The 2028 Summer Olympics are bringing the world to Los Angeles, and while the sporting events will be the main attraction, there is so much more to experience across Southern California. From iconic beaches and Hollywood landmarks to food tours, rooftop nightlife, and world-famous theme parks, Los Angeles offers endless adventures between Olympic events.
Whether you are visiting for a few days or planning a full Olympic vacation, combining the Games with LA’s top attractions is the perfect way to maximize your trip. The city is expected to host millions of visitors from July 14 to July 30, 2028, creating an electric atmosphere unlike anything seen since the 1984 Olympics.
Here are the most popular things to do in Los Angeles during the 2028 Olympics.
Experience the Olympic Venues
One of the biggest attractions during the Olympics will be the venues themselves. Los Angeles is using a mix of historic stadiums and modern entertainment complexes spread across the city.
The most iconic venue is the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, which will host athletics and part of the opening and closing ceremonies. The Coliseum will become the first stadium in history to host Olympic events in three separate Games.
Meanwhile, SoFi Stadium will host swimming and major ceremonies. The futuristic stadium is already considered one of the most impressive sports venues in the world.
Other exciting venues include:
- Crypto.com Arena for gymnastics and boxing
- Dodger Stadium for Olympic baseball
- Rose Bowl for soccer
- Alamitos Beach for beach volleyball
Many visitors plan entire sightseeing days around these Olympic hubs.
Relax at Santa Monica and Venice Beach
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without spending time along the Pacific Coast. During the Olympics, beach culture will become a major part of the visitor experience.
Santa Monica Pier is one of the city’s most famous attractions. Visitors can ride the Ferris wheel, enjoy oceanfront dining, and watch stunning California sunsets.
Just south of Santa Monica is Venice Beach, known for its colorful boardwalk, skate parks, street performers, and outdoor gyms. Olympic endurance events like the triathlon and marathon are expected to pass through Venice, creating an incredible atmosphere for fans.
These beachside neighborhoods are also ideal for:
- Bike rides along the coast
- Surfing lessons
- Rooftop dining
- Shopping
- Sunset photography
Explore Hollywood and Beverly Hills
For first-time visitors, Hollywood remains one of LA’s must-see destinations.
Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame and spot the stars of your favorite celebrities. Then visit the TCL Chinese Theatre to see famous handprints and movie memorabilia.
Nearby, Beverly Hills offers luxury shopping, palm-lined streets, and celebrity spotting opportunities. Rodeo Drive becomes especially lively during international events like the Olympics.
Movie lovers should also visit:
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- Griffith Observatory
- Hollywood Sign
The Griffith Observatory is particularly popular because it offers panoramic views of the city skyline and the Hollywood Sign.
Enjoy the Food Scene
Los Angeles is one of the world’s great food cities. During the Olympics, visitors can experience cuisines from nearly every culture imaginable.
Popular foodie destinations include:
- Grand Central Market
- The Original Farmers Market
- Koreatown
- Little Tokyo
- Arts District
From tacos and sushi to celebrity-chef restaurants and food trucks, there is something for every budget.
Many Olympic travelers are expected to explore Long Beach and Downtown LA food districts between events because they are close to major venues.
Visit Disneyland and Southern California Theme Parks
Many international travelers extend their Olympic vacation by visiting Southern California’s famous theme parks.
Disneyland Park is only about an hour from central Los Angeles and remains one of the most visited attractions in the world.
Other popular parks include:
- Disney California Adventure Park
- Universal Studios Hollywood
- Six Flags Magic Mountain
Families attending the Olympics often combine sports events with a multi-day theme park experience.
Discover Long Beach
Long Beach will play a major role during the Olympics, hosting water sports and beach events.
The city offers:
- Waterfront restaurants
- Harbor cruises
- Aquarium visits
- Beachfront hotels
- Nightlife
Long Beach Waterfront is expected to become one of the busiest Olympic entertainment zones.
Visitors can also tour the historic RMS Queen Mary, one of the city’s most famous attractions.
Take Iconic LA Photos
The Olympics will transform Los Angeles into one giant photo opportunity.
Popular Instagram-worthy locations include:
- Griffith Observatory
- Santa Monica Pier
- Hollywood Sign
- 6th Street Bridge
- Exposition Park Rose Garden
Content creators are already discussing the best Olympic-era photo spots online because many venues will feature special Olympic branding and decorations.
Use Luxury Travel on a Budget to Plan Your Olympic Adventure
Traveling to Los Angeles during the Olympics does not need to be overwhelming or expensive. Planning early is the best way to secure better flights, accommodations, and transportation.
Luxury Travel on a Budget helps travelers:
- Compare flight options
- Find affordable luxury hotels
- Build custom itineraries
- Discover travel hacks
- Plan multi-city California trips
The platform is especially useful for Olympic travelers who want to combine the Games with destinations like:
- San Diego
- Las Vegas
- San Francisco
- Anaheim
- Santa Barbara
Booking flights and hotels months in advance can help visitors avoid major price spikes during the busy Olympic season.
Final Thoughts
The 2028 Olympics will turn Los Angeles into one of the world’s top travel destinations. Beyond the excitement of the sporting events, visitors will enjoy beaches, theme parks, entertainment, nightlife, food, and unforgettable California scenery.
Whether you are watching gymnastics at Crypto.com Arena, baseball at Dodger Stadium, or beach volleyball in Long Beach, the city offers countless ways to make your Olympic vacation unforgettable.
With careful planning and the right travel tools, your LA 2028 experience can combine world-class sports with the ultimate Southern California adventure.
Book an airbnb for a unique experience on your next trip!
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click and make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
