Once in a Lifetime Things to Do in Los Angeles – Los Angeles is one of those iconic cities that you simply must visit at least once in your life. But here’s the thing: once you step foot in this sprawling metropolis, it will captivate you, and chances are, you’ll want to return again and again. Los Angeles isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience, a vibrant tapestry of culture, entertainment, natural beauty, and hidden gems that make every visit unique.
While there are endless guides and travel tips that focus on the touristy spots—the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier, or Universal Studios—there’s a whole other side to L.A. that goes beyond the usual. To truly experience the city, you need to dive deeper, uncover its soul, and embark on adventures that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
In this article, we’ll take a journey through some once-in-a-lifetime things to do in Los Angeles, experiences that go beyond the expected and give you a taste of what makes this city truly extraordinary.
Explore Griffith Park and the Griffith Observatory at Twilight
Griffith Park, one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offers an escape into nature right in the heart of the city. While hiking through its scenic trails is already a popular activity, the real magic happens when you visit the iconic Griffith Observatory at twilight. Perched on the slopes of Mount Hollywood, the observatory provides sweeping views of the city below – Once in a Lifetime Things to Do in Los Angeles.
As the sun sets and the lights of Los Angeles start twinkling, the panoramic view from Griffith Observatory becomes nothing short of magical. You can even get a close-up view of the stars through the observatory’s high-powered telescopes, making this experience one that connects you with both the energy of the city and the vastness of the universe.
Take a Helicopter Ride Over the City
If you’re looking for something that takes your visit to Los Angeles to new heights—literally—then a helicopter ride over the city is an absolute must. From high above, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of some of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Hollywood Sign, the Los Angeles skyline, the Pacific coastline, and the sprawling urban landscape below.
This once-in-a-lifetime experience offers a unique perspective of the city, allowing you to appreciate the sheer size and beauty of L.A. from the air. It’s perfect for adventure-seekers who want to add an extra layer of excitement to their trip and create memories that will last forever – Once in a Lifetime Things to Do in Los Angeles.
Dine at a Celebrity Chef’s Restaurant
Los Angeles is known for its incredible food scene, and one of the most unforgettable experiences you can have here is dining at a restaurant run by a celebrity chef. The city is home to some of the world’s most renowned chefs, each offering a unique culinary experience that reflects the diversity and innovation of L.A.’s food culture.
Whether you’re indulging in the cutting-edge cuisine of Wolfgang Puck at Spago, enjoying the refined French flavors at Ludo Lefebvre’s Trois Mec, or sampling the Mexican-inspired dishes at Roy Choi’s Kogi, dining at a celebrity chef’s restaurant is a gourmet experience that goes beyond just a meal—it’s a taste of Los Angeles’ status as a global culinary capital.
Visit the Getty Center and the Getty Villa
For art lovers and architecture enthusiasts, visiting both the Getty Center and the Getty Villa is a must-do. The Getty Center, located in the hills above Los Angeles, offers stunning views of the city and the Pacific Ocean, as well as an extensive collection of art, including works by Van Gogh, Monet, and other masters. But the real star of the show is the Richard Meier-designed architecture, which makes the museum itself a work of art.
Just a short drive away is the Getty Villa, a museum that focuses on ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan art. The villa’s architecture is inspired by the ancient Roman country houses, and its beautiful gardens make it feel like you’ve stepped into another time and place. Visiting both the Getty Center and the Getty Villa in one day gives you a well-rounded and luxurious cultural experience that’s unique to Los Angeles.
Take a Surfing Lesson in Malibu
For those who want to dive headfirst into L.A.’s beach culture, there’s no better place to do it than Malibu. Known for its stunning beaches and iconic surf spots, Malibu is the perfect place to catch a wave—even if you’ve never surfed before. Surfing lessons are available for all levels, and there’s something magical about riding the waves of the Pacific Ocean with the rugged Malibu coastline as your backdrop.
Even if you don’t master the art of surfing on your first try, just being out on the water and soaking up the sun is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that embodies the laid-back spirit of Southern California.
Attend a Live TV Show Taping
Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world, and one of the most unique experiences you can have here is attending a live TV show taping. Whether it’s a late-night talk show like “The Tonight Show” or a game show like “Wheel of Fortune,” sitting in the audience of a live production is an exciting way to see the behind-the-scenes magic of Hollywood – Once in a Lifetime Things to Do in Los Angeles.
Many shows offer free tickets to tapings, and it’s a great way to get a glimpse of your favorite TV personalities up close. Plus, you’ll walk away with stories to tell about being part of a live studio audience—something that can only happen in Los Angeles.
Wander Through the Venice Canals
While Venice Beach is famous for its boardwalk and vibrant street performers, there’s a quieter side to this eclectic neighborhood that’s just as enchanting: the Venice Canals. Modeled after the canals of Venice, Italy, these man-made waterways were designed by developer Abbot Kinney in the early 1900s.
Strolling through the Venice Canals offers a peaceful contrast to the hustle and bustle of nearby Venice Beach. The picturesque bridges, charming homes, and tranquil waters create a hidden oasis that feels worlds away from the typical Los Angeles scene. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely walk or a quiet moment of reflection in the midst of the city – Once in a Lifetime Things to Do in Los Angeles.
Explore the Art and Street Murals of the Arts District
Los Angeles has a thriving art scene, and one of the best places to experience it is in the Arts District, located in Downtown L.A. What was once a gritty industrial area has been transformed into a vibrant neighborhood filled with galleries, street art, and murals by some of the world’s most renowned artists.
The street art in the Arts District is constantly changing, which means every visit is a fresh experience. From massive, colorful murals to hidden gems tucked away in alleyways, exploring the street art scene here feels like stepping into an open-air museum. It’s a must-see for anyone who loves art, culture, and creativity.
Visit the Hollywood Forever Cemetery for a Movie Night
One of the more unusual—and unforgettable—experiences you can have in Los Angeles is attending a movie screening at Hollywood Forever Cemetery. This historic cemetery is the final resting place of many Hollywood legends, but it also serves as a unique venue for outdoor movie screenings hosted by Cinespia.
During the summer months, you can bring a blanket, snacks, and friends to watch classic films under the stars, surrounded by the gravestones of Hollywood’s biggest icons. It’s a truly unique way to experience L.A.’s love for cinema, and it’s something you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
Drive Along the Pacific Coast Highway at Sunset
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH). Stretching along the California coast, this scenic highway offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and coastal towns like Malibu and Santa Monica.
While driving along the PCH is always beautiful, the experience becomes even more magical at sunset. Watching the sun dip below the horizon as you cruise along the coastline is a quintessential Los Angeles experience that feels like something out of a movie. It’s the perfect way to end a day of exploring the city.
Take a Private Tour of a Movie Studio
Los Angeles is synonymous with Hollywood, and one of the best ways to get an inside look at the world of filmmaking is by taking a private tour of a movie studio. While many studios offer public tours, a private tour allows you to see behind-the-scenes areas that aren’t usually accessible to the general public.
Whether it’s Warner Bros., Paramount, or Sony Pictures, a private studio tour gives you a glimpse into the world of set design, sound stages, and the movie-making magic that has made Hollywood famous. It’s a must-do for film buffs and anyone who wants to experience the glamour of the entertainment industry up close.
Dance the Night Away at a Rooftop Bar
Los Angeles is known for its nightlife, and one of the most unforgettable ways to experience it is by visiting a rooftop bar with stunning views of the city. Whether you’re sipping cocktails while gazing at the Downtown L.A. skyline or dancing under the stars at one of the city’s trendiest nightspots, the rooftop bar scene in Los Angeles offers an elevated experience in every sense of the word.
From the chic vibe of EP & LP to the glamorous atmosphere of Perch, Los Angeles’ rooftop bars offer something for everyone. It’s the perfect way to end a day of sightseeing with a night of fun and unforgettable views.
Conclusion
Los Angeles is a city that defies expectations. While it’s known for its iconic landmarks and star-studded reputation, the real magic of L.A. lies in its diversity and the countless unique experiences it offers. Whether you’re soaring above the city in a helicopter, surfing the waves of Malibu, or wandering through hidden canals, these once-in-a-lifetime activities allow you to connect with the true essence of Los Angeles.
No matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new to discover in this city of endless possibilities. So, take the plunge and explore the unforgettable, one-of-a-kind experiences that only Los Angeles can offer.
