Planning a trip to LA and want social-media-worthy photos? Looking for perfect backdrops for your album or creative project?
Discover the most picturesque spots in the City of Angels, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.
Top IG Photo Spots
These are our favorite places to take photos in Los Angeles for free.
Keep reading for even more suggestions!
- 🎡 Santa Monica Pier: Classic beach vibes. Iconic Ferris wheel, beach views, and the Route 66 sign.
- 🧑🎨 The Getty: Art and architecture. Manicured gardens, and renowned art collections.
- 🔭 Griffith Observatory: Panoramic views of the city skyline and Hollywood sign.
- 👕 Melrose Avenue: Street art haven. Trendy shops, colorful murals, and photogenic cafes.
- 🐚 Venice Beach: Bohemian spirit. Vibrant boardwalk, iconic Venice sign, and artistic atmosphere.
- 🌴 Beverly Hills: Luxury and glamour. Upscale Rodeo Drive, palm-lined streets, and the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel.
- 🌃 Downtown LA: Urban landmarks. City lights, historic architecture, and modern art.
- 🏖️ Malibu: Scenic coastlines, ocean views, and breathtaking sunsets.
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🎡 Santa Monica Pier: The Classic Beach Vibe
Map: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Photos: Beach, Ferris Wheel, Route 66 Sign
The Santa Monica Pier is a must-see LA destination.
This iconic landmark combines beach atmosphere, amusement rides, and ocean views, featuring a colorful Ferris wheel and the famous neon entrance sign.
Street performers line the pier, adding to its lively atmosphere.
🧑🎨 The Getty Center: Art and Architecture
Map: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Good For: Architecture (interior and exterior), Fine Art
The Getty Center combines world-class art with stunning architecture. Its iconic white buildings stand against the Los Angeles skyline, surrounded by manicured gardens.
Admission is free, parking $20.
🔭 Griffith Observatory: Hollywood Hills Views
Map: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Good For: Views of Los Angeles, Griffith Park
For breathtaking views of the Hollywood sign and the city skyline, hike up to the Griffith Observatory.
This iconic spot offers panoramic vistas of Los Angeles that are perfect for capturing on camera.
The observatory itself is an architectural gem, blending art deco design with modern features.
Keep in mind that parking can be a challenge, so consider taking an Uber or parking near the bottom and walking up.
👕 Melrose Avenue: Street Art and Trendy Shops
Map: 7000 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90038
Melrose: Fashion, Hip Stores, Trendy Streets
If you're a fan of street art and trendy shops, make sure to explore Melrose Avenue. This vibrant street in West Hollywood is lined with colorful murals, unique boutiques, and hip cafes.
Snap a photo with the famous pink wall at Paul Smith or discover hidden gems like the Made in LA mural behind Cisco Home.
Don't miss out on the Instagrammable cafes like Alfred Tea Room and Carrera Cafe, where you can enjoy a photogenic latte.
🐚 Venice Beach: The Bohemian Vibe
Map: Pacific Ave & Windward Ave, 1501 Main St #205, Venice, CA 90291
Good For: Beach, Relaxing, Vacations
Experience the bohemian vibe of Venice Beach, known for its artistic community and vibrant atmosphere.
Capture the iconic Venice sign, stroll along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, and explore the historic canals.
The colorful murals and street art along the way offer endless photo opportunities.
Don't forget to stop by the Venice Plants, a local favorite plant shop with lush greenery that will add a touch of nature to your Instagram feed.
🌴 Beverly Hills: Luxury and Palm Trees
Map: 9641 Sunset Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Good For: Celebrities, Old Hollywood, Luxury
Indulge in the luxurious charm of Beverly Hills. Walk along Rodeo Drive, known for its upscale shopping and picturesque surroundings.
Pose on the grand steps of Rodeo Drive or capture the palm tree-lined streets that are quintessentially Los Angeles.
Visit the Beverly Hills Hotel for a taste of old Hollywood glamour and snap a photo of its iconic sign.
Beverly Gardens Park, with its lush greenery and the famous Beverly Hills sign, is another must-visit spot for Instagram-worthy shots.
🌃 Downtown LA: Urban Landmarks and Art
Map: 304 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013
Good For: Architecture, Art, Flowers, Downtown
Downtown LA is a treasure trove of urban landmarks and artistic delights.
Take a stroll along Hollywood Boulevard to capture the Walk of Fame and the dazzling lights at dusk.
Visit the Bradbury Building, a stunning architectural gem featured in movies like Bladerunner.
Head to OUE Skyspace, where you can take a thrilling ride on a glass slide and enjoy panoramic views of the city.
Explore the trendy Sunset Junction area in Silver Lake, known for its great restaurants, boutiques, and street art.
🏖️ Malibu: Beaches and Scenic Views
Map: 23000 CA-1, Malibu, CA 90265
Good For: Beach, Ocean Views, Laid Back
Escape to the pristine beaches and scenic views of Malibu. El Matador Beach offers stunning rock formations and caves, creating a dramatic backdrop for your photos.
Enjoy a day at the Malibu Pier, where you can capture the ocean views and indulge in delicious food at Malibu Farm.
For a touch of wildlife, visit Malibu Wine Safaris, where you can taste local wines and get up close with alpacas, zebras, and even a giraffe named Stanley.
The Valley: Canyons and Natural Beauty
Map: Lookout Trail, Topanga, CA 90290
Good For: Mountains, Hippie, Views of LA
Venture into the canyons and natural beauty of the San Fernando Valley.
The Topanga Look-Out Trail offers panoramic views that are worth the hike. Explore the lush greenery and peaceful atmosphere of Beverly Terrace Hotel, a hidden gem in Beverly Hills and West Hollywood.
Visit the Getty Villa, a Mediterranean-inspired museum with beautiful gardens and a stunning collection of art.
The Oaks Mall in Thousand Oaks is another must-visit spot with its charming outdoor ambiance and European-inspired architecture.
Off the Beaten Path: Hidden Gems
Los Angeles is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The Montage Hotel Spa in Beverly Hills offers a Moroccan-inspired oasis perfect for relaxing and capturing beautiful moments.
The Last Bookstore in downtown LA is not only a haven for book lovers but also a visually stunning location with its book tunnel and unique design.
Capture the beauty of the Santa Monica Mountains, especially during spring when the hills are covered in lush greenery and colorful wildflowers.
Plan Your Instagrammable Los Angeles Adventure
With this ultimate guide to Instagrammable spots in Los Angeles, you're ready to embark on a photographic journey through the city. Remember to respect private properties and be mindful of any parking restrictions or admission fees.
Los Angeles is a city bursting with creativity, beauty, and endless photo opportunities. So grab your camera, explore the diverse neighborhoods, and capture the essence of the City of Angels in all its Instagram-worthy glory!