The undisputed centre of Western film culture and a city known for its vibrant cultural mix, iconic movie studios, endless beaches and love of glitz and glamour, to say that Los Angeles is a city well worth visiting would be a massive understatement.
Whether you fancy yourself as the next Chris Hemsworth or merely wish to relax and soak up the atmosphere of this incredible oceanside city, Los Angeles has something for everyone, and something for every occasion. The ultimate holiday destination, Los Angeles is the perfect place to begin your American journey. So what are you waiting for?
What are the must-see attractions in Los Angeles?
Given that it rivals the Sydney Opera House, Taj Mahal and Eiffel Tower as one of the world's most photographed sites, it's hard to believe that the Hollywood sign was originally just a billboard for a housing development. No matter, because it is now a must-see attraction in its own right. Head up to Griffith Park - at 4,310 acres one of North America's largest urban parks and well worth a visit in its own right - for the perfect snapshot of this icon.
In keeping with the movie theme, be sure to stop by the Hollywood Walk of Fame for a glimpse at over 2,700 stars and handprints of current and former movie actors and creatives, or buy a star map and take a tour to see where some of Hollywood's brightest call home.
Looking for someone to do some serious people watching? Whether it's gawping at the bodybuilders at Muscle Beach, wandering along the canals, checking out the next generation of Z-Boys at the skate park or doing some serious shopping along Abbot Kinney Boulevard, there really is nowhere better than Venice Beach. And if it's coastal majesty you're looking for, be sure to head north from Venice Beach towards Malibu for one of the world's most iconic shoreline drives.
As well as it's incredible high end shopping in places like Sunset Boulevard and fantastic cuisine that covers everything from street food trucks to Michelin starred restaurants like Hayato and Mélisse, Los Angeles is a haven for art lovers. Catch an exhibition at any one of the sprawling Getty museums or the Museum of Contemporary Art Los Angeles, marvel at the ice age creatures of the primordial ooze at the La Brea Tar Pits and Museum or see the world's best bands perform at the Hollywood Bowl.
While there are so many things to see and do in Los Angeles, there are few better must-see attractions in Los Angeles than Disneyland in the suburb of Anaheim. For those that have been living under a rock, Disneyland is the original and ultimate theme park, with rides, costumed characters and nightly fireworks. Known alternatively as the magic kingdom and the happiest place on earth, no family visit to Los Angeles is complete without a trip to Disneyland.
With so much to see and do for all ages, Los Angeles is a must for any serious traveller.