Guide · 8 Places
Los Angeles
United States
Before You Go
March to May and September to November offer the best weather with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer (June-August) is peak tourist season with warm, sunny days averaging 75-85°F (24-29°C), though beaches can be crowded. Winter (December-February) is mild with temperatures around 65-70°F (18-21°C), perfect for exploring without the heat. LA enjoys over 280 days of sunshine annually.
Visa
Check requirementsInternational visitors from Visa Waiver Program countries can stay up to 90 days without a visa (requires ESTA authorization). Citizens of other countries need a B-2 tourist visa. Canadian and Mexican citizens have simplified entry requirements. Always check current requirements at travel.state.gov before booking.
Getting There
TransportationBy Air: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the primary gateway, located 18 miles from downtown. Burbank (BUR), Long Beach (LGB), and Orange County (SNA) offer alternative options with shorter security lines.
By Train: Amtrak's Pacific Surfliner connects LA to San Diego and Santa Barbara, while Coast Starlight runs to San Francisco and Seattle.
By Car: Major highways include I-5, I-10, and the iconic Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1).
Language
CommunicationEnglish is the primary language. Spanish is widely spoken, particularly in neighborhoods like East LA, with about 40% of the population speaking Spanish at home.
Currency
Money mattersUS Dollar (USD). Credit cards accepted everywhere. ATMs widely available. Tipping is customary: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $2-5 for rideshare drivers.
Getting Around
Local transportMetro: Rail and bus network covers major areas. TAP card required ($1.75 per ride).
Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are ubiquitous. Expect $15-30 for cross-town trips.
Car Rental: Most flexible option for exploring beaches, canyons, and suburbs.
Bike: Metro Bike Share available in downtown, Venice, and Santa Monica.
From the Airport
Arrival infoFlyAway Bus: $9.75 direct to Union Station or Hollywood (45-60 min).
Metro: Free LAX Shuttle to Aviation Station, then Green/Silver Lines ($1.75).
Rideshare: $30-60 depending on destination (30-60 min with traffic).
Taxi: $50-70 to downtown.
Bookstores and Libraries
Los Angeles Central Library
Main branch of the Los Angeles Public Library system, offering vast collections and special exhibits in a historic downtown building.