Los Angeles is exciting, sunny, and full of famous places — but first-time visitors often make small mistakes that affect their trip. Knowing the things to avoid in Los Angeles as a tourist can save you time, money, and unnecessary stress.
This guide is honest, simple, and made especially for tourists visiting LA for the first time.
1. Don’t Underestimate How Big Los Angeles Is
This is the biggest mistake tourists make.
Los Angeles is HUGE. Places that look close on the map can take a long time to reach.
Avoid:
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Planning too many attractions in one day
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Jumping between far neighborhoods
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Ignoring travel time
✔ Plan your day by area, not by attraction.
2. Avoid Driving During Rush Hours
Traffic in LA is real — and intense.
Avoid driving:
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7:00–10:00 AM
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4:00–7:00 PM
If you don’t avoid rush hours, you may spend half your day in traffic instead of sightseeing.
3. Don’t Expect Hollywood to Be Glamorous
Hollywood is famous, but it’s not always glamorous.
Avoid:
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Expecting luxury streets everywhere
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Spending too much time there
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Visiting late at night
✔ Visit Hollywood once, take photos, and move on.
4. Never Leave Valuables in Your Car
This is one of the most important things to avoid in Los Angeles as a tourist.
Avoid:
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Leaving bags, phones, or cameras in your car
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Parking with items visible
✔ Even in safe areas, always take belongings with you.
5. Don’t Try to See All of LA in One Trip
Los Angeles is not meant to be rushed.
Avoid:
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Overpacked itineraries
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Seeing 5–6 places in one day
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Long drives every day
✔ Fewer places = better experience.
6. Avoid Walking Long Distances Between Neighborhoods
Some parts of LA are walkable — many are not.
Avoid:
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Walking between far areas
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Trusting walking distances blindly
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Ignoring safety at night
✔ Use Uber, Lyft, or Metro for longer distances.
7. Don’t Ignore Where You Stay
Your hotel location matters a lot.
Avoid:
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Staying far from your main attractions
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Booking only because it’s cheap
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Ignoring neighborhood reviews
✔ Choose Santa Monica, Hollywood, West Hollywood, or DTLA for first trips.
8. Avoid Peak Theme Park Days
If you plan to visit theme parks:
Avoid:
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Weekends
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School holidays
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Peak summer days
✔ Visit mid-week for shorter lines and better value.
9. Don’t Dress for Fashion Over Comfort
LA style looks stylish — but comfort matters more.
Avoid:
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Uncomfortable shoes
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Heavy clothes
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Overpacking
✔ LA is casual. Comfortable shoes are a must.
10. Avoid Ignoring Free Attractions
Many tourists spend money unnecessarily.
Avoid:
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Skipping free beaches
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Ignoring viewpoints
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Missing free museums
✔ Some of the best LA experiences are free.
11. Don’t Rely Only on Public Transport
Public transport exists but is limited.
Avoid:
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Expecting subway-style convenience everywhere
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Planning tight schedules with buses
✔ Mix public transport with Uber or Lyft.
12. Avoid Late-Night Wandering in Empty Areas
Los Angeles is generally safe, but awareness matters.
Avoid:
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Empty streets late at night
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Isolated areas
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Poorly lit streets
✔ Stick to lively areas, especially after dark.
13. Don’t Expect One “City Center”
LA doesn’t have one central downtown like other cities.
Avoid:
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Searching for a single “main area”
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Staying far from your interests
✔ Think of LA as many mini-cities.
Final Thoughts: Avoid These Mistakes & Enjoy LA More
Knowing the things to avoid in Los Angeles as a tourist helps you enjoy the city the right way. LA is not difficult — it just needs smart planning.
Take it slow, plan by area, stay aware, and enjoy the sunshine, beaches, food, and views. When you avoid these common mistakes, Los Angeles becomes exciting, relaxed, and unforgettable.
