Whether you’re a seasoned local or a wide-eyed visitor, there’s no denying the allure of Los Angeles’ iconic skyline and sprawling landscapes. From the shimmering coastline to the glittering city lights, the views in L.A. are nothing short of mesmerizing. That is why we’ve scoured the city to bring you the top spots where you can catch those unbeatable views and experience the essence of L.A. in all its glory.
Where is the best view of L.A.?
Unfortunately, or shall we say, fortunately… There is not a single answer to this question. Los Angeles is a large city that boasts quite an array of magnificent viewpoints where locals and tourists alike, can get amazing views of the city’s skyline. That being said, there are definitely quite some places that are worth your time to visit, not just for the views, but also for a good hike in the outdoors.
1. Griffith Park
From the iconic Hollywood Sign to the shimmering Pacific Ocean, this scenic spot offers panoramic vistas that captivate visitors year-round. Whether admiring the cityscape by day or marveling at the twinkling lights by night, Griffith Park provides an unforgettable vantage point to soak in the beauty of LA. And, of course, this place is the home of the Griffith Observatory which is one of the main attractions in the city worth checking out.
📍 Location: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Griffith Park
2. Hollywood Bowl Overlook
The Hollywood Bowl Overlook, a quintessential Los Angeles viewpoint, offers breathtaking vistas of the cityscape. From the iconic Hollywood Sign to the glittering lights of downtown, this scenic spot provides an unforgettable glimpse of LA’s urban beauty day or night. With its convenient location and captivating scenery, it’s a must-visit destination for everyone looking for the best view in town.
📍 Location: 7036 Mulholland Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90068.
3. Runyon Canyon
Runyon Canyon stands out as a premier hiking destination not only for its challenging trails but also for its unparalleled Los Angeles views. Situated in the Hollywood Hills, hikers are treated to panoramic vistas of the city skyline, the renowned Hollywood Sign, and even glimpses of the Pacific Ocean on clear days. This makes it not just a cool hiking trail but also an ideal spot to soak in the quintessential Los Angeles view.
📍 Location: 2000 N Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046.
4. Kenneth Hahn Recreational Area
Visitors can enjoy sweeping panoramas of the cityscape, with landmarks like downtown L.A. and the Pacific Ocean in sight. The park’s trails and scenic overlooks cater to hikers, joggers, and nature enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities to soak in the breathtaking views while surrounded by natural beauty.
📍 Location: 4100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90056.
5. Baldwin Hills
If you’re seeking unbeatable views in L.A., I highly recommend Baldwin Hills. The Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook offers breathtaking panoramic vistas of the Los Angeles skyline, including downtown LA and the iconic Hollywood Sign. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the stunning views and experience the beauty of Los Angeles from a unique vantage point.
📍 Location: 6300 Hetzler Road, Culver City, CA 90232
6. Bluff Cove
Bluff Cove in Palos Verdes Estates is a fantastic spot to soak in breathtaking coastal views. While it doesn’t overlook the Los Angeles skyline, it offers stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged coastline of the Palos Verdes Peninsula. It’s a perfect destination for those seeking serene natural beauty and a peaceful escape by the sea.
📍 Location: 301 Paseo Del Mar, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274.
Views of L.A., no hiking required
As we promised above, getting the best views of the city doesn’t have to feel like a training challenge. Though we’re always up for a good hike, sometimes we just want to soak up the best our city has to offer without breaking a sweat. If share the sentiment, here are the best views of Los Angeles that you can get very close to DTLA.
7. Hollywood Reservoir
The Hollywood Reservoir provides an idyllic setting to admire breathtaking views in L.A., all without the need for hiking. Nestled in the Hollywood Hills, visitors can leisurely stroll along the paved path encircling the reservoir, offering panoramic vistas of the city skyline and the iconic Hollywood Sign mirrored on the serene waters.
📍 Location: 6399 Mulholland Highway, Los Angeles, CA 90068
8. Elysian Park Near Dodger Stadium
There’s practically no bad Los Angeles view in Elysian Park, but the one overlooking Dodger Stadium is simply iconic. You can also take a short drive to Angels Point further down the road with equally epic views.
📍 Location: Academy Road, Los Angeles, CA 90012
9. Mulholland Drive
There are several scenic outlooks along the iconic Los Angeles viewpoint, and none of them disappoint. It’s one of the go-to date nights with some of the best views in L.A. Parking may be difficult, and law enforcement officers have been known to doll out tickets, so be vigilant and follow the rules.
📍 Location: Mulholland Drive, Los Angeles, CA, USA
10. LA City Hall Observation Deck
Views of this historic building itself are pretty great but the views from the 27th floor don’t disappoint either. From 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays you can head to the City Hall Observation Deck and take in the best views in Los Angeles during sunsets absolutely free. You’ll be treated to some of the best views in L.A. and there’s an elevator, so no the is no workout required.
📍 Location: 200 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
11. Yamashiro Hollywood
This 1920s Japanese palace is perched high up on a Hollywood hilltop where you can dine on sushi or Cal-Asian fare in the stunning outdoor spaces or just wander around the pool and koi ponds to take in the scenery while waiting for your takeout. And don’t miss the 600-year-old pagoda with a giant antique Buddha, in this places where you can get the best views in L.A.
📍 Location: Location: 1999 N. Sycamore Ave, Hollywood
12. Vista Hermosa Natural Park
This is a popular spot to get views in L.A., for a good reason: it offers an iconic framing of the city and it has just the right amount of people to make you feel like you have company without feeling suffocated. You can run, work out, walk your dog, picnic and read, or just sit down and people-watch. There is a small parking lot or street parking available, but it does tend to get busy on weekends.
📍 Location: 100 N Toluca St, Los Angeles, CA 90026
13. Echo Park
Despite what anyone says about Echo Park, the swan boats offer some of the best LA views of both the city and the park itself. With lush greenery, lotus flower beds atop the lake and the Downtown skyline as a backdrop, you’ll get the best of both worlds and have fun doing it.
📍 Location: 751 Echo Park Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90026
14. Perch LA
Perch will make you feel like you are soaring amongst the city skyscrapers. Get cozy on the plush sofas, sip on delicious cocktails and take in a gorgeous sunset for almost no effort. What can be better than having a feast while enjoying the views of L.A.?
📍 Location: 448 S Hill St, Los Angeles, CA 90013
15. Spire 73
For an elevated cocktail hour with sweeping views of L.A., look no further than the 73rd floor of the highest rooftop bar in the Western Hemisphere. You won’t need to do anything more than take an elevator up to enjoy this plush setting, divine fare, and beverages.
📍 Location: 900 Wilshire Blvd fl 73, Los Angeles, CA 90017.
16. Getty Center
Located atop the Santa Monica Mountains, the Getty Center provides stunning views of Los Angeles. From this elevated position, visitors can enjoy panoramic vistas of the city skyline, coastline, and surrounding landscape. With its striking architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens, the Getty Center offers a picturesque setting to appreciate the beauty of LA from above.
📍 Location: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049