As a travel advisor in Australia, I’m always on the lookout for destinations that can offer my clients more than just beautiful scenery, I want them to experience a city’s heartbeat. And after attending a recent webinar with LA Tourism, I was reminded that few places bring energy and entertainment together quite like Los Angeles.

LA is known worldwide for its glitz, glamour, and golden beaches, but its sports culture is something truly special. The city lives and breathes competition, from the Lakers and Clippers lighting up Crypto.com Arena, to Dodger Stadium’s sea of blue, and the Rams and Chargers filling SoFi Stadium with Hollywood-sized spectacle. Whether you’re courtside, in the stands, or cheering from a rooftop bar, there’s a sense of excitement that feels distinctly LA.

During the webinar, local experts spoke passionately about how LA’s sports scene reflects the city’s diversity, a melting pot of cultures and communities united by shared passion. It’s not just about the games; it’s about the experience, the food, the music, the fans, and that unmistakable California sunshine.

Listening to them, I couldn’t help but think back to my own experience catching a Boston Celtics game when I visited the US a while ago. For me, experiencing a game in America was a bucket-list moment I’ll never forget. Growing up, I lived and breathed basketball, so finally watching the Boston Celtics take on the Lakers at TD Garden was surreal, the atmosphere, the fans, the sheer energy of the game was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. We even made it onto the big screen in the centre of the court! That’s me on the right with the camera in my hand. You can read the full story of this unforgettable adventure in my Bucket List Adventures series here.

With so many third-party websites out there, it’s easy to fall victim to scams or overpriced tickets trying to source these hot comodies on you own. As a travel agent, I have access to a reputable wholesaler who sells legitimate tickets to sporting events. Booking through a trusted agent ensures not only peace of mind, but also insider knowledge on the best seats, packages, and experiences that might not be available to the general public. For Aussie travellers planning a big LA trip, this can make the difference between an unforgettable experience and a stressful one.

One important tip for anyone planning to attend a game in the US is to be mindful of stadium policies, especially when it comes to bags and personal items. Most arenas, including TD Garden and LA’s major venues, enforce clear bag policies, only transparent or small clutch-style bags are allowed. It’s a small detail, but being prepared can save you time at security and ensure you don’t miss a moment of the action. Checking the venue’s website before you go is always a smart move, so you can enjoy the game stress-free and focus entirely on the experience.

If your favourite sport is out of season, Los Angeles has plenty to offer sports fans. Many of the city’s iconic stadiums and arenas, like Crypto.com Arena, SoFi Stadium, and Dodger Stadium, offer behind-the-scenes tours where you can explore areas usually reserved for players and staff. Some tours even let you step onto the actual playing field, walk through locker rooms, and get a true insider’s perspective of what it’s like to be part of a professional team. It’s an incredible way to experience the excitement of LA sports, even when games aren’t happening.

For Aussie travellers, LA’s sports scene offers a perfect blend of big-league excitement and local culture. You can start your day at Venice Beach, then spend your evening cheering on LeBron and the Lakers or join the electric crowd at an LAFC soccer match, where the atmosphere rivals any stadium in Europe.

So, when planning your next US getaway, remember that LA isn’t just about movie stars and palm trees, it’s a city where sport is part of the story. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just along for the ride, there’s no better way to feel the pulse of Los Angeles than from the stands.