Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Skip to footer
Back to Blog

7 Places to Enjoy Views of LA

a sunset over a city

Los Angeles boasts some amazing views, whether you want to take in the sunset, sunrise or skyline. Hike, drive or even take public transportation to these seven spots to get the best Insta shots or the perfect backdrop for a date night with your favorite person.

1. Hermosa Park

Hermosa Park los angeles photo

Photo by p.bjork

This park is easy to get to and there’s no hike required to earn your stellar views of downtown Los Angeles. Just take a short walk from the parking lot and see the downtown skyline laid out for you in all its glory.

2. Hollywood Bowl Overlook

Hollywood Bowl overlook photo

Photo by shinya

For a more expansive view of the downtown LA skyline, you can try the Hollywood Bowl Overlook. If you’re lucky and it’s a clear day, you’ll even be able to see the ocean. Do be warned, though, you’ll want to try to get to this spot early in the morning, for the fewest crowds, as it is a popular spot.

3. Getty Center

Getty Center view photo

Photo by ricardodiaz11

The Getty Center is not only a free museum, it’s also a popular viewpoint accessible via public transportation. So, get on up there and enjoy the views of downtown Los Angeles, Westwood and the ocean. East to west, it all makes up a beautiful panorama that’s hard to beat.

4. Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory with a view of Downtown Los AngelesOf course, everyone knows the Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park offers some amazing views of all of Los Angeles. You can hike to the observatory, if you’re feeling adventurous and energetic, but if you’re running low on steam after a day of exploring LA, you can just drive to the top of the hill. However, this is another spot that can get kind of crowded, so try to go in the morning, and on weekdays.

5. Universal City Overlook

universal city overlook photo

Photo by shinya

On the other side of the Hollywood Hills lies the San Fernando Valley.   Perched on the east edge of Mulholland Drive, The Universal City Overlook is a less crowded spot that overlooks Universal Studios and the entire Valley.   Plus there’s plentiful seating for you to take in the views at your leisure.

6. Los Angeles City Hall

Los Angeles City hall photo

If you can’t get away from the heart of downtown Los Angeles, whether you’re staying there or in town for business, no worries — you can still enjoy some awesome views in a semi-secret and untouristed location.  Just head up to the observation deck on the 27th floor of Los Angeles City Hall. The staff at the entrance can point you in the right direction after you go through security.  Here you’ll get a bird’s eye but more intimate view of Downtown LA and likely have it nearly to yourself.

7. U.S. Bank Tower

US Bank tower los angeles photo

Photo by Ken Lund

If you don’t mind spending a few bucks, you can get an even higher view of downtown Los Angeles from the observation deck on the 70th floor of the U.S. Bank Tower.  The deck, called OUE Skyspace Los Angeles, is $25 to enter.  The best time to visit is mid-day.  While you’re there, try out the Skyslide, where you slide 1,000 feet above Downtown for a view like no other.

See one or all of these views on one of our 5-star rated private tours of Los Angeles, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica! Call or email us today to learn more!

  • Posted in: