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Weekend in Los Angeles: My 3-Day LA Itinerary

Last Updated on March 11, 2024

Planning a weekend in Los Angeles? Here’s a detailed 3-Day Los Angeles itinerary from my friend Isabel who runs Bel around the World .

Los Angeles: sun-kissed beaches, laidback neighborhoods and fancy Tinseltown. The City of Angels is vibrant, diverse and multi-faceted. There’s the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, but there’s also the boho SoCal vibes and surfing scene of Santa Monica and Venice Beach. 

As the second largest city in the United States, Los Angeles promises much more than you’d expect. If this is the starting point of your California road trip , consider utilizing a  car service from LAX to comfortably reach your initial destinations in the city. Here is my detailed Los Angeles itinerary for those who intend to spend a weekend in LA. I promise it’ll make you want to come back for more!

Table of Contents

Hang Out at Venice Beach

Discover the venice canals, stroll along abbott kinney boulevard, enjoy santa monica at sunset, have a blast at santa monica pier, hike up hollywood hills, see the hollywood boulevard, wander around west hollywood, eat at mel’s drive-in, observe the stars from griffith observatory, admire the architecture of walt disney concert hall, try the skyslide at oue skyspace la, stroll along miracle mile, grab street food in downtown los angeles, channel islands, palm springs, santa barbara, by public transport, best time to visit los angeles, budget: ocean park hotel, midrange: the hotel hollywood, luxury: viceroy santa monica, luxury: loews santa monica beach hotel , airport: hyatt regency los angeles airport , best places to eat in los angeles, planning your trip to los angeles, about the author: isabel leong, weekend in la itinerary.

For those planning a weekend in LA, this Los Angeles itinerary will help you make the most of your 3 days in Los Angeles and see as much as possible. I’ve included the best things to do in LA, as well as ideas for day trips from Los Angeles, and the best places to eat and stay in Los Angeles. Check out this link if you’re visiting LA on a budget.

To help you plan your weekend in LA, I’ve included more details:

How to Get to Los Angeles

How to get around los angeles, where to stay in los angeles, la itinerary day 1: hit the beach.

Don’t be overwhelmed by the size of Los Angeles – just focus on different sections of the city each day and you’ll learn to love the appeal of LA. Start your weekend in LA in the Santa Monica area to get a feel for the laidback Californian coastal city. Santa Monica is one of the best beaches in California , with big surfs, golden sand and laidback vibes.

Known for its bohemian spirit, Venice Beach is the best place to soak up the laidback SoCal vibes of Los Angeles. Free-spirited Venice Boardwalk is flanked by funky shops, street performers and colorful murals. There’s also a skate park and Muscle Beach outdoor gym  where Arnold Schwarzenegger used to work out. Don’t forget to grab a photo of the hanging Venice sign.

Leave the beach behind to wander around the Venice Canals , for a completely different side of the beachfront neighborhood. Take a stroll through these three canal-lined blocks and you’ll discover an idyllic scene: arching pedestrian bridges, charming beach houses, bunches of ducklings and the occasional paddle boarding bulldog.

Take a trip to Abbott Kinney Boulevard , also known as “the coolest block in America”. The mile long road is lined with boutique shops, restaurants, and galleries. It stretches from Washington Boulevard to Main street and is home to one-of-kind local goods as well as internationally recognized brands.

Stop at Gjelina (one of Beyonce’s favorite places for eating in LA ) for an early dinner. Book in advance as it stays busy. The food and drinks are great. The menu is centered around small dishes instead of huge meals.

After you are done with the dinner, walk towards the beach of Santa Monica , a stark contrast to Venice Beach. Try to reach Santa Monica around sunset to see the beach awashed in gold. Santa Monica Beach is fringed by Palisades Park , with views over the Pacific Ocean. The Third Street Promenade is a pedestrian-only, open-air shopping area only two blocks from the beach. Here is where you’ll find the weekly farmers market and a variety of American brands.

Stroll over to the Santa Monica Pier, where you’ll find one of LA’s icon. The red and yellow Pacific Wheel is world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel. On the pier, you’ll also find Pacific Park , an amusement park combined with plenty of restaurants, bars, and an entertaining arcade.

Get a craft beer here and listen to some live local music to the sound of the nearby waves. From here, the views of Malibu and the South Bay are outstanding. There’s no better way to end the first day of your Los Angeles Itinerary.

LA Itinerary Day 2: Get to Know Hollywood

Kick off your weekend in Los Angeles proper with a hike from Griffith Observatory . Griffith Observatory opens as early as 10 am on weekends and from midday on weekdays. The Hollywood Hills Hike will give you a close-up view of the famous Hollywood sign in addition to a bird’s eye view of downtown.

If you want to walk right up to the sign, the hike is about 3.3 miles and around 2 hours each way. Don’t forget to stay hydrated and keep an eye out for the rattlesnakes! You can also book hiking tours such as this Griffith Park and Hollywood Hike to explore the hills with a knowledgable local.

Yes, Hollywood is tacky and touristy. But you can’t come to Los Angeles and not visit Hollywood?! There are quite a few attractions in Hollywood Boulevard, including the Walk of Fame, Chinese Theatre, and Paramount Studios .

For a nice outdoor lunch, I recommend having a picnic at the Hollywood Bowl , an outdoor amphitheater and concert space. The massive arena is especially popular among locals in summer who gather here for boozy picnics on weekends.

In the afternoon, head to West Hollywood, one of LA’s poshest areas. This is where you’ll find the legendary Beverley Hills, Rodeo Drive and Sunset Strip which features the Chateau Marmont , a swanky celebrity hideaway. You will also find some of the most extravagant homes in Los Angeles located here. If you’re a Hollywood fan, perhaps you can even go on a Hollywood celebrity houses’ tour to see where your favorite stars live.

Made famous by George Luca’s film American Graffiti, Mel’s Drive-In is one of the symbols of America. Anyone who has seen the 1973 film remembers the familiar neon sign at the gang’s favorite hangout spot buzzing in the background, blazing “Mels drive-in.” The American restaurant chain was founded in 1947 and continues to be a popular haunt.

That night, head back to Griffith Observatory for a night under the stars. The vista from this hilltop landmark is the best at night when Los Angeles twinkles below. Inside you’ll find a bevy of exhibits, including a Foucault pendulum, Tesla coil and planetarium show.

Give yourself plenty of time before the 10pm closing to gaze through the 12-inch refracting telescope on the roof, otherwise you can look through the far less crowded modern, reflecting telescope on the front lawn.

LA Itinerary Day 3: Visit Downtown Los Angeles

Downtown Los Angeles never used to have the best reputation, but it has cleaned up in the past decade or so and transformed into an interesting area chocked full of museums.

Cruise along Grand Avenue and you can’t miss the Walt Disney Concert Hall , a twisted metallic explosion of Frank Gehry’s imagination. The concert hall is home to the LA Philharmonic. While you’ll need to buy a concert ticket to see the stunning auditorium, we think the exterior is just as exquisite.

The brand new Skyslide is an all-glass slide attached to the side of a building, 1,000 feet above Downtown LA. As part of the U.S. Bank Tower’s exterior, the slide shuttles visitors from the 70th floor down to the 69th.

The slide isn’t as terrifying as you’d think—some squeals and expletives aside—mostly because it’s over and done with in fewer than five seconds. Swing by later in the day; sunset is particularly memorable from up here. Check availability here.

After the adrenaline rush, get your culture fix along Museum Row on Miracle Mile. This stretch of road is home to four major Los Angeles museums: L.A. County Museum of Art, La Brea Tar Pits and Museum, Craft and Folk Art Museum, and Petersen Automotive Museum .

Petersen Automotive Museum spots the most eclectic architecture, featuring a wavy steel and aluminium facade designed by Kohn Pedersen Fox. T he L.A. County Museum of Art (LACMA) has an impressive collection of contemporary art, including Chris Burden’s iconic entrance installation Urban Light , a piece made up of 202 cast-iron street lamps gathered from around LA.

In the evening, head to the Grand Central Market to grab some food from the hip food stands. Even if you’re not there for the food, it’s worth a trip; people from all corners of L.A. mix and mingle among rows of spices, produce and vintage neon signage.

The hip market is a great place to get cheap pupusas and carnitas tacos from funky eateries like Sticky Rice, Belcampo, Sari Sari, Horse Thief BBQ, Eggslut, and McConnell’s.

To end your weekend in LA with a blast, h it the trendy rooftop bars at The Standard Downtown LA and Ace Hotel for some sublime sunset views and sexy cocktails.

Day Trips from Los Angeles

3 days in Los Angeles are surely not enough to explore all that LA has to offer. If you’re spending a long weekend in LA and have an extra day or two, I recommend taking a day trip from Los Angeles. There are lots of interesting sights within a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles. For those who are not driving, I have also suggested some day tours below.

Just off the California Coast, the eight small Channel Islands are an archipelago of relaxing and romantic sandy beaches and dreamy views of the Pacific Ocean. To get there, take a train/car to Long Beach (1hr) then catch a high-speed ferry ride (1hr). If you don’t have a car, check out this Channel Islands day tour .

Most people head straight to Santa Catalina Island’s city of Avalon, a popular spot for its unique cultural history and gourmet California cuisine. We recommend driving to Isthmus Cove and take advantage of excellent hiking, incredible snorkeling, and relaxing safari boat tours. You’ll understand why it’s called “Galapagos of North America”.

Located on the western edge of the Coachella Valley, Palm Springs serves as a popular desert escape from Los Angeles (2-hour drive away). For those seeking adventure, ride up Mount San Jacinto on its aerial tramway or visit Painted Canyon for rock climbing. Check out my full list of things to do in Palm Springs . For those who don’t drive, book your Palm Springs day tour here!

At the foothills of the Santa Ynez Mountains, Santa Barbara is an upscale getaway famed for its colonial red-tile roofs and white stucco downtown. The city also has some of the most inviting sandy beaches, including  Refugio Beach , a popular place for kayaking. Santa Barbara also offers excellent  local winery tours . We recommend combining your day trip to Santa Barbara with Solvang.

About a 2-hour drive from Los Angeles is sun-kissed San Diego, blessed with pristine stretches of white sand beaches. There are plenty of things to do in San Diego : go on a whale-watching boat tour , or spot rare birds at San Diego’s Mission Bay Park, the largest aquatic park in the US. Discover San Diego’s popular downtown and Gaslamp District by scooter for yourself or join a walking tour to learn about the city’s history and culture.

The gateway to Los Angeles is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). There are several flights a day from nearby airports like San Francisco, Oakland and San Jose.

Flying into Los Angeles from the US is really affordable. You can  fly from New York to Los Angeles for as little as $250 return (6-hour direct flight). Flights from Miami to Los Angeles are slightly more expensive around US$300 return (5-hour flight).

Flying from Europe to Los Angeles is also affordable, especially from London. We took direct return flights from London to Los Angeles once for $400.

Search for Flights to Los Angeles

Driving is definitely the most convenient way of getting to Los Angeles, as compared to the Greyhound (bus) or Amtrak (train). Los Angeles is within driving distance from many major cities. Below is a timetable with the time it takes to drive here from other parts of US .

If you’re coming from outside the US and plan to do a road trip around California , then it’s wise to rent a car. I always book my car rental from Discover Cars as they offer the best prices and excellent customer service.

If you don’t have your own car, I recommend hiring a car for your weekend in LA as the city is very spread out. You’ll also get to enjoy the freedom and flexibility of exploring at your own pace. Drivers with foreign licenses are allowed to drive. 

An economy rental car in Los Angeles average just $180 for a whole week, which is around  $20 a day . The current price for gas in California is $3 per gallon, though this changes with time.

Check Car Rental Prices

Los Angeles doesn’t have the best public transport system. If you don’t drive, it is possible to use the metro network of buses and rail. Buy a TAP card to ride the Metro. It costs only $1 and you can reload it at any rail station. Buses, on the other hand, take cash fares and don’t provide back the change. Here are some details:

• TAP adult one-way : $1.75 (with 2-hours of free transfers)
• TAP day pass: $7
• Bus one-ride: $1.75 (no transfers)

Los Angeles is a year-round destination, thanks to its sunshine and balmy weather. But in general, March to May (Spring) and September to November (Fall) are the best months for visiting LA. This is when the weather is the most pleasant, and it’s not too crowded. The average temperature in these months is around 70°F (or 21°C). 

Don’t forget to pack an umbrella when planning your trip in winter, as January and February still receive a little rainfall from time to time.

Located close to the Santa Monica Pier, this budget hotel is simple but modern and clean. It’s definitely a great option for those looking for excellent location and low prices. It’s surrounded by restaurants and shops, and offers free parking.  Check the latest rates.

Within  walking distance  of the  Hollywood Walk  of  Fame , this  Hollywood  hotel features comfortable, spacious rooms. Famous former guests include  Marilyn Monroe  and  James Dean . Its location is also close to many attractions, including Universal Studios and the famous Hollywood Sign.  Check the latest rates.

If you’re looking to splurge on your weekend trip in LA, check out the Viceroy, one of the best hotels in LA. located along the Santa Monica beachfront, The slick and sexy rooms all feature a blue-and-white theme, with beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean. The hotel also has two outdoor pools and some comfy cabanas. Check the latest rates.

The 4-star beachfront retreat, Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel, is located on the Pacific Ocean on one side and the sands of the legendary Muscle Beach on the other. The fantastic rooftop bar offers some of the most amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. Check the rates.

If you’re looking to stay overnight near the airport, Hyatt Regency is the best choice in terms of value. It offers free shuttle service to and from all the airport terminals. Check rates here.

Los Angeles is one of the best places to eat in America , thanks to its huge array of cuisine. You can find everything ranging from trendy food trucks to upscale Michelin-starred restaurants, authentic taco stands to gourmet dining on the beach. LA is home to some of the most talented chefs and restaurants in the world.

Here are some of our favorite places to eat at:

• Orsa & Winston
• American Beauty
• Teddy’s Cafe
• Osteria Mozza 

And that’s a wrap! Feel free to print out this Los Angeles itinerary and bring it with you on your weekend getaway! I have packed this itinerary with all the best things you can do in Los Angeles in 3 days, so get ready to have a blast.

Be sure to leave a comment below if you have any questions. Read more of my US articles to get idea for your next weekend trip:

• Weekend in New York
• Weekend in Boston
• Weekend in Seattle
• Weekend in San Francisco
• Weekend in Miami
• California Road Trip Itinerary
• Arizona Road Trip Itinerary
• Florida Road Trip Itinerary
• Best National Parks in USA

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

Full-time travel blogger and digital nomad roaming the world at whim, Isabel draws energy from being outdoors. An explorer at heart, the world is her playground. She chronicles her travel adventures and budget tips on Bel Around The World .

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Kate Abroad

The Ultimate One Week in Los Angeles Itinerary [2024 Guide]

Spending a whole week in a city is a great way to really get to know it and, in a city as big as Los Angeles, you need at least that long to get around. I spent a week in LA exploring a different part of the city each day, here’s the 7 day Los Angeles itinerary I recommend (with a few tweaks to do things in a more logical order). 

I based myself in Santa Monica for this week. It’s not the most central location but as a solo traveller, I found it much safer than the Downtown or Hollywood area. 

Top Tip: Wherever you’re staying, I’d recommend doing the section of the itinerary that’s in/closest to that area first so you can use the first day to adjust and recover from any jet lag.

If you do everything on this one week LA itinerary, the cost will add up pretty quick. However, I can guarantee you’ll walk away feeling like you really did LA. 

I’ve put together a rough budget for the week at the end which you can use as a guide. However, you can save a lot by taking public transport (LA trains are fine, be careful on buses) and staying in hostels. Hostels are also a great way to meet people in what can otherwise be a lonely city.

Spending more time in California? Try this one week in the San Francisco Bay Area itinerary .

Los Angeles 7 Day Itinerary

Day 1: hollywood.

Hollywood is a must-do for anyone visiting LA. It’s super touristy sure but it’s also a bucket list place that you won’t want to miss during your week in LA. 

I recommend embracing the cliché tackiness and doing it all. Start with a stroll along the  Hollywood Walk of Fame then learn about old Hollywood at the  Hollywood Museum  and  Hollywood Forever Cemetery .

Bring out your inner kid at  Madame Tussauds  and either  Ripley’s Believe It or Not or Guinness Worlds Records  (unless you actually have kids with you, I wouldn’t recommend doing both).

For the afternoon, take the  Paramount Pictures  studio tour to see behind the scenes of the sets of your favourite shows and movies.

Then finish off the day with a film at the  Chinese Theatre  IMAX (all year) or a show at the  Hollywood Bowl  (October to May).

Day 2: Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills is a good antidote to grimy Hollywood, it’s a least trying to have all the glamour and class that Hollywood lacks.

The snootiness of Beverly Hills does mean that it’s not fully integrated into the public transport system of the rest of the city so it’s easiest to catch an Uber/Lyft here.

If you’re up for an early start (to avoid the heat), try starting the day with the  Runyon Canyon Hike . It’s meant to be a favourite of celebrities and influencers so keep your eyes peeled for someone you recognise.

After that refuel with some pancakes from  Griddle Café , it’s not actually in Beverly Hills but their pancakes are one of the best American foods to try on your visit.

Beverly Hills is a fun place to explore on foot, soaking up the vibe and popping into stores and cafes as suits. However, if you prefer not to walk, a  trolley tour  is a great option to see the area, or you could jump on one of the celebrity homes tours that start around the area.

Shopping on  Rodeo Drive  is a must, even if it’s only window shopping – that’s all I could afford to do! Don’t miss the Cupcake ATM either.

Day 2 is a good time to check out  LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) , you’ve probably seen pictures of the forest of lamps outside. It’s just down from Beverly Hills around La Brea area.

While you’re there you could check out  La Brea Tar Pits  and / or The Grove shopping centre.

Day 3: Venice and Santa Monica

It wouldn’t be a week in LA without at least one beach day and the Santa Monica / Venice Beach area is a fun part of the coast to explore.

Santa Monica is pretty laidback and family-friendly with the famous  Santa Monica Pier  full of rides and food stalls which makes for a good day out. 

Venice Beach is its own vibe known for bodybuilders and hippies. You can try some of the outdoor gym equipment down at  Muscle Beach  or grab a cannabis-loaded smoothie bowl. There is also a ton of great vegan and veggie LA restaurants in this part of town.

The walk in between along the  boardwalk  is super pretty, lined with lots of souvenir shops. You can also rent bikes or scooters which are super popular for getting up and down the coastline.

Day 4: Downtown and surrounds

Los Angeles’ Downtown area gets a bad rep for being dirty and unsafe but it’s in the process of revitalising and there are some really cool attractions to explore.

Grand Central Market  is a must, there are so many food stalls there and you can’t really go wrong. I still dream about the tacos. While you’re there, jump on the  Angel’s Flight  cable car, it’s touristy but good fun.

DTLA is also home to a lot of historic buildings from  Union Station  and the Central Library to the Bradbury Building and  El Pueblo de Los Angeles . Pop them into a map and take yourself for a walking tour, you’ll get some great photos.

I’d recommend doing a  food tour  on this day (If you don’t fill up at Grand Central Market). I did one run by Urban Adventures in Koreatown, and it was awesome, super informative and had lots of tasty food. It’s a good way to get to know some of the immigrant communities that have shaped today’s LA.

Day 5: Universal Studios

Los Angeles is movie city and while Hollywood is the old side of that,  Universal Studios  is the new and it’s a fun place to try some rides and see behind the scenes of your favourite shows and movies.

Getting to Universal Studios can be a bit of a mission, I’d recommend getting an Uber or Lyft to avoid the hassle of trains and buses. 

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, you’ll love the whole themed area at Universal Studios where you can try butter beer and go on wizard rides.

I highly rated the studio tour where you hurtle around TV sets in a trolley and see how some iconic scenes were put together.

If you can afford it, getting the Universal Express Pass makes the day a lot easier as you save heaps of time in queues, however, if you can time your visit for mid-week you can probably get away with a general pass.

Day 6: Griffith Park and The Getty

For the ultimate LA tourist bucket list moment, you need to climb up to the Hollywood Sign. It’s quite a hike but worth it for the amazing views over the city. If you’re visiting in summer, you’ll want to go very early to avoid the heat.

Once you’re up there, you might as well visit the Griffith Observatory. It’s free entry and a great option if you’re travelling with kids.

Another slightly out-of-the-way attraction that’s worth the trip is The Getty. It’s the most famous museum/art gallery in LA and has an enormous collection of works from around the world. Kind of like LA’s answer to the Met.

Day 7: Disneyland day trip

While it might seem like a lot to do both Universal Studios and Disneyland in one week in Los Angeles, it wouldn’t be an LA trip without Disney and the two experiences are quite different.

To get to Disneyland I’d recommend taking the Amtrak to Anaheim and staying the night close by so you can get to the park at the opening in the morning. Booking.com has some great options for accommodation close to the park.

I won’t pretend to be a Disney expert, as there are people who write whole blogs just on the park, but my top tips would be to arrive early, pace yourself, and embrace the Disney spirit.

Related: Solo Traveller’s Guide to Disneyland

Where to stay for a week in LA

Los Angeles has so many accommodation options you could find something for any budget in any part of the city.

I loved staying in Santa Monica as it felt super safe as a solo traveller while still having a lot happening and being on a train line that helps get to most places in the city.

Beverly Hills is also a great area if you want to be more central and are ok paying slightly more. 

Here are some top picks for accommodation around the city:

• HI Los Angeles Santa Monica – a cheap hostel near the beach with good social vibes
• Freehand Los Angeles – a midrange hotel downtown with a cool bar and restaurant
• Beverly Hills Plaza Hotel – a beautiful boutique hotel close to upmarket Beverly Hills

Compare prices at Booking.com

How much to budget for a week in Los Angeles

To help you plan your LA week, here’s an idea of costs if you did most of the activities on this itinerary. All amounts are in USD and based on adult prices, most places have student discounts.

Attractions:

Note: I’ve based these off the entry-level tickets, if you want express passes or multi-park passes etc then you’ll need to budget more.

You could cut down these costs with a multi-attraction pass like the ones offered by Go City, which gives you a discount on tickets. Click here to check out the Go City Passes – I’ve tried their 2 day pass which is great value.

As a general guide for other costs:

• Accommodation: $30-50/night for a hostel bed, $150-200/night for a couple in a mid-range hotel 
• Food: $30/day for groceries/street food or $50-100/day for eating at cafes/restaurants
• Transport: $12.50 for 7 day LA Metro pass or $40-100/day for rideshare/taxis

That comes out as around $450 minimum for a week so close to $800 including attractions.

In Short: How to Spend a Week In LA

There are so many ways you could spend a week in LA so hopefully, this itinerary gives you a starting point for planning your trip. If you’re visiting for less time, you could easily pick out the days with the most interesting activities for you.

For more  USA travel  inspiration, check out these articles:

• East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• Northeastern United States Itinerary
• Best Midwest Holiday Destinations

Happy travelling!

USA Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find tickets for attractions and awesome day tours on Viator
• Save $$$ on attractions in NYC, LA, Miami and more with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your US dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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Los Angeles Travel Guide — 3-Day Itineraries for Hollywood fans, Thrill-Seekers, and Avid Sightseers

Los Angeles has loads to keep you entertained! Besides Hollywood, the city has many famous beaches and thrilling theme parks to boot. Our three-day Los Angeles Travel Guide suggests three ways to explore the city, and 21 things to see-do-eat too!

There’s something about Los Angeles (LA) that sparks excitement. It’s glitzy, it’s glamourous… it’s Entertainment Capital of the World for good reason! So despite the severe jet lag, I was wildly excited when I stumbled off the plane, feverishly fantasising: Will I meet a celebrity? Will I get discovered by Hollywood?  Will I become famous? 

The short answer is no. None of those dreams came true. Yet, I wasn’t too disappointed. I found myself too busy enjoying LA’s attractions to chase after stardom. After all, LA is packed with many sun-kissed beaches, fascinating museums, and (of course!) the star-studded Hollywood industry.

But with so much to see in LA, it can get daunting when you have limited time. To help you out, o ur Los Angeles Travel Guide provides three sample itineraries based on your interests. We’ve  also included 21 things to eat, see and do so you’d never get bored in LA!

Pre-trip Essentials

Connectivity: We shared a 4G pocket WiFi , which you can use instantly once you arrive in LA, and connect up to five devices.

Getting around LA:  Purchase a TAP card from any Metro station for US$2 (~S$2.70). Thereafter, you can add a one-day Pass for US$7 (~S$9.50), which can be used on all Metro services.

GO LA Card:  This nifty all-inclusive card grants you admission to over 30 LA attractions for one low price, with one to seven-day flexi options. The GO LA Card can only be used from 9:30AM – 5:30PM, but you can stay at the attraction past that timing. All you need to do is scan the card on your phone, and you’re in!

3-Day Los Angeles Itineraries

The GO LA Card includes entry to a diverse range of attractions from theme parks to museums, and guided tours around film studios or celebrity homes. We’ve drawn up three-day Los Angeles itineraries for these categories: Hollywood fans, thrill-seekers, and avid sightseers. Attractions listed with asterisks (*) are covered by the GO LA Card.

1) Hollywood Fans

Highlights: Sony Pictures Studio Tour* — Universal Studios Hollywood* — Warner Bros. Studio Tour* — Griffith Observatory

2) Thrill-seekers

Highlights: Six Flags Magic Mountain* — Universal Studios Hollywood* — Pacific Park*

3) Avid Sightseers

Highlights: Whale Watching Cruise at San Pedro* — OUE Skyspace* — Warner Bros. Studio Tour* — Madame Tussauds*

21 Things to See-Do-Eat in LA

If you’re staying for longer or want a greater variety of activities, ths Los Angeles Travel Guide has listed more exciting places, fun activities and lip-smacking eats to spruce up your LA adventure! 

What to See in LA

1) hollywood boulevard.

Photo credit: LA Insider Tours

One of LA’s most popular sites, Hollywood Boulevard features dazzling attractions that line the short road like the iconic Walk of Fame, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and cement hand and footprints of famous celebrities.

How to get there: Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Vine Station.

*Pro-tip:  Avoid taking photos with costumed people who roam around Hollywood Boulevard. They’ll “ask” for a tip afterwards, sometimes starting from US$10 (~S$13.60).

2) Venice Beach

Photo credit: Sergio Ruiz

Venice Beach is the perfect place to get that golden tan and soak in the chill vibes. There’s plenty to explore along the gorgeous stretch, from the famous Muscle Beach where bodybuilders work out, to quirky shops along the Broadwalk and the nearby Santa Monica Beach.

How to get there: From Downtown LA, take bus 33 from Spring/7th bus stop to Main/Grand bus stop.

3) OUE Skyspace LA

The OUE Skyspace is the tallest observation deck in LA, and is hands-down a must-go to capture breathtaking vantage views of the city.

Entrance Fee: US$25 (~S$33.80,  free with GO LA Card) Opening Hours: 10AM – 10PM How to get there:  Take the Metro Line to 7th St/Metro Center station, then walk 500m.

4) LA County Museum of Art

Chris Burden’s Urban Light installation. Photo credit: U.S. News

The world-class LA County Museum of Art houses thousands of international art pieces, including brilliant works from Picasso and Andy Warhol.

Entrance Fee: US$25 (~S$33.80) Opening Hours: Varies How to get there:  Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station, then take bus 217 to Fairfax/Wilshire, and walk 320m.

5) Griffith Observatory

Seeing stars doesn’t just refer to celebrities; Actual stars count too! Located on Mount Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory is a massive observatory. It offers telescopes for public use, an impressive planetarium, and panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood sign.

Entrance Fee: Free Opening Hours: 12PM – 10PM (Tue – Fri), opens 10AM on weekends, closed on Mon How to get there:  Take the Metro Red Line to Vermont/Sunset station, then take the DASH Observatory bus .

6) Natural History Museum of LA

Showcasing dinosaurs, mammals, and even human and Neanderthal skeletons, nature lovers are in for a fun time at LA’s Natural History Museum .

Entrance Fee:  US$15 (~S$20.30,  free with GO LA Card) Opening Hours:  9:30AM – 5PM How to get there: Take the Metro Expo Line to Expo Park/USC station, then walk 160m.

7) Battleship IOWA Museum

Ever wondered how the inside of a naval warship looks like, or what the naval flags mean? The Battleship IOWA Museum answers your curiosity. Open to the public, you’ll embark on a fascinating self-guided tour around the historical battleship that was used in WWII, the Korean War, and the Cold War.

Entrance Fee: US$19.95 (~S$27, free with GO LA Card) Opening Hours: 10AM – 5PM (Last entry 4PM) How to get there: Take the Metro Silver Line to Beacon/1st station, then walk 320m.

Things to Do in LA

8) disneyland.

This Los Angeles travel guide loves everything Disney so Disneyland  (and its “big sister” Disney California Adventure ) can’t be missed. Once you enter, you’ll find yourself immersed in elaborate themed worlds with exciting rides and fantastical parades. Don’t forget to have your happy ending with a wonderful fireworks show!

Cost: From ~S$147 Opening Hours: Varies How to get there:  Take bus 460 from Spring/7th bus stop in Downtown LA.

Read also:   The Ultimate Disneyland California Guide for Tourists in 1 Day — Discounted Tickets and 25 Hacks to Maximising Your Experience

9) Cruise Around in San Pedro

When you tire of the city, sail out to open waters! The LA Waterfront Cruises offers enjoyable daily harbour cruises, and whale watching tours (weekends only).

We went on the whale watching tour, hoping to spot migrating grey whales. Although we didn’t manage to see any, we had a great time watching many playful dolphins porpoising near our boat.

We recommend calling ahead to make a reservation as walk-ins are based on availability.

Cost: From US$30 (~S$40.60,  free with GO LA Card) Cruise Timings: Harbour cruis e varies ; Whale watching tour operates at 10AM, 12:30PM, and 3PM How to get there: Take the Metro Silver Line to Beacon/1st station, then walk 1.1km to the ticketing office.

10) Warner Bros. Studio Tour

You wouldn’t really know how heavy an Oscar is (3.8kg!) until you hold it.

One of my personal favourites from this Los Angeles Travel Guide; This is a must-do for anyone enamoured with Hollywood!

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour  brings you behind the silver screen to discover over 90 years of movie magic. Wicked highlights include touring working sets and soundstages, learning interesting facts about the Hollywood industry, and even holding a real Oscar trophy!

Cost: US$69 (~S$93.40, free with GO LA Card) Tour Timings: 12PM or 2PM ( call in advance to make reservations) How to get there:  Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station, then take bus 222.

11) Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Clowning around like Charlie Chaplin is a specialty of ours.

If you’re determined to meet celebrities, Madame Tussauds is the next best (legal) option. You can take fun photos with numerous wax figures of celebrities and musicians from different eras like Charlie Chaplin, Elvis Presley and Lady Gaga.

Entrance fee: US$30.95 (~S$42,  free with GO LA Card) Opening   Hours: 10AM – 8PM, closes 10PM on weekends (may vary ) How to get there:  Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station, then walk 320m.

12) Hike to the Hollywood Sign

It’s easy to admire the iconic Hollywood Sign from afar, but hiking to it is a whole new experience that you won’t forget or regret! Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll be rewarded with an vast, sweeping view of LA — well-worth the time and effort.

There are three routes of varying difficulties to the sign. For us, we went on the shortest but hardest route: the  Wonder View Trail . It was a challenging uphill hike, but doable with  the right gear.

13) Universal Studios Hollywood

A magical must-do for movie fans and theme park lovers alike! Universal Studios Hollywood dunks you into the worlds of Harry Potter and Despicable Me (to name a few), where you can pick out your wands or dance with Minions. There’s also the world-famous studio tour that brings you on an interactive, behind-the-scenes journey of live studios and hair-raising simulations.

Cost:  US$129 (~S$175,  free  with the 3, 5 and 7-day GO LA Card) Opening Hours: Varies How to get there: Take the Metro Red Line to Universal City station, then cross the street and take a shuttle bus that runs every 10–15mins.

Read also:   Insider’s Guide to LA Theme Parks

14) Pacific Park

Located on Santa Monica pier, the carnival-like Pacific Park offers many gripping rides and game booths that will thrill all ages. While we recommend getting an unlimited ride wristband as it’s much more worthwhile than buying individual ride tickets. Go forth and ride on!

Do note that some rides may be closed during low season (Nov – Feb).

Cost: US$32.95 (~S$44.60,  free with GO LA Card) Opening Hours:   Varies How to get there:  Take the Metro Expo Line to Downtown Santa Monica station, then walk 800m.

Places to Eat in LA

15) hard rock cafe.

You don’t have to be a rock ‘n roll fan to enjoy classic American grub at Hard Rock Cafe ! We got a meal voucher that includes the full deal: A burger/sandwich, drink, dessert as well as tips and gratuities. Big eaters can go for the Atomic Burger and Guinness Cheeseburger, both of which were incredibly juicy, tender, and huge.

Cost: ~S$44 Opening Hours: 11AM – 11PM, closes 12AM on Fri and Sat How to get there:  Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station, then walk 140m.

16) Grand Central Market

A historical landmark in Downtown LA, the Grand Central Market parallels an exciting buffet that will leave you spoilt for choice with its wide variety of international cuisines. We recommend having Salvadoran pupusas, a thick tortilla stuffed with delicious toppings like beans and cheese (US$3.65, ~S$5) — something you’d hardly find in Singapore! 

Opening Hours: 8AM – 10PM How to get there: Take the Metro to Pershing Square station, then walk 100m.

17) San Pedro Fish Market

The San Pedro Fish Market is well-known for its world-famous shrimp tray (starts from US$39, ~S$53). No lies here — it’s a literal tray stacked with freshly-cooked shrimps and vegetables in butter and herbs. If that isn’t enough, you can add a huge slab of garlic bread to soak up the leftover sauces.

Opening Hours: 8AM – 8PM How to get there:  Take the Metro Silver Line to Beacon/1st station, then walk 1.3km.

18) In-N-Out Burgers

When in California, you’ve just got to eat at In-N-Out Burgers . It’s quinteseential in this Los Angeles travel guide! This Californian fast food chain is renowned for its inexpensive burgers, and animal-style sauce (a savoury concoction of secret sauce, cheese, onions and grilled pickles). If you’re feeling adventurous, order the interesting stuff from their not-so-secret menu !

Cost: From US$2.10 (~S$2.85) Opening Hours: 10:30AM – 1AM, closes 1:30AM on Fri and Sat How to get there: Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station, then walk 650m (and other locations ).

19) La Isla Bonita

Nearby Venice Beach sits La Isla Bonita , a famous taco truck that serves cheap eats like tacos and burritos. Their ceviche tostadas (US$3, ~S$4.10) is said to be the best in LA, and was refreshingly delicious on a warm day. You probably won’t catch Madonna flamenco dancing here, though.

Cost: US$2 – US$8 (~S$2.70 – ~S$10.90) Opening Hours: 11:30AM – 6PM, closed on Thu How to get there:  Take bus 33 from Spring/7th bus stop in Downtown LA to Main NB & Sunset FS bus stop, then walk 500m.

20) Bruxie 

Nothing screams soul food louder than some good ol’ fried chicken and waffles! Bruxie  serves up a crispy Original Chicken Waffle Sandwich (US$10.50, ~S$14.30) that’s both heavenly and sinful.

Cost: US$8.45 – US$21.95 (~S$11.50 – ~S$29.80) Opening Hours: 10AM – 9PM (Mon – Thu), 10AM – 10PM (Fri – Sat), 9AM – 9PM (Sun) How to get there: Take the Metro Expo Line to Downtown Santa Monica station, then walk 650m.

21) Dirt Dog

Imagine a jacked-up version of the American hot dog — that’s what Dirt Dog dishes out! The small eatery turns the simple street fare into a flavourful medley of soft breads, freshly-grilled sausages, and generous toppings like fries and chili.

Cost: From US$6.50 – US$8.50 (~S$8.80 – ~S$11.50) Opening Hours: 10:30AM – 10PM, closes 11PM from Thu – Sat How to get there: Take the Metro Expo Line to LATTC/Ortho Institute station, then walk 320m.

The Best Way to Experience Los Angeles

LA is packed with gorgeous scenery and riveting adventures like Universal Studios Hollywood and OUE Skyspace. However, you don’t need to blow a hole in your wallet to experience the glitz and glamour of the city. We got a  GO LA Card , which included access to many of LA’s attractions, and visited eight attractions in three days. Compared to paying at the gate, we saved a total of ~US$40 with this card.

We got even more bang for our buck when we purchased our cards via Klook , which saved us an extra ~10%! On top of the huge discounts the card already has, it’s pretty worthwhile if you ask us.

The GO LA Card helped us save time as it allowed priority access to some attractions. We skipped queues and headed straight into the attraction after scanning the cards on our phones. The card also offers users flexibility like open-dated theme park tickets — perfect for those who want some spunk and spontaneity on their trip!

Do note that some attractions like the Warner Bros. Studio Tour require prior reservation, so we recommend booking these activities in advance. In the meantime, you can visit other attractions that don’t require them.

As we packed up and readied to leave LA for our road trip to San Francisco , I felt a twinge of sadness. Not only were we leaving one of the world’s most prominent cities that gave us such fond memories, I was leaving without being discovered by Hollywood and becoming famous. 😢 I’ll just have to continue writing for The Travel Intern instead of signing autographs (I’m kidding, please don’t fire me).

We hope our travel guide is helpful in planning your LA trip. Maybe your luck will be better than mine, and you’ll spot a celebrity or two!

Did we miss out on anything in our Los Angeles Travel Guide? Tell us in the comments below!

This post was brought to you by Klook .

For more travel inspiration, follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram , Telegram and YouTube .

  A post shared by The Travel Intern (@thetravelintern) on Aug 14, 2018 at 3:08am PDT

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Thank you for recommending interesting places! I will be here in just two days, but I will have a rental car for this, I hope to visit as many places as possible

I found the best travel guide to Los angels Thanks for informative Blog!

I have just been to LA for ten days last September and I’m definitely going back next year. There’s just so much to see and do. There really is something for everyone.

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The Perfect Los Angeles Itinerary for 5 Days

Best Los Angeles Itinerary For First-Time Visitors!

City of stars, are you shining just for me?

I bet you just sang it instead of reading it, right? Oh and please don’t tell me you haven’t seen the movie La La Land because that’s an absolute MUST if you visit the sunny city in Southern California.

Ever since I saw the movie, it has been my biggest dream to visit LA – one of THE most famous cities in the world!

No joke, but I almost cried when I finally booked the flight and planned my Los Angeles itinerary for five days. One of my biggest dreams came true and the feeling was simply overwhelming.

We had a total of six full days in Los Angeles, however, we decided to plan a day trip to San Diego as well.

Initially, we even thought of doing a proper California road trip to visit other places like San Francisco or Joshua Tree as well but then decided against it. Six days just weren’t enough so we stayed in LA.

I probably don’t have to tell you that the city is huge and it’s simply impossible to see and do all the cool stuff in only five days.

I’m still quite astonished by how many things we covered in such a short time. We never felt rushed or stressed tho and spent enough time at every place.

So if you want to make the best out of your time in the “City of Angels”, here’s your perfect Los Angeles itinerary for 5 days. Packed with all the must-see’s and -do’s, it guarantees you an unforgettable time!

(This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a certain percentage of a sale if you purchase after clicking.)

BTW, you can change the order of the days, it’s just an example of how we planned them. Don’t hesitate to adjust the itinerary as you like it! 🙂

Day 1: Beverly Hills, LACMA & Melrose Avenue

On our first day, we decided to visit one of the fanciest and most expensive parts of Los Angeles: Beverly Hills.

Beverly Hills

Home to many Hollywood stars and only the most expensive boutiques it’s almost impossible to not feel super poor in this area – unless your name’s Kim Kardashian.

Let’s start your journey through this extraordinary part of LA at the iconic Beverly Hills Sign.

Beverly Hills Sign

The 12-meter-long Beverly Hills sign in Beverly Gardens Park is one of the most recognized sights in this area. The small pond in front of the sign is especially beautiful in spring and summer with countless blooming water lilies.

It’s also a perfect opportunity to snap a photo as evidence you’ve really been there!

Rodeo Drive

Walk along Beverly Gardens Park with the main street to your left and you’ll reach Rodeo Drive. Turn left and you’ll find yourself at the beginning of the famous and expensive shopping street.

Just wander along, admire the unaffordable goods in all the shop windows and feel a bit like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman.

If you turn around and make your way back to Beverly Gardens Park, keep on following Rodeo Drive to reach the most iconic hotel nearby: The Beverly Hills Hotel.

The Beverly Hills Hotel

On your way to the hotel, you’ll pass numerous very impressive villas – one bigger and more beautiful than the other one.

Some of them have a very modern architectural style whereas others almost look like Greek temples with huge columns at the entrance.

The Beverly Hills Hotel is a 5-star hotel and has been a hot spot for many celebrities – old and young – since 1912. So keep your eyes open, maybe you’ll see someone familiar entering the “Pink Palace” at Sunset Boulevard.

Tours you might find interesting :

Will Rogers Memorial Park

Right across the street from the iconic hotel there’s the lovely Will Rogers Memorial Park – a very beautiful and also historic place with a small fountain and huge palm trees.

It’s the perfect place to sit back, relax and watch some ducks play and swim in the water.

Alright, time to leave Beverly Hills and all the fanciness because it’s time to head to the next stop on our Los Angeles itinerary: Melrose Avenue!

Melrose Avenue

Melrose Avenue is one of LA’s most famous streets where you can find unique vintage shops, a lot of different dining places and some awesome wall paintings .

I really recommend you to just take your time, stroll around and enjoy the relaxing and cool atmosphere at Melrose Avenue. Don’t hesitate to visit some of its clothing stores , you can find many creative and unique pieces there!

Lunch at Fala Bar (optional)

No matter what part of Melrose Avenue you’re at, you’ll always find some great restaurants nearby.

If you want to have some nice vegan food in LA tho, I have the perfect address for you.

Fala Bar is a stylish vegan cafe offering a menu of organic falafels, sandwiches, and salads. It’s rather small and there are only a few tables outside so it’s likely you’ll have to wait to get a free one.

Trust me, the yummy food is definitely worth waiting tho!

The last stop of the day is the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, short LACMA. This art museum is the largest of its kind in the western part of the US and features more than 150,000 works.

No matter if you prefer Modern and Contemporary Art, Greek art, Islamic art or Asian art – LACMA has it all! There are even parts of the museum entirely dedicated to photography and film.

Directly in front of the entrance to the museum, you can find a permanent art installation called “Urban Lights” .

202 fully functional street lights from cities in and around Los Angeles make an awesome photo opportunity during the day as well as in the evening when they’re turned on.

If you’re not a fan of visiting museums and want to do something fun and exciting instead, head over to the neighborhood of Century City where you find The Escape Game , America’s #1 escape room!

Day 2: Warner Bros Studio Tour, Hollywood Sign & Griffith Observatory

You’re probably already familiar with the fact that Hollywood is home to the famous U.S. film industry. Thus visiting at least one of its historic film studios is an absolute must!

Day 2 of this Los Angeles itinerary takes you to the Warner Bros Studio , one of the oldest and most popular film studios in the world!

Warner Bros Studio Tour

The Warner Bros Studio Tour is an awesome and fun way to experience the production of different movies and series close up.

Led by an experienced tour guide, the tour usually takes between 2-3 hours and you’re in a small group together with a few other people.

During this time you’ll see different sets where series like The Big Bang Theory or Two and a Half Men were filmed . Moreover, you can have a look at the original requisites from their latest productions.

The time we went there, their latest popular movie produced was Crazy Rich Asians so we could admire all the colorful dresses and other interesting stuff used in the movie.

It’s a very popular tour to take so you should buy tickets online to avoid queuing.

After the Warner Bros Studio Tour, grab something to eat at the Whole Foods Market close by and make your way to the iconic Hollywood Sign!

Hollywood Sign (Hike)

Hiking up the Hollywood Sign was my absolute favorite activity during my time in LA. Don’t worry, the hike is not as exhausting and long as it may seem at the beginning.

TIP: I recommend you start from Lake Hollywood Park and simply follow Mulholland Highway until you reach a fork. There, take a left and continue on Mount Lee Drive.

After a while, you’ll spot another fork with a snake warning sign – keep on walking straight ahead and you’ll reach the sign.

The entire hike takes around 50 minutes and is a bit steep sometimes, but trust me, the view is definitely worth it. Standing up there and looking down at the City of Angels is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll never forget!

Griffith Observatory

Very close to the Hollywood Sign you can find Griffith Observatory, one of the most iconic landmarks in California .

It’s a public observatory on the southern part of Mount Hollywood offering a spectacular view of downtown LA, the Hollywood area, and the Pacific Ocean.

Besides enjoying an amazing view, you can see live shows in the Planetarium, look through telescopes, and visit different exhibitions to learn more about our planet and the universe.

Get more information about the Griffith Observatory and its exhibitions + tours .

Plus I highly recommend staying until it gets dark. You really don’t want to miss one of the most stunning sunsets!

Day 3: Hollywood, Runyon Canyon

Alright, day 3 of my Los Angeles itinerary for 5 days, and now it’s time to explore the “glamorous” Hollywood a bit more!

This day isn’t as packed as the others so you’ll have enough time to enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the many cafés on Hollywood Boulevard.

If there’s one part of Los Angeles EVERYONE knows, it’s Hollywood. In my opinion highly overrated and not glamorous at all yet not to miss during your time in LA.

Walk of Fame

Start your journey through Hollywood by taking a casual stroll at the popular Walk of Fame. More than 2,600 celebrities were honored by writing their names on stars embedded in the sidewalk.

It’s more than 2.1 kilometers long so it can take some time until you finally spot your celebrity crush!

Dolby Theatre

I bet you’ve seen the Dolby Theatre on TV already because it’s where the famous Oscars ceremony takes place. Once a year, it gets prepared to welcome the high society of the film industry.

On all other days tho, the Dolby Theatre functions as a shopping and entertainment mall.

Fun fact: The Academy Awards took place the day we left LA. Thus the entire theatre was covered and everyone was working hard to get ready for the important awards. That’s also the reason why I couldn’t take a proper picture of it.

TCL Chinese Theatre

Right next to the Doby Theatre, you find the grand TCL Chinese Theatre .

Is there a new movie you desperately want to see? There’s no better place than in this impressive movie palace shaped like a Chinese temple.

Don’t wonder about the masses of people staring at the ground in front of it tho. The floor at the entrance is filled with the hands and footprints of famous actors and actresses.

Even if you don’t want to see a movie or do a tour inside, it’s fun to stand in the footprints of George Clooney & Co. and compare them with your own feet size!

After casually walking around Hollywood, it’s time to get more active again. If you follow this Los Angeles itinerary, the next place to check out is Runyon Canyon.

Runyon Canyon

This 160-acre park at the end of the Santa Monica Mountains is a very popular hiking destination. Moreover, it’s also one of the most dog – friendly places in Los Angeles so be prepared to see many furry friends there!

You can either use the entrance at Mulholland Drive or the one at North Fuller Avenue as we did. It’s your choice where to go, the park is big and there are many awesome viewpoints.

However, keep in mind it’s not an easy climb to reach them so wear appropriate shoes. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with another breathtaking view of the city.

Moreover, the sunset up there is to die for so definitely deserves to be among the best places to watch the sunset in LA !

PSSST: Rumors say it’s a hotspot for celebrities so keep an eye open. Maybe if you’re lucky, you’ll see a familiar face.

Dinner at Firefly (optional)

If you’re hungry and want to have some fancy dinner, check out the restaurant Firefly in Studio City. It belongs to the more expensive sort of restaurant, but the food and the ambiance make an excellent dining experience.

Day 4: Downtown LA

Day 4 of my Los Angeles itinerary for 5 days is all about exploring Downtown LA.

This part of the city has long been and still is an area few people decide to visit. Frankly, I haven’t been the biggest fan of it either and preferred other parts of LA more.

Nevertheless, there are some awesome and fun activities you shouldn’t miss. In fact, it has so much to offer that I wrote an entire blog post including all the best things to do in Downtown LA .

I have some photos for you, just to give you a little foretaste of what awaits you there.

Day 5: Santa Monica & Venice

Oh how much I hate to tell you but we reached the last day of my Los Angeles itinerary already.

Now it’s time to explore – in my opinion – the two coolest, hippest, and simply best parts of Los Angeles: Santa Monica & Venice!

Santa Monica

Right at the Pacific Ocean and west of Downtown LA lies the coastal city of Santa Monica. It is mostly famous for the iconic Santa Monica Pier with the Pacific Park amusement park.

Before you’re going to spend some time here tho, make your way to the neighboring beach town Venice.

The best way to get there is to rent a bike from one of the rental stations near the pier. Then follow the cycle path along the beach until you reach the popular Venice Skatepark where you can park your bike.

So get on that bike, enjoy the sea breeze, and dig in all the stunning views on the way!

For me, Venice felt so different compared to the rest of LA . Everyone was super chilled and it almost seemed life happened slower than everywhere else in the city. No matter where you go, you’ll feel the relaxing atmosphere.

The best way to get an authentic experience of Venice is by taking a casual walk through the colorful beach town.

Start at the Venice Skatepark where you can see both, beginners and professionals, do some laps on their skateboards. It’s really fun to watch all the different tricks they perform!

Then continue your way to the central part of the town where you can find the iconic Venice Sign . It’s a great photo opportunity so make sure you click some good ones before heading to the Venice Canals!

The Venice Canals are beautiful, man-made canals off 25th Street. They’re not easy to spot so if you didn’t know about this place, you would probably just walk by.

Along the canals, you can find gorgeous houses, easily walkable sidewalks, and many connecting bridges. It’s a truly peaceful area and perfect for a leisurely stroll .

Lunch at Tocaya Organica (optional)

If you’re looking for a nice place to have lunch, I highly recommend the restaurant Tocaya Organica nearby. It’s an organic Mexican restaurant chain founded in Venice which has now locations all over Los Angeles.

Check out: Vegan Food Guide Los Angeles

After lunch, make your way back to the promenade and spend some time there before heading to Santa Monica again. If you want, you can also follow the cycle path in the other direction to see a bit more of Los Angeles’ coastline.

Back in Santa Monica, you can now do all the fun activities at Santa Monica Pier. Whether you’re brave and try the rollercoaster or enjoy the breathtaking view from the Ferris wheel – it won’t get boring at all!

Is there a better way to end the last day of your Los Angeles trip than with a sunset at Santa Monica Beach ? I doubt it! So walk down to the beach, sit down, and watch the sun disappear behind the horizon of California’s coastline.

Drinks at The Misfit & Shangri-La Rooftop Bar (optional)

Oh, I almost forgot one thing to make it a great last day! In downtown Santa Monica, only a few minutes from the pier, you can find some awesome bars to have a drink (or two.)

My recommendations are The Misfit (awesome atmosphere) and the Shangri-La rooftop bar (best views of Santa Monica Pier). So cheers to five unforgettable days in Los Angeles!

How to Get Around in Los Angeles

Do you believe me if I tell you it’s not necessary to rent a car in LA?

Although everyone recommended renting a car, we decided against it. Instead, we mainly used public transport to get around the city and it was straightforward!

Only a few times we had to order an Uber to reach places such as Hollywood Lake Park or Griffith Observatory. So if you don’t want to get stuck in the horrible traffic of LA, give public transport a chance!

Like it? Pin it!

Do you want to travel like me? Here are some of my favorite travel tips and resources:

Flights: I prefer using CheapOair or Skyscanner to book flights. The destination everywhere feature is perfect for finding some cheap deals! Accommodation: Booking.com is my favorite site to find some great hotel deals. I do love staying at a local place as well, thus I book an Airbnb every now and then. Travel Insurance: There are many reasons why travel insurance is important and I never travel without one. I use the simple and flexible one from SafetyWing that protects me against unforeseen events. Tours: I love taking tours to explore destinations like a local. My favorite website to book them in advance is GetYourGuide . Camera Gear: I use a Nikon D5300 camera with an 18-105 mm and a 10-20 mm wide-angle lens to take my photos.

Hey and welcome to my blog! I’m Alina, an Austrian travel addict and vegan food lover who has a passion for exploring new destinations and trying out the best plant-based food around the world. Come and join me as I share exciting bucket list experiences and provide helpful travel guides for your own adventures!

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67 Comments

This is an amazing itinerary Alina! I love SoCal, but I do need to get back to LA to do all the Hollywood stuff such as Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills Hotel, etc. I did do the hike to the sign and visited Santa Monica, which I loved! I loved all of your photos. 🙂

Thank you Taylor, really appreciate your comment! I also feel that I missed so much. Need to go back and explore Malibu for example 🙂

What a complete guide! 🙂 Los Angeles is in our bucket list and we hope it will be the first destination that we will visit in North America 😀 There are so many places here that look so colorful and alive!

Thanks guys ☺️ I hope you can make it there very soon, it’s an awesome city!

I’ve never been to LA but your post is definitely making me want to go there! 🙂

It’s a cool city!

I live in CA and have still never done an proper LA trip. Pinning for later!

Time to do so 🙂

I have been to LA a number of times but always looking for new things to see there when I will inevitably go back. I’m there for a long layover in May so planning my day already. I’ve never been to the Griffith Observatory so that’s high on my list.

Griffith Observatory is great, you’ll love it!

Awesome itinerary! Really great photos! The trip included a variety of aspects, which is awesome. I really hope to visit one day!

Thanks Jean-Marie! Glad you like it 🙂

Loved this itinrary for Orange county! I went there in 2010 and I’m hoping to get back there. This is a great breakdown for a second visit!

Thanks! Glad you like it 🙂

Ahh I’ve always wanted to go to LA! 5 days sounds awesome there! I’d definitely go by Melrose’s – it looks so iconic and just Hollywood!

So much to see hehe

This is an amazing itinerary! I’ve been to LA 6 times and can completely agree with the statement about downtown LA, haha no one likes to go there but I guess you have to go there once to see what it’s like! Also totally agree about Santa Monica & Venice – absolutely love them both!

Thanks Jasmine! 🙂 Haha yeah downtown is not the greatest of LA but there’s still much to see 🙂

Great post! I’ve been to most of these but this definitely makes me want to go back ? LA is such a fun city!

Thanks a lot! 🙂

Great itinerary! We are passing though LA this summer. Would love to go to see the LACMA – those lamp post photos are fab.

Love this guide so much! I have never been to LA but this makes me want to go even sooner.

Thanks, glad you like it 🙂

I felt a little overwhelmed when we visited Cali trying to figure out what to do in LA. Wish I had this a few months ago! But I’ll be saving for a future trip because I plan to return soon.

Hope you can make it there again soon!

I am a local and some of the restaurants I had no idea even existed. I am not vegan but love vegan food and love some of the spots you mentioned!

You’ll definitely like them!!!

Ya know, I’ve been to California so often and you found some gems I haven’t heard of or been to yet. Great post! Can’t wait to return now!

Thanks a lot 🙂

I live down in San Diego, but LA seems so far thanks to the traffic involved in getting there. More exploration time is definitely in order!

Oh yeah the traffic can be horrible but it’s worth exploring it 🙂

Beautiful and I think you’ve covered a lot of the most famous and must-go places in LA. Definitely a bible for the first-timer like me!

Oh yes we really did and saw a lot! 🙂 Glad you find it helpful

I have never been to LA, but this is such a great itinerary! Absolutely love your photos and would love to visit LACMA! Great article!

Thanks a lot Polly ☺️ Happy you like it!

Great post! I am going to LA in a few weeks so this guide was very helpful. Will pin so I have a reference. Thank you!

Glad you can use it! Have an amazing time you’ll love it 🙂

What an action-packed itinerary! There is so much to do in LA, I have a feeling you could spend a lifetime there and still not do it all!

Omg yes totally haha

Heading here later this year! Definitely saving this for later! Thanks for all the tips!!

Oh you’ll love it!

Great detailed post! I love reading itineraries that people have done themselves.

Thanks Lauren 🙂

How timely! I’m heading to LA next week. Can’t wait.

Perfect, hope you can use this 🙂

Wow this itinerary is super!!! I can’t wait my LA trip, and I was actually really struggling to plan my itinerary. Thanks, saving it! xx

Glad you can use it! 🙂

You are making me want to go to LA!!! Love this guide so helpful

Thanks Dana 🙂

Wow, this is such a detailed itinerary! We are hoping to head back to LA soon and will deffo use these tips! I MUST head to Santa Monica next time!

Thanks Katie! Santa Monica was really one of my favourite places 🙂

Thanks for a helpful post! I wish I had more time to visit LACMA when I was visiting LA, it looks lush! And Venice Beach was a hotspot for all fit hotties and athletes hahah xx

Omg yeeees haha! Loved Venice 😀

This post made me think of loads of fun I could have in the City of Angels with my BFFs. There would be plenty of things to do and see with a group as diverse as ours. Can’t wait to follow your itinerary!

LA is so high on my bucketlist! This itinerary looks perfect, has the right amount of everything! Definitely going to use this when I visit soon!

Thanks Emma! 🙂

It seems you had a great time.

I had, thanks 🙂

So many things I still haven´t seen in LA! I´d love to visit Runyon Canyon next time. Spending 5 days in Los Angeles seems like the best way to see most of the city!

Yes definitely! It’s a good amount of time 🙂

A very detailed and thorough itinerary. Thanks so much for the valuable information!!!

Glad you find it useful Michelle 🙂

This is a great guide! When I was in Los Angeles we were only there for a couple of days so sadly only got to see a fraction of these. I’d love to go back and see more though, especially the coast! My favourites were definitely the Warner Bros studio tour and the Griffiths Observatory. I’m going to save your recommendations for my next visit!

Hannah | https://getlost.blog/

I loooved the view from the Griffith Observatory so much ?

This is a great guide for first timers like my family, will be very helpful. Thank you for sharing, Alina!

I’m beyond happy to hear this, Debbie! Have a wonderful time 🙂

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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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Girl Eat World

A girl's adventure in food and travel around the world, optimal los angeles itinerary for first time visitors.

I used to live in LA for a long time – ten years to be exact. I spent a good chunk of my formative year growing up in the suburb of LA before getting thrown straight into the heart of the city when I attended UCLA for my undergrad studies.

Safe to say, I spent my best years in LA. I love the city so much and I want to help make your stay here to be as enjoyable as possible. So, I’ve put together a Los Angeles itinerary that is hopefully easy to follow for you, whether you’re spending just a weekend in LA, or a whole week and more.

It’s going to be a long one, so buckle up!

Before we go on, I wanted to say my special thanks to my good friend Kat for being a true champ. This post would not have been possible without her. Kat and I met a long time ago when we were both students at UCLA. She continued to live in LA while I moved across the world to Singapore.

When I was in LA visiting her, she drove me around LA. And I do mean, EVERYWHERE which is not an easy feat in a city as trafficky as LA! We even went to all the parts that we didn’t get to explore as the poor car-less students that we were.

Thank you so much, Kat!! <3

Okay so without further ado, here is everything I know about visiting Los Angeles.

• Tips for visiting Los Angeles
• How to drive in Los Angeles
• Parking in Los Angeles
• Public Transportation in Los Angeles
• How much time should I spend in Los Angeles?
• When is the best time to visit Los Angeles?
• Where to stay in Los Angeles
• Day 1: Central LA (Hollywood)
• Day 2: Historic Downtown LA
• Day 3: Westside LA (The beach!)
• Day 4: Pacific Coast Highway Road Trip
• Day 5 onward: Day Trip Ideas from LA

My tips for visiting Los Angeles

To make your visit to LA more enjoyable, here are some of my tips:

1. Get a travel pass to save money! – There are lots of things to visit and do in LA, which means you’ll spend money on those activities. Getting a travel pass could ease the pain!

Here are a few travel passes you can consider:

• Go City Los Angeles All-Inclusive Pass – If you are only in LA for less than a week and plan to see as many attractions as possible, it’s usually worth it to get the Go City All-Inclusive Pass to cover you for some of those days. The pass will already pay for itself if you plan to get the multi-day card and plan to visit one of the amusement parks (except Disneyland) – check the list of attractions here .

To make it easier for you, I’ll leave note in the itinerary below which landmarks are included with the Go City All-Inclusive Pass.

• Go City Explorer Pass – On the other hand, if you decide that you only want to visit a few select attractions, you can consider this instead. The Explorer Pass entitles you to see these attractions at your own pace – the pass is valid for 60 days and you can select any 2-7 attractions.

2. Book ahead an airport pick up from LAX . Unless you plan to rent a car straight from the airport, this is the best way to get to your hotel from the airport. You can book a private Airport pick up here . Otherwise, you can consider looking at a shuttle bus. It’s cheaper than taking a taxi or ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft.

3. Rent a car. Book a car rental that you can pick up and return at LAX here . Why? Public transportation in LA, though arguably better than what it was before, is not the best – I’ll talk more about this later . Taxis must be booked in advance, and ride-sharing could get expensive. Trust me, I didn’t have a car when I was living in LA, and it was a nightmare. For more information on driving in LA, check out the next section of this blog driving in Los Angeles , which includes things like parking in LA.

4. If you cannot drive , then your best bet is to go by tour or sightseeing tours or bus. While it might not be the most efficient way, it will still take you to all the places you’d want to see in LA. Here are some tours that would take you to most of the must-do activities in LA and include hotel pick-up:

• Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches, and More
• The Best of LA Tour: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Griffith Park +More

Tip: The Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus 1-Day Classic Tour could be a great option and is included with the Go City All-Inclusive Pass . It normally costs US$ 46 per adult.

5. Take note of the opening time of the attractions you want to see. For example, The Getty and the Griffith Observatory are closed on Mondays and Getty Villa is closed on Tuesdays. So generally, the latter half of the week (Wednesday – Sunday) is the best time to visit LA if you are interested.

6. Learn how to tip the American way – yes, I know, the tipping culture in the US baffles every visitor. It’s confusing! But, you don’t want to shortchange someone just because you disagree with this social norm. The most common instance where you’ll need to tip is when eating at a restaurant. The general rule of thumb is to tip 15% for average service, 20% for great service, and 25% for exceptional service. You don’t need to tip at establishments where the food is not served to you. Fast food, bakeries, or dessert places are examples of these types of establishments, but it certainly would be nice if you felt the staff did an exceptional job. You also don’t need to tip ride-sharing drivers (but again, it is always nice to), but you must tip taxi drivers.

7. Watch out for the CA sales tax! In California, you’re subjected to a sales tax every time you make a purchase. This sales tax is usually not included in the stated price and will be charged upon payment. In Los Angeles, the sales tax is 9.50%. So for example, say you see a nice purse for $30 – it will actually ring up as $32.85 when you pay for it.

8.  Wise Card  worked super well in the US  – If you’re an international visitor like myself, definitely get yourself  a Wise Debit Card . You’ll save on foreign transaction fees with it. I never had to use cash when I was in NYC and  San Francisco !

9. Be at the beach in the late afternoon for sunset – You’ll see some of the best sunsets of your life, so plan to be at the beach during sunset time! I recommend visiting Santa Monica Beach or Venice Beach around 5 PM.

10. Last but not least – HAVE FUN! I feel like most of my travel tips have been negative, but trust me, it will all be worth it. I just wanted you to be mentally prepared to be able to enjoy this special city.

How to drive a car in LA

Ask anyone and they’ll tell you that driving is pretty much a requirement if you want to explore Los Angeles. Aside from the vast area, you would need to cover, there isn’t a good public transportation infrastructure in LA.

Anyone can drive and rent a car in LA so long as they have a valid driving license. Good news for international tourists – you don’t need an International Driving License to drive in California . But you DO need a valid driving license from your country of residence.

What is the driving requirement in California? See the DMV page on California driving requirements .

Once you’ve secured a vehicle, be prepared to deal with the LA traffic. You can try to avoid it, but I’ve been told traffic is bad all day long. You just have to accept it and plan your day around it. Be prepared to factor in extra driving time.

Also, make sure you are a confident driver. LA drivers are notoriously aggressive drivers. You’ll also be doing a lot of street parking so make sure you know how to parallel park.

Last but not least, practice basic safety to ensure your car doesn’t become a target for car break-ins – don’t leave anything visible in the seats (bags, earphones, or other small electronics). Always take your valuables with you.

Parking and car parks in Los Angeles

Another thing you need to learn about is how the car park works here. And let me tell you, parking is expensive in LA, especially in the Downtown area. There are usually parking lots with either an hourly rate (capped to a certain amount per session) or a flat rate regardless of how long you park your car. In the downtown area , this is usually a steep flat rate of US$12-15, so you’ll want to keep your car in the same lot while you’re sightseeing. You can refer to this map to plan your parking before coming to downtown LA.

The cheaper way to park your car is to find street parking , which is sometimes metered or sometimes free, but obviously, these are super coveted spots and everyone wants them. Don’t bank on it, but if you do find a street parking spot, make sure you pay attention to the signs since street parking is usually only allowed at certain hours and there might be a block out time for street cleaning.

If you’re lucky you might be visiting a museum/restaurant/shopping mall that offers validated parking , meaning they’ll cover your parking cost or offer discounted parking up to certain hours, so keep looking out for that too!

And again, please take note to not leave any valuables in the car or even leave anything small on the car seat that can be seen from outside, because it might make you a target for car break-ins.

Taking Public Transportation in LA

I came from Singapore, where public transport is probably the best in the world. So I can’t say I was impressed by public transport in LA, but in retrospect, it’s not too bad. It’s still not the most comprehensive, but at least it’s not nearly non-existent like how it was when I lived here ten years ago!

Here is a quick rundown of the two types of services you’d likely take as a tourist in LA:

• The LA Metro – The metro is a transportation agency consisting of rails and buses. Their rail lines now take you from downtown LA to Santa Monica! This is something that didn’t exist when I was in college.
• DASH Bus service – LADOT (short for Los Angeles Department of Transportation)’s bus service that services mostly downtown. Free with the TAP card you use to ride the metro.

To use the above services, you need to get a TAP card online . If you have a smartphone, you can even just pay for the fares through the app instead of a physical card. Then, you can buy a 1-day, 7-day, or 30-day pass for unlimited rides if you’re in LA for longer.

How much time should I spend in LA?

Let me start by saying that LA is a HUGE city and the landmarks are spread apart from each other. Ideally, you should try to spend 5-7 days here if you don’t want to be rushed and want to see everything.

But if you are okay with missing out on certain stuff, you can still see a good amount of stuff in just 3-4 days, or even a weekend if you’re good at organizing your time. After all, you can always come back 😉

When is the best time to visit LA?

So this is why I love LA so much – the weather here is simply the best. It’s great to visit all year round! The summers are not too hot, and the winters are not too cold. Spring and Fall are just downright beautiful. California tends to be dry, so you don’t have to worry too much about rain ruining your travel.

However, forest fires have unfortunately become a common occurrence in California, so be prepared if you’re visiting when it’s forest fire season. Pay attention to the news!

Where to stay in LA

There isn’t a specific area you can stay in LA where everything will be close by. No matter where you visit, you’ll likely still have to drive. That said, here are some recommendations!

If you have a high budget then staying in Downtown LA or West Hollywood is great for that LA feel. Here are some notable hotels if you need ideas:

• Chateau Marmont – Aside from being one of the most iconic hotels in Los Angeles, this hotel is also frequented by A-list celebrities.
• Ace Hotel DTLA – A historic hotel right in the heart of Downtown LA. The building interior is a spectacle on its own.
• The Beverly Hills Hotel – One of the world’s best-known hotels located on Sunset Blvd. It is said that “Hotel California” by the Eagles is based on this hotel.

Otherwise, if you want a more chill beach vibe then I recommend staying closer to the coastline in Santa Monica or Venice Beach. Bonus: It’s also close to LAX!

• HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel – This is a hostel so expect basic amenities. You can stay in a bunk bed or opt for a private room.
• The Georgian Hotel – This hotel caught my eye during my visit as it looks straight out of a Wes Anderson movie. Aside from that, the location is also really good – right in front of the beach and within walking distance of the Santa Monica Pier.
• Venice Breeze Suites – Located within walking distance of Venice boardwalk. Venice Beach can be a bit noisy and kind of dodgy at night, but it’s still one of the best places to enjoy LA.

The Must-Do Los Angeles Itinerary

To visualize the itinerary better, I’ve created a Google Maps link that marks all the routes and landmarks I’ll mention in this blog.

Here is the complete LA Itinerary map (If you can’t see the map, click here ):

🗺 Save this map to your phone!  If you are a Google user, click on the image of the map above. The map will then be saved to your “Recent” maps viewed.  Click here for instructions on how to view the map later . It will work from your phone too.

I hope you can see why I keep saying LA is huge. Most of the landmarks and points of interest are not concentrated in one place. But don’t worry! This is why I’ve grouped the activities into one area for each day, so you can plan and optimize your time in LA.

Here is a quick look at the areas we’ll be covering in this itinerary:

• Day 5 etc: Day Trip Ideas from LA

PS: If you are getting a travel pass, the Go City All-Inclusive Pass is mostly useful on Day 1 and 2. If you want to visit an amusement park though, it’s still worth it by adding extra days.

Here is a Los Angeles itinerary for your first visit:

Day 1: Central LA (The Hollywood Route)

This itinerary will take you through what LA is best known for – the fame, glamor, and glitz of Hollywood. On my LA Map itinerary, The Hollywood Route is marked in Purple . Here is the same itinerary map zoomed to just the Central LA portion:

Open Map on a new window

1. The Hollywood Sign & Griffith Observatory

Start your morning by going up to the Griffith Observatory. It’s a great place to see Los Angeles city from above, as well as the famous Hollywood sign. Contrary to popular belief though, you can’t get too close to the Hollywood sign since the area around it are private properties. If you do, it might be considered trespassing unless you know the owners of the lands.

The Griffith Observatory itself is an interesting place to visit, but very limited availability. Please also take note that it’s closed on Mondays . Admission is free though! ( Click here for information on Griffith Observatory )

⛰ Tip: If you fancy a hike, a Hollywood Hills Hike tour is included with the Go City All-Inclusive Pass (normally US $28 per person). They depart at 10 AM and take 2.5 hours, so plan carefully whether you have time for this given all the other stuff you’d want to do for the rest of the day.

2. Hollywood Walk of Fame

Make your way down to Hollywood Blvd for the Walk of Fame, where you can see the star-studded sidewalk, literally! The Walk of Fame is where 2,600 Hollywood entertainers have earned the achievement of a lifetime, in the form of a 5-point star embedded in the sidewalk along the street.

3. Grauman’s Chinese Theater (TCL Chinese Theater)

Down the street from the Walk of Fame is the famous Chinese Theater, a theater whose decor was modeled after the red Chinese pagoda. It is the site where countless blockbuster movies held their global premiere, including the 1977 George Lucas’ Star Wars!

The theater has changed ownership a few times and changed names because of that – it was originally named Grauman’s Chinese Theater, but to me, it was known as Mann’s Chinese Theater. And now, the official name currently is TCL Chinese Theater!

Aside from being the site of major premieres, the theater is also known for housing over 200 handprints and footprints of famous Hollywood celebrities in the front yard of the theater.

Tip: If you fancy a tour, they have a VIP 30-minute walking tour that runs daily ( check the schedule here ) and is included with Go City All-Inclusive Pass (which normally costs US$ 14 per person). Note that if you take this tour, then you cannot go to Hollywood Museum using the Go City All-Inclusive Pass anymore.

4. Kodak Theater (Dolby Theater)

This theater is perhaps best known for hosting the ultimate Hollywood event – the Academy Awards (aka the Oscars) since 2002. The Kodak Theater has been officially known as Dolby Theater since 2012, but it will always be Kodak Theater for long-time LA residents – such as myself, I suppose. I moved away before the name change and was shocked when I found out!

Tip: They used to have a guided tour that runs daily every half hour from 10 AM – 4 PM, but now it runs more on the latter half of the week (check the schedule here ). The tour is included with Go City All-Inclusive Pass . The tour takes 30 minutes.

5. Hollywood Museum

Across the street from the Chinese Theater is the Hollywood Museum, where you can learn about the history of Hollywood and see props, costumes, and scripts from classic movies.

Tip: Admission is included with Go City All-Inclusive Pass (normally US $15 per person) if you didn’t go for a tour at the Chinese Theater.

6. Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

If you love museums, definitely stop by here. You’ll probably recognize it right away from the famous Urban Light installation by Chris Burden , placed prominently at the entrance of the museum on Wilshire Blvd, a major street in LA.

Check out the museum during the day if you want to go in (it only opens till 5 PM), but if you’re just there for the Urban Lights then you can come at night since it is open 24 hours and it’s beautifully lit up when the sun goes down.

7. LA’s Farmers Market & The Grove

One block away from LACMA is LA Farmers Market , a fun place to people-watch, grab a bite, and get some refreshments. They are open every day ( click here for more information ).

Right next to it is The Grove , possibly the most beautiful open-air shopping center I’ve ever been to.

8. Rodeo Drive

Rodeo Drive is LA’s most luxurious street, known for its high-end stores, celebrity sightings, and the very fancy cars that often line up the very regular street parking spots. Keep your eyes peeled when you’re here, you never know who you might run into!

Where to eat/drink in Central LA

• Pink’s Hot Dogs – It’s a must-visit in LA. Started as a pushcart in 1939, Pink’s has now become a historic road site spot in LA, serving creative hot dogs.
• Urth Caffe – Organic coffee, tea, and healthy breakfast made from local ingredients. They are mostly known to be frequented by celebrities. There are eight locations around LA now, but the one in Melrose is probably the most convenient to go with your itinerary. It also has the highest chance of celebrity sightings.
• The Griddle Cafe – The place for indulgent hearty American breakfast. Think red velvet pancakes and the like.
• In-N-Out Burger – You haven’t been to California if you did not have In-N-Out. Period. There is a branch near the Chinese Theater on Sunset Blvd, so don’t miss this one!
• LA’s Farmers Market – Great place to get local produce and snacks.
• Yamashiro Hollywood – This place has been here forever! I remember coming here for a date back when I was in college. It’s located on top of a hill, so you’ll get a great view with your meal too.
• Lawry’s The Prime Rib – You might have seen them as the brand for seasoned salt in your grocery store, but Lawry’s is originally a famous steak house that has been around in LA since 1938. Their creamed corn is the best!

Day 2: Historic DTLA (Downtown LA)

This itinerary takes you through the modern, rugged downtown of LA, and what makes the city tick. Most of the landmarks on this route are close to each other and very walkable.

TIP: This is the only itinerary on this post that is potentially walkable or can be done through public transport. If you aren’t already staying in downtown LA, you can just arrange transport to DTLA, as you might not need a car for this day with everything being within walking distance.

On my LA Map itinerary, The DTLA Route is marked in Green . Here is the same itinerary map zoomed to just the DTLA portion:

Optional: Walking Tours!

I included this portion because the downtown LA area is just rich with history and very walkable and I think it’s worth paying extra for some local knowledge. Here are some walking tours you can consider:

• Old and New Downtown Los Angeles Walking Tour
• Downtown Los Angeles Architecture Walking Tour
• Los Angeles Beginnings Walking Tour
• If you are here on a Saturday, check out the walking tour by Los Angeles Conservancy . The tour costs $15 per person and they have tons of interesting options!

1. Bradbury Building

Start your morning at the Blue Bottle Coffee downstairs of the Bradbury Building. Bradbury Building is a prominent architectural landmark in LA. Built in 1893, it still retains the original design open-caged elevator and exquisite ironwork that gave this place its fame, in addition to being featured in famous movies, music videos, and television shows (how very LA of this building, right?). It is also most well known as one of the shooting locations for the 1982 Blade Runner sci-fi movie.

2. The Last Bookstore

Just a block away from Bradbury Building, this independent bookstore was made famous thanks to the round of photos on Instagram, and rightfully so – they house a handful of very Instagrammable beautiful creative art displays, with a theme centered around, well, books.

3. Grand Central Market & Angel’s Flight Railway

Right around the corner from Bradbury Building and The Last Bookstore is Grand Central Market. You can settle down here for lunch with lots of options. I recommend checking out the oyster bar or checking out Eggslut for a popular Egg sandwich.

Then, right across the street from Grand Central Market is Angel’s Flight, a funicular railway that connects Downtown LA to Bunker Hill. The ride lasts no more than thirty seconds and costs $1. Nowadays it’s regarded as a tourist novelty, but a fair amount of locals still use the railway too.

4. The Broad

Make your way down to The Broad, a contemporary art museum. And in true LA fashion, tickets to the museum are free but parking will cost you an arm and a leg. So if you’re already parked somewhere nearby, just leave your car and walk over here. The museum is closed on Mondays ( click here for more info on visiting the broad )

The Broad is yet another place that has been made even more popular by Instagram in recent years – thanks to the famous Yayoi Kusama installation “ Infinity Mirrored Rooms “, which is currently on view at The Broad.

If you’re there mainly for the Kusama installation though, be prepared to line up. The good thing is they have put in a virtual queue system that will notify you when your number is up, so you can use the waiting time to wander around the rest of The Broad! More instructions on visiting Infinity Mirrored Rooms are here .

But aside from the famous Kusama installation (which I did not bother waiting for), I think The Broad has a solid offering of modern art – you can see works by famous contemporary artists like Takashi Murakami, Roy Lichtenstein, and Jeff Koons.

5. Walt Disney Concert Hall

Before leaving The Broad, you can walk around the building and check out Disney Concert Hall. You don’t have to go in, but I think the facade from the outside is such an architectural delight.

But if you’re interested, you can go for a complimentary guided tour or self-guided audio tour which runs in the mornings at around 10 am – 3 pm (please check for availability!)

6. Grammy Museum

If music is your thing you might be interested in visiting the Grammy Museum too, where you can learn about the history and past winners of the Grammys. There are some paid exhibitions too.

Tip: The Grammy Museum is closed on Tuesdays . Admission is included with Go City All-Inclusive Pass (normally US$ 18 per person).

6. Olvera Street / El Pueblo Historic District

Los Angeles is nothing without its Mexican community – even the name of the city “Los Angeles” is in Spanish! So, end your day by visiting the colorful Mexican marketplace at Olvera Street. First opened on easter in 1930, the street now houses shops, restaurants, and souvenir shops. You can take the bus DASH Downtown Route A to get there .

The market is open every day, but most merchants are only open 10 am – 5 pm. Click here for more information on visiting . If you’re lucky, you might be there during one of the big events such as Dia De Los Muertos in October or Cinco de Mayo in May – check their calendar here !

7. Arts District

If you still have time after Olvera Street, you can walk over to the Arts District. The arts district was a pretty run-down, sketchy part of LA, but had undergone a major clean-up under its iconic mayor Joel Bloom. Nowadays, it houses many trendy restaurants, cafes, and breweries! You can take the bus DASH Downtown Route A to get there .

Where to eat/drink in Downtown LA

• Blue Bottle Coffee – I know they are not originally from LA, but there is one right downstairs of the Bradbury Building so you might as well try the coffee here if you haven’t before.
• Grand Central Market – Great place to visit with a group and sample many different things at once.
• Eggslut – This breakfast fast-food restaurant became a viral success back in 2011. The most popular item is “The Slut”, which is a coddled egg on top of a smooth potato puree, poached in a glass jar and served with toasty crostini. There is a branch in Grand Central Market!
• Koreatown – Or locally known as K-town. I’m a huge fan of Korean cuisine , but I find the ones in LA are often even better than in South Korea itself. I recommend checking out BCD Tofu House if you do decide to go.
• Ave 26 Tacos at Little Tokyo – The original location is a little bit out of the way, but now there is a location in Little Tokyo! You don’t get more LA than inhaling Lengua tacos off the back of your friend’s car in some shady parking lot.
• Langer’s Deli – One of the few Jewish delis in LA. I didn’t get to try the matzo ball here , but you should!
• Pacific Dining Car – Another iconic LA steakhouse that’s been around since 1921. I heard reservations are hard to get, but you should still try. As the name says, you’d be dining in a railway dining car.
• Clifton’s Republic – Used to be Clifton’s Cafeteria, the building has now turned into a hip bar. There are a total of 4 floors and each floor has a different theme.
• SUGARFISH by Sushi Nozawa – This is a very trendy sushi place in DTLA that is also known for serving great food.

Day 3: Westside LA (The Beach!)

This itinerary is a much more chilled-out day compared to the previous ones. It takes you what you probably had in mind when you hear “California” – the palm trees and the beach! This area is my favorite since not only is it beautiful, but it’s also my old stomping grounds.

On my LA Map itinerary, The West LA Route is marked in Red . Here is the same itinerary map zoomed to just the West LA portion:

1. UCLA Campus – Where the Internet was born

Okay, I might be super biased cause I’m a Bruin, but I do think UCLA is one of the most beautiful college campuses in the US! You can stroll around the campus, see how American college students go about their daily lives, and visit the room where the internet was born at 3420 Boelter Hall (learn more about it here )

PS: I was a Computer Science student and once spent a week straight, day and night, at Boelter Hall finishing my CS project. I have a love-hate relationship with that place.

UCLA was also used as a set for many Hollywood movies and TV Shows. It’s been used to illustrate Harvard University in Gilmore Girls and Legally Blonde , among many others. If that interests you, check out the full list of movies and TV shows filmed at UCLA .

2. The Getty Center

The real name of this place is The J. Paul Getty Museum, but we all call it “The Getty” for short. It’s only a few miles away from the UCLA Campus. The museum houses famous art and painting (most notably Irises by Vincent van Gogh) but aside from that, it’s also famous for its architectural design and an amazing view of LA from above.

Take note that they are closed on Mondays . Admission is free, but you should still reserve a ticket here . Check out what exhibition is currently on here . Parking costs $20 , but if you plan to visit Getty Villa on the same day, parking there would be free.

3. Santa Monica Pier & Third Street Promenade

Once you’re done with The Getty, drive down to Santa Monica and head to the pier. Santa Monica Pier was declared as the official endpoint of the legendary highway Route 66 on the highway’s 83rd birthday. Nowadays you can see a road sign that marks the end of the trail in the Pacific Ocean.

On the pier is a small amusement park called Pacific Park , where you can grab a bite, get on some rides, or play games.

🛼 Tip: You can also rent a bike/roller skate from Perry’s Cafe, included with Go City All-Inclusive Pass (normally US$12 per hour).

From Santa Monica, it’s just a short walk to Third Street Promenade , a peaceful open-air shopping mall that’s perfect to chill out at. And just to add to the LA-ness of this place, one time as I was shopping here and Vanessa Carlton randomly showed up for an impromptu performance (remember her??).

4. Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Abbot Kinney Boulevard is a neighborhood that started flourishing in the 2010s and was referred to as the coolest block in America by GQ in 2012. You can explore trendy shops, cafes, restaurants, and art galleries here. I recommend checking out Intelligentsia for coffee and Salt & Straw for ice cream.

You can check out merchants in the Abbot Kinney Boulevard here . They also hold events on the first Friday of every month, which you can check out here .

5. Venice Canals Historic District

You can’t stop by Venice without checking out the manmade canals, which are modeled after Venice in Italy (hence the name of this area). If you’ve watched the show “Californication” on Showtime, this area would look REALLY familiar.

If you’re wondering who Abbot Kinney is, he’s the guy responsible for building this area in 1905. The Venice canals used to be 2-3 times bigger than it is today, but most of the canals were closed and turned into normal roads when automobiles gained popularity.

Keep in mind that although historic, they are still expensive high-end residential areas and people DO live here, so be respectful of people’s privacy when visiting… even though I would imagine they’ve gotten used to tourists.

6. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Finally, end your day at Venice Beach, just a short walk from the canals. You should try to get here a little before sunset. Walk around the Venice Boardwalk , check out the famous Venice Beach sign , watch muscular people work out at the open-air Venice Muscle Beach, the Skate bowl watch skaters perform their tricks, and end your day by enjoying one of the best sunsets in the world.

Where to eat/drink in West LA

• C&O Trattoria – Nice place for Italian dinner. The garlic balls are the best!
• In-N-Out – You haven’t been to LA if you did not have In-N-Out!
• SUGARFISH by Sushi Nozawa – I’ve mentioned this in the DTLA portion, but there is also a branch in Santa Monica.
• Sushi Zo – I used to go here for omakase dinner. I’m glad they are still around and kicking!
• Sidecar Doughnuts – My friend Kat brought me here and I’m in love! I did not try the decadent maple bacon doughnut, but I quite enjoyed the Butter & Salt and the Huckleberry doughnuts.
• Afters Ice Cream – Their milk and cereal ice cream is SO good
• Salt & Straw Ice Cream – Portland-based ice cream that has opened a branch in Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Day 4: Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) Driving Route

Pacific Coast Highway (or PCH for short) is undoubtedly the most famous highway in America. It’s a very scenic drive along the coast of California, starting from San Francisco and going all the way down to Los Angeles before continuing to San Diego. If you were to do the entire drive it would take you up to a week, but while you’re in LA it’s entirely possible to catch a glimpse of the famous PCH drive.

On my LA Map itinerary, The Pacific Coast Highway Driving Route is marked in Orange . Here is the same itinerary map zoomed to just the PCH portion:

1. The Getty Villa Museum

If you’ve been following my itinerary so far, you would have visited The Getty on the Westside LA route. This villa is part of the same Getty property! But unlike The Getty, Getty Villa is more of an architectural delight than the arts. Sure, the arts were cool, but I feel that the immaculate garden and the beautiful buildings overpowered them.

Take note that they are closed on Tuesdays . Admission is free, but you should still reserve a ticket here – though I must note that nobody checked our reservation when we were there. Check out what exhibition is currently on here .

Parking costs $20 , but if you plan to visit Getty Center on the same day, parking there would be free.

Malibu needs no introduction. You’ve most likely heard of this name before, so try to make a stop here! We stopped by Malibu Lagoon State Beach , evidently a surfer’s paradise based on how many surfboard-carrying vehicles we saw parked on the side of the street. Point Mugu State Park is also a great place to stop and enjoy the beautiful California coastline.

4. Oxnard & Santa Barbara

It’s up to you how long you want to continue the drive, but I suggest making your way up to either Oxnard or Santa Barbara before turning back. Oxnard doesn’t have much for tourists, but it does have some of the BEST Mexican food. We stopped by Carnitas El Rey here, and I still think about their carnitas even 5 years later.

Santa Barbara is a beach town with cute restaurants, spa treatments, and hiking. It could be a day trip in itself if this is something that interests you.

5. Camarillo Premium Outlets

LA is known for shopping, but the best kind of shopping is the one at premium outlets. Stop by here if you need to do some shopping. You can pretty much get the same brands, and sometimes the same clothing that is currently being sold in the mall for much cheaper here. Think Lululemon, Adidas, Banana Republic, Coach, Kate Spade, and so much more. Check out their full list of stores here .

Where to eat along the PCH

• Duke’s Malibu – I have great memories of Duke’s. This was where my sorority held one of our formals!
• Malibu Seafood Fresh Fish Market – You can enjoy seafood overlooking the Malibu beach
• Carnitas El Rey – If you make it to Oxnard, make sure you stop by here! You know it’s legit when a place only serves one kind of dish – Carnitas. I’m convinced I’ll never find Carnitas as good as this place again…

Looking for more? Day / Short Trip Ideas from LA

If you have more time in LA and you’ve done all of the above itineraries, you can take a look at the following activities:

1. Visit Amusement Parks

Amusement parks are perhaps what Los Angeles is best known for, second to Hollywood. We do have a lot of exciting parks around! Most of these parks are about a 1.5 – 2 hours drive from LA, so visiting one of the parks will take the entire day.

Tip: All of the amusement parks below are already included with the Go City All-Inclusive Pass (except Disneyland) , so if you’re planning to visit these parks and other LA landmarks, highly suggest purchasing the pass !

• Universal Studios – Fun park to visit for movie buffs. It’s the closest to the city out of all the amusement parks near LA. Note that Universal Studios is considered a premium attraction and is only included with the 3, 4, 5, and 7-day Go City pass.
• Six Flags Magic Mountain – Great for those looking for more thrills. The rides here are amazing, full of twists, turns, and loops!
• Knott’s Berry Farm – a quintessentially American amusement park. This is the park I used to go to when I was living in LA. They have rides that cater to both adults and children. If you’re here during Halloween month (October), you can also check out Knott’s Scary Farm, their Halloween event.
• LEGOLAND – This is way down south closer to San Diego, about a 2.5-hour drive from LA, but a must if you love those LEGO blocks! Note that if you use the Go City All-Inclusive Pass here, you cannot use it for San Diego Zoo.

2. Go to Disneyland

There are two Disneyland Parks in Anaheim, CA. Disneyland Park is the original Disney amusement park, built in 1955 under the supervision of Walt Disney himself.  Disney California Adventure is the newer park with more exciting rides – I remember I had just moved to LA when this park was first opened in 2001. I was still in high school back then and I had great memories of this place.

Tips for visiting Disneyland

• If you are only going for one day to either of these parks, you can book Single Day Tickets here, it’s cheaper than booking from the Disneyland website. BUT If you want to go to both parks and you are going during the low season, it would be better to buy separate single-day tickets rather than the multiday link below. Check the calendar in the link above.
• If you want to go to both parks during regular or peak season, then the Multiday Tickets will be a better deal (also cheaper through this link than booking straight from Disneyland’s website).
• Download the Disneyland App and use the Genie service to manage your ride wait times.

3. Nature, Beach, and National Parks

If nature and hiking are more your things, you can check out the following areas:

• Joshua Tree National Park – This park is about a 2.5-hour drive inland from LA. If you want to make this a day trip, you’ll have to leave very early to avoid traffic.
• Palm Springs – Palm Springs is close to Joshua Tree National park, and a popular weekend getaway for Angelenos. It’s one of the earliest settlements that has flourished to this day, offering desert life, resorts, and a spa.
• Mojave National Preserve – Also about a 2.5-hour drive inland from LA, just a bit more north. It’s about the halfway point from LA to Las Vegas.
• Big Bear Lake & Lake Arrowhead – These lakes are up in the mountainous region in San Bernardino, just a little under 2-hour drive from LA. In the winter it’s famous for snow sports such as snowboarding and skiing. In the summer, you can do watersports and hiking.
• Catalina Island – Catalina is an island that is about a one-hour ferry ride off the coast of LA. You can do kayaking, ride a glass bottom boat or go snorkeling and scuba diving.
• Southern California Ghost Towns – Unlike Palm Springs, there are plenty of ghost towns left in the desert of California from the early settlements that did not last. All that’s left is an abandoned town and a cool preserved look into life back in the 1800s. You can read this article for more information .

4. Cities near LA

• Santa Barbara – I’ve mentioned Santa Barbara in the PCH route itinerary, but if you didn’t make it up there, it is a beach town with cute restaurants, spa treatments, and hiking.
• San Diego – Visit San Diego Zoo (included with Go City All-Inclusive Pass if you haven’t used it for LEGOLAND), the beach, or have some good food.
• Beach Cities – Stop by Huntington Beach for a whale-watching cruise or Long Beach for the Aquarium of the Pacific (both activities are included with the Go City All-Inclusive Pass)
• Burbank – North Hollywood, Warner Brother’s Studio Tour (included with Go City All-Inclusive Pass), and Porto’s Bakery!

Okay, that was a lot longer than I expected. I guess after living in LA for 10 years, I do know a thing or two about the place.

Leave me a comment below if you found this itinerary useful. I love hearing from you guys!

PS: If you need this guide for later,  click here to save this post on Pinterest !

98 Comments

• March 12, 2024

A trip to Los Angeles is always exciting! There’s never a dull moment, whether it’s the famous Hollywood sign or the energetic streets of Venice Beach. A local food truck serves delicious tacos, so make sure to indulge in some delicious food while watching the sunset at Griffith Observatory. There is something for everyone in Los Angeles.

• February 19, 2024

is your iti good for public commute?

Hi Jen, only Downtown area and maybe west LA is good for commute by bus. The rest, you’ll need a car.

• November 24, 2023

HI Melissa, I am visiting LA next month, have marked most of the places your have mentioned in your itinerary but the way you have sought it out region wise. You save my trip. Thanks for making my upcoming trip successful.

• October 15, 2023

Why have I not found your guide sooner!!! This guide is on point and have sent our relatives from other counties to use this. Thank you!!!

Thank you Julie for your kind words! It’s comment like yours that makes writing post like this worth it!

• September 1, 2023

Hi Melissa:

In terms of visiting your alma mater the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), apparently, UCLA has multiple addresses. As a result, for future reference, at which address/location of UCLA should a taxi drop me off at, and at which address/location of UCLA should a taxi pick me up at?

In addition, in terms of eateries in and around UCLA, which eatery (if any) or eateries (if any) would you suggest, advise, and recommend that I consider eating at that is relatively healthy?

I made it to LA! I am currently here for an LA getaway this summer for seven (7) days in which four (4) days have already elapsed.

In terms of transportation, I have utilized the taxi, and my good old fashioned feet to get me to particular places.

Hey TJ, you can ask to get dropped off at Ackerman Union. That is the student center and it has some food options there. I hope you are enjoying LA!

• August 13, 2023

Hi, thank you very much for this, great help in preparing our itinerary. Our family will go to San Francisco, Las Vegas, San Diego and Los Angeles this December. Do you have a suggestions to experience Christmas in LA?

• July 29, 2023

No car, no experience. LA is huge you must rent to get a better view of the LA vibe.

• July 13, 2023

Hello Melissa,

Thank you for your itinerary! I am going to LA for honeymoon with my husband next week. We will be following your itinerary on Day 1 and day 2 (Hollywood and Downtown LA). We will be driving and I am wondering where can I park in these two areas? Thanks!

Hey Rachael, in those areas you’ll want to look for a dedicated carpark or street parking. carpark is easiest to find, but will be more expensive

Thanks for your reply! Do you have any suggested carparks?

I wouldn’t say I have a suggested carpark per se. But I did find this interactive map of carparks which will tell you the cost and where to park: https://downtownla.com/maps/getting-around/parking . I would say if you’re following my itinerary closely, you might want to park close to The last bookstore since it’s closer to where the other stuff is. For hollywood, park near the walk of fame.

Dear Melissa,

Thank you so much! 🫶🏼

• July 5, 2023

This is such a great site! There’s so many amazing spots that I look forward to visiting with my family and friends. I’m completely obsessed, thank you!!

• July 3, 2023

Thank you for this itinerary. I appreciate it. I have not been able to read it in full and in depth yet. However, I will definitely be reading this in full and in depth when I have a chance.

It would be my first (1st) time visiting Los Angeles as I am planning an LA getaway this summer.

Not too short, but not too long either. Perhaps five (5) to seven (7) days (give or take) as you suggested, advised, and recommended.

I am struggling a little bit right now figuring what I would like to do in LA while I am there.

However, I do not know that I am a man who loves to be in the middle of the action, in the middle of the vibe(s), in the middle of the social scene, to be where the action is, etc. (applies to both daytime and nighttime).

I love to party. I love to go clubbin’, bar hoppin’, socially drink, etc. The nightlife is usually my lifestyle.

In terms of the nightlife, where should I go partying, clubbin’, bar hopping, etc.?

Additionally, if I have another question, or, any other questions, how can you be contacted?

• July 4, 2023

Hey TJ. LA is a city that sleeps early 😉 for nightlife, i would suggest heading to west hollywood.

• May 23, 2023

This is such a thorough and great itinerary! Thanks so much for taking the time to craft something so thoughtful. I’ll be in LA at the end of July for five full days, and I’m following your plan very closely.

Have fun Charles! July should be great for weather in LA

• February 12, 2023

thanks this is great itinerary i’ve been looking for..hope can make it this summer

• January 13, 2023

Such a great list! I’ve been living here my whole life and there are several places on here that I still haven’t been to! Sidecar Donuts has been on my list for a long time. I’m gonna have to go this weekend! 🙂

• December 27, 2022

Exactly the info I needed! Thanks for making the time and content for this post. You’re awesome 😎

• December 24, 2022

Thanks for this useful blog. I plan on visiting Los Angeles this January along with my girlfriend and family. I hope I can eat affordable foods there. See you soon LA.

• November 20, 2022

thank you for taking your time and provide us with this post.

• September 6, 2022

This information is very useful for my next trip to the city and to be able to visit it with my family.

• April 20, 2022

The above blog is very useful for first-time visitors to Los Angeles. The places you have mentioned are very beautiful places. and some great information to check the new places.

• November 30, 2021

Hey Melissa! Awesome itinerary and places to visit. I’ll be flying in for the Kanye West show at the LA memorial collisium in about a week, any advice on where to stay the night of the show? I’ll move around after, since I’ll be here for a week, but I want to make sure the day of goes smoothly.

• November 12, 2021

Hi Melissa! I’ll be visiting LA very soon next week with my sister and I’m so excited and thankful for your detailed itinerary, it really gave me a lot of information and I think it would be very helpful to us there since this is our first time in LA (we’ll be staying for about 2 weeks). Thank you so much!

Prestisa, I’m glad you found it useful! Enjoy LA

• October 12, 2021

This is great informative and helpful content. Thanks for the itinerary!

• September 16, 2021

Your post is about some good advice and tips for visiting the city. It is hard to know where to begin when you visit a large city like Los Angeles.

• July 11, 2021

Beautiful article! Thanks for sharing

• June 26, 2021

Actually, it will be my second time in LA but I can’t wait to be there again!

Thanks for this amazing guide!

• May 19, 2021

Hi i’ll be visiting for my first time ever in July this year, whats a good car rental company to rent a car from with good prices?

• August 13, 2020

Thank you so much for this! I’m heading to LA for the weekend for business but wanted some cool things to do during my downtime. I’m really excited about the Hollywood itinerary since I’m staying in that area. This made my planning so much easier!

• May 30, 2020

This is great! I have yet to pass my test (due to the pandemic) but once I do, I do want to go LA and drive around there myself and experience what it’s like there. Thanks for the itinerary!

• May 23, 2020

I’d love to visit LA, your photos look amazing and it looks like there’s loads to there!

• May 4, 2020

Los Angeles is an amazing city with so many things to see and do! This itinerary is very detailed and is indeed a big help.

• March 23, 2020

these tips are surely very helpful and informative as well my brother who is planning to go to Los Angeles may find these tips very informative, I will surely share this with him, and with my friends as well for their future reference. As it is Los Angeles is so beautiful place that everyone seems to visit .

• March 4, 2020

Hi, love how you break down the itinerary by area. We will be renting a car for your holiday as we are driving down to SF, in this case, do you suggest us staying at different hotel or? Thanks

Hey Hazel, the areas I listed is still good even if you’re driving.

Thank you for your reply.

Would it be better if we stay at different hotel? like Santa Barbara? So that it will be easier to drive down Yosemite National Park and Monterey, Big Sur, Carmel? Actually i am still in dilemna, where to visit first….your advise? Do you have itinitery to share on San Francisco, California?

I did SF – LA- Vegas last year and I’m happy to share my experience with you Hazel?

Great, Thank you!

• February 25, 2020

Hello Marissa,

Thank you for the itinerary you posted it gave me some very good ideas for my first trip.

My wife and I and two children (10 and 12) are visiting LA for first time in April 2020. We will rent a car. Is parking available/expensive around Hollywood Walk of Fame, Farmers Market,Walt Disney concert hall, etc? My son will enjoy the skate bowl at Venice beach. Any other ideas for young children? A friend mentioned the San Diego zoo.

Hi James, my name is Melissa 😉 There are parking around these areas, but they tend to be expensive – you’ll probably end up paying about $15 to park your car. You can try to find street metered parking but they are hard to come by so most likely you’ll just have to pay the cost. If you are following my itinerary you only have to pay one parking fee per day (usually $15 is flat rate you need to pay regardless how long you leave the car). San Diego Zoo is quite far from LA but if you don’t mind the drive then it could be a good option (2 hours without traffic). What about amusement parks like Universal Studios and Disneyland?

• June 18, 2021

Hi Melissa If I follow your itinerary you said for each area you pay parking fee once per day, I’m assuming you park your car (example) somewhere in the Hollywood area and then walk to all the different places in Hollywood you want to see? Are they all walkable within its area? What about the Santa Monica area, is it the same?

• January 18, 2020

We went to Venice beach and it was awful! So many homeless people laying around the beach and just everywhere. It was very dirty and had horrible smell. Did not even feel like I was in America. Santa Monica was a little better than Venice but it also had a homeless problem. I would avoid these 2 beaches in the future and maybe go to Laguna Beach area- we did that and it was beatiful.

• January 7, 2020

Can I drive at LA with an Australian driving license?

yes, there shouldn’t be an issue. https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/dmv/detail/dl/dl_info#international

• December 9, 2019

Hi, first I want to thank you for this amazing article, one of the best written online for such itinerary.

I am traveling with wife and 2 kids (9 and 4), can you recommend some areas to stay at?

Hi Mohammad, it really depends what you want to do in LA. I would recommend staying near the beach (Santa Monica / Venice) or somewhere near West Hollywood would be good if you are planning to follow all of my itineraries. But as I said, you’d have to drive in LA anyway since the area is huge.

• December 3, 2019

Hi Melissa,

I would like to check with you if it is recommended to rent car with driver or get LA pass or both since either me or my hubby cannot drive but we also would like to explore those places recommended by you.

Will that be better to go SF via flight?

• December 5, 2019

Hey Jesslyna, if you can get a car with driver that would be best, but you can also just book Uber or Lyft when you are there to take you around. You can get the LA pass which includes some bus lines, but I don’t really recommend relying on public transport while in LA.

Thanks for your reply. Is it recommended to go both SF and LA in 2 weeks or LA only in 10 days

I think 2 weeks is doable for both SF and LA.

• November 8, 2019

Hello Melissa and thank you for providing us your itenerary,my friends and I are going to Los Angeles in early December for the first time and your blog is the blest helper for our trip.I would like to ask you 2 things,we are from Greece so the drivers license is a European,do you know if we have to make the license international or it is okay with the European?Also we are going to book the Go Los Angeles card you recommend and I am wondering about visiting universal studios which is in the city pass,is there also a way to pay extra for not waiting in the line and for example visiting the Harry Potter experience or Jurassic world,do we have to pay extra for the experiences inside the universal studio? Thank you for your time,you are the best!!Greetings from Greece

• November 11, 2019

1. Universal Studios – Harry potter and Jurassic World should be included in the Go Los Angeles card since it’s part of the theme park. But if you don’t want to wait in line, you can upgrade at the park for Express privilege. I am not sure how much it costs though, and the upgrade is limited per day. If you aren’t able to upgrade, try to get there early to minimize the wait time, and try to not go on weekends. But you should be okay since early December is not yet the peak season for these parks. Note that admission to Universal Studios is available only for the 3, 5, and 7-Day Go Los Angeles Pass packages

Another option is to buy the express pass separately: https://www.klook.com/en-SG/activity/18057-universal-studios-hollywood-express-vip-los-angeles/?aid=5711 BUT i would only recommend this if you decide not to buy the Go Los Angeles Card.

2. If your driver’s license is in English, you can drive in California with just your European license without converting to international license.

Thank you very much for your help,you are the best!!!

• November 3, 2019

Where would be the best place to stay to do most of what is on your itinerary?

• October 23, 2019

You are a Legend Melissa, amazed by the amount of details especially we are travelling with a little one, so everything counts. Thanks heaps for this and keep posting

i’m glad to have been able to help!

• October 9, 2019

You saved my trip! What a complete and dedicated itinerary. Thank you for that Melissa. Any recommendation for Beverly Hills and hollywood stars homes’ tour ?

Thanks Julia. sorry I just saw your comment – hopefully you found a good tour!

• January 30, 2020

Do you have any recommendations for good home tour?

• September 13, 2019

Thanks for your reply and tips about driving from LA to SD. As for the car rentals, can I use the same car to drive from LAX to SD and to Las Vegas and back? Any trusted car rental companies u recommend?

Hey Adri, yes you can use the same car, provided you pay for the fuel and fill the car up before returning. The road to Las Vegas from LA/SD is nicely built so any car you rent for the city should be fine. As for rental company I usually just go with whatever is the cheapest. I think I went with Enterprise last time and I had no issues.

Great thanks Melissa. Will check them out.

• September 9, 2019

I’m intending to visit grand canyon and antelope canyon next year. Is it mandatory to book a tour in advance? or we can book the entry ticket on the spot

Hey Tris, I’ve only been to grand canyon, but I think you can just purchase ticket on the spot if you are driving. You only need tour if you need transportation to get there too.

• September 8, 2019

This is the best info I have read on LA – thank you!!

I am visiting early October, driving Pacific Highway 1 night Santa Barbara then 2 nights at the Loews Hollywood. So much I want see but so little time. I not bothered about Disney or Wax works etc What are must sees in 2 days? Gosh wish I was there longer!! Should I do beach stuff on day I arrive as we will be that way already? Thank you!

hey Sharon, if you are just there for two days, I recommend doing this itinerary: https://girleatworld.net/los-angeles-itinerary/#westside for the beach, and maybe the downtown LA portion https://girleatworld.net/los-angeles-itinerary/#dtla

This should keep you busy for 2 days!

• August 24, 2019

A great blog to read indeed! Will be visiting LA in Nov for 2weeks. But am totally clueless whether I should be spending time in San Diego or Los Angeles first. Am arriving LAX on a Wednesday morning. Could u kindly advise or propose a route on where I should visit first? Am travelling with teens so we will be doing more of amusement Parks, Disney, Big bear Lake and zoos. Not forgetting outlet shopping as well.

• August 26, 2019

Hey Adri! I am happy you like the blog post. As for San Diego vs LA, I don’t think it matters much which one to go first. However the one you should be aware of is probably the traffic situation when going from SD to LA and then back. I would avoid that route on weekends, and I would also avoid traveling during peak commute times (morning and afternoon).

• August 22, 2019

Loved reading through your adventures! So many places to visit, but we went for a family holiday by car and really enjoyed it. By the way, gorgeous photos!

• July 31, 2019

Hey Melissa

Thank you for your detailed post. Can you recommend a site to buy cheap tickets for Disneyland? The one you posted (klook.com) doesn’t seem to be working now. Thank you!

Hey Andre, I have updated the link. Thank you for spotting this!

• June 7, 2019

Hi Mellisa,

Thanks for sharing with us your itinerary, how about san Francisco? do you have a similar itinerary? thanks

Hey Tris! Glad you enjoyed this LA itinerary. Unfortunately it has been over a decade since I’ve been back to SF, so I don’t have anything on it :/

• May 22, 2019

Hi, Thanks for your detailed itinerary. Which part of LA will you recommend to stay?

• May 20, 2019

I used your itinerary for Tokyo and it was amazing! Will be using your California tips in December 🙂

• May 21, 2019

thanks Emma!! have fun in California

• May 3, 2019

From LAX to the Hotel (i am not sure which hotel to choose) but I am thinking of Hotel Hwood Near the Sunset Strip (Hollywood).of The Dixie Hollywood Hotel.

• May 2, 2019

Hi, your itinerary is very detailed. It will be my first trip to LA. May I know whether should I arrange Greyhound transport instead of the Shared Transport.

Hey Susan – transport to where?

• April 20, 2019

Hi Melissa, great to chance upon your blog and I’m Singaporean. Where would you reccomend the area to stay in LA? I’m travelling with my husband in Nov this year and it is our first time and we would like to get to the know where best to stay for first timers. Thank you

Hey Mael, it really depends what you want to do since LA is huge. If you want to see the Hollywood side then I recommend staying Weho (West Hollywood) area. But if you don’t mind the drive then Santa Monica area close to the beach is nice too!

• April 4, 2019

Thank you, Melissa! I just bought the ticket to LA for the 2nd week of December and it’s gonna be our 1st trip to the states, so your itinerary is really helpful. We’re planning to do the road trip from LA – San Diego – Grand Canyon – Vegas – Pacific Coast – SF. Can you tell me about the December weather in these areas, i. e. How cold will it be in SF and how warm it’ll be in Grand Canyon? Thanks again!

Hey Anya, I assume you are from Singapore? In December it will be cold in all the places you are visiting, especially in relative to Singapore. Definitely bring a jacket and wind breaker for SF. It’s the wind that makes cold weather unbearable. Also note the weather is very dry (again in relative to humid Singapore) so make sure you moisturize hands and especially lips! Mine gets dry to the point my lips start bleeding when I don’t properly moisturize it. It hurts a lot when it gets to that point, so prevent it with daily lip balm.

Hi Melissa, sorry I just realized you replied! Yes we live in Singapore. Thanks a lot! I’ll go with my husband, my 8 yo, and 4 yo daughters so we’ll make sure we prepare the right outfit, esp for the kids.

• March 25, 2019

Thank you so much! I am planning for a trip to LA with senior relatives in a month and I am going crazy with the trip planning. Your itinerary is such a great help!

Thank you for the comment Maggie. Hope you will have fun in LA!!

• March 19, 2019

This is my second time in LA & i must say :: THANK YOU FOR THIS WONDERFUL ITENIRARY 😭😭😭 ! It is the best I have ever seen and have helped me as a tourist know exactly where to go. Thank you so much & keep posting !

Thanks Abi! I guess i should rename this itinerary not just for first time visitors? 😂

• February 21, 2020

Melissa, my Kids (25 & 16) will be visiting California for the first time in July. We want to visit the touristy places; Universal Studios, Hollywood sign, Walk of Fame, Museums, Trendy Eateries, Santa Monica Pier and both Disneyland parks. My dilemma is where to stay to easily navigate to these places. We’ll be there for 4 days and will have a rental car.

Please advise on where to stay

• February 24, 2020

Hi Marissa, I would recommend staying near the beach (Santa Monica / Venice) or somewhere near West Hollywood. But you’d have to drive in LA anyway since the area is huge.

• February 4, 2019

I fully agree that without a rental car in Los Angeles it will be difficult without a rental car. I was here last summer and car rental saved our holiday. It’s good that there are good prices and a normal selection of cars.

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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.

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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!

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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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this is our empty Los Angeles home tour

Have you watched yet? This is our empty Los Angeles home tour ! Seriously. We only have a bed.

In our latest March video, we answer why we moved from New York. What sold us on this specific apartment. And how we managed to find an apartment in Los Angeles while we were still living in Manhattan during a pandemic.

After living in New York for two (unforgettable) years, we moved back to California to be closer to family. And even though we hadn’t spent much time in downtown, we found a stunning two bedroom apartment in the heart of DTLA.

The need for more space, brighter light, and a larger kitchen to cook in had been on our minds for a while. There was only so much we could take in that small NYC kitchen ! But, after a month of searching for apartments throughout January, we finally found the place.

We had one of our friends, John, tour the apartment in-person while FaceTiming us in February (our own little Los Angeles home tour). And by the middle of the month, we had signed our lease for a March move-in. We were doing it.

Design-wise, we’ll be taking you along for the journey, step-by-step. So, make sure you’re subscribed to our YouTube channel ! And without giving too much away, our new space will be very different than our New York apartment .

A focus on cleaner lines, texture. Restraint. Reverence for the 80s and Art Deco design. Forever joyous with bursts of color that delight the sense of sight. But, with an emphasis on the other senses. Finding serenity in the space through smell, touch, sound, and of course, taste.

So far, here’s what we have in our new home: our Andes Lacquered Linen Bed , with a cream Brooklinen duvet and sheet set. A Zig Zag High Shelf designed by Hem . A limited edition Matte Milkshake Kitchenaid Professional 600 Stand Mixer . Two cream colored faux fur cat beds for Thomas. And two Farmhouse Wood Counter Stools .

Seriously not much for now. But, just wait to see what we do with the space 😉 😉

We hope you enjoyed our empty Los Angeles home tour! This is our first home tour vlog of many, many, many more to come. Until then, we love you all.

Love, Chris + Brock

One response to “this is our empty Los Angeles home tour”

[…] you’re not already caught up, don’t forget to check out our Los Angeles home tour, moving from NYC to LA vlog, and our Best Pizza Recipe Vlog. And on the subject of food vlogs, […]

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FULL-DAY PRIVATE TOUR ITINERARY

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

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

Convenience. Comfort. Flexibility.

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

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

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

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

First-Class. Fun. Friendship.

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

We Love LA - Full-Day Tour Itinerary

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    We offer you not only the

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

book your Private 

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

Groups of 1 to 6 Guests  $799

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

All prices include taxes 

contact us 

[email protected]

WhatsApp +18183842531

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

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14 Fun Day Trips from Los Angeles in 2024

Brie Greenhalgh Last Updated: October 26, 2023

Los Angeles is home to an endless supply of things to do and see within the LA basin. Some visitors to Los Angeles rarely venture out beyond LA or Disneyland to see all that southern California has to offer, but we’re here to say they’re missing out. Hiking, wine tasting, horseback riding, sea kayaking, whale watching, and so much more awaits you beyond the city limits. Start planning your next adventure with this list of great day trips from Los Angeles.

14 of the Best Day Trips from Los Angeles

There is so much more to southern California than you might expect. Within a few hours of Los Angeles, you can do just about any activity you can think of. Hike in a national park, scuba dive, ride ATVs, visit an olive oil farm, citrus grove or winery, kayak or surf in the ocean, go star gazing.

You think it. California delivers. It’s truly the gem of the west coast of the United States, which is why one or more places on our list of fun day trips from Los Angeles should be on your list of things to do. There’s something for everyone’s interests no matter their adventure level.

Pro tip: We’ve estimated approximate travel times to each destination from downtown LA, but traffic conditions can get heavy throughout the day. Plan ahead if you book a tour so you have plenty of time to get there.

14. Catch the Surf at Malibu

1 hour (33 miles) | Surf-side Hollywood Vibes | Seafood Lovers | Beaches and Hiking

With 21 miles of coastline that is almost all beaches, there’s room for everyone in the sandy surf. Malibu is known for having some of the best surfing close to LA, so if you’re dying to try it or you can’t wait to get back to it, Malibu is a must. Otherwise, Malibu keeps the Hollywood scene going but with a little more relaxed vibes. Keep your phone handy for celebrity sightings!

If you’re into architecture tours, definitely check out the stunning Adamson House to see a blend of gothic and coastal styles mixed with Spanish heritage. And when you’re ready for a meal to remember, head over to Neptune’s Net for fried scallops or clam chowder. It’s the famous oceanside restaurant that’s been used in countless movies like The Fast and Furious and the original Point Break .

How to get to Malibu

13. Immerse Yourself at a Theme Park

1 hour (27 miles) | Adventure Theme Parks | Family Fun

Of course we have to mention the theme parks located in and around Anaheim: Disneyland, Disney California Adventure Park, Knotts Berry Farm, Knotts Soak City, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, LEGOLAND, and Adventure City. Did you know there were more places than Disneyland here? It’s truly the land of adventure in Anaheim.

While most of these parks focus on rides and attractions, Knotts Soak City is famous for thrilling waterslides 7-stories high. (Open only in the summer.) And adults and kids all love the Cars attractions at the California Adventure Park, but only the bravest love the Incredicoaster which is the longest inverting roller coaster in the world.

How to get to Disney California Adventure Park

12. Help Preserve the Seal Beach National Wildlife Refuge

45 minutes (31 miles) | Scenic Views | Limited Tours | Volunteer Opportunity

This 965-acre refuge is what remains of an old Anaheim bay. It’s now mostly marshlands and man-made harbors that make a permanent home to thousands of species—some of which are endangered. What’s interesting is this preserve is part of the Naval Weapons Station so visitors can only explore the area with designated tours that happen only once a month.

COVID-19 restrictions have currently paused the tours, so keep an eye on those to return soon. In the meantime, you can help give back to the community by volunteering to help restore the area on the first Wednesday of every month. It’s a unique way to spend part of your day if you’re big into conservation.

How to get to the Seal Beach Preserve

Planning a trip to LA? Check out our list of the top things to do in LA plus where to stay in Los Angeles !

11. experience california luxury in santa barbara.

1.75 hours (95 miles) | Vineyards and Beaches | Relax, Explore, Play

Santa Barbara has it all: wineries, beaches, golf courses, hiking, architecture, and a huge bookstore that bookworms can’t pass up. It’s incredibly scenic here in the Santa Barbara area with white beaches on one side and mountains on the other. Take time to do some wine tasting, then explore the unique mission-style architecture this city is famous for.

And don’t miss the sunset while sitting on the romantic Butterfly Beach near the Four Seasons Biltmore Hotel. After a lovely day here, you’ll understand why it’s often called the riviera of the west. It easily makes our list of great day trips from Los Angeles.

How to get to Santa Barbara

10. Hike or Stargaze in Joshua Tree National Park

2.5 hours (131 miles) | Outdoor Adventure | Impressive Night Views

Head over to the stunning desert national park named for the famous trees that look like the biblical figure, Joshua, raising his arms to the heavens. Despite its close proximity to Los Angeles, this park boasts some of the darkest skies in the area. If you’re up for staying at least one night (or up all night), we highly recommend stargazing in this scenic desert.

You’ll also find plenty of hiking and climbing to do here during the day. An easy 1.7-mile hike takes you to the unique Skull Rock, or you can drive to Covington Flats to find some of the largest Joshua trees. Be sure to stay only on marked trails in your vehicle to preserve the landscape!

How to get to Joshua Tree National Park Visitor’s Center

9. Spend the Day on Coronado Island

2.5 hours (126 miles) | Ultra-Fine Sandy Beaches | Naval Base Happenings | Seaside Fun

Coronado Island sits just off the coast of San Diego and boasts some of the best beaches in the country. It’s just isolated enough to feel like an exclusive resort town, yet it’s close enough to all the city amenities you need. The Hotel del Coronado is an eye-catching masterpiece that you have to check out. Stop at their outdoor Beach & Taco Shack for yummy fish tacos and a cocktail on the beach.

For a fun activity, rent a surrey to explore the island and enjoy wrangling the contraption while taking hilarious selfies with your friends or kids. Coronado may be a longer day trip from Los Angeles, but it’s worth it.

How to get to Coronado Island

8. Get Wild at the San Diego Zoo

2.5 hours (120 miles) | Urban Adventure | Family Fun

If you’re up for an early morning drive, head down to the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Kids and adults all love to get up close and personal with over 12,000 animals here at one of the largest zoos in the country. You’ll find the biggest collection of rare and endangered species here like the Amur leopard or the capybara which is the largest rodent in the world.

For an up-close experience, book the Animals in Action Experience where zookeepers bring animals to you for a more personal interaction. If the animals of the African safari or Australian outback are more your style, opt to spend the day at the Safari Park.

How to get to the San Diego Zoo

7. Get Back to Nature in Palm Springs

2.25 hours (108 miles) | Paradise Getaway | Golfing, Relaxation, Sun

As if there wasn’t already plenty of sunshine in southern California, Palm Springs likes to boast the most sunny days: 350 on average each year. Maybe that’s why there are so many incredible golf courses in this region. As for hiking, we recommend the Araby Trail for a short, semi-challenging hike or head to Andreas Canyon where you’ll find the world’s second largest California fan palm oasis.

We also loved the ranger tours in the Agua Caliente Native American preserve in Indian Canyon. But for the most memorable adventure, book a ride on the aerial tramway to soar 2.5 miles above the valley for stunning views. Adult tickets are $29, kids 3-10 are $17, and it’s best to reserve them ahead of time.

How to get to the Palm Springs Tramway

6. Sea Kayak in La Jolla Cove

2 hours (112 miles) | Wildlife Viewing | Seaside Adventures | Eclectic Street Murals

While the beaches can get crowded at La Jolla (pronounced lah HOY uh), it’s worth heading down here to book a sea kayaking tour . Expert guides will help you explore the huge sea caves at La Jolla Cove. As you paddle along the coast, you’ll also get to see tons of California sea lions lounging on the rocks or playing in the water. If sea kayaking isn’t your thing, you can still see the sea lions by parking at the top of the cove and walking to the cliffs.

For another fun adventure while you’re down here, check out The Cave Shop. Hidden beneath its floors, you can explore the century-old bootlegger sandstone caverns where contraband was smuggled from the ocean into town. It’s super cool, but there are 145 stairs to climb both ways, so make sure you’re fit enough to handle them.

How to get to La Jolla Cove

5. Explore the European Village of Solvang

2.5 hours (131 hours) | Quaint European Village | Unexpected Experience | Wineries and Breweries

Step back in time in this adorable little Danish town in San Ynez Valley that even includes a windmill. You can experience a small taste of Europe from the heart of a California valley. Enjoy wandering the town to find Christmas shops, fairy tale keepsakes, and little bakery shops that are passable Danish imitations. Since Solvang is surrounded by vineyards, there are plenty of wineries and breweries to try as well.

But for an off-the-wall experience, we highly recommend heading over to Ostrichland. You read that right. There are over 100 ostriches and emus that you can help to feed and take selfies with. Finally, Quicksilver Ranch is temporarily closed due to renovations, but when it opens, be sure to stop and see the cutest miniature horse ranch ever.

How to get to Solvang

4. Find the Pirate Tower in Laguna Beach

1.5 hours (56 miles) | High-end Shopping | Stunning Beaches | Plenty of Surfing

Laguna Beach lives up to the hype. It’s a gorgeous little beach town that utilizes every extra inch of space available. For beaches, you can’t go wrong with Crescent Bay Beach, Main Beach, or the hidden Victoria Beach where the old Pirate Tower still looms over the rocky beach. When you’re ready for a sweet treat, be sure to grab a waffle cone and gelato at Gelato Paradiso.

If you have the time, stop in at the Pacific Marine Mammal Sanctuary (currently requires reservations) to see rescued sea lions up close. And if shopping and dining is your thing after a day on the beach, you’ll have plenty of boutique stores in Laguna to explore before enjoying sumptuous chicken flautas from South of Nick’s.

How to get to the Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach

3. Namaste in Ojai Valley

1.75 hours (85 miles) | Artist Community | Wineries and Majestic Mountains | Spiritual Retreat

Ojai (pronounced oh HI) is a fun, artsy community that’s nestled against some incredible mountain vistas. Travelers will find plenty to do here. Our top recommendation is heading over to Ojai Olive Oil to sample some locally made olive oil. You’ll definitely want to take a bottle home. You can also wander through a citrus grove or choose to hike one of the many popular trails nearby.

Ojai also has a strong spiritual vibe, so you might prefer to spend some time doing yoga or meditating in this “magnetic center of the earth.” Be sure to enjoy a relaxing dinner at the indulgent Ranch House where they use a locally sourced, seasonal menu.

How to get to Ojai Valley

2. Play Around at Balboa Island and Newport Beach

1.25 hours (48 miles) | Carnival Fun | Unique Island Fun | Family Friendly

Balboa Island is not one to miss. It’s a man-made island full of fun homes, tiny shops, restaurants, and carnival-style fun. You could drive to the island, but it’s much more fun to park and take the ferry over. Walk the 1.6-mile boardwalk around the seaside homes, book deep-sea fishing or whale-watching tours, then ride the Ferris wheel at sunset. Be sure to try the famous chocolate-covered bananas from Sugar ‘n Spice, too!

Newport Beach is known for its luxury homes (be sure to drive through the neighborhoods!), which is why Balboa is such a cool, casual place for anyone to hang out. And since you’re already down this way, you could also head over to the beautiful Crystal Cove Beach where you definitely need to try the burgers at the Crystal Cove Shake Shack.

How to get to Balboa Island

1. Spend the Day Adventuring on Catalina Island

90 Minutes | Remote Island Adventure | Marine and Land Activities

Santa Catalina Island is a popular destination that offers more than expected on this tiny island. Marine enthusiasts love snorkeling, scuba diving, paddling, and sailing in the beautiful waters here. You can also zipline, hike or take a tour to the far side of the island where you’ll find an unexpected bison herd. Getting back to wild nature is surprisingly easy just 22 miles off the California coast.

You can even choose to stay overnight here for a longer adventure. It’s easy to get there too: hop on the Catalina Express in San Pedro, Long Beach, or Dana Point. Round trip tickets are $76 for adults. Or for a faster ride out there, definitely book a helicopter ride .

How to get to Catalina Island

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

With Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica nearby, there are no shortage of great places to stay in the Los Angeles area. Use our guide to help you decide which hotel to book on your trip to LA.

About Brie Greenhalgh

Writer, editor, teacher, hiker, traveler, dreamer. With a book or pen in hand and a majestic sunset on the horizon, life is never short of fulfilling moments for Brie. She has a background in history and writing, and enjoys writing and editing for BobVila.com, The Tour Guy, and her own business.

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Vegan Food Tour of Los Angeles, California

Vegan Food Tour of Los Angeles, California | Vegan Travel

Musicians Tanya O’ Callaghan and Robbie Angelucci ( @veganmusic ) give you a taste of some of their top spots to eat Vegan food in Los Angeles. A Diverse and multiculteral behemoth, Los Angeles is home to some of the best cuisine in the world, and vegan eating is not ignored.

If you enjoyed this video, please click the like button below.

Your comments would also be very welcome and please consider sharing this video with your friends.

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Los Angeles is spending millions on AI cameras that will issue parking tickets

The cameras will be installed on a handful of buses throughout the area.

Artificial intelligence is an intimidating technology that’s held an increasingly influential and still unproven role in our lives, and now Los Angeles is spending $11 million to install 100 AI cameras in buses to ticket vehicles illegally parked in bus zones. Testing for this program is slated to begin this summer and is expected to go live by the end of the year. Los Angeles Metro , the organization that operates LA’s city buses, insists that it is doing community outreach to make sure the public is aware of the purpose, timing, and impacts of the program, but as someone who lives on one of the bus routes slated to get AI cameras, I haven’t heard a peep.

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According to LA Metro, once cameras are installed there will be a 60-day warning period for drivers, where any violators caught on camera blocking bus lanes or bus stops will receive warning citations instead of real tickets. This method of notifying the public of the impending crackdowns seems like an intentionally half-hearted approach that will leave most residents without knowledge of the program’s implementation. If LA Metro really wanted to inform residents about the new procedures, it should send an email out to LA residents or a text to warn them that new and more aggressive processes will be implemented.

The program is designed by Hayden AI, a private AI company who is making $11 million from the deal with Los Angeles Metro. Hayden AI claims implementation of its cameras and software will increase ridership, improve bus times, and address mobility concerns. Cameras will be mounted inside Metro bus windshields, and will constantly scan for illegally parked cars, but according to Hayden AI’s chief growth officer Charles Territo, it will only record when a potential violation is observed. According to the Los Angeles Times,

“If the bus is moving and there’s no vehicle parked in the lane, it’s not recording any data,” [Territo] said. “Only when the system observes a vehicle parked illegally in a bus lane or a bus stop does it record the license plate and capture video of the event.” Once a recording is made, it will be submitted to L.A. Department of Transportation where a human will assess whether a ticket should be issued. The use of video imaging to enforce parking violations was legalized in 2021 . Video that does not include a parking violation must be destroyed within 15 days, the law states. Any recording of a parking violation can be retained for six months, or 60 days “after the final disposition of the citation.”

LA Metro’s $11 million contract with Hayden AI started in December of 2023 and is supposed to last about five years. When vehicles block bus stops, it creates accessibility issues for riders with disabilities, and vehicles blocking bus lanes slow service. Addressing these violations should help to streamline LA’s notoriously underdeveloped public transportation system which is a good thing, but LA Metro should make a more concerted effort to inform the public of the new methods of enforcement.

A version of this article originally appeared on Jalopnik .

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Los angeles dodgers at toronto blue jays odds, picks and predictions, share this article.

The Los Angeles Dodgers (16-11) and Toronto Blue Jays (13-13) begin a 3-game series Friday. First pitch from Rogers Centre is slated for 7:07 p.m. ET. Let’s analyze  BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Dodgers vs. Blue Jays odds and make our expert  MLB picks and predictions  for the best bets.

Season series: First meeting; Blue Jays won 2 of 3 in 2023

The Dodgers completed their sweep of the Nationals Thursday, winning 2-1 in Washington. RHP Yoshinobu Yamamoto struck out 7 and allowed just 4 hits and a walk over 6 scoreless innings. Los Angeles received a solo shot from RF Teoscar Hernandez and an RBI double from 1B Freddie Freeman to earn their 4th consecutive victory.

After a 3½-plus hour rain delay the Blue Jays and Royals game was called after the 5th inning, giving Kansas City a 2-1 victory. It was Toronto’s 3rd loss in a row after winning the opener in K.C. and they finished their 7-game road trip 3-4. They only managed 10 runs over the 4-game series at Kansas City. With a 4.14 team ERA, the Blue Jays are in the bottom 3rd of the MLB at 22nd.

Dodgers at Blue Jays projected starters

RHP Gavin Stone  vs. RHP  Chris Bassitt

Stone (1-1, 6.00 ERA) makes his 5th start of the season. He has a 1.78 WHIP, 5.0 BB/9 and 8.0 K/9 in 18 innings.

• Last start: No-decision, 3 1/3 IP, 2 ER, 4 H, 5 BB, 1 K in 6-4 home loss to New York Mets Saturday
• Never faced Blue Jays before — made debut in May 2023

Bassitt (2-3, 3.90 ERA) makes his 6th start of 2024. He has a 1.59 WHIP, 4.6 BB/9 and 8.5 K/9 in 27 2/3 innings.

• Last start: Loss, 5 1/3 IP, 2 ER (4 R), 6 H, 3 BB, 4 K in 6-3 setback at San Diego Padres Sunday
• Career vs Dodgers: 1-2, 4.30 ERA (23 IP, 11 ER) in 4 starts

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Dodgers at Blue Jays odds

Provided by  BetMGM Sportsbook ; access  USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 8:36 a.m. ET.

• Moneyline (ML) : Dodgers -130 (bet $130 to win $100) | Blue Jays +105 (bet $100 to win $105)
• Run line (RL)/Against the spread (ATS) : Dodgers -1.5 (+125) | Blue Jays +1.5 (-155)
• Over/Under (O/U) : 9 (O: -105 | U: -115)

Dodgers at Blue Jays picks and predictions

Dodgers 6, Blue Jays 2

Moneyline .

The Dodgers (-130) keep the ball rolling north of the border Friday evening, but I’m going to AVOID the moneyline and focus on the run line for this game.

Run line/Against the spread

BET DODGERS -1.5 (+ 125 ).

There are a lot of reasons to love the Dodgers in this game. You have to give Los Angeles an edge whenever they face a righty, batting .270 as a team. DH Shohei Ohtani loves beating up on right-handed pitching, hitting .415 with a slugging percentage of .846, including 5 of his 6 home runs.

Toronto is basically the opposite, they hit remarkably better against lefties (.251). They have just a .226 average with a record of 10-12 when facing a right hander. The Blue Jays have also not scored more than 5 runs in a game in their last 17 games.

Here are 2 teams playing at completely different speeds right now, Los Angeles winners of 4 straight while the Blue Jays have lost 3 in a row.

My gut tells me to take the Under 9 (-115) because I don’t see the Blue Jays holding up their end of the bargain against the righty Stone. Ohtani and Co. will get theirs, but I don’t know if they’ll get to 7-8 runs to carry the load on this total bet.

I’m not confident enough either way to recommend a O/U wager, so I’ll STAY AWAY .

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now !

For more sports betting picks and tips , check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW .

Follow @DrewPhelps05 on  Twitter/X . Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook .

Additional MLB coverage: BaseballHQ Fantasy Baseball

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USC cancels main stage ceremony for 2024 commencement amid campus unrest

All graduating students are required to reserve free tickets for their guests for the may events., by helen jeong • published april 25, 2024 • updated on april 25, 2024 at 7:19 pm.

The University of Southern California announced Thursday it was canceling one of the key events of the 2024 commencement ceremonies amid unrest following Wednesday’s mass protest on campus and the cancelation of the undergraduate valedictorian’s commencement speech .

The school shared the update with students and faculty members that it would not be hosting the “main stage ceremony,” which the university said typically brings 65,000 guests to the school campus.

“We understand that this is disappointing; however, we are adding many new activities and celebrations to make this commencement academically meaningful, memorable, and uniquely USC, including places to gather with family, friends, faculty, and staff, the celebratory releasing of the doves, and performances by the Trojan Marching Band," the school said.

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The university also moved to implement a few security measures for the commencement events.

Ticket reservations required

All graduating students should reserve free tickets for eight named guests to access all commencement events between May 8 and 11. 

The tickets were said to be non-transferable, and those who need more tickets will have to go through an appeal process.

Security officers will screen people and their bags at the upcoming commencement events, according to the university.

A clear bag policy will be enforced as it is for athletic events at the Coliseum and other large venues.

Extra preparation time recommended

As graduates and their guests were set to go through security, the university urged those participating in the commencement events to allow more time.

The University of Southern California campus remained closed to the general public Thursday with only students, faculty members and employees with proper identification being given access as classes were expected to as scheduled. 

The university’s safety officers as well as officials from the Los Angeles Police Department increased security around the school after tensions flared during an “occupation” of USC's Alumni Park by pro-Palestine protesters demanding that the university end ties with Israel and Israeli-tied investments.

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Kid Cudi cancels tour: Ankle broken at Coachella is ‘much more serious,’ needs surgery

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Kid Cudi is canceling his upcoming Insano: Engage the Rage World Tour after finding out his broken ankle is “much more serious” than he thought.

“Guys, so, I have a broken calcaneus,” Cudi posted Wednesday on social media. “Im headed to surgery now and there’s gonna be a long recovery time. We have to cancel the tour so I can focus on getting better to be out there in top shape to rage with you all.”

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

Kid Cudi offers an update on the ankle he broke jumping off the Sahara stage on the last day of Coachella 2024. He seems upbeat, albeit a little uncertain.

April 23, 2024

The calcaneus is more commonly known as the heel bone. While some ankle fractures can heal in weeks, a broken calcaneus has a longer recovery time. “This type of fracture commonly occurs during a high-energy event — such as a car crash or a fall from a ladder — when the heel is crushed under the weight of the body,” the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons says on its website . Surgery is often required to prevent heel deformity.

This, friends, is why you don’t jump off one of the tallest stages at Coachella.

“There’s just no way I can bounce back in time to give 100%,” Cudi said. “The injury is much more serious than I thought.”

The U.S. leg of the Insano tour was supposed to start June 28 in Austin, Texas, and conclude with a show in Los Angeles on Aug. 30. Kid Cudi planned to head to Europe in early 2025; it’s unclear whether that part of the tour is still on.

Drake removed from lawsuit over Astroworld crowd crush that left 10 fans dead

A judge removes Drake, who performed with Travis Scott at the 2021 Astroworld concert, from a suit filed by families of the 10 fans who died in a crowd crush.

April 12, 2024

The rapper said that ticket holders will be contacted by email and receive a full refund. Also, new tour dates will be announced as soon as possible.

In a video posted earlier this week and captured by TMZ , Kid Cudi said with a chuckle, “This is what happens when a 40-year-old man tries to prance around offstage like he’s 26, like he used to do back in the day.” He added that he was “hoping” to be healed up in time to hit the road.

So much for that idea.

“I’m so sorry fam and I love you all so much, thanks for the endless love and support. Im really disappointed as im sure you guys are too, but I will be back. Thats a promise,” the rapper wrote Wednesday.

“Im ok, just a lil soreness, but im in good spirits.”

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Willis (@kidcudi)

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

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Construction starts on America’s first true high-speed passenger train, between Los Angeles and Las Vegas

Work is set to begin Monday on a $12 billion high-speed passenger rail line between Las Vegas and the Los Angeles area, with officials projecting millions of ticket-buyers will be boarding trains by 2028.

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 between a terminal to be built just south of the Las Vegas Strip and another new facility in Rancho Cucamonga, California. Almost the full distance is to be built in the median of Interstate 15, with a station stop in San Bernardino County’s Victorville area.

In a statement, Brightline Holdings founder and Chairperson Wes Edens called the moment “the foundation for a new industry.”

Brightline aims to link other U.S. cities that are too near to each other for flying between them to make sense and too far for people to drive the distance, Edens said.

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

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg is scheduled to take part in Monday’s groundbreaking. Brightline received $6.5 billion in backing from the Biden administration , including a  $3 billion grant  from federal infrastructure funds and  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.

The project is touted as the first true high-speed passenger rail line in the nation, designed to reach speeds of 186 mph (300 kph), comparable to  Japan’s Shinkansen  bullet trains.

The route between Vegas and L.A. is largely open space, with no convenient alternate to I-15. Brightline’s Southern California terminal will be at a commuter rail connection to downtown Los Angeles.

The  project outline  says electric-powered trains will cut the four-hour trip across the Mojave Desert to a little more than two hours. Forecasts are for 11 million one-way passengers per year, or some 30,000 per day, with fares well below airline travel costs. The trains will offer rest rooms, Wi-Fi, food and beverage sales and the option to check luggage.

Las Vegas is a popular driving destination for Southern Californians. Officials hope the train line will relieve congestion on I-15, where motorists often sit in miles of crawling traffic while returning home from a Las Vegas weekend.

The Las Vegas area, now approaching 3 million residents, draws more than 40 million visitors per year. Passenger traffic at the city’s Harry Reid International Airport set a record of 57.6 million people in 2023. 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 already operates the  Miami-to-Orlando line  with trains reaching speeds up to 125 mph (200 kph). It launched service in 2018 and expanded service to Orlando International Airport last September. 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) while sharing tracks with freight and commuter service between Boston and Washington, D.C.

Ideas for connecting other U.S. cities with high-speed passenger trains have been floated in recent years, including  Dallas to Houston ;  Atlanta to Charlotte, North Carolina ; and  Chicago to St. Louis . Most have faced delays.

In California, voters in 2008 approved a proposed 500-mile (805-kilometer) rail line linking Los Angeles and San Francisco, but the plan 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.

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Waymo will launch paid robotaxi service in Los Angeles on Wednesday

Tech startup Waymo said Tuesday that it would begin offering paid robotaxi rides in Los Angeles beginning Wednesday, as the nation’s experiment with self-driving car technology picks up steam. 

Waymo, a spinoff of Google, had announced details for its service in Los Angeles in January as it sought state regulatory approval and local support. Within the last year, Waymo has offered free "tour" rides in Los Angeles, and last month, it received regulatory approval to expand to a paid service, despite pushback from the Teamsters union and the Los Angeles Department of Transportation. Waymo previewed the project in a blog post in 2022.

Waymo said Tuesday that more than 50,000 people were on its waitlist to use the service. The company did not say how many users it would allow to fully use the app starting Wednesday. Last month, the company said it was starting with a Los Angeles fleet of fewer than 50 cars covering a 63-square-mile area from Santa Monica to downtown L.A. Los Angeles County has a population of 9.7 million people. 

The service works similarly to other ride-hailing smartphone apps such as Flywheel, Lyft and Uber, except that Waymo’s vehicles have no human drivers present. Riders follow instructions on the app and through the vehicle’s sound system, though Waymo workers can assist remotely. 

Robotaxis are getting more buzz as the technology advances in fits and starts. Tesla CEO Elon Musk said Friday that Tesla would reveal a robotaxi product in August, though he gave no details. Cruise, a General Motors subsidiary that paused its robotaxi service last year after one of its vehicles failed to detect a pedestrian underneath it, said Tuesday that it would reintroduce human-driven vehicles in select cities, including Phoenix, as a step back toward driverless operations. 

Various China-based tech startups are also testing self-driving cars on California roads, drawing scrutiny from lawmakers. 

But for now, Waymo’s only competition is traditional, human-driven car services. 

Waymo’s expansion to Los Angeles will bring autonomous for-profit taxis to the nation’s second-largest city — and to a city long synonymous with car travel. Waymo already operates commercial robotaxi services in San Francisco and Phoenix. 

Chris Ludwick, Waymo’s product management director, called the Los Angeles move a milestone. 

“The reception from Angelenos so far has been exceptional, and we look forward to welcoming more riders into our service over time,” he said in a statement. 

Waymo said it informed its test riders about the change Monday in an email, which someone also posted to Reddit. 

Robotaxis have faced criticism on multiple fronts, from the threat they pose to drivers’ jobs to the mistakes they’ve made blocking city buses or emergency vehicles. Under California law, driverless cars can’t be given traffic tickets, and they could make traffic congestion worse . 

The Los Angeles Department of Transportation said the Waymo expansion was happening too soon, without enough local oversight of autonomous vehicle operations, but in an order last month state officials said that those concerns were unfounded. 

Supporters of robotaxis have countered that human drivers have a terrible safety record , with traffic deaths topping 40,000 a year in the U.S. Waymo has not reported a death or serious injury from its technology, and Waymo vehicles appear to be generally more observant of traffic laws than human drivers are, according to journalists who have ridden in them. 

In San Francisco, the futuristic nature of driverless vehicles has become a tourist attraction. 

Opponents of autonomous taxi expansions, including the Teamsters, have vowed to slow down the growth of companies such as Waymo. A bill pending in the California Senate would give cities and counties authority over robotaxi services — a power that currently resides with state government agencies. A hearing on that bill is scheduled for next week. 

David Ingram covers tech for NBC News.