Things to do in Southern California

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Southern California

Types of activities

Where to stay

Southern California travel guide

Southern California featuring a sunset, sailing and a bay or harbor

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Top places to visit

1. Universal Studios Hollywood

No visit to Los Angeles would be complete without a trip to Universal Studios. This attraction combines a behind the scenes view of a television and film studio, with all the excitement of a modern, high-octane amusement park. This mix is a real recipe for success, making this destination one of the most popular attractions in Los Angeles and with visitors from all over the world.

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3-in-1 fun is to be had by all at this part TV studio, part entertainment complex and part amusement park.

2. Disney California Adventure® Park

When Walt Disney brought his colourful characters to California back in the 1920s, it was with a creative spirit and a desire to breathe new life into his work. Opened in 2001 beside the door of the original Disneyland Park® in Anaheim, Disney's California Adventure Park® captures that hope and that creative spirit, with fun-packed rides and attractions, great shows, as well as plenty to see, learn and enjoy.

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Disney California Adventure® Park which includes rides and signage

3. LEGOLAND® California

A fun spot for the youngsters, with more than 60 rides across a site that spans 52 hectares, LEGOLAND® California Resort is located by the ocean in Carlsbad, about 50 kilometres north of San Diego. It is home to a hotel and water park, along with shows and attractions based on the world-famous toy bricks.

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Legoland California which includes rides

4. San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo welcomes around 5 million visitors every year, and it’s easy to see why. Spanning a huge site, the zoo houses about 4000 animals from over 650 different species and subspecies. All of these creatures live in realistic habitats, with most exhibits out in the open air.

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San Diego Zoo showing a pond, zoo animals and landscape views

5. Crypto.com Arena

Visit the STAPLES Center and see a major sporting or entertainment event. This arena is home to the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers National Basketball Association (NBA) teams. Take a tour of downtown Los Angeles and view the STAPLES Center or book a ticket for a major event.

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Staples Center which includes signage, a statue or sculpture and shopping

6. Santa Monica Beach

Get the iconic southern California sun-and-surf experience at Santa Monica Beach. Discover a sandy stretch of oceanfront delights close to one of the nation’s biggest cities.

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Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, this iconic southern California beach is a haven for swimmers, surfers, beachcombers and fitness enthusiasts.

What to do in Southern California

Popular places to visit

Disneyland® Resort

Enjoy the excitement at Disneyland® Resort and see why this is a favourite theme park in Anaheim. Experience the acclaimed theatre scene and entertainment choices in this family-friendly area.

Universal Studios Hollywood

3-in-1 fun is to be had by all at this part TV studio, part entertainment complex and part amusement park.

Disney California Adventure® Park

Make new friends with all your favourite Disney characters at Disneyland Park's Californian neighbour.

LEGOLAND® California

Ride on a pirate ship, see famous people and wild animals in yellow-block form, or simply enjoy the scenery at this huge resort which brings LEGO® to life.

San Diego Zoo

One of the largest zoos in America housing around 4000 creatures, San Diego Zoo offers an enchanting and educational experience for visitors of all ages.

San Diego Convention Center

During your trip, find out what's happening in San Diego Convention Center, a top convention centre in San Diego. Experience the area's acclaimed art galleries and entertainment choices.

Long Beach Cruise Terminal

Explore the waterfront in Long Beach with a trip to Long Beach Cruise Terminal. Experience the acclaimed art galleries or attend a sporting event in this walkable area.

Crypto.com Arena

This multipurpose sports arena has hosted some of the world’s biggest musical acts and is home to two National Basketball Association teams.

Santa Monica Beach

Located just west of downtown Los Angeles, this iconic southern California beach is a haven for swimmers, surfers, beachcombers and fitness enthusiasts.

Areas of Southern California

Hollywood

4/5(208 area reviews)

Spot movie stars and experience the glamour of show business at the legendary home of the American motion picture industry.

Downtown Los Angeles

4/5(134 area reviews)

Once associated with the sort of hustle and bustle common to most urban areas, today the emphasis is firmly placed on a vibrant culture and green spaces.

Anaheim Resort

4.5/5(134 area reviews)

A noteworthy feature of Anaheim Resort is its exciting theme parks. While you're in town, be sure to stop and check out Disney California Adventure® Park and Disneyland® Resort.

Downtown San Diego

4.5/5(138 area reviews)

Known for its fantastic nightlife, fascinating museums and beautiful waterfront views, there's plenty to explore in Downtown San Diego. Top attractions like Petco Park and Port of San Diego are major draws. Catch the metro at Civic Center Station or Civic Center Station to see more of the city.