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What People Are Saying About A Day in LA Tours

Did you know that we offer the top-rated LA city tours and LA tours from Anaheim on TripAdvisor , Google , Yelp, Get Your Guide and Expedia? We’ve earned top marks on these respected sites and have over 5,000 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor for our Los Angeles tours. You don’t have to take our word for it. We encourage you to look through some of the actual reviews we have received online!

So what are you waiting for?! Book one of the best tours in Los Angeles today!

LA City Tour

Our most popular, top-rated tour, the LA City Tour is a fantastic way to spend the day exploring Los Angeles, Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, and Hollywood. The day-long trip on an upscale luxury small tour bus is narrated by your tour guide. You’ll get to spend up to 45 minutes at every stop to experience LA the way you want to. You’ll visit incredible sites such as Sunset Strip, Griffith Park, Rodeo Drive, and so much more! This tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off  from over 150 hotels! With over 5,000 5-Star reviews on TripAdvisor, Yelp, and Google  — you simply can’t go wrong!

LA City Tour from Anaheim/Disneyland

For those of you who are visiting Anaheim or Disneyland but want to spend a day seeing the best of Los Angeles, then this is the tour for you! This Los Angeles bus tour from Anaheim is perfect for those wanting to see LA, Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and other famous cities! Your tour will last an entire day and will be narrated by a friendly and informative tour guide. You’ll also spend up to 30-40 minutes at every stop to get a hands-on experience at famous attractions like Griffith Park, Rodeo Drive, Sunset Strip and so much more! Our Los Angeles tour from Anaheim also offers hotel pickup and drop-off from over 75 hotels in Anaheim!

LA City Tour Private VIP experience!

Tour in VIP style in a luxury full-size SUV with a funny, friendly and informative guide! This private tour is a great option for small groups wanting to experience all that Los Angeles has to offer in a private setting.  Our most popular itinerary which includes stops in Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, The Farmers’ Market for lunch, Griffith Park (Hollywood sign) and the Hollywood Walk of Fame can be custom tailored to your personal desires as well! This private tour offers free hotel pickup and drop off from over 150 hotels in the Los Angeles area.  Our 5,000+ 5-Star TripAdvisor reviews will guarantee your private tour will be unforgettable. Prices starting at $999.

Large Group and Corporate Private Tours

Let us customize any itinerary for you for the best possible experience of LA!  You can also choose from one of our many itineraries.  Whether you are in town with friends or family or are planning a corporate get-together, we’ll promise an experience your guests can’t get anywhere else. Our large group private tours are ideal for small, medium and large groups that come together for personal or professional reasons. Our 5,000+ 5-Star TripAdvisor reviews will guarantee your private tour will be unforgettable.  Call or email us today to book your Private Tour! 818-538-6287 or [email protected]

Los Angeles Tours

La – hollywood – beverly hills – santa monica – venice.

Looking to see the best of Los Angeles in a day? Whether you’re a tourist or a local, our Los Angeles tours will give you the chance to experience the City of Angels like never before. Join us to see why we are considered the best Tours of Los Angeles! Our LA City Tours and LA Tours from Anaheim have over 5,000 5-star reviews and have earned the coveted Travelers’ Choice Award – Best of the Best (ranked #1 in the world!) .A Day in LA was created by travelers for travelers. We recognized that Los Angeles and its neighborhoods had so much to offer but presented many challenges for a visitor to navigate in a short period of time. We make it easy to see a full overview of the city in one day! Reserve your seat now by clicking the Book Now button and see why we’re the best!”

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"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!"

Experience Los Angeles exclusively.

Need a private tour of Los Angeles for you and your family?   Our Los Angeles bus tour isn’t just a convenient way to get around town. It’s also a fun, safe way to experience LA and the surrounding neighborhoods.  We offer pre-set private tour itineraries or you can customize your own private LA tour so you can make sure you check-off all your bucket list items!  We cater to groups of all sizes, with options for small group VIP tours and large group and corporate private tours.  Contact us anytime at [email protected] or call us 818-538-6287.  Check out our Los Angeles private tours here! 

For private tours of LA please visit our Private Tours page .

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What Makes Our Los Angeles Tours Unique

Excellence is our goal.

Co-founders Kevin and Raman are global travelers who travel the backpacker’s way. From Europe and South America to India and Africa – they’ve trekked around the world and know the needs of budget travelers and how to make things fun. They understand that although the beaten path is beaten for a reason, it’s nice to step out of bounds to see another side of a new place.

With our LA city tours and LA tours from Anaheim , A Day in LA Tours wants to give you a piece of both with the best Tours in Los Angeles. We know many visitors are in town for only a few days, so we want to make the most of your time. In one day we’ll do everything from showing you breathtaking views of Venice Beach and Santa Monica to LA’s most notable highlights including Beverly Hills, Hollywood, Rodeo Drive, and other amazing Los Angeles attractions.

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Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Griffith Observatory

Los Feliz & Griffith Park

With eyes on both the galaxy above and palm-flanked boulevards below, the Griffith Observatory hovers above LA like a hulking spacecraft. This is one of…

Venice Boardwalk

Venice, Marina Del Rey & Playa del Rey

Prepare for a sensory overload on Venice's Boardwalk, a one-of-a-kind experience. Buff bodybuilders brush elbows with street performers and sellers of…

Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica

Once the very end of the legendary Route 66 and still the object of a tourist love affair, this much-photographed pier dates back to 1908 and is the city…

Huntington Library, Art Collections & Botanical Gardens

Pasadena & the San Gabriel Valley

One of the most delightful, inspirational spots in LA, the Huntington is rightly a highlight of any trip to California thanks to a world-class mix of art,…

Downtown Los Angeles & Boyle Heights

From the instant it opened in September 2015, the Broad (rhymes with 'road') became a must-visit for contemporary-art fans. It houses the world-class…

Getty Center

Beverly Hills, Bel Air, Brentwood & Westwood

In its billion-dollar, in-the-clouds perch, high above the city grit and grime, the Getty Center presents triple delights: a stellar art collection …

Universal Studios Hollywood

San Fernando Valley

Dodge dinosaurs, hang with Homer Simpson and morph into a Minion on the sometimes hair-raising, always entertaining attractions at Universal Studios…

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

LA is unlike any other city, and this cathedral is unlike any other cathedral. Seat of the US's largest Roman Catholic archdiocese (some five million…

Top picks from our travel experts

The 10 best ways to get under the skin of los angeles.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Big Bird, Bob Hope, Marilyn Monroe and Aretha Franklin are among the more than 2600 stars of big and small screens and the music industry being sought out…

Hollywood Sign

If you go to Los Angeles and don’t catch a glimpse of those nine letters looming large on a Hollywood hillside, did you really even visit Tinseltown? Just…

El Matador State Beach

Malibu & Pacific Palisades

Arguably Malibu’s most stunning beach, where you park on the bluffs and stroll down a trail to sandstone rock towers that rise from emerald coves. Topless…

Hollywood Forever Cemetery

Paradisiacal landscaping, vainglorious tombstones and epic mausoleums set an appropriate resting place for some of Hollywood's most iconic dearly departed…

No-pay LA: 7 free things to do in Los Angeles

Getty Villa

Stunningly perched on an ocean-view hillside, this museum in a replica 1st-century Roman villa is an exquisite, 64-acre showcase for Greek, Roman and…

California Science Center

Top billing at the Science Center goes to the Space Shuttle Endeavour, one of only four space shuttles nationwide, but there's plenty else to see at this…

Hollywood Bowl Museum

The Bowl (as it's affectionately known around town) enjoys a glamorous history, and this is where you can literally listen to it, and watch it. Classic…

Hollywood Bowl

Summers in LA just wouldn’t be the same without alfresco melodies under the stars at the Bowl, a huge natural amphitheater in the Hollywood Hills. Its…

Griffith Park

A gift to the city in 1896 by mining mogul Griffith J Griffith, and five times the size of New York’s Central Park, Griffith Park is one of the country’s…

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Explore Los Angeles' celebrity history and iconic beach culture, then tuck into its other fascinating neighborhoods for food, clubs, or small town vibes.

Day trips from Los Angeles offer stunning coastal scenery, wine regions, hiking, wildflowers, culture – and kitsch.

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In a famously expensive place, these tips will help see the best of the city for less. Here’s how to visit Los Angeles on a budget.

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LA's sprawling size can be overwhelming and its public transport doesn't cover every district. Here's how to find your way around the City of Angels.

Free Things to Do

Los Angeles is a playground for the rich and famous, true. But here’s the scoop on the free and fabulous in this famous city.

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Los Angeles has amazing beaches and many other family-friendly places to visit. Here are the best things to do in LA with kids.

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Dining in Los Angeles offers so much variety. Here's a local's guide to best places to eat and drink in the city.

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33 Best Things to Do in LA

Los Angeles has an exhaustive array of fun things to do, from the family-friendly La Brea Tar Pits and the must-visit Natural History Museum to a behind-the-scenes studio tour at Universal Studios or Warner Bros. Out-of-towners love the palm-lined

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Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park free

Griffith Observatory sits on the south face of Mount Hollywood and overlooks the Los Angeles basin. Its location gives visitors impressive views of the surrounding area, which many rave about. But there's more than just a pretty photo-op here. The observatory hosts fascinating exhibitions and features a top-notch planetarium.

Most recent visitors cited the beautiful setting as Griffith Observatory's main draw, though the free entry was certainly a bonus. However, you will have to pay between $6 and $10 to see the planetarium shows. Griffith Observatory is open Tuesdays to Fridays from noon to 10 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. A gift shop and cafe can be found on-site as well. For information about parking, public transportation and other information to plan your visit, check out Griffith Observatory's  website .

The Getty Center The Getty Center free

The Getty Center is one of the most impressive architectural achievements in the United States – and it also contains some of the finest works of art in the world. The circular concrete-and-steel structure was designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, and it houses an abundance of art from various ages and nations. Here you'll find Renaissance paintings, 20th-century American photography, Baroque sculptures, historic manuscripts and more, all housed inside a sprawling, modern campus amid the Santa Monica Mountains. The museum also offers spectacular views of Los Angeles on clear days.

Recent travelers loved the museum for its vast collection and beautiful grounds and views, with some stating that they enjoyed the tram ride to get to the museum. Many visitors suggest taking a guided tour, noting that the volunteer guides were very knowledgeable. Tours of the Getty Center's architecture and gardens are available, as well as a Collection Highlights tour and tours of art in specific eras. Tour times and days vary depending on tour type. Check the Getty Center's website for a complete calendar . Visitors can also download the GettyGuide app for self-guided tours.

Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre free

U.S. News Insider Tip: In this area, you'll find people dressed as celebrities and Hollywood characters, such as Spiderman, Shrek, Marilyn Monroe and Darth Vader. Have some cash on hand as a tip if you want to take photos with any of them. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

One of Hollywood's most iconic and memorable sites, the TCL Chinese Theatre (originally Grauman's Chinese Theatre) opened in 1927 and represents the excess of Hollywood's Golden Age. You can take a 30-minute walking tour of the theater for $16; tours are offered daily at multiple times. Because of this attraction's popularity, it's best to reserve your spot online in advance. This working theater also shows various newly released films throughout the year.

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Santa Monica Pier and Beach Santa Monica Pier and Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss trying the classic (and yummy!) funnel cake, a kind of fried waffle topped with powdered sugar and your choice of toppings, such as strawberries, chocolate syrup, caramel syrup, whipped cream and ice cream. They are big enough to share. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

West of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica contains one of the most legendary beach scenes in the United States. It also boasts an abundance of great restaurants and excellent nightlife spots. Its more than 3 miles of shoreline are renowned as some of the best in the area thanks to the soft sands, ideal weather and bevy of attractions. "State Beach," as it's known, has more than 300 days of sunshine a year and acted as the backdrop for the popular TV series "Baywatch."

Zuma Beach Zuma Beach free

Malibu has a reputation for excessive wealth and exclusivity, yet all of the town's beaches are public – everyone's welcome. If you're seeking an LA beach spot for sunbathing and swimming, look no further than Zuma. This 1.8-mile beach is far cleaner than those at Santa Monica or Venice Beach .

Malibu's Zuma Beach is considered one of the finest beaches in the Los Angeles area. Locals and tourists laud Zuma for its awesome waves, ample parking and easy access to beachside snacks. Plus, there are a plethora of lifeguard stations and bathroom facilities. Beach wheelchairs and a beach mat (from April to October) are also available.

Sunset Boulevard Sunset Boulevard free

One of the most iconic thoroughfares in the United States, Sunset Boulevard continues to live up to its legend. In the old days, it represented the classic and glamorous Hollywood lifestyle and became the setting of several famous films, including the obvious classic "Sunset Boulevard." Today, the palm-lined street (which connects downtown LA to Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the Pacific Coast Highway) retains its cinematic appeal, and the Sunset Strip portion has become a popular nightlife spot. The strip is also home to many classic music venues, including the Rainbow Bar & Grill and The Roxy Theatre .

Recent visitors loved driving along this famous boulevard, adding that gorgeous sunsets can be enjoyed during late afternoon drives. But like other parts of LA, this thoroughfare gets congested with traffic.

The Original Farmers Market and The Grove The Original Farmers Market and The Grove free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Kids will love riding the free, open-air, double-decker trolley that runs through The Grove and connects to The Original Farmers Market. It runs daily from 1 to 8:45 p.m. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Sitting south of West Hollywood is one of LA's most beloved landmarks: The Original Farmers Market. Founded in 1934, this cream-colored facility reels in both residents and tourists with the promise of fresh produce and the aroma of ready-to-eat snacks. You can visit throughout the week, although hours vary depending on the day. Entry is free, but you'll want to have some cash on hand should any of the treats whet your appetite. You can park for free for up to 90 minutes at the market's two lots, provided that your ticket is validated at the market. (Fees apply for parking after the allotted 90 minutes and for non-validated tickets.) For a little help navigating the market, you can also take a guided foodie tour  (one of the best California tours ).

Los Angeles County Museum of Art Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Next door to the La Brea Tar Pits sits the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the linchpin of the Los Angeles museum district. Since its 1965 opening, LACMA has showcased thousands of pieces, from Islamic artifacts to European impressionist paintings to modern art. With constantly shifting exhibitions and unique architecture, LACMA offers a rewarding experience for both serious art buffs and casual travelers.

Currently, the museum is constructing a new building for its permanent collection, called the David Geffen Galleries, which is scheduled to open in 2024. For now, pieces will be on display in the BCAM and the Resnick Pavilion. The Urban Light and Levitated Mass exhibits remain open to visitors. There is a restaurant and grab-and-go eatery on-site. Many visitors appreciated both the indoor and outdoor art exhibits and were impressed with the size of the collection of modern and contemporary art.

Half-Day Sightseeing Tour of the Best of Los Angeles

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The Broad The Broad free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Two of the most popular exhibits that have blown up on social media are Yayoi Kusama's "Infinity Mirror Rooms." You have to book tickets online for timed entry to these exhibits, but they are free and include general museum admission. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad founded The Broad museum in 2015 and the structure made for a stunning addition to downtown Los Angeles. The eye-catching, honeycomb building, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Gensler, is home to an expansive collection of contemporary art dating from the 1950s to the present. The collection includes works by Jean Michel Basquiat, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, Kara Walker and Andy Warhol. In addition to the permanent collection, temporary exhibits showcase new and emerging artists. The museum gets high marks from recent visitors who loved both the artwork and the architecture.

Runyon Canyon Park Runyon Canyon Park free

Just two blocks from Hollywood Boulevard, Runyon Canyon Park is an often-overlooked urban park that offers some great views. The park boasts several hiking trails and is a popular spot for celebrities to exercise. During your hike, you'll see plenty of palm trees. Atop the canyon, you'll be treated to sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley.

Hikers recommend bring plenty of water and going later in the day since it can get hot on the trails. Some recent visitors lamented the lack of facilities, while others raved about the views.

Paramount Pictures Studios Paramount Pictures Studios

Since 1912, Paramount Pictures Studios has showcased the talents of film's all-time heavyweights, including Mae West, Alfred Hitchcock, Eddie Murphy and Meryl Streep. The notable site has been home to everything from classic television shows like "I Love Lucy" to modern favorites like "Glee" to box-office hits like "Mission: Impossible" and "Titanic." Today, Paramount Pictures is the only remaining film studio in the Hollywood area.

For an authentic Hollywood experience, set aside some time to tour the grounds . On the 2-hour studio tour, a guide will take you around the site's 65 acres in a golf cart, and you'll also be able to hop off and explore sound stages and recognizable studio sets from many current TV shows and movies. Previous visitors praised the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, although some felt the tours offered at Warner Bros. Studio were better. Also, keep in mind the tours' age restrictions. Studio and VIP tours permit visitors ages 10 and older.

Hollywood Bowl Hollywood Bowl free

If you can catch a gig at the Hollywood Bowl , LA's beautiful amphitheater, don't pass it up. Since its inaugural season in 1922, this unique stage, set in the Hollywood Hills, has entertained thousands of fans and hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Stevie Wonder, Igor Stravinsky, Madonna, Elton John and Tina Turner.

Many travelers praise the Hollywood Bowl, touting everything from the sound quality to the scenic overlook. Several also add that all of the seats offer great views and suggest arriving early with a bottle of wine and a picnic basket.

Walt Disney Concert Hall Walt Disney Concert Hall free

This Frank Gehry-designed concert hall's curvaceous, stainless-steel façade is an imposing structure in downtown LA. The hall helped revive this particular section of downtown, which was once dominated by mundane office buildings and lackluster entertainment options. Now, nightlife and culture burgeon in the area and the concert hall is at the forefront. Music-loving travelers will want to catch one of the Los Angeles Philharmonic's performances here. (For ticket and price information, visit the Los Angeles Philharmonic's website .)

You don't have to invest in concert tickets to experience this performance venue: You can follow  a self-guided audio tour of the exterior and interior (though the actual concert auditorium is off-limits). Past visitors recommend the free hourlong audio tours; self-guided tours are also offered daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For a full tour schedule, visit The Music Center's website .

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Hollywood Homes Tours Hollywood Homes Tours

Once you've seen where the stars shop, where they eat, where they surf and where they party, you'll want to see where they live. A variety of Hollywood homes tours provide ample opportunities to spot homes owned by the rich and famous. You probably won't see the celebs themselves, but you can snap pics of the homes affiliated with A-listers like Sandra Bullock, Tom Cruise, Bruno Mars and Halle Berry. Also, expect to see facades that once housed the likes of Lucille Ball, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. Along with the stars' abodes, buses usually make stops at the Hollywood Walk of Fame , the Sunset Strip and Rodeo Drive .

Some recent travelers were disappointed because many homes are at the end of long driveways or behind hedges. Be sure to check the weather for the day: Extreme heat or a sudden shower can put a damper on an open-top bus ride.

Rodeo Drive Rodeo Drive free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop for lunch at the hidden Mexican steakhouse, The Hideaway, on the subterranean level of the Rodeo Collection. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Immortalized by Julia Roberts' "Pretty Woman" shopping spree, Rodeo Drive is an upscale shopping street in Beverly Hills that features world-class designer stores and small private boutiques. The area is popular with wealthy shoppers, sunglass-wearing celebrities and tourists hoping to see fashion icons.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery Hollywood Forever Cemetery free

As morbid as it may seem, your best chance of spotting a celebrity in LA is at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Here, you'll find the final resting places of Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille and other stars who once worked at the adjacent Paramount Pictures Studios . Maps detailing the celebrities' gravesites are available at the cemetery's flower shop or on its website . A 2 ½-hour walking tour is also available starting at $25.

Recent visitors described the cemetery's quiet grounds as "peaceful," adding that the grounds are well-maintained. Some recommend doing a walking tour to learn the stories of famous people buried there. The venue also offers cultural events, such as outdoor classic film screenings, concerts and author evenings. Visit their events calendar to find out more.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

You could spend an entire day at this property that includes a research library with 11 million items, an art museum with more than 42,000 pieces and a 130-acre botanical gardens with more than 12 themed gardens. The Huntington opened in 1928 and is a nonprofit that provides humanities scholarships, fellowships, special exhibitions and hosts more than 800,000 visitors a year. Ongoing exhibitions feature items such as Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" manuscript, replicas of Pacific Electric Railway Company's "red cars," rock slab art in the Japanese Garden, contemporary art and so much more. There are also temporary exhibits that rotate regularly. The Botanical Gardens include themed gardens – such as the California garden, jungle garden, rose garden and Japanese garden – botanical living collections and is the site for botanical conservation and research. Most visitors enjoyed touring the gardens the most and said that the gardens alone can be a full-day excursion.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is open from Wednesdays to Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations are recommended from Monday to Thursday and required for weekend visits. Weekday admission is $25 for adults, $21 for students, $13 for youth (ages 4 to 11) and children younger than 4 explore free. Weekend rates are slightly higher. Admission is free the first Thursday of every month; you can snag tickets on the final Thursday of the month prior at 9 a.m. PST. Free parking is available. A variety of guided tours and events are offered; dates and prices vary.  View the online calendar for more information. There are restrooms, a gift shop and dining facilities on the property, as well as a limited number of picnic tables. Picnics in the garden are not permitted. For more information, visit the website .

Angeles National Forest Angeles National Forest

In about a half-hour, travelers can trade busy downtown LA for the serenity of nature at the Angeles National Forest. The almost 700,000-acre forest is an easily accessible place for locals and visitors to hike, bike, ski, ride horses, swim, fish and even camp. Encompassing the San Gabriel Mountains, terrain ranges from desert to dense forest. Perhaps one of the most visited sites is Mount San Antonio (nicknamed Mount Baldy), which is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains at 10,064 feet. There you will find a variety of hikes, from moderate to challenging. Recent visitors loved the views and found the range of trail options perfect for different types of hikers.

Visitors to the Angeles National Forest must purchase a National Forest Adventure Pass. It’s $5 for a daily pass or $30 for an annual pass; the pass is good at other national forests in the area. There are visitor and information centers in different areas of the forest, which offer general information, activities and educational events. Visit the forest's website for specific hours and details.

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La Brea Tar Pits La Brea Tar Pits free

If your kids go crazy for dinosaurs – and really, what kid doesn't? – then a visit to La Brea Tar Pits is sure to be the highlight of their trip. Although the pits look like the set of a cheesy PG movie, hot tar has been bubbling from the earth at this spot along Museum Row in the Miracle Mile for about 50,000 years. And from the gooiest part of LA, more than 3.5 million fossils have been discovered. The adjoining museum houses many of the artifacts found at the tar pits; consequently, it is home to one of the largest collections of Ice Age fossils in the world. Recent visitors said the site was very educational and the amount of fossils was impressive.

You can check out the tar pits completely free of charge, but museum tickets start at $15 for adults and $7 for children 3 to 12; reduced entry fees are available for students and seniors. LA County residents get in free Mondays through Fridays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. All tickets include tours of property facilities like the fossil lab, lake pit and observation pit; some special exhibits will cost extra. Ticket lines can be long, so consider purchasing your ticket online before you arrive. Even if you have to pay to visit, most visitors agree that the exhibits are well worth perusing.

California Science Center California Science Center free

A world of fun and exploration await kids, as well as curious adults, at the California Science Center. In the permanent "Ecosystems" exhibit, museumgoers will learn about everything from islands to rivers to forests across ten different zones via interactive displays. In "Life! Beginning," visitors learn about reproduction, mating and genes. Many recent visitors were impressed with the museum's "Air & Space" section that includes the Space Shuttle Endeavour and the Gemini 11 Capsule. An IMAX theater is also on-site. Recent visitors say the center is wonderful, lots of fun and especially great for kids.

The center is free to visit (including the Endeavour) though special exhibits and IMAX screenings incur a fee. Timed tickets for IMAX and special exhibits are required and can be purchased online . The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking costs $15. You can also take the Metro Expo Line to Expo Park/USC Station and walk five minutes to the center. Visit the center's website for more information.

Dodger Stadium Dodger Stadium

Baseball fans should enjoy a visit to Dodger Stadium, which is home to the LA Dodgers and is Major League Baseball's third oldest continually used park. The stadium is carved into Chavez Ravine and overlooks downtown LA to the south and the San Gabriel Mountains to the north, making this ballpark quite unique. If the Dodgers aren't playing when you're in town, you can still see the stadium on a guided tour. Tours of the 56,000-seat stadium last approximately 90 minutes. During the tour, visitors will learn about the stadium's history and may get to go on the field, look at the Dodger Dugout or peek into the Yaamava' Dugout Club (the VIP restaurant and lounge located behind home plate), which houses the team's World Series trophies and various other awards. Additional specialty tours, such as a Jackie Robinson tour, are also offered. Recent tour-goers say the guides are knowledgeable and engaging.

The Dodger Stadium Tour is offered on the hour from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (on game days ) or 3 p.m. (on nongame days). Tickets cost $30 for adults and $25 for kids 14 and younger. Specialty tours are also available for varying fees. Parking is $25 in advance and $30 to $50 at the gate, with no in-and-out privileges and no refunds. Tickets to baseball games are seasonal and prices vary.

Greystone Mansion and Park Greystone Mansion and Park free

Greystone Mansion is one of the largest mansions in Beverly Hills and an important landmark for American cinema. The nearly 13-acre parcel of land was a wedding gift from oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny to his son, Ned, in 1926. Construction on the mansion began in 1927 and took almost three years to complete. Greystone now represents a golden age in American cinema. Many films, including "The Big Lebowski" and "Ghostbusters," and television shows like "General Hospital" and "Gilmore Girls" have been shot on these gothic-inspired grounds.

Visitors can walk around the property and self-guided tours of the inside of the mansion are offered monthly. Many visitors say Greystone Mansion has stunning grounds with picturesque views. Travelers describe the park grounds as spectacular and enjoy learning which of their favorite movies and shows used Greystone as a backdrop.

Venice Beach Venice Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Rent an e-bike at the boardwalk and spend the day riding along "The Strand" (aka the Marvin Braude Bike Trail) to the Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy delicious Mexican dishes at MariaSol, which sits at the end of the pier. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Developed in the early 20th century, Venice Beach is modeled – canals and all – after its  namesake city in Italy . Admittedly, the experiment didn't live up to its Italian inspiration, but the neighborhood has become distinctly Californian, embodying the spirit of the wealthy, the alternative and the just plain bizarre. Rather than towering churches and intimate pizzerias, you'll find canal-side mansions near funky boutiques and restaurants.

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Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. free

If you're looking for a trendy hot spot, heed the advice of recent visitors and head to the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles. Formerly an urban artists' colony in the 1970s, the area is now filled with restaurants, cafes and bars serving creative cuisine and craft cocktails. Popular favorites include Angel City Brewery, Bestia, Girl & the Goat and EightyTwo, a bar that features vintage pinball and arcade machines. The neighborhood is also home to art galleries featuring a variety of genres showcasing inspiring art, art shops and art classes. One example is Art Share L.A., a 28,000-square-foot creative art space featuring community art classes, art exhibits and live performances.

According to past visitors, parking in this area can be challenging. Though there is street parking, it's limited. Travelers advise leaving your car in a public parking garage.

Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios Hollywood

One of the most popular attractions in the Los Angeles area, Universal Studios Hollywood features rides and amusements based on some of the most popular scenes and characters from film and television. You can take the tram Studio Tour past the creepy Bates Motel from "Psycho" and get caught up in a high-speed chase with the "Fast & Furious" cast. Kids can shake hands with cartoon favorites like The Minions and Scooby-Doo. Of course, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is another huge hit, as is Jurassic World – The Ride. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, a new attraction opened in 2023, features a Super Mario-themed ride, interactive games, a restaurant and shop.

If thrills are your thing, there are plenty of hair-raising coasters and rides. On Transformers: The Ride-3D, riders join Optimus Prime in his battle against the Decepticons; meanwhile, youngsters will love the 3D ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (complete with a Minion dance party).

Abbot Kinney Boulevard Abbot Kinney Boulevard free

Shoppers will love this retail mecca that stretches for a mile from Washington Boulevard to Main Street. Located a half-mile inland from Venice Beach , the boulevard features popular chain stores, such as Lululemon, Birkenstock and Warby Parker, as well as local boutique shops, including Ananda Venice, Satine and The Stronghold. In between shopping, stop for a bite to eat at The Butcher's Daughter, Plant Food + Wine or Gjelina. Or, plan your visit for the first Friday of every month, when starting at 5 p.m. dozens of food trucks serve up casual craft meals along the street.

Recent visitors suggested you stroll along Abbot Kinney Boulevard if you're in the Venice Beach area, praising its hip collection of boutiques and restaurants. In addition to the shops and eateries, reviewers also admired the colorful murals and street art. 

Grand Central Market Grand Central Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For something fun and unique near the market, check out the Angels Flight Railway. Built in 1901, the funicular takes passengers between Hill Street and Grand Avenue on Bunker Hill. One-way tickets cost $1. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Grand Central Market, or foodie heaven according to visitors, is located in downtown Los Angeles by the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad . The venue features high ceilings and an open layout, with food vendor stalls offering different cuisines that represent cultures from the Los Angeles area and beyond. The market has been in operation since 1917 and serves everything from coffee and pressed juices to deli fare, egg sandwiches, falafel, tacos and chow mein.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Whether you're interested in the deep sea, dinosaurs, insects or gems and minerals, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers hours of exploration of all things related to natural history. Ongoing exhibitions include the impressive Dinosaur Hall (where you can view more than 300 fossils and see 20 life-sized dinosaur skeletons), Nature Lab, Hall of Birds and Visible Vault, which houses artifacts from Aztec, Maya and Inca civilizations. Visitors said that the museum is great for all ages, with the Dinosaur Hall being the most popular attraction. There are also special exhibitions that are on display for a limited time. Kids will love the Dinosaurs Encounters Show that features juvenile dinosaur puppets. The shows are offered Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $6 per person.

Guests can also explore the nature gardens with more than 600 varieties of plants and a plethora of garden wildlife. Free guided tours are available daily. If you want to dive deeper into natural history, special programs are available for children, adults and families. Check the events calendar online for more info.

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Battleship USS Iowa Museum Battleship USS Iowa Museum

A visit to the iconic Battleship USS Iowa Museum includes access to both interior and exterior areas on seven decks. The self-guided tour lets visitors see what life was like on the ship. You'll also view the officer's wardroom, senior officer's cabins, admirals bridge, navigation bridge and crew's quarters. Recent visitors enjoyed the multiple exhibits along the route that tell the story of the Battleship USS Iowa, as well as the U.S. Navy, through artifacts, photographs, artwork and equipment. Kids can participate in the "Vicky the Dog" scavenger hunt to get a more in-depth look at the ship through the eyes of its canine mascot.

The General Access pass is valid for two hours and costs $29.95 for adults, $21.95 for kids 3 to 11 and are free for kids 2 and younger. For an additional fee, visitors can upgrade to a themed guided tour, such as the Gun Tour or Engineering Tour. Past visitors said it is worth paying extra for a guided tour. They also enjoyed their visits overall. While visiting the ship, check out the waterfront views, grab a snack at Vicky's Doghouse Café and pick up a souvenir at the Ship's Store. The ship is open daily at 10 a.m. and closes around 4 p.m. (or whenever the final guided tour ends). Parking is available, with the first hour free and $2 each hour after that, with a maximum of $20 a day.

Shop along Olvera Street Shop along Olvera Street free

Stroll this historic street in Downtown Los Angeles for authentic Mexican culture, music and cuisine. Along the block-long, brick-lined street, you'll find strolling mariachi bands, taco shops, Aztec and Mexican folkloric dancers and vendors selling handcrafted souvenirs, such as pottery, leather goods and traditional clothing. The street also hosts various traditional events throughout the year, including the Blessing of the Animals (Saturday before Easter), Cinco de Mayo, Fiestas Patrias (Mexican Independence Day), Dia de los Muertos and Las Posadas.

This Mexican marketplace is part of the El Pueblo Historic Park, the "birthplace of LA," which also includes historic sites, such as Avila Adobe (LA's oldest house), Pico House and the America Tropical Interpretive Center. 

L.A. Live L.A. Live

L.A. Live is the hub of entertainment in Downtown Los Angeles. It's features the Crypto.com Arena, home of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers basketball teams, the Los Angeles Kings hockey team, as well as the Los Angeles Sparks women's basketball team. It's also where music fans attend world-class concerts by some of the biggest names in the industry. Other entertainment includes the interactive GRAMMY Museum, a Lucky Strike bowling alley and a Regal movie theater, as well as smaller event venues like the Microsoft Theater, The Novo and The Conga Room.

There are more than a dozen eateries to choose from, including Yard House and Katsuya. After a night of entertainment, stay over at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE or The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles.

Petersen Automotive Museum Petersen Automotive Museum

Car enthusiasts will be thrilled with a visit to the Petersen Automotive Museum as it houses a range of impressive cars, from high performance to historic. In the permanent galleries, travelers can try an exhilarating racing simulator, see the “Commutercycle” from the HBO documentary "The Lady and the Dale" and participate in hands-on activities with a Disney "Cars" theme. Featured exhibitions rotate frequently. There are an additional 250 cars that are stored in The Vault. The museum also hosts a variety of events, from exhibition openings to hands-on workshops. Visit its online calendar for more info.

Admission is $21 for adults, $13 for youth ages 12 to 17 and $11 for kids 4 to 11. There is an additional $27 fee for people 12 and older to tour The Vault (children 4 to 11 will pay an extra $10); many visitors say it's worth the fee, but warn that it could take you a half-day to explore. Keep in mind children younger than 4 cannot enter the museum nor the vault. If you're a true car fanatic, consider taking the guided Vault and Workshop tour to see both the Vault and the museum's restoration area. Tickets for this tour are limited and run on Saturdays only. Fees are $150 for individuals 4 and older.

Warner Bros. Studio Warner Bros. Studio

Located in Burbank, California – a city that sits just 5 miles north of Hollywood – Warner Bros. Studio gives visitors a close-up look at iconic movie and TV sets and props, such as the original Batmobiles, costumes from the "Harry Potter" movies and a replica of the cafe featured in "Friends." Travelers will also drive around the studio's 110-acre backlot, where 30 soundstages are used for producing shows like "Young Sheldon," "Bob Hearts Abishola," and "The Ellen DeGeneres Show."

Previous visitors loved exploring this property and appreciated their "fun and knowledgeable" tour guides. Additionally, many enjoyed getting out of their golf carts to go inside a working set and other buildings used for filming, citing this as the main reason to tour this studio instead of others like Paramount Pictures Studios . But keep in mind, children 7 and younger are not permitted on any tour.

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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
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• Chinese (Simplified)
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• 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. Coastal California Helicopter Tour from Long Beach

9. Hollywood and Celebrity Homes Bus 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. Crimes of Passion Interactive Museum Adventure in East Hollywood

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

19. The Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles

20. Private Therapy Sailing Adventure

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

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

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

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

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

30. LA Venice Beach Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours

What travellers are saying.

• D W 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles WB tour is a can’t miss experience Great experience touring the studio. Learned a lot about the history of WB and what has been filmed there. Got some great pictures and was fascinated by how things operate. Would love to go back again in the future as it felt like our tour was over so fast Read more Review of: Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood Written 26 April 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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The Mindful Traveller

Eco Travel Blog & Photography

5 Days in Los Angeles: Complete Itinerary

22 December 2022 · In: City Guide , Los Angeles , USA

Are you looking to explore all Los Angeles has to offer in just 5 days? You have come to the right place! From the impressive Hollywood Sign to the luxurious Beverly Hills and the eclectic Venice Beach, this Los Angeles 5-day itinerary is perfect for first-timers or a week-long trip with friends. It will show you all the best things to do and walk you through everything you need to know to make your city break unforgettable.

Los Angeles is a bustling city full of surprises and hidden gems. Whilst you may have heard of famous landmarks like Hollywood and Beverly Hills, you will discover in this city guide that it offers much more.

I discovered LA in October a few years ago with a friend and my brother. It was my first time in the United States, and I came home with a head full of incredible memories!

In this travel guide, I share the perfect itinerary for a 5-day trip covering the must-see sites and top attractions so you can make the most of your time and enjoy your vacation stress-free – and without rushing. You will also find practical eco-friendly tips for responsible travel at the end. Enjoy!

Disclosure : Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning that at no additional cost to you, we will receive a commission if you click through and make a purchase. For more information, read our full affiliate disclosure  here .

5- Shop at the Third Street Promenade

5- wander down rodeo drive, 3- spend time in malibu, 4- relax at silver lake, overview: perfect 5 days in los angeles.

• Day 1: Venice & Santa Monica
• Day 2: Griffith, Hollywood & Beverly Hills
• Day 3: Marina del Rey & Malibu 
• Day 4: Downtown LA
• Day 5: Theme parks 

5 days in Los Angeles – Map

Click on the top left of the map to display the list of stops and locations.

Detailed Los Angeles 5-day itinerary

This Los Angeles travel itinerary covers all the best things to do and see in 5 days and is perfect for travelling with family, couples or friends, whether it is your first time in the city or you have been there before.

On the other hand, remember that this itinerary is only a guide with recommendations. You are more than welcome to spend more days in the Californian city or add other stops to your trip. Los Angeles has a lot to offer: you will not run out of inspiration for activities!

READ MORE: Los Angeles City Guide: Perfect 3-Day Itinerary

Bonus tips: plan your itinerary in advance, but leave room for the unexpected. Be ready and open to adapting your plans, and be OK with missing things if necessary! 

Day 1 – Venice & Santa Monica

1- visit the venice canals.

Your first day in Los Angeles begins with the buzzing neighbourhood of Venice Beach and one of its hidden gems: the Venice canals. 

Created in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney as part of his Venice of America, the canals are today a quiet sanctuary and community of Los Angeles composed of six waterways surrounded by modern homes.

Minutes away from the crowded boardwalk, it is a quaint and peaceful area to start your day and an easy place to explore on foot.  Stroll along the canals, walk across arching wooden bridges and take in the beautiful views along the journey  – before heading to the beach.

Personal note – I absolutely loved wandering around the Venice Canals! The houses were gorgeous, and I even thought that if I lived in LA one day, I would live in this area (although I can not imagine how expensive these houses are).

2- Take photos from the Venice Pier

Your walk continues with the Venice Fishing Pier, a long dock extending into the Pacific Ocean and a  perfect spot for panoramic views  of Venice Beach and its Ocean Front Walk. It is a simple thing to do, but it will give you another perspective on the city – something I recommend. 

3- Wander along the Venice Beach Boardwalk

It is time to discover the famous promenade, one of the top attractions in Los Angeles! 

Stretching about a mile and a half along the Pacific Ocean, the boardwalk is a fascinating area to discover, from hundreds of street vendors and performers to street art and eclectic restaurants and bars. There is most definitely something for everyone and fun for the entire family. 

Whether you want to hit the beach, strengthen your body at Muscle Beach, admire street art and murals or skate at the Venice Skate Park, there are  plenty of things to do and see on the Venice Broadwalk . Here are some of them: 

• Enjoy a street performance 
• Explore on a bike
• Buy handmade arts and crafts
• Skate the park
• Get a henna tattoo
• Listen to live music
• Take plenty of photos 
• Find the iconic suspended Venice sign
• Uncover unique art walls

4- Stroll on the Santa Monica Pier

After experiencing the lively atmosphere of Venice Beach and its renowned ocean walkway, it is time to head to Santa Monica, a coastal city west of downtown Los Angeles.

Your first stop will be its Pier, home to the Pacific Park amusement park, the Looff Hippodrome Carousel and Santa Monica Pier Aquarium. Whether or not you want to hop on an attraction, it is still a lovely place to  ramble, shop for souvenirs and take in breathtaking views  – perfect for a romantic stroll, especially at sunset.

And if you want more sensation,  go on the rides  such as the West Coaster and the Pacific Wheel – very touristy, but I loved it! They are also great family-friendly activities to do with children. 

You guessed it – you will not run out of ideas for things to do and see in this scenic seaside area.

A few minutes from the Pier, you will find the Third Street Promenade, an open-air pedestrian esplanade in the downtown area of Santa Monica, consisting of more than 80 retailers.

This vibrant urban neighbourhood is a  shopper haven  where you will find everything you need (and want), from markets with fresh produce to designer fashions. It is the perfect place to  grab souvenirs  for family and friends or to treat yourself.

Along your walk, you will also encounter street performers and  delicious restaurants  offering local ingredients and craft cocktails. Do not hesitate to stop and appreciate a well-deserved break.

End your day in Santa Monica with a  magical sunset over the Pacific Ocean . Walk the waterfront or sit on a bench and watch the sun slowly setting and disappearing over the horizon (a perfect moment for couples!).

I promise you, a sunset in Los Angeles is something else and a must-do activity. You will not regret taking the time to slow down and pause for a moment. 

Day 2 – Griffith, Hollywood & Beverly Hills

The second day of your 5-day vacation in Los Angeles begins in Griffith Park, a large urban oasis spanning over 4,107 acres of natural terrain, full of beauty and historical landmarks.

From the Giffith Observatory to the Greek Theatre and the Los Angeles Zoo, this area has something for everyone and offers many activities such as hiking, biking or horse riding.

1- Explore Griffith Observatory

One thing not to miss on your journey through Griffith Park is the Griffith Observatory, a building perched on the southern slopes of Mount Hollywood, offering  scenic views of Los Angeles and fascinating science and technology exhibits .

As a perfect family-friendly activity in the heart of Los Angeles,  here are some of the best things to do in the observatory :

• Take in the breathtaking views of LA and Hollywood Hills
• Visit the Samuel Oschin Planetarium
• Look through the 12-inch Zeiss telescope
• Discover exhibitions on captivating topics 

Personal note – the Giffith Obersavtory was one of my favourite things to do! I enjoyed walking around the building and discovering different viewpoints of the city. I also loved wandering inside and learning more about space and science. It was such a peaceful place! 

2- Hike to Hollywood Sign

It is impossible not to mention the famous Hollywood Sign on this 5-day itinerary. Created in 1923 as a giant advertisement for the Hollywoodland real estate industry, it is today a renowned landmark and cultural icon overlooking Hollywood on Mount Lee.

You can  hike to the sign from several trails , including the following ones starting from Sunset Ranch, Bronson Canyon or the Observatory parking lot.

I started mine from Sunset Ranch, and it was great. However, come prepared and bring a hat, sunscreen and a water bottle. There is not much shade on the way up, and it is (very) hot.

Once you reach the summit, you will find yourself behind the impressive letters and have a stunning view of the city (which must be incredible at sunset). 

And if you have more time,  here are some other great things to do and see in Griffith Park :

• Visit the Autry Museum of the American West
• Horse ride with the Sunset Ranch
• Watch a show at The Greek Theatre

3- Walk the Hollywood Boulevard

Here we are, Hollywood Boulevard or the Walk of Fame! After finishing your exploration of Griffith Park, head to one of the most well-known streets in the world, filled with attractions celebrating the rich film and entertainment heritage of Los Angeles.

From the TCL Chinese Theatre to the Hollywood Wax Museum and the iconic stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, here are the  best things to do and see on Hollywood Boulevard :

• Stroll down the Walk of Fame
• Stop at the TCL Chinese Theatre
• Watch a movie at the Dolby Theatre 
• Visit the Hollywood Wax Museum
• Shop at the Ovation Hollywood

4- Stop at the Beverly Hills Sign

Your final stop on your second day in Los Angeles will be the luxurious city of Beverly Hills, home to many Hollywood stars and upscale shopping streets. To get there, continue your walk (or drive) from Hollywood Boulevard to Sunset Boulevard (another great area to explore).  

You will then come across the Beverly Hills Sign, sitting atop a lily pad pond, surrounded by Beverly Gardens Park. It is a lovely place to  walk around and take a break to recharge your batteries  (and relax your legs if you have been walking). In the same park, you will also find the Electric Fountain, an art sculpture and evening lighting with decorative mosaics.

After a well-deserved break, stroll down Rodeo Drive, a two-mile-long street featuring more than a hundred major international brands.  Admire the tall palm trees and upscale boutiques, and wander the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style , a public walkway adorned with bronze plaques honouring people in the fashion and design industry. 

And if you still have energy,  here are a few other things you can do in Beverly Hills :

• Spot celebrity houses
• Visit Greystone Mansion
• Explore Franklin Canyon Park
• Uncover the Spadena House

Day 3 – Marina del Rey & Malibu 

Your third day in Los Angeles will be about relaxation and unwinding, starting in Marina del Rey, a lovely coastal city with yachts, beaches and plenty of walking and biking trails.

1- Relax in Marina del Rey 

You will start your day at this charming harbour, Marina del Rey, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Los Angeles, offering many family-friendly activities on and by the water. 

Have fun on a paddleboard, embark on a sailboat cruise or stroll along the waterfront  – there are plenty of things to do for a morning in the area, away from the noise and hectic city life.

Here are some  more ideas of what you can do in Marina del Rey :

• Walk along the coast
• Join a wildlife-watching trip
• Try paddleboard yoga
• Go kayaking 
• Hit the beach 
• Eat in a local restaurant 

2- Drive the Pacific Coast Highway

Your second part of the day will lead you to Malibu, a beachfront town and surfer paradise located west of Los Angeles.

To reach the sunny city, you will have the chance to drive on one of the most scenic Californian roads: the Pacific Coast Highway. This state route spans over 600 miles from the north of San Fransisco to the south of Los Angeles and takes you through incredible and unforgettable landscapes – a favourite for road trips in the USA! 

Even though you will travel on the highway for a short time, you will be able to  enjoy beautiful ocean scenery along the journey , so do not hesitate to stop and take in the views. 

Stretching for more than 30 miles along the Pacific, Malibu is a peaceful beach town famous for its celebrity homes, surfers and pristine beaches – and where you will spend the other half of your third day.

If many parts of the town are private and exclusive, there is still plenty of Malibu charm for visitors to access and enjoy. And if surfing is your thing, you have definitely come to the right place! 

For the most thrilling waves, you will find  Surfrider Beach  next to the Malibu Pier. And if you prefer to sunbathe and relax, head to  Zuma Beach,  attracting locals and families year-round. 

Finally, if you prefer spending time in nature and spotting wildlife, discover the  Point Dume  at the north end of Malibu, providing an ideal perch for watching birds and migrating grey whales in winter.

Here are a few more fun and unique things to do in Malibu :

• Explore El Matador rock formations
• Join a Malibu wine tour
• Hike through Malibu Creek Park
• Taste delicious seafood
• Uncover the Escondido Falls
• Visit Getty Villa
• Enjoy a sunset on the beach

Day 4 – Downtown LA

1- explore the arts district.

Your 5-day Los Angeles itinerary continues with the Art Districts, a neighbourhood on the east end of Downtown LA, home to many creatives in green tech, architecture and entertainment.

Once an industrial zone and residence of an urban artist community in the 1970s, the Art Districts has recently re-emerged as a hip hub for creatives of all types. It is today a  fascinating place for locals and visitors alike to explore , from the most exciting places to dine to numerous galleries and plenty of daytime attractions for adults and children.

Start your day with a street art tour, admire the work of up-and-coming artists at the creative hub, taste street food at a food truck restaurant and immerse yourself in a burgeoning urban atmosphere.

2- Eat at the Grand Central Market

We can not mention the Grand Central Market for your next stop and place to eat in Downtown LA! As a paradise for food lovers, the market has been a landmark since 1917, bringing together the  cuisines and cultures of Los Angeles through fantastic vendors and events .

Whether you are a meat eater, seafood enthusiast or vegan at heart – there is something for everyone. Take the time to explore and enjoy 🙂 

3- Ramble through Echo Park

Continue your itinerary through Downtown Los Angeles with Echo Park, a district bordered by Silver Lake to the west and Chinatown to the east, home to many burgeoning artists, writers and musicians. This area is  excellent to ramble through and is fully accessible on foot.

Whether you want to spend a relaxing time at Echo Park Lake or a fun afternoon at Dodger Stadium,  there is plenty to do in this historic and diverse neighbourhood . Here are some ideas:

• See the local art
• Explore Echo Park Lake with a pedal boat
• Hike in Elysian Park
• See a Dodgers game 

The next and final stop on your fourth day in Los Angeles is Silver Lake, a hipster district teeming with street arts, artisanal coffee shops, indie music venues, and trendy bars and shops. The area also includes illustrations of modernist architecture and a reservoir enveloped by a popular walking path with a dog park and a lush field. 

Although you will not find many famous sights or attractions, Silver Lake is still an  incredible place to explore, with plenty of exciting things for families, couples and friends . Climb the secret stairs through hillside houses, relax by Silver Lake Reservoir or shop along Sunset Junction – you will not run out of ideas for what to do.  Here are a few more activities :

• Relax by the Silver Lake Reservoir
• Shop around Sunset Junction
• Stroll through the farmers’ market
• Walk up the Silver Lake stairs

Day 5 – Theme parks 

Your last day in Los Angeles! On this fifth day, you will have some fun and end your LA itinerary with one or more theme parks.

As the centre of the film and television industry, you can imagine that Los Angeles contains many  iconic studios such as Paramount Pictures, Universal and Warner Brothers  – all of which offer behind-the-scenes tours. And it is the perfect activity for families and cinema addicts! 

I did the Warner Bros. Studio Tour, and it was incredible. It was great to see locations and sets of well-known films and series, such as Spider-man, Batman or Friends! 

• Paramount Pictures  – 2-hour tour
• Warner Bros. Studios  – 1-hour guided + 2-hour unguided
• Universal Studios : 1-hour tour

Universal Studios is also a theme park, and you can do the Studio Tour with your park admission – unlike Paramount or Warner Bros. 

I did the Universal Studios theme park during Halloween – it was so fun! But as we had special night tickets, we could not do the Studio Tour. 

If you are looking for a more thrilling activity, head to  6 Flags Magic Mountain , an amusement park home to the most exciting (and craziest) roller coasters I have ever encountered! It is a bit outside Los Angeles (35 miles – 35 minutes without traffic) but easy to get to by car or taxi. And it will be a great day of fun before leaving LA.  

I hope you enjoyed your five days in Los Angeles! 

Unforgettable experiences I recommend

How to get to los angeles.

The best way to get to Los Angeles will depend on where you come from and your budget, but there are many options to reach the Californian city.

One of the quickest ways to get to Los Angeles is by plane . If you are travelling from a distant city or another country, you will likely arrive at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), one of the busiest airports in the world, which serves as a major gateway. You will find many domestic and international flights.

If you are flying domestically, you may also consider other airports in the area, such as Burbank Bob Hope Airport (BUR) or Long Beach Airport (LGB).

Another way to get to Los Angeles faster is by car.  The city is accessible via several major highways, including Interstate 5 (I-5) from the north, Interstate 10 (I-10) from the east and Interstate 15 (I-15) from the northeast.

Depending on your starting point, you can also use local roads and highways to reach Los Angeles. Keep in mind that traffic can be heavy, so plan accordingly.

One of the most eco-friendly ways to get to Los Angeles is by train . Amtrak offers train services to Los Angeles from various locations, including the Pacific Surfliner, Southwest Chief and Coast Starlight routes. You will find the main train station, Union Station, in downtown LA.

Finally,  the most affordable option for getting to Los Angeles is by coach . It is a great way to reach the city if you are exploring the USA on a budget, but it may take longer. Long-distance bus services, such as Greyhound and Megabus, operate routes to Los Angeles from various cities.

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How to get around Los Angeles

Travel by car .

The best way to get around Los Angeles is  by car , as the city is vast and not easily accessible on foot. You can easily rent one at the airport but try to book it ahead of time. 

I recommend using  rentalcar.com  to search and compare which car is best for you. From affordable to luxury, they make it easy to choose and have a great selection of rental agents.

Renting a car will allow you to move freely around the city. However, be aware of the terrible traffic! To make the most of your time, spend each day in a specific area to minimise travel distance – as outlined in this article. In addition, use a GPS to help you save time when navigating the city. 

USE PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Using  public transport  is another way to explore Los Angeles. The Los Angeles Metro is easy to use and consists of buses, trains, and subways. And for a better experience, buy a reusable TAP Card, available at vending machines in bus or subway stations.

Even though LA public transit system is not the best, it can still get you around faster than walking. And if you travel between distant neighbourhoods, the Metro Rail will help you avoid congested highways and get directly to your destination. 

HOP ON A TAXI OR RIDE-SHARE

Finally, getting around  by taxi or ride-share  is another ideal way to explore Los Angeles. To schedule a pick-up, download the Curb app or use popular ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft, which are easily accessible and relatively inexpensive.

However, do not forget that LA traffic gets jammed up quickly during rush hour, so give yourself extra time when travelling and reaching attractions at peak times.

Personal note – My brother had a car when I joined him in LA, which made it easy to move around and helped us maximise our time. Plus, since there were three of us, we could use the carpool lane on the freeways, which made commuting even faster. However, when my brother was busy, my friend and I were using Uber – I did not speak English at the time and could not understand how to use public transport. Therefore, the Uber app was the easiest way to get to our destination. 

Where to stay in Los Angeles for 5 days

The best neighbourhoods in los angeles.

Are you looking for the best place to stay whilst on your 5-day trip in Los Angeles? Here is an overview of the top neighbourhoods in the Californian city:

• Hollywood : the   best neighbourhood  for first-timers  due to its central location and buzzing attractions. From there, you can discover the Walk of Fame and access many other LA areas. 
• Santa Monica : the best area to stay in Los Angeles  for families  seeking tranquillity and easy access to the beach. You will also find nearby plenty of family-friendly activities, shops and restaurants. 
• Downtown LA : the best place to stay in Los Angeles for visitors  on a budget or short trips . As a commercial epicentre, it is well-connected and contains everything you need for quick transit.
• Silver Lake : a popular area  for experiencing local vibes , offering a mix of trendy restaurants, dynamic nightlife, quirky boutiques and independent cafés – perfect for soaking in the local culture.
• Beverly Hills : for those looking for elegant hotels, high-end boutiques and world-class restaurants, Beverly Hills is the place for you. It is the best area  for a luxurious stay .
• West Hollywood : the best district in Los Angeles  for   nightlife , vibrant atmosphere and thriving community. This lively hub is perfect for living the best of LA and connecting with locals.
• Venice Beach : if  beach life and bohemian vibes  are what you love, look no further than Venice Beach. With pristine beaches, street performers and art shops, the area is ideal for a peaceful stay.

I suggest using  Booking.com  to search, compare and reserve your accommodation, and if possible, select a place with flexible cancellation – in case of emergency or if things do not go as planned. 

And if you can, prioritise an eco-friendly hotel or guesthouse! Use  Bookdifferent  or  Ecobnb  to help you decide.

MY EXPERIENCE

My friend and I booked an Airbnb in advance in the Palms area, which was perfect! A young couple, Kylie and Andrew, welcomed us and were so kind. They gave us lots of advice and made us feel at home. The apartment was also conveniently located near Venice Beach and Santa Monica, which made getting around easy. (Unfortunately, Kylie & Andrew’s Airbnb is no longer available).

Best time to visit Los Angeles

The best times to visit Los Angeles are from  March to May  and  September to November when the temperatures are mild, the air is more breathable, and there are fewer crowds.

Rest assured, Los Angeles enjoys sunny and warm weather all year round! So do not worry too much. The season you choose will mainly depend on the activity you want to do and what you want to experience. 

Personal note – I visited Los Angeles at the end of October during Halloween – it was so much fun! However, the weather was still incredibly sunny and warm, which surprised me (I even struggled to hike to Hollywood Sign and nearly collapsed). Regarding the crowds, I did not find them excessive, even in popular places. 

What to pack for 5 days in Los Angeles

Although each suitcase will look different to everyone depending on when you are going and for how long, here are some city trip essentials that you might find helpful: 

• Comfortable walking shoes  (to keep up with your itinerary)
• A reef-safe sunscreen  (to protect your body) ⇢ check out my  favourite sunscreen
• A good  backpack  (to access your stuff anytime) ⇢ check out my  favourite backpack
• Phone and tablet  (to listen to music or use as GPS)
• Camera  (to capture your incredible vacation) 
• All chargers  (indispensable) ⇢ check out these  portable chargers
• Passport , driving licence, and any necessary visas
• Credit card and cash  (to bring home souvenirs)
• A hat  (to avoid sunburn) 
• Travel books  and guides  (to discover the best of the city)
• A  reusable water bottle   (to stay hydrated on the go) ⇢ check out my  favourite bottle
• Notebook or travel diary  (to record your thoughts) ⇢ check out my  favourite notebook

IMPORTANT – take care of your belongings and watch out for pickpockets, especially in busy tourist areas such as Hollywood.

Check out  this page  for more inspiration on eco-friendly products & gear.

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Sustainable travel in Los Angeles

Sustainable travel  means exploring the world whilst being aware of your surroundings and having a positive social, environmental and economic impact on the places you visit.

READ MORE: 10 Eco-Friendly Things to Do in Los Angeles

Being a responsible traveller in Los Angeles is possible! Here are some sustainable tips for reducing your carbon footprint:

• Book direct flights  (which require less fuel than indirect flights)  and  offset your carbon footprint . But, do not use carbon offsetting as a complete solution. Combine it with other sustainable practices, like avoiding single-use plastic on the plane and mindfully packing your suitcase for your green holiday. 
• Select an eco-friendly accommodation . It is not always easy to determine whether a hotel has eco-conscious practices, but try to look on their website for green credentials and ask questions. You can also use  Bookdifferent  or  Ecobnb  to help you decide.
• Use public transport  as much as possible. Los Angeles transportation network is not the best, but you can easily access the main highlights and attractions with buses, trains or subways. So take advantage of these services to reduce your impact! And if you prefer to rent a car,  choose an electric or hybrid . Not only will you save money on gas, but you will be doing the local air a favour! And if you are staying near the coast, do not hesitate to  rent a bike .
• Eat at local restaurants  that use produce from the area and emphasise organic and sustainability. It will contribute to the local economy and reduce your carbon footprint by supporting restaurants where food does not come from long distances.
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen  to protect your skin from the sun, especially during outdoor activities. But be careful about the cream you choose.  Zero-waste and reef-safe sunscreens  are an excellent alternative to chemical creams and are incredibly beneficial for many reasons: they protect the environment by reducing plastic waste and preserve your health by eliminating harmful components.
• Always respect the local heritage . Treat people and their surroundings with respect. Sustainable travel is not only about the environment but also about the local communities. So, always be respectful, smile and immerse yourself in the local vibe.

More inspiration for your green adventures:

• Best Travel Apps for Exploring Sustainably
• 15 Travel Books to Inspire Your Next Eco-Adventure
• Best Ecotourism Activities Around the World
• 10 Best Reusable & Eco-Friendly Travel Mugs

Los Angeles travel planning guide

Yes, buying insurance is always valuable when travelling abroad. Enjoy your city break to Los Angeles stress-free with one of my favourite providers,  Nomad Insurance .

Yes, tap water is safe to drink all over Los Angeles. However, I also recommend travelling with the  UltraPress Purifier Bottle , a lightweight filtered water bottle perfect for reducing plastic and staying hydrated.

Yes, renting a car in Los Angeles is easy. However, note that the traffic can be terrible! But it is a great way to explore outside the city. I recommend booking yours with  Rentalcars.com  – they offer a variety of operators for all budgets.

The best way to book your accommodation in Los Angeles is with  Booking.com  – my favourite platform to compare and reserve places to stay each night, from affordable to luxury.

I recommend booking your plane with  Skyscanner . It has been my favourite platform for years, as it allows me to book the cheapest flights whilst lowering my carbon emissions.

5 days in Los Angeles – FAQ

You will find Los Angeles in California, the most populous state in the US and the third most expensive by area. The language is American, and the currency is the dollar.

The answer is, unfortunately, yes! LA is one of the most expensive cities in the world. But, if you are mindful of your expenses and prepare your budget in advance, you will have no problem enjoying this incredible city.

The best times to visit Los Angeles are from March to May and September to November when the temperatures are mild, the air is more breathable, and there are fewer crowds. I went at the end of October during Halloween, which was fun!

I recommend spending 5 to 7 days in Los Angeles to see all the best attractions without rushing. Remember that LA is a vast city, and landmarks are far from each other, so plan accordingly and be OK to adapt your schedule.

The UK is 8 hours ahead of Los Angeles.

And you, have you ever visited Los Angeles or would you like to go one day?  Let me know in the comments below!

With love ♡ Lucie

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5 Days In Los Angeles: A Complete L.A. Itinerary

Since we’re from the Bay Area, we’re obligated to turn our noses up at any mention of Los Angeles or Southern California in general as part of a friendly rivalry between the northern and southern California contingents. But, if we’re being honest, LA is a pretty cool city. Sure, it’s full of traffic, new age hippies driving Land Rovers, and really, really awful drivers. We got cut off three times IN A BLOCK (twice by Land Rovers) on one of our trips across LA, which really drives home all three points. And don’t get us wrong – over 5 days in Los Angeles, you’ll probably be spending PLENTY of time in traffic.

Would we move to LA? Probably not. It’s not our type (we like to walk, and learned that walking in LA isn’t super pleasant when there’s a six lane road next to the sidewalk). Is it a great place to visit? Definitely yes. There’s a ton to do, see, eat, and drink in LA and just outside the city limits. Alysha remarked that it’s like NYC in the sense that, whatever you’re into, you can probably find it in LA. 

We also learned that LA is massive, which is why it’s important to think about how to organize your time to make the most of it and avoid spending your time in the car. This guide will arm you with the information you need to plan the perfect 5 day Los Angeles itinerary, from the logistics (yes, you need to rent a car) to the best way to spend your time.

Planning a Trip to LA? Read my other guides to discover something new to add to your itinerary!

• Where to Stay in LA: A Complete Guide to LA’s 3 Best Areas
• The Best Gluten Free Restaurants in Los Angeles

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Stay for 5 Days in L.A.

Before we get to specific recommendations, let’s get one thing out of the way: do not stay in an Airbnb in Los Angeles . L.A., like many cities on the west coast including our hometowns of Seattle and San Francisco), is in the midst of a full fledged housing crisis. The city is trying to crack down on illegal rental units, but they’re still found all across the city. In fact, we’d venture to say that MOST of the Airbnb listings in L.A. are in a grey area, if not completely illegal.

We love staying in Airbnbs in places that aren’t cities, but it doesn’t feel like the right choice in Los Angeles.

Lucky for you, L.A. has a ton of great hotels. Our top recommendation would be to find a great hotel in one of L.A.’s best neighborhoods . If you choose to rent a car, be prepared to pay a little extra for overnight parking in places like Downtown and Santa Monica.

The two best neighborhoods to look at are going to be Santa Monica for all the beach vibes , and Silver Lake or Echo Park, which is hipster paradise (I mean that in the best way possible) and is our favorite part of LA to stay in thanks to its central location between Hollywood and Downtown. 

DO NOT STAY IN HOLLYWOOD. You’ll thank me later. 

One thing to consider – since you have five days, you could absolutely spend 2-3 days in each area, to experience the best of both worlds. Staying in Silver Lake puts you close to downtown and some of the more urban feeling parts of the city, while Santa Monica puts you right on the beach, which is a completely different vibe.

Don’t miss my guide to the best places to stay in Los Angeles .

Staying in Silver Lake

Silver Lake is a little more residential, though Sunset Blvd runs right through it and it is lined with all sorts of fun shops, bars, and restaurants. We loved the area north of Sunset between the two, near Elysian Park, where you’ll be super central to both Silver Lake and Echo Park. This area is right in the middle of Hollywood and Downtown, and will serve as a great home base for 5 days in LA.

There’s only a couple of hotel choices here, as the area is mainly residential.

We were THIS close to staying at the Silver Lake Pool & Inn , but ultimately decided to stay elsewhere to be closer to the beach. It’s a gorgeous property with all the amenities – including a pool, as the name suggests – and it’s smack dab in the middle of Silver Lake, walking distance to great bars, coffee, food, and more.

The other option we like is Noon on Sunset Hill , which is more of a cross between a B&B and a hostel, with private rooms (with private bathrooms) and some shared common areas, including a kitchen. It’s a small place, and it would be a more social stay than staying at a different hotel thanks to all the common spaces, including two decks.

Staying in Santa Monica

In Santa Monica, look at the northwestern part of the neighborhood near Montana Ave, which was our favorite “cutesy” street in all of LA. You’ll be within walking distance of great coffee, bars, and restaurants, and also the glitz and glam of Santa Monica State Beach and the Third Street Promenade. 

Keep in mind, this part of L.A. is expensive. We have a suggestion below for people who are on a budget, but want to be near the beach.

Recommended Hotels: The Palihouse Santa Monica is nice, and is in a great location just blocks from the beach, Montana Avenue (our favorite stretch in LA), AND the Third Street Promenade. The Santa Monica Proper is equally gorgeous. More affordable options include the Shore Hotel and the Georgian Hotel , which are both right along the closest street to the beach.

On a Budget, But Want the Beach? Stay in Venice!

If you’re on a budget but still want to be near the beach, look at nearby Venice Beach , which is like Santa Monica’s slightly odd cousin who sometimes forgets to shower, but is generally a good time.

Venice is… interesting. It’s an iconic part of L.A., and there are some great areas with tons of bars, restaurants, and things to do and see. A stroll through the canals is a must-do, as is a walk up Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Recommended Hotels in Venice: Hotel Erwin is right near the Venice sign, and is a perfect spot to base yourself for exploring the area. A little further off the beach (but still within walking distance) are two other good options – the Kinney and Inn at Venice Beach .

Your Complete 5 Day Los Angeles Itinerary

A quick note before we get into it – I have Celiac Disease, which means I need to eat strictly gluten free. In fact, this site started with my gluten free travel guides . Because of that, we don’t get to eat at most of the amazing restaurants in LA. 

But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t. You’ll find a few gluten free restaurant recommendations in the itinerary for LA below (don’t miss my complete guide to eating gluten free in Los Angeles), but for my non-gluten-free friends, here are a few resources to check out regarding the best restaurants in LA. 

• The Eater Guide to LA
• 38 Essential LA Restaurants (Eater)
• Female Foodie’s Guide to the 25 Best Restaurants in LA
• A First Timer’s Guide to Eating in LA (The Infatuation)

Use those guides to plan your food stops if you don’t need to eat gluten free, like me. Eat all the tacos, Korean food, and avocado toasts you can!

With that out of the way, let’s get into it. 

Day 1: The Beaches

On your first day in Los Angeles, soak up alllll the beach vibes with a trip out to Santa Monica, the crown jewel of LA’s west side, and its no-less-famous little brother that sometimes forgets to shower, Venice Beach. 

This was among our favorite parts of the city, particularly along the most “cutesy” street in LA – Montana Ave on the north side of the area.

Morning: Santa Monica

Start your day on Montana Ave, before making the journey first to the Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Pier, and further on to Venice Beach.

Montana Avenue

Montana Avenue is a stretch that is on the north side of Santa Monica, and the piece of the street between 7th and 20th is one of our favorite parts of LA (also, one of the bougiest). 

There’s enough here to occupy you for most of the day, but you should start with some of the best coffee in Los Angeles at Primo Passo Coffee Co , which almost always has a line out the door of people eagerly awaiting their morning fuel to tackle the day.

Next, head northeast along Montana Ave towards 20th, taking your time and browsing the wide variety of shops, stores, and cafes that line the street. Here are some spots not to miss along the way.  

• There are TWO gluten free bakeries within a block of each other – Erin Mckenna’s Bakery and BreadBlok – the latter of which is one of the best gluten free bakeries in LA.  
• If you’re more into shopping, Burro was one of our favorite stores in LA, full of all sorts of knick-knacks, cute cards, and offbeat gifts. Another great place to shop is Brentwood General Store , which sells a variety of handcrafted home goods. 
• If you’re looking for a hard-to-find wine or bottle of craft beer , the Duck Blind has a great selection. 
• Do you like cheese ? We do. Andrew’s Cheese Shop is worth a stop in, even if you aren’t going to buy anything. There’s a huge selection of cheese (duh) but also gourmet food items like pepper jelly and Vermont maple syrup that make great gifts. 

Once you make it to around 17th Street, the neighborhood becomes pretty residential, and it’s time to head to your next stop – the Third Street Promenade . It’s just over a mile, and I’d recommend walking. 

The Third Street Promenade and the Santa Monica Pier

This is by far one of the most touristy spots in LA, but it’s definitely worth a visit. The Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian-only stretch in Santa Monica lined with all sorts of stores (mostly of the chain variety) and more importantly, leafy dinosaur fountains. 

Start on the north end of the street and walk south towards the Santa Monica Pier. 

If you find yourself craving more coffee, Demitasse is a great choice, and it serves as a perfect starting point for your journey down 3rd Street. 

I don’t have too many specific recommendations for this stretch other than walking slowly, doing some people watching, and stopping into any stores that catch your attention. There’s an Apple Store and an Urban Outfitters, along with just about every chain store you can imagine. 

Here are some neighborhood gems to check out. 

• Misfit Bar and Restaurant is a good spot for lunch, or just a drink with plenty of gluten free options, including a dedicated fryer. They have solid happy hour deals too from open to 6pm. Note : They’re only open for lunch Thursday to Sunday. 
• Chris + Mary is a cool little family owned boutique that reflects the interests of its two owners… Chris and Mary. They stock socially conscious products free from cruelty and inhumane labor practices.  

I really loved this guide to Santa Monica from a local, which helped me discover a few of the places above. 

You won’t want to miss the Santa Monica Farmers Market , which is where big name chefs go to stock up on produce for their restaurants in LA. It’s held on Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 8am to 1pm along Arizona Avenue right in the middle of the promenade. If your trip falls on either of those two days (which math tells me it must), then move day 1 to be either a Wednesday or Saturday. It’s worth it, we think. 

Walk all the way to Colorado Avenue and turn right, which will lead you straight to the Santa Monica Pier.  

To be completely honest, we had no idea that there’s a fully functioning roller coaster and arcade here. As we were walking up, I was thinking to myself “wait, is that… a roller coaster?”

Turns out, Pacific Park , the mini amusement park on the Pier,  has a roller coaster, Ferris Wheel (is there a requirement that every city have a Ferris Wheel now?) and a handful of (overpriced and mediocre) restaurants. Still, it’s a fun stop, especially with kids, and it’s free to walk through. 

Walk to the end of the pier and back, then head south along the beach path towards Venice Beach. You’ll be walking along Santa Monica State Beach , one of the most iconic beaches in LA and all of Southern California. This is the spot to bring your beach blanket and picnic on a warm day (so, every day) and lounge in the sun with thousands of your new best friends. 

Next, head south to Venice, either on foot, or by renting a bike from Santa Monica Bike Rentals (but you’ll have to bring it back).

Renting a bike is actually a great way to explore Santa Monica , and would be a great addition to this first day of your LA itinerary. You could rent a bike, head up to Montana Ave, then ride back down near 3rd Street to the pier and onwards to Venice, and then bring it back at the end of the day. 

Afternoon: Venice

Venice Beach, home of the boardwalk and famous bodybuilding gym on the beach, is full of contradictions. Particularly between the vibrant, lively, and sometimes sketchy boardwalk area, which is lined with family-owned shops and stalls selling all sorts of things, from “I <3 LA” thongs (not the sandal kind) to some really good tacos, and Abbot Kinney Blvd, which is cool, calm, and polished. 

Here are some things to do near Venice Beach.

• Walk the boardwalk and take in the sights, sounds, and smells that make Venice special. 
• Get coffee near the beach at Menotti’s Coffee Stop. If you’re in the mood for food, head to Great White instead, which is across the street near the famous Venice sign.  
• Explore Abbot Kinney Blvd . Get coffee at Blue Bottle or Intelligentsia. Shop at Burro (again), Urbanic for all sorts of cards, notebooks, and stationary, and Grow Venice, which has all of the plants and pots to go with them. More stops include Salt and Bazaar. Erewhon Market is a high-end gourmet grocery store at the east end of the street that is worth a stop for foodies. Sweetfin is a 100% gluten free poke restaurant that is good for a quick bite to eat. There are a ton of shops here, including storefronts for a few of the direct-to-consumer online brands like Casper and Warby Parker. It’s very hip, and worth a walk all the way down and back. 
• Explore the Venice Canals , which are full of incredible houses that we were daydreaming about owning someday before we looked at the Zillow values. Walk from the end of Abbot Kinney along N Venice Blvd. 
• Devour delicious ice cream at either Salt & Straw or Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams, two imports from Portland and Chicago respectively. 
• Grab a drink at Venice Ale House, Roosterfish (a fun gay bar) or Venice Beach Wines. 

That’s plenty of ground to cover on your first day, so grab some dinner either in Venice or back near your hotel, and relax (or, head to Roosterfish and get wild. Your call). 

Day 2: Melrose Place and Hollywood

This is quintessential LA, I think. When I think of LA, I think of Sunset Blvd running through Hollywood and Melrose Place, which is lined with upscale boutiques and hip coffee shops, among other things. 

It’s not really the most interesting part of LA, but every Los Angeles itinerary has to include a stop at the Walk of Fame, right?

Today, start in Beverly Hills before making a sweeping half circle all the way through Hollywood, with a stop at Melrose Place and the surrounding area in the middle. 

Morning: Beverly Hills & Melrose Place

That’s where I want to be! 

Anyone else get that Weezer song stuck in their head immediately after hearing the words Beverly Hills? Just me? Okay then. 

Beverly Hills

First, start your day at the Beverly Gardens, which is where you’ll find the Beverly Hills sign. Alfred Coffee, the first real Insta-famous coffee shop, is right across the street if you need a caffeine fix (although there’s better coffee nearby – more on that in a second). 

From there, walk down Rodeo Drive, which might be one of the most ritzy drives in the entire world. Shops with prices outside of our budget line the street, and you might even spot a celebrity ducking in or out of one. Although I will say we were in LA for over a week and saw exactly ZERO celebrities. 

Then, if you skipped Alfred’s and held out for some of the best coffee in LA, you’re in luck. 

While this part of the city doesn’t have a ton of interesting spots, at least in my opinion, it does happen to have some pretty good coffee options. Head to La Colombe , which is at the northwest corner of the area on Santa Monica Blvd, or Blue Bottle Coffee (a Bay Area native) or Aharon Coffee (fun latte art) which are both along S Beverly Drive to the south of Rodeo.

Wander down Rodeo Drive, then onto S Beverly Blvd. There are all sorts of restaurants and cafes along S Beverly, so take your time, wander a bit, and make a few stops along the way.

The Original Farmers Market (and the Grove, I guess)

Next, head to the Original Farmers Market and the Grove. 

The Original Farmers Market is a cool spot, full of a ton of different vendors including a bunch serving fresh food, a store full of French products, and spices and coffee boutiques. See them all here . Walk the market and take in all the smells and sights. It’s a great spot to buy food-related souvenirs or gifts too.  

The Grove is just a mall. But somehow it’s super famous, and I can’t pinpoint where I first heard about it. But it’s really just a typical SoCal indoor/outdoor mall. 

Nearby, Melrose Trading Post is worth a stop if you’re in town on a Sunday, which is the only day it’s open. It’s like a big flea market, with a combination of local artisans (like a guy selling clocks made of books – imagine Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone with a working clock on the front cover) and people who must hit all the thrift stores in LA, then sell their best finds at the market. It wasn’t really our scene, but it’s definitely worth a stop and a walkthrough. It costs $5 to enter. 

3rd Ave & Melrose Place

The stretch along 3rd Ave is one of the best in the city if you like coffee and gluten free food. Here are the highlights. 

• Verve Coffee Roasters : A Santa Cruz based coffee company that I love. Amazing pour over coffee and espresso drinks. 
• Fonuts : 100% gluten free baked donuts (so they’re more like cake than a fried donut). The Blueberry Earl Grey is to die for. Plenty of vegan options too. 
• Sweetfin : 100% gluten free poke bowls. Great fast casual lunch option. 
• Ecco un Poco : Amazing 100% gluten free gelato – yes even the cones! The owners were the ones behind the counter when we went, and painstakingly explained to us where the pistachios, hazelnuts, and lemons they use were sourced from. In case you’re wondering, it was Sicily, Italy, and the Santa Monica Farmers Market.  

Melrose Place is worth a stop, but it’s really just high end shops that are out of your price range, along with a few gems like Alfred Coffee. 

Afternoon: Hollywood – East and West

The two parts of Hollywood are…different, to say the least. This is just our opinion, but we think West Hollywood is young, hip, and lively, while East Hollywood, near the Walk of Fame, is old, stuffy, and boring. 

It’s worth a stop in both to see them for yourself. 

West Hollywood

It’s about lunch time, and you should head to Guisados for lunch . It was one of our favorite food spots in Los Angeles. 

Unlike most taco shops in LA, which tend to serve up grilled taco fillings, Guisados is focused on slow simmered, uber flavorful stewed fillings known as “tacos de guisado.” We first came across these delectable delicacies in Mexico City at Tacos Hola, and I don’t think I’ve ever seen them in the US before our trip to LA.

Guisados is the gold standard, and they put their stewed fillings like cochinita pibil, a succulent stewed pork with achiote and peppers, and my favorite, chorizo, on top of thicker-than-usual handmade corn tortillas. If you want to try a bunch of different fillings, opt for the sampler platter, where you can choose six of them as mini tacos. That’s what we did. 

Gluten free note : everything is gluten free with the exception of the shrimp and vegan tacos, and some of the specials. Definitely double check with the staff, who were friendly and helpful in my experience. Moles are safe here! 

West Hollywood is nightlife central in LA, and is also the heart of the LGBTQ+ community in the city, which you’ll notice as you walk down Santa Monica Blvd and see the endless string of gay bars lining the wide street. 

Here are some things not to miss in WeHo (because everybody loves abbreviations a little too much). 

• Explore the Design District , which is just south of WeHo and has a Verve Coffee location along with all sorts of boutiques, design firms, and restaurants. The Museum of Contemporary Art is also cool.
• Come back and catch a comedy show at the Comedy Store , one of the most famous comedy clubs in the world. 
• Browse for your next great read at Book Soup , a great bookstore on Sunset in West Hollywood. 
• Eat at Night + Market , which dishes out incredible Thai food that is beloved by LA residents from all walks of life. 

Next, continue along Sunset to Hollywood, which is a great place to end the day. 

Hollywood gets all the fame, but it’s really not that cool, if we’re being completely honest. It’s full of tourists and lacks a lot of the character that some parts of LA exude.

There are exactly three things you should do in Hollywood. 

Go to the Walk of Fame . Let me make an important caveat here. The Walk of Fame is not terribly impressive. In fact, I’d probably skip it. But when in Rome, right? Except, in this case, there are no Romans are going to the Walk of Fame. But if you’re in the area and you want to take a picture with your favorite actor’s star, it’s worth a quick stop. Given your limited time in LA, I’d recommend spending your time elsewhere. 

Eat at In-N-Out , a California institution. They have a set menu of burgers, fries, and shakes, along with an extensive not-so-secret menu. Animal style fries. You’re welcome. The fries are hand cut, the burgers are fresh, and it’s one of the best value meals you’re going to find in all of LA. We try to make it to In-N-Out as often as possible since they have a solid gluten free offering (order “protein style with a gluten allergy, and no special sauce – special sauce packet on the side please!”)

Grab a drink at one of Hollywood’s (and WeHo’s) many offerings. Bar Marmont and the rooftop bar at the Sunset Tower Hotel are a good start. 

Day 3: Downtown LA and the Arts District

Downtown LA and the nearby Arts District are up and coming areas in LA, and are a great example of the changing city. 

Blocks away from notorious Skid Row, where streets are lined with homeless encampments that serve as an in-your-face reminder of the housing crisis in cities on the West Coast, you’ll find the Arts District packed with all sorts of specialty coffee shops, Instagrammable bars and restaurants, high end boutiques, artist collectives, and more. 

Let’s talk about the ever-growing homeless population for a second. When you are in Downtown LA, you will see homeless folks and people struggling with addiction and other mental health issues. Take a second to recognize that the homeless are real people with real feelings and issues just like you before you pass judgement. They are victims of a society that has left them behind to fend for themselves, either in terms of affordable housing or mental health issues.

Morning: Downtown LA

Start your morning by heading downtown. 

Coffee lovers should make a quick detour up to Chinatown to visit Endorffeine , a coffee shop run by a literal scientist-turned-barista who is the only person that will craft your precisely made drink. It’s worth the detour, and I think it’s among the best coffee shops in Los Angeles.  

Otherwise, start at Grand Central Market , the beating heart of this part of Downtown LA. 

If you’re not eating gluten free, then you need to grab breakfast at Eggslut , the highly acclaimed breakfast sandwich spot who happens to have a stall at Grand Central Market. Once you’re fueled up, explore the rest of the market. There are all sorts of vendors – from produce stands, to taco shops, to pupuserias, and Thai street food – and it’s easy to spend an hour walking around and trying them all. 

Once you’re done at the market, head out to explore the area just to the north, which has several sights worth seeing all in a convenient little four block radius. 

• Grand Park is the open green space that most of the sights here are set around. 
• LA City Hall is a towering building at the southeast corner of Grand Park. 
• On the north side of the park is the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels , an impressive cathedral that blends in nicely amongst the modern buildings of Downtown LA.
• Several theaters line the northwestern edge of the park, including the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion , where you’ll find the LA Opera, and the Ahmanson Theatre , which is where you’ll find the smash hits straight off of Broadway. 
• The Walt Disney Concert Hall is just off the southwest corner of the park, and is home to the LA Philharmonic . If you want a Beethoven concert, this is where to find it. 
• A block south is the Broad , the best museum in Los Angeles. It’s full of rotating modern art exhibits, and is free to enter, though lines can be long, and you need tickets for some of the exhibitions they bring in. 

Next, head over to the Last Bookstore and SUPPORT INDEPENDENT BOOKSTORES. It’s somewhat dark and dingy inside, but they have a huge collection of books from all genres, along with a wide selection of used books (they’re mixed in on the shelves with the new ones, mostly). 

Exploring the Arts District

After making the rounds of that area, either drive or take a Lyft over to the Arts District. I say drive or take a Lyft (rather than walking) because you’ll basically need to go right through Skid Row to get there. Better safe than sorry. 

First, start at Verve Coffee Roasters at the north end, and make your way south along Mateo Street, ending at Wine Stop DTLA. 

Here are a few highlights along the way. 

• Food (not gluten free, sadly): Zinc Cafe , Urban Radish (part grocery store, too), and Guerilla Tacos (the OG LA taco truck, or at least one of them, now has a restaurant). 
• Coffee : Verve and Blue Bottle have outposts along Mateo Street. 
• Bars : Everson Royce is the best of the bunch. Little Bear is good for beer lovers with their huge selection of Belgian beers on tap and in bottles, along with plenty of local California options too.
• It should come as no surprise that there’s an urban distillery in this industrial-chic part of LA – Greenbar Distillery – who makes all sorts of organic and sustainably made spirits in their space at the south end of the Arts District. Book a guided distillery tour or a guided spirit tasting for an afternoon of learning (and drinking, obviously), which will cost $15 a person.
• Wine Stop   is a good spot to pick up a good and unique bottle of wine. Their helpful staff will help you find a bottle that fits your taste and budget. 

Once you’ve finished that stretch, head over to Row DTLA , which is a unique anti-mall sort of mall, which is more than a little bit ironic. It’s an open air mall of old warehouses packed with all sorts of hip boutiques selling everything from bikes to cider. And some of the most creative and innovative companies in LA have offices on the upper floors. 

Here’s what we discovered (and loved): 

• Pikunico : Japanese-style fried chicken – ”karaage” – where everything except the buns are gluten free (double check that though – things may have changed). I was devastated when we showed up and they were temporarily closed. Next time.
• Go Get Em Tiger and Paramount Coffee Project are both among the best coffee shops in LA.  
• Flask and Field is a great wine store, with plenty of hard-to-find beer and cider to choose from too. 
• Hightide is a cool Japanese stationery shop right next to the parking structure. By Japanese, I mean it’s a Japanese brand, not that everything is in Japanese. Pop in to pick up a new pen, or find the perfect birthday card. 

Smorgasburg LA

If you happen to be in town on a Sunday, then you ABSOLUTELY HAVE TO stop by Smorgasburg , a huge open air food market with hundreds of local food vendors serving an eclectic and diverse collection of food. You can see all the vendors on their website. Come with an empty stomach. It’s behind the Row on Sundays.

Day 4: Silver Lake & Echo Park

Saving some of the best for last, Silver Lake and Echo Park are two incredible neighborhoods perched between Downtown LA and Hollywood. 

You’ll start in Echo Park, make your way to Silver Lake, and end with a sunset at Griffith Park and Observatory. Along the way, you’ll discover some of the best food, drinks, and coffee in the entire city. 

Smushed between Downtown LA and Silver Lake and home to Dodger Stadium, Echo Park is an up and coming neighborhood, although I think it has probably reached the crest of its transition to mainstream by now. 

Silver Lake is the more upscale between the two, but Echo Park has plenty of charm in its own right. It is one of the neighborhoods that has undergone a major transformation in the recent past, with gentrification transforming the area from a predominantly LatinX neighborhood to one full of coffee shops, trendy restaurants, vintage boutiques (including a candle store ) and dingy dive bars that trendsetters and creatives love. 

Whatever your feelings about gentrification may be, Echo Park is well worth a morning of exploring.

Start with coffee at one of the three incredible coffee shops in this part of town. 

• Eightfold Coffee : Eightfold uses Heart Coffee, one of my favorite coffee shops in Portland, and the coffee is outstanding. The cafe also has a curated wall of books along with plenty of seating including some individual tables, and a communal table.  
• Bloom and Plume Coffee : This black-owned cafe brands itself as a community meeting place. The owner, Maurice Harris also owns a florist shop and has decked the coffee shop out in beautiful floral arrangements. Come here for delicious coffee in a stunning environment. 
• Woodcat Coffee: This locally owned cafe is an institution in Echo Park and is always packed with locals grabbing their morning caffeine fix. It offers a small breakfast menu, fresh pastries, and great classic coffee.

Next, get to exploring! Here are some of our favorite spots that we discovered in Echo Park.

• 600 acres of greenery and LA views at Elysian Park . Hike the 3 miles (round trip) to Angel’s Point for some of the best views in the city. 
• Rent a pedal boat on Echo Park Lake , though we didn’t actually do this, it would be a great family-friendly activity.
• Catch an LA Dodger’s game at Dodger Stadium and marvel over the sunset over the stadium with the mountains in the distance. 
• Get breakfast at Honey Hi , a super hip 100% gluten free cafe that serves breakfast bowls and avocado toast made with locally sourced organic ingredients. They were briefly closed when we stopped by, and it was tragic to miss it. 
• Best places to come back to later in the day for a drink : for wine, including a good selection of natural wine, head to Bar Bandini . Bar Caló is an agave-based cocktail bar, using mezcal to craft unique cocktails alongside Mexican bar snacks. Next door is Sunset Beer Co , which beer lovers should definitely not miss – they have a good selection of gluten free beer and cider too.  
• Browse the shelves at Stories Bookstore . This bookstore’s shelves are full of preloved books from classics to rare finds. On the outdoor patio is a small cafe where you can sit and enjoy the book you just purchased. 
• Shop for an eclectic selection of things you didn’t know you needed at Shout and About , and stop by Cookbook LA for a high end grocery store focusing exclusively on locally grown and produced food, which there is plenty of in LA. 

Silver Lake

Silver Lake, in comparison to Echo Park, has significantly more polish. The stretch along Sunset Blvd is lined with record stores, coffee shops, and all sorts of restaurants, and when you turn north on Silver Lake Blvd towards the neighborhood’s namesake lake, it gets residential FAST. Though there are stretches lined with gems like the area surrounding LAMILL , where you’ll find a couple of cool shops – Mush and Lake .

Silver Lake itself is a little underwhelming compared to Echo Park. It’s less scenic lake, and more industrial reservoir, complete with a chain link fence surrounding it and plenty of concrete. Still, the neighborhood is a veritable hipster paradise.

Here are some of the best things to do in Silver Lake:

• Catch the Silver Lake Farmers Market . On Saturday mornings and Tuesday afternoons, you’ll find a farmers market at the corner of Sunset Blvd and Edgecliffe Dr. 
• If you missed it in West Hollywood, head to Night + Market Song on Sunset Blvd for Thai food that will blow your mind. 
• Craving more coffee ? Dayglow (I subscribe to their beans!), Dinosaur Coffee and Intelligentsia are the spots in Silver Lake. 
• For wine tasting and to find the perfect bottle, head to Silver Lake Wine . Tastings are on Thursday nights. They also have a great cider selection to choose from!
• ‘Grammable Stairs: Head to the Piano Mural Staircase and the Micheltorena Stairs – two perfect backgrounds for your Instagram pics for your weekend in LA. 

Griffith Observatory

To close out your fourth day in LA, head up to the Griffith Observatory and watch the sunset over Los Angeles. You can see the Hollywood sign from here (I bet you thought we forgot about it!), along with the LA skyline. 

The Observatory itself is worth a visit too, particularly for the planetarium (which is not free). It’s a beautiful building, and it’s worth walking around a bit and checking out the grounds. 

Day 5: Choose Your Own Adventure

On your last day in Los Angeles, it’s time to choose your own fate.

But don’t worry, I have three options for you to choose from. All three are all day excursions.

Option 1: Hiking, Pacific Palisades, and Malibu

If you’re not interested in the themes parks (spoiler, that’s what the next two options are) then this is the option I’d recommend for you.

Start your day with a 4 mile hike on the Los Liones trail , which is just up the coast to the north of Santa Monica. Your reward will be sweeping views over the coast in both directions.

Post-hike, head down to Sunset Blvd in Pacific Palisades and explore a little bit, but make sure to stop by Sweet Laurel for unbelievable gluten free pastries. Alfred Coffee , just around the corner, is the best bet for coffee here. Wander down to Will Rogers State Beach , which is a lovely place to relax and listen to the waves crashing and seagulls whining.

Next, continue the drive up the coast along Highway 1 to Malibu. Head to Zuma Beach, which is where we always went with our SoCal family growing up and is emblematic of classic SoCal beaches (you can sometimes see dolphins from the shore!), and drive back south from there. Stop at Point Dume and the Malibu Lagoon and Pier , along with anywhere else that catches you eye.

Option 2: Disneyland OR California Adventure

If you or your kids have never been to the happiest place on earth before, that should be your first amusement park to check off the list.

I have fond memories of Disneyland from growing up, when we went about once a year when we visited family in Southern California. And, even as an adult, I still enjoy it immensely.

NOTE : If you’re going to go to Disneyland or California Adventure, you want to get there early and stay late, so I’d recommend staying near the park . Plus, if you stay at the Disneyland Resort Hotels , you get into the park A FULL HOUR EARLY , which means you can beeline for the best rides and avoid literally hours of waiting line. But it will cost you. Dearly. Like hundreds of dollars a night dearly. Instead, stay at one of the MANY hotels across the street. I have stayed at the Anaheim Mariott , but if I were to go back I’d choose Hotel Indigo .

In the Disneyland complex, there are actually two separate but related theme parks , Disneyland and California Adventure.

Here’s the important part: if you only have one day, I don’t think you can do both of them . I’d pick one and focus your time, and unless you’re tired of Disneyland because you’ve been SO MANY TIMES, I’d choose Disneyland. If you have two or three days, get park hopper pass and tackle both of them. There’s plenty to do and see.

Disneyland is the classic, with everything from roller coasters like Space Mountain (which I think is branded as a Star Wars ride now?) and Old Thunder Mountain Railroad, to kids rides featuring Disney characters like Dumbo, Snow White, and Peter Pan. And everything in between.

Here is a good guide on how to spend a day in Disneyland .

California Adventure is a relatively new park, with a distinctively California theme. The roller coaster is the highlight, with it’s signature mickey-face loop, but my favorite ride was 100% Toy Story Midway Mania.

Here’s a guide on how to spend a day in California Adventure .

Option 3: Universal Studios

I have only been once, and it was “blah” in my honest opinion.

HOWEVER, it is significantly closer to downtown LA – you won’t need to book a separate place to stay closer to the park – more affordable, and it has the Wizarding World of Harry Potter for all my fellow Harry Potter nerds out there (Goblet of Fire is the best book, I still remember reading “KILL THE SPARE” and having chills run down my spine).

Someday I’ll make it back to explore the Harry Potter attractions, but unless you’re sick and tired of Disney and their effort to take over the world, or you’re a huge Harry Potter fan, I’d opt for Disney instead.

Here’s a guide to spending a day at Universal Studios.

When to Visit LA

LA is a lovely place to visit basically year round.

In the summer , weather is warm and the days are long, but prices are high and tourists are everywhere. Plus, “June Gloom” might make visiting the beach a cold and windy affair. 

In the spring and fall shoulder seasons (April/May and Mid-September/October), which are the best time to be in LA in general due to cooler temperatures and mostly clear skies, you’ll find less people and lower prices than peak summer. 

Winter in LA is definitely cooler, but it’s still going to be in the 60’s and 70’s during the day, for the most part, and it doesn’t rain too often in Southern California. 

Sadly, it is worth talking about fire season , which we are intimately familiar with as Bay Area residents. As temperatures rise and precipitation drops, California has gotten drier and drier every single year, creating the perfect conditions for huge fires in the blazing hot summer. Fire season now runs from late summer through the fall, often leaving LA and the rest of California covered with a layer of dense smoke for weeks at a time. And it’s not getting better. Quite the opposite, in fact. Every year, there are a couple of fires in Southern California that make it unpleasant to be outside for weeks at a time. It shouldn’t prevent you from visiting, and you can’t really plan around it because it’s so unpredictable, but it’s something you should absolutely be aware of. Climate change is real. 

How to Get In and Out of LA

Chances are, you’re probably flying into LA. Growing up, our extended family lived in LA while we were up in Seattle, and our family had exactly one rule. Never, ever, under any circumstances, fly into LAX. Mostly because getting to and from LAX is a mess in terms of traffic. But that’s going to be your cheapest option, with the most flights going in and out per day. 

Other options include Burbank, which is generally where we flew in and out of every time when we would visit, Orange County, and Long Beach. 

How to Get Around (AKA Do You Need to Rent a Car?)

More and more, LA is making big investments in public transportation. There’s even a train connecting downtown LA to Santa Monica now! But at the end of the day, public transportation in LA is underwhelming at best , and useless at its worst. 

You might also be thinking that you could use ride-sharing , like Lyft and Uber, to get around, which is totally possible. But by the end of the trip you’ll probably have spent more on ridesharing apps than you would have by renting a car for the whole time. 

We think you need to rent a car to get the most out of LA . That doesn’t necessarily mean you need to always be driving everywhere – ride share apps are super popular and useful – but having a car will give you the flexibility to make trips across the city, which you’re almost definitely going to want to do over the course of five days.

Plus, if you want to visit the theme parks, particularly Disneyland, you’re going to want a car.  

Renting a car at the airport is going to be the most convenient option if you’re flying in. I like to use Rentalcars.com to compare prices across different companies because they give you the rating of the specific location that you’re looking to rent from. Some locations, even within the same rental car company, are just plain garbage, and Rentalcars.com helps you figure that out BEFORE you get there and find out for yourself. 

With just 5 days in LA, you’ve truly only scratched the surface of all the city has to offer. I mean, you didn’t even make it to Disneyland, one of my favorite places on earth, or Universal Studios! Or Malibu. Or the Santa Monica Mountains. Or to the top of Mt. Baldy.

Don’t worry, there’s plenty waiting for you on the next trip. 

While we liked LA, one of the things we look for in a city is “walkability.” As we were strolling along Sunset Blvd, walking from Silver Lake to Echo Park, we turned to each other and said “this is not the most pleasant place to walk.”

And that theme continued throughout the trip. Walking along a street that has 4-6 lanes full of cars whizzing by constantly is not pleasant at all, we learned.

While there certainly are stretches in LA, like Montana Ave in Santa Monica and Abbot Kinney in Venice (among others) that are walkable, overall it’s not a walkable city. You’ll be driving everywhere, which for us, makes LA a great place to spend four days, but not a lifetime. 

More to Explore in California

Heading to the great state of California?  Here are some other posts you might like.

• One Day in San Francisco: How to See the Best of San Francisco in a Day
• 4 Days in San Francisco: How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Francisco: A Local’s Guide to the Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free San Francisco: A Complete Travel Guide for Celiacs
• The Best Day Trips from San Francisco: 10 Amazing San Francisco Day Trips
• 5 Days in Los Angeles: How to Plan a Perfect Los Angeles Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A Complete Guide to L.A.’s Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free Los Angeles: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
• 3 Days in San Diego: How to Plan a Perfect San Diego Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Diego: A Complete Guide to the Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free San Diego: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
• How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Northern California Road Trip: The Best of the Northern California Coast

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

Going solo to LA from Belgium to celebrate my 30th birthday and I came across this blog. Wow this is so amazing and well explained with everything you need. Many thanks for sharing this, I’ll definitely will follow this itinerary. If you still have any recommendations to celebrate my milestone, please don’t hesitate to share it with me. XOXO Lisa

How fun! Enjoy L.A.!

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The Ultimate Los Angeles Itinerary

From the showbiz glamour of Hollywood and the upmarket shops of Rodeo Drive, to the bohemian vibes of Venice Beach, this Los Angeles itinerary will give you a great introduction to this buzzy Californian city.

Welcome to la la land! Los Angeles is one of California’s most popular travel destinations. The vast, sprawling city is home to the world’s movie industry, and a little of that Tinseltown magic can be felt all over the city.

However, there’s much more to Los Angeles than Hollywood – it’s one of the coolest and most vibrant cities in California. You’ll find gorgeous beaches, a great music scene and some of the best museums in the United States.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Los Angeles, and it’d be impossible to fit everything into one short trip. To help you plan your LA city break, and find the coolest things to do in 2 days in Los Angeles, I’ve popped together this Los Angeles itinerary – happy travelling!

When Is The Best Time to Visit Los Angeles? 

Southern California is well known for its sunshine, so it’s a popular place to visit all year round. I’d recommend visiting in spring, when temperatures hover around the low 20s, the days are sunny, and the crowds scarce.

Summer brings warmer weather, but also lots of tourists, so try to avoid if you can. Autumn is usually dry, hot and can be windy. Winter brings the chance of rain, although not much – this is Southern California after all!

Tour Hollywood

If you’re a first time visitor, start your Los Angeles itinerary in Hollywood, LA’s most iconic and stylish neighbourhood. Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where the star-studded sidewalks are a glittering reminder that this is a town filled with movie magic.

Don’t miss the Chinese Theatre, Paramount Studios, the Sunset Strip, and of course, the iconic Hollywood sign – one of the most popular things to see in Los Angeles.

If you start to get a little tired, there are plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants to choose from. 

Grab Lunch at Grand Central Market

LA’s iconic food hall, Grand Central Market, regularly tops the list of fun things to do in Los Angeles. After a busy morning of sightseeing in Hollywood, it’s a great place to stop and sample some of the best food in the city.

The beauty of this bustling food market is that you’ll find a little bit of everything inside. Whether you’re into tacos, BBQ, dim sum or Italian meatballs, Grand Central Market is the place for you!

Go Shopping in Beverley Hills

LA is the shopping capital of California, and Beverley Hills is home to some of the swankiest shops you’ll find in the city. Whether you like to window shop, or are prepared for a big splurge, wandering through Rodeo Drive and the boulevards of Beverley Hills is a real treat. 

You won’t just find clothes stores either – this is a great place to come for local produce, books, homewares, wine and beauty products.

Go On A Walking Tour Of Los Angeles

If you’re looking for a fun way to explore the city on foot, take a look at Around walking tours in Los Angeles . Pick one of the self-guided walking tours, which has been put together by an LA expert. The movie history one sounds particularly interesting. These tours are great if you want a flexible way to explore a destination on your own time, with no strict schedules or big tour groups!

Ride The Ferris Wheel At Pacific Park

Pacific Park, located on the Santa Monica Pier, is one of LA’s top attractions.

This theme park has everything you need for a fun afternoon, including some adrenaline-fuelled rides and roller coasters.

The park boasts the only solar-powered ferris wheel in the world, lifting passengers 130 feet in the air and offering unbeatable views of the Los Angeles shoreline.

Visit One Of LA’s Museums

LA is home to some fabulous museums, and at least one should feature on any Los Angeles itinerary. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is one of the best, and boasts a large collection of modernist masterpieces.

For something a little unusual, head to the Getty Center, for wonderful impressionist collections and fabulous ocean views.

Alternatively, book-lovers will marvel at the Huntingdon Library, Art Collection and Botanical Gardens – a wonderful green space with countless treasures to uncover.

Stroll Along Venice Beach Boardwalk

If the Hollywood glitz and glamour isn’t for you, head to Venice Beach for something a little more bohemian. The Venice Beach boardwalk is an ocean front promenade packed with performers, musicians, magicians, skaters, restaurants and shops.

This is the perfect place to come for an antidote to LA city life and to soak up the fabulous ocean views.

Explore Griffith Park

One of the best things about Los Angeles is the easy access from the city to some beautiful natural spots. Griffith Park, spanning more than 4,000 acres of urban wilderness, provides a great contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city.

Take a hike along one of the many walking trails, visit the Griffith Observatory (yep – that’s the place from the movie La La Land ), or visit Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Garden. Whatever you choose, a visit to Griffith Park is a real breath of fresh air on any Los Angeles itinerary.

Stay at a Luxurious Hotel in Los Angeles

If you’re visiting Los Angeles for a special occasion, how about living the true movie star life with a stay at one of the top-rated hotels in the city. Here are a few of my favourites…

The Peninsula Beverly Hills

A stone’s throw from the main shopping drag of Rodeo Drive, the Peninsula Beverly Hills offers decadent luxury in the heart of one of Los Angeles’ chicest neighbourhoods.

This stunning hotel, built in a French style, is gorgeous inside and out, especially at night when it’s all lit up.

There’s a fabulous spa, luxurious rooms, and wonderful fine-dining restaurant, The Belvedere. However, the real stand-out feature of this place is the service – you’ll be made to feel like a star, so enjoy it!

Check availability and latest prices at the Peninsula Beverly Hills here

Shutters on the Beach

Santa Monica is one of Los Angeles’ finest beach towns. It’s where you’ll find locals, celebrities and Hollywood stars soaking up a little sun, sand and surf.

Shutters on the Beach is one of the best 5-star hotels in Santa Monica, and it has everything you’ll need for a luxurious beach holiday. With uninterrupted beach views, beautifully decorated interiors, and world-class facilities, this is the place to come for some seaside downtime.

Check availability and latest prices at Shutters on the Beach here

1 Hotel West Hollywood

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to indulge, why not try 1 Hotel West Hollywood, a new addition on the Sunset Strip known for its eco-friendly ethos. You won’t find any single-use plastics here and much of the striking décor is made from naturally fallen trees and other sustainable products.

However, this doesn’t mean you’ll be scrimping on luxury. Enjoy the fabulous valley views from the rooftop pool, and make the most of a whole range of wellness facilities, or indulge at one of the excellent restaurants, which serve fresh, local produce.

Check availability and latest prices at 1 Hotel West Hollywood here

Tours in Los Angeles

Warner Bros. Studios Hollywood Tour

For over a century LA has been the heartland of movie making, and you can’t visit without a taste of what it’s like to get in front of the cameras on a real life movie set.

This tour will take you behind the scenes of epic films, where you can ride the Batmobile, try out Harry Potter’s broomstick, and even re-enact your favourite scene from Friends’ in Central Perk. 

Check availability and latest prices here

Los Angeles Helicopter Night Flight

If you’re looking for the ultimate addition to your Los Angeles bucket list , how about taking to the skies to view the City of Angels from the air.

This 30 minute night flight will take you over the city to see the illuminations from above. You’ll cruise over the downtown skyline as it glows, spotting familiar landmarks such as the iconic Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Sign, Sunset Boulevard and more.

Looking for other cool places to visit in California? Don’t forget to check out my San Francisco itinerary , which is packed full of amazing food recommendations, fun day trips and great views.  

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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Home » North America » Los Angeles

INSIDER LOS ANGELES ITINERARY for (2024)

Los Angeles is a vibrant, diverse, and creative city. Boasting the perfect balance of scenery, activities, and attractions, there’s something for everyone.

Nicknamed the ‘city of angels’ due to its Spanish roots, this multicultural city has many unique layers and caters to a diversity of tastes, preferences, people, and budgets.

Located in the southern region of California, LA is the epicenter of fame, fortune, and showbiz. There are plenty of other attractions that draw people to this destination each year.

The sprawling metropolis offers something for everyone. From stylish shopping boutiques to massive amusement parks and picturesque beaches, LA is sure to make for a memorable vacation!

Whether you’re spending two days in the city of angels or more, our Los Angeles Itinerary will guarantee the perfect getaway.

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Best Time To Visit Los Angeles

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LA is alive with tourism all year! This city doesn’t experience extreme high or low temperatures – the weather stays comfortable year-round. No matter the season, there’s always something to do in LA.

The summer months (June – August) produce the warmest temperatures. This is a great time to travel to LA to enjoy the beaches and long summer days!

Fall (September – November) is also a great time to plan a trip to Los Angeles. The crowds thin out and the weather is still very enjoyable.

You’ll want a jacket during the winter months (December – February). Although temperatures never get too cold, the air does get a bit chilly. LA’s limited rainfall is generally seen in the winter months, but it’s rarely intense enough to inconvenience, and the cityscape looks beautiful in the rain!

Spring (March – May) produces warm days and blue skies. If you’re trying to decide when to visit Los Angeles, this is another great time! Really, you can’t go wrong.

With a Los Angeles City Pass , you can experience the best of Los Angeles at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

If you’re planning a trip to LA, you’re going to want to stay in a location that will make your Los Angeles itinerary as accessible as possible. This sprawling city is full of culturally rich neighborhoods, and there are plenty of great areas to stay in!

If you want to be close to all the action, Hollywood is the place to stay . The symbol of entertainment, this area houses many of the city’s iconic landmarks. From the Hollywood walk-of-fame to the Dolby Theatre, this is the postcard city of LA!

There are also plenty of retro-cool bars, shopping venues, and vibrant night-clubs. This larger-than-life district is perfect for first-time travelers, especially. Here, you’ll find plenty of vacation rentals to suit all budgets!

Venice Beach is another great area of the city to stay in. Buzzing with bohemian spirit, this beach town has everything from funky shops to stylish boutiques. If you’re looking for cool and unique things to do in LA, Venice offers a vibrant mix of activities and attractions.

Spend a day exploring Venice’s iconic beach and boardwalk. Marvel at colorful murals and interesting street performers, or hit up one of many outdoor farmer’s markets. If you’re spending a weekend in Los Angeles make sure to check out the drum circle at the end of the Venice Beach Boardwalk by Brooks Avenue.

You could easily spend a week or more in LA, which is why I always recommend looking at vacation rentals such as VRBO in LA, because they come with all the facilities you would need to make your accommodation a home away from home.

Best Hostel in Los Angeles – USA Hostels Hollywood

USA Hostels Hollywood has all the components to make your stay in LA as memorable as possible! Enjoy a real hostelling experience and community lifestyle when you stay here.

From the friendly staff to the regularly scheduled hostel events, you’ll feel right at home! Ideally located between Hollywood Boulevard and Sunset Strip, it’s close to all the main attractions.

If you prefer hostels, explore even more LA hostel options here.

Best Airbnb in Los Angeles: Private Studio near the Hollywood Sign

If location is your top priority, then this Airbnb is a winner. Adjacent to Griffith Park where you can hike to see the Hollywood Sign and Thai Town, where you can taste various authentic Thai cuisine. This studio apartment is conveniently located near the 101 highway, just a 10-minute drive to Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, Walk of Fame and a few blocks from Franklin Village.

Best Budget Hotel in Los Angeles – Ramada by Wyndham Marina del Rey

Located in Venice Beach,  just a five-minute drive to the beach and the Boardwalk, this hotel is perfect for travelers wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city center.

All rooms feature a coffee/tea maker, cable TV, and free toiletries. Guests will also enjoy free WIFI, parking, and a continental breakfast served daily! It’s great value for money!  

If you need some more inspiration for places to stay, check out these awesome motels in Los Angeles .

No matter how many days you’re spending in Los Angeles, you’re going to need to figure out how to get around! Luckily, this city has a few transportation options to choose from, and they’re all relatively easy and convenient.

The easiest way to get around LA is by car. Fortunately, car rentals in the city are well-priced. Major car rental companies can be found at the airports and can easily be reserved ahead of time.

The Los Angeles Metro is affordable, relatively easy to use, and services most of Los Angeles.  It consists of Metro Buses, DASH Buses, and Metro Rail Trains. Use the metro trip planner to help you plan your route around the city.

Uber and Lyft are popular ride-sharing services and offer travelers an easy and convenient form of transportation. Simply plug-in where you want to go and a driver will pick you up right at your door-step. This app will make getting to every point on your Los Angeles itinerary as convenient as possible! Just don’t forget to tip your driver.

If you want to head offshore and stay in Catalina Island , there are great ferry connections from Long Beach and San Pedro.

Walking in Los Angeles is also a great option in certain areas. There are lots of walkable shopping and beach areas in Hollywood, Downtown LA, Venice Beach, Santa Monica.

Hollywood Walk of Fame | TCL Chinese Theatre | Griffith Park | Griffith Observatory | The Getty Museum | Sunset Boulevard

Spend your first day in Los Angeles checking out the city’s most iconic sights and cultural attractions!

Day 1 / Stop 1 – Hollywood Walk of Fame

• Why it’s awesome: This is one of the most famous sidewalks in the world! Walk along the sidewalk and see if you can spot your favorite celebrity.
• Cost: Free!
• Food recommendations: Check out Hollywood Burger for a quick bite to eat. This gastropub mainly serves gourmet burgers, sandwiches, milkshakes, and beer. Fast service, affordable prices, and large portions. Vegetarian options are available too!

This iconic Los Angeles attraction is a must-see when visiting the city. Walk along the sidewalk stars and check out the names of Hollywood’s elite, past and present. You’ll see everyone from Elvis to The Beatles. Great for a one-of-a-kind LA photo opportunity!

There are more than 2,600 stars embedded in the sidewalks.  The stars are spread throughout fifteen blocks on Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks on Vine Street in Hollywood. This free attraction has been around since the 1960s. Spend as much time as you’d like exploring the stars and taking pictures!

The long strip of stars is complemented by malls, cafes, restaurants, and an endless number of souvenir shops. It’s also bustling with street vendors and performers.

You’ll find plenty of tour companies on this street covering everything Hollywood related. Cruise Hollywood in comfort on a guided tour, see where celebrities live, and find out more Hollywood history and scandal. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is the perfect place to start your Los Angeles itinerary!

Day 1 / Stop 2 – TCL Chinese Theatre

• Why it’s awesome: Iconic and historic movie-theatre located on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
• Cost: $25.00 USD
• Food recommendations: Pokinometry offers fresh and healthy Japanese and Asian inspired meals. They serve build-your-own style poke bowls. Customize your poke-bowl with your favorite veggies, rice, and seafood! This casual eatery delivers the highest quality of ingredients possible and is perfect for a quick and healthy meal!

The TCL Chinese Theatre is a historic Los Angeles attraction. This impressive movie-palace theatre is styled in Chinese design, gorgeous from the inside out. It opened in 1927 and is steeped in Hollywood history. Today, you can watch a show or take a tour of the theatre.

The theatre has hosted countless premieres, including the 1977 original Star Wars film premiere! It has also hosted the Academy Awards from 1944 – 1946.

Learn the theatre’s fascinating history on a guided tour. Hear fun facts about all things Hollywood, including celebrity stories. See the nearly 200 handprints, footprints, and autographs of famous movie stars. The most popular handprint being that of Marilyn Monroe!

This old theatre has converted to modern times. Today, it possesses the world’s largest IMAX auditorium as well as state-of-the-art IMAX laser projection. Watch modern movies while enjoying the sharpest, brightest, and most vivid digital movie experience possible!

A fun experience for all ages! Experience old Hollywood by taking a trip to the TCL Chinese Theatre.

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Griffith Park

• Why it’s awesome: A beautiful park in Los Angeles offering a break from the busy city. There are lots of activities to choose from and fun for all ages!
• Cost: It is free to enter the park, and prices vary depending on attractions selected.
• Food recommendations: Pine and Crane is a trendy Taiwanese restaurant. They specialize in tapas-style Taiwanese food in a casual environment. There are lots of menu options including alcohol and beer.

Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, Griffith Park is a large municipal park located in Los Angeles. There’s so much to see and do in this spacious outdoor area.  

Watch a show in the open-air at the Greek Theatre. This outdoor venue features a number of live musical performances, comedy shows, and plays throughout the year.

Visit the LA Zoo and Botanical Gardens. Perfect for families traveling with children, check out the native plant species and exotic wildlife, including elephants, tigers, and hippopotamus!

Griffith Park also offers fifty-three miles worth of hiking trails! One of the most popular hikes starts at the Griffith Observatory (our next stop) and summits Mount Hollywood. Take this hike for spectacular views of the LA basin and the Hollywood sign!

Alternatively you can just relax and have a picnic. There are loads of grassy areas in this park, perfect for enjoying the peaceful ambiance of nature. Grab a blanket and enjoy a quiet reprieve from the busy city.

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Griffith Observatory

• Why it’s awesome: Great for photo opportunities and scenery, you’ll see wonderful views of the Hollywood Sign, Downtown Los Angeles, and the Pacific ocean!  
• Food recommendations: The Trail’s Cafe is nestled inside Griffith Park. The location offers scenic views and a relaxed vibe. They have a simple menu mainly featuring sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.

This facility sits on the south-facing slope of Mount Hollywood in Los Angeles’ Griffith Park. It provides some of the best views you can find in LA. The Griffith Observatory is a fun place to go and learn about the planets and the solar system; it’s California’s gateway to the cosmos!

This popular tourist attraction has an extensive array of space and science-related displays. Look through telescopes, explore the exhibits, and enjoy panoramic views of LA!

You can check out a Planetarium show in their state-of-the-art dome theater. Take a cosmic journey of exploration and discovery! Tickets to watch a show are $7.00 USD for adults and $3.00 USD for children. They can be purchased at the main box office inside the Observatory.

Day 1 / Stop 5 – The Getty Museum

• Why it’s awesome: A gem in the heart of Los Angeles. The Getty is one of the premier art museums in the world with a vast collection of precious artifacts curated from around the globe!
• Food recommendations: Restaurant at The Getty Center offers American style dishes in an elegant dining space adjoining the museum. At this restaurant, you’ll receive top-level service, artfully presented meals, and fabulous views! Their menu does lean toward the pricey side, but the portions are plentiful and the food comes highly rated!

A cultural highlight of LA, the Getty Museum houses a fabulous collection of paintings, photographs, sculptures, and much more! The permanent exhibits at this museum include European and American art from medieval times to present.

See Van Gogh’s Irises , and Rembrandt’s An Old Man in Military Costume . There are rotating special exhibitions on display throughout the museum. The architecture of the building is impressive and the museum’s layout is very well curated. A must-see when touring Los Angeles.

Self-guided audio tours are available for free, just submit a form of ID at the front desk in exchange for your device. Walk around the museum at your leisure and enjoy the artwork, sculptures, and artifacts.

This museum also has a large picturesque garden, which is a work of art in itself. Symmetric and well-manicured lawns and flowerbeds form patterns and designs that compliment the masterpieces found inside the museum.

Step outside and you’ll be greeted with relaxing scenery and beautiful panoramic views of Los Angeles.

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Sunset Boulevard

• Why it’s awesome: This iconic street is full of great places to eat, shop, listen to live music, and people-watch.
• Food recommendations: For old Hollywood glamour make sure to check out Chateau Marmont. Movie-stars are known to frequent this intimate restaurant. This is the place to go for fine dining and top-notch service. Just make sure to book a reservation before-hand, this place is always busy!

This twenty-two-mile-long road stretches from Hollywood to Malibu, while winding past Beverly Hills and Bel Air. Sunset Boulevard is one of the most famous stretches of pavement in the world, and the options for entertainment along this strip are in abundance!

If you’re in the mood for live music make sure to check out the Roxy Theater. The iconic venue is small and intimate. It has amazing acoustics and has hosted several legends including Frank Zappa and Bob Marley.

Today, you can catch a performance from some of the top indie rock bands! This is the perfect place to go for some instrumental delight and a memorable night.

Or swap a concert for some comedy and check out a show at The Comedy Store. Famous alumni include Jerry Seinfeld, Eddie Murphy, and Dave Chappelle! See up-and-coming comedians at this historic comedy club, open every day.

For shopping make sure to check out the area of Sunset Boulevard called the Sunset Strip. You’ll find options to suit all budgets and styles.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

Warner Brothers Studio Tour | Los Angeles County Museum of Art | The Groove and Original Farmers Market | Venice Beach Boardwalk | Santa Monica Pier

Spend day two of your Los Angeles itinerary checking out a few more iconic Hollywood attractions before making your way to the coast!

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Warner Brothers Studio Tour Hollywood

• Why it’s awesome: Get a behind-the-scenes look into how your favorite movies and TV shows are made, a unique Hollywood experience.
• Cost: $69.00 USD to $79.00 USD
• Food recommendations: Head to Don Cuco for fresh and authentic Mexican food. This colorful and upbeat family-run restaurant is great for a casual sit-down meal. The service is friendly, the portions are large, and the margaritas are divine!

For a one-of-a-kind Hollywood experience, take a Warner Brother Studios Tour . Glimpse behind the scenes of one of the oldest and most popular film studios in the world!

Tours are guided by knowledgeable and entertaining guides. Most tours last approximately three-hours and run every half hour from 8:30 am – 3:30 pm.

If you’re a fan of the sitcom Friends , you’ll be able to get up close and personal with the Central Perk Set, including the Friends couch! Fans of Harry Potter will love seeing authentic props used in the movies, including the sorting hat and Dobby the House Elf.

Experience the golden age of cinema by booking a Classic Tour. This tour focuses on classic-themed Film and TV, from the early days of the studio up to the 1970s.

Walk around the different sets and prop rooms as your favorite movies and TV shows are brought to life! Get the full Hollywood experience by taking a Warner Brothers Studio Tour, a great addition to your Los Angeles itinerary.

Day 2 / Stop 2 – Los Angeles County Museum of Art

• Why it’s awesome: This museum houses modern and ancient works of art. It is well organized and has an eclectic range of artwork.
• Cost: $25.00 USD for adults, children 17 and under are free!
• Food recommendations: Ray’s and Stark Bar is located on LACMA premise and offers Mediterranean fine dining and handcrafted drinks. They have happy hour specials, outdoor seating, and are kid-friendly.

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is the largest art museum in the western United States! There are lots of different exhibits to check out, including several interactive exhibits.

This museum houses more than 150,000 works of art spanning the history of ancient times to present. There are permanent installations as well as temporary exhibits, so you can see something new each time you visit.

See famous paintings from Pablo Picasso and Diego Rivera. The museum itself has five different buildings. You could easily spend half a day admiring each piece and reading the information shown next to each piece.

Before you enter the museum you’ll see the Urban Light exhibit at the entrance. This is arguably the most popular exhibit on display. The large-scale assemblage consists of restored street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s. Many of these street lamps were once used to light the streets of Southern California. Great for a unique photo-op!

Day 2 / Stop 3 – The Groove and Original Farmers Market

• Why it’s awesome: Large retail complex with endless options for shopping, food, and entertainment.
• Food recommendations: Be sure to stop at See’s Candy and Sprinkles Cupcakes. Both of these sweet shops were founded in Los Angeles and have gone on to franchise across the United States.

This large outdoor mall and farmers-market has endless options for entertainment. It features high-end and budget shops as well as fine and casual dining options. Its modern and artistic architecture ties in perfectly with its pedestrian-friendly atmosphere.

You’ll find all major clothing outlets here, from H&M to Nordstrom. There are ever-changing pop-up shops offering even more shopping options. This is your one-stop destination for clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and beauty products!

The Grove features a large fourteen-screen movie theater. Enjoy a comfortable movie experience with wall-to-wall oversize screens and immersive surround sound. Check out the full-service bar located in the theatre lobby to enjoy a pre or post-movie cocktail, beer, or wine.

You’ll find varying events at the Grove including fitness workshops and family activities. Check out their summer concert series where you can enjoy live music outside in the warm afternoon air.

If you’re hungry, you’ll find a wide range of options to choose from. There’s everything from chocolate shops to cafes to sit-down eateries. Your dining options will be as diverse as your cravings!

The Farmers Market is located directly next to the Grove. This area has food stalls, sit-down eateries, prepared food vendors, and fresh local produce. You’ll find everything from seafood, to wine, to sweets! It has a lively atmosphere and options for everyone.

First opened in July 1934, it is a permanent installation and is open every day of the week. Featuring more than 100 vendors, this is a historic Los Angeles landmark and a big tourist attraction!

This massive complex feels like a city within a city! It’s fun for all ages and has options to keep everyone entertained.

Day 2 / Stop 4 – The Venice Beach Boardwalk

• Why it’s awesome: This lively boardwalk is filled with performers, vendors, and storefronts. It has an upbeat vibe with lots of activities to keep you entertained.
• Food recommendations: Venice Ale House is the place to go for great views and great food. They specialize in organic American fare and craft beers. There are options for everyone, from meat-eaters to vegans! The outdoor seating makes it the perfect place to soak up the Venice ambiance.

There’s never a dull moment at this iconic Los Angeles landmark. The Venice Beach Boardwalk is quintessential California.

The beach offers a 1-mile stretch that runs parallel to the ocean. Peruse this path for the full Venice Beach Boardwalk experience. Walk or rent a bike and cruise down the coastline. Electric bikes and scooters are available too!

Make sure to check out Muscle Beach Gym while you’re there. People of all skill levels frequent this iconic ocean-side gym. Back in the day, Arnold Schwarzenegger himself used to pump iron here. People-watch or partake in a gym-sesh. A day-pass to workout is $10.00 USD.

If you want to pick up a unique California keepsake the Venice Beach Boardwalk is filled with anything and everything you could imagine. From clothing to jewelry to recycled trash turned into art, you’ll find it all here.

Watch the most eclectic range of street performers you could image. From singing and breakdancing to performers eating fire and juggling knives, this is an awe-inspiring kind of place.

Make sure to bring an appetite when you visit. From roof-top bars to sidewalk cafes to ice cream stands, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

Insider Tip: You can walk from Venice Beach to the Santa Monica Pier and vice versa. Just follow the two and a half mile Ocean Front Walk and you’ll be there in roughly fifty minutes!

Day 2 / Stop 5 – The Santa Monica Pier

• Why it’s awesome: Located right on the beach, this lively Pier has everything from amusement rides to an aquarium. Soak up the sun and stunning views at one of the most popular Los Angeles landmarks!
• Food recommendations: Head to Big Dean’s Ocean Front Cafe for a casual beach-side dining experience. This sports bar has a long history of providing seafood pub-grub and cold beer. The prices are reasonable and there’s plenty of outdoor patio seating!

The historic Santa Monica Pier is entertaining in so many ways. From the amazing views of the ocean to the Pacific Park amusement park, to the street entertainers, it’s a non-stop show!

The Pier itself is free to walk across and you’ll find stunning panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and sandy coastline. Take a towel and lay out on the beach, or have a dip in the cool Pacific water. A little beach time is, after all, a must for any Los Angeles itinerary.

Pacific Park is an amusement park located on the Santa Monica Pier and looks directly out to the Pacific Ocean. The park rides are pay-as-you-go, so you can ride as many, or as few as you’d like. Check out the iconic Ferris wheel for stunning views of Santa Monica in every direction. This oceanfront amusement park is vibrant and full of life!

The Santa Monica Pier Aquarium is located directly under the Pier. This public aquarium operates nonprofit and charges $5.00 USD for admission, kids 12 and under are free!

There are countless restaurants and food stands in and around the Pier. Dine at a restaurant on the beach or grab some fair-food and people-watch. At any time of day you’ll find the air buzzing with live music and lively crowds!

Head to the Santa Monica Pier for some fun in the sun, or watch as the sun sets and the amusement park rides light up the night! This stop is a must if you’re planning a trip or are backpacking through Los Angeles . The views are beautiful any time of day and the open-air activities are fun for all ages!

USA Hostels Hollywood

USA Hostels Hollywood has all the components to make your stay in LA as memorable as possible!

• Free Breakfast

Los Angeles Itinerary: Day 3 and Beyond

Disneyland Park | Universal Studios Hollywood | Hollywood Bowl | The Queen Mary | Paradise Cove Beach

If you’re spending three days or more in Los Angeles, you’re going to want to check out a few more of the city’s main attractions! Here are a few extra things we think are great additions to your Los Angeles itinerary:

Disneyland Park

• The original Disney Theme Park, built under the construction of Walt Disney himself.
• Open long hours and every day of the year.
• Firework shows Friday- Sunday night, or every night during summer.

A trip to Disneyland Park is a truly magical experience. It has something for everyone, young and old. From rides to fun-themed eateries, to parades with all your favorite characters, a trip to Disney will make for a nostalgic and spellbinding experience.

There are numerous rides to choose from that combine stimulation with visualization. Each ride tells a story and the attention to detail in every aspect of the park is impressive and enchanting.

This is one of the most popular Los Angeles points of interest and it’s recommended to spend at least a whole day here to get the full experience.

Insider Tip: Download the Disneyland app to see the wait times for all the rides!

Universal Studios Hollywood

• World-famous film studio and theme park.
• Perfect for families, thrill-seekers, and movie-lovers.
• This theme park has state-of-the-art special effects on every ride, show, and attraction!

A trip to Universal Studios is sure to make for an action-packed day full of fun and entertainment. From rides and shows to dining and shopping, this theme park has something for everyone.

Enjoy a world-famous studio tour where you’ll go behind the scenes of iconic Hollywood sets . This sixty-minute narrated tram ride goes through four acres of historic studio lots. Check out the Bates Motel from Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho , see the plane crash-site from Stephen Spielberg’s War of the Worlds , and look out for more from your favorite films.

Immerse yourself in the wizarding world of Harry Potter! Visit Hogsmeade and have a butter-beer, soar over the castle grounds of Hogwarts, and visit the room of requirements!

Insider Tip: Make sure to check out Citywalk Universal, located next door to the park, right before the entrance. Here you’ll find even more shopping, dining, and entertainment options!

Hollywood Bowl

• Outdoor amphitheater in the Hollywood Hills.
• Watch a live performance or concert!
• Wine and dine as you enjoy great acoustics and lively entertainment.

The Hollywood Bowl is a great place to watch a live performance or concert. This outdoor venue has lots of seating options and wonderful views of the Hollywood Hills.

There are many food and drink stands inside the venue to choose from. Pre-order a picnic basket and wine. Hit-up a street food vendor for an easy meal to take back to your seat, 0r simply pack your own snacks to bring along.

This casual venue is the perfect place to go for entertainment and a laid-back vibe, especially in summer. Spend a few hours watching a show and enjoying the wonderful LA weather!

If you don’t have time to catch a show, it is free to go inside and walk around the amphitheater during certain hours of the day.

The Queen Mary

• Beautiful retired British ocean liner from the 1930s.
• This large vessel is now open for tourism.
• Rumored to be haunted, there is a large number of recorded incidents of paranormal activity in the ship’s logs!

The Queen Mary is an iconic vessel stationed on Long Beach, California, twenty-six miles from Downtown Los Angeles. Once an active sailing vessel, today it is permanently docked and open for tourism. The beauty and grandeur of the ship have been well maintained. It invites guests aboard in several capacities.

You can book a room onboard this historic vessel! There are several hotel options to choose from, each offering modern amenities with original 1930s designs. Enjoy casual or fine dining at one of the ship’s restaurants, or have a drink at the Observation Bar, styled in sophisticated 1930s fashion.

You can take a guided tour and hear more about this magnificent ship’s history and a few ghost stories. There are several tour options to choose from that cover everything from the ship’s mechanics to haunted encounters.

The Queen Mary is full of history and mystery, paranormal-enthusiasts and history-lovers will especially love this addition to their Los Angeles itinerary!

Paradise Cove Beach

• Small public beach located beneath the cliffs of Malibu.
• Rentable private terraces, beach beds, and loungers.
• You are allowed to bring in your own alcohol, but only beer, wine, and champagne.

No trip to Los Angeles is complete without some beach time, and Paradise Cove Beach is our pick for the best beach in LA! The seclusion of this beach combined with the ability to rent out beach terraces and bring your own alcohol makes for the perfect beach day.

The beach has lifeguards on duty, clean facilities, and a private pier. Paradise Cove sits in front of a privately-owned restaurant, Paradise Cove Beach Cafe, where you can enjoy tropical drinks and American fare. The sandy coastline and pristine ocean waters make this beach perfect for your vacation in Los Angeles.

A trip to Paradise Cove can be pricey, especially if you plan to rent out beach amenities. However, if you are willing to spend a little extra to feel some vacation vibes, this is the place to do it!  

Insider Tip: The beach is public, but you have to pay for parking. Parking price Monday – Friday is $35.00 USD and weekends and holidays $50.00 USD. If you eat at the Paradise Cove Beach Cafe, located next to the beach, most of your parking-fee is comped.

Whether you’re exploring Los Angeles in three days or more, safety is an important thing to keep in mind. Generally speaking, most of Los Angeles is considered safe , especially tourist areas and places on the western and northern sides of the city.

The areas of LA that are not considered safe are Skid Row, South Central, and Compton. Not to worry, no places mentioned in your LA itinerary are located in these areas.

Like any big city, crime does occur. Watch out for pickpockets, who are skillfully experienced in taking things undetected. Keep your valuables hidden and try to travel with bags and purses that you can securely close.

If you are traveling solo, make sure to keep to the tourist areas. Try to blend in as much as possible, especially if you’re going out at night. Don’t wear anything that looks expensive (jewelry, cameras, handbags) and again, keep your valuables hidden.

If you are traveling with a car in Los Angeles, never leave valuables in plain sight in your vehicle. Keep them locked in your trunk, or even better, in your accommodation. Car break-ins are known to happen, especially if things are left in view.

Follow these simple guidelines and you should have nothing to worry about. Keep your wits about you and enjoy your time in LA!

Don’t Forget Your Travel Insurance for Los Angeles

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Day trips from Los Angeles are a great way to pack even more action into your vacation. These trips are a great addition to your Los Angeles itinerary, and there are lots of options to choose from!

Palm Springs Day Tour and Outlet Shopping from Los Angeles

On this full-day tour, you’ll visit the desert oasis of Palm Springs! Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway 5,000 feet up the cliffs of Chino Canyon. At the top, you’ll be greeted with spectacular views of the Palm Springs Valley.

Visit the Living Desert Zoo where you’ll learn all about the desert ecosystem! Enjoy lunch in El Paseo, where you’ll have a break to eat, shop, and relax.

Next, enjoy a bus-tour where you can see the homes of Hollywood stars! Finish up with a trip to Desert Hills Premium Outlets before being transferred back to LA.

California Coast Day Tour from LA: Santa Barbara & Solvang

On this fourteen-hour trip, you’ll discover the coastal town of Santa Barbara and the Danish town of Solvang. You’ll drive north as you expand your Los Angeles itinerary. Witness the stunning California coast and enjoy the spread-out scenery as you leave the city.

Walk along Santa Barbara’s harbor and visit a Spanish Mission Station. Explore charming Solvang, filled with unique European architecture and quaint local shops and bakeries.

Lastly, you’ll visit Hearst Castle, built by newspaper baron William Randolph Heart. Tour this grand and extravagant mansion, a truly magnificent and unique residence.

San Diego Zoo Tickets and Transfer from LA

On this nine-hour tour, you’ll visit the world-famous San Diego Zoo! Discover some of the most exotic creatures from around the globe.

Home to over 4,000 animals, the San Diego Zoo has one of the largest collections of exotic wild animals found anywhere in the world. Check out a show, featuring various species found in the zoo. Take a leisurely guided bus tour or ride the Skysafari tram for aerial views of the animals.

This trip offers convenient round-trip transportation from Los Angeles to the Zoo’s entrance.

Round-trip Transportation to SeaWorld San Diego From L.A.

On this nine-hour day trip, you’ll explore the underwater world of SeaWorld San Diego! Experience a full-day of endless entertainment as you see and learn about underwater creatures.

SeaWorld makes learning fun and engaging. Get close enough to touch a dolphin’s fin, watch the penguins play, and stare down a fearsome shark. Watch a theatrical aquatic show where you’ll be mesmerized as you watch Orcas flip through the air and perform high-energy tricks.

Enjoy round-trip transportation from Los Angeles to SeaWorld San Diego. Sit back and relax as your professional driver takes you from LA straight to SeaWorld’s entrance!

Santa Barbara: Wine Country Tour with Picnic Lunch

On this seven-hour tour, you’ll enjoy a relaxing wine country experience. Travel by air-conditioned bus to the Santa Ynez Valley in Santa Barbara County.

You’ll visit three wineries and enjoy a private wine tasting at each. Learn about the different wineries and wine from the friendly staff. You’ll enjoy a picnic lunch from a private chef at one of the wineries. Cold beverages are also included.

Before heading back, explore the small towns of either Los Olivos or Solvang. Wine-lovers especially should make sure to add this day-trip to their Los Angeles itinerary!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Find out what people want to know when planning their Los Angeles itinerary.

How many days do I need in Los Angeles?

Exploring Los Angeles can be done in two full days, but we’d recommend adding at least 1-2 more to your trip. That way, you get to see the city without any stress or fear of missing out, plus you can add half a day of just chilling to your itinerary.

What are the most popular attractions in Los Angeles?

The Hollywood sign and the Hollywood Walk of Fame are probably the most popular attractions in Los Angeles, but if you ask us, also totally overrated. We’d recommend seeing the Venice Beach Boardwalk instead.

What should I not miss when visiting Los Angeles?

Don’t miss out on these attractions in Los Angeles: – The Venice Beach Boardwalk – Santa Monica Pier – Los Angeles County Museum of Art

What is the best family itinerary for Los Angeles?

Families will love these attractions in Los Angeles: – Warner Brothers Studio Tour Hollywood – The Groove and Original Farmers Market – The Santa Monica Pier

Los Angeles is a popular vacation destination offering the best mix of entertainment, good weather, and iconic attractions. Pulsing with style and energy, it’s a gathering place where people from around the world spend whole days shopping, dining, relaxing, and thrill-seeking.

LA is a coming-together of cultures, cuisines, and scenery. There’s nothing quite like it.  There are so many places to visit in Los Angeles and each one is filled with plenty of sunshine and excitement!

From world-class museums to trendy shopping malls, to quirky beaches, to Hollywood hallmarks, there’s something for everyone. If you’re backpacking California , make sure LA is on your itinerary!

Blessed by an endless coastline and infused with a seductive spirit, it’s no wonder thousands of people travel to Los Angeles every year. Whether you’re spending three days in LA, or more, this itinerary will make sure you make the most of your trip!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ashley Ryan

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A Los Angeles Itinerary Guide for First Timers: How to Spend 3-4 Days in La La Land

Planning a Los Angeles itinerary for the first time and feeling overwhelmed? Follow this guide below to make it easy!

You know, growing up on the East Coast, LA almost doesn’t feel real . You see it in so many movies and read about it so often with celebrities and actors and singers, but still. It’s some far off place where it’s always sunny and both glamorous and a little seedy! Weird to think, but I visited the big cities of Europe before I even thought of making my way over to the City of Angels!

My first trip happened for two reasons. Since I was teaching in Korea and coming home for summer vacation, I knew I’d be flying through California no matter what. And it just so happens my friend, Elissa, had the same summer vacation and is from Los Angeles! I joined her family on a little California trip that ended up back at their house and managed to get a local introduction to this famous city!

Since then I’ve been back twice. Once on my way home from Korea again where I crashed with Elissa’s family for a few days before getting my next flight to Philly. We did a few things, but mostly I was exhausted and we vegged on her couch watching the BBC miniseries “North & South”!

Recently, though, I returned with my friend, Sher, at the tail end of our California coast road trip! We had about two nights and three-ish days, and I had a list of spots I wanted to see! It was also Sher’s first time in LA, so I re-visited some spots and got to re-remember what I saw the first time.

Between all these visits, I’ve put together what I think is the perfect Los Angeles itinerary for any first time visitor. Before I get in exactly what to do and where to go, I’ve listed some tips below so you know what you’re getting into. LA is not like other cities, so there are some things you should be aware of beforehand!

Tips for Your Los Angeles Itinerary

You’re going to need to drive.

The one thing you have to know about LA, is that it is not a walkable city. Everything is very spread out and the public transportation is okay in the best of times and downright sketchy and unsafe during pandemic times. Even then, it doesn’t cover everything and you’ll still wind up taking an expensive Uber to cover the awkward distance in between.

Elissa obviously drove when I visited her, but when I did my road trip, Sher and I rented a car via RentalCars.com which landed us with Thrifty. I was hesitant to drive in LA but it actually was pretty okay as long as you’re used to driving in cities and on freeways.

Traffic is a guarantee

The downside to LA? The traffic. I mean I’m sure you’ve heard a late night show comedian joke about it, but it’s truly a guarantee. I would say we actually got pretty lucky on this recent trip and traffic was never horrible , but I remember it being pretty bad when I visited Elissa before!

Your best bet is to allot an hour to get anyway just in case, more if you find yourself driving during rush hour.

Where you stay is key

Because of the driving factor, where you stay is key. LA is massive and often expands beyond the city limits. I’ve stayed with Elissa’s family in Glendora and then in Downtown LA, which I honestly hated. I feel like unless you know you’re going out or going to the STAPLES Center, there are a million other nicer neighborhoods to stay in!

For this itinerary, I think the best spot is to stay in Beverly Hills as it’s the most central to all the places you’re going to want to go and the worst you can say about it is that it’s expensive. I’ve only been to The Grove, but it seems nicer than DTLA and is still fairly central.

For this itinerary, if you spend an extra day and want to do Venice Beach, it’s much nicer to just go over the evening before and stay the night! This way you don’t have to worry about packing up in the morning and driving over with traffic and instead can have the whole morning and early afternoon to enjoy the area. Plus parking is kind of frustrating, so it’ll be easier to leave your car at your hotel and bike from there.

It’s almost always hot and sunny (and often smoggy)

Listen, if you go to LA in November and the weather map tells you it’s going to be 50-60F, it’s lying. Chances are it’ll be 90F and if you only bring clothes appropriate for weather 30 degrees cooler, you will sweat your butt off. Take it from me!

Also keep in mind LA smog is a real thing, and probably added to my feelings of exhaustion by the end of our road trip. Shocker – a city where everyone drives and traffic is a guarantee is also home to some of the worst air quality in the country!

What to wear

LA is a very casual city. Unless you’re going to a fancy bar at night, it’s really all about easy, breezy outfits. Elissa joked that if you really want to blend in just wear athleisure everywhere. Each time I’ve been, I’ve always worn casual outfits and never once felt underdressed or overdressed. Keep in mind, LA is a tourist hotspot, so you’ll see everyone in all types of outfits no matter where you go!

How to Spend 3-4 Days in Los Angeles

And now for my LA itinerary guide!

Day 1: Arrival to LA

Hike to Griffith’s Observatory

I’m going to assume you’re not arriving to LA early in the morning but more towards the middle of the day! If this is the case, the first thing you do once you settle-in is to change into some hiking clothes and head over to Griffith’s Observatory for a little hike to stretch your legs. The observatory is on the south side of Mount Hollywood and is pretty iconic. You probably recognize it best from La La Land or, more recently, Adele’s comeback special.

The observatory itself was named after its benefactor, Griffith J. Griffith. While you can go inside, really the coolest part is wandering around outside and taking in the insane views over the LA skyline.

I wish we’d realized that you can still access Griffith Park and wander around the observatory even if it’s closed. The opening times are pretty narrow (Friday – Sunday) and of course the crowds are too much. In fact, I didn’t even get out of my car when we went! Sher just hopped out and ran around, and I circled until she was done. That’s how frustrating the parking was!

If you hike, though, it’s much easier. There are a few various trails (just check AllTrails) or you can book a guide with this hiking tour . You’ll have someone to lead you and tell you more about LA’s history.

Grab either Mexican or Korean for dinner

Once you’re done with Griffith’s Observatory, head back to your hotel get cleaned up and then head into the city for dinner! You could stick around Beverly Hills or La Brea or head more into the city around Koreatown. There are at least two types of cuisines you’ll want to try in LA – Korean and Mexican (I might just be biased). Either head to El Cholo for tacos or Ahgassi Gopchang for Korean BBQ. I haven’t tried either personally, but when I asked Elissa for some restaurant recommendations, she listed both of these spot.

Day 2: Major Sightseeing

See Hollywood Boulevard for yourself

One of the must-see spots on a first visit to LA? Hollywood Boulevard , aka the street with all the stars. I’m going to be honest – it’s not that great. Think of Times Square in NYC . You get there and it’s kind of cool for about a minute and then you’re like, “Ok what else?” Not to mention because it’s such a tourist hot spot, there are tons of tour operators vying for your attention and homeless people asking for spare change. It’s also frankly kind of dirty.

However , beneath this grimy exterior is a street teeming with Tinseltown history. Practically every building has multiple stories going back to the Golden Age of Hollywood, and it’s pretty fun to imagine what kind of craziness this street has seen.

With that said, go with a tour guide . I cannot recommend this enough. Go with someone who can regale you with stories about what went on in this building or how all the old time celebrities, decked out in their Oscars gowns, had dinner at this restaurant before the show. When I worked on my post about Hollywood Boulevard , I found myself wishing I wasn’t finding out all this information after the fact!

Here are some tours worth looking at:

• Hop-on hop off bus
• Hollywood Boulevard bus tour
• Tour Hollywood with an LA filmmaker

Parking: If you’re like us and drove over to Hollywood Boulevard, don’t worry. There are plenty of parking garages. Park at one by the Pantages Theatre as that’s a good starting point!

Get a cool view of the famous sign at Hollywood Lake Park

If you do a Griffith’s Hike on the first day, you’re probably going to encounter the famous Hollywood sign. But if not, or if you want to visit when you’re not sweat from a hike, then drive on over to Hollywood Lake Park! It’s not too long of a drive, and it gives you a few really cool views of the sign.

Just a warning – the street leading up gets very narrow and winding. When you park on the side of the road, don’t forget your emergency break! I’d say the best view is in the little grassy park area (so skip past the dirt area a lot of people will be taking photos from).

Get lunch at Guisados

Once you’ve gotten your pics at the Hollywood sign, find a Guisados on the way back to your hotel. We stayed in downtown LA, so the one we stopped at was on Sunset Boulevard. It’s nice but pretty small and had very limited parking with one of those lots that’s hard to pull out of if you can’t park anywhere. If you stay in Beverly Hills, there’s one on Santa Monica Boulevard and one on S Linden Drive.

Not a taco fan? There’s also a Din Tai Fung on Santa Monica Boulevard where you can get the most delicious xiao long bao!

Once you’ve eaten, relax and freshen back up at your hotel and leave your car with valet for the night!

Spend the evening in Downtown LA

Downtown LA is honestly one of my least favorite areas for now. There’s kind of a weird vibe going on as this part of town is gentrifying rapidly while not properly helping the equally rapidly growing homeless population. I don’t know. I feel like I ought to give it another chance someday but much more rested and wearing more weather-appropriate clothes.

Like Hollywood Boulevard there’s a lot of history and really cool architecture in this part of town that goes beyond Tinseltown history. So while I don’t recommend staying here, I do think spending at least an afternoon or evening is worth it.

Just take an Uber in so you don’t have to worry about parking and maybe do a tour so you have someone who can provide more cultural and historic insight!

Some tours that looked interesting:

• Old and New DTLA Walking Tour
• DTLA Architecture Walking Tour
• Private DTLA Architecture Tour
• DTLA Food Tour
• Private DTLA Foodie Tour

When we went, we hit three main areas in the evening:

Bradbury Building

When getting your Lyft or Uber, have them drop you off at this building from 1893. Its name comes from the gold-mining millionaire Lewis L. Bradbury and is still used for various offices and buildings. The real architectural gem is in the inside, and in normal times you can go in on the first floor to see the gorgeous cast-iron filigree balustrades that line the stairs and halls of all five floors. Unfortunately, things are still closed to tourists for now, so we only managed a peak through the window!

Grand Central Market

This is where you’ll get dinner! Right across the street from the Bradbury Building is Grand Central Market , which has been a mainstay in DTLA since 1917. Situated in a Beaux-Arts building, it’s full of various food vendors of just about any cuisine you could imagine. We pretty much beelined for Sticky Rice, a Thai comfort food stand, and then I tried the vegan ramen spot, Ramen Hood. Elissa also let me know The Donut Man opened up a stall there as well, but by the time I finished my ramen, I was too full for anything else.

I will note that when I posted about Grand Central Market on my stories, a friend replied disappointedly that she can’t believe how quickly the market has gentrified and how it used to be a mecca of Hispanic and Asian hole-in-the-wall vendors as little has half a decade ago but changed the minute Eggslut was added. There’s a really interesting article from LA Mag if you want to dive in more.

The Last Bookstore

I wish I had words to explain how obsessed I am with this bookstore. I mean, I’m a pretty big sucker for bookstores in general, but this has to be one of the coolest. This was the last thing we did on our last full day in California, and it felt like I’d been revived when I exited with my newly purchased book, Sweet Bean Paste by Durian Sukegawa.

The Last Bookstore has been around since 2005 when it was initially founded by Jos Spencer in a DTLA loft. Today it’s two floors and sells over 250k books both used and new. There’s literally a whole wall of cheap used books that if you’d given me the whole afternoon, I’d probably have sat there and looked at every single one. Seriously do not skip!

Day 3: Beverly Hills

Morning – Getty Villa

After grabbing breakfast, drive over to the gorgeous Getty Villa on the Malibu coast! Hands down this is one of my favorite places in Los Angeles and I’ve been twice over my visits. (It helps that it’s also Elissa’s favorite place in LA, so she’s always down to go).

Not to be confused with the Getty Museum, the Getty Villa was designed after the museum ran out of room with his art collection. Its design is mainly based off the Villa dei Papyri in Italy and is absolutely stunning. Enjoy the various art collections as well as the gardens.

Just be sure to reserve your spot in advance . Even before these times, they limited the number of people so everyone can enjoy the grounds in peace. Tickets are free but parking is $20.

After the Getty Villa, head over to The Grove. Technically it’s just a shopping complex, but it’s really pretty and partially outdoors. I remember going on my first trip with Elissa and her sister, and it was just nice to stroll and do some window shopping. (Also why you guys are getting a circa 2015 style TSGA photo lol).

Plus this is a great spot to get lunch as it’s home to the historic Farmers Market, which has been around since 1880. On your way out grab some cupcakes from Sprinkles!

Parking: There are a few different parking options, but you’ll most likely want the self-parking option. The Grove has a parking structure off Fairfax Avenue that is $2 for the first hour all the way up to $30 for a daily maximum. Double check with restaurants or stores to see if they have complimentary parking. Also if you spend over $250, go to Caruso Concierge and you can get free parking as well.

LACMA & the La Brea Tar Pits

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is still one of those art museums still on my list! It’s just always slightly out of the way for my LA trips, so cross fingers next time I finally make it there and the famous La Brea Tar Pits.

LACMA itself is probably most recognizable from the Urban Lights exhibit at the Wilshire Boulevard entrance. This exhibit, which is an Instagrammer fav, comprises of 202 restored street lamps from the 20s and 30s. This exhibit is free but the museum itself requires tickets purchased in advance.

As for the La Brea Tar Pits, they just look so random and cool! There have been over a hundred excavation done at these asphalt pits, and these fossils, which range from mammoths to sloths and more, are all on display in the museum.

Parking: Parking for LACMA is at the Pritzker Parking Garage on 6th St. and is $18 or $10 after 8PM while parking for La Brea Tar Pits is between Curson Ave and 6th Street. There’s also metered street parking around, but watch the time limits! The two spots are literally a 6-minute walk from each other, so I’m assuming you can parking in one and walk back after you’ve done both sites. (If you go, let me know if they have time limits on parking!)

Drive over to Venice Beach

Once you’ve finished with LACMA and the main part of LA, head over to your Venice Beach hotel for your final night and day! I’m putting my main things to do in Venice Beach below, but feel free to adjust depending on how much time you have in the afternoon and evening on Day 3 and when you fly out on Day 4. Our flights were around 2/3 PM, so we were able to have most of the morning in Venice Beach.

Day 4: Venice Beach

This time about a 120 years ago, Venice Beach was founded as an independent resort town! It’s only about a 20-minute drive from the main areas of LA and a nice way to end your Los Angeles itinerary. The name is obviously inspired by the Italy’s Venice and the founder, Abbot Kinney, even had canals built. Though this was also for practical reasons as the land for Venice Beach was very marshy.

I recommend staying here your final night to have a little more quiet than what LA will offer on its own and to enjoy the area! There are a few ways to do it from walking to surfing and more, but here are some tips from my very brief morning there.

Tours for Venice Beach

• Ultimate Venice Beach experience
• Venice Beach Surf Lessons
• Santa Monica & Venice Beach Ebike Tour
• Venice Beach Private Walking Tour

Brunch at Great White

One of the fun breakfast spots in Venice Beach is Great White . It’s very popular, so I’d make sure to make a reservation, especially if you’re here on a weekend morning. Everywhere has a sizable wait time for weekend brunch times! Great White has a really delicious menu and focuses on seasonal, organic produce from California. Highly recommend the breakfast burrito as well as the salmon mezze board and the shaken iced latte!

Bike around the canals

We didn’t have enough time, so all I did was catch a quick glimpse of the Venice Canals . But if you have more time, I’ do some sort of boardwalk and canals tour !

Shop and eat along Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Afterwards I’d stop in at the different restaurants, cafes, and shop along the palm-tree-lined Abbot Kinney Boulevard named, of course, after Venice Beach’s founder. In normal times, there’s a fun food truck event every first Friday of the month! Keep an eye here for its return.

And there you go! All my best tips for planning a solid Los Angeles itinerary for first time visitors. It hits all the “must-sees” as well as some more underrated gems and, most importantly, hits all the best spots for food. Let me know if you have any questions or even more recommendations below!

For more California travel, read these posts next:

• How to Plan the Perfect Santa Barbara Weekend Escape
• 27 Unique Things to Do in Santa Barbara
• 18 Fun Things to Do in Truckee in the Summer
• Going to San Francisco for the First Time?

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Just wondering….when was this blog written?? I got burned last year following a blog recommendation to go to St John, New Brunswick but it was written before COVID and nothing like the blog when we went!! TIA….

Hi! I went in November 2021, so I probably wrote it end of 2021 or beginning of 2022; well after COVID kicked off.

Wonderful Blog !! It was so interesting to read as it had a lot of information about this amazing city. Would love to visit LA soon.

Thank you! It’s definitely a very cool city!

Your attention to details is one of the reasons why you are one of my favorite bloggers. Thank you so much for this awesome first time guide to LA. I’ve been several times but I need a dedicated weeklong trip to cover the ground I need to. The weather looked absolutely beautiful!

Awww thank you Millette!!!

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Los Angeles

A cosmopolitan, laid-back, interesting, and generous city, Los Angeles is the place where dreams come true . A fascinating fusion of history and modernity, Los Angeles is a city where seeing the stars takes on a new meaning. 

Los Angeles is an amazing city with a lot to offer. In order to make the most of your trip and enjoy your holiday in California , it's important to rely on a trusted travel guide , so you can find out all the best things to see in Los Angeles .

Los Angeles Travel Guide

• Information
• What to See
• How to Get There
• Saving Money
• Where to Stay
• Where to Eat

Why visit Los Angeles?

For the beaches . The sunny coast of California is one of a kind, and its stunning beaches have appeared in many famous films and series.

For the shopping . Los Angeles is a hot shopping destination, as it's home to some of the most exclusive shops in the world , such as those that can be found on the famous Rodeo Drive . 

For the art . Those interested in the city's cultural side won't be disappointed, as Los Angeles has countless museums and art galleries for you to get lost in. 

Traveling to Los Angeles means visiting the home of some of the most iconic attractions in the world , such as the Walk of Fame , the Dolby Theatre , where the Oscars are held every year, and the legendary Hollywood Sign . 

Still looking for accommodation?

At the link below, you can book hotels of all categories with a minimum price guarantee. Discounts can reach up to 75%, and payment can be made directly at the hotel.

Hotels in Los Angeles - Book online with a minimum price guarantee

top activities

Universal Studios Hollywood Ticket Explore filming locations, watch shows and meet characters from your favourite films and series at Universal Studios Hollywood.

Best of Los Angeles Bus Tour Discover the best of Los Angeles  on this 5-hour bus tour of the city's most iconic sites: Beverley Hills, Rodeo Drive, the Hollywood sign and much more!

Warner Bros Studio Tour in Hollywood Explore one of the most famous studios in Hollywood , and discover all its secrets with this tour of the Warner Bros studios.

Go City Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass The Go City Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass allows access to over 40 attractions , including the Warner Brothers Studios and Chinese Theatre.

Los Angeles Tourist Bus See all the most iconic spots in Los Angeles on a City Sightseeing Bus. Enjoy fantastic views from the open-top buses and hop on and off at any of its stops!

With this ticket to the Aquarium of The Pacific , you'll explore the fascinating marine wildlife of the Pacific . Fun for the whole family!

USS Iowa Museum Ticket Discover the history of one of America's most iconic military vessels with this ticket to the USS Iowa Battleship Museum.

Hollywood & Celebrity Homes Tour From the stars of yesterday to the celebrities of today, see the homes of the world's most famous faces on our ​Hollywood & Celebrity Homes Tour.

Hollywood Sign Hiking Tour One of the best views of Los Angeles awaits us on this hiking trail to the Hollywood sign - a chance to see this iconic landmark up close!

On this kayaking tour of Marina del Rey, we'll paddle around while watching the sea lions chilling out in this coastal area of L.A.

Richard Nixon Presidential Library & Museum Admission Visit the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum  and learn about the  history of the United States and one of its most controversial presidents !

On this tour, we'll paddle surf around Marina del Rey as we  learn about sea lions and watch these beautiful creatures . If you're in LA, you can't miss it!

Surf Lessons on Venice Beach Make the most of your time in Los Angeles learning to surf on Venice Beach, one of the city's most iconic beaches. Ready to ride the waves?

Madame Tussauds Los Angeles Ticket Admire famous celebrities from the world of music and film at the Madame Tussauds Museum in Los Angeles . What are you waiting for? Get your ticket now!

Explore one of the most magnificent natural parks in L.A . and admire the iconic Holywood sign on this hiking tour of Griffith Park.

West Coast Tour: 8 Days Discover the best of the west as you visit Sin City, the Golden City and more with this West Coast Tour: 8 Days. Explore amazing sites such as the Grand Canyon.

Private Tour of Los Angeles Make the most of your time in Los Angeles exploring the city's most exciting monuments with an exclusive guide just for you and your group.

Downtown LA Guided Tour On this guided tour of Downtown Los Angeles, we'll discover the most famous places in the center of the city of stars. You'll be left speechless!

Los Angeles Mysteries & Legends Tour On this tour of the mysteries and legends of Los Angeles, discover the secrets of Hollywood's haunted hotels and theaters . It'll give you goosebumps!

Las Vegas & Hoover Dam 2 Day Trip Come on an adventure through the desert on our 2-day trip to  Las Vegas & Hoover Dam . We'll see the City of Sin City and a spectacular man-made phenomena.

California 3 Day Trip Discover the Golden State's most symbolic locations with this California 3 Day Trip from Los Angeles. Visit Yosemite National Park, San Francisco and much more.

Slingshot Rental in Los Angeles Would you like to explore LA in a fun way? By renting a Polaris Slingshot , you'll tour the Californian city at your leisure in a very original vehicle.

Universal Studios Hollywood Express Ticket Do you want to get the most out of your visit to Universal Studios Hollywood ? Buy the express ticket , skip the queues and discover all the park has to offer!

Getty Center Museum + Griffith Observatory Tour Visit two of the most popular tourist attractions in the hills of Los Angeles: the Getty Center Museum and the Griffith Observatory!

Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Tickets Calling all fans of the " Seventh Art " and Oscar Gala ! Immerse yourself in the world of cinema with your ticket to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures  in LA.

Hollywood Walk of Fame Private Photoshoot On this private photo shoot on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, you'll pose with your very own Hollywood star - a memory to cherish forever!

The Getty Center Private Tour Amidst The Getty Center's gorgeous architecture and pristine gardens, enjoy a remarkable art collection   with some pieces dating back to the  Middle Ages !

Helicopter Tour of Los Angeles On this helicopter tour of Los Angeles , you'll get spectacular bird's eye views of Hollywood – the best and most unique way to see the City of Stars!

Hard Rock Cafe Hollywood Boulevard This dining experience at the Hard Rock Cafe will make you feel like a rock star for a few hours. Enjoy an  American meal at this restaurant on Hollywood Blvd!

Entrance to the Medieval Torture Museum With this  ticket to the Medieval Torture Museum in Los Angeles , you can visit an interactive exhibit about torture in the Middle Ages!

5-day Tour: Las Vegas, San Francisco, & Yosemite On this 5-day tour from Los Angeles , we'll visit the great tourist attractions of the West Coast, including San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Yosemite !

Las Vegas + Canyons of the West 4-day Tour On this 4-day tour of Las Vegas and the canyons of the West , we'll visit Sin City, the Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon, Bryce Canyon, and Zion Canyon!

Private Day Trip from Los Angeles Los Angeles is film, fame and glamour, and its surrounding area has much to offer too: visit San Diego or Santa Barbara on a private tour!

On this electric boat ride in Marina del Rey , we'll leisurely cruise through this gorgeous area of L.A. while having a delicious aperitif!

This paragliding flight over Malibu is a unique experience during your trip to Los Angeles. Enjoy incredible views of beaches as you glide through the air !

Malibu Tour & Wine Tasting Live the true Californian dream on this tour of Malibu in a vintage VW campervan . Enjoy a road trip from Los Angeles and a tasting of local wines!

Los Angeles Flyover Tour Admire breathtaking bird's eye views of the largest city in California on this tour of Los Angeles. You can also choose to fly during the day or at night!

Las Vegas & Arizona Desert 5 Day Tour Join us on an adventure through the American West and Sin City on our  Las Vegas & Arizona Desert 5 day tour . We'll see Hoover Dam, Antelope Canyon and more!

Malibu Beach & Surf Tour Escape the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles for a day and set off on a road trip to Malibu in a vintage VW van! Surf and enjoy a delicious meal on the beach.

Sail along the coast of Marina del Rey while you enjoy a delicious dinner on this luxury cruise. A magical evening awaits!

On this guided tour of the Dolby Theater , we'll discover one of the most well-known buildings in Hollywood: the place where the Oscar Awards are held .

Go City Los Angeles Explorer Pass The Go City Los Angeles Explorer Pass includes entry to 2, 3, 4, 5 or 7 of the city's major attractions . Make your own itinerary to enjoy the city!

Las Vegas Zero Gravity Experience Enjoy a one-of-a-kind activity with this Las Vegas Zero Gravity Experience. Discover what it's like to float in space with this unforgettable flight!

Los Angeles City Sightseeing Bus The Los Angeles City Sightseeing bus is one of the most convenient ways to tour the City of Stars. Your ticket includes 3 different routes with numerous stops!

Ferrari Driving LA By booking this Ferrari driving experience in Los Angeles you'll be able to tour the City of Stars in the most exclusive way possible! Don't miss out!

Whale Watching & Dolphin Cruise During your stay in California , embark on a unique experience when you go on this whale-watching and dolphin cruise ! Make new friends off the U.S. West Coast.

Complete Los Angeles Travel Guide

We offer a travel guide for travelers , with recommendations to help you get the most out of your time and money , so the only thing you have to worry about is having a great time sightseeing in Los Angeles . 

The information and data in the guide were gathered in February 2023. If you come across any inaccuracies or you notice something that you think should be modified, let us know . 

Our travel guides

• top attractions
• where to stay
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Maps of Los Angeles: Tourist Map of LA, California

Home | Travel | North America | United States | California | Los Angeles | Maps of Los Angeles: Tourist Map of LA, California

When traveling abroad, get a policy from one of the  best travel insurance companies . Y ou can get a  5% discount   on Heymondo , the only insurance that pays medical bills upfront for you, HERE!

Are you looking for a map of Los Angeles ? When traveling, I always carry a map with me so I don’t miss any important tourist spots. To help you plan your trip, I’ve compiled the best maps of Los Angeles (California) in this post.

In this article you will find 10 maps of LA that you can print out or save on your smartphone to check anytime:

Los Angeles tourist map

• Interactive map of LA
• Map of the main attractions in LA

Los Angeles street map

• Map of Los Angeles neighborhoods

Los Angeles metro map

Los Angeles road map

High-resolution map of LA

United States map

• Map of LA for downloading

With the tourist map of Los Angeles below, you can get a very general idea of the main points of interest in the city and where they are located.

Interactive map of LA (California)

The interactive map of Los Angeles that you will find below has all the tourist attractions in Los Angeles and surroundings . Did I forget any? You can leave a comment and I’ll add it as fast as I can.

At the end of this article, you can download the kml file of this map, so you can check it anytime during your trip, even if you’re offline .

Map of the main attractions in Los Angeles

Here is a map of the main attractions in Los Angeles so that, even if you don’t have too much time to get to know the city, you can see the must-see places quickly and efficiently.

The street map of Los Angeles below will help you avoid getting lost in the city and figure out quickly where you are.

Los Angeles Neighborhood Map

I’m sure you’ve heard of many neighborhoods in Los Angeles, such as Beverly Hills, Bel-Air or Hollywood, but do you know where they are? With the map of neighborhoods of Los Angeles that I include here, you can quickly locate them.

If you want even more information, we’ve written an article on the best neighborhoods to stay in LA that you may find interesting.

A metro map of Los Angeles is an essential tool for getting around big cities like LA. You can click on the Los Angeles metro map to zoom in.

This LA road map will allow you to move around the city or get in and out of it with no problems. You can also travel the Pacific Coast Highway, a beautiful scenic drive.

If you’re afraid of getting lost in the city, don’t worry. With this high-resolution map of LA, you can zoom in and find any point.

Thinking to yourself, where is Los Angeles on a map ? Check out this map of the United States.

Map of Los Angeles for downloading

You can get the kml file of this map of Los Angeles for downloading so you can check it at any time, even when you are offline. To use it, install the Maps.me and Dropbox apps on your smartphone.

First, save the kml file that you have downloaded in Dropbox and open it from your phone using Maps.me so that all the places we’ve indicated on our interactive map are downloaded.

And that’s all! With these maps of Los Angeles, you already have everything you need to plan your trip to the City of Stars.

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LOS ANGELES CITY TOURISM DEPARTMENT

The Los Angeles City Tourism Department (CTD) is responsible for tourism policy, strategic planning for tourism and oversight of external partnerships for the purpose of increasing the competitiveness of Los Angeles as a convention and tourist destination. CTD helps the City maximize the economic benefits derived from out-of-town visitors whose spending contributes to the growth of the local economy.

CTD oversees two important public-private partnerships – one with the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board for destination marketing and the other with ASM Global for management of the Convention Center.

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Los Angeles 3-Day Extravaganza: Discover the City of Angels

April 16, 2024 · 2 min read

Embark on a thrilling 3-day journey through the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, where entertainment and culture collide. Day one kicks off with an entire day at Universal Studios Hollywood, immersing you in the magic of movies with thrilling rides and shows. Just a short drive away, spend an hour strolling the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, spotting the stars of your favorite celebrities. On day two, gaze at the cosmos from Griffith Observatory and enjoy panoramic views of the city, followed by a visit to the legendary Hollywood Sign, an emblem of LA's rich cinematic history. Afterward, unwind at Santa Monica State Beach, soaking up the sun and surf, then experience the eclectic vibes of Venice Beach. The final day takes an unexpected turn with a detour to the dazzling Bellagio Fountain in Las Vegas, where water dances to mesmerizing lights and music. Cap off your trip with a day-long adventure along the Las Vegas Strip, exploring the epicenter of entertainment. This Los Angeles itinerary is a blend of iconic landmarks, beachside relaxation, and a taste of Vegas, ensuring memories that will last a lifetime.

• Day 1: Unforgettable Hollywood Adventures

Universal Studios Hollywood

Kick off your Los Angeles escapade with a full day at the iconic Universal Studios Hollywood. As the first stop in your itinerary, immerse yourself in the magic of the movies at this legendary theme park. From thrilling rides that plunge you into the heart of action-packed blockbusters to behind-the-scenes studio tours revealing Hollywood's best-kept secrets, Universal Studios offers an entire day of entertainment. Get ready to be swept away by the world-class attractions and live shows that bring your favorite films to life.

Attraction Info

• 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 days
• Open from 03/27-03/29,9:00am-9:00pm;Open 9:00am-9:00pm on 03/31;Open from 04/07-04/08,9:00am-9:00pm;Open 9:00am-9:00pm on 04/14;Open 9:00am-9:00pm on 04/21;Open 9:00am-10:00pm on 03/30;Open from 04/02-04/04,9:00am-10:00pm;Open 9:00am-10:00pm on 04/06;Open 9:00am-10:00pm on 04/13;Open from 04/27-04/28,9:00am-10:00pm;Open 8:00am-10:00pm on 04/01;Open 8:00am-10:00pm on 04/05;Open 8:00am-10:00pm on 04/20;Open from 04/09-04/12,9:00am-8:00pm;Open 9:00am-8:00pm on 04/29;Open 9:00am-7:00pm on 04/15;Open 9:00am-7:00pm on 04/19;Open 9:00am-7:00pm on 04/22;Open 9:00am-7:00pm on 04/26;Open from 04/16-04/18,10:00am-7:00pm;Open from 04/23-04/25,10:00am-7:00pm;Open 10:00am-6:00pm on 04/30

Recommended Nearby Restaurants

Hollywood Walk Of Fame HQ

After a day of cinematic thrills, take a leisurely stroll down the Hollywood Walk of Fame HQ. As the second destination of the day, this star-studded sidewalk is the perfect place to wind down. Spend an hour marveling at over 2,600 brass stars embedded in the pavement, each one honoring a legend of the entertainment industry. Located on the bustling Sunset Boulevard, this characteristic neighborhood offers a glimpse into the glamour and history of Tinseltown. Don't forget to snap a photo with your favorite celebrity's star!

• 6255 Sunset Blvd #150, Hollywood, CA 90028, United States
• Suggested tour duration: 1-2 hour
• Open 24 hours

Where to Stay Tonight

W hollywood, podshare hollywood.

• Day 2: Stargazing to Sunset - LA's Iconic Landmarks

Griffith Observatory

Begin your second day in Los Angeles reaching for the stars at the Griffith Observatory, a gateway to the cosmos nestled atop Mount Hollywood. Allow yourself a couple of hours to explore the wonders of the universe in its state-of-the-art planetarium. The observatory offers not just breathtaking views of the cosmos but also panoramic vistas of the city below. It's a place where science, culture, and stunning scenery intersect, providing an educational and awe-inspiring experience.

• 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027, United States
• Suggested tour duration: 2-3 hour
• Open on Tue-Fri,12:00pm-10:00pm;Open on Sat-Sun,10:00am-10:00pm

Hollywood Sign

Next, make your way to the emblematic Hollywood Sign, a symbol of dreams and a beacon of the entertainment world. Although it's a brief visit, the sign's historic significance and the views it offers are timeless. Standing tall on Mount Lee, this cultural icon is more than just nine white letters; it's a testament to the ambition and glamour that define Hollywood.

• Los Angeles, CA 90068, United States
• Suggested tour duration: 1 hour

Santa Monica State Beach

As the afternoon sun shines, head towards the golden sands of Santa Monica State Beach. Here, you can unwind for a couple of hours, basking in the sun, dipping your toes in the Pacific, or strolling along the famous pier. This quintessential California beach is a slice of paradise where the ocean breeze and the rhythmic waves create a symphony of relaxation.

• California, United States

Venice Beach

Conclude your day with the eclectic vibes of Venice Beach. Spend a couple of hours immersing yourself in the colorful boardwalk culture, where street performers, muscle beach athletes, and bohemian shops create a lively atmosphere. As the sun sets, the vibrant energy of Venice Beach is the perfect backdrop to reflect on a day filled with iconic Los Angeles experiences.

• Los Angeles, CA, United States
• Suggested tour duration: 2-4 hour

Venice Suites

Su casa at venice beach.

• Day 3: Dazzling Waters and Neon Nights

Bellagio Fountain

Kicking off the final day with a splash, the Bellagio Fountain is a symphony of water, music, and light that provides an unforgettable start to your morning in Las Vegas. Located at the heart of the Strip, this iconic water show captivates visitors with its choreographed ballet of water jets soaring high into the desert sky, perfectly timed to a range of melodies from classical to contemporary hits. With each performance unique in its execution, the Bellagio Fountain is a must-see spectacle that seamlessly blends artistic expression with technological marvel.

• 3600 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, United States

Las Vegas Strip

As the sun sets on your Las Vegas adventure, immerse yourself in the vibrant lifeblood of the city - the Las Vegas Strip. This characteristic neighborhood is an electrifying stretch of entertainment, where the night is forever young and every moment is a show in itself. Stroll down the bustling boulevard, flanked by world-renowned casinos, luxury hotels, and an array of shops and restaurants that cater to every whim. The Strip is not just a road; it's a glittering display of the human penchant for opulence and revelry, a fitting grand finale to your three-day escapade in the City of Lights.

• Nevada, USA
• Suggested tour duration: 0.5-1 day

The Cromwell Hotel & Casino

Horseshoe las vegas formerly bally's.

* All user reviews in this article have been translated by machine.

* The information above is subject to change at any time. For the latest information, please check the websites of hotels and attractions.

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Work starts on america’s first high-speed train between la, las vegas that could cut travel time in half.

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The much-anticipated construction of the first high-speed passenger train between Los Angeles and Las Vegas got underway Monday — promising to ferry passengers between the two cities in half the the time it now takes to drive through the desert.

The $12 billion project is being spearheaded by Brightline West, which will lay 218 miles of track between a new terminal in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., and another station just south of the Las Vegas Strip by 2028, according to Fortune .

In a statement, Brightline Holdings founder and chair Wes Edens said that breaking ground on the rail on Monday — thanks to $6.5 billion in backing from Joe Biden’s administration, plus $2.5 billion in tax-exempt bonds — was laying “the foundation for a new industry.”

Brightline also won federal authorization in 2020 to sell $1 billion in similar bonds, Fortune reported.

US Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg will reportedly participate in the rail’s Monday groundbreaking.

Upon its completion, Brightline West is expecting to welcome millions of passengers aboard the high-speed train, which will travel up to 200 miles per hour between the two major US cities in just over two hours — about half the time it takes to drive between LA and Vegas.

The high speeds are comparable to Japan’s Shinkansen bullet trains, whose network includes nearly 2,000 miles of lines on the country’s four major islands.

Brightline’s estimates are that 11 million passengers will take the electric-powered train one way per year, meaning there will be 30,000 travelers per day. The trains will also have restrooms, Wi-Fi, and food and beverage.

There will also be the option to check luggage — with ticket fares with or without large bags anticipated to be well below the cost of flying across the Mojave Desert.

It wasn’t immedately clear what a ticket aboard Brightline West will cost, though airline costs range between $80 and $230 depending on the time of the year.

Passenger traffic at Sin City’s Harry Reid International Airport set a record of 57.6 million people in 2023, Fortune reported.

Meanwhile, an average of more than 44,000 automobiles per day crossed the California-Nevada state line on Interstate 15 in 2023, according to Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority data — perhaps because of the Super Bowl and Formula 1 Grand Prix race that both took place in Las Vegas last year.

Las Vegas — which has nearly 3 million residents — draws more than 40 million visitors per year.

Brightline CEO Mike Reininger has said the goal is to have high-speed trains operating in time for the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.

Almost the full distance of the forthcoming train will be along the median of I-15, according to Fortune, which begins in San Diego and runs through Los Angeles before passing through Nevada and into parts of Arizona, Utah, Idaho and Montana.

At this point, only one station stop along the route will take place in San Bernardino County’s Victorville area, per Fortune.

At a later date, Brightline West has said it may add more stops in Palmdale, Calif., and other US metros that are too close to fly between but too far to drive to, though details have yet to be finalized.

The goal is to relieve congestion on I-15, where motorists often get caught in slow-moving traffic.

Representatives for Brightline West did not immediately respond to The Post’s request for comment.

Florida-based Brightline already operates a Miami-to-Orlando high-speed line, where trains reach speeds of up to 125 miles per hour.

The service launched in 2018 and expanded to include service to the Orlando International Airport in September 2022, Fortune reported. It now offers 16 round trips daily, with one-way tickets to travel the 235-mile-long track going for about $80.

Another fast train in the US include Amtrack’s Acels, which can reach 150 miles per hour while transporting passengers between Boston and Washington, DC — but rails aren’t considered “high speed” unless they top at least 160 miles per hour.

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6 alternative and arty ways to discover Mexico City culture

Amid art deco architecture and Frida Kahlo’s creations, find Mexico City’s pre-Hispanic traditions and an Indigenous crafts scene.

Mexico’s sprawling capital is a gateway to the country’s Maya ruins, miles of beaches, rocky canyons and traditional Indigenous villages. But many travellers find the metropolis has an allure all of its own, and a handful of days can be well spent touring its neighbourhoods and historic centre. Mexico’s best museums are here, and its many galleries and markets help facilitate one of the strongest creative scenes in Latin America. Dig a little deeper to find the city’s pre-Hispanic roots, and discover how many customs are linked to the ancient Aztec and Maya civilisations.

1. Kayak the ancient canals of Xochimilco

Before the Spanish conquest in 1521, Mexico City, then called Tenochtitlán, was built on two small islands inside Lake Texcoco. The Aztecs built canals and floating farms called chinampas to feed its growing population. Today, all that remains of these ancient waterways are in Tláhuac and Xochimilco, a neighbourhood 15 miles south of Mexico City’s Centro Histórico. Flat-bottomed party boats called trajineras cruise Xochimilco’s canals daily, but a guided kayaking trip provides a more tranquil — and environmentally friendly — visit. Tours offer the chance to spot Xochimilco’s wildlife, including the critically endangered axolotl salamander and more than 200 bird species, while learning about the history and science behind chinampas, which still provide food for Mexico City residents.

2. Browse the Museo de Arte Popular

In the historic centre of Mexico City is the Museo de Arte Popular , a beautifully designed handicraft museum housed inside a 1920s art deco building. The museum, which once served as Mexico City’s fire department headquarters, celebrates traditional Mexican craft in all its forms, from textiles and pottery to children’s toys, furniture and giant alebrijes — mythical creatures made from wood or papier-mache. High-quality crafts from almost every Mexican state are displayed thematically over several floors, including ceramics from Jalisco, piñatas from Puebla and ceremonial masks from Chiapas. Particularly striking are the small but impressive Day of the Dead craft collection and the á rbol de la vida (tree of life) pieces – colourful, intricate clay sculptures depicting the creation of life.

3. Sip on pulque, the drink of the Aztec gods

Pulque is a drink made from the fermented sap of agave, the same plant used to make tequila and mezcal. It has been drunk for more than 2,000 years, making it Mexico’s oldest alcoholic beverage. During the Aztec empire, pulque was considered a sacred drink, reserved for gods, emperors and ceremonial events. The introduction of beer and distilled spirits by the Spanish in the 16th century marked the beginning of the end for pulque, with many of Mexico City’s pulquerias — taverns specialising in the drink — closing between the early 20th and 21st centuries. But a recent resurgence has seen several reopen across the city, making it one of the best places in Mexico to try the tipple. La Canica — a pulqueria in the Tabacalera neighbourhood run by a family that has been in the pulque business for five generations — takes a modern approach to the ancient drink, infusing freshly made pulque with dozens of seasonal flavours, from guava and mandarin to marzipan and toasted oats.

4. Try Mexico City’s ancient caviar

Ahuautle — which loosely translates to ‘seeds of joy’ in the ancient Nahuatl language and are also known as ‘water fly eggs’ — were sacred to the Aztecs. During the rainy season, a type of water fly called axayácatl would lay its eggs in Lake Texcoco. These were harvested for Aztec emperors and used as offerings to the gods. Montezuma, one of the last emperors of the Aztec empire, is said to have eaten them every morning to improve his strength. Hard to get hold of and up to four times more expensive a kilogram than beef, the eggs have been dubbed ahuautle , the ‘caviar’ of Mexico, by the capital’s chefs. Only a handful of restaurants in the capital still serve ahuautle, one of which is Ayluardo’s — in the Iztapalapa neighbourhood, in the east of Mexico City. It serves the water fly eggs — which taste intensely fishy, similar to dried shrimp — in pancakes with tomatillo (a bright green, acidic fruit native to Mexico) and serrano chilli sauce.

5. Support indigenous crafts at Mercado de Artesanías de la Ciudadela

Just a few minutes’ walk from Museo de Arte Popular is this hub for artisans, Mexico City’s largest and best arts and crafts market. It is home to 350 stands selling a huge variety of crafts, or artesanias in Spanish, from all over Mexico, including handblown glass from Jalisco, silver jewellery from Guerrero and patterned chaquira beadwork from Jalisco, crafted by the indigenous Huichol people. For beautiful ceremonial Mayan masks made of wood and obsidian, head to stand 104, where you’ll often see the craftspeople at work. Also seek out the artisans selling amate — colourful works painted on to paper made from the pulp of fig and mulberry trees; the same type of paper was once used by the ancient Aztecs and Mayas to produce manuscripts.

6. Experience Mexican folk dance at El Ballet Folklórico de México

Founded in 1952 by choreographer and dancer Amalia Hernández, Ballet Folklórico celebrates Mexico’s diverse folklore traditions through dance, music and traditional dress. The performances take audiences from Mexico’s ancient past up to the revolution in 1910, travelling through the states of Oaxaca, Jalisco, Sonora, Zacatecas, Guerrero and more. Many of the dances take inspiration from Mexico’s Indigenous cultures, such as the Deer Dance (a contemporary piece that depicts a pre-hunting ritual practised by the Indigenous people of Sonora and Sinaloa) and the Guelaguetza, a folkloric ballet inspired by the ceremonial dances of the Mixtec and Zapotec people of Oaxaca. Performances are held at the Palacio de Bellas Artes — a white-marbled, art nouveau palace commissioned by President Porfirio Díaz in 1905 — on Wednesdays at 8.30pm and Sundays at 9.30am and 8.30pm.

Related Topics

• CULTURAL CONSERVATION
• ART HISTORY
• MODERN HISTORY

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Rail spikes hammered, bullet train being built from Sin City to the City of Angels

A $12 billion high-speed passenger train line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction.

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, center, Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, right, drive rail spikes into a symbolic rail, on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

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Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo leaves the stage at a groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., left, and Sen. Jacky Rosend, D-Nev., right, speak at the groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-Nev., speaks at the groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

A plane takes off behind a groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg speaks at the groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

Kids play in confetti at the groundbreaking ceremony for a high-speed railway on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil) (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

CORRECTS TO SEN. CATHERINE CORTEZ MASTO Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, D-Nev., speaks at the groundbreaking for a high-speed passenger rail on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

The Las Vegas strip is shown behind the groundbreaking sight of a high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles on Monday, April 22, 2024, in Las Vegas. A $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area has started construction. (AP Photo/Ty ONeil)

This Jan. 25, 2012, photo shows the site of a proposed station for the high-speed rail line to Las Vegas at the end of the Dale Evans Parkway exit from Interstate 15, on the far outskirts of the Mojave Desert city of Victorville, Calif. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)

FILE - This photo taken Wednesday, Jan. 25, 2012, shows the site of a proposed station for a high-speed rail line to Las Vegas, background, at the end of the Dale Evans Parkway exit from Interstate 15, on the far outskirts of the Mojave Desert city of Victorville, Calif. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)

FILE - This photo Jan. 25, 2012, photo shows the site of a proposed station for a high-speed rail line to Las Vegas, foreground, with Interstate 15 in the background, on the far outskirts of Victorville, Calif., the Mojave Desert city on the route from Los Angeles to Las Vegas. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Reed Saxon)

FILE - A Brightline train is shown at a station in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., on Jan. 11, 2018. A fast-tracked plan to build a high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area is set to mark the start of construction. Brightline West and U.S. transportation secretary and other officials projecting that millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee, File)

LAS VEGAS (AP) — A $12 billion passenger bullet train linking Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area was dubbed the first true high-speed rail line in the nation on Monday, with the private company building it predicting millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028.

“People have been dreaming of high-speed rail in America for decades,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg before taking a stage with union representatives and company officials at the future site of a terminal to be built just south of the Las Vegas Strip. “It’s really happening this time.”

Buttigieg cited Biden administration support for the project that he said will bring thousands of union jobs, boost local economies and cut traffic and air pollution.

Brightline West, whose sister company already operates a fast train between Miami and Orlando in Florida, aims to lay 218 miles (351 kilometers) of new track almost all in the median of Interstate 15 between Las Vegas and Rancho Cucamonga, California. It would link there with a commuter rail connection to downtown Los Angeles. A station also is planned in San Bernardino County’s Victorville area.

Company officials say the goal is to have trains exceeding speeds of 186 mph (300 kph) — comparable to Japan’s Shinkansen bullet trains — operating in time for the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028.

“I believe we’ll look back at today and say, ’This was the birth of an industry of high-speed rail,’” Brightline Holdings founder Wes Edens said Monday.

AP AUDIO: Rail spikes hammered; bullet train being built from Sin City to the City of Angels

AP correspondent Haya Panjwani reports on the development of a high-speed rail between two major West coast cities.

The company aims to link U.S. cities that are too near each other for air travel to make sense and too far for people to drive.

Las Vegas has no Amtrak service. The idea of a bullet train to Los Angeles dates back decades under various names including DesertXpress. Brightline West acquired the project in 2019, and company and public officials say it has all required right-of-way and environmental approvals, along with labor agreements.

Brightline received Biden administration backing including a $3 billion grant from federal infrastructure funds and recent approval to sell another $2.5 billion in tax-exempt bonds. The company won federal authorization in 2020 to sell $1 billion in similar bonds.

Brightline West says electric-powered trains will cut the four-hour trip across the Mojave Desert to a little more than two hours. It projects 11 million one-way passengers per year, with fares that Edens said will be comparable to airline ticket costs. The trains will offer rest rooms, Wi-Fi, food and beverage sales and the option to check luggage.

Officials hope the train line will relieve congestion on I-15, where drivers often sit in miles of crawling traffic while returning home to Southern California from a Las Vegas weekend. An average of more than 44,000 automobiles per day crossed the California-Nevada state line on I-15 in 2023, according to Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority data.

Florida-based Brightline Holdings’ Miami-line debuted in 2018 and expanded service to Orlando International Airport last September with trains reaching speeds up to 125 mph (200 kph). It offers 16 round-trips per day with one-way tickets for the 235-mile (378-kilometer) distance costing about $80.

Other fast trains in the U.S. include Amtrak’s Acela, which can top 150 mph (241 kph) between Boston and Washington, D.C. But fast train connections for other U.S. cities have been floated, including Dallas to Houston ; Atlanta to Charlotte, North Carolina ; Chicago to St. Louis ; and Seattle to Portland, Oregon. Most have faced delays.

In California, a proposed 500-mile (805-kilometer) rail line linking Los Angeles and San Francisco was approved by voters in 2008, but has been beset by rising costs and routing disputes . A 2022 business plan by the California High-Speed Rail Authority projected the cost had more than tripled to $105 billion.

Brightline West broke ground, now the high-speed train is on the clock for 2028 Olympics

Getting from Las Vegas to Southern California in a high-speed bullet train might sound like a thing of the future, but Brightline West is working on making it a reality.

Construction is currently under way for Brightline West, a 218-mile railway system that will connect a Los Angeles suburb to Sin City, turning a 4-hour car ride into a 2-hour high speed train ride. 

The metal on the tracks won't be dry or operational until 2028, just in time for the Summer Olympic Games which are set to take place in Los Angeles then.  

It took an estimated $12 billion to make this “dream” a reality, with Brightline securing $3 billion in federal funds in December and another $2.5 billion in private bonds from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

“People have been dreaming of high-speed rail in America for decades – and now, with billions of dollars of support made possible …. it’s finally happening,” Pete Buttigieg, secretary of transportation said Monday. 

What is Brightline West?

Brightline West is a years-long eco-transportation project by Brightline that will connect Nevada to Southern California via a 218-mile railway system. 

Fully electric and zero emission trains will make the trek, reaching speeds of 200 miles per hour. 

Brightline West route and map, Rancho Cucamonga among stops

Brightline West’s high-speed rail will make plenty of stops along its 218-mile route from Las Vegas to Rancho Cucamonga. Victor Valley and Hesperia are among the stops included on the trip. 

Brightline says the route, which has full environmental clearance, will run along I-15. 

Wes Edens to connect other ‘city pairs’ in future

Wes Edens, Brightline’s founder, called the project “historic.” 

Brightline West is set to “lay the foundation for a new industry,” even if it's long overdue. 

“This is a proud moment … where we break ground on America’s first high-speed rail system … But the blueprint we’ve created with Brightline will allow us to repeat this model in other city pairs around the country.”

Brightline West is just the latest example of connecting city pairs that are too short to fly and too far to drive” across the country, with a similar project completed in 2018 to connect Florida Central and South Florida.

Contributing: James Powel

Six-day, two-city road trip gives Sounders chance to bond

Jordan Morris says team needs to come together after disastrous start.

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RENTON — For the next six days, the Seattle Sounders will be on the East Coast as they prepare to play D.C. United on Saturday and resume their previously postponed match against the Philadelphia Union on Tuesday.

Off to their worst-ever start through eight matches — 1-4-3 — the Sounders desperately need points and will have their hands full.

United are just 2-3-4 but their underlying numbers suggest they’ve been a bit better than that. At +2.8 expected goal-difference, United are second best in the Eastern Conference. They’ve also got one of the league’s leading scorers in Christian Benteke (six goals) and the most active defense in the league ( 9.3 passes per defensive action ).

A few days later, the Sounders will travel about three hours north to Philadelphia, where they'll will resume the match that officially started on March 9. The Union, who were then in the midst of Concacaf Champions Cup, have since gone 3-0-2 and lead the Eastern Conference with 1.86 points per game.

While there’s a distinct possibility the Sounders could return home in even worse shape than they are now, there’s also the potential for this to be a galvanizing experience.

“It’s good to be together as a group for an extended period of time,” Sounders attacker Jordan Morris told reporters this week. “That could be helpful in terms of bonding together. Sometimes on the road, you have to scrap for results.”

Morris admitted that the Sounders borderline disastrous start has caused its share of frustrations. He called the most recent loss to the Vancouver Whitecaps “unacceptable” and acknowledged that the road back will be tough. But a players-only meeting on Tuesday was designed to address that, with an emphasis on the team remaining together as a group.

“We don’t see that on the field right now,” Morris said about the meeting. “We’re playing more as individuals instead of a collective. We’re at our best when we’re a collective group. A lot of the messaging is being more united, being more together. That’s the only way we get out of this, being together as a group, players, coaches, everyone. To work as hard as they can to pull ourselves out of this situation. The main message is be united as a group, work hard for each other, celebrate the little things and get back to what made us good.”

For inspiration, the Sounders only need to look at their past. In 2016, they were on just 20 points through 20 games before turning the season around and winning their first-ever MLS Cup. A year later, they were just 2-5-4 through 11 games before going on a run that culminated with another trip to the MLS Cup final. In 2018, the Sounders were 3-9-3 through 15 games and then finished on a 15-2-2 kick.

“Obviously, we don’t want to get to that point,” Morris said. “There’s everything to play for. We have to take it game by game, with a tough road trip ahead. It’s not going to get any easier and it’s up to use to turn it around.”

A different kind of three-game week

While the Sounders have played plenty of three-game weeks, none of have been quite like this.

“Normally in a three-game week, you have a group that starts, you make some changes and then see what the last game gives you,” Sounders head coach Brian Schmetzer explained. “This time, it’s kinda different. We know the midweek lineup, so maybe you have to shuffle the first game, but you know it’s the first game of many so you want to put out a good team and collect some points.”

Adding one more wrinkle to the week is the trade of Xavier Arreaga, who otherwise would have played against the Union. With Arreaga no longer available, he can be replaced in the starting lineup by anyone who was on the matchday roster when the game began (that’s most likely going to be Yeimar Gomez Andrade). Correspondingly, the Sounders can also fill that now-open bench spot with anyone who was on the roster that day (João Paulo and Albert Rusnák are the two most likely candidates).

As a reminder, here’s how the lineup actually looked when the Union game began:

Our @Delta Starting XI! 🤙 📝 https://t.co/59bjocJSx3 | #PHIvSEA pic.twitter.com/hBHRTo5JFV — Seattle Sounders FC (@SoundersFC) March 9, 2024

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