75 Most Instagrammable Places in Los Angeles

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Los Angeles is one of the best cities for photos with diverse cityscapes, sweeping hills, and an entire coastline of beaches. I grew up in Los Angeles before Instagram was even a thing, but after revisiting year after year to see family, I’m confident that I’ve found the most Instagrammable places in Los Angeles!

This is one of the longest posts I’ve ever written, so if you’re looking for a quick version with a map, I got you!

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Map of Los Angeles Instagram Spots

Museums and Gardens

1. Griffith Observatory

If you’re new to Periodic Adventures (hey hey!), you may not know that I am Griffith Observatory’s number one fan. The museum is interactive, informative, and fun for kids and adults.

The reason it’s number one on this list of Instagram spots in LA is because of its stellar location, views, and architecture! It sits atop a mountain so you can see the Hollywood Sign and downtown Los Angeles. Plus, they have their own wing sculpture, which makes a perfect photo opp.

If that wasn’t convincing enough, the architecture of the building is beautiful and makes a perfect photo backdrop. You can walk along the outside of the building on multiple levels so you’re bound to find the perfect spot!

• Price: free to enter
• Parking: $10 per hour for lots, or free at Greek Theatre with DASH bus transport
• Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera Policy: amateur photography is fine, professional shoots require permits
• Closures: Mondays, daily hours vary

2. Getty Center

The Getty Center is known for their collection of art, but the buildings are so dang photogenic. Again, you can walk along the outside and again, it sits atop a mountain so you get stellar views. On a clear day (i.e. after it rains), you can even see the ocean!

• Price: free admission
• Parking: $20
• Address: 1200 Getty Center Dr., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Personal use photos and videos allowed
• Closures: Mondays

3. Getty Villa

I think the Getty folks know what they’re doing. The Getty Villa is the smaller, Malibu museum focused on Greek and Roman art. What makes this museum such a spectacular spot is that the building is designed to look like an ancient Roman summer home complete with gardens, a lengthy pool, and highly decorated hallways.

• Price: free admission, timed entry ticket required
• Parking: $20
• Address: 17985 Pacific Coast Highway, Pacific Palisades, CA
• Camera policy: Personal use photos and videos allowed
• Closures: Tuesdays

4. Academy Museum of Motion Pictures

While you can find some spots in the museum for a good photo, the best Instagram spot is in the “Death Star”, an outdoor space that overlooks the city and hills to the north.

The dome is incredibly photo-worthy on its own.

• Price: $25 for adults, $15 for students
• Parking: valet on Roddenberry Lane for $15 with museum validation
• Address: 6067 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Photography for personal use is allowed.
• Closures: none, daily hours vary

5. Heritage Square Museum

An underrated gem, Heritage Square Museum is a collection of historic Victorian style homes near the Arroyo Seco area. If you’re looking for some unique architecture or period-piece backdrops, this is your spot!

• Price: $16 for interior tour, $10 for exteriors only
• Parking: free on street
• Address: 3800 Homer St., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Allowed for personal use.
• Closures: Monday – Friday, any day with heavy rain

6. The Broad

Contemporary art is housed in The Broad (pronounced broh-D not brah-D). The building is beautiful on the outside and other-worldly on the inside. Some of the art makes for great photos, like the massive table and chairs piece called Under the Table by Rover Therrien, which you can walk under making you look minature.

They also have Insta-worthy exhibits like the Infinity Mirrors room by Yayoi Kusama. You only get 1 minute in there so have your camera settings and poses at the ready!

• Price: free, timed entry to Infinity Mirrored Room required (tickets are released monthly on the last Wednesday at 10am PST)
• Parking: $17
• Address: 221 S Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Allowed, no flash photography, no selfie sticks or tripods
• Closures: Mondays

7. Madame Tussaud’s Hollywood

This is a touristy option, but a fun one nonetheless. Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum in Hollywood has many photo opps that allow you to pose with some of your favorite celebs. And, if you can’t do that in Hollywood, where else can you?

I had my high school prom here!

• Price: $32.99
• Parking: $15 in their lot off N Orange Drive or $2 for 2 hours with validation at Hollywood and Highland lot
• Address: 6933 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA
• Camera policy: Allowed, selfie sticks allowed
• Closures: none

8. California Science Center

One of my all-time favorite museums in LA is the California Science Center. It’s interactive, teaches some great science lessons, and has some great photo spots!

I love the aquarium tunnel and Endeavor for photos!

• Price: free admission
• Parking: $15
• Address: 700 Exposition Park Dr., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Allowed, no tripods, selfie sticks, etc.
• Closures: none

9. Museum of Neon Art

A bit different from the Neon Museum in Las Vegas, this Museum of Neon Art is an indoor collection of neon signs and art.

• Price: $10
• Parking: free for 90 minutes at 120 Artsakh Ave., Glendale, CA
• Address: 216 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale, CA
• Camera policy: Allowed
• Closures: Monday through Wednesday, all major holidays

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10. Petersen Automotive Museum

One of the most recognizable buildings in Los Angeles is Petersen Automotive Museum with it’s funky red and silver wave-covered building. You can snap some photos of the outside without even going into the museum.

However, if you’re into cars, it’s a well-curated museum. I personally love the cars they showcase from TV and film like the Delorean, the Batmobile, and more!

• Price: $19.95, free for educators
• Parking: $17 with Petersen Museum validation
• Address: 6060 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Permitted, but no tripods, selfie sticks, etc.
• Closures: none

11. The Huntington Library and Botanical Gardens

You can spend all day taking photos here because the Huntington Library is organized by region so you’ll find a beautiful Japanese garden with gorgeous bridges, a tea house, and zen garden. There’s a Chinese garden with some beautiful connecting buildings and pathways that traverse a large koi pond.

Plus, you may recognize these spots from film – the Japanese garden was in Iron Man 2 and Chinese garden was frequently shown in The Good Place.

There are also gardens for Australia and California, and a desert, herb, jungle, ranch, and rose gardens!

• Price: $25 for adults, $21 for students
• Parking: free
• Address: 1800 Orlando Road, San Marino, CA
• Camera policy: Informal photography allowed, professional photography restrictions apply
• Closures: Closed on Tuesdays

12. Exposition Park Rose Garden

The Rose Garden at Exposition Park, just steps from the California Science Center has beautiful flowers, gazebos, and a large fountain. And, fun fact, it’s also the exterior shot used in Bones for the Jeffersonian Institute!

• Price: free
• Parking: $15 (same lot as California Science Center)
• Address: 701 State Dr., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Photography for personal use allowed.
• Closures: open daily, but closes at dusk

13. Aquarium of the Pacific

What I love about the Aquarium of the Pacific is that it has indoor and outdoor spaces so your photos will be dynamic. You can pose with the stingrays outside or in front of the large aquarium wall inside.

• Price: $36.95 (worth every penny, I promise!), reservations required
• Parking: $8
• Address: 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA
• Camera policy: Personal use photography allowed. No tripods.
• Closures: none

Beaches

14. El Matador State Beach

The most beautiful beach in Los Angeles is El Matador State Beach. It’s got stunning cliffs, funky rock formations, arches, caves, and the beach (of course).

Be sure to visit at low tide otherwise you can’t explore the rock formations fully. To get to the cave Instagram spot, you’ll want to descend the steps, then walk right (north on the coast) until you reach the cave. You may have to pass under arches or through small tunnels, but trust me, you’ll know it when you see it!

• Price: free
• Parking: $3 per hour or $10 daily rate
• Address: 32350 E Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu
• Camera policy: Personal use photography permitted, permits required for professional shoots.
• Closures: sunset

15. Santa Monica Pier

Perhaps the most iconic beach destination on this list is the Santa Monica Pier. You know it for Pacific Park, the theme park with a ferris wheel and roller coaster. It also has an aquarium, an arcade, and historic carousel.

You can people watch for hours and snap lots of photos with all the Route 66 signs (the Santa Monica Pier is the end of the historic route).

• Price: free
• Parking: $2 per hour for short-term parking, $7-18 for daily rates
• Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA
• Camera policy: Personal use photography allowed.
• Closures: none

16. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Venice Beach is actually the spot for a few Instagram photo spots, but first let’s chat the Venice Beach Boardwalk on Ocean Front Walk. This is a one-mile long pedestrian street that borders the beach.

You will see some stuff here guaranteed – whacky stores including some that sell 🍃, crazy state-fair-esque foods like fried Oreos, lots of art, and people that embody the over-the-top vibe of Venice Beach. All these things make it a fun photo spot, but honestly, it’s not the most kid-friendly place on this list, so do your research first.

• Price: free
• Parking: street parking or local lots, price varies but expect ~ $20
• Address: Ocean Front Walk, Venice Beach
• Camera policy: Personal use photography allowed.
• Closures: none

17. Venice Beach Sign

It’s an iconic spot for a reason! This cute sign hangs over the intersection of Pacific Ave. and Windward Ave.

There are diagonal crosswalks so if you want to snap a photo from the middle of the street, please wait until you’re allowed to cross. There is active traffic through the area and no one needs to get killed for an Instagram shot. Thank you.

• Price: free
• Parking: Street parking on Windward Ave.
• Address: Pacific Ave. and Windward Ave., Venice Beach, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: none

18. Venice Canals

Venice is named Venice for a reason, right? You can find canals in the quieter, residential area of Venice Beach. Dell Avenue crosses the canals perpendicularly. Some great photo spots are from the walkways surrounding the canals and from the bridges!

• Price: free
• Parking: good luck…just kidding, the closest lot is 2108 Pacific Ave.
• Address: a few square blocks bordered by Venice Blvd., Eastern Ct., Court A, and Strongs Dr.
• Camera policy: none, but be respectful of the homes and residents
• Closures: none

19. Muscle Beach

One final Venice Beach spot is Muscle Beach. You can often catch people who are much more athletic than me swinging from the handles and doing flips! Celebs like Lou Ferrigno and Arnold Schwartzenegger have worked out here!

Try using the bars or handles yourself for the ‘Gram!

• Price: $10 for a day pass
• Parking: street and public lots surrounding Ocean Front Walk
• Address: Muscle Beach, Venice (closest cross street is 18^th Pl.)
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: major holidays, city holidays, rainy days

20. Palos Verdes Peninsula

Some of the most stunning coastline in LA is on the Palos Verdes Peninsula – it truly looks like the pristine beaches most people picture when they think of sunny California. I was pretty stunned when I saw it in person, to be honest.

As someone who grew up thinking all beaches had oil rigs off the coast (looking at you Long Beach), I couldn’t believe such beautiful coast even existed in Los Angeles.

If you need a picturesque backdrop, drive along the Palos Verdes Peninsula and stop all along the way – there are pull-offs with views, parks with views, and even a chapel that overlooks the whole thing (#25 on this list).

• Price: free
• Parking: free
• Address: N/A
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: none

21. Korean Friendship Bell

If you keep traveling further south on the coast, you’ll pass San Pedro, which is home to the Korean Friendship Bell. It’s a historic bell with a GORGEOUS pagoda and was a gift from Korea!

It’s the perfect photo spot overlooking the coast all the way to Catalina Island and even makes it look like you’re traveling abroad in Asia.

• Price: free
• Parking: free
• Address: 3601 S Gaffey Street, San Pedro, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photography allowed.
• Closures: Closed 7pm to 7am daily.

22. Pirate Tower

If you’re up for a drive, Pirate Tower is one of the most photogenic spots on the Southern California coast. It was built as a private staircase for a home on the hill to descend to the beach below and was said to once be owned by a pirate…hence the name.

You can’t go inside, but you can take some beautiful photos of it and with it! In fact, when I visited, there were 2 engagement photoshoots happening at once!

This is arguably the hardest spot to get to on the list though, so read this first. The staircase to get to the beach is hidden among residential streets where there is no public parking. You’ll have to park on PCH then walk down.

The staircase is located across from the end of Sunset Terrace between houses #2713 and 2703 (there is a big jump in numbers between those two and the staircase is there.

My aunt clued me in that the Walk or Run app by Under Armour shows detailed maps of pedestrian paths that are not on Google Maps so I highly recommend downloading that! It would have saved me so much stress trying to find the staircase. Apple Maps works better too!

You have to visit at low tide otherwise you can’t reach the tower as the pathway is completely underwater. Consult the app Tide Times to be sure you’re visiting at the right time.

• Price: free
• Parking: free on PCH
• Address: between 2703 and 2713 Victoria Dr., Laguna Beach, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: nightly

Architecture

23. Walt Disney Concert Hall

When you see a Frank Gehry building you know it from a mile away! Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of the most iconic buildings in LA because of the architecture with its sweeping silver exterior.

Even if you aren’t attending a concert, you can walk the outside of the building – just look for the (sometimes hidden) staircases on the exterior. You’ll find lots of nooks and crannies all perfect for photos.

Note that this location can get unbearably hot because the silver stainless steel reflects the sunlight so intensely. I know that sounds like a no brainer, but please exercise caution in the summer months especially and bring ample water and sun protection.

• Price: free
• Parking: underground lot for $20
• Address: 111 S Grand Ave., Los Angeles
• Camera policy: Personal photography allowed.
• Closures: none

24. Spadena House

Get into your spooky season mood at Spadena House in Beverly Hills. It looks like it belongs to a witch and the owners have really leaned into that with decorative signs.

This is someone’s home so please visit with respect and stay off their personal property.

• Price: free
• Parking: free street parking
• Address: 516 Walden Dr., Beverly Hills, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photography permitted.
• Closures: none

25. Wayfarers Chapel

Calling all OC and Lucifer fans! You may recognize Wayfarers Chapel from those TV shows and let me just say, it’s STUNNING in person. The architect is Frank Llyod Wright after all.

Known for it’s glass window archways and rustic feel, this is the most beautiful spot for photos!

Note that if events are occurring, you can only visit during the first 30 minutes of the odd hours in the afternoon (i.e. 1-1:30pm and 3-3:30pm), which is to allow for visitors while still respecting those who are holding events.

To be safe, I arrived at 3pm and no one was there. Plus, the bells ring on the hour so that was a nice surprise when I got out of my car!

• Price: free
• Parking: free visitor parking at the top of the hill
• Address: 5755 Palos Verdes Dr. S, Rancho Palos Verdes, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photography permitted.
• Closures: Nightly from 5pm to 9am and during events

26. Bradbury Building

Another gorgeous architectural spot is the Bradbury Building, which has also been used in numerous TV shows and films, notably The Blade Runner and 500 Days of Summer.

You can go into the lobby of the building for free, but since it is still an operating business building, you can’t go in the old elevators or up to any other floors.

• Price: free
• Parking: street parking, public lots surrounding
• Address: 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: Nightly from 5pm to 9am on weekdays and closed at 2pm on weekends.

27. Spring Arcade Building

A mix of restaurants and retailers on the ground floor and apartments on the upper floors, Spring Arcade Building is a hidden gem for foodies in LA. My favorite is Guisado’s with their incredible taco sampler and Uli’s Gelato, a gelato vending machine that’s woman owned!

• Price: free
• Parking: adjacent lot on S Spring Street is $10 cash only, street parking available as well
• Address: 541 S Spring St., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: none

28. Stimson House

This mansion was built in 1891 and at the time was the most costly private residence in LA. It has survived a dynamite attack and has been home to a fraternity, nuns, and students from Loyola Marymount College.

Parking is tricky, but it’s a beautiful building to snap some photos of. There is a fence on the exterior so it isn’t the best for shots of people in the foreground, but you be the judge!

• Price: free
• Parking: street
• Address: 2421 S Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: none

29. Pasadena City Hall

Pasadena City Hall is a stunning building that was built in 1927 influenced by 16^th century Italian architecture and you may even recognize it from Parks and Rec or A Cinderella Story.

• Price: free
• Parking: public city parking surrounding
• Address: 100 North Garfield Ave., Pasadena, CA
• Camera policy: Commercial photography/videography requires a permit.
• Closures: None

30. Goth and Bubblegum Houses

Located in Santa Monica, just next to the pier, you’ll find the iconic Goth and Bubblegum Houses. If you watched Wednesday, it literally looks like Enid and Wednesday have adjacent houses – one is bright pink and purple, the other is black.

• Price: free
• Parking: Closest lot is for the Santa Monica Pier (costs up to $20 for the day)
• Address: PCH, Santa Monica, CA (just north of the Santa Monica Pier)
• Camera policy: private residences, so you can photograph the outsides but be respectful
• Closures: none, but again respect that these are residences

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Art

31. The Pink Wall

On Melrose Ave., you’ll find a giant pink wall that’s actually the side of Paul Smith’s store. There is only street parking if you’re not entering the store and you can’t use any professional DSLR cameras (phones only). There is a security guard who will tell you to kindly buzz off if you try anything against their posted signs.

Still, the wall makes for a great background!

• Price: free
• Parking: free street parking (Melrose Ave. and N. Harper Ave.)
• Address: 8221 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: phones only (very strict on this)
• Closures: none

32. Urban Light

You know it, you love it. Urban Light is an art installation in front of LACMA. The rows of street lights make for a super interesting photo op where every angle gives a new perspective. My favorite is to put your camera on the ground facing up!

Visiting at night versus in the day provides a new experience, so if you can see it during both times, definitely try to!

• Price: free
• Parking: LACMA parking in the back ($15+)
• Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: commercial photography requires permit
• Closures: none

33. Micheltorena Heart Stairs

These are just so cute! These stairs are painted with a rainbow and hearts. Take a seat and snap a photo!

• Price: free
• Parking: metered street parking on Micheltorena Street (across Sunset)
• Address: 3324 Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: none

34. Tongva Park

This is a public park with some funky, modern sculptures. The park is within walking distance to the Santa Monica Pier, so you can knock out multiple Instagram spots here!

• Price: free
• Parking: 1640 Appian Way, Santa Monica (Beach Parking Lot South – short term parking for $2 per hour)
• Address: 1615 Ocean Ave., Santa Monica, CA
• Camera policy: Commercial photography requires permit.
• Closures: closed 11pm-6am daily

35. Kelsey Montague Wings

Artist Kelsey Montague is famous for her murals around the US, often large wings that make the perfect Instagram photo!

You can find these all over the city including Universal Citywalk, El Paseo South Gate Shopping Center, and Abbot Kinney in Venice.  

• Price: free
• Parking: varies
• Address: varies
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: varies by location, but typically no closures for outdoor murals

Shops, Restaurants, and Markets

36. The Last Bookstore

An Instagram sensation, The Last Bookstore is part bookstore, part indoor sculpture garden, part art collective. You can shop for every book you see (that isn’t glued on a sculpture). The photo fun takes place upstairs (the stairs are in the back right corner).

Once upstairs you’ll be greeted with books flying off the shelves, the book tunnel, and book window! As you make your way around, you’ll also see the art collective with unique pieces and quirky souvenirs!

• Price: free
• Parking: metered street parking
• Address: 453 South Spring Street, Los Angeles
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: closed 8pm to 11am daily

37. Rodeo Drive

Even if you don’t want to drop thousands of dollars on Designer clothes and accessories, Rodeo Drive is still a quintessential Los Angeles photo op.

The most popular (and photogenic spot is The Golden Triangle).

• Price: free
• Parking: Hodes Parking Garage (421 N Rodeo Drive)
• Address: 9800 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA (The Golden Triangle)
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: none

38. In-N-Out Burger

Did you even visit Los Angeles if you didn’t go to In-N-Out at least once? No, no you didn’t…and pics or it didn’t happen!

Luckily In-N-Out has locations all over LA so you won’t have a problem finding one!

• Price: food is usually $10 per person
• Parking: free on site
• Address: all over!
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: location dependent

39. Smorgasburg

Sundays are for markets in LA and Smorgasburg is one of my new favorites! This event brings a collection of food trucks, local artists and creators, and sometimes vinyl record vendors together every Sunday.

Not only can you snap some cute pics, but you get to taste your way through the market. I loved tacos from Tacos 1986, churrs from Churro Boss, and the pad Thai from Radam Silom.

• Price: free to enter
• Parking: Row DTLA parking (free for 2 hours) 777 S. Alameda St., Los Angeles
• Address: 777 S. Alameda St., Los Angeles
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: only open on Sundays from 10am to 4pm

40. The Original Farmers Market

My OG foodie love, the Orginial Farmers Market is so freaking cute for photos. The green and white awnings, the flower truck, the old gas station pumps, plus all the food will have you snapping photos left and right!

• Price: free to enter
• Parking: Original farmers market lot located here: 6333 W 3^rd St., Los Angeles (get your ticket validated by a business in the market for $5 or less parking)
• Address: 6333 W 3^rd St., Los Angeles
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: on weekdays closed from 9pm to 9am, weekend times vary – individual businesses may have their own hours, so check before visiting if you want to eat somewhere specific

41. The Grove

Right around the corner is The Grove, a large outdoor mall with designer shops, a lovely outdoor bar, fountain, and a 3-story Barnes and Noble! There are lots of corners for photo ops so walk around and get posing!

• Price: free to enter
• Parking: 7800 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles (get your ticket validated by a business in the Grove for a discount)
• Address: 189 The Grove Dr., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: on weekdays, closed from 9pm to 10am, weekend times vary, individual stores may have their own hours

42. Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market is one of my all time favorite spots in LA because not only is there a ton of delish food to try, but there’s beautiful murals, colorful vendor stalls of candy, and neon signs that all make it a fun spot for photos!

Be sure to try Sarita’s Pupuseria, Donut Man, and McConnell’s Ice Cream in between your picture-taking.

• Price: free
• Parking: 308 South Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA (costs $15, no validation accepted)
• Address: 317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photography and videography permitted.
• Closures: 9pm to 8am daily

43. Eataly

I only recently discovered Eataly, but now I’ve been to the one in Los Angeles and Las Vegas within 2 months! This is an Italian marketplace with vendors selling cheese, meats, wine, and food items like pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and more! There is a formal restaurant, but you can also get some great photos just wandering the market.

But honestly, if you have time and an appetite, don’t miss the food!

• Price: free to enter
• Parking: 1717 Club View Drive (free) or at the Westfield Century City mall (closest)
• Address: 10250 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: 8pm to 8:30am on weekdays, 9pm to 8:30am on weekends

44. Musso and Frank Grill

If you’re looking for a vintage Hollywood spot for some classy drinks and photos, this is it! Musso and Frank Grill has been around for 100 years and historically served old Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe!

Now, you can grab a drink at the bar (I loved their Sidecar) for a vintage photo op!

• Price: free to enter (reservations recommended if eating)
• Parking: behind the restaurant, accessed on N Cherokee Ave. (costs $20)
• Address: 6667 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photography only.
• Closures: closed Mondays and nightly from 11pm to 5pm

45. Randy’s Donuts

Whether you know it from Iron Man or not, Randy’s Donuts is an iconic spot in LA because of their giant donut sign (where Iron Man famously sits in his movie).

Grab some donuts and some photos! The original location with the giant donut is in Inglewood.

• Price: free to visit (donuts will cost ya)
• Parking: free on site
• Address: 805 West Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photography permitted.
• Closures: none (open 24 hours)

46. Scum and Villainy Cantina

Star Wars nerds unite! If you can’t afford a trip to Disneyland to see Galaxy’s Edge, this is a close second! Scum and Villainy Cantina is a Star Wars themed cantina, in line with Oga’s Cantina found in the Disney parks.

Don your cosplay, grab your Star Wars Loungefly bag, or just bring your nerfherder attitude and grab some grub, drinks, and photos!

• Price: free to enter
• Parking: hourly lots on Cahuenga (closest) or large lot at Hollywood and Vine (around $10, varies by time spent parked)
• Address: 6377 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: 2am to 5pm on weekdays and 2am to 11am on weekends

47. Castaway Restaurant

If you’re looking for a more laid back bar experience with a lovely city view, Castaway Restaurant in Burbank has cozy fire pits where you can overlook the city, put up your feet, and enjoy your drink.

They have a restaurant on site and host events often, which may complicate the parking availability.

• Price: free to enter, reservations recommended
• Parking: on site, self-parking is free
• Address: 1250 E Harvard Rd., Burbank, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted.
• Closures: closed nightly at 9pm on weekdays, 10pm on weekends, opening hours vary by day

48. Pink’s Hot Dogs

Our final foodie spot for photos is Pink’s Hot Dogs, not the one in Universal’s CityWalk, but the original location on La Brea.

It’s a tiny outdoor-only restaurant with over the top hot dog creations that you can enjoy from their umbrella-covered tables behind the restaurant.

Because it is outdoor only, on summer days, please bring water and note that the earlier you show up, the better, because it can get crowded leading to long lines (all outside).

• Price: free to visit, cheapest hot dog is a turkey dog at $5.25 (pre-tax)
• Parking: free parking in the Pink’s parking lot or metered street parking
• Address: 709 N La Brea Ave., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted.
• Closures: closed 12am to 9:30am daily on weekdays and 2am to 9:30am on weekends

Iconic Spots

49. Angels Flight Railway

This is such a fun, silly thing to do in LA and because of the bright orange paint on the archways and railcars, makes for a fun photo op, too!

• Price: $1 each way (or 50¢ for Metro card holders)
• Parking: closest is the Grand Central Market lot at 308 South Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA (costs $15, no validation accepted)
• Address: 351 S Hill Street, Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: daily from 10pm to 6:45am

50. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Talk about iconic! The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most famous spots on this list and for good reason. You can find your favorite star’s star and snap a photo (just please don’t touch it with your hands…they’re on the ground and SO dirty).

• Price: free
• Parking: Hollywood and Highland lot accessed from 1775 N Highland Ave. (costs $3 with validation from Hollywood and Highland business or TCL Chinese Theatre)
• Address: Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: none

51. Chinatown

I love how diverse Los Angeles is. You really can find everything here! Chinatown is no exception.

With beautiful architecture, hanging red lamps, and fountains and statues abound, you’re sure to find some great corners for photos. I love Gin Ling Way and the Bruce Lee Statue (on Sun Mun Way) for photos.

Be sure to eat at Yang Chow and grab some souvenirs from the small shops!

• Price: free
• Parking: lots around Chinatown (cost $10 on average)
• Address: Chinatown, Los Angeles
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted.
• Closures: none

52. Olvera Street

Another cultural gem in Los Angeles is Olvera Street, aka the birthplace of Los Angeles with a Mexican marketplace, historic homes (like the Avila Adobe — the oldest house in LA), a number of museums, and colorful décor!

• Price: free
• Parking: street parking nearby or Lots 1, 2, and 3 by El Pueblo, which cost $15 (address: 615 N Main Street, Los Angeles, CA)
• Address: Olvera Street, Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos only.
• Closures: none, although vendors have individual hours approximately open from 10am to 5pm daily

53. Disneyland Park

I love a good Disney photo op (read how I tracked down Disney walls in Walt Disney World here). Disneyland is full of them!

Document your magical day with photos with churros, the castle, and characters! Classic rides to take photos with include The Haunted Mansion, Space Mountain (from the line queue on the roof), and It’s A Small World with the gorgeous façade!

• Price: $104+ for one day
• Parking: $30 in their designated lots (I prefer the Mickey and Friends Lot accessed on W Ball Rd.)
• Address: 1313 Disneyland Dr., Anaheim, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted.
• Closures: Hours vary by day and season.

Related read >> How to do Disneyland in a day (including California Adventure)

54. Disney’s California Adventure Park

Adjacent to Disneyland is Disney’s California Adventure Park. This is the park with the giant Mickey ferris wheel, San Fransokyo from Big Hero 6, Avengers Campus, and Cars Land (be sure to visit during sunset when they turn the neon on).

• Price: $104+ for one day
• Parking: $30 in their designated lots (I prefer the Mickey and Friends Lot accessed on W Ball Rd.)
• Address: 1313 Disneyland Dr., Anaheim, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted.
• Closures: Hours vary by day and season.

Related read >> Pros and cons of Disneyland versus California Adventure

55. The Beverly Hills Hotel

The Beverly Hills Hotel, built in 1912, is an icon in its own right. It’s where Hollywood romances happened, with unforgettable parties and business deals were made. It’s known as the Pink Palace because of it’s pink exterior.

Snap a photo out front with the sign, building, and 80-year old palm trees in the background.

• Price: free
• Parking: free street parking across Sunset Blvd. on N Crescent Drive
• Address: 9641 Sunset Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted.
• Closures: None for building exterior.

56. Warner Brothers Studio Tour Hollywood

Taking a studio tour should be on your LA itinerary regardless if you’re looking for a perfect Instagram shot, because it’s truly a once in a lifetime opportunity in LA. On the Warner Bros Studio Tour you’ll tour the studio backlot, explore museum exhibits, and take a ton of photos.

Seriously, the place was made for photo ops. In the Harry Potter and DC exhibits alone, there are opportunities to pose with Wonder Woman’s wings from Wonder Woman 1984, catching your letter to Hogwarts, and even getting sorted into your Hogwarts house.

But that’s not all, because on the tour itself, there are photo ops with the Friends fountain, the gazebo from Gilmore Girls, and the sets from Abbott Elementary.

For a great shot of the whole studio, head to the top of the parking garage!

• Price: $70 for adults (SoCal resident discount available)
• Parking: $15 in their designated garage
• Address: 3400 Warner Blvd., Burbank, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted in most areas. Listen to restrictions by your tour guide as policies can change daily depending on if there’s active filming happening.
• Closures: 3:30pm to 8:30am daily

57. Japanese Village Plaza

Another incredible diverse neighborhood in Los Angeles is Little Tokyo with Japanese grocery stores, the best ramen and sushi, and iconic shops like Sanrio!

For the most traditional Japanese looking area, head to Japanese Village Plaza.

• Price: free
• Parking: metered street parking surrounding
• Address: 335 E 2^nd Street, Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos only.
• Closures: 7pm to 7am daily on the weekdays, 7:45pm to 7:15am on the weekend

58. Hollywood Pantages Theatre

This spot is one of my favorite architectural gems in LA. The Pantages Theatre has the most incredible Art Deco interior with gold plating, hard lines, and a stunning chandelier!

The only way to get in as far as I know (and can tell from my interweb searching) is by attending a show.

I’ve seen The Lion King, Wicked, Hamilton, Fiddler on the Roof, and more here and it’s worth it!

• Price: varies by show and dates
• Parking: 1800 Vine St., Los Angeles (purchase parking with your show ticket to secure a spot)
• Address: 6233 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Photos only before the show starts inside the theatre, photos permitted in the lobby and exterior.
• Closures: Any time that isn’t showtime.

58. TCL Chinese Theatre

Also known as Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, or Mann’s Chinese Theatre, this movie theatre opened in 1922 and is known for being home to movie stars cemented hand prints.

Today, you can see all the hand prints out front and take a photo with your favorite star. It’s fun to see how big or small your hand is compared to theirs.

I also love finding Disney stars prints like Mickey Mouse, R2-D2, and Donald Duck!

You can also take a tour of the theatre or see a movie here as long as a movie premiere isn’t happening.

• Price: exterior is free, $12 for matinee movie tickets, $16 for theatre tours
• Parking: garage Hollywood and Vine (around $10, varies by time spent parked)
• Address: 6925 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos allowed…obviously no photos or video during a movie showing.
• Closures: first tour and showtime are around 10am daily

60. El Capitan Theater

Right down the road is Disney’s home on Hollywood Blvd., the El Capitan Theatre, which opened in 1941. For Disney fans, this is a natural photo spot!

Disney franchises often have their movie premieres here. You can also see a movie here, but they only show Disney movies and typically, only one movie at a time because there is only one screen!

• Price: exterior is free, movies are $22 for adults, $18 for kids
• Parking: garage Hollywood and Vine (around $10, varies by time spent parked)
• Address: 6838 Hollywood Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted. Obviously, no photos during a movie.
• Closures: first showing is around 12pm daily.

61. Hollywood Forever Cemetery

I know this might seem like a weird pick and obviously, we don’t want to be disrespectful of the deceased. However, you’ll find the graves of Hollywood Stars here like Judy Garland, Johnny Ramone, and Mel Blanc (the voice of Bugs Bunny).

Plus, during the summer, they have outdoor movies on the lawn, which is a fun time and perfect for photos!

• Price: free
• Parking: free on site
• Address: 6000 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted. Please be respectful!
• Closures: closed 5pm to 8:30am daily on weekdays and closed at 4:30pm on weekends

62. Universal Studios Hollywood

Who doesn’t love theme parks for photos? Every corner is themed, primed and ready for you to snap away and Universal Studios Hollywood is no exception!

As a Harry Potterhead, I personally love Hogsmeade for photos, but the Jurassic Park section, Nintendo World, and the backlot tour also have dynamic photo spots!

• Price: $109+ (depending on day and season)
• Parking: on site for $30 (if seeing a movie at the AMC at Citywalk, you can get the price reduced)
• Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted.
• Closures: hours vary daily

63. Paramount Studios Bronson Gate

Another studio tour to take is the Paramount Pictures studio tour where you can get pictures with the iconic Bronson Gate. This was the original entrance to the studio back in the day so it feels very old Hollywood!

• Price: $63 per person
• Parking: on site for $22 (Visitor Parking Lot A)
• Address: 5555 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos allowed, but please listen to tour guides on daily updates to this policy depending on what may be filming.
• Closures: daily from 4pm to 8:30am

64. Dodger Stadium

Sitting atop a hill close to downtown LA is Dodger Stadium. Whether you’re a baseball fan or not, Dodger Stadium has an incredible vantage point for some LA city views. You can see the mountains and downtown.

• Price: free to drive up to the hill when game is not happening; games are $35+ depending on opponent and day of the week; tours of Dodger Stadium are $25 for adults, $20 for children, with discounts for seniors and military.
• Parking: on site ($17+ depending on proximity of lot to stadium entrance)
• Address: 100 Vin Scully Ave., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos allowed.
• Closures: daily except for games and guided tours

65. Hollywood Bowl

If you’re visiting Los Angeles and have a chance to attend a Hollywood Bowl concert, I highly recommend! Not only is the venue stunning with 1920’s art deco architecture by Lloyd Wright and Frank Gehry, but the acoustics make it one of the best music venues!

I’ve seen John Williams, Coldplay, Genesis, and Kings of Leon here among others, and it’s always a stellar show. They often have fireworks on weekend shows too!

• Price: varies by concert and date, typically you can get tickets for $40-50 for “nosebleeds” which is a lawn
• Parking: a bit tricky, but doable with Park & Ride service (costs $7 per person), for more info click here
• Address: 2301 N Highland Ave., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted.
• Closures: Daily except for shows.

66. LA County or Orange County Fairs

Did you know Los Angeles has county fairs? Complete with over-the-top fair food, livestock competitions (and pig races), and carnival rides!

Ferris wheels, fun houses, and fried oreo photos never get old.

The two county fairs that are closest to LA are the LA County Fair (in Pomona) and the OC (Orange County) Fair.

Each fair often has days where you can get in for free by bringing cans of food to donate, so check their calendar for specific dates.

• Price: $15+
• Parking: on site (price varies)
• Address: LA County Fair (1101 W McKinley Ave., Pomona, CA); OC Fair (88 Fair Dr., Costa Mesa, CA)
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: depends on the fair and day of the week, sometimes open only the weekends

67. Six Flags Magic Mountain

Another theme park, but they really are natural photo taking playgrounds! Six Flags are DC themed so you’ll find rides based on Superman, Wonder Woman, Batman, and the Riddler.

Some of the best photo ops here are from the top of the tower and with the iconic wooden coaster, Colossus (now called Twisted Colossus, changed once it was rebuilt after a fire…no one was harmed).

Gotham City also has some great backdrops for photos!

• Price: $50+ depending on the day and season
• Parking: $35 on site (card only), I’ve also parked at the Wendy’s at 27544 The Old Rd., Valencia, CA and Ubered because it was cheaper – do that at your own car risk though.
• Address: 26101 Magic Mountain Pkwy., Valencia, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted, obviously you’ll need to store cameras during the ride.
• Closures: varies depending on day and season, often closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Overlooks and Viewpoints

68. Lake Hollywood Park

This is *the* best spot for Hollywood Sign photos without hiking. You can park for free on Canyon Lake Dr., climb to the top of the hill and take all the touristy photos you want!

I recommend visiting on a weekday or in the morning for fewest crowds.

• Price: free
• Parking: free on Canyon Lake Dr.
• Address: 3114 Canyon Lake Dr., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: none

69. Palm Tree Street

Another iconic Hollywood Sign spot is the Palm Tree Street on South Windsor. You know the spot, it has palm trees on both sides of the street and the Hollywood Sign is front and center in the background.

It is in a residential area, so be respectful and don’t be running to the middle of the street during rush hour.

• Price: free
• Parking: free on the street
• Address: 498-400 S Windsor Blvd., Los Angeles, CA (you can often type Palm Tree Street in your GPS, but if not it’s S Windsor between 4^th and 5^th Streets)
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: none

70. Jerome C. Daniel Overlook

Mulholland Drive is an iconic activity on its own, but it also provides some of the best overlooks of the city. My favorite is the Jerome C Daniel Overlook, from which you can easily see downtown, the 101 freeway, and the Hollywood Bowl!

Be sure to climb the stairs to the left for views of the Hollywood Sign! There are also telescopes up there to get closer looks of the city.

• Price: free
• Parking: free on side of Mulholland Dr.
• Address: 7036 Mulholland Dr., Los Angeles
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: daily from 6pm to 7am, however, I have been at night so these hours may vary by season

71. Universal City Overlook

On the other side of Mulholland Drive is Universal City. From the Universal City Overlook you can spot the mountains and Universal Studios, including Hogwarts!

• Price: free
• Parking: free street parking on Mulholland Dr.
• Address: 7701 Mulholland Dr., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: daily from 9pm to 6am

72. LAX Plane Spotting

If you love that shot of the underside of airplanes (who doesn’t?!), the LAX plane spotting photo spot is for you!

Grab your camera and some patience! Flights takeoff often so you shouldn’t have to wait long.

• Price: free
• Parking: free 2 hour parking from 8am to 10pm on W 92^nd Street, when in doubt, there’s an In-N-Out across the street at 9149 S Sepulveda Blvd.
• Address: 9220 S Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: none
• Closures: none

73. Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

One of the only (and best) spots to get a shot of the Los Angeles city skyline with the mountains in the background is from the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook.

People hike up the Culver City stairs and up the hill to this spot, but you don’t have to! There’s a city parking lot at the top that costs $3 for an hour, or $10 daily.

Wander toward the northeast for the epic views! And just so you know, there are bathrooms up here!

• Price: free
• Parking: $3 for an hour, $10 daily
• Address: 6300 Hetzler Rd., Culver City, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos permitted.
• Closures: closed 9pm to 6am daily.

74. Angels Point

This is one of the best and closest viewpoints of the city skyline. You’ll park at the base of the hill by Lower Angels Point, where the playground is, then walk the trail up to Angels Point.

Note that there are no restrooms on site.

• Price: free
• Parking: free street parking on Academy Rd., this is adjacent to Dodger Stadium so beware of game day traffic
• Address: Angels Point Rd., Los Angeles
• Camera policy: none, because it’s a city own property, personal photos only without permit.
• Closures: 9pm to 6am daily

Other Instagrammable Places in LA

75. Highland Park Bowl

I’m obsessed with this old fashioned bowling alley in Highland Park! It has the original mechanisms and a gorgeous mural at the end of the lanes, complete with a kitchen, bar, and overlook so you can watch the bowlers!

Grab a lane, and settle in because this is an unforgettable spot, you’ll definitely want to document for the Gram!

• Price: lanes are $45+ for an hour
• Parking: street parking, or LA Department of Transportation lot 636 at 115 N Ave. 57, Los Angeles for $5+ depending on time parked.
• Address: 5621 N Figueroa St., Los Angeles, CA
• Camera policy: Personal photos only.
• Closures: closed at 2pm nightly, open at 5pm on weekdays and 12pm on weekends

76. Secret Swing

On the other side of Elysian Park is Secret Swing. There is a (pretty steep) trail to get to the swing that you can access from Angels Point Road.

The swing faces north, which is toward the 5 freeway, not the downtown skyline…just so you know what angle you’ll be getting!

• Price: free
• Parking: free on side of Angels Point Rd.
• Address: closest address is corner of Park Row Dr. and Angels Point Rd., Los Angeles
• Camera policy: Personal photos only.
• Closures: 9pm to 8am daily

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• Travel Insurance – Going on an international trip? Don’t forget travel and medical insurance with SafetyWing.
• Travel Card – If you’re new to travel hacking, fear not! My favorite card for beginners gives you $750 in rewards when you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months, plus lounge access, 10x points on hotel bookings, and free TSA pre-check!
• Get Your Guide – Check out Get Your Guide for a one-stop-shop for booking travel activities.
• Booking.com – This is my favorite hotel search aggregator, specifically for reading reviews. On Booking.com, the reviews can be searched for keywords like WiFi, breakfast, pool, amenities, etc.! So helpful!
• Anti-pickpocket bag – Worried about having your valuables swiped? PacSafe makes the best travel bags with zippers and straps that lock and with mesh steel enforced fabric.
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• Staycation Idea – Check out Resort Pass, which gives you day passes to resorts so you can use their pool, spa, and fitness center, a great staycation idea!

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