The site on which the world-famous Universal Studios stands is so large that it was designated a suburb called Universal City. Found on the northern side of the Hollywood Hills, Universal City contains not only the Universal Backlot where many major films and TV shows are shot, but also the massive Universal Studios Hollywood theme park, filled with rides and attractions from over 100 years of movie history.

Ask most Australians what they'd like to do in the United States, and Disneyland will appear on nearly every list. Disneyland, and the attached Disney California Adventure Park, is a sprawling complex that is part theme park, part resort, and entirely fun. The park is always adding new attractions but some, like the Walt Disney Concert Hall, have been around since its opening.

Are you the sort of person who likes to keep fit even while on holiday? If so, make sure you set some time aside to hike beautiful Runyon Canyon in the Hollywood Hills. This is one of the most popular hiking trails in Los Angeles. Plus, the spectacular view from the top of the city back towards Downtown and west to Santa Monica Pier is worth all the work.

Part of any great walking tour of West Hollywood, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a great way to not only witness a piece of true American history but also explore one of Los Angeles' most beautiful suburbs. The stars are awarded for significant contribution to the American entertainment industry, and they comprise some of the greatest talent ever to grace the stage or screen.

If you're heading into the Hollywood Hills but not really looking for a hike, you should absolutely take a moment to visit two of the area's most famous monuments: the Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign. The Griffith Observatory has featured in numerous films, including La La Land and the classic Rebel Without a Cause. The Hollywood Sign is, of course, a Los Angeles institution.

There are two major venues in Los Angeles for live entertainment. The first, the Staples Center in Downtown, is the city's most popular concert and sporting arena. Every week features a slew of high-profile artists and sports teams from the NBA and NHL on the Staples Center marquee. The second is the venerable Dodger Stadium, home to the Los Angeles Dodgers and the great American sport of baseball.

The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, located on Exposition Boulevard right across the street from the University of Southern California campus, is one of the city's most well-appointed museums. Dedicated to the study and education of our history as a species and of our planet, it's a must-visit location for anyone with a curious heart and a desire to learn.

Located on Wilshire Boulevard in Park La Brea, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art is the largest art museum in the Western United States. Dedicated to collecting works from both the modern era and antiquity, it's also one of the finest displays of work from local Los Angeles the city has to offer –not to be missed by any art lover. Exhibitions rotate frequently so check ahead and see what's on.

Located just off the San Diego Freeway near Bel Air is the Getty Center, one of Los Angeles' most celebrated art museums. Home to thousands of pieces and numerous installations both indoor and out, the Getty is the perfect place to spend a peaceful afternoon. The centre is open year-round except for specific public holidays.

If you're looking to soak in the storied history of Tinseltown, the Hollywood Museum has a collection of over 10,000 memorabilia items and artefacts from the golden age of movie making. The perfect way to kick off your tour of Hollywood, the museum is located in the old Max Factor Building and is open every day – you can book your tickets online.

The famous Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens provide an incredible way to spend a day in one of Los Angeles' most prestigious suburbs. The Huntington Library's art collection seeks to amplify the voices of local creators, ensuring many others can hear their stories. The Botanic Gardens are a tranquil place to pause, relax, and reflect on the amazing art you've just admired.