Just like the song says: I love LA! With its sun-drenched coast, iconic skyline, and unbeatable entertainment, it’s easy to get swept up in the Hollywood buzz.
As an on-site host with Roadtrips, I’ve been helping guests navigate world-class cities during premier sporting events, and let me tell you … Los Angeles is absolutely one of the best! It gives you the opportunity to enjoy Pacific Coast climate, the celebrity lifestyle, and you better believe there are sports things to do in Los Angeles!
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share everything you need to know about exploring LA as a sports fan.
Vámonos!
Fan Hard with the Los Angeles Pro Teams
Baseball:
Los Angeles Dodgers – Dodger Stadium: the third-oldest stadium in MLB offers stunning views of the San Gabriel Mountains. From the roar of the crowd to the crack of the bat, it’s a baseball lover’s dream. Grab a Dodger Dog and settle in for nine innings of LA tradition.
Los Angeles Angels – Angel Stadium: The home of the Rally Monkey (and my favorite baseball team) is located walking distance to Disneyland! The Honda Center hockey arena isn’t far away, either.
Basketball:
Los Angeles Lakers – Crytpo.com Arena: The iconic franchise with 17 championships. The Showtime crowd is electric, and you will almost definitely spot a celebrity or two courtside.
Los Angeles Clippers – Intuit Dome: This brand-new arena in Inglewood is a game-changer for the franchise and offers cutting-edge fan experiences.
Los Angeles Sparks – Crypto.com Arena: One of the WNBA’s original teams. High-level competition and a high-energy setting.
Hockey:
Los Angeles Kings – Crypto.com Arena: Don’t underestimate LA’s hockey scene. The Kings have a loyal fanbase, and their Stanley Cup wins made them legends in SoCal.
Anaheim Ducks – Honda Center: Located in Anaheim, the Ducks offer a more relaxed, family friendly vibe with top-tier play.
Football:
Los Angeles Rams & Los Angeles Chargers – SoFi Stadium: The stadium itself is an attraction. SoFi Stadium boasts a 360-degree Oculus video board and ultra-modern design. It hosted Super Bowl LVI and is set to be a central venue for the 2028 Olympics.
Soccer:
Los Angeles FC – BMO Stadium: Known for its passionate fanbase (shoutout to the 3252), LAFC games feel like a party. Drums, chants, and non-stop energy.
Los Angeles Galaxy – Dignity Health Sports Park: The five-time MLS champs have a rich history and a loyal following, an original MLS team founded in 1996. It’s a great atmosphere for families and longtime soccer fans alike.
Rah Rah Rah with Los Angeles College Sports Teams
USC Trojans
Football – LA Memorial Coliseum: The stadium has hosted Olympics, Super Bowls, and national championships. It’s dripping with history.
Basketball – Galen Center: Sleek and modern with great sightlines. It’s a solid spot to watch college hoops without the massive crowds.
UCLA Bruins
Football – Rose Bowl: Nestled in Pasadena, this is one of the most scenic college football venues in the nation. Tailgating here is legendary.
Basketball – Pauley Pavilion: Home to John Wooden’s dynasty. It’s a cathedral for college basketball fans.
Attend World Class Sporting Events in Los Angeles
- Los Angeles Marathon (March): A 26.2-mile journey from Dodger Stadium to Santa Monica. Run it, or cheer runners along the course.
- NBA All-Star Game 2026: LA will host at the Intuit Dome. Expect a full weekend of activities, celebrity games, and fan fests.
- International Soccer Events: LA is a hub for international soccer, hosting matches for the 2025 Club World Cup and 2026 World Cup.
- Super Bowl 2027: Returning to SoFi Stadium. Expect massive tailgates, parties, and A-list musical acts.
- 2028 Summer Games & Paralympics: LA becomes the epicenter of global sports. Events will take place across iconic venues like the Coliseum, SoFi, and UCLA.
Experience Unique Los Angeles Sports Activities
- Surfing in Malibu: Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned surfer, Malibu’s waves are perfect. Local schools like Aqua Surf offer lessons.
- Beach Volleyball at Manhattan Beach: Known as the volleyball capital of the world, these courts offer both competitive and casual matches.
- Venice Beach Basketball Courts: Featured in countless movies. You’ll find everything from casual pick-up games to fierce local rivalries.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding in Marina del Rey: Calm waters make it ideal for beginners. Plus, it’s a peaceful way to explore the coast.
- Cycling at the VELO Sports Center: Try your hand at velodrome racing with an introductory course.
- Porsche Experience Center: Race high-performance cars in a controlled environment—perfect for adrenaline junkies.
Stay in Shape as the Angelinos Do
- Runyon Canyon: A favorite for hikers, runners, and celebrity-spotters. Sweeping views of the city make it worth the climb.
- Griffith Park Trails: From casual walks to challenging hikes, the trails offer something for every level of fitness.
- The Strand (Marvin Braude Bike Trail): A 22-mile bike path running along the beach—from Pacific Palisades to Torrance.
- Outdoor Yoga: Many studios offer classes in scenic settings like Echo Park and Santa Monica.
- CrossFit and Boutique Studios: From Barry’s to SoulCycle, LA is a hub for cutting edge fitness trends.
- Catalina Island: just an hour by ferry from LA and visible from the beaches. It’s perfect for outdoor lovers—hike scenic trails, snorkel in clear waters, or kayak along the coast. In Avalon, you’ll find charming shops, fresh seafood, and golf carts instead of cars. Don’t miss the hike to Wrigley Memorial for great views. You can also charter a plane or take a helicopter! Roadtrips can help you plan your excursion as part of our At Your Service support ahead of your event.
- Muscle Beach: pump iron with the unique individuals at Venice Beach’s famous Muscle Beach! A small fee gets you a day pass. Don’t be afraid to wear your skimpiest workout wear, you won’t be alone!
Take a Break With One of the Top Cultural Spots in Los Angeles
- The Getty Center: Stunning art collections and panoramic views.
- LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art): Iconic for its Urban Light installation and diverse exhibits.
- The Broad: Home to contemporary giants like Jeff Koons and Yayoi Kusama.
- Hollywood Bowl: Catch a concert under the stars in this legendary outdoor amphitheater.
- Walt Disney Concert Hall: Architectural masterpiece and home of the LA Philharmonic.
- La Brea Tar Pits & Museum: A fascinating dive into prehistoric LA.
Golf at a Majestic Los Angeles Public Golf Course
Public golf in LA sometimes gets a bad rap for slow rounds and hard-to-book tee times. If you know where to look, there’s a lot to love. Whether you’re a scratch player chasing challenging layouts or a casual golfer just looking for sunshine and fun, this city has something for you. These courses have made my life richer, my short game sharper (sometimes), and my weekends way more memorable.
Hands down, my favorite public track in the region. Designed by Gil Hanse, Rustic Canyon is a minimalist masterpiece with wide fairways, strategic bunkering, and a fast, firm layout that changes with the seasons. It’s pure golf—no frills, just great architecture and incredible playability.
This Jack Nicklaus design in the foothills of the Angeles National Forest has a rugged, desert-style feel that’s unlike most LA courses. It’s tough, especially in the wind, but it’s visually stunning and meticulously maintained. Great challenge if you’re feeling confident with your driver.
Okay, I’m stretching the Greater LA boundary a bit here, but it’s worth it. Both Ocean courses offer five-star service, stunning cliffside vistas, and tournament-quality conditions. If you’re celebrating a special round or hosting friends from out of town, this is a must-play.
Right next to the Rose Bowl, Brookside has two solid courses that host everything from high school matches to city championships. It’s classic municipal golf—well-priced, walkable, and good for golfers of all skill levels. The 36-hole setup means you can usually find a tee time, even last-minute.
“ElDo,” as locals call it, has that classic parkland vibe—mature trees, walkable routing, and enough length to keep things interesting. It’s one of my favorite places for a relaxed weekend round or a twilight nine with buddies.
HONORABLE MENTION: Torrey Pines (San Diego, but hear me out…)
Yes, it’s in San Diego. No, I’m not apologizing. If you’re up for a two-hour drive, playing Torrey Pines—especially the South Course—is like walking in the footsteps of PGA legends. Plus, the twilight rates are surprisingly reasonable for a U.S. Open venue.
Go Shopping in one of the Top 5 Los Angeles Shopping Districts
- Rodeo Drive (Beverly Hills): High-end luxury shopping at its finest.
- The Grove: An open-air mall with a lively atmosphere, plus the historic Farmers Market next door.
- Melrose Avenue: Edgy boutiques, vintage shops, and street art galore.
- Abbot Kinney Boulevard (Venice): Trendy fashion, artisan goods, and chic cafes.
- Westfield Century City: Upscale mall with a modern vibe, featuring everything from Zara to Eataly.
Visit Sports Museums and Landmarks in Los Angeles
Sports lovers will appreciate LA’s collection of museums and tributes to athletic greatness.
Petersen Automotive Museum: Especially the motorsports exhibit and The Vault.
UCLA Athletic Hall of Fame: See memorabilia from Olympic athletes and basketball legends.
USC Heritage Hall: Highlights include Heisman Trophies and Olympic medals.
LA84 Foundation Sports Library: A deep archive of Olympic and sports history.
Dodger Stadium Tour: Get behind-the-scenes access to the clubhouse, press box, and dugout.
Watch Sports on the Big Screen: Best Sports Bars in Los Angeles
If you can’t score a ticket, LA’s sports bar scene is next best:
- Cosm: It’s less of a sports bar and more of an experience … an immersive dome that will make you feel like you’re at the event.
- LAces (Koreatown): A sneakerhead-meets-sports vibe with an amazing menu.
- Tom’s Watch Bar: Giant screens, stadium-style seating, and a rooftop view.
- Busby’s West (Santa Monica): Multi-room setup and tons of TVs. A westside staple. Free arcade games Sunday-Wednesday!
- 33 Taps: Great for craft beer lovers and casual games.
- The Garage on Motor Ave: Retro bowling meets sports bar.
- Biergarten (Koreatown): Korean BBQ and cold beer with wall-to-wall sports coverage.
- Ye Rustic Inn: It’s a dive bar with the best wings in town. You’ve been warned.
Visit One of the Best Neighborhoods for Sports Lovers
Inglewood
Home to SoFi Stadium and the Intuit Dome, Inglewood is the newest epicenter of LA sports. The area is undergoing a renaissance with great food options, local shops, and easy stadium access.
Downtown Los Angeles / LA Live
Steps from Crypto.com Arena, LA Live offers bars, restaurants, and nightlife all in walking distance. Stay here for convenience and energy.
Pasadena
Home to the Rose Bowl, this charming area offers great brunch spots, historic architecture, and a laid-back vibe.
South Bay
Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach are hotspots for beach sports. You’ll also find surf shops, local breweries, and volleyball tournaments year round.
Keep an Eye Out for the Top Los Angeles Celebrity Sports Fans
- Jack Nicholson (Lakers): The ultimate courtside regular, Jack has been a fixture at Lakers games for decades, his sunglasses and glare as legendary as his film career.
- Snoop Dogg (USC Trojans & LA Kings): The rapper is a die-hard USC football fan and often rocks LA Kings gear. He’s even taken to the ice for charity events.
- Magic Johnson (Lakers & Dodgers): The Lakers legend is now a part-owner of the Dodgers and a major ambassador for LA sports.
- Kendrick Lamar (LA Rams & Dodgers): The Pulitzer-winning rapper reps LA hard and is often seen at Rams games and Dodgers postseason runs.
- Will Ferrell (LAFC & USC): A passionate LAFC supporter and part-owner, Will’s sideline antics are as entertaining as his movies.
- Rihanna (Lakers): She’s been spotted courtside at Lakers games many times, often bringing high fashion to the hardwood.
- Ice Cube (Raiders & Lakers): Though still loyal to the Raiders, Ice Cube’s Lakers fandom runs deep. He’s vocal and proud.
- Billy Crystal (Clippers): A loyal Clippers fan even before the team rose to prominence—his dedication is real.
- LeBron James (Lakers): Not just a player, but also a celebrity fan of LA sports. You’ll catch him supporting the Dodgers and Rams too.
Seeing celebrities at games is a uniquely LA experience. It adds extra sparkle to the energy in the arena—and you never know who you’ll be sitting next to.
Tips for Visiting Sports Fans
Here are some things to know before diving into LA’s sports scene:
- Did you hear that the traffic is bad in LA? LA traffic is no joke. Leave early and use rideshare apps or public transit for big games.
- Book Early: Big events sell out fast—from tickets to hotels. Book at least 2–3 months ahead, and let Roadtrips make it easy for you!
- Stay Close to the Venue: For big events at SoFi or Crypto.com Arena, stay nearby to avoid post-game gridlock.
- Dress in Layers: Temps drop at night—even in summer.
- Be Respectful of Fan Culture: LA fans are passionate. Whether it’s a Lakers crowd or LAFC supporters, show respect and join the fun.
Getting To and Getting Around Los Angeles
Los Angeles is made up of 88 cities within LA County, each with its own vibe. The city is sprawling, so don’t expect to walk everywhere. Renting a car is your best bet, but rideshares like Uber and Lyft work well if you’re sticking to central areas like Hollywood, Downtown, or Santa Monica. Believe it or not, there is a subway! But no one recommends taking it.
You can get to LA by air through LAX or Burbank Airport, by train via Amtrak’s Union Station, or even by cruise ship docking at the Port of Los Angeles in San Pedro.
Start with the classics—walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame, hike up to the Griffith Observatory for a view of the Hollywood Sign, and catch a sunset at Venice Beach. Silver Lake is trendy and artsy, Beverly Hills is upscale and surreal, and Koreatown is packed with great late-night eats.
If you’re into art or history, The Getty and LACMA are must-sees. I also love the food— tacos from trucks, fresh sushi, and brunch spots in every direction. Just be patient with the traffic—it’s part of the experience. Honestly, I spent more time sitting on the 405 than I care to admit, but the views (and podcasts) helped.
Plan loosely, expect delays, and give yourself time to explore. LA is best experienced at a relaxed pace. Trust your curiosity, follow the sunshine, and let the city surprise you.
What’s Next? The Future of Sports in LA
Between the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Summer Games, LA’s sports scene is only heating up. Intuit Dome will redefine basketball experiences, and upcoming infrastructure improvements will make travel easier. Expect more international games, youth sports programs, and sports tech innovation in the years ahead.
Final Thoughts: LA Is a Sports Lover’s Dream
From catching a game at Dodger Stadium to tailgating at the Rose Bowl, surfing in Malibu to watching global athletes at the Olympics, LA offers a rare mix of elite competition, historic venues, and lifestyle fun. It’s a destination that satisfies hardcore fans and casual spectators alike.
Want to be part of sports history?
Join Roadtrips for the 2028 Summer Games in Los Angeles.
Custom travel packages available now!
Plan early, pack your jersey, and get ready—because LA’s game is just getting started.
