Inside LA: Discover What's New in Los Angeles for Summer 2026
Welcome to Los Angeles Tourism’s summer update, your essential resource for helping clients discover what’s new across the city.
This edition highlights technology-driven attractions, family itinerary options, expanded nonstop air service to Los Angeles International Airport, the refreshed Hilton Garden Inn LAX, and customized destination services from Made USA.
Don't miss LA's Hidden Gems, where Meryl Vissel, Senior Director of Corporate Communications, shares family-friendly favorites from around the region.
We’d also like to thank our travel trade partners for helping visitors from around the world experience the FIFA World Cup 2026™ this summer. Your partnership helped create lasting memories while showcasing everything that makes our city a world-class destination.
Sincerely,
Your Global Tourism Development Team
New Air Service Expands Global Access to Los Angeles International Airport
Los Angeles continues to strengthen its global connectivity with the launch of new nonstop international air service to LAX. These routes are now operating from key international markets, making it easier for clients to reach the city.
- EgyptAir: Cairo (CAI) to Los Angeles (LAX), nonstop, 3x weekly
- Royal Air Maroc: Casablanca (CMN) to Los Angeles (LAX), nonstop, 3x weekly
- Delta Air Lines: Hong Kong (HKG) to Los Angeles (LAX), nonstop, daily
Emerging Technologies Create New Reasons to Visit
Technology is reshaping the Los Angeles visitor experience, creating new ways for visitors to arrive, explore, and engage with the city. The opening of DATALAND, the world's first Museum of AI Arts, joins innovations at LAX, autonomous transportation, and immersive venues such as COSM and Meow Wolf, showcasing how technology is transforming travel across the region.
New Options for Family Itineraries
Family travelers can spend several days exploring Los Angeles, with attractions across the city, such as Universal Studios Hollywood, the Battleship IOWA Museum, the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures, and El Capitan Theatre.
For families looking to minimize travel time, Exposition Park brings several stops together within a walkable campus, including the California Science Center, Natural History Museum, LA Memorial Coliseum, and Rose Garden. There will be more to explore this fall, with the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art scheduled to open September 22, followed by the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center on November 13. The new Air and Space Center will display the only complete space shuttle system in launch position with the orbiter Endeavour, solid rocket boosters, and external tank. With ample parking, stroller-friendly pathways, and plenty of open green spaces, Exposition Park is an ideal stop for a full-day family outing.
A Renovated Stay Near LAX: Hilton Garden Inn LAX
Renovated in September 2025, Hilton Garden Inn LAX Los Angeles Airport features 280 updated guest rooms and suites with refreshed furnishings and in-room technology. Located one mile from LAX, the hotel provides a complimentary airport shuttle, on-site restaurant, 24-hour market, fitness center, and outdoor pool. With SoFi Stadium, Intuit Dome, and the Kia Forum nearby, the property is a practical option for stopovers or sports and entertainment trips.
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Debuts New Superman Experience
Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood has introduced Superman Experience: Defenders Unite, an interactive attraction that invites guests to step into Superman’s world through immersive technology and active gameplay. The approximately one-hour offering takes participants on a globe-spanning mission before concluding with access to the Fortress of Solitude, where visitors can enjoy themed games, unique character-inspired elements, and special retail offerings.
Customized Luxury Destination Services from Made USA
Made USA along with founder Noel Peterson were recently named Condé Nast Traveler Top Travel Specialist for 2026. As a Los Angeles-based luxury DMC, they provide customized itinerary planning, VIP access, transportation coordination, and on-the-ground destination services for FIT, luxury, and private group travel. Their local expertise can help create personalized experiences while streamlining the planning process.
Hidden Gems of Los Angeles: Discover LA Tourism Team’s Insider Picks
LA Tourism's Senior Director of Corporate Communications, Meryl Vissel, shares her insider picks for family outings across Los Angeles, featuring places where little ones can play, parents can unwind, and everyone can discover something new.
Take a train ride through Descanso Gardens: One of our favorite family outings, Descanso Gardens offers a peaceful escape with seasonal blooms, winding paths, and plenty of space for little ones to explore. We never miss a ride on the Descanso Railroad, a miniature train that winds through the gardens and adds a little extra magic for kids and adults alike.
Ride The Grove Trolley and grab a bite at The Original Farmers Market: A visit to The Grove is always a hit with the little ones, especially when it includes a ride on the iconic green trolley. When I need to do a little shopping, I usually send my husband and kids off on the trolley while I browse. Afterward, we head next door to the Original Farmers Market, where dozens of food vendors offer something for every taste. I can always count on finding something my picky 4-year-old will eat, along with an "adventure bite" that encourages him to try something new.
Spend the day at the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens: On any given weekend, you’ll likely catch my family at the Los Angeles Zoo & Botanical Gardens. My son loves checking in on his favorite animals, the World of Birds Show, and the massive, shaded playground area, but the highlight of every trip is a ride on the zoo's carousel.
In town on a Sunday? Try a two-trains-in-one-day adventure in Griffith Park: If your child loves trains as much as my son does, this is a can't-miss outing. Start at Travel Town Museum (open Tuesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.), where little ones can get up close to real locomotives and railcars, then head to the Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad Museum (open only on Sundays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.) for a ride aboard the miniature trains. It's one of our favorite ways to spend a Sunday and a fun adventure for train enthusiasts of all ages.
Grab a coffee at The Trails and explore Griffith Park: Start the day with a coffee and pastry from The Trails, then take a stroll through Fern Dell's shaded pathways and scenic surroundings. Nearby playgrounds and open spaces in Griffith Park give kids plenty of room to run, climb, and explore, making it one of our favorite low-key family outings.
Discover marine life at Aquarium of the Pacific: As a mom of a baby and a toddler, I love that the Aquarium of the Pacific offers something for both ages. While the baby is mesmerized by the colorful fish and glowing jellyfish exhibits, my older child enjoys getting up close to sea life and exploring the interactive displays. It's an easy family outing that's engaging, educational, and stroller-friendly.
