Los Angeles is located in California and known by so many different names from La La Land to El Pueblo. Home to lot’s of TV shows and film sets and the famous Hollywood ‘Walk of Fame’.
Wherever you are a local or a tourist, there are many many options here. Below we have picked the best of them to do for your own birthday or that someone special in your life.
Visit Universal Studios Hollywood
How can you not consider going to Universal Studios on your birthday. Experience the magic of movies and entertainment. Take thrilling rides, go on studio tours, and immerse yourself in the world of your favourite films and TV shows.
Universal Studios offers a variety of live shows and entertainment options. Don’t miss the WaterWorld stunt show, which features high-octane action and impressive special effects. The Special Effects Show demonstrates how movie magic is created.
Explore Griffith Observatory
You could visit the Griffith Observatory, located in Griffith Park. Here you will find breathtaking views of the city and the stars. You can take a hike in the park, explore the exhibits at the observatory, and even look through the telescopes.
The observatory also offers planetarium shows that are both educational and entertaining. This is something certainly different to spend a birthday but a great way to do so.
Beach Day
You could go and enjoy a day at one of Los Angeles’ beautiful beaches. Whether it’s Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Zuma Beach, or Manhattan Beach, you can soak up the sun, go for a swim, play beach volleyball, or simply relax with a picnic.
You could also rent bikes or roller blades and cruise along the beachfront. Certainly a different experience than you’d get in most places and you can people watch as there are certainly a lot of different things going on at these beaches.
I would recommend going to Venice Beach and then walk or take the bus to Santa Monica Beach / Pier. The walk is around an hour or the bus takes about 15 mins.
Take a Food Tour
Los Angeles as with most major cities has a very diverse food scene. There are many different tours you can take. Some of my recommendations would be Six Taste Food Tour or Melting Pot Food Tour. Just do your research and make sure you are happy with everything that is included.
You can also mix this up by a nightclub tour or a food and drink tour. Also do it in real style by being taken around by a limo for 5 hours including drinks (no food). But this doesn’t come cheap.
Attend a Live Performance
How cool would it be to go to a live performance in Los Angeles? Well you can! Whether it’s a Broadway show, a concert by a favourite artist, or a comedy performance. Check out venues like the Hollywood Bowl, the Greek Theatre, or the Pantages Theatre for upcoming shows.
If you want to see a filming of a TV show then you can do this too, just make sure you plan way in advance and you dress to blend in, not wearing sporting wear, just smart and casual. Also leave your backpacks, cameras etc at home or the hotel.
Explore the Getty Center
The Getty Center’s architectural design is a masterpiece in itself. Designed by architect Richard Meier, the complex features modernist buildings, open spaces, and beautiful gardens.You can also take in the fine Art Collection here.
The Art on display here is an extensive collection of European paintings, sculptures and photography spanning from the middle ages to the present day.
There are also many exhibitions on, year round. So maybe plan in advance and see what’s on to maybe catch something that really interests you.
Take a Hollywood Tour
One of my favourite ideas would be to really explore Hollywood and the history of so many famous TV shows and films. Also even visiting movie stars’ homes in and around LA.
Embark on a guided tour of Hollywood to get a behind-the-scenes look at the entertainment industry. You can visit iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, the TCL Chinese Theatre, and the Hollywood Sign. Some tours also include visits to famous movie and TV show locations.
Go for a Hike
Los Angeles offers numerous hiking trails with breathtaking views. Choose a trail that suits your fitness level and preferences, such as Runyon Canyon, Griffith Park, or the trails in Topanga State Park.
It’s a great way to connect with nature, stay active, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the city. Different to a normal birthday for sure but a perfect way to spend the day and then as a reward make reservations at a really good place to have your dinner and you will certainly have earned it.
Go see a sporting event
Americans sure know how to put on a sporting event. From kiss cams to giving a member of the crowd to win prizes as part of half time shows. I would recommend going to the NBA if you are able to get a ticket.