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LA City Tours

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Los Angeles Full-Day City Tour

A Day in LA Tours provides unique Los Angeles tours where you’ll see the area’s most iconic sights and landmarks. Our LA City Tours start at $99 per adult and $89 for children 12 or younger. 

Some of our LA City Tour highlights include:

• See muscle beach, skate parks, surfing, and beautiful scenery during our Venice Beach tour stop (30 to 40 min)
• See the world-famous pier at the Santa Monica tour stop . (25 to 35 min)
• Take in the lifestyles of the rich and famous while you visit Rodeo Drive and shops during our Beverly Hills tour stop. You’ll also see the Wilshire Corridor and have a photo opportunity in front of the Beverly Hills sign. (35 to 35 min)
• Revisit the history of LA firsthand as you cruise down Sunset Strip and visit historic clubs such as Whiskey, Viper Room, and the Roxy. (drive by)
• You’ll also take in a delicious lunch at the Farmers Market at the Grove . (60 minutes – guest pays for their own desired lunch)
• Feel like a star while you stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame and visit the Kodak Theatre, the home of The Oscars! You’ll also see the famous Hollywood sign from the Griffith Park Observatory* (observatory interior is open fri-sun, views are accessible all week). *Vaccination card may be required to enter the interior of the observatory but not to enjoy the park and views of the Hollywood sign. (25 minutes on closed days and 30 to 40 minutes on open days)
• Travels in upscale, leather-clad, newer model vehicles with wood floors and climate control!
• If you chose to end up in Santa Monica check out Santa Monica Place – A sophisticated, must-visit destination delivering three levels of exciting retail, dining, and entertainment.’
• You can also book this as a private Los Angeles tour on a Luxury Full-Size SUV for up to 7 passengers for $899 by CLICKING HERE!

For all of our Los Angeles Bus Tours , we offer pickup and dropoff for hundreds of hotels throughout the Los Angeles area (for our LA Tours from Anaheim pickup locations, visit here ). Learn more about our Los Angeles tours with hotel pick up .  All hotel pickups have the option to return to our Santa Monica office at the end of the day or back to their hotel.

If you’re looking for a private/custom LA tour experience, be sure to take a look at our Los Angeles private tours! We offer both large-group/corporate private tours for 8-500 people and small-group VIP experiences on a private Luxury Full-Size SUV for up to 7 passengers for $899. Email us at [email protected] or give us a call at 818-538-6287.

For small group private tours, you can book by  CLICKING HERE!

Why choose A Day in LA Tours?

With over 5,000 5-star reviews on Tripadvisor , A Day in LA Tours has a long-standing reputation for being the best Los Angeles bus tour for both tourists and new residents alike.

• Knowledgeable Tour Guides:  Every single one of our Los Angeles bus tour guides wants you to fall in love with LA just like they did. Our Los Angeles City Tour guides know the city inside and out, and they’ll keep you entertained and informed throughout your adventure.

• Affordable Prices: Competitors might charge $125 or more for an LA City Tour, but our tours start at $99 per adult and $89 for children who are 12 years old or younger. If you’re dissatisfied with your tour, you can pay us what you think your experience was worth.

LA City Tour FAQs

What time does the tour start/finish where do i meet, can you pickup from my hotel/location, how many stops are there, are the stops guided, what do i need to bring for the tour.

"Perfect way to see LA"

"A perfect way to see a lot of LA in one day. Comfy tour bus, small groups and friendly knowledgeable guides. Free bottled water throughout the day and fruit and juice at time of boarding. The guide and driver gave plenty of commentary as we drove around then gives you some free time to explore..."

"This is how tours are supposed to be!"

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THE 10 BEST Los Angeles Tours & Excursions

Tours in los angeles.

• Film & TV Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches and More

2. Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Air Bus

3. Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

4. Half-Day Sightseeing Tour of the Best of Los Angeles

5. Shared 3 Hour Los Angeles Tour

6. Perfect 5 ½ Hour LA & Hollywood Tour from Santa Monica

7. Skip the Ticketing Line: Aquarium of the Pacific General Admission Ticket

8. Hollywood and Celebrity Homes Bus Tour

9. 4.5 Hour Venice Beach Open Air Van Tour

10. The Best of LA Tour: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Griffith Park +More

11. Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour

12. Griffith Observatory Guided Tour and Planetarium Ticket Option

13. 2-Hour Hollywood Bus Tour

14. Authentic 3-Hour Hollywood to Beverly Hills Tour

15. Mulholland Trail Horseback Tour

16. Big Bus Los Angeles: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour & TMZ Celebrity Tour

17. Small-Group Hollywood, LA Beaches & Filming Location Tour from Anaheim

18. The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles

19. Best of LA, Hollywood, Griffith Park, Santa Monica & Venice Tour from Anaheim

20. Big Bus Los Angeles: Guided Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour

21. Crimes of Passion Interactive Museum Adventure in East Hollywood

22. Private Therapy Sailing Adventure

23. Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket

24. Small-Group Electric Bike Tour of Santa Monica and Venice

25. Big Bus Los Angeles: Hop-on Hop-off Tour by Open-top Bus

26. Celebrity and Lifestyle Hollywood Bus Tour

27. Small-Group Day Tour of Hollywood, Los Angeles and Beaches from Anaheim

28. Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Bus tours

29. Grand Beach Tour: LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica

30. All Day LA Tour: Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica

What travellers are saying.

• Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour by Open Air Bus
• Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches and More
• Universal Studios Hollywood General Admission Ticket
• Disneyland Resort Tickets
• Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
• Los Angeles Live Steamers
• Waterfront Red Car Line
• Hollywood Hikes
• Bikes And Hikes LA Tours
• A Day in LA Tours
• ExperienceFirst
• TNT Tours & Transportation
• Classic Experiences
• Architecture Tours L.A.
• LA VIP Tours
• La La Tours
• Your L.A. Tours
• Sunset Ranch Hollywood
• Ride Free Motorcycle Tours and Rentals
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Sixty Plus Los Angeles Day Trips Attractions Things To Do

by DayTrippen

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Explore our extensive list of Los Angeles Day Trips. Uncover exciting adventures, tourist attractions, hidden gems, outdoor adventures, and kids’ activities waiting to be discovered. All the destinations mentioned are within day trip distance of Los Angeles, California. It’s best to start early due to traffic variability. Your trip starts here!

Gardens Nature – Family Activitie s  – Beach Trips – Unique Food – Museums – City Guide – Scenic Drives

Popular Los Angeles Attractions

Take a Walk Along Hollywood Boulevard

Even if you don’t end up in line behind Johnny Depp inside Starbucks or Angelina Jolie in McDonald’s drive-through, Hollywood is still a great place to visit, with some spots you don’t want to miss. There are always popular Hollywood movie star home tours for those who wish for a more behind-the-scenes look into the opulent lifestyles behind the gates of Hollywood’s elite mansions.

Catalina Island Day Trip from Long Beach or San Pedro

Catalina is one of this list’s most popular Los Angeles day trips. Getting to Catalina Island requires a trip to the Catalina Express Shuttle. Ships depart from ports like Long Beach, San Pedro, and Dana Point. Activities on the Island are nearly endless. If this is your first trip, we suggest taking the Avalon scenic tour. Read More.

Griffith Park Day Trip Things To Do

Griffith Park is located in the historic Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles. The Park is at the eastern end of the Santa Monica Mountains. Spanning over 4,000 acres, Griffith Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States. The Park is often called the “Central Park” of California; it offers a more natural and outdoor feeling.

Malibu Beach Day Trip 21-Miles of Sandy Beaches

If you want to spend a day soaking up the essence of California, then it’s time for a Malibu beach day trip. The 21-mile strip of oceanfront properties is an affluent beachfront city in western Los Angeles County that offers some of the world’s most spectacular beaches and views.

Beverly Hills Day Trip Visit Rodeo Drive

Although most Beverly Hills visitors cannot afford many items that sparkle from the windows of the posh stores that line Rodeo Drive, a day trip to Beverly Hills will allow you to experience how the other half lives. You may want to leave that credit card at home, as many leave spending big bucks for the sheer experience of shopping on Rodeo Drive.

Historic Olvera Street, Los Angeles

To many Latinos, Olvera Street, also known as ‘La Placita Olvera,’ is a significant part of the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument. It holds a special place in the history of the City of Angels as it is the city’s birthplace. In 1953, it was officially designated as a California State Historic Landmark. The Olvera Street Plaza is famous for Mexican-style music, dancing, and holiday celebrations such as Cinco de Mayo, El Dia De Los Muertos (the day of the dead), and Mexican Independence Day.

Santee Alley in the LA Fashion District

If you’re not a sports junkie, a trip to L. A.’s renowned fashion district is worth a visit. While many of the business here is wholesale-related, Santee Alley has some of everything you can imagine. Jewelry clothing, toys, food vendors, and electronics. Note: many items here are knock-offs and replicas, but it’s still an exciting place to visit. Santee Alley is between Santee Street and Maple Avenue in downtown Los Angeles.

Los Angeles Flower District Tours

The LA Flower District features the biggest flower market in the country. The leading vendors are the LA Flower Market (a small admission charge) and the California Flower Mall (free admission). Many nearby shops sell fresh flowers and plants. The Los Angeles Flower District can be found along Wall Street, between 7th Street and 8th Street.

Gardens – Parks – Outdoor Activities

Explore Nature at Malibu Creek State Park

Beautiful running streams and chaparral-covered hillsides are all within an hour’s drive of downtown Los Angeles. Filmmakers once used the park’s rugged terrain to create spectacular film backdrops. One of the most popular trails in the park is the M*A*S*H site. Most of the routes are well-marked and graded for comfortable hiking. However, for those who seek a more challenging experience, there are plenty of single-track trails.

Will Rogers State Historic Park Santa Monica Mountains

Will Rogers did it all. He was a movie star, columnist, philosopher, humorist, radio personality, avid rider, and roper. He also had a beautiful spread of 186 acres in the Santa Monica Mountains overlooking the Pacific Palisades’ ocean. His family gifted the home and land to California in 1944. The state established a historic park that is open to visitors.

Paramount Ranch, Where Hundreds of Films Were Shot

Paramount Ranch is located in the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area. At one time, Paramount Studios used the property as a movie ranch. Hundreds of films, most Western films, were shot on the property. A fire destroyed the on-site movie town. Only two buildings remain: the Church and the train station.

Point Dume Nature Preserve Malibu Coast

Point Dume Nature Reserve is situated on an undeveloped section of land along the Malibu Coast. The headlands offer a fantastic view of Santa Monica Bay. The Santa Monica Mountains and Catalina Island can be seen on a clear day. A stairway on the bluff top allows access to a secluded beach.

Descanso Gardens La Canada Flintridge

Descanso makes a delightful day trip perfect for all ages—one hundred fifty acres of beautiful gardens, woodlands, and chaparral. The rose garden covers five acres and features more than 3,000 roses. There is also a Full Moon Tea House with a Shinto bridge and a Japanese farmhouse. The Enchanted Railroad comes with a 1/8th replica of a diesel train that travels around a garden section for kids.

Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park

Descanso makes a delightful day trip perfect for all ages. One hundred Vasquez Rocks offer a far-out adventure not too far from the city. The Vasquez Rocks area is a popular backdrop for Hollywood studios. A few movies and shows filmed here include Star Trek, Bonanza, Power Rangers, Friends, The Big Bang Theory, Planet of the Apes, and the Flintstones Movie. 

Explore the Rolling Hills of the Palos Verdes Peninsula

Get your hiking boots and come and explore the over 1,600 acres of open space on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. Ten of the area’s largest preserves consist of rolling hills, steep canyons, and rocky outcrops with natural habitats and views of the Pacific Ocean and Santa Catalina Island. The city of Rancho Palos Verdes owns part of the peninsula.

Terranea Resort Discovery Trails

If you’re visiting for a day or a guest, several trails offer spectacular views of the shoreline scenery with sea caves and rocky beaches. You might even spot a whale or pod of dolphins from the path. Terranea is located approximately 30 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles.

Visit The Channel Islands National Park

Often referred to as California’s Galapagos, the northernmost islands of Anacapa, Santa Cruz, Santa Rosa, San Miguel, and Santa Barbara are teaming with more than 2,000 terrestrial plants and animals, 145 of which can be found nowhere else on Earth.

Fun Family Activities

Take a Ride in the Angels Flight Railway

One of Los Angeles’ most enduring landmarks, the railway was initially constructed in 1901 on the Southwest corner of Third and Hill Streets. Designed to carry passengers up and down the steep incline between downtown and Bunker Hill, then a fashionable residential district, it is the “shortest railroad in the world.”

Universal Studios Hollywood

Universal Studios is a part movie studio, part theme park. One day is not enough time to enjoy all this Los Angeles attraction offers. If you are determined to see everything in one day, check out our guide to get the most out of your visit. Also, have a look at exclusive ticket deals.

Los Angeles Zoo Fun and Affordable Day Trip

The Los Angeles Zoo has been known for its diverse collection of animals since it opened in 1966. Zoologists have praised the zoo for having a wide variety of mammals from different parts of the world, including rare species such as Sumatran tigers, Visayan warty pigs, yellow-footed rock wallabies, Cape Griffon vultures, mandrills, okapis, mountain tapirs, and snow leopards.

Visit Knott’s Berry Farm in Orange County, CA

Knott’s Berry Farm has multiple locations in north Orange County, which makes driving from any part of Los Angeles County convenient. The amusement park offers a thrilling combination of first-class roller coasters, exciting rides, interactive entertainment, and elaborate stage shows suitable for guests of all ages. To ensure that you have the best experience, we suggest arriving early.

Enjoy a Ride at the Los Angeles Live Steamers

Visiting the Los Angeles Live Steamers Railroad and Museum is a delightful experience regardless of age or whether you have children. Located in the beautiful hills of Griffith Park, this museum has been captivating visitors since 1956 with its charming steam train rides. Los Angeles Live Steamers is open every Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and offers train rides in exchange for a small donation.

La Brea Tar Pits Los Angeles

The La Brea Tar Pits are a famous cluster of fossil sites in urban Los Angeles, around the Hancock Park area. Brea is the Spanish word for asphalt or tar, which has seeped up from the area for thousands of years. Over the centuries, animals that came to drink the water, which collected on top, fell in, sank into the tar, and were preserved as bones. The La Brea Tar Pits is a fascinating place for any age group.

USS Iowa San Pedro at the Entrance to Los Angeles Harbor

USS Iowa is a floating battleship museum berthed at the entrance to the Los Angeles Harbor. A self-guided tour takes visitors around many parts of the ship. Highlights include the ship’s substantial 16-inch deck guns and the crew’s quarters. San Pedro offers visitors several other attractions, including its historic waterfront district, S.S. Lane Victory, and the Los Angeles Maritime Museum.

Santa Monica Pier Home to Pacific Park

The Santa Monica Pier, once known as the Coney Island of the West Coast, when was built in 1909 as two separate tiers. It is a popular destination where kids can run around, find someone playing the guitar, see artists selling their creations, and observe couples holding hands. The pier is also home to Pacific Park, an amusement park with rides and attractions suitable for all ages. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean from the five-story West Coaster roller coaster, the nine-story Pacific Plunge tower ride, and the unique Seaside Swing.

Los Angeles Griffith Park Observatory

Griffith Observatory is perched on Mt. Hollywood in the hills above Los Angeles. The observatory grounds have many points of interest, including an Egyptian sundial and a memorial to James Dean. On a clear day, you will see Hollywood and the Los Angeles basin spectacularly.

California Science Center Los Angeles

The California Science Center showcases engaging exhibits on relevant scientific topics, offering intriguing insights into various aspects of science. One of the center’s main attractions is the Air and Space Gallery, a vast open space that spans seven stories and displays actual air and spacecraft suspended above.

Los Angeles Area Beach Destinations

Zuma Beach Day Trip: a Los Angeles Must-See Destination

Because of its south-facing shoreline, Zuma, as the locals call it, attracts beachcombers year-round, especially during summer weekends. Still, it is quiet for those looking for a serene setting to unwind during the week.

Enjoy an Oceanfront Lunch at Paradise Cove Beach, Malibu ,

Paradise Cove has been the location for numerous movies and commercials, including Lethal Weapon 4, Charlie’s Angels, The Rockford Files, and several Gidget movies shot in the late ’50s and early ’60s. Paradise Beach Cafe has indoor and outdoor seating. The Cafe’s most popular dishes are the hot combo platter and iced seafood samplers specializing in seafood.

Manhattan Beach Shopping and Dining in flip-flops

Manhattan Beach offers a vibrant beach scene and a charming downtown shopping and dining district filled with boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. While some of the town’s swankier restaurants and clubs may require you to dress up, the accepted dress code is board shorts and flip-flops.

Venice Beach is a one-of-a-kind Attraction .

From the moment you arrive, you’ll be immersed in the theme that can only be the spectacle of Venice. The best way to experience the waterfront scene is via a three-quarter-mile boardwalk. As you shuffle down the tourist-laden trail, you’ll pass an array of off-the-wall shops, tacky souvenir stores, tattoo and piercing parlors, flea markets, and vendors selling all kinds of items.

Marina del Rey Los Angeles Day Trip

Situated between Venice Beach to the north and south of Playa del Rey near Ballona Creek’s mouth, Marina del Rey is an outdoor hub of activity surrounded by high-rise condos, hotels, apartments, shops, and restaurants. It sits at the center of the 22-mile South Bay Coastal Bicycle Trail, stretching from Malibu to Torrance Beach.

King Harbor Redondo Beach

Redondo Beach Pier was initially built to facilitate timber delivery from ships to trains in 1889. The Redondo Beach Pier has undergone six transformations, surviving a series of storms, fires, and demolitions throughout the 20th century on the way to its current design — a sizeable horseshoe-shaped structure given the name – the “endless” pier.

Hermosa Beach Day Trip

During one of its many warm sunny days, locals and tourists can play volleyball on the beach, jog, cycle, and rollerblade along a smoothed-paved path connecting it with the neighboring beach towns.

Unique Food Courts & Destinations

Los Angeles Farmers Market

The original Los Angeles Farmers Market is located on Third and Fairfax and is fascinating to spend the day. The farmers market has more than 100 shops and restaurants to explore. There are so many different places to eat with so many choices for food; chances are you will stop at least a couple of the eateries.

Grand Central Market Foodie Paradise

If you are familiar with the Anaheim Packing House in Orange County, you know what to expect at Grand Central Market. However, GCM was the original model. Grand Central Market is a large, beautifully restored warehouse and home to 36 vendors, including Japanese, Mexican, Chinese, Thai, Italian, and American cuisine.

Clifton’s Cafeteria and Bars

If you want to relish the Golden Age of Hollywood and the thrill of Downtown LA’s nightlife, Clifton’s is the perfect destination. With five distinctive spaces, Clifton’s offers something for everyone. Clifton’s address is 648 S Broadway, Los Angeles, California.

Little Tokyo Los Angeles

In downtown Los Angeles, Little Tokyo is a cultural hub for Japanese Americans living in Southern California. The Japanese Village Plaza is all activities’ main attraction and focal point. You can quickly locate the plaza by looking for the huge wooden fire tower that guards the entrance. Inside the plaza, various stores sell Japanese pastries, bread, and mochi ice cream.

Koreatown Los Angeles: A Hidden Gem

Karaoke, tableside barbecue, shopping, beauty secrets, and hidden gems – Koreatown Los Angeles, also known as “KTown,” offers all these and more. Situated south of Hollywood and just west of Downtown, K-town is one of the most vibrant, diverse, and exciting neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Koreatown features some of the most impressive shopping experiences in the entire city. You’ll find multiple American-style malls here, filled with products and brands you can’t find anywhere else.

Philippe Original Beef Dipped Sandwich

Phillipe has been serving beef sandwiches for over 100 years. The most popular item here is the original beef-dipped sandwich (we recommend getting it double-dipped). You can also get pork, ham pastrami, lamb, and turkey-dipped sandwiches, but nothing beats the beef dipped. Expect long lines, especially if a Dodger game is going on. Philippe is located at 1001 North Alameda, Los Angeles, California.

Santa Monica Third Street Promenade

Third Street Promenade is an exclusive collection of restaurants and shops in downtown Santa Monica. It draws tourists and locals alike, offering something for everyone all along Third Street; artists, performers, and entertainers who are regulars on any given Saturday line the street and do what they do best. It’s entertainment at its best.

Museums & Historic Places

Getty Center Museum

It is one of our list’s most popular Los Angeles day trips. An automated cable-pulled tram will take you on a scenic ride to the hilltop campus. From there, you can explore numerous buildings brimming with artworks worldwide. The grounds of the Getty Center offer visitors a fantastic view of the Los Angeles skyline. Admission to the Getty Center is free.

Ronald Reagan Library

The library was built entirely with private donations, and construction costs are estimated at $60 million. Thousands of visitors view the archives, consistently ranking as one of the most visited libraries annually. Visitors will start their tour with an exhibit that begins with Reagan’s childhood in Dixon, Illinois.

Santa Monica Air Museum

Plane enthusiasts looking for an outstanding exhibition with a growing aircraft inventory will want to take a day trip to the Museum of Flying Santa Monica. Initially opened in 1979 as the Douglas Museum and Library, the museum’s collection consisted primarily of Donald Wills Douglas.

Automobile Driving Museum

It doesn’t matter if you know anything about how engines work or if you can tell the difference between a carburetor, a crankshaft, or a piston from a spark plug — the Automobile Driving Museum has something for all car lovers.

Petersen Automotive Museum

If you’re a car buff, you’ll think you died and went to heaven. With three full floors and over 300,000 square feet of exhibit space, the Peterson houses one of the most extensive galleries of cars and motorcycles. Its purpose is to show the beauty of vehicles and educate its visitors.

Fort Tejon State Historic Park

Fort Tejon offers the history lover an authentic experience. Visitors can talk with soldiers and visit the blacksmith at his forge, the carpenter in his shop, or the barracks. Servants, cooks, officers, and laborers eagerly share their stories with you. Reenactments are a popular theme at the fort, and living history demonstrations occur on the first Sunday of each month year-round.

Heritage Square Museum Los Angeles

Heritage Square Museum is located in downtown LA, alongside the concrete banks of the Los Angeles River. It houses a collection of structures from the late 1800s that were saved from demolition and moved to Heritage Square.

Frank Lloyd Wright Hollyhock House

Hollyhock House was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright and built on Olive Hill overlooking Los Angeles’s city in 1919. In 1927, Aline Barnsdall gave Hollyhock House and eleven surrounding acres to the City of Los Angeles as a public art park in memory of her father.

Getty Villa Pacific Palisades

The Villa, constructed to resemble a villa in Pompeii that was destroyed by Mt. Vesuvius’s eruption, is also home to many family-friendly programs to help immerse visitors big and small in this slice of history. Surrounding the Villa is avant-garde landscaping with calm ocean breezes cascading off the sandy beaches just yards away.

The Last Bookstore Los Angeles

The Last Bookstore in downtown Los Angeles is much more than just a bookstore. In addition to being a fully operational bookshop, it also functions as an art gallery, a boutique, a painting and sculpture studio, a live music venue, and an Instagram-friendly location. This unique bookstore offers a constantly changing range of amenities and events, making it a must-visit destination that can be enjoyed repeatedly.

Union Station Los Angeles

Union Station is a hub of activity, with Metro and Amtrak trains arriving hourly. Passenger trains depart hourly South to  San Diego , North to Santa Barbara, and beyond. The Red Line subway’s starting point is directly underneath Union Station. The Metro Gold Line departs from Union Station and takes passengers to Pasadena.

Los Angeles Area City Guide

Ventura California Things To Do Attractions

Contrary to popular belief, some of the best things in life are free — like the sun on your face, sand between your toes, and the water over your feet. And those things and more await visitors in the City of Ventura.

Oxnard, California, a Fun Los Angeles Day Trip

Nestled together in a 36 square mile ecological tapestry, know as much about being California’s strawberry and lima bean capital. It is the gateway to the Channel Islands, located just 11 miles from its sandy shoreline. Although Oxnard retains the charm of a small rural town, the city has plenty of visitor activities.

Pasadena a Delight for Architecture Enthusiasts

Pasadena is well-known for hosting the annual Tournament of Roses Parade and one of the country’s most important college football games. Besides, the city has many scientific and cultural destinations worth exploring. In Pasadena, modern and old architectural styles are blended seamlessly, as American Arts and Crafts-style architecture coexists with contemporary commercial facades, making it a delight for architecture enthusiasts.

Seal Beach Day Trip

Seal Beach is a seaside town south of Long Beach. The main attraction here is the wide sandy beach, with the second-longest wooden pier in the United States. Seal Beach’s main street is a throwback to a classic Southern California surf town. You can find free parking, grab an ice cream, or browse one of the many unique boutique stores during the day.

San Pedro Points of Interest

San Pedro offers an experience like no other. It’s a fantastic seaside destination, with many attractions offering family-friendly prices. There are more than enough things to do in San Pedro to fill an entire day. Start your tour of San Pedro and head to the historic waterfront district. Here, you will find several popular San Pedro attractions.

Road Trips – Scenic Drives

Mount Wilson Observatory

Perched 5,700 feet on the Mount Wilson summit among the San Gabriel Mountains near Pasadena, northeast of Los Angeles, is the Mount Wilson Observatory. Home to two historically essential telescopes, which have played an indispensable role in modern astronomy, George Ellery Hale founded the observatory in the early 1900s . 

Mulholland Highway From the City to the Ocean

Mulholland Highway is a scenic route that winds through the Santa Monica Mountains. The highway was named after William Mulholland and was built in the 1920s. It was designed to take Angelinos from the city to the ocean. Today, this legendary highway is popular among the rich, famous, and auto enthusiasts with their sports cars and motorcycles. The journey begins in Calabasas, and the first stop is the 588-acre King Gillette Ranch adjacent to Malibu Creek Park.

Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve

Antelope Valley Poppy Reserve is open year-round but is most visited during the poppy season. April and May are usually the best viewing months, depending on how much rain the fields get. While visiting, you might also see some native wildlife: hawks, meadowlarks, lizards, and snakes all seem to enjoy the sea of color as much as human visitors do.

Santa Clarita Valley Los Angeles County

Located in the northern part of Los Angeles County, the Santa Clarita Valley is home to Six Flags Magic Mountain and the epicenter of Hollywood’s film production. With plenty to see and do for residents and visitors, Santa Clarita is a popular place to spend a day.

Take a Road Trip Along Highway 126

State Route 126 connects Interstate 5 in Santa Clarita and U.S. Route 101 in Ventura, California. This highway was constructed in the late 1950s and runs parallel to the Santa Clara River, offering picturesque views of Heritage Valley. Highway 126 passes through the towns of Piru, Fillmore, and Santa Paula and the national landmark of Spanish Rancho Camulos. These towns are known for their vibrant citrus and avocado orchards, roadside stands, historic landmarks, antique airplanes, and railroad history.

Santa Monica Mountains Wine Tasting

With year-round access and the Pacific Ocean backdrop, the Santa Monica Mountains are uniquely populated with several wineries. Most are small. However, a few are commercial enterprises. The best-known wineries are Malibu Family Wines and Rosenthal Malibu Estate.

Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles, aka DTLA, is full of fun, exciting things to do and see. You can easily spend several days exploring everything that DTLA has to offer. Our guide covers a full day of the best things to do and see while visiting DTLA.

Los Angeles Movie Studio Tours

Get a close-up look at a real operating film studio. Warner Brothers, Universal Studios, and Paramount Pictures offer guided studio tours. You don’t have to be a tourist to enjoy this fun activity. On this day trip, you might even meet a celebrity or two.

California Roadside Attractions

Family day trips –  la road trips.

Could’ve put the South Bay as one entry. Long Beach passed over, as well as the Olvera Street/China Town/Little Tokyo/Boyle Heights districts. Dodger Stadium/Staples Center/Sofi Stadium all not mentioned. WeHo and Silver lake? La Brea Tar Pits along with the Academy Museum and (when finished) the LA County Museum? LA Conservancy tours? Very little inland attractions (Mission Inn) or Orange County, etc

Most of these trips are included on the site. They are listed under different categories. Orange County and Inland Empire have separate sections devoted to them.

Fun Things To Do

• Free Things to Do In Southern California: Low Cost Fun
• Southern California Bucket List
• California Natural Hot Springs
• California & Nevada Ghost Towns
• Unusual Things to Do in Southern California

Browse By Topic

• Southern California Whale Watching
• Southern California Historic Places
• Senior Friendly Day Trip Ideas
• Southern California Museums
• Southern California Beach Destinations

Browse By Interest

• Western States Day Trips
• Best Hiking Trails Southern California
• Los Angeles Kids Birthday Party Places
• California Zoos & Aquariiums
• California North Coast Day Trips
• Wineries & Wine Tasting

The Top 22 Excursions and Tours in Los Angeles

Thinking about a trip to the City of Angels? To help you get started with your itinerary, we’ve put together a list of the top tours in Los Angeles.

Located in southern California, Los Angeles is a city that means many different things to different people. The beautiful beaches, sprawling amusement parks, and cultural activities have been attracting people to its sunny shores for decades and the glitz and glamor of Hollywood still attract hopeful starlets to this day. Today, many people around the world dream about visiting Los Angeles and it’s really no surprise why!

We know that organizing a vacation can be tricky, especially when you’re juggling work and family and everyone has a different idea of what they want to do there. To help you get started with your travel itinerary, we’ve put together a list of the top tours and excursions in Los Angeles. 

Expert Tip: If possible, try to book directly with the tour operator. The past few years of COVID restrictions have hit many travel companies pretty hard and booking directly helps them keep more money in their pockets. Plus, you’re likely to get better customer service in case anything goes wrong and you need to change, cancel, or reschedule your booking.

Try a different kind of tour !

Looking for a creative way to tour Tinseltown? Scrambling to see all that the City of Angels has to offer? Consider learning about Los Angeles on a scavenger hunt ! Our tours combine competitive spirit with sightseeing for a unique and memorable experience. Try one today!

Tours in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is huge, like really, really huge, which makes it challenging to see a lot without having a pretty good plan in place. Thankfully, there are a ton of different tour options that make it easier to see the things that interest you most without having to figure out the public transport system or drive through Los Angeles’ dreaded traffic.

The below list has been compiled using the expert knowledge of our in-house travel gurus as well as reviews from TripAdvisor and Google Maps and they are specially picked to include something for every type of traveler regardless of whether you adore relaxing walking tours or thrive on adrenaline-pumping activities.

As one of the largest, most diverse, cities in the United States, Los Angeles has a lot to offer whether you’re looking for world-class cultural attractions, laid-back beach towns, or ethnic enclaves. And, let’s not forget the allure of Hollywood and Beverly Hills. There are some great tours available that help you see some of Los Angeles’ top attractions, hidden gems, the homes of some of the most well-known celebrities in the world, and the filming locations of some of the most iconic movie scenes in cinema history. 

Most of the tours are designed for small groups which helps ensure that you’ll be able to interact with your guide and you won’t be ushered from one spot to the next in a large group. Best of all, when you go on a tour of Los Angeles, you’re likely to get some great recommendations from your guide on where to go after your tour.

1. The Original Farmers Market Food & History Tour

With people living there from all over the world, Los Angeles can certainly be considered a melting pot and this two-and-a-half-hour food and history tour takes you through the Original Farmers Market where you can sample ethnic dishes, delicious donuts, artisanal cheese, and other delights.

During the tour, you’ll learn about the history and folklore behind different dishes and the vendors who lovingly prepare them. If you have any dietary requirements, make sure to let the guides know in advance so that they can find suitable alternatives. The Melting Pot Farmers Market Tours are held Thursday through Saturday.

2. Star Homes Tours by Bus

We all sometimes imagine that we were celebrities and this entertaining Star Homes Tours by Open Bus Tours gives you a chance to see how Hollywood’s elite live. As you drive through Beverly Hills, your guide will point out landmarks, celebrity homes, studios, and failing locations. There will be plenty of time to take photos of iconic spots like the Hollywood Sign, Dolby Theater, and the famous Sunset Strip.

Tours last around two hours and by the time you’re finished, you’ll know some of the city’s celebrity hot spots. There are multiple departures each day leaving from the Hollywood Walk of Fame. If you want to learn more about the general history and layout of the city, you can also join Open Bus Tours’ Best of Los Angeles Tour. 

3. Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

Operated by Big Bus Tours , the Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour is a convenient way to discover Los Angeles. There are two different routes running daily that take in most of the top attractions in Los Angeles and a recorded commentary gives you the rundown of what you’re seeing and why it’s important. There is also an open-top, which is great for taking photos and enjoying the California sunshine. Best of all, you can decide how much or how little time you want to spend in each place.

The entry-level tickets are available for one day or you can purchase a two-day ticket which also includes a TCL Chinese Theater Walking Tour. This is a great ick for people who only have time to do one tour and want to have the option of sending more time in the areas that they are most interested in.

4. The Wonders of Downtown L.A. Scavenger Hunt

Many people don’t realize how easy it’s to get around Downtown Los Angeles or just how much there is to see there. During this Wonders of Downtown L.A. Scavenger Hunt by Let’s Roam, you’ll get a chance to see some of downtown’s unique attractions as you make a loo around this historic neighborhood checking out storied buildings, epic sculptures, and cultural attractions. Some of the attractions you’ll see include the Million Dollar Theater, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and City Hall. The hunts normally take around an hour and a half to two hours but you can complete the scavenger hunt at your own ace, storing and starting as often as you please. 

5. Grand Tour of Los Angeles

With hotel pick-ups and a streamlined approach, the Grand Tour of Los Angeles by Starline Tours lets you see a lot of the City of Angels in very little time. During this five-and-a-half-hour bus tour, you’ll get to see all of the major sites including Rodeo Drive, Boulevard, TCL Chinese Theater, and more. It’s important to keep in mind that the bus moves quickly and the only real photo stop is the Original Farmers Market where you’ll grab lunch but this is perfect for people who have limited time.

6. TMZ Celebrity Tour

If you can’t get enough of Hollywood gossip, the two-hour TMZ Celebrity Tour may be perfect for you! During the tour, you’ll learn about the juiciest gossip and the most secretive secrets. This is certainly not your conventional sightseeing tour, in fact, the guides show video clips and share stories while keeping on the lookout for any celebrities who may be willing to pop into the bus for a quick interview. If you’re interested in seeing specific sites, you may want to opt for another tour but this one can’t be beat for movie lovers.

7. Tinseltown’s Biggest Stars Scavenger Hunt

Have you ever wondered how many Academy Awards the Chinese Theater has hosted? How about how many stars are on the Hollywood Walk of Fame? Well, now is the time to find out! Created by Let’s Roam, this star-filled Tinseltown’s Biggest Stars Scavenger Hunt lets you explore Hollywood from top to bottom as you race your nearest and dearest to find your next destination. Along the way, you’ll answer lots of fun trivia and riddles about some of the area’s most popular landmarks including Sunset Boulevard, the Capitol Records Building, the Chinese Theater, and of course, the Walk of Fame. 

Unlike other scavenger hunts, you can pause this app-based hunt as often as you like if you want to check out something interesting or simply are in need of a coffee break. We promise that you’ll learn a lot about the history of Hollywood and Los Angeles and create great memories at the same time. 

8. L.A. City Tour, Celebrity Homes & Beaches

This six-hour minibus tour operated by L . A. City Tours lets you see some of the city’s best cultural and historic sites. Along the way, there will be 20-minute stops scheduled at places like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Griffith Park and Griffith Observatory, Santa Monica Pier, and Beverly Hills where you can get out, stretch your legs, and do a little mini walking tour on your own. The lunch break is either at the Original Farmers Market or Venice Beach which allows you to tick one more attraction off your list. 

This LA City Tour is a great way to get an overview of the city but it’s important to keep in mind that the 20-minute stops can go by really fast. We recommend doing this tour during the start of your trip so you can go back to some of the places that you wanted to spend more time in. The price of the tour includes pick up and drop off at many Los Angeles hotels as well as a map and bottled water.

9. Tragical History Tour

This very “punny” tour gives you a glimpse into Los Angeles’ darker side. Over a period of three hours, you’ll see the locations where celebrities lived and died and you may even see some places where scandalous behavior occurred. The Tragical History Tour will give you an insider’s look into the lives of celebrities such as Hugh Grant, John Belushi, and Whitney Houston. 

If you want to scratch below Los Angeles’ glossy surface, this is a great tour and should be at the top of your to-do list. If you want to go even darker, you can join their Helter Skelter Tour which covers the sites associated with the bone-chilling Manson Family Murders.

10. A City Tour 1

A Day in LA Tours brings you City Tour 1, a lengthy excursion that will take you from Venice Beach all the way to Griffith Park via Beverly Hills and Santa Monica onboard comfortable, air-conditioned buses that are outfitted with convenient device charging ports. This means that you can keep your phone fully charged for the seven-and-a-half-hour tour. The scheduled stops last roughly 40 minutes which gives you a decent amount of time to explore the attractions on your own and the free hotel pick-up from Los Angeles and Disneyland/Anaheim makes this a great option for people hoping to squeeze in a full-day tour during their stay in LA. 

11. Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour

Run by Six Taste , this four-hour Downtown LA Walking Tour gives you the chance to taste the signature dishes of some of the city’s best eateries. With Thai, BBQ, and Mexican options, this food tour provides a smorgasbord of flavors and it gives you an idea of the incredible diversity of Los Angeles. Many of the eateries are well off the beaten track so they would otherwise be very difficult to find on your own which kind of gives you bragging rights to claim that you got to eat like a true local.

The tours run on Saturdays and Sundays only and you must check their website for the most up-to-date departure times as they tend to vary. It’s also important to note that this tour is not vegetarian friendly and has very few gluten-free options so if you have any dietary requirements, you may want to sit this one out. 

12. Celebrity Homes Tour

Here is another one for the Hollywood lovers out there! The Celebrity Home Tour operated by Ultimate Hollywood Tours will take you to over 50 movie star homes over the course of two hours. The open-air bus passes by the former or present homes of Hollywood superstars like Johnny Sepp, Katy Perry, Bruno Mars, Will Ferrell, Lucille Ball, Michael Jackson, and Charlize Theron. You’ll also be able to see the clubs and shops that celebrities frequent and the knowledgeable guides will tell entertaining stories about the lives of the rich and famous.

The tour makes plenty of photo stops, including one at the Hollywood Sign. If you’re lucky, you may even have a celebrity spotting! Tours depart frequently throughout the day. If you want to get an even more in-depth look into the entertainment industry, you can also join their Hollywood Insider Tour.

13. Silver Lake Architecture Tour

Los Angeles is famous for its opulent mansions and spectacular architecture and on this Silver Lake Tour run by Architecture Tours L.A. , you’ll get to see some of the city’s most stunning buildings. This tour will send architecture buffs swooning and everyone will be impressed by the wide array of designs on display with mid-century modern and contemporary homes designed by Rudolph Schindler, John Lautner, and Richard Neutra as well as other architecture powerhouses. 

Throughout the tour, your expert guide will give you insider access to these remarkable homes and help you gain a new perspective on them. Architecture Tours L.A. also offers excursions focused on Frank Lloyd Wright and Frank Gehry and visits other neighborhoods in West Hollywood and Hancock Park that can provide a fascinating juxtaposition to the Silver Lake Tour. 

14. The Real Hollywood Tour

The team at The Real Los Angeles Tours promises to show you the “real” Hollywood on this two-hour tour. As you walk along the streets, you’ll see some of Hollywood’s historic sites including the Pantages, Egyptian, and Chinese theaters, and even the house where Charlie Chaplin’s kids attended school. This is a great experience for people who want to explore more of Old Hollywood rather than hear about present-day celebrities. These tours can easily be combined with their Downtown Los Angeles Tour for a full-day adventure!

15. Art Muse Los Angeles

This community of art historians, educators, and artists was formed to offer private tours of museums throughout Los Angeles. During the Art Muse tours , the passionate guides share their love and knowledge of art with you to help you get a better understanding of classic mainstream art that’s on display, as well as some of the more abstract pieces. Museums include the Getty Center, Norton Simon Museum, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Hammer Museum and the tours can be tailored towards the group. 

Art Muse also offers tours of seasonal art fairs as well as Los Angeles galleries that specialize in contemporary art. This is probably one of the best ways to explore Los Angeles’s thriving art scene and you can find more details on the tour guides and their specializations on their website. 

16. Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour

This mouth-watering tour offered by Sidewalk Food Tours of Los Angeles is one of the best vegetarian-friendly food tours on offer. The tour stops at six food stops over over course of three hours, giving you the chance to indulge in spicy Mexican tacos, flavorful Asian fusion, juicy German currywurst, and flaky French pastry. During the tour, you’ll walk through the Grand Central Market, the Biltmore Hotel, and the Million Dollar Theater where your guides will fill you in on the city’s interesting history. 

The tour includes about two miles of walking, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes. If the times don’t work for you or you’re traveling in a large group, they are happy to arrange private tours. 

Outdoor Tours and Theme Parks

Perched on the gorgeous Pacific Coast and surrounded by some of the world’s best theme parks, it’s no surprise that many visitors opt to spend the bulk of their time outside of Los Angeles City. There are a plethora of outdoor activities on offer that allow you to enjoy Los Angeles’ many outdoor activities with ease whether it’s an energizing bike ride through the Hollywood Hills, a hike up to the Hollywood Sign, or a walk down memory lane with a trip to Disneyland.

Thankfully, the sunny southern California weather makes most of these activities accessible all year round but you may want to double-check what Mother Nature has in store for you for the day before you head out on an outdoor excursion and make sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen.

17. Hollywood Sign Hike

Few locations in Los Angeles are more recognizable than the iconic Hollywood Sign. During this tour offered by Bikes and Hikes LA , you’ll have the opportunity to summit Mount Hollywood as part of a two-hour, four-mile-long hike. The tour begins in Griffith Park where you’ll see its observatory, Greek theater, and bird sanctuary before trekking up the mountain to see the famous Hollywood sign and enjoy sweeping views of the city. This is a great tour for someone who wants to get some exercise during their visit to Los Angeles as it can be a bit challenging. 

Tours run daily, and there is also an early morning Hollywood Hills hike if you want to hit the trails first thing in the morning. You might also consider joining one of their many bike tours.

18. Universal Studios Hollywood Studio Tour

Los Angeles is clearly famous for the vast entertainment industry and during this studio tour of Universal Studios , you’ll journey through four acres of this famous movie studios backlot. The friendly face and voice of Jimmy Fallon accompany you and serve as your virtual tour guide alongside your actual real-life guide. Some of the highlights of the tour include the shark from Jaws, and the Bates Motel from Psycho and you can also watch in amazement as King Kong battles a T-Rex right before your eyes. 

The tours last roughly an hour and leave frequently throughout the day. They are included as part of the Universal Studios Hollywood Theme Park ticket which gives access to tons of thrill rides and entertainment shows featuring your favorite characters from blockbuster movies and cartoon characters. 

19. Warner Bros. Studio Tour

If you want to get a real look at how Hollywood works, the Warner Bros. Studio Tour offers a glimpse into one of the busiest working film studios in the world. As you tour the backlot, you can see the sets from popular TV shows and movies. There is a guided one-hour tour and then you can explore on your own for an additional two hours to check out the different shopping and dining venues located onsite. Some of the highlights include the Friends fountain and the Central Perk set and the Big Bang Theory sets. Tours are offered in both English and Spanish and depart frequently throughout the day. 

20. Helicopter Tour

When you have had enough of exploring Los Angeles by land, it’s time to take to the skies and see it from the air! Los Angeles Helicopter Tours offers scenic rides over the city ranging from 30 minutes to 90 minutes and includes sights like the Santa Monica pier, Venice Beach, the Getty Center, Beverly Hills, the Sunset Strip, and much, much more. Tours can be customized around your needs, meaning that the sky really is the limit here. If you loved the experience of being u in the air, you can even organize your own helicopter tour to Las Vegas

Thanks to its central location, it’s easy to venture out of LA to visit cities and towns such as San Diego and if you’re feeling energetic, you can even make a day trip to Las Vegas. While it’s possible to drive or take a train to many of these destinations, group tours are a good option if you want to cut down on your driving and have the chance to relax during the trip. Most tours include round-trip transportation, light meals, and time built into the itinerary to explore a bit on your own.

21. Catalina Day Trip

Lying just 22 miles away from Downtown Los Angeles, Santa Catalina Island is a popular day-trip destination for many city slickers. You can get there easily via the Catalina Express , a high-speed ferry that whisks you across the ocean from San Pedro to Avalon or Two Harbors. The ride lasts about an hour and once you have arrived at Avalon you can check out the island’s unique array of shops, restaurants, cafes, and activities or simply grab a coffee and enjoy the sweeping vistas along the waterfront. If you choose to visit Two Harbors, you can head over to one of the pristine beaches or spend the night at the well-kept campground. 

22. Los Angeles to San Diego in a Day

With its easily walkable downtown, gorgeous beaches, and laid-back atmosphere, San Diego often feels like a world apart from the grind of Los Angeles, and a day trip there can be a good way to compare and contrast these two southern Californian cities. Operated by Another Side of Los Angeles Tours , the Los Angeles to San Diego in a Day will help you discover San Diego’s natural beauty and interesting history. The tour begins with a train ride from Union Station along the Pacific Coast. When you arrive at the Santa Fe Station in San Diego, you’ll be picked u in a Mercedes van for a day of sightseeing. 

Some of the highlights of the tour include the historic Gaslamp Quarter, Coronado Island and the Hotel del Coronado, the Embarcadero, La Jolla, and the expansive Balboa ark. During the day, you’ll have a one-hour lunch break in the Gaslamp Quarter where you can find a myriad of dining options. Tours depart daily all year round, leaving Los Angeles, and the tour price includes transportation, snacks, and beverages. 

If you want to learn more about the city before deciding whether or not you want to go on a tour, check out this list of “ The Top Things to Do in San Diego to Feel Like a Local .”

Ready to roam?

We hope that this guide has left you inspired to pack your bags and head to Los Angeles. As you can see, there is plenty to do there no matter what types of activities you are interested in and you can easily fill weeks of vacation time doing something new every day. As always, we would love to hear your feedback and please let us know if there are any hidden gems that we may have missed!

If you need more information, check out our list of “ The Best Things to Do in Los Angeles .” Alternatively, you can purchase tickets for one of our Los Angeles Scavenger Hunt Tours . They’re a great way to learn about attractions and hidden gems in hundreds of cities worldwide !

Frequently Asked Questions

The best tours in Los Angeles include the Original Farmers Market Food & History Tour, a Big Bus hop-on, hop-off tour, the Open Bus Star Homes Tour, or any of the Let’s Roam Scavenger Hunt Tours .

No visit to the City of Angeles is complete without trying a few outdoor tours in L.A. Take a Hollywood Sign Hike, try a studio tour, or download the Let’s Roam app and go on a scavenger hunt tour !

Some of the most entertaining tours in Los Angeles are celebrity home tours, movie studio tours, and sightseeing tours that stop by local beaches. For a twist, try a Scavenger Hunt Tour from Let’s Roam !

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The 13 Best Los Angeles Tours

Maximize your time in Los Angeles with the insider tips and historical context provided by the best local tours.

Courtesy of Bikes and Hikes LA

At more than 465 square miles, Los Angeles defies easy exploration. Even those who dream of touring the city's top attractions in a sporty convertible may be discouraged by the city's notorious traffic congestion and tough parking rules. To enjoy that stress-free, laid-back vacation California is famous for, choose an easy, efficient guided tour. Using both traveler sentiment and expert opinion, U.S. News selected some of the top tours in Los Angeles whose entertaining introduction to the city will engage intrepid explorers, first-time visitors and local residents alike.

Bikes and Hikes LA – Hollywood Sign Hike

Price: From $29 Duration: 3 hours

Summit Mount Hollywood on this hiking trip. You'll see Griffith Park and the Forest Lawn Mausoleum as well as the world-famous Hollywood sign and panoramic vistas of the city. Be ready for a workout: You'll hike approximately 4 miles round-trip. Reviewers say the tour is excellent and the guides provide lots of history during the hike.

Tours are offered daily year-round and depart at 8:45 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. The company also offers a shorter version of this hike and several bike tours of LA.

Check prices & availability on:

Open Bus Tours – Movie Star Home Tour

Price: From $35 Duration: 2 hours

Open Bus Tours whisks you through Hollywood and Beverly Hills in an open-top van to show you the places where the rich and famous play. The guide will point out landmarks associated with past and current celebrities, contemporary sports figures and YouTube stars, plus drive past famous movie studios and filming locations, if available. You can snap photos of mansions, the Hollywood sign, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Rodeo Drive, the Sunset Strip, the Dolby Theatre and more. Visitors say they like leaving the LA driving to fun, knowledgeable guides who entertain them with gossip. Others emphasize that this is more of a sightseeing tour and wish that they saw more celebrity homes.

The tours are available from Thursday to Monday; there are four departures each day. The company also offers private tours.

Big Bus Tours Los Angeles – TMZ Celebrity Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $49 Duration: 2 hours

Gossip, secrets and buzz-worthy names are the focus of this popular Hollywood Celebrity Hot Spot Tour from Big Bus Tours Los Angeles and TMZ, the famous celebrity news website. The guided bus outing departs several times daily from Hollywood and makes no stops. Instead, the entertaining guides show video clips, share stories, do giveaways and play games. Recent tour-takers who love celebrity gossip and pop culture offer very positive reviews of the outing, while some complain about not seeing any celebrities during their tour.

Tours depart multiple times daily. TMZ also runs a Hollywood Selfie Tour, which shuttles tourgoers to the best photo spots.

ExperienceFirst – Haunted Hollywood Walking Tour: True Crime, Creepy Tales

Price: Adults from $39; kids from $35 Duration: 2 hours

This ghost tour not only covers paranormal activity in Hollywood, but also delves into LA's crime history. You'll learn about serial killers who traumatized the city as well as the infamous Manson family murders. Among the locations you'll visit are the Hollywood Roosevelt hotel and the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. Reviewers say the tour is excellent and that guides are wonderful storytellers.

Trips depart at 6 p.m. nightly. ExperienceFirst also operates guided hikes to the Hollywood sign, among others.

Courtesy of A Day in LA

A Day in LA Tours – LA City Tour

Price: Adults from $99; kids from $89 Duration: 7.5 hours

Cruise from Venice Beach to Griffith Park and everywhere in between on this tour. Tourgoers will hop on an air-conditioned bus that's equipped with device charging ports and cruise in comfort to areas like Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive and Santa Monica. First-time visitors to LA rave about how much you see in one day despite the city's famous traffic. Others appreciate spending about 40 minutes at each attraction so they could explore and take photos.

Trips depart daily around 8 a.m. A Day in LA Tours offers hotel pickup from Los Angeles area hotels for an additional fee. You can also take this tour from Anaheim.

Six Taste – Downtown Los Angeles Food Tour

Price: From $85 Duration: 4 hours

On this Downtown LA walking tour by Six Taste, visitors will sample signature dishes from five eateries while learning more about the history of downtown and the city's diverse cultures. Tastings may include pupusas, pizza, chicken mole and gelato. The company partners with more than 100 restaurants, so these tastings may change. Locals and visitors alike rave about the Six Taste guides and their selection of hard-to-find stands and shops, as well as the delicious food.

Downtown tours run on Saturdays and Sundays only at 11 a.m. The tour is vegetarian friendly. Some dietary accommodations can be made as long as you notify the company at least 72 hours in advance. Other popular Six Taste tours explore Santa Monica and the Arts District.

Malibu Wine Hikes – Malibu Wine Hike & Trail Tour

Price: From $49 Duration: 2 hours

California wine is a must-try for oenophiles, but you won't need to venture to Napa, Sonoma or Santa Barbara to sample some vino. Approximately 30 miles west of LA you'll find Malibu, a well-known beach town and home to Malibu Wine Hikes. On its 2.5-mile wine tour, you'll explore Saddlerock Ranch and its incomparable beauty, including the property's grape vines. Guides will tell you about the varietals the ranch grows and you'll get to taste the wine it produces. Visitors say they had a great time and are particularly wowed by the scenery.

Keep in mind this hike isn't accessible and strollers and wagons are not allowed. Tours depart Wednesday through Monday. Times can vary by day, but you can generally expect tours in the late morning and mid-afternoon. Malibu Wine Hikes also offers a popular tour in a four-wheel drive vehicle.

Sunset Ranch Hollywood – Mulholland Trail Tour

Price: From $75 Duration: 1 hour

Hop on a trusted steed and explore Griffith Park with Sunset Ranch. As you ride through the park, you'll see the Hollywood Sign, the Pacific and LA vistas. Tour-takers say that the guides are friendly and knowledgeable; the ride is a great option for beginners. They also rave about the views from the trail. While children are welcome, they must be at least 8 years old to ride; they company doesn't allow double riders.

You'll want to book your tour online in advance to secure a spot. Tours depart hourly from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. If you want a longer ride, consider the two-hour Mt. Hollywood Trail Tour.

Courtesy of Architecture Tours L.A.

Architecture Tours L.A. – Silver Lake

Price: From $80 Duration: 2-3 hours

Architecture buffs and design professionals should book ahead for this tour of the Silver Lake neighborhood. For up to three hours, you'll view midcentury modern and contemporary homes by master architects Richard Neutra, Rudolph Schindler, John Lautner and other notables. Architectural historian and author Laura Massino Smith is your expert guide as she chauffeurs you through the neighborhood via van. Tour-takers appreciate Smith's insider access to homes designed by master architects that would otherwise be impossible to find or view up close.

Tours run daily around 10 a.m. and are given by reservation only. You can get tickets by contacting the company directly and you must have at least two people to book. Architecture Tours L.A. hosts a variety of other tours through Los Angeles neighborhoods, such as Hancock Park/Miracle Mile and West Hollywood/Beverly Hills.

Sidewalk Food Tours of Los Angeles – Downtown LA Food Tour

Price: Adults from $89; kids from $75 Duration: 3 hours

This vegetarian-friendly food tour of downtown Los Angeles appeals to travelers interested in the neighborhood's history and ethnically diverse culinary scene. You'll make six food stops that could include doughnuts, French pastry, Mexican tacos and Asian fusion. You'll also walk through Grand Central Market and see sights like the Biltmore Los Angeles, a luxury hotel, and the Million Dollar Theatre. Visitors rave about the knowledgeable guides and appreciate finding restaurants to return to, while locals enjoy learning about downtown and the city's hidden gem restaurants.

Expect to walk or stand the entire tour and bring a full water bottle. Tours run at 11 a.m. Friday through Monday. Many stops can accommodate gluten-free, vegan and dairy-free diets. Sidewalk Food Tours also offers a West Hollywood Food Tour and private food tours.

Surf City Tours – The Perfect Malibu Tour

Price: Adults from $85; kids from $70 Duration: 5.5 hours

See the homes of the rich and famous – with a side of spectacular ocean scenery – during this tour. Surf City Tours whisks you through Malibu to see the homes of celebrities like Lady Gaga and Cher as well as historic sites and filming locations. It also includes an hourlong stop so you can explore the beach on your own. Travelers say the tour is a must-do and appreciate the guides' enthusiasm and historical knowledge.

Tours depart at 9:30 a.m. daily. You must bring a car seat for all children 8 and younger. Tours depart from the company's location in Santa Monica. The company also runs a surfing trip and a Hollywood tour.

Universal Studios Studio Tour

Price: Included with park admission Duration: 1 hour

Movie fans will get a thrill out of Universal Studios' Studio Tour, a theme park attraction that moves tram riders around the studio backlot. Jimmy Fallon serves as your video tour guide who introduces short clips that serve to enhance the narration from your in-person guide. During the tram ride, you'll encounter the Jupiter's Claim set from "Nope," the shark from "Jaws" and other key props. Interactive experiences include watching a 3D King Kong battle a T. rex and racing alongside stars from "The Fast and the Furious" movie franchise. Both experiences are favorites of reviewers who especially enjoy the special effects. Some tour-takers feel that it is more of another theme park ride than a tour.

The backlot tours leave throughout the day. Tours are included with the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park ticket, which starts at $109 per person for one-day general admission. The park offers multiple shows and rides featuring famous animals, cartoon characters and blockbuster hits.

Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood

Price: Adults from $70; kids from $60 Duration: 3 hours

Spend time with friends, scientists and wizards during the Warner Bros. Studio Tour. For one hour of the experience, a guide will drive you around the backlots of the studio while they tell you about the company's history and how they produce films and shows. The remainder of the the tour is self-guided. Tour-takers can explore sets from "Friends" and "The Big Bang Theory," see numerous costumes and props (including items from the DC Universe and "Fantastic Beasts") and grab a bite to eat or a souvenir at the cafe and shop. Tourgoers rave about this tour, calling it an absolute must for movie fans.

Tours are available daily from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. You must select a specific time slot when you book. You can upgrade your experience to a Plus or Deluxe tour, which include longer guided tours and meals.

You may also be interested in:

• Best Things to Do in Los Angeles
• Best Los Angeles Hotels
• Best San Diego Tours
• Best California Tours
• Best California Beaches

Tags: Tours , Los Angeles , Vacations , Travel , California Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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FULL-DAY PRIVATE TOUR ITINERARY

A full-day tour of Los Angeles with We Love LA tour is THE best way to see all the most historic and iconic sights in the city. Our full-day iconic sights of LA tour typically lasts 7-8 hours, and our itinerary covers the most popular sights in LA. 

If you’re only going to be visiting LA for a day or 2, our full-day tour will make sure that you see everything that is quintessential to LA. If you’re enjoying a longer stay in LA, then taking a full-day tour on your first day or two in town will help you get acquainted with the city and give you ideas for places you want to explore further during your trip. Many of our guests take our Los Angeles day tour and then go back to their favorite tour stops so they can spend more time on the beautiful beaches, do more shopping, or experience all LA has to offer. 

Convenience. Comfort. Flexibility.

The full-day private tours at We Love LA are first-class. Unlike the crowded, big bus tours, on one of our private tours you don’t have to worry about finding a parking spot, getting to pick up spots in time, or getting lost or left behind if you want to spend extra time at a stop along the tour. 

While we do work from an itinerary to make sure our guests get to fully experience the history and sights of LA, we can be flexible to your group’s individual preferences and style. If you want to stay longer at a stop along the tour, spending more time at the beaches and less shopping or more time at the Hollywood sign and less at the beaches, we can work with you to make sure you don’t feel rushed and get to spend the most time at the sights that mean the most to you. 

We will pick you up at your hotel or AirBNB (in one of our new, clean, fuel efficient vehicles) and take you back to where you’re staying at the end of the tour. Have dinner plans? Going somewhere else after your tour? We can drop you off where your evening in LA is set to begin! 

The private Los Angeles day tour experience with We Love LA Tour is like flying first-class. At the end of a tour, we want our guests to feel like they’ve truly experienced LA...and made a new friend along the way.

First-Class. Fun. Friendship.

The private tour experience with We Love LA Tour is like flying first-class. At the end of a tour, we want our guests to feel like they’ve truly experienced LA...and made a new friend along the way.

We Love LA - Full-Day Tour Itinerary

Our full day Los Angeles tour usually last anywhere between 7 and 8 hours, and include stops at the most popular and iconic sights LA has to offer. We’ll pick you up at your hotel or AirBNB, and then start your tour!  Factors such as weather, traffic, and where we pick you up will help determine the itinerary of the tour, but on a full-day tour with We Love LA, you can expect to experience all of these great LA sights included in the sample itinerary below!

The day will likely start at THE HOLLYWOOD SIGN .  We will take you to the closest and best location for pictures! (None of the big bus tours get you as close to the sign as we do!) This now iconic sight was originally built in 1923 as a real estate advertisement, and was only planned to stay nestled in the Hollywood hills for around 18 months. But after the rise of American cinema in the 1920s and 1930s, the sign became a West Coast phenomenon and remains one of the most frequently visited tourist attractions in LA.

A visit to Los Angeles is not complete without a stop in HOLLYWOOD BLVD .  In this area you can enjoy THE WALK OF FAME . This landmark welcomes you with over 2600 stars embedded in the sidewalks of Hollywood Blvd, which spans 15 city blocks. You will also see the TCL CHINESE THEATRE , THE DOLBY THEATRE and also lots of interesting Angelenos!.

Our next stop will be the ORIGINAL FARMERS MARKET , a great place to have lunch and perhaps do some shopping at one of the most popular shopping areas in our city. The Farmer’s Market isn’t just a refreshing lunch stop for Hollywood locals and tourists, it's also one of the food industry’s favorite locations. World renowned chef and TV star Alton Brown (Good Eats) and Gordon Ramsay (Hell's Kitchen) have both used the market several times for their shows. It’s also been the site of popular TV series like Entourage, which closed out it’s run with a segment at the market. Late night host Jimmy Kimmel also frequents the market for entertaining interviews and show segments involving customer interviews on-the-fly. 

You’ll also see THE GROVE . The Grove is the place where celebrities come to shop! It’s been an outdoor shopping mall since 2002, and it’s a great place to spot celebrities.

Next, a drive by one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Los Angeles and the world, we will take you to the heart of BEVERLY HILLS . The Beverly Hills zip code (90210) is the most iconic in the world, and it’s also the most filmed city in history. It’s a city marked by wealth and prestige, where even the local post office offers valet parking and first responders are on the scene to assist residents in less than one minute. We will drive by the Four Season Hotel, formerly known as the Beverly Wilshire Hotel (Pretty Woman was filmed here). A short drive north on RODEO DRIVE will take you to the home to the epicenter of luxury, fashion and lifestyle, where the rich and famous do their shopping.

Enjoy an ice cream, a churro, or just enjoy the amazing view from the SANTA MONICA PIER , the California coast and the end of the HISTORIC ROUTE 66 in Santa Monica. The Santa Monica pier was originally built in 1909 and in 1924 had the biggest ballroom in the world. The pier is also credited with causing the first traffic jam in LA. A number of movies and TV shows have filmed at the pier, so you’re bound to recognize it in glimpses you’ve seen on the big screen.

We will also take you to one of the most known beaches in the world, VENICE BEACH . Venice Beach has a famous BOARDWALK that spans 1.5 miles of the sandy coastline. You will also see MUSCLE BEACH (named for all the body builders, like Arnold Schwartenegger, who work out on the beach). The beach made Gold’s Gym popular in the 1980s and has been the site of many bodybuilding and muscle competitions over the years.  You may also recognize this beach from shows like Baywatch and Ray Donavan, which have filmed here. 

During your full-day tour with We Love LA, you’ll get to see all the beautiful and historic sights that LA is known for. But you’ll also get to hear personal stories and experiences from our amazing tour guides. Our guides are all local to LA, and love the city. They can share tidbits and fun facts along the tour that will give you the true feel of what life is like in Los Angeles. 

The Los Angeles Full-Day Tour takes between 7 to 8 hours.

(The itinerary's order may change based on your hotel location and weather conditions)

    At We Love L.A.! we know planning a vacation takes time, a lot of research, and a smart budget 

    We offer you not only the

BEST TOUR   in our city, but also the BEST PRICE  in town.

book your Private 

Our service includes , pick up and drop off at your hotel. free of charge ,     (there is an additional charge for areas out of los angeles, see our faq or contact us ), bottled water., your prefered choice of soft drink (coke, sprite, diet)., private vehicle & your  personal tour guide., additional ammenities.  .

Groups of 1 to 6 Guests  $799

Groups of 7+ Guests ( please contact us for pricing)  

All prices include taxes 

contact us 

[email protected]

WhatsApp +18183842531

Awesome tour of L.A. with amazing service!   by Angela K.  (USA)

SEE LA IN A DAY

The best Los Angeles has to offer

Endless Possibilities

If you’re interested in enhancing your next trip with an exciting and engaging experience, look no further. Check out our current tours and feel free to get in touch with any questions you may have about what we offer.

Michael, TripAdvisor

My friends and I had the best time with “Slaughter On The Sunset Strip.” I didn’t know touring your own city could be so much fun! Chris was the best guide imaginable - super knowledgeable, engaging, flexible and clever. I’m so grateful my friends gave me the insider tip. His tours are now my go-to plan for entertaining out-of-town family, or switching up a friend’s night out. I can’t recommend them enough!

Hundreds of 5 Star Reviews

The Best Way to Experience Los Angeles

Whether you want to go off the beaten path and see the unknown parts of LA or you'd rather see Hollywood from the comfort of a private luxury vehicle, See LA in a Day is here to help! Our tours have received hundreds of 5 star reviews and are led by a team of passionate tour guides. See LA in a Day has been featured on Spectrum News, Voyage LA, and our guides have led tours for KTLA. From solo travelers to corporate events, Malibu to DTLA, and True Crime to Wine Tastings - we are your one stop shop for all things LA.

Malibu Wine Tasting

Visit Malibu wine country to try local wines at 3 tasting rooms

Offered Daily

Duration Varies

Starts @ $399/person

A Perfect Day in Malibu

Go horseback riding, have a beachside picnic, and taste local wines

Starts @ $899/person

Private Tour of LA

The best way to See LA in a Day

Starts @ $299/person

Hike the Hollywood Hills at Sunset

See the Walk of Fame and hike on hidden trails for a sunset view of LA

LA's Secret Painted Stairs

Explore LA's coolest neighborhood and hike the secret painted stairs

LA River Eco Tour and Secret Stair Hike

See an LA that you never knew existed

The History and Arch. of Los Feliz

Hike from the Griffith Observatory to a stunning Frank Lloyd Wright Ho...

Thu, Fri, Sat

The History and Architecture of DTLA

Step into LA's past and uncover how it became the city it is today

Venice Beach Art and History

Explore Venice Beach and uncover its hidden history

The History and Arch. of Beverly Hills

See Beverly Hills with this tour and try the chocolate of the stars!

2 hr 30 min

Haunted Hollywood & True Crime Tour

A paranormal and true crime walk down the Blvd of Broken Dreams

Slaughter on the Sunset Strip

Take a shocking deep dive into the sinister history of the Sunset Stri...

Check out our most recent video and follow See LA in a Day on YouTube for LA info!

Current video is a preview of the upcoming history and architecture of koreatown walking tour.

If you have questions about booking, custom tour itineraries, or just want help planning your trip to LA, please contact us. You can send an email or use the contact form on this site. We look forward to hearing from you!

[email protected]

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Real experiences of the real Los Angeles

See the real la, tripadvisor.

Did a full day walking tour of LA. Our tour guide Damien was very knowledgeable & passionate about giving us all the information in a clear & concise way. The tour was very well planned & organised & was not tiring.

Lisa Montesanti

We did The Real Hollywood tour & loved it! The tour was at a great pace & the guide (Vicky) was very knowledgeable & made the tour fun. Thank you!

Stuart was so knowledgeable & was worth the day with him. I had been to LA multiple times before but this is the first time I had taken a tour – so thrilled to have this experience with my mom & sister. I would recommend this tour again & again.

Lucrezia Scamarcio

We had an amazing DTLA Murder Mystery Ghost tour with Damien & Dante… thank you very much from the Italian girls… very interesting & funny… absolutely recommended!

Passport17369220499

This tour was awesome! Stuart is very knowledgeable, likeable & fun. The stops on the tour were very interesting & I learned a lot. I’ve been on quite a few tours of this nature & this was one of my favorites – highly recommend!

Did a walking tour of LA (LA in a Day). Vicky started us off with the Hollywood tour & Damien (who is also the owner) was our guide for the rest of the day. The entire day was awesome, I suggest this tour. There isn’t that much walking, to be honest. It’s very fun!

Michelle B.

My boyfriend & I took the DTLA Murder Mystery Ghost tour with Stuart as our guide & had the most amazing time! We had experiences we will never forget! We were able to see parts & people of Los Angeles that we never would have without Stuart. I give this 10/10. If we visit again, this will be at the top of our to do list!

Sara Pozueta

Absolutely amazing! Highly recommend taking both The Real Hollywood Tour & the Central Downtown LA tour! Our time in LA wouldn’t have been the same. Great way to learn about the city, see it from a different angle, explore the local life & learn about its history & filming industry. Damien our guide was fantastic!

Sylvie was our host & was fantastic. She had a lot of local knowledge & gave her unique perspective as someone who had moved to the area many years ago, so she had an outsider’s as well as an insider’s perspective. The tour gave us a great overview of Santa Monica & Venice & set us up for a great rest of the day.

Paula Lindgren

We took 2 tours, the Santa Monica & Venice Bike tour (with Sylvie) & the Real Hollywood tour (with Damien). Both were great & highly recommended. Sylvie & Damien were informative, knowledgeable & easy to talk to. They were like you were with friends. We were traveling as a family of 4 with 2 boys (15 & 12). We all enjoyed the tours.

LA in a Day Tour

$110 / pp Includes all metro travel

Walking & Metro

Less than 4 miles walking Over a day it's an easy distance

10am - 6pm (8 hours) Daily

LA is so big – how are you going to see it in one day? Easy! Join our LA in a Day tour. There’s no breezing through on buses with pre-recorded audio commentary playing (which is always out of sync), we’ll show you the hidden nooks and crannies of the city that other tour companies don’t (because it doesn’t fit with traffic patterns) and give you a feel for the real Los Angeles. Our LA in a Day tour is the only all-day Metro and walking tour of Los Angeles – and the only one on which you’ll see seven different venues of the Oscars Ceremony.

We’ll start your LA in a Day tour in Hollywood (where else) and show you how and why LA became the center of the American entertainment industry. There’s a huge amount of fascinating movie history surrounding the famous Walk of Fame, including the oldest house in Hollywood (where Charlie Chaplin’s kids went to school), the Capitol Records Building, the Egyptian Theater, the Dolby Theater (home of the Oscars) and the TCL Chinese Theater, and you’ll learn about it all.

Next we take the subway to downtown – it’s actually the fastest way to get there. DTLA is the most dynamic part of the city right now and it’s also the biggest historic downtown of any major city in the U.S. The city was founded here in 1781 and it has a huge number of iconic buildings, such as City Hall and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. By this time you’ll be hungry, so we pause your LA in a Day tour for lunch at one of the top food destinations in America, Grand Central Market.

After lunch the tour continues in DTLA, then we head to Santa Monica on the E-Line. It’s a lovely way to travel through the West Side. Once in SaMo we’ll give you a tour of the area (including the famous Santa Monica Pier), before finishing your LA in a Day tour at 3rd Street Promenade, a perfect place to watch the sun set while enjoying cocktails and dinner. By now you’ll have had a real experience of Los Angeles and made some great memories to take home with you.

Our tours can sell out. If you can't make a booking email us at  [email protected] , telling us when you want to do the tour and how many guests are in your party, and if we can squeeze you in we’ll let you know.

Logistics & Details

*Cost: $110 pp.

*Walking distance: less than 4 miles over the day.

*Tour starts 10 am daily,  Pantages Theater , opposite Hollywood and Vine Metro station ( meeting point photo ).

*Tour finishes 6 pm,  Third Street Promenade , near Santa Monica Metro station.

*Travel on Los Angeles Metro during tour included in ticket price.

*We'll show you how to use the LA Metro - the easiest and cheapest mode of transport here.

*We donate $1 for every guest to Climate Cents, a local climate change organization.

*There’s a big range of food options and all types of diet are available (vegan, gluten-free etc).

You can book this as a private tour starting at just $750 for up to 10 guests

Disclaimers.

This tour is in English. If your English isn’t fluent this may not be the best option for you. Tour available in Spanish and German as private tour ONLY.  Email  [email protected]  to arrange.

Lunch/Snacks are not included.

We recommend ride-sharing or taking the metro to the meeting point, then you don't have to pay $30-40 to park your car all day (if you're driving here).

This is a walking tour and we move at a reasonable pace. If you have mobility issues please book a private tour.

This tour is not recommended for children under 15 y.o.

We never cancel tours in advance due to the weather conditions.

Aim to get to the meeting point 10-15 minutes early. If you’re late you may miss the tour.

Contactless payment for gratuities available, please allow 15-20%.

Full refund or exchange available up to 48 hours before tour start time.

You must book in advance.

Subject to change at our discretion

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The 15 best day trips from Los Angeles

Experience everything that SoCal has to offer with these day trip from Los Angeles to stunning nearby beaches, wineries and small towns

L.A. is great and all, but sometimes you need a change of scenery. If you only have one day to spare, consider one of these quick day trips from Los Angeles to some amazing nearby destinations. Luckily, living in L.A. means it’s an easy (well, depending on traffic) and often  scenic drive  to SoCal’s best beaches , small towns, wineries and gorgeous desert landscapes—all within three hours of the city. Oddly enough, taking advantage of the ease with which you can get  out of L.A. is easily one of the best things to do  in L.A.

From wine tasting in Santa Barbara and  vintage hunting in Palm Springs to  camping  in Joshua Tree or feeling the sand between your toes in San Diego, you’re sure to find a short trip (as opposed to a longer road trip ) worth taking on this list. 

RECOMMENDED: The best weekend getaways from L.A.

An email you’ll actually love

Top day trips from Los Angeles

1.  Coronado

2 hrs by car There’s a reason Coronado has topped lists of the country’s best beaches: Its wide shores never feel overcrowded, the soft, fine-grained sand is easily walkable and the weather is practically perfect. Just a quick ferry ride or bridge drive from San Diego, this wealthy peninsula has the feel of a resort town with the amenities that come from being near a major city.

The beachfront grounds of the regal, red-roofed Hotel del Coronado  are a must-visit, even if you can’t foot its pricey room reservations. Back in town, stop into hole-in-the-wall diner Clayton’s Coffee Shop for a quick meal or MooTime Creamery for frozen treats. Coronado is also home to a sizable naval base, and while you can’t exactly visit, you can spot fighter jets coming in for landings and submarines surfacing off the coast.  —Michael Juliano

2.  Ojai

1 hr 20 mins by car Ojai is a not-so-hidden gem close enough to L.A. for a day trip, but with a unique, relaxed feel that’s worlds away from busy city life. Start early with a decadent, hearty breakfast at Bonnie Lu’s , then stroll the town’s quaint main street; the antique shopping is great here, but relatively new school shops like Summer Camp are also worth a stop.

Tour an olive farm or a citrus grove, then grab an organic lunch at Farmer & the Cook . Alternatively, grab a a bite to go and explore the nearby trails in Los Padres National Forest , just north of town. If the weather is right, swimming holes abound along the Sespe Creek.

Back in civilization, check out Bart’s Books , an outdoor bookstore housed in an actual house (sans roof), or head up to Meditation Mount   (reservations required)  for incredible views, especially the famed “pink moment” at sunset.

Swing back to the center of town to explore its many wine tasting rooms, or grab a beer and a bite at Ojai Beverage Company . Chief’s Peak, the bar at Ojai Rancho Inn (where you should stay if your trip runs long), is a hip spot for an after-dinner drink; you’ll find more old-timers—and regular live music—at Deer Lodge down the road.  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Ojai

3.  Santa Barbara

1 hr 50 mins by car Santa Barbara is a scenic and worthy vacation destination regardless of your starting point, but we’re fortunate enough to have relatively easy access (granted that the L.A. traffic gods are working in our favor).

Stearns Wharf is a go-to spot to see the Pacific, and nearby is State Street, filled with tons of shops and people-watching opportunities. And the Wharf isn’t the only place to see the water: Butterfly Beach, a relatively private spot, is situated next to the Four Seasons Biltmore Hotel and faces west for ideal sunset-watching views.

Grab lunch at La Super-Rica Taqueria —famous for being one of Julia Child’s favorite eateries. The lines tend to be on the ridiculous side, but it’s worth the wait for novelty’s sake alone.

If you’re traveling with family, spend a few hours at the Santa Barbara Zoo   (reservations required) . Otherwise, grab a glass of Pinot Noir at one of the many tasting rooms along the Urban Wine Trail   (hours and status vary by winery) ; the spots are located in downtown Santa Barbara, steps from the Amtrak station, and source grapes from local vineyards.  —Seth Kelley

Discover the best things to do in Santa Barbara

4.  Laguna Beach

1 hr by car Forget what you know from a certain unfortunate MTV reality show: Laguna Beach is an easygoing oceanfront city graced with lush vegetation, tidepools and a picturesque rocky coastline.

Main Beach is the spot of choice for downtown sunbathing, but you’ll find pristine, less crowded beaches at tide pool-filled Treasure Island, camper-friendly Crystal Cove or hidden Victoria Beach with its weathered, castle-like turret.

Walk the city’s downtown area to find a mix of shops, galleries and restaurants; many eateries cater to the well heeled, so we suggest bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy on a bench at the hilltop Heisler Park. Do, however, follow the smell of fresh waffle cones onto the enchanting Peppertree Lane for a scoop from Gelato Paradiso .

It’s not just about the beach here; you can explore the reservation-only Hortense Miller Garden  or thousands of acres of hillsides and canyons to find hiking trails, nature centers and the Pacific Marine Mammal Center   (closed through fall 2024) , a sea lion rescue. Summertime typically sees the arrival of two festival favorites: Pageant of the Masters , a live stage interpretation of classical paintings, and Sawdust Art Festival , an open-air artisan market that transforms into a Christmas village in late fall. There’s only one road in and out from the 5, so bring some patience during rush hour—alternatively, take the scenic route and follow Coast Highway through Newport Beach.  —Michael Juliano

5.  Solvang

2 hrs by car After Danish immigrants grew tired of Midwestern winters, they began to make their way west and eventually settled in the pastoral Santa Ynez Valley. Though you won’t find many Danes in Solvang anymore, you will find wooden windmills, rural houses and a replica of Copenhagen’s Round Tower. The post-WWII structures are as touristy as they are charming; walk around town to find an assortment of Christmas shops, Hans Christian Andersen and Little Mermaid keepsakes, and sort-of-Danish bakeries.

Solvang’s downtown area is dotted with breweries and pancake cottages, including local standbys Solvang Brewing Company   and Paula’s Pancake House —and an increasingly impressive new culinary scene . For a bit of history on the area, make sure to stop by the humble Elverhøj Museum .

For a more offbeat adventure, head to the outskirts of town to  OstrichLand , which feels like the Jurassic Park of the ostrich and emu world. If you’re visiting in early January, make sure to schedule your trip around the annual Christmas tree bonfire . —Michael Juliano

6.  Balboa Island

1 hr by car, 5 min ferry

Visitors to Balboa Island in Newport Beach can enter the man-made island by driving onto it via Marine Avenue, but it’s far easier—and more fun—to park your car on the Balboa Peninsula and take the Balboa Island Ferry for a quick and scenic five-minute trip across the water.

The first order of business: getting your hands on one of the island’s famed frozen bananas (make the Bluth family proud). Choose from rivals Sugar N Spice or Dad’s Donut & Bakery Shop; both claim to be the originators of the chocolate-covered frozen treat.

Take a jaunt around the 1.6-mile boardwalk surrounding the island, passing by multi-million dollar homes and streets named after gems, before strolling down Marine Avenue, the island’s main artery. Here you’ll find plenty of restaurants ( Wilma’s Patio is a staple), boutique shops, art galleries and the Balboa Island Museum and Historical Society .

Of course, there’s plenty to do out on the water, too: kayaking, parasailing, paddle boarding and the like. If you’ve got kiddos tagging along, the Balboa Fun Zone on the peninsula hosts a Ferris wheel and plenty of arcade games.  —Erin Kuschner

Discover the best things to do in Newport Beach

7.  Los Alamos

2 hrs 20 mins by car Once a major stagecoach stop, this small, easy-to-miss town looks stuck in the past with its Old West style—but behind the facade are trendy treasures waiting to be discovered. Inside Bob’s Well Bread Bakery is a hip, stylish setup serving artisan breads—including gluten free options—croissants, sandwiches and more. Exploring antique shops and art galleries can easily fill a day here, just be sure to call ahead, as some places are only open on weekends.

A big draw of the Los Alamos area is its wine tasting—this is Santa Barbara County, after all—which can be done at Bedford Winery  and other local tasting rooms. Before you leave town, make a pit stop at  1880 Union , an event space with an authentic stagecoach saloon, or spend the night at the Victorian Mansion Bed and Breakfast . For being a single stoplight town (we haven’t actually counted, but you get it), there’s a bevy of delicious places to eat, such as  Full of Life Flatbread (known for its occasional A-list diners) and the destination-worthy Bell’s .  —Stephanie Morino

8.  San Juan Capistrano

1 hr 30 min by car, 1 hr 25 min by train A piece of California history and a quaint old town make San Juan Capistrano an off-the-beaten-path day trip with a lot of charm and a little learning. If you take Amtrak there, the train will drop you off right where you want to be—just a couple of blocks from a good cup of coffee at Hidden House Coffee .

From there, you can tour Mission San Juan Capistrano , founded in 1776 and arguably one of the mission chain’s prettiest links. The mission used to be known as a migratory destination for swallows in February, but the famous birds have been spotty in recent years. If you have your heart set on getting up close with some animals, check out Zoomars   (reservations recommended) , a petting zoo for kids of all ages (read: adults love it, too). It’s a historic ranch where you can also pan for gold like the California miners did. You’re also near Los Rios Historic District , which has some historic homes and museums that are perfect for a walking tour.

When you get hungry, you have several options: Heritage Barbecue serves remarkable Texas-style smoked meats,  Ramos House is a romantic spot known for great food and huge Bloody Marys on the weekends and  Five Vines is a nearby wine bar with snacks and sandwiches. If you want to catch a later train, head over to Swallow’s Inn , the local dive bar, where bras hang from the ceiling and bands play late into the night. You’re still within stumbling distance of the train station.  —Sara Fay

9.  Oak Glen

1 hr 30 mins by car

Though you can visit Oak Glen year-round, the best time to head to this picturesque town to the east is September through November. The five-mile loop of orchards, ranches, shops and restaurants is a necessity for any New England transplant looking for fall foliage, and the town’s most popular activity— apple picking —is a nice alternative to canvassing L.A.’s farmers’ markets.

Many of the orchards, like Willowbrook Apple Farm  (opens Labor Day weekend), offer a cider press to make your own cider, which you can pair with a cinnamon roll or apple dumpling from Apple Annie’s Restaurant & Bakery . Stop by the Turquoise Pueblo  on your way back to L.A. for some beautiful handmade Native American jewelry.  —Erin Kuschner

10.  Solana Beach

2 hrs by car, or 2 hrs by train

If you want to spend a day in San Diego, you can either try to go big (the San Diego Zoo! Balboa Park!  Padres game! All in one day!) or go small-town and spend a chill day in a cool oceanfront neighborhood. The beach towns north of San Diego—no, we’re not talking about Pacific Beach—are the stuff of the Beach Boys lyrics.

In Solana Beach, you’ll find laid-back vibes and beaches that aren’t completely overrun. It’s easy to get there from L.A. via Amtrak, and it’s a perfect way to day-trip because all the spots you’ll want to hit are within walking distance of the station.

Start at  the Naked Cafe for a beach-y brunch, then, either head down to the beach at Fletcher Cove or cruise along the Cedros Design District for window shopping, brewery hopping and people watching. There’s also a mix of cute boutiques, surf shops, restaurants, taco spots and bars along South Coast Highway. If it’s racing season, the Del Mar Racetrack  isn’t far—it would be either a long walk or a short car ride.

Before you catch the train back up to L.A., you have several good options for dinner near the tracks: Station Sushi is a solid locals’ spot for classic and creative rolls, Bangkok Bay  has some of the best Thai food we’ve ever eaten and Pizza Port is known for being a last-slice-and-beer-before-Amtrak place. It’s directly across a pedestrian crosswalk from the train station, and has been slinging pies and pouring pints for three decades.  —Sara Fay

If the San Diego Zoo caught your eye, book a ticket and spend a day with the animals.

11.  Temecula

When hoofing it to Napa and Sonoma isn’t an option, Temecula is your next best destination for a day of wine tasting. Before sampling the grapes, stop by quaint Old Town Temecula, where you can pay a visit to the Temecula Valley Museum  for a historical walking tour.

Then it’s down to business; the heart of Temecula’s Wine Country includes more than 30 wineries, which you can bounce between at your own leisure (don’t drink and drive, folks!) or take a guided tour from one of the many wine tour companies in the area. Taste your way through the 70-acre Wilson Creek Winery and the red-focused Monte De Oro Winery   before heading to Maurice Car’rie Vineyard  for an educated tasting and a loaf of the vineyard’s famous sourdough bread, oozing with brie.

Just down the road, Magical Adventure Balloon Rides encapsulates another popular Temecula activity: riding in a hot air balloon. We can’t think of a better way to end your day in Temecula than by sailing over the town’s vineyards at sunset with a glass of Champagne in hand. —Erin Kuschner

12.  Palm Springs

2 hrs by car Known for its ultra-fancy resorts and legacy of celebrity residents, Palm Springs is worth at least a weekend, if you can afford the time. Still, if you’re limited to 24 hours, make the desert city a choose-your-own-adventure day trip.

Start with brunch at Cheeky’s , and trust us that it’s worth the wait. If you’re in the mood to exercise, check out Indian Canyons , made up of three separate canyons (Palm, Murray and Andreas) that each offer hiking trails and fantastic views of the diverse landscape. Another of the best ways to see Palm Springs is on the Aerial Tramway , which helps visitors escape the heat of the desert with a scenic ride to the top of the San Jacinto Mountains.

If relaxation is your goal, shop at the outlets in Cabazon, or just get a massage and sit by the pool. The Palm Springs Art Museum  is small but displays works from incredible artists including Picasso and Warhol. For dinner, try reservations at Sandfish  for superb sushi and Japanese whiskey.  —Seth Kelley

Discover the best  things to do in Palm Springs

13.  Big Bear

2 hrs by car; access may be limited during the winter This mountain town is home to some of L.A.’s closest ski slopes in winter, but don’t discount a summertime trip, when a dip in a mountain lake is the best way to keep cool. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to tour the water, and keep an eye out for the white-domed Big Bear Solar Observatory perched at the water’s edge on the north shore. The hiking here is also plentiful and offers some amazing views.

If you’re a bit more adventurous, stop by Bear Valley Bikes and rent a mountain bike; there are fire roads for beginners and lots of technical, downhill single track for more seasoned riders.

Back in town, check out the Bowling Barn  and the Alpine Slide , both of which are a blast with or without kids in tow. For a drink with the locals, head to karaoke night (which is pretty much every night) at Murray’s Saloon , the town’s self-proclaimed “five star hole in the wall.”  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Big Bear

14.  Joshua Tree

2 hrs 15 mins by car You’ll find Joshua Tree National Park on our shortlist for perfect day trips, road trips and weekend getaways from L.A. That’s for good reason: the magical desert spot—with its gnarled, ancient namesake trees, picturesque cacti and giant boulders—should be on every traveler’s bucket list, no matter how much time they have to spare.

Watch rock climbers scale mini-mountains at  Hidden Valley campground (first-come, first-served) or try some scrambling yourself at Jumbo Rocks . If you visit in spring, head south to Pinto Basin for a chance to see colorful wildflowers in bloom.

On the drive out, plan for a pit stop at the Cabazon exit, where you can explore the famed dinosaur park from Pee Wee’s Big Adventure (and even, for a fee, climb inside the three-story T. Rex for a photo op in his mouth). Shop for cacti at multiple roadside marts on Twentynine Palms Highway, or hang a left at Pioneertown Road for a stop at Pappy & Harriet’s , which boasts a ghost town, small inn and great live music.

Another worthwhile detour is Landers, home of countless alien sightings and new-age sound baths at the  Integratron   (reservations required) . In the town of Joshua Tree, take your pick from a few tasty restaurants, including Crossroads Cafe   to rub elbows with locals. There are some good thrift shops around here, as well as the kind of quirky public art; be sure to check out the World Famous Crochet Museum , as well as prolific artist Andrea Zittel’s A-Z West tour.  —Kate Wertheimer

Discover the best things to do in Joshua Tree .

15.  Salton Sea and Slab City

3 hrs by car This day trip isn’t for everyone; but if you’re a fan of things decrepit, forgotten and way off the beaten path, head south to Bombay Beach at the Salton Sea. A popular vacation spot in the ’50s and ’60s, these days all that’s left of the once-booming seaside town are photo-worthy ruins and a lot of dead fish.

The Ski Inn remains; stop by for a drink or a greasy bite and decorate a dollar bill to hang on the wall or ceiling. Continue on to Niland, made famous by artist Leonard Knight’s Salvation Mountain , a giant folk art monument made from adobe, straw and thousands of gallons of paint (you may remember it from Into the Wild ). Beyond is Slab City, a former marine training base that now exists as a squat for campers, transients and desert dwellers who’ve created a community complete with a library, skate park and live music stage, “the Range.” If you’re respectful and friendly, folks may share their hot spring and swimming hole secrets, so bring a bathing suit—or do as the locals do and go in your birthday suit.  —Kate Wertheimer

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The 9 Best Day Trips From Los Angeles

By Krista Simmons and Maxwell Williams

The largest city in California, Los Angeles is a world-class tourist destination for its glamorous industries, idyllic weather, cultural attractions , shopping, and dining scenes. But as a popular draw year-round, visitors are bound to explore beyond the city proper. Luckily, there are several nearby day trips that can scratch whatever exploratory itch you have: vineyards and valleys, mountains, desert escapes, and artists' communities. We've pulled together some of the best day trips from Los Angeles to help you plan with all the details on where to go and what to do. Should you fall in love with any of these spots—as we have—we've included where to stay, too, just in case you need more time.

Read our complete Los Angeles city guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

JOSHUA TREE NATIONAL PARK

Known for its quirky cacti and metaphysical flare, J-Tree has drawn an out-there crowd for many years. The National Park is a must-see for any nature lover, especially those who love bouldering, but the surrounding town is worth visiting in its own right. Watch a world-class music act at the iconic honky tonk Pappy & Harriets, cruise Pioneertown to see the set of many Westerns, indulge in a sound bath, and come home with a new collection of crystals. Hey, when in Joshua Tree...

Pappy & Harriets Arrow

Have you even been to Joshua Tree if you haven't stepped foot in Pioneertown? We think not. It's the true spirit of the desert, and not to be missed. Pappy and Harriets is a honky tonk in a dusty, abandoned desert town that looks like it could be the set of a spaghetti Western, but it draws big name acts to come and perform practically in the middle of nowhere.

Joshua Tree Saloon Arrow

This dusty dive bar is like the gateway to Joshua Tree National Park. It's the perfect spot for a bite and a beer when you first arrive into town; the low-key vibes will surely slow you down to J-Tree pace. You'll find plenty hikers and climbers from out of town, posting up for a hearty meal after a long day on the trails, as well as Marines from the nearby Twenty Nine Palms base. Don't expect any froo froo cocktails; just a solid list of classic domestic beers (plus a few craft offerings) and staple spirits. There are also burgers, jalapeño poppers, fish and chips, and a solid basket of ribs. But a saloon like this wouldn't be complete without a cast of characters that staff the bar; sidle up for good humor and plenty of stories from these attentive lifers.

Pioneertown Motel Arrow

Full credit goes to the folks who decided to restore this totally hip Western property. It's truly a gem and a slice of SoCal history. Vaulted ceilings with exposed beams make the cozy rooms, which are adorned with adorable Western elements such as cowhide rugs, Pendleton throw pillows, and Mexican blankets, seem more spacious. The proximity to the stellar music at Pappy & Harriets and the desertscape alone are worth it, but if that doesn't seal the deal, it's the quiet time amongst the landscape, and the epic sunsets, that will.

Harrison Pierce

María Casbas

CNT Editors

The Integratron Arrow

This is the ultimate in woo woo—a geodesic dome sound bath in the middle of the Mojave Desert . It's all about the metaphysical energy. Prepare to tap into your inner hippie. Anyone who's looking to explore the idea of meditation or the metaphysical is welcome, and it's a mixed bag. There are guides of sorts who lead the sound bath. They're pros at playing various sorts of instruments from Buddhist prayer bowls to gongs and quartz crystal bowls. Whether you come to some sort of heightened state depends on the person, but it's something you can experience in very few other places in the country, or the world, and worth exploring.

Joshua Tree National Park Arrow

One of the desert gems of America’s parks, Joshua Tree National Park spans nearly 800,000 acres within Southern California’s portion of the Mojave Desert. There’s no wrong way to behold the beauty, whether you’re drawn to rock formations, particular plants, seasonal fauna, or outdoor activities. One sure bet is to head toward the park’s center for a picnic and/or walkabout at mighty Cap Rock, or around Jumbo Rocks where you can check out the giant skeletal Skull Rock. Get acquainted with flora along the Cholla Cactus Garden Nature Trail, a flat loop through 10 acres of cacti and bushes where something colorful is usually blooming any time of the year. Nature lovers, and especially desert fans, may end up loving Joshua Tree more than any other preserve. If time is tight, the park is fine for a driving tour, though traffic may slow you down during peak summer and holiday weeks. But if you’ve wisely reserved ample time (at least one full day is best), take your pick of activities to engage with the landscape, be it camping (reserve ahead of time), climbing, horseback riding, birding, biking, wildflower viewing, or geology touring.

BKB Ceramics Arrow

This small, boutique ceramics shop embodies the industrious yet free spirited ethos of the tiny yet close knit desert community of Joshua Tree. You'll find earthy textures and unique geometric designs baked into beautiful, one-of-a-kind hand thrown pieces. Fellow shoppers are often design geeks and savvy Airbnb owners looking to accessorize their stylish abodes. If we had unlimited space in our suitcase (and plenty of scratch), we'd take a whole set of their turquoise colored mugs.

This sleepy mountain town is one of SoCal's less-frequented weekender road trip destinations, which is a shame, because in spring when the wildflowers are in bloom, the drive along the Rim of the World is breathtaking. Pack your bags for great hiking, unobstructed views of Big Bear Lake, quality antiquing, and down home hospitality.

Noon Lodge Arrow

Considering it's just a hop skip and a jump from L.A. in the San Bernadino Mountains, why aren't you there right now? Windows down, you inhale the ponderosa pine-laden air as you pull up to this unassuming, campy property. Rolling in your luggage there's an imminent quiet, and it's everything you've craved driving in from the city. Huddled around the campfire at nights, you roast s'mores with fellow guests and share like you were bunkmates. It's a pretty bare bones lodge, but it's the best boutique-ish stay in town. What it lacks in luxury it'll make up for in kitschy charm.

Tropicali Arrow

This sunny little snack shack will immediately remind you of the aloha vibes at roadside stands in Hawaii . You may stand in line with a family taking their kids out for a healthy breakfast, or local business owners stopping by for one of their killer island iced coffees with fresh coconut milk on their way to work. This is the perfect fuel for a day of hiking in Big Bear: super clean, sustainably sourced poke bowls with flavor combos, like a take on Tahitian poisson cru with coconut milk, sashimi grade tuna, sweet peppers, lime, and cucumbers. If you're there for breakfast, you'll definitely want to try one of their acai bowls, including the classic Brazil bowl topped with organic granola, bananas, coconut chips, cacao nibs, strawberry pearls, and a peanut butter drizzle.

Big Bear Lake Brewing Company Arrow

Like most breweries worth one's malt, the crowd is super chilled, friendly, and outdoorsy—much more prone to wearing puffers than Prada. Brews are done in the classic California style—in other words, get ready for some hops. The food menu is solid and includes burgers, salads, fish and chips, and tacos. Staff are beyond accommodating and friendly and very well versed in the various selections available on tap. The brewery is awesome for a group gathering, or to toast the end of a day adventuring with friends.

Rim of the World Scenic Byway Arrow

The 110-mile-long Rim of the World Scenic Byway, with its steep climb and sweeping cliffside views of the San Bernardino Mountains, is one of the most under-trafficked road trips in SoCal . Since you rarely hear about The Rim of the World, it gets neither the love nor the visitors of Highway 1. It's especially beautiful if you happen to be there in wildflower season, when the roadsides are paved in mustard yellow flowers. 

Saucy Mama's Pizzeria Arrow

This is the perfect carb-filled way to cap off a day of hiking and adventuring. The place is very family friendly and is filled with local regulars. Expect to find a wait on weekend nights—it might not be New York , but as far as the region is concerned, these are some of the best slices around, and it's worth it. There are classic pies like the meat lover's made with sausage, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, and meatballs, or wackier choices like the Austin's Red Hot Kickin Chicken, made with spicy hot wing sauce, onions and chicken breast—a buffalo wing lover's dream. Staff is down home and friendly, just the type you'd want for a casual neighborhood joint.

Action ZipLine Tours Arrow

If you're an outdoor adventurer at heart, this tour is for you. You can choose from zip lining or tree climbing, giving you a unique view of the San Bernardino Mountains and it's stunning pines. During the wintertime, they also offer snowshoeing treks, a real treat for every level of outdoors person. The retired war vehicles that take you up to the top of the zipline course make you feel even more badass for choosing to fly above the tree line. This is a great way to dip your toe into some high adrenaline activities. You're not so high above the canopy that you can't see the ground, making it ideal for first timers. 

Known for its tightly knit artist community and boho flare, Ojai is one of those places that locals yearn to keep weird. As such, you won't find any giant hotel chains or neon signs. Instead, indulge in a relaxing weekend sampling from local breweries and organic winemakers, or unwinding with treatments at the sprawling, oak-tree-lined Ojai Valley Inn and Spa. 

Ojai Valley Inn Arrow

Time seems to slow down as you pull up to this sprawling Spanish revival hotel. Birds chirp from atop the towering oak trees, and the peacefully running fountains set the tone for a zen like serenity that'll carry through your weekend. The Fireplace Shangri-la room is your own personal retreat, complete with an oversized soaking tub and separate shower. Hand-painted Spanish tile, gold-auburn granite, and cobalt blue accents give this room a modern Mediterranean look. But the real highlight is the stucco fireplace with seating, a perfect spot to tuck into a book and indulge in the rejuvenating spirit of Ojai. If that's not enough for you, the pools here are worth the visit alone—attentive staff, killer views, and plenty of space to hop around to keep the scenery fresh. 

Farmer and the Cook Arrow

The shabby chic farmhouse style here makes this just the type of quirky spot you'd expect in a creative community like Ojai. It has a crowd of conscious, chilled-out food loving locals, and whether you're just looking to grab a smoothie and snacks for a day of adventuring around Ojai, or want to have a more intimate sit-down dinner, this is a great option. If the Hungarian-style stuffed cabbage is on the menu, order it. And the pizzas are always a big hit. There are plenty of raw and vegan options, too, which is a nice addition. Come for one of their casual weeknight pizza dinners, or for a low key celebration.

Ojai Valley Brewery Arrow

It's a laid back, cafe style patio and bar area dedicated to drinkers with a penchant for hoppy beers. While there are some nice wines on the menu, you're here for the beer. Try the White Pixie made with Ojai tangerine zest and orchard blossoms, or the barrel aged barley wine made with locally foraged pink peppercorns. They also sell growlers if you want to take some to go. Azu, the restaurant in which the taproom is housed, makes some killer kebabs and burgers, as well as more polished dishes like paella or pan roasted salmon.

The Mob Shop: Bicycle Tour Arrow

It's an organized bike tour, but with that personal homespun and local feel that makes Ojai so special. The crowd is made up of totally geeked out bike people who are really into sharing their local culture via cycling. It's great for someone who wants to be active while exploring the local flora and fauna, and burn off all that awesome food and beer Ojai has to offer. The scent of riding through the pixie orchards in bloom is one you'll want to bottle for years to come.

Chief's Peak at Ojai Rancho Inn Arrow

This place is a great spot to catch some live entertainment on the first Sunday of the month, and to mix and mingle with Ojai folks over simple, well-crafted drinks. The poolside bar space is basically a SoCal summer camp for adults. There's a hearty selection of local wines and beers, as well as seasonal cocktails well-suited for the pool. The crowd is a mixed bag of locals and hotel guests with sunny smiles, all equally part of the creative set.

Casa Barranca Organic Winery & Tasting Room Arrow

It's a cozy, down home tasting room in downtown Ojai, with welcoming warm wood and Spanish revival architectural accents. You'll be in the company of mostly oeno-curious travelers looking to do an afternoon tasting, with a few locals showing friends around. The winery sources organic grapes from around California and brings them to their winemaking facility, where they make a variety of blends. While they may not score as high as some of the cult cabs from Napa , they're still well worth a swirl. This is a great place to get a buzz on before an afternoon of craft shopping.

LAGUNA BEACH & NEWPORT BEACH

The beach communities in Newport and Laguna developed a certain reputation in the mid '00s thanks to the fictional and mostly fictional shows The O.C. and Laguna Beach . But they're so much more than their television portrayals. From excellent surfing, to ocean paddling, to high-end shopping, to nowhere-but-here landmarks like the Victoria Beach Pirate Tower, Newport and Laguna have everything you want in a beach city. 

Duffy Electric Boat Rentals Arrow

This boat rental shop has a laid back beach vibe, which caters to locals and out-of-towners alike. Duffy Electric Boat Rentals is home base if you want to live a yachting lifestyl e but have zero clue how to commandeer a ship. These electric boats make the seafaring life simple, affordable, and easy to navigate. Make sure to pack an A+ picnic (translation: cheese and rosé) to enjoy out on the water. You'll find SoCal natives looking for any excuse to escape the heat and get out on the water—for engagements, birthday parties, and everything in between. Since the Duffy Boats fit 10 people, it's definitely a scene, but it's also fun for couples looking for a different sort of date excursion, too.

Bear Flag Fish Co. Arrow

This delightfully nautical modern fish shack is the fast casual concept every beach town should have. It's a mix of families enjoying an after school special, surfers grinding after a paddle out, and beachcombers looking for a taste of chef-fisherman Thomas Carson's catch of the day. This is definitely some of the best poke on the mainland. Don't skip the ahi or salmon. They have some excellent margs on menu too, making for the perfect pairing for your fish taco or burrito.

Victoria Beach Pirate Tower Arrow

For travelers seeking the esoteric, this lighthouse is a must. It looks like it could be in some remote area of the Azores , and it's walls are studded with pieces of buried coins and treasure. While the name would suggest otherwise, it's simply the staircase to the mansion above, but still is a fun visit, especially for kids. The feeling of being there is one of nerdish curiosity, and if you're looking for a quirky beach walk, this is a great way to end it. It'll make you giddy to know that not all of Newport's residents have lost their sense of whimsy.

A'maree's Arrow

If you want to feel like you're living in an episode of "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous," a stop here is a must. Originally opened in 1976, this boutique overlooks the yachts docked in the Newport Harbor and features high end designers from around the globe, as well as interior design items. Stock up on chic espadrilles and hats that'll have you beach ready no matter your next destination, whether it be Monaco or Portofino . If you can, make an appointment for a private styling session with one of the three sisters and prepare to be wowed.

CATALINA ISLAND

Hop on the Catalina Express for the one hour 15 minute ride from the port in San Pedro out to Catalina Island and escape all that LA traffic. If you're looking to go out and back the same day there's nowhere better to go diving or paddling. If you venture out to the far side of the island you might even get to spot some of Catalina's wild bison herd.

Casino Point Dive Park Arrow

The 2.5 acre land-entry dive site was the first public, non-profit dive site in the country, and showcases some of the best sea life California has to offer. There's something for every level of certified diver, from beginner to expert, including the region’s most famed species—giant kelp—and its numerous inhabitants, including massive lobsters, octopus, and moray eels. Don't forget to have your dive master take you to wave to the resident eel, Fang, who tends to hang out around the 40 feet marker.

Catalina Express Arrow

With quick and affordable trips to-and-from Catalina's two main ports—Avalon and Two Harbors—this is the most affordable way to get to Catalina (and the most efficient unless you want to charter a private yacht). This no-frills ferry will remind you of the commuter boats in Greece that shuttle tourists from island to island, but no matter, it's a quick and easy way to get out of the city for the day, and potentially do some wildlife spotting along the way, especially if its whale migration season, which peaks from early summer to early fall. A trip out to Catalina is definitely one of those experiences that makes even locals wonder why it took them so long to explore the natural aquarium right in their own backyard.

Catalina Island Conservancy Arrow

It's worthwhile exploring the more wild side of the island near the Two Harbors area, and there's no better way to do it than on a 4x4 as part of an eco tour at the conservancy. You don't want to miss the bison, originally brought to the island and left to run feral. Seeing these massive, beautiful animals against the California/Mediterranean landscape is absolutely breathtaking. The private non-profit organization is dedicated to rehabilitating and restoring the island, so you can rest assured the money from your excursion is going to a great place.

Descanso Beach Ocean Sports: Kayak Catalina Arrow

There's no better way to see Santa Catalina than by kayak. These guided two-hour tours show you everything from the geology and rock formations to the lion fish and leopard sharks. Think of it as an ocean safari. You'll see kelp forests, coral, curious harbor seals, and more while paddling along the rugged coastline in a modern sit-on-top kayak. No matter which tour you opt for, you'll be blown away by the wildlife and biodiversity perched on your kayak. 

The small town of Los Alamos (a population of about 1800) is the cool kid of California wine towns. Lots of young winemakers are doing interesting things here and chances are good some of them will have time to chat with you all about it. Take a walk up Bell Street, the main drag, and stop in at tasting rooms and at Bob's Well Bread for otherworldly bread and pastries when you're done.

Lo-Fi Wines Arrow

Walking into Lo-Fi, you're greeted by the sweet sound of needle meeting vinyl, and a tasting room staff that's as down home as they come. Los Alamos locals rub elbows with young winemakers and wine-savvy Angelenos. Natural wine has become a bit of a buzz word in the industry, but Lo Fi is the real deal. Using neutral barrels, native yeasts, little to no sulfur additions, and no adjustment of pH, they embrace a nothing added, nothing taken away approach that makes for some really interesting wine reflective of the region. Don’t miss out on their Coquelicot Cab Franc or the Chenin Blanc.

Bob's Well Bread Bakery Arrow

If you've ever dreamed of fleeing the big city for country living, Bob and Jane Oswaks' lifestyle will be major #goals. The Hollywood exec (Bob) left the bright lights to become a beacon of small batch baking in Los Alamos and never looked back. Our bellies are all the better for it. If you're missing a proper Paris baguette , this is definitely a place you'll want to stop. Grab a boule to go with your wine country picnic, or better yet, sit on the patio and enjoy pastries, tartines, and sandwiches. You really can't order wrong.

Bell's Arrow

Bell's is the indie rock, wine country version of your favorite neighborhood restaurant —unpretentious, warm, and welcoming with an undeniable air of cool that comes from just doing you. The room, decorated by kilims and mismatched vintage furniture works the boho vibe just right. Bell's draws serious food lovers from around SoCal looking to get a taste of what they call "Franch" fare—a portmanteau combining French and ranch, referring to the Santa Barbara rancho style of cooking in the region, and a nod to the owners' playful sense of humor. Bell's is the perfect mix of high-low, where dishes like layered crepes topped with local Santa Barbara uni and caviar, and a banging rendition of moulles frites make sense next to Spanish sardines with homemade saltines. This is the type of spot you can rock into any night of the week and be happy, whether you're dining solo or celebrating a landmark birthday with family.

Los Alamos Depot Mall: Antiques & Pub Arrow

For fans of thrifting and antiquing, this collection of jewelry, clothing, home decor, and Americana will be worth dedicating at least an hour to sifting through. It's a roving treasure trove, but if you have some money to spend, keep your eye out for old world walnut furniture and larger pieces that you'll get for a song compared to LA establishments. If you're on a budget, peep the costume jewelry, and be sure to pick up some lemon oil to keep your wooden pieces at home well-conditioned. On a weekend, you'll find road trippers and locals grazing the aisles in between wine tastings, looking to do some retail therapy.

IDYLLWILD, CALIFORNIA

Idyllwild is home to quaint, blissfully uncrowded mountaintop adventures—it’s so far off the beaten tourist trail, it’s actually an unincorporated community. But the townsfolk do have an elected official. You can catch a glimpse of Mayor Max III—a golden retriever pup—while wandering downtown. That’s just the tip of the quirk quotient that comes with an Idyllwild stay. Long a haven for rugged, artsy Californians, Idyllwild is a true hidden gem, full of gorgeous hiking spots, charming bed and breakfasts, and best of all, cool air even in the summer months. Originally a haven for the Cahuilla Indians, Idyllwild has been a summer getaway for millennia.

Idyllwild Nature Center

There are more mountainous hikes around Idyllwild with jaw-dropping views of Strawberry Valley—check out the hike up to Suicide Rock—but the Idyllwild Nature Center is a good intro to the area. There’s a little museum with displays of the local fauna, but the hiking path is the draw here. Surrounded by Manzanitas and pines, the path is shaded and perfect for a 45-minute stroll. In the winter, the Idyllwild Nature Center is one of the few places in Southern California where it’s possible to get into a snowball fight.

The Grand Idyllwild Lodge

This Craftsman-style hotel is exactly what you’d expect out of a mountaintop lodge: cozy, quiet, and close to nature. Of course, viewing decks and fireplaces are necessary amenities at this altitude, and the Grand Idyllwild doesn’t disappoint. Nestled among the Ponderosa pines and Manzanitas, the Grand Idyllwild is as equally close to town as it is popular hiking and climbing spots. With just 11 rooms, make sure to plan ahead.

Merkaba Tea

Crisp mountain air and tea go together perfectly, and Merkaba is a serious teashop. Set in a townhouse painted amethyst purple, you can’t miss Merkaba, nor will you want to. They keep a stock of black and green teas from around the world—think Pai Mu Tan from Fujian Province in China and Purple Leaf tea from Kenya’s Nandi Highlands—as well as their own blends of camellia and other herbal teas alongside a full stock of crystals, local crafts, and teaware.

Gastrognome

The pine-dense forests of Idyllwild are the perfect setting for gnomish activity. Which is why the gnome-themed Gastrognome feels right at home. They offer a menu that could be the answer to the question, “What do gnomes eat?” Apparently, hearty no-nonsense comfort food: Angus ribeye steak, blackened salmon, a classic burger on a brioche bun, and the Gnome Dip, which is Gastrognome’s version of a French dip sandwich, popular amongst woodland creatures and humans alike.

SOLVANG & BUELLTON

Ever since the 2004 film Sideways , which was filmed around town and in the surrounding areas, Solvang has taken on the role of being a serious wine destination. But it wasn’t always that way: at the beginning of the 20th century, a group of Danish-Americans looking to escape the frigid Midwestern winters settled in the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara. The town became an uncanny Danish village, complete with windmills and half-timbered style architecture, and that was the attraction for a while. Nowadays, the Danish echo acts as a backdrop for the nearly two dozen tasting rooms all over town, and over 120 wineries in the Santa Ynez Valley.

First & Oak

Tucked into the boutique Mirabelle Inn, First & Oak may look like a rustic French dining experience, but make no mistake; they’re definitely not old school. For one, the tasting menu is choose-your-own-adventure, allowing diners to select from each section, and they accommodate to taste and dietary restrictions. Chef Steven Snook—a protégé of Gordon Ramsay—crafts seasonal menus with an eye towards keeping things close to home. It’s not unusual to be served foraged mushrooms or poached local sea bass served along with mussels and summer squash.

Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum

The Solvang Vintage Motorcycle Museum isn’t just for hog-heads. Housed in an old Brooks Brothers store, it’s packed to gills with over 100 unique and often beguiling motorcycles rotated in from owner Dr. Virgil Eilings’s vast collection. Some of the bikes are exceedingly rare, like the 1922 Megola front-wheel drive motorcycle that was featured on Jay Leno’s Garage or any of the bikes from early 20 th century British manufacturer MJS. And there’s no shortage of Ducatis and Moto Guzzis for those with the need for speed.

The Landsby Arrow

While Solvang was built in the retro visage of 16th-century-style architecture, the Landsby takes a more modern, comfortably convivial, minimal, cozy Danish approach. Or hygge for short. It makes for a pleasant, serene stay while also being in the epicenter of town. Even more convenient is Mad & Vin, the Landsby’s Danish-cum-Californian cuisine that checks every box: locally sourced, fresh, seasonal ingredients on an inventive menu in a pleasant dining room.

Ostrichland USA Arrow

Fast facts: ostriches can run over 40 miles per hour, and are the biggest bird on earth. You can find 80 of the flightless birds (and 20 emus) in the nearby Buellton at a peculiar ranch called OstrichLand USA . You’ll be able to carefully feed the fascinating creatures alfalfa pellets or simply watch their habits, which include a strange mating ritual dance involving feather ruffling and gentle swaying. It has to be seen to be believed. Afterward, peruse the gift shop for feather dusters and other ostrich-related gifts, as well as eggs—the largest bird eggs on earth—which you can take home and eat.

The River Course at the Alisal

If a day on the links is what you’re craving, there’s no place better to spend it than on the River Course , where you’ll follow the roaming Santa Ynez River as you try not to slice into the oak, native sycamore, and elderberry trees that line the fairway. As you tee up on the elevated tees, you’ll see breathtaking panoramic views of the foothills and valley. The course is a tough one, but don’t worry, the mild California climate will calm your nerves. It’s all set on a dude ranch, so when you’ve handed in your scorecard, you can hit up the property’s wrangler workshops, rodeos, and horseback riding, and you can even participate in a hog washing (if that sounds like something you’d want to do).

SANTA BARBARA & MONTECITO

Even if it’s just a hop-skip north of L.A. via the 101, Santa Barbara feels like a different planet. It’s slower for one thing—you’re mostly strolling on the sandy beaches, shopping, eating, or thinking about the next place to eat. Between the oceanfront hotels, the fine dining, and the access to wine country, it’s no wonder they call Santa Barbara “the American Riviera.” The surrounding towns have much to offer as well, particularly tony Montecito, home to celebrities like Oprah Winfrey, Larry David, and Prince Harry and Meghan Markle.

Caruso's

Set on the grand campus of the 5-star Rosewood Miramar Beach hotel, Caruso’s pulls its weight as one of the finest dining options in one of the toniest towns in America. Chef Massimo Falsini’s food is a divine treasure trove of locally sourced ingredients, meaning you might find halibut fished off the Channel Islands paired with white asparagus and green garlic in a sweet burro fuso sourced from Napa Valley. Or spring lamb from Sonoma served alongside apricots and carrots in a pool of berry shrub jus. The vegetables come from Caruso’s garden, and even the honey is produced by an in-house apiary. At sunset, the view out over the water is almost as gorgeous as the dining experience. You’ll want to dress up for this one as it’s definitely a linen tablecloth experience.

Widely thought of as one of the most outstanding botanical gardens on Earth, Lotusland was built over a period of 40 years by world-famous Polish opera singer Ganna Walska. Opened to the public after her passing in 1993, the 37-acre ground features a butterfly garden, a cactus garden, a fern garden, a citrus orchard, and even a garden dedicated to plants with blue foliage. That’s not even the half of it. Be forewarned: you must make a reservation in advance, and the visits are restricted to two hours.

Butterfly Beach

Santa Barbara County is known for its beaches, and none is better than Butterfly Beach in Montecito. The sand is pillowy, the water is warm, and the views are majestic. Bring a picnic and lay out on the beach all day, or bicycle on the Cabrillo Bike Path up to Santa Barbara. Make sure to visit close to sunset, as Butterfly Beach faces out to the west.

Hotel Californian Arrow

If you do decide to stay over, the Hotel Californian is the spot to crash. The Moroccan-inspired, 121-room hotel’s interiors were designed by Martyn Lawrence Bullard from the Bravo series Million Dollar Decorators, and it shows: it’s decadent and seductive, but timeless and flowing. In addition to seaside rooms looking out over Santa Barbara’s gorgeous beaches, the Californian offers several dining options, including Goat Tree, which merges Californian and Mediterranean influences, and Tan Tan for when you don’t want to leave the pool area.

The Funk Zone

The Funk Zone is not one establishment, but a whole neighborhood of exciting options to shop, eat, and drink. It’s exploded more recently, with graffiti murals providing a backdrop for boutiques, art galleries, restaurants, and tasting rooms. Check out Jules by the Sea, a boutique with owner Jules Kramer’s handcrafted jewelry; Spanish restaurant Loquita Santa Barbara; breezy clothing boutique Loveworn; or take the 3-hour Eat This, Shoot That! restaurant and wine-tasting tour.

Long heralded as a surf destination, Oceanside is just as well known as a nexus point in Southern California. Located in between L.A. and San Diego, Oceanside is accessible to family-friendly adventures like Disneyland and the San Diego Zoo, while having enough charisma to stand alone as a beachside vacation spot. Ready to finally take those surf lessons? One of the best places to learn to catch a wave. Want to spend a day on the links? There are several golf courses. Prefer a day out on the water watching for whales? No problem. And of course, there’s fresh seafood around every corner, and ample space to relax on the beach.

Learn to Rip Surf Lessons

Surfing is part of the draw of Oceanside, so it might be high time to dip your toes into the proverbial water when you visit Oceanside. For those who’ve always stood on the beach and admired the surfers riding the waves, but never took the step, Learn to Rip Surf Lessons is perfect. There’s no better place to learn than in surfing mecca Oceanside, where there’s great surf year-round. Learn safety, how to pop up, and how to maintain balance with one-on-one or group lessons.

California Surf Museum

Founded in 1986, the California Surf Museum is a testament to Oceanside’s place in the world of wave riding. With special exhibitions, film screenings, and a collection of noteworthy surfboards and historical photographs, the museum is a cool stop for those with even a casual interest in the sport.

Sea Hive Marketplace

Something between an antique mall and a maker market, Sea Hive is a one-stop shop featuring local artisans, vintage clothing booths, a botanical shop, a florist, booksellers, vinyl record shops, and much more.

333 Pacific

Home to the best surf and turf in Oceanside, 333 Pacific never fails to draw a crowd. It’s an unfussy menu—steak or seafood in a variety of different styles and cuts and manners. The only other choice is to decide whether to eat in the inviting dining room or on the patio looking out onto the beach.

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Australia's Grace Kim opens 4-stroke lead in LPGA Tour's JM Eagle LA Championship

By the associated press | posted - april 26, 2024 at 8:13 p.m..

Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes

LOS ANGLES — Grace Kim opened a four-stroke lead Friday in the LPGA Tour's JM Eagle LA Championship, shooting a 5-under 66 in tricky afternoon conditions at Wilshire Country Club.

A stroke ahead after an opening 64, Kim had an eagle, four birdies and a bogey to get to 12-under 130. The 23-year-old Australian patiently worked her way around the tree-lined layup, trying not to get frustrated with the bumpy greens.

"I think the less thoughts, the better," Kim said. "Obviously, during the afternoon round today, we've got poa annua greens so just have to stay patient with them. You can kind of see how it can get bumpy, so working with the course and not getting too wrapped up around putts not going in."

Maja Stark was second after a 69, also in the afternoon.

"I feel like maybe not taking everything so personal because they are a little bit wobbly." Stark said. "Especially late. Like the whole day pretty much the ball has been wobbling because there has been so many people walking on it."

The Swede finished second last week in Texas in The Chevron Championship, two strokes behind top-ranked Nelly Korda in the first major of the year. Korda withdrew Monday, a day after her fifth straight victory.

Defending champion Hannah Green of Australia shot a 69 to join Germany's Esther Henseleit (68) at 6 under. Denmark's Kristine Pedersen (67) and American Auston Kim (71) were 5 under, and Rose Zhang (69) topped the group at 4 under.

Grace Kim won the LOTTE Championship last year in a playoff in Hawaii for her first LPGA Tour title. She missed the cut in The Chevron , shooting 76-72.

She started play Friday on the back nine, rebounding from a bogey on the par-3 12th with the eagle on the par-5 13th and a birdie on the par-4 14th. On 13, she hit a 5-wood to 10 feet. She added birdies on Nos. 3, 6 and 7 on the second nine.

"I think I've got to breathe a little bit," she said. "I did get a little bit nervous on my back nine, so making sure I don't rush too much and just staying in the present.

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Grace Kim shoots 7-under 64 at Wilshire Country Club to lead LPGA Tour's JM Eagle LA Championship

Grace Kim hits from the 16th tee during the first round of the LPGA LA Championship golf tournament at Wilshire Country Club, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Los Angeles. Credit: AP/Ryan Sun

LOS ANGLES — Grace Kim shot a 7-under 64 at Wilshire Country Club to take the first-round lead Thursday in the LPGA Tour's JM Eagle LA Championship.

Playing in the morning session, the 23-year-old Australian capped her bogey-free round with a chip-in birdie on the par-3 18th.

“Well, I chunked my tee shot on the last hole 20 meters short and then I chipped it in it,” Kim said. “I think that’s pretty cool, in front of everyone.”

Maja Stark of Sweden, Sei Young Kim of South Korea and Chanettee Wannasaen of Thailand were a stroke back at 65. Stark finished second last week outside Houston in The Chevron Championship, two strokes behind top-ranked Nelly Korda.

“I was so tired when I got here,” Stark said. “I barely been practicing. Just did a little bit of what I needed to do. I feel like it’s kind of similar anyway because there are just some pins that you can’t go for just like at Chevron.”

Korda withdrew Monday, a day after her fifth victory in a row.

Grace Kim won the LOTTE Championship last year in a playoff in Hawaii for her first LPGA Tour title. She missed the cut in The Chevron, shooting 76-72.

Maja Stark gestures after finishing on the ninth green during the first round of the LPGA LA Championship golf tournament at Wilshire Country Club, Thursday, April 25, 2024, in Los Angeles. Credit: AP/Ryan Sun

“If I was to compare my round today to last week, I really focused on just not having too much in my mind,” she said. “I think I over-thought a lot of things through my first and second round last week and struggled a little bit mentally.”

Sei Young Kim had four straight birdies on Nos. 12-15 in her afternoon round. She won the last of her 12 LPGA Tour titles in 2020.

Auston Kim, Haeran Ryu and Nataliya Guseva shot 66, and defending champion Hannah Green matched Amy Yang and Bianca Pagdanganan at 67.

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Local News | Free, two-day California in My Garden tour…

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Local News | Free, two-day California in My Garden tour highlights planting local

When Travis Gramberg moved into his new Costa Mesa home with his family, he didn’t just see the bare canvas inside to decorate; he saw an opportunity outside as well.

In pursuit of a goal to have a garden featuring just plants native to California, he “removed everything and started over.”

“The goal is 100% California native gardens can look lush, can look colorful and can be done,” said Gramberg, a landscape architect and founder of Koheid Design.

And now his garden is one of 22 that will be stops on the upcoming California Native Plant Society Garden Tour, showing just how “elegant” native plants can be in a home garden.

“I think there is a lack of desire because a lot of times people think of a drought tolerant landscape as agaves and cactus,” Gramberg said about why more people don’t plant with vegetation that is natural to the local climate and ecosystem. “It is not your only option, that is what I was trying to show with my own house.”

Travis Gramberg’s house on E. 20th Street in Costa Mesa, CA will be part of the California Native Plant Society tour. The tours theme is California in my Garden. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Tidy tips and California poppies bloom at Travis Gramberg’s house on E. 20th Street in Costa Mesa, CA on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The house will be part of the California Native Plant Society tour. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Travis Gramberg used reused brick and rocks to make a pathway alongside a hugelkultur, or a raised bed of rotting logs covered in dirt, at his house on E. 20th Street in Costa Mesa, CA. The house will be part of the California Native Plant Society tour. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Travis Gramberg’s house on E. 20th Street in Costa Mesa, CA will be part of the California Native Plant Society tour. He used the previous concrete driveway for the walkway. The tours theme is California in my Garden. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

An avocado grows in Travis Gramberg’s vegetable garden at his house on E. 20th Street in Costa Mesa, CA. The house will be part of the California Native Plant Society tour. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Sunflowers bloom at the front door of Travis Gramberg’s house on E. 20th Street in Costa Mesa, CA on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The house will be part of the California Native Plant Society tour. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

A statue watches over Travis Gramberg’s vegetable garden at his house on E. 20th Street in Costa Mesa, CA. The house will be part of the California Native Plant Society tour. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

Lupine and California poppies bloom at Travis Gramberg’s house on E. 20th Street in Costa Mesa, CA on Tuesday, April 23, 2024. The house will be part of the California Native Plant Society tour. (Photo by Paul Bersebach, Orange County Register/SCNG)

The Orange County chapter of the California Native Plant Society has roots going back decades and has been hosting the garden tour for more than 20 years. This year, the chapter is holding the California in My Garden-themed tour over two days, May 4 and 5, something it hasn’t done in years but wanted to as a way to cut down on people having to drive far distances, said chapter president Elizabeth Wallace.

May 4 will feature South County gardens, mostly located in coastal cities and Irvine, she said, and May 5 will feature a variety of gardens around north Orange County. Some private homes and some public gardens, including plant demonstration gardens created by local water districts, make up the tour stops. All are at least 50% native plants.

“There are a lot of native gardens in Orange County,” Wallace said. “It is really growing in popularity because people are learning how beautiful and easy it can be to do.”

She was inspired to plant with California natives after moving into Trabuco Canyon near Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park about 40 years ago, she said. “There is so much pristine land, I thought I should continue it in my garden.”

She joined the chapter in 2011 and its board in 2017. The group has about 650 members, she said, and does field trips, hosts speakers, is involved in conservation and does education and outreach.

“Once established, native plants require the least amount of water of any plant,” she said. “They are easy to grow, are beautiful, and they are the most important flowers, shrubs and trees a homeowner can choose to support birds, butterflies and wildlife. Native plants remind us of why we love California.”

Gramberg said his Costa Mesa garden now regularly attracts wildlife — he loves the hummingbirds and butterflies and an owl paid a visit recently.

“It is my laboratory. It is where I test plants,  it is where I experiment,” he said. “I plant fall, and I plant spring. I don’t think I’ll ever be done.”

The window to register for the free garden tour is April 30; register at chapters.cnps.org/oc . Gardens will be available for viewing from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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How Zendaya Feels Having Tom Holland's Support During 'Challengers' Press Tour (Exclusive)

How zendaya feels having tom holland's support during ‘challengers’ press tour (exclusive), 'rhoc' alum taylor armstrong reacts to shannon beador and john janssen-alexis bellino romance drama, why da'vine joy randolph has her awards season trophies packed away (exclusive), joe alwyn 'not in touch' with taylor swift following 'tortured poets' release (source), anthony ramos & reba mcentire on getting emotional over 'the voice' singers' 'heartbreaking' stories, matthew mcconaughey makes rare red carpet appearance with all 3 kids, jon bon jovi is leaving another tour ‘up to god’ as he recovers from vocal cord surgery (exclusive), king charles returning to royal duties amid cancer battle, colman domingo reacts to rumors he'll replace jonathan majors as mcu's kang (exclusive), ellen degeneres addresses 'getting kicked out of show business' in stand-up comedy comeback (report), madonna pays tribute to her kids for uplifting her following a 'near-death experience', ‘the traitors' star parvati shallow gives update on relationship with ‘perfect’ mae martin (exclusive), phaedra parks confirms ‘married to medicine’ return, hints at ‘rhoa’ reunion with porsha williams, why emma stone wants fans to call her by a different name, ciara shares her weight on a scale after declaring she's trying to lose 70 pounds, reba mcentire spills on reuniting with melissa peterman for new nbc sitcom pilot (exclusive), taraji p. henson on her heartfelt secret to 'staying so young' (exclusive), 'fire country': bode and eve get into heated argument (exclusive), why brandi glanville feels ‘sad’ amid 'rhugt' legal drama (exclusive), 'dance moms' cast slams co-stars who skipped out on reunion special, ‘dance moms: the reunion’: jojo siwa defends abby lee miller's past behavior to co-stars, the actress spoke with et from the los angeles premiere of 'challengers' on tuesday..

Zendaya is feeling the love from her fans, including her No. 1 supporter, boyfriend Tom Holland . 

Talking with ET's Denny Directo from the Los Angeles premiere of her new film, Challengers , on Tuesday, the 27-year-old Emmy winner said she has been astounded by the sheer amount of love from not only her on and off-screen love interest, 27, but her family and friends as well.

"It's great. I mean, I feel so lucky. I have so much beautiful support around me," Zendaya told ET. "Even tonight, I have so many family -- they're over there -- family and friends here."

While Holland was nowhere to be seen on the black carpet, it is possible that the Uncharted star was giving his longtime love her moment to shine before greeting her inside. At the London premiere last week, Holland skipped the carpet but was caught kissing and embracing his girlfriend inside the venue in photos and videos posted online . Could he have done the same in sunny L.A.?

In early March, near the beginning of Zendaya's Challengers press tour, Holland joined her for an appearance alongside her stylist and close friend, Law Roach, at the BNP Paribas Open. During the match, the Euphoria star and her British beau were seen goofing around during the game and jamming out to "I Wanna Dance With Somebody" by Whitney Houston. One adorable pic posted online also showed Holland snapping photos of Zendaya as she spoke with the event's winner, Iga Swiatek. 

While Holland has been sneakily showing up to support Zendaya as she promotes her new film, it's evident that the Cherry actor has had nothing to worry about all along as the only thing capable of stealing the show has been Zendaya's style. 

During stops in Australia, London, Paris and Rome, the actress has given a new definition to "tennis chic" with dresses and looks inspired by the film and the sport at the center of the Luca Guadagnino flick. 

"I've really enjoyed this press tour. I think just the idea of tennis whites in general and kind of playing with that in each of my looks," she told ET. "It's just been fun, you know, just experimenting and building this other red carpet character."

For her looks over the last month, she and Roach have dabbled in everything from bedazzled tennis dresses to tennis-ball green get-ups and one gown with a person playing tennis on the front. For the Los Angeles premiere, however, the pair decided to keep it simple with a lacy black and pink gown designed by Vera Wang, which she said relates to the film in a way fans will understand after watching. 

"It's interesting 'cause we've had this dress for a while and it just felt like the right time to bring her out," Zendaya said, hinting that the look mirrors a potentially scandalous scene in a nightgown. 

Before heading in and celebrating the hard work of the film's cast and crew, Zendaya also commented on one big-name guest in attendance and one who may have an expert opinion on the more technical side of the film's sport. Tennis great Venus Williams showed up and showed out to support the movie on Tuesday, which Zendaya said made her a little nervous. 

"I heard that she came and I was like, 'No way, this is the coolest thing!' So I'm very nervous 'cause I know Serena [Williams] has seen the movie but I'm very nervous about her seeing my tennis," she shared.

Should Venus, 43, find faults in Zendaya's skill with a tennis ball and a racket, Zendaya added, "I apologize in advance."

Challengers is in theaters April 26. 

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Zendaya's 'Challengers' press tour: See some of her best looks

Zendaya continues to serve with her " Challengers " press tour looks.

This week the actress has been in NYC, and one of her latest looks has come in the form of white wide leg trousers and a collared, sleeveless top.

Zendaya was later photographed the same day wearing a sleek white custom hooded dress from Alaïa. She completed the look with stacked Bulgari bracelets and white pumps.

Earlier in the week, the she was spotted at "Good Morning America" studios a custom Erdem dress in green and white with yellow floral prints. The look was paired with white pumps. Her ensemble also included a white tulle peaking underneath.

She left the studio in a totally different look, incorporating a tennis ball-green skirt suit pinned with a sparkling arrow-shaped brooch.

Zendaya's "GMA" looks were totally different from another casual look she was spotted wearing in NYC earlier that morning. She was photographed wearing a long gray trench coat, black pants, and a T-shirt that read "I TOLD YA."

The "I TOLD YA" top, designed by "Challengers" costume designer Jonathan Anderson, is also worn by Zendaya's "Challengers" character Tashi Donaldson. The look was inspired by the late John F. Kennedy Jr., who was previously spotted wearing a T-shirt with the same phrase as the one in the '90s.

Just days before her NYC press run, the actress stepped out in a pink custom dress from French designer Jacquemus for a recent press outing for the upcoming film in Los Angeles.

She was styled by her longtime stylist, friend, and frequent fashion collaborator, Law Roach.

MORE: Zendaya's latest fashion moment is a tribute to Venus and Serena Williams: 'An ode to the greats'

She posed with her "Challengers" co-stars Mike Faist and Josh O'Connor, as well as the film's director Luca Guadagnino, at the press event.

Days before, the superstar actress stepped out in a grey blazer look while appearing on " Jimmy Kimmel Live!"

While the actress has been wearing mostly tennis-inspired looks, for the film's LA premiere earlier that week, she donned a stylish mix of sheer lace meets ballgown.

Her look for the premiere was a black and pink Vera Wang gown that included an alluring bodice-style top along with a voluminous skirt. She paired the gown with Bulgari stud earrings, a ballerina bun, and soft sweeps of pink blush and lipstick.

Following the Los Angeles premiere, Zendaya was back in her tenniscore style as she wore a neon green halter dress from Celia Kritharioti that had a tennis ball attached at the center.

Just a few days before, she wore a crisp white vintage Ralph Lauren dress that was originally worn by Cindy Crawford on the runway in the early '90s.

She wore a similar look from a day earlier in Monaco that was created by On and a recreation of one of iconic tennis star Althea Gibson's past looks, according to Roach .

Zendaya was photographed during a photocall in Monaco wearing a very tennis-y look that incorporated a white cable knit collared sweater, a tailored maxi skirt, and satin pumps from Brunello Cucinelli's fall/winter ready-to-wear collection.

During the London premiere of the "Challengers" last week, the actress wore a white halter dress with a pleated skirt, which included a high slit.

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The gown, which was custom-made by designer Thom Browne, had silhouettes of tennis rackets printed all over the dress and a netting material on the skirt, as well as a red and dark blue stripe across the bottom of the skirt.

MORE: Zendaya glows in green at 'Challengers' Australia premiere

Zendaya completed the elevated athletic look with a white bow in her hair, diamond earrings, a diamond bracelet, and a red lip.

Also, during a photocall in Rome earlier last week, the " Challengers " star was photographed wearing a dazzling metallic mini dress from Loewe that included a deep-V plunging neckline.

While the dress was a total score, it was the actress' custom white pumps that included tennis ball heels that were really a hit.

Along with her head-turning ensemble, Zendaya paired the look with several bangles and stud earrings. She wore her hair in a half-up half-down flipped-out style.

"Tennis but make it FASHION," said the actress' longtime stylist Law Roach alongside a post showing off her look.

The former Disney star's look is a nod to her "Challengers" character Tashi — a former tennis prodigy turned coach.

According to an official synopsis, the film, slated to release on April 26, centers around Zendaya's character Tashi, who is working to train her husband (Faist), a tennis champion on a losing streak, when they face off against his former best friend — who also happens to be Tashi's ex-boyfriend.

In March, Zendaya wore another look that paid tribute to her character while attending an Australian premiere of the upcoming movie. She was photographed wearing a shimmering green Loewe dress that included a deep-V neckline, thigh-high slit, and a silhouette of a person holding a tennis racket. The look was designed by Jonathan Anderson, Loewe's creative director.

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2024 Zurich Classic odds, field: Surprising PGA picks, predictions by model that's nailed 11 majors

Sportsline's proven model simulated the zurich classic of new orleans 2024 10,000 times and revealed its pga golf picks.

Xander Schauffele and Patrick Cantlay look to reclaim some team magic when they pair back up for the 2024 Zurich Classic. The PGA Tour's yearly team event tees off Thursday at TPC Louisiana in New Orleans, and 80 two-man teams will be in attendance for tee off on Thursday. Schauffele and Cantlay were the winning duo back in 2022 and they are the 5-1 favorites on the 2024 Zurich Classic odds board. Should you back this pair of California natives with your 2024 Zurich Classic picks? Or should you back Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry at 8-1 odds?

Will Zalatoris and Sahith Theegala are listed at 11-1 in the lastest 2024 Zurich Classic odds, and Collin Morkiawa and Kurt Kitayama follow at 16-1. Defending Zurich Classic champions Nick Hardy and David Riley are 80-1 longshots to have repeat success. Before making any 2024 Zurich Classic picks, be sure t o see the golf predictions and projected leaderboard from the proven computer model at SportsLine .

Our proprietary model, built by DFS pro Mike McClure, has been red-hot since the PGA Tour resumed in June of 2020. In fact, the model is up more than $9,000 on its best bets since the restart, nailing tournament after tournament.

McClure's model correctly predicted Scottie Scheffler would finish on top of the leaderboard at the 2024 Masters, the Arnold Palmer Invitational, the Players Championship, and the RBC Heritage this season. McClure also included Hideki Matsuyama in his best bets to win the 2024 Genesis Invitational. That bet hit at +9000, and for the entire tournament, McClure's best bets returned nearly $1,000.

The model also predicted Jon Rahm would be victorious at the 2023 Sentry Tournament of Champions and The American Express. At the 2023 Masters, the model was all over Rahm's second career major victory heading into the weekend. Rahm was two strokes off the lead heading into the third round, but the model still projected him as the winner. It was the second straight Masters win for the model, which also nailed Scheffler winning in 2022.

In addition, McClure's best bets included Nick Taylor (70-1) winning the 2023 RBC Canadian Open, Jason Day (17-1) winning outright at the 2023 AT&T Byron Nelson, and Rickie Fowler (14-1) finishing on top of the leaderboard at the 2023 Rocket Mortgage Classic.

This same model has also nailed a whopping 11 majors entering the weekend and hit the Masters three straight years. Anyone who has followed it has seen massive returns.

Now that the Zurich Classic 2024 field is finalized, SportsLine simulated the tournament 10,000 times, and the results were surprising. Head to SportsLine now to see the projected leaderboard .

Top 2024 Zurich Classic predictions 

One major surprise the model is calling for at the Zurich Classic 2024: McIlroy and Lowry, who've combined for 26 wins on the PGA Tour, barely crack the top five. McIlroy is set to play in his fourth consecutive event when he tees off at TPC Louisiana. He's failed to crack the top-10 in seven of his eight starts on the PGA Tour this season, while Lowry has finished T-19 or worse in six of his past eight events. 

Both players have struggled mightily on the green this season. McIlroy enters the 2024 Zurich Classic ranked 78th in strokes gained: putting (0.119) and 72nd in putting average (1.758), a big reason why he ranks 98th in scoring average (70.44). Lowry, meanwhile, ranks 99th in strokes gained: putting (-0.012) and 143rd in putts per round (29.38), which doesn't bode well for their chances to finish on top of the leaderboard this week. 

Another surprise: Rasmus Højgaard and Nicolai Højgaard, 35-1 longshots, make a strong run at the title. The twin brothers have a much better chance to win it all than their odds imply, so they're a target for anyone looking for a huge payday.

The Danish twosome has been making headlines abroad for years now, becoming the first brothers to ever win events in consecutive weeks on the European Tour back in 2021. They are now making noise on the PGA Tour as Nicolai finished second at the Farmers Insurance Open back in January and finished T16 in his first ever Masters appearance earlier this month. Nicolai also played this event last year, so his experience makes the duo an under-the-radar competitor at the 2024 Zurich Classic.  See who else to pick here . 

How to make 2024 Zurich Classic picks

The model is also targeting three other teams with odds of 35-1 or longer to make a strong run at the title. Anyone who backs these longshots could hit it big. You can only see the model's picks here .

Who will win the 2024 Zurich Classic, and which longshots will stun the golfing world? Check out the Zurich Classic 2024 odds below and then visit SportsLine to see the projected Zurich Classic leaderboard , all from the model that's nailed 11 golf majors, including the last three Masters.

2024 Zurich Classic odds, field

Get full 2024 Zurich Classic picks, best bets, and predictions here .

Patrick Cantlay / Xander Schauffele +500 Rory McIlroy / Shane Lowry +800 Will Zalatoris / Sahith Theegala +1100 Collin Morikawa / Kurt Kitayama +1600 Tom Hoge / Maverick McNealy +2500 Matt Fitzpatrick / Alex Fitzpatrick +2500 Taylor Pendrith / Corey Conners +3500 Rasmus Højgaard / Nicolai Højgaard +3500 Taylor Montgomery / Ben Griffin +4000 Sepp Straka / Brice Garnett +4000 Nick Taylor / Adam Hadwin +4000 Keith Mitchell / Joel Dahmen +4000 Brice Garnett / Sepp Straka +4000 Thomas Detry / Robert MacIntyre +4500 Doug Ghim / Chan Kim +4500 Davis Thompson / Andrew Novak +4500 Daniel Berger / Victor Perez +4500 Kevin Yu / C.T. Pan +5000 Billy Horschel / Tyson Alexander +5000 Beau Hossler / Sam Ryder +5000 Andrew Putnam / Joe Highsmith +5000 Aaron Rai / David Lipsky +5000 Thorbjorn Olesen / Matt Wallace +6500 Taylor Moore / Matt NeSmith +6500 K.H. Lee / Michael Kim +6500 Greyson Sigg / Chesson Hadley +6500 Gary Woodland / Lee Hodges +6500 Garrick Higgo / Ryan Fox +6500 Austin Eckroat / Chris Gotterup +6500 Steve Stricker / Matt Kuchar +8000 Nate Lashley / Rafael Campos +8000 Luke List / Henrik Norlander +8000 Kevin Streelman / Martin Laird +8000 Dylan Wu / Justin Lower +8000 Davis Riley / Nick Hardy +8000 Chandler Phillips / Jacob Bridgeman +8000 Carson Young / Ben Martin +8000 Ben Silverman / Kevin Dougherty +8000 Zach Johnson / Ryan Palmer +10000 Vincent Norrman / Jorge Campillo +10000 Nico Echavarria / Max Greyserman +10000 Alex Smalley / Matti Schmid +10000 Thriston Lawrence / Aldrich Potgieter +13000 Ryan Brehm / Mark Hubbard +13000 Justin Suh / Rico Hoey +13000 Jhonattan Vegas / Bronson Burgoon +13000 J.J. Spaun / Hayden Buckley +13000 Erik Barnes / Harrison Endycott +13000 Chad Ramey / Martin Trainer +13000 Carl Yuan / Zecheng Dou +13000 Sam Stevens / Paul Barjon +15000 Peter Malnati / Russell Knox +15000

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Kid Cudi is ‘hoping’ his Coachella broken ankle will be healed in time for Insano tour

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Kid Cudi is just chilling since he busted his ankle on the final night of the Coachella music festival in Indio last weekend. And he’s keeping it positive, even though the injury might affect his upcoming tour.

“Layin n bed w my moms like when I was a kid,” the rapper — born Scott Mescudi — wrote Tuesday morning on social media . “her and my fiancé [sic] Lola have been holdin me down since I got injured and I feel like the luckiest man alive.”

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The 33-foot statues of the Grammy-winning rapper have sparked both praise and incredulity online. Over the weekend, one is reportedly scheduled to pass by Redondo, Marina Del Rey, Santa Monica and Malibu.

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On Monday, Cudi was similarly exuberant, posting a handful of photos from his weekend set and one from his emergency ride right afterward. (Not included: photos taken of him immediately after he jumped off the Sahara Stage, lying in pain on the ground. The injury was his first broken bone, he wrote later on X (formerly Twitter), and added, “I love yall man. I heard yall still ragin when I was offstage. Made me smile big.”

Reps for the rapper didn’t respond immediately Tuesday to The Times’ request for an update on his status.

The jump and ensuing accident reportedly caused the rapper to end his headlining act early on Sunday.

“This was me right after the fall in the ambulance. All smiles like a G,” he wrote on Instagram. “No pain coulda stopped me from feelin the joy I felt from the show. To everyone who came out yesterday and has been checkin in on me and sendin love, I F— LOVE U!!! Coachella, thats how we rage. U know how we do everytime. Festival Cud always a dope experience.”

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In a video posted the same day and captured by TMZ , he said with a chuckle, “This is what happens when a 40-year-old man tries to prance around off stage like he’s 26, like he used to do back in the day.”

He added that he was “hoping” to be healed up in time to hit the road. His Insano: Engage the Rage World Tour is scheduled to launch June 28, a little over two months from today. It might be possible. “Treatment for a broken ankle depends on the exact site and severity of the bone fracture,” the Mayo Clinic says. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Clinic says it can take 12 to 16 weeks for a nonsurgical broken ankle to be healthy.

In response to a fan who asked whether he would appear at Lollapalooza this year, Cudi wrote, “At this point i just wanna make an appearance at my tour.”

He ended the tweet with a sobbing emoji.

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Christie D’Zurilla is an assistant editor for entertainment news on the Fast Break team. A graduate of USC, she joined the Los Angeles Times in 2003 as a copy editor, started writing about celebrities in 2009 and has more than 34 years of journalism experience in Southern California.

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Australia’s Grace Kim opens 4-stroke lead in LPGA Tour’s JM Eagle LA Championship

The Associated Press

April 26, 2024, 10:13 PM

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LOS ANGLES (AP) — Grace Kim opened a four-stroke lead Friday in the LPGA Tour’s JM Eagle LA Championship, shooting a 5-under 66 in tricky afternoon conditions at Wilshire Country Club.

A stroke ahead after an opening 64, Kim had an eagle, four birdies and a bogey to get to 12-under 130. The 23-year-old Australian patiently worked her way around the tree-lined layup, trying not to get frustrated with the bumpy greens.

“I think the less thoughts, the better,” Kim said. “Obviously, during the afternoon round today, we’ve got poa annua greens so just have to stay patient with them. You can kind of see how it can get bumpy, so working with the course and not getting too wrapped up around putts not going in.”

Maja Stark was second after a 69, also in the afternoon.

“I feel like maybe not taking everything so personal because they are a little bit wobbly.” Stark said. “Especially late. Like the whole day pretty much the ball has been wobbling because there has been so many people walking on it.”

The Swede finished second last week in Texas in The Chevron Championship, two strokes behind top-ranked Nelly Korda in the first major of the year. Korda withdrew Monday, a day after her fifth straight victory.

Defending champion Hannah Green of Australia shot a 69 to join Germany’s Esther Henseleit (68) at 6 under. Denmark’s Kristine Pedersen (67) and American Auston Kim (71) were 5 under, and Rose Zhang (69) topped the group at 4 under.

Grace Kim won the LOTTE Championship last year in a playoff in Hawaii for her first LPGA Tour title. She missed the cut in The Chevron , shooting 76-72.

She started play Friday on the back nine, rebounding from a bogey on the par-3 12th with the eagle on the par-5 13th and a birdie on the par-4 14th. On 13, she hit a 5-wood to 10 feet. She added birdies on Nos. 3, 6 and 7 on the second nine.

“I think I’ve got to breathe a little bit,” she said. “I did get a little bit nervous on my back nine, so making sure I don’t rush too much and just staying in the present.

AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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