Los Angeles, the One and Only!
If you’re not from L.A., you might think you can do it all during your visit and, while that’s technically possible, it can also be a little exhausting! As an L.A. native, I can confidently say that there’s always something new to explore, even after years of living here. That’s part of what makes this city so special. Whether you’re here for a week or just a couple of days, here are a few must-do activities to help you experience the best of Los Angeles.
One Place to Eat:
This might be the hardest part, picking just one place to recommend in a city full of incredible food. But one spot that never fails me (and probably never will) is Grand Central Market.
An iconic LA landmark about a 15-minute drive or a quick Metro ride if traffic cooperates! Here, you can find everything from giant tacos to fresh oysters and bulk Mexican candy. Come hungry or bring a friend to share with; you’ll want to try a little of everything.
It’s the perfect place to grab a bite before a concert, meet up with friends or even enjoy a solo self-care day. Psst... the iconic bench scene from “500 Days of Summer” was filmed just a five-minute walk from here. Truly, iconic.
One Place to Explore:
You’ll want to do everything while you’re in L.A., but if I can offer just one piece of advice, it’s to take time to enjoy L.A.’s nature. You might be surprised by how much green space the city has to offer, from urban hiking trails to tranquil gardens—all within an hour’s drive.
A great place to start? Griffith Observatory. You’ll need a car to get there, but it’s worth it. The views of the city are unmatched, and you’ll be standing where Adele once performed a secret concert. Instant chills. Right under the Observatory is the historic Greek Theatre, a beautiful venue where you can enjoy a show surrounded by trees and under the stars!
One Perfect Photo Spot:
Honestly, every corner of USC is photo-worthy. You can’t go wrong snapping your iconic “Fight On!” pose anywhere on campus.
My personal favorites are the walkways by the Gould School of Law, where the trees provide the perfect shade and make you forget you’re in the middle of one of the busiest cities in the world. Another great spot is EF Hutton Park, a peaceful green space ideal for resting after a campus tour or enjoying a quiet, mindful moment.
One Fun (and Free!) Museum:
Don’t miss the California Science Center, a childhood favorite for many Angelenos. With countless interactive exhibits and general admission that’s free, it’s an easy and fun way to spend an afternoon learning something new.
Los Angeles is a city full of energy, creativity, and surprises. No matter how long you’re here, you’ll always leave with something new to love. Finally, you can’t come to Los Angeles without coming to USC! You can register for a self-guided tour or information session followed by a student led tour on our website: (https://admission.usc.edu/prospective-students/meet-us/information-sessions/.
Written by: Rosa Garcia Rios, Assistant Director – USC Office of Undergraduate Admission