Hello, would like to get some recommendations and things to do in LA! We are still looking for a hotel central to Universal Studios/Santa Monica Pier area. Any shows in LA? Would love to know some good restaurants too. Thanks!

I know this is going to sound strange, but staying at the LAX hotels are not a bad idea, we stayed at the Sheraton LAX and it was great. Also, highly recommend a Korean BBQ restaurant called: "Soowon Galbi" it's in Korea Town. It's the best Korean BBQ I've ever been to. https://www.tripadvisor.ca/681346?m=19905

Many of the TV shows (that have a live audience) give away free tickets, but you need to reserve those tickets well in advance. I recall that ticket to the Ellen Degeneres show sell out something like 3-4 months in advance.
https://www.timeout.com/.../things.../tv-show-tickets-in-la

The Getty and the Getty Vila!

Hinano burger on Venice beach is unreal!! It's quite a dive but a classic
also Tender Greens in Santa Monica is great for a light meal!

we rented electric bikes and went on the Santa Monica/Venice bike tour. It was so much fun. You get a great lay out of the land, learn some great stuff on the tour too. We also took a tour of Paramount Studios - went in to the Dr Phil set! you never know who you may run into. Don't forget the Grove, so much to see there too.