Los Angeles is a modern, sophisticated city where culture is king. It is located in Southern California on the Pacific Coast. This City of Angels was established by the Spaniards 1781. Los Angeles was merely a ranch town when the US appropriated it from Mexico in 1846, but by the 20th century the film industry shone a spotlight on L.A.

The city of 3.5 million sprawls across 467 square miles of desert basin, mountain canyons, and coastal beaches. If there was one word to describe Los Angles it would have to be diverse; for diversity is not only a characteristic of Los Angeles' geography, but it also describes the approximately 11 million people who call it home. The largest population of Pacific Islanders in the nation lives here, as well as the world's third-largest Hispanic population. Los Angeles is home to people from over 140 countries speaking 96 different languages.

Attractions in this city are numerous and varied. There are more than 2,000 museums, galleries, theaters and other attractions in Los Angeles. Los Angeles features itself as a great hostess providing its visitors with activities such as museums, beaches, restaurants, performing arts, people watching and sports. Take a stroll through vintage Hollywood along the Walk of Fame, stopping to catch a show at Mann's Chinese Theatre, then duck into the Roosevelt Hotel, recently restored to its old Hollywood glory. Rodeo Drive showcases the latest trends. No matter where you travel in and near Los Angeles, there is something exciting to do or see. The area also features dozens of annual events, from parades, to sporting meets to festivals.
See our City Guide for more information about Los Angeles, California.