The Best Views in Los Angeles to Experience Now

L.A. knows its angles. With miles of sandy beaches, breathtaking skylines, and gorgeous landmarks scattered throughout, the City of Angels is definitely one of the most easily recognizable destinations in the world. While it has its own unique charm from every perspective, the best views in Los Angeles offer something extra appealing to the eye. 

Whether you seek the most romantic views in Los Angeles or are on a hunt for the best views in L.A. at night, these spots will have you doing a double-take—the second take lasting significantly longer.

Scenic Views in Los Angeles During the Day

The Getty Center

The Getty Center is among the most impressive architectural landmarks in Los Angeles. But, besides breathtaking exteriors and an absolutely impressive art collection, this locale boasts scenic views of Los Angeles that cannot be beaten. The panoramic views of the undulating hills and the coastline to the west, as well as the unmistakable D.T.L.A. skyline make the Getty Center one of the best view spots in L.A.

Hollywood Hills Sign

If you don’t mind a bit of hiking to get to a scenic overlook in Los Angeles, make your way towards the Hollywood Hills Sign. The historical landmark and cultural icon stands tall at 45 feet and greets locals and tourists from all over the world every single day. While the views of L.A. from the sign look like a million bucks, getting there is absolutely free.

Lake Hollywood Park

Now, if you’d rather be on the other side of the fence, facing the iconic Hollywood Sign, Lake Hollywood Park offers the best views around. Pack a picnic and bring a date or your BFFs and watch the sun go down at Lake Hollywood Park—this is a good view in L.A. if there ever was one.

Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook

While you can totally drive up to the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook to skip the quick workout, hiking up the 282 steps is more than half the fun. And once you arrive at the top and find yourself surrounded by 360-degree views of the Greater Los Angeles area, you’ll realize that every drop of sweat was absolutely worth the trek. Find a ledge to sit on and take your time to enjoy one of the best views in Los Angeles; the hike back is practically a breeze anyway. 

Runyon Canyon Park

Runyon Canyon is one of the most popular places to hike in Hollywood, and the nice views of L.A. at the top are mostly the reason why. Boasting a multitude of trails with varying levels of difficulty, Runyon Canyon offers sights of millionaire mansions, famous landmarks, and skylines to replace the traditional flora and fauna of a wilderness hike. Bring a camera along—you’re going to stop and stare at the scenic views of Los Angeles more than once or twice.

 L.A. City Hall Observation Deck

The L.A. City Hall Observation Deck is where you need to go to be immersed in views you usually admire from afar. Located on the 27th floor of the City Hall building, this gorgeous view spot in L.A. is free to access and offers 360-degree panoramas of the city you won’t ever grow tired of. 

The Best Views in L.A. At Night

Griffith Observatory

No trip to the City of Angels is complete without a visit to the iconic Griffith Observatory. While the scenic views of Los Angeles are breathtaking any time of day from here, the twinkling city lights make everything look a little extra magical at night. Go there a little before the sun sets so you have enough time to explore the park’s hiking paths. Then, for the grand finale of your magical evening, find your favorite lookout spot and enjoy one of the best views in Los Angeles with your beaux.

Universal City Overlook

Is there anyone who hasn’t heard of Mulholland Drive? This is one of Los Angeles’s most celebrated streets, with plenty of scenic overlooks on the way, so stop where you can stop and admire the good views in L.A. One of the most well-known of said view spots in L.A. is the Universal City Overlook, which offers unobstructed views of the mountains and the city. While you’ll likely never find the overlook abandoned at night, you’ll definitely be able to claim a spot to sit and admire the views.

Mulholland Scenic Overlook

One can never get enough of Mulholland lookouts, and that’s why we’re also highlighting the Mulholland Scenic Overlook for the best views in Los Angeles. The difference in views between this overlook, the previous one, and any other one along the way isn’t too drastic, yet everyone in town still has a favorite spot. Go on a scenic drive and you’ll quickly feel drawn to one yourself—if you can’t seem to make up your mind, go with the least crowded option available.

Elysian Park

Located in the northern part of D.T.L.A., Elysian Park is what Instagram photo op dreams are made of. Not only is this pretty locale dotted with several scenic view spots in L.A. but it’s also the oldest public park in the county. Pro tip: while you’re there, make sure to find the not-so-secret swing hanging from a colorful tree. It’s not hard to find either; all you have to do is Google it. 

Santa Monica Pier

A little further out of the city of Los Angeles is the famous Santa Monica Pier. Pack for a full day trip to this coastal hotspot and enjoy a getaway abundant with good old nostalgic amusement park adventures and rides. But, instead of packing and leaving after the sun goes down, stay to enjoy some of the best views in Los Angeles of not only the beach, but also as far as Malibu on a clear evening.