Los Angeles
United States · North America
Los Angeles, often called L.A., is the most populous city in California and the second-largest in the United States, with about 3.88 million residents in the city proper and over 18 million in the Greater Los Angeles area. It serves as the commercial, financial, and cultural center of Southern California, renowned for its entertainment industry, diverse population, and sprawling urban landscape. The city spans roughly 469 square miles in the Los Angeles Basin near the Pacific Ocean.
Best time to visit
Spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) offer mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and lower smog levels than peak summer.
Language
English, Spanish
Currency
USD
Interesting facts
- Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the world, home to Hollywood where the U.S. motion picture industry began in the early 20th century, attracting movie stars and major rock bands.
- The city boasts the largest Mexican population in the U.S., contributing to its vibrant Mexican food and cultural scene amid a highly diverse ethnic makeup.
- Greater Los Angeles is the second-most populous metropolitan area in the U.S., covering over 33,000 square miles across five counties and recognized as one of the world's most influential global cities.
- Founded in 1781 by Spanish settlers, L.A. grew rapidly after the U.S. annexation in 1849 and the arrival of the Santa Fe railroad in 1885, transforming from a farming and oil base into a major urban hub.
- The city hosted the Summer Olympic Games in 1984, marking a milestone as it had become the second-largest U.S. city by population, surpassing Chicago.
- Los Angeles is notoriously car-centric and one of the most spread-out cities globally, requiring extensive parking and spanning mountains, valleys, and oceanfront.
Local tips
- Rent a car or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft, as public transit is limited and the city is designed for driving across its vast sprawl.
- Visit iconic spots like Hollywood, beaches such as Santa Monica, and neighborhoods like Downtown LA (DTLA) early to avoid heavy traffic and crowds.
- Try authentic Mexican tacos and street food in areas like East LA, and explore diverse cuisines reflecting the city's multicultural population.
- Book accommodations with parking included, and check for events or film shoots that may cause road closures in entertainment districts.
- Use apps like Google Maps for real-time traffic updates, and consider Metro rail or buses for shorter trips within central areas.
- Stay hydrated and wear sunscreen; even in mild weather, the sun is strong, and wildfires can affect air quality seasonally.