The Absolute Best Los Angeles Picture Spots To Visit

There’s something so magical about taking a photograph, especially while traveling. Within the click of a camera, you can capture a memory (and outfit!) that you can look back on later.

On my recent trip, it was so fun discovering the best Los Angeles picture spots. This trip from New York to LA was especially meaningful since I went with my boyfriend Dex. We went for the Silicon Beach Film Festival where his film Late Bloom screened in Hollywood. It was such an incredible moment. 

Throughout the five days that we were there, we explored the city and took many photos along the way. Walk down memory lane with us from the Hollywood sign, Beverly Hills Hotel, Griffith Observatory, Rodeo Drive, and The Last Bookstore.

Here are the absolute best Los Angeles picture spots to visit. 

Best Los Angeles Picture Spots: The Ultimate Guide

• Hollywood Sign
• Beverly Hills Hotel
• Griffith Observatory
• Rodeo Drive
• The Last Bookstore

Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood sign is one of the most iconic spots in California. It’s a tourist attraction that’s a significant piece of history tied to cinema and art.

Before going, I looked on social media for the best spot to see the capital H-O-L-L-Y-W-O-O-D letters. While some suggested hiking, we took an Uber straight to the hills. Yes, it pretty much drove us to the exact spot where we took the photos above. We only walked a few steps to get there.

At first, it took a little while to get a car (but that happened everywhere else, too — it’s LA!). But altogether, I was surprised by how easy it was to get there. 

Address: Here’s the exact location for your car drop-off. This will give you easy access to a great photo spot with a backdrop of the Hollywood sign. 

3000 Canyon Lake, Los Angeles, CA 90068

Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the sun’s peak hours. While there were a lot of people when we went, everyone was spread out and it didn’t feel crowded. Before heading over, get brunch at Beachwood Cafe. They have amazing matcha lattes and omelets!

Beverly Hills Hotel

One of the most celebrated landmarks in California is the Beverly Hills Hotel. The signature pink and green color palette. The lush palm trees. These elements make it high on the list of best Instagram spots in LA. 

Throughout the decades, the hotel has hosted many celebrity guests including Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, John Lennon, and more. From the famous red carpet entrance to the Polo Lounge and Crystal Ballroom, there are no shortage of pretty spots. 

Address: 9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Tip: Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, you can visit and explore the space. We had drinks at the Cabana Cafe outside and relaxed near the pool. There’s also a gift shop filled with Stoney Clover Lane bags as well as pajamas, luggage tags, and other souvenirs. 

Griffith Observatory

If you’re looking for things to do in Los Angeles at night, visit the Griffith Observatory. The admission is free and it’s open until 10 PM daily (except it’s closed on Mondays). It was so mesmerizing seeing the city skyline sparkle from there.

Besides the colorful murals on the ceiling and unique design of the dome building, there are also shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. That night, we got tickets for the 8:45 PM Signs of Life show. It felt like floating through the Milky Way as we learned about the cosmos. Seeing this show really put the world into perspective. 

No photos are allowed in the planetarium but we took snapshots outside. From where we stood, we had such a clear view of the full moon. I can see why Griffith Observatory is such a popular spot — it’s worth visiting for sure!

Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Tip: Plan to get there with plenty of time before closing. When we went, there was a concert nearby which caused more traffic than usual. Good thing we made it in time for the show and had a moment to take in the scenic views.

Rodeo Drive

If you’re into luxury shopping, you’ll love Rodeo Drive. It’s two miles long in Beverly Hills and includes high-end stores like Dior, Ferragamo, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and more. Throughout our five-day trip, we loved it so much that we went twice. 

Rodeo Drive also has charming street lamps and upscale street art with colorful animal sculptures that’s perfect for photo shoots.

Address: Rodeo Drive stretches across two miles. The photo above was taken at the fountain near the grand staircase at the south end of Two Rodeo Drive. The main photo up top was at the Chanel boutique at 400 N Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

Tip: Go during golden hour (right before sunset) to get dreamy soft-lit photos. 

The Last Bookstore

I was so excited to finally visit The Last Bookstore. It’s the largest new and used bookstore in California that spans 22,000 square feet in a century-old bank building.

Inside, there’s a book tunnel, a record store, five art studios, a hidden gem vault, and more. The creative art installations make such cool backdrops for photos. I love the quaint and unique architecture elements throughout.

Address: 453 S Spring St, Ground Floor, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Tip: Make sure to schedule enough time to explore the entire space. I wish we were able to stay longer but we went late and the store closes at 8 PM daily. Thankfully, these photos captured our memories there!

Where Is The Best Place To Take Pictures In Los Angeles?

Built in 1923, the Hollywood sign is one of the best Los Angeles picture spots. This symbol of dreams is significant for its long history in the film industry. If you prefer to skip the hike, take an Uber to 3000 Canyon Lake, Los Angeles, CA 90068. From there, just walk a few steps to get a shot of the famous capital letters among the Hollywood hills. 

Where Can I Take Street Photos In Los Angeles?

A great place to get street style outfit photos in LA is Rodeo Drive. The iconic two-mile-long spot is filled with the lush greenery of palm trees along with luxury stores. There, you’ll find charming street lamps and plenty of chic backdrop options. Tip: go during golden hour for dreamy soft-lit photos.

Where Is The Best View of Los Angeles?

For panoramic views and Instagram-worthy photos of LA, check out Griffith Observatory. We had the best time visiting there at night and seeing the city lights shine. The “City of Stars” song from La La Land was playing in my head on repeat! Located in Griffith Park, the observatory is one of my favorite places for views of LA and the Hollywood sign. You can also use one of the many telescopes on site for a closer view of the stars at night.

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