Los Angeles is a stage. From Hollywood magic to live theatre and world-class museums, LA offers extraordinary entertainment, shows & museums for everyone. Whether you want to wander among Tinseltown props, catch a Broadway-caliber musical, or get hands-on with art and science, LA delivers. Below are our top picks, organized to match every kind of entertainment craving.
TV & Movies
- Warner Bros. Studio Tour
A behind-the-scenes look at real sets, props, and even current filming. Appeals to film buffs and anyone curious about Hollywood’s engine. Mid-range (~$70–$100). 3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505
Insider Tip: Book the earliest tour of the day for a better chance at catching a live production or active set. The guides are more relaxed, and there’s often less waiting around.
Don’t miss Central Perk! Yes, that one from Friends, you can actually sit on the couch. - Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
Explore iconic costumes, Oscar history, and interactive exhibits about film’s evolution. Ideal for cinephiles and families. Admission ~$25 adults, $15 youth. LACMA West, 6067 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Insider Tip: Check their screening calendar before you go, they often run rare classics and Q&As with directors.
Tip: Head to the Dolby Family Terrace for stunning views of the Hollywood Hills. - Hollywood Forever Cemetery Screenings
Outdoor movie nights projected against a mausoleum wall under the stars. Appeals to date-night couples and movie lovers. Free–$15, depending on event. Hollywood Forever Cemetery, 6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Insider Tip: Arrive early and bring a picnic blanket and low beach chairs. People go all out with cheese boards and themed outfits.
Bonus: Bring layers, it gets chilly even in summer.
Theatre
- Pantages Theatre
A historic venue hosting blockbuster Broadway musicals and star-studded performances. Best for couples, theatre fans, and group nights out. Tickets $50–150. 6233 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Insider Tip: Sign up for the Broadway in Hollywood mailing list. Locals often score pre-sale access or rush tickets.
The vintage lobby is Insta-worthy! Arrive early to snap pics before it fills up. - Ahmanson Theatre
Downtown LA’s flagship for plays and musicals like & Juliet and Parade. Ideal for arts lovers seeking high-quality, Broadway-caliber shows. Tickets $30–120. 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Insider Tip: Weekday matinees often have better availability and lower pricing.
Before the show, grab a drink or bite at Kendall’s Brasserie (Music Center, 135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012) right next door. - Los Angeles Theatre
A restored, ornate movie palace offering occasional live events and film screenings. Appeals to architecture lovers and vintage-cinema fans. Event pricing varies. 615 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90014
Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for one-night-only screenings hosted by Secret Movie Club. They turn the theatre into a time machine.
Tip: Look up at the ceiling: some say it rivals the Paris Opera.
Musicals & Shows
- Hollywood Bowl
An iconic open-air amphitheatre hosting music concerts, film nights, and the LA Philharmonic. Great for music lovers, date nights, and families. Tickets $20+. 2301 Highland Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Insider Tip: You’re allowed to bring your own food and wine to most classical events, perfect for budget-friendly romantic nights.
Park-n-Ride shuttles save time and stress; parking at the Bowl is notoriously tight and expensive. - LA Live / Crypto.com Arena
Powerhouse location for concerts, sports, and entertainment events. Excellent for big-event seekers and group travel. Ticket prices vary widely. 1111 S Figueroa St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
Insider Tip: Eat before you go. Restaurants here are packed pre-show. Try grabbing a happy hour at Yard House (800 W Olympic Blvd A-115, Los Angeles, CA 90015).
Skip parking: Take the Metro to 7th St/Metro Center and walk. - Improv Comedy Clubs (e.g., The Comedy Store)
Top-tier stand-up with rising talent and full runs of touring acts. Best for adults and anyone in the mood for laughs. Cover charge $10–$30. Sunset Strip & Fairfax.
Insider Tip: Monday is “Potluck” night: rising comedians do 3-minute sets and often surprise A-listers drop in to test material.
Two-drink minimum, but no rule says they can’t both be Diet Cokes.
Museums
- LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art)
Home to Urban Light, modern and classic art, and rotating exhibitions. Appeals to art lovers and culture travelers. Admission ~$25. 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Insider Tip: Urban Light is stunning at dawn and dusk. Those are the best times for photos without the crowds.
Free admission after 3pm on weekdays for LA County residents (with ID). - The Broad
Free contemporary art museum (reservations recommended), featuring works by Warhol, Basquiat, and the Infinity Mirror room. Ideal for art fans and downtown explorers. 221 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Insider Tip: Book the Infinity Mirror Room as soon as you arrive or online. Only a handful of visitors get timed-entry passes daily.
Skip the line by reserving a free timed ticket online up to a month in advance. - Natural History Museum
Dinosaurs, gems, and natural wonders in Exposition Park. Fantastic for families and curious minds. Admission ~$15 adults, $7 kids. 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007
Insider Tip: Visit in the late afternoon. School groups usually leave by 2pm, and you’ll get the dinosaur hall (almost) to yourself.
Don’t skip the Nature Gardens outside, there’s often live bug talks or interactive exhibits hidden in plain sight. - Getty Center
Hilltop art, architecture, gardens—and views to match. Appeals to both art lovers and anyone seeking a peaceful getaway. Free admission (parking ~$20). 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Insider Tip: The tram ride is fun, but if you walk up the hill instead, you’ll find a secret sculpture path most people miss.
Bring sunglasses, white stone and SoCal sun is a blinding combo. - Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
Celebrates cinema history with immersive exhibits and film screenings. Perfect for film lovers and families. Tickets ~$25 adults. LACMA West, 6067 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Insider Tip: Many miss the basement exhibit: don’t! It often houses rotating installations, and the lighting is great for moody film-noir-style selfies.
Bonus: The store has one-of-a-kind merch you won’t find online.