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Living in one of the most popular cities in the country unfortunately means it is constantly swarming with people, people and more people. The infinite amount of tourists that Los Angeles attracts can get overwhelming for Angelenos, but why not change your mindset around and just pretend you’re one of them? Being a tourist in your own city means you will appreciate all the gems you admired when you first arrived (or grew up around!).
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100 Universal City Plaza | Website
Universal Studios may be the most touristy attraction in L.A., but within reason. With rides that immerse you straight into the world of your favorite films like Harry Potter, The Simpsons, The Mummy, Jurassic Park and more. Universal Studios can be an action-packed day for all ages— that's just the magic of a theme park. Not only are there unbelievable rides, but there is shopping, dining and fun events and activities throughout the year.
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5905 Wilshire Blvd. | Website
Believe it or not, LACMA isn’t just a popular spot to take Instagram pictures. There is more to it than just the Urban Light installation. LACMA is a vast art museum with five different buildings filled with modern art from some well known artists like Andy Warhol, Picasso, Diego Rivera and more. With an entrance fee of $20, the museum is an affordable and eye-opening way to spend a day in L.A. What's more, county residents can enter for free after 3 p.m. during the week.
1200 Getty Center Drive | Website
If you’re an art lover and haven’t been to The Getty, it's time to clear your schedule. The museum holds exquisite pieces back from BCE 1300 all the way up to present day art. Besides carrying some of the finest art work in the world, the architecture and pristine landscape is unforgettable.
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2800 E Observatory Rd. | Website
One of the most beautiful spots in L.A., Griffith Observatory is home to breathtaking views, jaw-dropping shows and exhibitions since 1935. Giving you the chance to learn and observe everything there is to know about our sky, the observatory truly is a gem of Los Angeles.
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317 S Broadway | Website
It’s OK if the Grand Central Market is swarming with tourists because the food is so good. Vendors from all over the world with every cuisine you could possibly think of all come together in this one bustling market. It’s the perfect hangout spot for you and your friends, but good luck to our indecisive readers because you just might be there for hours gawking at the endless options.
See also: 8 of the Best Summer Activities in L.A.
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7850 Melrose Ave. | Website
Let’s face it, even if you’re a L.A. local, no matter how many times you’ve been to Melrose Trading Post, you keep coming back for more. That’s because there are new exclusive items and vendors every Sunday. You never know when you’re going to find the greatest prizes possession, so you have to be there every Sunday.
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2301 N Highland Ave. | Website
The Hollywood Bowl provides the most phenomenal concert experience, which is why Angelenos pretend it’s not tourist central. With sensational acoustics and a dazzling venue, no matter what genre you like to groove to, it’s bound to shake the stage of the Hollywood Bowl at some point.
453 South Spring Street Ground Floor | Website
The Last Bookstore is a touchdown in paradise for all you bookworms. This 22,000 square-foot bookstore can fit all you locals and tourists at one time with plenty of room to roam, explore and get lost in new and used books. We recommend bringing a friend so that you leave before the heaps of book pages swallow you whole.
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6333 W 3rd St. | Website
The vibes at this farmer’s market are too good to pass up on account of basically anything. Splurge on sushi, ice cream, baked goods, fresh produce, butcher shops and then feast at one of the sweet, welcoming tables.
2000 N Fuller Ave. | Website
The breathtaking view at the top of Runyon Canyon is sure to make you remember why you love your city. This short 2.7 mile hike may be slightly intense, but pleasant weather, good company and endorphins are worth the trek.
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200 Santa Monica Pier | Website
No matter how long the line is for the Pacific Wheel, there’s nothing better than feeling like a kid again and looking out across the Pacific Ocean. So grab some cotton candy and a loved one or a friend and hop on because you know it’s fun, even if you don’t want to admit it. There's nothing quite like it at sunset!
Photography by: Corey Saldana/Unsplash
