Los Angeles, California -- National Geographic's Ultimate City Guides

A year-round street fair, the town of Venice Beach boasts tranquil parks, artsy enclaves, and raucous beach bars.

Photograph by Ian Shive/Aurora Photos

“Welcome to the Jungle,” famously sang the band Guns N' Roses. Situated on a wide, dry plain speckled with canyons, mountains, rivers, and beaches, vast and beautiful Los Angeles, California, is anything but a jungle in topography. And even though some junglelike qualities can emerge, such as during rush hour on the 405, to a visitor the city is a sunny, friendly place, filled with its own rich lore—stories that range from the days of the Spanish missions to the latest gossip about Hollywood stars. History oozes from the streets and buildings of L.A. All you need do is look around and listen.

Los Angeles Photos and Quiz

Los Angeles Features

Best Hikes Around Los Angeles

See our gallery of the best hikes within an hour of U.S. cities where the only prerequisite for exploring is a pair of sneakers.
Free Things to Do in Los Angeles

You don't have to be as rich as a celebrity to enjoy the city. Check out our list of freebies.
Andrew McCarthy's L.A. Favorites

Actor Andrew McCarthy gives 16 of his favorite places in Los Angeles.
Santa Barbara Road Trip

Soak in the Mediterranean climate of this Pacific gem, complete with broad beaches and yacht harbors.
L.A. Dreamin'

A meander down memory lane reignites the excitement, euphoria—and ambivalence—that only Tinseltown can inspire.
Joshua Tree

Get Joshua Tree information, facts, photos, and more in this Joshua Tree National Park guide from National Geographic.