Its original name was a mouthful: When founded in 1781, L.A. was called El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles del Río de Porciúncula, which translates to “The Town of Our Lady the Queen of the Angels on the Porciúncula River”.
It’s hosted the Summer Olympics twice—in 1932 and 1984—and will do so again in 2028.
The Hollywood sign used to say “Hollywoodland”: It was originally an ad for a real estate development in the 1920s.
L.A. has more cars than people: This makes parking a daily adventure and contributes to its infamous traffic.
It’s a museum lover’s paradise: The city boasts over 105 museums and 225 theaters.
The first movie theater in California opened here: Tally’s Electric Theatre debuted in 1902, marking the start of L.A.'s film legacy.
It’s home to five mountain ranges: Nature lovers can hike, bike, or ski just a short drive from downtown.
The city has many nicknames: From “La-La Land” to “The Big Orange,” L.A. wears many hats.
It has one of the largest Chinatowns in the U.S.: A vibrant cultural hub with deep historical roots.
It’s illegal to lick toads in L.A.: Yes, really. Some toads secrete hallucinogenic substances, and the law frowns on that kind of experimentation.
