They might have a bum rap among locals, but, hey, there's nothing wrong with being a tourist. Especially in a city like Los Angeles, where there's so much to see and do. So how to pare down what's worth your precious time in this sprawling metropolis? Just refer to our list below.
1. Hollywood Walk of Fame and Grauman's Chinese Theatre. Those interested in cinematic history will enjoy perusing the names of more than 2,300 entertainers that tile Hollywood Boulevard's fancy sidewalk. Along the way is Grauman's, the pagoda-style icon where you can sink your hands and feet into the famous imprints of John Wayne, Shirley Temple, Tom Hanks, and other acting legends. (www.hollywoodchamber.net and www.manntheatres.com/chinese). Tips: Pack a camera for movie-star-look-alike sightings. Prices are reduced for the day's first film screening.
2. Exposition Park. This wide-ranging cultural center is a collection of excellent museums, educational activities, sports facilities, and recreational areas. Across the street from the University of Southern California (USC), the 160-acre playground offers something for everyone: Absorb knowledge at the National History Museum and the California African American Museum. Check out the hands-on exhibits and seven-story IMAX Theater at the California Science Center. And stop to smell the flowers at the famous Rose Garden. (www.expositionpark.org). Tip: Pick up a Go Los Angeles Card (www.golosangelescard.com), which includes admission to museums here, plus 40 more of L.A.'s top attractions. Adult prices start at $55.
3. Universal Studios and Universal CityWalk. Disneyland and Knott's Berry Farm would have made this list if they weren't technically located outside of L.A. (they're in Orange County). However, Universal Studios is an amusement park within L.A. that's much-loved for its entertainment theme and lighthearted approach to engaging guests. Its biggest attractions include the studio tram tour and rides featuring dinosaurs and the Simpsons. Just outside the park is the free-entry CityWalk, a neon-lit convergence of exciting restaurants, shops, live entertainment, movie theaters, nightlife, and a few pleasant surprises. (www.universalstudioshollywood.com and www.citywalkhollywood.com). Tip: Check the website for online-only savings.
4. Rodeo Drive. If you don't recognize this street's name, you also probably think Coco Chanel and Harry Winston are just ordinary people. America's most famous shopping lane drips with luxury and designer labels. In case you're not in the mood to max out your plastic, you'll fit right in with the hordes of window-shoppers and celebrity-lookers. At Christmastime, everything is gussied up in holiday finery. (www.rodeodrive-bh.com). Tips: At Rodeo Drive and Payton Way, the Beverly Hills Trolley picks up for 30-minute tours ($2 per person, every hour from 10:30am to 5:30pm). Also, avoid Sundays; many shops are closed and the trolley doesn't run.
5. Hollywood Sign. This one speaks for itself, though it's useful for tourists to know that they can actually hike to this infamous landmark, which started life as a real-estate advertisement. (www.hollywoodsign.org). Tip: To find the trailhead, enter Griffith Park through the Bronson Canyon entrance (2800 Canyon Dr.) and follow Canyon Drive until it dead-ends in the trailhead parking lot. Wear comfy shoes, and don't touch the sign.
Additional reporting by Justine Rivero.