When someone says the name “Los Angeles”, most people probably think about sunny beaches, exciting culture, and top-notch entertainment. And it is true: Los Angeles has always been calling people to visit. As 2024 is coming to an end, the city has not only bounced back but is flourishing, providing a multitude of fresh attractions and classic monuments. Approaching the end of the year with a little less than 49.1 million total visitors projected, “the City of Angels” is poised to roll out the welcome mat to the world. In this guide, you can follow the key experiences that really make L.A. something you can’t miss, from infamous spots to an evening at the Lakers’ game.
A Tourism Powerhouse
L. A.’s tourism business is utterly important for the city’s economy. Tourism generated more than $34.5 billion in revenue in 2022, and provided jobs for more than 550,000 employees. Domestic travel has recovered entirely to pre-pandemic levels, and international travel is gradually increasing.
As part of its “LA 2.0” program, the city is now presenting the upgraded infrastructure and cultural landmarks. Recent innovations at LAX, the Intuit Dome sporting complex, and grassroots-level community-based initiatives (e.g., Destination Crenshaw) are helping transform Los Angeles into a travel hub of the world.
A Night to Remember: Lakers Basketball
None is ever complete without exposure to the electrifying sports culture of L.A. The Los Angeles Lakers, a franchise with one of the best histories in NBA annals, plays its home games in the most modern Crypto.com Arena. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or new to the sport, attending a Lakers game offers an electrifying atmosphere that embodies the city’s passion for excellence.
With global superstars like LeBron James leading the team, the Lakers games are a fusion of athletic brilliance and celebrity glamour, making them a quintessential L.A. experience. And luckily, it is quite simple to get tickets to an event. You can get Lakers game tickets at hellotickets.com, where you can easily find all their home matches and see which matches are selling out fast.
Iconic Attractions that Define L.A.
Experienced or newbie, there’s a balance between landmarks and new experiences awaiting visitors to Los Angeles.
Hollywood: The Heart of Entertainment
The allure of Hollywood is timeless. Walk among the stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, tour behind the scenes at Warner Bros. Studios, or take a scenic hike to Griffith Observatory, which offers panoramic views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign.
These landmark sites still attract millions of visitors each year.
A Cultural Renaissance
No other city in the United States is home to more museums and performing arts spaces than Los Angeles. Among future highlights is the launch of Destination Crenshaw in 2024, a 100M art and cultural corridor that honors Black history and Black creativity. The Natural History Museum is opening the revamped NHM Commons, an indoor-outdoor facility with 75,000 square feet that will be used to promote communal involvement. At the same time, the new state-of-the-art David Geffen Galleries at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) are at an advanced stage.
If you are a science and art enthusiast, the Getty initiative “PST ART: Art Science Collide” will consist of over artworks citywide with contributions from over 800 artists and 70 institutions. The event will beginning in the fall of 2024, and it engages contemporary concerns through the process of artistic exploration.
L.A.’s Culinary Scene: A Feast for the Senses
Los Angeles is a foodie mecca boasting more than 24 Michelin-recommended restaurants. From taco trucks to fine dining, the city’s food scene reflects its rich cultural diversity. Highlights include the DineLA, which has more than 300 participating restaurants. Indulging in any of the sushi offered in Little Tokyo or farm-to-table dining in Santa Monica, there’s something to please any palate.
Beaches and Beyond
Southern California’s coastline is synonymous with relaxation and adventure. Venice Beach offers a quirky vibe with street performers and eclectic shops, while Santa Monica combines golden sands with upscale shopping and dining at its iconic pier. For a quieter escape, head to Malibu, where pristine beaches meet rugged cliffs, a perfect spot for hiking and surfing.
Tips for Exploring Los Angeles
Other than following the basic travel tips for any travel, here are some more location-specific tips for your L.A. trip:
Transportation: Los Angeles is huge, so preplan your routes. Renting a car is advisable for its flexibility, yet the cities’ metro network has grown, linking areas such as Downtown, Hollywood, and Santa Monica etc.
Accommodations: L.A. boasts a wide range of lodging options. For luxury seekers, Beverly Hills offers opulent hotels, while budget travelers might prefer boutique accommodations in the Arts District.
Timed arrival: Spring and fall are perfect occasions to visit the city in pleasant conditions and with less congestion. Plan around major events that will bring global tourism exhibitors and media to the city.
What’s Next For L.A. Tourism?
The “LA 2.0” initiative aims to re-brand the city as a place for every kind of traveler. Major investments in art, culture, and infrastructure are likely to bring new experiences each visit. L.A. is preparing to embrace the world’s most major events, such as the 2028 Summer Olympics, that will portray its world-class facilities and the spirit of the city.
Concluding Remarks
As 2024 is slowly coming to an end, Los Angeles is a thriving city with a mix of old-fashioned attractions, high-tech architecture, and a rich artistic life. Whether you’re catching a Lakers game, exploring new museum exhibits, or soaking up the sun on the beach, L.A. promises unforgettable memories. Since the city keeps on growing and developing, there is no better time than now to enjoy the magic of “The City of Angels”.