NHL Bucket List: Los Angeles Kings Travel Guide
Welcome to the ultimate NHL bucket list adventure for Los Angeles Kings hockey. If you’re a die-hard hockey fan who wants to visit every NHL arena, this is the guide for you. Get ready to check off your list as we take you on an unforgettable journey to see the Los Angeles Kings play on home ice at Crypto.com Arena.
But this trip isn’t just about watching a hockey game. We’ll also provide tips for planning your trip, preview the L.A. Kings Hockey team, and show you amazing things to do in Los Angeles during your visit.
Let’s get ready to see the puck drop for the L.A. Kings at Crypto.com arena!
The Places Where We Go contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you when you purchase using one of these Amazon links. Read our disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.
The Los Angeles Kings
The Los Angeles Kings were founded in 1967 as part of the first wave of expansion teams in the National Hockey League (NHL). Throughout their history, they have had both highs and lows, but one thing remains constant – their passionate fan base.
In 2012, the Kings made franchise history by winning their first Stanley Cup Championship. They went on to win again in 2014, solidifying their place as one of the top teams in the league. Their roster boasts some of the biggest names in hockey, including Anze Kopitar, Jonathan Quick, and Drew Doughty.
But it’s not just about winning championships – the Kings also have a strong community presence. They are involved in various charitable initiatives, such as the Kings Care Foundation, which supports youth programs and organizations in the Los Angeles area.
Doug Kerr from Albany, NY, United States, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The Arena: Crypto.com Arena
Formerly known as Staples Center, Crypto.com Arena has been the home of the L.A. Kings since its opening in 1999. Located in downtown Los Angeles, it is a multi-purpose arena hosting significant events such as concerts and basketball games.
With a capacity of over 18,000 seats, the arena provides an electric atmosphere for Kings games. From the iconic organ music to the giant video screen, there’s never a dull moment in this state-of-the-art facility.
Benoît Prieur, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
NHL Bucket List Los Angeles
Plan Your Trip to Crypto.com Arena
Now that you know a bit about the team and their home arena, it’s time to plan your trip. The best airport to fly into for Crypto.com Arena is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Depending on traffic conditions, it is typically a 17-minute drive from the airport to the arena. LAX is a convenient option.
However, if you prefer smaller airports, Burbank Airport (BUR) is also a viable option. It’s about a 30-minute drive from BUR to the arena, offering a more relaxed experience than LAX. We find Burbank Airport much simpler to get in and out of, as the crowds are much smaller than at Los Angeles International Airport. It’s a much less stressful airport, though flight options are more limited at Burbank.
No matter which airport you choose, we recommend renting a car or taking an Uber/Lyft for transportation to the game. Los Angeles has heavy traffic, so give yourself plenty of time to get to the arena and avoid missing any action.
Rent a Car in Los Angeles
If you’re flying into Los Angeles, the easiest option for a car rental is at the airport.
NHL Bucket List Los Angeles
Things to Do in Los Angeles Before a Hockey Game
Before the puck drops on a Los Angeles Kings game, make the most of your time in Los Angeles and see some of its famous attractions. You can choose from many fun activities before or after a Kings game that will make for a memorable day. We’ve rounded up a few of our favorite things to do in Los Angeles before a hockey game.
Visit Hollywood Boulevard and see the famous Walk of Fame
Wander down Hollywood Boulevard and take in the sights and sounds of this iconic area. You can see the handprints and footprints of your favorite celebrities at the TCL Chinese Theatre or stroll on the Walk of Fame, where over 2,600 stars are embedded into the sidewalk to honor famous figures from film, television, music, and more.
Book the Ultimate Hollywood Tour
This Ultimate Private Experience is Rated 5-Stars on Viator
Dietmar Rabich / Wikimedia Commons / “Los Angeles (California, USA), Hollywood Boulevard, Buddy Holly — 2012 — 4994” / CC BY-SA 4.0
Hike to get a view of the Hollywood Sign and stunning views of the city
For a unique view of the city, take a hike to get up close and personal with the famous Hollywood Sign. There are various trails of varying difficulty levels that will lead you to different viewpoints of the sign and offer breathtaking views of Los Angeles. The best hiking trail to see the Hollywood Sign is the Mount Hollywood Trail, which takes you to the highest point in Griffith Park for an unobstructed view of the sign. Don’t forget your camera for some incredible photo opportunities!
Kevin.Daniels, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Grab a bite to eat at Grand Central Market
Grand Central Market in Los Angeles is a historic landmark. This food lover’s paradise has over 40 food vendors offering diverse cuisines. From tacos and burgers to oysters and ramen, you’ll find something to please every palate. The vibrant atmosphere and unique environment make it a must-visit spot in L.A.
DXR, CC BY-SA 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Stroll down Venice Beach and people-watch
Venice Beach is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Los Angeles. This iconic beach is known for its colorful characters, street performers, and unique shops. Take a stroll along the boardwalk and soak in the lively atmosphere. You might even glimpse some famous Venice Beach regulars like the “muscle beach” weightlifters or skateboarding dogs.
Blake Everett, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Check out the Griffith Observatory for incredible exhibits about space
Located in Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory is a must-visit attraction in Los Angeles. The observatory offers free admission to its exhibits, planetarium shows, and telescopes for public use. It’s also a great spot to catch panoramic city views, including the famous Hollywood Sign.
Pedro Szekely from Los Angeles, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Visit Universal Studios Hollywood and experience movie magic firsthand
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood. This theme park offers exciting rides and attractions based on popular movies and TV shows, including the iconic Studio Tour, where you can see how movies are made. With the addition of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, there’s even more magic to experience at Universal Studios Hollywood.
BrokenSphere, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Admire art at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art
If you want a nice indoor activity, take some time to appreciate the vibrant arts scene in Los Angeles. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is the perfect place to do so. As one of the largest art museums in the western United States, LACMA’s collection boasts over 150,000 works from ancient times to the present. It’s a must-visit for any art lover.
Alfonso E. Perez-Gonzalez, CC BY 2.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Explore music history at The Grammy Museum
Located in the heart of downtown Los Angeles, The Grammy Museum has interactive exhibits and displays celebrating all genres of music. You can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Grammy Awards. From unique exhibitions to live performances and educational programs, The Grammy Museum is a special destination for music fans.
Benoît Prieur, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons
Step into Mexican culture at Olvera Street
The historic Olvera Stree district is known as the birthplace of Los Angeles, and it’s filled with Mexican culture, food, music, and vibrant colors. You can shop for traditional Mexican goods, try delicious street food, or take a guided tour of the area.
Visitor7, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Spend time in Chinatown for cultural exploration and dining
Another unique cultural experience in Los Angeles is a visit to Chinatown. This vibrant neighborhood is home to many Chinese businesses, restaurants, and shops. You can immerse yourself in the culture by exploring the colorful markets, trying authentic Chinese cuisine, or visiting one of the many temples and museums in the area.
Johnnydeezwax, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
NHL Bucket List Los Angeles
Where to Eat Before the Game
After exploring the city and taking in all that Los Angeles offers, you’re bound to work up an appetite. Luckily, there are plenty of great dining options near Crypto.com Arena. Here are three restaurants within walking distance of the arena that are perfect for a pre-game meal:
Yard House
Located just a few blocks from Crypto.com Arena, the Yard House is a popular spot for sports fans and foodies. This upscale casual restaurant offers an extensive menu of American cuisine, including burgers, steaks, salads, and more. They also have an impressive selection of over 100 beers on tap.
L.A. Live
For those looking for a variety of dining options in one spot, L.A. Live is the perfect choice. This entertainment complex is located right next to Crypto.com Arena and offers a variety of restaurants, from casual dining to upscale options. Some popular choices include Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, Tom’s Urban, and Katsuya.
The Palm
If you’re in the mood for a classic steakhouse experience, head to The Palm. Located just a short walk from Crypto.com Arena, this iconic restaurant has served top-quality steaks and seafood since 1975. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, it’s the perfect place for a pre-game dinner with friends or family.
With so many options for entertainment, dining, and cultural experiences in Los Angeles, you’ll have no problem finding something to do before heading to Crypto.com Arena for the game.
Crytpo.com Arena Overview
Formerly known as the Staples Center, Crypto.com Arena is a multi-purpose sports and entertainment arena in downtown Los Angeles. Opened in 1999, it has become one of the most iconic venues in the city. It has hosted numerous high-profile events such as NBA Finals games, Grammy Awards ceremonies, and concerts by some of the biggest names in music.
The arena has a seating capacity of over 20,000 for basketball games and over 18,000 for hockey games. It also offers luxury suites and premium seating options for a more upscale experience.
In addition to being the home of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers NBA teams, Crypto.com Arena hosts other sporting events such as NHL games, college basketball tournaments, and professional boxing matches.
But sports aren’t the only draw at Crypto.com Arena. The venue also hosts concerts and other special events, making it a popular destination for entertainment in Los Angeles. With its state-of-the-art technology and world-class facilities, Crypto.com Arena continues to attract top performers and entertainers from around the world.
During your visit, stop into the arena store to pick up a hockey puck to commemorate your visit. You can keep this souvenir from your NHL road trip in a hockey puck display case.
Cristian Statescu, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
NHL Bucket List Los Angeles
Where to Stay When Visiting Los Angeles for an L.A Kings Game
If you plan to attend an L.A. Kings game at Crypto.com Arena, several excellent hotel options are within walking distance of the venue. Here are three suggestions for a comfortable and convenient stay in downtown Los Angeles:
The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles
For a luxurious stay, look no further than The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles. This five-star hotel is just a few blocks from Crypto.com Arena and offers elegant rooms with stunning city views. It also has a rooftop pool, spa, and multiple on-site dining options for a truly indulgent experience.
Hotel Figueroa
If you’re looking for a unique and stylish stay, Hotel Figueroa is the place to go. This historic hotel is located right across the street from Crypto.com Arena and offers chic rooms with a nod to its Spanish-style architecture. It also has multiple dining options, including a rooftop bar with panoramic views of downtown Los Angeles.
Sheraton Grand Los Angeles
For a more budget-friendly option, consider staying at the Sheraton Grand Los Angeles. This modern hotel is just a short walk from Crypto.com Arena and offers comfortable rooms with all the necessary amenities for a pleasant stay. It also has a rooftop pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant for convenience.
No matter which hotel you choose, staying within walking distance of Crypto.com Arena will make attending an L.A Kings game even more convenient and enjoyable. Plus, it’s a great way to explore the vibrant downtown area of Los Angeles.
Day Trip Options for Extended Stays in Los Angeles
If you have a few extra days to explore the Southern California area, plenty of day trip options offer something different from the bustling city. Here are three options for a relaxing and fun-filled day outside of Los Angeles:
Santa Barbara
Known as the “American Riviera,” Santa Barbara is just two hours away from Los Angeles and offers stunning beaches, charming downtown areas, and beautiful wineries. Spend the day soaking up the sun on one of the many beaches or stroll along State Street, which is filled with boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries.
Joshua Tree National Park
For nature lovers, Joshua Tree National Park is a must-visit destination just two hours from Los Angeles. This desert park offers unique rock formations, hiking trails, and breathtaking views. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen for a day of exploration in this beautiful natural landscape.
Disneyland
No trip to Los Angeles is complete without a visit to the happiest place on Earth – Disneyland! Just 45 minutes from the city center, this iconic theme park offers endless entertainment with classic rides, parades, and character meet and greets. Spend the day reliving your childhood memories or creating new ones at this magical destination.
Los Angeles – Know Before You Go
✈️ Closest Airport: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX)
⏰ Time Zone: Pacific Standard Time (GMT-8); Changes to Pacific Daylight Time (GMT-7) during daylight savings time
Check out more hockey road trip destinations
Colorado Avalanche – NHL Bucket List Trip
Conclusion – NHL Bucket List Los Angeles
Every hockey fan needs to plan a visit to see a game in Los Angeles. But don’t limit yourself to the game – take advantage of everything this vibrant city offers, from delicious dining options to cultural experiences and fun day trips.
With so much to do and see, your visit to Los Angeles will be unforgettable. So don’t wait any longer – start planning your trip today and get ready to experience hockey in Los Angeles.
Thanks for reading this post! We hope to see you at the places where we go.
Julie & Art
#nhlbucketlist #losangeleskings #losangeles #hockeygame #crypto.comarena #visitingla
