With the recent conclusion of the Olympics, all eyes are now turning to Los Angeles, set to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup as well as the 2028 Olympics and Paralympics. This vibrant city boasts an unparalleled sports scene, featuring 11 professional teams across a diverse array of sports, from American football and ice hockey to women’s basketball and soccer. The addition of cricket to the Olympics promises to offer Indian fans an extraordinary sporting experience like never before!
Take a hike – and spot a celebrity
LA is home to endless hiking trails heading up into the hills. Ranging from easy strolls to all-day adventures, there is an option for everyone. Runyon Canyon is one of the most popular routes to spot the Hollywood Sign – and it’s also a popular spot for celebrities walking their dogs and getting some exercise early in the morning. Bikes & Hikes offer guided hikes for visitors who would prefer to have someone else set the route.
Watch LA’s 11 professional sports teams in action
Football fan? American or proper football? Or what about quintessential American sports like basketball and baseball? And don’t forget ice hockey. Los Angeles has professional teams in all these sports, so no matter when you visit LA, there will always be one with their season in full swing. The venues are just as iconic as the teams, and there is even more to see this summer when the LA Clippers basketball team move to their new purpose-built arena: the Intuit Dome.
Soak up the atmosphere at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum
This historic stadium has hosted the summer Olympics twice (in 1984 and 1932): soon to be three times in 2028, which will be more than any other venue in the world. It’s now home to college football team the USC Trojans, with tours available if you aren’t visiting on a game day.
Catch a living legend at Dodger Stadium
Dodger Stadium has been home to the eponymous baseball team for more than 60 years. The baseball schedule is relentless during the spring and summer months, so there’s good innings for visitors to catch a game and spot new baseball legend Shohei Ohtani take his turn to bat. Ohtani’s $700 10-year deal is the largest baseball contract ever in the US, making him one of the world’s highest-earning athletes.
Celebrate sports icons – including Kobe Bryant – at Crypto.com Arena
Pose with your LA sporting heroes at Crypto.com Arena, from Magic Johnson to Shaquille O’Neal. Kobe Bryant’s statue was unveiled in February this year to mark the incredible career of the Lakers basketball legend, but t’s not the only way to celebrate his legacy in LA. Hundreds of murals popped up across the city following his tragic passing in 2020; so many that they’ve been plotted onto a map so fans can find their favourites.
Visit Koreatown for golf practice and BBQ
Did you know that LA’s Koreatown has a choice of golf ranges to perfect your putt? The popular neighbourhood is just a swing from the Los Angeles Country Club, the home of last year’s U.S. Open. After some practice, grab some Korean BBQ in K-Town – the largest population of Koreans outside the country itself.
Work out (or don’t) at Los Angeles Athletic Club
Much more than an exclusive gym, this storied Downtown institution gives hotel guests access to all the facilities that are usually reserved for private member’s club patrons. Forget the YMCA: these interiors are plush and perfect for imagining the golden age of Hollywood stars who stepped the halls, including Charlie Chaplain, who lived there for several years.
F1 cars at Petersen Automotive Museum
Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, the Petersen Automotive Museum is a treasure trove for motorsports fans. They currently have Red Bull Racing’s RB18 from 2022 on display. Plenty of cars have been featured in the movies, so it’s an afternoon well spent for movie buffs too – particularly with the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures across the street.
Beachside sports to live like an Angeleno
Spend the day surfing in Malibu, skateboarding in Venice, paddleboarding in Marina del Rey and playing beach volleyball in Manhattan Beach to workout like an Angeleno. Don’t miss the original Muscle Beach in Venice – a favourite haunt of Arnie. Spectate or get involved: the choice is yours.
Lights, camera, traction at Porche Experience Center
Petrol heads can get their adrenaline pumping at LA’s Porche Experience Center while developing driving skills thanks to personal instruction from their Porsche Drive Coaches. Got the need for more speed? Hire a Mustang and cruise along the coast for the quintessential California feeling.
Visit discoverlosangeles.com for more inspiration for your Los Angeles trip.
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