Things to do in Southern California

No visit to Los Angeles would be complete without a trip to Universal Studios. This attraction combines a behind the scenes view of a television and film studio, with all the excitement of a modern, high-octane amusement park. This mix is a real recipe for success, making this destination one of the most popular attractions in Los Angeles and with visitors from all over the world.

A fun spot for the youngsters, with more than 60 rides across a site that spans 52 hectares, LEGOLAND® California Resort is located by the ocean in Carlsbad, about 50 kilometres north of San Diego. It is home to a hotel and water park, along with shows and attractions based on the world-famous toy bricks.

When Walt Disney brought his colourful characters to California back in the 1920s, it was with a creative spirit and a desire to breathe new life into his work. Opened in 2001 beside the door of the original Disneyland Park® in Anaheim, Disney's California Adventure Park® captures that hope and that creative spirit, with fun-packed rides and attractions, great shows, as well as plenty to see, learn and enjoy.

San Diego Zoo welcomes around 5 million visitors every year, and it’s easy to see why. Spanning a huge site, the zoo houses about 4000 animals from over 650 different species and subspecies. All of these creatures live in realistic habitats, with most exhibits out in the open air.

Visit the STAPLES Center and see a major sporting or entertainment event. This arena is home to the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers National Basketball Association (NBA) teams. Take a tour of downtown Los Angeles and view the STAPLES Center or book a ticket for a major event.

Venice Beach is renowned for its lively and entertaining sights. Walking along the Venice Beach Boardwalk you’ll see what can only be described as a human carnival. A heavy dose of vibrancy, colour and sheer life force is exuded by the people in this location. This most bohemian of areas will never leave you short people-watching opportunities, with street artists, musicians, poets, singers, skateboarders and jugglers all commonplace. There are some incredible sights to behold among the crowds here; watch a cyclist breathing fire or an acrobat juggling chainsaws, anything’s possible here. This is LA at its inimitable, ostentatious, outrageous best.