Walking tours remain the smartest way to experience Los Angeles’s most fascinating corners. Downtown architecture walks showcase the city’s best historic buildings, while food tours through Grand Central Market let you taste LA’s melting pot of cultures. Two standout experiences include the “Hollywood Behind-the-Scenes” tour, perfect for film buffs wanting the real scoop beyond tourist traps, and the “Arts District Murals & Food” walk, combining colorful street art with local eats. We especially love the morning Venice Beach-to-Santa Monica tour for its mix of beach culture, hidden canals, and local hangouts – all before the crowds arrive. Keep reading for our favorite walking tours that deliver authentic LA experiences.
Key Points
- Los Angeles offers a diverse range of walking tours, including the popular Hollywood Sign tours, culinary and cultural experiences, and unique themed tours.
- Hollywood Sign tours provide stunning views, knowledgeable guides, and convenient amenities, catering to different fitness levels and preferences.
- Culinary and cultural walking tours offer immersive explorations of local food scenes, immigrant influences, and artistic expressions across neighborhoods like Fairfax, Silver Lake, and Venice Beach.
- Themed tours, such as Haunted Hollywood and Street Art tours, provide engaging and specialized experiences for visitors interested in exploring the city’s history, landmarks, and art.
- Tour logistics and amenities, including group sizes, duration, cancellation policies, guided experiences, photo opportunities, and accessibility features, cater to diverse traveler needs and preferences.
The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles
The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles offers visitors a captivating experience to explore the iconic landmark up close.
This 2.5-hour tour takes guests through Griffith Park, the Hollywood Hills, and offers breathtaking views of the Hollywood sign, Burbank, the San Fernando Valley, and Los Angeles.
With over 2,251 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, the tour is led by knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides who provide insightful commentary and great photo opportunities.
The tour includes bottled water, snacks, free parking, and Wi-Fi assistance, making it an enjoyable and convenient way to experience one of Los Angeles’ most famous attractions.
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Fairfax Farmers Market Gourmet Food and Culture Walking Tour
Explore the rich tapestry of cultures in the Fairfax neighborhood on this gourmet food and walking tour. For $3,681 per person, you’ll enjoy a 3-hour experience with a group of up to 10 participants.
Discover the iconic Original Farmers Market, a landmark since 1934, and learn about the area’s transformation and significance in LA’s culinary scene. Indulge in food tastings at 7-9 top-rated eateries, from trendy hotspots to local favorites.
Along the way, you’ll visit cultural landmarks, explore Jewish delis and bakeries, and shop for unique local products. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Los Angeles: The Original Hollywood Sign Hike Walking Tour
Embarking on a 2.5-hour adventure, the Hollywood Sign Hike Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the iconic landmarks and rich history of Los Angeles.
Boasting 1,059 reviews and a 98% traveler recommendation, this easy to moderate hike showcases stunning views of the city and the legendary Hollywood Sign.
Knowledgeable local guides share insights into Hollywood’s past while leading the 4-mile trek. Hikers can choose between the full tour or a 90-minute express option, with perks like bottled water, parking, and discounts on other LA tours.
Capturing the perfect social media moment is a must, as the tour provides unlimited photo opportunities along the way.
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Silver Lake Gourmet Food and Culture Walking Tour
Stepping away from the iconic Hollywood Sign, the Gourmet Food & Walking Tour of LA’s Hippest Neighborhood in Silver Lake promises an immersive exploration of the area’s vibrant culinary and cultural landscape.
Over the course of 3 hours, guests will indulge in 7-9 food tastings that reflect the neighborhood’s multicultural diversity.
The tour also highlights the juxtaposition of trendy boutiques and bohemian vibes, as well as stories of local artists and musicians.
With a live guide, the group, limited to 10 participants, will visit key landmarks, including one of the earliest LGBTQ+ protests.
Comfortable shoes are a must for the up to 20-minute walks between stops.
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Los Angeles Original 90-Minute Walking Tour to The Hollywood Sign
The Los Angeles Original 90-Minute Walking Tour to The Hollywood Sign offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the iconic landmark up close.
Led by expert local guides, the 1.8-mile (2.9 km) easy trail tour provides breathtaking views of the Hollywood Sign and the city. Guests can capture TikTok and Instagram-worthy photos while learning about the history and trivia of the area.
With a maximum group size of 100, the tour ensures a personalized experience. Closed-toe shoes and water are required, and children under 2 can join for free.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable and engaging guides, making this a must-do activity for any Los Angeles visitor.
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Los Angeles : Hollywood Private Walking Tour With a Guide
With a knowledgeable local guide, this private walking tour offers a personalized journey through the iconic landmarks and hidden gems of Los Angeles’ Hollywood neighborhood.
Priced at Kč 3,388 per person, the 3-hour experience allows participants to explore the famous Hollywood Sign via Griffith Park, with optional photo stops along the way.
The tour includes walking and public transportation, complemented by complimentary snacks, water, and sunscreen.
Wheelchair-accessible and available in multiple languages, the tour can be customized to suit individual interests.
Guests can take advantage of the guide’s expertise and the opportunity to capture stunning photos from unique vantage points during this comprehensive Hollywood exploration.
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Haunted Hollywood Walking Tour: True Crime & Creepy Tales
Participants of the Haunted Hollywood Walking Tour: True Crime & Creepy Tales enjoy the darker side of Los Angeles’ entertainment capital.
The 2-hour tour explores haunted theaters, hotels, and landmarks, while guides share true crime stories and creepy tales. With a maximum of 20 travelers, guests can expect an intimate experience highlighted by knowledgeable guides like Beau and Kyle, who are praised for their enthusiasm and storytelling skills.
While some guests desire more in-depth coverage of ghost stories and true crime details, the tour provides a unique blend of Hollywood history, entertainment, and the paranormal.
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Hollywood Gourmet Food and Culture Walking Tour
Explore the vibrant culinary and cultural landscape of Hollywood on the 3-hour Hollywood Gourmet Food and Culture Walking Tour.
This small-group walking tour, limited to 10 participants, offers a unique opportunity to discover the diverse immigrant influences that have shaped the neighborhood. Indulge in food tastings at 6-9 top-rated eateries, exploring dishes beyond typical tourist fare.
Marvel at the breathtaking views of the beach and Santa Monica Pier, and explore the fascinating worlds of skateboarding and bodybuilding culture.
With a live English-speaking guide, this tour provides a comprehensive experience highlighting Hollywood’s film, art, and architecture highlights.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
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Hollywood Walking and Hiking Tour With LA Skyline Views
As the sun dips below the horizon, visitors embark on the captivating Hollywood Walking and Hiking Tour, which promises to unveil the city’s iconic landmarks and breathtaking skyline views.
This guided, fully narrated tour takes guests on a trek through the hills, offering stunning vistas of the Hollywood sign, Griffith Park, and the Los Angeles skyline. Rated 5.0 based on 212 reviews with a 97% traveler recommendation, the tour delivers a stress-free experience for first-time visitors.
With a maximum group size of 25, the tour provides ample photo opportunities and personal stories from the knowledgeable guide, Scott, and his dog, Blue.
Accessible via public transportation, the tour ends back at the meeting point, offering a convenient and flexible experience.
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Los Angeles: Street Art Walking Tour With A Guide
Los Angeles’ vibrant street art culture comes to life on this captivating walking tour. Priced from $142.48 per person, the 3-hour private experience explores the city’s colorful murals and graffiti with a knowledgeable local guide.
Participants can customize the itinerary to visit neighborhoods like Venice Beach, South LA, and Melrose Avenue, where they’ll discover stunning urban art installations.
The tour is available in multiple languages and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With wheelchair accessibility and flexible pickup options, this street art walking tour provides a unique opportunity to take in Los Angeles’ dynamic creative scene.
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LA Venice Beach Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Situated along the iconic Venice Beach boardwalk, the LA Venice Beach Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours offers a captivating culinary journey through this vibrant coastal community.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the small intimate groups explore hidden gems loved by locals, learning about Venice Beach’s rich history and culture.
The tour includes a variety of local dishes, from poke and tacos to empanadas and churro waffle bites, as well as a Secret Dish.
Priced at $89.10 per person, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and highly recommended by its 98% of 287 reviews, earning a Badge of Excellence.
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Los Angeles: Beverly Hills Food, Film & Fashion Walking Tour
Embarking on the Beverly Hills Food, Film & Fashion Walking Tour offers an immersive exploration of the iconic Los Angeles neighborhood.
Spanning 3.5 hours, this tour provides an insider’s perspective on the area’s culinary, cinematic, and fashion highlights. Guests can savor curated tastings from local restaurants and specialty food stores, learn about the region’s rich history, and gain VIP access to exclusive locations.
The tour includes 5 food tastings, 2+ adult beverages, and a digital album to share the experience. With options to accommodate various dietary needs, this walking tour is a must-do for those seeking an engaging and delicious way to discover the heart of Beverly Hills.
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Old and New Downtown Los Angeles Walking Tour
The Old and New Downtown Los Angeles Walking Tour provides an engaging exploration of the city’s architectural and cultural evolution. Lasting 2 hours, this highly-rated tour covers iconic landmarks like the Pantages, Bradbury Building, and Grand Central Market.
Led by knowledgeable guide Phil, guests gain insights into LA’s rich history and vibrant present. The tour accommodates various fitness levels and is wheelchair/stroller accessible, making it suitable for first-time visitors and families.
With a maximum group size of 20, the experience offers personalized attention. Traveler reviews praise the tour’s informative and enjoyable pace.
Whether you’re interested in architecture, culture, or simply discovering downtown LA, this walking tour is a highly recommended way to experience the city.
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Los Angeles: Downtown Hollywood Guided Ghost Walking Tour
Guests on the Downtown Hollywood Guided Ghost Walking Tour will uncover the haunted history and paranormal legends of this iconic Los Angeles neighborhood.
The 2-hour tour leads them through Hollywood’s famous landmarks, including the Dolby Theatre, Musso & Frank Grill, and the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.
Along the way, the live guide shares chilling stories about figures like Houdini and Charlie Chaplin.
Highlights include the Hollywood Wax Museum, the haunted pool at the Roosevelt Hotel, and the legend of the vanishing man at the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Wheelchair accessible and offering free cancellation, this tour provides an immersive experience exploring Hollywood’s ghostly side.
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Downtown Los Angeles Architecture Walking Tour
For those eager to uncover the architectural wonders of downtown Los Angeles, the Downtown Los Angeles Architecture Walking Tour offers an engaging and insightful experience.
Led by the knowledgeable and personable guide Phil, the 2-hour tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s diverse architectural styles, from Beaux Arts to Art Deco.
Highlights include the iconic LA Central Library, the Fine Arts Building, and the Broadway Theater District. Rated highly by travelers, the tour is accessible to all and offers a perfect introduction for first-time visitors and architecture enthusiasts alike.
With a maximum group size of 20, the experience provides an intimate and immersive exploration of downtown LA’s rich architectural heritage.
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Los Angeles: Hollywood Walk of Fame Walking Tour
Although the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must-see attraction for many visitors to Los Angeles, the Hollywood Walk of Fame Walking Tour offers an immersive and informative way to uncover the history and stories behind this iconic landmark.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the 2-hour tour covers 1.3 miles, exploring locations like the Hollywood Roosevelt, El Capitan, and the mysterious “blank star” on the Walk of Fame.
Guests can learn about Hollywood’s intriguing past, from alleged murder cover-ups to notable architectural gems.
With the potential for celebrity sightings and an engaging narrative, this tour provides an enriching experience for anyone eager to dive deeper into the legend of Hollywood.
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Santa Monica Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour
On the Santa Monica Delicious Donut Adventure & Walking Food Tour, travelers embark on a delectable exploration of the city’s rich culinary scene.
Rated 5.0 with a 98% recommendation, this highly-rated tour takes guests on a journey to discover the best donuts in the area.
Along the way, they’ll indulge in additional treats like churros and ice cream.
With a maximum group size of 20, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
Praised for their storytelling and local history, the guides provide an engaging and informative outing.
Boasting accessibility features and a flexible cancellation policy, this tour is suitable for most travelers, making it a must-try for those seeking a delicious adventure in Santa Monica.
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Santa Monica: Ghosts and Phantoms of the Pier Walking Tour
Beneath the glittering lights and bustling crowds of Santa Monica Pier lies a darker, more haunting side.
The “Ghosts and Phantoms of the Pier Walking Tour” invites visitors to explore the pier’s supernatural history. For $32, guests can join a 1-hour tour led by a guide in a US Ghost Adventures t-shirt, carrying a lantern.
The tour covers haunted locations like The Georgian Hotel and Chez Jay, where participants hear chilling tales of paranormal activity. Reviewers have mixed opinions on the tour’s spookiness, but most agree it’s a great way to learn about the pier’s captivating past.
An optional extended tour visits three additional haunted sites, including the Pacific Wheel, with ties to Marilyn Monroe and JFK.
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Quick and Easiest Route to the Hollywood Sign Walk (1 Hour)
This quick and easy hike to the iconic Hollywood Sign is a must-do for visitors to Los Angeles.
The tour starts at the Smokey the Bear Sign at Innsdale Trail, taking hikers on a 1-hour route that’s been praised for its convenience and enjoyment.
With 100% of travelers recommending the experience, it’s a badge-of-excellence outing that’s suitable for families.
The tour includes bottled water and is stroller-accessible, though not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions.
Priced from €14.45 per person, the hike can be booked with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation.
Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guides and the hike’s suitability for cooler months like January and February.
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Sunset Strip True Crime and Haunted Tales Walking Tour
Visitors exploring Los Angeles’s iconic Sunset Strip can embark on a captivating 2-hour walking tour that delves into the neighborhood’s true crime history and haunted tales.
The Sunset Strip True Crime and Haunted Tales Walking Tour takes guests to infamous landmarks like the Chateau Marmont, Sunset Tower Hotel, The Comedy Store, and The Viper Room.
Along the way, a knowledgeable guide shares stories of notorious figures, notable crimes, and urban legends. The tour includes a slideshow to enhance the storytelling.
Suitable for history and true crime enthusiasts, the experience is led by passionate guides and boasts a 5-star rating from travelers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walking Tour?
Most walking tour companies don’t allow pets due to safety and liability concerns. However, some may accommodate service animals or offer special pet-friendly tours. It’s best to check with the specific tour provider before booking to see their pet policy.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Walking Tours?
The cancellation policy for the walking tours typically allows customers to receive a full refund if they cancel their reservation at least 24 hours in advance. However, closer to the tour date, the policy may change to a partial refund or no refund at all.
Are the Walking Tours Wheelchair Accessible?
Many walking tours in Los Angeles are wheelchair-accessible, allowing visitors with mobility challenges to participate. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to ensure the specific tour route and accommodations meet individual needs.
Do the Tours Include Any Food or Beverage Tastings?
Many walking tours include food or beverage tastings, allowing participants to sample local cuisine and drinks. The availability and details of these tastings can vary by tour, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for specifics.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
Many walking tour companies offer discounts for students and seniors. These discounts typically range from 10-20% off the regular tour price. Travelers should check with individual tour operators to inquire about available discounted rates for these groups.
Recap
Los Angeles offers a variety of engaging walking tours, from exploring the iconic Hollywood Sign to delving into the city’s gourmet food and cultural heritage. These tours provide visitors with unique perspectives and insights into the diverse attractions and hidden gems of the city. Whether you’re interested in history, cuisine, or the paranormal, there’s a walking tour in LA that’s sure to captivate and enrich your experience.