Where to Spot Celebrities in Los Angeles: The Ultimate Guide

If you’re heading to Los Angeles and hoping to spot a celebrity, you’re in luck—this city is packed with A-list hotspots where you can casually run into your favorite stars. Whether you want to catch a glimpse of a celeb at a trendy restaurant, a live taping, or even the airport, here’s your ultimate guide to where to see celebrities in LA.

1. Watch a Star Get Their Hollywood Walk of Fame Star

One of the easiest ways to see multiple celebrities at once is by attending a Hollywood Walk of Fame star ceremony. These public events bring out not only the honoree but also their famous friends and co-stars. I was there when Eugene Levy received his star, and Catherine O’Hara, Sarah Levy, and Jason Biggs were all there to celebrate. Keep an eye on the Hollywood Walk of Fame website for upcoming ceremonies!

2. Grab Drinks at the Tower Bar at the Sunset Tower Hotel

If you want a guaranteed celebrity sighting in Los Angeles, head to The Tower Bar at the Sunset Tower Hotel. This chic, dimly lit lounge is a favorite among Hollywood A-listers. On recent visits, I’ve seen Channing Tatum, Hailey Bieber, Zoë Kravitz, and Rebel Wilson. Just remember to be cool—no one wants to be that person fan-girling at the bar. There’s also no phones allowed while inside.

3. See a Comedy Show at The Comedy Store

Some of the biggest names in comedy (and Hollywood in general!) frequent The Comedy Store for both scheduled performances and surprise drop-ins. Depending on the night, you could see famous comedians like Bill Burr, Amy Schumer, or Tiffany Haddish, plus random celeb audience members. Other legendary comedy spots include The Laugh Factory and Largo at the Coronet.

4. Attend a TV Show Taping

Want a free way to meet celebrities in LA? Go to a TV show taping! Sitcoms, game shows, and late-night talk shows often have opportunities for fans to attend. Some celebrities even come out afterward to take photos and sign autographs. When I went to a taping of That '90s Show, I got to meet the entire cast! Look for free tickets to shows like Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Late Late Show, and sitcom tapings at Warner Bros. or CBS Studios on 1iota.com.

5. Dine at Celebrity Hotspots

LA is full of restaurants where celebrities eat, but if you want to increase your chances of spotting one, check out these tried-and-true celeb hotspots:

• Craig’s (West Hollywood) – Frequented by Kardashians and A-listers.

• Élephante (Santa Monica) – A trendy rooftop spot with incredible views.

• Bob’s Big Boy (Burbank) – A casual diner loved by Hollywood legends.

• The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker (West Hollywood) – I recently went and stumbled upon a Selling the OC filming session!

Pro tip: If you don’t have a reservation, try grabbing a seat at the bar for prime celeb-watching.

6. Keep an Eye Out at LAX

Believe it or not, most celebrities fly through the standard terminals at LAX. Next time you're at the airport, keep your eyes peeled at baggage claim and security. I recently saw cast members from Love is Blind arriving for their reunion taping.

7. Go to a Movie Premiere or Award Show Fan Section

If you’re in town during a movie premiere or major event like the Oscars, check out the fan viewing areas. These designated spots allow you to get up close as celebrities arrive on the red carpet. I once went to the Twilight: Eclipse premiere and met Taylor Lautner, Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart, Dakota Fanning, Aly & AJ, and so many more!

8. Go Bowling at PINZ in Studio City

You wouldn’t think of bowling as a celebrity activity, but PINZ Bowling Alley is a weekend hotspot. It’s where I’ve seen Avril Lavigne, Brody Jenner, and Kimberly J. Brown. If you’re looking for a laid-back celeb hangout, this is it.

9. Explore Toluca Lake & Studio City

Many celebrities live in Toluca Lake and Studio City, so you never know who you might run into at a coffee shop, grocery store, or gas station. I’ve seen Miley Cyrus and Liam Hemsworth at a 7-Eleven, Ashley Benson at Coffee Bean, and Jon Heder just walking around the neighborhood. If you want a low-key way to spot celebs, this is it.

10. Spot Celebs at Coachella

Okay, this one isn’t technically in LA, but Coachella is the ultimate celebrity playground. Every year, A-listers flock to this music festival, and you can spot them hanging out in VIP sections or walking the festival grounds. Last time, I saw Sarah Hyland, Justin & Hailey Bieber, the cast of Euphoria, Iris Apatow, Victoria Justice, and more!

Final Tips for Celebrity Spotting in Los Angeles

• Be respectful. Celebs are people too! A quick smile or nod is fine, but don’t interrupt their meals or personal time.

• Check social media. If a celeb posts from a restaurant or event, there’s a chance they’re still there!

• Visit during awards season. The weeks leading up to the Oscars, Emmys, and Golden Globes are prime celeb-spotting time.

Los Angeles is full of opportunities to see and even meet your favorite celebrities. Whether you're sipping cocktails at The Tower Bar, catching a taping of your favorite show, or strolling through Studio City, keep your eyes open—you never know who you’ll run into!

Save this guide for your next trip to LA and share it with your friends who are celeb-obsessed!