Surrounded by hills and mountains, there are plenty of spots to take in the stunning scenery from the best places for breathtaking views of Los Angeles.
Sometimes it’s great to escape the hustle and bustle of a busy city, and nowhere is this more true than Los Angeles. If you want to experience the city from afar, here are the ten best places for breathtaking views of Los Angeles.
Whether you want to watch the sunset or rise over the City of Angels, or maybe you just want to observe the boulevard from a distance. There are lots of spots to take in breathtaking views of the city and experience one of the healthy things to do in LA.
The World Bucket List’s tips for visiting the best places for breathtaking views of Los Angeles
- Be sure to check the weather forecast beforehand to ensure clear skies for the best views.
- Wear comfortable shoes and consider bringing water and snacks, especially if you’ll be hiking or walking to reach certain viewpoints.
- Research rules and regulations for each viewpoint, such as parking restrictions or entrance fees.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the California sun.
10. Kenneth Hahn Recreational Area – a chilled-out state park
Kicking off our list of best places for breathtaking views of Los Angeles is the Kenneth Hahn Recreational Area.
This state park located in the Baldwin Hills Mountains offers a range of views around L.A. that are sure to take your breath away. The perfect place to add to your L.A. bucket list and where you can relax in nature on a sunny afternoon.
Address: 4100 S La Cienega Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90056, United States
9. Universal City Overlook – for breathtaking views of Los Angeles
Built in 1984, this scenic overlook on Mulholland Drive overs stunning views of the city and its surroundings.
Located on the north side, you can take in the scenery of the San Fernando Valley and Verdugo Hills.
Address: 7701 Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90046, United States
8. Echo Park Lake – a great day out
If you want to see incredible views of Los Angeles from ground level, we recommend heading to Echo Park Lake.
With the city rising in the background, this historic reservoir and park will offer a sense of tranquillity right at the heart of the city.
Address: Los Angeles, CA 90026, USA
7. Los Angeles City Hall Viewing Platform – free to visit
Aside from the incredible views, one of the best things about the Los Angeles City Hall Viewing Deck is that it’s completely free to visit.
For close up views of the city and a look inside one of L.A.’s most famous buildings, a trip here is a must.
Address: 200 N Spring St, Los Angeles, CA 90012, United States
6. Vista Hermosa Natural Park – a beautiful urban park
Vista Hermosa Natural Park proves you don’t have to get up high to enjoy fantastic views of the city, being one of the most Instagrammable places in Los Angeles.
The city rises in the background of this urban park that offers picnic areas, grassy fields, and a pond and waterfall.
Address: 100 N Toluca St, Los Angeles, CA 90026, United States
5. Jerome C. Daniel Overlook – for views for miles around
Also known as the Hollywood Bowl Overlook, the Jerome C. Daniel Overlook is undoubtedly one of the best places for breathtaking views of Los Angeles.
With views of downtown L.A., the Hollywood sign, and as far as the ocean on a clear day, you can relax and watch the city below.
Address: 7036 Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068, United States
4. Mulholland Scenic Overlook – a stunning roadside spot
Mulholland Drive is abundant with stunning viewpoints that look out over Los Angeles. And we must say, the Mulholland Scenic Overlook is one of the best.
Plus, you can drive to this spot, making it perfect for those who don’t want to hike to enjoy stunning views.
Address: 8591 Mulholland Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90046, United States
3. Hollywood Hills – a must while in L.A.
You can’t imagine the USA without the iconic Hollywood sign nestled in the Hollywood Hills. Up there with one of the most fun things to do in LA.
The perfect spot to watch the sun go down over the city, spending the evening here will be a truly unforgettable experience. This is truly a spot you need to add to your bucket list.
Address: Los Angeles, CA 90068, United States
2. Runyon Canyon Park – for the hikers
If you fancy taking on one of the most scenic hikes in L.A., then Runyon Canyon Park is for you.
With stunning views that stretch out across the city, this popular park is one of many incredible hikes across the country, and is suited to all abilities.
Address: 2000 N Fuller Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046, United States
1. Griffith Park Observatory, Griffith Park – one of California’s most iconic landmarks
Topping our list of the best places for breathtaking views of Los Angeles also happens to be most of the most iconic landmarks in the state of California.
The Griffith Park Trails are one of the best dog-friendly hikes in LA and Griffith Observatory sits on the south-facing slope of Mount Hollywood and offers stunning panoramic views of the city.
Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States
Related: Top 5 places to watch sunsets in California.
Read also: Top 10 beautiful waterfalls in Northern California.
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Your questions answered about the best places for breathtaking views of LA
Where is the best view of downtown LA?
One of the best views Northwest of downtown Los Angeles, Griffith Park Observatory is an art-deco-style planetarium that includes a museum, park, and 360° views stretching from Hollywood to Santa Monica Bay.
What street is best for photos in LA?
Rodeo Drive is the most iconic street in America. There are quite a few spots that are great for taking photos on Rodeo Drive.
What is the overlook in LA?
Daniel Overlook above the Hollywood Bowl is situated to provide a beautiful view of the Hollywood Bowl Amphitheater, downtown Los Angeles, and, on a clear day, the ocean and Catalina Island.
