Los Angeles is a prominent city in the American West with a thriving film, art, and pop culture scene. It has famous streets, ocean views, and huge amusement parks. However, it can be a hassle planning which tickets to buy. There are many different ticket options, some let you skip lines, and their promos can be misleading. To avoid wasting time waiting in line during your vacation, decide what interests you, and book tickets in advance. \n\nWhat attractions should be booked in advance?\n\nMost attractions in Los Angeles require tickets, which can be overwhelming for first time visitors. During peak travel times, major attractions have the longest wait times. Purchasing tickets in advance allows you to avoid long wait times and gives you more flexibility to plan out your day. Buying tickets early gives you the opportunity to avoid long lines and save money, and it lets you plan your day more accurately.\n\nOnline tickets vs. on-site tickets\n\n1. Booking tickets online helps you avoid waiting in line at the ticket booth.\n\n2. Tickets bought online are often cheaper than tickets bought at the gate.\n\n3. Tickets bought in advance avoid any possible miscommunication with ticket booth staff due to language barriers.\n\n4. Booking tickets in advance prevents your plans from being ruined by sold out tickets, which is very common at Disneyland during the holidays.\n\n5. Booking tickets online gives you a chance to learn about the park’s rules and hours in advance.

Overseas Official Websites

In this guide, booking platforms based in China are suggested as an alternative to official overseas sites. Booking platforms based in China are suggested in this guide as a more convenient option than official overseas booking websites. Users may find the following to be helpful: payment options supported by the booking platform, a website in the user's native language, fewer international contact requirements, and a lower price for a single-day ticket. Compared to international booking platforms, domestic booking platforms may offer fewer ticket options than an international booking platform. For instance, an international booking platform may offer tickets to an international theme park for multiple days, multiple parks, an annual theme park pass, or a re-entry pass. An international booking platform may require a user to select a specific date and time for admission, create an account, and submit payment information with an international credit card, and may also require the user to provide an overseas address and telephone number. The booking platforms based in China may require less from the user and in some cases may only require the user to select a date, which is less restrictive. These terms and conditions are specific to each provider and customers are encouraged to review them prior to making a purchase.

Comparing Attractions

Before comparing attractions, consider the express access points. These tickets can be purchased in addition to a standard admission ticket and may allow for shorter wait times by granting access to a separate queue for users with priority access. Rules regarding the use of these tickets will vary by park, with some parks offering priority access to all attractions, while others may have a policy limiting each attraction to one use per day. It may be worth the additional cost to purchase an express access ticket during busy days at the park, but on days with low attendance, many guests may decide against purchasing an express access ticket.

Ticket Category 1: Observation decks and Walk of Fame

Los Angeles has more to offer than just theme parks. Los Angeles charm includes updated observation decks, and iconic Hollywood landmarks. The city attracts tourists who want to see both the city’s skyline and entertainment history. Los Angeles skyline — OUE Skyspace Observation Deck Features include: rapid ticketing, digital ticketing, scan-to-enter ticketing, and various combo tickets. Express access is available for purchase online or at the attraction, and is recommended during busy periods. Attraction overview: Skyspace was described as an open air observation deck located on the 70th floor of the U.S. Bank Tower, which is over 1,000 feet tall. Guests can experience 360-degree views of the city, and use the outdoor observation deck for a closer view of the skyline. There are also a transparent slide and an Angel Wings photo wall on the 70th floor. Skyspace will also have operational changes, so check for updates to hours and ticket sales before planning a visit. Included in city passes: No. Comparison of domestic and international bookings: The first comparison indicated that international official tickets were more expensive than tickets from domestic sources, where there may also be a promotion providing a 5 yuan discount. It was also noted that official tickets required a date and half-hour time slot for entry, but domestic tickets only required a date. There was a cited fee of US$1 for the official site. This site was described as English only and only accepted international credit cards, while domestic sources were described as less restrictive for Chinese customers. These do not show current prices or policies, historical prices only.

Official booking site:
Hollywood Walk of Fame — Madame Tussauds Hollywood
Ticket info: vouchers have to be scanned, and exchanged for admission. There were different ticket types.
Express access: no
Attraction overview:
Madame Tussauds Hollywood is situated on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, next to the TCL Chinese Theatre and the old Kodak Theatre. The museum has over a hundred wax figures and 18 themed zones, including ones for classic and modern screen stars, filmmakers, and famous characters.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
· Established in 1958, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most recognizable cultural attractions of Los Angeles, located on Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street.
· More than 2,000 star-shaped plaques honor people for their contributions to the entertainment industry.

· The stars are intended to be in fixed locations permanently, although they may be relocated due to construction or other reasons.
City passes include:
The Go Los Angeles Card included admission to Madame Tussauds and a guided tour of the TCL Chinese Theatre on the Walk of Fame.
Comparison of domestic and international bookings:
It was stated that both official and domestic booking sites were cheaper than purchasing at the museum. The official site was described as English-only, requiring an international credit card and a lot of personal details, and domestic booking sites were suggested to be easier for Chinese users. Check terms and conditions before confirming your bookings.

Booking link:

Ticket Type 2: Theme parks - Disneyland, Universal Studios, etc.

There is an unusually high number of theme parks in the Los Angeles area. Each one offers something unique, whether that is movie magic, childhood fairy tale stories, or hardcore rollercoaster rides. There are always seasonal events and live performances to entertain people who aren't into the rides, so it's worth it to visit even if you aren't interested in the thrill rides.

Disneyland and Disney California Adventure Park

Tickets set features: Tickets are issued automatically, prices vary according to peak and off-peak periods, and tickets can be scanned to receive physical tickets.
There are free fast passes that are available once you go into the park, but these fast pass rides are not available for all rides and they have changed a lot over the years, so be sure to check the Disneyland website for current rules before you go!

Disneyland Park is

Located in Anaheim and was the first of all the Disney Parks in the world. Disneyland Park was also the only park built with the guidance of Walt Disney. Walt's vision for Disneyland was not to create a series of thrill rides, but rather a place that told stories and captured the imaginations of guests.

Disneyland Resort
- Original Disneyland, built in California by Disney’s founder, has the timeless charm of Disney parks loved in every corner of the world.
- The resort is home to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park. Ticket availability will depend on the selected product, meaning tickets can be available for one or both parks.

Disneyland Park has five themed lands: Main Street, U.S.A., Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland.

During the fireworks show, which is held in front of the central castle, guests of all ages enjoy the fireworks show/displays every night. One of the many highlights of the resort.

Disney California Adventure Park overview:

Disney California Adventure Park faces Disneyland Park from across a shared plaza, with a design centered on California-themed attractions. Unlike its neighboring park, which embraces a softer world of make-believe, Disney California Adventure has long placed a greater emphasis on big thrills and films, thus becoming a favorite among teenagers but also offering something for everyone.

Disney California Adventure Park

Opened in 2001, Disney California Adventure was themed for the state of California with miniature representations of major landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Santa Monica Beach. The guide noted that it was one of the more thrill-oriented Disney parks, with attractions including California Screamin', the swinging gondolas of its Ferris wheel, the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, The Little Mermaid Ariel's Undersea Adventure, Soarin' Over California, and a nighttime water and light show. Several of the mentioned attractions and shows may have changed, so treat these as historical and not a current ride list.

City passes include:

< Southern California CityPass included 3 days of admission to Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park.

Domestic vs overseas booking:

The original guide mentioned that official tickets from overseas were priced higher than those from domestic platforms. The official site also noted that users must create an account before they can make a payment, the booking process is in English only, international credit cards accepted (not UnionPay), and the site lists more products for multiple days and multiple parks. Compared to said international platforms, domestic platforms were said only to sell one-day, one-park tickets. Current access rules and all ticket products must be verified with the seller.

Official booking interface:

Universal Studios Hollywood

They listed as ticket features: large assortment of ticket types, quick processing, same-day purchase option for regular tickets, digital tickets, and tickets with scan access.

Express access can be purchased online and onsite, but there is a daily limit. The guide said it can be used for every attraction after entry, but eligibility for rides should be checked before buying.

Attraction overview:

Universal Studios Hollywood is a film-themed amusement park and a working film and television studio located northwest of downtown Los Angeles. Within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, film-based rides and attractions, and studio tours that take you behind the scenes of real filming locations, attractions also include tours that take you behind the scenes of filming. Universal Studios Hollywood. Situated in one of Los Angeles's most valuable real estate spots, it originally opened as a location for filming in Hollywood before being converted to a major theme park. Movie storytelling combined with special effects makes for an amazing experience on technology driven rides. The original guide mentioned 4D and ride experiences for Jurassic Park, Revenge of the Mummy, Transformers, and Minions. The Studio Tour continues to be the highlight of the park as it transports guests to real film sets where special effects are staged, such as airplane crashes, floods, explosions, and more. Daily shows, character interactions, and themed merchandise are offered. This is more than just a quick stop, it is a full day destination. City passes include: Universal Studios Hollywood was listed as included with the 3- 7 day Go Los Angeles Card as well as the Southern California CityPass. Comparing bookings domestically and internationally: The official site was said to be more expensive than domestic booking sites. The attraction introduction included Chinese, however, the booking pages were English only. The official site was said to accept international credit cards, collect more personal info, and offered annual or two day tickets, while the domestic sites were limited to one day tickets. Verify all the details to the purchase.

Official reservation site:

Magic Mountain

Automated ticketing, same-day ticket purchases, scan to exchange physical tickets, ticket valid for a year were included.

Express access: can be purchased on the website and at the park. There are different levels that are said to reduce waiting time by 50\% or 80\%. More expensive tickets mean less waiting time but certain attractions are included, some rides are one-and-done, and limited availability every day.

Attraction summary:

Six Flags Magic Mountain, Valencia, claims to be the most intense theme park for the Los Angeles area. It is a place for thrill seekers, stress relief, and real roller coaster lovers. Disneyland fantasy or Universal movie magic is not what you should expect, this park is all about speed, height, inversions, and pure adrenaline.

Six Flags Magic Mountain

Described as a must-visit for roller coaster fans, it is located North of Los Angeles and has nearly 20 coasters. The original guide even featured Green Lantern: First Flight, Goliath, and The 126 Meter Drop of Doom, describing the park as an endless challenge for nerves and feelings of weightlessness. Keep in mind the names and records of attractions may change and some may even stop operating at the time of your visit.

Comparison of booking in USA and abroad:

The first price comparison showed the official site’s standard admission price of US$65–75, domestic-platform admission priced at 325 yuan, and 90 dollars at the gate. Plus, the official site’s processing fee was just under US$10. The official site was limited to English, required an international credit card, and asked for a lot of personal information.

While domestic platforms sold standard admission only, with express access after entry to the park, it is said that express-pass packages were being offered. These numbers are historical and should be reconfirmed. Official booking interface: LEGOLAND California + SEA LIFE Aquarium Listed features include ticket issuance in one minute, same-day booking, digital tickets, scan to enter. Express access: no. Attraction overview: LEGOLAND California is located in Carlsbad, between Los Angeles and San Diego. It is designed mostly for children aged 2 to 12. Some of the rides have age, height or weight restrictions. It is a good option for families because children can build their own creations in special areas and then they can see some of the designs that LEGOs. On March 20, 1999, LEGOLAND California opened in Carlsbad and was described as a theme park for children aged 2 to 12. The park hands-on play through building, climbing, stacking and interactive attractions organized in eight themed areas. LEGO, based in Billund, Denmark, is one of the most recognized toy brands in the world synonymous with imaginative play and creativity. The guide also mentioned that LEGOLAND parks are part of the portfolio of Merlin Entertainments, which owns LEGO, SEA LIFE, The Dungeons and other brands. Please verify the historical information regarding company figures and ownership in the original source.

Route: Take I-5 South towards Carlsbad and exit at Palomar Airport Road and follow the signs.

City passes include:

Southern California CityPass lists LEGOLAND admission as included.

Comparison of overseas and domestic bookings:

The original guide mentioned overseas official adult admission for LEGOLAND is about US$96–111 and children’s admission is US$90–105. This is compared to a domestic-platform LEGOLAND plus aquarium ticket at 488 yuan. It indicated that the official combined LEGOLAND and Aquarium admission required two days or more tickets starting at US$101 for adults plus nearly US$3 at checkout. There was also a mention of a spring promotion from March to mid-April offering three-day LEGOLAND plus Aquarium admission from US$115; the guide considered this poor value for most short-stay visitors. These prices and promotions are not current price guarantees.

Official booking interface:

Santa Monica Pacific Park

Some listed ticket features are digital tickets, multiple ticket types, and scan-to-use access valid for one year.

Express access: no.

Attraction Overview:

Pacific Park, located on Santa Monica Pier, is described as the only amusement park on the U.S. West Coast that is built over the ocean. Visitors can purchase tickets for individual rides or buy an unlimited rides digital ticket. No separate ticket is required for general admission to the park. The park features a dozen rides, including a pirate ship ride, a roller coaster, and other classic thrills, but the real draw is the Ferris wheel where visitors can enjoy wide views of the Pacific. The guide claimed it was the first and only solar-powered Ferris wheel in the world. Santa Monica Beach - This beach is one of the major beaches which is closest to central Los Angeles. It is historically known for being the western end of the Route 66 and has been a favorite for many Hollywood shoots. - It is a well-known spot for family days out and for couples to take a romantic stroll along the beach. - As the sun sets, Pacific Park extends from the sandy shores and is a bustling center of activity. - With live music and themed parties, it has become one of the trendiest spots in Los Angeles. Included in city passes: The Go Los Angeles Card included a day of unlimited rides at Pacific Park. Domestic vs international bookings: The original guide said that the official and domestic sites had identical pricing, which was also cheaper than in-park purchases. However, the official site is English only, requires an international credit card and personal details. Check the terms before purchasing. Official booking site: Ticket category 3: experience California – whale watching and Hollywood. Los Angeles is characterized by Hollywood, the Pacific, and its many theme parks. A West Coast trip can be even more special with a Southern California experience like a whale- and dolphin-watching cruise or a behind-the-scenes studio tour.

Experience: Whale and dolphin watching cruise

Real-time ticketing, digital ticketing, and ticket office voucher exchange were listed for ticket features.

Express access: no

Attraction overview:

These cruises have the opportunity to view whales and dolphins at sea as they depart from one of the harbors in the southern part of Los Angeles. According to the guide, there are whale sightings all year round, and winter and spring are the seasons for whale sightings — people like to consider themselves humpback whale watchers. As for the summer and autumn seasons, blue whale watchers are said to be frequent. The guide also mentioned the possibility of seeing minks, kingfishers, and sea lions, as well as dolphins and humpback whales. The captains and crew possess a high level of marine-biology expertise to enhance the experience. However, it must be emphasized that wildlife may never be seen. \n

City passes include:

As stated, whale- and dolphin-watching cruises are part of the Go Los Angeles Card.

Domestic vs. overseas bookings:

The original guide compared the prices of the official-site adults’ tickets, which were listed at US$32–36, and the child and senior tickets, which were listed at US$26–30 and a fixed domestic-platform price of 156 yuan. Additionally, it was stated that overseas bookings included fuel and harbor fees of approximately US$3.20 per person, while domestic bookings included them. The overseas site is said to require an overseas mobile number, use English only, and accept international credit cards. These are historical details and should be verified before traveling. \n

Official booking site:

Film experience — Warner Bros.

Studio VIP Tour Hollywood Ticket features: quick ticket issuance (within 30 seconds), digital tickets, scan-to-use digital tickets, extended ticket validity, and ticket options to combine with other attractions. Express access: no. Attraction overview: This studio experience was marketed as the opportunity to enter the production world of Hollywood, including The Big Bang Theory, Friends, Batman, Harry Potter, and 2 Broke Girls. It is fully guided and immersive and introduces participants to the work of major American film and television productions and much more, from sets and soundstages to the creative processes involved. Active productions and celebrity sightings are unpredictable and are part of the attraction. Included in city passes: The Warner Bros. Studio VIP Tour was stated to be included in The Go Los Angeles Card. Domestic and overseas booking comparison: The original guide compared domestic platforms and stated adult tickets were US$69 and children’s tickets were US$59, with prices on domestic platforms of 375 yuan for adults and 349 yuan for children. It was stated that the official site required a specific date and half-hour entry time, whereas domestic platforms required only a date. The official booking process was described as being English only and used international credit cards. These numbers should be viewed as historical data rather than current figures. Official booking interface: Ticket Category 4: City passes If you are planning to visit multiple ticketed attractions, a multi-attraction pass may be better value than purchasing individual tickets for each attraction. The two passes shown below were offered in the original guide as the best options with a potential saving of up to 55 percent. The actual savings from a headline will only work if you really go to enough attractions, so do the math before buying.

Go Los Angeles Card

Pass type: a day pass that allows entry to select attractions within a number of days.

Ticket features: instant delivery, scan and go, and 26 attractions.

Benefits: skip-the-line at some attractions, flexibility, and possible savings of almost 50% of the total price.

Summary: The pass was best suited for those spending 1 week exploring Los Angeles. List 26 attractions including Universal Studios Hollywood, Pacific Park at Santa Monica Pier, Madame Tussauds, whale watching, and Six Flags Magic Mountain with express-access products. The guide claimed potential savings of 55% off the listed price. The lists of inclusions and benefits change frequently, so check before buying.

Southern California CityPass

Pass type: a day pass that allows entry to attractions within a time frame.

Ticket features: scan and go, and according to the guide, the only pass that includes Disneyland.

Benefits: flexible planning and possible savings of almost 50% of the total price.

Summary: The guide described the pass as encompassing all of Southern California's major parks: Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, Universal Studios Hollywood, LEGOLAND California, SeaWorld San Diego, and the San Diego Zoo. The guide claimed savings of 55% compared to buying at the ticket office at each attraction. Check current inclusions, reservation requirements, and validity before you buy.

Purchase link: *

Multi-day itineraries — ready-made plans

After evaluating the ticket options, planning by location and theme is the best way to avoid Los Angeles's famous travel delays. These sample itineraries break attractions down into manageable groupings by day. **Three Day Theme Park Itinerary: Day 1: Disneyland Park Day 2: Universal Studios Day 3: Six Flags Magic Mountain. One Day in Downtown LA: Morning: The Broad — Get there early to save your spot in the line. Midday: The Last Bookstore —  For entrance to the store, there is no ticketed admission! Evening: OUE Skyspace (Check to see if California’s tallest observation deck is open) It is described as the tallest in California. One Day in Hollywood: Morning: Warner Bros. Studio VIP Tour Hollywood. Midday: Hollywood Walk of Fame + Madame Tussauds + Ripley's Believe it or Not museum. Evening: Griffith Observatory One Day Nature Itinerary: Morning: Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise Midday: The Getty Museum (no ticketed admission!)

Evening: Santa Monica Sunset followed by Pacific Park. Conclusion LA is a city that puts a premium on planning diligence. Book popular attractions first and draw from express access based on crowds. In anticipation of a packed itinerary, purchase the city attractions pass only if its offerings align with your preferences. With attractions purchased in advance of your trip, spend less time staring at checkout screens and more time at the Pacific coast, Hollywood, museums, and parks.