and natural beauty, Griffith Park  also offers the city's most famous filming location, appearing in everything from the 1915 D.W. Griffith classic "Birth of a Nation" to "Rebel Without a Cause' to "La La Land."

Ennis House

The grandiose Ennis House  in Los Feliz doesn't have as many credits, but the 1924 Frank Lloyd Wright-designed mansion has appeared in a dozen films, including "Blade Runner" and "House on Haunted Hill."

Snow White Cottages

Built in 1931, these whimsical cottages, which their mix of rustic wood and storybook design, are said to have inspired Walt Disney to create "Snow White and the Seven Dwarves." They're located along Griffith Park Boulevard in Los Feliz, just around the corner from the original Walt Disney Hyperion Studios -- where Disney operated from 1929 to 1939. The cottages also appear on film - in David Lynch's "Mulholland Drive."

The Dresden

Another Hollywood institution, The Dresden (1760 N Vermont Ave., in Los Feliz) rolls out a different kind of color – the kind that boasts vintage '50s décor, a campy musical troupe called Marty and Elayne and an appearance in "Swingers."

"Bowfinger"

The Pacific Design Center might look particularly inspiring, especially if you have a taste for Old Hollywood. After all, West Hollywood building (8687 Melrose Ave.) is big and blocky and anything but elegant. Well, it was a perfect setting for MindHead -- a cult where people wear weird hats and espouse sci-fi psycho-babble in "Bowfinger," the 1999 comedy starring Steve Martin and Eddie Murphy.

From film noir to small-town America

Located far from the glitz and spotlight, places like Pasadena, Glendale and Burbank have played major roles in the movies because they seem more like “regular” America.

"Mildred Pierce" house

Glendale has sleepy residential neighborhoods and 143 North Jackson Street offered the perfect location for the "Mildred Pierce" house in the 1945 Academy Award-winner.

"Double Indemnity" train station

Glendale also supplied the "Double Indemnity" train station (400 W Cerritos Ave.) for the 1944 Billy Wilder film noir classic, which still functions as an Amtrak station.

Rabbit Slim's

One of modern cinema's most famous moments – the John Travolta and Uma Thurman dance scene in "Pulp Fiction" – is also a product of Glendale. Sadly, Rabbit Slim's, a former bowling alley that was dressed up as a diner, is no more. But you can still see the exterior, which is part of the Walt Disney Imagineering campus (1401 Flower St.).

Pat & Lorraine's

You can get inside and eat at another Quentin Tarantino location, however. The cozy Pat & Lorraine's diner (4720 Eagle Rock Blvd., in the Eagle Rock neighborhood) played host to the famous opening sequence of "Reservoir Dogs." It also serves a killer Mexican chicken plate.

Halloween" house

Pasadena and South Pasadena, with their greenery and trees, provided many a Middle American home to the movies. There's the "Halloween" House (100 Mission St., South Pasadena) that replicates the Haddonfield, Illinois residence where Michael Myers murdered his sister in the 1978 film. It's an office building now, but still a popular stop for horror buffs.

"Pretty in Pink" house

Three-tenths of a mile away is the tiny and modest "Pretty in Pink" house (1010 Hope St.), where Molly Ringwald and Harry Dean Stanton live, on the wrong side of the Chicago tracks (and, yes, there actually are train tracks at the end of the street here).

"Back to the Future" house

Doc Brown's much grander "Back to the Future" house is a mere two-and-a-half miles away in Pasadena (4 Westmoreland Place).

"Invasion of the Body Snatchers"

Located six miles east of Pasadena, Sierra Madre is a quiet small town -- in real life at least. On the screen, it is known as the home of those weirdo "pod people" -- a.k.a., the extraterrestrials in "Invasion of the Body Snatchers." The 1956 sci-fi classic was shot in the center of the town and you can still find some of the buildings that appeared in the film.

"The Fog"

"The Fog" also came to Sierra Madre. John Carpenter shot part of his 1980 horror classic at the historic 1888 Episcopal Church of the Ascension, located on East Laurel Avenue in the small town.

Colorado Street Bridge

"La La Land" brought romance to Pasadena's Colorado Street Bridge – a 1,486-foot Beaux Arts gem renowned for its arches and lights. Sadly, it is also notorious for being a "suicide bridge" that has been the jumping spot in countless deaths over the decades. Thank god – and Hollywood – for romance.

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The Most Popular Filming Locations in Los Angeles

November 01, 2022

As the birthplace of Hollywood and home of the stars, Los Angeles is a real life filming set. Wandering through this boisterous city you’ll notice a lot of familiar looking settings - scenes you have witnessed in TV shows or films. From violent movies like Pulp Fiction, to the hopelessly romantic La La Land, the diversity of movies produced in LA is astounding. While it’s simply impossible to name every single place that has been featured in Los Angeles movies , here are some of the most iconic filming locations in LA.

Griffith Observatory 

  While talking about the most known filming locations in Los Angeles, Griffith Observatory is easily among the top of the list. One of the most beautiful places in Los Angeles , this public Observatory attracts large crowds of people every year. Whether it’s to admire the picturesque views of the city below or to indulge in scientific discoveries, the Griffith Observatory is a must see for visitors. The Griffith Observatory also offers challengings hikes, beautiful grass for picnics or yoga, as well as diverse events held all throughout the year.

It comes as no surprise that one of the best movies about Los Angeles was filmed right here, at this very place. As we’re sure you have guessed, the movie in question is La La Land. During one of the main protagonists’ outings, they head over to the Griffith Observatory and dance around the building.

Point Dume at Zuma Beach

  Point Dume continues to be a very popular filming location for movies, advertisements, TV shows, and videos. The reason being that it is very close to the film and television industry epicenter. As with many Malibu beaches, Zuma’s Point Dume Beach has scenic views and soft white sand, making it the perfect backdrop for any Hollywood film. 

Many Los Angeles movies have been shot at this location. This is where Jackie Treehorn’s beach party in the Big Lebowski was filmed, including some vital scenes in the Planet of the Apes series. 

Leo Carillo Beach 

  This state park was established in 1953, named after Leo Carrilo who worked on the State Parks Commission. The 1.5 miles of beach are stunning and offer a plethora of outdoor activities like swimming, surfing, beachcombing and more. There is a lot to explore in one of the most beautiful beaches in California . 

Leo Carillo Beach also happens to be where some scenes of the legendary movie Grease were filmed. Others include the Usual Suspects, Cast Away, and The Karate Kid. Visit this state park to enjoy the many things it has to offer, and to admire it as the location of these iconic movies. 

UCLA Campus

Located in Beverly Hills, UCLA is among the most beautiful college campuses in California , with 419 acres of aesthetic spots to discover. The University’s grounds are dotted with trees and contain miles of lush grassy areas, giving it an urban feel. A lot of movies filmed in Los Angeles have taken advantage of these beautiful spots. UCLA has been featured in iconic movies such as the Godfather and Legally Blonde, and classic TV shows like Gilmore Girls and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. 

The Office Building

While we are led to believe that the office from The Office is located in Scranton, PA, it is actually filmed in a building in Van Nuys. While it may not look like much with its gray and simple structure, this is where the shenanigans of The Office took place. Dunder Mifflin is a paper company after all, the filming set did not need to incorporate an especially impressive looking building. This is also where the Chandler Valley Center Studios are located. 

BradBury Building 

  The BradBury Building is a Los Angeles architectural landmark that has withstood the test of time. This legendary structure was built back in 1893 and has been used as a filming set for multiple movies throughout the past 40 years. The inside of the BradBury Building is where the magic happens, the atrium is built in a way that lets light flood through. Along with the five open-floor geometric staircases, the BradBury Building is one the best filming locations in Los Angeles .

The building has been featured in many television shows, music videos, and literature. The most notable movies it has appeared in are The Artist, 500 Days of Summer, and Blade Runner. 

Angels Knoll - The Bench 

One of the more easily accessible film locations in Los Angeles is the infamous bench, featured in the hit indie movie 500 Days of Summer. This is where one of the most iconic scenes takes place, where the main character sits on the bench overlooking the city. This bench is located in the heart of downtown LA at Angels Knoll Park next to Grand Central Market and Angels Flight . The park is closed off at night so you will only be able to see or sit on the bench during the day. 

Randy’s Donuts 

Among the most famous landmarks in LA , Randy’s Donuts attracts crowds of people, and not all of them come to savor their delicious donuts. Many people recognize the landmark and are frantic to take pictures of it, or just look at it. This makes Randy’s Donuts one of the most visited LA film locations . Featured in movies like Iron Man 2 and Mars Attacks, head over to Randy’s Donuts to admire this iconic filming set, and why not grab a donut along the way. 

Angelino’s - Strip Mall 

The NightCrawler is a movie mostly set at night, so when the crew were out scouting for locations appropriate for the visuals of the film, it had to be after the city got dark. That is how the bakery Angelino’s was discovered to be one of the perfect locations to film . Located at 1522 West Sunset Boulevard, the Strip Mall at Laveta Terrace in Echo Park is where the bakery can be found. This local bakery is loved by many for its donuts, croissants, smoothies, and many more. 

This is one of the Los Angeles filming locations that can only be recognized at night, as everything looks quite different during the day.

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Home > Places > United States Of America > California > Los Angeles

Friday June 28th 2024

Films made in Los Angeles

Here’s our list of films made, wholly or partly, in Los Angeles . Click on the film title for its full entry.

You’ll find details of the film's locations, how they appear on screen and whether you can see / visit them today.

There are also travel details, background info, trivia and of course photographs of what you can expect to find.

You’ll see that some titles don’t currently have a live link. Although these films do not yet have a full entry on the site, they are in the process of being added, so check back regularly.

If you have any further info or corrections, please email us at [email protected]

(500) DAYS OF SUMMER

13 GOING ON 30

THE 40-YEAR-OLD VIRGIN

A.I. (ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE)

ACE IN THE HOLE (aka THE BIG CARNIVAL)

ADAM’S RIB

THE ADDAMS FAMILY

THE ADVENTURES OF ROBIN HOOD

ADVISE AND CONSENT

THE AFRICAN QUEEN

AGAINST ALL ODDS

ALICE DOESN’T LIVE HERE ANYMORE

ALL ABOUT EVE

ALL THE PRESIDENT’S MEN

ALMOST FAMOUS

ALTERED STATES

THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN

AMERICAN BEAUTY

AMERICAN GIGOLO

AMERICAN HISTORY X

AMERICAN PIE

AMERICAN PIE 2

AMERICAN SNIPER

AMERICAN SPLENDOR

AMERICAN WEDDING (aka AMERICAN PIE 3: THE WEDDING)

ANCHORMAN: THE LEGEND OF RON BURGUNDY

ANGELS AND DEMONS

THE APRIL FOOLS

ARMY OF DARKNESS

AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 DAYS (1956)

AS GOOD AS IT GETS

THE ASPHALT JUNGLE

ASSAULT ON PRECINCT 13 (1976)

AUSTIN POWERS: INTERNATIONAL MAN OF MYSTERY

AUSTIN POWERS IN GOLDMEMBER

THE AVIATOR

BACK TO THE FUTURE

BACK TO THE FUTURE PART II

BACK TO THE FUTURE PART III

BAD INFLUENCE

BAD NEIGHBOURS

BARTON FINK

BATMAN AND ROBIN

BATMAN FOREVER

BATMAN RETURNS

BATMAN V SUPERMAN: DAWN OF JUSTICE

BEACH BLANKET BINGO

THE BEAST FROM TWENTY THOUSAND FATHOMS

BEING JOHN MALKOVICH

BEING THERE

BEN HUR (1925)

BEVERLY HILLS COP

BEVERLY HILLS COP II

BEVERLY HILLS COP III

BIG BUSINESS (1929)

THE BIG LEBOWSKI

THE BIG SLEEP (1946)

BILL AND TED’S BOGUS JOURNEY

BIRDS OF PREY: AND THE FANTABULOUS EMANCIPATION OF ONE HARLEY QUINN

THE BIRTH OF A NATION (1915)

BLACKBOARD JUNGLE

BLADE RUNNER

BLAZING SADDLES

BLONDE BOMBSHELL

THE BLUES BROTHERS

BODY DOUBLE

THE BODYGUARD

THE BONFIRE OF THE VANITIES

BONNIE AND CLYDE

BOOGIE NIGHTS

BOYZ N THE HOOD

THE BRADY BUNCH MOVIE

BREATHLESS (1983)

BRIDE OF THE MONSTER

BRIDESMAIDS

BRUCE ALMIGHTY

A BUCKET OF BLOOD

BUFFY THE VAMPIRE SLAYER

THE CABLE GUY

CAPTAIN AMERICA: THE WINTER SOLDIER

CAPTAIN MARVEL

CAPTAINS COURAGEOUS

CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF

CATCH ME IF YOU CAN

CHARLIE’S ANGELS

CHARLIE’S ANGELS: FULL THROTTLE

THE CHINA SYNDROME

THE CINCINNATI KID

A CINDERELLA STORY

CITIZEN KANE

CLOVERFIELD

COMING TO AMERICA

THE CONCORDE... AIRPORT ’79

CONSTANTINE

COUNTY HOSPITAL

CRASH (2004)

CRAZY, STUPID, LOVE

THE CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON

CRUEL INTENTIONS

DADDY DAY CARE

THE DARK KNIGHT RISES

A DAY AT THE RACES

THE DAY OF THE LOCUST

THE DAY THE EARTH STOOD STILL (1951)

DEAD MEN DON’T WEAR PLAID

DEATH AT A FUNERAL (2010)

DEATH BECOMES HER

DEATH RACE 2000 (1975)

DEMOLITION MAN

DEVIL IN A BLUE DRESS

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER

DIRTY HARRY

THE DISORDERLY ORDERLY

D.O.A. (1950)

Doctor Dolittle (1967)

DOCTOR DOLITTLE (1998)

DONNIE DARKO

DOUBLE INDEMNITY

DOWN AND OUT IN BEVERLY HILLS

DRACULA (1931)

DRAG ME TO HELL

DUNKIRK (2017)

E.T. - THE EXTRA-TERRESTRIAL

EARTH GIRLS ARE EASY

END OF DAYS

ENEMY OF THE STATE

ESCAPE FROM L.A.

ESCAPE FROM NEW YORK

ESCAPE FROM THE PLANET OF THE APES

EVERYTHING EVERYWHERE ALL AT ONCE

EXORCIST II: THE HERETIC

THE FABULOUS BAKER BOYS

FALLING DOWN

FAMILY PLOT

THE FANTASTIC VOYAGE

FAREWELL MY LOVELY (1944)

FAREWELL MY LOVELY (1975)

FAST AND FURIOUS

FAST AND FURIOUS 5

FAST AND FURIOUS 6

FAST AND FURIOUS 7

THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS

THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS: TOKYO DRIFT (THE FAST AND THE FURIOUS 3)

FAST TIMES AT RIDGEMONT HIGH

FATHER OF THE BRIDE (1991)

FERRIS BUELLER’S DAY OFF

FINAL ANALYSIS

THE FISHER KING

FOREIGN CORRESPONDENT

FORGETTING SARAH MARSHALL

FORREST GUMP

FRANKENSTEIN

FRIENDS WITH BENEFITS

G.I. JOE: THE RISE OF COBRA

GALAXY QUEST

GANGSTER SQUAD

GARDEN STATE

GHOST WORLD

THE GIRL NEXT DOOR

THE GLENN MILLER STORY

THE GODFATHER

GODS AND MONSTERS

GODZILLA (1998)

THE GOLD RUSH

GONE IN 60 SECONDS (1974)

GONE IN 60 SECONDS (2000)

GONE WITH THE WIND

THE GRADUATE

GRAND CANYON

THE GREAT DICTATOR

THE GREATEST SHOWMAN

THE GREATEST STORY EVER TOLD

THE GREEN HORNET

GREMLINS 2: THE NEW BATCH

THE GRIFTERS

GROSSE POINTE BLANK

GUESS WHO’S COMING TO DINNER?

GUNFIGHT AT THE OK CORRAL

HALLOWEEN (2007)

HALLOWEEN II (1981)

HALLOWEEN III: SEASON OF THE WITCH

HALLOWEEN H20: 20 YEARS LATER

THE HANGOVER

THE HATEFUL EIGHT

HELL IS FOR HEROES

HELLO, DOLLY!

HIGH ANXIETY

THE HOUSE OF USHER

HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL (1958)

HOUSE ON HAUNTED HILL (1999)

HOW GREEN WAS MY VALLEY

THE HUNCHBACK OF NOTRE DAME

The Hunt for Red October

I LOVE YOU, MAN

IMITATION OF LIFE

IN A LONELY PLACE

IN THE LINE OF FIRE

INDECENT PROPOSAL

INDEPENDENCE DAY

INTERNAL AFFAIRS

INTERSTELLAR

INTO THE WILD

INTOLERANCE

INVASION OF THE BODY SNATCHERS (1956)

THE ITALIAN JOB (2003)

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE

JACKIE BROWN

JAGGED EDGE

JAY AND SILENT BOB STRIKE BACK

THE JAZZ SINGER (1927)

JERRY MAGUIRE

JURASSIC PARK II (THE LOST WORLD: JURASSIC PARK)

JURASSIC PARK III

THE KARATE KID

KENTUCKY FRIED MOVIE

KILL BILL: VOLUME 1

THE KILLERS

KILLING ZOE

KINDERGARTEN COP

KING KONG (1933)

KING OF KINGS (1927)

KNIGHT AND DAY

L.A. CONFIDENTIAL

LADY IN A CAGE

LAST ACTION HERO

THE LAST SAMURAI

LEAVING LAS VEGAS

LEGALLY BLONDE

LETHAL WEAPON

LETHAL WEAPON 2

LETHAL WEAPON 3

LETHAL WEAPON 4

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS

THE LONG GOODBYE (1973)

THE LOST BOYS

LOST HIGHWAY

THE LOVED ONE

MACBETH (1948)

MADE OF HONOR

THE MAGNIFICENT AMBERSONS

THE MAN IN THE IRON MASK (1939)

THE MAN WITH TWO BRAINS

THE MANCHURIAN CANDIDATE (1962)

MARATHON MAN

THE MARTIAN

MARY POPPINS

MEAN STREETS

MEET THE FOCKERS

MEN IN BLACK

MIDNIGHT RUN

A MIDSUMMER NIGHT’S DREAM (1933)

MILDRED PIERCE (1945)

MILLION DOLLAR BABY

THE MILLION DOLLAR HOTEL

MINORITY REPORT

MIRACLE MILE

MR & MRS SMITH

MR BLANDINGS BUILDS HIS DREAM HOUSE

MR SMITH GOES TO WASHINGTON

MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE 3

MOMMIE DEAREST

MOVE OVER DARLING

MULHOLLAND DR (aka MULHOLLAND DRIVE

MURDER IN THE FIRST

THE MUSIC BOX

MY LITTLE EYE

MY FAIR LADY

MYRA BRECKINRIDGE

THE NAKED GUN: FROM THE FILES OF POLICE SQUAD!

THE NAKED GUN 2 1/2: THE SMELL OF FEAR

THE NAKED GUN 33 1/3: THE FINAL INSULT

NATIONAL TREASURE

NATIONAL TREASURE: BOOK OF SECRETS

NATIONAL VELVET

THE NEGOTIATOR

NEW YORK, NEW YORK

NIGHTCRAWLER

A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET

A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET IV: THE DREAM MASTER

NOT ANOTHER TEEN MOVIE

NOW VOYAGER

THE NUTTY PROFESSOR (1996)

OCEAN’S ELEVEN (1960)

OCEAN’S ELEVEN (2001)

ONCE UPON A TIME IN HOLLYWOOD

ONE EIGHT SEVEN

OPPENHEIMER

PACIFIC HEIGHTS

THE PARALLAX VIEW

PEARL HARBOR

PEE-WEE’S BIG ADVENTURE

THE PEOPLE VS LARRY FLYNT

PHANTOM OF THE PARADISE

PHONE BOOTH

Pirates of the Caribbean: Curse of the Black Pearl

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: DEAD MAN’s CHEST

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES

plan 9 from outer space

PLEASANTVILLE

POINT BLANK

POINT BREAK

POLTERGEIST

THE PRESTIGE

PRETTY IN PINK

PRETTY WOMAN

PRINCE OF DARKNESS

THE PRINCESS DIARIES

PRIZZI’S HONOR

PSYCHO (1960)

PSYCHO (1998)

PULP FICTION

PUNCH-DRUNK LOVE

RAGING BULL

REALITY BITES

REAR WINDOW

REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE

RESERVOIR DOGS

RISE OF THE PLANET OF THE APES

RIVER'S EDGE

ROAD TO SINGAPORE

ROBOT MONSTER

SABRINA (1954)

SAFETY LAST

ST ELMO’S FIRE

THE SAND PEBBLES

SAVING MR BANKS

SAY ANYTHING

SCENES FROM A MALL

THE SEVEN YEAR ITCH

SEX AND THE CITY

SHE’S ALL THAT

SID AND NANCY

SILVER STREAK

THE SOCIAL NETWORK

SOMEONE TO WATCH OVER ME

SOPHIE’S CHOICE

THE SOUND OF MUSIC

SPIDER-MAN 2

SPIDER-MAN 3

SPIDER-MAN: HOMECOMING

STAND BY ME

A STAR IS BORN (1937)

A STAR IS BORN (1954)

A STAR IS BORN (2018)

STAR TREK III: THE SEARCH FOR SPOCK

STAR TREK: FIRST CONTACT

STAR TREK GENERATIONS

STAR TREK (2009)

STAR TREK INTO DARKNESS

STARSHIP TROOPERS

STARSKY & HUTCH (2004)

STEP BROTHERS

STRANGE DAYS

STRANGERS ON A TRAIN

A STREETCAR NAMED DESIRE

SUICIDE SQUAD

SUNSET BLVD

SUPERMAN RETURNS

TARZAN AND HIS MATE

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS (1956)

THE TERMINATOR

TERMINATOR 2: JUDGMENT DAY

TERMINATOR 3: RISE OF THE MACHINES

THAT TOUCH OF MINK

THELMA & LOUISE

THEY LIVE BY NIGHT

THEY SHOOT HORSES, DON’T THEY?

THE THING (1982)

THE THING FROM ANOTHER WORLD (1951)

THIS IS SPINAL TAP

THROW MOMMA FROM THE TRAIN

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

TOUCH OF EVIL

THE TOWERING INFERNO

TRAINING DAY

TRANSFORMERS

TRANSFORMERS: REVENGE OF THE FALLEN

THE TREASURE OF THE SIERRA MADRE

TRON (1982)

TRUE ROMANCE

UNION STATION

THE USUAL SUSPECTS

VALLEY OF THE DOLLS

VAN HELSING

VANILLA SKY

VIVA LAS VEGAS

A WALK IN THE CLOUDS

THE WAR OF THE ROSES

THE WAR OF THE WORLDS (1953)

WATERLOO BRIDGE (1931)

THE WAY WE WERE

WAYNE’S WORLD

WE FAW DOWN

THE WEDDING SINGER

WEREWOLF OF LONDON

WEST SIDE STORY (1961)

WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO BABY JANE? (1962)

WHAT PRICE HOLLYWOOD?

WHAT’S LOVE GOT TO DO WITH IT

WHEN HARRY MET SALLY...

WHITE CHRISTMAS

WHITE MEN CAN'T JUMP

WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT

WILLARD (1971)

WITNESS FOR THE PROSECUTION

THE WIZARD OF OZ

WUTHERING HEIGHTS (1939)

THE X FILES

X – THE MAN WITH X-RAY EYES

YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN

THE YOUNG STRANGER

ZABRISKIE POINT

ZATHURA: A SPACE ADVENTURE

Visiting Los Angeles

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Home > Road Trip Itineraries > West Coast > California Road Trip Itineraries > California Coast > Los Angeles Travel Guide > Los Angeles Attractions > Top Film Locations in Los Angeles

Top Film Locations in Los Angeles

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Los Angeles condenses the core values of the American dream being nurtured by: a better life, a freedom to achieve, and a pursuit of happiness, regardless of birth status, into a single physical location. Even with all the contradictions that, more generally, the social and economic system represents, in the California megalopolis the mild climate, abundance of raw materials, boundless space, ocean and concrete job opportunities have always offered a solid guarantee to the succession of generations of pioneers.

Tourism, and the agricultural, chemical, aeronautical and electrical industries employ large numbers of people; so too do the publishing, television and film industries. In fact, one of the many cities that make up the urban agglomeration is Hollywood , the temple of world cinematography , which, thanks to a judicious succession of advertisements, articles, stories and scandals, has only served to increased the myth by creating a veritable “Star System.”

From here the big film companies (Universal, Fox, Paramount, etc.) control production, distribution and operation, generating a huge economic turnover. The large white Hollywood sign , installed on Mount Lee, is one of the symbols of the States and represents the Mecca for all those who, out of passion, devote themselves to acting.

Map of Fillm Locations

Filming locations in downtown los angeles, griffith observatory filming locations, hollywood and beverly hills filming locations.

Los Angeles’ Downtown , a financial and commercial center, rises next to the original core of the first town of all-Mexican origin and expression; in the old pueblo, the main attractions are the delightful pedestrian Olvera Street and (1) La Plaza , the focal point of the neighborhood. The plaza, which hosts annual music festivals and public celebrations of various kinds, appears in the third installment, from 1992, of the glorious “ Lethal Weapon ” saga; after yet another intemperance, detectives Martin Riggs (Mel Gibson) and Roger Murtaugh (Danny Glover), are temporarily demoted to the rank of simple officers to deal with the city traffic in that area.

In the historic (2) Bradbury Building , located at No. 304 South Broadway, numerous sequences from a variety of film productions, music videos and TV shows have been filmed. Perhaps the most iconic film, shot in the belly of the structure designed by architects George Wyman and Sumner Hunt, is Ridley Scott’s masterpiece, “ Blade Runner ” (1982).

The Bradbury Building, where the film’s final and most exciting scenes were shot, is the setting for the bleak and lonely abode of J. F. Sebastian (William Sanderson), who, in offering a safe haven to the charming replicant Pris (Daryl Hannah), expounds on his private and work passion: “I make friends. They’re toys. My friends are toys. I make them. It’s a hobby. I’m a genetic designer.”

In the brilliant comedy “ (500) Days of Summer” (2009), set entirely in Los Angeles, with multiple sequences shot downtown, the film’s epilogue takes place inside the same famous building.

With regard to Marc Webb’s film, as the narrator anticipates, it should be pointed out that: “This is a story of boy meets girl, but you should know upfront, this is not a love story.” The favorite spot of the male protagonist, Tom Hansen (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), is the (3) Angels Knoll Bench , a minute garden set on a low hill from where a fine view of some of the buildings of downtown Los Angeles can be observed.

Tom, an architect temporarily employed by a company that creates phrases for anniversary cards, loves to observe those buildings whose history and peculiarities he knows. At 316 West 2nd Street, we find the infamous (4) The Redwood Bar & Grill , a privateer-themed venue where Sole (Zooey Deschanel), the female lead, discreetly performs karaoke with a cover of “Sugartown,” a Nancy Sinatra song.

The (5) Fire Station 23 , located at 225 East 5th Street, was used for interior scenes in “ Ghostbusters ” (1984), in the depiction of their base of operations: this is where Ray (Dan Aykroyd) gets electrified as a child after testing the emergency call pole. The exterior facade of the same disused barracks, evidently still very much in vogue as a film location, was used in “ The Mask ” (1994) in the guise of the workshop where the weak, timid and clumsy banker Stanley Ipkiss (Jim Carrey) goes to have his car repaired.

Not everyone knows that, even in Los Angeles, there is a river and that, in the past, the stream of the same name served as the main water source for the rapidly expanding city. After causing numerous floods, the city decided to artificially channel its waters into a concrete bed, draining it for most of the year. And that is how the (6) Los Angeles River viaduct comes to be an iconic film location for so many movies.

Some of the most famous films include: “ Grease ” (1978), in which during the crazy “Thunder Road Race,” the legendary Ford De Luxe Convertible cars, driven by Danny Zucco (John Travolta), are pitted against the Mercury Series 9CM, judged by Leo (Dennis Cleveland Stewart); “ Terminator 2 – Judgment Day ” (1991), in which the protagonist John Connor (Edward Furlong), tries to escape from the next-generation Terminator, aboard his motorcycle; “ Drive ” (2011), in which Ryan Gosling gives a woman and her child a ride across the river in an almost idyllic scene; “ Point Break ” (1991), in which FBI agent Johnny Utah (Keanu Reeves) chases down the bank robber masquerading as Ronald Reagan.

In the legendary road movie “ Thelma and Louise ” (1991), the Motel where the pair of friends (played by Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon, respectively) meet the stud J.D. (Brad Pitt), is not located in the wide-open spaces of the mid-west, but rather, just south of Downtown Los Angeles. It is the (7) Vagabond Inn , a renowned motel with a pool, located at 3101 South Figueroa Street near the University of Southern California campus.

Thanks to its strategic location, this prestigious private university often lent several indoor facilities to major Hollywood productions. The (8) Alumni Park Memorial Fountain , on the edge of which a very young Dustin Hoffman, as the confused Benjamin Braddock, sits patiently awaiting the arrival of Elaine Robinson (Katharine Ross), a student at Berkeley University, is actually here.

In Mike Nichols’ masterpiece, “ The Graduate ” (1967), Ben, having successfully finished his college career and on his first date with the girl, falls so madly in love with her that he opens up intimately and confides to her that: “II’ve been feeling like this since I came back… it’s a constant impulse to be rude, you understand me yes? You see, it’s like playing a game with rules that don’t make sense to me…because the wrong people made them. No indeed… nobody makes them, it seems that they make themselves.”

“ Forrest Gump ” (1994), by Robert Zemeckis, is another masterpiece that certainly needs no introduction. In this film too, the university that Jenny (Robin Wright) attends is actually USC. In fact, “Margaret Mitchell Hall,” Jenny’s dormitory facility that appears in the film, is actually (9) Marks Hall , located at 631 Childs Way on the Athenaeum campus. During a surprise visit to his childhood friend, Forrest (Tom Hanks), inflamed by jealousy, extinguishes the enthusiasm of her boyfriend, who is guilty of trying to have a fleeting sexual intercourse right in front of the bench on which, Forrest, waits late at night for “his” Jenny to return home.

In the Lynwood area, at 10990 Atlantic Avenue, stands the fast-food restaurant (10) Angelo’s Burgers , aka “Whammyburger” in the 1993 drama film, “ Falling Down ” The protagonist, William Foster (Michael Douglas), is an ordinary man who has gone to war, through exhaustion, with the everyday reality of noise, violence and injustice. Having now passed “the point of no return,” he tries to order breakfast at the fast-food restaurant, but due to the time of day, he is offered only the available lunch menu. The disappointment generates heavy disagreements with the employees and patrons.

Moving instead to Inglewood, a city district not far from the airport, one can order a donut at the famous (11) Randy’s Donuts , located at 805 West Manchester Boulevard. This eatery, iconic in Los Angeles because of the giant donut installed on top of the structure, appears in the comedy “Earth Girls Are Easy” (1989) and the more recent “ Iron Man 2 ” (2010).

“There’s a hundred-thousand streets in this city. You don’t need to know the route. You give me a time and a place, I give you a five minute window. Anything happens in that five minutes and I’m yours. No matter what. Anything happens a minute either side of that and you’re on your own. Do you understand?”

This is the opening of the now cult film, “ Drive ” (2011), in which, throughout the film, the name of “Driver,” the protagonist, played by the talented Ryan Gosling, is never revealed. The (12) apartment of Driver and Irene (Carey Mulligan), is located in the complex located at 607 South Park View Street; from the upper floors of the structure, one can enjoy a beautiful view of Downtown and the nearby (13) MacArthur Park . In this very park, Driver meets Irene’s husband, a thug, and Blanche (Christina Hendricks), his accomplice. Built in 1880 and named after General Douglas MacArthur, the eponymous green space is listed as one of Los Angeles’ Historic Cultural Monuments.

Delighted to have recovered his father’s watch, Butch (Bruce Willis), one of the main characters in Quentin Tarantino’s stunning, unparalleled and brilliant “ Pulp Fiction ” (1994), stops humming at the traffic light on the (14) intersection of Fletcher Drive & Atwater Avenue in the Atwater Village neighborhood. Among the jaywalking pedestrians, however, he crosses the menacing gaze of Marsellus Wallace (Ving Rhames), the dangerous boss on his heels.

The dispute between the two starts the night before, when boxer Butch blows the deal he made with the mob to go down at a given round. Butch wins the fight and causes Marsellus to lose a mountain of money, although, the latter, had previously warned him with a clear recommendation: “The night of the fight, you may feel a slight sting. That’s pride fucking with you. Fuck pride. Pride only hurts, it never helps. You fight through that shit.”

Staying in the cinematic cosmos of the creative and prolific Italian-born director, in the debut film “ Reservoir Dogs ” (1992), the group of robbers meet at (15) Pat & Lorraines Coffee Shop , at 4720 Eagle Rock Boulevard. The diner is still going strong and serves really super breakfasts!

The (16) Griffith Observatory , completed in the first half of the last century, has become a true symbol of the city and, from atop the southern slope of Mount Hollywood, offers visitors a harmonious blend of entertainment and culture. In cinematography, the Art deco-style structure has been portrayed in numerous films, such as, for example, the musical “ La La Land ” (2016), where Sebastian Wilder (Ryan Gosling) and Mia Dolan (Emma Stone), dance a waltz together under a starry sky, and the film “ Terminator ” (1984), in which the cyborg assassin from the future (Arnold Schwarzenegger), wakes up naked on the observation deck of the tourist complex and sets off on his mission.

Among the hills behind the astronomical observatory, one encounters the (17) Mt. Hollywood Drive Tunnel , the end of which is the gateway to the fantastic world of Toontown, the animated city where the cartoons reside in the cute comedy “ Who Framed Roger Rabbit ” (1988). In this fantasy town, the cartoon characters work as actors and, as R.K. Maroon (Alan Tilvern) reminds Eddie Valiant (Bob Hoskins), “The best part is, they work for peanuts!” (tossing a handful of the same to the little elephant Dumbo).

In the second chapter of the 1989 mythical “ Back to the Future ” trilogy, the long sequence in which Marty Mcfly (Michael J. Fox), hiding in the back seat of Biff Tannen’s (Thomas F. Wilson) Ford, desperately tries to retrieve the indispensable sports almanac, ends just inside the tunnel.

Finally, how can we fail to remember the legendary 1955 film, Burnt Youth with James Dean, which set one of its most famous scenes in this area. This event is still remembered today by a statue dedicated to the actor.

Moving on to Hollywood , on the very famous street “ Hollywood Walk of Fame ,” whose pavement is dotted with stars bearing the names of the most important actors and actresses of world cinema, one can find – on the corner with Wilcox Avenue – the giant mural (18) You are the star , which appears in the aforementioned “ La La Land ” (2016).

The ironic wall painting, created by Thomas Suriya in 1983, depicts famous Hollywood stars, from Charlie Chaplin to Marilyn Monroe, all sitting in the stalls of a theater looking to the stage and those watching.

In Quentin Tarantino’s latest film “Once Upon A Time… In Hollywood ” (2019), after the cancellation of a previously scheduled film, western star Rick Dalton (Leonardo di Caprio) realizes that his career may be going downhill. In the heart of Hollywood, at the (19) Musso & Frank Grill at 6667 Hollywood Boulevard , his agent Marvin Schwarz (Al Pacino) weighs up the dire prospect of making commercial spaghetti-westerns for the big screens of overseas theaters.

Opened in 1919, Musso & Frank Grill is the oldest surviving restaurant in Hollywood, and the high ceilings, dark wood paneling, and comfortable booths have remained virtually unchanged ever since. The waiters and bartenders still wear the same red uniforms they did when regulars like Charlie Chaplin and Greta Garbo were served in the restaurant.

Rick Dalton’s (22) Villa is located in the San Fernando Valley, beyond the Hollywood Hills, at 10969 Alta View Drive. His neighbor is the already established film director Roman Polański, who lives with the beautiful Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie). After driving Rick home in a sleek ’66 Cadillac Coupe de Ville, stuntman Cliff Boothpassa (Brad Pitt) gets behind the wheel of his battered blue ’64 Karmann Ghia to return to his home.

At 1738 North Las Palmas Avenue, stands the (20) Las Palmas Hotel , whose structure served as the home of Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts), star of Garry Marshall’s timeless “ Pretty Woman ” (1990).

The film definitively launched the actress’ career, whose acclaimed portrayal of the young prostitute earned her an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe for Best Actress in a Leading Role. The “office” of Vivian and her colleague and roommate Kit De Luca (Laura San Giacomo) is right along Hollywood Boulevard, specifically, along the stretch of jurisdiction from Bob Hope’s star to Ella Fitzgerald’s between (21) numbers 6753 and 6757 .

And it is on this stretch of road that the Lotus, driven by the wealthy and unobtrusively handsome Edward Lewis (Richard Gere), stops to ask for directions to the (28) luxurious Beverly Hills hotel (at 9500 Wilshire Bouleverd) where he is to stay for the rest of the week in Los Angeles.

Contrary to the stories told in the eleven seasons of “ Happy Days ” (1974-1984), which entered homes via television all over the world thanks to the likability and genuineness of all its characters, the legendary (23) Cunningham House , is not located in Milwaukee, but at No. 565 North Cahuenga Boulevard.

Along Sunset Boulevard , on its liveliest and most storied stretch (the so-called Sunset Strip), stands, at number 8901, the (24) Whisky a Go Go , a venue featured in the Jim Morrison biopic, “ The Doors ” (1991). During its long history, this venue’s infamous stage has hosted many important artists such as, in addition to The Doors, Nirvana, Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, Aerosmith, Blondie, The Talking Heads, and many, many more.

From the Sunset Strip, going up Doheny Road, one arrives at the (25) Greystone Mansion , an immense and prestigious mansion that is extremely movie-friendly. In fact, this opulent mansion has been home to more than a dozen famous films, including, “The Big Lebowski”, a 1998 cult movie starring Jeff Bridges, John Goodman, and Steve Buscemi, in which the structure appears as the mansion of tycoon Jeffrey Lebowski, namesake of the main character, and “Bodyguard,” a 1992 film starring Kevin Costner: here Greystone Mansion is the home of successful singer Rachel Marron (Whitney Houston), whose life is in danger.

The famous Beverly Hills resort, is, in fact, a self-contained city, enclosed within the sprawling urban sprawl of L.A., which begins from Santa Monica Blvd extending into the hills. Many movie stars live here, of course, protected by high walls surrounding their splendid mansions. In the epic movie “ The Graduate ” (1967), one of these mansions belongs to the Robinson family. The (26) House of Mrs. Robinson (Anne Bancroft), wealthy and bored wife, and mother of Elaine, is located in the residential heart of Beverly Hills, at 607 North Palm Drive. Right here, the awkward Ben (Dustin Hoffman), finds himself fending off the first brazen advances of the charming mature woman.

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

Ivan Tronconi

Cinema enthusiast, in love with road trips, and constantly in search of alternative escapes in the Americas.

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Filming Locations for Rent in Los Angeles, CA

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Top Filming Locations in Los Angeles, CA

Have you been searching the web for the perfect filming locations in Los Angeles? Are you excited to shoot next to Hollywood’s biggest movie stars? You should’ve come to us sooner. Here at Tagvenue we specialize in looking for filming locations, and whether you’re searching areas of East Los Angeles, Pasadena, Glendale or Hollywood - we promise you will find something for yourself. Look through our offer of studios, lounges, rooftops and many more. Search this Southern California city, and find the best filming locations Los Angeles has to offer.

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Los Angeles is a beautiful city (and the second most popular after NYC), which offers a lot to anyone who decides to go there. Are you taking a leap of faith in your filming career? Or have you already established a name for yourself in the City of Angels? Whatever your situation is, Tagvenue will try to fulfill your need to book the perfect filming venue. You’ll be happy to hear that we have options near the main landmarks as well as on the outskirts of the city. Do you want to film near the Hollywood Sign? Perhaps you fancy exploring the Hall of Fame after the shoot, and seeing your favorite celebrity’s star? In your free time, take advantage of LA having the best of both worlds, and take a trip to the nearest beach. Relax on the coastline, which runs between Malibu and Long Beach, and enjoy the sun.

We could go on and on about what to do in LA, but we know that you’ve come here for a reason.

Here at Tagvenue, we try to step into your shoes when choosing a venue. We understand that filmmaking is a lengthy process, which can be quite stressful. And we also know that one of the most crucial aspects of pre-production is deciding where to film. Search for appropriate areas, as this is critical in order to avoid any problems for you and your staff later on. Let’s take a look at the key points to consider when selecting the ideal site for your film shoot.

How to find the ideal location for your film

First of all - know your script inside out

Everything in your movie, which means the setting also, is determined by the script. The first step in site scouting is to know your screenplay inside and out. Check which places fit your filming description and ask the scriptwriter what they think of the location that you are planning to choose, or have already chosen. 

Secondly - scout locations at the right times

As the time of day varies, so does the ambience and vibe of a site. Don’t search for good daylight studios, if you’re planning to shoot a scene in the middle of the night. The location can look very different in the morning, and have a completely different feel at night. Of course, we don’t mean closed studios with artificial lighting, but definitely check all those outdoor spots which you fancy. Something that could look unappealing during the daytime can be a wonderful spot for filming when the sun goes down. 

Finally - do a necessities check 

• Check if all of your equipment is working properly before you get to the film shooting location. You will be using a lot of different filming apparatus, so make sure it all runs smoothly. 
• Evaluate the area in which you will be filming, and how easily accessible it is. Check the transportation systems, how are you planning to get to your filming location? LA has a well-developed public transport system, but do your research nonetheless. 
• Do you have a film permit ? In Los Angeles, it is illegal to film without one on state property. If you’re doing any type of commercial filming, earning ad revenue or are just earning money from the production in general - you need a permit. If you’re an LA student who will be filming for their university - you still need a permit. To be on the safe side - just get one. The only time when you don’t need one is when you’re filming for personal use, and you’re not getting paid for it. The good thing about getting a permit is that you get resources, like maps illustrating boundaries of LA neighborhoods which you may need when filming. You may also get contacts to people in services which can benefit from your productions, and whom you can benefit from. Make sure to request it at least 4 days before filming.

Filming location suggestions in Los Angeles

If you're filming a scene in a bar or club, why don't you book The Speakeasy  located in West Los Angeles ? It's got a vibrant atmosphere and is an eclectic space for your production. You can enjoy the natural light or draw the curtains and create an authentic atmosphere for nighttime scenes. Even with its central location, the acoustic panels block out a lot of the noise and make for a relatively quiet setting.

Have you been looking for a beautiful studio? We found the place you need. Book the Studio at Artsy Apartment Studio Space , which is equipped with everything you could possibly want, and it’s all included in the price. It’s perfect for interviews, cooking shows, fitness programs, music videos and many more. Look for it in the Arts District. 

We don’t lie when we say that we have it all. Would you like to film on a yacht? We come to you with more than one! Check out the Luxury Yacht Charter ,  and many others on our website. The entire space is just for you and your film crew. You get to film a scene in the likes of Wolf of Wall Street, and feel luxurious for the day. Look for it on Marina del Rey . 

FAQs about Filming Locations in Los Angeles, CA

What's the price range of filming locations in la.

The price range, as always, is quite a big one. We have many budget friendly options, where you can expect to pay as little as $40 to $150 per hour. There are also a couple of more expensive options in the $200 - $1000 zone. And of course there are very expensive options reaching even as much as $30000 . (All data from Tagvenue.)

Which districts are the most popular for filming in LA?

The center of LA is completely filled with venues, so if that’s the area of the city that you’re looking for - you’re in for a treat. However, if you’re searching for more locations in different parts of Los Angeles, we can recommend going north and checking out areas of Glendale and Panama City . Or if you’re looking to be closer to the beach then go west towards Marina del Rey .

What types of filming locations are found in LA?

There are many different locations in which you can film. There are indoor as well as outdoor options, and we strongly recommend looking through our website to see some non-standard locations. You can film in a studio, restaurant, rooftop, terrace or a patio, and of course many others. Check Tagvenue’s website to pick your favorite.

Where can I get my film permit from in LA?

FilmLA is the official film office of Los Angeles. The permit can be obtained by filling out an application form via FilmLA’s Online Permit System . Don’t forget to fill it out a minimum of 4 working days before filming.

Guest Reviews of Filming Locations on Tagvenue

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I came across Tagvenue completely by accident and Sarah was unbelievably helpful in saving me valuable time and conducting the search on my behalf. I would not hesitate to use Tagvenue again. Natalie Moores - Corporate Event

It was really easy to find a wide range of potential locations, and I could contact many different venues with ease. Tagvenue allowed me to be very dynamic when organising my event. Would definitely use again! Sophie Ward - Birthday Party

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Los Angeles Film Locations

All Pictures Media has 1000’s of film location in Los Angeles for you to use. Select the category below of the type of film location you are looking for to see what we have to offer. If you need any assistance, please feel free to give us a call at (626) 243-0456 .

Residential Film Locations

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Commercial Film Locations

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Los Angeles’ Film Location History

When it comes to filming TV shows, commercials, or feature films, Los Angeles is the mecca of filming locations . Finding that perfect film location in Los Angeles can be a daunting task, but the experts at All Pictures Media will help you find that perfect location for filming or photo-shoots and make the whole process quick and easy.  All Pictures media is the premiere film location agency in the Los Angeles area and we have scouted 1000’s of film locations in Los Angeles for you to choose from.  We work with the largest studios in LA including ABC, CBS, FOX, MTV, HBO and leading magazines such as Elle, GQ, Vogue, In Style – visit the “ Projects ” section of our website for a complete list of featured clients.  We work with property managers and private home owners to bring you the most exclusive film locations Los Angeles has to offer.

In the early 1900s, film-makers began to migrate to the Los Angeles area to distance themselves from the strict rules imposed by Thomas Edison’s Motion Picture Patents Company in New Jersey. Since most of the movie-making patents were owned by Mr. Edison, independent film-makers were often sued by Edison to halt their productions.

To escape his monopoly moviemakers began to flock to Los Angeles to make their films. Los Angeles film locations offered ideal weather conditions and various terrain.  If agents from Edison’s company came out to California to find and stop these film-makers, adequate notice allowed for a quick escape to Mexico.

Working without interference from Mr. Edison, the Biograph Company moved west with actors Blanche Sweet, Lillian Gish, Mary Pickford, Lionel Barrymore, and others, to make their movies. After beginning filming movies in Los Angeles, the company decided to explore the neighboring area and stumbled across Hollywood.

Biograph made the first film in Hollywood, entitled In Old California. After hearing of Biograph’s praise of the Los Angeles area, other film-makers headed west to set up production companies themselves.

The first motion picture studio was built in 1919, in nearby Edendale, just east of Hollywood, by Selig Polyscope Company, and the first one built in Hollywood was founded by film-maker David Horsley’s general manager Al Christie in 1911, in an old building on the southeast corner of Sunset Boulevard and Gower Street. Movie studios began to pop up all over Hollywood after Christie’s appearance, including ones for Cecil B. DeMille in 1913, the Charlie Chaplin Studio in 1917, and many others.

The Need for Film Location Agencies in Los Angeles

Now that the stage was set in Los Angeles, the need for newer and more exclusive film locations in Los Angeles arose.  Producers could only build so many sets and stages on their lots and began seeking more affordable ways to capture the scenes they needed for their films and thus the birth of the film location scouting agency .

Agents scoured the entire Los Angeles area for commercial and residential film locations from location managers to private owners to allow them to list their properties for production companies to rent.  For many private owners, this became a great source of additional income while their properties were sitting empty 60% of the time.

As Hollywood continues to out-do itself on every new feature, production companies and film location agencies are utilizing locations all over the world.  In fact, many countries offer big incentives for LA based production companies to bring their productions to cities such as Dubai, Istanbul, and Quebec.

Los Angeles   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Az Jackson | Getty Images

33 Best Things to Do in LA

Los Angeles has an exhaustive array of fun things to do, from the family-friendly La Brea Tar Pits and the must-visit Natural History Museum to a behind-the-scenes studio tour at Universal Studios or Warner Bros. Out-of-towners love the palm-lined

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park free

Griffith Observatory sits on the south face of Mount Hollywood and overlooks the Los Angeles basin. Its location gives visitors impressive views of the surrounding area, which many rave about. But there's more than just a pretty photo-op here. The observatory hosts fascinating exhibitions and features a top-notch planetarium.

Most recent visitors cited the beautiful setting as Griffith Observatory's main draw, though the free entry was certainly a bonus. However, you will have to pay between $6 and $10 to see the planetarium shows. A gift shop and cafe can be found on-site as well. For information about parking, public transportation and other information to plan your visit, check out Griffith Observatory's  website .

The Getty Center The Getty Center free

The Getty Center is one of the most impressive architectural achievements in the United States – and it also contains some of the finest works of art in the world. The circular concrete-and-steel structure was designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, and it houses an abundance of art from various ages and nations. Here you'll find Renaissance paintings, 20th-century American photography, Baroque sculptures, historic manuscripts and more, all housed inside a sprawling, modern campus amid the Santa Monica Mountains. The museum also offers spectacular views of Los Angeles on clear days.

Recent travelers loved the museum for its vast collection and beautiful grounds and views, with some stating that they enjoyed the tram ride to get to the museum. Many visitors suggest taking a guided tour, noting that the volunteer guides were very knowledgeable. Tours of the Getty Center's architecture and gardens are available, as well as a Collection Highlights tour and tours of art in specific eras. Tour times and days vary depending on tour type. Check the Getty Center's website for a complete calendar . Visitors can also download the GettyGuide app for self-guided tours.

Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre free

U.S. News Insider Tip: In this area, you'll find people dressed as celebrities and Hollywood characters, such as Spiderman, Shrek, Marilyn Monroe and Darth Vader. Have some cash on hand as a tip if you want to take photos with any of them. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

One of Hollywood's most iconic and memorable sites, the TCL Chinese Theatre (originally Grauman's Chinese Theatre) opened in 1927 and represents the excess of Hollywood's Golden Age. You can take a 30-minute walking tour of the theater for $16; tours are offered daily at multiple times. Because of this attraction's popularity, it's best to reserve your spot online in advance. This working theater also shows various newly released films throughout the year.

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Santa Monica Pier and Beach Santa Monica Pier and Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss trying the classic (and yummy!) funnel cake, a kind of fried waffle topped with powdered sugar and your choice of toppings, such as strawberries, chocolate syrup, caramel syrup, whipped cream and ice cream. They are big enough to share. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

West of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica contains one of the most legendary beach scenes in the United States. It also boasts an abundance of great restaurants and excellent nightlife spots. Its more than 3 miles of shoreline are renowned as some of the best in the area thanks to the soft sands, ideal weather and bevy of attractions. "State Beach," as it's known, has more than 300 days of sunshine a year and acted as the backdrop for the popular TV series "Baywatch."

Zuma Beach Zuma Beach free

Malibu has a reputation for excessive wealth and exclusivity, yet all of the town's beaches are public – everyone's welcome. If you're seeking an LA beach spot for sunbathing and swimming, look no further than Zuma. This 1.8-mile beach is far cleaner than those at Santa Monica or Venice Beach .

Malibu's Zuma Beach is considered one of the finest beaches in the Los Angeles area. Locals and tourists laud Zuma for its awesome waves, ample parking and easy access to beachside snacks. Plus, there are a plethora of lifeguard stations and bathroom facilities. Beach wheelchairs and a beach mat (from April to October) are also available.

Sunset Boulevard Sunset Boulevard free

One of the most iconic thoroughfares in the United States, Sunset Boulevard continues to live up to its legend. In the old days, it represented the classic and glamorous Hollywood lifestyle and became the setting of several famous films, including the obvious classic "Sunset Boulevard." Today, the palm-lined street (which connects downtown LA to Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the Pacific Coast Highway) retains its cinematic appeal, and the Sunset Strip portion has become a popular nightlife spot. The strip is also home to many classic music venues, including the Rainbow Bar & Grill and The Roxy Theatre .

Recent visitors loved driving along this famous boulevard, adding that gorgeous sunsets can be enjoyed during late afternoon drives. But like other parts of LA, this thoroughfare gets congested with traffic.

The Original Farmers Market and The Grove The Original Farmers Market and The Grove free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Kids will love riding the free, open-air, double-decker trolley that runs through The Grove and connects to The Original Farmers Market. It runs daily from 1 to 8:45 p.m. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Sitting south of West Hollywood is one of LA's most beloved landmarks: The Original Farmers Market. Founded in 1934, this cream-colored facility reels in both residents and tourists with the promise of fresh produce and the aroma of ready-to-eat snacks. You can visit throughout the week, although hours vary depending on the day. Entry is free, but you'll want to have some cash on hand should any of the treats whet your appetite. You can park for free for up to 90 minutes at the market's two lots, provided that your ticket is validated at the market. (Fees apply for parking after the allotted 90 minutes and for non-validated tickets.) For a little help navigating the market, you can also take a guided foodie tour  (one of the best California tours ).

Los Angeles County Museum of Art Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Next door to the La Brea Tar Pits sits the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the linchpin of the Los Angeles museum district. Since its 1965 opening, LACMA has showcased thousands of pieces, from Islamic artifacts to European impressionist paintings to modern art. With constantly shifting exhibitions and unique architecture, LACMA offers a rewarding experience for both serious art buffs and casual travelers.

Currently, the museum is constructing a new building for its permanent collection, called the David Geffen Galleries, which is scheduled to open in 2024. For now, pieces will be on display in the BCAM and the Resnick Pavilion. The Urban Light and Levitated Mass exhibits remain open to visitors. There is a restaurant and grab-and-go eatery on-site. Many visitors appreciated both the indoor and outdoor art exhibits and were impressed with the size of the collection of modern and contemporary art.

Perfect 5 ½ Hour LA & Hollywood Tour from Santa Monica

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The Broad The Broad free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Two of the most popular exhibits that have blown up on social media are Yayoi Kusama's "Infinity Mirror Rooms." You have to book tickets online for timed entry to these exhibits, but they are free and include general museum admission. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad founded The Broad museum in 2015 and the structure made for a stunning addition to downtown Los Angeles. The eye-catching, honeycomb building, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Gensler, is home to an expansive collection of contemporary art dating from the 1950s to the present. The collection includes works by Jean Michel Basquiat, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, Kara Walker and Andy Warhol. In addition to the permanent collection, temporary exhibits showcase new and emerging artists. The museum gets high marks from recent visitors who loved both the artwork and the architecture.

Runyon Canyon Park Runyon Canyon Park free

Just two blocks from Hollywood Boulevard, Runyon Canyon Park is an often-overlooked urban park that offers some great views. The park boasts several hiking trails and is a popular spot for celebrities to exercise. During your hike, you'll see plenty of palm trees. Atop the canyon, you'll be treated to sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley.

Hikers recommend bring plenty of water and going later in the day since it can get hot on the trails. Some recent visitors lamented the lack of facilities, while others raved about the views.

Paramount Pictures Studios Paramount Pictures Studios

Since 1912, Paramount Pictures Studios has showcased the talents of film's all-time heavyweights, including Mae West, Alfred Hitchcock, Eddie Murphy and Meryl Streep. The notable site has been home to everything from classic television shows like "I Love Lucy" to modern favorites like "Glee" to box-office hits like "Mission: Impossible" and "Titanic." Today, Paramount Pictures is the only remaining film studio in the Hollywood area.

For an authentic Hollywood experience, set aside some time to tour the grounds . On the 2-hour studio tour, a guide will take you around the site's 65 acres in a golf cart, and you'll also be able to hop off and explore sound stages and recognizable studio sets from many current TV shows and movies. Previous visitors praised the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, although some felt the tours offered at Warner Bros. Studio were better. Also, keep in mind the tours' age restrictions. Studio and VIP tours permit visitors ages 10 and older.

Hollywood Bowl Hollywood Bowl

If you can catch a gig at the Hollywood Bowl , LA's beautiful amphitheater, don't pass it up. Since its inaugural season in 1922, this unique stage, set in the Hollywood Hills, has entertained thousands of fans and hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Stevie Wonder, Igor Stravinsky, Madonna, Elton John and Tina Turner.

Many travelers praise the Hollywood Bowl, touting everything from the sound quality to the scenic overlook. Several also add that all of the seats offer great views and suggest arriving early with a bottle of wine and a picnic basket.

Walt Disney Concert Hall Walt Disney Concert Hall free

This Frank Gehry-designed concert hall's curvaceous, stainless-steel façade is an imposing structure in downtown LA. The hall helped revive this particular section of downtown, which was once dominated by mundane office buildings and lackluster entertainment options. Now, nightlife and culture burgeon in the area and the concert hall is at the forefront. Music-loving travelers will want to catch one of the Los Angeles Philharmonic's performances here. (For ticket and price information, visit the Los Angeles Philharmonic's website .)

You don't have to invest in concert tickets to experience this performance venue: You can follow  a self-guided audio tour of the exterior and interior (though the actual concert auditorium is off-limits). Past visitors recommend the free hourlong audio tours; self-guided tours are also offered daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For a full tour schedule, visit The Music Center's website .

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Hollywood Homes Tours Hollywood Homes Tours

Once you've seen where the stars shop, where they eat, where they surf and where they party, you'll want to see where they live. A variety of Hollywood homes tours provide ample opportunities to spot homes owned by the rich and famous. You probably won't see the celebs themselves, but you can snap pics of the homes affiliated with A-listers like Sandra Bullock, Tom Cruise, Bruno Mars and Halle Berry. Also, expect to see facades that once housed the likes of Lucille Ball, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. Along with the stars' abodes, buses usually make stops at the Hollywood Walk of Fame , the Sunset Strip and Rodeo Drive .

Some recent travelers were disappointed because many homes are at the end of long driveways or behind hedges. Be sure to check the weather for the day: Extreme heat or a sudden shower can put a damper on an open-top bus ride.

Rodeo Drive Rodeo Drive free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop for lunch at the hidden Mexican steakhouse, The Hideaway, on the subterranean level of the Rodeo Collection. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Immortalized by Julia Roberts' "Pretty Woman" shopping spree, Rodeo Drive is an upscale shopping street in Beverly Hills that features world-class designer stores and small private boutiques. The area is popular with wealthy shoppers, sunglass-wearing celebrities and tourists hoping to see fashion icons.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery Hollywood Forever Cemetery free

As morbid as it may seem, your best chance of spotting a celebrity in LA is at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Here, you'll find the final resting places of Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille and other stars who once worked at the adjacent Paramount Pictures Studios . Maps detailing the celebrities' gravesites are available at the cemetery's flower shop or on its website . A 2 ½-hour walking tour is also available starting at $25.

Recent visitors described the cemetery's quiet grounds as "peaceful," adding that the grounds are well-maintained. Some recommend doing a walking tour to learn the stories of famous people buried there. The venue also offers cultural events, such as outdoor classic film screenings, concerts and author evenings. Visit their events calendar to find out more.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

You could spend an entire day at this property that includes a research library with 11 million items, an art museum with more than 42,000 pieces and a 130-acre botanical gardens with more than 12 themed gardens. The Huntington opened in 1928 and is a nonprofit that provides humanities scholarships, fellowships, special exhibitions and hosts more than 800,000 visitors a year. Ongoing exhibitions feature items such as Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" manuscript, replicas of Pacific Electric Railway Company's "red cars," rock slab art in the Japanese Garden, contemporary art and so much more. There are also temporary exhibits that rotate regularly. The Botanical Gardens include themed gardens – such as the California garden, jungle garden, rose garden and Japanese garden – botanical living collections and is the site for botanical conservation and research. Most visitors enjoyed touring the gardens the most and said that the gardens alone can be a full-day excursion.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is open from Wednesdays to Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations are recommended from Monday to Thursday and required for weekend visits.

Angeles National Forest Angeles National Forest

In about a half-hour, travelers can trade busy downtown LA for the serenity of nature at the Angeles National Forest. The almost 700,000-acre forest is an easily accessible place for locals and visitors to hike, bike, ski, ride horses, swim, fish and even camp. Encompassing the San Gabriel Mountains, terrain ranges from desert to dense forest. Perhaps one of the most visited sites is Mount San Antonio (nicknamed Mount Baldy), which is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains at 10,064 feet. There you will find a variety of hikes, from moderate to challenging. Recent visitors loved the views and found the range of trail options perfect for different types of hikers.

Visitors to the Angeles National Forest must purchase a National Forest Adventure Pass. It’s $5 for a daily pass or $30 for an annual pass; the pass is good at other national forests in the area. There are visitor and information centers in different areas of the forest, which offer general information, activities and educational events. Visit the forest's website for specific hours and details.

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La Brea Tar Pits La Brea Tar Pits

If your kids go crazy for dinosaurs – and really, what kid doesn't? – then a visit to La Brea Tar Pits is sure to be the highlight of their trip. Although the pits look like the set of a cheesy PG movie, hot tar has been bubbling from the earth at this spot along Museum Row in the Miracle Mile for about 50,000 years. And from the gooiest part of LA, more than 3.5 million fossils have been discovered. The adjoining museum houses many of the artifacts found at the tar pits; consequently, it is home to one of the largest collections of Ice Age fossils in the world. Recent visitors said the site was very educational and the amount of fossils was impressive.

The museum is open from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, though it closes the first Tuesday of the month. The tar pits and the adjoining park are open daily from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

California Science Center California Science Center free

A world of fun and exploration await kids, as well as curious adults, at the California Science Center. In the permanent "Ecosystems" exhibit, museumgoers will learn about everything from islands to rivers to forests across ten different zones via interactive displays. In "Life! Beginning," visitors learn about reproduction, mating and genes. Many recent visitors were impressed with the museum's "Air & Space" section that includes the Space Shuttle Endeavour and the Gemini 11 Capsule. An IMAX theater is also on-site. Recent visitors say the center is wonderful, lots of fun and especially great for kids.

The center is free to visit (including the Endeavour) though special exhibits and IMAX screenings incur a fee. Timed tickets for IMAX and special exhibits are required and can be purchased online .

Dodger Stadium Dodger Stadium

Baseball fans should enjoy a visit to Dodger Stadium, which is home to the LA Dodgers and is Major League Baseball's third oldest continually used park. The stadium is carved into Chavez Ravine and overlooks downtown LA to the south and the San Gabriel Mountains to the north, making this ballpark quite unique. If the Dodgers aren't playing when you're in town, you can still see the stadium on a guided tour. Tours of the 56,000-seat stadium last approximately 90 minutes. During the tour, visitors will learn about the stadium's history and may get to go on the field, look at the Dodger Dugout or peek into the Yaamava' Dugout Club (the VIP restaurant and lounge located behind home plate), which houses the team's World Series trophies and various other awards. Additional specialty tours, such as a Jackie Robinson tour, are also offered. Recent tour-goers say the guides are knowledgeable and engaging.

The Dodger Stadium Tour is offered on the hour from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (on game days ) or 3 p.m. (on nongame days). Tickets cost $30 for adults and $25 for kids 14 and younger. Specialty tours are also available for varying fees. Parking is $25 in advance and $30 to $50 at the gate, with no in-and-out privileges and no refunds. Tickets to baseball games are seasonal and prices vary.

Greystone Mansion and Park Greystone Mansion and Park free

Greystone Mansion is one of the largest mansions in Beverly Hills and an important landmark for American cinema. The nearly 13-acre parcel of land was a wedding gift from oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny to his son, Ned, in 1926. Construction on the mansion began in 1927 and took almost three years to complete. Greystone now represents a golden age in American cinema. Many films, including "The Big Lebowski" and "Ghostbusters," and television shows like "General Hospital" and "Gilmore Girls" have been shot on these gothic-inspired grounds.

Visitors can walk around the property and self-guided tours of the inside of the mansion are offered monthly. Many visitors say Greystone Mansion has stunning grounds with picturesque views. Travelers describe the park grounds as spectacular and enjoy learning which of their favorite movies and shows used Greystone as a backdrop.

Venice Beach Venice Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Rent an e-bike at the boardwalk and spend the day riding along "The Strand" (aka the Marvin Braude Bike Trail) to the Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy delicious Mexican dishes at MariaSol, which sits at the end of the pier. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Developed in the early 20th century, Venice Beach is modeled – canals and all – after its  namesake city in Italy . Admittedly, the experiment didn't live up to its Italian inspiration, but the neighborhood has become distinctly Californian, embodying the spirit of the wealthy, the alternative and the just plain bizarre. Rather than towering churches and intimate pizzerias, you'll find canal-side mansions near funky boutiques and restaurants.

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Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. free

If you're looking for a trendy hot spot, heed the advice of recent visitors and head to the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles. Formerly an urban artists' colony in the 1970s, the area is now filled with restaurants, cafes and bars serving creative cuisine and craft cocktails. Popular favorites include Angel City Brewery, Bestia, Girl & the Goat and EightyTwo, a bar that features vintage pinball and arcade machines. The neighborhood is also home to art galleries featuring a variety of genres showcasing inspiring art, art shops and art classes. One example is Art Share L.A., a 28,000-square-foot creative art space featuring community art classes, art exhibits and live performances.

According to past visitors, parking in this area can be challenging. Though there is street parking, it's limited. Travelers advise leaving your car in a public parking garage.

Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios Hollywood

One of the most popular attractions in the Los Angeles area, Universal Studios Hollywood features rides and amusements based on some of the most popular scenes and characters from film and television. You can take the tram Studio Tour past the creepy Bates Motel from "Psycho" and get caught up in a high-speed chase with the "Fast & Furious" cast. Kids can shake hands with cartoon favorites like The Minions and Scooby-Doo. Of course, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is another huge hit, as is Jurassic World – The Ride. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, a new attraction opened in 2023, features a Super Mario-themed ride, interactive games, a restaurant and shop.

If thrills are your thing, there are plenty of hair-raising coasters and rides. On Transformers: The Ride-3D, riders join Optimus Prime in his battle against the Decepticons; meanwhile, youngsters will love the 3D ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (complete with a Minion dance party).

Abbot Kinney Boulevard Abbot Kinney Boulevard free

Shoppers will love this retail mecca that stretches for a mile from Washington Boulevard to Main Street. Located a half-mile inland from Venice Beach , the boulevard features popular chain stores, such as Lululemon, Birkenstock and Warby Parker, as well as local boutique shops, including Ananda Venice, Satine and The Stronghold. In between shopping, stop for a bite to eat at The Butcher's Daughter, Plant Food + Wine or Gjelina. Or, plan your visit for the first Friday of every month, when starting at 5 p.m. dozens of food trucks serve up casual craft meals along the street.

Recent visitors suggested you stroll along Abbot Kinney Boulevard if you're in the Venice Beach area, praising its hip collection of boutiques and restaurants. In addition to the shops and eateries, reviewers also admired the colorful murals and street art. 

Grand Central Market Grand Central Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For something fun and unique near the market, check out the Angels Flight Railway. Built in 1901, the funicular takes passengers between Hill Street and Grand Avenue on Bunker Hill. One-way tickets cost $1. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Grand Central Market, or foodie heaven according to visitors, is located in downtown Los Angeles by the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad . The venue features high ceilings and an open layout, with food vendor stalls offering different cuisines that represent cultures from the Los Angeles area and beyond. The market has been in operation since 1917 and serves everything from coffee and pressed juices to deli fare, egg sandwiches, falafel, tacos and chow mein.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Whether you're interested in the deep sea, dinosaurs, insects or gems and minerals, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers hours of exploration of all things related to natural history. Ongoing exhibitions include the impressive Dinosaur Hall (where you can view more than 300 fossils and see 20 life-sized dinosaur skeletons), Nature Lab, Hall of Birds and Visible Vault, which houses artifacts from Aztec, Maya and Inca civilizations. Visitors said that the museum is great for all ages, with the Dinosaur Hall being the most popular attraction. There are also special exhibitions that are on display for a limited time. Kids will love the Dinosaurs Encounters Show that features juvenile dinosaur puppets. The shows are offered Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $6 per person.

Guests can also explore the nature gardens with more than 600 varieties of plants and a plethora of garden wildlife. Free guided tours are available daily. If you want to dive deeper into natural history, special programs are available for children, adults and families. Check the events calendar online for more info.

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Battleship USS Iowa Museum Battleship USS Iowa Museum

A visit to the iconic Battleship USS Iowa Museum includes access to both interior and exterior areas on seven decks. The self-guided tour lets visitors see what life was like on the ship. You'll also view the officer's wardroom, senior officer's cabins, admirals bridge, navigation bridge and crew's quarters. Recent visitors enjoyed the multiple exhibits along the route that tell the story of the Battleship USS Iowa, as well as the U.S. Navy, through artifacts, photographs, artwork and equipment. Kids can participate in the "Vicky the Dog" scavenger hunt to get a more in-depth look at the ship through the eyes of its canine mascot.

The ship is open daily at 10 a.m. and closes around 4 p.m. (or whenever the final guided tour ends).

Shop along Olvera Street Shop along Olvera Street free

Stroll this historic street in Downtown Los Angeles for authentic Mexican culture, music and cuisine. Along the block-long, brick-lined street, you'll find strolling mariachi bands, taco shops, Aztec and Mexican folkloric dancers and vendors selling handcrafted souvenirs, such as pottery, leather goods and traditional clothing. The street also hosts various traditional events throughout the year, including the Blessing of the Animals (Saturday before Easter), Cinco de Mayo, Fiestas Patrias (Mexican Independence Day), Dia de los Muertos and Las Posadas.

This Mexican marketplace is part of the El Pueblo Historic Park, the "birthplace of LA," which also includes historic sites, such as Avila Adobe (LA's oldest house), Pico House and the America Tropical Interpretive Center. 

L.A. Live L.A. Live

L.A. Live is the hub of entertainment in Downtown Los Angeles. It's features the Crypto.com Arena, home of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers basketball teams, the Los Angeles Kings hockey team, as well as the Los Angeles Sparks women's basketball team. It's also where music fans attend world-class concerts by some of the biggest names in the industry. Other entertainment includes the interactive GRAMMY Museum, a Lucky Strike bowling alley and a Regal movie theater, as well as smaller event venues like the Microsoft Theater, The Novo and The Conga Room.

There are more than a dozen eateries to choose from, including Yard House and Katsuya. After a night of entertainment, stay over at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE or The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles.

Petersen Automotive Museum Petersen Automotive Museum

Car enthusiasts will be thrilled with a visit to the Petersen Automotive Museum as it houses a range of impressive cars, from high performance to historic. In the permanent galleries, travelers can try an exhilarating racing simulator, see the “Commutercycle” from the HBO documentary "The Lady and the Dale" and participate in hands-on activities with a Disney "Cars" theme. Featured exhibitions rotate frequently. There are an additional 250 cars that are stored in The Vault. The museum also hosts a variety of events, from exhibition openings to hands-on workshops. Visit its online calendar for more info.

The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Warner Bros. Studio Warner Bros. Studio

Located in Burbank, California – a city that sits just 5 miles north of Hollywood – Warner Bros. Studio gives visitors a close-up look at iconic movie and TV sets and props, such as the original Batmobiles, costumes from the "Harry Potter" movies and a replica of the cafe featured in "Friends." Travelers will also drive around the studio's 110-acre backlot, where 30 soundstages are used for producing shows like "Young Sheldon," "Bob Hearts Abishola," and "The Ellen DeGeneres Show."

Previous visitors loved exploring this property and appreciated their "fun and knowledgeable" tour guides. Additionally, many enjoyed getting out of their golf carts to go inside a working set and other buildings used for filming, citing this as the main reason to tour this studio instead of others like Paramount Pictures Studios . But keep in mind, children 7 and younger are not permitted on any tour.

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Screen Rant

10 movie filming locations i need to visit in my lifetime.

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• Movies set in incredible locations, like Mamma Mia in Skopelos, showcase real-world beauty that's accessible to explore.
• Film locations, like Petra in Jordan, were used in Indiana Jones, and are rich in history, offering real-life adventure.
• Visiting iconic movie settings like Hobbiton in Matamata, New Zealand, allows fans to immerse themselves in fantasy worlds.

Movies transport the audience to spectacular and surreal places around the world and beyond, but some are actually real. If you have ever watched a film and thought about how expansive, immersive, or spectacular the setting was, the next thought that follows is that it is simply a movie and, so, not real. However, many of the most iconic and mind-blowing scenes in films have at least a foundation in the real world that is then used and adapted for the big screen.

Regardless of whether a film is fantasy, sci-fi, or a rom-com, resourceful location scouts explore some of the most beautiful spots in the world to find the right spot to film. I know that personally, there have been several times when I watch a movie and the scenery is simply stunning, and I wish it was a real place that I could visit, and after a little research, it turns out many of these places do exist. From Lord of the Rings to Avatar , the world may appear magical and unreal, but these places exist right here on Earth.

11 Biggest Unanswered Questions Mamma Mia 3 Could Finally Solve

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10 Skopelos, Greece

Starting off simply, Mamma Mia! may not be a fantasy film set in another realm, but this romantic comedy musical does offer a look at a paradise on Earth. The film is set on a remote Greek Island, surrounded by clear blue water and some of the most beautiful Mediterranean buildings in film. Having visited Greece in the past, I can confidently say that the islands live up to the idyllic images presented in the movie.

However, Greece is actually composed of about 6,000 islands, with only a handful being occupied. The island where Mamma Mia! was filmed is called Skopelos, and it's a popular destination for couples. While the country may have many islands to choose from, it would be a dream to go and visit Skopelos and have a romantic holiday with my wife just like Sophie, although, maybe with a lot less drama.

9 Petra, Jordan

Indiana jones and the last crusade.

Moving into a world that is slightly more fantastic, Indiana Jones and The Last Crusade follows an adventuring archaeologist played by Harrison Ford . The movie was filmed across numerous locations around the globe, but for the scenes that see Indy exploring ancient ruins while searching for the Holy Grail, he explores some spectacular sites. In particular, the temples and tombs which date back as far as 300 B.C. are etched into the side of mountains.

These sites are found in Petra, Jordan, and they are steeped in even more rich history than the film explores. However, on top of Petra being so beautiful and enchanting with ancient architecture, it's right in the heart of the ancient world with plenty of other incredible sites to explore within a short radius. Exploring these ruins and the surrounding area, it would be easy to feel like I am in my own Indiana Jones adventure.

8 Matamata, New Zealand

The lord of the rings.

The world appears to be beyond reality

Next up, this choice is one that is likely among the most popular picks on anyones wishlist for movie sets to visit, but it had to be included because it is just so magical. Peter Jackson's The Lord of the Rings movies create a spectacular fantasy world based on the novels by J.R.R. Tolkien. As the Fellowship travels through green and lush shires, and into the fiery Mount Doom, the world appears to be beyond reality.

However, these films were famously filmed around New Zealand and have since generated an incredible amount of tourism for the country, with keen fans wanting to explore real-life Middle-Earth for themselves. For any keen fans, including myself, visiting the shire is as simple as booking a once in a lifetime trip to the incredible Matamata, New Zealand, where tourists can explore the still-standing sets of Hobbiton and walk among the Hobbits.

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7 DuPont State Recreational Park, North Carolina, United States

The hunger games.

Stateside, there are some incredible locations to visit and explore as well. The Hunger Games may depict a dystopian world where people are clearly separated into districts while the wealthy live comfortably in the Capitol, but it also featured some beautiful scenery as a backdrop to some of the most intense scenes. When Katniss and Peeta make the long trek from District 12 to the Capitol, they find themselves the unfortunate tributes for the latest annual Hunger Games.

Along with 22 other tributes from the other districts, they are dropped into a custom-built arena where they must fight to the death. As traumatizing as that may be, the world designed by the games maker, Seneca Crane, is truly breathtaking, and curious fans will be delighted to know it's real. DuPont State Recreational Park and the forest in North Carolina were the sites where some of the most dramatic scenes in the movie were filmed .

6 Tataouine, Tunisia

A long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, Star Wars changed the landscape of films and sci-fi forever when the first movie dropped in 1977. This iconic film franchise presented an extraordinary world that existed in the far reaches of space, but the real world inspiration is considerably closer. While the movie opens with the sandy planet of Tatooine, and the cave dwellings where many of the locals reside, these scenes were actually filmed in the similarly named Tataouine in Tunisia.

The film drew inspiration from the location, and especially the Ksour, which literally translates to castles, that appeared throughout. These caves and intricate structures were actually created primarily to store grain, but some were used by the Berbers of the 14th and 15th centuries to reside. Knowing that this alien world is actually real is incredibly exciting and definitely on my bucket list of places to visit.

5 Kualoa Ranch, Hawaii

Jurassic park.

Once again returning to Earth and within the United States, an iconic spot from numerous films is deserving of a spot on this list. While watching Jurassic Park , it's easy to get lost in the world of dinosaurs brought back to life, but the park where they reside is almost equally stunning. As it turns out, the real life location is known as Kualoa Ranch, and it's one of the most popular spots to record expansive, paradisiacal films.

George of the Jungle , Jumanji , Godzilla , Lost and 50 First Dates are just a few of the movies that made use of this spectacular setting. Hawaii may be a dream vacation for many , but for any movie buffs, Kualoa Ranch is a must on any list of famous filming locations. Just watch out for stray dinosaurs lurking in the forest.

4 Zhangjiajie National Forest Park, China

While James Cameron's Avatar takes place on an alien world, with the alien Na'vi living among a world of plants and animals that exist completely outside our own reality, the movie did draw inspiration from the real world. Surprisingly, this even includes one of the most otherworldy and jaw-dropping settings in the movies, the floating Hallelujah Mountains. While the real-world counterparts don't float, they are equally stunning.

The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park in China is one of the major influences for the Avatar Hallelujah Mountains , and the park has even named one of their incredible mountainous pillars after the film in honor of their connection. The area is composed of numerous incredibly tall towers of quartz and sandstone that stand at around 1,000 meters tall while remaining incredibly narrow. Looking at these pillars immediately brings to mind the Hallelujah Mountains from Avatar , and visiting the site would likely feel like stepping out of this world and straight into Pandora .

Avatar: All 20 Na'vi Clans Explained (Cultures, Locations & Inspirations)

While the first Avatar movie focused primarily on the Omaticaya, the Avatar franchise has explored many more Na'vi Clans in the sequels and tie-ins.

3 Trang An & Tam Coc, Vietnam

Kong: skull island.

Having heard numerous incredible things about the landscape and beautiful views to be seen in modern day Vietnam, it makes perfect sense that the idyllic rolling hills and winding rivers of the country have made their way into modern films. While watching Kong: Skull Island , it's easy to get lost in the incredible world that is home to the monumental ape who stars in the film. Fortunately, the setting for Kong: Skull Island is rooted in reality.

Trang An and Tam Coc are two sections that are popular for tourists to go on boat trips along the Ninh Binh river. Both are also settings which appeared in Kong: Skull Island , and each offers an incredible and unique experience that would be difficult to find anywhere else in the world. The incredible mountain ranges, architecture, caves and plant life all make these scenic routes spectacular. It isn't Skull Island, but in some ways, it's better without the giant aggressive beasts.

2 Valldal Valley, Norway

Many of the above locations have been incredibly remote and peaceful locations, but taking things to another level is the Valldal Valley in Norway. This incredible location is located on a mountain range in an authentic Nordic fjord. While the movie Ex Machina used the remote location to evoke a sense of being isolated, the valley is a stunning setting that appears incredibly enticing to those who may be of a more introverted disposition.

In addition, this beautiful area is one of the largest natural areas where wild berries grow, such as strawberries. Honestly, the idea of getting cosy atop this beautiful mountain range and being able to take time out to simply write and enjoy the quiet sounds spectacular, and it's one of the dreamiest spots on my list of film locations to visit.

1 West 167th, The Bronx, New York

The birthplace of comic book legend San Lee

Finally, the last place on my list is one that may be surprising considering everything that came before, but as a huge fan of superhero movies, and someone who has always wanted to visit New York, West 167th Street in the Bronx is high on my list. Not only is this the iconic spot where Joaquin Phoenix's Arthur Fleck dances down the steps in the Joker movie, but it's also the birthplace of comic book legend Stan Lee.

The Bronx and New York as a whole feel like a beating heart for superhero stories, as the places where so many of these stories are set, and where the heroes set up a headquarters. Every corner has a detail like the steps that is worth taking the time to slowly explore and embrace. And how fun would it be to record the Joker's iconic dance strolling down those same steps.

17 Things To Do In Los Angeles: Complete Guide To Exploring LA & Southern California

T he vast, sprawling metropolis of Los Angeles is the largest city in California. If that wasn't big enough, the "City of Angels" even ranks as the second-largest city in the US, painting a clear picture of just how seriously big this place is. What LA looked like before Hollywood shot this part of the country to global fame is an entirely different realm; the city and its surrounding regions have undergone a complete transformation into a substantial urban hub filled with a diversity of attractions, neighborhoods, activities, and people.

More notably, the city is famed for being favored by movie stars, hopeful actors, musicians, budding artists (and plenty of surfers), and is thus a hive of the arts and comes with a booming social scene (and a ton of traffic, too) to match its electric, trendy vibe.

While Los Angeles is a place where dreams come true for many, it's not everybody's cup of tea. Some can't get enough of the place; others can't stand it. A lot of people — visitors and residents alike — claim it's far too big and expensive, which does put many off from ever visiting. However, those who know how to plan a trip to LA, where to go, what to do and see, and where to stay will find it's a top destination in California for tourists — not just residents.

When wondering what part of California to visit , Los Angeles always comes top. However, the key to the ultimate LA vacation is to take it at one's own pace and remove the pressure of trying to tick every tourist track off the list. As a place designed for enjoying life's pleasures, from eating and drinking to lounging on the beach and dancing the night away, a getaway to LA will show tourists that life is for living — but only if they go to the right places.

To help aspiring visitors have the time of their lives and experience the unique magic oozing from this city's every nook and cranny, this ultimate guide to Los Angeles, California, goes through everything they'd ever need to know: top LA attractions, where to stay, eat, and how much a vacation to LA costs.

UPDATE: 2023/07/04 09:21 EST BY BARRY JUMA

The Ultimate Travel Guide To Los Angeles & Southern California & Things To Do There

One article can't cover everything Los Angeles has to offer, but this piece certainly tries to cover a huge portion of this destination's wonders. This update places the things to do at center stage, and it's an attempt to do justice to the city of stars. Still, those planning to visit one of the most glamorous cities in the US will be spoiled for choice both within the city and nearby.

Things To Do In Los Angeles

The top attractions in LA range from budget-friendly to high-end purse string pullers. From shopping, partying, hiking, and checking out famous LA landmarks to beach lounging, surfing, and wining and dining, there are so many things to do in LA that visitors could easily spend several weeks exploring and still run out of time.

Still, whether one has a weekend in LA or a few months, these are some of the best things to do in Los Angeles.

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Spend The Day At Venice Beach

Venice Beach is one of the best beaches in California ranked by surf . It's just as popular among swimmers, sports lovers, and beach loungers as surfers, too, which is no surprise, given that it's an all-around eventful stretch of shoreline with a lot going on.

In between all the surgery, skaters, and street performers, visitors can watch entertaining street basketball games, gaze at street art, and eat and drink to their hearts' content at the diverse restaurants lining the beach.

Although Venice Beach is an amazing spot to spend the day, it does get crowded in peak season and on weekends, so it's not recommended for those looking for privacy, peace, and quiet.

Huntington Beach, Playa del Rey, and Redondo Beach are also some of the best beaches in LA. Also, Abbot Kinney Blvd is close to Venice Beach, which offers even more restaurants, bars, shops, galleries, and interesting (and often quirky) businesses to check out.

Plus, Abbot Kinney Boulevard's First Friday event is the best time to go; as its name suggests, it takes place on the first Friday of every month, when food trucks and live music performances move in and create a fun, flamboyant and flavorful atmosphere.

• Tour: Los Angeles Venice Beach walking tasting tour with Secret Food Tours
• Duration: 3 hours
• Cost: From $84.53 USD per adult

Book this tour

Check Out The Getty Museum

The Getty Museum houses an expansive art collection — its works predominately consist of pre-twentieth-century European pieces along with nineteenth and twentieth-century European and American photography.

Among its many masterpieces by renowned creatives, the establishment even features work by Van Gogh, Gauguin, and many other legendary artists.

First opened in 1997, the museum's exteriors are just as impressive, with its gardens, gorgeous architecture, and stunning city views

• Getty Museum Price : Free to enter (but parking costs $20)
• Closed on Mondays
• Tour : Los Angeles City and Getty Museum Tour
• Duration: 5 hours
• Cost: From $288 USD per adult

Stroll Down Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard is an iconic LA landmark, where street performers put on a constant show and tourists from all over the world stroll along the sidewalks.

This spot is also home to one of the most famous attractions in LA: the Walk of Fame, where over 2,700 celebrities’ handprints and footprints are on show for all to marvel at and take photos.

• Tour: Hollywood Walk of Fame and Hollywood Boulevard Tour
• Duration: 2 hours
• Cost: From $24 USD per adult

Explore Downtown LA

Downtown Los Angeles has always been a popular area, but in recent years, it's received new additions that have made this part of the city an even busier place with lots to experience.

One such addition is a pedestrian center, which boasts concert halls, theaters, museums, and plenty of new restaurants.

Of course, no visit downtown would be complete without checking out LA's Grand Central Market . Boasting dozens upon dozens of the best food vendors in LA, there are so many options for grub comprising cuisines from all over the world.

• Tour: Downtown Los Angeles Architecture Walking Tour
• Cost: From $35 USD per adult

Visit Griffith Park

Griffith Park offers excellent picnicking and hiking; its lovely trails head to Mulholland Drive and provide beautiful views of the city. However, hikes aren't the only activity popular in this park.

Visitors can enjoy the Autry Western Museum, the LA Zoo, the Griffith Observatory , a golf course, a driving range, and even pony rides.

Spanning 4,310 acres, the park also houses abundant wildlife, including coyotes, mountain lions, rattlesnakes, and more to look out for.

• Tour: Griffith Observatory Hike: An LA Tour through the Hollywood Hills
• Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Take A Tour Of Universal Studios Hollywood

• Universal Studios Hollywood one-day ticket price is $109. The two-day pass starts at $149

Universal Studios Hollywood is the world's only combined movie studio and theme park. The famed Studio Tour is a popular pastime, which only lasts an hour but grants an exclusive, behind-the-scenes glimpse at the Hollywood.

This tour even lets participants see real movie sets from well-known flicks, such as Peter Jackson's King Kong , the plane crash scene from War of the Worlds , cars from Fast and Furious , and the Bates Hotel from Psycho .

As for the amusement park side of the complex, there's Jurassic World, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, numerous special effects shows, and so much more.

• Tour: Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket
• Duration: From $109 USD per adult
• Cost: 8 hours

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Go Wild At Disneyland

Located in Anaheim, Orange County, just outside of Los Angeles, Disneyland is the place to be if travelers wish to enjoy being a kid again. Rivaling Florida's theme parks, such as Disney and Universal Studios , this is the West Coast's answer to the biggest amusement parks in the Sunshine State.

The complex packs in so many rides and attractions, with popular rides including Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and its Rise of the Resistance ride, Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, and Indiana Jones Adventure.

While it's around an hour and a half from LA, Disneyland in Anaheim is worth the venture if visitors are searching for some serious family-friendly fun and to let their inner child go wild.

Additionally, if traveling to the park from LAX, a Disneyland LAX shuttle operates the route (costing $85 for the first passenger and $10 for every extra person), affording park-goers the utmost convenience logistics-wise.

• Disneyland Anaheim tickets start at $104

Party On Sunset Boulevard

Sunset Boulevard first started life as a commuter route between the star-stuffed neighborhoods and all the film studios in and around Hollywood. Now, it's more than that; it's one of the most famous streets in the world, stretching from downtown to the ocean.

Sunset Blvd passes through the world-famous Sunset Strip, with no lack of movie studios and trendy beaches along the way. This place is a top spot for celebrity spotting, too; simply driving through and keeping an eye out for famous faces is a fun activity in itself.

Visit Santa Monica Pier

Constructed in 1909, The Santa Monica Pier is one of the most famous spots in LA and promises a fun few hours for all the family.

Located right on the beach, this spot boasts a vibrant, energized carnival vibe and is chock-full of rides, food stalls, an arcade, and carnival games, and plenty of shops.

Explore Santa Monica Pier to see precisely why this long-loved spot in Los Angeles has remained a local and tourist favorite for years.

• Address : 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States

Explore The Historic Old Town Pasadena

The old downtown Pasadena is only around ten minutes from Los Angeles. Extending 22 blocks, the pedestrian area is a National Register Historic District (under the National Register of Historic Places) and offers myriads of restaurants and boutique stores.

It's also fantastic for nightlife and is pretty popular among LA's young people who come for a night out on the town.

Though fashionable youngsters enjoy this area, it's enjoyed by all ages and remains a great hang-out spot, dining destination, and shopping hub.

Related: This Is The Best Beach Route To Skate In Los Angeles

Visit Huntington Library

Situated nearby Pasadena, this library looks elaborately beautiful from the outside and in, with its ornate architecture, sublime interiors, as well as its magnificent gardens — which include Chinese and Japanese gardens (the latter worthy of being one of the most tranquil Japanese gardens in the US to visit in spring ).

Of course, this isn't merely a breathtaking building with exquisite grounds; it's an enriching establishment overflowing with knowledge. In fact, the library houses some super rare, valuable books, one being a copy of The Canterbury Tales from the fifteenth century, as well as a fourteenth-century Gutenberg Bible in the main exhibition hall.

• Huntington Library ticket price: $20 (note that Huntington Library tickets cost $29 on weekends)
• Huntington Library hours: 10 am - 5 pm (closed on Tuesdays)

Running and hiking trails in LA are abundant; however, one of the most famous among residents and tourists is Runyon Canyon.

This area offers plenty of marked trails, with some of the easiest for beginners, including Fryman Canyon Park (2.5 miles), Los Liones Trail (3.5 miles), and Caballero Canyon (3.4 miles).

View The World-Famous Hollywood Sign

Visitors can hike to the iconic Hollywood sign via Griffith Park trails, which are open during daylight hours from sunrise to sunset.

Three trails (which take around a couple of hours or so) lead hikers to the sign, with the easiest being the Mt Hollywood Trail, followed by the Brush Canyon Trail and the Cahuenga Peak Trail, which are a little more strenuous.

The effort is worth it, though; panoramic views of Hollywood can be enjoyed from the sign — and, for that reason, the best time to visit the Hollywood sign is said to be sunset.

• Tour: The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles--FREE WATERS and PHOTOS
• Cost: From $25 USD per adult

Feed The Mind At The California Science Center

The family-friendly California Science Center is a treasure trove of educational exhibits covering a wealth of different niches. From space and aviation to biology, nature, and ecosystems (with river, forest, and island habitat exhibitions), guests can enjoy feeding their brains and eyes at this fascinating center of knowledge and research.

Although entry is free of charge, special exhibits and IMAX movies do require payment — usually anywhere from $10 to $20.

• California Science Center ticket price: Free (but parking costs between $15 and $20)
• Tour: Hollywood, California Science Center, and the Griffith Observatory from Anaheim
• Duration: 9 to 10 hours
• Cost: From $119 USD per adult

Related: A Flight To The Stars: Take This Celebrity-Themed Helicopter Ride Over Hollywood

Party In Echo Park And Silver Lake

Echo Park, Silver Lake, and the adjacent neighborhood of Los Feliz offer a constant party. These parts of Los Angeles are known for their hipster culture, trendy dive bars, and cool dining outlets that make for an awesome night on the town.

If partying sounds a little too much, though, visitors might enjoy a relaxing paddle boat ride on the lake instead.

Visit The Los Angeles County Museum of Art

The LACMA is the largest museum in the western United States and contains a humongous collection of artworks, including modern art and older masterpieces by coveted artists, such as Rembrandt, Ansel Adams, Magritte, and Cézanne.

In addition, the museum houses ancient works from all across the globe, including Roman, Greek, and Egyptian sculptures.

• LACMA ticket price: $25

Visit The Grammy Museum

Exhibitions, interactive experiences, costumes, movie artifacts, and a roster of films awaits at the famous Grammy Museum, which takes visitors through the entire timeline of the music industry and its history, along with previous Grammy winners' career stories.

• Grammy Museum ticket price: $18

How Much Does A Trip To Los Angeles Cost?

According to ChampionTraveler , the average price for a week spent in Los Angeles is just under $2,000 for a solo traveler, while that total sits at a little over $3,500 for a couple, and $6,700 for a family of four.

On average, hotels in Los Angeles range from $70 to $300 a night, and most vacation rentals are priced at anything from $250 to just over $1000 per night for a full home.

Up next, the following sections offer a deeper insight into the costs of visiting Los Angeles, from hostel and budget hotel prices to food and drink and backpacking estimates.

LA Hostel Prices

The prices of hostels in LA vary, depending on which part of the city visitors stay in. Fortunately, prices don't fluctuate too much throughout the year, but they aren't on the cheap side — yes , even for a hostel.

Dorm rooms in LA range from $30 to $50 as a starting point and can even be as high as $80 to $100 for those on the more upmarket side. A basic private hostel room with an ensuite bathroom is typically priced at around $80 to $120 a night, with most offering free Wi-Fi and a shared kitchen area for self-catering.

LA Budget Hotel Prices

The average budget two-star hotel room in LA costs roughly $100 a night. These rooms are very basic but comfortable, usually including free Wi-Fi, a TV, and air-conditioning.

Airbnb Prices in LA

Travelers who prefer Airbnbs are in luck; there are plenty of Airbnbs in Los Angeles to suit all budgets.

A basic private Airbnb room on the lower end starts at about $85 to $95 a night, while vacation rental homes and apartments can be booked for around $150 to $180 per night at a starting point.

However, these prices can double if booked last minute; therefore, reserving Airbnbs well in advance is a must in order to save big bucks.

Related: Adrenaline Junkies Only: 10 Bold Things To Do In Los Angeles

Food Prices in LA

Los Angeles is a foodie's heaven! Luckily, even for travelers on a budget, it doesn't cost an arm and a leg to get affordable and good street food in LA. This city is where food trucks, street vendors, and unique eateries proliferate, so options are seemingly endless.

Plenty of street grub and fast food options can be found for under $10; for example, hungry visitors can bag a hearty sandwich or a McDonald's for around $10 or tacos for $3 to $6.

As for restaurants, laid-back, casual dining outlets charge around $15 to $20 for a main course, while a three-course sit-down meal will range from $55 to $80, depending on the establishment.

When it comes to drinks, beer costs approximately $8 to $10, bottled water costs around $2 to $3, and coffee will be around $5.

Travelers who don't eat out and prefer to cook instead will find they'll spend between $50 to $90 a week on groceries, which will be enough for essential items like rice, pasta, bread, vegetables, and affordable meats.

Los Angeles Backpacker Budget

Backpacking in Los Angeles is a popular option among travelers exploring the West Coast.

On a low-end budget, travelers can expect to spend between $70 to $80 a day, which should cover a basic hostel dorm room, cooking for oneself (no dining out or drinking), public transportation, and free LA attractions and activities, such as exploring hiking trails and visiting beaches.

Related: Follow These Tips To Have A Non-Touristy Los Angeles Vacation

A mid-tier budget for LA is around $200 a day, which includes more comfortable accommodation in a private hostel room or an Airbnb.

This budget level also enables travelers to dine out for most meals, have a few drinks, utilize a taxi or two, and enjoy some of the pay-for activities in LA, such as attending Disneyland for the day, visiting LA museums, or catching a theater show or a concert.

A high-end budget for LA will be at least $400 a day. For this amount daily, travelers can stay in a hotel, eat and drink out anywhere they please, take taxis or rent a vehicle, and sample all the activities, attractions, and tours in LA they so desire.

Still, this budget is only the low end of the high end; a heftier daily budget will get travelers even greater luxury and experiences.

Where To Stay In Los Angeles

Ultimately, the top LA neighborhoods to stay in truly depends on travelers' preferences, style, what they intend to do and see, their budget, and also each area itself in terms of what it offers.

With those factors in mind, here's an in-depth rundown of some of the most famous neighborhoods and best places to stay in LA, along with accommodation suggestions for each based on three budget levels: budget, mid-range, and luxury.

What Are The Best Hostels In LA?

Before getting into the best places to stay in LA in each neighborhood, knowing some of the top hostels in LA is ideal for backpackers since most are on a tight budget.

For folks looking to stretch their funds without skimping on a good time, checking out the best hostels for backpackers in SoCal (top-rated SoCal hostels, at that) is a wise idea.

Related: The Ultimate List Of Dos & Don'ts When Staying In A Hostel

On the other hand, the following list of top-rated hostels in LA is based on traveler needs and preferences — which one sounds ideal for that dream trip in the City of Angeles?

• LA's best hostel for budget travelers: Samesun Hollywood Hostel
• Best family-friendly hostel: Freehand Los Angeles
• Best hostel in Los Angeles for solo female travelers: HI Los Angeles Santa Monica
• Best hostel in LA for partying on a budget: Banana Bungalow Hollywood
• Best LA hostel overall Samesun Venice Beach

For travelers free from financial constraints, luxury Los Angeles hotels might be more fitting!

What Are The Best LA Neighborhoods To Stay In?

Best place to stay in la for the celebrity experience: beverly hills.

Beverly Hills translates to rich and famous; it's the home of many of the world's A-listers, so it's no surprise some of the USA's most luxurious hotels, mansions, and restaurants bustle in this globally famed neighborhood.

Even if travelers don't stay in Beverly Hills, visiting Rodeo Drive lets everyone feel like a celeb for the day and walk among the one percent; this spot is lined with some of the world's most expensive luxury stores and boutiques, which command a pretty penny but, of course, don't cost anything to look around.

If visitors dream of staying in Beverly Hills — no matter their budget — there are a few options:

• $ Budget : Hotel del Flores (from $109 a night!)
• $$ Mid-range : Sixty Beverly Hills and Avalon Hotel
• $$$ Luxury : Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills

Related: 10 Super Unique Los Angeles Hotels To Book

Best Place To Stay In LA For Budget Travelers: Venice Beach

Venice Beach is the beach destination in LA, where miles of wide-open sandy shores beckon sun-chasers and surfers. The area's iconic promenade also makes the place an incredible day out, flanked by shops and stalls selling all kinds of goodies, from food and souvenirs to clothing, trinkets, and gifts.

As one of the top spots in LA for tourists (and residents, too), Venice Beach and its promenade are also stocked with hotels and hostels to suit all budgets and preferences.

With that in mind, the following options offer some of the best accommodations in Venice Beach:

• $ Budget: Samesun Venice Beach
• $$ Mid-range: The Kinney
• $$$ Luxury : Venice V Hotel

Best Place For First-Time Visitors In LA (For The Quintessential Hollywood Experience): West Hollywood

West Hollywood is the epitome of Los Angeles as it's portrayed in the movies.

Most visitors whose experience of LA comes from the big screen will resonate with this part of California, with its famous Sunset and Hollywood Boulevards, the Walk of Fame, movie studios, and streets decorated with palm trees all under the LA sun.

This part of the city isn't the most affordable; however, it's perfect for first-time visitors seeking the signature Los Angeles experience, as it's central to almost anything and everything tourists want to do and see during their vacation. Here are some of the best places to stay in West Hollywood:

• $ Budget : Banana Bungalow West Hollywood
• $$ Mid-range : Ramada
• $$$ Luxury : Andaz West Hollywood

Best Place To Stay In LA For Families: Santa Monica

Nestled by the Pacific Ocean, Santa Monica is the perfect family-friendly destination in Los Angeles and is often considered one of the safest areas.

The gorgeous beach makes for the ideal day out, enjoying water activities and sunbathing, while the nearby pier offers even more entertainment, such as stalls and amusement park rides.

Santa Monica's Third Street Promenade is also a fun place to check out; it comprises numerous blocks of pedestrian streets full of restaurants, coffee shops, and all kinds of shops and stalls. The following picks are some of the best places to stay in Santa Monica:

• $ Budget : HI Los Angeles
• $$ Mid-range : Hotel Carmel
• $$$ Luxury : Hotel Casa del Mar and Shutters on the Beach

Best Place To Stay In LA For The Arts And Culture: Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles (sometimes referred to as DTLA) used to be off the tourist map; synonymous with crime and the home of the infamous skid row, it was a troubled part of the city and remained a no-go for the most part. There wasn't much to do or see in this part of LA, either, which didn't help its appeal.

However, over the last couple of decades, LA's downtown has undergone an overhaul and transformed its reputation. Now, it offers an array of fancy hotels, trendy cafés and restaurants, epic cocktail bars, and popular artistic establishments — such as The Museum of Contemporary Art, the Broad Museum, and the Disney Hall concert venue.

If nightlife, the arts, and culture are of focus, then downtown LA deserves a chance to impress. For those interested, here are some of the best places to stay in downtown LA:

• $ Budget : Little Tokyo Hotel
• $$ Mid-range: Freehand Los Angeles
• $$$ Luxury : The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles and Level Furnished Apartments – Downtown South Olive

Related: 8 Things You Shouldn't Miss When Visiting Los Angeles

Variety Picks Up 8 First-Place Wins at L.A. Press Club’s SoCal Journalism Awards, Including Entertainment Journalist of the Year for Brent Lang

By William Earl

William Earl

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Variety  won eight first-place awards Sunday night at the Los Angeles Press Club ‘s 66th annual SoCal Journalism Awards , including a top win for executive editor Brent Lang as entertainment journalist of the year.

Variety  came into the 2024 ceremony with 74 nominations , representing work published by staffers online or in the weekly print edition during the 2023 calendar year. 

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Winning two as well was Brian Steinberg, who came in first for commentary/analysis of TV for “David Zaslav Likes to Gut Cable Networks — CNN Isn’t Easily Remodeled,” and also personality profile/TV personalities for his story “Streaming News Threw Kasie Hunt Some Curves — Now She’s Straightening Them Out.”

Selome Hailu won personality profile/film personalities for the article “Lily Gladstone on Welcoming ‘Flower Moon’ Criticism, Mollie’s Agency and Scorsese’s Limitations While Telling an Osage Story.”

Chris Willman picked up the award for entertainment commentary/arts for his opinion piece “Jason Aldean Already Had the Most Contemptible Country Song of the Decade — The Video Is Worse.”

Variety was also well-represented with second- and third-place honors being announced for Jem Aswad, Daniel D’Addario, Clayton Davis, Peter Debruge, Jennifer Dorn, Sharareh Drury, Zoe Hewitt, Angelique Jackson, Haley Kluge, Zohar Lazar, Emily Longeretta, Alexi Lumbomiski, Mary Ellen Matthews, Jenelle Riley, Rebecca Rubin, Michael Schneider, Ellise Shafer, Katcy Stephan, Victoria Stevens, Jazz Tangcay, Aramide Tinubu and Adam B. Vary.

A full list of the SoCal Journalism Awards’ first-, second- and third-place finishers along with the judges’ comments can be found here . The L.A. Press Club said before the ceremony started that a record 2,300 entries came in from L.A.-based publications and journalists this year.

Apart from the night’s competitive awards, six esteemed journalists or public figures were honored with honorary or lifetime achievement awards throughout the 66th annual gala, including actress Jane Seymour (presented by Kevin Ryan), Amanda Salas of Fox 11 (presented by Jerry O’Connell), Stephen A. Smith of ESPN, Mickey H. Osterreicher of the National Press Photographers Association (presented by Adam Rose), and Evan Gershkovich of the Wall Street Journal (presented by Judea Pearl). Gershkovich was presented his award in absentia, as he remains in the custody of the Russian government, which has charged him with spying.

The 2024 SoCal Journalism Awards were presented “in loving memory” of two beloved local journalists who died this year. Ruth Ashton Taylor’s career went back to the 1940s, before she made history as the first female newscaster on the west coast. She died in January at age 101.  Sam Rubin, the weekday entertainment anchor on KTLA’s Morning News ,  died May 10 at age 64. 

The SoCal Journalism Awards are one of two awards shows presented by the Los Angeles Press Club each year. The other, the National Arts & Entertainment Journalism Awards, honoring work from across the U.S., will next take place at the Biltmore on Dec. 1, 2024.

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A Love Letter to La La Land

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November 6, 2023

Some movies stand out as timeless classics in the film industry, while others leave a lasting impression on our minds and hearts. La La Land, a musical masterpiece by Damien Chazelle from 2016, belongs to the latter group. This captivating movie explores love, dreams, and the allure of Los Angeles in a fresh and original way.

• A Love Letter to Los Angeles

A mesmerizing traffic jam that has been transformed into an impromptu song-and-dance number on a Los Angeles freeway serves as the opening scene of “La La Land.” A movie that openly celebrates the City of Angels is immediately inspired by this spectacle. This film will rekindle your love for Los Angeles if you’ve ever had the pleasure of visiting or residing there. The movie paints a vivid picture of the city’s beauty and charm by showcasing well-known landmarks like Griffith Observatory, the Watts Towers, and the Hermosa Beach Pier, among others. You’ll want to travel to the locations it depicts or, at the very least, take in the city’s vibrant culture and history from a distance after reading this cinematic love letter.

• The Power of Dreaming

Anyone who has ever dared to follow their passion will find “La La Land” to be incredibly relatable. The story of Sebastian (Ryan Gosling), a jazz musician with aspirations of starting his own club, and Mia (Emma Stone), an aspiring actress, serves as the film’s main character. The dreamer in all of us can relate to their tales of ambition, struggle, and the pursuit of artistic fulfillment.” La La Land” serves as a reminder that our aspirations are worthwhile pursuits in today’s world where practicality is frequently prioritized over passion. It gives us the motivation to stick with our goals despite obstacles. The movie skillfully demonstrates how pursuing one’s dreams can result in extraordinary moments of personal development and artistic achievement, even in the most difficult situations.

• A Musical Extravaganza

La La Land is primarily a musical. The movie perfectly choreographs its song and dance numbers, evoking the heyday of Hollywood musicals. Justin Hurwitz’s catchy songs are enduring and have a way of sticking in your head. The songs improve the storytelling and elicit a range of emotions, from joy to melancholy, whether it’s “Another Day of Sun,” City of Stars,” or “A Lovely Night.”

Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling put a lot of effort into learning the songs and dance sequences, and their chemistry is undeniable. The characters’ struggles and authenticity are enhanced by this commitment, which makes the movie even more compelling.

• A Bittersweet Love Story

La La Land is unquestionably a love story, but it deviates from the typical romantic film formula. Instead, it investigates the complexity of love and possible sacrifices for a person’s dreams. The passionate nature of Mia and Sebastian’s relationship is also tempered by difficulties that put their loyalty to one another to the test.

The movie does a wonderful job of capturing the highs and lows of relationships while also pointing out that falling in love isn’t always easy. You get a strong sense of how fleeting life is and how beautiful moments are that can never be relived from the ending, which I won’t spoil. La La Land stands out from other Hollywood romances because it is a realistic portrayal of love that many people can relate to.

• Stunning Cinematography

The work of cinematographer Linus Sandgren in “La La Land” is breathtaking. With its vibrant colors, creative camera work, and meticulous attention to detail, the movie is a visual feast. Long takes are used in the dance sequences to give the performance a sense of immersion and continuity. A true cinematic masterpiece, the movie’s visual aesthetic complements its emotional depth. The film gains authenticity and charm thanks to the choice to use realistic effects and shoot on location. It’s a welcome change from many modern movies’ reliance on CGI. The characters’ journey through the ups and downs of their lives is reflected in the cinematography, which captures the magic of Los Angeles.

• An Ode to Jazz

Jazz is a crucial component of “La La Land,” and the movie honors this defining style of American art. The story centers on Sebastian’s love of jazz music, which serves as a compelling backdrop for examining themes of tradition, creativity, and artistic integrity. The movie uses jazz as a metaphor for the characters’ own journeys because it is both timeless and evolving. The effectiveness of music in evoking feelings, telling stories, and establishing connections is effectively illustrated in “La La Land.” It serves as a reminder that even in the most trying circumstances, music can lift our spirits and bring us closer together.

“La La Land” is a cinematic gem that merits viewing due to its moving music, captivating visuals, and heartfelt storytelling. It’s a movie that inspires us to pursue our goals, appreciate Los Angeles’ natural beauty, and comprehend the nuance of human relationships and love. La La Land is a truly magical and unforgettable experience, regardless of whether you enjoy musicals or just enjoy well-made and thought-provoking movies. Why then should you watch “La La Land”? Because it’s a love letter to life, love, and the pursuit of dreams that will leave an emotional and lasting impression on you. This is my favorite movie of all time, and I hope to see all of you in attendance at the Vines Center for Student Activities Movie Night on November 7 at 8:00 p.m.

Here are my favorite quotes from the movie to get you excited.

“People love what other people are passionate about.” -Mia

“I am letting life hit me until it gets tired.” -Sebastian

“I am always going to love you.” -Mia

“I’m a phoenix rising from the ashes” -Sebastian

Written by Justin Rockey

Justin Rockey is a senior Communications major. He is very passionate about the story and creativity of La La Land and was honored to be able to share his excitement with the student body through this blog.

When is the presidential debate? When and how to watch CNN-hosted event

President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump will participate in the first presidential debate of the 2024 cycle this week. The 90-minute debate in Atlanta will be hosted by CNN and will differ from past debates with the absence of a studio audience. Here’s when and where you can stream it.

When is the presidential debate? What time is the presidential debate?

The presidential debate will take place Thursday, June 27 at 9 p.m. ET/ 8 p.m. CT at CNN's studios in Georgia.

Where can I watch the first presidential debate between Biden and Trump?

If you have cable, you can watch the live debate on CNN, CNN International, CNN en Español and CNN Max

Can I stream the presidential debate?

The debate will be  streaming on CNN.com .

Who are the moderators for the first presidential debate between Trump and Biden?

CNN’s Jake Tapper and Dana Bash will moderate the first presidential debate for 2024, according to CNN's pressroom.

What are the rules for the CNN presidential debate?

Along with not having a studio audience, both campaigns have agreed to have no interaction with campaign staff, no use of notes and not to interrupt each other during the debate, according to a release from CNN . Microphones will be muted except for that candidate's allotted time to speak. The moderators “will use all tools at their disposal to enforce timing and ensure a civilized discussion,” according to the network.

Who's running for president 2024?

Along with Biden and Trump, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is running as an Independent and Chase Oliver is running under the Libertarian Party. Kennedy and Oliver will not be participating in the debate.

When is the second presidential debate?

The second debate is scheduled for Sept. 10 and will be hosted by ABC. As of June 2024, the details about the location and moderators for the ABC-hosted debate have yet to be announced.

When do we vote for president?

The General Election is on Tuesday, Nov. 5.

2024 primary election in New York: Local results

Here are the results from the Monroe County primaries held Tuesday. All results are unofficial and pending the counting of absentee ballots. Winners are in bold and marked by an arrow ►.

Rochester City Court

Lovely Warren — 4,140 votes - 46.26%

► Michael Geraci — 4,793 votes -   53.56%

State assembly, 137th district

► Demond Meeks — 3,369  -  66.44%

Willie Lightfoot — 1,700 votes - 33.52%

Contributing: USA Today Network, Democrat and Chronicle reporter Steve Howe