The Olympics is a highly anticipated event that has millions of spectators! The upcoming LA Summer Olympics 2028 will bring this global celebration of sports and culture to the charming city of Los Angeles. From July 14 to July 30, 2028, California will become a bustling hub of excitement for sports enthusiasts.
Thinking about attending? Now is the perfect time to start planning your trip! This guide will lead you through many of the most stressful parts of the journey, letting you focus on the wondrous spectacles ahead.
Table of Contents
When and Where are the LA 2028 Olympics?
How to Get Tickets for the LA 2028 Olympics
Where to Stay in Los Angeles During the Olympics
Transportation During the LA 2028 Summer Olympics
What to do in Los Angeles Besides the Olympics
When and Where are the LA 2028 Olympics?
The LA Summer Olympics will be held from July 14 to July 30, 2028, and the Paralympics will be held from August 15 to August 27. The competitions will take place across several different areas in Los Angeles County and its surrounding regions, showcasing the diverse landscapes of the region.
Opening & Closing Ceremonies
The current time estimated will be around 7:00pm on July 14th & July 30th, so make sure to plan accordingly for those. These will be located in the newly developed SOFI Stadium, a stadium that already holds Olympic history and significance, the LA Memorial Coliseum!
Venue locations
The LA 2028 Olympic venues will host competitions at multiple venues. We will categorize them by region to help you plan your travel more efficiently.
Downtown Los Angeles: The heart of the Olympics, it will host a variety of sporting events, including gymnastics, basketball finals, and baseball, with many indoor events taking place at venues such as Crypto.com Arena, the Los Angeles Convention Center, and Dodger Stadium.
Inglewood: Home to SoFi Stadium, which hosts ceremonies and swimming competitions, and the new Intuit Dome arena for basketball games.
San Fernando Valley: Located north of Hollywood, this area will host equestrian, shooting, and canoe sprint competitions at venues such as the Sepulveda Basin.
Other Venues: Other Olympic venues include the Rose Bowl in Pasadena for soccer, Santa Anita Park in Arcadia for equestrian, and Lower Trestle in San Clemente for surfing.
How to Get Tickets for the LA 2028 Olympics
Wondering how to get LA Olympics 2028 tickets? There are various ticket options available. You can purchase tickets for individual events, day passes, or tickets for the opening and closing ceremonies. However, please use official channels to avoid fraud.
Official Ticketing Channels: The only safe way to purchase tickets is through official channels, which will be announced by the LA28 Organizing Committee. You can register on the official website first, and ticketing information will be sent to you via email. Another option is to purchase hospitality packages from official providers such as On Location, which typically include guaranteed tickets, hotel accommodation, and local transportation.
The Lottery System: Based on recent Olympics (like Paris 2024), ticket sales will likely begin with a pre-registration phase, followed by a lottery system. This gives everyone an equal opportunity to purchase highly coveted tickets for events to attend for the LA 2028 Olympics like the Opening Ceremony, gymnastics, or basketball finals. Make sure to keep checking the LA28.org website for more updates on ticketing, which could begin as early as mid-to-late 2026.
Although ticket prices have not yet been announced, they typically vary depending on the popularity of the event, location, and round of competition. For example, tickets for the 2024 Paris Olympics range from several hundred to over a thousand dollars for the opening ceremony. Tickets for some popular events cost several hundred dollars.
Where to Stay in Los Angeles During the Olympics
The 2028 Los Angeles Olympics have many incredible events to watch out for. Keeping this in mind, it is important to note that different sports will be held in sport venues across LA County, and in the surrounding counties as well. Therefore, the best strategy is to first decide which LA Olympics 2028 venues you plan to visit, and then choose your accommodation. Make sure to check out the map below to locate the option closest to your preferred sport!
Downtown LA (DTLA)
Events – Opening & Closing Ceremonies, Athletics, Water Polo (Finals), Gymnastics, Basketball (Finals), Fencing, Martial Arts, Table Tennis, Weightlifting, Badminton, Baseball/Softball, Cycling, Marathon, Swim/Dive, Flag Football, Lacrosse
- The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles: Incredible hotel that is perfect for a guest who seeks luxury and high-class travel. This hotel is also exceptionally convenient, and is near many metro lines, connecting you throughout Los Angeles, and to many different Olympic venues.
- Freehand Los Angeles: This is an exceptional option for those who want to be more central to the Olympic events, but are working with a budget. This is an amazing boutique-style hotel, which has an incredible and unique atmosphere! This will be a great option when opting for a budget-friendly place to stay during the Olympics. You can easily take the metro from Freehand LA as well, making it especially convenient!
Inglewood/Hollywood
Events – Opening & Closing Ceremonies (Sofi Stadium), Swimming, Water Polo, Basketball, Cycling, Equestrian, Cross-Country
- Fairmont Century Plaza (Century City): This hotel is a beautiful and luxurious hotel in Century City, and is quite ideal for a relaxing getaway to recharge after the long, eventful days of the Olympics. Though there isn’t a direct metro station, there are buses that transport to DTLA, and to many of the venues for the events listed above.
- The Moment Hotel: This is a unique, vintage-style boutique hotel with modern, trendy rooms. This is a more budget-friendly option and is also quite convenient when traveling to different venues. It is a 10-15 minute walk from the Red Line (metro), and is quite convenient from there.
Long Beach
Events – Handball, BMX Racing, Skateboarding, Triathlon, Marathon, Swimming, Sailing, Indoor Volleyball, Water Polo
- Hyatt Regency Long Beach: A lovely, waterfront hotel with incredible views and amenities. For those looking for a high quality and relaxing stay, this is the hotel that will fulfill all of your wishes and more! But a bit further from the metro line, the Hyatt Regency may not be as convenient for connecting to Los Angeles.
- Hotel Royal: Another incredible boutique hotel in Long Beach. It is conveniently located near the waterfront and is perfect for those looking for a more budget-friendly, clean, convenient, and comfortable stay near the events listed above. This hotel is also much closer to the Blue Line, and can connect you to DTLA through the metro system!
Valley
Events – Canoe Sprint, Archery, Shooting, Rowing, Judo, Wrestling, Golf
- The Garland: This is a vintage, unique 4-star hotel, with stylish decor & a unique atmosphere and ambiance. Also incredibly convenient, and has access to a lot of the metro lines that will be perfect for transportation to different events.
- Best Western Plus Carriage Inn: This is a popular option for a budget-friendly hotel in the Valley! There are great amenities and clean, comfortable rooms, perfect for your stay!
San Gabriel Valley (SGV)
Events – Soccer, Rugby, Tennis, Petathlon, Field Hockey, Track Cycling, Mountain Biking, Equestrian, Shotgun Shooting
- Langham Huntington Pasadena: Perfect for those who want a higher-end experience! It is in an incredible area, and quite close to the above events in the San Gabriel Valley.
- Hilton Garden Inn Los Angeles Montebello: This is a lovely hotel for travellers looking to have clean, comfortable, and simple travel. This hotel is perfect for travellers on a budget, and it even serves complimentary breakfast!
Overall, these hotels are great for a wide variety of options for lodging for the 2028 Summer Olympics! Beyond hotels, consider checking out Airbnb for more diverse and spacious places to stay in LA during the Olympics. Booking well in advance is essential as prices will rise and availability will shrink closer to the event.
Transportation During the LA 2028 Summer Olympics
Arguably, the most stressful part of the trip is the transportation. Flight tickets, chaos with traffic, complicated routes, and train switches. Don’t worry! Here are some secrets to having the most effortless and simple transportation for the LA 2028 Summer Olympics.
- Airports: Los Angeles International Airport (may be very busy due to incoming visitors), Ontario International Airport, John Wayne Airport, Long Beach Airport.
- Los Angeles Public Transportation: During the Olympics, the metro and bus system will be a more reliable way to get around Los Angeles. The system is currently being expanded, with new lines and improved services being accelerated specifically for the 2028 Olympics. The E line connects downtown to Santa Monica, while the K line goes directly to Inglewood and SoFi Stadium. We recommend purchasing a day pass, which will be the most cost-effective solution.
- Olympic Shuttle Bus: To supplement the existing public transportation system, the Los Angeles Metro plans to add 3,000 additional buses for the Olympics. Highway lanes will also be designated for buses to enhance efficiency.
Los Angeles is a highly populated city! Especially with the influx of thousands of people attending the Olympics, be prepared for transportation. Here are some tips to remember when planning your trip.
- If driving through DTLA, make sure to anticipate highly congested traffic. Try to avoid driving as much as possible, and stick to bus or metro lines!
- Avoid walking or driving through unfamiliar neighborhoods, such as Skid Row & Fashion District. Make sure to stay in more populated and lit areas, especially at night.
- There will be Olympic-specific paths, shuttle stops, and more.
- Rush hour in LA is usually 2pm-7pm, so be sure to plan travelling and transportation outside of these hours!
- Keep in mind the travel time on Metro & Public Transportation may be slow/have frequent delays. Plan ahead, and consider these to ensure that you won’t miss any important events.
What to do in Los Angeles Besides the Olympics
While the Olympics will undoubtedly be the main attraction, Los Angeles is a city with endless opportunities for entertainment, culture, and relaxation. If you have some free time between events or want to extend your trip, here are some ideas on how to spend it.
Popular Tourist Attractions
Do you have a bit of free time in between events? Did you save a couple of days for exploring Los Angeles? Great! Here are a few options for activities and attractions while visiting LA for the 2028 Olympics!
The Hollywood Sign and Griffith Observatory: Los Angeles’ most famous landmarks. You can hike along the trail to see the Hollywood Sign, then head to Griffith Observatory to enjoy incredible panoramic views of the city, especially at sunset. The observatory itself is a science and space museum with free admission.
Santa Monica Pier: This iconic pier marks the end of the legendary Route 66. It’s a bustling spot with an amusement park, aquarium, street performers, and restaurants.
The Getty Center: This beautiful museum complex is perched on a hill in Brentwood, housing an impressive collection of pre-20th-century European art, stunning architecture, manicured gardens, and breathtaking city views.
Universal Studios Hollywood: It is both an operational film studio and a theme park, making it an ideal destination for families.
Disneyland: This is the first theme park opened by Walt Disney, taking you to a joyful fairy tale world that is also suitable for families.
Rodeo Drive and Beverly Hills: Shop along the world-famous Rodeo Drive, home to high-end boutiques and designer stores, and take photos of the iconic Beverly Hills sign.
Museum Row: Located on Wilshire Boulevard, this stretch is home to some of Los Angeles’ best museums. You can see modern art at The Broad, view a vast collection spanning art history at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), and even see a mammoth skeleton at La Brea Tar Pits & Museum.
Olympic-Only Activities
Beyond the popular attractions, the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympics will also offer a variety of unique events, which are part of the broader Olympic celebration. However, specific details and schedules will be finalized closer to the time of the Olympics.
Cultural Olympic Events: The Organizing Committee is collaborating with the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs to host a variety of arts and cultural events. The program will include everything from public art installations and live performances to exhibitions and festivals celebrating the city’s creativity and diverse communities. We may see new murals, unique art projects, and performances in public spaces throughout the city.
Official Fan Festival: Throughout the Olympics, Los Angeles may host several official fan zones or public viewing areas. These will be free outdoor festivals featuring big-screen viewing of the games, live music, food and beverage vendors, and opportunities to meet athletes and participate in interactive activities.
Food Suggestions
Food is often something many stress out over. Don’t worry! Los Angeles has it all! Cheap? Delicious? Diverse? Quick? Late nights? Perfect. Here are some food options that will satisfy all of your cravings and fit perfectly into the complicated timing of the Olympics.
- Brother Cousins Tacos: This is a quick, delicious, and essential stop for your Los Angeles trip. There is nothing like Los Angeles street tacos, and this one is a native favorite. Vibrant, smoky flavors, paired with convenience and cheap prices. What a perfect stop after a late event.
- Sawtelle: Big fan of asian food? Check out Sawtelle, otherwise known as japantown, full of delectable and plentiful varieties. Some of my personal favorites are Odd One Out (Boba), Tsujita Ramen, Coco Ichibanya (Japanese Curry), and Melo Melo (Coconut Dessert), but there is so much to discover!
- Sun Nong Dan: Continuing on our asian food streak, check out Sun Nong Dan! This is for the protein lovers especially. Get their Galbi Jjim (with cheese). This delicious specialty is filled with meat, cheese, rice cakes, and more. Meant to be shared with friends or family, and open late, this is perfect to check out after a long day of events.
Sample Itineraries for Visiting the LA 2028 Olympics
Here are some specific itineraries for different lengths of stay, helping you plan your trip based on your interests.
3-Day DTLA Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive at Los Angeles International Airport and take the subway to your hotel in downtown Los Angeles. Settle in and head to the LA Live district. In the evening, you may watch indoor competitions such as fencing or taekwondo at the L.A. Convention Center. Afterward, enjoy some snacks in the financial district before returning to your hotel.
Day 2: Take the E line to Expo Park to watch track and field competitions. Afterward, explore the nearby California Science Center, home to the Space Shuttle Endeavour. In the late afternoon, take the metro to Grand Central Market for a diverse culinary experience, followed by a more formal dinner.
Day 3: Start the day with a visit to the Broad Museum to view its contemporary art collection. Then, take the metro to Dodger Stadium to enjoy a baseball game. In the afternoon, grab a quick bite to eat near the stadium, then head back to the airport.
5-Day Family Fun Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive at Long Beach Airport (LGB) and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the beachfront and Queen Mary. Watch a volleyball or water polo game at Long Beach Arena.
Day 2: Head to Almitos Beach to watch some open water events, including a sailing competition. After the event, enjoy a fresh seafood dinner at one of the many restaurants along the waterfront.
Day 3: Head to Disneyland in Anaheim for a day trip and relax from the intense competition.
Day 4: Take the subway back to Los Angeles and spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood, or head to Dodger Stadium to watch a baseball game.
Day 5: Before heading back to the airport, take a stroll along the coast at Shoreline Village and enjoy a delicious breakfast. If you have time, you can also go shopping at The Pike Outlets.
Budgeting for your 2028 Summer Olympics Trip
Traveling to the Los Angeles Olympics can be expensive, so it’s important to have a detailed budget. Here are some estimates to help you calculate your costs.
- Tickets: The expected price range is quite broad. Preliminary rounds for individual events start at $40 to $100, but popular sports and finals may cost $200 to $500+. The opening/closing ceremonies will be the most expensive, with ticket prices ranging from $500 to several thousand dollars.
- Accommodation: Hotels in Los Angeles during the 2028 Summer Olympics will be in high demand. The budget per night ranges from $300 to $800+, depending on location and hotel quality. Booking early is the best way to secure more favorable rates.
- Transportation: Daily metro passes are very affordable, costing around $7–10 per day. If you rely on carpooling, a daily budget of $50–100 is more realistic due to pricing and traffic surges.
- Food: Los Angeles has it all, from affordable street food to high-end dining. A realistic daily budget is $75 to $150 per person. Cooking some meals in your Airbnb can significantly reduce this cost.
Money-Saving Tips
- Book flights and accommodation as early as possible.
- Use a one-day pass for unlimited rides on the Los Angeles Metro and take the additional Olympic shuttle to the venues.
- Consider buying food from local markets and grocery stores instead of eating out for every meal.
- Tickets for less popular sports events may be easier to obtain and more affordable, offering a great way to experience the Olympic spirit without spending too much money.
- Consider booking through a tour company, such as Tours4Fun.com, for convenience & price efficiency.
Final Reminder for LA 2028 Summer Olympics
Before heading to Los Angeles, here are some tips that may help you.
Packing list
- Appropriate clothing: Los Angeles is very hot in July. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing.
- Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes, sandals, or flip-flops
- Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.
- Electronic Devices: A portable power bank is a lifesaver on long days. Camera and spare battery. If you are traveling internationally, bring a plug adapter. The United States uses Type A plugs.
- Backpack: Pack a lightweight backpack with all the essentials you need for your outing.
- Medicines: Also, bring any personal medications you may need, like cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, painkillers, etc.
Safety Tips
- Avoid certain areas of downtown Los Angeles at night (such as Skid Row and the Fashion District).
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration/dizziness.
- Most venues have strict security checks. Liquids, sharp objects, and large backpacks are prohibited. We recommend checking the official Los Angeles Olympics spectator guide in advance to confirm the list of prohibited items.
- Avoid peak hours (2 PM to 7 PM on weekdays).
- Check the validity of your passport and renewal procedures at least six months before your trip to ensure sufficient time for renewal or update.
- If you need to travel by international flight, please review the visa and travel information for your country when traveling to the United States. Please allow ample time—given the current political environment in the United States, travel procedures may be more complex.
Next Olympics
Soon, there will be the 2032 Olympics in Brisbane! Stay tuned for more information on that in the future. Have fun, enjoy the journey, and show some country spirit!
FAQ:
What venues will be used for the 2028 Olympics in LA?
The venues to be used for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics will include:
- The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum will be the venue for track and field events and the opening ceremony.
- Crypto.com Arena will be the venue for gymnastics, weightlifting, and boxing finals.
- Peacock Theater will be the venue for boxing preliminaries.
- The Rose Bowl will be the venue for the soccer final.
- Intuit Dome will be the venue for basketball events.
- SoFi Stadium will host swimming events, making it the largest Olympic swimming venue in history.
- Riviera Country Club will host golf competitions.
- Fairplex in Pomona will host cricket matches.
- Alamitos Beach will host beach volleyball.
- Long Beach Waterfront will host offshore events such as rowing and canoeing.
- Universal Studios Lot will host squash competitions.
- Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area will host 3×3 basketball and modern pentathlon.
- Venice Beach is the starting point for triathlon, marathon, and road cycling events.
- USC Sports Center was the venue for rhythmic gymnastics and badminton.
- Carson Stadium was the venue for archery competitions.
- The Arena in Anaheim was the venue for indoor volleyball.
- Santa Anita Park in Arcadia was the venue for equestrian events.
- The Shotgun Center in South El Monte hosts shotgun shooting competitions.
- Additionally, there are more venues in the city, such as the Los Angeles Convention Center, which is used for fencing, taekwondo, and judo events.
What sport will be removed from the 2028 Olympics?
Breaking will be removed. The sport was featured at the 2024 Paris Olympics but was not included in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The IOC believes it is more suitable for youth competitions and will be replaced by flag football, squash, and other sports.
Where are the next Winter Olympics in 2026?
The 2026 Winter Olympics will be held in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, from February 6 to 22, 2026.
This is a joint event—Milan will host most of the indoor competitions and ceremonies, such as the opening ceremony, while Cortina, located in the Dolomites, will host alpine skiing and other snow sports.
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